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HOMESAFE RECEIVES TRANSFORMATIVE $5 MILLION GIFT FROM STOOPS FAMILY FOUNDATION

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(Lake Worth, Fla.) – HomeSafe CEO Matthew Ladika proudly announced a significant and transformative $5 million gift to the nonprofit organization whose mission is to help South Florida’s most vulnerable residents – victims of child abuse and domestic violence.  On October 28, a gathering of HomeSafe supporters attended a dedication of the Stoops Family Foundation Residential Cottage at HomeSafe’s newest campus in West Palm Beach. HomeSafe’s Vice President of the Board of Directors, Aggie Stoops, and her husband Jeff, residents of Delray Beach, were thanked for their incredible generosity.

“Through our results-driven approach, HomeSafe is the leading provider of prevention and intervention services, serving more than 14,000 infants, children, young adults and families each year,” said Ladika.  “We are just one of five specialized residential therapy homes in the state of Florida—the only one in Southeast Florida—and we currently care for more than half of all of the children these organizations serve.  With the Stoops’ generous $5 million gift, HomeSafe can continue to grow, enhance our programs and facilities, and evolve to meet the changing needs of these children.”

Aggie Stoops received a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Florida State University and continued her education at the institution receiving her Master’s in Social Work, with an emphasis in child welfare. Before she left the workforce to raise her four children, she was employed by Florida Baptist Children’s Home, the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Organization and the Palm Beach Habilitation Center. Mrs. Stoops is the Chairman of the Board of the Stoops Family Foundation, a private foundation focused on medical, social services and educational causes. In addition to HomeSafe’s Board, she also serves on the Florida State University Foundation Board of Trustees.

“My time as a social worker, counseling traumatized children with developmental disabilities, was an important part of my life,” said Aggie Stoops. “Because of these experiences, I was immediately drawn to the HomeSafe mission. These children come from some of the toughest, most heart-breaking circumstances imaginable, and are typically well beyond the capabilities of the traditional foster care system. HomeSafe is changing lives and we are excited to be a part of its continued success, helping vulnerable children and families who have experienced abuse and neglect.”

Jeff Stoops received his Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctor degrees from Florida State University. He has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of SBA Communications Corporation since 2002. Based in Boca Raton, Fla., SBA owns and operates almost 34,000 wireless communications sites in 15 countries across the globe, employing over 1,500 people. SBA is a member of the S&P 500 and one of Florida’s largest public companies by market capitalization. The company trades on the NASDAQ under the symbol “SBAC.” Mr. Stoops currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Children’s Healthcare Charity, Inc. (the Honda Classic), Seminole Boosters, Inc. and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

“HomeSafe has a village of caring, highly trained professionals providing a safe, nurturing home to children that are struggling with severe mental and emotional challenges caused by the trauma that they have endured, through no fault of their own,” said Jeff Stoops. “HomeSafe typically is the last hope for these children before they are moved to a lockdown facility. We know our gift will help these children heal, cultivate a positive self-image, and pursue a healthy and hope-filled future for themselves. We also hope it will inspire support from others for their important mission.”

The Stoops Family Foundation Residential Cottage is located at HomeSafe’s new Sylvester Family Foundation West campus at 654 Lyons Road, West Palm Beach. The new 9,984 square-foot Cottage will house 12 girls in their own individual suites, which include a private bedroom and bathroom. The Cottage also has a kitchen, living and dining areas, therapy wing and gaming area to create a comfortable home environment. This location provides Residential Group Care where treatment services occur in home-like settings. Dedicated professionals, guardians, community members, and school personnel are all involved in the program. Children in HomeSafe’s residential group homes are expected to attend school and participate in suitable recreational and social activities. The specialized therapeutic group care is designed to give children the help and support that they need to achieve success.

HomeSafe currently has seven locations, including the Sylvester Family Foundation West campus. The main location in Lake Worth includes the organization’s administrative offices and programs including Healthy Beginnings, which is the Child Development Program for children from birth through five years of age and their families; Residential Group Care and SafetyNet, which provides immediate intervention and prevention services to victims of domestic violence and their children. The Bernstein Family Foundation Campus in Boca Raton includes Residential Group Care and Healthy Beginnings. The Belle Glade, Wellington and West Palm Beach campuses offer the Healthy Beginnings program. HomeSafe at Pond Place, located on the Bernstein Independent Living Campus in Palm Springs, offers the Independent Living Program for children that have aged out of the foster care system.

For more information on HomeSafe or to donate, please visit helphomesafe.org or call 561-383-9800.

History On The Rocks returns to Yesteryear Village

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West Palm Beach, Fla. — A variety of food bites, spirits and camaraderie will top the evening at the South Florida Fair’s third annual History on the Rocks, a tasting experience happening from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 12. Presented by Glade & Grove Supply, this rockin’ signature event will take place at Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 601-7 Sansbury’s Way.

As guests stroll under the twinkling lights of Yesteryear Village and its historic buildings, they will be offered food bites and pairings. Tasty cocktails, mocktails, locally brewed beer and desserts will be available at more than 20 food and beverage stations featuring local chefs, foods, farmers and local drink brewers. Guests also may get some holiday shopping in with local vendors in a unique MarketPlace.

Participating partners include Chef Jeffrey Schlissel (aka the Bacon Cartel), Chef Rasheed Shihada, Retired Firefighters of Palm Beach County, Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau, Florida Dairy Farmers, Hooked on Ponics, Keys Chocolates & Ice Cream, Sam Edwards with Staghorn Kitchen, Mama Jugs, WrapOlé, and Professional Concessions, Inc.

Wood burning fire pits and music by the Atlantic City Boys will add to the ambiance. The musical group includes four dynamic lead singers who have wowed audiences at Las Vegas, Walt Disney World, Atlantic City, as well as cruise ships around the world. The show is a mix of world-class vocals and interactive comedy featuring the rock-n-roll harmonies of the Beach Boys, Drifters, the BeeGees, and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. The Boys have performed with many greats, from Jay Leno to Huey Lewis, Pattie Labelle and the Temptations.

General Admission is $75 in advance and $80 at the gate, and $25 for a Designated Driver ticket (includes everything but alcohol) in advance and $30 at the gate. VIP tables of 10 may be reserved for $750. VIP ticket holder perks include access to the event one hour before general ticket holders, specialty food/beverage gifts, two bottles of wine per VIP table, unlimited tastings at food/beverage stations and early shopping in the MarketPlace (value of $110 per person).

Tickets are on sale online now at https://www.southfloridafair.com/historyontherocks. Ages 13-17 must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian. Ages 12 and under are not permitted. Everyone under the age of 21 must purchase a Designated Driver ticket. Organizers reserve the right to card everyone.

For more information, call 561-793-0333 or visit the website, www.southfloridafair.com.

Toy Shortages Feared to Impact Holiday Gift Drive for Neediest Children Locally

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GL Homes & Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County launch a holiday gift drive to provide toys to the area’s neediest children while tackling economic and toy shortage issues

West Palm Beach, Fla.- With the help of title sponsor GL Homes, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County launched an ambitious holiday gift drive to collect toys and teen-appropriate gifts for Club members at 17 Boys & Girls Clubs across the county. The gift drive launched November 1, will run until December 10 to allow for gifts to be collected and distributed in time for each Club to host a traditional holiday party. The festive and memorable Club parties will be the highlight of the holiday season for most members, and for some of the children, it will be their only chance to receive a gift this season.

“As the recovery from the pandemic continues, it’s important to hold onto our traditions and help the children that need us most,” said Sarah Alsofrom, GL Homes senior director of community relations. “GL Homes is proud to be the title sponsor of the holiday gift drive for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County because our goal is to allow all children to celebrate this magical time of the year. After a year of sacrifices, we hope all children can focus on the joy of childhood and enjoy the festivities.”

Without the community’s generosity in donating new and unwrapped gifts, the holidays would not be as bright for most Club children. Currently, 95% of Club members live at or below the federal poverty level and depend on the Clubs for extra assistance. Many of the neighborhoods where Clubs are strategically located to provide the biggest impact have not rebounded quickly from the economic problems created by the pandemic.

“Our Clubs provide food, extra academic support and even mental health counseling for families that continue to struggle. Thanks to community partners like GL Homes, we will also make sure that the holidays are not a disappointment for the neediest children in our area,” said President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Jaene Miranda. “This is a special time of the year for our Club members and it is a time that I’m personally overwhelmed with gratitude as the community rallies around our Club children to make sure they have an enjoyable holiday like all children deserve.”

This year the GL Homes and Boys & Girls Club Holiday Gift Drive will have dozens of in-person drop-off sites thanks to community partners. Gift givers can also choose to participate virtually by visiting the Clubs’ online wish list and purchasing items that will be shipped directly to the Clubs. For a list of drop-off sites and the online wish list, visit www.BGCPBC.org/HolidayGiftDrive.

Adding to the challenges to this year’s holiday gift drive is a predicted nationwide shortage of toys due to widespread supply chain disruptions and labor shortages.  Those considering donating a gift are requested to make their donation early.  National retailers already expect shortages and recommend that gift buying be done before the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, the traditional start of the holiday shopping season.

“While creating the Club’s online wish list, we’ve already experienced significant shortages and backorders of popular toys. Daily we update our online wish list to account for items that are no longer in stock,” said Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Marketing of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Eric Roby. “Traditionally, most donations are made during the tail end of our drive, and our concern will be the lack of available toys if donors are not able to give earlier this year.”

“I have full confidence that with the support of GL Homes, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County will be able to meet the goal of providing a new gift for each Club member across the county. With the support of our community, we will overcome any challenges and make sure that all children have a happy and memorable holiday,” said Alsofrom.

Midas Franchisee Ron Katz named ‘Humanitarian of the Year’

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Midas Franchisee Ron Katz named ‘Humanitarian of the Year’

Tire Business presents community-minded Florida franchisee with one of the industry’s biggest awards

Palm Beach Gardens, FL – November 1, 2021 – Ron Katz, a community-minded Midas franchisee with three stores in Florida, has been presented with the 2021 Tire Business Tire Dealer Humanitarian Award, one of the industry’s most prestigious designations.

The award, which is open to any car-repair center owner in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, recognizes just one independent tire dealer each year who has made an especially significant contribution to the community. Katz was recognized on Monday, Nov. 1, prior to the opening of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas.

“Ron has an impressive record of giving back,” said Tire Business Editor Don Detore. “The independent panel that judged the candidates factored in the blood drives at his shops and Teacher of the Month sponsorships with local schools. In addition, he has taken a proactive role in hurricane relief efforts—in 2019, when Dorian hit the Bahamas, and 2017, when Maria devastated Puerto Rico.” In total, Katz and his team delivered supplies totaling $100,000 for the two hurricane relief initiatives.

When Federal employees were furloughed in 2019, Katz offered them free services. His team recently acquired, repaired, and donated a car to the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast. He staged a fundraiser for the wife of one of his favorite entertainers, who had esophageal cancer, raising close to $10,000. This year, he ran COVID-19 vaccination drives in two of his shops

“We are proud to have Ron as member of the Midas family—and excited he has received this recognition,” said Midas VP & GM Lenny Valentino. “Ron has clearly taken the ‘Midas Fixes More than Just Cars’ commitment to heart and is making an impact.”

“Giving back just feels like the right thing to do,“ said Katz, who opened his first store in 2016 and two years later was named Franchisee of the Year. “If I could, I would do it full time. Like most people, I’ve had good times in my life and tough times when I would have liked someone to help me. So it just feels good to be in a position to offer assistance.”

In addition to receiving the award, Katz earned a $2,500 donation from Tire Business to his charity of choice: Saint Jude‘s Children’s Hospital. “I chose Saint Jude‘s because I like what it stands for,” he said. “St. Jude’s makes sure that when a child is sick, the parents never have to pay for the hospital stay. I cannot think of a better or more compassionate charity.”

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About Midas

Midas is one of the world’s largest providers of automotive services, offering brake, tire, maintenance, exhaust, steering and suspension services at 2,100 franchised and licensed Midas stores in 16 countries, including nearly 1,200 in the United States and Canada. For more information visit midas.com.

Embracing the Norwegian Concept of Friluftsliv


Reluctantly awaking from my peaceful slumber at my Trondheim hotel, I wondered why anyone would get up so early to hike through the woods on a chilly morning. My new Norwegian friend, Lisbeth, assured me the experience warranted the sleep sacrifice.
Renowned chef, Mikael Forselius greeted us at the edge of the forest. “Ready to forage for chanterelles?” he asked. Never having foraged for anything outside of the grocery store, I accepted the basket he offered and followed him into the woods intrigued. Emerging a couple of hours later with a basketful of the coveted mushrooms, I felt a sense of renewal. Not only had I been introduced to foraging, but I also began to understand the Norwegian-born concept of “friluftsliv” or free air life.


The next morning, Lisbeth and I set out on a berry-picking adventure. Hiking along a portion of one of Norway’s Pilgrimage Paths, we searched for blueberries and the delicious cloudberries found in arctic climates. Free to roam, we picked the berries on farmland as well as in the woods. As an American accustomed to fences erected to keep trespassers out, freely walking onto private farmland both surprised and thrilled me—more exposure to friluftsliv!

Mushroom picking in Norway. Photo by Lisbeth Fallon.

What is Friluftsliv?


Norwegian playwright and poet Henrik Ibsen popularized the term friluftsliv (pronounced free-loofts-live) in the 1850s when he used it to describe the value of spending time in nature for spiritual and physical wellbeing. When I initially heard about free air life, my mind immediately conjured up images of people hiking frozen glaciers, swimming across the fjords and scaling mountains of terrifying heights. If that’s your cup of tea, go for it, but picking mushrooms or berries supplies a touch of friluftsliv too. Basically, just get outside and breathe the fresh air nature provides.

The 1957 Outdoor Recreation Act provides residents of all Scandinavian countries the freedom to roam—a concept that dovetails nicely with friluftsliv. Simple rules include respecting nature, wildlife and inhabitants. Want to pitch a tent or sleep under the stars? Go for it, just make sure you keep at least 500 feet away from the nearest inhabited house or cabin. If you want to spend a second night, seek permission from the landowner.


Embracing Friluftsliv! Photo by Terri Marshall

Friluftsliv in Every Season

A year-round way of life, friluftsliv continues through the winter snows. Norwegians pile on the layers, add crampons to their hiking boots or strap on their cross-country skis and keep moving. As they say in Norway, “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.”
My fascination with friluftsliv followed me home to New York City. Often seeking an escape from the incessant honking horns and shrieking sirens of the city, I lace up my sneakers and lose myself in Riverside Park for a walk, stopping to smell the flowers in springtime or take photos of colorful autumn leaves.

When possible, I venture outside the city for a hike. Like my Norwegian friends, I continue these excursions through the winter months adding layers for warmth and strapping on my crampons to hike through the snow. I’m beginning to understand why Norwegians often rank among the happiest people on earth!

Hiking through Winter – Norwegian Style! Photo by Greg Holder

Dolittle (2020)

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Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEf412bSPLs 

Dr. John Dolittle lives in solitude behind the high walls of his lush manor in 19th-century England. His only companionship comes from an array of exotic animals, to which he speaks daily. But when young Queen Victoria becomes gravely ill, the eccentric doctor and his furry friends embark on an epic adventure to a mythical island to find the cure. 

Screen on the Green is an outdoor movie experience. Join us at 6:30 p.m. on November 12th, before the start of the movie, for family-friendly trivia. The winner will receive a special Screen on the Green VIP prize package! 

For all City of West Palm Beach events, patrons should follow any applicable CDC guidelines. Blankets and chairs are recommended for Clematis by Night, Screen on the Green, and Sunday on the Waterfront.  

Parking is available in City garages, and the Banyan and Evernia garages are the closest to the events. For more info, head to www.wpb.org/events

(Veterans Day) Motown and More (Motown)

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Motown and More is one of the hottest Motown tributes in town. This dynamic group of musicians and vocalists has opened for many celebrities and popped up everywhere on the local scene.

This edition of Clematis by Night will include a special tribute to military veterans on November 11th.

For all City of West Palm Beach events, patrons should follow any applicable CDC guidelines. Blankets and chairs are recommended for Clematis by Night, Screen on the Green, and Sunday on the Waterfront.  

Parking is available in City garages, and the Banyan and Evernia garages are the closest to the events. For more info, head to www.wpb.org/events

Morikami’s Annual Gala

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Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens’

Board of Trustees Celebrates

 “Year of the Tiger” at its Annual Gala on

March 12, 2022

Delray Beach, FL — Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens has announced details for their Board of Trustees’ “Year of the Tiger” Gala to be celebrated at the Museum on March 12, 2022. The evening’s events will feature a spectacular program of dining, dancing, and music, highlighted by guest artist, Charles Calello and his 17-person orchestra. Famed Grammy nominee, and renowned music arranger, Calello is one of the original members of The 4 Seasons.

Upon guests arrival they will be served signature cocktails, enjoy Japanese Taiko drumming by Fushu Daiko, and participate in a tasting of Japan’s most premium brands of sake and whisky as they view the must-have items being offered in the silent auction. 

A spectacular display of fireworks will herald the commencement of the evening’s program, with a solo music performance by Mr. Calello as guests are served a lavish dinner. The Museum is pleased to announce that Kathleen Guzman, a contributor to PBS’s Antiques Roadshow and a world-renowned appraiser and auctioneer will conduct the evening’s live auction. Ms. Guzman serves as Texas-based Heritage Auctions Managing Director of their New York City office.

Morikami Director Bonnie White LeMay and the Museum’s Board President Celia “CiCi” Turner Zahringer will present the inaugural George Morikami Cultural Awards following dinner.  

The recipients are an esteemed selection of supporters who have made a positive contribution to the Morikami and the lives they have all touched through their ongoing generosity, and expression of their creativity.

o   Philanthropic Support:  JM Family Enterprises, Inc.

o   Japanese Garden Design:  Hoichi Kurisu, world-renown Japanese Landscape Architect who designed and created Morikami’s six Roji-en Gardens

o   Architectural Design: Internationally respected Architect Donald Yoshino, FAIA, and former President of the Morikami Board of Trustees

The annual Gala is the museum’s most significant fundraiser. This event enables the non-profit to raise the funds needed in order to continue to produce the award-winning, innovative and high-quality programming and events for which the Morikami is known.

The “Year of the Tiger” Gala is Co-Chaired by Board members, Celia Turner Zahringer, Pat Gourlay, Christine Carton, and Robin May. Major sponsors include JM Family Enterprises, Inc. and Wells Fargo Private Bank. Catering will be provided by Palm Beach’s Ken-Rose Catering Inc. Décor by DECO Productions, Miami.

Proceeds will benefit Morikami’s 4Es: Exhibitions, Education, Emotional Wellness programs, and Expansion.

Gala tickets are priced at $400 per person, and table sponsorships range from $5,000 to $25,000. To purchase tickets or to learn more about the sponsorship and underwriting opportunities available for this event, contact Sharyn Samuels, Interim Director of Development at (561) 233-1516. For additional Gala information visit: Morikami.org/event/gala 

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.

About Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens has been a center for Japanese art and culture in South Florida since opening in 1977. Morikami invites guests to discover its South Florida history, connection with Japan, and explore a series of six diverse gardens, each inspired by a different historical period and style of Japanese gardening. Visitors experience traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through engaging exhibits, varied educational programs and seasonal events, a world-class bonsai display, Pan-Asian cuisine, and a distinctive museum store. The Morikami Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. 

About Charles Calello

Charles Calello is an original Jersey Boy and a former member of the 4 Seasons. Calello holds the Billboard Magazine record for Music Arranger, with more Top 10 hits than anyone in the history of Pop Music (visit charlescalello.com for a complete list of Billboard hit records). He has recorded hit records with some of the world’s most famous stars, such as The 4 Seasons, Neil Diamond, Barbra Streisand, Glen Campbell, Engelbert Humperdinck, Juice Newton, Lou Christie, Frank Sinatra and many more. His music has been nominated for 15 Grammy Awards. 

Happy November and Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy November!  Hope you are enjoying the slightly cooler weather.  This month we feature Trustbridge, formerly Hospice, which is a great place to donate your gently used goods and even used vehicles.  Read the “AW Spotlight” story. 

This month we also are happy to let you know about the Wellington Film Festival, happening November 5, 6 & 7 and November 12, 13 & 14.  I interviewed Film Festival Director Jean Michel Millien to glean some of the highlights of the festival.  See “Cultural Corner.”

Our AW Networking Mixer continues the 2nd Thursday of each month, so save the date for November 11th at 6:30pm at Village Music.  Come for the mixer, stay for the jazz (by the Wellington Jazz Cats).

A couple of holiday traditions are coming up around Wellington – WinterFest featuring Vanilla Ice on December 10th and the Annual Wellington Holiday Parade on December 12th.  Save the dates!

Our Health & Fitness expert Cheryl Alker gives some video tips on how to strengthen your back muscles.  All you need is an exercise ball and perhaps a yoga mat to partake in this.

Briana D’Andrea, our Mommy Moments writer, introduces a yummy 4-ingredient pasta dish that she says is “good for the soul.”  Plus the whole family loves it! 

Ever wondered which breeds of dogs are better for our South Florida climate and for withstanding the summer hear?  Paws-itive Press writer Julie Schrager gives us the rundown of different dog breeds. 

Have you started looking for holiday gifts yet?  Well, according to the news and to shipping delays this season, it’s definitely time to start!  Our travel writer Terri Marshall provides some great gift ideas for travelers and adventures (coming soon). 

Thanks for being a part of AroundWellington! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

Cheers,

Krista Martinelli

Editor

AroundWellington.com

37th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade Taking Place December 12th

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37th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade Taking Place December 12th

CENTRAL PALM BEACH (November 1, 2021) — The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington are proud to announce the 37th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade. Presented by Wellington Regional Medical Center. Schumacher Family of Dealerships returns as the Automotive Sponsor.

The event will take place on Sunday, December 12th at 1:30 pm. This year’s theme, Holiday Dreams, will be on display as participants ride on floats, decorated vehicles, and walk the route of the parade up Forest Hill Boulevard for thousands of spectators to enjoy. To ensure a safe path for pedestrians, road closures will begin at 1:00 pm.

The Holiday Park will be open from 10:30 a.m-3:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater and will feature live performances from local students, exhibitors offering arts and crafts, food, interactive displays with local businesses and more.

Thank you to our Partners: Wellington Regional Medical Center, Schumacher Family of Dealerships, The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue, Retreat Behavioral Health of Palm Beach, The Center for Bone & Joint Surgery of the Palm Beaches, Print It Plus, Bolay, Two Men and a Truck,  Wellington National Golf Club, Priority Towing, Costco Wholesale, Starbucks, City of Greenacres,  Hill Audio Visual, Royal Inn, South Florida Fair, PCI, Signs by Tomorrow.

Media Partners include: WPTV Channel 25, The Palm Beach Post, Town Crier, Wellington the Magazine, Around Wellington.