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BOCA RATON, FL — The Peter Blum YMCA in Boca Raton plans on holding a ceremony next week to mark a step forward in expanding access to high-quality early childhood education for local families.

A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for Thursday, March 26, and it comes as the YMCA expands its preschool program to meet growing demand in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bryan Hunt, executive director of the YMCA, said many childcare facilities closed during the pandemic and have not reopened, creating a shortage of accessible, reliable programs for working families.

“When we opened registrations for next school year, we had a long waitlist," he said. "Since the pandemic, it is even longer.

“I’ve been working here 17 years, and people always try to get into our preschool. But when a lot of schools in the area didn’t reopen after the pandemic, we knew we needed to help families in need.”

Before the expansion, the YMCA’s preschool program accommodated about 102 children ages 1 to 5.

Hunt said the largest demand is for 3- to 5-year-olds. The program is expected to add 34 to 40 additional spots and will include three new classrooms and a STEM room.

The expansion project began in January after contractor selection in December. Funding for the initiative comes from government support, with additional fundraising ongoing.

Registrations are currently open for the expanded program, which is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of 2026 if all goes as planned.

“When we opened, there were 80 children we could not accommodate. At times, the waiting list has been in the hundreds,” Hunt said. “Early childhood education is very important for working families and for the child itself. Accessible, affordable, reliable childcare is a growing need.”

The Peter Blum YMCA has operated licensed childcare in the community since the 1980s.

Hunt noted that the YMCA is nationally recognized for youth development and early childhood education, focusing on the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally — to prepare children for school and life.

The preschool uses the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes learning through exploration, creativity, and discovery, giving children a hands-on foundation for lifelong learning.

Kevin James just made a bold move to Florida. The King of Queens star invested $17.15 million in a newly built contemporary mansion in Boca Raton. This luxury purchase marks his latest real estate venture in South Florida.

From Queens to Boca Raton: The King James Real Estate Move

The 60-year-old comedian left his iconic Queens character behind for waterfront Florida living. Doug Heffernan, his beloved sitcom character, lived in a humble red-brick bungalow. Now James enjoys a gleaming contemporary mansion overlooking a manicured golf course. The purchase represents a significant upgrade in lifestyle and proximity to royal palm country club amenities.

This marks James‘s return to South Florida property investment after previous deals in the region. Long Island native James maintains a sprawling estate in Old Westbury, making his Boca Raton acquisition another jewel in his real estate portfolio.

Stunning Modern Features and Resort-Style Living

The residence balances crisp modern design with sophisticated entertainment capabilities. Walls of glass flood the interior with Florida sunlight. Five balconies and multiple terraces extend the living space outward toward the neighboring golf course. The design flows seamlessly from outdoor entertaining to refined indoor spaces.

Entertainment anchors the home’s layout with a grand double-height entry and sculptural bar. A separate catering kitchen operates behind the scenes for seamless hosting. The climate-controlled wine room reflects James’ refined taste. An office connecting to a club-style lounge creates an exclusive private retreat perfect for someone who’s spent decades on soundstages.

Luxury Amenities and Modern Technology

The estate delivers comprehensive wellness and leisure features. Private gym and infrared sauna dominate the wellness area. Two laundry rooms remain discretely hidden from view. A four-car garage includes a dedicated golf cart bay, essential in a neighborhood where daily life revolves around championship courses.

Control4 system manages lighting, audio, and security throughout the property. Motorized shades and integrated technology reflect modern luxury expectations. Every inch reflects what listing agent Jackie Feldman described as “an extraordinary level of finish, design and craftsmanship.“

“The house delivers the full package luxury buyers are searching for, seamlessly combining cutting-edge smart-home features with resort-style elements, including a dedicated wellness space, expansive terraces and beautifully designed indoor and outdoor entertainment areas.”

— Jackie Feldman, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty

A Strategic Investment After Previous South Florida Ventures

James‘s real estate history in South Florida shows calculated moves. He previously owned an oceanfront Delray Beach estate, purchased for $14 million in 2021. That property sold in 2023 for approximately $12.7 million, representing a significant loss. The Boca Raton purchase signals a renewed commitment to the region’s luxury market.

Three decades of entertainment success have funded James‘s impressive real estate portfolio. His filmography includes box office comedies like Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Hitch, and Grown Ups. His recent film Solo Mio, released earlier this year, follows a character navigating an unexpected reset. Off-screen, James appears to be writing his own next chapter with this palatial Boca Raton address.

Why Boca Raton’s Royal Palm Emerges as Celebrity Destination?

Royal Palm Yacht and Country Club attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking golf course living and oceanside luxury. The prestigious enclave combines gated community privacy with championship golf amenities. Properties here appreciate steadily as South Florida’s luxury market accelerates.

The James purchase reflects broader trends. Celebrities increasingly relocate from California to Florida seeking favorable tax treatment, year-round sunshine, and sophisticated resort living. James‘s investment joins a growing wave of entertainment industry moves to South Florida’s most exclusive addresses. Will he make this his primary residence or maintain it as a luxury vacation retreat?

Alexander Woodward is an entertainment journalist and news reporter at Art Threat, specializing in breaking coverage of the American entertainment industry. His reporting spans celebrity news, music announcements, film and television developments, and the cultural moments capturing national attention. Alexander brings a commitment to accurate, timely reporting that helps readers stay ahead of the conversation. From award show coverage to exclusive industry updates, his work reflects a deep understanding of the trends and stories that resonate with today's audiences. Based in the NYC, Alexander contributes daily news coverage to Art Threat's entertainment section.

Boca Raton, FL – March 16, 2026 – The Florida Legislature has unanimously passed providing funding for the Florida Department of Health to implement the Ryan White Part B AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) through June 30, 2026. The program provides HIV/AIDS medication to low-income Floridians. The provision takes effect upon becoming law and appropriates $30.9 million to the Department of Health for implementation of ADAP through June 30, 2026. The program will remain available to Floridians with an adjusted gross household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level. Through June 30, 2026, ADAP services must be provided through the distribution of medications directly to eligible Floridians. The measure will reduce both the spread of HIV and hospital visits.

“This amendment is a lifeline to the clients who were kicked off ADAP on March 1. It provides much needed financial assistance for individuals with HIV to get the lifesaving treatment they need,” said State Representative Mitch Rosenwald (D – Oakland Park). “Once Governor DeSantis signs the bill, we will be able to save lives.”

Michael Rajner, Chair of the Broward County Human Rights Board for the Broward County Board of County Commissioner, has been tirelessly working with legislatures in Tallahassee this Session to re-institute the ADAP funding that had been eliminated by the Florida Department of Health. “There’s a lot that has to be done, but it’s a great day,” reported Rajner.

Rajner has it right. When ADAP clients are enrolled in private insurance through ADAP supported premium assistance, the program generates drug manufacturer rebates that more than cover its costs. In Grant Year 2023, rebates totaled $221.8 million against $207.8 million in program costs, producing a $14 million surplus. Premium assistance is what unlocks that revenue. States like Tennessee, Georgia, and Illinois have shown that a premium cap model keeps clients in comprehensive care while keeping the program fiscally strong. Restoring premium assistance after July 1 is the single best step Florida can take to put ADAP on solid financial footing for years to come.

Legislators look forward to working together and with the Department of Health to build on this momentum by restoring premium assistance and ensuring every Floridian in this program has access to the comprehensive care they deserve, demonstrating Florida has the will to protect people living with HIV.

The National Philoptochos Board convened for its Spring Meeting on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at St. Mark Greek Orthodox Church in Boca Raton, Florida. Board members from across the United States gathered for a day of prayer, reflection, and thoughtful deliberation as they continued the important work of advancing the sacred mission of Philoptochos – to serve those in need with faith, love, and dignity.

The National Board Meeting opened with an inspiring prayer and spiritual reflection offered by Bishop Athenagoras of Nazianzos, National Philoptochos Spiritual Advisor. His words provided a meaningful spiritual foundation for the day, guiding the Board’s deliberations in a spirit of remembrance and Christ-centered ministry. In his reflection, His Grace spoke thoughtfully about the role of bishops within the life of our Church, offering perspective that grounded the Board’s work in faith, service, and spiritual leadership.

Under the leadership of National Philoptochos President Debbie George, the meeting reflected the strength and unity of the Philoptochos sisterhood. In her President’s Report, she emphasized the joy of being together in person and the power of fellowship in strengthening the Board’s bonds and its shared commitment to service:

“Over the past several months, we have celebrated and honored the women who embody the spirit of Philoptochos through their faith-filled dedication and tireless service. From the joy of Vasilopita celebrations to connecting with seminarians and supporting ministries through our grants program, the tangible impact of our chapters is evident nationwide. Our committees, volunteers, and staff continue to advance initiatives that strengthen our mission, expand our reach, and exemplify the Philoptochos commitment to philanthropy, education, and community engagement. As we review highlights from the months past and look ahead to an exciting year, culminating in Convention 2026, let us carry forward the inspiration, generosity, and love that define our organization. Together, we continue to make a difference, advancing the mission of Philoptochos in ways both meaningful and enduring.”

The day’s agenda featured important reports and updates across the organization:

The 2025 National Philoptochos Impact Report was also presented, offering a comprehensive reflection on the organization’s philanthropic initiatives and the profound impact of Philoptochos ministries across the country.

As the meeting concluded, President George called the Board to action, reminding them of their shared mission and quoting Hebrews 13:16 from the Orthodox Study Bible: “But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”

National Philoptochos gratefully acknowledges the gracious warmth and exceptional hospitality extended by the entire St. Mark Greek Orthodox Church community and Chapter 5060, which contributed so meaningfully to the success of the Spring Meeting.

The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, Inc. is the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. With over 90 years of experience, Philoptochos has served communities in need through fundraising and charitable programs. The Society includes more than 400 active chapters nationwide. Learn more at www.philoptochos.org.

Multi-talented singer/songwriter John Legend is in athlete mode.

The EGAD winner kicks off his nationwide tour this week in Florida. Legend told USA Today Network, he’s already locked in.

“When I’m on tour, I’m pretty strict about my diet, strict about drinking,” Legend said in a phone interview. “I basically go sober for the entire tour and I’m very mindful of what I’m eating and drinking throughout. I think of being a performer, even without doing a lot of dancing, since I’m sitting at the piano most of the show, even without that, I still think of myself as an athlete in the sense that I need my body to be in, in the right, shape to perform and get the vocal performance that I want my fans to experience every night, and so I make sure I’m in good shape and good health for that.”

“An Evening of Songs & Stories with John Legend,” debuts Wednesday, March 18 in Clearwater. Two more shows follow Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20 in Orlando and Fort Myers, respectively.

Legend said it’s shows like these — intimate setting, him and a piano and connecting with the audience, that he enjoys the most. He believes the audience will walk away learning tidbits about the married, father of four they didn’t know.

In between playing the piano and singing songs, Legend will tell stories spanning from childhood, growing up in Ohio and the ups and downs his family faced, to the influence his grandmother, an organist in the church, had on his music career to the struggles of signing a record deal. They will be touching, humorous and relatable.

“Some of the funny stories like how I got my nickname, which became my stage name and what I had to do to secure the trademark for my stage name,” Legend said. “I talk about some of the early tracks I was on that a lot of people may not be aware of. All kinds of stories about behind the scenes and the inspiration for all my music.”

Will Legend’s famous wife Chrissy Teigan and their children join the tour?

The family, which includes model wife Chrissy Teigan and their four children, won’t be there as Legend kicks off his tour in Florida.

“They’ll be in school and they’re kind of in the thick of things. Luna’s doing musical theater and they have a show in the following week, and so she needs to be home for rehearsals and, and I can’t just pull them out of their lives.”

Legend said the family of six will need to make a return trip to Florida, especially Central Florida. The self-proclaimed Disneyland family has never been to Walt Disney World.

Legend is hoping to change that soon.

“Everybody tells me Disney World is better,” he said. “We need to cross that off our bucket list.”

Where can I see John Legend perform in Florida?

Legend might not to visiting Disney World on this Florida trip, but he will be performing in the Walt Disney Theater while in Orlando.

What is the cost of a ticket to John Legend’s Florida concerts?

That depends on where you see the famous singer.

Tickets in Clearwater start at $93. In Orlando, the most affordable seats are about $117, while tickets in Fort Myers start at $104.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Superstar John Legend kicks off national tour in Florida

Reporting by Michelle Spitzer, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Florida Today

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect