Wellington invites residents and families to attend a FREE end-of-summer “Party in the Park” on Friday, August 5th, from 5 PM to 7:30 PM at Tiger Shark Cove Park (13800 Greenbriar Boulevard).
Get to know local first responders while exploring Wellington’s popular ocean-themed playground at Tiger Shark Cove. Playground features include a sunken pirate ship play area, sand castle, large tiger shark sculpture, and more. Hosted in partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR), the “Party in the Park” event will offer free family-friendly fun and activities, PBSO “Touch A Truck,” PBSO Mounted Unit, face painting, DJ Kenny Mondo, and lawn games. There will also be free shaved ice cups from Kona Ice while supplies last. To learn more about this event visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/Events.
Residents in attendance will also have the opportunity to complete the Fiscal Year 2022 – 23 Budget Challenge. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/BudgetChallenge to learn more.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter.
When planting a garden, it takes more than soil, water, and sunlight to make it grow. Pollinators are some of the most important insects in our environment, helping at least 30% of the world’s crops and 90% of all plants spread and thrive during cross-pollination. In fact, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, over $235 billion worth of annual global food production depends on direct contributions by pollinators. If you love fresh produce like papaya, melons, cucumbers, and eggplant, your year-round menus rely on them.
And yet bees, one of the most recognizable pollinator populations worldwide, are disappearing. It now falls to us to save the bees, and our environment along with them. Honeybees are generalist pollinators. In short, that means that they can pollinate any plant and don’t rely on a specific flower or plant to do their jobs, unlike other insects, like wasps. Our fruit and vegetable gardens are fueled by honeybees that spread pollen and help our produce thrive, so it’s in our own interest to help them however we can.
With August 20, 2022 being World Honeybee Day, I wanted to share how you can help local bee populations and how you can keep your own garden buzzing.
Leave Some Fresh Water
Like every other living thing, honeybees need fresh water to keep them and their colony growing. If you live near a body of fresh water, the work is already done. If not, you can leave a small dish of clean water, to help bees stay hydrated on hot summer days.
Plant a Bee-Friendly Garden
If you want to attract bees to your garden, there are herbs and flowers that are bee-friendly that will attract bees and help the other plants in your garden grow. Consider planting rosemary, wild geranium, poppies, marigolds, or oregano, which bees happen to love. Flowers like sunflowers, or cosmos, can bring color to your garden and are rich in pollen and nectar, which help bees ramp up their production of honey.
Go Chemical-Free
Bees are sensitive, so chemical pesticides and fertilizers can be harmful to their systems. Consider using organic products and solutions instead. Composting, for example, adds extra nutrients to the soil that helps to keep your plants and produce healthy. If you need to use organic pesticides, make sure to apply them as early as possible to avoid spraying when bees are out.
Support Local Beekeepers
One of the easiest ways to help local bee populations is to support local beekeepers by purchasing the soaps or beeswax candles that they make. You can also buy local honey, which is both delicious and may help with allergies too! Look for nationwide organizations that specialize in bee conservation and other environmental groups, where you can donate your time, resources, or monetary contributions. You can check out The Bee Conservancy or SAVE the BEE to support the national movement to save the bees, or turn your attention locally to the Palm Beach County Beekeeper Association.
If you do find an unwanted beehive around your property or neighborhood, please contact a beekeeper to remove the hive instead of having it sprayed. Now is your chance to make an impact on the environment and #BeeTheSolution.
Wellington Tennis Center hosts FREE “Junior Jamboree” Back-to-School Open House on Saturday, August 20th The Wellington Tennis Center invites the community to attend a FREE “Junior Jamboree” Back-to-School Open House event on Saturday, August 20th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Bring the entire family for a fun day of tennis, games, and give-a-ways.
All ages are invited to participate in Youth Tennis Clinic games, drills, and demonstrations with Director of Tennis, Chuck Gill, and his team of United States Tennis Association (USTA) Certified Professionals. After working up a sweat, players can cool down with free samples from Jamba Juice (while supplies last). At the conclusion of the event, one lucky participant will be winning a youth tennis gift basket valued at over $300 (must be present at the time of drawing to win). Guests should dress in athletic attire and shoes appropriate for play. Sunscreen and additional hydration are also recommended.
Event Registration While the event is free to attend, registration is required. Registration can be completed through Eventbrite in advance and on the day of the event. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/Eventbrite to register. For more information contact the Tennis Center Pro Shop at 561-791-4775 or email tennis@wellingtonfl.gov.
About the Tennis Center The Wellington Tennis Center is located at 3100 Lyons Road and offers year-round tennis programs, leagues, and activities for youth and adults. The facility features 21 self-irrigated Har-Tru® clay courts, a canvas-covered roof-top balcony, and pro-shop. Learn more at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Tennis.
Stay up to date on events and activities coming up in Wellington by signing up for the monthly Play Wellington Newsletter at www.wellingtonfl.gov/PlayWellington.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter.
“Yeah, she’s right. You can’t say that.” Ryan repeated, driving home their point.
“Umm…really? Oh wow.” I replied. I paused. They were looking at me. “Well,” I scratched my head. “When the story first came out back in the late 80’s-early 90’s this was how it was reported. This is how people, at the time spoke of it. Clearly, I need to rethink some things.”
I was on autopilot when I was conveying the details of the event. What was the event? It doesn’t matter. The point is, when we know better, we do better. How many times have I said that? To my kids, my spouse, and my friends. I have corrected my speech over the years but what about how I look at the past?
I was thinking about another conversation I had with my sister a few days prior. Our brains are like untouched fields of snow in a snow globe. Over time we create worn paths through the snow. Some work, while other paths need to be course corrected. And there I was, retelling the event the way it was told back then but now, my kids turned me around and asked me to look at the worn path I had just gone down. Oh dear.
One of the nice things about snow globes (and brains) is that if you don’t like where the snow lands or how the path looks, just pick it up, give it a good hard shake, and start over. So there I was, realizing the error of my ways. My kids picked up my snow globe and helped me give it a good hard shake. They were looking at me. “Wait. Let me retell the story so it’s right.” I said. And that’s exactly what I did. I created a new path. Now when I revisit this event it will be told according to the new path.
Can old dogs learn new tricks? Yes. We owe it to our kids to adjust our thinking especially if it’s going to encourage a gentle world. They will inherit the future. Don’t we want the best for them? Even if, especially if, it makes us uncomfortable? My kids showed me how to be better that day, so now I do better. We all can.
U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jose Jimenez and his family
Palm Beach County, Fla. (July 26, 2022) – U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jose Jimenez and his family, who have been living out of their RV, were surprised last week with a life-changing gift: the news that they were selected by Operation Finally Home to receive a brand-new Lennar home at Arden, South Florida’s first agrihood community.
“There are no words for what this means for me and my family, and how this will change our lives,” Jimenez said. “We are grateful to Operation Finally Home and Lennar, as well as the Arden community for such a warm welcome. I am shocked and in awe.”
Sergeant Jimenez enlisted in the U.S. Army in October 2005. In 2010, while serving in Afghanistan, Jose suffered a traumatic brain injury, temporarily losing his sight and the ability to use his legs. Still, he remained dedicated to his platoon and returned to duty one month after the incident.
Jose met his wife, Alex, also a veteran, while they were both serving in Afghanistan. Drawn together by their service and shared friends, they got to know each other better while salmon fishing after they had returned to the U.S. They married in 2012 and have a young son. As a family, they enjoy outdoor activities, building helicopter and plane models, visiting beaches and parks, and playing miniature golf, among other activities.
Jose was honorably discharged in 2013 having served nearly eight years, including two combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and received countless other military awards, including a Purple Heart, two Army Good Conduct Medals, an Army Achievement Medal, an Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, and a Combat Action Medal.
Now, Lennar Palm Atlantic Division and nonprofit Operation Finally Home have partnered to build hope and a stable future for Jose and his family.
“It was an honor to join with Lennar in surprising U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jose Jimenez and his family with the news they had been selected to receive a new home,” said Rusty Carroll, Operation Finally Home President. “It is such a blessing for us to continue to honor America’s heroes in this way.
Lennar Palm Atlantic Division President Michael Meyers added: “It is an honor to be able to give back to such a deserving family like the Jimenez’s for all of the sacrifices they have made to keep our communities safe. We look forward to continuing to work with Operation Finally Home and the Jimenez family to make sure this is a home they can call their own.”
For photos and videos of the surprise groundbreaking ceremony, click here.
ABOUT LENNAR
Lennar Corporation, founded in 1954, is one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations. Lennar builds affordable, move-up, and active adult homes primarily under the Lennar brand name. Lennar’s Financial Services segment provides mortgage financing, title, and closing services primarily for buyers of Lennar’s homes and, through LMF Commercial, originates mortgage loans secured primarily by commercial real estate properties throughout the United States. Lennar’s Multifamily segment is a nationwide developer of high-quality multifamily rental properties. LENX drives Lennar’s technology, innovation and strategic investments. For more information about Lennar, please visit www.lennar.com.
ABOUT OPERATION FINALLY HOME
Based in New Braunfels, Texas, Operation Finally Home is a nonpartisan/nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to provide custom-built, mortgage-free homes, transitional housing, and home modifications to veterans, first responders and their families. Established in 2005, the organization has completed or is in planning on more than 380 home projects in more than 32 states. Operation Finally Home partners with corporate sponsors, builder associations, builders, remodelers, developers, individual contributors, and volunteers to help these heroes and their families by addressing one of their most pressing needs – a safe place to call home. For more information about Operation Finally Home, visit OperationFinallyHome.org, follow @OpFinallyHome on Twitter, and find us on Facebook.
ABOUT ARDEN
Arden’s scenic landscape includes 175 acres of magnificent lakes, including a mile-long central lake, 20 miles of trails, and 500 acres of parks, playgrounds, and green space. Arden is also home to one of the first agrihoods in Florida. Arden’s 5-acre farm and event barn are central components of community life here, offering fruits, vegetables, and herbs shared among the residents. Wellington’s world-famous equestrian centers are just 12 minutes from Arden. Arden is also close to major employment centers. A-rated Wellington schools, top-rated medical centers, white sand beaches, shopping, dining destinations, world-class golf, and direct access to sophisticated Palm Beach, Palm Beach International Airport, and South Florida’s major cities makes Arden’s location second to none.
Here’s a letter from our newest sponsor about his tech offerings for your large or small business.
My name is Nick Khan. I am President and CEO of Innovative Technologies Solutions , an HP, XEROX and Lenovo Platinum Dealers that has been in experience for over 25 years in South Florida. We carry full line of Xerox Multifunctional copiers/printers, VOIP Phones, Lenovo desktop computer, laptops and many other states of the art office technology software products and services. In addition, we are helping clients all over the Country to offer cost saving solutions to them as well. Recently we helped customers in Houston, California and New Jersey to reduce their operating cost by 25-30 %.
In the past, we have helped many organizations to reduce costs and improve productivity and efficiency by 30% to 40%. If you’re currently in a lease, or your equipment lease might be expiring soon, I would like to take this opportunity to come out to meet with you and offer a Free of Charge Evaluation and Printing Assessment to your present costs associated with copiers, including convenience standalone network laser printers and fax machines.
I understand that your time is extremely valuable and would appreciate the opportunity to schedule a 15-minute meeting to introduce myself and drop off some exciting information to review the many ways that Innovative Technology Solutions can help.
We Provide your company with a total print and copy solution that will maximize your network infrastructure while increasing productivity and controlling costs.
Control copying, printing, and faxing expenses by implementing programs that fix the cost of equipment, maintenance, and supplies.
Please take a look of 5 minute You tube video of advantage of Xerox Health Care MFP solution.
Develop a plan to increase productivity by directing prints to the most effective devices inside your network infrastructure.
Buyouts and upgrade options for existing Equipment Lease Agreements.
Integrating color copying/printing, scanning in your office.
Performance reviews of your current equipment and workflow.
Cost analysis to uncover saving opportunities
Equipment Lease along with all-inclusive service Program.
VOIP Phones
Internet (Fiber or Coax)
Comcast or AT&T wholesale Pricing.
Cloud Base IT, 24/7 monitoring, help Desk, office 365 migrations and much m
24/7 monitor
Cyber security
Caballing
Competitive pricing on HP, Xerox, Lexmark, Brother and Samsung toners and Cartridges
I understand that your time is extremely valuable and would appreciate the opportunity to schedule a 15-minute meeting to introduce myself and drop off some exciting information to review the many ways that Innovative Technology Solutions can help.
WELLINGTON, FL – Join us for a day of fabulous curb-to-classroom fashion at The Mall at Wellington Green! On Saturday, July 30, 2-4 p.m., scoop up fashionable finds and tax-free deals for the entire family. Kids can stock up on Instagram-able trends while parents’ cash in on wallet-friendly retail savings during the Back to School Sales Tax Holiday (July 25 through August 7). Fun family pursuits will include a high-octane fashion show, dance and musical performances, music by electric violinist DJ Lexey, and more. Plus, enjoy a chance to win exciting prizes, including gift cards and a $500 back to school shopping spree. Upcoming mall events: Back to School Sales Tax Holiday at The Mall at Wellington Green Starting July 25 through August 7, stock up on learning aids selling for $30 or less; school supplies selling for $50 or less; clothing, footwear and accessories selling for $100 or less; and computers and accessories (when purchased for non-commercial and personal use) selling for $1,500 or less. Kids Club “Fun In The District” Calling all Kids Club members and children who love to have fun! On Saturday, August 6, from 1–3PM, visit the mall’s new event space, The District, and partake in a variety of family-friendly programming, including kids’ yoga and Zumbini classes, and painting workshops (artwork will later be displayed around The District). The “littles” will also enjoy face painting, fun games, and a chance to meet their favorite costume characters. Mall hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
About The Mall at Wellington Green The Mall at Wellington Green in Wellington, FL is a 1.2 million square foot, two-level regional shopping destination, and it features over 160 stores. Retail and restaurant favorites include Macy’s, Dillard’s, Apple, Brighton, Chico’s, Forever 21, H&M, Helzberg Diamonds, Zales, Tommy Bahama, City Furniture, Lemongrass, Cask + Shaker, Ford’s Garage, The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, and more. For more information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com. About Spinoso Real Estate Group The Mall at Wellington Green is managed by Spinoso Real Estate Group. Since 2009, Spinoso has taken a creative, entrepreneurial approach to real estate development and management, delivering and sustaining successful projects across a wide range of property types and across the country. Spinoso’s robust portfolio includes work on hundreds of enclosed shopping malls, lifestyle centers, and large-scale retail projects from coast to coast. For more information, visit spinosoreg.com.
(West Palm Beach, Fla.) Thursday, July 21, 2022-Nonprofits First announces the Sixth Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards will be in the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Cohen Pavilion on Tuesday, October 11 from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm.
The Hats Off Nonprofit Awards celebrates and honors nonprofit organizations, professionals and volunteers in the Palm Beach County nonprofit sector who contribute to strengthening and serving our community. The event is chaired by Dr. Peter Cruise, Executive Director of the LeRoy Collins Public Ethics Academy at Florida Atlantic University.
The call for nominations opened July 11 and will close on August 22 at 5 pm. Nominations can be submitted by visiting www.hatsoffawards.org .
“We are so thrilled to be honoring our amazing, talented, and dedicated nonprofit organizations for their work during yet another challenging year! They deserve to be recognized now more than ever! Reuniting the nonprofit sector and celebrating the fortitude of our community leaders and volunteers is something we should all be excited about. Please nominate as many worthy nonprofit organizations, professionals, and volunteers as possible in any one or more of the categories, we will look forward to celebrating the nonprofit sector together and “in-person” said Jessica Cecere, Chief Executive Officer of Nonprofits First.
Nominations will be accepted in 10 categories: Nonprofit of the Year (small, medium, and large); Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year; Nonprofit MVP, Nonprofit Professional of the Year; Nonprofit Executive of the Year; and Lifetime Achievement; Community Collaborators Award, and Innovation Award. There will also be two “Live” awards for attendees to vote for that evening, “People’s Choice” and for “Best Hat.”
The Hats Off Nonprofit Awards will take place in the Kravis Center Cohen Pavilion and will feature a premium open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Tickets for the Hats Off Nonprofit Awards are on sale now at www.hatsoffawards.org for $125 per person for early-bird pricing, ticket prices increase to $150 on September 10th, tables of ten are $1,500 and sponsorships are available at all levels. Parking is complimentary in the covered garage. The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
Hats Off Nonprofit Awards Calendar Listing: Tuesday, October 11, 2022, Nonprofits First Sixth Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards 5:30 pm-7:30 pm at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Cohen Pavilion. This fundraising event will celebrate and honor the nonprofit sector, professionals, and volunteers in Palm Beach County.
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.
Photos by Capehart Photography: Photos from 2021 Hats Off Nonprofit Awards
Life’s a cocktail party on National Tequila Day at
City Cellar, City Oyster, Josie’s Ristorante, and Ford’s Garage
SOUTH FLORIDA – Hustle up your happy hour-loving amigos for blue agave-drenched libations on National Tequila Day, July 24.
Here are four day-to-night holiday drinking destinations you can celebrate at in Palm Beach County.
City Cellar in The Square will be presenting its spirited Mezcalita ($13), loaded with Espolon blanco tequila, Recuerdo mezcal joven, lime, and fresh agave. Snag a seat at the inside bar and enjoy happy hour from 4-7 p.m. featuring $2 off drinks, and select half-priced appetizers and pizza.
City Cellar is located at 700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach. Visit citycellarwpb.com or call (561) 366-0071.
Enjoy en plein air cocktails and a conga line of people watching at City Oyster in Delray Beach. The Atlantic Avenue hotspot will be serving its Tequila Basil Smash($13), the perfect sip to enjoy after an afternoon of Olympic power shopping. Happy hour aficionados can toss back 2-for-1 cocktails along with beer, select wines, and $1 off oysters from 4-7 p.m.
City Oyster is located at 213 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. Visit cityoysterdelray.com or call (561) 272-0220.
Happy Hour is the perfect time to toast a national drink holiday with convivial sips at Josie’s Ristorante. The family-owned Italian hotspot caters to a loyal craft cocktail crowd and its La Paloma ($8.50) is a popular, reached-for favorite. Make a b-line for the bar and tuck into happy hour bites and drinks from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. to close.
Josie’s Ristorante is located at 1602 S. Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach. Visit josiesristorante.com or call (561) 364-9601.
Tucked inside The Mall at Wellington Green, Ford’s Garage
will be pouring a trio of potions from its Ford Fusion menu, including the Backseat Driver ($12.99), fully loaded with Patrón tequila, Cointreau, honey syrup, and citrus juices. Pucker up with the Pedal Down Paloma ($9.99), featuring el Jimador tequila, Cointreau, and sparkling grapefruit soda. Or, opt for the delightful Don’s Mom ($12.99), constructed with blackberry purée, Don Julio blanco tequila, and Grand Marnier.
Ford’s Garage is located at The Mall at Wellington Green, 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Visit fordsgarageusa.com or call (561) 805-3673.
