ICA: Ibis Clubs and Activities has evolved into an all-volunteer multi-faceted organization to enrich and supplement the Ibis lifestyle. We offer more opportunities for education and enrichment activities than in any other Club in Florida, if not the nation. This season we have 15 ICA Clubs, 5 Visual Arts & Exhibit groups, and 6 separate Class Series to learn or enhance skills. Additionally, there are 6 Program Series covering diverse interests such as books, films, dining, nature, speakers, and discussions, numerous Off-Campus Events, and 6 distinct Performing Arts groups (offering 16 different programs/performances). The Chairpersons have a passion for their respective groups. By dedicating their time and energy these volunteers create positive change and improve the quality of life for all of us.  At Ibis, there really is something for everyone!

Lynn Mitchell, a former Co-Chair of Ibis Cultural Association, the foundation from which ICA: Ibis Clubs and Activities was founded, and our historian, shares the story of ICA:

“In 2004 member Edie Tall contacted Ibis Administration to see if it would be possible for a small group of Ibis club members to develop some programs aimed at those who had cultural interests and were perhaps not engaged in the sports activities available at the time.  Her inquiry was warmly received, and a small group of like-minded members met to discuss the possibilities.  The five founding members (Edie Tall, Sharon Nadelson, Roberta Wiener, Louella Lecker, & Sandy Markin) created a survey to ascertain members’ interests and any skills available to share. The responses to the survey were overwhelmingly positive regarding the need for these activities and expressed a willingness to be involved.”

Following the compilation of the surveys, an expanded group of members met at Edie’s home forming the nucleus of the organization that was named The Ibis Cultural Association. Among the first activities offered by this pioneering group of volunteers were the Ibis Singers, the Ibis Musicians, the Actors’ Workshop, Ibis Cooks, the Refined Palate, the Ibis Photography Club, a Writer’s Group, the Film Series, and an Ibis Art Show.

With rapid growth over 16 years, in 2020 the ICA Board of Directors decided it was time to change our nomenclature to reflect better the variety of clubs and activities the group was managing. ICA: Ibis Clubs & Activities more accurately reflected the organization while maintaining a connection to the original name, Ibis Cultural Association.  ICA has become the new abbreviated and popular identity for the group.

Mrs. Judie Budnick, the current ICA chair, expressed, “ICA had a strong basis from which to grow, thanks to its founders. I believe ICA has added to the overall well-being and uniqueness of Ibis.  Throughout the years hundreds of volunteers have willingly shared their talents and time to enhance and enrich the lifestyle of Ibis members. We are proud and grateful for all of them.”

Following are excerpts from a smattering of the ICA Board Members and Chairpersons as to why they volunteer:

A Knotty Habit & Ibis Fishing:

Jesse Faber, Secretary of ICA stated, "I think what makes Ibis a standout Club, better than most, is the Ibis Club & Activities Program.” Jesse welcomes the opportunity to oversee A Knotty Habit, Ibis a Fishing, Knitting for Charity, and Food with Friends because these groups enjoy sharing their knowledge and experience with others. Giving his time to be an integral part of an organization that completes the Club at Ibis’ active lifestyle experience beyond sports, with a broad array of cultural, educational, and creative/artistic programming is truly a unique experience.

 

Marty Singer and Diane Penner found themselves having to drop out of their sports activities due to various orthopedic issues. When asked why he volunteered, Marty shared, “I realized that for over a decade, we had mostly allowed other people to do the heavy lifting of organization, leadership, and promotion of the vast array of wonderful activities and experiences offered through the ICA only contributing by being participants and offering suggestions when solicited.” After attending a Food with Friends (FWF) experience, they were hooked and looked forward to future dining opportunities and meeting new friends. Marty feels good knowing that while they continue to support Ibis Charities and other organizations, he wants to do something to help other people enjoy the fantastic “Ibis Experience”.

Peni Weinstein, who is new to Ibis, enjoys creating beaded jewelry and wants to share her passion with others.  She went to the Club’s Website and clicked on ICA. She found the link for the form needed for proposing new ICA groups or activities…and the rest is history. Because Peni felt ICA needed to expand its craft offerings, Ibis now has Seed Bead Jewelry Classes at both the beginner and intermediate levels.

 

When you first moved to Ibis, did you ever expect to have the opportunity to perform on a stage in New York?  Neither did some lucky and talented Ibis Playreaders, but ICA Board Member, David Rafaidus, spearheaded such opportunities. David feels that stepping onto a stage and performing in front of an audience requires a huge amount of confidence and self-esteem. Therefore, he volunteers his time with the Ibis Playreaders to:

Question: What's a great activity to participate in during inclement weather or after dark? Answer: Table Tennis [ping pong]!  Having grown up in the northeast, Robert (Bob) Schwartz enjoyed ping-pong in his house and at the local club.  So, imagine his surprise when he recently moved to Florida and found no organized table tennis opportunities available in the Palm Beaches and certainly no basements in which to set up a table!  It is competitive, fun, and a surprisingly great source of exercise! The idea was enthusiastically supported by ICA which allowed him to launch a Table Tennis Club.

Sometimes in life, things find you… Jamie Allison grew up loving cars and spent his career at Ford in the car business, including motorsports. So, it was natural when he moved to Ibis to join The Car Club at Ibis.   He enjoys the inclusiveness and camaraderie of its members who all share a love of cars. Jamie is now the chair of the group and is happy to spread the joy its members bring to the entire community with family events like the annual Thanksgiving Day parade and the Car Show & Ice Cream Social.

When Wendy Katzen was asked why she volunteers to teach the Actors’ Studio Classes, her answer was simple, “I love the theatre – I love being “an actor” – I love sharing my years of experience”. She has no regrets about starting the classes, as the participants are displaying the energy, enthusiasm, and warmth that she had hoped they would. Wendy is hoping that this class will lead to even more interest and perhaps Ibis will be the very first country club community in the area to have its own full production theatre.

Marla Shainman, Co-Creator, and current Co-Chair of Book Buzz, served as a Board member and Secretary of the ICA. While The Club at Ibis is home to many small “invited” book clubs, Marla recognized the need for an all-inclusive book discussion group, especially for new members seeking like-minded readers. In 2019 Book Buzz was launched and today, Abby Ptachik joins Marla as co-chair. These ladies generously give their time and skills to create a positive impact on the Ibis community.

Upon becoming an Ibis resident, Ellen Brown was awe-struck that the club offered an extensive list of interesting activities besides sports. When she read about Memoirs - Bits and Pieces of Your Life, she immediately joined the group. Ellen felt the walk down memory lane provided her an opportunity for her children to get to know her better. In turn, as the club’s new facilitator, she will afford members the avenue to record their past interests and experiences as well.

Nancy Wiesenfeld is leading the French Club because of her love of the language and passion for helping others communicate effectively in French, enhancing and enriching their travels to any French-speaking country.  Additionally, Nancy serves as the Chair of Off-Campus Events for ICA. She had a desire to become familiar with the numerous educational, entertaining, and cultural activities outside of but near Ibis.  Through ICA and Nancy’s leadership, ibis residents can visit those wonderful places and meet new friends. 

The Arts Ibis Committee, led by Joy Rudy, manages ICA’s Visual Arts Programs & Exhibits. Joy has been involved with ICA since its infancy, attending one of the very first meetings held in Edie Tall’s home about 19 years ago. Over the years, Joy has actively participated in most of our Annual Art Shows, Monthly Renaissance Room Art Exhibits, and Craft Shows.  Joy feels honored to have a position that enables her to explore the fresh and new artworks of our incredibly talented Ibis members.

Penny Blom, President of the Ibis Photography Club has been a member for 10 years.  Penny stated, “I joined the club as a beginner photographer and was provided with instruction, support, and encouragement.  When I became President, my vision for the club became clear: To present countless opportunities for all members to sharpen their skills, experience camaraderie, share their success stories, and expose them to the creative world of photography.  With it came the fulfillment of a purpose for my passion for photography.”

“ICA has been so successful because of our incredible volunteers and collaborative team. We are very appreciative of the support and assistance from The Club at Ibis' Board of Directors, the Club Administration, the Social and Communications Departments, and the Concierge Staff.  Together we can provide “Ibis an Enriched Place to Call Home”, proudly said Judie Budnick.

ICA invites you to get involved as participants, activity leaders, and/or assistants. Suggestions for new and exciting clubs and activities are warmly welcomed. ICA is an all-volunteer, member-driven organization. Offering quality supplemental activities and opportunities takes volunteer effort.  Please reach out to our ICA Chairperson, Judie Budnick, at judiesbudnick@yahoo.com or to any of our group leaders or Board members to find out how you can be a part of this amazing group of member volunteers. 

                   

WE WELCOME AND NEED YOU!