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Wellington Garden Club Meeting to Feature a Presentation on Succulents

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Wellington Garden Club Meeting to Feature a Presentation on Succulents

Wellington Garden Club (WGC) will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, September 8th at the Wellington Community Center, at 12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd. The meeting will feature a presentation by Kimberly Helms, at 10:00AM, on succulents. She is the owner of Bountiful Bonsai & Sensational Succulents. Most of her succulents are grown at her state certified nursery.Years ago, Kimberly Helms started taking cuttings from her own large succulent rock garden to make container gardens.Her friends liked them and wanted to buy them, thus began her business.  

The presentation will explain what succulents are and how they are classified by their different characteristics and how different societies have valued them throughout time.She will explain the role they played in Early American and European history and also discuss their economic, medical, and cultural value.Kimberly Helms will also discuss how succulents impact today’s society.

The community is invited to join the club for coffee and a plant raffle beginning at 9:30AM.Visitors are asked to check in at the desk upon arrival.Reserving a spot at the meeting is recommended.Please contact the Wellington Garden Club membership chair, Anne Hlasnicek,at 561-379-5752.  

Wellington Garden Club, founded in 1981, is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating its members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, floral design, and landscape design; and to promoting conservation of natural resources, civic beautification, and youth education.For more information: www.wellingtongardenclub.org.

Hurricane Preparedness: Pet Edition

Hannah Deadman-Arnst
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Hurricane Preparedness: Pet Edition

Story and Photo by Hannah Deadman-Arnst

In South Florida, it’s not a matter of *if* another hurricane makes landfall, but when. In addition to ensuring your gas tank is full and your windows are shuttered, it’s critical to make sure your pets also stay safe. Read on for several ways to keep your furry friends safe in the event of a storm.

Create a Pet Emergency Kit
It’s important to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. To save time, build a “go bag” full of the essentials you and your pet need. Include items like food, fresh water, important medications, vet records, litter or poop bags, carriers, and first-aid items. Update or refresh the food, water, and medicine every so often so your bag is ready year-round. Don’t forget to add your pet’s favorite blanket or toy and, if needed, pet-friendly CBD, a Thundershirt, or other stress-reducing items to keep them calm.

Pro tip: Create a checklist on your phone or in a notepad to make sure you have everything you need. This American Kennel Club list is a good place to start!

Keep Records Current
Another key component to hurricane preparedness is keeping documentation updated. Vet records and contact information, proof of ownership, medical instructions, emergency contacts, and microchip numbers are all critical. Also, make sure your pet’s collar has current information on it (like the right phone number) and that the microchip is registered with your correct address. Recent photos are also helpful—in case you need to find your pet in the event you get separated.

Pro tip: Keep digital and hard copies (in a waterproof box or folder) of your pet’s records, photos, and other information.


Have an Evacuation Plan
It’s crucial to have a route planned if you need to leave the area quickly. Before embarking, create a list of potential stops like pet-friendly emergency shelters or hotels. Google Maps is an easy way to do this. Don’t forget to verify your list a couple of times a year to confirm the accommodations are still accurate. Finally, contact a trusted family member or friend who can pick up your pets, just in case you’re out of town or can’t get home in time before the evacuation needs to happen.

Pro tip: It’s a good idea to have a backup route in mind; potential road closures or traffic may stop you from being able to take your primary route.

Get Pets Used to Travel
Practice loading your animals into the car quickly, going on longer drives, and being in new environments outside of your home or neighborhood. It’s also important to have crates and go bags ready to load into your car. For smaller animals like birds, hamsters, or fish, there may be special considerations for safe travel. Also, make sure your pets can easily adjust to being in new spaces. This can make an already stressful experience go more smoothly for everyone.

Pro tip: You may not always have to evacuate. Be sure to bring pets inside at the first sign of a storm to keep them safe!

Hurricanes are never fun—but hurricane prep is essential to keeping your pets safe. For more emergency preparedness tips, visit www.ready.gov/pets or click here.

Armory Art Center Now Accepting Artist Applications

Litzi Aguilar
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Armory Art Center Now Accepting Artist Applications

Armory Art Center Opens Call to Artists for Annual Creative Market this November

West Palm Beach, Fla. (August 11, 2025) — The Armory Art Center is now accepting artist applications for participation in the 9th year of its juried art festival. The Creative Market will take place at the Armory Art Center’s historic campus November 8 and 9, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

The market will showcase a wide array of artisans, styles, and wares—plus performing artists and delicious craft food and beverages for guests to enjoy. Located within walking distance of CityPlace in downtown West Palm Beach, Antique Row, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, and the Norton Museum of Art, the market hosts nearly 5,000 visitors every year.

The Creative Market will also include a special Juried Art Exhibition, “Full Circle,” which runs Nov. 3 through Dec. 27, 2025.

“The Armory Art Center looks forward to welcoming many talented artists & vendors from across the country to showcase their works and talents at our world-class market,” said Jill Brown, CEO. “This is the perfect opportunity to sell goods to guests who are ready to shop in and enjoy one of Florida’s most vibrant cultural destinations.”

How to Apply:

Artists are invited to apply inbasketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable art, wood, leather, sculpture, painting, printmaking, and more. The show is limited to approximately 150 exhibitors, chosen by a jury of highly qualified 2D and 3D fine artists and craftspeople. The artist application deadline is Sept. 19, 2025.

The Juried Art Exhibition will highlight the theme “Full Circle.”From oranges to eggs, tree rings to figure eights, artists will be challenged to close the loop, spiral out of control, and share their sphere of influence. The application deadline is Sept. 26, 2025. 

Performing artists and food & beverage vendors are also invited to submit their application by Sept. 12, 2025. 

To learn more about requirements or to apply, visit armoryart.org.

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About the Armory Art Center

Having served the community since 1986, the Armory Art Center’s art school, galleries, and events provide creative opportunities for artists and art enthusiasts to enhance their lives. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and its vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 12,000 visitors and about 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students of all ages and skill levels, with flexible class times and sessions that work for any schedule. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, sculpture, and welding are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. The Armory hosts up to eight annual exhibitions in three galleries. Exhibitions and special events are open to the public.

The Armory is a proud recipient of several awards in recent years, including The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.

For information, visit armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.

Wellington Art Society hosts their September Members Meeting with Featured Speaker KRISTIN MYERS

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Wellington Art Society hosts their September Members Meeting with Featured Speaker KRISTIN MYERS

5:30-7:45pm, Tuesday September 9, 2025

12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414

The Wellington Art Society is pleased to announce their September’s featured speaker, Kristen Myers who is a mixed media artist and illustrator whose work explores the intersection of spirit, nature, and feminine power.

Join us for a fun evening with a demo by our featured speaker, raffle prizes, artists spotlight, and refreshments

She is the creator of The Wild and The Divine, a visionary coloring and reflection book that invites readers into a healing journey through art, affirmation, and self-discovery. Her broader body of work includes fine art prints, illustrated merchandise, and personal commissions. Through Animals and Spirit, her studio and brand, she creates work that blends visual storytelling with emotional depth – inviting viewers into a space of reflection and connection. For more about our featured artist, please visit:

Website: https://www.animalsandspirit.com

Instagram: @animalsandspirit

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The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 43rd year.  It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. For further information about the Wellington Art Society, please visit our website at www.wasflorida.org or www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Back to School Improv Jam & Cocktail Mixer

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Back to School Improv Jam & Cocktail Mixer

 Attention Students and Faculty! 

You spoke, we listened. The Back 2 School Improv Jam has officially been rescheduled to Saturday, September 6th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Now, listen closely—because this is going on the test:

 All tickets MUST be purchased in advance through the PayPal link below.

 No tickets will be sold at the door. This is not a pop quiz you can cram for last minute.

The event is catered, seats are limited, and once the cafeteria’s full, that’s it.

So don’t wait until the final bell to get to class—no hall passes will be issued!

And if you’ve already purchased your ticket, relax—you’re on the roster. Your spot is secure.

That concludes today’s announcement. Now get back to learning… or pretending to.

Click the link to purchase your tickets:

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/EVV2Y4VDCM64G

The Symphonia – EBENUS: Concerto for Clarinet

Litzi Aguilar
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The Symphonia – EBENUS: Concerto for Clarinet

New York City and Paris Composers Collaborate on one Urgent Concert EBENUS to premier in South Florida this January.

(August 26, 2025)— Commissioned by Harvey and Virginia Kimmel, patrons of the South Florida-based chamber orchestra The Symphonia, the new concerto EBENUS: Concerto for Clarinet will receive its world premiere this January in Boca Raton. Co-composed by Grammy-winning Syrian clarinetist and composer Kinan Azmeh (based in New York City) and acclaimed French conductor and composer Christophe Chagnard (Paris-based), the work represents a rare collaboration between two internationally celebrated artists/composers.

The title, EBENUS, refers to the ebony wood traditionally used to make clarinets, a resource now under threat. Through this symbolism, the piece underscores how climate change reaches even into music, reminding us that the loss of natural materials could one day silence instruments themselves.

The premiere will be performed Jan. 24–25, 2026 at The Studio at Mizner Park, alongside Dvořák’s New World Symphony, which has been masterfully orchestrated for a chamber ensemble, while preserving the sonority and depth of a full symphonic orchestra. To learn more about The Symphonia, EBENUS and the upcoming concert season, visit thesymphonia.org.

About The SYMPHONIA 

The SYMPHONIA, recognized as the region’s premier chamber orchestra, provides high-quality classical music for the enjoyment and benefit of the South Florida community. Founded in 2004, The SYMPHONIA’S performances and educational outreach programs feature nationally and internationally acclaimed conductors and soloists, enhancing the cultural lives of area residents, with special emphasis on its younger citizens.  Follow on Instagram @TheSymphonia and on Facebook @SymphoniaBoca. More at thesymphonia.org.

The 9th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Event

Litzi Aguilar
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The 9th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Event
Carrie Bradburn/CAPEHART

NOMINATIONS HIGHLIGHT NONPROFIT
CAUSES, LEADERS, AND VOLUNTEERS
AT THE 9TH ANNUAL HATS OFF
NONPROFIT AWARDS FOR THEIR IMPACT AND PERFORMANCE

(West Palm Beach, Fla.) Wednesday, August 27, 2025-Nonprofits First proudly announces an outstanding number of nominations to honor the local nonprofit sector in Palm Beach County during the 9th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards on Thursday, October 9th, at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Cohen Pavilion.

Nominations were accepted for 13 total awards: Nonprofit of the Year Impact Award – Arts & Culture, Nonprofit of the Year Impact Award – Education, Nonprofit of the Year Impact Award – Environment & Animal Welfare, Nonprofit of the Year Impact Award – Family Services, Nonprofit of the Year Impact Award – Health & Wellness, Nonprofit Innovation Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Nonprofit Executive of the Year Award, Nonprofit Professional of the Year Award, Nonprofit MVP of the Year Award, Community Hero Award, Community Collaborator Awards, and Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year Award. Special thanks for the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County for sponsoring the Arts & Culture Impact Award for the third year. We are grateful to FPL for being the first sponsor of the Impact Award for Education.

Nonprofits First received over 160 nominations for 13 awards. In addition to this, two special awards will be announced live: the highly anticipated Best Hat Award and the People’s Choice Award. For the first time, voting for the People’s Choice Award will open ahead of the event, allowing the public to cast their votes beginning September 15. All organizations nominated for our five Impact Awards will automatically be considered for the People’s Choice honor. To make voting easy and accessible, social media posts will feature QR codes and direct links, empowering the community to support their favorite agency.

“During these challenging times, our nonprofit sector has demonstrated that partnership is not just a tactic—it’s a testament to our shared purpose. The overwhelming response to the Community Collaborators Award reflects a powerful spirit of unity, innovation, and mutual support. More than 80 agencies have come together, not just to serve, but to reimagine what’s possible when we lead with unity and collaborate with intention,” said Trudy Crowetz, President & CEO of Nonprofits First.

The 9th Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards celebrate nonprofits in Palm Beach County who dedicate themselves to making our community a better place to live and work, so they deserve to be honored. The honorees from the past Hats Off Nonprofit Awards will be recognized as part of the evening.

The fun evening will kick off with celebratory music by the nonprofit organization Digital Vibez. The party continues with special guest emcee Bill Bone. Attire is business and cocktail. Guests are encouraged to wear a hat of any kind, big or small, and can be as creative as they wish. Tickets include food and drinks catered by The Lessing’s Hospitality Group, and parking in the covered garage will be $10 per vehicle.

Tables of ten are on sale for Nonprofits First’s members at $2,000 and for nonmembers at $2,250, and sponsorships are also available at www.hatsoffawards.org. Individual ticket sales will go on sale Tuesday, September 2, for $200 (members) per person and $225 (nonmembers) per person. The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Calendar Listing:
5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 9th, at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Cohen Pavilion. This fundraising event will celebrate and honor Palm Beach County nonprofit causes, their professionals, and volunteers. For more information and tickets, visit www.hatsoffawards.org.

About Nonprofits First, Inc.:
Since 2005, Nonprofits First, Inc. has been the leading resource for strengthening the administrative and operational capacity of nonprofit organizations in the community. Comprised of experienced professionals, consultants, and volunteers, the vision of Nonprofits First is a community in which all nonprofits achieve their highest level of desired impact. For more information, visit www.nonprofitsfirst.org.

Dreamscapes Art Exhibition

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Dreamscapes Art Exhibition

Wellington Art Society Announces Art Reception and Awards Ceremony

5-7pm, Tuesday September 16, 2025

The Wellington Art Society proudly presents “DREAMSCAPES,” an Art Exhibition at the WELLINGTON COMMUNITY CENTER, located at 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard, Wellington, FL 33414.

The exhibition runs from Tuesday, August 12th to Monday, November 10th, 2025. The RECEPTION AND AWARDS CEREMONY will take place 5-7pm on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 

Docent Tours – People’s Choice Awards – Door Prizes – Boutique Items – Refreshments

Guest Judge, Jerilyn Brown to award 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners

43 original artworks by 18 local artists 

Free – Open Daily

THE ARTISTS

Ayesha DeLorenzo . Dinah Mirson . Elaine Weber .  Fred Stone . Halyna Albanese

Heather Bergstrom . Ida Perez .  Janine Gmitter . Kim Baily . Kris Dru Hilles . Lanzhi Wang

Lou Ann LaBohn . Philip S. Rappa . Rachel Robinson . Raymonde Talleyrand

Sue Slick Carlson .  Susan Oakes

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The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization in its 43rd year.  It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. For further information about the Wellington Art Society, please visit our website at www.wasflorida.org or www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Sunset in Paradise by Philip Rappa

Winter Equestrian Festival Surpasses Major Florida Sporting Events

Litzi Aguilar
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Winter Equestrian Festival Surpasses Major Florida Sporting Events
Above: Christian Kukuk (Germany) and Checker 47 Jump to Win Gold at Winter Equestrian Finale on Saturday, March 29, 2025 (Credit: sportfot)

Palm Beach County’s Winter Equestrian Festival Delivers $538.2M Economic Impact, Surpassing Major Florida Sporting Events

WELLINGTON, Fla., Aug. 26, 2025 — In a report conducted after the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF), $538.2 million in economic impact was cited for Palm Beach County as a result of the 13-week event running January through March. WEF attracts 31,000 competitors from over 50 countries and all 50 states to Palm Beach County each year. 

The report was prepared for the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, a private, not-for-profit organization that Palm Beach County contracts to promote and market the area as a sports tourism destination.  The findings showed a 33% increase from the 2024 impact of $403.6 million, reinforcing WEF as a marquee event in the equestrian realm and a major economic driver for Palm Beach County.  

“We are by far the No. 1 sport in Palm Beach County, and a lot of people count on our continued success. Our priority is to make this the very best experience possible—and that starts with horse sport,” said Murray Kessler, CEO of Wellington International.

Total Economic Impact from the 2025 WEF Season:  

  • Increase in Total Economic Impact: $134.6 million brought to Palm Beach County’s GDP, a 33% growth rate from the 2024 WEF Economic Impact Report. More than doubled last year’s 14% growth from 2023  
  • Job Creation: 4,869 jobs were created across multiple industries, a 28% increase from 2024.  
  • Labor Earnings: A total of $153.9 million in labor earnings was generated throughout the economy with employees earning an average wage of $31,690, a 30% increase from the previous year.  
  • Lodging Industry: WEF 2025 generated 210,911 paid room nights, a 30% increase from 2024. 

Primary Economic Drivers:    

  • Total Horse Expenditures: The $338.68 million GDP growth (a 13% increase from WEF 2024) accounts for 63% of the total GDP impact. 
  • Participant & Spectator Tourism Expenditures: Equivalent to $109 million and accounting for 37% of the total GDP impact. 
  • Spectator Impact: Combined spectator expenditure generated $88 million in local GDP, up dramatically from last year’s $8 million.  
  • Spending by Non-Resident Participants and Spectators: Indicating a high percentage of spending by visitors in the region. 

How the Winter Equestrian Festival Compares to Other Major Florida Sporting Events 

Sporting Event Economic ImpactAnnual Economic Impact County 
Winter Equestrian Festival $536.2M Palm Beach 
Miami Grand Prix (Formula 1) $505M Miami‑Dade 
MLB Spring Training $79M Palm Beach 
Cognizant Classic $40M Palm Beach 

Looking Ahead to 2026


The Winter Equestrian Festival is not only one of the largest annual equestrian competitions in the world but also a cornerstone of Palm Beach County’s sports tourism economy. With participation on the rise and economic impact at record levels, Wellington International remains committed to raising the bar.

WEF 2026, scheduled for December 31 through March 29, will feature more than $16 million in prize money and mark the next phase of Wellington International’s long-term vision. Significant venue upgrades and world-class amenities are planned to enhance the experience for riders, spectators, and sponsors alike. These investments ensure that Wellington continues to set the global standard as the premier destination for horse sport for generations to come.

Read the full 2025 Economic Impact Report here: https://media.wellingtoninternational.com/media/ws0dv1tb/economic-impact-of-the-2025-wef-7-27-2025.pdf

iTHINK Community Foundation Donates to Support Homeless Children

Litzi Aguilar
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iTHINK Community Foundation Donates to Support Homeless Children

ITHINK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION DONATES $10,000 TO LITTLE BIRTHDAY ANGELS TO SUPPORT HOMELESS CHILDREN

Delray Beach, FL (Monday, August 25, 2025)—The iTHINK Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of iTHINK Financial, is proud to announce a $10,000 donation to Little Birthday Angels, a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating the birthdays of homeless children on Florida’s Treasure Coast.

This generous contribution will directly support Little Birthday Angels’ various programs, including their “Birthday Bags of Hope” initiative, which provides homeless children with personalized birthday gifts and essential items. The funds will help ensure that even more children in shelters, transitional housing, and domestic violence facilities can receive a birthday celebration. Each birthday bag includes essential items like toiletries, socks, a Bible, and gifts, bringing joy and dignity to children facing hardships.

“Every homeless child deserves to feel special on their day,” said Stephen Johnson, AVP of Administration and Marketing at iTHINK Financial. “Our donation to Little Birthday Angels is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to support local children and families in need, ensuring that even those who may be facing hardships can experience joy and celebration on their special day.”

The iTHINK Community Foundation has a long history of supporting children and families in need through initiatives such as School Ready Days, scholarships, community events, and the Jingle Bells at the Branches holiday program. This partnership with Little Birthday Angels underscores the Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of children in the communities it serves.

About iTHINK Financial:

ITHINK Financial, established in 1969, is a growing and dynamic credit union, with more than 100,000 Members worldwide and over $2 billion in assets. A credit union is a not-for-profit financial institution that is owned by its Members. Credit unions generally offer high-yield deposits, low interest-rate loans and low fee structures. iTHINK Financial offers a complete range of products and services including: Checking and Savings accounts, Money Market accounts, Certificates, IRAs, First and Second Mortgages, Car Loans, Visa® Credit Cards, Business Accounts, Business Loans, Business Services, and much more.

The iTHINK Community Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization registered in the state of Florida, Registration #CH47200.

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

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