The Coastal Star March 2025 Boca

Along the Coast

Lauren and Claire McCormack, Jeanie Bulloch and Kai McCormack (l-r) wave to catch the attention of oncoming State Road A1A drivers. They are in the same Delray Beach crosswalk where a fatal accident occurred Feb. 5. Police say crosswalk signs were not present at the time of the crash. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Family matriarch in A1A crosswalk fatally struck by cars

By Rich Pollack

Roz Lowney loved the South Florida lifestyle.

A devoted family matriarch who enjoyed playing canasta at a local beach club, Lowney and her husband of 50 years lived in Canton, Massachusetts, with Roz spending winters in Delray Beach and her husband, Tim, a family physician, leaving his practice for short vacations and long weekends here.

Friends said he was just a day away

from heading to their Florida condo when he got word of a tragic crash that would devastate a tight-knit family.

Roslyn Lowney, a mother of four and a grandmother of nine who married her high school sweetheart, was killed when she was struck by two cars as she crossed State Road A1A on her way home after playing canasta and having dinner with friends at the Delray Beach Club.

She was 71.

“We wish we had more time with her but cherish the time we had,” her family

wrote in an obituary that appeared in the Canton Citizen, which serves a community where the Lowneys have become an integral part of the fabric.

The Feb. 5 crash took place at night, shortly before 8:30 p.m., on a Delray Beach portion of A1A that was — and remains — under construction.

According to Delray Beach police, Lowney was walking west from the club in a crosswalk when she was struck by a northbound vehicle driven by a 76-yearSee A1A on page 33

Boca Raton City sees green and likes it

Open space is key to choice of designer for City Hall area

By Mary Hladky

In selecting a joint venture of Terra and Frisbie Group to redevelop the city’s downtown government campus, Boca Raton City Council members on Feb. 11 threw their support to developers who proposed the lowest density project with the greatest amount of green space.

And in rejecting Related Ross, they made clear their dissatisfaction with a project emphasizing 975,000 square feet of office space in three buildings. While four companies submitted proposals to reimagine 30 city-owned acres around City Hall and the adjacent Brightline train station, council members’ quick rejection of two made this a contest between two highly regarded teams with divergent views of what best suited the city. Four council members favored Terra/Frisbie. Only Council member Andy Thomson supported Related Ross, but said it was a “very close call” between “two exceptional companies.”

See DOWNTOWN on page 32

Highland Beach Voters’ OK sought for potential marine patrol dock, old firehouse spending

Price could reach up to $3.5 million for two projects

By Rich Pollack

For decades Highland Beach residents had been complaining about boats speeding as they navigated the town’s 3.5 miles of the Intracoastal Waterway. State officials who oversee

navigation on the waterway listened, but little was done to assuage residents’ concerns.

Then in early 2022 — following three serious boating accidents, including two with fatalities — town commissioners took matters into their own hands, launching a 28-foot police boat that residents say has slowed speeding boaters down simply by being visible.

“Three serious accidents occurred within just a few

months,” Police Chief Craig Hartmann said. “Since the launch of the police boat and our increased presence, there have been no boating accidents on the Intracoastal in Highland Beach.”

Now the Police Department is hoping to take that presence to the next level with a dock on the Intracoastal — behind the town’s library — that will also make it easier for Highland

See DOCK on page 18

March 2025

Serving Highland Beach and Coastal Boca Raton

Highland Beach marine patrol Officer James Thornton, with Officer Stephen Salach, uses a radar detector to gauge a boat’s speed. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Milani model ‘No other county park like this’ Page 18

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Publisher’s Note

Brush up on lifesaving skills

Did you ever think you really knew something, something vitally important? Only to find out the things you thought you knew were not only out of date, but also bordered on dead wrong?

I took a basic lifesaving class when I was in college and thought I knew enough to save a life. Not only that, my oldest brother was a fireman and a couple of good friends are paramedics. So of course, just by osmosis, I had to know what to do if I were faced with a life-threatening situation.

Boy was I wrong.

I recently took a CPR/ Stop-the Bleed class put on by the Starbright Civic Collective and Ocean Ridge police and found out how limited my skills were.

The two-plus hours of class with 20 students included a candid, non-medical-term lecture followed by live practice where we each got the chance to resuscitate a training dummy and “stop the flow of blood” in a demonstration body wound.

Countless things in life can cause a medical issue, and the older we get, the more likely someone we know will need medical assistance. Traffic crashes come to mind, but so does slipping in the shower. Heck, just the aging process makes us more prone to cardiac issues, as well as sleep apnea and other conditions.

Along this coast, we have some of the best-trained first responders working in our fire and police departments. Yet, no matter how quickly they might respond to a 911 call, our waiting for their arrival may not be good enough.

Brain damage can occur within a few minutes of a heart attack without CPR. The longer it takes for oxygen and blood flow to be restored, the greater the risk of brain damage or death.

CPR is typically required if a person has stopped breathing because of a heart attack. In the past, I was taught to do 30 pumps

on the chest, followed by breathing into the mouth for a couple of puffs, continuously repeating.

The most important thing the new class taught me is how to do proper CPR — using your hands and arms to compress the chest rapidly. That forces the flow of blood needed by the brain.

You have to push really hard. The compressions need to push the chest down at least a couple of inches to really pump blood. It’s best to get the person on the floor or other hard surface — where it’s easier to compress the chest than on a bed or couch.

Why not just use automated external defibrillators, which hang in plastic boxes in so many public hallways?

The AED may be a great tool when used in conjunction with CPR, our instructor, Officer/Paramedic Jimmy Pilon, told us, but will not save a life on its own. CPR is still needed.

Stop the bleed …

You should also know how to stanch bleeding from a critical wound so a person doesn’t bleed out while waiting for paramedics to arrive. These most serious wounds, such as from slicing open a finger or stepping on broken glass, require constant pressure to slow or stop the bleeding. It might require packing the wound with sterile gauze — even using a clean dishcloth or T-shirt is better than nothing.

If you ever encounter a person in medical need, here are some tips: Put your phone on speaker so your hands are free; call 911; and be ready to provide a street address and to follow the operator’s directions. Learn the basics now. Find a class to take.

Who knows, you may get a chance to be the first responder, helping save a life until trained professionals arrive.

Coastal Star

Delray retiree puts his heart into volunteer work

By Hannah Spence

Many people aspire to spend their golden years at the beach or playing golf, but 66-year-old retiree Tim Sharp spends most of his time volunteering.

“It’s a great feeling to give back to the community,” said Sharp, who donates his time to causes such as recreational soccer, the Delray Beach Public Library, the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program, St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the Delray Beach Historical Society.

Volunteering “gives people a purpose on ‘Why am I here, what am I doing?’” he said. “A lot of people lose that, especially when they retire, and it’s hard to get that back.”

Sharp’s journey in volunteer work started in 2001 when he coached his daughter with SABR, a Boca Raton soccer program. He eventually joined the board, on which he served for about four years.

During this time, a friend invited him to a meeting at the Rotary Club of Boca Raton Sunrise. That led Sharp to decades of service with that club, including two stints as president.

From there, volunteering became a way of life for Sharp, particularly after he retired as a hydrogeologist and project manager at the engineering firm CH2M Hill in 2014.

— Jerry Lower, Publisher

His wife, Katherine Karageorges-Sharp, was diagnosed with oral cancer about a year later. She suffered from the disease on and off for about six years before dying in 2020.

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A fter losing his wife, Sharp eventually settled in Delray Beach. He continued to support organizations such as the Rotary Club of Boca Raton Sunrise and SABR TOPSoccer, which caters to special-needs children and adults. Sharp is the club’s Boca sponsorship coordinator and is taking some responsibilities off administrator Suzi Vogelgesang’s plate.

He began using the online service VolunteerMatch to find opportunities in Delray Beach. He was grateful to find the first match with the Delray library. But the second opportunity, American Cancer Association’s Road to Recovery program, is especially dear to him.

“This volunteer opportunity proved to be very close to my heart as I remember all of the countless trips to and from appointments for my late wife,” said Sharp, who through the program provides rides for cancer patients to and from their health appointments.

Th rough participating in Road to Recovery, Sharp has gotten to know some cancer patients on a personal level, such as Robert Kohl, who has colon cancer. Sharp has driven him on several occasions.

“I’ve had different drivers at different times, but Tim was the most consistent out of all of them,” said Kohl, who signed up

for Road to Recovery because he does not have a car. Before meeting Sharp, he’d had the disappointing experience of having a driver cancel. Sharp came in at the right time. “Tim is very nice, he’s very personable,” said Kohl.

More recent, Sharp started volunteering for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy, a program the Boca Chamber runs, which teaches teenagers how to start a business.

“They have some very interesting ideas,” Sharp said of the would-be business owners. “The whole point in doing this is to get them to be more confident in themselves, to know that they can do something like this, whether they actually go and start a business or not. They’ve learned a skill that they may not have had before and probably won’t get from high school.”

That’s not his only contribution to future leaders; Sharp is setting up an annual scholarship through the George Snow Scholarship Fund for students from both the Best Foot Forward program and the Milagro Teen Center in Delray Beach.

Th rough all his opportunities, Sharp has followed a certain philosophy when it comes to volunteering.

“You have to treat it like a profession,” he said, “meaning you must be professional. I’ve found that a lot of volunteers will raise their hand but then don’t show up. They have an excuse. You’ve got to put your heart into it.” P

Tim Sharp works in Boca Raton teaching students in the Chamber of Commerce’s Young Entrepreneurs Academy, one of his several volunteer missions. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Letter to the Editor

Crosswalks don’t need sidewalks on both sides of road

I am writing to address a common misconception that has repeatedly stalled progress on much-needed pedestrian safety measures in our community: the notion that crosswalks require sidewalks on both sides of the road. This claim is not only incorrect but also detrimental to the safety and convenience of our residents.

In Palm Beach County,

there are scenarios where the installation of crosswalks is a no-brainer.

There are several instances where the same community facility, like a pool or beach access, is split across the street. Residents, especially the elderly or those with mobility issues, must cross to utilize these common amenities. The argument that these crosswalks

The next edition of The Coastal Star will be delivered the weekend of April 5

cannot be installed due to the absence of sidewalks on both sides is not supported by engineering guidelines or local codes.

Another common situation is where parking lots are located directly across from community facilities. Here, crosswalks are essential for safe pedestrian access from parking to the facility, yet these projects are often tabled with the same unfounded objection.

Let’s look at the facts:

• ADA Accessibility Guidelines (Section 4.2.4) clarify that crosswalks should connect to accessible routes, not necessarily sidewalks. If there’s no sidewalk on one side, a crosswalk can still connect

to a path or another form of pedestrian access leading to a facility.

• The Florida Department of Transportation’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (Section 3B.18) emphasizes the installation of crosswalks where pedestrian safety would benefit, without mandating sidewalks on both sides.

• Our local Unified Land Development Code under Article 6, does not require sidewalks on both sides for crosswalk installation, but stresses providing safe, convenient and direct pedestrian access.

These guidelines show that the decision to install crosswalks should be based

Ocean Ridge

on engineering judgment, focusing on pedestrian safety and access needs rather than a strict interpretation of sidewalk presence.

Our community deserves to have its pedestrian safety prioritized, especially in clearcut cases where crosswalks are evidently necessary. I urge the local authorities to reconsider their stance on crosswalk installations and look at each case on its merit, ensuring that safety and accessibility are at the forefront of our community’s planning decisions.

‘Angel of Beachway’ honored for trash pickup

Laurie Arsenault, one of 10 children, was always told by her father: “The world is not a trash can. Pick up after yourself.”

Now she is known as the Angel of Beachway for picking up 540 pounds of trash in the last two years from Ocean Ridge beaches.

On Feb. 3, Ocean Ridge Vice Mayor Steve Coz read a proclamation in her honor at the monthly Town Commission meeting.

“Please don’t litter. First of all, I have OCD,” she told those in attendance. “If I see it in my vision, I have to pick it up.”

The 66-year-old was born in Massachusetts and was a nurse for 40 years, picking

up after patients and keeping hospital rooms antiseptic. With her husband, Salvatore, Arsenault has six children and six grandchildren.

“I don’t want my grandchildren to grow up in a trash can or an ashtray,” she said.

Arsenault, a Boynton Beach resident, picks up on average three pounds of trash a day, including shoes, toothpaste, plastic pots, bottles, bottle caps and — of course — cigarette butts.

Arsenault said she used to be a cigarette smoker and “I’m paying penance now. I’m picking up.”

Arsenault said there is a side benefit to her beach cleanup: “It keeps me limber by bending down and back up again.”

— John Pacenti

Rafael Pineiro Palmsea Condominium South Palm Beach

Arsenault

Manalapan

Town will study what owners of private property can do about beach erosion

By John Pacenti

Manalpan’s great sand transfer plant war of 2025 ended not with a bang but a whimper.

“I feel tapped out of what I can potentially do to shut [the plant] down or do anything on that matter,” Town Manager Eric Marmer said at the Beach Committee meeting on Feb. 7. He then proposed hiring an outside firm to complete a comprehensive study of the private beaches in town — as was done in Highland Beach. Commissioner Cindy McMackin, in a thought seconded by Commissioner Dwight Kulwin, said the town should hire a lobbyist and it should be former State Attorney Dave Aronberg.

Marmer said at the Feb. 11 regular Town Commission meeting that he was going ahead with engaging Aptim Environmental & Infrastructure — the same firm that did the Highland Beach study — for Manalapan. The first phase of the study would cost $10,000 and the second phase between $17,000 and $20,000.

“I really think we need to move forward with this because we have done a lot of due diligence but we are not ocean engineers, we are amateurs,” Marmer said. “But you know, we have a concern, and I think this is the next step.”

Manalapan has been on a quest since last fall to learn everything it can about the county’s sand transfer plant at Ocean Inlet Park and whether it was robbing sand from the town’s private beaches to spew out on the other side to benefit Ocean Ridge and other municipalities to the south.

It’s been quite a journey. Kulwin spent hours with an operator at the sand transfer plant and reported back to the committee what the man said.

A resident, Dr. Peter Bonutti — spouse of Vice Mayor Simone Bonutti — was named a county liaison. He found an interesting U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study that he said showed the plant was committing highway robbery and debunked the position that all sand flows from north to south.

Mayor John Deese and Marmer set off in January to meet with Palm Beach County officials. Both came back with a sobering conclusion: Neither the county nor the plant is to blame for the town’s beach woes.

“We were greeted with very open arms and very understanding concerns,” Deese said Feb. 7. “As they explained to us, it’s not isolated to Manalapan. It’s obviously a statewide issue, but in particular to Palm Beach County.”

Since Manalapan’s beaches are private, the town cannot receive any federal or statewide money for renourishment.

“The only thing that could be done that they suggested, which is above and beyond what they can do, is to lobby the state and federal governments to allow the public money to be used, you know, to protect private beaches,” Deese said.

McMackin said the prohibition on public money is unfair because as a wealthy community residents pay a lot in property taxes. She said hiring a lobbyist — she mentioned Aronberg at the Beach Committee meeting — “would be a good use of money to fight for our town.”

As for the sand transfer plant, Marmer said the only thing he could do — if directed by the commission — is to tell the town attorney to sue the county.

However, his recommendation would be

to follow Highland Beach’s route and hire a firm to do an in-depth study of the town’s beaches and what can be done to remedy erosion on them.

“They did a really good beach study, and it went property by property and said exactly what their observation was, their condition and recommendation with photos of each property,” he said.

Highland Beach then sent out notices to all the residences there to tell them what they individually could do.

Peter Bonutti, though, stressed he didn’t think the county was being honest when it came to the sand transfer plant, saying data has not been filed that is required by its operating permit.

“It is not operating legally,” Bonutti said. P

BUY&SELL

Delray

Beach

Higher water rates loom as estimated cost of treatment plant rises to $280 million

By Rich Pollack

The cost of Delray Beach’s new water treatment plant could more than double from an estimate a few years ago — due largely to new federal EPA regulations — and that could result in another increase in customers’ water bills down the road.

The total project cost estimate for the plant could reach $280 million, compared to a previous estimate of about $120 million a few years ago, Utilities Director Hassan Hadjimiry and Chief Financial Officer Henry Dachowitz said in a memo to City Manager Terrence Moore.

That change is largely due to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s first-ever enforceable drinking water standard for PFAS, better known as harmful “forever chemicals” found in drinking water, according to Moore.

staff and the city’s design/build consultant, engineering and design firm, CDM Smith.

The presentation will include discussion of a future water rate structure and funding options including possible state financing.

“Often times estimates are higher than what the final cost comes out to be,” Moore said, adding that the design/build structure of the project could lead to cost efficiencies and that some facets of the project may require competitive bidding.

In their memo, Hadjimiry and Dachowitz wrote that the city will need to borrow money — possibly with tax-exempt revenue bonds — for the project and that would mean residents could start seeing improved water quality in about three years. That would require the city to make annual debt service payments at least annually.

rates in 2022 for the first time in more than 15 years, with water bills increasing about 30% over a five-year period ending in 2027.

In the memo, Hadjimiry and Dachowitz said that the EPA ruling last April required major revisions in the plant.

“The original design of the plant had to be significantly modified to comply with the revised EPA standards for PFOA, PFOS and Gen-X, requiring substantial design modification and treatment capacity approach,” they wrote.

One major change, Moore said, was in the actual water treatment process.

In the original design, the plant would have used a combination of lime softening — currently being used in the 73-year-old facility — and nano filtration, a membrane-based process that uses pressure to remove dissolved substances from the drinking water.

“Because of the new EPA requirements, the water treatment facility will be significantly larger,” he said.

The cost of the plant — which is scheduled to come online in late 2027 or early 2028 — and more details about its design will be discussed on March 11 when the City Commission hears a project update from

“Given these significant required payments, the water rates will need to be raised to ensure that the utility’s future revenues each year cover all of its future expenditures,” they wrote.

Those rate increases, Moore said, would be “gradual steps consistent with the marketplace.”

The city last raised water

Because of the EPA ruling, the plant will have to be a fully nano filtration operation and as a result will have to be “significantly” larger than originally planned.

Moore didn’t specify how much larger but did say that the city does have the space to accommodate the bigger facility.P

Noise from Tiger’s PopStroke bedevils neighbors

info@abccoinandjewelry.com

By John Pacenti

Tiger Woods’ PopStroke in Delray Beach — which combines dining with putting — appears to be thriving, with crowds on the greens at the back of the restaurant visible from outside. While it may be fun for customers, it’s not so fun for nearby residents.

The main complaint appears

to be the music coming from loudspeakers — though gaspowered leaf blowers at 7 a.m. are no fun either.

“I can hear the noise inside my house,” Mitchell Revsine said at the Feb. 4 City Commission meeting. Revsine lives about a block away — and across from PopStroke at 1314 N. Federal Highway.

Revsine said PopStroke —

which didn’t return a phone call seeking comment — told residents that new trees planted should block the noise of the speakers.

“The trees aren’t tall enough to block the noise,” he said. “They could solve their problem today or any day by lowering the height of the speakers and just turning down the volume to an acceptable level.”

PopStroke opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 11 p.m. or midnight — with the landscaping crews cleaning up the place shortly after sunrise.

Mayor Tom Carney acknowledged the problem, saying he thinks it’s a design issue and that PopStroke needs to put the speakers on the ground. “I live in that same neighborhood,” he said. “They turn it down for a while when they get a complaint.”

Vice Mayor Juli Casale also weighed in, saying, “I can’t imagine living there next to it and hearing the pounding all day long. So I don’t know what we can do, but if you can, we can try to do something, even if we can reach out to the business and just ask them.”

City Attorney Lynn Gelin said a solution may be an enhanced fine since the noise violation is repetitive and that she would speak to the code enforcement supervisor about it. P

Delray Beach

Police look to add surveillance cameras to fight crime on barrier island

By Henry Fitzgerald

The Delray Beach Police Department is seeking state money to pay for technology in public places, which would include cameras to be installed on the barrier island to help fight crime.

In a letter sent to residents early in February, police Lt. Gary Ferreri asked for letters of support so he could forward them to state officials.

In the letter, Ferreri says the cameras would be installed in “the area along A1A where visitors park their vehicles, the pavilion, in our many public parks and along E. Atlantic Avenue” between the Intracoastal Waterway and State Road A1A.

If the state money is approved, Ferreri writes, “the goal is to install CCTV cameras to act as a deterrent to criminal activity, to monitor the area during special events” and to “assist investigators after an incident occurs.”

It’s unclear how much

money the state would allocate to Delray Beach to install the cameras. The funds would come from a pot of money approved statewide for such expenditures.

The idea comes months after a major gunfire incident south of the Delray Beach pavilion on A1A on June 21. One person was injured and nearly four dozen spent shell casings were found on the ground. That incident was similar to one earlier last year on March 30. In that gunfire incident, a juvenile was injured when a large group gathered on the top floor of the Old School Square parking garage, at 95 NE First Ave., a block east of Swinton Avenue.

At least one resident thinks adding cameras on the barrier island would be great.

“It’s a terrific idea because of the number of incidents we have had in this area,” said Kelly Barrette, who lives on Seaspray Avenue on the barrier island.

“I’ve been here 13 years, and we’ve been asking for more police patrols. I know I’d feel a lot better with cameras; this will

certainly help the police.”

Barrette said her neighborhood has its fair share of burglaries, car break-ins and thefts and robberies because of its location near A1A.

“It’s easy for criminals; A1A is like an escape route,” she said. “Also, the area is very dark at night because the lights are turned off because of the sea turtles.”

Vice Mayor Juli Casale says if the state money is approved, the plan is to introduce the cameras to the beach area, then eventually expand them to other areas of the city.

The beach area “is a perfect area to start with the cameras,” she said. “If things work in that area, I’d be in favor of having them all over the city.”

As for whether any residents would think having cameras all over the city would be a bridge too far, Casale doesn’t think so.

“I think the benefits outweigh the risks,” she said. “A lot of residents asked for this to happen. The safety of all of our residents is our first priority.” P

Mayor, commissioner look to quiet vice mayor’s criticism of city manager

By John Pacenti

Under the guise of protocol and civility, Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney and Commissioner Angela Burns are seeking to curtail Vice Mayor Juli Casale’s public criticism of City Manager Terrence Moore.  Burns suggested a gag order to keep some of Casale’s criticism from the public and the press on issues.

Carney, who held a Feb. 18 workshop on Robert’s Rules of Order regarding protocol at meetings, has declared Casale out of order for speaking up on issues recently.

And Moore stated he would not entertain questions about

Ocean Ridge

agenda items at meetings unless notified 24 hours in advance.

Casale said all of it was “synchronized.”

“Shutting down meaningful conversations defeats the purpose of representative government,” she said.

Casale at public meetings has pressed Moore on the investigations into the Code Enforcement Division, Finance Department and the fallout over the Brightline crash with a city fire truck.

She has demanded answers from Moore in private, pressing him on issues before commission meetings. She has also had numerous conversations with department heads and staff on any number

of topics.

“There have also been instances where commissioners have bypassed the City Manager’s Office and gone directly to department heads,” Burns said at the Feb. 4 meeting.

Burns’ statements come after City Attorney Lynn Gelin advised commissioners to keep their statements about the Dec. 28 train crash limited since the city is facing litigation.

“Some commissioners have made public statements to the press regarding sensitive matters, even though it is understood that such statements should come from our Communications Department,” Burns said. P

Hammock Park to get sand from inlet dredging

Beach renourishment will take place on Hammock Park beach starting in mid-March and ending April 30.

Palm Beach County will be dredging beach-quality sand in the vicinity of the Boynton Inlet and piping it to an area of the shoreline that is exposed during the lowest tides.

Ocean Ridge learned of the beach renourishment on Jan. 31 from the county’s Department

of Environmental Resources Management. The dredging and beach renourishment is timed so that it will not affect sea turtle nesting.

Similar to the 2013 inlet maintenance dredging, a pipe will transport the sand from the interior waterways to the beach south of the inlet. The contractor plans to work 24/7 and there will be on-beach lighting required for safety

reasons, according to DERM.

Ocean Ridge Mayor Geoff Pugh said the last time beach renourishment happened, the sand covered up the patch reefs off the park — reefs that have been thriving in recent months.

The dredging will occur from the inlet sand trap, the Harvey E. Oyer Jr. Park boat channel and the Intracoastal Waterway.

— John Pacenti

A month of little progress on Core’s construction project

By Steve Plunkett

Town commissioners and staff fretted that substantial work on Phase 2 of Gulf Stream’s big water main, drainage and road project would not begin early — or even by the originally scheduled mid-March start.

Town Manager Greg Dunham gave commissioners an updated checklist of progress Feb. 14 with not much progress to report. For sprinklers and landscaping: “Work is ongoing,

but very randomly,” it said. All mailboxes restored? “Only a few locations have been addressed.”

What’s more, engineers were waiting for a video of a large but defective underground pipe so they could figure out how to remedy it.

“When they initially televised it and noticed that it was to the point they probably wouldn’t be able to complete the televise, it was roughly three weeks ago. And our firm asked them, ‘Hey, we need that footage. We need to make a declaration of a

plan that we need to do.’ We’ve communicated with them in the field multiple times and meetings, in our scheduled meetings. And it’s now to this point, like you said, roughly three to four weeks later,” said Anthony Monroe, an inspector for Baxter & Woodman Consulting Engineers.

At the January commission meeting, contractor Roadway Construction LLC wanted to get an early start on Phase 2, mostly the roads in the Core District east of Polo Drive, to avoid

working near the Gulf Stream School when students are there.

But that incentive appears to have vanished after Police Chief Richard Jones said his officers can easily divert parents dropping off and picking up their children onto State Road A1A when work crews had to be close to the campus.

“We’re no longer going to be requiring that schedule,” Mayor Scott Morgan said.

Dunham asked about cracks already appearing in the concrete valley gutters along the

sides of the asphalt in Phase 1.

“All the light cracks and whatever that will be seen will be assessed on a walk-through and put on the list,” Monroe said.

Dunham noted that the scheduled March 14 commission meeting will come before Roadway’s March 18 deadline to finish Phase 1.

“So we’ll certainly be able to give you an update then,” he said.

“And hopefully pick up the pace,” Morgan said. P

Like mother, like daughter: Another Orthwein sits on town’s dais

By Steve Plunkett

After five meetings as an alternate member of the Architectural Review and Planning Board, Katherine Orthwein now sits as a full voting member of the panel, following in the public service footsteps of her mother, longtime Town Commissioner Joan Orthwein.

The younger Orthwein, who goes by Katie, was barely a toddler on April 1, 1987, when Joan Orthwein joined the ARPB’s predecessor, the Planning and Zoning Board. Coincidentally, one of the mother’s first votes was approving an addition to the home at 3150 Gulfstream Road, where her daughter now lives.

Joan Orthwein called her daughter a “talented” and “accomplished” young

Along the Coast

woman. Katie Orthwein, whose first full ARPB meeting was Jan. 23, demurred from giving details of her life for a newspaper article.

“My passion lies in helping Gulf Stream continue to thrive, and I believe the most meaningful impact comes from dedicated efforts rather than public recognition,” she said. “At this juncture, my focus remains on the work itself, and I find that true contribution is often best made without the glare of the spotlight.”

But Assistant Town Attorney Trey Nazzaro sang her praises as the Town Commission considered promoting her from being an alternate member Jan. 10.

“Honestly, when she’s not in attendance I wish that she was, because she is extremely thorough with all the

reviews,” Nazzaro said. “She caught a minor accessory structure that was 2 feet into the setback. You know, when we’re looking at plans we’re looking at so many things on the plan and that was something that she caught that we had not caught at the time.

“So we were able to navigate, and she’s just very thoughtful,” Nazzaro concluded. “It’s clear that she puts a lot of time and thought into her review.”

“And she’s an MIT grad,” Mayor Scott Morgan noted, referring to her MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

How long Katie Orthwein will be on the dais — and whether her children will follow her and their grandmother’s public service path — is impossible to

predict.

Joan Orthwein moved on from being chairwoman of the renamed Architectural Review and Planning Board and first sat as a town commissioner on May 4, 1995. In 2020, the Florida League of Cities officially praised her for 25 years of “unselfish leadership” on the Town Commission, though it didn’t mention her previous, unelected time on the ARPB.

The league presented her with a plaque and a 25-year lapel pin.

“I don’t know what to say, but thank you,” she said at the time. “It’s an honor to be on the commission. … It’s an honor to be here.”

This year she will qualify for the league’s 30-year lapel pin. P

The Coastal Star wins five awards in Florida Press Club contest

By Henry Fitzgerald

Writers for The Coastal Star won awards announced in January in the 2023-24 Florida Press Club Excellence in Journalism Competition.

Jane Musgrave received a first-place award in environmental reporting for her story, Sargassum, turtlenesting and storm seasons collide. Judges said it was “an

interesting examination of a phenomenon that threatens the balance of nature and commerce.”

Musgrave also won second place in general news reporting. Her story, Neighborhood’s beach-access spat morphs into slurs and legal one-upmanship, was about a feud between Ocean Ridge’s Tropical Drive and Turtle Beach condo residents.

“This interesting yarn on a spat between neighbors over beach access sheds light on how personal — and petty — land disputes can become,” judges said.

Janis Fontaine won a second-place award for religion writing for her story about local church renovations, Renewing Holy Spaces. “Janis Fontaine takes an in-depth look at matters of

faith and local congregations. Her stories are very informative,” judges said. Anne Geggis placed third in the minority news category for her story, Clearing the books of a racist past. It was about local efforts to remove Jim Crow laws still lingering in municipal ordinances. The judges said her article was “a really interesting look at a segregationist past and

current efforts to grapple with that history.”

Mary Thurwachter won third place in government news for her story about Hypoluxo Island residents fighting plans for Bonefish Cove. Boaters win fight to keep Intracoastal access “was very well-written and had in-depth reporting on a local issue. It was a pleasure to read,” judges said. P

Centennial celebration Little Club Feb. 21

The Gulf Stream Civic Association held a 100th anniversary celebration and dinner at the Little Club to commemorate the community’s founding in 1925. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Boca Raton

By Mary Hladky

EV shuttles now connect barrier island with downtown

BocaConnect, the electric vehicle shuttle service operated by Circuit Transit, has expanded to the barrier island.

Boca Raton City Council members approved the enlarged service area on Feb. 11, and service started on Feb. 24, after barrier island residents pressed them to make the shuttle available to them.

When launched on June 17, the service area ran from Glades Road to the south city limits, and from Interstate 95 to Fifth Avenue/Royal Palm Way. Now, the area will encompass the barrier island from South Inlet Park to just north of the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.

The city is currently paying Circuit Transit, which operates in many South Florida cities, $491,724 a year. The expansion will cost an additional $190,692.

The on-demand service is intended to make it easier for people to get around the downtown and adjacent areas without driving their cars, thereby reducing congestion.

Rides must start or end within the downtown.

Rides between downtown locations are free. The downtown includes the Federal Highway corridor, Downtown Library, Brightline station and Wildflower and Silver Palm parks.

Rides that start or end within the service areas but outside the downtown cost $2. Each additional rider costs $1, with a fare cap of $5.

People cannot use the service to travel only within the barrier island, or between the barrier island and another service area outside the downtown area.

The city’s contract with Circuit Transit specifies that

wait times can be no longer than 10 minutes. But that rule has been loosened for the barrier island service because Circuit Transit has no control over the opening and closing of the Palmetto Park Road bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway.

Ridership has gradually increased since the service was launched. During July, the first full month of service, 1,409 passengers used BocaConnect. That number rose to 2,456 in January.

Hours of service are

Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

To book rides, download the Circuit app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, and type in the pickup address and destination. Riders are updated on when the shuttle will arrive. P

The new BocaConnect area (in green) provides people on the barrier island access to downtown (red) and from there to within the existing service area (blue). Rendering provided

Aging amphitheater at Mizner Park gets council’s attention

By Mary Hladky

Now that The Center for Arts and Innovation will not be built on city-owned Mizner Park land, Boca Raton City Council members can no longer push aside the fact that the city’s amphitheater there needs an overhaul.

TCAI planned to incorporate

the amphitheater’s functions into its proposed performing arts complex’s main venue. With that in the works, city officials could forgo major renovations.

But now, the aging amphitheater’s condition looms as a problem that needs to be addressed.

Before the deal with TCAI tanked, city officials had

decided the roof needed to be replaced. That work is scheduled to start soon.

But in a Jan. 27 meeting, Council member Fran Nachlas asked City Manager George Brown what more needed to be done.

Citing the age of the building completed in 2002, Brown said the city should take a serious

look at capital improvements. He proposed hiring a consultant that has experience with amphitheaters to outline options.

The main question is: “Should we invest some of the dollars we have in capital money to improve the amphitheater now that we know it will be ours for the time to come,” he said.

Among the matters that should be explored are whether the building should have a retractable roof to protect the public from the elements and whether the backstage facilities are adequate and attractive to entertainment groups, he said.

Council members endorsed Brown’s idea, with Mayor Scott Singer asking that the analysis be done soon so the cost can be included in next fiscal year’s budget.

Singer asked whether the cost would be “in the seven figures.”

Brown agreed that an amount of under $10 million probably is what is needed.

While the TCAI planning was proceeding, “We have been putting a lot of Band-Aids on stuff and deferring a lot of serious maintenance and serious thinking …,” said Council member Marc Wigder.

But at this point, forgoing investment in the amphitheater is not an option, council members said.

“The programming keeps getting better and better. The attendance has been getting better and better,” said Deputy Mayor Yvette Drucker. “That means the community has an appetite for that area of town. Our goal is to bring more people into Boca.”

So when it comes to improving the amphitheater, “I am all for it,” she said. P

Boca Raton

‘Workshop’ group pushes its own vision for East Palmetto Park Road

Effort to influence city’s planning hits wall, so far

By Mary Hladky

Although they have been rebuffed so far in their effort to be part of planning to transform East Palmetto Park Road into an iconic Main Street, members of Workshop 344+ are not giving up.

Prominent architect Juan Caycedo has created a video that shows the group’s vision of what the road could be that invokes original city architect Addison Mizner’s ambitions for Boca Raton.

It pans from Palmetto Park Road as it exists today to what the group believes it could become with wide sidewalks, shade trees, flowers, trellises and generous pavered crosswalks. The current roadway does not fare well in the comparison.

The video notes that six people died on the road from 2018 to 2024, and 466 were injured.

Amy Lang, a former member of the Citizens’ Pedestrian and Bikeway Advisory Board, appears on the video to say that the road needs to prioritize

Conceptual ideas for a redesigned East Palmetto Park Road call for a reduction to two travel lanes that could become three to allow for emergency vehicles and evacuations, wide sidewalks and crosswalks, and many shade trees. Rendering provided

pedestrians.

“We want to make it a place you want to meander through,” she says. “Getting from Point A to Point B isn’t really the point. It is enjoying the journey between Point A and Point B.”

Workshop 344+, which reflects the 344 acres in the core downtown area, was formed three years ago by then-Deputy Mayor Andrea O’Rourke and 14 other influential residents, including Caycedo and land use attorney Ele Zachariades, to champion improving a fiveblock section of East Palmetto Park Road between Federal Highway and Northeast Fifth

Pictorial history of city’s first 100 years is priced at $100

With Boca Raton’s centennial celebrations already in full swing, the Boca Raton Historical Society is joining the party.

It has created a glossy coffee-table book titled Dream City: A Pictorial History of Boca Raton that chronicles the city’s evolution over the past 100 years since its incorporation, starting with architect Addison Mizner’s vision for the city.

“We wanted to create more than just a history book — we wanted to tell the story of Boca Raton through the voices, images and moments that have shaped our community,” said Mary Csar, the society’s executive director. “Dream City is a reflection of our city’s evolution and the people who have made it what it is today.”

The book, priced at $100, can be purchased at the society’s Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum gift shop at 71 N. Federal Highway, at www.bocahistory.org and at www.boca100.com.

A book signing was held on Feb. 20 at the history museum where guests could meet author and museum curator Susan Gillis.

In addition, the history museum will present 1925!, a new exhibit about the city’s founding, from July 2 to Dec. 20.

More information is available at www.bocahistory.org

— Mary Hladky

Avenue.

That’s still their focus, although they would like to see improvements expanded farther east and west.

Beyond Palmetto Park Road, the group emphasizes walkability, connectivity and placemaking throughout the downtown.

At O’Rourke’s urging when she served on the council, the city hired a consultant, Alta Planning + Design, to reimagine the road.

But when Alta presented three options on Nov. 18, City Council members sidestepped a decision on which they

preferred and instead said the matter needed more study.

Unimpressed with Alta’s ideas, 344+ members are on the move. They have presented the video to the Federation of Boca Raton Homeowner Associations and the City Council, and plan to do the same to the Chamber of Commerce and other civic groups.

They also have a website and will be using social media in hopes of creating a groundswell of support for their ideas.

And they have reached out to Alta, which shared with them data the firm had gathered that

they have incorporated into their ideas.

But they are not content to cede the ground to Alta.

“We just don’t think Alta has a creative plan,” O’Rourke said.

She is heartened, however, by one recent development. The city has hired as a consultant noted urban planner Jeff Speck, author of the book Walkable City and widely considered the guru for creating such places.

Whether 344+ will be able to influence the city’s planning is an open question. But its members have their work cut out for them.

Council members said nothing after O’Rourke presented in November.

On Feb. 10, she asked council members to invite 344+ to participate in future planning after she showed them the video.

“We have tremendous added value and years of experience and nothing personal to gain,” she said after outlining the credentials of 344+ group members. “We are not sure why you wouldn’t champion community participation and involvement.”

She was greeted with silence.P

Umbrellas to replace cabanas at Eau resort

In a move to modernize its amenities, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has announced plans to remove its existing pool and beach cabanas in favor of sleek, cantilever umbrellas.

Oracle Software billionaire Larry Ellison bought the Eau last summer through MPB Property LLC. The company asked the Manalapan Town Commission at its Feb. 11 meeting for approval to remove

four pool cabanas, seven oceanside cabanas, 32 wood trellises, a towel stand and a spa cabana.

In their place will be rows of high-end cantilever umbrellas, which can be easily adjusted to provide customized coverage, said attorney James C. Gavigan, who represented the Eau.

The commission rescinded the condition that the Eau be required to get feedback from

the adjacent La Coquille Club Villas to make changes to its planned unit development zoning designation.

“The Eau will always be a good neighbor and will work with all residents, including the La Coquille Club,” Gavigan said. “But we want to be clear that there shouldn’t be any implicit or explicit additional requirement.”

— John Pacenti

Town moves to foreclose on office building on Plaza del Mar outparcel

By John Pacenti

The Manalapan Town Commission voted to proceed with the foreclosure of an office building at State Road A1A and East Ocean Avenue.

The office at 131 S. Ocean Blvd. sits at the northeast corner of the Plaza del Mar property.

A lien of $163,000 had been placed on the building because of unpaid code enforcement fines for unapproved renovations, said Town Attorney Keith Davis, who added he thought the building at one time housed a bank.

The town went in front of the special magistrate for code

violations on Jan. 30 to obtain foreclosure authorization. Davis said the owners of the office building appear ready to push back against the town.

“Foreclosure authorization hearing really is a ministerial act. It ended up being a twohour hearing, so I fully expect a fight, but that’s fine,” Davis said.

According to Palm Beach County property records, the office building is owned by Babylon, New York-based Salute Realty, which purchased the building for $1.2 million in 2019.

Attorney Michael Weiner, representing Salute, argued during the January magistrate hearing that Manalapan failed to send notices of the fines by certified mail as directed by law — a contention the town denies. He said the allegations of the violation are “factually incorrect” and that “there was confusion.”

Ultimately, the commission voted to authorize the next step in the foreclosure process, which includes sending a letter to the property owner to see if it will pay the lien. P

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa officials are planning upgrades to the property by replacing cabanas and trellises. Rendering provided

Highland Beach Milani Park concept impresses with innovation, devotion to nature

By Rich Pollack

Maggie Chappelear was pleasantly surprised when she first saw the 3D model of what the controversial Milani Park could become in a couple of years.

“I thought it was going to be a boring, traditional park with an asphalt parking lot that would be an eyesore. Instead, it was something I’d never seen before that encompasses nature in design and that creates a user-friendly environment,” said Chappelear, who had offered ideas for the park’s development and was subsequently invited to share her concepts with the architects.

The 3D model — created by the design firm of Brooks & Scarpa, which was hired by Palm Beach County to develop the 5.6-acre park — is now on display at Town Hall after being presented to Highland Beach Mayor Natasha Moore during a meeting with county leaders in February.

“Overall, I was struck by the innovation and how much they implemented the feedback from Highland Beach,” Moore said. “It will be a beach park with a lot of different elements that people can enjoy without necessarily having to be on the sand.”

One example, Moore said, is the possibility the park would include “lookout points” on the eastern portion for people who don’t want to be on the beach. The park could also include a few shade shelters on both sides of State Road A1A.

The 3D model is still mostly

DOCK

Continued from page 1

Beach’s marine officers and fire rescue personnel to respond to emergencies on the water.

This month, residents will be asked to give town leaders permission to spend up to $3.5 million on the dock and on renovations to the town’s old fire station, should the money be needed. The single ballot item covers both projects. Already the town has received a $50,000 grant from the Florida Inland Navigation District for design and engineering work, and a request for additional funding is pending.

Town officials say they only want the authority to make the expenditure if the money is needed.

The price of the dock project is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million, and town leaders hope that FIND will cover half the cost. Should that not happen, the town’s expense could be over $900,000, the current spending limit before voter approval is required. By putting the issue on the March 11 ballot, the town

conceptual, Moore said, with county officials planning to get more input into the final design during a public meeting in April. Still, it is almost certain that the design of the park will meld well with the natural surroundings.

“It’s going to be aesthetically beautiful and fit in with the natural environment as much as possible,” Moore said. “They said there’s no other county park like this because of all the innovative features and because of the architect promoting the area’s natural features.”

On the east side of A1A, the tentative plan calls for a boardwalk winding through the parcel, which has been left mostly untouched. The boardwalk, Moore said, could have a railing on one side and a bench-like rail on the other side so visitors could stop and rest along the way. A portion of the boardwalk will go over an archeological site, believed to be a native American burial ground, and will most likely be raised so as not to disturb the

site.

“One of the solutions being considered is to rely on pilings to support a system of boardwalks,” said county Parks and Recreation Director Jennifer Cirillo. “Such an approach will minimize ground impacts on archeologically sensitive areas.”

The county also plans to have a lifeguard station and perhaps a small office on the east side on a portion that once included a home.

“The east side is going to be fabulous,” Chappelear said.

Development of the west side of the park has been more controversial and has drawn the greatest objection from nearby residents, especially those in the Boca Highland Beach Club and Marina. That parcel will include 100 parking spaces, which residents have feared will be an eyesore.

In creating the conceptual design for the 3D model, lead architect Jeffrey Huber took those concerns into consideration.

This rendering of Milani Park, to be constructed on a 5.6-acre parcel at the south end of Highland Beach, has calmed fears that the park would be an eyesore. Photo by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

If You Go

What: Public meeting on plans for Milani Park

When: 6-8 p.m. April 2

Where: South County Civic Center, 16700 Jog Road, Delray Beach

While the number of parking spaces won’t change, Huber’s plan includes shade trees with large canopies to camouflage parking spaces, according to Moore. Also, instead of asphalt, the plan includes paving stones throughout most of the parking area, which allows grass to grow between the voids so water can flow through them.

A wetland area on the north end of the west parcel could include walking trails, although Cirillo said that a survey of plant species is underway in that area and on the east side as well.

“Invasive species will be managed and native species encouraged per our park natural land management practices,” she said.

Part of the county’s plan for development of the park includes getting 2.319 acres on the National Register of Historic Places, which would give the county “an opportunity to recognize and preserve the site’s archeological/historical relevance for generations to

Who: Lead architect Jeffrey Huber from Brooks & Scarpa, the team selected by the county to design the park, will present design plans. County Commissioner Marci Woodward, county parks and recreation staff and other county leaders plan to attend.

come,” according to Cirillo, who said the county has budgeted $8.6 million for development of the park. The state, in November, sent a nomination to the National Park Service, which will make a final decision on the listing.

The property was used centuries ago by native American populations and in the early 1900s by JapaneseAmerican farmers who formed the Yamato Colony in the Boca Raton area.

Chappelear, who along with Boca Highland Beach Club and Marina resident Laura Thurston has been providing input on the design at the invitation of County Commissioner Marci Woodward, believes the emphasis on history and the educational elements will be a plus for the park.

“I think a lot of people in town are going to love it,” she said. P

is in essence hedging its bets so it can move forward without delays regardless of the outcome of the grant request.

“We hope we don’t have to spend over $900,000,” Town Manager Marshall Labadie said. Hartmann says that the police boat will be on a lift at the dock when it is not in use,

improving the marine unit’s presence even when the boat is not in the water. Since its launch in March 2022, the boat has been docked on private property at the Boca Highland Beach Club Marina at a location that is set back from the Intracoastal and not readily visible to boaters.

Since the launch of the marine unit, Hartmann and state Rep. Peggy GossettSeidman said, there have been visible improvements in compliance with speeds on the waterway and with other boating safety measures.

“We have written hundreds of warnings and citations and

have had thousands of boater contacts with the focus on educating the boating public about safe speeds and safe boating practices,” Hartmann said. “Boaters have told our marine officers they have seen a difference now that the boating community knows there is

Continued on the next page

Highland Beach Officer James Thornton (at wheel) and Officer Stephen Salach patrol the Intracoastal Waterway. Residents say the number of speeding boats has diminished since the patrol launched in 2022. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Highland Beach

Town to launch mobile app to improve links with residents

By Rich Pollack

Navigating Highland Beach’s website these days can be a challenge.

You want to pay your water bill but it could take a few clicks to get to the right place and then there are forms that you’ll need to fill out.

“I find the website cumbersome,” says Town Manager Marshall Labadie. “As town manager, even I find it cumbersome.”

To fix that, the town is about to launch a mobile app that is designed to make it easier for residents to get information quickly and without having to spend time figuring out how to find the information they need.

“The goal is to make it so that when you need something, it’s easy to get it,” Labadie said. “With today’s technology, easy is possible.”

With the new app, residents will be able to push a button and call the library or other town department from wherever they are without having to spend time looking up the number. They’ll also be able to send a message to a specific department or ask a question with the town providing an answer as quickly as possible right to the resident’s phone.

Through the app, residents

will be able to find out when garbage pickup days are, pay their water bills, and let the public works department know about a crack that needs fixing in the walking path.

The app will also come in handy if you want to get updates on the State Road A1A construction project or on the progress of a building permit.

Town news will be available with a click, as will information about town meetings. In the event of a gas leak, the town will be able to send information directly to phones via the app so motorists know to avoid the area.

Labadie said that the app will be structured more in line with the way residents think and less in the way town government thinks.

For example, he said, it would be logical to think that information about the town’s water rate structure would be found under public works, which includes the water treatment plant. Instead, that information is found online under the finance department.

“We have to get out of the residents’ way so residents can get the best services,” he said.

Town staff is in the process of finalizing the app, which could be available to residents as early as this month, Labadie said. P

Continued from page 18

a constant law enforcement presence on the Intracoastal Waterway when there wasn’t one in the past.”

Gossett-Seidman, R-Highland Beach, whose home is on the east side of the waterway, said the marine unit keeps the blue light on the boat lighted when in the water, thus increasing visibility.

“It’s like a police car parked at an intersection,” she said. “You tend to be more cautious when you know it’s out there.”

Gossett-Seidman said she sees the police boat out almost every day and thinks that slower speeds will benefit people using kayaks and jet skis. Jet skis, according to Hartmann, account for about 50% of the citations and warnings written by the marine unit.

Labadie said that the new dock will also be a benefit to the town’s Fire Rescue Department, which will be able to reach

injured boaters more rapidly.

“It’s a little more missioncritical now that we have our own fire department,” he said, adding that the dock could be in place sometime next year.

Labadie said the town is also hoping to demolish a part of the old fire station, just north of Town Hall, and upgrade the bay area where the town now keeps a backup rescue unit and a backup fire truck.

Last year Highland Beach built a new fire station to replace the longtime station that Labadie said was too old, too small and below the flood plain.

While there were discussions about possibly keeping the entire building, Labadie said that the living quarters section would need too much work. Instead, the town is getting cost estimates for work to fix the bay area and electrical storage areas and replace the roof.

“We’re using the building for storage of $2 million worth of equipment,” he said. P

The town is considering this area behind the Highland Beach Library as the location of a proposed dock. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Mayor reacts to negative social media posts, says town is doing well

By Mary Thurwachter

Lantana Mayor Karen Lythgoe carved out a half hour of the Feb. 10 Town Council meeting to tout the town’s achievements during the past year.

Typically, the end-of-year report is made available to news media and published on the town’s website, but Lythgoe said she was so proud of accomplishments in 2024, she took the opportunity to address the community herself.

She also wanted to combat what she said was misinformation being circulated via Facebook.

“Regardless of some of the things you may or may not have read on social media, we are actually accomplishing things,” Lythgoe said. “We are doing what we say we’re doing and we’re not on the take. There’s a lot of people who’ve got nothing better to do with their time than to be miserable and to make other people miserable too by telling them how badly they’re getting screwed by their government.”

She encouraged people with questions about what they read online to contact Town Manager Brian Raducci.

Both Vice Mayor Mark Zeitler and Lythgoe have lived in Lantana since they were kids and have seen a lot of changes, “a lot for the better,” she said.

“I know people say it’s not like it was,” Lythgoe said. “Well, it wasn’t really all that great all the time. We’re trying to spruce it up and enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

Among the accomplishments in 2024, Lythgoe highlighted what the town did to maintain its infrastructure. That included working with FPL to repair non-functional streetlights, resurfacing the basketball courts at the sports park, restoring the centennial sculpture at Bicentennial Park, and working with the county’s traffic division to enhance traffic light synchronization on Lantana Road.

Additionally, the town replaced water mains and completed the Sea Pines stormwater pump station construction project.

LETTERS: The Coastal Star welcomes letters to the editor about issues of interest in the community. These are subject to editing and must include your name, address and phone number. Preferred length is 200-500 words. Send email to editor@ thecoastalstar.com.

The report outlines improvements to the Hypoluxo Island drainage project and mentions that Lantana adopted a stormwater assessment program.

Beautification efforts achieved last year included removing invasive plants and trees at the Lantana Nature Preserve and replacing a large, deteriorated timber pedestrian bridge there. Other steps taken to make the town more attractive included displaying colorful seasonal banners on major roadways, installing new fencing and concrete monuments at Evergreen cemetery, adding an obstacle course at Maddock Dog Park and amping up the holiday lighting displays around Town Hall.

Under the heading of

“responsible development,” the report mentions permits and special exceptions for Water Tower Commons and plans in progress to build apartments, shops and a community park on 18 acres at the former Kmart site.

Lythgoe said the town has been successful in its quest for grants, pulling in $2.3 million for capital improvement projects and $1.2 million in state appropriation money.

Last year the town even added $2.6 million to its reserves, bringing that total to $15.9 million. P

For a look at the complete year-end report, visit lantana. org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/ Item/91

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Dixie Manor resident relocation begins in preparation for new public housing construction

By Mary Hladky

After years of effort, the rebuilding of the Dixie Manor public housing project will begin soon.

Ashley Whidby, executive director of the Boca Raton Housing Authority, told Boca Raton City Council members in late January that half of Dixie Manor residents are being relocated so that buildings on the north side of the complex can be demolished. Some are moving into units on the complex’s south side.

Once the residents move, the housing authority can close on financing, and then demolition will begin about 60 days later. Construction of new buildings will take about 18 months, she said.

After that, the second phase of the project will begin, to demolish and replace the south side buildings.

The new complex will be known as the Residences at Martin Manor. The housing authority has joined with co-developer Atlantic Pacific Communities to complete the project.

Dixie Manor is in Pearl City, a historically Black community founded in 1915 before Boca

Raton was incorporated. Pearl City is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Dixie Manor buildings, which have 95 apartments, date to 1941 and are badly in need of replacement.

The housing authority launched efforts to accomplish that more than five years ago. But the effort stirred angst and anger as Dixie Manor residents feared they would lose their apartments and might not be able to return to the new buildings.

Their fears were exacerbated by skyrocketing rental rates throughout South Florida, leading residents to worry that they might end up homeless. They also criticized the housing authority for not being transparent about what it was doing and for poor communication.

Whidby told council members that of those who already have moved out, none have said they will return, although they have the right to do so.

For those moving to apartments outside the complex, the housing authority will cover moving expenses, application fees, and security and utility deposits, Whidby said in an interview. P

Up to $1.25 million OK’d for centennial concert

As the city adds events to bolster its centennial year celebration, Boca Raton City Council members approved spending up to $1.25 million to bring in a headliner and possibly supporting musical artists for a May 24 centennial concert.

The city has hired live entertainment promoter AEG Presents to book artists and handle ticketing and production services for the concert at the Mizner Park Amphitheater.

Mayor Scott Singer garnered council members’ support when he proposed a concert with “nationally known artists” during an October council discussion about centennial events, with Deputy Mayor Yvette Drucker saying the city should “showcase paradise.”

Concert specifics are still being worked on, and ticket prices have not yet been set. — Mary Hladky

Boca Raton News

Resort downsizes its expansion plans — The Boca Raton wants to build an eight-story building that would contain 60 condo units on the resort site, according to a proposal submitted to the city. The project would include an underground parking garage.

The single-building project appears to be a change in plans since last year, when the resort’s owners proposed two eightstory buildings with a total of 80 units and a five-story parking garage.

The latest proposal calls for a 100-foot building, which would exceed the current 85-foot limit. The Boca Raton plans to seek an amendment that would allow the taller structure.

Currently, The Tower, one of the hotels in the resort, is over 130 feet tall.

The Boca Raton is owned by MSD Partners, the investment arm of Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell, and merchant bank BDT & Co. MSD and BDT merged in 2023. MSD Partners bought the resort in 2019 for $875 million from Blackstone.

Camino Square wants 400 more residential units, not retail — The Camino Square project was first proposed as being developed in two phases, one with two eight-story apartment buildings and the second with retail. Now, Kimco Corp., the owner of 9 acres at 171 W. Camino Real, wants to swap out retail for more residential on the site that once was a retail center anchored by a Winn-Dixie grocery store.

The completed first phase on the eastern portion of the site, approved by the City Council in 2019, has 350 apartments and two parking garages. The second phase was slated to have nearly 38,000 square feet of retail. But in an application to the city filed by land use attorney Ele Zachariades with the Miskel Backman law firm in late 2024, Kimco is seeking to build 400 residential units in two eight-story buildings and a parking garage.

The Camino Square project was controversial when first proposed. While residents wanted to see redevelopment of the derelict shopping center where Winn-Dixie closed in 2010, they opposed plans by the developer FCI Residential Corp., an arm of sugar producer Florida Crystals.

Their chief concern was that the project would add traffic to roads in the area.

— Mary Hladky

Step back in time by touring The Boca Raton resort

By Mary Hladky

The Cloister Inn likely tops the must-see lists of history and architecture enthusiasts visiting Boca Raton.

Opened on Feb. 5, 1926, at the height of Florida’s land boom, the 100-room hotel was designed and owned by renowned architect Addison Mizner, whose vision informs the city’s architecture to this day.

O ver the years, a succession of owners transformed the property into The Boca Raton resort. Today, it is open only to resort members and guests.

But all is not lost for those eager to see the Cloister Inn and other historic parts of the resort.

The Boca Raton Historical Society offers a limited number of guided walking tours from January through mid-May each year.

“Walking through The Boca Raton is like stepping back in time,” said Mary Csar, the society’s executive director.

“This historic site holds the stories of a vibrant past that has shaped our community. We are thrilled to share these stories with visitors and locals alike, connecting them to the rich heritage of Boca Raton.”

On a recent tour, historical society volunteer docent Julie Stagner explained how the Cloister Inn came to be.

Mizner had injured his leg and was urged to come to Florida to recuperate.

“He came to Palm Beach and fell in love,” Stagner said.

So, he bought 3 miles of beachfront in Boca Raton, and invoked the Spanish Revival and Mediterranean architecture he had seen during a childhood visit to South America to design the Cloister Inn.

Mizner didn’t have a particular interest in operating a hotel, but he did want to design and build homes, Stagner said. He hoped a stay at the Cloister Inn would persuade guests to buy a Mizner home.

“Addison Mizner loved the finer things in life,” she said. “When he built his properties, he wanted to give that to his clients. Even if you were just renting a room, thinking about having a home built by him, he wanted you to feel that luxury, that lushness.

“Mizner loved grand, sweeping spaces. He designed houses to fit into the Florida environment so owners could feel the breeze off the ocean.”

Those homes exist today in Boca Raton’s Old Floresta neighborhood.

Mizner embraced his Boca Raton project.

“It is my soul, my heart, my pride to which I shall give my all,” he told The Miami News at the time. “If it is not made the most beautiful place in all the world, it will not be for want of trying.”

Taking a tour

The tour began at the original entrance to the Cloister Inn. Its chandeliers and ceilings of pecky cypress are original. Mizner collected furnishings and placed many of them in the inn.

The tour continued to the Mizner dining room; the cathedral dining room whose columns originally were overlaid with gold leaf; the Palm Court, where the arches are Romanesque on one side and gothic on the other; outside to views of Lake Boca; into The Tower hotel built in 1969; to the west walkway, protected by wood that was damaged but not destroyed by repeated hurricanes; and finally to the Valencia theater.

Mizner’s reign over the Cloister Inn was brief. He declared bankruptcy in 1927, and Clarence Geist, one of the original members of his Mizner Development Corp., bought the assets for a fraction of their worth.

Geist made improvements

If You Go

Tour details: The historical society’s remaining tours this year are on March 11 and 25, April 8 and 22, and May 13. The tour time is 2 p.m. Space is limited.

Tickets: Non-refundable tickets are $29 per person and must be purchased at least a day before the tour at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/historytour-of-the-boca-ratontickets-1119833063839

Parking: The Boca Raton offers a reduced valet fee of $11 per vehicle for those taking the tour.

and additions that are seen on the tour, “but he really tried to remain true to the vision Mizner had,” Stagner said.

Geist is responsible for the Boca Raton Airport, which he built so friends could easily come to visit, she said. The airport was among the reasons

the U.S. Army decided in 1942 to build the Boca Raton Army Air Field, which, in part, protected the area from German U-Boats.

The Army took over the resort and used its pools for military training exercises and its theater to show training films, but made every effort to “preserve the integrity of the property,” Stagner said.

Two women who attended the society’s Jan. 28 tour enjoyed the experience.

“I thought it was lovely,” said Teresa Kowall, of Pompano Beach, who works in Boca Raton. “It is always nice to get a sense of the different kinds of Florida history. South Florida has such a rich history.

“There are so many stories, so many people who made it what it is. It is really good to get another story of someone who helped build South Florida into what it is today.”

Sandy Leonard and her husband were members of the resort for more than 20 years when they lived in Boca Raton,

but that lapsed when they moved to Juno Beach five years ago.

She wanted to see the resort again but learned that was not possible unless she was a resort member or guest.

“When I found out about the tour I thought ‘what a nice way to be able to go back and see the place again,’” she said.

Leonard noted a number of changes to the resort since she was a member, but her conclusion was, “It is beautiful.”

For more information, the historical society is offering through May 30 an exhibition on Mizner’s legacy.

Sponsored by The Boca Raton, it highlights the Cloister Inn’s evolution from a small hotel to a 300-acre resort, and features artifacts and

photographs, drawings and maps. Included are materials produced by Mizner Industries, such as

and roof

furnishings,

floor

tiles, sculptural cast stone, fireplace mantels and column capitals. P

Tour participants take in the grandeur of the Cloister Inn, part of The Boca Raton resort. The 100-room inn, which opened Feb. 5, 1926, was designed and owned by renowned architect Addison Mizner. Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

ABOVE: The cathedral dining room has an ornate ceiling and columns that were originally overlaid with gold leaf. TOP RIGHT: People on the tour beneath a photo of the resort’s original pool. BOTTOM RIGHT: The hotel crest sits atop the original entry.

Lantana News

Town Council candidates’ forum March 3 — Incumbent Lantana Town Council Member Lynn “Doc” Moorhouse and newcomer Jesse Rivero will participate in a candidates’ forum sponsored by the Lantana Chamber of Commerce at 5 p.m. March 3 at the Palm Beach Maritime Academy, 600 S. East Coast Ave. Moorhouse, 81, a retired dentist, has held the Group 1 council seat for 21 years. Rivero, a 50-year-old firefighter, has served 20 years with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. The election is March 11.

Kem Mason, who holds the Group 2 spot, was elected automatically when no one else filed to run for the position during the election qualifying period in November. Mason, 66, is a retired firefighter and is completing his first term.

Council terms are for three years.

Beach sand project delayed — Lantana Town Manager Brian Raducci told the Town Council he’s heard nothing new regarding a beach sand project spearheaded by the town of Palm Beach and including the town of South Palm Beach.

“The last conversation I had with the town of Palm Beach was they did not have enough sand, and they didn’t even know if they had enough time to get the project done,” Raducci said on Feb. 10.

Any work would need to be finished before sea turtle nesting season in March. “I know there have been some changes to that project, but the way I left it with them was that if anything were to change that would change our circumstances, please contact me.”

In the past, Lantana was part of an interlocal agreement with Palm Beach and South Palm Beach to add sand to the beaches. Since South Palm Beach has no public beach, it had, in the past, agreed to pay for the sand for Lantana in exchange for truck access at Lantana’s beach. But this year, Lantana wasn’t needed for truck access (plans called for the sand to be trucked over Lake Worth Beach or at a private Palm Beach condo), so Lantana would have to pay for sand, an idea at which Council member Lynn “Doc” Moorhouse bristled during a meeting last year.

“I don’t want it to reflect in any bad light that we’re not willing to pay,” he said in September. “It was supposed to be free. We were going to work with Palm Beach. We were going to let them use the beach, let them do all their stuff and we were going to get free sand.”

At the January meeting, Mayor Karen Lythgoe said Lantana doesn’t currently have an interlocal agreement.

“It was also decided that we don’t have enough sand on our beach to stage all the sand on, which before, they were not going to stage the sand there,” Lythgoe said. She also said that the people who had been working on the project in Palm Beach had changed and “nobody knows what.”

“Just so the residents know,” Moorhouse said in February.

Vice Mayor Mark Zeitler pointed out that the beach currently has a lot of sand because it had blown in from the north.

Fuel tax agreement OK’d — The town approved an interlocal agreement with Palm Beach County to re-adopt and ratify the existing distribution formula for 6-cent local option fuel tax. The tax will bring about $205,000 to Lantana this year.

Lantana has been part of the agreement since 1995. Developed with the PBC League of Cities, this agreement mirrors the 1995 agreement, adding provisions for new/dissolved municipalities.

Money received from the tax is primarily used for roadway maintenance, such as paving, but may also be utilized to cover other expenses like railroad-required maintenance.

Continued from page 22

definitely the size, shape and material from those days.

“This is the fourth I’ve found at flea markets.”

A nd then there was Glen Hudgin, waiting outside the Quonset hut while his wife, Karen, shopped inside. He held a pair of headphones, a Swiffer floor polisher, and a border collie on a leash.

Jack, the border collie, was family, not a purchase.

Does he like shopping at the Briny Breezes Bazaar?

“No,” Hudgin said. “But my wife does. I’m just here to carry stuff and try to figure out how to fit it all in the car when we go back to Toronto.”

• The Edna Hibel painting and koa wood frames didn’t sell this year, but a lot of the lamps and linens, microwaves and toasters, books and bracelets did.

Treasures were found. Money was made.

— Mary Thurwachter

“It’s safe to say we made right around $20,000 that will be put back into our community,” Sue Brannen, the bazaar’s treasurer, reported. “And so far, because I continue to collect charity donations, we have $1,500 to divide among our charities. We did well.”

Proceeds from the raffle and silent auction, plus 10% of the bazaar day sales, will be divided among the Caridad Center, CROS Ministries’ soup kitchen, and Shop With A Cop, among others.

On the Tuesday after the bazaar, many of the items left unsold were picked up by Delray Beach’s Habitat For Humanity ReStore outlet.

And now the little town with the big bazaar is ready for 2026.

“There will be new stuff donated tomorrow,” Brannen said, even before this year’s bazaar had ended.

The Hobby Club attic is empty, and waiting. P

Delray Beach

Firefighter on leave after Brightline crash previously drove for city while license was suspended, report finds

Two chiefs suspended after collision cleared in related investigation

By John Pacenti

Delray Beach firefighter

David Wyatt — at the wheel when a Brightline train struck his city fire truck on Dec. 28 — remained on regular duty a year earlier when his driver’s license was suspended following an off-duty crash, according to an independent report.

Wyatt in February was cited in the Brightline crash for failing to use due care for not observing the oncoming train.

A December video from the Brightline train shows the 104foot aerial ladder truck driven by Wyatt maneuvering around lowered railroad crossing gates on Southeast First Street, a block south of Atlantic Avenue downtown. The train mangled the enormous vehicle into three pieces and sent the three-person crew — as well as several train passengers — to the hospital.

Soon after the crash, the question of how the city tracks valid driver’s licenses within the department became the subject of an investigation conducted by a private firm, Johnson Jackson PLLC. While Wyatt’s license was valid at the time of the crash, its earlier suspension had come to light.

The report found that the department’s review process for driver’s licenses was flawed and that an assistant fire chief and division chief who were suspended with pay on the issue were not at fault for how they handled 10 employees who have had suspended driver’s licenses in the recent past.

“Roster reports” received

City approves $1.4 million fire truck replacement using lease purchase

Delray Beach city commissioners approved the purchase of a new $1.4 million fire truck to replace a truck that was struck by a Brightline train on Dec. 28. The new Pierce Enforcer 75-foot ladder truck was to be delivered within a few weeks of the purchase.

Continued from page 22

“This truck is ready to go,” Public Works Director Missie Barletto said. “It is actually sitting in Pompano Beach waiting to be delivered to us.”

Barletto said it often takes two or three years for a municipality to go from ordering to receiving a new fire truck, but another customer decided it didn’t want the Enforcer, making it available now.

The city is funding the purchase through a combination of sources, including $136,278 from insurance proceeds for the destroyed truck, a $244,000 transfer from the city’s capital improvement fund, and $1,025,586 from a capital lease program.

The truck struck by the train was a 2009 aerial bucket truck with a 104-foot ladder. It had more than 100,000 miles on it and was scheduled for replacement in the next fiscal year.

— John Pacenti

by The Coastal Star for the period Oct. 10, 2023, to Dec. 8, 2023, when Wyatt’s license was suspended after he failed to take a required driving class to resolve his careless driving ticket, show he clocked in as a “driver/engineer” 20 times during that time for a 24-hour shift.

driver’s education class, saying he was “just being lazy and forgetting.”

New developments

Other February developments stemming from the Brightline collision include:

• The city agreed to purchase a new fire truck for $1.4 million with a shorter, 75-foot ladder than the vehicle struck by the train.

• Delray Beach is petitioning Florida East Coast Railway to install full quad gates at three railroad crossings in the city that don’t have them, which would prevent the possibility of someone trying to go around lowered crossing gates.

• Commissioner Rob Long said at the Feb. 18 commission meeting he plans to inspect every railway crossing in the city with a team of experts “to establish if there are certain safety measures that we can do.”

• The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office released its report looking into the crash. It showed that Wyatt had no recollection of the crash when questioned.

concluded that the duty was not part of Green’s job and that Lynch had not received proper training.

Lynch took to Facebook on Feb. 24 to post on the firefighters union page, lambasting the city for publicizing his suspension, calling it “humiliating and embarrassing.” “This impugned my character,” he wrote.

Lynch returned to division chief duty Feb. 25, but will soon move to being a battalion chief because of an earlier request. Green retired on Feb. 25.   Wyatt and Fiorey remain suspended.

2023 incident

Wyatt’s June 9, 2023, ticket was issued after he took a corner at Swinton and Atlantic avenues too fast, jumped a median in his Jeep, and struck a tree. Police investigated Wyatt for a possible DUI but said in a report that obtaining a breathalyzer or a blood test was unfeasible because the firefighter had been transported to a hospital.

The Johnson Jackson report — released Feb. 25 — confirmed Wyatt drove for the city while his license was suspended, violating city policy.

“He should have taken leave to address the suspension rather than ignoring it and continuing to work,” stated the report written by Erin Jackson, a founding shareholder of the labor law firm.

Furthermore, Wyatt told the investigator that he was unaware of the suspension until January, after the Brightline crash.

However, documentation, timing, and Wyatt’s actions indicate that he was aware of the suspension in December 2023, the report stated.

Wyatt’s response “raises question(s) as to his credibility on this issue,” the report stated. Wyatt did tell the investigator he failed to take the required

Dispatch audio recordings from Dec. 28 show Wyatt’s Battalion 111 responding to a call where smoke was reported on the second story of a condo building at 365 SE Sixth Ave. The PBSO report said a review of the recordings showed that the unit had been cleared from a call reporting a high-rise fire, but only after the crash occurred.

Another crew on the scene reports that the smoke was caused by burnt food. One minute later, the dispatcher reports the crash.

Two of the three firefighters on the fire truck at the time of the crash — Wyatt and Capt. Brian Fiorey — were placed on paid administrative leave shortly after the crash “pending results of an administrative investigation.”

Two others — Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Green and Division Chief Todd Lynch — were not on the truck but were also placed on paid administrative leave. Green and Lynch, according to the report, were suspended over the issue of failing to properly track suspended driver’s licenses in the department. The report

At the Feb. 4 City Commission meeting, resident Sean Thomas Wright demanded that Police Chief Russ Mager be fired for his department’s failure to do a thorough DUI investigation at the time.

“It looks like the Police Department went out of their way to not do a drug test, to not do a field sobriety test. How do you explain that?” Wright said during the time for the public to address the commission.

City Attorney Lynn Gelin told commissioners that in a review subsequent to the Brightline crash, the city found 10 current fire rescue employees also had driving licenses that were suspended for a period of time.

The Johnson Jackson investigation found that firefighter Lt. Calvin Smith operated a “department apparatus without a valid license for an extended period” — from June 3, 2022, to March 30, 2023 — but he took corrective action upon discovering the issue. The suspension was due to a lapse in insurance that he was unaware of, Smith told investigators.

Other employees with suspended driver’s licenses also demonstrated intent to comply with the policy once they became aware of the status, the Johnson Jackson report stated.

Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney praised Ronald Martin, the new fire chief, for his handling of the crisis, including engaging an outside firm to conduct the administrative investigations.

“We need to allow the investigative process to run its course,” Carney said.

“This process will take time, but I have and will stay focused on transparency, accountability, and doing what’s best for Delray Beach.” P

Delray Beach is replacing its fire truck with one similar to this one. Other cities in South Florida use these trucks, such as the city of Tamarac in Broward County. Photo provided

10 Questions

Vincent Denchy doesn’t have any racy stories to tell, but after more than 50 years on Lantana’s Hypoluxo Island, he is a part of its lore.

Denchy, 91, and his wife, Arleen, moved to the island in 1974, built and lived in a house on Oyster Lane for three years, then built a house on Lands End Road where they still reside.

“When we moved here, there were only three houses on our street,” Denchy said. “Lots were $25,000, and the ones across the street on the (Intracoastal Waterway) were $45,000. Imagine that today.” Singlefamily homes on the same street are priced in the millions today.

W hen the Denchys moved in, a physical barrier blocked access from Hypoluxo Island to Point Manalapan, which didn’t open for development until later.

“When we went to the store to get building materials we’d tell the people we were on the wrong side of the gate, and we still feel that way,” he said.

Born in Pennsylvania and raised in New Jersey, Denchy met Arleen at Walt’s hot dog stand in Linden, New Jersey. The two wed in 1959 and have been married 65 years.

If Denchy has had a brush with fame it was when he was stationed in Bermuda in the Air Force. His girlfriend was the daughter of author Irving Stone, whose books included The Agony and the Ecstasy, and her best friend was actress Marlo Thomas.

His retirement was fairly active until recently. Always good with his hands, he earned his journeyman’s license to become an electrician while also making wooden bowls that he would sell at Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach.

For many years he was an active cyclist who would join the packs riding up and down State Road A1A, but now Denchy has traded in his bike for a pair of reading glasses while sharing life with Arleen.

During his life, he says, he would help people whom he didn’t know.

“I would give my neighbors a hand if they needed it. When we first moved here there was a town dump that has since been transformed into the park next to The Carlisle. A bunch of us got together and I would put up fences. I would build owl houses and bat houses for the nature

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR: Vincent Denchy

preserve. They’re asking for help over there now and I would, but I can’t do that anymore,” Denchy said.

He and his wife always had dogs — poodles, collies, Westies — but don’t feel they can take care of them anymore. The neighbors will tell you that the Denchys’ fondness for animals is still evident and that they keep doggie treats on hand for people who come by with fourlegged friends in tow.

— Brian Biggane

Q: Where did you grow up and go to school? How do you think that has influenced you?

A: I was born in Pennsylvania but when I was 3 my family moved to Roselle, New Jersey. I went to Abraham Clark High School, and later we moved over to Scotch Plains, which was nearby and was a farming community. My family in Pennsylvania was working in the coal mines, including my father, who later became a maintenance man. He was very good with his hands, and I would go with him on jobs and learned how to work with my hands as well.

I went to Upsala College and

accumulated 43 credits before I decided it wasn’t for me and later went to trade school for air conditioning. I also spent four years in the Air Force. I joined up to see the world, put in for the Far East and Europe, and never got farther than Bermuda. I was mostly in the States, which I found frustrating, but you go where you’re sent.

Q: What professions have you worked in? What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

A: I was a lineman for Public Service Electric and Gas in New Jersey for 18 years. That was before the time they had bucket trucks, so we would climb the poles with hooks on our boots. I remember when they got the first bucket truck and we were like, “Oh my God, look at that.” That was like driving a Cadillac. I left for Florida two weeks before I got my pension and never did get it.

W hen we came down to Florida in the early ’70s I got a job for another 24 years on the crash rescue squad at the West Palm Beach airport. We were the firefighters on the scene if and when an airliner crashed.

Vincent Denchy, who has lived with his wife on Hypoluxo Island since 1974, holds a patch from his 24-year tenure with the crash rescue team that served Palm Beach International Airport. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Nothing big ever happened at PBI, but there were a couple of fatal crashes with small planes at Lantana Airport and I was first on the scene.

Q: What advice do you have for a young person seeking a career today?

A: Go to college. And if not, go to a trade school. And give your cellphone to your mother and have her lock it away.

Q: How did you choose to make your home on Hypoluxo Island?

A: We bought a fourplex on Broadway in Lantana when we moved to Florida in the early ’70s and my cousin was living over here. We lived in one unit and rented out the other three for three years and used the money to build a house on Oyster Lane. So, we lived there for three years while we were building this house.

My cousin told us to be prepared to be disliked by people over on the mainland because they perceived us as being more affluent. Some of that still exists. When we came here it was quaint; the island was known as Mosquito Island

years ago and I understand the Army would bring troops down here to prepare them for fighting in the jungle.

Q: What is your favorite part about living on Hypoluxo Island?

A: It’s a nice place, and it used to be nicer. I have problems with the traffic — the people who come through here think this is an airport runway — but it’s quiet and the people who live around us are very nice.

Q: What book are you reading now?

A: Walk In My Combat Boots, by James Patterson and Matt Eversmann. It’s several stories about soldiers who served in combat from Vietnam to Afghanistan. I really enjoy reading the war stories.

Q: What music do you listen to when you want to relax? When you want to be inspired?

A: I don’t listen to music anymore. I have otosclerosis in my ear. I started losing my hearing way back when I was in my late 20s from working on airplane engines. I used to like country-western music when I was in the service. But the rock ’n’ roll stuff is all garbage.

Q: Have you had mentors in your life? Individuals who have inspired your life decisions?

A: My father and Arleen’s father. It was actually my stepfather; my mother got divorced when I was about 3. But I remember my father stopping in the pouring rain to help some nuns whose car was on the side of the road and helped them get going again. That’s the kind of man he was, and he passed that down to me.

Q: If your life story were to be made into a movie, who would play you?

A: Robert Redford made a lot of good movies, so I would say him.

Q: Who/what makes you laugh?

A: Tom and Jerry. We used to go to the drive-in movies and the first hour would be cartoons and I got a big kick out of Tom and Jerry. We both liked Jerry Lewis, too.

Delray Beach Sign ordinance spells out rules for private parking lots

City reacts to driver complaints

By Charles Elmore

Delray Beach is requiring new signs on private parking lots within six months to combat what a staff report calls “numerous, ongoing reports of non-transparent and sometimes predatory practices employed by certain operators.”

The action approved 5-0 in a Feb. 18 City Commission vote represents a tangible response to what stunned drivers say have been parking bills reaching $96 or more for some movie, shopping or restaurant trips, as documented by The Coastal Star last year.

Still, the ordinance bumps into limits on what municipalities can do.

Cities can write sign ordinances, and in this case try to alert residents and visitors that these are not city-owned lots, for example. Under state law, though, city officials cannot cap the rates.

“This is all great and I’m going to support it, but I wish these efforts trickled down more to the end users and the people that are being victimized by these lots, unfortunately,” Commissioner Rob Long said.

“But I think this is still great and we shouldn’t let perfect be the enemy of the

good,” Long said.

Making prices clear

One issue that could complicate the sign ordinance is the practice of “dynamic” pricing, comparable to the way ride-share companies maintain fluid rates based on local conditions and market demand. A ride could cost more on, say, a busy Saturday night than a slow Tuesday, the concept goes.

If that kind of pricing is in play, it could prove tricky to sum up coherent parking rate information on a metal sign that is presumed to last for a while

and not be replaced daily.

“One of the biggest pushbacks we have from the operators is the fee isn’t always the same every day or every time of the day,” said Anthea Gianniotes, the city’s development services director.

Her stance is “if you’re going to have it at that rate, and it’s $20 an hour, put it on the sign, somehow or another,” Gianniotes told commissioners.

A sign design in the ordinance package shows how city officials could picture it working, using fictitious rates for display purposes.

ABOVE: Delray Beach offered these design ideas for signage that private parking lots must post within six months under a new ordinance. The names and numbers are fictitious.

LEFT: A city map of private downtown parking lots.

Images provided

The sign says “Paid Public Parking,” with “Hourly Rate: $10” and “Event Rate: $35” as an example. The sign then says, “Overstay or Non-Payment Penalty: $150.”

The sign also shows a way to include telephone and email contacts for a fictional private lot operator. A red horizontal bar at the bottom of the sign, with white lettering, notes it is “not a city-owned lot.”

No more surprises

A big point in all this is “identifying the rates so people are not getting surprised when they come visit the city or they come downtown,” Gianniotes explained during a first reading of the ordinance on Jan. 21.

“As you know, we’ve had a lot of complaints from our residents that they’re a little bit surprised by getting parking tickets in private lots, and kind of mistaking them for city lots,” Gianniotes said.

A state law effective July 1 of last year sketched out some guidelines on what private lot signs must say, set down rules for appeals and late fees, and granted a 15-minute grace period before fees kick in.

Private lots held to account

Earlier, the Florida Attorney General’s Office signed an “assurance of voluntary compliance” with at least one private parking company operating in Delray Beach, among other places, requiring a payment of $30,000 from the company to make restitution to eligible consumers, records show.

That company was Professional Parking Management Corp., which has offices in Fort Lauderdale. It did not admit wrongdoing in an agreement signed Sept. 1, 2023, that calls on it not to engage in unfair and deceptive trade practices.

A company official reacted a day after the Delray Beach commission passed its ordinance.

“Professional Parking Management is always seeking

to clearly communicate with our customers and the general public regarding private parking facilities we work with and enforce, their usage rules and rates, and other helpful information,” company spokesman Robert Leonard said. “A Florida state law adopted last year which PPM and many in the private parking industry supported requires many of the same signage and notice requirements as this new local ordinance, most of which were things PPM was already doing at our facilities.”

Complaints filed

Many private lots promote the convenience of paying by a phone app, without traditional gates or attendants. Then they sometimes employ technology that takes pictures of license plates to mail letters to drivers, claiming they failed to pay or overstayed.

In complaint records, Sharron Feldman of Boynton Beach said she was charged $96.30 for parking in a lot in Delray Beach, even though she just drove through and never actually parked.

“It is outrageous that this company can demand money for a service that we never used, threaten us with a collection agency, and force us to waste a good deal of time and energy on this matter,” Feldman said.

Among other complaints from the last two years, Chase Krusbe of Jupiter said he parked in a garage in Delray Beach and thought he paid in full. Then he got mail saying he owed $96.75.

“They claim the charge is for ‘overstaying,’” he said. “I don’t know what that means. I parked. I paid. I left.”

The ordinance language says the sign must include “parking rate, including peak hour and special event parking.”

It also says, “It shall be unlawful to charge a rate or fee higher than the rate published on the posted signage or displayed on pay kiosks.”

Will it help? That might remain a dynamic issue for some time to come. P

Briny Breezes

County turns down town’s $5 million grant request

By Steve Plunkett

Palm Beach County has rejected Briny Breezes’ request for a $5 million grant to help pay for the town’s ambitious stormwater and sea wall project.

County Commissioner Marci Woodward’s office delivered the bad news Feb. 5.

“Unfortunately, the county is unable to provide funding at this time,” Woodward’s chief of staff, Caitlin Joyce, wrote in an email to Town Manager Bill Thrasher. “The commissioner was very impressed with your dedication and efforts, and asked our resilience team to continue exploring other potential options for the town moving forward.”

The decision did not deter Thrasher in his quest to find full, outside funding for

the proposed infrastructure work.

“This does not mean all is lost or the projects are stopped,” he said. “It is my hope that the county would reconsider their abilities to assist with our financial need for these very important projects in part or whole.”

Briny Breezes hopes to build a comprehensive, townwide drainage system and raise its sea walls to fight perennial flooding and expected sea level rise. The total project cost is $14.4 million.

So far the town has qualified for a $7.2 million grant from the state’s Resilient Florida program and a $1.4 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“The rest will come from matchleveraging credit, loan, reserves and

other potential sources,” Thrasher said.

Besides asking the county to reconsider a lower grant amount and seeking financial assistance elsewhere, Thrasher said he will look to trim the town’s spending to increase its reserves, re-evaluate how much the town could borrow based on a projected increase in its taxable value, and possibly raising Briny Breezes’ property tax rate 5.3%, from $3.75 per $1,000 of taxable value to $3.95. The town’s agreement on sharing costs with Briny Breezes Inc., its corporate entity, would allow such a raise, he said.

Thrasher will also ask the rest of the barrier island for donations.

“I believe it is important to other barrier communities that the present low density of Briny exist rather than having

Briny possibly redeveloped which would materially increase the density along the present A1A evacuation routes,” Thrasher said. “Protecting the Town of Briny Breezes from seawater rise is important to others, not only Briny.”

He’ll also do “whatever else I can think of,” he said.

“I am optimistic and confident that these projects will proceed to completion.”

Meanwhile, the corporation had scheduled a vote at its Feb. 26 annual shareholders meeting, after The Coastal Star ’s deadline, on whether to allow the “material alteration” of the town, meaning the drainage and sea wall project, to proceed. The measure needed 51% of shareholders to agree. P

Boynton Beach In boost for Andrews House, CRA sets aside money for historic sites

By Tao Woolfe

People hoping to see Boynton Beach’s oldest home preserved and relocated have fresh hope, now that the city has set aside $300,000 for historic preservation.

The city commissioners, acting in their roles as Community Redevelopment Agency board members, decided to set aside those preservation funds after a lengthy discussion on Feb. 11 about how to save the 117-yearold Andrews House that once belonged to the family of Major Nathan S. Boynton, the city’s founding father.

The unanimous decision came after many residents asked the commissioners through the CRA to save the little wooden house, which had been on the verge of demolition a few months ago.

Setting aside money to move and preserve the Andrews House would allow the city to “do the right thing” by saving the home, creating positive media coverage, and reminding the public that “those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it,” said longtime resident Susan Oyer.

“Let’s not repeat our past mistakes of destroying our city’s unique history by not preserving it when we have the time and the funding to do so,” Oyer added. “Now is the time to lead by example.”

Barbara Ready, chair of the Boynton Beach Historic Preservation Board, agreed.

“It is sad that historic preservation in our city has taken a back seat for almost a decade now,” Ready said. “I am incredibly hopeful that these unallocated funds … would save a physical portion of Boynton Beach’s history for the future, revive that part of Ocean Avenue, and give your residents a bit of the quaint fishing village they crave.”

Ready was speaking about some $2 million in unallocated CRA money, most of which will

be used for property acquisition in the CRA district, said Vicki Hill, the CRA’s finance director.

The CRA board members decided to redirect $300,000 of that money for historic preservation. Some of the money could be used to restore the Magnuson House, another historic property that has suffered from neglect, and possibly to move the Andrews House to the Magnuson parcel.

CRA Attorney Kathryn Rossmell said the board members did not have to be specific about the purposes of the historic preservation fund to set it up.

“You have the opportunity to adjust the plan so the CRA can work with historic properties,” Rossmell said.

Mayor Ty Penserga said the $300,000 was “seed money” and that more could be set aside in the future once the CRA staff has determined the exact relocation and renovation costs for the Andrews House.

Acting CRA Director Tim Tack said his organization is allowed to consider historic properties in the CRA zone under the category of “adaptive reuse,” which allows new uses

for vacant, heritage properties.

The Andrews House was almost demolished just before Thanksgiving, but neighborhood residents noticed the yellow demolition excavator sitting on its current site at 306 SE First Ave. and raised the alarm. The neighbors pleaded with the mayor and commissioners to call off the execution.

The city obliged and worked with the property owner to delay any demolition. The house has been a hot topic of conversation ever since.

At a Jan. 14 City Commission meeting, Assistant Public Works Director Richard Hoffer said the city and CRA staff are looking at three potential locations for the Andrews House: a city park at Northeast Sixth Avenue and Northeast Sixth Court; the 211 E. Ocean Ave. site occupied by the Magnuson House; and a large CRA-owned lot at North Seacrest Boulevard and Northeast Third Avenue.

Hoffer added that city staff had consulted with contractors and had determined that it would cost $100,000 to $150,000 to move the home to a new

site; $75,000 to $100,000 in construction costs; and $50,000 in consultant fees for a total of about $375,000, which includes a 25% contingency.

The project would take at least 14 to 16 months to complete — including the design, permitting and ultimately procuring historic designation, Hoffer said.

Residents who spoke in favor of preservation said they would prefer having the Andrews House on the same parcel as the Magnuson House to create a historic enclave downtown.

That sentiment resurfaced at the Feb. 11 CRA meeting.

“The Move Historic Andrews House Committee is proposing ideas to move the Andrews House beside the Magnuson House to create a downtown heritage district,” Ready told the board members. “This would represent a new and interesting destination, as well as an economic development strategy that would activate the area by the historic Magnuson House that the CRA already owns.”

For more on the committee’s ideas, visit movehistoricandrewshouse.org

The Andrews House, built in 1907 by Dutch pioneer Bert Kapp, has some unusual features — including built-in steel rods that can be tightened to hold the house together during a hurricane.

The house has survived several hurricanes. It was completely renovated several years ago, restored to its former glory, and updated for modern use. P

Boynton Beach News

City is sued in Little League Park dispute — Boynton Beach may have made peace last year with the East Boynton Beach Little League over operations at the city’s Little League Park, but another party in the long-running saga over facility improvements there isn’t ready to bury the hatchet.

Primetime Sports Group, which is run by Phil Terrano and which once had a contract to construct a training facility at the park, filed suit Jan. 31 against the city. Primetime claims the city breached its contract in numerous ways, including by negotiating with one of Primetime’s subtenants, Mike Barwis, to take over the project despite Primetime’s contract.

The city ended its contract with Primetime in February 2024, saying a financial consultant determined Primetime “has not demonstrated the ability to procure the funds needed for the construction of this facility.”

The suit contends Primetime had the ability, but that the city kept changing the size and scope of the project. This prevented the company “from finalizing the plans and specifications in order to obtain approvals and permits and secure financing,” the suit said.

— Larry Barszewski

The interior reflects a recent renovation of the Andrews House. The city has set aside $300,000 toward moving the 117-year-old structure. Photo provided by Tom Warnke

Boca Raton

Hasner chosen to lead FAU

Adam Hasner, an executive at private prison company The GEO Group and a former majority leader of the Florida House, became the eighth president of Florida Atlantic University in February.

“Florida Atlantic University is a shining example of what a modern university can achieve — academic excellence, cuttingedge research, student access and success, all while maintaining a strong connection to the communities it serves,” said Hasner, who has a law degree from Florida State University.

As a Republican state representative from 2002 to 2010 representing southern Palm Beach County and northern Broward County, Hasner was chosen to be majority leader by then-House Speaker and now U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

He counts among his legislative accomplishments leading the efforts to secure funding to establish FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine and securing $43 million for the university’s current College of Engineering building.

Hasner will make a base salary of $875,000 with performance bonuses up to $150,000. He succeeds John Kelly, who announced his resignation in 2022, and Stacy Volnick, who served as interim president.

Hasner and his wife, Jillian, who is executive director of a nonprofit, live in Boca Raton.

— Steve Plunkett

Delray Beach News

Moratorium on some Atlantic Avenue development

There is little disagreement among stakeholders and elected leaders the time is now to preserve — as Delray Beach Mayor Tom Carney calls it — the charm, the feel, the scale of downtown Atlantic Avenue. It’s how to do it that is up for debate.

While Vice Mayor Juli Casale and Commissioner Tom Markert campaigned on supporting a downtown historic district, Carney has gone his own way. He added a resolution at the last minute to the Feb. 18 commission meeting agenda to implement a zoning in progress status for the avenue, which would stop any aggregation of properties east of Swinton Avenue and would prohibit any facade or architectural changes while the city crafts new zoning rules for commissioners to consider.

Casale and Markert objected, saying they wanted to read the resolution and vote on it at a later time, but Carney had support from Commissioners Angela Burns and Rob Long.

“This is a time-out, and all it does is, essentially, it’s going to protect the direction of the commission, and for a period of six months, we are able to extend it if we’re still actively working on these ordinances,” explained City Attorney Lynn Gelin.

The resolution unanimously passed after Gelin said time was of the essence in case a property owner wanted to try to knit together multiple properties or make facade changes before the city adopts stricter standards.

Carney, outside the meeting, said his main concerns were big-box stores buying up properties and turning what makes downtown Delray Beach unique into another shopping mall.

Carney said it is to be determined whether aggregation of properties along the six blocks could be prohibited or if there could be a requirement that each parcel must have a different facade. “It’s going to be done through discussion with stakeholders, discussion with staff and discussion with commissioners,” he said.

Supervisor in code enforcement resigns A Delray Beach supervisor in the city’s troubled Code Enforcement Division resigned the same day a commissioner demanded an outside investigator get to the bottom of how she had resolved three liens on a property she owned.

Danise Cleckley, the assistant neighborhood and community services director, resigned on Feb. 4 after allegations surfaced that she should not have resolved the liens without alerting the city that she owned the property at 624 SW Fourth St.

An internal Human Resources investigation by Paul Weber said the liens were a result of a clerical error by the Palm Beach County clerk of courts. City Attorney Gelin, in an email to Weber, said the question remained whether policies and procedures were followed.

Cleckley also faced a 2021 lawsuit claiming the home on Fourth Street was deeded to her by an owner who could not read or write.

Vice Mayor Juli Casale at the Feb. 4 commission meeting questioned the independent investigator with Calvin, Giordano & Associates who was giving an update on his findings. Casale said his preliminary report was woefully inadequate.

Casale told the investigator he needed to look into Cleckley’s actions, among other problems that have surfaced in the division since an employee was arrested for allegedly taking bribes in October. No formal charges have been brought by the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office.

— John Pacenti

Hasner

DOWNTOWN

Continued from page 1

The council then voted unanimously to give Terra/ Frisbie the top ranking and Related Ross second place.

The Related Ross proposal “would require a great deal of adjustment,” said Council member Marc Wigder. “There are other locations in the city that are better suited to office. This is not the right place for this office intensity.”

Wigder encouraged Related Ross to consider building office space elsewhere in the city, and Mayor Scott Singer echoed that.

“We look forward to working with both of you,” Singer said to the two development teams.

Council member Fran Nachlas said Terra/Frisbie’s proposal was “most closely aligned with what the city needs.”

“Terra/Frisbie won because it is the best choice for the community,” said Deputy Mayor Yvette Drucker, adding that the Related Ross proposal was too large for the downtown.

“Our team is committed to transforming this space into a vibrant, eco-friendly district that blends civic, residential and commercial uses,” Terra CEO David Martin said in a statement after the vote.

“We look forward to collaborating closely with city officials and the community to bring our shared vision to life, creating a sustainable and connected neighborhood that will serve as a model for future urban development.”

The city held an open house on Feb. 19 at The Studio at Mizner Park to give residents another opportunity to see what Terra/Frisbie proposed and to speak directly with company officials.

A steady stream of residents studied a model of what the site could look like and conceptual drawings.

“We have received a lot of excitement, a lot of enthusiasm,” said Rob Frisbie, Frisbie Group managing partner. “But also there are a lot of people who are concerned about growth and traffic and congestion and a potentially diminished public realm.

“I think from our perspective, there is no project unless it works for everyone. There is no project unless it puts the community first.”

Terra/Frisbie, he said, would work to incorporate residents’ critiques as it refines its proposals.

At the city’s behest, all four teams proposed public-private partnerships, or P3s, in which the developer assumes the cost of constructing public buildings and the city leases the land for redevelopment.

What it means

The project stands to be an economic boon to the city.

A revised analysis by city consultant CBRE states that a 99-year lease of the city land will yield the city a total of $3.6 billion.

Envisioning a new Boca Raton downtown

The Boca Raton City Council selected Terra and Frisbie Group to redevelop 30 acres of city-owned land, to include a new City Hall and Community Center, along with event space, green space, mixedincome housing, multipurpose recreational facilities, restaurants, retail, offices and hotel.

The proposal from the Terra/Frisbie group to redevelop downtown had the most green space, with concepts such as the above ‘Channel Gardens,’ proposed just north of Palmetto Park Road between Boca Raton Boulevard and Dixie Highway. Rendering provided

Boca Raton City Center

Joint venture of Coconut Grove-based Terra and Palm Beach-based Frisbie Group, real estate developers

Proposes 99-year ground lease for project, paying the city a total of nearly $1.4 billion, with three options for structuring rent payments. Developer states that the city would receive at least fair market value for the property.

Construction: To be built in three phases; first phase to include City Hall and Community Center

City Hall: 85,000 square feet

Community Center: 35,000 square feet

Police substation: 10,000 square feet

Retail: 84,790 square feet

Food and beverage: 71,800 square feet

Residential: 1,129 units, including workforce

housing

Parking: 265,758 square feet of garage and surface parking

Hotel: 150 rooms

Commercial: A 250,000-square-foot office

building

Recreation and open space: 6 acres, with a racket sports center, dog park, and many green spaces

Source: City of Boca Raton

That number includes a $2.2 billion increase in tax revenue the property will generate over 99 years once redeveloped.

The council’s decision is a key step in launching the project, but it will be some time before the public knows exactly what will be built.

Coconut Grove-based Terra and Frisbie of Palm Beach, joining forces under the name Boca Raton City Center, submitted a conceptual plan based on general direction from city officials that they wanted to replace the old and crumbling City Hall and Community Center, and add to the site mixed-income housing, office, hotel, retail and recreational facilities.

They now will make changes based on feedback from city leaders and residents.

“Today, it is picking a partner, not picking a plan,” Thomson said before the vote.

None of the proposals was perfect, he said, and all needed changes. “What the ultimate development will look like is not determined.”

The city expects to finalize an interim agreement with Terra/

Frisbie by March 18. After that, a comprehensive agreement will be negotiated to cover matters such as financing, final designs and construction schedule.

The project will take nine years to complete, according to Terra/Frisbie’s initial proposal.

Topping three others

Of the four developer proposals, which also came from Namdar Group of Great Neck, New York, and RocaPoint Partners of Atlanta, the most detailed came from Terra/ Frisbie.

The city has specified that the new City Hall should be 85,000 square feet and the Community Center 35,000 square feet.

Beyond that, the joint venture proposed 1,129 residential units, 84,790 square feet of retail, 71,800 square feet of food and beverage space, 265,758 square feet of garage and surface parking, a 150-room hotel, a 250,000-square-foot office building, a 10,000-square-foot police substation and 6 acres of green space that could include sports facilities.

Terra/Frisbie has committed to contributing $10 million to

provide high-quality jobs. Its officials said there is a huge demand for office space in the city.

In addition to a new City Hall, Community Center and police substation, the company would have built the three office buildings, 650 residential units, 235,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment, a 400-room hotel, parking and 5.8 acres of green space.

When some council members questioned the large amount of office space, company officials offered to substitute residential for one of the office buildings.

“We have a very different and bold vision for this community,” Stephen Ross told the council the day before its vote. “The world is changing and we believe Boca Raton can be the center of that change.”

“We really feel we are the hometown guys,” he said later, because his company does work only in Palm Beach County. Related Ross clearly demonstrated it was in the contest to win. Ross played a highly visible role, stepping to the microphone at two meetings to extol his company’s expertise and the quality of its proposal.

At a Jan. 27 presentation of its plans to the council, about 20 Related Ross executives dramatically strode into the chambers and claimed the first two rows of seats.

Related Ross proposed 2.4 million square feet of development, compared to Terra/Frisbie’s nearly 1.6 million square feet, according to the CBRE analysis.

Fitting the pieces together

the city, which could be used to build a pedestrian bridge so that people will be able to walk over Dixie and Federal highways to get to or from Mizner Park.

The venture also has a contract to buy an area encompassing property owned by Boca Color Graphics south of the Brightline station, at 139 NW Third St., which would be turned in part into a park that people could walk through to get from the station to the downtown campus.

Terra, acting without Frisbie, has another project in Boca Raton. It is part of a team that is developing plans to transform the Boca Raton Innovation Campus, the 124-acre former IBM headquarters, into a mixeduse community including residential, commercial, retail and office space.

The runner-up

In contrast to the Terra/ Frisbie plan, Related Ross of West Palm Beach, headed by Miami Dolphins owner and Palm Beach resident Stephen Ross, proposed a project aimed at attracting corporations to locate in Boca Raton that would

As now envisioned, a new City Hall and the Community Center will remain within the downtown campus. The Downtown Library will stay where it is. The police station will be moved to city-owned land east of the Spanish River Library, freeing up land for redevelopment, but a police substation will be on the campus. The large Banyan trees will be preserved.

Some residents who have spoken at council meetings are especially concerned that ball fields and other recreation areas will be moved off the site.

Terra/Frisbie has proposed including an indoor and outdoor racket sports center that would have four tennis courts, two pickleball courts and two padel courts, as well as an indoor gymnasium with a basketball court.

But existing facilities will be impacted.

City Manager George Brown has said that the city is working with the Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District to find new locations for some of them. That includes the skatepark, which might go to North Park, and softball fields, which possibly could go to Sugar Sand Park. Tennis courts may remain downtown or could be moved.

“Everything will be replaced or enhanced,” he said. P

Concept for the City Hall

Some residents who live near the club don’t bother with the crosswalk. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

A1A

Continued from page 1

old man. She was then pushed into the southbound lane where she was struck by a second vehicle driven by a 48-year-old woman. Both vehicles stopped. No charges have been filed and no citations issued while police continue their investigation.

Delray Beach police said there were no crosswalk signs at the time of the crash. Area residents said there were signs for the crosswalk before construction began and that the signs were back following the fatality. The signs now in place do not have flashing lights — neither automatic nor pedestrianactivated.

Officials with the Florida Department of Transportation, which is charge of the construction contract, did not respond to emails from The Coastal Star seeking comment.

Safety concerns

The construction in the area where the crash occurred is part of a year-long $8.3 million A1A resurfacing project that began in July and stretches 3.35 miles, from Linton Boulevard and through Highland Beach to the Boca Raton line.

In Highland Beach, town leaders have been urging residents to be cautious and patient when using A1A. For several years, the town has been providing orange flags at crosswalks to help ensure motorists see pedestrians crossing. The town also has pedestrian-activated flashing yellow lights at crosswalks.

“We’ve seen people using the flags at night,” Town Manager Marshall Labadie said.

Boca Raton also has orange flags available at its A1A crosswalks, but Delray Beach’s — like the one where Roz Lowney was struck — do not.

At home in Delray

In an email to The Coastal Star, the Lowney family wrote that she would often traverse A1A, going to and from the Delray Beach Club.

“Roz would walk across the street to the beach club and there she would enjoy water aerobics, yoga, mahjong, canasta, her great friends, the amazing staff, and the beach,” the family wrote.

She also enjoyed playing golf.

Roz and Tim Lowney, according to the family, had been spending winters in Delray Beach for the past 20 years, living for most of that time in the Tropic Isle community. They joined the Delray Beach Club six years ago and purchased the A1A condo across from the club

a little more than a year ago.

“They treasured spending their winters in Florida and their summers in Cape Cod,” the family wrote.

While she was away from home, Roz Lowney continued to work remotely as bookkeeper for her husband’s medical practice.

‘A blast to be around’

Friends in Florida who knew Roz Lowney describe her as an outgoing woman with a great sense of humor.

“She was funny and just a blast to be around,” said a longtime friend, who added that Roz loved the Delray Beach Club. “She was always there.”

Her family said that she enjoyed being with other people.

“She was the first one to make a plan to get people together to eat, laugh and enjoy each other’s company,” they wrote. “She will be sorely missed by her family and friends in Florida and beyond.”

Recent A1A fatal crashes

The crash that killed her comes less than two months after a bicyclist on State Road A1A in Boca Raton was killed after he was struck from behind by a Chevy Equinox shortly after 7 a.m.

The driver involved in the Dec. 15 accident was charged with DUI after police said he failed sobriety exercises.

Since 2021, there have been two other pedestrian fatalities on A1A in southern Palm Beach County reported by The Coastal Star

On Nov. 10, 2023, a 73-yearold South Palm Beach woman was killed when she was struck in a hit-and-run crash while crossing A1A by her home, a short distance north of Lantana’s Ocean Avenue.

Police later charged a 43-year-old woman with leaving the scene of a fatal accident and tampering with evidence.

The speed limit has since been lowered in the town from 35 mph to 30 mph and several signs have been erected urging drivers to be careful and share the road.

In 2021, New York Federal Judge Sandra Feuerstein was killed when she was struck by a Honda Civic that was driven onto the sidewalk on A1A near Spanish River Boulevard. The female driver later pleaded guilty to charges including driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury. P

Delray Beach

Oral victory

Split commission votes to keep fluoridating water after Boca Raton dentists rebut surgeon general

By John Pacenti

Don’t mess with the dentists.

After Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said the practice of adding fluoride to the municipal drinking water system was “public health malpractice,” a group of dentists rebutted him at the Feb. 4 Delray Beach City Commission meeting.

The commission voted 3-2 against a motion made by Commissioner Angela Burns to end fluoridation of the city’s drinking water, which the city has been doing for 36 years to prevent tooth decay. Mayor Tom Carney and Burns were the “yes” votes.

Ladapo told commissioners that studies have shown that fluoride affects neurological development in children, resulting in low IQ scores. He said the National Toxicology Program at the Department of Health and Human Services looked at between 60 and 70 studies.

Researchers found a relationship between fluoride and lower intelligence. “Not by a little bit, but actually substantially,” said Ladapo, who has also called for a halt on the use of the COVID-19 vaccine. “Also, potentially, behavior changes, things like ADHD, hyperactivity disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

“There are dozens of studies that have shown this adverse relationship,” he said.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s Secretary of Health and Human Services, has also condemned fluoridation.

A small group of dentists from Boca Raton — which does not add fluoride to its water — attended the commission meeting to counter Ladapo’s recommendation.

Dentists rebut Ladapo

Jeffrey Ganeles, a boardcertified periodontist, said the studies on which Ladapo relied were done outside of the United States where the fluoride levels were much higher. He said tooth decay is no small thing, often cascading from a single filling that over time fails, requiring a root canal, a crown, a bridge or a dental implant.

“I can usually tell within minutes whether a new patient grew up in an area of fluoridated water,” Ganeles said. “People with a mouthful of fillings, crowns and missing teeth almost certainly did not, while those with only a few small fillings likely had fluoridated water as kids.”

Richard Kitt, also a dentist in Boca Raton,

After the Delray Beach City Commission voted to continue fluoridating the city’s drinking water, dental hygienist Linda Reichman continued the discussion with Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo.

by Tim Stepien/The

cited another study that recommended the status quo. “I’ve seen what it (fluoridation) does and also in areas of underprivileged people not getting fluoride in the water during tooth development,” he said.

Navigating conflicting waters

Communities throughout Florida have stopped putting fluoride in the water. The issue came up in Delray Beach because the equipment to put the additive in the water needs to be replaced if the practice is to continue.

Angela Hill, one of a few city residents to speak at the commission meeting, urged the city to discontinue the practice. She said the cons outweigh the pros when it comes to the additive’s ties in some studies to neurological disorders like ADHD.

“I would rather my boys have no teeth and dentures than for them to be on medication for the rest of their lives,” she said. “I would much rather have a healthy mind and a steadfast child than to have someone with pretty teeth.”

But Commissioner Rob Long said he changed his mind after speaking to the dentists and reading their material.

“There’s also an argument to say that if we took fluoride out of the water, the folks who are the most underserved in the community would be the ones who suffer the most, and so I do think we do have a responsibility to look out for those folks,” he said.

Commissioner Tom Markert said at the Feb. 4 meeting he was leaning toward keeping the fluoride in the tap water but wanted a workshop on the issue to learn about alternatives.

“This one is a jump ball. It just is. You know, the federal agencies are split in terms of their recommendations to us, that’s bad,” he said.

“The medical communities are split. That’s not good. I ran around my neighborhood over the weekend, and my neighbors are all split on this.”

Commissioner Burns, however, was unequivocal in her position to end fluoridation, saying families should have a choice whether to use fluoride.

“I think there are many ways that we can get fluoride to students in the schools, in the home, and I don’t think that it should be forced upon them in the water,” she said.

Carney agreed, saying fluoride can be added now in any number of ways.

“When fluoridation first came out, it was largely because the communities which were spread out and really didn’t have the access to the same dental care, the same opportunities to have fluoride,” Carney said. “But you know, today there are fluoride pills that are free. Everyone’s using fluoride toothpaste.”

Ladapo lost Delray Beach, but on the same day won on the issue when Lee County commissioners voted to remove fluoride.

“It’s insane to continue to support this with the information that we have now,” Ladapo said in Lee County earlier that day. “And you know, who suffers the most? Well, so far, it’s children and pregnant women.” P

Photos

Coastal Star

Ganeles

Lowney

These dudes bring business (ad)venture to Delray Beach

South County residents

Jayson Koss and Ed Mileto created their company Eightfold Ventures, a consultancy/venture capital fund, with a portfolio limited to eight active specialty-brand companies, in 2023. Recently, the two opened an office at 709 Bond Way, Delray Beach.

A long with investing capital, Koss, 39, of Delray Beach and Mileto, 37, of Boynton Beach offer these companies step-by-step plans and advice based on the two’s entrepreneurial experiences. Starting his company Delivery Dudes by making deliveries on his moped in 2009, Koss grew it to operate in more than 40 cities, making thousands of deliveries each month.

He sold his company to Waitr Holdings in 2021.

“Ed and I both had highly successful exits: Ed with Perfect Practice Golf and me with Delivery Dudes,” Koss said. “We’d done something exceptional and wanted to keep that going, but we didn’t just want to go the traditional VC [venture capital] route. We wanted to install our proven system into businesses primed for big growth.”

Mileto, cofounder of Perfect Practice Golf, sold his e-commerce business in 2021 to a private investor. After selling only 25 Perfect Practice mats at the PGA show in 2019, he sold 10,000 at that same show a year later.

“Jayson and I believe that good business is about more than money. It’s about creating and sustaining a brand that fills a real need in the marketplace, something that people really gravitate toward,” Mileto said. “We want our companies to achieve a successful outcome, sure, but we also want them to enjoy the trek getting there.”

Of the eight companies that Eightfold Ventures works with, two are based in Delray Beach:  DadFuel, a men’s nutrition supplement company, and NBT, a clothing line made for motorcycle riding

enthusiasts. Eightfold Ventures helped launch DadFuel from its initial stages, and the brand has enjoyed success, with inventory selling out multiple times. NBT was brought on board a year after it launched and has grown its revenue sevenfold since adopting Eightfold’s strategies.

A t rust in the name of David A. Frecka bought “Villa Oceano Azul” at 1400 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, for $49.12 million from Ramalinga “Rama” Raju Mantena and his wife, Padmaja, in February.

On a 1.84-acre lot with 200 feet on the ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, the seven-bedroom, 16,174-squarefoot home features a 50-foot dock with a boat lift, a six-car garage, putting green, two pools, summer kitchen, bar, office, fitness room, wine cellar and a movie screening room.

Mark Griffin of One

Sotheby’s International Realty was the listing broker. Catherine McGlennon of Engel & Völkers represented the buyer. The home last traded for $48.37 million in January 2023. Frecka is the founder and former CEO of Next Generation Films, which made plastic packaging. After a $1.07 billion merger in 2019, he retired from the company. He then founded Triple F Collection, a high-end performance vehicle business, with his sons, Jason and Jordan.

Rama Mantena is the founder and chairman of Integra Connect, a West Palm Beach-based health care services company. Previously, he founded and led P4 Healthcare and Icore Healthcare. Cardinal Health acquired P4 Healthcare in 2010, while Magellan Health Services purchased Icore

Healthcare in 2006.

The Balinese-inspired estate at 1370 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, owned by Christopher C. Rokos, a British hedge-fund manager, was recently listed for sale for $150 million, furnished. Sited on 2.83 acres with 300 feet on the ocean and Intracoastal, the nine-bedroom, 34,498-squarefoot compound has a movie room, library, game rooms, wine room, office and several flex spaces. Rokos bought the property in 2017 for $40 million. The property is listed by William Raveis South Florida agent Jack Elkins

An estate on 2 acres  fronting 160 feet on the ocean and Intracoastal at 1160 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, has come onto the market for $87 million.

With eight bedrooms and 27,745 square feet of living space, the estate includes a main house, guest house, cabana and gatehouse. It has two swimming pools, a 13-car garage and a dock with two boat lifts.

Bought in 2021 for $28 million by a land trust managed by City National Bank of Florida, the estate is completely rebuilt on the same footprint by Siobhan Zerilla, principal of Bluedoor Building.

It’s listed by Corcoran Group agents Candace Friis and Phil Friis

Boca Raton Airport was named a recipient of a General Aviation Safety Award presented by the Federal Aviation Administration.

The award, made on Feb. 4, recognizes the Boca Raton Airport Authority’s commitment to safety practices and innovations in 2023.

“Our team has always put safety first and it’s gratifying to see the FAA recognize our efforts,” said Clara Bennett, the Airport Authority’s executive director.

Keys to the airport’s

receiving the honor were its prioritization of safety in all aspects of the operation and 100% participation in its safety management system — a set of policies, procedures and practices that help manage safety risks.

Criteria for the General Aviation Safety Award are based on the development or implementation of a specific program or activity, or other special and unique accomplishments, involving the operation of an airport that resulted in enhanced safety, according to the FAA.

The Ark Dog Services celebrated the opening of its new location at 1406 N. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, with a “yappy hour” in January.

In 2019, The Ark provided a grooming service and operated out of a garage. In 2022, the company expanded to operate out of two garages and added day care and boarding services.

The Boynton Beach Online Chamber of Commerce appointed Maria Rowley as its chief operating officer. Rowley is a personal stylist for J.Hilburn, a company that specializes in men’s custom clothing.

Christine D. RobertsKelly, founder and CEO of Intention Enterprises, was appointed executive vice president. Patti Ann Leonaggeo, a licensed insurance agent representing Aflac and owner of Leonaggeo Benefits Inc., was appointed chair of the Chamber’s Ambassadors.

Joseph Colon was named concierge for El-Ad National Properties’ Alina Residences Phase Two in Boca Raton. Previously, he served as hotel concierge at the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Manalapan. Ahmed Abbas was named assistant property manager for Alina 220. Previously, he was an operational manager for

Ed Mileto and Jayson Koss have opened an office of Eightfold Ventures, their consultancy, off Federal Highway just north of George Bush Boulevard. Photo provided

Harbour Investment Co. Ltd. in Dubai.

Joann Fabric and Crafts, which has 850 locations across 49 states, will be closing all of its stores in coming weeks, including the one at 1632 S. Federal Highway in Boynton Beach.

A spokesperson from the Boynton location said the store is expected to close at the end of March or when inventory is sold.

The company, headquartered in Ohio, has been the nation’s leader in sewing and fabrics with one of the largest arts and crafts collections. Joann filed for bankruptcy a second time in less than a year in January after first filing in March 2024.

The company initially said only about 500 of its stores would close as a result of a comprehensive sale process and auction, but the “winning bidders plan to begin winding down the Company’s operations and conduct goingout-of-business sales at all store locations,” Joann said in a Feb. 23 statement.

The Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida’s “Cookies for the Military” program invites the community to donate boxes or cases of Girl Scout cookies that will be sent to service members stationed

in the U.S. or overseas.

Last year, nearly 58,000 boxes were donated, and this year’s goal is to donate 75,000 cookie boxes.

The community can contribute by purchasing a box at $6 or a case for $72 through any local Girl Scout or by visiting www. cookiesforthemilitary.org.

Contributions also support the efforts of the Girl Scouts to foster financial literacy and leadership skills, including budgeting, customer service and goal-setting.

During 2024, 26 members of the Delray Business Partners, one of the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce’s leads groups, generated more than $320,738 of gross sales by doing business with one another and by referring their colleagues to other potential clients.

For information on Delray Business Partners, visit delraybusinesspartners.com.

Rich Pollack contributed to this column.

Send business news to Christine Davis at cdavis9797@ gmail.com

ALINA BOCA RATON CONDO | $3,795,000

Immaculate and stylish home with 2 BR + DEN, 3.5 BA, and an extended terrace featuring a wooden pergola with stone columns. Views overlooking resort / golf course. Jeannine Morris 561.706.8287 | jeannine@morrisreg.com Blake Morris 561.901.6960 | blake@morrisreg.com

CHALFONTE | $1,925,000

Rarely available 23rd-floor penthouse delivers sweeping ocean views from every room. Wraparound exposure to the south, east, and west. Expansive windows flood with natural light, framing both breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Spacious split floor plan. Ana Londono 561.843.1171 | a.londono@langrealty.com

CHALFONTE | $1,900,000

Just renovated, professionally designed, 2 BR/2 BA Penthouse 09 offers exceptional views of Lake Boca and the city skyline. Spacious private balcony to enjoy vivid sunsets. Impeccable taste and sophistication with an open floor plan and custom finishes. Ana Londono 561.843.1171 | a.londono@langrealty.com

LA FONTANA CONDO | $1,200,000

Gorgeous corner residence w/outstanding views of both the Intracoastal Waterway & Atlantic Ocean! Enjoy morning coffee & stunning sunrise from east balcony, and breathtaking sunsets from private west balcony. Entertaining flow of yacht & boat activity awaits you. Jeannie Adams 561.414.5030 | jeannieadams7@gmail.com

TOWNSEND PLACE | $1,990,000

3 BR / 3 BA surrounded by tropical lush landscaping from it’s generous private lanai, feels like a single-family residence. Resort style amenities. Spacious primary w/private balcony. Jeannie Adams 561.414.5030 | jeannieadams7@gmail.com

Renee Shine 561.870.5600 | renee@reneeshine.com

CHALFONTE | $1,900,000

Direct ocean views from every room. Spacious oceanfront terrace provides the perfect setting for entertaining, while the split floor plan offers privacy. The building sits directly on the beach with private access. Ana Londono 561.843.1171 | a.londono@langrealty.com

SEA RANCH CLUB | $1,295,000

One-of-a-kind residence with spectacular ocean panoramas, complimented by the most strikingly beautiful, “best of everything,’’ ‘’down-to-the-slabs’’ renovations.  Spectacular, unobstructed ocean vistas thru floor-to-ceiling walls of impact glass. Aristi Constantin 561.706.0706 | aristiconstantin@comcast.net

BOCA HIGHLAND | $1,200,000

Experience luxury in this renovated Braemar Isle penthouse with breathtaking ocean views, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and an oversized balcony overlooking the Atlantic and marina. Brian Bahn 561.213.4227 | bocabeachside@gmail.com Kim Spielvogel 561.251.0989 | kms33@bellsouth.net

Everyone’s Irish on St. Paddy’s Day! Page AT7

Pets

How to unleash your adventure cat. Page AT26

House of the Month Oceanfront estate in Delray Beach. Page AT31

Along the Coast

1925: When the bridge over the Boynton Inlet was first under construction, it included arches on either side of State Road A1A. The arches were eliminated when the bridge was replaced decades later. Then as now, the man-made channel's official name was the South Lake Worth Inlet. Photo provided by Boynton Beach City Library Local History Archives

2025: The Sea Mist III has been using the inlet for decades to take out drift boat anglers. Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

A deep dive into the Boynton Inlet

Whatever its official name, this century-old passage has a sea of personal stories to tell

By Ron Hayes

We regret to inform you that the Boynton Inlet is not the Boynton Inlet.

Officially, it’s the “South Lake Worth Inlet,” a noble title that, alas, gets very little respect.

Th is 130-foot-wide, man-made channel between the Atlantic Ocean and the Lake Worth Lagoon is bordered on the north by the town of Manalapan, but do we fish at the Manalapan Inlet?

We do not.

It is bordered on the south by the town of Ocean Ridge, but do we picnic at the Ocean Ridge Inlet?

No.

We fish and picnic at the Boynton Inlet.

See INLET on page AT19

On the Water Vessels of all sizes coming to boat show. Page AT18

Philanthropy Calendar

Pay It Forward

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH

Saturday - 3/1 - Sandoway Discovery Center’s Muscle on the Beach at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. Get excited about a car show featuring nearly 200 American hotrods and trucks from decades past as well as a silent auction and a raffle all benefiting the nonprofit’s hands-on learning experiences that focus on Florida’s fragile ecosystems. 10 am-3 pm. Free. 917-670-6993 or 617312-4701 or muscleonthebeach.com.

Saturday - 3/1 - George Snow Scholarship Fund’s Cowboy Ball at Boca West Country Club, 20583 Boca West Drive, Boca Raton. Help deserving students achieve their dream of attending college while enjoying an evening of country-chic style. 6-11 pm. $350. 561-347-6799, Ext. 114 or scholarship.org/events.

Sunday - 3/2 - Little Smiles’ Bubbles, Bellinis & Brunch at THRōW Social Delray Beach, 29 S.E. Second Ave. Sip, shop and make a difference while enjoying a midday meal to raise money for needy children. 1-4 pm. $75. 561-837-7951 or littlesmilesfl.org/ bubbles.

Sunday - 3/2 - LIFE’s “Lady in Red” Gala at The Breakers, One S. County Road, Palm Beach. Celebrate with global music superstar Paul Anka and comedy legend Jay Leno at the 31st-annual affair that benefits disabled veterans through American Humane’s “Pups4Patriots” program and local children through Palm Beach County Food Bank’s “Lois’ Food4Kids” program. 6 pm. $1,500. 561582-8083 or life-edu.org.

Wednesday - 3/5 - YMCA of South Palm Beach County’s Inspiration Breakfast at Peter Blum Family YMCA of Boca Raton, 6631 Palmetto Circle South. Hear from boxing great Sugar Ray Leonard, the keynote speaker, while raising funds for programs aimed at youths, families and seniors. 7:30 am. $300. 561-237-0944 or ymcaspbc.org/inspirationbreakfast.

Friday - 3/7 - Faulk Center for Counseling’s Blast from the Past Rewind Fundraising Breakfast and Juke Box Bingo at Broken Sound Club, 2401 Willow Springs Drive, Boca Raton. Get ready for a delicious morning meal, unforgettable music and a chance to win amazing prizes while supporting mental-health programs and services. 9-11:30 am. $75. 561-483-5300 or

faulkcenterforcounseling.org/jukebox.

Friday - 3/7 - Caron Treatment Centers’ 2025 Caron Florida Gala, “A Life Beyond Your Wildest Dreams,” at Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa, 10 N. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Be inspired by an evening celebrating recovery and shining a light on the organization’s mission of providing treatment for addiction as well as funding research and prevention. 6-9:30 pm. $500. 215-292-5226 or 610-731-1045 or caron.org.

Saturday - 3/8 - Child Rescue Coalition’s 8th Annual Tech with Heart Gala at Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa, 10 N. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Help a nonprofit that rescues minors from sexual abuse by building technology for law enforcement by attending a cocktails-and-dinner event with an after-party. 6-11 pm. $450. 561-208-9000 or childrescuecoalition.org/events/8thannual-tech-with-heart-gala

Tuesday - 3/11 - Achievement Centers for Children & Families’ Delray Beach Home Tour in the Marina Historic District neighborhood. Explore extraordinary residences, enjoy a catered luncheon and take advantage of trolley service or golf cart transportation along the route. 10 am-4 pm. $150. 561-276-0520 or achievementcentersfl.org/delray-hometour.

Friday - 3/14 - American Association of Caregiving Youth’s Hearts & “Soles” at Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, 2425 W. Maya Palm Drive, Boca Raton. Pony up for the “A Night at the Races Casino Night” extravaganza that will raise money to benefit the nonprofit’s mission of ensuring support services for children with adult responsibilities. 7-11 pm. $300. 561-3917401 or aacy.org/events/hearts-and-solescasino-gala.

Saturday - 3/15 - American Disabilities Foundation’s Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities at Spanish River Park, 3001 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton. Watch participants engage in animal-therapy sessions and other beach activities while enjoying games, giveaways, lunch and live entertainment at an event that is the nation’s largest for children and adults with special needs. 10 am-3 pm. Free. 561-899-7400 or boatingbeachbash.com.

Saturday - 3/15 - Il Circolo, The Italian Cultural Society’s 2025 Gala at Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa, 10 N.

Cowboy Ball

Boca West Country Club March 1

Guests at the George Snow Scholarship Fund benefit are encouraged to embrace the theme with big-buckled belts, denim tuxedos, fringe jackets and, of course, boots and hats. Time is 6 to 11 p.m. Cost is $350. Call 561-347-6799, ext. 114, or visit scholarship.org/events. ABOVE: Boca Chamber President Troy McLellan with Snow fund trustee Van Williams. Photo provided

Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach. Explore the culture of the with a five-course dinner, live and silent auctions, entertainment by an Italian opera star and dancing. 6-11 pm. $595 for members, $695 for nonmembers. 954-249-3361 or ilcircoloflorida.org.

Saturday - 3/22 - The Cruisey Baby Initiative’s Cruiser Palooza Music + Arts Festival at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. Raise money for those sidelined by spinal-cord injuries during an evening of live music, food trucks, a beer garden, art, a cornhole tournament, a silent auction and more. 5-10 pm. $40-$100. 561-306-7667 or cruiseyinitiative.org/cruiser-palooza

APRIL

Saturday - 4/5 - Grey Team's "They Are Not Bulletproof” Gala at The Boca Raton, 501 E. Camino Real. Rally the troops for an event that blends the glitz and glamor of The Great Gatsby and the elegance of the postwar era to raise funds for U.S. servicemen and servicewomen. 5:30-10 pm. Tickets start at $395. 561-2033815 or greyteam.org.

Sunday - 4/6 - National Society of Arts and Letters’ Florida Chapter’s Star Maker Awards at Waterstone Resort & Marina Boca Raton, 999 E. Camino Real. Honor Lifetime Achievement Award winners Jeff and Joanna Kaye at an event that benefits the nonprofit’s scholarships, competitions and mentoring programs for local performing and visual artists. 6 pm.

$385 before Feb. 27, $395 after Feb. 27. 561-945-0999 or nsalflorida.org.

Friday - 4/7 - Boca Ballet Theatre’s Ballet in Bloom at the Lotus Boca Raton clubhouse, 8190 Paradise Bay Ave. Support the troupe’s upcoming productions of Coppélia and Summer Breezes and the incredible guest artists who star in them. 6-8 pm. $75. 561-995-0709 or bocaballet. org.

Tuesday - 4/8 - Eat Better Live Better’s Feeding the Hands of Hunger Luncheon at Boca West Country Club, 20583 Boca West Dr., Boca Raton. Enjoy a meal while supporting a cause that nourishes the community. 10-11:30 am VIP reception, 11:30 am-1 pm. Luncheon. $150. 561-344-1022 or eblb.org.

Thursday - 4/10 - Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County’s Love of Literacy Luncheon at Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. Hear from featured speaker Victoria Christopher Murray, a New York Times best-selling author. 11:30 am. $200. 561-767-3370 or literacypbc.org.

Tuesday - 4/23 - Impact 100 Palm Beach County’s Grand Awards Celebration at Boca West Country Club, 20583 Boca West Dr., Boca Raton. Watch as members vote to determine which local organizations receive $100,000 grants that will help transform their nonprofit missions. 10 am-2 pm. Free. 561-336-4623 or impact100pbc.org.

Thursday - 4/24 - Achievement Centers for Children & Families’ Jacks & Stacks Poker Tournament at Hagerty Garage + Social, 777 S. Congress Ave., Delray Beach. Play cards for a chance to win a $5,000 cash prize all while surrounded by an exclusive display of luxury cars. 7 pm. $1,500. 561266-0003 or achievementcentersfl.org.

Send calendar items to Amy Woods at flamywoods@bellsouth. net.

Pay It Forward

Home tour to spotlight marina district, benefit Achievement Centers

By Amy Woods

The Marina Historic District will serve as the scenic backdrop for this year’s Delray Beach Home Tour benefiting the Achievement Centers for Children & Families.

The owners of six homes will open their doors during the 22nd annual event, giving visitors a chance to see the well-appointed interiors and resplendent gardens of each selected residence.

“We really try hard to get a variety of homes — historic, contemporary, beach,” CoChairwoman Kari Shipley said. “We really try to switch it up so there’s something for everybody.”

The March 11 event marks the first time the tour has taken place in the Marina Historic District. Another new twist is the inclusion of an old military church that has been preserved and turned into an event center. A catered luncheon will take place on the grounds of a seventh home fronting the Intracoastal Waterway. A team of 100 volunteers will work to make the daylong fundraiser a success.

“Each home has six to 10 volunteers,” Shipley said. “They learn about the house,

the artwork, the decorator, the history of the house and any other interesting information. They’re like docents.”

The tour was conceived more than two decades ago by ACCF board members Anne Bright and Barbara Murphy, both of whom recruited Shipley.

“We had a friend in the beach area and asked if we could put her home on a tour,” Shipley explained. “Then we

called our friends and asked them to come. It started mushrooming. It just grew and grew and has been wildly successful.”

Today, more than 600 visitors from as far south as Miami as well as from out of state buy tickets.

“We have people who come here on vacation for the tour,” Shipley said. “They call us to make sure they have the dates.”

Proceeds — the 2024 take was $200,000 — fund ACCF’s early learning, after-school and teen programs and summer camp that touch 700 local children.

“We are grateful for the support of all our hardworking volunteers, the homeowners who are graciously allowing visitors into their homes and, of course, our dedicated sponsors,” Shipley said. P

If You Go

What: Delray Beach Home Tour

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 11

Where: Marina Historic District

Cost: $150

Info: 561-276-0520 or achievementcentersfl. org/events/delray-beachhome-tour

Delray Beach Home Tour committee members (l-r, in front) Kim Truesdale, Amy Antoniak, Bianca Pucci, Linda Umbdenstock, Sherry Davis, Shelly Likosar, Julie Peyton, (in back) Deborah Dowd, Melinda Webster, Kimberley Trombly-Burmeister, Erin McLaughlanGraham, Cheryl Forman, Kari Shipley and Noreen Payne. Photo provided

Philanthropy Notes

Wayside House spreads its wings with Butterfly Boutique

Bargain hunters now can purchase pre-owned designer women’s clothing, jewelry and handbags at a newly opened thrift store in Delray Beach.

The Butterfly Boutique benefits Wayside House, a local nonprofit that has been helping women overcome addiction for more than 50 years. The goal is to generate additional funds so treatment services can expand.

“I believe we should do whatever it takes to ensure that women who want and need our help can receive it, whether they have the financial means or not,” said Martha Grimm, a Wayside House board member who spearheaded the development of the boutique.

Located at 500 NE Fifth Ave., which is southbound U.S. 1, the shop operates from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. Most items are priced between $20 and $40, and many have original tags attached. The public is welcome to donate merchandise.

For more information, call 561-278-0055 or visit waysidehouse.net.

Boca Helping Hands gets donation for new truck

The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem Knights

Hospitaller’s Palm Beaches Commandery is donating $50,000 to Boca Helping Hands for a refrigerated truck.

The vehicle will help the nonprofit with its food pantry outreach and is another deed of goodwill by the order, a longtime supporter of Boca Helping Hands.

“One of our first donations was Boca Helping Hands’ first refrigerated truck,” said Isabelle Paul, commander of the order. “We have come full circle with helping to purchase a 26-foot refrigerated truck to add to the other trucks needed to pick up food for BHH’s pantry program.”

For more information, call 561-417-0913 or visit bocahelpinghands.org.

Families First welcomes networking pro to team

A n experienced recruiter and nonprofit leader has been appointed to the foundation board of Families First of Palm Beach County, which focuses on intervention and prevention programs to help children.

Lynn Radice officially joined the team in September. Radice is a career coach, motivational speaker and published author.

“Her passion lies in helping the communities in Palm

Beach County and paying it forward,” Families First CEO Julie Swindler said.

“Her extensive and diverse network and connections, plus her expertise in engaging diverse communities, can facilitate strategic partnerships

The Butterfly Boutique is a newly opened thrift store on southbound Federal Highway at Northeast Fifth Street in Delray Beach. The store benefits Wayside House, which helps women overcome addiction. Photo provided

that could enhance Families First’s services and expand their impact in the community.”

For more information, call 561-253-1451 or visit familiesfirstpbc.org.

Send news and notes to Amy Woods at flamywoods@ bellsouth.net.

Locally Owned and Flooring Florida™ Since 1978

Dining

TCelebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish food and a parade

hat annual beerdrinking festival arrives this month — St. Paddy’s Day.

You may be taking in Delray Beach’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, where you’ll need the luck of the Irish on that parking spot if you haven’t camped out all day.

It’s at noon Saturday, March 15, with hundreds of marchers from east to west on Atlantic Avenue. Public lots fill up fast.

The Avenue and its connecting intersections are blocked off from the Intracoastal Waterway to Northwest Fifth Avenue ahead of the parade, so plan your drive accordingly.

Tips: Don’t park in a tow zone. Those towing signs are enforced with vigor. U.S. 1 is the last big intersection to shut down. But plan to walk a mile or pay $25 or more to park in a private lot if you’re intent on going to that spot. And take a chair. The parade is long. Dogs are allowed, but consider the noise from sirens that may set them off.

It is one of the largest parades in Southeast Florida celebrating the Irish, so if weather cooperates, go just to say you’ve been. Expect lots and lots of fire trucks, bands, green beads and commercials in the form of business floats in between.

Look for the pig — the mascot from the inaugural street parade.

Other details are at www. delraybeachfl.gov/our-city/stpatrick-s-day-parade.

Eat like an Irishman

Want to taste some Irish cooking? Hit a pub or bar.

Many people will take advantage of the weekend and start partying March 15 and 16. If you don’t like crowds, don’t show up this weekend. Smart diners know the food is usually best any time other than days around March 17; most pubs curtail their menus to offer only a few items.

First, a glossary of Irish dishes you may find:

• Potato leek soup: creamy potatoes cooked with leeks.

• Shepherd’s pie: lamb pie with dark (sometimes Guinness) gravy and vegetables. Typically mashed potatoes atop, but sometimes pastry as well. Baked.

• Steak and Guinness pie: chunks of beef, mushrooms and bacon — and Guinness. Sometimes, raisins. Baked in a two-pastry crust.

• Cottage pie: ground beef (sometimes small chunks) and vegetables in gravy, with a mashed potato topping. Baked.

• Boxty: potato pancakes, made from leftover mashed potatoes, with raw, grated potato for coating.

• Bangers and mash: sausages with a thin onion gravy, served with mashed potatoes and green peas.

• Corned beef and cabbage: not Irish fare, but IrishAmerican fare. Corned beef is braised, with torn cabbage, carrots and onions. Simple and to the point. The best of it: corned beef sandwiches the day after. A good time to order that sandwich, actually.

• Irish soda bread: a quick bread made with buttermilk. No yeast. Sometimes studded with dried fruit.

Now, the pubs and bars:

Tim Finnegans Irish Pub: 2885 S. Federal Highway, Delray Beach. 561-330-3153; timfinnegansirishpub.com

With a name like that, you know what to expect — the biggest crowds in the area. And a highly rated corned beef sandwich, as well as sausage rolls in a pastry. The pub pulls the requisite perfect 20-ounce glass of Guinness, and has Tullamore Dew and Jameson on the shelf as well. Irish music all the time — not just this weekend.

O’Brian’s Irish Pub: 51 SE First Ave., Boca Raton. 561-3387565; obrianspub.com.

The menu is American, with shepherd’s pie a nod to Irish fare. O’Brian’s is noted for its wings and friendly bartenders. The bar is energetic, doubly so for St. Pat’s Day. Always decorated to the hilt for the holiday. Live music all the time.

Blue Anchor Pub: 804 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. 561-272-7272; theblueanchorpub.com

A pub supposedly haunted by its former patron in England, this old place is thick with character. Why an English pub on this day? The food — which is more Irish than many others. Boxty and Buffalo blue potato skins are the bomb. The roast beef sandwich with the Guinness au jus and horseradish should be mentioned. So should those pies — shepherd’s and cottage

are staples — along with fish and chips. Try the chicken Balmoral — and eat like the queen. Dark and friendly as a pub should be, just right.

The Irish Brigade: 621 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. 561585-1885; Irishbrigadepub.com

On a busy corner, the openair pub is a gathering spot for Liverpool football fans, but shines on St. Pat’s weekend, packed in all its rooms. Food is a notch above the average pub fare — fig and brie flatbread, an example. But the bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie are not to be overlooked. Friendly servers and space to walk around. Plenty of pluses.

Crazy Uncle Mike’s: 6450 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. 561-931-2889; crazyunclemikes. com

This has more upscale food than most bars and is American based, with items such as pork belly bites, tuna nachos and grilled cobia sandwich. But Uncle Mike’s turns it over to the Irish on St. Patrick’s Day and includes corned beef and cabbage. Bands are the big deal here; look for tribute bands and more playing nightly.

The Lion and Eagle English Pub: 2401 N. Federal Highway,

Boca Raton. 561-447-7707; thelionandeaglepub.com

From breakfast, with Irish bacon, bangers and black pudding — and a nod to England with baked beans — to mash and shepherd’s pie, this place has Irish fare. The pub gets into the swing of things with a weekend full of party plans. It's open till 2 a.m. daily.

Deck 84: 840 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. 561-665-8484; deck84.com.

The waterfront view makes this the place to take the outof-towner for a drink. But don’t discount the bites. An American menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, including General Tso’s cauliflower. Also: coastal crispy shrimp tacos, brisket tacos and in the bar, housemade beer are among the offerings. A St. Patrick’s Day party is planned.

Gesto pizzeria opens

A new pizzeria in downtown Delray Beach on the Avenue is the result of a vision by Nicolas Kurban, owner of Amar Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar nearby.

The 55-seat pizza spot, named Gesto, opened in February, with pizza master Garri Banar at the controls.

A longtime pro baker who specializes in sourdough, Banar is using a naturally leavened formula for the sourdough crusts. Both traditional and contemporary pizzas are delivered from the woodfire oven, including a fiery pepperoni and jalapeño, as well as classics such as the Margherita.

Gesto offers small plates and salads. House-made desserts include an orange cake and Banar’s sourdough chocolate chip cookies.

Craft and domestic beers, and a curated selection of wines, mostly Italian, are served.

“Pizza is a science, but great pizza is an art,” Kurban said. “It’s all about the dough. Garri and I share a belief that exceptional ingredients and proper technique are what make the difference.”

Those include Jersey tomatoes and imported Italian flour, Kurban said.

Gesto, 522 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. 561-403-2665; gestopizza.com. Open 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Indoor and sidewalk seating.

In brief

The Michelin Guide is coming to Palm Beach County.

The guide, which awards up to three stars to restaurants of note, represents a certain standard and will be good to have in the area, says chef/ owner Jimmy Everett of Driftwood in Boynton Beach.

Everett has been a chef in Michelin-starred restaurants in New York, and says the stars are a good idea, but “not something I’ll chase.”

He says he’ll offer quality food and service just to keep the restaurant open day to day, and if the guide recognizes him, “I’d be proud, but I’m not changing anything for it.”

Restaurants that make the guide will be announced in mid-April in a ceremony in Orlando.

Jan Norris is a food writer who can be reached at nativefla@ gmail.com.

The Blue Anchor is a popular spot for St. Patrick’s Day, because you can combine access to food, drink and the parade all in one location. File photo by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

Celebrations

Benefit concert

Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton Dec. 3

Women Build 2025

The Seagate, Delray Beach Jan. 9

FAU’s event recognized a $5 million gift from the Palm Beach Pops to transform music education at the school. Co-produced by Jon Lappin, Kevin Wilt and Michael Zager, it drew administrators, donors, friends and sponsors to the intimate Eleanor R. Baldwin House. Performances were given by Cornelia Brubeck, Ranses Colón, Frank Derrick and Phil Hinton. FAU faculty members Monica Berovides-Hidalgo and Courtney Jones also were part of the event. ‘This gift encompasses all the beauty a legacy can offer every highly regarded music student as they pursue their musical journey,’ Lappin said. ‘From scholarships to exceptional instruments, master classes to fellowships, the funding will ensure the foundation of business acumen coupled with the nationally recognized music education will continue in perpetuity.’

ABOVE: (l-r) Francesca Daniels, Laurie Carney and Marta Batmasian. INSET: Myrna Skurnick and Max Whittacker. Photos provided

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County welcomed nearly 200 supporters to kick off its annual fundraising event that will take place March 6 and 7. The evening was a stunning display of vibrant pink and orange hues complemented by amazing food, refreshing drinks and great company. Attendees had the honor of meeting two future homeowners who are partnering with the nonprofit to build better lives for themselves. ‘Women Build is about harnessing the power of community and inspiring action to create lasting change,’ said Jennifer Thomason, president and CEO of Palm Beach Habitat. ‘It’s a movement that breaks barriers, empowers individuals and builds brighter futures for families in need of affordable housing.’ TOP: (l-r) Kelly Burton, Rana Levy, Roxanne Marangos, Amber Mallory and Kristina Schmidt. CENTER: (l-r) Julie Peyton, Thomason, Charlotte Wright and Teawanna Teal. BOTTOM: (l-r) Tara Goldberg, Julia Murphy, who is Palm Beach Habitat’s chief advancement officer, and Diana Sierra. Photos provided by MasterWing Creative Agency

Jolly Symphony

Palm Beach Symphony took in $450,000 at its eighth annual fundraiser. The money will support community outreach and education. During the luncheon, the organization acknowledged an anonymous gift of $100,000. Guests were treated to a festive atmosphere filled with the sounds of the season plus a silent auction. Mickey Smith Jr., of The King’s Academy, was named the 2024 Instrumental Music Teacher of the Year. ‘Our programs touch the lives of thousands of students across Palm Beach County and beyond,’ Palm Beach Symphony CEO David McClymont said. ‘We are so grateful to our donors and all who continue to support our mission.’

ABOVE: (l-r) Gerard Schwarz, Smith, and Carol and Joseph Andrew Hays. INSET: Lois Pope and Bill Porter. Photos provided by Capehart

Holly

Fête Kravis Center, West Palm Beach Dec. 16

Celebrations

With 430 supporters in attendance and $662,000 raised, HomeSafe celebrated a high-energy evening with celebrity host Nicko McBrain and vocalist Mike DelGuidice. The festivities included a dinner program, silent auction and private concert. Kenny and Maggie Rosenberg were presented with the 2025 HomeSafe Hero Award. ‘Tonight, we have so much to be thankful for and to celebrate,’ CEO Matt Ladika said to the crowd. ‘In December, we completed five years of construction, which resulted in four brand-new campuses for our kids to live in. It means so much to these kids coming into our care knowing that they have their own safe space to heal from the abuse and neglect.’

TOP LEFT: (l-r) John Treiber, Denise Coyle and the Rosenbergs.

ABOVE: Maria and Todd Roberti.

LEFT: (l-r) Classic Rock & Roll Party Co-Chairs Steve Bernstein and Abby Bernstein-Henderson with McBrain.

Photos provided by Downtown Photo

Art beauty Botanical

By Sandra Schulman ArtsPaper Contributing Writer

Adrift in space, purple tulips waft in whiteness, red roses gleam in unseen sunshine, a red pepper shines with ripeness.

These exquisitely painted flora by Rory McEwen are the subject of a current show at The Society of the Four Arts, Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature, which runs through March 30 in the Esther B. O’Keeffe Building.

Presented in association with London’s Royal Botanic Gardens and the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, the exhibition and its related programming shows how the renowned Scottish artist reveled in nature and his perception of it.

“I paint flowers as a way of getting as close as possible to what I perceive as the truth, my truth of the time in which I live,” McEwen once said.

“The Society of the Four Arts has been working since 2018 to bring Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature to our galleries and is thrilled the time has now come to share this exhibition with its members and the public,” said Rebecca A. Dunham, the Four Arts’ head of fine arts and curator.

“McEwen’s beautiful botanical paintings will resonate with residents of the town of Palm Beach and the greater community, which is famous for its gardens and green spaces. The exhibition also underscores the Four Arts’ commitment to educational programming about the relationship between art and plants, as evidenced in the creation and preservation of the Philip Hulitar Sculpture Garden and the Demonstration Garden,” Dunham said.

McEwen almost took a different artistic path. He was an accomplished folk musician who along with his brother, Alexander, toured the U.S. in 1956, playing shows throughout the country, and appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show a few years before the Beatles.

That alone would have made any musician’s career. In Britain, he was a key figure in the British folk movement and hosted his own national television show that inspired a new generation of musicians.

ABOVE: Rose ‘William Lobb’ by Rory McEwen, 1976-78. Watercolour on vellum.

LEFT: Tulip ‘Helen Josephine’ by McEwen, 1975. Watercolour on vellum.

Photos provided by The Society of the Four Arts

By Jan Engoren ArtsPaper Staff Writer

Combining his loves for dance and for music into one genre, Aventurabased dancer and choreographer Alfred Friedman (known as “Mr. Dance”) has collaborated with Latin Grammy Award-winning flutist Nestor Torres to create NeoDance, a fusion of traditional Argentine tango with nuevo tango, a less strict and evolving style of the art form, with a variety of Latin musical genres. The world premiere of the production is set for the opening weekend of the 19th annual Festival of the Arts Boca, celebrating the city of Boca Raton’s 100th anniversary, on March 2 at the Mizner Park Amphitheater.

“NeoDance excites the dancer and makes the dancer feel alive,” says Friedman, who is 85. “Every sensation that one experiences in life is exhibited in tango.”

The dance tells the story of the relationship between talent and passion, overcoming obstacles and seizing life’s opportunities, something its creator Friedman knows something about.

Born in Antwerp, Belgium, in 1939, Friedman was placed in a Catholic orphanage at 8 months old to shield him from the Nazis, but was discovered and sent to the Mechelen transit camp near Brussels from 1941 to 1943.

In 1943, en route to Auschwitz, he and six other children were rescued by partisans from the Belgian underground.

He lost his siblings and father to the Nazis, but was later reunited with his mother.

In 1951, the two arrived in New York along with 1,100 other passengers onboard the USS General M.B. Stewart military ship. He spent time in Springfield, Mass., before returning to New York and later, while running a fashion manufacturing business in his mid-20s, he stumbled upon the iconic, but now-defunct Roseland Ballroom, a fortuitous discovery that changed the trajectory of his life.

“I was captivated by the energy on the dance floor and took to the floor, despite having no experience,” says Friedman, who admires the dancing abilities of both Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire.

By Jan Engoren ArtsPaper Staff Writer

The legacy of the late Bob Lappin, the founder, conductor and music director of the Palm Beach Pops from 1991 to 2013, will live on through a $5 million gift from the Palm Beach Pops to Florida Atlantic University’s Department of Music.

The gift, originally announced in December 2023, includes a multimillion-dollar endowment designed to support music education, foster an appreciation for live music and promote appreciation for the Great American Songbook and other cultural arts.

“The Palm Beach Pops brought entertainment and joy to listeners of all ages, and we’re proud to carry forward its mission of music education,” said then-interim FAU President Stacy Volnick.

She noted that the gift benefits not only students but also the larger community. It acts as a catalyst to expand FAU’s recording studios and develop a soundstage for professor and music producer Michael Zager’s Hoot/Wisdom Recordings label to enhance hands-on learning and commercial recordings.

Zager (who produced Grammy Award-winning artists including Whitney Houston, Arturo Sandoval and Herb Alpert) is the Dorothy F. Schmidt eminent scholar in

Choreographer Alfred Friedman will debut his NeoDance during the Festival of the Arts Boca. Photo

The floating flowers of Scot Rory McEwen bloom at the Four Arts

Lappin

FAU ENDOWMENT

residence and director of the FAU commercial music program.

In its heyday, the Pops played 36 regular season concerts, including 12 at the Kravis Center, six at the Eissey Campus Theatre at Palm Beach State College in Palm Beach Gardens, and 18 at FAU, where they had 5,000 subscribers, according to Jonathan Lappin, Bob Lappin’s son.

In addition to the donation, the FAU Board of Trustees approved the establishment of The Bob Lappin and The Palm Beach Pops Memorial Music Library, which houses more than 1,600 titles and scores, many arranged by well-known

arrangers from the Great American Songbook’s greatest composers, such as Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin.

Lappin, a native of Boston, was an ardent advocate for the Great American Songbook and championed the music in most of his concerts.

“The gift is a very significant asset for the teaching of composition, notation and conducting in FAU’s music department,” says Jonathan Lappin, former president and executive director of the Palm Beach Pops.

The gift provides for scholarships and other financial aid, instruments, master classes and fellowships to recruit and retain music students, and has already provided 15 scholarships to students, Lappin

says. It will enable students to buy higher-quality and specialized instruments, including pianos.

This support will augment the department of music’s degree programs in commercial music, music education, music performance and conducting.

“It is a privilege to provide this asset to FAU, which will now be the steward of a legacy born right here in Palm Beach County,” Lappin says. “My father would be proud and would welcome the preservation of the three decades of worldclass presentations, entertaining hundreds of thousands of patrons.”

Bob Lappin also worked with and educated more than 100,000 students in the Palm Beach County public school system, introducing students to various

instruments and musical genres and teaching the basics of music including elements of melody, harmony and rhythm.

To celebrate the gift to the university, FAU sponsored a concert Dec. 3 for approximately 65 people at the Eleanor R. Baldwin House, the president’s residence on campus.

Former Palm Beach Pops musicians, including Cornelia Brubeck (cello), Ranses Colón (bass), Frank Derrick (drums), and Phil Hinton (piano) took part, along with two of FAU’s music faculty, Courtney Jones (trumpet) and Monica Berovides-Hidalgo (vocals).

Lappin’s grandson, Alexander, 25, who works in private equity in New York, spoke about his grandfather and the past, present and future of his legacy — which he wanted to remain in Palm Beach County, where his father made an enduring impact.

“We’re deeply honored to carry on Bob Lappin’s legacy and excited to support all the music students who will benefit from the endowment,” says Michael Horswell, dean of the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters at FAU.

“Jon wants to keep the music of the Great American Songbook alive and relevant for future generations to come,” Horswell says, adding that there

are only two or three other libraries in the country devoted to the genre.

An area near the Music Department will be retrofitted to house the collection, with a scheduled opening in the spring.

Bob Lappin died of heart failure in 2013 at the age of 78, leaving a large void in the area’s musical landscape.

Jonathan Lappin is happy that his dad’s memory and passion for American music will remain at FAU and within the community, where his dad left a lasting imprint over his twodecade career in the county.

FAU will host an annual concert, beginning in spring 2026, with a public tribute to Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops in the University Theatre lobby, where it will display artifacts, photos and other ephemera from the Pops.

“It is important to us to keep the library and its assets in Palm Beach County,” Lappin says. “We are part of the fabric in the community, and a community is not a community without culture.”

To make a donation to the Bob Lappin Memorial Endowment, visit fauf.fau. edu/funds/funds-music. In the Designation field, choose Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops Music Legacy Endowment.

Frank Derrick, Ranses Colón, Cornelia Brubeck, Jon Lappin and Phil Hinton pose during the FAU event. Photo provided

Encouraged by the other dancers, in 1963 Friedman took a chance and entered a dance contest known as “The Harvest Moon Ball,” sponsored by the New York Daily News and Ed Sullivan’s TV show.

Friedman trained an unheard of 2,000 hours (“a lifetime of dancing”) over a short period of eight months and took home the first-place prize, the title of “Rumba Dance Champion,” which won him an appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show

He earned the moniker “Mr. Dance” from his peers because of his multi-dimensional dance abilities. “There’s nothing I didn’t know and couldn’t do well,” he says.

Besides the rumba, his best dances were the waltz, tango and foxtrot. He also excelled at the Lindy hop, the mambo and a dance called the Peabody, reminiscent of a fast foxtrot.

The following year, he traveled to Buenos Aires to study tango, the one dance he says “you can never truly own.”

He was inspired by Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla, whose music, blending elements of jazz and classical styles, revolutionized the traditional tango into a new style called nuevo tango.

Another inspiration was the 1997 Sally Potter film The Tango Lesson, which inspired his fascination with the dance and was the catalyst for creating his original work, NeoDance, and the musical expression of that dance, created by Torres and other musicians including Pablo de la Loza, who helped interpret tango idioms and rhythms.

Both Torres and de la Loza helped write the original NeoDance song titled “Dance, Mr. Dance.”

“Tango has changed dramatically over the years,” Friedman says. “NeoDance is an unconstructed form of tango and more about the music — whether that music is hip-hop, bolero, hustle, cha-cha, meringue, salsa or mambo.

“My DNA is all about being creative,” he says. “Anyone can draw a straight line; it’s drawing waves that requires a different approach.”

To stimulate creativity, Friedman watches dance videos in reverse and goes to dance halls to watch beginners, which gives him a different look at the art form.

Thanks to his passion for tango music and dance, and his ability to reinvent himself, at the age of 70 Friedman become a music producer. The idea for NeoDance germinated in 2009 and Friedman has immersed himself in the process (with time out for the COVID-19

The Latin-flavored music of flutist Nester Torres is a large part of the NeoDance genre. Audiences in Boca Raton will get a first-hand introduction on March 2. Photo provided

pandemic) and says Torres is the perfect musical partner.

Friedman and Torres met in New York during the 1970s when Torres was 19 and part of a group known as the Orchestra Ideal. He was Friedman’s first choice when he was looking to add a combination of tango and salsa music to his dance production.

“Nestor is a highly creative and highly educated musician with roots in Latin music and I knew he would be a great partner for this project,” Friedman says. “It’s what I care about the most. It’s my passion and total focus; it keeps me going.”

And, while not physically able to dance as he did in younger years, Friedman is still on set on a daily basis overseeing the production and choreography, and stays current on all musical genres to integrate with tango, including hip-hop.

Torres, originally from Puerto Rico and now living in Miami, studied at the Mannes School of Music at the New School, the Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory of Music, recording his first four solo albums before the age of 22.

Having played flute since the age of 12, Torres is known for his crossover fusion style of Latin, classical, jazz and pop musical genres.

He has collaborated with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Israel “Cachao” Lopez, Gloria Estefan, Paquito D’Rivera, Dave Matthews and Arturo Sandoval and performed with The New World Symphony as well as the Cleveland and Singapore orchestras.

About the collaboration with Friedman, Torres says: “From the outset, I knew it was about the dance. We have been able to create an excitement and something truly fresh.”

Noting that traditionally choreography is set to the music, in this case the music is set to the dance. Torres says he is proud of the original work that resulted, pairing different combinations of tango with a variety of Latin rhythms.

“The music — all original — is at the service of the dance,” Torres says.

He credits Argentine-born and Miami-based tango dancer Mariela Barufaldi with helping bring Friedman’s vision to life, de la Loza for his musical interpretation and the skills of Argentine-born Laura Cadabon on the bandoneon, an accordion-like instrument that gives tango music its sound.

Torres sees this collaboration not as an exception to his career as a musician, but as an expansion to that career.

“I’ve always wanted to go beyond the concert stage to bring a storytelling component to my audiences,” Torres says. “Most musicians have a style that is a consistent sound throughout their performance. My music tells a story, going from one place to another in styles and influence.”

While there is a cohesive thread throughout, Torres enjoys the journey and aspires to do more to incorporate other mediums to further the music.

“It’s a natural evolution in my role as a creator,” he says.

If You Go

NeoDance will perform at 7 p.m. March 2 at the Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real in Boca Raton. Tickets: $15-$120 Info: festivalboca.org; 561757-4762

Torres is excited to return to Boca Raton, where he’s performed many times, and says the city holds a special place in his heart. He’s grateful to South Florida audiences for always giving him a warm welcome, and especially to the Boca audiences for their enthusiasm.

Both Torres and Friedman have long-term goals for the show, hoping to tour both nationally and internationally and possibly bring it to Broadway.

“I want audiences to first, enjoy what they see and hear, but also to be inspired to dance,” Friedman says.

“When you go to a dance performance and see Mikhail Baryshnikov’s double cabrioles in ‘Don Quixote,’ you might think it’s incredible, but you probably won’t be able to go home and do it,” he says. “With NeoDance, I want people to say, ‘that’s incredible,’ and not only want to do it, but believe, ‘I can do it.’

“I want my audiences to go home feeling a relationship to the dance and feel that they are able to learn how to do it because I know they can,” he says.

BOTANICALS

Continued from page 11

McEwen grew up in the culturally rich environment of Scotland, but his gift for painting drew his interest in the long term. Working in watercolor, he brought a modern sensibility to the portrayal of botanical art, painting on vellum, placing his delicate floral stems against white open backgrounds, allowing his plant portraits to float. He painted them as they were, with even slight wilting adding to the natural beauty.

McEwen grew up at Marchmont House, a sizeable Palladian country estate, where his artistic French governess taught him to draw flowers at an early age. From 1964 until his death in 1982, McEwen worked solely as a visual artist.

In addition to his botanical

If You Go

Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature runs through March 30 at The Society of the Four Arts, 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach.

Tickets: $10; no charge for members

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday, WednesdaySaturday; Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. Open Tuesdays for members only.

Info: 561-655-7226; fourarts.org

watercolors on vellum, the exhibition includes his sketchbooks, etchings, and sculptures. McEwen’s work here is shown alongside the works of other master botanical artists from the 17th through 21st centuries. The works are on loan from McEwen’s family as well

as numerous private collections, most of which have never been seen by the American public. Other botanical artists who inspired McEwen are on display, such as Nicolas Robert, Pierre-Joseph Redouté, Georg Ehret and Claude Aubriet. The exhibition also includes the works of contemporary artists on loan from the collections of Dr. Shirley Sherwood.

“The exhibition will not only introduce new audiences to Rory McEwen and his work, but also to the great botanical artists that came before him and provided inspiration for his art,” said Sir Peter Crane, president of Oak Spring Garden Foundation. The exhibition is curated by Ruth L. A. Stiff, curator of international exhibitions for the Royal Botanic Gardens, and is accompanied by a full-color catalogue produced by the Oak Spring Garden Foundation.

Rory McEwen at the André Weil Gallery, Paris, in 1964. Photo provided by the Estate of Rory McEwen

Young master of vibraphone steeped in instrument’s history

By Bill Meredith ArtsPaper Music Writer

Vibraphone. The mention of the instrument conjures up historic jazz figures from Lionel Hampton, Milt Jackson and Terry Gibbs to Cal Tjader, Bobby Hutcherson and Gary Burton. And as the latest recording by Baltimore native Warren Wolf (www.warrenwolf. com) proves, this younger vibraphonist is as versed in the instrument’s history and tradition as he is in its technique and expression.

History of the Vibraphone (Cellar Music), released last year, qualifies as truth in advertising. The 45-year-old Wolf’s quintet with saxophonist Tim Green, keyboardist Alex Brown, bassist Vicente Archer and drummer Carroll “CV” Dashiell III goes from the simmer of Tjader’s “Sad Eyes” to the romp of Hutcherson’s “Herzog.” There’s even a run through the maze that is Chick Corea’s “Captain Senor Mouse,” the late, great keyboardist’s composition for his band Return To Forever.

“Chick also played that song in a duo setting with Gary Burton,” Wolf says by phone from his home in Baltimore.

“My latest album showcases material by some of my favorite

artists, and also how music, and the instrument, have changed over time between classic swing, bebop, bossa nova, and the jazz/ fusion era Gary and Chick were a part of.”

Wolf’s quintet with Green, Brown, bassist Blake Meister and drummer McClenty Hunter Jr. will deliver a similar history lesson at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale on March 12.

Wolf’s recording — and subsequent live shows like this one — catalogue multiple influences that guided him toward the instrument after he grew up spending equal time learning it, piano, and drums.

The vibes are, after all, akin to a cross between the melody and harmony of a piano and the rhythm of a drum set.

“My dad, Warren Wolf Sr., encouraged me to concentrate on each one of those three instruments for 30 minutes at a time,” Wolf says. “He was a history teacher in the Baltimore public school system.”

The younger Wolf soaked up musical history from jazz to classical in his hometown, both at the Peabody Institute (where he now teaches) and the Baltimore School for the Arts, before receiving a scholarship to attend the Berklee College of

Music in Boston. Burton was the school’s vice president as Wolf attended from 1997-2001, and the young vibraphonist’s primary instructor in Beantown was Dave Samuels (1948-2019), whose own recording and touring career included the smooth jazz of Spyro Gyra and the uncategorical rock of Frank Zappa.

Boston’s thriving music scene suited Wolf, who became the house drummer for two-and-

If You Go

The Warren Wolf Quintet performs at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Ave., Fort Lauderdale.

When: 7:45 p.m. March 12

Tickets: $65

Info: 954-462-0222, www. browardcenter.org

a-half years at Wally’s Cafe, a legendary downtown venue. The Berklee grad then taught at the school between 2003 and 2005 before returning to Baltimore.

“I had a great time at Berklee,” Wolf says. “I made lots of connections and a lot of friends, many of whom are doing great things now, and not only in jazz but also hip-hop, R&B, and country music. But Boston is an expensive city to live in, and I eventually decided to move back to Baltimore.”

Vibraphonists tend to be lone wolves, no pun intended and family aside. Their malletplayed, pitched percussion instrument offers a different expression than un-pitched percussive counterparts including drum sets, timbales and hand drums. And most jazz ensembles already have

melodic soloists on either horns, guitar or keyboards. Which often relegates vibraphonists to sideman status, and the vibes to infrequent recording sessions.

Yet Wolf’s talent rises above such misconceptions. He is a prolific composer whose writing is featured on several releases under his own name over the past 15 years. Additional teaching over the past decade at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music has segued into touring work with the renowned SFJAZZ Collective each fall.

Another long-standing association is with Christian McBride, the veteran virtuoso bassist who’s a few years older and whose Inside Straight band has featured Wolf for more than 15 years.

“His talent is so far off the radar screen,” McBride says of Wolf. “Everything you want in a musician, he has that times 20.”

History of the Vibraphone is the kind of rare release that begs the question of a legitimate series of recorded tributes. And Wolf answers.

“Part two is already in the plan,” he says.

“But I’ll be strategic about it. I like the idea of a timeline, and plan to salute vibraphonists from different eras with different styles again.”

Vibraphonist Warren Wolf will appear in Fort Lauderdale with his quintet on March 12. Photo provided

Arts Calendar

Editor’s note: Events listed through April 5, 2025, were current as of Feb. 14. Check with the presenting agency for any changes. Ticket prices are single sales unless otherwise specified.

ART

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens: Through March 16: Living With Art and Design, a collaborative exhibition featuring interior designer Robert Stilin’s remagining of the Ann Norton home as a lived-in space, accompanied by works by artists represented by Gavlak Gallery. Opens March 19: Alex Katz: Portraits and Landscapes Through the Seasons, works by the minimalist American painter, working in nature scenes. Through June. $15; $10 seniors. 253 Barcelona Road, West Palm Beach. 10 am-4 pm W-Sun. 561-832-5328. Info@ansg.org

Armory Art Center: Through March 6: Annual Student and Faculty Art Exhibition. Free. 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach. 9 am-5 pm M-F, 9 am-noon Sat. 561-832-1776 or armoryart.org

Boca Raton Museum of Art: Opens March

5: Donald Farnsworth: The Parma Portraits (The Kindness of Strangers), drawings by the American artist of fellow patients in an Italian hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, done on paper made with Renaissance-era techniques. Through Oct. 26. Through March 30: Splendor and Passion: Baroque Spain and its Empire, 57 paintings from the collection of the Hispanic Society Museum and Library in New York; Félix de la Concha, the contemporary Spanish painter’s triptych of sites in Boca Raton to mark the city’s centennial, plus a reinterpretation of Velasquez’s Las Meninas. $16; $12 seniors 501 Plaza Real (Mizner Park), Boca Raton. 11 am-6 pm W, F, Sat, Sun; 11 am-8 pm Th. 561-392-2500, bocamuseum.org

Cornell Art Museum: Through June 15: Icons of Art: Italian Mosaic Portraits, 30 mosaic images of celebrities including Kobe Bryant, Gene Wilder, Amy Winehouse and others. Free. 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach. Noon-5 pm W, Sun, noon-7 pm Th, F; 10 am-5 pm Sat. 561-2437922 or oldschoolsquare.org   Cultural Council for Palm Beach County: Through March 29: Reflections of a Century, an exhibit celebrating the 100 th anniversary of the city of Boca Raton. Free. 601 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Noon-5 pm T-F. 561-471-2901, palmbeachculture.com/exhibitions

Flagler Museum: Through April 20: The Ethereal Worlds of Maxfield Parrish, 25 works by the American illustrator, whose dreamlike pre-Raphaelite drawings are unmistakable and have been hugely popular since their creation.

$28; $14 ages 6-12. 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm M-Sat, noon-5 pm Sun. 561655-2833, www.flaglermuseum.us

Lighthouse ArtCenter: Opens March 18: 47th Annual Members’ Show and Sale; more than 400 artists and students exhibit work in this celebratory end-of-season blowout. Through April 11. $5 non-members. 9 am-5 pm M-Th; 9 am-4 pm F; 10 am-4 pm Sat. 561-746-3101, lighthousearts.org

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens: Through April 6: Akira: Architecture of NeoTokyo; a showcase of the world-building designs used in Japan’s most celebrated work of anime, Akira (1989). $15; $13 seniors; $9 children; free for members, ages 5 and under. 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. 10 am-5 pm T-Sun. 561-495-0233, morikami.org Norton Museum of Art: Through March 9: Strike Fast, Dance Lightly: Artists on Boxing, an exhibit of more than 100 artworks exploring the sport of pugilism. Through April 16: Sorolla and the Sea, 40 works by the great Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla, a master of light. $18 adults; $15 seniors; $5 students; free for ages 12 and under, 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm, M, T, Th, Sat; 10 am-10 pm F; 11 am-5 pm Sun. 561-832-5196, www. norton.org Society of the Four Arts: Through March

30: Rory McEwen: A New Perspective on Nature, works by the 20 th -century Scottish master of botanical art. Through March 30. 100 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. 10 am-5 pm, M,W-Sat; 1-5 pm Sun. Open T for members only. 561-6557226, fourarts.org

CLASSICAL

Sunday, March 2

Palm Beach Symphony: Pianist Garrick Ohlsson joins Gerard Schwarz and the orchestra for the Rachmaninov Second Piano Concerto. Also on the program are two American works, Paul Creston’s Invocation and Dance, and Howard Hanson’s epic Symphony No. 2 (Romantic). 3 p.m., Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, West Palm Beach. $65-$95. Call 561-832-7469 or visit kravis.org.

Tuesday, March. 4

Elissa Lee Koljonen: The American violinist offers a recital program featuring the Violin Sonata No. 1 of Fauré, the Bach Chaconne

in D minor and Leopold Auer’s arrangement of Vitali’s Chaconne. Also included are three

Romances by Clara Schumann and Ravel’s fiery Tzigane showpiece. Stick around for a meetand-greet afterward, featuring Champagne and refreshments. $75. 7:30 pm, Flagler Museum, 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach. Call 561-655-2833 or visit flaglermuseum.us.

Thursday, March 6

Baroque Feast: Oboist James Austin

Smith is joined by violinists Bella Hristova, Oliver Neubauer and Cindy Wu, violist Arnaud Sussmann, cellist Jay Campbell and harpsichordist Kenneth Weiss for three concertos by J.S. Bach and one of the Tafelmusik suites of Georg Philipp Telemann. 7 pm, Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, 141 S. County Road, Palm Beach. $75. Call 561-3796773 or visit cmspb.org.

Wednesday, March 12

Paul Huang, Danbi Um and Juho

Pohjonen: Violinists Huang and Um join pianist Pohjonen for a program including Fauré’s Violin Sonata No. 1 and the Grieg Sonata No. 2 plus works for two violins by Moszkowski, Ysaÿe, Sarasate and the contemporary American violinist and composer Amy Barlowe. 7:30 pm, Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. $40. Call 561-655-7226 or visit fourarts.org.

Kouzov Duo: Cellist Dmitry Kouzov and his wife, pianist, Yulia Fedoseeva, perform as part of the Duncan Theatre’s Classical Café Series. 2 pm, Stage West, Palm Beach State College, 4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach. $35. Call 561-868-3309 or visit palmbeachstate.edu.

Sunday, March 16

Les Arts Florissants: The celebrated French early music group celebrates the 300 th anniversary of the publication of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons; also included are other works by Vivaldi, plus pieces by Uccellini, Geminiani and Monteverdi. 3 pm, Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. $40. Call 561-6557226 or visit fourarts.org.

Sunday, March 23

Anne-Marie McDermott: The fine American pianist offers a Baroque-inspired program featuring the English Suite No. 3 and the Partita No. 2 of J.S. Bach, Busoni’s formidable arrangement of Bach’s Chaconne for violin, and the Brahms Handel Variations. 3 pm, Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. $40. Call 561-655-7226 or visit fourarts.org.

Wednesday, March 26

Zlata Chochieva: The expert Russian pianist gives a recital on the Duncan Theatre’s Classical Café Series. 2 pm, Stage West, Palm Beach State College, 4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach. $35. 561-868-3309 or palmbeachstate.edu.

Saturday, March 29

The Symphonia: Conductor Alastair Willis leads the orchestra in a program called “Neighboring Bach,” in which the audience is taken back to the year 1723, when J.S. Bach was about to leave his court job in Cöthen for his church post in Leipzig at St. Thomas. 7 pm, The Studio at Mizner Park, Boca Raton. $55-$90 Visit thesymphonia.org

Wednesday, April 2

Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung: The husband-and-wife piano team present music by Poulenc, Ravel and Debussy, along with a Busoni arrangement of a Mozart piano concerto. 7:30 pm, Society of the Four Arts, 102 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach. $40. Call 561-6557226 or visit fourarts.org.

DANCE

Friday, March 21-Saturday, March 22

Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami: The young dance company founded by two former Miami City Ballet standouts, Carlos Guerra and Jennifer Kronenberg, performs a “Signature Works” program on the Duncan Theatre’s Friday and Saturday Modern Dance Series. 8 pm both shows, Duncan Theatre, Palm Beach State College, 4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach. $45. 561-868-3309 or palmbeachstate.edu.

Saturday-Sunday, March 2

Ballet Palm Beach: Colleen Smith’s Palm Beach Gardens-based troupe and school perform Smith’s The Great Gatsby, based on the classic F. Scott Fitzgerald novel, which is marking its centenary this year. At the Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse, 2 pm and 7 pm Saturday, 1 pm and 5 pm Sunday. $49. Call 561832-7469 or visit kravis.org.

/5-6 - Boca Ballet Theatre: Coppelia at Countess de Hoernle Theatre at Spanish River High School, 5100 Jog Rd, Boca Raton. Sat: 7:30 pm; Sun: 2 pm. $35-$55/adults; $25-$45/seniors & children. 561-995-0709; bocaballet.org

FESTIVAL

Through Sunday, March 9

Festival of the Arts Boca: The annual arts and literature gathering in downtown Boca Raton features music by Pavarotti Voices (March 1) and Nestor Torres (March 2); talks from Doris Kearns Goodwin (March 3), Carl Hiaasen (March

5) and Amy Herman (March 6); and a screening of the film Back to the Future, accompanied by a live orchestra. festivalboca.org.

Friday, March 21

JAZZ

Fred Hersch: The splendid jazz pianist, celebrating his 70 th birthday this year, returns to the Arts Garage. 8 pm, Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach. $60-$65. Call 561-450-6357 or visit artsgarage.org. Wednesday, Feb. 12

Warren Wolf Quintet: This superb pianist and vibraphonist is joined by his quintet for a Gold Coast Jazz Society show. 7:45 pm, Amaturo Theatre, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale. $65 and up. Visit browardcenter.org or goldcoastjazz.org.

OPERA

Friday, April 4-Sunday, April 6

Le Nozze di Figaro: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s classic 1787 tale of a philandering count who wants to ravish the maid Susanna, who’s promised to Figaro. She has some tricks up her sleeve, which she concocts with the countess. The Russian soprano Inna Demenkova is Susanna, with Czech baritone Adam Plechetka as Figaro; the American baritone John Chest is Count Almaviva opposite American soprano Hailey Clark as the countess; mezzo Angela Brower takes the pants role as Cherubino. Stephen Lawless directs, while conductor Gary Wedow of the Juilliard School leads the orchestra and singers. 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday, 2 pm Sunday at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, West Palm Beach. $35$275. Call 561-832-7469 or visit kravis.org.

POPULAR MUSIC

Saturday, March 1-Sunday, March 2

Rod Stewart: The legendary British singer and part-time Palm Beacher takes the stage for two shows full of hits at the Hard Rock. 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $85$355. Visit ticketmaster.com.

Thursday, March 6

Gladys Knight: The R&B and soul legend, minus the Pips, is still going strong at 80. 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $65-$110. Visit ticketmaster.com.

Thursday, March 13

Foreigner: Mick Jones’s power-pop septet has been racking up hits since 1976 (“Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Cold As Ice”). 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $60-$125. Visit ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, March 15

Gary Clark Jr.: The blues-soul guitarist broke big in 2014 with a Grammy for “Please Come Home.” His latest record, Jpeg Raw, debuted in 2024. Danielle Ponder is his special guest. 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $75-$145. Visit ticketmaster.com.

Friday, March 21

Diana Ross: The 80-year-old Motown legend returns to the Hard Rock for another solo show. 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood. $56-$136. Visit ticketmaster.com.

THEATER

Through March 2

The Humans: Stephen Karam’s 2015 play (which he made into a film in 2021) about the Blake family, which gathers in a Manhattan apartment for Thanksgiving at a time of shared anxiety and uncertainty. At Palm Beach Dramaworks, 201 Clematis St., West Palm Beach. $72-107. Call 561-514-4042 or visit palmbeachdramaworks.org.

The Lehman Trilogy: Stefano Massini’s Tony Award-winning tour de force from 2013 about how German Jewish immigrants built a financial powerhouse that eventually collapsed in the 2008 downturn. At Maltz Jupiter Theatre, 1001 E. Indiantown Road, Jupiter. $74-$140. Call 561-575-2223 or visit jupitertheatre.org.

Opens March 13

No, No, Nanette: This classic Vincent Youmans musical, which bowed on Broadway a century ago, is a typical madcap farce of the time featuring an heiress, a blackmail scheme and three couples. It also has songs like “Tea for Two” and “I Want to Be Happy.” Through April 6. $119. Wick Theatre, 7901 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton. Visit thewick.org for tickets.

Through March 16

The Play That Goes Wrong: The 2012 play by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, is a classic madcap farce. It concerns a theater company performing a 1920s murder mystery, and everything bad that can happen to a performance happens. At Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. lakeworthplayhouse.org, 561-568-6410.

Opens March 21

Murder on the Orient Express: One of Agatha Christie’s most beloved whodunits, set on a snowbound train, and adapted for the stage by Ken Ludwig. Through April 13 at the Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9 th St. $45 and up. 561-272-1281 or delraybeachplayhouse.com.

On the Water

Palm Beach International Boat Show sets anchor on March 19

While the Palm Beach International Boat Show displays the latest and greatest in watercraft from superyachts up to nearly 300 feet in length to cruisers, center consoles, runabouts and inflatables, it also has a major economic impact.

A n analysis of the 2022 show revealed an estimated statewide impact of more than $1.05 billion, including money spent on food, fuel and lodging, with much of that benefit felt in Palm Beach County. The show itself contributed to more than $725 million in total sales of boats, marine electronics and other boating accessories.

The 43rd show is March 19-23 along Flagler Drive from Clematis Street to Lakeview Avenue in downtown West Palm Beach. The city authorized the show to expand to five days this year, bringing it into alignment with boat shows in Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

More than $1.2 billion in products will be on display, including hundreds of new and used boats on land and berthed at miles of floating docks in the water, along with engines, safety equipment, clothing and artwork.

There also are venues within the show such as the AquaZone, which features demonstrations of innovative water-propelled toys as well as kayaks and standup paddleboards. The seminar tent features experts sharing tips on a variety of

topics, such as how to deploy a life raft and survive; crossing by boat from Florida to the Bahamas; how to catch swordfish; and selecting the perfect rod and reel.

Don Dingman hosts his

popular Kids Fishing Clinics, scheduled for noon and 2 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with youngsters receiving a free rod and reel combo.

Although numerous restaurants are within a short

walk from the show site, the show will have more than 75 food concessions and bars, serving everything from seafood such as stone crab claws and oysters to street tacos, gyros and burgers to vegetarian,

Outdoors Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH 1

Saturday - 3/1 - Intracoastal

Adventures: Intro to Canoeing at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Learn about our native & migratory birds from an experienced birder. Age 12-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 9-10:30 am. $20/member; $25/non-member. Advance reservation required: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

3/1 - Outdoor Marine Aquarium

Feedings at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. All ages; child must be accompanied by an adult. Daily 12:30 pm. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

3/1 - Resident Sea Turtle Talk at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. All ages; child must be accompanied by an adult. Daily 1 pm. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar. aspx?CID=47

MARCH 9-16

Tuesday - 3/11 - Golden Hour Guided Tours at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Guided tour ends w/sunset views of the Intracoastal Waterway from the beach by the Seminole chickee. Ages 7-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Held again 3/25. 6-7:30 pm. $10/resident & member; $13/non-resident. Registration: 561-5448605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

If You Go

What: Palm Beach International Boat Show

Where: Along Flagler Drive from Clematis Street to Lakeview Avenue in downtown West Palm Beach When: noon-7 p.m. March 19, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. March 2022 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 23

Tickets: A one-day general admission adult ticket valid March 20-23 costs $36.23 and a two-day ticket is $65.21. A ticket for opening day on March 19 is $62.10 and a two-day ticket that includes opening day is $83.84. Daily tickets for youngsters ages 6-15 for March 20-23 are $17.60 Info: pbboatshow.com

vegan and gluten-free options. Parking is available at more than a dozen municipal garages and privately owned lots, all accessible via a short walk, a free golf cart or a sprinter van ride to the show. Complimentary golf cart shuttles also are available from the West Palm Beach Brightline train station.

Outdoors writer Steve Waters can be reached at steve33324@aol. com.

Wednesday - 3/12 - EcoWatch Lecture Series: Sharing Boca’s Beaches with Sea Turtles: How Can You Help? w/ David Anderson at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Age 13 & up; child under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 6:30-8 pm. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar. aspx?CID=47

Thursday - 3/13 - Beach Treasures at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Learn about seashells, the animals that make them. Caravan to Red Reef Park, 1400 N State Rd A1A, to search for ocean treasures. All ages; child must be accompanied by an adult. 2-3:30 pm. Free. Reservations: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

MARCH 16-22

Sunday - 3/16 - Intracoastal

Adventures: Advanced Canoeing at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Short talks about South Florida’s unique animals/ecosystems. For experienced paddlers age 13-adult; child under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 9-10:30 am. $20/member; $25/ non-member. Registration: 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

Saturday - 3/22 - Coast Guard Auxiliary Boat America: A Boating Safety Course at Harvey E. Oyer, Jr. Park, 2010 N Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach. Boating terminology, boat handling, navigation rules, regulations, more. Course provides knowledge needed to obtain a boating certificate; possible insurance discount. 8

am-4 pm. $20. 561-312-6439; birdlover5@ bellsouth.net

MARCH 23-29

Wednesday - 3/26 - EcoWatch Lecture Series: Introduction to Everglades Restoration w/ Caitlin Newcamp at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Age 13 & up; child under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 6:30-8 pm. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca. us/calendar.aspx?CID=47

Thursday - 3/27 - Early Birding w/Al at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Learn about native & migratory birds from an experienced birder; walk the Ashley Trail/boardwalk in search of warblers, gnatcatchers, woodpeckers, other avian species. Binoculars recommended. Meet on nature center front porch. Age 10+; child must be accompanied by an adult. 8:30-10 am. Free. 561-544-8605; myboca.us/calendar. aspx?CID=47

MARCH 30-APRIL 5

Saturday - 4/5 - Coast Guard

Auxiliary Boat America: A Boating Safety Course at Spanish River Park HQ Building, USCG Auxiliary Classroom, 3939 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Boating terminology, boat handling, navigation rules, regulations, more. Course provides knowledge needed to obtain a boating certificate; possible insurance discount. 9 am-5 pm. $35/adult; $5/teen. 561-3913600; peauxboca@gmail.com

The 43rd annual Palm Beach International Boat Show will have more than $1.2 billion in products on display. Photo provided

INLET

Continued from page AT1

Janet Naughton is a professor of U.S. history at Palm Beach State College and the author of a dozen books about Palm Beach County history. But for her January appearance before a full house at the Boynton Beach City Library’s Brown Bag Lecture Series, even she titled her slide show, “History of the South Lake Worth (Boynton) Inlet.”

“They could both be right,” Naughton says. “The inlet is halfway between Lantana and Boynton Beach, and directly across from the Boynton Beach boat ramp.”

Just when and how the official “South Lake Worth Inlet” became popularized as simply the Boynton Inlet is anyone’s guess. In the 1920s, newspaper accounts of the inlet’s dredging and bridge construction are consistent. It’s the South Lake Worth Inlet.

But by the early 1960s, charter boat fleets were advertising themselves as at “Boynton Inlet.” Somewhere along the way, the voice of the people took control. And let’s face it, “Boynton Inlet” is a lot quicker and easier to say.

Either way, as Naughton made clear in her Brown Bag lecture and a longer chat later, the South Lake Worth (Boynton) Inlet is a picnic of social, economic, environmental, legal and recreational history.

• So, where’s the North Lake Worth Inlet, you ask?

That’s the inlet with Palm Beach to the south, Palm Beach Shores to the north, and Peanut Island straight ahead.

Officially, it’s the “Lake Worth Inlet,” so naturally everyone calls it the Palm Beach Inlet.

Created in 1866, that inlet merged the Atlantic Ocean’s salt water with the freshwater Lake Worth, and by 1913 the waters were brackish from both the ocean and growing development around the lake.

Gee, people said, maybe we should have another inlet at the south end of the lake to let that polluted water out.

But the bridge came first.

• The South Lake Worth Inlet was still being dug when the bridge that would carry motorists over it opened on Sept. 2, 1926.

“New South Lake Worth Span Opens Tomorrow

“This beautiful bridge, which is of the rainbow arch type, is entirely of concrete with a wide roadway flanked on either side by walkways for pedestrians.”

— The Palm Beach Post

• The inlet arrived a year later, on Wednesday, March 16, 1927.

“Waters Of Atlantic And Lake Worth Mingle At South Inlet:

“Waters from the Atlantic Ocean glided in from a tiny cut, shoveled in the sand, and mingled with the waters of Lake Worth for the first time at

this point.

“Dozens of spectators lined the bridge and at 11:18 p.m. the waters ‘glided’ in from the Atlantic and ‘mingled with the waters of Lake Worth.’ Dozens watched from the bridge in the glare of large searchlights.”

— The Palm Beach Post

• A nd then came the lawsuit.

Col. Robert R. McCormick, owner of The Chicago Tribune, was a staunch conservative who compared FDR’s New Deal to communism and opposed America’s entry into World War II.

He was also a very rich man.

On Thursday, Oct. 30, 1930, McCormick paid $650,000 cash for a 4,916-foot stretch of ocean-to-lake property, with the northern boundary just 780 feet south of the South Lake Worth Inlet. It was the largest real estate deal in Palm Beach County at the time.

Five years later, in June 1935, he sued in an attempt to shut down the inlet.

The southward drift of the ocean was causing sand to accumulate along the inlet’s north jetty and causing erosion by McCormick’s property.

He sued in federal court in Miami asking that the inlet be closed and the jetties removed.

He did not succeed, but two years later, a sand transfer plant — the first anywhere —was installed by the north jetty to pump sand beyond the inlet to the south.

• In January 1941, a beach club with an almost world-famous name opened just south of the inlet.

No, not that Mar-a-Lago. Th is was the one without an “A.”

The Mar Lago Beach Club was built by Leon A. Robbins, an Ohio native who arrived in Ocean Ridge in 1926.

In 1946, he was elected mayor of Ocean Ridge and served for five years. The Mar Lago was

Photos provided and Coastal Star file

major 2010 project the north jetty and sea wall inside the inlet were

torn down in 1974 to make way for the county’s Ocean Inlet Park.

• Surf’s up. Maybe. On Wednesday, Nov. 15, 1967, Ocean Ridge commissioners passed an ordinance banning surfing “except in authorized areas.”

No areas were authorized, but surfers had always ridden waves by the inlet without any trouble.

Tom Warnke, a senior at Seacrest High School (and now archive coordinator for the Delray Beach Historical Society), fought back. He and his fellow surfers formed the Cripple Creek Surf Club, and Warnke designed the club’s logo, which featured the inlet bridge.

The club sponsored a beach cleanup by the inlet to convince the politicians that surfers were not responsible for all those beer cans on that small island in the lake just north of the inlet.

Wild parties, underage drinking and worse were alleged to be going on there — so much so that the former Pine Island had become known as Beercan Island.

Not us, the surfers said, and apparently the politicians agreed.

Surfing survived at the inlet.

“It was great when we won,” he says now. “It motivated me all my life to protect the image of surfers.”

Warnke is 76 now, and executive director of the Surfing Florida Museum.

Beercan Island is now Bird

Island, a privately owned wildlife sanctuary.

• The inlet’s bridge, that beautiful bridge with the rainbow arches, lived for 48 years and died on April 1, 1974, of old age and increasing costs.

The inlet remained open to boats, but for nearly a year traffic was diverted across the Lantana and Boynton Beach bridges while a new inlet bridge was constructed.

The new span opened 11 months later, on March 1, 1975, without those rainbow arches.

A v isual hazard, the authorities said. But there had been rumors that motorcyclists enamored of the famed daredevil Evel Knievel would speed their bikes over the arches.

Th is has not been confirmed.

• In 2013, Janet Naughton wrote an application to have the South Lake Worth Inlet named a Florida Heritage Site. The historic marker stands in Ocean Inlet Park with text by Naughton.

So, call it the Boynton Inlet if you want, but officially it’s the South Lake Worth Inlet. End of story. Or is it?

There is one more high authority we should consult.

Type “South Lake Worth Inlet” into Google Maps and you’ll be told: “Google Maps can’t find South Lake Worth Inlet.”

Now try typing in “Boynton Inlet.” Case closed. P

TOP: The first sand transfer plant in the country was installed in 1937 at the inlet to keep up the flow of sand along the beach. ABOVE: The Mar Lago Beach Club stood for a few decades before it was demolished and replaced with Ocean Inlet Park. LEFT: Maintenance is a constant where the ocean meets the land. In a

repaired.

Religion Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH 2-8

Sunday - 3/2 - Zoom Bible Study at Ascension Catholic Church, 7250 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Every Sun 7 pm. Free. Zoom link: communications#accboca.net; 561-9975486; ascensionboca.org

Monday - 3/3 - Women’s Bible Study via Zoom at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach, 33 Gleason St. Every M 10 am. Free. 561-276-6338; firstdelray.com

3/3- Rosary for Peace at St. Vincent Ferrer Family Life Center, 840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach. Every M 5:45-6:15 pm. Free. 561-276-6892; stvincentferrer.com

Tuesday - 3/4- Tuesday Morning Prayer Service at Unity of Delray Beach Church, 101 NW 22nd St. 10 am. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Wednesday - 3/5 - Men’s Spirituality Hour via Zoom at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton. Every W 8 am. Free. For link: 561-3958285; stgregorysepiscopal.org

3/5  - Wednesday Evening Meditation Service at Unity of Delray Beach Church, 101 NW 22nd St. 6:30 pm. Free; love offering. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Thursday - 3/6 - Thursday Morning Telephone Prosperity Coffee presented by  Unity of Delray Beach Church, 101 NW 22nd St. Phone meeting (605-475-6006, passcode 3031030). Free; love offering. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

3/6 - Men’s Fellowship at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach Courtyard, 33 Gleason St. Every Th 8:30 am. Free. 561-276-6338; firstdelray.com

3/6  - Women’s Bible Study at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church Youth Room, 100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton. Every Th 1 pm. Free. 561-395-8285; stgregorysepiscopal.org

Friday - 3/7 - Legion of Mary at St. Vincent Ferrer Family Life Center, 840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach. Every F 9:30-11 am. Free. 561-276-6892; stvincentferrer.com

3/7 - Bible Study w/Dave Kirk at Advent Boca Raton Fellowship Hall, 300 E Yamato Rd. Every F 10-11:30 am. 561-3953632; adventboca.org

3/7 - Virtual Shabbat Service at Temple Sinai of Palm Beach County, 2475 W Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach. Every F 7:30 pm. Free. 561-276-6161; templesinaipbc. org

Choral Evensong to feature the Choir of St. Gregory's

Choral Evensong, featuring the Choir of St. Gregory’s, is set for 6 p.m. March 16 at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church.

Accompanied by music director Tim Brumfield on organ, the choir will perform a tapestry of musical interpretations for the liturgy, including the Magnificat, Nunc Dimittis and the Psalms.

Choral Evensong is a sacred Anglican musical tradition dating back centuries.

The service and parking are free. Evensong will also be offered on April 27 and May 25.

St. Gregory’s is at 100 NE Mizner Blvd., Boca Raton. Call 561-395-8285 or visit www. stgregorysepiscopal.org.

Orchestra concert set at Our Lady of Lourdes Harmony Across Generations Family Orchestra Concert takes place at 3 p.m. March 23 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 22094 Lyons Road, Boca Raton.

One piece to be played, called “To Change the World” and composed by orchestra pianist Robert Field, is featured in the documentary “Two Heads Are Better Than One.” It is about the relationship between 99-year-old Benjamin Ferencz (then the last living prosecutor from the Nuremberg trials, now deceased) and sculptor Yaacov Heller of Boca Raton.

The documentary is available on Amazon Prime, Apple Music and YouTube.

The mournful “Ashokan Farewell” from the Ken Burns documentary about the Civil War (and featured during Lee Dutton’s funeral in the TV show “Yellowstone”) is also on the set list.

The concert is by Florida Intergenerational Orchestra, in its 20th season. It features musicians of multiple generations.

Tickets are $20 or $40 VIP at Eventbrite.com or at 561922-3134. Admission is free for children younger than 12.

Event to feature a host of beloved Broadway songs

The First Delray soloists and friends return to the stage at 4 p.m. March 23 at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach for an afternoon of “All Broadway” music. From showstoppers to romantic ballads, some of the most beloved Broadway songs will

be accompanied by pianist Don Cannarozzi. This concert is sold out, but there is a wait list. First Presbyterian is at 33 Gleason St. Call 561-276-6338 or visit www. firstdelray.com.

B’nai Torah educator chosen to lead group of teachers

B’nai Torah Congregation, the largest conservative synagogue in Southeast Florida with 1,300 membership families, announced that Cathy Berkowitz, who has led the synagogue’s Mirochnick Religious School for over two decades, will serve as the next president of the Jewish Educators Assembly.

In recognition of her dedication, passion and leadership in Jewish education, Berkowitz will be installed during the 73rd Annual JEA Conference on March 16. The JEA is the leading professional association for Conservative/ Masorti education professionals.

Berkowitz, a mother of four and grandmother of two, has been an integral part of B’nai Torah Congregation since 2004.

For information about the congregation and the religious school, visit www.btcboca.org/ learning/mirochnick-religiousschool.

Teachers attend seminar for Holocaust educators

Four Palm Beach County teachers participated in Advanced Seminar for Holocaust educators, a two-day academic program Jan. 18-19 in West Orange, New Jersey. The program hosted by the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous brought together 21 middle and high school teachers with Holocaust center staff to explore topics related to the history of the Holocaust and antisemitism.

Local teachers who participated were Maureen Carter from Boca Raton High School; Julie Gates from Loggers’ Run Middle School in Boca Raton; Amanda Ladd from Park Vista Community High School in Lake Worth Beach; and Bradd Weinberg from Carver Community Middle School in Delray Beach.

For more information, visit www.jfr.org.

CROS Ministries luncheon to highlight food programs

CROS Ministries, a Palm Beach County nonprofit that fights hunger every day, is hosting a Lunch and Learn from noon to 1 p.m. March 13 in Fellowship Hall at St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, 3300 S. Seacrest Blvd., Boynton Beach. Representatives will speak about the work CROS Ministries does on the front lines of the war against hunger. The organization offers a myriad of food pantries and free meals for people who are hungry in Palm Beach County, and dozens of volunteer opportunities.

RSVP to Meredith Caldwell at mcaldwell@crosministries.org or 561-233-9009, ext. 103.

Magen David Adom gala to feature actor Lior Raz

The annual American Friends of Magen David Adom Palm Beach Gala will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. April 3 at The Breakers in Palm Beach. The keynote speaker will be Israeli actor and screenwriter Lior Raz. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception followed by a gourmet dinner, and dancing. For tickets, call 561-835-0510 or email palmbeach@afmda.org.

Princeton theologist to speak at First Presbyterian The Center for Christian Studies presents “A School of Prayer” with C. Clifton Black, Otto A. Piper professor emeritus of Biblical theology at Princeton Theological Seminary, at 4 p.m. April 6 at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach, 33 Gleason St. www.firstdelray.com

Janis Fontaine writes about people of faith, their congregations, causes and community events. Contact her at fontaine423 @outlook.com

Berkowitz

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH 1

Saturday - 3/1 - 3/1 - Pop-Up Pages at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Literacy enrichment: stories, music, movement. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Ages 0-5. Every Sat 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/1 - Saturday Morning ART (smART) at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real.

Based on artwork at the Museum, links art making w/learning about art. Ages 5+. 11:15 am-12:15 pm. $15/member; $25/ non-member. Registration: 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

3/1 - Tail Waggin Tutors at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Elementary school children read to certified therapy dog. Ages 6-8. Participants select time slots. Held again 4/5. Noon-1:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/1 - Sandoway Discovery Center Daily Feedings at 142 S Ocean Blvd,

Delray Beach. All ages. Shark & stingray feedings 1 pm; aquarium feedings 2 pm; animal encounters 3 pm. T-Sat. Free w/$10 admission. 561-274-7263; sandoway.org

3/1 - Gaming Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 3-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

MARCH 2-8

Monday - 3/3 - Fun w/Fernanda: Bilingual Spanish-English Story Time at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave.

Ages 0-5. 3:30-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/3 - K-Pop Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Age 13-17. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0197; delraylibrary.org

3/3 - M&S Performing Arts: Acting & Drama Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Every M through 4/7. Ages 6-10 4:30-5:30 pm; ages 11-17 5:30-6:30 pm. $63/resident; $79/ non-resident. 561-742-6221; boyntonbeach.org

3/3 - M&S Performing Arts: Ballet & Lyrical Dance Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Every M through 4/7. Ages 6-10 4:30-5:30 pm; age 11-17 5:30-6:30 pm. $63/resident; $79/non-resident. 561-742-6221; boyntonbeach.org

3/3-5 - Homework Help - Delray Beach Public Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. For grades K-5. Not available 3/24-28. M-W 3:30-4:15 & 4:15-5 pm. Free. Registration required: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

Tuesday - 3/4 - Story Explorers at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 6-8. Held again 4/1. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/4 - Teen Book Club: The Blood of Stars by Elizabeth Lim at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. Held again 3/18. 5-6pm. Free. Registration: 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

3/4 - Teen Tuesday at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 13-17. Every T 5-7 pm. Free. 561-742-6393; boyntonlibrary.org

3/4 - Sustainability Skills for Teens: Embroidery at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/4 - Karate Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Ages 6-17. Every T/Th through 4/10 Beginner: 5:30-6:25 pm; Intermediate: 6:30-7:25 pm. $90/resident; $113/non-resident. 561-7426221; boynton-beach.org

3/4-5 - Sensational Story ‘n More at Schoolhouse Children’s Museum & Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach. Children’s books come to life. Ages 2-5. Every T 10-10:45 am & W 3-3:45 pm. Free w/paid admission. 561-742-6780; schoolhousemuseum.org

Wednesday - 3/5 - Bilingual Outdoor Storytime at Boynton Beach Library under the Banyan tree, 100 E Ocean Ave. Stories, rhymes, more. Ages 5 & under. Held again 3/19 & 4/2 10-10:30 am. Free. 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/5 - Little Lap Adventures at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 3 mos-1 ½ yrs. Held again 3/19 & 4/2 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-266-

0194; delraylibrary.org

3/5 -Young @ Art: Square Off the Square at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Create fun arts/crafts, learn principles of art. Ages 6-8. Held again 3/19& 4/2 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/5 - Farmer Jay’s Junior Sprouts Class 8: Planting a Garden at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 6-8. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

3/5 - Yoga Fun at Schoolhouse Children’s Museum & Learning Center, 129 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach. Ages 18 months +. Every W 3:45-4:15 pm. Free w/paid admission. 561-742-6780; schoolhousemuseum.org

3/5 - Game Day at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 13-17. Every T 4:30-6:30 pm. Free. 561-742-6393; boyntonlibrary.org

Thursday - 3/6 - Pop-Up Pages at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Literacy enrichment: stories, music, movement. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Ages 0-5. Every Th 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/6 - Lil’ Pals & Tales at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 3-5 yrs. Held again 4/3 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/6 - Lego Lab at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Saturday - 3/8 - BreakoutEDU at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 5-12. 10 am-3 pm. Free. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/8 - Coaching for College Success at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. 2:30-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561393-7968; bocalibrary.org

MARCH 9-16

Monday - 3/10 - Visual Adjectives Graphic Novel Workshop at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 4-week workshop: instruction in art, writing, production. Registrants must commit to each of the 4 sessions (3/24, 4/14 & 28). All materials provided. Ages 9-12. 4-5:30 pm. Free. Registration required: 561-266-0197; delraylibrary.org

3/10 - Teen Career Workshop: Cybersecurity at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 13-17. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6393; boyntonlibrary. org

Tuesday - 3/11 - Toddler Tales at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Stories, music, movement. Ages walking to 23 mos. Every T 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/11 - Teen Tech Sandbox at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/11 - Journey to Olympus at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Free copy of book upon registration. Ages 9-12. Held again 3/25 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Wednesday - 3/12 - Reading & Rhythm for 2-3s at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Literacy enrichment class. Child must be accompanied by an adult. Every W 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

3/12 - Toddler Tales at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 2-3 yrs. 10-10:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

3/12 - Soccer Skills Clinic at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. Ages 5-17. Every W through 4/30 6:30-8 pm. $60/resident; $75/non-resident. 561-742-6550; boynton-beach.org

Thursday - 3/13 - Adventures in Reading at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Literacy enrichment through books w/related activities. Child attends independently. Ages 4-6. Every Thu 4-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-544-8584; bocalibrary.org

3/13 - Make & Take: Bug Buddies at

Tots & Teens

Delray Kicks’ soccer kids score thanks to police coaching, mentoring

By Faran Fagen

A nthony Mirisola was 13 when he first attended soccer practice with the Delray Kicks, a team coached by police officers. Mirisola comes from a family of four, including his mom and grandfather.

The following year, Mirisola stopped coming to practice, and police sergeant/coach Danny Pacheco initially thought he had lost interest in the program.

A few weeks later, Pacheco stopped by Mirisola’s house to check on him and discovered that his stepfather had died. Mirisola no longer had a ride to practice, and he had taken on the responsibility of helping to pay the rent and other necessities.

Despite the challenges, Mirisola excelled in school, particularly in ROTC and robotics.

“With the help of members of our Police Department and the community, we were able to support Anthony and his family through this difficult time,” said Pacheco, who arranged transportation and tutors for Mirisola.

Today, Anthony is attending the University of Central Florida with a full scholarship from the Bound for College organization. He is thriving in the ROTC program and doing well

Continued from page 22

Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Friday - 3/14 - Baby Bookworm at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Storytime for infants accompanied by an adult. Ages 0 months to non-walking. Held again 3/28 & 4/4  11-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-393-7852; bocalibrary.org

Saturday - 3/15 - STEM Camp: Math/Pi Day at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Age 9-12. 10:30-11:45 am. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/15 - ColorSpace: Teen Art Studio at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 11 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/15 - Bones to Books at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Children read to friends from Bonafide Therapy Dogs. All ages. 1-2 pm. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

MARCH 16-22

Sunday - 3/16 - Art For Everyone at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 3-12. 11 am-noon. Free. 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

Monday - 3/17 - Spring Movie Night: Captain Marvel at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 5-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/17 - Gaming for Tweens at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 9-12. Every M 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

Tuesday - 3/18 - Ultimate Book Club at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 9-12. 4-5  pm. Free. Registration: 561266-0194; delraylibrary.org

Thursday - 3/20 -Friendship Builders at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 6-8. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/20 - Picture Book Club: Between Two

academically.

“He is an inspiration to our team and serves as a powerful reminder that anything is possible,” Pacheco said.

Pacheco started the Delray Kicks in 2021 as a way to forge a bond between the police force and the community it serves.

The Police Department has been at Merritt Park in Delray Beach every Saturday night, coaching 32 players ages 7-16 in soccer, with drills in defense, shooting skills, passing, kicking and — above all — teamwork.

Two years ago, Pacheco was honored to receive an award from the Carl DeSantis Foundation as the Catalyst of Building Community. The Police Department also received a $32,500 donation to help support the program.

“I feel incredibly blessed as I’m constantly receiving donations from members of our community — not only

Windows by Keisha Morris at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-7426393; boyntonlibrary.org

3/20 - Gymnastics Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-11. Every Th through 5/15 5:306:15 pm. $144/resident; $180/non-resident. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

Friday - 3/21 - Bright Minds Storytime: An Autism Spectrum Disorder Storytime at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 7-12. 3:30-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Saturday - 3/22 - Bones to Books at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 5-8. 11 am-noon. Free. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org 3/22 - Game On! Library Edition at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 5-12. 11 am-noon. Free. 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

MARCH 19-25

Sunday - 3/23 - Rookie Rooks: Introduction to Chess for Youth at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 8-12. 10:30-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561393-7968; bocalibrary.org

Monday - 3/24 - LOTG Spring Break Garden Parade at Delray Beach Children’s Garden, 137 SW 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Ages 3-5. 9:30-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/24-28 - Artnest X The Studio: Spring Break Camp! at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Ages 3-8. Snacks included, please pack a nut free lunch. 9 am-1 pm. $95/day. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/24-28 - Spring Break Theatre Camp at Lake Worth Playhouse Stonzek Theatre, 713 Lake Ave. Ages 7-15. M-F 9 am-4 pm. $375/week. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/24-28 - Spring Break Basketball Camp at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. Ages 6-15. 9 am-4

monetary contributions, but also weekly snacks, drinks and countless cards of gratitude for my efforts,” Pacheco said.

The program has grown in many ways since its inception four years ago. The Kicks have won several games in a recreational soccer league in Delray Beach and have visited a theme park in Orlando and the Frost Science Museum in Miami.

Several kids who started with the team have moved up to academy-level soccer, which opens up more opportunities.

The Police Department continues to support the team by providing fluorescent green jerseys with the Delray Kicks emblem on the front. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department offers Merritt Park free of charge.

Unfortunately, Pacheco recently lost two assistant coaches. One is pursuing a master’s degree, and the other transferred to a police position that limits his availability for public events.

Despite these changes, the program continues to grow.

The most rewarding parts for Pacheco are seeing his players’ smiles and knowing that for a few hours, the players are in a safe and supportive environment.

But he doesn’t stop after

pm. $125/resident; $156/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6640; boyntonbeach.org

3/24-28 - ArtSea Immersion: Spring Art Camp at ArtSea Living, 412 E Ocean Ave, Boynton Beach. Ages 6-12. 10 am-2 pm. $399/week; $85/day. Aftercare available (2-3 pm) for $25/day. 561-7372600; artsealiving.com

3/24-28 & 3/31 - Spring Break Camp at Sims Center, 225 NW 12th Ave, Boynton Beach. Ages 5-12. No camp 3/19. 7:30 am-5:30 pm. $135/resident; $164/nonresident. Registration: 561-742-6640; boynton-beach.org

Tuesday - 3/25 - Booktastic Book Talk: The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Free copy of book upon registration. Child attends independently. Ages 8-10. 3:30-4:15 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/25 - Bedtime Story Time at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 3-5. 6-7 pm. Free. 561-266-0194;

the final whistle. He created a WhatsApp group, and he regularly checks in on his kids to make sure they’re staying out of trouble and keeping up with their homework.

“I absolutely love what I do as a police officer,” Pacheco said. “It’s been a total of 25 years in law enforcement for me, and seeing these kids grow and move on to better things in life truly makes me happy. We have had our ups and downs as a team. We have faced challenges, such as parents moving to other cities or counties in search of better job opportunities, but the kids still make the effort to come to practice.”

Mirisola is one of those grateful to Pacheco and the Kicks. He joined the team when it was founded by Pacheco. At first, Mirisola thought it would be a cool thing to do on the weekends or after classes.

“Since then, it has become a huge part of my life and has helped me and my family in ways some people dream about,” Mirisola said. “Over the years, Coach Pacheco and Delray Kicks have given me rides to things unrelated to the team, like school events or personal things that my family wasn’t able to because we didn’t have a car.”

Mirisola said that Pacheco bought food for his family

delraylibrary.org

Wednesday - 3/26 - LOTG Spring Splash Playdate at Catherine Strong Splash Park, 1500 SW 6th St, Delray Beach. Ages 3-12. 10:30 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/26 - Drone Discovery Camp at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Age 6-8. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

Thursday - 3/27 - Make & Take: Clay Creations at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Ages 5-12. 4:30-5:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Saturday - 3/29 - Piano Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Every Sat through 5/3. Ages 5+. 30 Minute time slots between 1-3 pm. $210/ resident; $263/non-resident. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

MARCH 26-MARCH 1

Monday - 3/31 - LOTG Kindergarten Readiness Story Time at Catherine

members when they couldn’t afford it, and always made sure they were supported around the holidays, whether via Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas trees, or Christmas gifts.

“The program hasn’t just done this for me, but for many kids in the community,” Mirisola said. “There have been many times over the years that one of the players needed something, and Coach Pacheco worked to get it for them. There was even a time when most players on the team were given bikes for transportation if they didn’t have one, and each bike came with a helmet and a lock.”

Having this support helped Mirisola become a firstgeneration high school graduate in his family and a firstgeneration college student.

“This team has done more for me and other kids in the community than most people can imagine, and it’s something that I will always be grateful for and proud to be a part of,” Mirisola said. P

Pacheco needs soccer coaches and academic tutors in subjects such as math, science and English. Interested in helping? Contact Sgt. Danny Pacheco Jr. at 561-777-2267 or via email at pacheco@mydelraybeach.com.

Strong Splash Park, 1500 SW 6th St, Delray Beach. Ages 3-5. 10-11:30 am. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/31 - TAB (Teen Advisory Board) Meeting at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

Tuesday - 4/1 - Teen Book Club: Sands of Arawiya by Hafsah Faizal at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Ages 13-17. Held again 4/15. 5-6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

4/1 - Sustainability Skills for Teens: Candle Making at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 13-17. 6-7 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org Wednesday - 4/2 - Farmer Jay’s Junior Sprouts Class 1: Seeds at Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Ages 6-8. 3:30-4:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-3937968; bocalibrary.org

Anthony Mirisola, now at UCF, with Sgt. Danny Pacheco, the Kicks’ coach. Photo provided

Health Notes

Specialist in heart disease joins Palm Beach Health physician group

Dr. Tilak Pasala recently joined the Palm Beach Health Network Physician Group. On staff at Delray Medical Center, he is the medical director of the structural heart disease program.

as principal investigator in several medical device trials.

Pasala has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed articles, 12 book chapters, and served

He is an expert in transcatheter procedures and complex coronary and peripheral interventions, including stent placement, atherectomy, and circulatory support.

Pasala has offices at 5352 Linton Blvd. and 5035 Via Delray, both in Delray Beach.

Honor puts JFK in top 5% of hospitals nationwide

HCA Florida JFK Hospital

was named by Healthgrades as one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals for 2025, putting the Atlantis hospital in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for clinical performance for the second year in a row.

Also, HCA Florida JFK Hospital received recognition related to its patient outcomes in areas that included surgical care, cardiac surgery, orthopedic surgery, spine surgery, vascular surgery, stroke care and pulmonary services.

neurosurgeon Dr. Timothy O’Connor, director of minimally invasive and robotic spine surgery.

’Future of spine surgery’ at neuroscience institute

Ma rcus Neuroscience Institute, part of Baptist Health at Bethesda Hospital West, west of Boynton Beach, now offers spinal surgery utilizing nextgeneration augmented-reality technology.

The hospital’s first surgery of this type was done by

“The future of spine surgery is here. While performing this procedure, we can see the patient’s anatomy in high definition, with their imaging superimposed directly in our field of vision to allow real-time guidance when wearing the AR headset during surgery,” said O’Connor. “… By harnessing this innovation, we will be able to reduce recovery times, minimize pain and significantly enhance outcomes for our patients.”

Nearly 100 patients get medical marijuana cards

More than 1,000 attendees joined MMJ Health, a medical marijuana clinic, for its Cannabis Carnival event on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach

in January. The clinic provided free, on-site evaluations for eligible attendees, certifying nearly 100 patients for medical marijuana cards. Music was by Stryder, and food was available from Sophia Burger. Vendors included Curaleaf, Jungle Boys, the Flowery, Trulieve, and Sunburn Cannabis. Guests had the opportunity to purchase cannabis-themed Adirondack chairs and play yard games with Marijuandack, and learn more about liver cleanse powder from Love Your Liver. Guests also had the opportunity to participate in a movement activation workshop with Elizabeth Scheer from Passion for Posture and learn industry weed insights from Tatiana “WeedMap Tats” Millan.

Send health news to Christine Davis at cdavis9797@gmail.com.

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH 1

Saturday - 3/1 - Morning Beach

Yoga at The Seagate Beach Club, 401 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach. Every Sat 8-9 am. $20/person. Tickets: 561-330-3775; eventbrite.com/e/sunrise-beach-yogatickets-336433921917

3/1 - Yoga Class at Sanborn Square, 72 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. 8:45 am registration; 9 am class. Free. 561-3937703; downtownboca.org

3/1 - Zumba Class at South Beach Park Pavilion, 400 N State Rd A1A, Boca Raton. Every Sat 10 am. Free. 561-393-7703; downtownboca.org

3/1  - Yoga Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every Sat 9 am. $5/class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

3/1 - Yoga at the Beach at Red Reef Park West, 1221 S Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Held on grass overlooking the Intracoastal. No cash accepted on-site. Every W 6:30 and 1st & 3rd Sat 10-11 am. $10-$12.50/class; 60-day membership $65/resident, $81.25/ non-resident. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

3/1  - Judo Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. W 6:30-8:30 pm mixed ages/ranks; Sat 10 am-noon all groups. Per month $21.50/ resident; $27/non-resident. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

3/1  - AA Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach Fellowship Hall, 101 NW 22nd St. Every Sat 5:30 pm. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

MARCH 2-8

Sunday - 3/2 - Yoga at the Beach at Red Reef Park East, 1400 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. No cash accepted on-site. Every Sun 4:30 pm. $10-$12.50/class; 60-day membership $65/resident, $81.25/nonresident. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

Monday - 3/3 - Zumba Cardio at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every M/W 5:30-6:30 pm. $10. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/3 - Adult Zumba Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. Every M through 3/31 7-8 pm. $40-$50/ month; $6-$7.50/1 class. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

Tuesday - 3/4 - Tai Chi Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. Beginner through advanced. Ages 16+. Every T through 3/25, 6-7 pm. $8-$10/

Health & Harmony

From yoga stances to ecstatic dance to therapy massage, Coco Market is all about spreading healing energy

Coco Market, an immersive wellness open-air event in Old School Square, celebrated its third anniversary in January and takes place this month on March 2.

Founded by yoga instructor Corey Heyman, the market brings together family and friends as well as small local businesses focusing on health and wellness to practice yoga, take part in family-friendly activities, browse the products and vendors and partake in a variety of food options.

“I felt a strong need for community after COVID-19,” said Heyman, 33, who had been teaching yoga on the beach in Delray Beach. She knew a lot of people who had started small businesses and said she wanted to create a space to support them.

“I wanted to make wellness accessible to everybody,” she said, and decided to include a free schedule of events.

At the third anniversary celebration in January, Leslie Glickman of Yoga Journey in Boca Raton taught a yoga flow class to a rapt clientele stretched out in corpse poses, their yoga mats covering the lawn at Old School Square.

Gong master and sound healer Mitchell Raisman of 1111 Gong provided healing sounds with two large gongs. Also featured were live music by Flint Blade & Brielle Aguila; ecstatic dance by Pranava; Luis Capcha Vilchez on flute; Dakota Dawkins providing healing sounds with a rain stick during Shavasana (a relaxation pose practiced at the end of a yoga session); and more live music by OdoNata Sound.

On the main stage, Lab Method of Delray Beach provided an exercise class

Continued from page 24

class. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

3/4 - Yoga with Sophia at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. Every 1st & 3rd T 6:30-7:30 pm. Free. 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

3/4 - Al-Anon Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach, 101 NW 22nd St. Every T 7 pm. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Wednesday - 3/5 - Tai Chi Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every W 9 am. $5/class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

3/5 - Yoga at the Library, 1330 Lands End Rd, Manalapan. Every W/F at 10 & 11 am. $200/members; $300/non-members. 561383-2541; manalapan.org

3/5 - Stretch & Strengthening

Mindfulness Class at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. Every W/F 10:30 am. $5/class. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

3/5 - Chair Yoga with Mike M at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. Every 1st & 3rd W 10:30-11:30 am. Free. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/5 - Wellness Wednesday: Yoga at Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Every W 11 am-noon. $8/class. Registration: 561-6542220; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

focusing on strength and conditioning.

In a booth along the “Healing Oasis” aisle, Boynton Beach chiropractor Tiah Sanborn promoted her business Euphoria, accompanied by her mother, Kerri Smith, a hairstylist. The two have adjacent businesses on Federal Highway in Boynton Beach.

Sanborn has been coming to the wellness market for eight months and says she enjoys the ambiance and meeting likeminded practitioners.

“I like the crowd,” said Sanborn, who was a track star at the University of South Florida.

3/5 - LGBTQ+ AA Meeting at Unity of Delray Beach Prayer Room, 101 NW 22nd St. Every W 7 pm. Free. 561-276-5796; unityofdelraybeach.org

Thursday - 3/6 - Seminar: Skin Cancer Prevention & Early Detection w/ Sergey Arutyunyan at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 1011:30 am. $60/annual membership; $40/ member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/6 - Alateen Meeting at St. Marks Catholic Church, 643 NE 4th Ave, Boynton Beach. Every Th 7:30 pm. Free. 561-2783481; southpalmbeachafg.org

MARCH 9-15

Monday - 3/10 - Seminar: Understanding Advances in Clinical Neuroscience w/Steve Harlem at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 3/31 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $70/member; $90/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561297-3185; olli.fau.edu

Thursday - 3/13 - Brain Function, Cognition, Memory, and Everyday Function w/Melissa Lehman at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Held again 3/20. 2 pm. $60/series; $30/session. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

If You Go

What: Coco Market

Where: Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach

When: 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

March 2, April 6 and 13, June 1

Admission: Free Info: Cocomarket.org

that it often comes with a head or scalp massage.

Ayurvedic medicine, she noted, is thousands of years old and is a holistic approach to wellness.

In only her second time at the market, she was impressed with the turnout and said, “It’s an opportunity for the community to come out and try and experience different healing modalities.”

Abbey Jo Shulkin of Delray Beach Laser Pain Center demonstrated another healing modality as she sat and applied a laser treatment to her knee, which she injured while rollerskating.

“The Coco Market has a different vibe than the green market. I enjoy being in an environment that celebrates health and wellness.”

In the next booth, Natalie Elledge of Ananta Ayurveda & Wellness of Delray Beach, a practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine who studied in India, demonstrated an Indian healing therapy known as shirodhara The technique involves an incense and concentrated herbal oil mixture and dripping the hot liquid onto your forehead.

“It’s very relaxing, relieves stress and can help with digestion,” Elledge said, adding

MARCH 16-22

Sunday - 3/16 - Yoga at the Museum at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 9:30-11 am. $15/member; $30/nonmember. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

Monday - 3/17 - Brown Bag Lecture Series: When Someone You Love Falls: That One Fall Can Change Everything  at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Part 2 held 3/24. Adults. Noon. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

Wednesday - 3/19 - Scripps Research Front-Row Lecture Series: Decoding Viruses for Vaccine Innovation w/ Andrew Ward 1-hour virtual lecture. 7 pm. Free. Link: frontrow.scripps.edu

MARCH 30-APRIL 5

Tuesday - 4/1 - Tai Chi Class at Boca Raton Community Center, 150 Crawford Blvd. Every T through 4/29 6-7 pm. $8-$10/ class. 561-393-7807; myboca.us

Friday - 4/4 - Explore the Healthy Benefits of Tai Chi w/Kalindi Yuan at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every F through 4/25 12:301:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $100/ member; $130/non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

body weight to release tension and promote relaxation in her clients.

The couple also has a studio in Delray Beach.

Other vendors in January offered merchandise for sale.

Curated by the Coco Market team, they included Eco Cork, which makes accessories out of natural cork; Boynton Beach resident Zeal Desai’s pop-up, Zealia, which sources eco-friendly products and handmade items such as earrings, beadwork and clothing from around the world; CasaBel, selling jewelry and clothing; HiKee essential oils; and Wandering Words pop-up bookstore.

Food vendors included Konscious Kitchen, Loxahatchee Food Co-op, Manka’s loaded empanadas, bison “smashburgers” from Bison Eatery, vegan soul food from Elite Fusion Catering, Nutra Diva cold-pressed juice, and LorLor’s Kitchen small-batch jams and pickles.

With a motto of “ditch the drugs, skip the scalpel,” Shulkin advocates laser treatments for conditions such as sciatica, plantar fasciitis and knee and rotator cuff pain.

A w ife and husband team, Kathleen Kraft and Agustin Ontano of Body Ambassadors from Boca Raton, demonstrated traditional massage as well as Eastern ashiatsu, a barefoot massage technique originating in Asia.

W hile Ontano provided a back massage to a client, Kraft walked barefoot on another client, using her feet to activate pressure points in the back while holding on to overhead bars for balance.

She’s able to provide deep pressure using her feet and

Delray Beach resident and physical therapist Felipe Picardo, 33, of Pinnacle Movement and Performance took advantage of the day and grabbed a cold brew coffee from Dialed In Coffee (“my only addiction”). He had a booth at the market in the past but said his business has gotten so many clients it is now “maxed out.”

“I just came out to soak up the ambiance and enjoy the day,” he said.

He was in good company.

Jan Engoren writes about health and healthy living. Send column ideas to jengoren@ hotmail.com.

Dakota Dawkins provides healing sounds with a rain stick during a yoga session at the Coco Market wellness event in January at Old School Square. Jan Engoren/The Coastal Star

Paws Up for Pets

Peak and other adventure cats shatter stereotypes

For people who enjoy taking walks in Ocean Ridge and Manalapan, seeing a happy leashed dog walking with his favorite person is a pleasant, but not surprising sight.

But Kaitlin Fitzpatrick, of Boynton Beach, has come to expect stares, finger pointing and even a few gasps when she walks her pet, Peak, on sidewalks.

That’s because Peak is a cat — specifically, a beautiful Maine coon — who is proud to be part of a growing group of felines in the country. Peak is what you might call an adventure cat.

Peak and other adventure cats are shattering the stereotypes associated with family cats — that they live inside, take long and frequent naps, hone their claws on scratching posts and beg for snacks whenever their favorite person enters the kitchen.

Adventure cats — as the name implies — revel in new experiences, new sights, new smells and new challenges.

But not all adventure cats dig the same adventures.

“Adventure cats come in a lot of varieties,” notes Kaitlin, a former hospitality manager and now full-time social media manager for Peak. “Some adventure cats love riding on top of paddleboards. Some love to be on boats. Peak is the type of adventure cat who loves going on leashed hikes, bike rides, climbing rocks and, yes, even sledding on snow.”

Turns out that Kaitlin and her husband, Martin, split their time between Palm Beach County and Maine with Peak and his shyer feline sibling, Summit.

“We noticed that Peak loves jumping in empty delivery boxes, so we attached a rope to

one of those boxes and I started pulling it around the house with Peak inside,” she says. “He begged me to pull him more. Then when snowfall hit in Maine, I put him on a sled, and he loved every minute of it.”

Peak’s adventures are gaining notice. He has more than 22,000 followers on Instagram (@acatnamedpeak) and growing. Kaitlin and Peak were invited to the international Cat Fanciers’ Association Expo last October in Cleveland that drew more than 17,000 attendees. Kaitlin served on a few panel discussions about adventure cats and fielded questions from attendees in Peak’s meet-andgreet session.

Peak, aged 21/2, is 20 pounds

and expected to reach 35 pounds when he matures around age 5.

“Peak is a Maine coon, one of the largest breeds of domestic cats, and this breed is known as being gentle giants,” Kaitlin says. “He is great with kids, super relaxed and is very much a ‘go with the flow’ type of cat. But, at 20 pounds, you definitely hear when he jumps down from a table or counter.”

Th ink you have an adventure cat in the making? Or looking to adopt a shelter kitten or cat with the intent of having the pet join you on outdoor adventures?

Kaitlin offers these tips:

• Pay attention to your cat’s personality. Adventure cats tend to be confident and

More on adventure cats

You can follow Peak the Adventure Cat on Instagram at instagram.com/acatnamedpeak.

For more information on training tips, gear and other items for adventure cats, here are two well-established websites: adventurekittys.com and adventurecats.org

curious — not tentative or shy.

• Practice patience in training sessions. “Never force your cat to do something he may not like to do or making the training session long,” says Kaitlin. “Keep training sessions short, fun and definitely rewarding. Peak loves getting treats.”

• Introduce your cat to wearing and accepting a harness attached to a leash in your home. “Make sure the leash is always connected to the harness and never to a cat’s collar to prevent them from choking, especially if the cat gets excited spotting a squirrel and tries to give chase.”

• W hile training, never allow your cat to walk out the front door on his own, even if he is wearing a harness and a leash. Instead, always fit your cat in his harness, keep a good grip on the leash and pick up your cat and carry him outside to the car or onto a trail. “Otherwise, your cat can turn into a door dasher and rush out the door whenever it is opened,” Kaitlin warns.

• Ensure your cat is deemed healthy and up to date on his vaccinations by your veterinarian. Adventure cats should also be current on medicine to prevent fleas and ticks.

• Equip your cat with plenty of identification. He should have a microchipped ID that can be scanned with your information on it, as well as his name and your cellphone number on his collar and on

the harness. Kaitlin goes a step further. “Peak also wears a little name tag with a QR code that can be scanned. Some adventure cats wear GPS trackers on their harnesses.”

• Bring water and food plus a first aid kit on hikes with your cat. Take a pet first aid class so you can know what to do if your cat gets injured.

• Recognize signs your cat needs to rest or is getting fatigued. “Your cat may signal it is time to end the hike by acting moody, panting or sitting down a lot,” says Kaitlin. “Always bring a cat backpack so that your cat can ride inside the backpack while you finish the hike. Quality cat backpacks are well ventilated and have padding on the back for the person carrying it and straps you can secure to yourself during a hike.”

W hat’s the next adventure of Peak? Testing his willingness to paddleboard.

“He loves to play with water in his water bowl at home and we are easing him to put his paws in the water along the shore. I definitely think he will be game to be on a paddleboard when the waves are not small,” says Kaitlin.

Arden Moore is an author, speaker and master certified pet first aid instructor. Learn more by visiting www. ardenmoore. com.

Kaitlin Fitzpatrick of Boynton Beach with Peak, her Maine coon and adventure cat. Peak loves going on leashed hikes, riding on bikes, climbing rocks and even snow sledding. Photo provided

AT28 Community Calendar

The COASTAL

Municipal Meetings Community Calendar

Note: Events are current as of 2/21. Please check with organizers for any changes.

MARCH 1

Saturday - 3/1 - 2025 Community Spirit Race at Florida Atlantic University Football Stadium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 5K Run/Walk, 1 Mile Run/Walk or Virtual 5K. 8 am-noon. Tickets start at $30. spiritofgivingnetwork.com

3/1- Briny Breezes Chiseler’s Club Woodcrafter’s show at the auditorium, 5002 N Ocean Blvd., 9 am-noon Segmented wood bowls, hand-carved figures and other hand-crafted products. Lunch/11 am-1 pm. Raffle and silent auction/1 pm. Free. 561-276-74

3/1 - Free Fun Saturday at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, 71 N Federal Hwy. 10 am-4 pm. Free. 561-395-6766; bocahistory.org

3/1 - Freestyle Saturdays Art Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Ages 18+. Every Sat through 5/24 10 am-12:30 pm. Per class $29/ resident; $35/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/1 - 3rd Annual Muscle on The Beach Car Show at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Benefits Sandoway Discovery Center. Host: TV star Mike Brewer. 10 am-3 pm. $125/car registry; free/spectators. 561-274-7263; muscleonthebeach.com

3/1 - Intro to Creativity w/Mark Rothko at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Age 16+. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $55. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/1 - Virtual Saturday Morning Writers’ Group w/Caren Neile at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. Every 1st & 3rd Sat 11 am-12:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/1 - Haitian Folkloric Dance Movement at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Therapeutic dance movement protocol combining classic folkloric dance, meditative breath and barre work. Every Th 6:30-8 pm & Sat 11:30 am-1 pm. $20-$25. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/1 - Samba & Cha Cha Dance Class at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every Sat 2-3 pm. $17. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/1 - The Fun of Painting Without a Brush at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Adults. 2-4 pm. $65. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

3/1 - Fran Stallings: Earthteller - A

Story Central Performance at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-4:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary. org

3/1 - Microtheater Palm Beach - A

Dual Short Play Series at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. 6 pm. $10. 561586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/1 - Puttin’ on the Ritz at Vintage Gym at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Annual dance showcase. 7-9 pm. $45. 561-243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

3/1 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Pavarotti Voices Opera Gala at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets $30-$120. 561-5715270; festivalboca.org

3/1 - Selwyn Birchwood at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $40$45. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

3/1 - Italian Bred at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. 8 pm. $45. 561272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

3/1-2 - 58th Annual St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Festival at 810 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach Rides, raffles, games, food, more. F 5-11 pm; Sat 11 am-11 pm; Sun Noon-8 pm. Pre-sale: $80/3-day ride band; $30/1-day ride band. Free admission & parking. 561-276-6892; festivalsvf.com

3/1-2 - Confessions of a Retired Witch at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Runs through 3/8. Sat: 7:30 pm; Sat/Sun: 2 pm; Sun: 6 pm. $60. 561-2033742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/1-2 - The Edwards Twins - Farewell Tour at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. 3 pm. $75. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

3/1-2 - Norm Lewis with his Broadway Magic at The Wick Theatre & Costume Museum, 7901 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Sat 7:30 pm $75-$95; Sun 2 pm $100-$125. Reservations: 561-995-2333; thewick.org

3/1-16 - 2nd Annual Boca International Jewish Film Festival featuring screenings at Cinemark Palace 20 (3200 Airport Rd, Boca Raton) and Movies of Delray (7421 W Atlantic Ave). Info: jfilmboca.org

MARCH 2-8

Sunday - 3/2 - Friends of the Uffizi Lectures: Sicily and the Normans: Multiculturalism in a Medieval Kingdom at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. Speaker Dr. Kevin Cole. Adults. 3-4 pm. $18/non-member. 561-3922500; bocamuseum.org

3/2 - Sunday Matinee Music Series:

3/3 – Ocean Ridge Town Hall, 6450 N Ocean Blvd. 6 pm. Agenda: oceanridgeflorida.com

3/4 – Highland Beach Town Hall, 3614 S Ocean Blvd. 1:30 pm. Agenda: highlandbeach.us

3/10 & 3/24 – Lantana Town Hall, 500 Greynolds Cir. 6 pm. Agenda: lantana.org

3/11 – Manalapan Town Hall, 600 S Ocean Blvd. 10 am. Agenda: manalapan.org

3/11 – South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. 2 pm. Agenda: southpalmbeach. com

3/11 & 3/27 – Delray Beach City Hall, 100 NW 1st Ave. 5 pm. Agenda: delraybeachfl.gov

3/14 – Gulf Stream Town Hall, 100 Sea Rd. 9 am. Agenda: gulf-stream.org

3/18 – Boynton Beach City Hall, 100 E Ocean Ave. 6 pm. Agenda: boynton-beach.org

3/18 – Boca Raton Auditorium, 6500 Congress Ave. 6 pm. Agenda: myboca.us

3/27 – Briny Breezes Town Hall, 4802 N Ocean Blvd. 4 pm. Agenda: townofbrinybreezesfl.com

Celtic Music w/Emily & Kel at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-4 pm. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/2 - Enlightenment FestivalRomantic: Schumann & Mendelssohn at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 100 NE Mizner Blvd, Boca Raton. 4 pm. $45-$65. 305-285-9060; 561-376-3858; seraphicfire. org 3/2 - Festival of the Arts Boca: A NeoDance Story Featuring Nestor Torres at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. Tickets $30$120. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/2 - Renegade - A Tribute to Classic Rock at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Monday - 3/3 - Pickleball at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. Adults. M-F 9 am-noon. $5-$7; $60-$85/15-visit pass; $250-$375/annual pass. 561-742-6550; boynton-beach.org

3/3 - Brown Bag Lecture Series: The Healing Benefits of Sound Baths at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Noon. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/3 - Four More Jewish Diaspora Communities: Russia, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands w/Helene Herman at Florida Atlantic University Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 3/24 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $60/member; $80/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/3 - Advanced Squares at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. All ages. Every M 2-4 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/3 - Come and Meet Those Dancing Feet: The Artists That Shaped American Tap w/Sheryl Flatow at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 4/7 3-4:30 pm. $60/

annual membership; $90/member; $120/ non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/3 - Thespy’s Benefit Gala at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Support local youth performers. 7 pm. $20. 561-5866410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/3 - Festival of the Arts Boca: An Evening with Doris Kearns Goodwin at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. Tickets $50-$75. 561571-5270; festivalboca.org

Tuesday - 3/4 - Great Decisions 2025 at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Every T through 3/25 10:30 am12:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/4 - TRX Outdoor Workout at the Park at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Noon-1 pm. Free. Registration: 561-243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

3/4 - The “Borscht Belt’s” Comedy Legacy w/Lenny Dave at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/ member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/4 - Home Grown Flower Designers w/ 3 Boca Raton Garden Club Members at Boca Raton Garden Club, 4281 NW 3rd Ave. 1-3 pm. Free. 561-395-9376; bocaratongardenclub.org

3/4 - Resume Coaching with Merrill at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Free coaching by appointment (45 minute sessions). Every T through 3/25. 1-5 pm. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/4 – Socrates Café at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Every T 1:30-3 pm. Free. 561-393-7852; bocalibrary.org

3/4 - Book Talks - An Hour to Kill: The Island by Adrian McKinty at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/4 - Seminar: Why Your Birth Order

is a Blessing and a Curse w/Pavel Mischenko at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 3-4:30 pm. $60/ annual membership; $40/member; $50/ non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/4 - Movie Night at Highland Beach Library, 3618 Ocean Blvd. Held again 3/18 & 4/1. 5:30 pm. Free. 561-278-5455; highlandbeach.us

3/4 - Beginning Tap for Adults at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. Every T through 3/25 5:30-7 pm. $60/4-weeks; $20/drop-in. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/4 - Early Modern Music: Its Roots and the Influences of Political Events on Artistic Philosophy and Expression w/ Thomas McKinley at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Held again 3/10. 6 pm. $30/session. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/4 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Documentary: Life In The Doghouse at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $30/general admission; $15/virtual livestream. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/4 - Comedy Open Mic at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Every 1st T 8-10:30 pm. $10-$15. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Wednesday - 3/5 - Textural Temptations: Layer, Build, and Texture at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/5 - Pastels Made Easy at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Ages 18+. Every W through 5/28 1-4 pm. Per class $35/resident; $44/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6221; boynton-beach. org

3/5 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Florida Man: Carl Hiaasen at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. Tickets $40-$60. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/5-6 - Color Theory Basics 2-Day Workshop at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-1:30 pm. $90/2days. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

Thursday - 3/6 - Quilters meet at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Share quilting information, perpetuate quilting as a cultural & artistic form. Every Th 9 amnoon. $1/lifetime membership. 561-7426886; boyntonlibrary.org

3/6 - Broadway, Hollywood and Tin Pan Alley: The Fountainhead of the Great American Songbook w/Jim Jimirro at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/

FRESH • EVERY SATURDAY • 9 AM – 2 PM

3/1 Rhythm & Groove 3/8 Bang Zoom 3/15 Closed/St. Patrick’s Day Parade 3/29 Blue Crusaders March Entertainment

annual membership; $30/member; $35/ non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/6 - Line Dancing at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. All ages. Every Th 10:30-11:30 am. $6. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/6 - The Ultimate Folk Experience: The Story & Songs of the Great American Folk Revival w/PinkSlip Duo & special guest Roy Connors of the Highwaymen at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 4-5:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $35/member; $40/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/6 - Intermediate Tap for Adults at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. Every Th through 3/27 5:30-7 pm. $60/4 weeks; $20/drop-in. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/6 - Coastal Creature Conversations: Small Whales & Dolphins w/Harrison Albert at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/6 - Introduction to Alcohol InkFloral Bouquets at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 6-8 pm. $45. 561330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/6 - Night Market at Sanborn Square Park, 72 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. Food options, beer & wine, local artisans and live music. Held again 4/3 6-9 pm. Free. myboca.us/2324/Night-Market

3/6 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Amy Herman: How to Solve Problems & Avoid Conflict at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $30/general admission; $15/virtual livestream. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/6-7 - Cash Unchained - The Ultimate Johnny Cash Experience at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $45. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

3/6-9 - Beatles On The Beach Classic Rock Festival at Amphitheatre at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Featuring: Night Ranger 8 pm 3/7; Live & Let Die: A Symphonic Tribute to Paul McCartney w/Live Orchestra 8 pm 3/ 8. Tickets start at $39.50/day. Info: beatlesonthebeach.com

Friday - 3/7 - Beatles on the Beach: Author Talks at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Noon-4 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/7 - Abstract Acrylic Painting in a Neutral Palette at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 12-4 pm. $95. 561330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/7 - First Friday @ 5 Concert: Mischief Band at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Food trucks, artisan market, children’s activities and music. 5-9 pm. Free. 561-742-6024; boynton-beach.org

3/7 - Beginner Squares at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. All ages. Every F 6-7 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/7 - Castoffs Square Dance at Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E Ocean Ave. Basic modern western square dancing. All ages. Every F 6-9 pm. $6. 561-742-6221; boynton-beach.org

3/7 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Back to the Future with Live Orchestra at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets $30-$120. 561-5715270; festivalboca.org

3/7 - Beatles vs. Stones: The Greatest Show That Never Was! at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $35. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/7 – The Art of Laughter with Headliner Learnmore Jonasi featuring Mai L.G. at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $35. 561-450-6357; xartsgarage.org

Saturday - 3/8 - Still Life, Full Throttle: Bring the Ordinary to Life! at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/8 - Jungle Chic: Painting Tropical Plants in Watercolor at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $40. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/8 - Open Figure Studio w/Model at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray

Green Markets

Lake Worth Beach Waterside Farmers Market every Saturday under the overpass at A1A and Lake Ave, Lake Worth Beach. 9 am-1 pm. Free. 561-547-3100; lakeworthfarmersmarket.com

Delray Beach GreenMarket every Saturday through 5/17, at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave. Fresh local produce, baked goods, gourmet food items, plants, live music, children’s activities. 9am-2pm. 561-276-7511; delraycra.org/green-market

Spring Farmers Market every Sunday through 3/30 at Royal Palm Place, Via de Palmas (at the Clocktower, NE corner of S Fed. Hwy & SE Mizner Blvd), Boca Raton. Fresh fruits & vegetables, goods by local artisans, fresh curated & caught meats and seafood, locally-grown flowers, and a variety of handcrafted wares. 8 am-noon. Free. 561-3628340; royalpalmplace.com/farmers-market/

Beach. Ages 18+. Held again 6-8 pm 3/27. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $15. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

MARCH 9-16

3/8 - Bad Apples Brass Band at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Ages 3-12. 2 pm. $10. 561-450-6357; artsgarage. org

3/8 - Culture Talks: Suzanne Snider in Conversation with Gretel Sarmiento at Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth. Hosted by The ArtsPaper & The Coastal Star. 2-3 pm. Free. Registration: 561-471-2901; palmbeachculture.com

3/8 - Festival of the Arts Boca: An Evening of Contemporary Ballet at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets $30-$120. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/8 - Cawfee Tawk w/Tara Cannistraci at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 8 pm. Tickets start at $35. 561203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/8 - Beautiful Loser - The Bob Seger Tribute at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $45-$50. 561-4506357; artsgarage.org

Sunday - 3/9  - Town Art Show at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. 2 pm. Free. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach. com

3/9 - Lecture - How to See Like an Artist: The Art of Seeing Beauty Wherever You Go at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 3-4 pm. $8/ member; $18/non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

3/9 - Boca Raton Championship Wrestling BRCW Challenge Accepted at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 5 pm. $41.55. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/9 - Festival of the Arts Boca: Boca Raton Centennial Celebration at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real. 7 pm. Tickets $30-$120. 561-571-5270; festivalboca.org

3/9 - Caro Pierotto: Sambalismo at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org Monday - 3/10 - Spring Fling Pickleball Tournament at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. Age 18+. 9 am-noon. $35/resident; $44/non-resident. Registration: 561-742-6640; boyntonbeach.org

3/10 - Brown Bag Lecture Series: Historic Women of Boynton Beach at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Noon. Free. Registration: 561-7426390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/10 - Seminar: The Future of Florida’s Coasts: What We Can Learn from the History of Tampa Bay w/Evan Bennett at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/member; $50/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/10 - Seminar: Titanic: Unraveling the Role of the Radio in the Tragedy w/Robert Feeney at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 3-4:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/ member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/10 - Monday Movies - Documentary: Picture a Scientist directed by Sharon Shattuck & Ian Cheney at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 5:30-8 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org Tuesday - 3/11 - Surveying to Build Relationships, Relevancy, and Audiences w/Surale Philips at Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, 601 Lake

Ave, Lake Worth Beach. 9-10:30 am. Free. 561-471-2901; palmbeachculture.com

3/11 - Islam, Islamism and RightWing Parties in Europe: Implications for the Western Alliance, Israel and Antisemitism w/Robert Rabil at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $35/member; $40/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/11 - The Soda Fountain: The Rise and Fall of an American Institution w/ Robert Feeney  presented by FAU Lifelong Learning Institute at The Field House at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-noon. $30/member; $35/ non-member & guest pass 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/11 - 22nd Annual Delray Beach Home Tour in the Marina District Neighborhood (South side of Atlantic Ave to SW 4th St, along the Intracoastal), Delray Beach. Group 2: Tour 1-4 pm; Lunch 1-2:30 pm. $150/person. Information: 561-276-0520; achievementcentersfl.org

3/11 - Morikami Gardens: A Conversation About Art, History, Design, and Healing w/Emily Fenichel & Michiko Kurisu at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/ member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/11 - Reading Behind the Words: Understanding the Short Story w/ Winston Aarons at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Every T through 4/1. 2 pm. $80/series; $30/session. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/11 - Guided Walking Tours of The Boca Raton at 503 E. Camino Real. Held again 3/25. 2 pm. $29. Advance ticket required: 561-395-6766; bocahistory.org

3/11 - The Real “Q”: Gadgets and Technologies and Espionage Operations w/Jonna Mendez at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 2:30-4 pm. $60/annual membership; $40/member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/11 - The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shenan Karunatilaka part of Tuesday Book Group at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 6 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/11 - All Arts Open Mic Night at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Every 2nd T 8-10:30 pm. $10-$15. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Wednesday - 3/12 - GFWC Woman’s Club of Delray Beach Meeting at Delray Beach Public Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Bring your own refreshments/coffee. 10 am. Free. delraywomansclub.com

3/12 - Color with Feeling: Channel Master Painters Emotional Palette at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/12 - Abstract Portrait Monoprints with Gelli Plates at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $50. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/12-16 - Lunchbox Matinee: Tevye in New York at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. Noon. $69. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

3/12 - Art Happy Hour - Expressive Botanical Drawing at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 6-8 pm. $40. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/12 - Town Hall Talk: Double Take: Speculating on Sunshine: The Florida Land Boom a Century Later w/Evan

P. Bennett at The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, 71 N Federal Hwy, Boca

Raton. 6 pm check-in/refreshments; 6:30 pm lecture. Free/BRHS member; $10/guest. RSVP: 561-395-6766 x100; bocahistory.org

3/12 - Delray Beach Orchid Society Meeting at Veterans Park, 802 NE 1st St. 2nd W 7 pm. Free. 561-573-2422; delraybeachorchidsociety.org

Thursday - 3/13 - Seminar: Myths and Legends: Poignant Tales from Antiquity, with a Focus on Women w/ Daphne Nikolopoulos at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $40/ member; $50/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/13 - Long Pose Open Figure Studio w/ Model at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. Age 18+. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $15. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/13 - Art Deco Afternoons 2025 w/ Sharon Koskoff at Cultural Council for PBC, 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth Beach. 2 pm. Free. RSVP: 561-699-7899; artdecopb.org

3/13 - Advanced Techniques with Alcohol Ink at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 2-4 pm. $45. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

3/13 - Performance by The Erinys String Quartet at J. Turner Moore Memorial Library, 1330 Lands End Rd, Manalapan. 5 pm. 561-383-2541; manalapan.org

3/13 - Spotlight Tour: Splendor & Passion at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. Adults. 5:30-7 pm. $20/ member; $35/non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

3/13 - Concert: Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

3/13 - Evening of Jazz - Nikki Kidd Band at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. Adults. 7-8:30 pm. $20/member; $30/ non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum. org

Friday - 3/14 - OLLI Glee Club: Sing from the Heart: Voices United Concert at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-1:30 pm. Free. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/14 - State of the City & Community Celebration at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. Gates open 5 pm; 6-8:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7810; myboca.us/2434/State-of-the-CityCommunity-Celebration

3/14 - Exhibition Openings: “Reflections” and “Mirror, Mirror: Celebrating Women in the Arts” at Cornell Art Museum, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Runs through 7/6. Live music and refreshments. 6-9 pm. 561-654-2220; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/cornell

3/14 - The Sopranos Experience - Trivia with Joseph R. Gannascoli at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. 7:30 pm. Tickets start at $40. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/14-15 - Smooth STB at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $50-$55. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

3/14-15 - Emma Willmann at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. F: 7:30 pm; Sat: 6 & 8:30 pm. $30-$35. comiccure. com/boca-raton

Saturday - 3/15 - Briny Breezes Arts & Crafts Fair at 5000 N Ocean Blvd, Boynton Beach. Watercolor and acrylic paintings, mixed media, and photography created by the artists of the Briny Breezes Art League. Plus, Annual Craft Show & Sale. 8:30 am-1 pm. Free Admission and parking.

3/15 - Barefoot Mailman Family Beach Day at Lantana Beach, 100 N Ocean Blvd. Entertainment, giveaways, plus food & craft vendors. 9 am-1 pm. Free. 561-540-5754; lantana.org

3/15 - Composition Unleashed: Mastering Balance, Flow & Structure at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/15 - 16th Annual Boating & Beach Bash for People w/Disabilities at Spanish River Park, 3001 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton. Largest free fun-day event in America for children & adults w/special needs. Boat rides on the Intracoastal Waterway, beach access, sporting events, music, food, dance parties, games, more. 10 am-3 pm. Free. 561-899-7400;

boatingbeachbash.com

3/15 - Calling All Serious Writers! Saturday Writers Studio presented by Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. All other Sat via Zoom. 10 am. Free. 561-2660194; delraylibrary.org

3/15 - 55th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival on Atlantic Avenue from Intracoastal Bridge to NW 5th Avenue, Delray Beach. Parade, live music, food trucks/booths, drinks, merchandise, arts/ crafts, more. 1-5 pm festival at Old School Square; Noon-2 pm parade. Free. 561-2436209; stpatsdelray.com

3/15 - The Fun of Painting Without a Brush V2 Fluid Paint & Texture at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 2-4 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

MARCH 16-22

Sunday - 3/16 - TRX Outdoor Workout at the Park at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 10-11 am. Free. Registration: 561243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/ events

3/16 - 2nd Annual Secret Gardens by the Sea Garden Tour presented by the Ocean Ridge Garden Club. Includes touring several gardens throughout Ocean Ridge from the Intracoastal to the Ocean, as well as a buffet lunch and specialty boutique. 10 am-3 pm. Tickets: oceanridgegardenclub. org

3/16  - Ice Cream Social at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. 2 pm. Free. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

3/16 - Exhibit Opening Reception at Artist’s Eye Gallery Boutique, 604 Lucerne Ave, Lake Worth. Runs through 4/13. 2-4 pm. Free. 561-586-8666; lwartleague.org

3/16 - Story Central Storytelling Slam at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-4:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/16 - Concert: Delray String Quartet - Masterworks 4 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 188 S Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 3 pm. $35. 561-808-5084; delraystringquartet.com

3/16 - The Kelli Baker Band with Noe Socha at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $40-$45. 561-4506357; artsgarage.org

Monday - 3/17 - Lunch & Lecture Series: Paintings from the Spanish Golden Age w/Armando Droulers at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 11 am-1 pm. $125/member; $150/non-member. 561-3922500; bocamuseum.org

3/17 - Guided Discussion: Crossing Continents through the Eyes of International Writers w/Christine Kassover at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 4/7 2:30-4 pm. $60/annual membership; $100/ member; $130/non-member; $35/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

Tuesday - 3/18 - Seminar: South Florida’s Seasonal Seas w/ Gabriel Jensen at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/ annual membership; $40/member; $50/ non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/18 - Notes of Legacy: Revisiting Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn’s Marvelous Musical Journey w/Anette Isaacs at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/ annual membership; $30/member; $35/ non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/18 - Book Talks - Non-Fiction/ Biographies: Girl In a Band: A Memoir by Kim Gordon at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/18 - FAU Astronomical Observatory public viewing at Florida Atlantic University Science & Engineering Building 4th floor, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 1st F & 3rd T 7:30 pm. Free. Schedule subject to change; check website: 561-297-7827; physics.fau. edu/observatory/events/ 3/18 - Spoken Word Open Mic: Poetry, Storytelling & Lyrics at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. Every 3rd T 8-10:30 pm. $10-$15. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Wednesday - 3/19 - Musical Paintbrushes: Romanticism w/ Thomas Cimarusti at FAU Friedberg Auditorium,

777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/19 - Rhythm in Abstract Painting at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/19 - Book Buzz Adult Book Club at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. 10:30 am-noon. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/19 - Lunchbox Matinee: Harvey Granat & Carole Bayer Sager sing Hamlisch at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. Noon. $49. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

3/19 - The Significance of the Oslo Peace Process w/Ralph Nurnberger at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $35/member; $40/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/19-20 - Color Theory Basics 2-Day Workshop at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 4:30-7:30 pm. $90/2-days. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

Thursday - 3/20 - Populism and Progressivism: What Do They Really Mean w/Wes Borucki at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 4/10 10-11:30 am. $60/ annual membership; $60/member; $80/ non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/20 - Edge of Line - Contour Line Drawing at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $45. 561330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/20 - Seminar: The Jazz Soul of Jimmy Van Heusen w/Mark Gridley at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 4/10 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $70/member; $90/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/20 - American Cinema of the 1920s and 1930s as Historical Documents w/Edward Shapiro at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 4/10 2-4:30 pm. $60/ annual membership; $60/member; $80/ non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/20 - Seminar: 45 Words … the First Amendment w/Judge Cymonie S. Rowe at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 4/24

3-4:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $100/ member; $130/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/20 - Twilight Tribute Concert Series: Lynyrd Skynyrd, 38 Special, ZZ Top, and Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 5-9 pm. $50/VIP; $10/General admission; free/kids 12 & under. 561-243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/events

3/20 - 17th Annual Dr. Eric H. Shaw Excellence in Performance Concert at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

3/20 - Sinatra “That’s Life” Concert at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. 7:30 pm. $35. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/20-21 - Landscape & Figure Painting Fundamentals 2-Day Workshop at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-4 pm. $300/2-days. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

Friday - 3/21 - Intermediate Printmaking with Gelli Plates at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-2:30 pm. $90. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/21-22 - Trash to Treasures at Boca Raton Garden Club, 4281 NW 3rd Ave, Boca Raton. 9 am-2 pm. Free. 561-395-9376; bocaratongardenclub.org

3/21-22 - The Bronx Wanderers at The Studio at Mizner Park, 201 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. F: 7:30 pm; Sat: 6:30 & 8:30 pm. Tickets start at $49.50. 561-203-3742; thestudioatmiznerpark.com

3/21-22 - Florida Atlantic University Opera Theatre at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561297-6124; fauevents.com

3/21-22 - Brian Kiley at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. F: 7 pm; Sat:

Public Library Classes

Local libraries offer hundreds of adult classes each month. To discover what you can learn at your library, please visit:

Boca Raton Public Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org Boynton Beach City Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org Delray Beach Public Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org For children and teen classes, please see our Tots & Teens calendar. "Libraries are the free universities of the people." — Andrew Carnegie

6 & 8:30 pm. $30-$35. comiccure.com/ boca-raton

Saturday - 3/22 - Palette Harmony and Artful Mark-Making with Watercolor at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10:30 am-12:30 pm. $50. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

3/22 - Seafood Festival at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. A day of food, live music, themed competitions, nautical themed vendors and more. Held rain or shine. Noon-6 pm. $10/ advance; $15/at the door. myboca.us/2698/ Seafood-Festival

3/22 - Painted Abstract Wall Sculptures at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 1:30-4 pm. $50. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/22 - Artist at Work - Joseph Velasquez - Printmaking at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 3-4 pm. $5/ member; $10/non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

3/22  - Spring Fling Food Fest at South Palm Beach Town Hall, 3577 S Ocean Blvd. 4-8 pm. Free. 561-588-8889; southpalmbeach.com

3/22 - Annual Cruiser Palooza Music & Arts Festival 2025 at The Pavilion at Old School Square, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Benefits Cruise Bogle, a local Delray Beach resident who was paralyzed from the chest down while skim-boarding in December 2018. Live music, food trucks, live art installments, cornhole tournament and silent auction. 5-10 pm. Tickets start at $40. cruiseyinitiative.org/cruiser-palooza/

3/22 - Send In The Queens at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Age 18+. 8 pm. $38. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse. org

MARCH 23-29

Sunday - 3/23 - Concert: Give My Regards to Broadway at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach Courtyard, 33 Gleason St. 4 pm. $20. 561276-6338; firstdelray.com

3/23 - Florida Intergenerational Orchestra: Harmony Across Generations at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 22094 Lyons Rd, Boca Raton. 3 pm. 561-922-3134; flioa. org

3/23 - Music in the MuseumBorisevich Duo at Boca Raton Museum of Art, 501 Plaza Real. 3-4 pm. $8/ member; $18/non-member. 561-392-2500; bocamuseum.org

3/23 - The Blues Brothers Soul Band at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

3/23 - The Spaghetti & Matzo Ball Show at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Two shows: 2 pm & 7 pm. $45. 561586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org

3/23 - Concert: Give My Regards to Broadway at First Presbyterian Church of Delray Beach Courtyard, 33 Gleason St. 4 pm. $20. 561-276-6338; firstdelray.com Monday - 3/24 - Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips part of Afternoon Book Group at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. 1 pm. Free. Registration: 561266-0196; delraylibrary.org

3/24 - Monday Movies - Feature Film: Perfect Days directed by Wim Wenders at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 5:30-8 pm. Registration: 561-3937906; bocalibrary.org

3/24 - Where Do We Go From Here: The Cinema of Diaspora w/Shelly Isaacs at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every M through 4/14 7-9 pm. $60/annual membership; $60/member; $80/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/24 - The Galen Trio: Project Kinesis at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $20. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

3/24-27 - John Lloyd YoungBroadway’s Jersey Boy at The Delray

Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. M-Th: 2 pm; Tu/W: 7:30 pm. $75. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

Tuesday - 3/25 - From Screen to Stage: The Magic of Movie-Inspired Musicals w/Steven Friedman at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $30/ member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/25 - Whitney Houston: Didn’t She Almost Have It All? w/ Robert Versteeg at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/25 - Rodgers and Hammerstein: America’s Musicals w/Harvey Granat at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 4-5:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/25 - Concert: Jennings & KellerWomen of Folk at Highland Beach Library, 3618 Ocean Blvd. 5:30 pm. Free. 561-2785455; highlandbeach.us

Wednesday - 3/26 - “Nobody Expects the Spanish Inquisition”: The Long Term Impact of the Spanish Inquisition w/Samuel M. Edelman at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $30/ member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

3/26 - Color Crush: Mix Like a Master, Paint Like a Pro at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $65. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/26 - The Sassoons: Glamour, Politics & High Society w/ Terryl Lawrence at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

3/26 - Perception, Illusion and How the Brain Misleads Us; Using Science to Improve Human Values w/Russell Hamer at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Held again 4/2. 6:30 pm. $60/series; $30/session. 561-266-0194; delraylibrary.org

3/26 - The Songs of Gordon Lightfoot and Jimmy Buffett w/Rod MacDonald & The Humdingers at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7-9 pm. $60/annual membership; $35/member; $40/non-member & guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

Thursday - 3/27 - TRX Outdoor Workout at the Park at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. 4:45-5:45 pm. Free. Registration: 561-243-1077; delrayoldschoolsquare.com/ events

3/27 - Intro to Creativity w/Piet Mondrian at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 6-8 pm. $55. 561-3309614; artswarehouse.org

3/27 - Flight of Remembrance A World War II Family Odyssey w/Marina Kirsch at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6-7:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561393-7906; bocalibrary.org

3/27 - Friends Virtual Book Club: The Little Liar by Mitch Albom presented by Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 6:30-7:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7968; bocalibrary.org

3/27 - Student Recital: The Owlbones & the APEI Project at the Movies at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

3/27-30 - This Is Our Youth by Kenneth Lonergan at Lake Worth Playhouse, 713 Lake Ave. Runs through 4/6. Th-Sat: 8 pm; Sun: 2 pm. $28. 561-586-6410; lakeworthplayhouse.org Friday - 3/28 - Guided Discussion:

Living a Life that Matters w/Merle Saferstein at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $50/member; $65/non-member & guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

3/28 - Pop-Up “Emerging” Artist Blow Out featuring Charlyn Reynolds at Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, 1105 2nd Ave S, Lake Worth. 6:30-9:30 pm. $20. Reservations: 561-508-7315; benzaitencenter.org

3/28 - Pictures at an Exhibition at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

3/28 - The Jimmy Vivino Band at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $50-$55. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

3/28-29 - Psychic Standup w/Karen Rontowski at Sol Theatre, 3333 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton. F: 7 & 9 pm; Sat: 6 & 8:30 pm. $30-$35. comiccure.com/boca-raton Saturday - 3/29 - Collecting Chaos: Turning Found Objects into Art at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 10 am-12:30 pm. $55. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/29 - 60th Anniversary Celebration

- The Downtown Festival at Royal Palm Place, Via de Palmas (NE corner of S Fed. Hwy & SE Mizner Blvd), Boca Raton. Car show, live music and entertainment, outdoor vendors & farmers market. 10 am-2 pm. Free. 561-362-8340; royalpalmplace. com/downtownfestival/

3/29 - Mystical Abstract Landscape in Acrylic at Arts Warehouse, 313 NE 3rd St, Delray Beach. 2-4 pm. $60. 561-330-9614; artswarehouse.org

3/29 - Boynton Beach Spring Market at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Live music & entertainment. Stroll the plaza, visit downtown merchants & restaurants. 4-9 pm. Free. 561-600-9097; boyntonbeachcra.com

3/29 - Schola Cantorum/Chamber Singers: Sacred Spaces at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $25. scholacantorumfl.org

3/29 - Latin Groove Project at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

3/29-30 - Palm Beach Pride 2023: Fun Times for All at Bryant Park, 201 N Dixie Hwy, Lake Worth Beach. Noon-6 pm Sat & Sun; 11 am Sun parade. $10/advance; $12/ at gate. 561-533-9699; compasslgbtq.com/ palmbeachpride/

MARCH 30-APRIL 5

Sunday - 3/30 - Figaro the Revolutionary at Delray Beach Library, 100 W Atlantic Ave. Adults. 2-3:30 pm. Free. Registration: 561-266-0194; delraylibrary. org

3/30 - Harmonies of Hope: A Concert for Unity & Peace at Old School Square Amphitheater, 51 N Swinton Ave, Delray Beach. Benefit Concert brought to you by the Delray Beach Interfaith Clergy Committee. 3-5 pm. Tickets start at $50. ticketstripe.com/harmonies-of-hope2024

3/30 - Student Recital: Piano Student Gala Concert at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 3 pm. $10. 561297-6124; fauevents.com

3/30 - The Ladies of Simone at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 7 pm. $45-$50. 561-450-6357; artsgarage.org

Monday - 3/31 - Brown Bag Lecture Series: Exploring Chat GPT at Boynton Beach Library, 100 E Ocean Ave. Adults. Noon. Free. Registration: 561-742-6390; boyntonlibrary.org

3/31 - We the People: U.S. Presidents and the Jewish Community to 1860 w/Sylvia Gurinsky at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 12:30-2 pm. $60/annual membership; $30/ member; $35/non-member & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

Tuesday - 4/1 - Israel-China Relations: From Dalliance to Contempt to Adversaries? w/Robert Rabil at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $35/member; $40/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

4/1 - Growing & Maintaining a Florida Native Garden w/Wyatt Richardson at Boca Raton Garden Club, 4281 NW 3rd Ave. 1-3 pm. Free. 561-395-9376;

bocaratongardenclub.org

4/1 - Book Talks - An Hour to Kill: Death at the Sign of the Rook by Kate Atkinson at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 2-3 pm. Registration: 561-393-7906; bocalibrary.org

4/1 - Guided Discussion: Introduction to Jewish Philosophy: History of the Interaction Between Judaism and the Greek Philosophical Tradition w/ Rabbi Michael Gold at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every T through 4/22. 3-4:30 pm. $60/annual membership; $100/member; $130/non-member; $35/ guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli.fau.edu

4/1-2 - Celebrating Women SingerSongwriters of the 60s & 70s at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. 2 pm. $35. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

Wednesday - 4/2 - The Bronte Sisters: The Legacy of Three Remarkable Writers w/Lauren Radick at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $30/member; $35/nonmember & guest pass. 561-297-3185; olli. fau.edu

4/2 - Prism Concert: Symphony Band & Chamber Winds at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561297-6124; fauevents.com

4/2 - The Impossible Task of Today by Jeff Bower at FAU Theatre Lab, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Runs 4/4-20. W-Sat: 7:30 pm; Sat/Sun: 3 pm. Tickets start at $5. 561297-6124; fauevents.com

Thursday - 4/3 - Demystifying the Secondary Market: For Artists and Organizations at Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, 601 Lake Ave, Lake Worth Beach. 9-10:30 am. Free. 561-471-2901; palmbeachculture.com

4/3 - Seminar: The Road to The Constitution w/Jerrold Goldstein at FAU Friedberg Auditorium, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. Every Th through 4/24 10-11:30 am. $60/annual membership; $70/member; $90/non-member; $30/guest pass. 561-2973185; olli.fau.edu

4/3 - Lunchbox Matinee - Judi Mark: Merely Marvelous - The Songs of Gwen Verdon at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. Noon. $49. 561-272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

4/3 - Concert: Charlene Conner - Harp & Flute at Highland Beach Library, 3618 Ocean Blvd. 5:30 pm. Free. 561-278-5455; highlandbeach.us

4/3 - Bridging Gaps and Creating Opportunity at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561297-6124; fauevents.com

Friday - 4/4 - Lunchbox Matinee: Back to Burt Bacharach at The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 NW 9th St. Noon. $49. 561272-1281; delraybeachplayhouse.com

4/4 - First Friday @ 5 Concert: Deep Fried Funk at Centennial Park & Amphitheater, 120 E Ocean Ave. Food trucks, artisan market, children’s activities and music. 5-9 pm. Free. 561-742-6024; boynton-beach.org

4/4 - Candela: The Florida Atlantic University Salsa Orchestra at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

4/4 – The Art of Laughter with Headliner Kellen Erskine featuring Carmen Vallone at Arts Garage, 94 NE 2nd Ave, Delray Beach. 8 pm. $35. 561-4506357; artsgarage.org

Saturday - 4 /5 - Annual Document Shredding Event at Ocean Ridge Town Hall, 6450 N Ocean Blvd. Ocean Ridge and Briny Breezes residents only - photo ID required. Limit 3 boxes per person. 9 amnoon. Free. 561-732-2635; oceanridge.gov

4/5 - Adaptive Pickleball Clinic at Hester Center, 1901 N Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach. All ages. 9-11 am. Free. 561-7426652; boynton-beach.org

4/5 - Katie Knutson: Against the Odds: Rachel Carson and Silent Spring - A Story Central Performance at Boca Raton Library, 400 NW 2nd Ave. Adults. 3-4:30 pm. Free. 561-393-7906; bocalibrary. org 4/5 - Commercial Music Ensembles at FAU University Theatre, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton. 7 pm. $10. 561-297-6124; fauevents. com

Oceanfront estate in Delray Beach

Masterfully crafted by renowned builder Mark Timothy Luxury Homes, a property of this magnitude brings expectations of exceptional features/finishes. Even so, this estate surprises with its scalloped glass-railed circular concrete grand staircase, under-lit drop tray ceiling, freestanding fireplace and après beach surfboard outdoor shower. This gated, walled oasis sits 191/2 feet above sea level on a manicured estate-sized lot, landscaped with privacy hedges, nomaintenance turf, tropical shrubs and coconut palms. It is also set back from 120 feet of direct beachfront behind protective dunes for maximum safety and beauty.

There are six ensuites and a north and south wing in this 16,853-square-foot residence. The south wing includes the secluded ocean/pool-view primary suite with morning bar, expansive bedroom, sliders to the pool, his/hers spa-inspired marble baths amid boutique fitted walk-in closets. A powder room and second ensuite complete this wing.

The second level includes a central loft game room opening to an ocean/pool-view covered balcony, two front guest ensuites, an ocean/pool-view VIP and guest ensuite, and a laundry. The 1,990-square-foot bonus room over the garages easily converts to a guesthouse. Offered at $74 million.

Contact the Pascal Liguori Estate Group, 561-789-8300. Premier Estate Properties, 900 E. Atlantic Ave., #4, Delray Beach; PLEG@premierestateproperties.com

This idyllic residence is situated in a coveted location along State Road A1A in Delray Beach. Introduced by a serpentine concrete drive leading to an auto plaza with ample guest parking, it offers additional porte cochere parking.

LEFT: With stunning interiors by Jeffrey Strasser, this residence sets a new standard for living beautifully. RIGHT: Two glass-enclosed, air-conditioned pavilions at the rear of the house open to the 30-by-60 oceanside pool. The resort-style pool is heated and has saltwater and sun shelves.

The gourmet chef’s island kitchen is in the north wing, along with the formal dining room for 10. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, quartz counters, Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances, walk-in pantry and opens to a separate breakfast area and family room.