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‘I always had a mission’: How LeBron James, 41, has maintained peak performance
By Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times
LOS ANGELES — Slowly, LeBron James put on a pair of ice bath toe booties and dipped his left foot and then his right foot into a bucket that had been prepared for him following a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena. His longtime personal trainer and athletic performance coach, Mike Mancias, next wrapped both of James’ knees and his back in ice.
James closed his eyes for a few seconds and leaned back in his chair as the media gathered around him for his postgame interview.
This was just another step James has taken to care for his body, a step that shows the lengths he takes in the maintenance of his 6-foot-9 frame that has helped him have an illustrious 23-year career, longer than any player before him.
“Obviously I didn’t know it would be 23 years. I didn’t know that, but I know I didn’t want to have no six- or seven-year career. I can’t become legendary in six or seven years,” James told The Los Angeles Times. “I always had a mission. When I knew I could play this game at a high level, like, going to Chicago and playing with MJ [Michael Jordan] and all those guys when I was a sophomore [in high school]. And then when I went up to Cleveland and played against the Cavs when I was a junior and I was like, ‘Oh … I belong. I belong.’ I knew I still had to learn and I still had to continue to get my body right, continue to learn the game and nuances.
“But I was playing against NBA guys for a long time and I was like, ‘If I get the opportunity to crack the league, if I get the opportunity to showcase what I’m able to do, the only thing that can stop me is if I don’t take care of my body. The only thing that can stop me from being the greatest or one of the greatest to ever play this game is if I do not take care of myself.’ I did take care of my body. That’s it.”
James’ dedication to self care has become legendary in the sporting world. He is known to invest more than $1.5 million annually for a comprehensive approach to keeping his body fine-tuned.
James considers himself a biohacker: someone who uses science and technology to make their body function better and more efficiently.
He talked about using Normatec leg compression boots, hyperbaric chambers to restore oxygen, cryotherapy, red-light therapy and other cutting-edge technologies to maintain elite performances and longevity at the age of 41.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots as Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson (31), forward Daniel Gafford (21) and forward P.J. Washington defend during the first half on Thursday in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)He talked about prioritizing sleep and nutrition, avoiding artificial sugars and fried foods.
When he missed the first 14 games this season because of sciatica, James cut back on drinking wine, one of his passions, in order to get his body back to full health.
“Obviously it’s gotten even more detailed as me and Mike have built a program,” James said. “It’s been 22 years of our program.”
It has worked for James to the highest order, as he has become the leading scorer in NBA history with 42,975 points.
Though his streak of being voted as a starter to the All-Star team was snapped at 21 years in a row, James still extended his NBA record to 22 selections when the coaches voted him in as a reserve for Sunday’s game at Intuit Dome.
Over his career, James said, he’s received plenty of offers to try new ways to do his physical therapy. For the most part, he has said no.
“It’s all type of … that is presented to you,” James said, smiling. “[People] are always trying to get you to do s—. But once we got the connection, it wasn’t really many people that we allowed to come and be in what we do. We had a couple of guys obviously throughout the process that helped along the way. But, nah, we knew what we wanted to do.”
When James was growing up in Akron, Ohio, and it became obvious he was athletic, he said his uncle, Curt, encouraged him to start taking care of his body immediately. His mother, Gloria, advised him to listen.
“I used to stretch before I went to bed and when I woke up, when I was like 10 or 11 years old,” James said. “My uncle Curt, my mom’s younger brother, used to make me do 100 calf raises a day and he used to make me do 50 pushups and 50 situps a day.”
James shook his head and laughed recalling those moments.
“He told me I had to get my calves stronger if I wanted to be great,” James said, smiling. “I never knew what that meant, whatever. But yeah, my uncle used to tell me to do that, and then a good friend of mine used to always tell me to stretch before I got in the bed and after I got out of the bed when I woke up the next morning. I don’t know, man. I’ve been doing this for a long time.”
At no time during all this did James know what that advice would mean for his future.
“No, but I had people that I trusted,” James said. “I was icing after every game my rookie year. I was 18 years old. I was icing after games when I was a high school senior, a high school junior. Like, I was lifting [weights] my senior year.”
James told a story about playing in an AAU tournament with Kendrick Perkins when he was 14 and how some players were sitting in the stands eating fast food.
“They were eating McDonald’s,” James said, smiling, “and I was eating fruits.”
Jason Kidd, the Hall of Fame point guard who’s now coach of the Dallas Mavericks, was an assistant with the Lakers when James led them to the 2020 championship, and the two were teammates on the 2008 USA Olympic team that won the gold medal in Beijing.
Kidd has watched how James is averaging 22 points on 50.2% shooting, 7.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds this season and can’t help but marvel at how he continues to be a highly effective player with so many miles on his body.
“He’s had some injuries, but he’s taken care of his body, he’s always prepared himself for the marathon,” Kidd said. “But I think it’s the mental side. I think that’s the hardest part is to wake up and say, ‘Do I need to go play against a 20-year-old or a 19-year-old?’ He’s won championships, he’s been MVP, he’s been the face of the league. He’s a billion-dollar company.
“So, it’s the mental side. Understanding that he loves competition and he loves the game of basketball. So I think for him to do it at 41 is incredible.”
When the Lakers faced Kidd’s Mavericks on Thursday night, James was back in the lab early getting his body ready about six hours before tipoff.
It didn’t matter that it was the last game before the weeklong All-Star break. In James’ eyes, if you take care of your body, it will take care of you.
“I woke up this morning, went straight downstairs, got a stretch, did a little activation, like a little small lil’ lift” of weights, James said after the game. “Then I iced after that. Then I used the Normatec to pump my legs for an hour. Then I took a nap in the hyperbaric chamber for an hour and a half. Then I got in the cold tub, again, before I came here. So, I started my process here when I got here at 1:15 and prepared for a 7 o’clock game. It’s just around the clock.”
And as it turned out, all his work led to yet another record for James.
His triple-double of 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds made him the oldest player to accomplish the feat, pushing him past Karl Malone, who was 40 when he did it in November 2003.
And now comes another record with the All-Star Game.
UCF stumbles in second half against West Virginia, drops third straight
A Valentine’s Day showdown at Addition Financial Arena was supposed to help UCF feel the love again after a recent two-game slide. Instead, the Knights had their hearts broken as West Virginia rallied from a 14-point second-half deficit to pull out a 74-67 win on Saturday.
The loss was painful not only because it was the third in a row, but it put the Knights’ postseason hopes in peril. The team had been on track to earn an NCAA Tournament berth for the first time since the 2018-19 season, but those hopes are starting to evaporate.
West Virginia (16-9, 7-5 Big 12) went on a 28-13 run over the final 8 minutes to pull away with the win.
UCF (17-7, 6-6 Big 12) opened the second half on a 22-9 run to build up a double-digit advantage, but struggled to find an answer for the Mountaineers. The Knights continued their February swoon, falling to 5-13 overall in the month since joining the Big 12 two seasons ago.
“We didn’t execute,” UCF coach Johnny Dawkins said. “Coming down the stretch, you give them a lot of credit; that’s how they won a lot of their basketball games. We knew going in that we had to stay focused, but we didn’t sustain it. We didn’t sustain it in the second half as needed.”
WVU guard Honor Huff scored 18 of his team-high 21 points in the second half, including 10 points in the final 5 minutes. Guard Jasper Floyd added 17 and guard Chance Moore had 12.
Themus Fulks led UCF with 19 points and 7 assists, while Riley Kugel had 13 and Jordan Burks and Chris Johnson had 10 apiece.
After struggling to get off to fast starts in losses to Houston and Cincinnati, Kugel’s 30-footer to open play seemed like the right step for the Knights. But four early turnovers — three by point guard Fulks — over the first four minutes limited the damage against West Virginia.
UCF missed six of its next seven shots before a Fulks’ layup and foul, which helped the Knights retake the lead at 10-8 with 12:58 left in the half.
Show Caption1 of 25UCF guard Riley Kugel (middle) drives through West Virginia defenders Amir Jenkins (left) and Morris Ugusuk (right) during the West Virginia at UCF college basketball game in Orlando on Saturday, February 14, 2026. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel) ExpandWest Virginia, however, stormed back to retake the lead, connecting on four of its next six shots to build an 18-15 advantage with 7:45 left. The Mountaineers relied on their size throughout much of the evening, scoring 38 of their 74 points in the paint.
UCF went on a 7-0 run late in the first half, fueled in part by center John Bol, who scored 4 points and blocked 2 shots in a three-minute period. The Knights built their largest lead at 29-24, but went scoreless for the final 2:22, allowing WVU to cut the advantage to 29-28 at the half.
UCF started the second half with a 23-10 run that helped the team soar to its largest lead of the game at 52-38 with 11:27 left in the game.
West Virginia responded with a run of its own — 21-7 — tying the game at 59 with 5 minutes remaining.
“This group’s been in these positions before and typically, we do a good job of not panicking,” West Virginia coach Ross Hodge said.
“We didn’t sustain the lead at all,” added a dejected Burks following the loss.
West Virginia shot 54% from the floor in the second half, while UCF shot 47%.
The Knights were without senior forward Jamichael Stillwell, who missed only his second game of the season. Dawkins said Stillwell injured himself during practice and was day-to-day.
UCF must rebound quickly as the Knights wrap up a two-game homestand by hosting TCU (7 p.m., ESPN+) on Tuesday.
“We have a talk about playing winning basketball, playing the right way, not to get out of character,” Dawkins said when asked about avoiding frustration setting in. “We know everybody means well. Everyone wants to help us be successful. But we don’t need hero ball. We need to play together. We need everybody fighting this fight in the same way, fighting our fight and that’s when we’ve had the most success.”
Please find me on X, Bluesky or Instagram @osmattmurschel. Email: mmurschel@orlandosentinel.com. Sign up for the Sentinel’s Knights Weekly newsletter for a roundup of all our UCF coverage.
Pictures: UCF vs West Virginia College Basketball
Show Caption1 of 25UCF guard Riley Kugel (middle) drives through West Virginia defenders Amir Jenkins (left) and Morris Ugusuk (right) during the West Virginia at UCF college basketball game in Orlando on Saturday, February 14, 2026. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)
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Heat’s ‘Showtime’ Keshad Johnson wins dunk contest at NBA All-Star Weekend
Delivering the same energy to the All-Star Saturday dunk contest he has delivered the past two years on the practice court and during mop-up duty in games, second-year forward Keshad Johnson on Saturday became the third player in the Miami Heat’s 38 seasons to win the competition.
“I dreamed of every year I was watching the NBA Dunk Contest, I dreamed of being out there, putting on a show for everybody,” Johnson said. “I learned from all the people that came before me, paying homage to them.”
Joining former Heat champions in the event Harold Miner and Derrick Jones Jr., Johnson defeated San Antonio Spurs rookie forward Carter Bryant in the final round of the competition at the Intuit Dome, the Inglewood, Calif., home of the Los Angeles Clippers.
“Everybody’s journey is different,” said Johnson, “so all the kids out there, keep dreaming, have crazy, crazy faith.
“Once you’re in a dream, you control your dream, you can do anything in your dream. I felt like the fans were with me.”
Nicknamed Showtime for his relentless energy and enthusiasm, the forward who went undrafted out of Arizona in 2024 turned Sunday’s All-Star Game court into his personal Saturday stage.
“I just came out here and showed the people who Showtime was,” he said in accepting his winner’s trophy. “This is for the whole West Coast right here, baby.
“In the Bay, we do it a little different. We’ve got our own little swag. So I had to bring the legend.”
Opening the competition with a Karl Malone-style dunk while jumping over platinum-selling rapper and actor E-40 from his childhood neighborhood in Oakland, Calif., Johnson utilized that energy to win over the crowd and eventually a panel of judges that included dunking legends Julius Erving and Dominique Wilkins.
“E-40 was a part of the plan,” Johnson said. “My big bro Ethan, he made a call to E-40 and we got Unc on board and he was ready. He was ready. The love and respect that he gave me just to take time out of his day to be involved in this, I can’t ask for nothing better.”
Johnson and Bryant advanced to the final round, with Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes and Orlando Magic guard Jase Richardson eliminated in the first-round in the four-player competition.
It was a whirlwind of a week for Johnson, who learned of his invitation to the competition just hours before being sent down to the G League by the Heat for two games of seasoning with the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
“My journey, coming from Oakland, being able to put on for the Bay, going through my upbringing and everything. I beat the odds. I beat the odds,” Johnson said moments after winning the competition. “And I’m here, I’m here. I dreamed of being here each and every day. So once I got that call, I committed to it.”
Keshad Johnson’s swag was on a MILLION as a he walked out and dunked on E-40 in his first @att Slam Dunk!
Trailing by seven in final minute, visiting Miami scores last eight points to topple N.C. State
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Malik Reneau scored 26 points and Miami scored the last eight points of the game to beat North Carolina State 77-76 on Saturday night.
N.C. State scored seven straight points to take a 76-69 lead with 1:07 remaining. Then Reneau answered with a three-point play and Tru Washington added a layup to pull Miami to within 76-74 with 32 seconds left.
With 13 seconds to go, N.C. State’s Quadir Copeland missed a free throw. The Wolfpack’s Darrion Williams fouled Washington on a 3-point attempt on the following possession with three seconds remaining. Washington sank all three of his free-throw attempts before Matt Able missed a 3-pointer to end it.
Reneau shot 12 of 19 from the floor and grabbed six rebounds. Shelton Henderson added 17 points and nine boards for Miami (20-5, 9-3 Atlantic Coast Conference). Tre Donaldson chipped in with 14 points and Washington finished with 13 for the Hurricanes, who have won three straight and five of their last six games.
Able and Ven-Allen Lubin scored 17 points apiece to lead N.C. State (18-8, 9-4). Copeland and Williams added 11 points each. The Wolfpack have lost back-to-back games since they had their six-game win streak snapped with a 118-77 loss to No. 24 Louisville.
Able made three 3-pointers and scored 15 points, and Copeland and Lubin added nine apiece to help N.C. State build a 43-37 halftime lead. Reneau scored 16 points on 8-of-12 shooting to pace Miami in the first half.
Daily Horoscope for February 15, 2026
General Daily Insight for February 15, 2026
A fresh, wide view could be hard to handle today. With the emotional Moon entering Aquarius at 1:17 am EST, we may feel pulled toward community conversations that spark inventive ideas and build kinder bonds. That said, changing the status quo often requires letting go of dynamics we find comfortable. When Luna conjoins intense Pluto, our feelings about such shifts might burst out in unpleasant ways! There’s more to life than logic, but overwrought emotions are likely to pass if we let them.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
A social media fracas could be more complicated than it looks today. As the caring Moon meets life-and-death Pluto in your 11th House of Community, you may feel compelled to launch into action to defend an ally who has been mistreated. Maybe you can’t not do it, even if you aren’t totally sure of some of the facts. Your desire to be a protector is probably very powerful! Try to step back from it long enough to see whether it’s what this situation genuinely needs.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
Making big professional decisions could be risky at the moment. While the moody Moon blurs with powerful Pluto in your 10th House of Career, clarifying your role and long-term direction may be difficult. You might be drawn to a particular outcome for emotional reasons, but that energy doesn’t necessarily blend well with the need to price a project realistically or ask for a fair rate. It’s okay to enjoy a grand heroic fantasy — just recognize it for what it is!
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
Getting too bored is a bad idea at the moment. Curiosity widens your world as the intuitive Moon enters your 9th House of Higher Learning, stirring questions about subjects and plans that reach beyond your daily routine. However, as Luna encounters shady Pluto, you might become a little obsessive in trying to find out about the dark side of life. The lure of hidden information is powerful, but keep whatever you discover in perspective — weigh it against your own real-world experiences.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
Comfort grows when truths breathe in safety. The nurturing Moon unites with intense Pluto in your 8th House of Intimacy, encouraging honest talks about deep issues. You might review a shared account or open up about a sensitive worry with a loved one. Even when everyone is doing their best to be caring, these discussions often aren’t easy. If someone overreaches, calmly state boundaries and propose a fair plan for moving forward. Clarity paired with kindness heals misunderstandings faster than silence.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
Leo, your warmth lights rooms and hearts. Relationship dynamics could shift as the emotional Moon meets intimate Pluto in your 7th House of Partnership, inviting you to build agreements that honor both voices. If a partner, collaborator, or client pushes for control, reflect your generous nature by naming shared goals and suggesting fair roles, because clear structure protects affection. Plan a heartfelt check-in, and then offer appreciation that feels sincere, since praise opens doors that pressure often closes. Build balance now so love feels spacious.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
Meaningful course corrections are possible at this time. Your 6th House of Work gets a reset as the temperamental Moon enters, asking you to notice habits and timelines that need practical upgrades. A co-worker might drop a task, or a system glitch could slow you, exposing the weak links — and possibly really rattling you in the process. If health routines feel off, prep a nourishing lunch or take a brief walk, because order creates steady calm. Tend the basics so your day flows smoother.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
A break from routine can support your relationships today. Play invites honest feeling as the unconscious Moon enters your 5th House of Romance, highlighting simple moments of joy that bring hearts closer. Plan a lighthearted date or a family game, and let your diplomatic tone set easy rules so everyone feels seen. If someone fishes for attention, offer praise while naming your need for equal give and take, because harmony grows when kindness and clarity share space. Love breathes more freely when you’re having fun!
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
When depth calls, your focus sharpens naturally. Your 4th House of Home becomes a deep well as the nurturing Moon conjoins unearthing Pluto there, encouraging you to cleanse closets and clear emotional dust. If a family member reveals a buried worry, listen closely, name what is true, and suggest a practical change that restores peace. Rearranging a room or taking a quiet walk together could also help break up an atmosphere cramped with heavy feelings. Create safety now so tenderness can unfold.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
Which horizon tempts your curious steps now? Your 3rd House of Communication buzzes when the instinctive Moon enters, inspiring quick messages and neighborly chats that brighten your day. If a plan changes, your upbeat flexibility is equipped to turn detours into discoveries. You might become very interested in a subject that you just happen upon by accident. That said, don’t uncritically accept every piece of mental clutter that comes your way — try to have a sense of your basic priorities.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
Capricorn, your steady plans deserve support. Figuring out how to get it might be a challenge while the moody Moon conjoins turbulent Pluto in your 2nd House of Resources. Pricing a project realistically or asking for a fair rate may be difficult. Whether you go too high or too low, an unmet emotional need is likely the culprit. Try to get at the bigger fears that your feelings are pointing toward. Change is probably needed, but think things all the way through first..
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
You’re likely to feel magnetic today. The unconscious Moon fuses with dark Pluto in your 1st House of Identity, and their meeting in your sign amplifies your presence. You might as well seize the opportunity to craft a bold introduction, update a profile, or enter a room with a clear intention that sets the tone. If someone projects old expectations, kindly correct the label and show who you are now, because growth deserves breathing room. Own your story, and choices will follow naturally.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Quiet spaces could call loudly to you now. The intuitive Moon enters your 12th House of Spirituality, guiding you to rest, dream, and sort feelings that hide behind busyness. You might even notice old worries surfacing while washing dishes or listening to music. Try to write any anxieties down to get them out of your mind. A journaling session doesn’t have to be long and involved, though — sometimes it’s enough to just jot down the name of the problem and a gentle, compassionate next step!
Questionnaire: Stacy Sipple, candidate for Boca Raton City Council Seat D
Name: Stacy Sipple
Office sought: Boca Raton City Council – Seat D
Campaign website: www.stacyforboca.com
Date, place of birth: 01/27/1972 Boynton Beach, FL (Boca Raton did not have a
maternity unit at that time)
Generally speaking, is Boca Raton on the right track or the wrong track, and why?
I believe Boca Raton is shifting to the wrong track. Residents moved to Boca because it was unique and safe. We were on the smaller side, while still being a full-service city and offering every amenity you could want. We were not Ft. Lauderdale, we were not Miami. We had height restrictions, size restrictions and downtown buildings were expected to maintain the Mediterranean inspired look (e.g., clay tile roofs, limited glass percentage, specific color palettes) in recognition of the city’s historic architectural character. We were unique. A gem in the middle of overdevelopment.
Now, what has made us special is slowly disappearing. Our downtown looks like a hodgepodge of buildings, stuck wherever there was a postage sized piece of land left. No thought, no design, no plan. Now we are building up. What is thought of as “downtown” is about 344 acres or just over half a square mile. Yet, it is still not walkable. The daily essentials (e.g., groceries, drug stores, post office) require the use of a car. So, we have effectively overbuilt and ruined our unique aesthetic and increased traffic congestion. Residents that live within a mile or so from downtown avoid it because of the traffic. I know, I am one of them. We are currently in the process of approving more downtown residences and more hotels, most requiring variances and zoning changes. This constant expansion is not sustainable.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 1, and why? (police headquarters, public safety improvements)
AGAINST BONDS My main reason, at this time, is this requires us to issue bonds up to $175,000,000 plus interest and will be paid back from ad valorem taxes. There are current bills up for consideration, during the 2026 legislative session, in Tallahassee. In a worst-case scenario, our property taxes could be eliminated. How would we repay these bonds? It would be prudent to wait for the outcome, on the fate of property taxes, before making a large, costly decision such as this. We can then re-evaluate and decide the best course of action.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 2, and why? (Lease of downtown land, public improvements, Memorial Park)
NO First we need to see the results of the public vote, which I am thankful for. Public land = public vote. There is no question the area needs to be revitalized. The city can do it without handing over public land for a 99-year lease. We will need a visioning session with our residents to see what they would like to use the land for, especially east of 2nd Avenue. Memorial Park needs to be upgraded to a state-of-the-art athletic complex, with a focus on girls’ softball, as they always seem to lack appropriate fields to play on. It always HAS and WILL remain a memorial to our veterans.
The amount we are required to initially put up front for this project is ridiculous, especially when we will not see a profit for years and the amount is only based on speculation. Many do not remember the early Mizner Park years. We had a huge revenue difference concerning what was expected and what was actually received, nor do many remember the cost of maintenance and the lease agreements. The long-term lease terms of Mizner Park were in the agreements, and the courts later ruled that those terms legally encumbered the land, reducing its value. The City of Boca Raton lost because the lease itself became the encumbrance. We do not need another legal loss, to a developer, when it is our land. We own it, we can build on it and we will get all of the revenue, without involving a third party.
Are you satisfied that the ballot language approved by the City Council accurately reflects the details of the ballot questions?
Yes and No. Question #1 regarding the police department is pretty straight forward, but could be worded in a more basic manner. First time voters may not realize what some of the terminology means.
Question #2 regarding Memorial Park/Boca Raton City Center, LLC is on the reverse side of the ballot, making it very easy to miss. The wording sounds like the hundreds of advertisements we continuously receive via social media, mail, phone calls, “information sessions,” etc. It is a watered-down version of what we are constantly being brainwashed with. I am disappointed that the city had to scale down the initial wording, which was even more biased to the developer, and we still end up with a question that is misleading and placed in an easily missed location.
The Florida Legislature is considering proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes. Do you agree the taxes are too high, and what tax cut proposals do you support?
Boca Raton has one of the lowest millage rates in the county and most of the state. We cannot eliminate them and offer the services we do now. Homeowners that are now purchasing homes are experiencing huge property taxes due to the high property values. We have to figure out a way to offer additional homestead exemptions, perhaps based on an income sliding scale. We do not want to price people out. Not everyone is wealthy. We need everyday working families as much as every other resident, and we need to ensure they can afford to live here, especially with the high property values, property taxes and homeowners’ insurance. We also need to stop penalizing people that renovate or upgrade their homesteaded property, this could be based on years lived there. If you make some improvements, you get a re-appraisal by the property appraiser and your property taxes shoot through the roof. Raising sales tax just moves tax from one place to another. We need to focus on tax reform, but elimination would scale back many of the services, offerings and functions that make Boca Raton the best place to live and raise a family.
What most distinguishes you from your opponent(s)?
I am neither a politician nor on the Planning and Zoning Board. I have no ties to developers, and I will never take developer money. I am a native resident that wants to change the direction our city is moving in. I believe our residents have the right to determine the fate of public land by a referendum vote. I would like to see this reflected in an ordinance and the city charter. I will not be catering to developers over our residents. Our council (past and current) and Planning & Zoning Board have forgotten the residents and the impact we are feeling due to their leniencies on approvals, variances, zoning changes and more. Residents are the city’s largest asset and their voices should be heard. I want transparency and notifications increased. Project approval notifications are severely lacking and I will see that this is improved. This is not a political stepping stone for me or another political seat to warm. I am a native resident, watching the destruction of
my hometown. I am up against two men that have helped it occur, and I intend to fight to bring it back. If we don’t elect some sensible people to our council and turn this town around, we will be Fort Lauderdale and then Miami and will current residents stay or go? Our city is a gem and can still be saved. Saving means many things. We are at a crossroads. If we don’t turn in the right direction, our Boca Raton will be gone. Putting either of my opponents on the council defeats the
purpose of any real change. Boca Raton is worth fighting for. Please join me in saving our city and vote on March 10th.
List in reverse chronological order, starting with most recent, colleges and universities attended with years of attendance and degrees held.
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 1991 – 1998 Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy)
Palm Beach Community College (now Palm Beach State College) Boca Raton, FL 1990 – 1991 (part time) – no degree
List in reverse the chronological order your work history for the past 10 years.
Boca Raton Regional Hospital (Baptist) 2011 – 2023
Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details and disposition.
No.
Have you ever been charged or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.
No.
Questionnaire: Bernard Korn, candidate for Boca Raton City Council Seat A
Name: Bernard Korn
Office sought: Boca Raton City Council Seat A
Campaign website: www.electbernardkorn.com
Date, Place of birth: 1954, Manhatten, NY
Generally speaking, is Boca Raton on the right track or the wrong track, and why?
WRONG TRACK: Current Council Members and most Current Candidates controlled by Builders, Developers, Political Action Committees, Lobbyists and Special Interest Groups. See their Financial Contribution Lists on http://www.myboca.us (NOT LEADERS BUT PUPPETS ON A STRING)
How will you vote on ballot question No. 1, and why? (police headquarters, public safety improvements)
I genuinely support the police and first responders. The Current Council Members and Members of the Planning & Zoning Board failed to maintain our City Hall and Police Department. An investigation and Audit are in order. A better plan is needed by a New City Council and New Planning Board Members.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 2, and why? (Lease of downtown land, public improvements, Memorial Park)
A no vote.
The City Campus Project was poorly designed with absurd Financial Projections.
Are you satisfied that the ballot language approved by the City Council accurately reflects the details of the ballot questions?
Absolutely Not. Manipulated by City Council Members.
The Florida Legislature is considering proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes. Do you agree the taxes are too high, and what tax cut proposals do you support?
Yes, Boca Raton city taxes are too high.The incompetent City Council Members are not capable of financial budgets. A New COUNCIL TEAM is needed. We need to cut wasteful spending.
What most distinguishes you from your opponent(s)?
American Leader & Patriot, Trained and Certified Whistle Blower. (infragard.fbi.gov)
Licensed Real Estate Property Manager & Instructor. Expert in Urban Planning, Residential & Commercial Zoning Laws including, Statues, Rules and Regulations.
FICO 8 CREDIT SCORE: MAXIMUM SCORE is 850. BERNARD KORN CURRENT SCORE is 850
Chairman of Undiscovered Properties Finance & Loan Company. My Specialty is Large Scale Real Estate Development Projects throughout the world.
List in reverse chronological order, starting with most recent, colleges and universities attended with years of attendance and degrees held.
BROOKLYN COLLEGE: BACHELORS (4 YR) DEGREE IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & FINANCE
List in reverse the chronological order your work history for the past 10 years.
Founder and Chairman of the United States Franchise association
Licensed Residential Real Estate Broker & Instructor
Licensed Commercial Real Estate Broker & Instructor (www.brevitas.com)
Chairman of Travel Lines Express, International Hospitality Franchise Company
Co-founder Empowering Single Mothers Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity
Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details and disposition.
NEVER
Have you ever been charged or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.
NEVER
Parkland community marks eight years since Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy | PHOTOS
Show Caption1 of 16During the Eagles’ Haven 8th Commemoration of the Parkland Tragedy, families and friends take part in a dove release ceremony on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The Forever in Our Hearts Commemoration recognizing the 17 victims of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)ExpandThe Parkland and surrounding communities gathered Saturday at Eagles’ Haven to mark the eighth anniversary of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The “Forever in Our Hearts” commemoration included a candle lighting and a dove release to honor the 17 students and staff members lost on Feb. 14, 2018. The photo gallery captures moments of reflection from the memorial service, which brought together families of the victims, survivors, and local residents for a day of remembrance and unity.
Questionnaire: Christen Ritchey, candidate for Boca Raton City Council Seat A
Name: Christen Ritchey
Office sought: Boca Raton City Council, Seat A
Campaign website: www.christenritchey.com
Date, place of birth: 12/29/1979 in Louisville, KY
Generally speaking, is Boca Raton on the right track or the wrong track, and why?
Boca Raton is generally on the right track, although we are not immune to issues created by Washington and Tallahassee. The city continues to provide strong public safety, high-quality parks, and a stable economic environment that supports property values and local businesses. However, residents are increasingly concerned about traffic, flooding, infrastructure capacity, and maintaining neighborhood character. Thoughtful planning, transparent decision-making, and continued investment in infrastructure will be essential to ensuring the city stays on a positive path. And most importantly, having the revenue and action-oriented approach needed to get results and a responsible timeline.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 1, and why? (Police headquarters, public safety improvements)
I am voting yes on ballot question No. 1. Investing in public safety infrastructure is a core responsibility of local government. Doing so will ensure our police department has modern facilities and resources helps maintain safety, supports recruitment and retention, and protects quality of life for residents. The main police station should be centrally located and enhanced to support the increased number of residents since the current station was built in 1988.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 2, and why? (Lease of downtown land, public improvements, Memorial Park)
The revised plan is responsive to what the community has demanded, but the public vote is critical in having the final say. As long as the project remains transparent and fiscally responsible, I believe strategic public-private partnerships can enhance public spaces, create long-term community benefits, and improve downtown amenities while preserving important civic areas like Memorial Park. I will vote yes.
Are you satisfied that the ballot language approved by the City Council accurately reflects the details of the ballot questions?
I believe the ballot language reflects the general intent of the questions, but I also support continued transparency and public education so residents clearly understand the scope, costs, and long-term impact of each proposal before voting. I think the language could be written better with the financial benefits included, but that is probably true of most ballot questions.
The Florida Legislature is considering proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes. Do you agree the taxes are too high, and what tax cut proposals do you support?
Boca Raton, for the services we receive, has struck a reasonable balance on taxes. Remember, less than 25% of your tax bill is for the city, the rest is for the school district, county, and special districts. Property taxes are a concern for all residents, particularly those on fixed incomes. At the same time, these revenues fund essential services like police, fire, parks, and infrastructure. I support thoughtful, responsible tax relief that does not undermine public safety or city services. Any changes should be balanced, data-driven, and sustainable over the long term.
What most distinguishes you from your opponent(s)?
I have simply been much more involved in our community, with a far more positive approach. First, my experience serving the city from the Community Advisory Panel, the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and Boca Raton’s Planning & Zoning Board give me direct insight into how city policy affects neighborhoods, infrastructure, and quality of life.
Second, as a family law attorney and mediator I approach leadership with transparency, professionalism, and a commitment to listening and building consensus. Finally, I am not hyper-focused on one singular issue as my opponent is. I have a well-rounded view of what the City needs going forward.
List in reverse chronological order, starting with most recent, colleges and universities attended with years of attendance and degrees held.
University of Florida Levin College of Law — Juris Doctor
University of Florida — Bachelor of Science
List in reverse chronological order your work history for the past 10 years.
Johnson Ritchey Family Law, Co-Founder/Family Law Attorney — 2014 to the Present
Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details and disposition.
No.
Have you ever been charged or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.
No.
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