By Sandra Schulman

BOCA RATON — In an art career that spanned 40 years and major cities, Kathleen Goncharov served for 14 of those years as the senior curator at the Boca Raton Museum of Art, where she curated more than 30 exhibitions featuring notable artists of national and international acclaim.

Ms. Goncharov died Dec. 31 at her home in Boca Raton, family members said. She was 73.

She retired from the museum in 2025. Irvin Lippman, former executive director of the Boca Raton Museum, said in a prepared statement:

“Kathy Goncharov was instrumental in installing galleries that were welcoming, as though you were entering an engaging conversation among artworks. It was her ability as a curator, and as a talented artist herself, that created this lively rapport.”

Lippman said Ms. Goncharov’s legacy “remains in the acquisition of many keystone artworks that remain on view at the museum, such as the 140-foot mural by Odili Donald Odita in the museum’s Ohnell Sculpture Garden, the monumental painting by Charles McGill (the last work the artist created before his untimely death), and the 30-foot tall cloud mural on the west side of the building by the Fluxus artist Geoffrey Hendricks that thousands of people drive by every day on Federal Highway.”

“In recent years, collectors, such as the late Agnes Gund, recognized her friendship and profound respect for Kathy by donating in her honor several artworks for the community to enjoy and pay tribute to Kathy Goncharov,” Lippman said.

A native of Michigan who held degrees from Central Michigan University and the University of Michigan, Ms. Goncharov began her career in New York City in 1980 as the curator at Linda Goode Bryant’s Just Above Midtown (JAM) Gallery. At JAM, she organized performances and exhibitions. She went on to serve as director of exhibitions at Creative Time, bringing art beyond the walls of traditional institutions and into the colorful fabric of New York.

She organized multiple exhibits of Art on the Beach, Art in the Anchorage, and projects staged in unusual spaces in the city — initiatives that have become the hallmark of Creative Time to make contemporary art both public and experimental.

From 1987 to 2000, Ms. Goncharov was curator of The New School Art Collection, where she operated at the intersection of art and education. She later served as public art curator at the MIT List Visual Arts Center, overseeing MIT’s Percent-for-Art Program and commissioning permanent works to integrate contemporary art into the holdings of a major research university. She also served as adjunct curator at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, where she curated the museum’s first contemporary exhibition in its new building.

Ms. Goncharov was executive director/artistic director of the Brodsky Center for Innovative Editions at Rutgers University from 2007-2011. She was responsible for selecting international artists to work in collaboration with the center’s master printers and papermakers to create new editions. She led the center’s advisory committee and guided outreach through exhibitions and educational collaborations; she placed editions and artists’ books in major collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.

A major highlight of her 40-year career was in 2002, when she was appointed United States Commissioner for the 50th Venice Biennale, for which she selected artist Fred Wilson to represent the U.S. This was a solid recognition of her international stature, and her commitment to artists whose work interrogates history, power, and institutional structures. She curated and organized exhibitions and projects internationally, including in Cairo, Rio de Janeiro, New Delhi, Bologna, Venice, and Rome, extending her commitment to global dialogue and cross-cultural exchange.

Gracie Mansion, pioneer of the 1980s East Village art scene, art consultant, curator, and adviser to individuals, museums, and corporations worldwide, was a longtime friend of Ms. Goncharov, who also was an artist herself.

“Kathy Goncharov was a loyal friend and a generous spirit who freely shared her friends and her knowledge. When we stayed together in Venice at the offices of the Emily Harvey Foundation, it would inevitably end up with someone sleeping on the couch and another sharing a bed. She never said no to anyone and at some point in the stay, she would cook a fantastic meal for the ‘extended family,’” Mansion wrote in a prepared statement.

“Kathy Goncharov was a visionary. She recognized talent early and went against the norms. A contemporary curator, she built on a depth of knowledge of the past. This duality informed her curatorial vision, making it accessible to many levels of viewers. She worked quietly, and in the future, historians will come face to face with an indisputable mountain of truth and beauty that is her legacy.”

News reports said Ms. Goncharov is survived by her longtime partner, Charles Doria, and numerous family members.

VILLAGE OF GOLF — Nance Price Bernet died Jan. 7 surrounded by family at her home. She was 94.

She was born on March 9, 1931, in Dearborn, Michigan, to Martin and Eleanore Price. Her family then moved to the Cleveland, Ohio, area. Miss Price was raised in Cleveland Heights and graduated from St. Ann School, Beaumont School and Ursuline College. A gifted artist, she also studied at Parsons School of Design in New York.

Returning to Cleveland, she fell in love with Philip Bernet after he courted her in his family’s 1955 Corvette (one of the first to be built). They married in September 1955 and enjoyed a honeymoon tour to Europe on the Queen Mary.

Upon return, they settled in Shaker Heights and Pepper Pike, Ohio, building a life centered on family, friends and community. Philip and Nance welcomed their son, Marty, in 1964, and daughters Molly in 1966 and Mia in 1968.

After vacationing in Delray Beach, since 1955, they moved the family permanently in 1968.

Looking for things to do in their new hometown, the couple purchased two hotels on the ocean, The Barrington and The Breakers on the Ocean, places they and their parents had stayed at when they vacationed here. They sold The Barrington, now Berkshire on the Ocean, in 1978 and continued to run The Breakers on the Ocean until 2012.

In 1978, the pair opened HyPa HyMa. Started as a gift shop, art gallery and candy store, with just a few pieces of women’s clothing, it gradually evolved into a boutique destination for ladies in the area to be outfitted for all occasions.

After her husband died in 1990, Mrs. Bernet stepped into entrepreneurship to manage the family businesses, juggling the roles of mother, grandmother and business owner. Even in her later years, running the businesses brought her much delight and pride in her accomplishments.

Volunteering and service were very important to Mrs. Bernet. She served in officer roles with the Junior League of Cleveland, remaining a member until her death. She volunteered with Catholic Charities in Cleveland and in Palm Beach, serving on the board and chairing several elder affair fundraisers. She volunteered with the Red Cross and the Christ Child Society.

She supported Gulf Stream School and St. Vincent Ferrer School, which her children and grandchildren attended. She was a member of The Country Club of Florida, The Delray Beach Club, and a former member of The Country Club in Cleveland.

A woman of many hats, literally and figuratively, Nance juggled several roles — with many different names: Nance, Skippy, Mrs. B, Hyma and Mom. Each name held a special role and those who knew her by those names were all welcomed into her heart equally.

Nance, a loving and true friend. Skippy, a cherished and lively daughter, sister and aunt and the hostess and center of family celebrations. Mrs. B, an employer who treated all with respect and loyalty, supporting them and their families along the way.

In 1995, Nance became a grandmother and thus became Hyma. Hyma was loved beyond words by her grandchildren, and she loved them so dearly and supported them in every aspect of life.

And, of course, she was Mom. Her children were most fortunate to have her as a role model of love and devotion to family, faith and fun.

Mrs. Bernet had boundless energy, a wonderful sense of humor, a desire to learn something new every day, and to live life to its fullest. Getting in a daily swim, reading three newspapers a day, running her businesses, engaging in a lively yet friendly debate about current affairs, watching Mass on television every morning, or texting at all hours to her friends and family — Nance continued these activities until just a few days before she died.

The family would like to especially thank her loving companion, Nancy Smith, whose uplifting energy and devotion to her made her final years upbeat and positive. They would also like to thank the compassionate nurses at Trustbridge Hospice who provided gentle care and dignity for Mrs. Bernet in her final days. Mrs. Bernet was predeceased by her husband, Philip, her beloved parents, Martin and Eleanore Price, and her loving and devoted sister, Maryruth Pfeiffer.

She is survived by her children Price Martin “Marty” Bernet (Beth) of Boynton Beach, Mary Ruth “Molly” Balunek (Peter) of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and Anna Maria “Mia” Bernet of Delray Beach; grandchildren Erin Bernet McKean (Corey), Susie Bernet, Andrew Bernet, Ellie Bernet, Jennifer Bennett, Emma Balunek and Sophia Balunek, and her precious great-grandchildren, Owen and Milo McKean.

She is survived by devoted and cherished nieces and nephews, who were her “second children” with whom she held a special bond.

A funeral Mass at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, with a celebration of Nance’s life following at The Delray Beach Club, took place Jan. 21. Interment was private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Beaumont School, 3301 N. Park Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118, or Trustbridge Hospice Foundation, 5300 East Ave., West Palm Beach, FL 33407.

— Submitted by the family

OCEAN RIDGE — Marilyn Ireland, known for her one-of-a-kind charisma, died Jan. 7. She was 95.

Mrs. Ireland — beloved as Meem, Mimi and Mema — was bubbly and colorful, possessed of a magnetic personality. She loved getting to know people and their stories, and everyone loved her in return.

Born Dec. 4, 1930, Marilyn spent her childhood in Almont, Michigan, where she loved riding horses on her parents’ farm. After graduating from Almont High School, she entered Stephens College in Missouri, studying aviation to be a flight attendant.

Mrs. Ireland was meant to be on the stage and she had her opportunity as a model for General Motors, being crowned as Miss Apple Queen, participating in local parades — driving her red convertible Corvette with the grandkids sitting on top waving to the crowds. She repeatedly took honors at Mitzenfeld Department Store for being top salesperson.

She also liked to give back to the community, volunteering as a candy striper for Beaumont Hospital, and at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in the resale shop.

Soon after graduating from college, she met the love of her life, Hugh Ireland. They married and raised three children — Jeff, Lisa and Craig. Life was full of adventure in the homes they made, mostly in Michigan (Bloomfield Hills, Ludington, Metamora, Rochester and Torch Lake) and in Ocean Ridge.

As much as Marilyn will be missed, her family is grateful for all the wonderful memories.

She is survived by her children Jeff Ireland, Lisa (Kim) Hubert, and Craig (Paula) Ireland; grandchildren Stacie Ireland, Cameron (Emily) Ireland, Christen (Dan) Kirsammer, Catherine Ireland, Cail (Kaila) Hubert, and Kalyn (Colton) Walters; and great-grandchildren Mia Chapman, Ella Chapman, Paxson Walters, Freya Ireland and Louisa Kirsammer.

She was predeceased by her parents, Ross and Marion Lawrence; husband, Hugh Ireland; sister, Sharon Kirk; and grandsons Jeffrey Ireland and Logan Hubert.

Mrs. Ireland was buried at the Metamora Cemetery in Metamora, Michigan. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children Research or Tunnels to Towers. Please consider leaving a memory or condolence on the online guestbook, at https://www.wintfuneralhome.com/obituary/marilyn-ireland.

— Submitted by the family

LANTANA — Dr. Leonard Clark Griff died on Dec. 24 at 90 years of age, surrounded by loved ones at his home on Hypoluxo Island.

Born on Feb. 18, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Griff devoted his life to helping others as a radiation oncologist. Alongside his beloved wife, Roberta, they raised their four children in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Together, they built a close-knit family that now spans many generations. Dr. Griff was the proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Known for his optimism and warmth, Dr. Griff could talk to anyone for hours.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta, their four children; 13 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild, who will continue to carry his legacy forward.

A service was held Dec. 26 at Palm Beach Memorial in Lantana.

— Submitted by the family

DELRAY BEACH — Judy Cotter, a longtime resident, died Dec. 29. She was 81.

Born in New York City on Jan. 10, 1944, she possessed a spirit as vibrant and colorful as the dresses she wore.

For 35 years, Mrs. Cotter was the heart of The Snappy Turtle boutique in Delray Beach. Customers visited as much for resort wear as for the chance to chat with “Mrs. Judy,” who was easily identified by her signature bright lipstick and echoing laugh. She worked until the day before her death, a testament to her strength and love of life.

Her summers were spent in the rural charm of Smallwood, New York. For 55 years she found joy at her cabin in this Catskill hamlet.

She is survived by her adored son, John, and daughter-in-law, Lisa. She was grandmother to Samantha, Sasha and Shawn. Mrs. Cotter also leaves behind her beloved siblings Peter, Chrissie, Paul, Irene, Dale, Joanne and Jimmy, as well as her former husband, Jack. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pat and Joe Hopkins, and her brother, Ray.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Lucy Catholic Church in Highland Beach at 11 a.m. Feb. 28. A summer date for a celebration of life in Smallwood will be announced later.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Smallwood Youth Experience, providing recreational and educational opportunities for children in the Smallwood community. Donations may be made online at smallwoodcivic39.wildapricot.org or via check to the Smallwood Civic Association, PO Box 151, Smallwood, NY 12778.

— Submitted by the family

GULF STREAM — Ronald Gene Standerfer died Jan. 14 at the Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach. He was 91.

Born in Belleville, Illinois, Ron was the only child of Gene and Aline Mobley Standerfer.

While attending the University of Illinois, he took his first airplane ride on a vintage World War II-era B-25 bomber and it changed his life. He served in the Air Force and Air National Guard. He flew 237 missions over Vietnam and Laos in 1968-1969, earning two Silver Stars, the Purple Heart and 13 Air Medals.

In civilian life, he owned an aircraft charter and management company and later was a writer and publisher.

Mr. Standerfer was pre-deceased by his parents and his son, James G. Standerfer. He is survived by his wife, Marzenna “Maya” Standerfer, his stepsons John Harrell of Lorton, Virginia, Steve (Rayna) Harrell of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Michael (Vivienne) Krynski of New York City, and his four grandchildren, Ethan, Irene and Dominick Harrell, and Maximus Krynski.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 12 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 188 S. Swinton Ave., in Delray Beach, with a reception to follow.

Burial will be scheduled later at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mr. Standerfer’s memory can be made to Vietnam Veterans of America (vva.org).

— Submitted by the family

Chefs at Garlic Fest will offer free demonstrations, such as this one at a past festival, at noon both days at The Clove, site of garlic-themed food and beverage. The Clove’s premium bar will offer cocktails such as jalapeño margaritas, garlic bloody marys, pickled garlic martinis and Crazy Uncle Mike’s brewed garlic bread beer, along with nonalcoholic drinks. Marketplace vendors will sell fresh garlic, jarred garlic, garlic graters and other goods. Photo provided

By Christine Davis

Returning to Delray Beach, the odiferous Garlic Fest, known as the best stinkin’ party in South Florida, will be at Old School Square on Feb. 28 and March 1.

The event was created in 1998 by Festival Management Group’s nonprofit arm, Delray Beach Art Inc. Jennifer Costello, the executive director of those organizations, gives a history of how the festival started.

“In the late 1990s, Delray Beach was still a quiet, sleepy town,” Costello says. “Our founders, Nancy Stewart-Franczak and Bern Ryan, joined local civic leaders to brainstorm how to bring life back to the downtown. Their idea was bold: Create a ‘signature event that would generate excitement, ignite tourism and, most importantly, support local nonprofits.’”

At first, the idea was met with laughter, Costello says.

“Undeterred, Nancy and Bern persuaded a few civic leaders to go to Gilroy, California, home of the world-famous Garlic Festival. What they saw there was eye-opening — a vibrant community celebration that energized the downtown, drove tourism and raised significant funds for nonprofits.”

Inspired by Gilroy’s success, Delray Beach leaders gave the green light. First celebrated in a downtown parking lot, the festival offered food, art and music. Within five years, the festival amassed more than 20,000 visitors, impacting activities in the downtown area and necessitating street closures — a bit more than Delray Beach leadership was looking for, Costello explained.

To accommodate the city’s needs and to keep the garlicky good times going, the festival moved to John Prince Park in Lake Worth Beach, and then, following an interruption caused by the pandemic, it moved to Wellington.  

With approvals in place, Garlic Fest returns to Delray Beach in all its stinkin’ glory with a smaller footprint and no street closures. In a more mindful collaborative model — partnering with the Downtown Development Authority and working with the Community Redevelopment Agency’s Delray Beach Green Market, Coco Market, the Delray Beach Open and ArtNest — the festival is not bigger, but aims to be just as good or even better with food, art, crafts and music.

Spin Doctors will headline the music, joined by the Fabulous Fleetwoods and Given to Fly.

Keeping to a smaller footprint, “We are not bringing back the garlic chef stadium or the carnival rides,” Costello said. “But we will have The Clove, which will have an elevated bar and food seminars.” 

With 120 feet of food along the festival’s Gourmet Alley, event-goers will get to feast on delicacies such as garlic ice cream, gourmet garlic smash burgers and garlic conch fritters.

Eighty vendors will sell a mix of arts and crafts, plants and edibles, such as fresh or jarred garlic, spices, sauces, jerky and honey.

The festival may have a small footprint, but it will make a big impact, Costello says. “We’re excited to be back home.”

Hours of Garlic Fest are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Feb. 28 and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 1. Tickets are priced at $15 on Saturday until 6 p.m. then the entry cost goes to $25. On

Sunday, the cost is $15 all day. Tickets can be purchased at eventeny.com/events/ticket/?id=18647.

***

A California tech company advancing quantum computing development is moving its corporate headquarters to the Boca Raton Innovation Campus, the city’s former IBM site, after the city approved a $500,000 incentive grant on Jan. 6 to lure the company.

D-Wave Quantum Inc., based in Palo Alto, says an increased interest and demand for its quantum computing technology and systems are behind its desire to establish “a key development hub” in Boca Raton. It plans to transition its headquarters to the city by the end of 2026.

The change will give D-Wave a presence on both coasts, providing system redundancy in the case of disaster recovery and expanding a North American presence that already includes facilities in Connecticut, California, Alabama and British Columbia.

The company also announced that Florida Atlantic University has made a $20 million commitment to install its Advantage 2 annealing quantum computer — “aiming to accelerate and solidify the state of Florida’s position as a leader in quantum computing.”

“With our new headquarters in Boca Raton, D-Wave will bring to South Florida incredible opportunities for advanced research, talent recruitment, and high-impact technology development that is shaping the future of computing,” said D-Wave CEO Alan Baratz.

Boca Raton’s economic development incentive is based on D-Wave’s commitment to create 100 jobs in the city over the next five years, with annual salaries exceeding $125,000.

***

A 1.34-acre lot from the oceanfront to Intracoastal Waterway at 1300 S. Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, sold for $27.49 million in January. The seller was 1300 South Ocean LLC, managed by local attorney Maura Ziska. The buyer was Pitchoune Life LLC, a Delaware-registered company, care of Dennis Zaslavsky in Deerfield, Illinois. Zaslavsky is the senior managing director of Clearstead Advisors, a financial consultant.

Gary Pohrer of Serhant and Nick Malinosky of the Exclusive Group at Douglas Elliman were the listing brokers on the deal, while Marine Rollins of Miami Global Realty represented the buyer.

The property last sold for $11.8 million in 2021 and a home on this site was demolished in 2023. This lot has about 200 feet on the Intracoastal Waterway with a dock and sea wall, and 158 feet along the ocean. Plans by Palm Beach architect Gregory Bonner of B1 Architect came with the property.

***

A 10-unit co-op building at 1191 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, sold for $22.5 million. The seller was an LLC managed by local investor Daniel Edwards, and the new owner is Palmetto Coast Holdings LLC, a company registered in Delaware with an address in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Edwards, who had owned one of the units, purchased the property in a sale approved by the co-op board in June 2025 for $18 million. The development, known through the years as The Horizon of Delray Beach, was built in 1952. It is sited on a lot just under 1 acre with 120 feet of oceanfront.

The buyer was represented by the Matt Moser and Nick Gonzalez team of Serhant. The seller was represented by Christian Prakas, also with Serhant.

***

Boston real estate developer Carol Sawyer Parks sold her 9,368-total-square-foot estate, with 90 feet on the ocean, at 2545 S. Ocean Blvd., Highland Beach, for $17.5 million to KM One LLC, an affiliate of developer Kolter Group, based in Delray Beach.

The four-bedroom home, built on the 1.03-acre site in 2009, features a summer kitchen, bar, balcony, pool and a private pathway to the beach.

Carol Sawyer Parks is the president and CEO of Sawyer Enterprises and Sawyer Parks Inc. She developed the W Boston Hotel & Residences and the Niketown building on Newbury Street in Boston.

While the Kolter Group builds residential communities and condos, it also has a custom home division, which works closely with Marc Julien Homes. Nick Malinosky and Michael O’Connor of the Exclusive Group at Douglas Elliman brokered the deal.

***

A trust in the name of Bridget Maguire sold an 8,131-square-foot estate at 215 W. Coconut Palm Road, Boca Raton, in the Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, for $16.5 million — a drop of $3 million since its previous purchase less than two years ago. The new owner is 215 Coconut Palm Land Trust, with Aaron S. Adler as trustee.

Maguire, founder of Miami-based Premier Legal Advantage, bought the home for $19.5 million in June 2024. It was first listed for $22.5 million in August 2024, but the listing price fell to $18.5 million in November 2025.

Built on the 0.34-acre site in 2022, the five-bedroom home features a dock, a zero-edge pool, spa, bar/wine room, private study and an outdoor fireplace.

Maguire’s company is a consultant and recruiter for major law firms. The deal was brokered by David W. Roberts with Royal Palm Properties.

***

Boca Villas Apartments, a 106-unit complex at 100 W. Hidden Valley Blvd., Boca Raton, sold for $30 million. The sellers were Edwidge Realty Limited Partnership and Marina & Briana Limited Partnership, both managed by Michael Mele of Boca Raton-based Mele Management Co.  

The buyer is Boca Villas, a Delaware limited liability company associated with Matthew Paul, the owner of MAP Communities. Tal Frydman of Newmark represented both sides in the deal. Boca Villas last traded for $13.5 million in 2019.

Its first 53 villas were built in 1988. Another 53 villas were completed in 2024, along with a new clubhouse, pool and 10 garages.

***

The Boca Chamber’s 20th annual Diamond Award luncheon will be held Feb. 20 at The Boca Raton, in celebration of women whose leadership has shaped Boca Raton and southern Palm Beach County.

This year, the Diamond recipient is Marta T. Batmasian, co-founder of Investments Ltd., for her support of initiatives that advance education, health care and community well-being.

The chamber will also present the 2026 Pearl Award to Sabrina Greenberg, founder of EcoLoops and a senior at Saint Andrew’s School. The Pearl Award honors a young female leader and graduate of the Boca Chamber’s Young Entrepreneurs Academy who demonstrates entrepreneurial excellence. Greenberg’s work with EcoLoops reflects her commitment to sustainability, innovation and social impact.

For information or tickets, contact Sarah Vielot at svielot@bocachamber.com.

***

Alina Residences Boca Raton announced that assistant property manager Ahmed Abbas was recognized by FirstService Residential as its Rookie of the Year. The award was presented at Le Méridien Dania Beach at Fort Lauderdale Airport.

Abbas joined Alina Residences in November 2024 in an administrative role. He advanced to assistant property manager, where he coordinated with contractors, managed unit closings and supported residents of Alina 220.

***

The Greater Lantana Chamber of Commerce announced its new board of directors in January at an installation dinner at The Carlisle Palm Beach. David Lumbert of Ocean Bank is now the president. The new vice president is Laura Urness of the Presson Group with Corcoran Realty. Jane Richardson of Friends of Foster Children serves as treasurer, and Jackie Phelan, owner of Underground Promos LLC, is secretary.

***

Past champion and Boca Raton resident Frances Tiafoe committed to play in the 34th Delray Beach Open, Feb. 13-22 at the Delray Beach Tennis Center.

Tiafoe, who has ranked as high as world No. 10, was a 20-year-old wild card ranked No. 91 when he won the Delray Beach Open in 2018.

Other players scheduled to compete include Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud, Tommy Paul, Learner Tien and Alex Michelsen.

Juan Martin del Potro, the 2009 U.S. Open champion and 2011 Delray Beach winner, is returning to the tournament in the Legends exhibition-style matches, along with six-time Delray doubles champions Bob and Mike Bryan, former French Open champions Luke and Murphy Jensen, and past Delray Beach Open singles champions Tommy Haas, Xavier Malisse and Jan-Michael Gambill.

Fans can watch qualifying rounds for the ATP 250 tournament as well as practice sessions.

New this year, children 14-and-under will receive a free Stadium Court reserved seat with the purchase of an adult ticket on the day of the event at the box office.

For more details, visit delraybeachopen.com.

***

The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County’s voters guide to 18 municipal elections in the county goes online Feb. 7 at lwvpbc.org. To access the free guide, click on the Voter Toolkit 2026 button. Elections will be held on March 10. 

“The league delivers nonpartisan information to local voters every election,” said Amy Kemp, the league’s president. “Providing potential voters with reliable, responsible, nonpartisan information is our primary mission.”

The league has compiled biographical information and political positions from 85 candidates in 32 campaigns in the guide, called Vote411.

For the November elections, the league will host an Election Expo and publish both a printed and online Vote411 guide to all local, county, state and federal campaigns that will be on the ballot in the county.

***

The Institute for Regional Conservation, along with the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Association of Delray, recently hosted a beach dune ecological restoration event at Delray Municipal Beach as part of IRCC’s Restoring the Gold Coast program.

Volunteers from the Young Professionals, FAU Sustainability Club and the Beach Keepers removed sea grape from dune habitat to benefit the federally endangered beach jacquemontia plant. This site represents the largest remaining population of the species in Palm Beach County.

***

The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority recently launched its redesigned website, DowntownDelrayBeach.com. The new platform makes it easier for businesses, residents and visitors to discover, plan and experience the downtown.

Based on an economic impact model using its analytics along with benchmarks from Destinations International, Visit Florida, and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the website is estimated to generate $15.5 million in annual economic impact, including $10.35 million in direct visitor spending.

New features of the website include destination mapping of shops, restaurants, spas, galleries, hotels and cultural destinations — and nearby parking to these destinations.

Users can create personalized Art Walk routes. Businesses are grouped into themed experiences. Signature attractions are highlighted.

It contains a centralized listings for events, dining, lodging and activities. The site’s guides are expected to add an estimated $1.35 million in incremental annual revenue.

“Our goal was to create a modern, mobile-friendly website that doesn’t just inform, but actively guides people through downtown Delray,” said Suzanne Boyd, director of marketing for the DDA.

The new site helps people “discover new places, plan fuller experiences, and engage more deeply with everything downtown has to offer — while directly supporting our local businesses.”

Christine Davis writes business news and can be reached at cdavis9797@gmail.com.

Lantana draws families with free films, popcorn at makeshift drive-in

Liam Bingham, 6, of Boca Raton, dozes on the hood of the family car during Lantana’s showing of How to Train Your Dragon in January. The second and final movie of the season will be Jurassic World: Rebirth on Feb. 27. Photos by Tim Stepien/The Coastal Star

By Ron Hayes

The nation’s curmudgeons will no doubt grumble that any drive-in movie theater showing only two movies a year hardly deserves to be called a drive-in theater at all.

About 150 mothers, fathers, friends and children — lots and lots of children — who drove in to Lantana’s Sports Park on Friday evening, Jan. 9, to watch a movie under the stars would disagree.

In its own humble way, the town of Lantana is keeping alive a once great American tradition. Each January and February, the town hosts a “Drive-In Movie Night,” a free movie on an inflatable, 33-foot screen.

Free popcorn, too. All you can gobble.

A girl sits on top of the family vehicle to watch How to Train Your Dragon at Lantana’s Sports Park.

January’s movie was How to Train Your Dragon, last year’s live-action remake of the 2010 animated feature about Hiccup, a Viking boy who befriends a wounded dragon, named Toothless, and learns about friendship, bravery and acceptance.

Cars began arriving to watch Hiccup and Toothless swoop, dip and dive through the skies well before the 7 p.m. showtime.

Lantana residents Ari Georges and Carlie Matula enjoy a charcuterie board in the back of a pickup during the movie. 

Ari Georges and Carlie Matula of Lantana were not content with free popcorn.

They waited for the show to begin nestled in the bed of their Ford F250 pickup with a large platter of homemade charcuterie between them.

“We saw the flyer and it sounded like fun,” Matula said, “so we went to Aldi and bought five different cheeses, salami, prosciutto, capicola and pine berries.”

Camille Bingham of Boca Raton was poking around Facebook when she happened on an announcement for the event.

“I have five kids and four are here,” she explained. “With five kids, I’m always looking for something free and fun.”

Marcus Freeman brought his son Makai, 7, and daughter Kaliyah, 10, down from Jupiter after finding the movie night listed on EveryParent (everyparentpbc.org), a resource guide sponsored by the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County.All were here for the first time.

Family-friendly films

A little after 7 p.m., Nadine Shawah, Lantana’s Parks & Recreation superintendent, welcomed the crowd.

 “Tonight’s radio frequency,” she announced, “is 88.3 FM. Tune to that station on your car radio and you can hear the movie in your car.

“Have a great night and enjoy the movie.”

Lantana movie nights debuted in 2015, with the films shown on a screen facing the ocean from Lantana Municipal Beach park until winds drove them to Bicentennial Park in 2019.

COVID-19 darkened the screens in 2020. Both the January and February showings were canceled because of bad weather that year. One film was shown in Bicentennial Park in early March, but the second never appeared when the shutdown was announced.

The movies returned a year later, with orange cones in every other parking space to promote social distancing. The cones remain so folks can set up chairs beside their cars. 

With the move to the Sports Park, Lantana movie nights had become drive-in movie nights.

Presented by a company called Fun Flicks, the evenings cost the town about $2,000 for each presentation.

“Once a film comes out on DVD, we’re able to show them,” Shawah said.

Fun Flicks erects the screen and projects the film, but Shawah chooses the titles.

“We’ll show a PG-13 film,” she explained, “but I screen them first and check the kids’ review sites that show us ratings for families and tell us what’s in them. I want to be sure there’s not violence.”

How to Train Your Dragon is rated PG.

“We get couples and families with kids,” she said. “Our most popular are the Disney and superhero movies, and the Star Wars Trilogy.”

Katherine Reich-Brill of Lake Worth Beach brought her daughter, Ayla, 7, some chocolate chip cookies, and popcorn.

This was her first time, too. She didn’t know about the free popcorn.

“I figured I’d bring my daughter,” she said. “I don’t think she’s ever seen a drive-in movie. Growing up, our dad would take us to the drive-in movies. Now you can’t find them anymore. So, it’s nostalgia.”

Alas, it has to be.

Origin of drive-ins

If you have fond memories of childhood nights at the drive-in, bless the memory of Richard Hollingshead. Or maybe his mother.

“His mother was — how shall I say it? — rather large for theater seats,” Jim Kopp of the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association told Smithsonian magazine in 2008. “So, he stuck her in a car and put a 1928 projector on the hood of the car, and tied two sheets to trees in his yard.”

Five years later, on June 6, 1933, Hollingshead opened America’s first drive-in, in Camden, New Jersey. Tickets were 25 cents, and the movie was Wives Beware, a British comedy starring Adolphe Menjou as a man who fakes amnesia to cheat on his wife.

The idea took off. Admission was cheap. You could smoke in your car. Your crying baby didn’t bother others. By 1958, there were 4,063 drive-ins across these United States.

Where did they go, all those drive-ins?

Color TVs. DVRs. Indoor movies could host five or six showings a day; drive-ins only one. Indoors got the most popular titles; drive-ins got the B films. As the suburbs spread, land prices rose, and the moms and pops who tended to own drive-ins couldn’t afford the land to build more.

When Kopp spoke to Smithsonian in 2008, only about 400 drive-ins were still operating. Today, there are about 320, according to the website driveinmovie.com.

In 1955, Florida had about 150 drive-in theaters. Today, only four survive, in Lakeland, Dade City, Ocala and Ruskin.

In Palm Beach County, the Delray Beach Drive-In, 2001 N. Federal Highway, opened in 1956 and closed in 1992, according to the website.

The West Palm Beach Drive-In at 1140 Old Dixie Highway opened in 1951 and went dark in 2002.

Belle Glades’ Lakes Drive-In, 1391 N. Main St., lasted from 1962 to 2003.

The Lake Worth Swap & Shop Drive-In at 3438 Lake Worth Road opened in 1967 and survived until 2021.

Now only the Lantana Drive-In Movie Nights survive. Two nights only, two months a year.

Anna Goris, owner of the Gimme Grillin food truck, serves customers at Lantana’s Sports Park during the town's Drive-In Movie Night in January.

Thumbs up all around

While the dragons swooped and dipped, moviegoers wandered over to the Gimme Grillin food truck, the Kona Ice shaved ice truck. Most popular, naturally, was Lamar Venegas’ popcorn machine. Venegas works for the town’s Public Works Department but was drafted to be the night’s popcorn man.

“I’ve gone through about 15 8-ounce bags,” he reported.

Enrique Padilla, 14, was back for another bag.

“This is great,” he said. “I saw the cartoon version, but this is the first time I’m seeing the live action version. I’d love to come back and see another movie here.”

By 9:30, Hiccup and Toothless had vanquished the dragon called Red Death and shown that dragons and Vikings can be friends. The parking lot lights came on, the popcorn machine went dark, and cars drove out of the drive-in.

In the bed of their Ford pickup, Ari Georges and Carlie Matula lay wrapped in blankets, the platter of leftover charcuterie between them.

“We kind of fell asleep at the end there,” Matula confessed. “I’m 22 now, and I saw the original when it came out in 2010 when I was 8. It brought back a lot of memories.”

Her sleepy friend agreed.

“It was a great movie and a good atmosphere,” Georges said. “This brought everyone together. Jurassic World is one of my favorites, so I’m definitely coming next month.”

Jurassic World: Rebirth (PG-13), Lantana’s second and final Drive-In Movie Night of 2026, will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, at the Sports Park, 903 N. Eighth St. 

If You Go

What: Lantana’s drive-in movie featuring Jurassic World: Rebirth

When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27

Where: Sports Park, 903 N. Eighth St. 

Cost: Free

Information: Arrive early and bring a battery-operated radio for the sound if you don’t want to drain your car battery. 561-540-5754; lantana.org

Christine Lynn and Lois Pope attended the Holly Jolly Symphony Fête. Pope was the principal sponsor. Photo provided

The ninth annual Holly Jolly Symphony Fête luncheon at the Kravis Center raised nearly $500,000 to benefit music education initiatives. 

Palm Beach Symphony presented 31 instruments, including 27 brand-new instruments, to students and educators from three Palm Beach County Title I schools that are part of the Paul & Karen Levy Residency Program.

This included the milestone 1,000th instrument to be given since the donation program began in 2016, with the totals now up to 1,022 instruments and 3,500 accessories. During the current season, 124 instruments have been donated.

“Will and I know from our own experience the role music education plays in shaping a child’s life,’” said Mary Demory, who chaired the event with her husband, Will Demory. 

“These young musicians experience something truly extraordinary. Whether they are attending their first Masterworks performance or learning directly from our orchestra’s artists, you can see the spark in their eyes. 

“When they are handed an instrument, the joy is unforgettable. Learning music doesn’t just create musicians. It also builds discipline, determination and confidence and shapes the next generation of artists and leaders.”

Students and educators from the three recipient schools — Woodlands Middle School, The Conservatory School @ North Palm Beach and Plumosa School of the Arts — attended the December event along with nearly 500 guests.

Learn about Palm Beach Symphony’s concerts, events, giving opportunities and more at PalmBeachSymphony.org.

Longtime Kravis supporter receives Dreyfoos award 

The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts’ major donors, life trustees and guests honored Kravis supporter George Michel with the Dreyfoos award for his lifetime of service. The former resident of Palm Beach and current resident of Palm Beach Gardens has served on the Kravis board of directors from the beginning more than 30 years ago.

Founding CEO Judy Mitchell said the award, named for the late Kravis founding chairman, Alex Dreyfoos, is given only on special occasions and only to individuals who have demonstrated continued outstanding dedication and service to the Kravis.  

“It’s an honor being associated with so many great people who made this organization happen and it goes back more than three decades,” Michel said at the Dec. 17 dinner. “And of course, the guy I miss a lot — Alexander W. Dreyfoos. 

“When I was living in Stamford, Connecticut, Alex told me he was going to South Florida to raise $10 million to build a cultural center. I didn’t think much of it, but knew he would do it.” 

Levis JCC has openings in special-needs program

The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center has a few openings in its Project L.I.F.E. (Learning, Independence, Friendship, Experiences), a weekday program that supports young adults with special needs to help them build life skills.

Part of the JCC’s Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department, Project L.I.F.E. serves people ages 18-30+ through a structured, Monday-Friday program from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Participants develop social skills with health, wellness, recreation and volunteer opportunities on and off the west Boca Raton campus.

“At its heart, Project L.I.F.E. is about empowerment, inclusion and possibility,” said Ali Landman, vice president, Special Needs Services. “We’re creating a space where young adults with special needs are not only supported but valued — where they can contribute, learn and thrive as active members of the community.” 

Project L.I.F.E. launched in the fall with 13 participants. While the program is private-pay, families may seek reimbursement through Med Waiver. Partial scholarships are also offered. Participants need not be Jewish. 

For more information, visit levisjcc.org/specialneeds or call 561-852-3200.

Boynton OKs expansion for Feeding South Florida

The Boynton Beach City Commission unanimously approved a major site plan modification on Dec. 2 that will allow Feeding South Florida — the leading hunger-relief organization serving Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties — to build a 32,000-square-foot warehouse at 4925 Park Ridge Blvd. at the Quantum Corporate Park. 

The project is the final phase of Feeding South Florida’s campus expansion and will significantly enhance the organization’s ability to serve people throughout South Florida. 

Construction will begin following permitting and pre-construction coordination with city departments.

In other Feeding South Florida news, South Florida Kia dealers, along with the Miami Heat, Miami Dolphins, JM Family Enterprises and JM&A Group, have donated $400,000 to the organization. 

Kia’s “Accelerate the Good” charitable initiative raised $150,000 of the total. JM Family Enterprises and subsidiary company JM&A Group donated $100,000. The remaining $150,000 came from the Heat and Dolphins. 

Feeding South Florida President and CEO Paco Vélez received the check on Dec. 16 during a ceremony at Feeding South Florida’s Pembroke Park warehouse. 

Send news, photos and notes to Lou Ann Frala at philanthropy@thecoastalstar.com.

Shoppers check out the merchandise at the 2025 Wayside House Spring Boutique and Trunk Show. Photo provided by Wayside House

By Lou Ann Frala

How can a shopping spree be good for someone else? When the spree is to benefit Wayside House, a nonprofit organization based in Delray Beach that focuses on women’s substance abuse and addiction recovery. 

The annual fundraiser, the Spring Boutique and Trunk Show, a fixture for more than three decades, begins Feb. 10, with a preview party for shoppers to check out the 21 vendors — nine new this year — from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Aloft Hotel in Delray Beach.

The boutique runs Feb. 11 and 12 starting at 10 a.m. each day. 

Vendors, drawn from all over the country and one from Germany, showing clothing, jewelry, accessories and home decor, are: Amanda Johnson Studio, Blair’s Belts, Blazers by Design, Brad and Vandy Reh Fine Jewelry, Carrie Dunham, Carson & Co., Charlotte Brody, CMM Designs-Status Faux, Daniella Ortiz Handbags, Harbor Sweets, Hyde Forty-Seven, IslaPayal, IVI Vision, Janet Gregg, Jennifer Tyler Knitwear, KP Design, Liz Paper, Liza Byrd Boutique, Pearly Vine, The Romantic Room, and Vernon Scott.

Last year’s event drew more than 700 shoppers and raised $180,000 for the organization founded in 1974 by Dr. Susan B. Anthony — the great-niece and namesake of the noted 19th century women’s rights advocate — and Phyllis Michelfelder of Gulf Stream. Anthony died in Boca Raton in 1991, Michelfelder in 1998.

Wayside’s mission since its founding has been to serve vulnerable women, including pregnant women in the throes of substance abuse or other chemical addictions. 

The Spring Boutique is “our largest fundraiser of the year so it’s critical for our mission,” said event co-chairwoman Whitney Jones. 

Jones and co-chairwoman Alexandra McCall are in their second year heading the event and are focused throughout the year on drawing vendors and building support for Wayside House. 

As McCall says: “Wayside House’s 90-day residential program for women, including its scholarship offerings, helps bridge the gap between recovery programs and the women who would otherwise be unable to afford excellent care. Wayside offers hope, dignity and long-term support to women who may have lost their way but deserve the resources and compassion necessary to reclaim their lives.”

Women 18 and older can receive treatment to get back on their feet. Programs include life skills and employment assistance, with a placement rate higher than the national average, says Marlene Passell, Wayside’s director of communications. 

Equine and horticulture holistic programs put the women in touch with both horses and the earth as they grow food that is used in the residential treatment center kitchen in Delray Beach. 

If You Go

What: Spring Boutique and Trunk Show

When: Feb. 11 and Feb. 12, with a preview party for shoppers to check out the 21 vendors — nine new this year — from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 10. The boutique runs Wednesday and Thursday starting at 10 a.m. each day.

Where: Aloft Hotel, 202 SE Fifth Ave., Delray Beach

Cost: Tickets for the preview party are $150 and include valet parking, early shopping, drinks and light bites. Register at waysidehouse.net/2026-spring-boutique.

More information: 561-278-0055

ABOVE: (l-r) Nicole Williams, FAU President Adam Hasner and Aalesha Chisholm-Green. Photos provided by Florida Atlantic University

With contributions from alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends, FAU raised more than $617 million over the past decade for scholarships and programs as part of ’Transcend Tomorrow: The Campaign for Florida Atlantic University.’  That surpassed the campaign goal of $600 million. 

ABOVE: Dick Schmidt and Sharon Kusuke.

ABOVE: Laura and Charles Compton. Photo provided by Tracey Benson Photography

The seventh annual Cocktails for the Club raised a record $284,789 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s Delray Beach club. The event was chaired by Laura Compton. Proceeds will go to the club’s hunger relief efforts, workforce readiness program and digital literacy. For more information, visit bgcpbc.org or call 561-683-3287. 

ABOVE: Guest speaker Joe Theismann. BELOW: Evelyn Hopkins and Guy Quattlebaum. Photos provided by Tracey Benson Photography

More than 350 attended the YMCA of the Palm Beaches 16th annual Prayer Breakfast. Former Super Bowl champion quarterback Joe Theismann, now an entrepreneur, Emmy Award-winning NFL analyst, author and philanthropist, spoke of the importance of supporting the YMCA’s mission. ’True success isn’t just about achievements,’ he said. ’It’s about how we lift up and contribute to those around us, bringing our best every day for the good of others.’ Learn more at ymcapalmbeaches.org. Follow on Instagram @ymcapalmbeaches. 

ABOVE: Tim Coffield and Pat Rooney. 

ABOVE: (l-r): Garden Club members Susan Holtz, Britt Flanagan, Mickey Austin Farley, Carol Larson, Elisa Garcia and Cindy Martel. Photo provided

Florida Arbor Day was Jan. 16, but members of the Ocean Ridge Garden Club got a head start, planting a native gumbo limbo tree to mark the occasion a week earlier. Club members say early in the year is the perfect time to plant trees, though they will require watering to get established before the hotter spring temperatures arrive. This tree was donated by a club member. 

ABOVE: (l-r): Kelly Barrette, vice president of the Delray Beach Preservation Trust; and Jaime Mayo and Michael Hanlon, principal partners of Hanlon \ Mayo Architecture. Photo provided

The Delray Beach Preservation Trust partnered with the city and Hanlon \ Mayo Architecture to replace a historical marker at the entrance to the Old School Square Historic District. The distinctive marker was cast at Sewah Studios foundry in Marietta, Ohio, and the text approved by the city and the historic division of the Florida Department of State. Old School Square Historic District, formed in 1987, was the first of five historic districts established in the city. The trust also partnered with the city to replace a marker at the entrance of the Del-Ida Historic District. 

ABOVE: Dara Siegel, Paige Kornblue, Jan Savarick, Michelle Hagerty and Neil Saffer. BELOW: Neil Gillman, Abby Bernstein-Henderson, Doris Gillman and Alex Henderson. Photos providedThe 28th annual gala, hosted by the Rotary Club of Boca Raton, celebrated community leadership and philanthropy. The gala was co-chaired by Jan Savarick, Neil Saffer and Dara Siegel. It honored Steven Bernstein and Abby Bernstein-Henderson, Michelle Hagerty, Dr. Van P. Williams, Haley and Brad Winstead, and Rotarian Lifetime Legacy Award recipient Myron Yudkin, 97, who received a standing ovation. Christine Lynn was honorary chair and presenting sponsor. Proceeds will benefit Rotary’s scholarship and youth programs. 

ABOVE: Lynn, Patricia Thomas and Terry Fedele. BELOW: Peter and Susan Brockway. 

By Jan Engoren

As AI and high‑tech gadgets become more ubiquitous, people are taking advantage of wearable technologies and mobile apps to take their fitness and health routines to the next level.

One of these people is Boynton Beach resident Tony Vitale, 71, a retired Realtor, computer instructor and Apple reseller. A self‑described “tech geek,” Vitale swears by his Apple Watch and Apple Health app to keep his weight and health on track.

He monitors his workouts and heart rhythm for A-fib and used the Lose It! app to help him lose 100 pounds through a diet and exercise program that included the treadmill, cardio classes and resistance training. “I developed a routine,” he says.

He even invested in a Withings scale, which measures body fat, muscle mass, body composition and other metrics, as well as a sleep mat to track sleep duration, patterns, REM cycles, heart rate and snoring.

A devotee of the Apple Health app — which stores his lab results, notes from doctor visits and tracks blood pressure and other vitals — Vitale chooses physicians who also use the platform. “It’s a way to gain some control over your health outcomes,” he says.

His enthusiasm reflects a broader shift. Wearable technology such as the Apple Watch, Oura ring and Whoop band continues to grow in popularity, despite raising some concerns over data privacy and how that data may be used.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, wearable tech is projected to be the No. 1 fitness trend for 2026. Other top trends include fitness programs for older adults, exercise for weight management, mobile exercise apps, balance and flow training and core strength.

Dr. Berkcan Akpinar, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at NYU Langone Medical Associates in Delray Beach and West Palm Beach, has seen the shift firsthand.

A former team physician for the Boston Bruins, Red Sox and New England Patriots, Akpinar is a strong proponent of using technology to improve health. He uses an Apple Watch himself. 

“Technology for health is readily available and easy to use,” he says.

His watch even pings him when he’s “slacking off,” a reminder he appreciates. The start of the new year, he notes, is an ideal time to set health goals. His own resolutions include going to the gym four to five days a week, eating more greens and vegetables and cutting back on conveniences like Uber Eats and DoorDash.

Akpinar encourages people to begin their fitness journey slowly. “Start with the basics,” he says. “Jumping jacks, toe touches, knee pushups and stretching.” 

Once you are warmed up, he recommends a power walk, stair climber or elliptical machine, gradually adding resistance training over time.

According to the Fitness Industry Insights website, which tracks fitness trends, virtual training and fitness apps are projected to grow 26.72% through 2030, and wearable tech is expected to grow by 14.6% over the same period.

Additionally, the Consumer Technology Association reports that more than 65% of U.S. adults who use wearable technology rely on it not only for fitness, but also to monitor sleep, stress, heart health and personal productivity.

Experts note that while wearables can be powerful tools for behavioral change, they’re not a substitute for a physician. Devices can vary in accuracy, and over‑reliance on data, constant monitoring and self‑interpretation of results may not always serve the wearer.

Boynton Beach librarian Janet Naughton, 63, also depends on her wearable technology to stay active. “I like it for accountability and competitiveness,” she says. Naughton began using the Peloton app during the pandemic and continues to find it “extremely helpful,” especially for on‑the‑go workouts.

“I can do a 10‑minute arms session with light weights anywhere, anytime,” she says. “The app lets me know when I’m on a streak, and I can work out with others or compete if I want.” 

She’s part of a PeloLibrarian group and believes that even small daily efforts add up.

Naughton also uses a Fitbit and its companion app to track her weight, steps, sleep and heart rate. The device reminds her to move if she’s been sedentary for too long. 

“I’m not a fitness buff or the healthiest person, but these apps help me keep active,” she says. “Technology is amazing.”

While wearable technology may not be a magic bullet for everyone in the pursuit of health and wellness, it has become an accessible and steady companion — one that can guide, motivate and empower you along the winding road toward better health.

Jan Engoren writes about health and healthy living. Send column ideas to jengoren@hotmail.com.

Correction: An earlier online version and print version of this story incorrectly listed Janet Naughton's age. She is 63.

Megan S. Powe was appointed chief operating officer for HCA Florida JFK Hospital in Atlantis and assumed the job in January. 

Previously, she served as chief operating officer for Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital in Milwaukee. Prior to that, she held multiple senior leadership roles within Tenet Healthcare, including hospital COO, market chief strategy officer and chief strategy officer. 

Powe holds a master's degree in health care administration from Trinity University in San Antonio, and a bachelor's degree in business administration, with concentrations in management and marketing, from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama.                                  

Pediatric cancer patients  treated to holiday party

Students from American Heritage Schools’ premedical program, from both Broward and Palm Beach County campuses, hosted the 26th annual holiday party for 18 pediatric cancer patients from Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center in December. 

Patients received holiday treats and took part in activities that included gingerbread cookie decorating, ornament making, bracelet crafting and games.

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

Dave Stewart holds up a snook. Capt. Ron Mallet says snook fishing in South Florida is excellent during the season that starts in February, but anglers should be prepared for broken lines and some lost fish. Photo provided

By Steve Waters

It was the opening night of the winter snook season, and the fishing was fast and frustrating.

Capt. Ron Mallet had two experienced sea trout fishermen from South Carolina on his boat, and they were fishing for snook for the first time.

Mallet gave his customers some pointers, telling them to hold their rods out to the side as they drifted live shrimp in the Intracoastal Waterway. When they felt the “thump” of a snook bite, all they had to do was reel the line tight to set the hook.

Less than an hour into the trip, after a few missed hits and broken lines, one of the anglers, who was following Mallet’s advice, landed a beautiful 36-inch snook. The fish was released because it was over the slot limit of 28-32 inches to keep a snook (anglers are allowed one per day).

“He was ecstatic,” Mallet said. “The other guy kept trying to horse in the snook and kept breaking the line. Then the first guy caught a 28-incher, which went into the cooler. On the next drift, he released one.

“Meanwhile, I’m trying to help the other guy, but he won’t listen.”

At the end of the trip, the first angler hooked yet another snook, the biggest of the night. As the fish stripped line from the 17-pound plug rod, the angler offered the rod to his fishless friend.

The stubborn fisherman took the rod and held it straight up. Mallet suggested the angler point the rod tip down and to the side so he could steer the snook away from trouble. The angler ignored the advice and, as a result, was unable to stop the fish, which swam straight to a rockpile and broke the line.

The snook fishing in South Florida when the season opens Feb. 1 — it’s been closed on the Atlantic coast since Dec. 15 — can be terrific. But be prepared to lose some fish. And if you’re paying to fish with a guide, it pays to listen to the guide.

This time of year, snook can be found from the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach County to the back end of finger canals connecting with other canals that eventually flow into the Intracoastal. During the winter, snook move into these canals seeking warm water. Snook become listless in cold water and can be snagged or netted, which is why the season is closed from mid-December through January.

Later in the spring, snook congregate near inlets and beaches as they prepare to spawn. The season closes again from June 1 to Aug. 31, when snook are spawning and easily targeted because they are so concentrated.

Bridges located over or near the Intracoastal are prime snook fishing spots. Snook also can be found after heavy rains by open spillways — the Boynton and Lake Worth spillways are among the best spots — where the snook ambush baitfish flushed out of freshwater canals.

Mallet likes to drift with the current along sea walls using live shrimp. Usually, the bigger the shrimp, the bigger the snook it attracts. Lures that imitate shrimp also hook snook.

The top of the outgoing tide is the best time to fish, whether from a boat or a bridge. That’s when snook will lie in wait for baitfish to be carried by the current and past pilings, boat docks and rocks.

Given those hangouts, break-offs are inevitable. That’s why many anglers who fish from bridges use 80- or 100-pound line with heavy-duty 10-foot rods. When you use light tackle, technique is critical, as that stubborn angler from South Carolina discovered. 

Mallet doesn’t take any chances when he gets a bite. He reels quickly to get the fish away from obstructions.

 “If you can, take the initiative when a snook is first hooked,” he said. “Treat every fish as if it’s a serious one.”

 Outdoors writer Steve Waters can be reached at steve33324@aol.com.

Elliott and Robin Broidy (above) purchased this architectural drawing of the crematoria at Auschwitz-Birkenau, where Jews were killed and cremated as part of Nazi Germany’s ’final solution.’ This is one of only two known original drawings produced of the building. Photos provided

By Janis Fontaine

In November, Elliott and Robin Broidy of Boca Raton paid $1.5 million for an old drawing. Not a piece of fine art, but an architectural sketch drawn on cheap newsprint dated Oct. 24, 1941. 

The landscape-oriented drawing, about 3 feet long and 2 feet wide, is sepia-toned with age and protected by plastic; it depicts a house of horrors: the crematoria at Auschwitz-Birkenau, where millions of Jews were systematically exterminated.  

What the Broidys now own is one of only two known original drawings produced in preparation for meetings where the logistics of killing Jews on an industrial scale would be discussed. 

“The drawing we have is clear proof of genocidal intent,” Elliott Broidy wrote in a Nov. 21 op-ed in The Wall Street Journal. “To behold it is to confront the deliberate design of evil. My most sincere wish is for this whiteprint to be memorialized as part of an irrefutable body of evidence that negates Holocaust denial and helps to forever silence malevolent revisionists while also educating new generations about the lessons of the Holocaust.”

Robin Broidy recalled the first time she stood before the drawing:  “It’s a horrible feeling. You’re standing so close to evil. These people created this document that you’re holding in your hands with the purpose of murdering, exterminating, terminating mass numbers of people. And you’re just, you’re sad.”

The document itself is nothing special: “The paper isn’t premium,” Robin Broidy said. In wartime paper is expensive. “They were doing as much as possible on very cheap paper, so all the blueprints are on low-quality paper.” 

The significance of the document lies in the date. Drawn by SS architect Walter Dejaco under the authority of Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss, it’s the snapshot of the moment when the men who planned the execution of millions of Jews actually put pen to paper and drew up the plan for the place the extermination would happen. The whiteprint is stark and irrefutable proof that the Shoah, the Hebrew word for the Holocaust, was conceived months before the announcement of the “final solution” in January 1942 at the Wannsee Conference. 

The Broidys purchased the artifact from Rabbi David Baron of Temple of the Arts Synagogue in Beverly Hills, who had received it from a friend of a congregant who had bought it at a Nazi memorabilia auction in Germany. Neither the buyer nor seller was aware of its historical significance. According to journalist Benjamin Raziel of Forbes, the Nazis understood the power of documentation and they tried to destroy as many records as possible as the Allies approached, so finding artifacts of this import is rare. 

Professor Robert Jan van Pelt, the foremost expert on Auschwitz architecture, authenticated the document, but when asked to place a value on it, Robin Broidy said, “He couldn’t. He said, ‘I can’t value it. It’s priceless.’” 

In an act of remembrance and reverence, the Broidys agreed to pay $1.5 million to the Temple of the Arts for the drawing. The money would be earmarked for Baron to use to create a global early-childhood curriculum promoting empathy and altruism. The rabbi’s curriculum aims to reach children when they are young, long before extremist ideologies can take root. 

“He has done research that indicates that children’s values are formed between zero to 5,” Robin said. “Therefore, if you can teach children altruism, empathy and listening to another person’s point of view then, they will be less likely to become an extremist and less likely to create hateful attitudes.”

That you become what you are taught isn’t a new idea, but Robin said, “Education is always the key. Education is the key to succeeding in life and to being a good person, getting your values straight.”

It’s also quite simple. Robin likes to tell the classic story of Rabbi Hillel, who was asked, “Can you teach the entire Torah standing on one foot?” Robin says his answer is the answer: “Sure I can. Whatever is hateful to you, do not do unto others. That’s what Jews are taught from their infancy.”

Baron told the Broidys how much money he would need to start his program, and they settled on a number. “It was a number that had some meaning,” Elliott said, “because out of the 6 million that died, 1.5 million were children.”

It’s not the first time the Broidys have stepped up like this. They’ve been actively fighting antisemitism and extremism for years. Their support turned “hell-on-earth” into a symbol of truth and light when the Counter Extremism Project transformed Rudolf Höss’ residence at 88 Legionow St. into the Auschwitz Research Center on Hate, Extremism and Radicalization (ARCHER) at House 88.

The lovely private villa with its gardens and swimming pool where the Höss family lived in comfort and affluence — Höss’ wife called it “paradise” — sits just outside the fence of Auschwitz. The Höss children played under skies darkened by the smoke rising from the crematoria next door. While they hosted lavish parties with decadent food, Jews starved just feet away.

Today the property has a mezuzah on its front door. ARCHER at House 88’s goal and message are to turn a site of mass murder into a global center dedicated to exposing the machinery of hate and educating the world. Education must begin with children, but it has to continue through adulthood. Truly, no dog is too old to learn. 

Today’s battle is against misinformation and how easily it spreads. Researchers and educators, policymakers and activists work to prevent the spread of online extremism, promote safety on digital platforms and counter misinformation and radicalization. 

“What ARCHER is fighting against is the mainstreaming of extremism — the same propaganda, the same misinformation, the same lies that enabled the Germans and the SS to be able to do this without a second thought, without remorse, without thinking,” Robin Broidy said. “That is the message that we are trying to send to today’s young people. Anytime somebody tries to tell you that the other someone else is less than human, don’t believe them.”

The fight continues right in our own backyard. 

In January, several news agencies, including WPEC CBS12, reported that Palm Beach County sheriff’s deputies had investigated a swastika and racial slurs painted on the pavement outside Florida Cancer Specialists, a medical office plaza in West Boca. An employee discovered the white lettering which targeted both Jewish and Black communities. A discarded paintbrush and empty paint can were recovered nearby but no usable fingerprints were found. The damage was estimated at about $500, and the graffiti was quickly removed. But the implications will last. 

Antisemitism is part of being a Jew, but Jews don’t fight hate with hate, Robin says: “You move on, and you try to show the world that you’re decent, wonderful human beings. You try to be positive, try to educate.”

To that end, the Broidys plan to display the whiteprint at institutions and organizations dedicated to combating antisemitism and preserving the memory of the Holocaust, before making a long-term gift of it to one institution. “Probably the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum,” Elliott said. 

The Broidys relocated to Boca Raton from Los Angeles to be closer to their children, grandchildren and about three dozen of Robin’s relatives. Elliott, chairman and CEO of Broidy Capital Holdings, is an entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist with a career spanning four decades. Robin is a former film producer and movie executive who with Elliott has been devoted to the fight against antisemitism — they call it “our major fight” — for decades. 

Philanthropically, the Broidys support organizations dedicated to countering antisemitism, hate and extremism, including the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem, the Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), the George Washington University Program on Extremism, and StandWithUs.

“This document is our way of changing the world a little bit, if possible, and that’s no small feat,” Elliott said.

Janis Fontaine writes about people of faith, their congregations, causes and community events. Contact her at fontaine423@outlook.com.