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inSIGHT Through Education: 15 Years of Inspiring Change in Palm Beach County
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, inSIGHT Through Education is a nonsectarian, nonprofit organization committed to inspiring and educating individuals through the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. With a mission to combat prejudice and foster respect and acceptance, inSIGHT empowers students, educators, and communities to build a more inclusive world.
Since its founding in 2010, inSIGHT has been the primary funder of Holocaust education in the Palm Beach County School District, one of the nation’s largest. In the 2023-2024 academic year alone, the organization reached 40,000 students and trained more than 400 educators, equipping them with the tools to teach history with meaning and impact. inSIGHT has provided $1.9 million in educational programs over the past 14 years, underscoring its commitment to fostering kindness, acceptance, and respect among students.
MorseLife Residents Discover Benefits of Cannabinoids
Last month, independent and assisted-living residents of MorseLife Health System celebrated National Hemp Day, participating in interactive hemp displays and enjoying hempinfused foods like mini hemp nut butter “uncrustables,” hemp seed oil vinaigrette salads, and hemp milk.
Since 2019, MorseLife has led the way in senior care innovation by offering cannabinoid-based therapies when they became Florida’s first senior living provider to introduce medical marijuana and CBD treatments. These therapies have significantly helped residents manage chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
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Looking ahead, inSIGHT aims to expand its reach to 75,000 students and educators in the 2024-2025 academic year, striving to bring Holocaust education to every student, every year, across over 180 schools and nearly 200,000 students in Palm Beach County.
inSIGHT OUT – A Day of Inspiration & Impact
To support its initiatives, inSIGHT Through Education is hosting inSIGHT OUT, a signature fundraising event on March 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.
This dynamic, full day of engaging activities will bring together like-minded women from across the community for thought-provoking conversations, an exclusive shopping boutique, a luncheon, and card play.
The event will feature keynote speakers Lizzy Savetsky and Tanya Zuckerbrot, two extraordinary women who use their platforms to drive meaningful change and inspire action. Tickets are priced at $250 per person.
To purchase tickets for the inSIGHT OUT event, please visit insightthrougheducation. org/insightout.
By attending inSIGHT OUT and supporting inSIGHT Through Education, you are investing in the power of education to combat hate, promote understanding, and create a future rooted in respect and acceptance.
Celebrating Environmental Awareness and Responsibility
In honor of the holiday of Tu B’Shevat, Temple Judea’s school families learned about the mitzvah of gleaning. Participants went to Boynton Beach to pick over 2,000 pounds of peppers that were given to local food pantries.
Gleaning is a concept found in the Torah that instructs farmers to leave crops on the outskirts of their field so those who are hungry can take small amounts of food.
Local students learn from a Holocaust survivor.
Dr. Melanie Bone
Led by Melanie Bone, MD, FACOG, director of cannabinoid-based therapies at MorseLife Health System, the medical team is at the forefront of this groundbreaking approach. Dr. Bone consults with patients to determine the proper dosage, tolerance level, and best method for administering the treatment. This varies patient to patient and is reevaluated and adjusted as necessary.
Prior to beginning cannabinoid-based therapy, the education component is essential so patients, their families, and doctors can assess the pros and cons to make an informed decision. That’s why events such as National Hemp Day are important to showcase options and benefits. Residents can explore their curiosities and overcome the stigmas and fears associated with using medical cannabis. Dr. Bone has been a
“Cannabis doesn’t provide a cure. It doesn’t make a diagnosis go away after taking the medication for a period of time. Cannabis provides a treatment to alleviate and reduce symptoms of conditions such as insomnia, chronic pain, and anxiety,” Dr. Bone said. “Cannabis offers a fantastic alternative to addictive opioids and antidepressants, all while increasing our residents’ quality of life.”
MorseLife’s cannabinoid therapies are just one example of how the health system is redefining senior care, helping residents live with comfort, dignity, and improved quality of life.
Photo Credit: Kristen Evans/MorseLife
Lydia Craig, Bernice Wagner, and Barbara Levinski
When Moses’ Hostage Deal Fell Apart
By Rabbi Dovid Vigler
They were so close to making a deal. And it fell apart because of one insignificant detail.
The hostage negotiation between Moses and Pharaoh seemed to be a done deal. After the ninth plague, Darkness, Pharaoh had been humbled by G-d’s Almighty power and acquiesced to let the Jewish slaves go free — except for the cattle.
From the rabbi
“Pharaoh summoned Moses and said, ‘Go! Worship the Lord, but your flocks and your cattle shall be left. Your young children may also go with you’” (Exodus 10:24).
Why would Moses make such a big deal over the animals? Why do animals need freedom, anyway? Was it worth prolonging the slavery and suffering of an entire nation just for sheep and goats? As it turns out, the final plague — the Death of the Firstborn — was necessary solely to secure Pharaoh’s consent for the animals. All the customs and laws associated with the Paschal sacrifice and the very name of the festival — Passover, when G-d passed over the Jewish homes to strike the Egyptian firstborns — were all for the animals.
What’s so special about animals?
The animals of the Jews were never enslaved. Clearly, it wasn’t for them that Moses delayed. Our sages explain that each of us has inner animals — parts of ourselves that behave in ways we struggle to control. These animalistic
tendencies are sometimes associated with the reptilian brain, the mammalian brain, or the Animal Soul. Modern psychologists refer to them as “parts” — active members of our Internal Family Systems (IFS).
We are all different, and the animals inside us are unique. Our inner animals carry fear, guilt, shame, addiction, insecurity, and other baggage, born of early-childhood experiences or even inherited trauma. The animals within us might include farm animals, such as the stubborn goat representing narcissism, the meek sheep symbolizing codependency, or the raging bull reflecting addiction. Wild animals could include: the snake representing a psychopathic trait, the weasel suggesting a manipulative side, the deer symbolizing avoidant personality traits, or the lone wolf embodying introversion. Even household pets can reflect psychological tendencies — cats exhibiting neurotic behaviors and dogs symbolizing separation anxiety.
When you have the courage, wisdom, and humility to identify the animal that rages within you, you have a choice to express it or suppress it. The former may push people away, while the latter may create inner turmoil. But Moses and Pharaoh’s fierce negotiation over the inner animals reveals a profoundly exciting third option. We often think our inner demons must be ignored or suppressed, but Moses fearlessly inspires us to embrace our flaws, using them to deepen our character and elevate our potential.
A farmer can plow his field by hand, but attaching his plow to an ox yields far greater results. A person can walk on foot, but when he learns to ride a horse, his reach expands exponentially. A person who has never struggled with addiction may not fully appreciate the sensitivity and spirituality of a recovering addict. When the codependent learns to celebrate his own presence, he becomes far more self-aware and conscious than ever before.
“But Moses said, ‘You too shall give sacrifices and burnt offerings into our hands, and we will make them for the Lord our God. And also our cattle will go with us; not a [single] hoof will remain, for we will take from it to worship the Lord our God, and we do not know how [much] we will worship the Lord until we arrive there’” (Exodus 10:25-26).
Moses insists that we never be defeated by our inner struggles. He passionately inspires us to see our challenges as our divine assignment — to find a way to use our inner animal to become a better Jew, a better parent, a better spouse, and a better human being.
A grieving widow, desperate to save her ailing child, sought help from the Baal Shem Tov. Despite his prayers with ten holy rabbis, the child’s fate seemed sealed. Refusing to give up, the Baal Shem Tov ventured into a dangerous forest, where he encountered a band of thieves.
Asking them for help, he gathered a minyan of criminals to pray. Miraculously, the child recovered. When his students questioned how he succeeded, the Baal Shem Tov explained, “All the gates in heaven were locked. I needed someone who knows how to pick a lock.…”
(Meeting location will be provided after registration.)
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or 561.242.6676.
Traci Rollins, Chair
Rick Baer
Greg Goodman
Matt Kahn
Ethan Kernkraut
Tracey
Sarah
Peter
This story is profound in its implications. There are heavenly doors that only a recovering sinner can open. G-d is perfect and knows what He’s doing. He loves you — all of you, including your unique strengths and imperfections. You’re not a mistake — have fun figuring out the things that only you can do!
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.
More than 400 Women Gather for Sonkin Lions’ Pride Event
In a powerful celebration of strength and impact, more than 400 women of all ages gathered for the inaugural Sydelle Sonkin Lions’ Pride Event at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. The event honored the community’s dynamic philanthropic women who make a significant impact to Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County through their giving at the Lion of Judah level. Elyse Butnick and Lisa Zwig Gerstein chaired the afternoon luncheon. The event also featured podcast and social media personalities Kim Murstein and “Grandma Gail,” hosts of the multigenerational podcast “Excuse My Grandma.”
A highlight of the event was Federation’s Immediate Past Board Chair Susan Shulman Pertnoy, who delivered a heartfelt speech discussing impactful insights from a recent leadership visit to Israel, which included seeing the firsthand impact as the country and its people begin their healing.
The Sydelle Sonkin Lions’ Pride Event also welcomed a remarkable 80 new Lions of Judah, according to Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair Patti Lehrhoff. This honor recognizes women who are contributing a minimum of $6,000 annually to Federation’s annual campaign. More than 22,000 women around the United States, Israel, and around the world are recognized with this symbol of philanthropy, Jewish values, and sisterhood.
The Pet Cottage Post
The Birth of The Pet Cottage: A Tribute to Joan McCabe
The Pet Cottage is more than just a sanctuary for pets — it is a testament to the love and devotion of one remarkable woman, Joan McCabe. Joan was a beautiful soul, full of warmth and kindness, whose love for her pets was immeasurable. She was a client of mine when I ran a small personal training business for women, and over time she became a cherished friend. Joan shared her life with three senior cats — Shadow, Smokey, and Jeremy — who were her family and her greatest joy. When Joan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, her first concern was not for herself, but for her beloved
companions. What would happen to them when she was gone? She searched for solutions, but none existed. Determined to ease her heart, I made a promise: I would care for her cats as she had, ensuring they were safe and loved.
Shadow, at an astonishing 21 years old, passed before Joan. When the time came, Smokey and Jeremy, then 17, came to live with me. They thrived in my care, living to be 20. But Joan’s story revealed a much larger truth — she was not
Time for a change? Burns Wealth Management Group
Photo credit: Coastal Click Photography
Marilyn Comiter, Patti Lehrhoff, Ronda Starr
Lisa Zwig Gerstein, Gail Rudnick and Kim Murstein of Excuse my Grandma, Elyse Butnick
Ronda Starr, Vivian Lieberman, Sydelle Sonkin, Hope Silverman, Susan Shulman Pertnoy
Michael Hoffman, Susan Shulman Pertnoy, Barry Berg
Joan Patricia McCabe
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the only one in this predicament. Many pet owners, facing illness or life-altering events, had no plan for their beloved animals. I witnessed this firsthand through my relationship with hospice during Joan’s illness. The need was clear, and when Joan passed on March 11, 2012, I, Wendy Derhak, honored her legacy by founding The Pet Cottage.
What started with Joan’s three senior cats quickly grew. The next animals in need were three dachshunds — Charlie Brown, Ivy, and Peanut — whose owner had passed away. The demand for a safe, loving place for pets in these situations continued to grow. In April 2015, The Pet Cottage officially became a nonprofit, dedicated to providing lifelong guardianship for pets who lost their humans due to death, disability, or deployment.
From those first rescues, The Pet Cottage has flourished. Today, we provide care for over 51 dogs and eight cats. While our initial focus was on pets whose owners had passed, we quickly expanded to include those affected by disabilities such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. We also recognized the needs of military members, ensuring their pets had a safe place when deployment or relocation made it impossible to keep them.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this journey has been the realization that senior people make extraordinary Forever Guardians. Many of the pets in our care are older and need calm, loving homes. Many seniors, facing loneliness, long for companionship. The greatest challenge to welcoming a senior pet into one’s home is often the cost of care, particularly veterinary expenses. The Pet Cottage removes that burden by paying all veterinary expenses, allowing these perfect matches to be made.
The Pet Cottage is more than just a place — it is a promise. It is a tribute to Joan McCabe and to all those who love their pets like family. None of this would be possible without the generous support of our donors and community. You are the superheroes who make this mission a reality.
There are many ways to support our work, from joining our Happy Tails monthly donation program to making onetime contributions. Every donation helps us fulfill our forever promise to these beloved pets and provide pet companionship to senior individuals, matching pets who have lost their humans with seniors who long for a loving companion.
To learn more about The Pet Cottage, visit our website at thepetcottage.org, follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our YouTube channel at The Pet Cottage Official. To visit, please call to make an appointment at 561-818-5025.
Thank you for being part of our pack!
“Code Name: Ayalon”
Sponsored by Marvin and Eve Schlanger, Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens hosted a screening of “Code Name: Ayalon,” drawing over 100 community members. The documentary, which chronicles the story of a secret underground bullet factory crucial to Israel’s War of Independence, was followed by a Q&A session with the producer, Laurel Fairworth.
During the discussion, Fairworth shared insights into the film-making process, including the challenges of finding period-appropriate props and casting suitable actors. She also discussed her upcoming project, titled “Blews,” and expressed her goal to bring “Code Name: Ayalon” to college campuses for educational purposes.
The Longest Hatred: Unpacking Antisemitism
As the tides of antisemitism rise once more, echoing chilling patterns from history, an engaging six-week online course will soon commence. This timely program is crafted to shed light on how antisemitism has adapted across different eras — be it religious, racist, or political.
Participants will delve into historical episodes, examining the early interactions between Jews and Christianity and Islam; the medieval manifestations within Christian Europe; the catastrophic rise of racially motivated antisemitism leading to the Holocaust; and how communism and Islamism have shaped more recent perceptions.
Hosted by Temple Beth David, this course is taught by Master Melton Instructor Rabbi Debra Eisenman; it aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the forces that have influenced the evolution of antisemitism, offering a rich educational experience for those eager to understand its complex history and contemporary relevance.
The course starts on March 20 and runs through May 1, with sessions held online every Thursday at 7:15 p.m.
For more information, please contact Rabbi Debra Eisenman, Melton School Director and Master Instructor, at rdae22@gmail.com or Bobbi Sadow at Temple Beth David, 561.694.2350.
Beth David Welcomes Israeli Author
Temple Beth David recently welcomed Israeli journalist Lee Yaron, author of 10/7: 100 Human Stories Ms. Yaron is known for human-centered reporting, particularly for the publication Haaretz . Her work focuses on marginalized communities within Israeli society. Her
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Arya
Elsa
bottom-up approach aims to amplify the voices of those directly affected by societal and political issues. 10/7: 100 Human Stories chronicles the personal experiences of victims and survivors of the October 7, 2023, attacks.
The author’s appearance before 125 attendees from the local community was moderated by Rabbi Danielle Bensimhon. A question-and-answer session further engaged those in attendance in a meaningful conversation about the events of that tragic day and its aftermath in Israel today.
Sisterhood Game Day Fundraiser Brings Community Together
The Temple Judea Sisterhood transformed the social hall into a lively gaming paradise for their annual Card Party last month. The event, which has become a cherished tradition, brought together over 130 women for an afternoon of friendly competition, delicious food, and meaningful connection.
Tables filled with enthusiastic players were divided between mahjong sets clicking rhythmically and animated canasta games, where longtime friends and newcomers alike shared strategies and stories. As shared by one attendee, “What really makes this special is the warmth and welcome you feel from everyone here.”
Beyond the social aspects, the Card Party serves as one of the Sisterhood’s annual fundraisers. This year’s event raised over $1,800 through an exciting raffle featuring coveted
prizes donated by local businesses, including luxury spa packages, restaurant gift certificates, designer accessories, and premium theater tickets. The proceeds will support various Sisterhood initiatives, including Jewish overnight camp scholarships and Bar/Bat Mitzvah scholarships.
“These gatherings are about so much more than just playing games,” explained Melanie Paulus, who has lovingly chaired the event for the past eight years. “They’re about maintaining and strengthening the bonds between women in
our community. Whether you’re a regular at our Sisterhood events or joining us for the first time, there’s always a place for you at the table.”
As the afternoon wound down and the last tiles were cleared away, the lingering sound of laughter and friendly conversation served as a testament to the enduring power of community, friendship, and tradition.
Beth David Enjoys Laugh & Get Rich Day with The Gathering Place
National Laugh and Get Rich Day may not be the best known or most celebrated day in our country, but it certainly is a day replete with meaning and import. Studies have shown that laughter truly has health benefits, both physically and emotionally, including mood elevation, reduction of stress as well as blood pressure, and even strengthening of the immune system. So last month, members of Temple Beth David and The Gathering Place (a United Methodist congregation that has been holding its services and meetings at Beth David for the past year and a half) decided to celebrate the occasion and joined together for an evening of friendship, learning, and laughter.
The evening began with Havdalah, after which everyone gathered in Beth David’s beautiful sanctuary to watch the film Just Laugh! This documentary on laughter, although produced in 2009, still contains a relevant message: that laughter does indeed make us rich in the most meaningful of ways. It provides the happiness and the space and ease to enjoy not only our own lives, but to open ourselves to the commonalities, pleasures, and humanity we share with our friends and those around us.
Beth David’s Rabbi Danielle Bensimhon and The Gathering Place’s Pastor Michael Zdorow then led the group in a lively discussion in which participants asked themselves and each other questions about the role of laughter in life and in the world and exchanged experiences. They shared the important lessons to be learned from and about laughter, which are not only rooted in but complete and enhance the deep spirituality we share with others of faith. The comradery and fun of the evening were enhanced by the snacks and sweets in which all partook.
There is no doubt that the evening, which was filled with good-humored smiles, chuckles, chortles, guffaws, and belly laughs, as well as with love, served to increase endorphins, lift everyone’s mood, and remind everyone to use the time in our busy schedules to find the humor that is all around us — and in laughing, to get rich!
Temple Israel Hosts Comedy Event
Temple Israel’s Simply Jewish series will present a VIP and Meet & Greet experience for A Night of Comedy and Conversation with Tony- and EmmyWinning Comedian Alex Edelman in partnership with The Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County.
Demand is strong for the opportunity to get up close and personal with Alex, who is experiencing increased notoriety following his hilarious and uplifting Netflix comedy special, Just for Us. Prepare for a night of laughter and thought-provoking conversation with Alex, known for his razor-sharp wit and unique perspective. Alex will perform an exclusive stand-up comedy set exploring life, culture, and what it means to be a Jewish comedian in today’s world. Following his performance, Alex will sit down for an intimate interview to share his creative process, comedic journey, and personal insights.
“We’re really excited to be bringing in Alex Edelman to the West Palm Beach community,” added Rabbi Carlie Daniels. “Alex uses his own Jewish background and storytelling style to portray Judaism, Jewish culture, and Jewish life through the lens of comedy. Our Simply Jewish series at Temple Israel brings in cultural programming, chefs, musicians, comedians, actors – all kinds of talented individuals who have something to share with our audience, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to host Alex for a special night of fun.”
The event will be held April 6, 7 p.m., at Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens. For tickets, got to https:// bit.ly/simply-jewish-alex-edelman.
Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts
Do Not Miss the Most Fun Gala in Town!
Each year the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts holds a gala to help raise money for their many kids and scholarship programs. It is considered the most fun and least expensive gala in town. So if you’ve never attended, you are truly missing out!
Held on the veranda of the National Croquet Club, overlooking its lush green lawns, it a great venue for Benzaitens’s annual gala. The men love it because it is a casual affair, and after dressing up all season this is a welcome reprieve. The silent auction is stellar due to the many talented glass artists who contribute to it each year. They are so thankful to have such a great glass art facility
Tom English, Laura Berrio, Bret McCormick
Production Manager Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt • Ruth Nekoranec • Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout • Karen Kalisz • Michelle Feeney
here in Palm Beach County that they are more than happy to support with some of their best work. Also, because of an inside connection with a major wine collector, the silent auction provides some of the best wines to bid on, such as Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Margaux, or Chateau D’Yqeum, just to name a few!
Sandy James, the in-house food purveyor for the Croquet Club, always offers up some of the best catered food in town. And because JoAnne (JB) Berkow, founder and president of the center, insists on everyone having a good time, she always makes sure the band is the best at getting people up and dancing! But just as important to Berkow and the entire board of the Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts is raising money for their many outreach programs in arts and culture by means of free classes and scholarships for young adults who want to continue a career in art.
“We see well over 1,000 kids through our doors each year, free of charge,” says Berkow, adding, “This gives these children and teens an exposure to the arts and what it means to make art that they would otherwise not be exposed to. It also instills in them a deeper cultural appreciation that will hopefully stay with them for a lifetime. We also give thousands of scholarship dollars away each year. Some we give to talented, in-need artists, and others we give to benefit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs to enable them to participate in our summer kids’ programs.”
An Intriguing Scholarship Success Story
David Mateo’s journey toward his chosen career in art was anything but average. In the rough, tight-knit, Guatemalan working-class neighborhood like the one where David grew up, no kid would dare to imagine a career in art. It just wasn’t done. How would his father tolerate such a departure from their shared collective reality? Of course, that was exactly the reaction one would expect, and the patriarch of Mateo’s family was no exception. The Mayan culture, as so many cultures around the world, is a male-dominated society. However, as we all know, many households within such societies are often ruled by its women. Here’s where Mateo’s dreams of an art career got a helping hand. Constantly drawing and doodling from an early age, he obtained the encouragement from his mother to keep his artistic impulses alive and well.
He lived in the second poorest city in Palm Beach County, Lake Worth, attending South Grade Elementary
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David Mateo, one of Benzaiten’s scholarship successes
Rabbi Danielle Bensimhon and Pastor Michael Zdorow
School, one of the city’s many Title 1 schools. He was able to take some art classes and, one day, at one of the school’s art exhibits, a scout from the Bak Middle School of the Arts approached Mateo about applying to his school. With help from his teachers and other kids who had gone through the same process, he filled out the necessary application forms and set up a date for his tryout.
He’ll never forget that day. Full of nervous tension, he went to the Bak MSOA campus, where he and other potential students were led into a room with four kids at each table. These tables were stacked with sheets of cardstock paper, scissors, and tape, and each child was given the same assignment: to build a structure using the least amount of tape as possible. He must have done a good job as he was accepted, and subsequently attended Bak for the next three years. After that, he went on to the Dreyfoos School of the Arts and ultimately finished his junior and senior years at Lake Worth High School, where he was encouraged to take part in the city’s famous Street Painting Festival.
His schooling, spent predominantly dedicated to the arts, offered him a tremendous education in art that he would have never received attending ordinary schools. Thinking art consisted mainly of painting and drawing when he began, his mind opened to what else was possible. He learned color theory, art history, different styles and disciplines, trying his hand at etching, sculpting, and many other mediums.
After high school he went to work on a cleaning crew with his parents. He might have been stuck in that job had it not been for a sign he noticed about a place called Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, which had glassblowing classes. He had to check it out. Once in the center, watching people doing the extraordinarily hard work of blowing glass into beautiful creations, he was hooked. Determined
The Singles Scene Column©
Real Talk: Your Love Life
By Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
(The Award-Winning Matchmakers)
“To truly change the way we approach love, we have to go to the source of everything we do: our minds.” — Todd Perelmuter Romance has arrived and you have front row seats. Cupid’s arrow is aimed, and couples are falling in love all over town, thanks to us. February is all about LOVE. Whether you’re actively looking for it or quietly wishing for it, LOVE is on everyone’s mind this month. You can run, but you can’t hide from the magic of Valentine’s Day. So, how is your love life? (Take a moment to think about it). Do you need a little extra help from our sweet, professional cupids this month? Well, good news—we’re right here in your local area, ready to help! As always, don’t forget to share this valuable info with your single family and friends—especially during this inspiring month. They might just be more motivated to take action than they think.
The Power of a Two-Some Countless studies have shown that we’re at our best when we’re in a healthy relationship. It’s not money, fame, or beauty that brings true happiness—it’s togetherness. We ask people of all ages—from 20 to 80-plus—what their happiest moments have been, and the overwhelming answer is always the same: “The best time of my life was when I was in a loving, committed relationship.”
It Makes Perfect Sense
When you’re in a relationship, you have someone to share life’s joys with, and someone to lean on during the tough times. You have a partner to help you plan your future, and a person who becomes your rock, your sounding board, and your biggest cheerleader. Two beats one, any day of the week. Not only does this connection improve your emotional health, but it’s also essential for your physical well-being. A supportive relationship gives you something to look forward to every day, and that’s crucial for mental and physical wellness.
Taking Responsibility for Your Love Life
Deep down, no one wants to be single forever. Yet, many will be alone this February—and possibly longer— because they’re not owning their love life. They’re too comfy in their comfort zones, waiting for something to happen instead of making it happen. Some people blame others (or even an ex) for their single status, but here’s the truth: you are responsible for your relationship status.
Facing the Truth
In the world of dating, it’s easy to get stuck in patterns of blaming external factors rather than reflecting on our own actions, dating style, or mindset. Taking ownership of your love life requires self-awareness, self-improvement, and a willingness to face the discomfort of stepping outside of your comfort zone.
Fear of rejection, getting hurt, or losing freedom often holds people back, but this is precisely what keeps them from finding happiness. Online dating is a risky platform, and we get that. This is why we’re here! Unlike online dating, we vet every single candidate and connect with them personally. We act as cheerleaders, and sometimes we hold up a mirror when we see our clients standing in their own way. Tough love leads to success, and we’re fortunate that most of our clients listen to us.
Taking Control Leads to Growth
Taking responsibility for your love life is a mindset that opens the door to personal growth and increases your chances of finding your grand finale relationship. Dating isn’t
for the faint of heart—it’s a combat sport. You will take a few hits along the way, but you must keep going if you want to score the touchdown.
Know Your League
It’s crucial to understand what “league” you should be dating in. You can’t be a third-string player on a community football team and expect to date the head cheerleader of an NFL team. If you have incredibly high standards, make sure your attributes match what you’re looking for in a partner. Ask a brutally honest friend or, better yet, ask your matchmaker. We’ll give you the truth (while your friends might sugarcoat it). Most of our clients appreciate this transparency.
Optimism and Open-mindedness
Remember, there is a pot for every lid. Don’t let low self-esteem hold you back from believing in love. If you find yourself thinking, “No one will ever love me,” STOP. You are lovable, and you deserve the best partner in the world. Start telling yourself: “I am lovable, and love is on its way.” Stay optimistic, and get off that negative train—it’s headed nowhere. Is that really where you want to go?
More Amazing Singles Than Ever
We’re excited to report that we’re meeting more incredible, like-minded singles than at any other time in our history. Nationwide exposure and a recent article in The Shiny Sheet have been an astronomical experience for the club and its members. Times have changed, and so has our matchmaking style. New candidates for men and women are walking through our doors every day. Our database is growing and ever-changing, and the quality of matches pack a powerful punch.
The Right People Are Out There
We feel so fortunate to work with such attractive, successful, and positive clients. Our clients are too wise and too busy for the bar scene or online dating. They want quality, and they deserve it too.
In honor of love month, here’s one final piece of advice. “Treat yourself the way you want to be treated by others. Love yourself, and you will be loved.” Love the world, and it will love you back. It’s the LOVE MOVEMENT. Join us and enroll today--before we book solid!
Happy Valentine’s Day Wishes and Caviar Dreams to all of you! May you find love in 2025—with yourself and with others. We are obsessed with 2025 and can’t wait to make this year even better—together!
Thank you for sharing your time with us today. We appreciate all of you.
Xoxo – Kelly & Miranda
#34YearsOfExperience #WhyWaitJustDate #LoveOffline #MatchmakingRoyalty #TellYourFriends #ComeAliveIn2025
to accumulate the necessary money to take the six-week beginner’s course, he saved up enough to cover half the tuition and paid the other half with his tax return’s dividend check. This was a determined young man. He began volunteering when he could and the Benzaiten’s staff was so impressed with his abilities and determination that he won a small scholarship that enabled him to take the center’s next level, eight-week course.
Since then, he has won another, larger scholarship and finally was sponsored by the center, and friends of the center, to be Rob Stern’s assistant at Pilchuk, the internationally famous glass school founded by Dale Chihuly. During this stint he met many hardworking professional artists who have made their careers in the field of glassblowing, sharing in their comradery and experiencing their strong sense of community and shared knowledge. He understood the fullness of what it meant to call yourself a professional artist. Yes, it could be fun, but it also meant many long years of hard work to hone your skills and to ultimately develop a signature style that you could call your own.
He now works at Benzaiten five days a week, which has enabled him to quit his cleaning job. Working as an assistant to the many professional artists who rent time at Benzaiten has empowered Mateo and made him proficient enough in his skills so that one day soon he will be able to begin making his own exotic creations. A career in art is definitely not for the faint of heart.
To learn more about the gala, please contact the Benzaiten office or go to their website and press On the Veranda under the Events tab. You can also make a donation online or by contacting the office.
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.
Wine, Cheese, and Wisdom
Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently launched a seminar titled Decoding the Talmud. The class began with a wine and cheese spread, allowing the crowd to mingle. The lecture explained the Talmud as the comprehensive Book of Jewish Law, as well as why it was written and the unusual manner in which it was written.
By the end of the class, students had a deep appreciation of how cherished the Talmud is to Jews and why antisemites were so passionately opposed to it so as to burn it in public. As they left the class uplifted, students were able to appreciate why we kiss the book, and why it holds the key to Jewish survival through the ages.
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 members are pre-screened in person, including background checks. 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 Team also provide feedback from your 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 add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast/Tri-State Area. Call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) or scan the QR code below to hold your place in the club.
Croquet Club’s veranda venue
Jews Are Like Cars and Air Conditioners
By Andy Greenberg
No matter what kind of a car you buy, the manufacturer and dealership always provide you with guidelines for its maintenance. It has been proven that the more attention you pay to the car, the longer it lasts — gas mileage improves, parts don’t wear out as quickly, and repair costs are held to a minimum.
The same is true for your home air conditioner, as well as anything else that requires precision care and upkeep.
As the manufacturer knows what needs to be done, it is up to us whether or not we do it.
The same is true with Judaism.
According to our traditions and beliefs, our bodies — with all the parts, including our brain — were originally developed by God. Therefore, it would make sense to accept the fact that we were also presented with a maintenance manual that comes in different forms, and it is up to us to use it or not.
The first, of course, is the Torah. As we use our educational processes to examine it, we will find that we are taught how to maximize our time on earth. This is accomplished through a whole variety of ways, including eating, giving gratitude, how to get along with other people, how to get along with ourselves, how to have a good marriage, health practices, when to rest and take a vacation on a weekly basis, and an opportunity to visit our manufacturer daily — as well as a whole host of additional maintenance requirements in the 613 commandments.
Many of these are expanded upon in the Talmud, Prophets, Mishnah Torah, Proverbs, and so many other books.
So where is the proof? It has been shown that when a person visits with their manufacturer (God), they are healthier while enjoying an extended life expectancy. Medical research has determined that those who put tefillin on every day have a 33 percent less chance of heart attacks, eating milk with meat is disruptive to the digestive system, women who are intimate with those who have circumcisions
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education
have a lower chance of uterine cancer, those who study on a daily basis have reduced chances of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Our texts teach us how to have better sleep, get more pleasure out of intimacy, raise better children, succeed in business, fix this broken world, and handle life’s ups and downs.
The question becomes: How many of us really pay attention or even read the owner’s manual for the car or the air conditioner or anything else and then practice what
Local Happenings from page 9
JLI Students Learn About Prayer
By Michele Harris
Prayer is one of those topics that some of us think about often and others don’t think about at all. Chances are most Jews are familiar with a few prayers, most likely those over bread or wine. Perhaps one may know a prayer frequently recited during a holiday. Although today’s siddurim (prayer books) have updated their English translations to be more user friendly, most prayers are esoteric at best. Some may feel an obligation to pray, but often ask what we are getting out of it, or what we are “supposed” to “feel” as a result of prayer.
After taking many JLI courses offered by Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens, I was excited when A Work of Heart was offered. Chana Vigler teaches with such passion, commitment, and dedication. She is an articulate and open teacher, always offering personal anecdotes that beautifully complement the subject matter. It is clear when she is teaching that she is gaining just as much as her students.
Chana intentionally connects hasidic Chabad concepts to the topic to better help students grasp the underlying meaning of prayer. For instance, prayer (tefillah) means
they say? And then we wonder why we have to put so much money into it at a later date and don’t get the maximum life that we were hoping for. If we don’t know, we can’t do. By now you have figured out the next question: How many of us pay attention to or even read the Jewish owner’s manual? Ask those who do and see how they are enjoying life and health, then ask those who don’t.
Andy Greenberg is a 25-year Conservative Jewish educator of grades 3-12 and a lecturer for adults of all ages.
“to connect” and better understand our personal bond with G-d. This is different for each individual. We learned about the two types of souls that exist within us, and that through prayer we can get more in touch with our G-dy (spiritual) soul as opposed to our animal soul, which represents how we make our way through life on a daily basis.
Chana has taught that prayer has a unique structure, much like a ladder starting at the bottom with prayers that acknowledge G-d. While prayers on the surface have a simple meaning, each prayer can be delved into on a much deeper level. In addition, each student has received the gift of a siddur and a series of bookmarks with meaningful prayers we can easily keep on hand.
Crossword Puzzle COLON CANCER OUTSMART
community caLendar
1 p.m., Ladies’ Mahjongg & Cards
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., Worldwide Wisdom
Tuesdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
11 a.m., Hebrew Literature
6 p.m., CTeen
Wednesdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
12:30 p.m., Yiddish Club (Ending March 26)
1:45 p.m., Ladies’ Torah Study
5:30 p.m., JewQ (Ending March 19)
Thursdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
Fridays
8:30 a.m., Jewish Values Video
5:30 p.m., Friday Night Services w. Beer & Biltong
Shabbos
9:30 a.m., Shabbos Service
11:15 a.m.. Children’s Program
11:30 a.m., Rabbi Vigler’s Weekly Sermon
12:15 p.m., Community Kiddush Luncheon
March
Friday Night LIVE—Purim Dinner
Masquerade: Wedding Attire
Shabbos, March 14 at 6:15 p.m.
Indulge in a royal dinner with the Shabbos Queen at this spectacular, one of a kind Purim Celebration. Megillah, fancy dress, dinner, a royally great time! Young Families’ Mesibas Shabbos
Shabbos, March 22
Ladies’ Lunch & Learn—Transcendence
Thursday, March 27 at 12 p.m.
If G-d is infinite, how can we relate to Him? Exploring the transcendence hardwired into the Jewish prayers provides intense insights into our bond with G-d and invites us to venture beyond our own reality.
CKids International Shabbaton CT
Uniting Jewish Families
Friday March 28 – Sunday March 30
At this global convention in Connecticut, hundreds of Jewish children unite to experience an unforgettable Shabbos culminating with the electrifying JewQ Championship Game Show and Award Ceremony.
Women’s Tehillim Group
Shabbos, March 29 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.
April
Men’s Club
Wednesday, April 2 at 5 p.m.
Come hang with the guys in a cool and relaxed atmosphere with great food, open bar, unique experiences and great company at our monthly Men’s Club gatherings.
First Fridays
Friday, April 4 at 5:30 p.m.
Monthly Young Families Shabbos Dinner
Join our growing community of young Jewish families with traditional songs, great food and exciting Shabbos games engaging young and old.
RSVP Essential: JewishGardens.com/rsvp or 561.624.2223
Children’s Model Matzah Bakery
Sunday, April 6 at 10 a.m.
History in the Baking!
An immersive, educational encounter allowing kids of all ages to make their Passover Seder truly personal. L’Dor Va’Dor—strengthening the bond between generations!
Bereavement Group
Wednesday, April 9 and 23 at 3:15 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.
Community Passover Seders
Shabbos – Sunday, April 12 and 13 at 7:15 p.m.
The Seder made Refreshing and Relevant 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.
Matzah, Moshiach & Mindfulness
Sunday, April 20 at 7 p.m.
While the first days of Pesach mark the miracles of our past, the last days celebrate the redemption of our future. The Baal Shem Tov’s spiritual soiree in the last hours of Pesach tie it all together.
Women’s Tehillim Group
Shabbos, April 26 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.
Young Families’ Mesibas Shabbos
Shabbos, April 26
Temple Beth Am
2250 Central Blvd., Jupiter 747.1109, www.templebetham.com
Wednesday, March 12
1 p.m., Mah Jongg
For information about weekly Mah Jongg, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Thursday, March 13
1 p.m., Canasta
For information about weekly Canasta, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Friday, March 14
5:30 p.m., Shabbat Service and Purim Celebration Also streaming live.
Saturday, March 16
11:30 a.m., Purim Carnival
Tuesday, March 18
10 a.m., Yoga with Yael (virtual and in-person) For information, contact Yael Lawrence at ylawrence@ templebetham.com
Tuesday, March 18
1 p.m., Adult Ed with Rabbi Alon
For information about weekly Adult Ed, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Wednesday, March 19
1 p.m., Mah Jongg
For information about weekly Mah Jongg, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Thursday, March 20
1 p.m., Canasta
For information about weekly Canasta, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Friday, March 21
6:30 p.m., Musical Shabbat Service Also streaming live.
Friday, March 21
11 a.m., Challah Baking
Monday, March 24
12 p.m., Men’s Club Deli Lunch
For information about Men’s Club, email tbamensclub2@gmail.com
Tuesday, March 25
10 a.m., Yoga with Yael (virtual and in-person)
For information, contact Yael Lawrence at ylawrence@ templebetham.com
Wednesday, March 26
10:30 a.m., Sisterhood Mitzvah Project
For information about Temple Beth Am’s Sisterhood, email sisterhoodoftemplebetham@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 26
1 p.m., Mah Jongg
For information about weekly Mah Jongg, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Thursday, March 27
1 p.m., Canasta
For information about weekly Canasta, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Thursday, March 27
11 a.m., Training Your Brain with Kris
For information, contact the Temple Beth Am office at tba@templebetham.com or 561.747.1109
Friday, March 28
6:15 p.m., Birthday Toast
Friday, March 28
6:30 p.m., Shabbat Service
Also streaming live.
April
First Night Passover Seder
Saturday, April 12 from 6 to 7 p.m.
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 a.m. via Zoom.
Shabbat Services , Services are offered in-person and virtually. Please visit our website for more information.
Thursday, March 13, 6:30 p.m., Megillah Reading, Purim Shpiel and Dance Party
7 p.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman via Zoom
A History of Hatred: The Ever-Present Threat of
Antisemitism; 6-week course; registration and payment required.
Friday, March 14, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Minyan via Zoom
Saturday, March 15, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Monday, March 17, 10 a.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman
The Star and the Crescent: A History of Jewish/Muslim Relations; 10 week course; registration and payment required.
Tuesday, March 18, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta
All levels welcome.
Wednesday, March 19, 10 a.m., Yoga L’Chaim, RSVP required, $22/class
Thursday, March 20, 10 a.m., Sisterhood Book Club
7 p.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman via Zoom
A History of Hatred: The Ever-Present Threat of Antisemitism; 6-week course; registration and payment required.
Friday, March 21, 6:30 p.m., Beach Shabbat Services at Ocean Cay Park
Saturday, March 22, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services Monday, March 24, 10 a.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman
The Star and the Crescent: A History of Jewish/Muslim Relations; 10-week course; registration and payment required.
Tuesday, March 25, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta
All levels welcome.
Wednesday, March 26, 7 p.m., Rock and Roll Bingo, RSVP required
Thursday, March 27, 7 p.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman via Zoom
A History of Hatred: The Ever-Present Threat of Antisemitism; 6-week course; registration and payment required.
Friday, March 28, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services inperson or via Livestream
Saturday, March 29, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Sunday, March 30, 10:30 a.m., Wellness Series with Terry Adorno from Star of David Cemetery
Tuesday, April 1, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta
All levels welcome.
Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m., Melton Adult Education with Rabbi Debra Eisenman via Zoom
A History of Hatred: The Ever-Present Threat of
Antisemitism; 6-week course; registration and payment required.
Friday, April 4, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services in-person or via Livestream
Saturday, April 5, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
8 p.m., Heart & Soul Concert. Please contact the temple office for more details.
Tuesday, April 8, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta All levels welcome.
Wednesday, April 9, 7 p.m., Mah Jongg, RSVP required, $5pp.
Friday, April 11, 6:30 p.m., Beach Shabbat Services at Ocean Cay Park
Saturday, April 12, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Sunday, April 13, 9:15 a.m., Pesach Services
Tuesday, April 15, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta All levels welcome.
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.
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. – 9 p.m., Yom HaShoah Vigil Tuesday, April 29, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Canasta All levels welcome.
Temple Beth El
2815 N. Flagler Dr., West Palm Beach 833.0339, office@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Adult Education – Judaism 2.1
Tuesday, March 18, 6 to 7 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/24-25classes
Temple Beth El Women’s League Book Club
Wednesday, March 19, 2 to 4 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Adult Education – Hebrew for All
Wednesday, March 19, 6 to 7 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/24-25classes
Friday Night Happenings: Cantor Evelyn Goldfinger
Friday, March 21, 5:15 to 9 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Beth El Women’s League Taste of Passover
Sunday, March 23, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Adult Education – Hebrew for All Wednesday, March 26, 6 to 7 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/24-25classes
Friday Night Happenings And Men’s Club Shabbat
Friday, March 28, 5:15 to 9 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Beth El Men’s Club Shabbat
Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Contact: mensclub@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Women’s League Challah ... and more
Thursday, April 3, 6 to 8 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/challah Friday Night Happenings
Friday, April 4, 5:15 to 9 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Friday Night Happenings: Cantor Sam Cohen
Friday, April 11, 5:15 to 9 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Passover 2nd Night Community Seder
Sunday, April 13, 7 to 10 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/seder
Temple Beth El Women’s League Book Club
Wednesday, April 23, 2 to 4 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Temple Emanu-El of Palm Beach
190 North County Road, Palm Beach 832.0804, officesec@tepb.org
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 Programs for All Ages!
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 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 Thursday each month at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 19 – 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m.
Adult Education Series
Interesting speakers and discussions surrounding topics of a Jewish theme, with snacks provided. Speakers and topics are subject to change.
10 a.m. – Andy Siegelstein will be teaching Hebrew 11:30 a.m. – Rabbi Joel Levinson will be speaking about “How to raise a Jewish Child.” Let’s explore what the Babylonian Talmud has to say about this! For more information, call 561-832-0804.
Thursday, March 20 – 1 p.m.
Women’s League Musical Tour of Israel
Our Women’s League Tour Guide and Chorus will take you on an educational, fun, and cultural tour of Israel. You will be immersed in the breathtaking beauty and history of this land visually and in song. Cost is $10 for non-Women’s League members. Please RSVP to the Women’s League at womensleague@tepb.org if you are interested in attending.
Wednesday, March 26 – 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 call 561-8320804.
Sunday, March 30 – 7 p.m.
Cantorial Concert featuring the Young Artists from Palm Beach Opera
This year’s annual cantorial concert has been changed from March 9th to March 30th. We will now be featuring performers from the Young Artists program at the Palm Beach Opera. The Young Artist Program is a stepping stone to a successful career as an opera singer for emerging professional artists. During their five-month residency in Palm Beach, The Young Artists develop and polish essential stagecraft and performance skills, aided by musical and career guidance from Palm Beach Opera’s experienced artistic and administrative staff, as well as distinguished guest faculty. Ticket prices and additional information can be found at our website www.tepb.org or by calling 561-832-0804.
Monday, March 31 – 12 p.m.
Women’s League Book Club
Enjoy a lively conversation with snacks provided as we discuss “The Hebrew Teacher” by Maya Arad. For more information, call 561-832-0804.
Thursday, April 3 – 10 a.m.
Men’s Club Meeting
Our men’s club will be meeting on the first Thursday of each month. Please contact the temple office for information on guest speakers and topics.
Friday, April 4 – 5:30 p.m.
Dr. Emily Aronoff Family Shabbat Service
The Family and Youth Initiative welcomes Dr. Emily Aronoff to lead a family friendly Shabbat Service. We will be welcoming families to share shabbat together, give the children their moment in the sun on the Bima, and share a delicious shabbat dinner together. To RSVP or for more information please email Isabelle Jacobson at Isabelle@ tepb.org or call the temple office at (561)832-0804.
Sunday, April 13 – 6:30 p.m.
Passover: 2nd Night Seder
Our annual tradition of hosting a 2nd Night Seder continues this year on Sunday, April 13. Seder will be held in our Levin Social Hall and reservations are required to attend. Please contact the temple office to RSVP or to get more information.
Monday, April 14 – 9:30 a.m.
Passover Service
Our regular Minyan will be replaced by a Passover Service on the second day of Passover. Join us in celebrating our exodus from Egypt with prayers and songs. All are welcome to attend.
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 kiddush lunch.
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 call 561-8320804.
A Fun-filled Morning for Mom, Dad & Me
Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens Hebrew School recently a Mom, Dad & Me session. Parents and babies to age 2 were welcomed to a bounce house especially for tots, soft mats, and an Alef-Beis sensory bin during the bustling Hebrew school morning, enjoying the sunshine and camaraderie of other young parents.
The event featured Jewish songs accompanied by a keyboard and various props like egg shakers, colorful scarves, and other exciting objects for the Alef-Beis-themed program. Babies and parents especially enjoyed catching all the bubbles that came out of the bubble machine!
Young Families Gather for Friday Night Services
Young families from the Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens community and Hebrew School got together for the fifth Young Families First Fridays Shabbos dinner of the season.
The evening started at 5:15 with Shabbos services; children were directed outside to the Junior Congregation service with Rabbi Yisroel and Raizy Uzvolk, while parents and other Friday night service attendees enjoyed a beautiful Shabbos service led by Rabbi Vigler.
Later, families gathered for a fun Shabbos dinner with Chinese-style food, including takeout boxes by each seat.
The highlight of the dinner was hearing a summary of the Torah portion of the week and a Q&A session with all the rabbis and rebbetzins. With prizes, games, good conversation, and songs, the meal was an uplifting and enjoyable experience for kids and parents alike.
After a hearty singing of Grace after Meals, the families stepped outside for a delicious dessert and sports activities with Crazy Games. Parents enjoyed socializing as the kids played on the shul’s playground and soccer field.
aLL about Kids
Empty Bowls Fights Hunger
So proud of Temple Judea’s religious school! Together with the help of several parents, students painted 100 bowls that will be used by the Palm Beach County Food Bank
at their Empty Bowls event to fight hunger in the local community. Our two hands can do and give more than we can imagine!
Tip of the Tail Heartworm Is Preventable
As many of you may or may not be aware, heartworm disease is fairly prevalent here in Florida. It is a potentially fatal disease that is spread to dogs and cats via mosquitoes. The good news? It is completely preventable with heartworm prevention, usually in the form of a monthly pill. But did you know that your pet is still at risk of contracting the disease in fall and winter months? There is sometimes a false perception that, because we see fewer mosquitoes during that time, the risk of your pet getting heartworms is not present. Unfortunately this isn’t the case. We see heartworms year round, especially here in Florida. Additionally, mosquitoes routinely travel inside our homes to escape the elements and in search of a blood meal. Therefore, even indoor animals or pets that only go outside to use the restroom are still at risk. And here’s another alarming fact: One heartworm positive dog in the neighborhood (this can be someone’s pet or a stray) will result in 74 percent of the mosquitoes having infected heartworm larvae. This means that your pet, if not on heartworm prevention, is at an even greater risk.
As previously mentioned, heartworm disease can be a fatal disease, in which adult worms measuring up to 14 inches long can lodge in the heart and major blood vessels. This can cause irreversible changes to the heart muscle, as well as damaging your pet’s lungs and causing a cough or shortness of breath on walks, etc. In untreated cases,
LiFestyLes
congestive heart failure can result in fluid accumulation in the pet’s abdomen. Heartworm disease can be treated, but it does carry an expense that far outweighs the cost of keeping your pet on prevention — not to mention the potentially long-term effects on your pet’s heart muscle. For an average 40 pound dog, it would cost as low as $12 per month to keep him or her protected, depending on the product chosen. Alternatively, if the same pet were to become infected with heartworms, the cost to eradicate them could be ten times the yearly amount depending on the treatment.
Thankfully, there are many options for preventing heartworms in our small animal companions. The mainstay is a monthly preventative pill, with many of the products including protection against fleas and intestinal parasites. These medications come with stickers in the packaging that you can place on your monthly calendar to remind you when it’s time to give the prevention. If purchased directly from your veterinarian, these products come with a guarantee from the manufacturers. Contact your veterinarian to determine which option might be best for you and your pet’s lifestyle. If your dog has been off of prevention or missed doses, your veterinarian will likely want to perform a simple blood test to ensure he or she has not already contracted heartworms. It can take up to six months for heartworms to be detected via blood test. So, if you’ve recently adopted a dog with an unknown medication history, you’ll likely want to retest six months after the initial sampling.
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 772-283-0920, visit www.palmcityanimalmedicalcenter.com, or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PalmCityAnimalClinic.
Tampa General Pulmonologist Suggests Sleeping on It
According to a recent study published online in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, early middle-aged adults who have poor sleep quality, including difficulty falling or staying asleep, showed more signs of poor brain health in late middle age.
Although the study does not prove that poor sleep accelerates brain aging, it does show an association between poor sleep quality and signs of brain aging. Previous research links sleep problems to issues with thinking and memory later in life, increasing the risk for dementia.
The study used brain scans to determine participants’ brain age. Results suggested that poor sleep was linked to nearly three years of additional brain aging as early as middle age. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of tackling sleep problems earlier in life to maintain brain health.
Dr. Luis Peña-Hernández, a pulmonologist with the Tampa General Hospital (TGH) Pulmonary Care & Sleep Institute (PCSI), agrees that sleep is important. “Sleep quality is a huge determinant of overall well-being and quality of life,” he said.
If you’re looking to get your sleep back on schedule, Dr. Peña suggests taking these steps:
• Keep all electronics outside of the bedroom, including mobile phones, tablets, and laptops.
• Avoid watching TV, working on a laptop, or browsing on your phone in bed before bedtime. Electronics will interfere with the quality of your sleep and may contribute to developing insomnia.
• Avoid eating large meals and consuming alcoholic beverages at least three hours before bedtime.
• Keep the room as dark as possible and the temperature on the cooler side.
• Wear comfortable, loose sleepwear.
• Exercise on a regular basis, ideally in the morning hours.
Lifestyles on page 18
Lifestyles from page 17
• Do not drink caffeine in the afternoon.
• Create and maintain a sleep preparation routine, relaxing at least 45 minutes to an hour before going to bed. Avoid working on projects that require complex decisionmaking or involve stressful tasks during this time.
• Avoid drinking an excessive amount of fluid before bedtime to minimize the need to use the bathroom in the middle of the night.
Dr. Peña notes that sleeping pills should be used only as a last resort. “Avoid them, if at all possible,” he said. “Medications do not provide a permanent solution to sleep problems. In general, they alter the architecture and quality of normal sleep and leave you groggy in the morning.”
Dr. Luis Peña-Hernández
When is it a good time to consider seeing a sleep specialist? “Anytime you have a recurrent problem falling or staying asleep, or you experience daytime sleepiness,” said Dr. Peña. “Also, if you exhibit any abnormal behaviors like sleepwalking or restless legs, among others, it’s important to see a specialist.”
Dr. Peña and his colleagues at TGH PCSI evaluate and address sleep disorders that can negatively affect your quality of life and overall health. “We can determine if a sleep study at home or a test in the sleep lab would help, and then recommend a proper plan of care depending on the patient’s specific needs.”
For more information about the sleep health services offered by the TGH Pulmonary Care & Sleep Institute, please call 561-739-4TGH (4844) or visit TGHPCSI.com.
Financial Focus
Key Decisions for Retired Couples
By Sally Sima Stahl
Once you and your spouse retire, you’ll have some decisions to make — decisions that could affect your quality of life in your retirement years. What are these choices?
Here a few of the most important ones:
• How much should you withdraw from your retirement accounts? By the time you retire, you may have contributed for decades to an IRA and a 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan. But once you retire, you’ll probably need to draw on these accounts to help pay your living expenses. Consequently, both of you will need to be sure that you don’t withdraw so much each year that you risk running out of money later in your retirement. One common guideline is to aim for an annual withdrawal rate of 4 percent, but everyone’s situation is different based on age, pre-retirement income, lifestyle, health, travel plans, and other factors. (Once you turn 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later, you will have to take certain amounts, based on your age and account balance, from your traditional IRA and traditional 401(k) each year.)
• When should you take Social Security? The answer to this question depends on many factors, such as your age and other sources of income. You can take Social Security as early as age 62, but your monthly payments will typically be bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which will be age 67 if you were born in 1960 or later. And if you can afford to wait even longer, your payments will max out when you reach age 70. Your decision on when to take Social Security can affect your spouse — and vice versa. If the lower-earning spouse claims Social Security before their full retirement age — again, age 67 — their own retirement benefit and any potential spousal benefit will be reduced. (Spousal benefits are given to the lower-earning spouse if their full retirement benefit is less than half the other spouse’s full retirement benefit.)
• Should you downsize? If you live in a big home and your children are grown, you may find it economical to downsize. Of course, this is also an emotional decision, but you may find that you can save money by moving into a smaller home.
• Where should you live? Some states are far more expensive to live in than others. You’ll want to weigh your decision carefully, considering the cost of housing, food, income and real estate taxes, transportation, and health care in whatever state you choose.
• Have you finished your estate plans? If not, now is the time. You’ll want to work with your legal professional to create whatever documents are needed — a will, living
trust, power of attorney — to help ensure your assets go where you want them to go, and that your financial and health care choices will be protected if you become physically or mentally incapacitated.
Of course, many of these same issues will apply if you are single, divorced, or widowed. But if you are married, you and your spouse will want to discuss all your choices and then decide which steps to take. Once you’ve got your plans in place, you may well find that you can fully enjoy your retirement years.
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., L.P., 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.
Does Your Revocable Living Trust Reduce Your Federal Estate Tax Bill?
By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.
Many believe that once they set up and fund a revocable living trust, property held in the trust will completely avoid federal estate taxes after they die. A living trust does not provide any unique estate tax avoidance strategies.
The primary mechanisms for reducing estate taxes — the unlimited marital deduction and the charitable deduction — apply whether money or property (sometimes referred to generally as assets) are held in a trust or held directly by an individual. The unlimited marital deduction allows the transfer of assets to a U.S. citizen surviving spouse free from estate tax, while the charitable deduction permits tax-free transfers to qualifying charitable organizations. These deductions are not exclusive to living trusts but can be incorporated into a trust-based estate plan to ensure that assets are distributed tax-efficiently.
Lifestyles on page 19
Lifestyles from page 18
Before delving into estate tax planning, it is important to understand that estate taxes come into play only when someone gifts assets during their lifetime and at their death that combine to exceed a certain threshold value. This threshold is called the federal lifetime exclusion amount and is currently $13.99 million for 2025. Unless the trustmaker and the trustmaker’s revocable living trust have combined assets exceeding this amount, there will likely be no federal estate tax due at a trustmaker’s death. However, for purposes of this article, we will assume that the trustmaker’s assets owned individually and in the revocable trust are valued at more than the lifetime exclusion amount.
Caution: If you live in a state with a state estate tax, you need to work with an experienced estate planning attorney to ensure that these concerns are addressed appropriately, as state estate tax thresholds are often lower than the federal threshold and may require additional planning.
Single Trustmakers and Estate Taxes
Of the two planning strategies mentioned above — the unlimited marital deduction and the charitable deduction — only the charitable deduction tool is available to single individuals. With this tool, all assets in a person’s trust left to qualifying charitable organizations will be removed from the trustmaker’s taxable estate. On the other hand, the assets left to noncharitable beneficiaries will likely be exposed to federal estate tax liability if the remaining assets exceed the current federal exemption amount. In other words, if your beneficiaries are your children, your brothers and sisters, your nieces and nephews, your best friend, another trust, or even a for-profit business, then the property they inherit through the trust could be subject to federal estate tax depending on the size of your remaining estate. Otherwise, any property distributed to qualifying charitable organizations through the trust passes free from federal estate tax.
Married Trustmakers and Estate Taxes
Married couples have both the charitable and unlimited marital deductions available to them. The charitable deduction functions the same way as described above for the single individual. With the unlimited marital deduction, all qualifying transfers of assets held in your
trust that pass to your U.S. citizen spouse after your death will likely not be subject to estate taxes due to the unlimited marital deduction. However, to be deemed a qualifying transfer, the assets must either pass to the spouse outright or be held and administered in a special type of trust for your spouse’s benefit.
On the other hand, if you are married and you create and fund a revocable living trust and name both your spouse and your children as current beneficiaries after you die, the portion of the trust passing to your spouse (utilizing the unlimited marital deduction) will likely not be subject to federal estate tax, and the portion passing to your children may be subject to estate tax (depending on the value of the assets and the federal lifetime exclusion amount available to you when you pass). If you include one or more qualifying charitable organizations as beneficiaries, the portion passing to the charities will likely not be subject to estate tax.
Do You Need a Revocable Living Trust?
If a revocable living trust does nothing to reduce your federal estate tax bill that cannot be done by holding the assets in your own name, why should you consider setting one up? There are at least three good reasons:
1. To avoid probate. Assets held in your revocable living trust at the time of your death will avoid the court proceeding known as probate . Depending on your state of residence at the time of your death, this could save a great deal of time and thousands of dollars in legal fees and court costs.
2. To plan for mental incapacity . If you become unable to manage your affairs while you are still alive, the successor trustee you name in your revocable living trust will be able to manage trust assets for your benefit without the need for court involvement. Like the benefit of avoiding probate discussed above, removing the need for a court-supervised guardianship or conservatorship could save time and thousands of dollars in legal fees and court costs, depending on your state of residence.
3. To keep your final wishes private. A revocable living trust is a private agreement that remains private after you die. In most cases, the only people who will need to know the terms of the trust and what will occur during administration are the trustee and your named beneficiaries. Usually, this document is not required to
be filed with the court, which will prevent strangers from knowing what you own and how you want what you own to be distributed and managed.
Final Thoughts on Revocable Living Trusts and Estate Taxes
For many people, a revocable living trust is the ideal way to organize their final affairs. While the estate tax avoidance tools used by a living trust are not exclusive to such trusts, they can be incorporated into a trust-based estate plan to capture the general benefits that living trusts offer and provide equally important additional benefits unrelated to tax savings.
If you are interested in learning more about a revocable living trust and its benefits for you and your loved ones, call us.
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.
Lifestyles on page 20
Medicare Corner with Kathy O
Don’t Fall for Kitchen Sink Plans
So many commercials offering money for food, utilities, and flex cards – is it too good to be true?
We all see those commercials promising everything but the kitchen sink. These ads are designed to prompt you to call and most likely you will be disappointed and they will try to enroll you in a plan that was not the advertised plan. Usually, the advertised plans with free benefits are for people who are dual enrollees — enrolled in Medicare and their state Medicaid program.
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to individuals and families with limited income and resources.
How do I qualify ?
You must live in Florida and meet certain rules, such as having limited income and savings per the Medicaid limits. The website to apply is https://myaccess. myflfamilies.com and all the information you need is on the site.
Medicaid is either partial or full benefits. If you do not qualify after applying, you may be eligible for LIS (low income subsidy) to assist with cost of medications.
If I don’t qualify for Medicaid, what can I do?
It’s important to have a dedicated agent that you can speak with consistently to answer your questions, not random agents in a call center. It’s not too late to review your Medicare coverage. There is an open enrollment period through March 31 for Advantage Plan members and many special enrollment periods that allow you to make changes to your Medicare coverage now.
I specialize in supplements, Advantage Plans, prescription drug plans, and dual plans and I am happy to help you review your coverage.
If you have Medicare Topic suggestions, email me at czak82@aol.com. I speak Medicare: supplement, drug plan, and Advantage Plan. For your free Medicare Plan review, please call me, Kathy Olejniczak, Agent, at 561835-5413 or cell/text 561-212-7640.
Heart Transplant Gets Physician Cyclist Back on Trails After Years of Progressive Heart Failure
Jaime Rodriguez, MD, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at a healthcare system in South Florida, has dedicated his career to taking care of others. But when he was the one who needed help, his colleagues in medicine were there for him.
In 2007 Dr. Rodriguez, a former competitive cyclist, was out on one of his regular early morning bike rides when he collapsed on the road. He required cardiac resuscitation on the scene and was rushed to Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, where his cardiologist, Howard Bush, MD, performed a coronary catheterization that revealed a blocking of the stents he had received six years earlier. An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was implanted, and he was rushed to the operating room, where he underwent quadruple coronary bypass surgery. He had suffered a massive heart attack on that ride, which severely damaged his heart.
Dr. Rodriguez’s heart muscle had deteriorated to the point where a transplant was the only solution. He was admitted to the ICU, where he was intubated for a few days and then required an IABP support to stabilize his condition while he waited for a donor heart that would be compatible for him.
“I had suffered so much that I was welcoming the idea by then,” Dr. Rodriguez says of overcoming his fear of the transplant. “I knew I had no choice – it was this or I wouldn’t make it.” A suitable donor heart become available 10 days after he was admitted to the ICU. “It’s hard to describe how it felt to get that news,” Dr. Rodriguez says. “I realized how lucky I was.”
Dr. Rodriguez, who was 50 at the time, had been dealing with coronary artery disease since he was 43 years old. “I had gone back to cycling and riding my bike at a competitive level to improve my heart health,” he says. But his predisposition to heart disease was strong – both his father and his grandfather had died from it, at 52 and 53 years old, respectively.
Dr. Rodriguez’s health remained stable for several years after the biking incident. The damage to his heart, however, slowly progressed to heart failure and malignant arrhythmia, requiring the implantation of a cardioverterdefibrillator and advanced heart failure management under the care of cardiologists at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital.
“My prognosis was that the damage would worsen with age,” he says. “I had a feeling I was going to end up needing a transplant – it was always in the back of my mind. But I was doing well, still able to ride a bike, work, and live a happy life. So I thought, ‘Let’s not think about the transplant now.’” By May of 2020, Dr. Rodriguez had been dealing with worsening episodes of arrhythmia and had been hospitalized frequently over six months until one night, which he described as a “nightmare,” when he had eight episodes of arrhythmia. He’d had enough. His wife called 911 and he was taken to Weston Hospital.
Nicolas Brozzi, MD, and Cedric Sheffield, MD, performed a complex cardiac reoperation to replace his worn-out native heart with a healthy donor heart. Dr. Rodriguez’s recovery was gradual, but steady, and he was discharged from the hospital within two weeks.
“He was determined to get through this operation and move on with life, back to his family and his work,” says Dr. Brozzi.
One year after his transplant, Dr. Rodriguez was back to working full-time, walking, running, and cycling. He says exercising is easier now than before and he can do at least as much as, if not more, than anyone else his age.
Dr. Rodriguez has become very fond of his care team at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital and looks forward to seeing them at his follow-ups.
“The cardiac transplant team provides very personalized care,” he says. “They make you feel special. I am very grateful to the organization and the transplant care doctors – they have become my friends and partners in this ride of a lifetime.”
The Transplant Center at Cleveland Clinic in Florida builds upon the longstanding success of the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic in Oh io. Patients receive the highest-level medical care from top experts in organ transplantation. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida. org/Transplant to learn more.
One year after his heart transplant, Dr. Jaime Rodriguez (center) was back to working full time, walking, running, and cycling.
arts & entertainment
Book Review
The Backyard Book Chronicles
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.
It was a wonderful surprise—and coincidence—when a copy of this book arrived at my home one Monday as a gift from my two daughters, Brett and Hillary. Just a day earlier I had noted The Backyard Book Chronicles at the top of the Sunday New York Times nonfiction bestseller list, and Barnes & Noble bookseller chain’s naming it as their “Book of the Year.”
Such success is not new to author Amy Tan, whose ten
earlier books include the novel, The Joy Luck Club , which became an international bestseller and the inspiration for the hit motion picture of the same title.
After learning of the book, I had immediately decided to schedule it for review in my column, thanks to my daughters’ thoughtfulness, a clear indication that they are very much tuned in to my reading tastes, this very special book was already in my hands. And now, as I have just turned the last page I am in awe of every aspect of this remarkable work:
• the very concept of the book —a day by day dated journal of the author’s experiences watching and interacting with the natural lives of the wide variety of bird species that visit her home’s backyard in the San Francisco Bay area;
• the author’s writing skills that reflect the wide range of emotions she (and we) feel through her experiences; the more than 130 drawings, sketches and color illustrations Tan herself learned to create that include many which compare favorably to the iconic Audubon paintings,
• and even the splendid presentation of this initial edition from the publisher , Knopf, with a hardcover binding that is slightly flexible and the book’s overall stunning design.
In 2016, unhappy and uncomfortable with the national and international news swirling around her and everyone else—and having always been aware of what she refers to as her lifelong “obsession” with birds —Amy Tan decided to focus inward, studying the natural life within her own backyard, and to keep a personal journal of that experience. She took drawing lessons to brush up on the art skills she had already demonstrated at a very young age.
After an excellent and informative foreword by renowned ornithologist David Allen Sibley, who explains why birdwatching has become such a popular activity throughout the U.S., followed by the author’s preface in which she describes a childhood and personal life interests that have led to this new book, the first entry in the Chronicles is dated Sept. 16, 2017; the last is dated Dec. 15, 2022.
That is a period of just over five years in which Amy Tan, and we readers along with her, learn so much and feel so much as she not only watches the many species of birds that visit her backyard, but often becomes a part of their lives—feeding them, sometimes holding them, protecting them whenever possible from predators, trying to outsmart the agile and determined squirrels who want their portions of the seeds meant for the birds—and each day learning something wonderfully new which she shares with us: their individual personalities, her avian friends’ food likes and dislikes, fears or willingness to be approached, mating habits, parenting skills, dominance traits, aggression or shyness—and so much more.
Throughout the period covered in these pages Tan learned to identify 62 different kinds of birds that visited her backyard
THERE’S A NEW DERMATOLOGIST IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
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.
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
Nanci Smith, CEO
and lists them at the back of the book in such categories as: corvids, doves and pigeons, finches, nuthatches, raptors, sparrows (which alone covers 10 species), thrushes, warblers, woodpeckers and other songbirds.
Some visit her regularly throughout the year. Others obey their ancient instincts and migrate thousands of miles around the globe as the seasons change, returning the same time each year to a warm welcome at Tan’s backyard.
We learn about them not only through her Chronicle’s fascinating and informative text but also from some of the intentionally rough drawings accompanied by handwritten notes that are equally interesting and which point out unusual facts worth knowing that she has either sketched, or less often photographed then sketched, while observing the birds’ actions.
The range of emotions engendered by these experiences is exemplified by two examples that I will touch on very briefly here. Most of the text has been omitted for lack of space and replaced with ellipses (…). Here is the first, dated Sept. 26, 2021, a situation in which a young, inexperienced Cooper’s Hawk flying over Tan’s backyard had spotted three cage feeders and done a fast dive intending to pluck a songbird from its perch as an easy meal, not realizing that the birds were safe inside the metal feeders. It crashed into one of the feeders, injured a wing and Amy Tan, after frantic efforts to free and release her, rushed the hawk to a wildlife center to try to have the bird healed.
“She received a total of three months of incredible care. But she was still not flying symmetrically. A few days after that report, I received a voicemail message from the medical director, asking that I return her call. I knew by her soft, consoling tone that the news would not be good. I spared her the difficulty of telling me and left a voicemail message, saying I appreciated all that they had done. I knew that if (the hawk) could not fly well enough to find food, she would slowly starve in the wild … I understood why it was more humane to euthanize her, and I was grateful that they would do it in the kindest way possible.
“After I left the message, I cried. I tried to draw her portrait. But I could not capture her spirit. I could not capture the way she must have felt within I briefly held her in my arms and told her I was sorry.”
A month later, on Oct. 24, 2021, a bomb cyclone arrived in the Bay Area. As Amy Tan notes—here again I am quoting just brief excerpts from her wonderful description of the event:
“It hurled serial storms and produced an atmospheric river that dropped a thirty-minute deluge. We, the denizens who had been saving shower water to wash bird poop off the porch were happy to be waterlogged … But as I watched the large limbs or our oak trees swaying, I imagined the birds in those trees being whipsawed and flung into the storm. Where do they go to stay dry when the rain is blasting sideways?
“As if in answer, two pygmy nuthatches flew into the covered porch off my office, shook themselves off, and sat on top of a cage feeder a couple of inches apart. Most people would agree that the pygmy nuthatch is one of the cutest birds on earth. They look and sound like squeaky toys. I assumed they would eat a few suet balls for fortitude and head for a heavily leafed hiding spot. But after five minutes, they were still there …
“They did not go into the feeders to eat. They simply watched the rain from their spectator seats. The smaller nuthatch scooted closer to the bigger one. The bigger one then allopreened the smaller one, poking and picking at its feathers. I assumed they were adults, a mated pair, since the season for fledglings was long over. For thirty minutes the two nuthatches sat close together like lovers on a porch swing, watching the rain as I watched them.”
These offer just a bare hint of the information and experiences awaiting you in the almost 300 pages of this book, so deserving of its recent honors. Experience it for yourself.
Film Review
Good Morning, Miss Dove
By Nils A. Shapiro
It is not unusual for me to watch a dozen or more films during the average month in order to find one that I consider deserving of bringing to your attention in my review column. Indeed, I must confess that of late I have often been turning many off before they end, tired of the sameness of the new releases’ subject matter or just plain failure to motivate audience involvement.
So it was with some degree of hope that I came across a surprising film offering on Amazon Prime that I had never heard of, but whose brief, albeit unfinished, description of its story line seemed promising—at least different: “Miss Dove is a well-respected teacher who has inspired her students to greatness. One day during school, Miss Dove experiences great pain in her back. After class she asks one of her students to get a doctor, Thomas, a do…”
Although my technical skills don’t extend to knowing how to finish reading that description, I figured that sounded interesting enough for me. But my wife, Linda, noting that the film had been produced in 1955—70 years ago—had second thoughts about my decision.
(Suffice it to say that halfway through the film Linda turned to me and, wiping her eyes, said, “This movie is making me cry.”) I understood perfectly. And so will you.
Good Morning, Miss Dove was based on a bestselling 1954 novel by Frances Gray Patton. It was directed by Henry Koster, whose name may be unfamiliar to many of this column’s readers but in his day was an extraordinarily successful director of 47 movies, including such diverse classics as James Stewart’s Harvey (1950), the Biblical story, The Robe (1953), My Man Godfrey (1957) and Flower Drum Song (1961).
One of the era’s most popular (and beautiful) actresses, Jennifer Jones, stars in Good Morning, Miss Dove, with a wonderful supporting cast that includes Robert Stack, Chuck
Connors, Peggy Knudsen and Robert Douglas. Jennifer Jones is in the lead role here as the best-known—and strictest— elementary school teacher in the small town of Liberty Grove. She is austere and stern, a firm disciplinarian. But her students learn…not only their school lessons, but as they come to realize later and throughout their lives the experience with Miss Dove has been a truly meaningful one.
What most families in the town do not realize when they think of Miss Dove as a never-married, prim spinster with no children—but which we in the audience have witnessed in heartbreaking scenes—are the sacrifices that Miss Dove has made in her own life that brought her to the school classroom and those generations of young students: her decision to turn down an offer of marriage from a successful young man she loved, and giving up her own career opportunity in order to commit to repaying the financial debt her late father owed to the bank he had served as its president…which she does over time by staying home and working for decades as a teacher.
It is only when Miss Dove suddenly falls ill, her former students now doctors and nurses at the local hospital are there to treat her—and all of the town’s present students make their feelings about her known—that it becomes clear the “childless” Miss Dove truly has won the love of more children than anyone could possibly imagine.
A sentimental film? Yes. One that sparked an interesting conversation between my wife and me as the end credits rolled down the TV screen. Linda asked whether I could recall any special teacher from all of my elementary, high school and college years who stood out in my memory. I replied immediately: Miss Marie Minuto, my English teacher at Theodore Roosevelt High School in The Bronx, New York, who appointed me Editor of the sports page of the school newspaper for the coming year. She knew that I had just made the varsity football team, told me that I had the journalistic writing skills for being an editor and advised me to take a course in typewriting to prepare for the new responsibility. Not only did Miss Minuto instill in me the confidence that I had what it takes to consider a career in journalism—which changed my life completely—but none of us knew in that pre-computer age how critical the ability to type would become!
I have thought of her thousands of times since then. Good Morning, Miss Dove may put you in that kind of mood. A recommended film in these chaotic times. Streaming now on Amazon Prime.
