The South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is heating up the holidays with seasonally-themed activities, camps and special events through February 2021. Santa’s helpers of all ages can enjoy the wide range of seasonal offerings, including making their own snow, rocking out to favorite festive classics with laser light shows in the planetarium and experimenting with frigid science demos.
The highlight of the season is “Noon Year’s Eve,” a socially distant family event to help ring in the new year outdoors on the Fisher Family Science Trail. Staying up to bring in 2021 will be easy with a midday dance party, science crafts, themed activities and food. A dry ice apple cider toast at noon will usher in the new year. The event runs from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Thursday, December 31. Event is included with paid admission and is free for members.
For the second year, the Science Center is partnering with Casey Cares, an organization offering critically ill children positive experiences and support. The community is asked to donate a pair of pajamas to the science center between December 26th – 31st to receive a $5 off admission voucher to their Noon Year’s Eve event. All donated pairs of pajamas should be new with tags intact and sized for kids aged anywhere from 18 months to 18-years-old.
On the second Friday of each month, the Science Center is hosting a new outdoor event on the five-acre Science Trail called Laser Lights & Bites at the Cox Amphitheatre. The series kicks off this Friday, December 11 with a Winter Wonderland theme. Families can sing and dance along to holiday favorites with plenty of room to socially distance outside and even enjoy a food truck and twilight mini golf on the Conservation Course. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets to set up on the amphitheater lawn.
Winter camps are scheduled until February at the Science Center for ages 7-12. From robot races to the science behind Winter Olympic events, there is something for everyone.
“Safety is our number one priority at the Science Center,” said Kate Arrizza, president and CEO of the Science Center. “We held summer camp earlier this year without incident, and we are committed to upholding the highest cleanliness standards.”
Camp scholarships are available for Title 1 students. Visit www.sfsciencecenter.org/camps for more information.
Guests can also experience the blockbuster exhibit, Real Bodies: The Exhibition, which showcases real preserved human bodies, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful weather by playing a round of mini golf on the Conservation Course, named one of the Travel Channel’s top 13 mini golf courses in the country.
Admission to the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is $17.95 for adults $15.95 for seniors, $13.95 for kids ages 3-12 and free for members and kids under 3. Planetarium shows and mini golf are not included in general admission pricing.
The mission of the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium is to “open every mind to science” and in addition to its fresh and saltwater aquarium and new backyard Science Trail, the indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a digital planetarium, conservation research station, Florida exhibit hall, Pre-K focused “Discovery Center,” an interactive Everglades exhibit and the 18-hole Conservation Course – an outdoor putting course with science-focused education stations. The newest addition includes a $2.5 million permanent exhibit, “Journey Through the Human Brain” and features the most advanced neuroscience research and technology in the world. Real Bodies: The Exhibition runs through April 11, 2021.
For more information about the Holiday Schedule, the Conservation Course, or other Science Center programming, please call 561-832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org. Like the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @SFScienceCenter.
Please see below for specific information about the seasonal activities now being offered at the Science Center.
Winter Camps
Upcoming one-day school break camps:
January 18th, 2021: Arctic Adventures (ages 7-12) – A cool front has blown across South Florida, providing us with the perfect opportunity for science! Come chill with our team of winter scientists as we conduct some of the “coolest” science experiments on the planet. $50/non-member & $45/member.
February 1st, 2021: Robot Races (ages 7-12) – The robots are coming, the robots are coming! Take back control of these programmable machines by learning the basics of circuits and robotics and restore peace at the Science Center. $60/non-member & $55/member.
Winter Mini Camps
December 21st – 24th, 2020: Going for the Gold (ages 7-12) – It’s the science of Olympic proportions! Take a closer look at the winter games and learn some of the science behind select Olympic events. $205/non-member & $185/member.
December 28th – 31st, 2020: Ice Crystal Countdown (ages 7-12) – Crystallize your imagination as we learn how cold things can get. From liquid nitrogen to absolute zero, this week is sure to make you shiver. $205/non-member & $185/member.
Camps run from 9:00am-4:00pm. Before/Aftercare (7:30am-5:30pm) is an additional charge of $10 per day.
*‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SCIENCE INFO, DATES AND TIMES*
“Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
“Let it Snow” features a new variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee and includes a stunning multi-media finale by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with thematic animation, laser imagery, special effects and all-dome scenery in the audiovisual setting of our newly upgraded, state-of-the-art Planetarium. Daily showtimes from November 27th – January 3rd. Click here to view the full Planetarium schedule.
Laser Light Holiday Show
Come enjoy the brand-new Laser Light Show system in the full-dome planetarium and out to the holiday classics you know and love! Daily showtimes from November 27th – January 3rd. Click here to view the full Laser Holiday show schedule.
Frigid Science Demonstration
See physical changes occur right before your eyes as you view these ‘chilling’ states of matter experiments.
Winter Wonder Crafts and Anatomy-themed STEM Activities
Be amazed with a variety of cool winter-themed science labs and learn all about the body with anatomy STEM-based activities.
Geometric Snowflakes
Visitors will craft their very own custom snowflakes! Be sure to check out the amazing shapes within your unique design.
Make-N-Take Snow
Snow in Florida? Yes! Watch as your own winter snow forms right before your eyes.
2020-21 Dates and Times
Friday, December 11th
6 – 9pm- Winter Wonderland Laser Lights and Bites
Saturday, December 12
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Animal Encounter
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Sunday, December 13
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Anatomy Program
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Saturday, December 19
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Animal Encounter
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Sunday, December 20
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Anatomy Program
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Monday, December 21
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Animal Encounter
Tuesday, December 22
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Anatomy Program
Wednesday, December 23
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Anatomy Program
Thursday, December 24
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Animal Encounter
Saturday, December 26
10am – 6pm: Half Price for Heroes
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Animal Encounter
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Sunday, December 27
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Anatomy Program
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Monday, December 28
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Animal Encounter
Tuesday, December 29
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Anatomy Program
Wednesday, December 30
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Anatomy Program
Thursday, December 31
10:00am – 1:00pm — NOON Year’s Eve Celebration
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
Friday, January 1
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – Laser Holiday Planetarium Show
12:00pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
1:30pm – Anatomy Program
Saturday, January 2
9:00am-10:00am – Sensory Saturdays
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Animal Encounter
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstrations
Sunday, January 3
11:30am & 2:30pm – Winter Wonder STEM Activity
12pm & 4pm – “Let it Snow” Planetarium Show
12:30pm – Anatomy Program
1:30pm – Frigid Science Demonstration
As with the rest of 2020, we’ll be celebrating the holiday season close to home. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do a little armchair exploration around the world. I’m digging into my prior holiday experiences in foreign lands and research about others to bring you some interesting traditions and places for venturing afar when COVID disappears. Enjoy!
A bucket-list destination for many, Germany’s Christmas markets cast a spell on all who enter. The magic of the twinkling lights, wooden stalls filled with local wares, Glockenspiels and the delicious warmth of Glühwein—the season’s traditional spiced mulled wine, captivate us. This magic is amplified in Germany’s State of Thuringia, the place where many Christmas traditions began.
Dating back almost 1,300 years, the Thuringia city of Erfurt exudes charm at every turn. With a beautifully preserved old quarter, half-timbered buildings and the Merchant’s Bridge–a Medieval bridge lined with shops and galleries displaying the work of local artisans–it’s hard not to fall in love with this place. When the holiday season arrives, that love gets real!
In the heart of the city, Domplatz hosts one of Germany’s largest Christmas markets. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the majestic St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Church of St. Severus, the welcoming aromas of spiced mulled wine, gingerbread and sausage fill the air as you wander the town’s main square.
More than 200 wooden huts display everything from candles to handcrafted toys to Christmas tree decorations. There’s also plenty to satisfy your appetite including regional favorites such as Thuringian bratwurst and Erfurt schittchen, a stollen so delicious it’s been registered as a trademark.
Beyond the city, traditional wooden toys, dolls and stuffed animals have been made for centuries in Sonneberg–often referred to as Santa’s other workshop. The town still produces high-quality toys and is often referred to as “Santa’s Other Workshop.”
I’ll confess, I’ve never been to Japan, but nevertheless, I’m intrigued by so many customs of this fascinating country. One, however, I’ll never understand.
With such a sophisticated selection of dining options, you’d expect the resident of Tokyo to celebrate the holidays with an incredible five-star dinner out. But in fact, on Christmas Eve you’ll find many families waiting in line for a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Capitalizing on the lack of turkey in Japan that caused visitors to seek out fried chicken as an alternative Christmas dinner, KFC launched a brilliant advertising campaign in the 1970s. As a result, “Sanders Claus” shows up each December. Buckets of KFC are in such demand on Christmas Eve that Tokyo residents put in their orders as early as October. Seriously.
KFC’s in Tokyo even offer champagne and cake to go with their sub-par chicken. Obviously, Japan does KFC better than the USA!
With its snowy landscapes and mystical reindeer, Norway embodies the holiday spirit. Celebrations begin the last weekend of November with Småkaker–a tradition of baking a minimum of seven different kinds of Christmas biscuits or cookies to be featured on the holiday table. Festive Christmas markets pop up in cities and villages along with cheerful Christmas concerts.
The most treasured tradition happens on Christmas Eve when friends and family gather for the Christmas feast. Among the favorite dishes are pinnekjøtt–salted, dried and smoked lamb ribs, lutefisk–a fermented fish that’s definitely an acquired taste and Norway’s favorite spirit, Aquavit.
Riskrem, a cold creamed rice porridge with cinnamon, sugar and butter is served for dessert. In the bowl of porridge, an almond is hidden. If you get the almond, you receive a marzipan pig.
In a time of wonder and joy, Julenissen (Father Christmas) comes to visit with gifts for the children. Often one of the guests disappears to change into costume–a feat that typically escapes yet delights the little ones!
As an avid traveler who typically spends her days exploring the world, 2020 brought more than a few challenges. But, I must admit, focusing on the holiday traditions I’ve experienced abroad combined with researching others brought me joy. I hope it does the same for you. Happy Holidays, my friends!
ALPERT JFS’ “NEVER AGAIN” BENEFIT HONORING PALM BEACH FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIANS & JEWS
LEADERSHIP RAISES MORE THAN $85,000 TO SUPPORT HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
WEST PALM BEACH, FL – December 4, 2020 – Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS) presented the 2nd Annual “Never Again” Holocaust Survivors Benefit, chaired by Sheila Engelstein, Vivienne Ivry, and Zelda Mason last night, with approximately 135 households tuning in from the comfort of their homes. More than $85,000 in donations will provide home care, food, medicine, medical care, emergency funds, dental care, transportation, and socialization to Holocaust survivors, helping them remain living in their homes for as long as possible.
The event honored John C. “Skip” Randolph and Margaret “Maggie” Zeidman, chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians & Jews. They were recognized for their work in providing guidance felt throughout the community by promoting – and living – the concepts of respectful dialogue and civil interaction among people of all ages, faiths and backgrounds, who want to make a community a better place.
As Alpert JFS President & Board Chair Zelda Mason said, “Skip and Maggie lead the efforts of the grassroots organization dedicated to promoting fellowship, understanding, and respect among all religions and cultures, to build bridges and open doors to better communication and mutual respect. Because they care, our community is a better place for people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds. Their actions of living the concepts of respectful and civil dialogue are inspiring and enlightening.”
Event sponsors were Gayle & Paul Gross, Amicable Home Health Care, Sheila Engelstein, NEXT GENERATIONS, and Plastridge Insurance. Members of the Host Committee included Socki and Bruce Berg, Judy Bergman and Dr. Richard D. Budson, Traci and Keith Braun, Alan Goldberg, Colleen Haggerty and Irv Seldin, Vivienne Ivry, Stacey H. and Michael A. Lampert, Jennifer and Gary S. Lesser, Claire Levine, Diann and Tom Mann, Zelda Mason, Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians & Jews, and Joan and Jerry Serchuck. Program Ambassadors were Don Abrams, Michael Ainslie, Chaykin Law Group, Louis Gottlieb, Ed Katz, Marjorie and Sheldon Konigsberg, Liggio Law, and Hope and Gene Silverman.
At the event, featured guest speaker Matthew Orton, who wrote and co-produced the cinematic thriller “Operation Finale” was interviewed by Alpert CEO Marc Hopin; Alpert JFS Care Manager Eva Weiss had a conversation with Holocaust survivor Fannie Slonim, a client of the agency’s Holocaust Survivor’s Assistance Program for the past 10 years, about her wartime experiences, and the support she has received; and Ash Soular’s music video of her original song, “Never Again,” was shown.
“It was my pleasure to introduce Screenwriter Matthew Orton, who donated his time to be with us,” said Hopin. “’Operation Finale’ the 2018 cinematic thriller that features a gripping account of Adolf Eichmann’s capture and interrogation, gives voice to Holocaust survivors’ stories and provides an education on the cruelties of the Shoah. We are privileged to have had Matthew speak, echoing our sentiments of ‘Never Again!’”
The virtual community-wide event was free of charge, with a $360,000 Challenge fundraising goal for this event and the upcoming “No Excuse for Abuse” (NEFA) online experience, to be held on February 16, 2021, to provide much-needed assistance to the most vulnerable in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie counties.
Randolph joined the Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians and Jews 27 years ago, becoming chair of the organization a year later. His motivation was the intolerance, anti-Semitism and unjust discrimination he witnessed within the local community and elsewhere, which was the total opposite of the organization’s mission of promoting “fellowship, understanding, and respect among all religions and cultures through education, dialogue and interaction.” A practicing attorney, specializing in governmental law, land use and zoning in Palm Beach County, Skip is the attorney for the towns of Palm Beach, Jupiter Island, and Gulfstream, Florida. He has served as president of the Rehabilitation Center for Children and Adults in Palm Beach, and is a past president of the Royal Poinciana board of directors, the Zoological Society of the Palm Beaches, and the Florida Municipal Attorneys’ Association, which awarded him the Paul S. Buchman Attorney of the Year Award in 2006. Skip has been listed in “Best Lawyers in America,” the South Florida Legal Guide Top Lawyers, Florida Trend’s Legal Elite, and Palm Beach Illustrated’s Top Lawyers.
Zeidman was elected Council President of the Palm Beach Town Council in 2016. A resident of Palm Beach for 18 years, she was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Palm Beach Fellowship of Christians & Jews and subsequently elected Vice Chair. Maggie has participated in numerous other civic and charitable efforts, including but not limited to Catholic Charities Health and Wellness, St. Edward Guild, the Palm Beach Civic Association and the Preservation Foundation. Well-known for her expertise in the field of cardiovascular nursing, Maggie was previously the Director of Nursing at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. She is a member of Sigma Theta Tau and has been published in nursing textbooks and professional journals. Maggie also held the position of Clinical Director at Barnum and Souza, a New York-based marketing firm. She has been recognized by the American Heart Association, the Critical Care Nurses Association and the University of Miami as a leader in health care.
The event is available for viewing at https://vimeo.com/486527004/cb479d1848.
The Alpert JFS Holocaust Survivors Assistance Program has seven full-time employees working to preserve the dignity of Holocaust survivors, identifying and addressing their distinct social welfare, health care, and emotional needs with the utmost sensitivity. The team helps them navigate the Reparations Benefit Process, and provides monthly, bi-monthly, and annual socialization activities for survivors. The HonoringLifeTM program facilitated by Alpert JFS provides cultural competency training for healthcare and legal professionals, as well as others who may encounter Holocaust survivors.
For more information about Alpert JFS’ Holocaust Survivors Assistance Program, visit www.AlpertJFS.org/for-seniors-holocaust-survivors-assistance/.
Established in 1974, Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS) is a nationally accredited service provider for children, adults, seniors, and Holocaust survivors. The non-profit, non-sectarian organization is a trusted leader, with a team of nearly 200 highly skilled professionals delivering high-quality care to community members. Alpert JFS works to ensure the well-being of children and families, independence of older adults, and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. For more information, visit www.AlpertJFS.org/ or phone 561-684-1991.
Family-friendly Holiday Events in Wellington
Looking to get into the Holiday spirit this December? Look no further than your Great Hometown. Wellington has a whole host of fun, family activities scheduled for you and your loved ones throughout the month.
Virtual Events | Holiday Lightings & Celebrations
Wellington will be hosting a series of virtual holiday events including our Holiday Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 5th, the Menorah Lighting on Thursday, December 10th, and a Kwanzaa Celebration starting on Saturday, December 26th. Wellington invites residents to tune to WellingtonTV (Comcast 18, AT&T Uverse 99) and visit our website at www.wellingtonfl.gov to watch pre-recorded videos and for additional information. Follow the village’s social media pages for more videos and content. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/SocialMedia
Fridays | Holiday shopping at the Twilight Green Market at Wellington
Stop by the Twilight Green Market at Wellington on Fridays, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to complete your holiday shopping, and support small business, with a scenic stroll through our evening market. Enjoy shopping in a convenient, relaxed, atmosphere while taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Our unique market is comprised of many hand-selected, locally owned businesses offering handcrafted items, homemade and gourmet goods, specialty plants, produce, and more! The market is dog friendly and also offers a selection of palate-pleasing food and beverage vendors. All guests are expected to follow all recommended social distancing and CDC guidelines and wear a mask while shopping at the market. The market will be closed on December 25th and January 1st in observance of Christmas and New Year’s Day. For more information visit wellingtonfl.gov/TwilightMarket
Saturday, December 5th | Free Movie Night
“The Man Who Invented Christmas” (PG), Registration required
Bring out the family for a free showing of “The Man Who Invented Christmas (PG)”, at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard). Starting at 7:00 p.m., the movie depicts “the journey that led to Charles Dickens’ creation of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ a timeless tale that would redefine Christmas” (imdb.com). Registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating, and must wear a mask and observe CDC guidelines for social distancing. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/Eventbrite for more information.
Saturday, December 12th
30th Annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic
Grab your fishing tackle and get ready to reel in “the big one” at the 30th Annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic on Saturday, December 12th. This year’s free fishing tournament will be held along Wellington’s Town Center Promenade on Lake Wellington, behind the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard), and is presented by the Village of Wellington in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Building Up Sports Academy. The tournament is open to all local children, ages 15 and younger. Participants are required to wear a mask when unable to maintain 6 feet of social distance from others. Registration opens at 8:00 a.m., followed by the tournament from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and awards and fish tales from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place (based on a point system of fish caught and released) in each age group: 6 and under; ages 7 to 9; ages 10 to 12; and ages 13 to 15. Learn more at www.wellingtonfl.gov/HolidayFishing
Saturday, December 12th | Holiday Boat Parade
Come watch as local residents and boating enthusiasts “light up the Lake” with an Annual Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Wellington, sponsored by South Florida Marine. Boats will launch from the Meadowland Cove launch at 6:20 p.m. and are expected to pass behind the Wellington Community Center around 6:30 p.m. The parade will be visible from Wellington’s Town Center Promenade on Lake Wellington, behind the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). Guests are asked to wear a mask at all times and observe all CDC and social distance guidelines. Hand sanitizer stations will be available and the Community Center will be open for restroom use until the conclusion of the boat parade. Approximately 30 festive, decorated boats are expected to cruise in the parade. Those interested in participating should contact Jack Brownson at [email protected] for more information.
Saturday, December 12th | Free Movie Night
“The Santa Clause (PG)”, Registration required
Following the Holiday Boat Parade attend a free showing of the 1994 Christmas classic “The Santa Clause (PG)” at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard). The movie starts at 7:00 p.m. and registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating and must wear a mask and observe CDC guidelines for social distancing. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/Eventbrite for more information.
Saturday, December 19th | Free Movie Night
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (PG-13)”, Registration required
Finish off your list of holiday film favorites with the classic Christmas comedy “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (PG-13), where “the Griswold family’s plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster” (imdb.com). The movie starts at 7:00 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard), and registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating and must wear a mask and observe CDC guidelines for social distancing. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/Eventbrite for more information.
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.
An Interview with Gary Davis, Comic Book Creator
On December 4th at the Box Gallery in West Palm Beach, Comic Book Creator, Composer and Film Maker Gary Davis had a comic book signing, celebrating his gender-fluid main character Billie.
A Holiday Message
By Bryan Hayes
By Ainsley Lawrence
While many businesses have struggled throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, certain industries have seen growth because of the necessary adjustments we’ve all had to make. The gig economy is booming, food delivery has become more important than ever, and video conferencing companies have seen huge jumps in success.
Pet-related businesses are also on the rise. This is due, in part, to the fact that many people have adopted pets during the pandemic. Many shelters across the country were nearly emptied when “lockdown” orders were issued earlier in 2020. So, it’s a great time to start a pet-related business to help all of those new owners out!
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that because we’re dealing with such uncertain times, starting any type of business comes with a few potential risks. But, choosing an industry that is on the rise and making smart business decisions can help you to achieve success, even during a global pandemic.
So, if you’re a pet lover yourself and you want to help both people and their four-legged friends, how can you start a successful pet-related business during COVID?
One of the most important things you can do at the moment is to familiarize yourself with all laws, regulations, and guidelines put in place to keep yourself and others safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been established that dogs and cats can, indeed, contract the virus. It is believed that the few cases that have occurred in pets are the result of close interactions with humans who had the virus.
If you have a business where you are directly interacting with animals, social distancing from them may not be possible. But, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of putting yourself or the pet you’re caring for in danger, including:
You can make pet owners feel safe and comfortable by offering things like contactless payment options, contactless drop-off/pick-up (for pet sitting, dog walking, etc.), and by scheduling any employees you may have at different times so only a few people are working together at once. These precautionary measures show people who might want to utilize your new business that you are taking the pandemic seriously and you care about their wellbeing, as well as the health of their pet.
The success of any business is based on fulfilling a need. During the pandemic, more people have been willing to help out small businesses to keep them open. The support has been great all over the country. But, if your business isn’t giving consumers something they’re interested in, they’re not going to be able to support you for long. So, with more people working from home or just spending more of their free time at home, what sort of pet-related business can thrive?
Believe it or not, there are plenty of ways your pet business can still succeed. Some of the best options now, and for the future include:
These are all things that can be done safely while following COVID guidelines. Dog walking, grooming, and training can all be done while wearing a mask. If you’re pet sitting or boarding for a dog or cat, you can market your new business’ safety procedures by including things like frequent sanitizing, contact tracing, and contactless pick-ups and drop-offs.
You might already be one step ahead of the game because the pet industry is so popular right now. But, it’s still important to know how to manage your business and commit to the best practices for success.
One of the best things you can do, especially when working with people’s pets, is provide superior customer service. Doing so will generate buzz about your business, and will trigger word-of-mouth advertisers that will help you to grow.
Another important key to success, especially in these uncertain times, is showing adaptability. Even if you’re just starting out as a business, showing that your brand can adapt to the changes that are taking place will not only boost your business’ resilience but show your clients/customers how dedicated you are. People want to work with businesses that feel stable and strong. Ironically enough, being flexible does just that.
It doesn’t matter what type of pet-related business you’re thinking about starting. With more people adopting lately, you could be stepping into a great market. But, it’s still important to be safe, be realistic, and understand that for your business to succeed, you’re going to have to put every effort into getting through the rest of this pandemic. If you’re willing to put in that work, you just may find yourself with a howling-good business on your hands for years to come!
***
Ainsley Lawrence is a freelance writer that lives in the Northwest region of the United States. She has a particular interest in covering topics related to good health, balanced life, and better living through technology. When not writing, her free time is spent reading and researching to learn more about her cultural and environmental surroundings. You can follow her on Twitter @AinsleyLawrenc3
December, 2020 – Enjoy the Holidays!
By Mayor Anne Gerwig
If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that things don’t always go as planned. Since March, COVID-19 monopolized our community’s conversation and hasn’t left room for much else. We went straight from talking about lockdowns, Zoom fatigue, masks, and temperature screenings to all of the above plus a very active hurricane season, and a Presidential election. What a year it’s been! Now, we are officially in the holiday season, and continuing to focus on ways to bring our community together, safely. This is a special time of year, filled with family, friends, and community. It is also a time to reflect on the passing year, celebrate with loved ones, and look toward the New Year.
As we prepare for the holidays and look forward to community events ahead, I invite you to visit the Village’s website Wellingtonfl.gov for important information and a complete list of upcoming events.
Before we get into all the fun events and activities, I’d like to share an important reminder: we are still dealing with the COVID-19 Pandemic. The number of COVID cases continues to rise nationwide and Palm Beach County is no exception. Public Health Officials warned us earlier this year that we might see a rise in the number of cases in the fall and winter months. It remains as important as ever to stay vigilant & continue doing the things we have been doing to protect ourselves, and our community. Contact tracing reveals the newest spread is not occurring in public, but rather in households and around family and friends when we let our guard down. Many spreading the virus don’t know it. Now is NOT the time to let your guard down. By following the 3W’s (washing your hands, watching your distance, and wearing your mask) and avoiding the 3C’s (closed spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings such as close conversations), you can significantly lower your chances of ending up in the hospital or spreading the virus.
Please remember that frequent and regular social interactions among extended families provide multiple opportunities for COVID-19 to spread. When interacting with people outside your household, it is important to wear masks and maintain social distance. We know this year has been difficult for many families, who have been kept apart for months. However, we are not in the clear yet, so please consider keeping your celebrations small, with only members of your household.
One of the best parts of living in Wellington is enjoying our family-focused holiday events. While we’ve had to make some adjustments this year, we’re excited to continue our favorite annual traditions and come together to create new ones. Start your December festivities off with Winterfest 2020 “Live From Your Ride.” This event, presented by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, takes place on December 5th at the Wellington Green Park (2175 Wellington Green Drive) and features performers including DJ Johnny Quest (Master of Ceremonies), the School of Rock, Alex Shaw, and Vanilla Ice. Visit the Wellington Chamber’s website to purchase tickets and for more details.
Next is the popular Annual Wellington Holiday Boat Parade. Join us on the Town Center Promenade (behind the Community Center) on December 12th from 6:25 PM – 7:45 PM to watch local boats float along Lake Wellington, decorated in holiday lights and themes.
Join us from December 26th through January 1st for our virtual Kwanzaa Celebration. Community members and leaders from all walks of life will come together in celebration of African-American culture and traditions. Visit Wellington’s website for details.
Social distancing, hand sanitizing, and masks will be required at each event.
Writing this column and sharing a few of the ways that we can gather as a community this season is one more blessing I can count on in my own life. I am very grateful for the privilege of serving as your Mayor. The past year has been filled with many challenges. I want to personally thank you for the sacrifices you’ve made as individuals and as a community.
As you gather together with family or friends, please keep in mind our hospital staff and first responders who’ve worked so hard to keep us safe. If you have a chance to make someone’s holidays a little brighter, do it!
On behalf of the Village of Wellington, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, and many blessings in the year to come.
An interview with artist Tommy Verderosa. To view his art for sale, visit: https://tomplexx.bigcartel.com/
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