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April’s Mayor Column

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Mayor’s ColumnAnneGerwig

By Mayor Anne Gerwig

Spring is the season of new beginnings. Last month, I had the distinct privilege of being elected Mayor. I feel very proud to have this distinction in a year when Wellington marks its 20th anniversary of incorporation.

springIf there was ever a month to be lucky you live in Wellington, April is it.  With so many exciting events going on, there’s no shortage of ways to stay entertained, enjoy our beautiful weather, and socialize with the community.

relayforlifeThis month, I am excited to lead Wellington in the Relay For Life movement. Relay for Life Wellington takes place on Saturday, April 16, 2016 at 3:00 pm at Palm Beach Central High School (8499 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL). That evening, we will join communities from across the globe to celebrate those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. The Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest fundraising event to fight every cancer in every community, with four million participants in 6,000 events worldwide in 2015.  Come out and support this great cause! Together, our efforts can make a big difference.

Visit relayforlife.org to learn more about the event. Sign up for the Wellington team by Clicking HERE, or contact Olga Prieto at 561-753-2561.

If you love the Wellington Green Market, or if you haven’t had a chance to experience it yet, you still have a few weeks left to stop by.  The Green Market runs through April 30th, and then returns again in October.  The market opens at 9 am every Saturday this month at Village Hall.

earthdaypromoJoin us Sunday, April 17 starting at 4:00 pm at the Wellington Amphitheater are we celebrate Earth Day and raise awareness for environmental protection. During this free event, you will learn about recycling, composting, and respecting the earth. The celebration features live music, local vendors showcasing earth friendly products, free samples, and giveaways. We will recognize volunteers over the past year for their steadfast commitment to keep our Village green. In doing our part, this year we will plant a Paradise Tree in honor of Arbor Day.

camerassection24In terms of the environment, the Village takes immense pride in its parks, wetlands, and environmental preserves. We recognize the importance of preserving all of nature’s habitats. We must continue to ensure that we protect the environment and the rural charm of our Village. As we look towards the future, this new Council will continue to focus on the principles of preservation, stewardship, and accountability. Our primary goal is always to deliver for our residents.

A drive around our wonderful Village will reveal great neighborhoods, great schools, and outstanding parks. As your new Mayor, I will work to ensure that we sustain and strengthen these qualities. I look forward to working with my fellow Council-members to continue providing the high quality services that make Wellington a better place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

National Volunteer Week

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National Volunteer Week

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National Volunteer Week is April 10th through the 17th and the Village of Wellington would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the volunteers that give their time to make our community a great place to live, work and play. Whether you volunteer at special events or serve on a board or committee please know that we truly appreciate your time and efforts. Volunteers play an important role in contributing to our vibrant community; you are part of what makes Wellington a great hometown. From all of us at the Village of Wellington, thank you!

Wellington would like to recognize its volunteers for their dedication and service at the Earth Day/Arbor Day Celebration on Sunday, April 17th at the Wellington Amphitheatre from 4pm-7pm. If you have volunteered for Wellington within the past year, please join us as we recognize your service while celebrating the preservation of our environment. Light refreshments and giveaways will be provided.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Village of Wellington or to RSVP for the Volunteer Celebration on Sunday, April 17th, please contact Meridith Tuckwood at 561-753-2476 or mtuckwood@wellingtonfl.gov.

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/enews.

For information about other Wellington programs, events, activities, and updates, please visit www.wellingtonfl.gov or watch WellingtonTV for the latest happenings.

Celebrate Earth Day & Arbor Day with a FREE Family Event at the Wellington Amphitheater

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Celebrate Earth Day & Arbor Day with a FREE Family Event at the Wellington Amphitheater
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Join Wellington for its annual Earth Day and Arbor Day Celebration! This free day of fun and learning takes place Sunday, April 17th, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard).
The celebration features live music by local artist Bobby G., presentations by local vendors showcasing earth friendly products, free seedlings and wildflower seeds, give-a-ways, face painting, a coloring mural, and a visit from Smokey the Bear! Visitors are invited to stop by booths highlighting the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Art Society, the Wellington Tree Board, and more! The event will also include a demonstration of proper tree pruning techniques, and a free raffle for a tree in a 15-gallon container. This year Wellington’s Council will be planting a Paradise Tree in honor of Arbor Day.

Wellington will also be celebrating its loyal volunteers at this event, with a special proclamation from the Village Council. Volunteers are invited to stay for the concert and appreciation give-a-ways.

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/enews.

For information about other Wellington programs, events, activities, and updates, please visit www.wellingtonfl.gov or watch WellingtonTV for the latest happenings.

“Mozart and the Movies” piano concert raises funds for Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches

“Mozart and the Movies” piano concert raises funds for Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Legendary local pianist David Crohan once again graced the stage at the Harriet Himmel Theater in CityPlace March 15 as part of the Kretzer Piano Music Foundation’s monthly “Music for the Mind” concert series. More than 150 guests attended the event, which raised over $8,000 to benefit Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches’ LITE (Learning Independence Through Experience) Club for kids ages 6-13.

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Guests were entertained by this year’s concert theme “Mozart and the Movies”. Speakers included Kretzer Piano Music Foundation founder Kathi Kretzer, Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches director of vision services Mary Allen and Lighthouse board chair Donte’ Mickens.
Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches offers a special thank you to Presenting Sponsor Kretzer Piano Music Foundation; Concert Grand Sponsors NCCI (National Council on Compensation insurance), Jon Smith Subs and Retina Care Specialists; Baby Grand Sponsor Beatrice C. Mayer; and Petite Grand Sponsors Vince & Mary Jo Elhilow.
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About Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches:
For 70 years, the Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches has been providing direct education and rehabilitation services to people who are blind or visually impaired in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee Counties. The private, non-profit agency is the only organization of its kind based in West Palm Beach, FL. The Lighthouse assists persons with visual impairments to develop their capabilities to the fullest and to utilize them in the pursuits of life which are the right and privilege of all.
About Music for the Mind:
Held on the third Tuesday of every month in the Harriet Himmel Theater at CityPlace, Music for the Mind concerts feature musical groups from Palm Beach County. Music for the Mind has provided 11,000 young musicians the opportunity to perform while raising over $550,000 to help promote music in our schools and community since 2002. Learn more at http://www.kretzerpiano.com/kpmf.

 

YWCA Sponsors Brown Bag Lunch – Self-Defense for Women

How Do I Defend Myself from an Attacker?

MasterKenThe YWCA of Palm Beach County’s “Brown Bag Lunch” series continues on Thursday, April 21, 2016, 12:00 noon, at the YWCA Corporate Office, 1016 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach.

This month’s topic is self-defense for women presented by Master Ken Smith of Master Ken Martial Arts Academy in Royal Palm Beach.

Born and raised in Massachusetts, Master Ken is a former USPTA tennis professional who began martial arts training in the early 1980s as a way to improve his tennis game. He soon realized the value of the martial arts training far exceeded an improved tennis game and began his training in earnest. He was awarded a 7th Degree Black Belt in 2011, and is a T’ai Chi and Chi Kung Master.

With over 25 years’ experience in women’s self-defense, Master Ken has presented seminars and workshops on the topic and created a DVD set entitled First Response: Every Woman’s Guide to Mindful Self-Defense. As a member of the 331st Minimal Care Detachment Army Reserve Unit in Homestead, Florida, he has conducted many seminars for military personnel.

He lives in south Florida with his wife and two daughters, all of whom hold Black Belts and are Black Belt instructors. They have been generous supporters of the YWCA Harmony House shelter for abused women and children for over six years.

Feel free to bring your lunch with you. The YWCA will provide beverages and dessert. There is no charge to attend, but space is limited, so please reserve your spot now. If you would like to attend, please reply to Carol Henry, 561-640-0050, Ext. 134, or chenry@ywcapbc.org.

YWCA’s Stand Against Racism Luncheon

YWCA’s Stand Against Racism Luncheon at the Kravis Center

Coach Herman Boone, portrayed by Denzel Washington in the film Remember the Titans, will be the featured speaker at the YWCA of Palm Beach County’s annual “Stand Against Racism” Luncheon to be held on Thursday, April 28, 2016, 11:30 a.m. at the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion. Honorary Chair of the event is Clarence D. Williams, III, Chief of the Riviera Beach Police Department and President of the Kappa Upsilon Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. The Presenting Sponsor of the luncheon is FPL, and the Benefactor is the Varughese Family of Delray Beach. The luncheon will include the presentation of the YWCA’s Annual Racial Justice Award.

Coach Herman Boone

In 1971, racial tensions ran high in Alexandria, Virginia, as three schools were integrated to form T.C. Williams High School. Herman Boone faced the challenge of a lifetime in uniting black and white players from previously rival schools in the newly-created Titan football team.

Tensions only escalated when Boone, assistant coach of the former T.C. Williams High School, was named head coach of the Titans, passing over Bill Yoast, the local favorite and successful head coach of the former (and white) Hammond High.

Remarkably, the two coaches were able to put aside their prejudices and, in doing so, united their players to form a team whose common vision was to respect each other and win football games. At the same time, through the game of football, Boone and Yoast were able to help their small Virginia community put aside their intolerance and join together to support their children. The Titans became one of the best teams in Virginia, compiling a 13-0 record and going on to win the state championship.

Though retired from coaching, Boone still travels throughout the country motivating and inspiring audiences of all ages and colors. Boone earned both a BS and MA from North Carolina Central University where he became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

“We are thrilled to have Coach Boone as our guest for this event,” said Suzanne Turner, CEO of the YWCA. She added, “His presentation is certain to be a fascinating view of a challenging time in our history.”

“Stand Against Racism” is a national program of the YWCA with the goal of bringing together people across the country to raise awareness about racism, take steps to eliminate it, and celebrate diversity. Organizations that share the YWCA’s vision can participate as a partner agency; to get additional information and register, please visit www.standagainstracism.org.

Tickets for the luncheon are $50 for YWCA Members and $60 for non-members, with tables of 10 available for $500 for YWCA members and $600 for non-members. Reservations can be made by calling 561-640-0050, Ext. 134.

Joey’s Outback Events for April, 2016

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What’s Happening at Joey’s Outback – April, 2016

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Hot Dogs and Cool Cats, PBC Animal Care & Control

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Hot Dogs and Cool Cats

A Family Fun Day and Animal Adoption Event

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HANLEY CENTER FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION GIFT

HANLEY CENTER FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION GIFT

Hanley Foundation Celebration at Club Colette March 30, 2016 photos by CAPEHART  #capehartphotography #charitybydesign #millionreasons
Hanley Foundation Celebration at Club Colette March 30, 2016 photos by CAPEHART #capehartphotography #charitybydesign #millionreasons

Funds allocated for women’s treatment through ALEX AND ANI Butterfly Fund
(PALM BEACH) Leadership and supporters of Hanley Center Foundation celebrated the first gift from the newly established ALEX AND ANI Butterfly Fund at their recent Club Colette dinner dance on March 30, 2016. The fund was established thanks to the fulfillment of a $1 million pledge from eco-conscious jewelry and accessories brand ALEX AND ANI®.

“We have more than a million reasons to celebrate,” said Kae Jonsons, CEO of the Foundation focused on substance abuse education, prevention and recovery. “It’s significant that ALEX AND ANI, led by a team of strong women, will now benefit women throughout Florida. The ALEX AND ANI partnership and extraordinary funding from sales of their CHARITY BY DESIGN Butterfly Charm Bangle will allow Hanley Center Foundation to assist more women so they and their families may find the hope that comes with recovery.”

The pledge fulfillment was achieved through the donation of 20 percent of the purchase price of every “Butterfly Charm Bangle” ALEX AND ANI sold. The bangle is designed to remind the wearer to have faith in change and to move forward with a positive outlook on life, according to literature sold with each bracelet. Currently the bangle is sold through ALEX AND ANI stores nationwide, alexandani.com and authorized retailers. Sales will continue to benefit Hanley Center Foundation through the end of 2016.

The first scholarship award from the new ALEX AND ANI Butterfly Fund at Hanley Center Foundation totaled $50,000, and was presented during the celebration dinner to Gratitude House. The donation will fully fund treatment for two women at their local facility. Gratitude House is Palm Beach County’s only treatment center where pregnant and post-partum women can receive treatment, so they can give birth to drug-free babies and reside with their babies while in treatment. Going forward, the special fund will continue to fund treatment options for local women.

“It is really so gratifying to see the impact of ALEX AND ANI in action,” said Lia Moreggi, ALEX AND ANI partnership manager, who spoke at the dinner event and presented guests with ALEX AND ANI bangles as a favor for the evening. “It’s amazing to think that sales of one of our charm bangles helped to generate more than $1.2 million for such an important cause.”

To underscore the theme of the evening, butterflies fluttered everywhere in Club Colette. Strands of butterflies dangled from the cozy club’s trademark tented ceiling, evoking a shower of the colors of spring. Tabletops were decked with more butterflies, along with vases of spring flowers – including daffodils, tulips, crocuses and more. And to sweetly crown the themed evening, a colorful chocolate butterfly perched on top of the beautiful Baked Alaska presented to each guest for dessert.

The evening was chaired by David Fritz, chairman of the Hanley Center Foundation board, and Michael Hanley, board member. Sponsors of the evening included Gold Benefactors Hanley Family Foundation and Mr. Thomas Peterffy; Table Hosts Andrew Forsyth and Kelly Williams, Nievera Williams Design and Wilmington Trust, N.A.; and Media Sponsor Palm Beach Illustrated.

Michael Hanley presented a video from his mother, Mary Jane Hanley, who cofounded the Foundation with her husband Jack, as she was unable to attend the evening.

“My parents really pioneered the conversation about substance abuse in this community more than 30 years ago,” said Mike Hanley. “Your support means so much to our family and to other families who have the opportunity to experience the joy of recovery first-hand. Hanley Center Foundation started with a woman in recovery who wanted to offer hope to local individuals and families right here in Palm Beach County. It is fitting that we honor strong women here tonight and continue a tradition of providing the hope that comes with recovery from substance abuse.”

Hanley Center Foundation is a not-for-profit organization with a mission to give hope to individuals, families and communities affected by alcoholism and drug addiction through access to high quality treatment, education, family support and community prevention programs. In 2015, the Foundation took steps to expand its mission and it now has a more comprehensive opportunity to help those who could not otherwise afford the hope that comes with recovery. Other funding now gives the prevention and education teams the opportunity to work with even more school-age children, adults and caregivers throughout Florida to prevent substance abuse. For more information about Hanley Center Foundation please call 561-841-1212 or visit www.hanleycenterfoundation.org.

Gardening Workshop – “If You Plant It, They Will Come”

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Gardening Workshop at Wellington Local Library

“If You Plant It, They Will Come:  Attracting Wildlife with Native Plants”

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Saturday, April 30th, 10:30 a.m.

“Discover what you can do to help provide habitat for Palm Beach County’s resident beneficial wildlife and “seasonal” visitors…whether you live on a large lot, in a community association or garden on a balcony or patio.  Receive a voucher for a free three-gallon native tree or shrub, if available.  This program is part of the Preservation of Native Canopy Education Program, which is funded by the Palm Beach County Department of Environmental Resources Management.

Speaker:  PBC Cooperative Extension Agent Laurie Albrecht

Location:  Wellington Branch Library, 1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington, FL   790-6070