Monday, September 15, 2025
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All the Right Ingredients:  An Interview with Pizza Chef and Founder of Project Lighthouse Steve Traynor

By Denise Marsh

Who is Steve Traynor?  If you have ever had one of his mouth-watering pizzas at Village Music’s Trivia Night, then you know they cannot be beat!  But, there’s more than just the “toppings” with this guy!  Let’s dig right in …

AW:   Who inspired you to cook?

ST:My family has always been sort of a “foodie” family.  In high school I worked as a dishwasher at a French restaurant near my home.  I worked my way up to prep, then desserts and appetizers.  I learned a lot.  I guess you could say that’s where I first learned to really cook.  Before that I sort of experimented in the kitchen.   The restaurant gave me a good foundation to keep learning.

AW:  How did you get involved with the Pizza business (one of my favorite foods, being a New Yorker)?

ST:  I love pizza.  It’s really a universal force for good (LOL!)  I first got started with the pizza oven.  I found a startup company called “UUNI” on Kickstarter and they were selling pizza ovens for the home, and it was affordable.  I dabbled with that a bit, but really got serious during the pandemic.  With no place to go, and a shortage of bread, I started making my own and started working on the pizza skills.  As I started getting better and better at it, it seemed that this might become something that I could do for a hobby.  I made pizza for a friend of mine over at the Polo club and he convinced me that there was a business model in there somewhere.  The entire pizza restaurant is portable, so a popup was a perfect fit.  We then started thinking where we could do the initial popup, and Village Music came to mind.  They weren’t open on Mondays, so this was a great way to drive additional revenue for them and for me to sell pizza.  That’s also when I started to tie the pizza names into a music theme.  It was fun to get creative and run with it.  From there, the rest is history.

AW:  Do you cater private events or have your own restaurant?

ST: I don’t have a brick and mortar, and probably never will.  I believe that the key to the business is the ability to move around to different venues.  The freedom that the smaller, lighter oven gives me allows me to setup and break down quickly.  I do plan on catering in the future, but I must get the trailer built and hire some additional people.  Right now, I am my own bottleneck with my regular job.

AW: Is cooking something you take very seriously or more of a hobby?

 ST: I take it very seriously.  I am always trying to learn more.  I believe that the more we keep learning, the happier we are.  There is always something new to learn that helps you get better at something.  This constant growth is what keeps me happy.  I don’t think I would ever want to stop learning.

 AW: Are there any future plans for opening up a pizza place? Perhaps…a place that serves by the slice?  Okay. I will stop with the hints. One can dream!

ST:  LOL!  Not for now.  I like the small 12” pizza format.  I am considering how to turn some of them into calzones however.  The Brick and Mortar concept seems risky today with the way rent is skyrocketing.  I would like to prep and serve at several locations per day a few days a week with a small, dedicated crew. 

AW:  I understand that you are very passionate about another project you have initiated that will enrich the lives of Wellington residents as well as its surrounding areas.  Can you please tell us more about Project Lighthouse ?

ST:  Project Lighthouse is an amazing group of dedicated and talented people.  I have learned so much about the performing arts and the tremendous talent we have in our own Village.  We believe that a performing arts center would be a very positive addition to our Village and bring in not only more revenue for the Village, but more importantly, provide a space to enjoy the arts, not just performances, but artwork from our local artists.  We managed to find a developer who is working with us to build it at zero cost to the Village.  An Architect firm also volunteered their skills to help render the initial designs.  We believe that we can have this facility run perpetually with no impact to the Village budget, which makes this even more attractive.

 AW: Can people who are not Wellington residents still get involved and participate in Project Lighthouse?  What can they do to show their interest and support?

ST: We have a Facebook page called “Project Lighthouse – Community Vision” where we share the latest news on the project and discuss the performing arts.  Join the page and share your vision on the performing arts!  We have a tremendous amount of very talented people who have all expressed an interest in participating.  While the initial phase of getting the funding and approvals are being handled by a smaller local team, when this project gets moving into the building phase, we will call upon the experience and talent of the entire group to help craft a world class theater with quality programming and content.  So, get involved!  We need you!

AW: What are a few of the high points of this project where you definitely felt rewarded?

 ST: The Village Council graciously gave us a  90- day period to develop our proposal, and the day we were approved to move forward, a 5-0 vote, we were over the moon.  It was wonderful to get that first nod from our Council to move forward.  I would say that was by far one of the most rewarding moments.

AW: What are some of the challenges you might be encountering with a budget?

ST: We won’t really have a challenge with the budget because the developer will invest directly in the project themselves and finance the construction.  Where we see a challenge is in the changes that will be coming to the mall area.  There are a few options that were presented by the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) about how to redevelop the area.  The sky is really the limit.  Project Lighthouse is a sort of catalyst to jumpstart the mall redevelopment.  I foresee a lot of discussion in the Village Council meetings about what could be done.  In the end, I believe we will have a fantastic redevelopment that will benefit the entire Village.  Project Lighthouse would complement any redevelopment nicely.

Above: The Project Lighthouse Group

AW: Do you have a background in public speaking or business administration?  In coming to a few meetings for Project Lighthouse, I have noticed that you are a very charismatic and knowledgeable public speaker.   Have you had other roles in the Wellington community to give you experience with building or organizing a major landmark?

ST: No!  Honestly, I have had to do a lot of learning!  I am in a sales role for a large software company, so public speaking isn’t new to me.  I even did summer stock theater as a kid in high school.  I am lucky to be surrounded by some very knowledgeable people in Project Lighthouse.  Aside from the developer and the architect, we have people that run businesses, work in real estate, marketing, the press as well as tremendous talent in the performing arts.  All of them have really helped me make these presentations effective.  It’s been a team effort.  If I look good up on stage, it’s because I have a great team supporting me.

AW:  In terms of Project Lighthouse, will this be a permanent project? Translation: Once everything is “off the ground” and running, what will be your level of involvement?

ST: Project Lighthouse will continue to be a part of this project for as long as the theater exists.  We are not going to run the development or the facility, but we believe that our role as advisors could continue indefinitely.  We have so many people with great ideas and backgrounds in the performing arts.  Many people with a history on Broadway have joined the group.  That talent should be leveraged whenever it can be.  I believe that my role will come to an end once the project is running.  I believe that leadership must involve many people and change in leadership is healthy.  I will always be there to support the group. 

AW: How can you incorporate your passion for cooking and Project Lighthouse?  I bet YOU could make it happen!

ST: I’m not sure about that yet, but I like the idea!  Cooking involves bringing the right ingredients and methods together to create something that is greater than the sum of its parts.  I believe Project Lighthouse is the same in that respect.  We have a great recipe for success, we have the very best ingredients in terms of people and talent.  Together it will help create something wonderful for our Village to enjoy for generations. I bet you’re thinking, “now I want some PIZZA”!   Don’t be shy, come to Trivia Night at Village Music on Mondays at 7pm.  The pizza starts baking at 6:30!  In addition, you can find out more about Project Lighthouse by going on the Facebook page, “Project Lighthouse – Community Vision.”

A New Kind of Magic

By Heidi Hess

I was ready. I had on my red  sparkly Mickey ears with lipstick to match. I had polished off my Mickey Vans. Like I said – I was ready… and this was just to make the reservations for Walt Disney World. 

What can I say? We haven’t been there since December 2019 and that’s a long time for us. We all sat at the table discussing our plans and I was met with opposition. The teenage angst hung heavy in the air and their apathy towards what used to be one of their favorite places was palpable. Wait… what? You don’t want to go to the happiest place on earth?? Is the magic gone??

What do we do when our kids outgrow Magic Kingdom? We move on to Universal Orlando. The rollercoasters are faster, the cues are better and there’s more for adults to do there.

You get two theme parks for the price of one – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. And the annual passes are cheaper compared to Disney. 

They have things that will appeal to the younger crowd. Seuss Landing, a Dr.Seuss themed section of Islands of Adventure, is adorable. Do not miss the carousel, One Fish Two Fish and the Cat in The Hat ride. Their attention to detail here is really on point. 

If your older kids aren’t quite sure about major rollercoasters like The Hulk (my personal favorite) or Velocicoaster there are good “starter coasters” – Hagrids Motorbike, The Mummy and Flight of the Hippogriff. 

For our in-between-aged kids, Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley and Hogsmead can not be missed. I could spend the day in just these two sections, perusing the stores, watching people trying to cast spells with their wands (yes, you too can get your OWN wand) all while drinking Butter Beer (there’s no alcohol in it so it’s safe for the kids and completely delicious). 

I could go on and on about Universal but you should really experience it for yourself. It’s light years better than Disney. 

Have I mentioned that even for counter service meals you are seated at a table by a host or hostess instead of battling strollers and cranky mums trying to feed their kids. AND you can order right at your table and the food is brought over to you. I’ve always been of the mindset that meals times should be relaxing and Universal double- downs on that. 

So, can a family with older kids still do theme parks? Is the magic lost? Nope. You just have to find a new kind of magic. 

From Root to Spice: Here’s How to Grow Ginger At Home

By Charmaine Peters, Farm Director at Arden

With its versatile and bold flavor, ginger is a beloved spice used in various global cuisines. Packed with numerous health benefits, it makes for a perfect addition to a variety of dishes and drinks, from stir-fries and soups to teas and marinades.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, cultivating ginger is a breeze, thanks to its resilience and year-round growth. Whether you start from scratch or replant a cutting from the grocery store, this beloved spice thrives in warm climates and grows year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.

The best way to start your ginger-growing journey is to understand how the plant works. Unlike what most people think, ginger is not actually a root. Ginger is grown from rhizomes, which are fleshy stems that spread underground and have several growing points. The rhizomes are planted underground and sprout up like bamboo while the ginger grows below. In colder climates, ginger should be planted in the early spring, but because of the warm climate in Florida, gardeners can feel great knowing that their ginger can grow from January to December.  

To start the process, you will need to make a trip to your local grocery store or farmers market and pick up some ginger. When purchasing the rhizomes, look for ginger that is light in color with thin skin and several nodules or “fingers”. Cut the ginger into 2–3-inch pieces and allow the cut ends to dry and heal over with thin skin. It should take anywhere between 24-48 hours for the ginger to dry.

Now it’s time to prepare your garden for planting. You’ll want to plant the roots in a spot that gets enough shade and a garden or pot with damp, rich, and well-drained soil. Keep the pH of your soil on the acidic side for ginger. Combine your soil with nutrient-rich compost to make sure your ginger rhizomes grow successfully. This environment emulates the tropical climate that ginger loves.

Plant two inches deep with the rhizomes with the nodules facing towards the top of the soil and space each section around eight inches apart in your garden bed. Once you plant, don’t forget to water the plant properly, keeping the topsoil moist. After about one week, you’ll start to see leaves sprouting.

After eight to ten months, you’ll notice the ginger stems will start to die back and it will finally be ready to harvest! Dig up the shoots and you’ll find your fresh, homegrown ginger. The longer you wait to harvest your ginger, the stronger it will taste, so time it wisely based on your preferences. Scrub your roots under water to wash as much dirt off as possible, dry it with a towel, and you’re ready to go!

Now, with your very own ginger, you can start cooking, pickling, and drinking this incredible spice all year long. You can also save some pieces to replant for the next year, so you’ll always be able to enjoy the wonderful tastes and aromas fresh ginger can bring.

Reasons to Adopt a Rescue Pet

By Tricia Roberts

Every year, countless animals find themselves in shelters in need of a new home. They’ve either been abandoned or surrendered and are waiting for someone to give them a second chance at life. Deciding whether or not to adopt a pet from a shelter is an important decision, and the rewards far outweigh the concerns. If you’re stuck between the decision of shopping or adopting a new pet, here are some reasons to choose adoption.

  1. You save more than one life

It goes without saying that when you adopt a shelter pet, you’re saving a life. By adopting a pet in a rescue facility, you are also making room for another animal in need and giving them the opportunity to find a loving forever home.

2. Unconditional Love

Many people think it will be challenging to connect to a rescue pet, but usually it’s the opposite. Shelter pets have so much love to give. Once you let them into your heart, they won’t ever stop loving you.

3. A Second Chance

Beyond helping an animal in need, you’re giving a rescue an opportunity to be themselves and become a dog beyond the four walls of a shelter. You’re giving them the chance to start life anew where second chances are often hard to come by.

4. An opportunity to stay active

A new four-legged friend gives you a reason to get outdoors more and stretch your legs. Since your new pet is likely to be older and up-to-date on all of their vaccines, you won’t have to wait to get out to enjoy trails and parks as you would with a puppy.

5. Someone new to shop for

It’s always fun to spoil your pets. Adopting a new furry family member gives you a reason to do just that. You can enjoy retail therapy while making sure your new pet is living a luxurious life. Since adopting is generally lest costly than purchasing a puppy or kitten, you can use some of those saved dollars to really pamper your pet.

6. fighting back against cruel breeding

There are many reputable and animal-focused breeders out there. However, puppies and kittens purchased at pet stores often come from cruel breeding facilities where animals are confined to small, dirty spaces and receive little to no veterinary care. By adopting from your local shelter, you are giving back to your community instead of aiding an unethical breeder.

7. Training included

Most shelter dogs are past the puppy stage. This means they often know simple commands like sit, stay and come. There’s a chance they’ll even know more than that. If they don’t, though, that’s ok. You most definitely can teach an old dog new tricks.

8. That means house training too

Say goodbye to the potty-training process. Many shelter dogs have been surrendered, so they’re probably house trained. Also, shelter cats will already be familiar with a littler box.

Life with a rescue pet will bring big changes, as will life with any new pet. The reward of knowing you saved a pet who was truly in need will make it much easier to adapt to those big changes.

The Opposition to Wellington North and Wellington South

An Interview with Attorney Leonard Feiwus, representing the Equestrian Preserve Coalition

By Krista Martinelli

On June 7th and 8th, the Wellington community filled the seats, including an overflow room, in heated opposition to two proposed, related projects to build within the Equestrian Preserve Area.  The proposals went before the Equestrian Preserve Committee, a special committee which advises the Village Council.  The project was proposed by entrepreneur Mark Bellissimo of Wellington Lifestyle Partners, also backed by NEXUS Luxury Collection.  NEXUS, part of the Tavistock Group, includes Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods among its investors. 

While plans to build residential units and other facilities for both Wellington North and Wellington South loomed large over the two-night marathon sessions, the Wellington community responded with a resounding “no” to the proposal.  The multi-part proposal would have utilized approximately 96 acres of land in the Equestrian Preserve for Wellington North and 173 acres of land for Wellington South.  The Equestrian Preserve Committee, comprised mainly of equestrian residents, unanimously opposed both proposals. 

After the two nights of meetings, I talked with Leonard Feiwus, Partner at Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP.  He began by saying, “Wellington is a unique community in the sense that it is dedicated to an equestrian lifestyle.”  Regarding the nature of the Equestrian Preserve, he states, “What we have here is 9,000 acres of land that is expressly dedicated for equestrian use and activities. It’s recognized by the comprehensive plan of Wellington of being a low-density, horse-friendly community, largely made up of farms with minimum acre plots of 2 acres and maximum acre plots going up into the hundreds.”

Feiwus explained that the proposed residential areas and corresponding amenities would be attractive to the community, but just do not belong inside what has been defined as an Equestrian Preserve.  For example, the luxury golf community envisioned for Wellington South could be built anywhere and could very well be a successful venture.  It just, again, does not belong within the borders of the Equestrian Preserve. 

Regarding his law firm’s involvement, Feiwus explained, “Our senior partner, Marc Kasowitz, lives in the Equestrian Preserve with his family, who are dedicated equestrians. Marc has committed the resources of our firm to represent a coalition of people from the community who oppose the proposed development.”

The Wellington North would include 278 multi-family units, golf amenities, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a clubhouse, a field house, sports fields, a dog park and more.  The Wellington South would include 148 luxury, high-density residential homes, as well as equestrian-related amenities. 

Feiwus pointed out that more residential units would add to local traffic along South Shore Boulevard.  “It’s a congestion issue, it’s a population issue, it’s a taxing-on-the-municipalities issue…it’s common sense . . . I don’t think it takes an expert to know this is going to be a big problem for everyone who lives here.”  He added that growth in an organic way is welcome, but that it’s not necessary to build within the Equestrian Preserve.  While developers want to take advantage of the bucolic landscape, this preserved, natural landscape is one of the big reasons many people choose to live in Wellington. 

I asked Feiwus about Ocala.  How does Wellington compare to Ocala, as an equestrian community?  He answered that they cannot be compared, as Ocala is not the “winter equestrian capital of the world.” Wellington includes organic, low-density open spaces with lots of farmland.

I also spoke with a concerned Wellington citizen about the proposed project. Jim Mantrozos explained, “It would take away from the equestrian world. The land here is limited.  It’s a unique world and I’m concerned about more of it turning into a concrete jungle.” 

Many Wellington residents have taken to the slogan “horses, not houses” as they’ve spread the word via social media and signs.  They also say, “Save Wellington! No on Wellington 3.0.”  To see more about the Equestrian Preserve and sign the petition, you can visit SaveWellington.com

What’s next?

The next committee meeting takes place July 19th, where this proposal goes before Planning & Zoning in Wellington.  After that, the proposal will go before the Village Council in August. 

Garden Club Presents Landscape Award to Harold and Dinorah Williams of Royal Palm Beach

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The Florida Federation of Garden Clubs (FFGC) annually supports the Unsolicited Landscape Design Award program to recognize well-designed and maintained landscapes in the public or private sector in each District of the state. The meaning behind the “unsolicited” title is that the nominees are not applying for the award themselves, but someone else recognizes it is a landscape of merit, and worthy of consideration. 

This year, the residential landscape of Harold and Dinorah Williams was nominated by Wellington Garden Club to receive the Unsolicited Landscape Award in the Private Residence category for District X.

Candidates for this award are submitted each fall by Garden Club members, especially graduates of the National Garden Clubs(NGC) Landscape Design School. Applications are sent to the District Chairman for eligibility and consideration. Judges who have completed the NGC Landscape Design School visit and evaluate the sites nominated. The highest scoring nominee in each category is the winner.

The selection of the Dinorah home, located in Saratoga Pines Division, Royal Palm Beach, as the 2023 winner in the Private Residence category was announced on April 27 at the FFGC District X Spring meeting. The award was presented to Mr. and Mrs. Williams by WGC Club President Carol Ralph and 1st Vice-President Petra Russell.   

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.

FPL’s Manatee Lagoon Invites Families to Explore, Learn and Enjoy Fun Summer Programming

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Free activities and experiences inspire visitors to discover and learn about Florida manatees

RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. (June 26, 2023) — Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is now offering a mix of indoor and outdoor summer activities that celebrate Florida’s favorite marine mammal and encourage fun family time. This summer, visitors can enjoy educational programming, arts & crafts, interactive simulations, outdoor games and new exhibits.

“At Manatee Lagoon, our goal is to create an interactive, entertaining and educational environment to inspire people to preserve and protect Florida’s ecosystems,” said Zack Greenberg, leader at Manatee Lagoon. “There’s something for everyone, and rain or shine, visitors can expect to have fun while learning about manatees in the wild and what they can do to help protect them.”

This summer, the facility offers visitors a variety of exhibits and programs that are either brand new or back by popular demand, including:

  • PLAY, STRETCH & ENJOY THE FRESH AIR: Upon arrival at Manatee Lagoon, visitors will discover new outdoor games like Cornhole, Tic-Tac-Toe and Connect 4 for the entire family. Adults can work on the mind, body and spirit every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:45 p.m. and Saturday at 8 a.m. with yoga classes led by certified instructors, taking place outside against the calming backdrop of Lake Worth Lagoon for a low cost of $5 per person, per class.
  • LEARN SOMETHING NEW: Manatee Tales Story Time returns this summer to immerse our youngest minds in learning all about the Florida manatee. Every Saturday at 11:30 a.m., a Manatee Master will read a marine-themed book in Manatee Lagoon’s classroom. After story time, children can play with giant puzzles and enjoy a free popsicle. For an interactive experience, the all-new Manatee Rescue Adventure is ahigh-definition, self-guided simulation that gives visitors of all ages a look into the exciting process of rescuing a distressed manatee. After spending some time outside playing games or enjoying the views of Lake Worth Lagoon, these are great ways to cool off and learn.
  • LOG ON FOR INFO-TAINMENT AT HOME: Manatee Lagoon’s “Wild About Wildlife” Virtual Summer Camp creates a virtual adventure for children to hear stories of amazing animals and learn how they can help conserve wildlife in their own lives. The program is filled with animal observations, experiments, games, crafts and educational lessons hosted by educators from Manatee Lagoon, Loggerhead Marinelife Center and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. The next free virtual summer camp will take place July 10-14 and is geared toward children ages 6-9; however, other ages are welcome to register and participate. To register, visit visitmanateelagoon.com/virtual-summer-camp.

Next month, new and returning Manatee Lagoon visitors will find two new sustainably made sculptures in honor of Plastic Free July. The sculptures are made from trash collected during the Harbor Branch and Boys and Girls Club’s beach cleanups. Plastic Free July is a one-month challenge for all of us to reduce single-use plastics in our everyday lives. It is completely free and voluntary to participate. Register at plasticfree.ecochallenge.org/.

Now in its seventh year of manatee education and environmental conservation, Manatee Lagoon is a popular community destination, making it the ideal place for people to learn about these beloved marine mammals. To learn more about Manatee Lagoon’s summer programming, please visit visitmanateelagoon.com.

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About Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center®

Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center® is a free Palm Beach County educational attraction with a dedicated area to view manatees up close. The 16,000-square-foot center features engaging, hands-on exhibits for visitors to learn all about the unique creatures as well as the natural wonders of the surrounding Lake Worth Lagoon. During the colder winter months, the facility’s observation deck is the ideal spot to view manatees basking in the clean, warm-water outflows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. Manatee Lagoon also offers digital resources and educational virtual content for manatee fans near and far on its website: VisitManateeLagoon.com.

The center is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for major holidays, until March 31, 2023, which marks the end of manatee season. April 1 through Nov. 14, 2023, the center will observe the same hours, with the exception of Mondays, when the center will be closed.

About Florida Power & Light Company  

As America’s largest electric utility, Florida Power & Light Company serves more customers and sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to more than 5.8 million accounts, or more than 12 million people. FPL operates one of the cleanest power generation fleets in the U.S and in 2022 won the ReliabilityOne® National Reliability Award for the seventh time in the last eight years. The company received the top ranking in the southern U.S. among large electric providers, according to J.D. Power’s 2021 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM and 2021 Electric Utility Business Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The company was also recognized in 2020 as one of the most trusted U.S. electric utilities by Escalent for the seventh consecutive year. FPL is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE), a clean energy company widely recognized for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity.  NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry in Fortune’s 2022 list of “World’s Most Admired Companies” and recognized on Fortune’s 2021 list of companies that “Change the World.” NextEra Energy is also the parent company of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com, www.FPL.com, www.NextEraEnergyResources.com

EXECUTIVE WOMEN OF THE PALM BEACHES ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD AND NEW CONVERSATION SERIES –

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CREATING COLLABORATIVE SPACES FOR FEMALE LEADERS

(photo credit: Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, Inc., 2023)

 (l-r) Kae Jonsons, Danny Hansen, Charlotte Pelton, Vicki Pugh,  Elizabeth Houlihan, Alissa Dhawan, Cindy Pollack, Katie Newitt, and Jackie Halderman

West Palm Beach, Fla. – June 23, 2023 — The Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, Inc. is excited to announce its incoming Board of Directors for the 2023-2024 season.

Installed on June 20, 2023, the new slate of officers includes both long-standing and recently joined members.The Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, Inc. (EWPBF) welcomed the following leaders to serve on its board:

–        Katie Newitt, President

–        Kae Jonsons, VP of Resource, Development and Membership

–        Charlotte Pelton, VP of Resource Development and Fundraising     (’23 WILA recipient)

–        Elizabeth Houlihan, VP, Programs & Education

–        Virginia Spencer, VP, Community Outreach (EWPBF Past President)

–        Vicki Pugh, Secretary

–        Alissa Dhawan, Treasurer

–        Sheril Jalm, Treasurer-Elect

–        Cynthia Jackson, General Counsel

Continuing their service on the EWPBF Board are Cecilia Hudnet, Elizabeth Hamma, Jackie Halderman, Danny Hansen, and Cindy Pollack.

In recognition of its 40th anniversary, EWPBF also announced a new conversation series, geared toward addressing professional women’s challenges. This summer, the organization is hosting moderated, small-group discussions, where they plan to explore executives’ most pressing issues and share how EWPBF can help shape solutions to those issues.

“EWPBF has empowered women to level up and lead for 40 years. Heading into the future, EWPBF will continue to address the important challenges faced by women leaders,” said Newitt.

Sessions are open to all women business professionals in Palm Beach County, but space is limited. Guests are invited to one of the following sessions:

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

9 – 11:30 a.m.

Delray Beach Library 

100 W. Atlantic Ave, 2nd Floor, Delray Beach, FL 33444

Thursday, August 17, 2023

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Hubbard Radio Offices

701 Northpoint Parkway, Suite 500, West Palm Beach, FL 33407

RSVP REQUIRED – Email info@ewpb.org or call 561-868-7070.

Empowering women to succeed and lead, the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit professional association that inspires integrity, equality, and leadership in the workplace and community. To learn more, visit www.ewpb.org.

Veterans Benefit Concert

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A performance by the band CANVAS! July 8th, noon to 2pm, $10 suggested donation.

The Sound of Music

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Youth Music and Culture Summer Camp at

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Delray Beach, Fla.– Kids who are passionate about music and enjoy cultural pursuits will march to the beat of their own drum this summer at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.

Starting Monday, June 26 through Friday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens will transform into an educational playground of incredible sights and sounds upon the return of its Youth Music and Culture Summer Camp. The immersive, five-day camp is open to students in grades 3 through 12. The curriculum features a rotating mélange of musical theory, history, culture, instrumental instruction, and an introduction to Japanese traditional arts.

Classes will include memorizing basic Japanese phrases, kanji numbers to read sheet music, and learning to play traditional musical instruments like the taiko (drum) and koto (13-string zither).

Feeling crafty? Students will get to build their very own paper versions of koto instruments to practice their finger techniques and lyrical compositions at home. On Day 5, camp will conclude with a recital concert by the campers alongside their instructors for their families.

Koto classes will be taught by renowned music instructor Shirley Kazuyo Muramoto, and taiko classes will be led by one of the nation’s top taiko drumming groups, Fushu Daiko.

Camp programs also include introduction to Japanese language and culture, Japanese dance, arts and crafts, and more.

All materials and instruments will be provided.

Cost is $275 per person. Advance registration is required. Limited to only 20 spaces.

High-res images available HERE.

For more information, call (561) 233-1367 or visit morikami.org/event/youth-summer-music-and-culture-camp.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach.