Hello spring! With spring break and longer days just around the corner, please take full advantage of all our great hometown has to offer.
Daylight Savings Time begins on Sunday, March 13th, so don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks one hour ahead. This is also a good time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. It is a simple safety practice that may save a life.
Next, we have “Super Tuesday” with the Presidential Primary and Municipal Elections. Palm Beach County started early voting on Saturday, March 5, 2016 and it continues through Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
The Early Voting Site in Wellington is at the Wellington Branch Library; however, registered voters can vote at any of the Early Voting locations around the County. Other Early Voting sites can be found by accessing the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections website at: CLICK HERE
Registered voters should bring a current photo and signature ID. To learn more important dates and information, head to our Election Information Page: CLICK HERE
We are in high gear for the fiscal year 2016-2017 Budget. Wellington’s long-term financial plan is in progress and includes financial condition analyses and forecasts for the next five years. The budget kicks off this month, with all departments preparing their budget requests, and the capital plan will be put together in April. The budget staff looks forward to presenting a balanced and fiscally sound FY 2016-2017 budget that continues to make Wellington a great hometown.
To celebrate Leap Year 2016 and as part of our 20th Anniversary events, Council held a special “Topping Off” Ceremony for the new Wellington Community Center on Monday, February 29th. Residents and area officials joined Village Council in previewing the progress being made on the facility’s construction. The new center is located on the site of the former community center at 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard. We anticipate a grand opening in early summer as we welcome our newest addition. Click here to watch a video recap of the ceremony: CLICK HERE
Wellington has been awarded a 2016 Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant in the amount of $200,000 for the new community center complex waterfront observation boardwalk and pier, multi-purpose trail, boat facility, and picnic facility. The U. S. Department of the Interior provides funds, administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), for the development of recreational facilities through the LWCF grant program. The expanded and improved community center will showcase beautiful Lake Wellington, and the observation boardwalk and pier will offer new amenities, further enhancing the municipal complex and the amphitheater.
The Village would like your feedback on golf cart usage in the community. The purpose of this survey is to gain a better understanding of how often residents use golf carts, and in what capacity. Information will be used for recommendations regarding potential improvements to accommodate low speed vehicle usage. Please click the link to take the survey: CLICK HERE
Wellington is ready to get moving against childhood obesity. The Village kicked off the “Let’s Move: Commit to Change” campaign with a party on Saturday, March 5that Ultima Fitness (12799 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL). This local initiative supports First Lady Michelle Obama’s national initiative to reverse childhood obesity. For more information please call 561-833-6333.
St. Patrick’s Day is on Thursday, March 17th. We want you to have fun, but please be responsible. And don’t forget to wear green!
Speaking of green, Wellington’s Green Market continues each Saturday this month. Food Truck Invasion happens every Thursday evening at the Amphitheater. We also have free ongoing entertainment at the Amphitheater, with great food, movies, and outstanding music. Find the complete schedule of events taking place this month by clicking here: CLICK HERE
Spring Break runs from March 21st through the 25th and we all know how much our kids look forward to that. Fortunately, Wellington has a wide variety of outdoor activities this month for everyone to enjoy. The Village offers several camps during Spring Break including basketball, soccer, sand volleyball, and TumbleKids. With summer rapidly approaching, now is the time to start thinking about activities for when the kids get out of school. Summer Camp registration officially opened March 7th. Last year, camps filled up fast and we are expecting the same this year. Don’t hesitate and register online today! Wellington’s Summer Recreation Program Guide comes out this month, so make sure to head to our website www.wellingtonfl.gov to learn more.
Lastly, get your baskets ready for Wellington’s annual Egg Hunt! The Egg Hunt returns to the Village Park softball fields, located at 11700 Pierson Road, on Saturday, March 26th. The event begins promptly at 10:00 a.m., and will be divided into four age groups: ages 2 and under; ages 3 to 4; ages 5 to 7; and ages 8 to 10. At each egg hunt, two eggs will have a pink bunny ticket inside, indicating a special prize. Families are encouraged to arrive early as traffic congestion may occur.
As the saying goes “spring is a time of new beginnings.” This year, that saying holds true for us here at Village Council. As I look toward the future, I am excited to work with my fellow council members to ensure that Wellington remains a Great Hometown.
Clay Glass Metal Stone Gallery Presents Spring is Coming and the PEEPS are Blooming The Seventh Annual Peeps Show
15 South J Street in Downtown Lake Worth
On Friday, March 18 from 6-10 PM, the PEEPS Show returns to the Clay Glass Metal Stone Gallery for its Seventh year. Easily the most popular event the gallery produces each year, this exhibition draws thousands of happy fans. The opening will begin at 6PM with the celebrity judging of all of the entries. The public will be given ballots so they can vote for and voice the PEEPLES choice. The exhibition will continue for three weeks closing on April 6. Clay Glass Metal Stone Gallery is located at 15 South J Street in Downtown Lake Worth.
What is a Peeps Show? It is time for you to come into the gallery and find out. It involves those gooey marshmallow chicks and rabbits that pop up every year around the Easter holidays. This is a Peeps Show that the entire family can take part in. PEEPS Shows began in Washington DC, the brain child of the Washington Post. Shows have evolved all over the nation. Clay Glass Metal Stone Gallery is the only PEEPS show held in Palm Beach. This year the PEEPS Company is putting out their own press release, listing all of the shows in the nation…and Clay Glass Metal Stone is one of them.
The Gallery is honored to welcome Bob and Patricia Born to the gallery. They will join local celebrity judges in choosing the best five of this year’s entries. Top prize is $100. The PEEPS company awards an additional four prizes of $50 PEEPS gifts. Bob Born invented PEEPS many decades ago. His candy company also produces Hot Tamales, Mike and Ikes and Goldenberg Peanut Chews. Television documentaries have been made about him. He is a local resident.
For seven the Clay Glass Metal Stone gallery has joined in the national Peeps craze, presenting dozens of gooey dioramas made from the iconic Easter candy- PEEPS. Gallery artists have made clothing from Peeps and tortured every conceivable pun in creating funny, scary, kooky and clever works of art from these sugary treats. From the Cannibal Peeps who roasted their fellow Peeps around a campfire, to Little Bo Peep, and Peeps at the Beach, the creativity escalated with dozens of depictions. Artists from around Palm Beach County are invited to join the exhibition. Only the guest artists are eligible to win prizes.
Visitors to the gallery will be given five ballots and the opportunity to vote for their five favorite PEEPS displays. In 2015, 8,114 ballots were cast by over 1600 visitors.
Clay§Glass§Metal§Stone Cooperative Gallery is sponsored by the Flamingo Clay Studio, a non-profit arts organization whose mission is to provide affordable studio and gallery space for three-dimensional artists. The gallery is located at15 South J Street in downtown Lake Worth, with a new artist studio at 216 South F Street. Gallery hours are Sunday thru Thursday, 9AM-2PM. Friday & Saturday, 9AM-10PM. Gallery openings and parties are held every Friday from 6-9 PM. Special exhibits take place throughout the year. For information call Joyce Brown-215-205-9441 or Joyce@FlamingoClayStudio.org. Gallery phone: 561-588-8344.
Rising Star Kasey Perry-Glass Named People’s Choice Award Winner Presented by Ann Cook Properties at Global Dressage Festival 7 CDI-W
Wellington, FL (February 12, 2016) –Kasey Perry-Glass has been rising toward the top of the U.S. dressage rankings during her successful run at the 2016 Global Dressage Festival presented by Adequan. Perry-Glass has enjoyed previous success with Trøstruplund’s Scarlet in the International Grand Prix arena, and she is stepping into the spotlight with Goerklintgaards Dublet. Throughout each competition she enters, Perry-Glass can be seen smiling with fellow riders and offering praise to her horses. Her incredible character and competition success earned Perry-Glass the People’s Choice Award which is presented by Ann Cook Properties.
Perry-Glass was named the People’s Choice Award winner presented by Ann Cook Properties at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival 7 CDI-W. Ann-Louise Cook is a successful dressage rider and realtor at Illustrated Properties (a company specializing in equestrian and luxury real estate sales). Cook established the People’s Choice Award to honor riders who are well-known for exhibiting good sportsmanship, horsemanship, and performance in the Adequan Global Dressage Festival circuit.
When presenting Perry-Glass with the People’s Choice Award, Cook commented, “You are such a joy to watch because you are elegant and soft. Your horses respond to you so well.” Perry-Glass explained consistency is an important part of the process, in addition to her horsemanship. Perry-Glass acts as her own groom with her Grand Prix horses, managing tacking, turnout, stable cleaning and feeding in addition to their daily exercise programs. She said, “We know each other so well and it shows in the ring.”
Last year, Perry-Glass took Dublet, then a Small Tour horse and Scarlet, her Grand Prix partner, to Europe as relative newcomers to the U.S. delegation. After that experience, Perry-Glass moved from California to Wellington, Florida in order to train consistently with U.S. developing coach Debbie McDonald. Under McDonald’s tutelage, Dublet has blossomed into a top contender. At the most recent Global Dressage Festival CDI-W, Perry-Glass and Dublet finished in second place in the Grand Prix with a 74.500%.
The CDI-W at week 7 of the 2016 Global Dressage Festival is only the third CDI Grand Prix competition for Perry-Glass and Dublet. After beginning their warm-up for the Grand Prix, the 28-year-old thought it would be a good day to ask for a little more from the black Danish Warmblood (Diamond Hit x Olympic Ferro) gelding. “It was clean and not as conservative,” she remarked. “It was not good weather, but he stuck with me and pushed through.”
Perry-Glass is constantly thinking of her horses’ welfare, which carries over to her training philosophy. She explained, “I keep it simple and get to the point. Suppleness and relaxation must come first in order for the more demanding work to become easy and beautiful.”
Perry-Glass is supported by her family in her quest for a place on the United States Dressage Team. The Perry family forms “Team Believe”, which is a crew of cheerleaders who also provide invaluable assistance. Perry Glass’ sister normally serves as her competition groom, but was unable to attend the most recent event. Her mother stepped into the role as groom. “I am so lucky. I have the most supportive family in the world,” said Perry-Glass.
To learn more about Kasey Perry-Glass, visit www.kaseyperrydressage.com. For more information about Ann-Louise Cook at Illustrated Properties Real Estate, please visit www.annlouisecook.com.
Wellington, FL – February 29, 2016 – Adding to a dynamic night of philanthropy, three incredible entertainment acts will be featured at “Anne’s Night” on Sunday, March 6, at 6:30 p.m. at Double H Farm in Wellington, FL. The night’s musical talent includes the band Positively Africa, musician and singer Blessing Offor, and DJ Brendan Fallis. Tickets and tables are still available for this one-of-a-kind philanthropic event with a “Safari Style” theme, fantastic dining, and a live auction.
Positively Africa is the premier African band in Florida. They import African culture and music that is vibrant, exciting, get-down-and dance, wholesome and informative. Lead singer and founder, Julius Sanna, was born in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, before moving to the United States. Julius is on a quest to blend all of his musical influences and paint them with African colors.
Hailing from Brooklyn, with influences from a wide array of the world of pop, soul, and R&B, multi-instrumentalist Blessing Offor has that ability to knock people out when they simply hear him sing and play the piano. Blessing immigrated to the United States from Nigeria. Having vision in only one eye from birth, he was getting treatment here to save the vision he had in his childhood, but lost that eye in a freak accident when he was home in Nigeria at age nine. Knowing that there would be extreme hardship in his native land, he left his family and was brought up by an uncle outside New Haven, CT. During that time, he first delved into learning music as a means of adjusting to total blindness, and created an outlet to connect socially with the world.
Now that his abilities have stretched into songwriting for piano and guitar, his talent has not gone unnoticed. He was a contestant on Season 7 of “The Voice”, and appeared over several episodes, having made all four judges’ seats turn during his audition. Blessing has performed several times at the JFK Center For the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
Canadian import Brendan Fallis has become one of the most sought after open-format DJs worldwide through his exceptional ability to read a crowd, his incredible taste in music, and his coveted style. Over the last few years, he has provided music for some of the most high-profile events and campaigns around the globe for clients such as Absolut, GQ, Balmain, Louis Vuitton, and Redbull, among others.
“Anne’s Night” is a fundraiser that honors equestrian Anne Heyman and benefits the non-profit she started, Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, which has taken in over 500 orphaned Rwandan children and provided them with food, shelter, nurturing, and education. This year, “Anne’s Night” is introducing Uryadi’s Village, a non-profit organization founded by equestrian Jennifer Crooks in June of 2014 to support orphanages in rural Ethiopia.
For more information on the event, to purchase seats or tables, or to make a donation, please visit www.AnnesNight.com or contact Denise Maynard at 516-429-6318 or maynarddee@aol.com. Please “Like” the Anne’s Night Facebook page to see more!
The YWCA of Palm Beach County is seeking nominations for its 2016 Racial Justice Award. Nominees may be an individual, civic organization, religious institution, or business that has demonstrated leadership in organizing or supporting activities that reduce and/or prevent racial injustice in Palm Beach County.
Nominations should include the nominator’s name and address and information about the nominee including how the nominee has exemplified racial justice leadership and professional achievement. Clippings, pictures and supporting documents that demonstrate the work of the nominee may be included.
The awards will be presented on April 28, 2016 at the YWCA’s “Stand Against Racism” Luncheon to be held at the Kravis Center’s Cohen Pavilion.
Please contact the YWCA at 561-640-0050, Ext. 115, for more information or to request a nomination form. Nominations should be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 15, 2016 to: YWCA of Palm Beach County, 1016 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
This month Travel with Terri is coming to you in real time. As I write this I’m sitting in my room at the Hard Days Night hotel in Liverpool where I’ve just returned from a Beatles concert. OK, obviously it wasn’t a real Beatles concert but it was the next best thing – Beatles impersonators playing live at the world famous Cavern Club where the boys from Liverpool launched their incredible career. That’s as close as anyone can get to a Beatles concert in 2016.
Hanging out with a legend outside the Cavern Pub.
Hanging out with the Beatles
I arrived in the home of the fab four today and have been swept off my feet. Liverpool is a city of growth and grit – a rare combination that somehow works. First let’s talk about John, Paul, George and Ringo who were born during the bombing blitz of World War II. They came into the world at one of the least desirable periods of history where food rations were normal and constant fear prevailed among the adults. They crossed paths as young teens and ultimately formed what became one of the most famous bands in pop culture history.
The Magical Mystery Tour
The Magical Mystery Tour
Today their story is told through a Magical Mystery Tour aboard a psychedelic bus. I can be a bit cynical about tourist bus tours, but I happily climbed aboard the psychedelic bus humming a Beatles tune in my head. I must admit it was fun having my picture taken by the Penny Lane sign, seeing the shelter in the middle of the roundabout, the barber shop, and the fire station. We even saw the grave where Eleanor Rigby was buried with her name – although the Beatles claim that was not the inspiration for the lyrics (seems unlikely to me). And, of course, Strawberry Fields was one of the most popular stops. In between photo ops, the tour guide shared anecdotes of the life of John, Paul, Ringo, and George from the days when they roamed the streets of Liverpool.
Strawberry Fields
Singing Along with the Beatles
At the height of the Beatles popularity in the mid-60s, I was a just a child but their songs are forever in my head – I knew all the lyrics to every song. And when the Beatles tribute band took the stage at the Cavern Club it was obvious that those iconic songs are in everyone’s head. People ranging in age for 20 to 75 all sang along.
Beatles tribute concert at the Cavern Club
The Other Side of Liverpool
The Beatles aren’t the only story in Liverpool. You’ll find plenty of tourists perusing the shops and attractions at Albert Dock. Others spend their time shopping the designer stores in the shiny new cosmopolitan shopping center, Liverpool One, in the heart of the city center. But if you want to see the real and often gritty side of Liverpool, a secret tour is a must.
Seecret Tours of Liverpool will take you on a walking tour to discover the city’s street art, hidden attractions and alternative sights. We met up with our energetic and incredibly knowledgeable guide, Niko, and ventured out. The route started with a walk through the aforementioned Liverpool One which set the stage for the contrasting side of the city we were about to encounter.
Bluecoat Chambers
Niko showed us the “Sailors Gate” originally constructed in the late 19th century in an effort to trick drunken sailors into entering the sailor’s home in time for their 10:00pm curfew. (Some things never change!) From there we left the shiny new Liverpool behind to step into history at Bluecoat Chambers.
Built in the 1700s, the Bluecoat was originally a charity school and is the oldest building in Liverpool’s city center. Today it houses a creative community of artists showcasing visual art, music, dance, live art and literature. The secret garden behind the building is home to independent businesses ideal for finding the perfect non-touristy souvenir. Niko also pointed out the Liver Bird – the city’s symbol. This mythical bird carved above the doors and iron gates of Bluecoat carries seaweed in its beak and has origins dating back to medieval times.
The other side of Liverpool
The real story of Liverpool came alive for us as we entered the Ropewalks. Named from the craft of rope-making for the ships that dominated the city until the 19th century, Ropewalks is characterized by long parallel streets built to allow rope manufacturers to lay the ropes out lengthways. Remnants of bombed buildings from World War II still stand as a poignant reminder of the city’s difficult past. Numerous warehouses now converted to bars and clubs have become the center of nightlife for Liverpool. In fact, the recent Rough Guides “50 Things to Do Before You Die” ranked a night out in Liverpool’s Ropewalks quarter as #3 – just above the Great Wall of China.
Street art masterpiece by Cranio.
Liverpool’s Street Art and Scouse
What was most impressive about this quarter of Liverpool was the street art. Niko introduced us to thought provoking graffiti masterpieces by Brazil artist, Cranio. Another amazing piece depicting the message “Breathing is Not Living” covers the side of Liverpool’s first dry bar, The Brink, opened by a recovered alcoholic to provide an alternative night spot for those who prefer not to imbibe in the spirits. The Brink is a recovery social enterprise with all profits going back into the community to fund support for those who have suffered through alcoholism and addiction – a story all its own!
And, finally, no visit to Liverpool is complete without a stop at Maggie May’s on Bold Street for homemade Scouse – a beef or lamb based stew with carrots, onions and potatoes served with crusty bread. Scouse is also the nickname for the people of Liverpool who really do have their own version of the English language.
Niko assured us that Liverpoolians do eat Scouse. In fact, he has a bowl every Sunday afternoon when he stops by his Grandma’s house who, of course, lives on Penny Lane. www.visitliverpool.com
Many years ago I attended a lecture with regard to body fat and, whilst I learnt many facts that day, there was one line the lecturer delivered that has stayed with me. It was “if sugar was discovered today, it would be banned as an illegal substance!”
I totally agreed and must admit that I still believe sugar is one of the most damaging substances that you can ingest. The huge issue we are facing today is that it is now so abundant in our everyday diet that, not only are the majority of adults addicted, but our children are as well.
We are all obviously aware of the amount of sugar we are consuming when we sprinkle it on our morning cereal, add a few spoonfuls to a cup of coffee or add it to our baking. Maybe it might be manageable if it stopped just there but unfortunately it’s also hidden in some beloved “treats” that people consume on a daily basis, such as sodas, fruit juices, candies, and ice cream. It also lurks in almost all processed foods, including breads, meats, and even your favorite condiments like Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. In fact by adding ketchup to your plate of fries you might as well be sprinkling pure sugar onto them!
Today, an average American consumes about 32 teaspoons of sugar per day. What’s even more alarming is that people are consuming excessive sugar in the form of fructose or high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). This highly processed form of sugar is cheaper, yet 20 percent sweeter than regular table sugar, which is why so many food and beverage manufacturers decided to add it to their products, after all it’s the bottom line that really matters isn’t it?!
The bad news is that the human body is not made to consume excessive amounts of sugar, especially in the form of fructose. In fact, your body metabolizes fructose differently than sugar, metabolizing it directly into fat.
Dr. Robert Lustig, a professor of Clinical Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology in the University of California and a pioneer in decoding sugar metabolism, says that your body can safely metabolize at least six teaspoons of added sugar per day. But since we previously discussed that most Americans are consuming over 5 times that amount, then no wonder our obesity statistics are hitting all time highs. There are also many health problems associated with consuming too much sugar including overloading and damaging your liver, tricking your body into gaining weight, affecting your insulin and leptin signaling, metabolic dysfunction and increasing uric acid levels. In fact research from some of America ‘s most respected institutions now confirms that sugar is a primary dietary factor that drives obesity and chronic disease development.
So what should we do to try and limit the amount of this incredibly toxic and highly addictive substance we consume on a daily basis? Firstly, let’s establish that sugar, in its natural form, is not inherently bad, as long as, like most things in life, it’s consumed in moderation. This means avoiding all sources of fructose, particularly processed foods and beverages like soda. According toSugarScience.org, 74 percent of processed foods contain added sugar but are hidden under more than 60 different names. Therefore you should try and ensure that 90 percent of your diet comes from whole foods and only 10 percent or less on processed foods. Keep in mind that although fruits are rich in nutrients and antioxidants they also naturally contain fructose. Try to also increase your consumption of healthy fats such as omega-3, saturated and monounsaturated fats found in unheated virgin olive oil, coconut oil, raw nuts, free-range eggs, avocado and salmon. Try and swap all of your sweetened beverages for pure water and maybe add some fermented foods to your meals such as kimchi, organic yogurt and kefir. And never, evertake a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down!
An Interview with Michael Drahos – The Home-grown Candidate Hoping to serve with the Wellington Village Council
By Sabeen Faquir
Michael Drahos
AW: What motivated you to run for the Wellington Village Council?
Drahos: Well, I have a strong love for Wellington. My family history dates back to 1986 so I have a lot of memories and a lot vested in the town both economically and socially. For me, it was the next natural step. As a child, my father was very involved. He taught me the importance of advocating for your community and the difference you can make; I’ve had that ingrained in me since I was young. It’s something I’ve always been interested in since my wife and I settled back down in Wellington.
AW: What are some of the factors about your background that make your perspective unique?
Drahos: I will be the first candidate on the ballot to have gone to Wellington Elementary School. When I moved here in 1986, Wellington Elementary was the only school in town. I started there and then they built Wellington Landings and I went there, then they built Wellington High and I went there. So, I went to new schools my whole life and grew up competing on our ball fields. As a community advocate, when I’m out talking about the importance of our school system and the greatness of Wellington’s athletic fields, I’m actually speaking from the perspective of having grown up in our schools and in our parks. I think with that unique component to my campaign, people are more accepting of what I have to say.
AW: How long have you lived in Wellington?
Drahos: We moved here in 1986 so, I grew up here. I went to college in 1995 to Florida State University. I would come home on college breaks and that’s how I met my wife. I was working as a camp counselor at Wellington Elementary School and she was in charge of the camp counselors. We started dating that summer and I recruited her to Florida State with me. Then we got married and moved back. I’ve got a good 30 years of my life invested in this town.
AW: How did you decide to become a member of Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board?
Drahos: I believe wholeheartedly that you have to earn your way up the ranks. I started as a member of our Education Committee. I was chosen for that because I was a product of the school system. I put two years into that. I learned how to be a board member. I learned how to listen to other people and other viewpoints. From there, I was invited to join the Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board. I’ve been doing that for six years. The board is the only board required by law. It is the next step to the council.
I got to listen to a lot of issues. It prepared me for a lot. I don’t believe you should just jump into a leadership position. I believe you should work your way up and I’ve done that. I’ve spent eight years doing that. That’s why I feel I’m ready for this council position.
AW: What did you learn from your experiences with the Board?
Drahos: I’ve learned that you have to be open minded and fair. From my point of view, for far too long decisions in Wellington have been made based on the names involved and not the actual content. That is something that offends me deeply. I have vowed that when I take office and serve as a Village councilman, I’m going to bring balance back to Wellington. From my point of view, it doesn’t matter who’s involved, it matters whether it’s good for the community and whether or not all the residents benefit. That’s the way I’m going to make decisions as a councilman.
AW: What are three of your most important issues?
Drahos: My first is bringing stability to the council. In recent years, there have been public declarations of the council being “broken” and they had to come in and hire experts to teach them how to get along. I don’t think that inspires confidence. If anything, residents in Wellington have been embarrassed by that type of behavior. The first thing I want to do is come in as a stabilizing force. I’ve been in the community a long time and plan to be a part of it for a long time. That brings a balanced overall approach.
Michael Drahos
My second objective is to bring balance to Wellington. In the last four years we’ve spent way too much time and emphasis on trying to resolve infighting within the equestrian community when other issues in Wellington have been neglected. I believe issues at Sugar Pond and Eastwood are just as important as issues that we’ve been fighting on Pierson Road. So, things like having canal banks turn up and peoples’ landscaping ripped up like at Sugar Pond would never happen at Pierson Road, and that’s not right. I want to make sure everyone is heard equally in Wellington.
My third objective is preventing the infighting in Wellington. There’s been too much division. I think most people elect a councilman who can establish an open-minded opinion. It’ll settle some of this infighting. Once everyone feels like they’re being treated fairly, we can get back to the issues that are important to all Wellington residents. I’m hopeful that once elected, I can get us back on track and get everyone on the same page. We can start working in things that are going to improve everyone’s quality of life.
AW: As a dad, what are the most important things you’ve tried to teach your children? (And how do you think Florida measures up to the rest of the country in terms of education?)
Drahos: Education is everything. It’s your entire future. Your future is based on what you do in school. My daughters bring their papers to me every Friday. We go over them, together. I understand they’re not going to get 100 on every paper and that there will be some subjects that are more challenging than others. We talk about it and if they need help on something, I’m always there to help them. At the end of the day, your education is going to drive your future. So, in my house their performance in school is the number one priority. I try to implement creative ways to motivate them but they know every Friday, we are going to go over their papers together. They are doing very well in school and I’m proud of them.
As a product of the public education system, I couldn’t be more satisfied with what I received. Now, there is always room for improvement and with my wife being a public school teacher, I hear a lot from her about some of the strengths and weaknesses of our public school system. People come to Wellington in large part because of the reputation of our public schools. That’s another thing I want to work hard at.
Having been a member of the Education Committee, I understand their importance and I want to grow their influence. We have an opportunity to do that. There is a Wellington Community Foundation that has been recently reinitiated. It is made up of community leaders with a tremendous amount of influence. I want to get those two, the Education Committee and the Wellington Community Foundation, together. We have a tremendous amount of resources in this town and a lot of people who want to do good. It was what I was talking about before about getting everyone back on track. What more of an important goal than to advocate for our schools. I think this initiative (The Education Committee and Wellington Community Foundation working together) can produce some great things. They just need the right direction.
AW: You helped found the Young Professionals of Wellington. How did you come up with the idea?
Drahos: Having served on the planning and zoning board, I was seeing some critical issues in town being decided with very little influence from my demographic (the 25-45 young professional in the early-middle stages of their careers also raising families) who may not have time to get involved. I felt establishing a group that would give them reason to pay attention and get involved, even on a limited basis, would help. That group was founded with the initial ideal of simply spreading information around to their colleagues. We could be confident that accurate information was being spread. It’s grown from there. It’s more than that, now. In addition to meeting monthly, we put on a lot of social events that are devoted to helping out local businesses. We’ve raised money for charity and I think now with little over three years of experience, the Young Professionals have become a trusted source of information. I’m quite proud of the direction they’re heading in.
AW: I know you are active in the community. We have talked about you serving on the Wellington Education Committee. Which network or organization has been most valuable to be a member of?
Drahos: I’d have to say the Young Professionals of Wellington because we started it from a basic idea and we were able to build it with a lot of inspiring people. That’s provided a platform for me to meet many different people in Wellington. I’ve gotten a lot of different viewpoints and it’s confirmed my impression that with the right people involved and with the right motivations, you can accomplish a lot of great things.
Michael Drahos
AW: Why is it important for an individual or business to give back to their community?
Drahos: It’s a sacrifice to get involved in the community, there’s no question about it. Going back to the early ideals that my father instilled in me, when I was a kid and Wellington was a new town, we didn’t have an established recreational leagues and a lot of the more talented baseball players were leaving to go to more established leagues. My father said to me, “You don’t leave your home town for greener pastures. You stick around and you make it better.” So, while it is a sacrifice to get involved in the community, people do have to step up when they feel that it’s time to do so and they have the opportunity to do so. Just one person can make a difference in many peoples’ lives. I’d like to think that what I’ve done in the past few years from the community perspective has helped in some regard and if that inspires one or two people to stand up, the next thing you know we have a movement and we’ve changed the community in a positive way.
AW: What sets you apart from other candidates?
Drahos: Certainly, my history here is unique. I am literally the home-grown candidate. The product of our school system who’s benefitted from our parks and rec program who can speak to the value that provided to life. And now I’m raising a family of my own here. So, not only do I have my roots here in Wellington, but I plan on being here for a long time and I want this community to be better for my kids than even my experience was here, as I was growing up. So, when I go around to residents and I talk to them about what I want to accomplish, I have a family legacy I’m living off of. I’m also a father of two kids growing up in this town, so my reputation means everything to me. I want to make sure the decisions I make are going to make my family proud.
AW: Tell us about your family. You came here in 1986. How old were you and where were you before that?
Drahos: I was born in a small town called Vernon, Connecticut. My father was an engineer at Pratt and Whitney and we had the choice of moving to Saudi Arabia or West Palm Beach Florida, for a promotion. Fortunately, we chose West Palm Beach, Florida. My brother David is three and a half years younger than me and he was in kindergarten when we moved here. Ten years later, my brother Shane was born.
My brother, David, now lives in Jupiter and he has recently had his first child, so I’m an uncle for the first time. My other brother, Shane, is a doctor in Fort Myers. He is in his residency program at Florida State. My brother David is an attorney here in Palm Beach County. He also went to Florida State, so we’re big Seminole fans in my house. My wife went to Florida State too.
And I have two kids. Julia is eight years old and Sophia is six. My in-laws still live here in Wellington, and my parents recently moved into Baywinds, which is nearby. So, every Sunday my family gets together for Sunday family dinner. My father is lucky because his boys have stayed local, so we can see each other frequently. I hope the same for my daughters.
AW: What are your family values?
Drahos: My family is my influence. It’s what motivates me. It’s what gives me direction. My hope is that when my daughters are older, they’ll look back on our experience and have the same thoughts that I had about my upbringing. I am so proud to be the son of my mother and father, who are great people. They instilled the importance of family and community in me. I am trying to follow in those footsteps.
My daughter, Julia, walks with me every weekend to knock on doors, meeting residents. In the beginning when she wanted to do it I said “Julia, it’s a lot of walking. I don’t think you’ll be able to walk for five-six hours.” But she was really gung-ho about it so my wife and I decided we’d let her try it. She has literally knocked on every door with me for the last four weeks. She’s seeing, first hand, how devoted I am to the community. Just this past weekend, I looked at her and said “Julia, you and I will never forget this time in our lives.” Whether or not she has an interest in this, it’s given us the opportunity to spend time together. In some small way, I’m grateful for the opportunity this campaign’s provided because I believe I’ve given my daughters a great example of being a leader and standing up for what you believe.
AW: Do you have a vision for the future of Wellington?
Drahos: Yes. My vision for Wellington is centered on the ideal that we’re all one community, passionate about being Wellington residents. We can all do great things together and enrich the lives of many. So, my focus will always be driven by the importance of family. I want to make sure that the kids in this town continue to go to great schools, continue to compete on the best ball fields in Florida and are living in the safest neighborhoods. Just like any father, that’s what I want for my kids. There are great things on the horizon; A lot of good people getting involved. I think we’re going to restore the community pride that has set Wellington apart from every other community in South Florida.
The Art of Kindness (BroadwayCon and the Snowzilla of 2016)
By Lori Hope Baumel
BroadwayCon 2016 Photos: LH Baumel
Why are we so surprised when we experience random acts of kindness? Perhaps it is because social media has given the public an outlet to voice their opinions. Negativity is abundant and positivity is gasping for breath. Unfortunately, too many people are griping about things they know nothing about. Those who post with optimism are trying to offset the balance. Kindness is a quality that should be innate, but in a world filled with bitterness it can be a difficult trait to acquire. Yet, like artistry, it can be learned.
I have learned that kindness and art often parallel. Artists create out of passion. Performers get to do what they love – and, if they’re lucky, they get paid for it. George Carlin once said, “I perform for free but you gotta pay me to sit in the airport.” Kindness is a type of exchange. Most people who demonstrate acts of kindness do it out of compassion and, in return, receive fulfillment. But, like art, if you give too much of it away, then it has little value and becomes unappreciated. I have learned that lesson both as an artist and as a human being.
Then there comes a time when you meet perfect strangers in unusual circumstances. On January 22 – 24, 2016, I had the opportunity to attend the very first BroadwayCon, a production of Mischief Management, LLC. Located at the Midtown Hilton in Manhattan, it was an opportunity for fans, performers, and creators of on- and off-Broadway shows to perform, discuss and debate. It included a series of concerts, festivals, and a marketplace. A portion of the proceeds benefited Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Fans came together to celebrate the shows they love with the people who brought them to life.
Prior to attending, I paid for my weekend admission and applied for press privileges to report about the experience for Around Wellington Magazine. Initially, my press pass was denied, but, to keep this column to a minimum, I will simply say that through an act of kindness on the part of the BroadwayCon staff, I was granted press access when I arrived. As a result, I can now share my experience with you.
BroadwayCon began on Friday, January 22, 2016. “Day 1” panels and performances were phenomenal. Then it happened… SNOWZILLA! A nearly record-breaking blizzard that missed the history books by 1/10th of an inch. So, here we are, at least 3000 theater fans stuck in a hotel in a city that completely shut down. But, as they say, “the show must go on.” The management and staff of BroadwayCon managed to improvise when panelists could not arrive and reprogrammed the event seamlessly. Local attendees who could not get into the city on Saturday were permitted to attend Sunday’s events. Amazingly, thanks to 24/7 plowing, the city roads were cleared by then.
As you can imagine, experiencing a blizzard during a first-time event can cause tempers to flare. Not at BroadwayCon! What could be better than a bunch of theater fans stuck in a hotel with thousands of other theater fans? People burst into song in the hallway. Food lines were long in the small Herb’ N’ Kitchen buffet on the first floor. They even ran out of menu items. Can you imagine New York City without any restaurants open? Even worse… Broadway itself was shut down. Yes, people who took out a second mortgage to see Hamilton (or any show) on Saturday, January 23 did not get to see it.
What I did notice, in the midst of what could have been a tense situation, was that people went out of their way to be kind to one another. Attendees waited patiently on line for their food. A young man named Gregory saw that I was running from panel to panel shooting photos the entire weekend. He’d say to me, “Do you need a seat? The people in my aisle can all scoot over to make room for you.” At the end of the weekend, Gregory and I exchanged email addresses. In his email to me he wrote, “I will always save a seat for you.”
When BroadwayCon was over, I met up with my son Sam and his girlfriend Julie. They WALKED all the way from Greenpoint, Brooklyn to midtown Manhattan to see me. Admittedly, they’re hikers and have the stamina – but it was very kind of them to take the trek. It was bitter cold, but my son convinced me to take the rare opportunity to walk through the beautiful snow and make snowballs in Central Park. On the way, we stopped into a bakery to grab a hot drink. Upon arrival, we were told, “Sorry we’re closed, and the registers are shut down.” Then, the young lady behind the counter said “but free muffins for everyone!” She also noted that they were delivering all of their leftover foods to a nearby homeless shelter.
The whole weekend was a mutual admiration society between fans and performers. Snowboots and all, panelists arrived to share their love of theater and behind the scenes stories. I could not think of a better place to be during the Snowzilla of 2016, other than *“The Great White Way.”
Live…Go… Do!
*“The Great White Way” is a nickname for a section of Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, specifically the portion that encompasses the Theater District.
Re-live BroadwayCon 2016 (without the blizzard) from the comfort of your own home:
Here’s my favorite “spontaneous” BroadwayCon Experience! Sara Bareilles’ Surprise Live Performance From “Waitress” at BroadwayConwww.youtube.com/watch?v=SekfnQd0m_E
In addition to BroadwayCon, Mischief Management also produces GeekyCon, and LeakyCon (an immersive Harry Potter Event). For more information see:www.mischiefmanagement.com
BroadwayCon was an extraordinary experience! I will keep you up to date when tickets become available next year.
“Top 5” for March and April, 2016
1) Photography
Palm Beach Photographic Centre Presents A HORSE OF A DIFFERENT COLOR A Photographic Exhibition by Monica Stevenson
On view until March 26, 2016
Summer Zoe by Monica Stevenson
The pictures in this show were made during my travels to many parts of the globe—Switzerland, France, England, Germany, Canada, Argentina, Mexico, and all over the USA, says Stevenson, “At the end of the day, if I am able to create and share images as beautiful as the horses and their world, I feel I have done a good thing.
Jane Monheit Debuts in The Royal Room at The Colony Hotel March 22-26, 2016
The Colony Hotel – which The Palm Beach Post has hailed as “probably the best place for cabaret on the planet” – is bringing this Manhattan headliner to the hotel’s world famous Royal Room.
Jane Monheit has been one of my top 5 favorite jazz vocalists for over a decade. I have been watching her career since the Grammy-nominated singer emerged as a finalist in the Thelonious Monk Institute’s 1998 jazz vocal competition. In addition to her own critically acclaimed recordings, she has collaborated with artists such as John Pizzarelli and Michael Bublé. Monheit has also been featured on TV shows including Letterman, The View and the Today Show. Please be aware that this is an expensive evening, yet, it’s cheaper than a flight and hotel in Manhattan. For each guest there is a $75 cover charge on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, a $95 cover charge on Friday and Saturday, plus a $50 minimum for food and beverage. If you have a special celebration in mind or just want to enjoy an elegant evening – it’s well worth it.
Features Njideka Akunyili Crosby as the 2016 RAW Artist
Annual Recognition of Art by Women (RAW) Exhibition Series
Celebrates the Work of Living Female Artists Njideka Akunyili Crosby: I Refuse to be Invisible,
On View through April 24, 2016
Art After Dark lecture: Njideka Akunyili Crosby Photo: LH Baumel
Crosby’s art has to be seen in person to truly understand its beauty and complexity. Her intellect, insight and passion inspire the viewer. The work of this bright new artist can be enjoyed by all ages. Each piece tells a personal intricate story. I anticipate seeing her work in contemporary art museums all over the world in the years to come.
“In her large scale works that comprise both painting and collage Akunyili Crosby speaks of navigating life as an African in America. With an emphasis on the figure in familial, domestic settings, the artist creates compositions that appear as views into everyday life; yet, upon closer observation, are careful constructions that are subtly subversive. Akunyili Crosby received her BA with honors in 2004 from Swarthmore College before completing a Post-Baccalaureate at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 2006. She earned her MFA in 2011 from Yale University. This presentation of 15 paintings will be Akunyili Crosby’s premiere solo exhibition at a museum.” – Norton Press Release
Still/Moving: Photographs and Video Art from the DeWoody Collection
On view until May 15, 2016
Beth Rudin DeWoody is a collector of contemporary art who is as voracious as she is thoughtful. Her tastes include classic imagery from photographers such as Irving Penn and Richard Avedon yet also embrace the more-nuanced risks taken by artists including Marco Brambilia and Eve Sussman. As complex and idiosyncratic as DeWoody herself, her collection of Photography and Video Art runs the gamut from sacred to profane, vernacular to celebrated, and cerebral to prurient. Yet across the breadth of her holdings, there are threads that bind the collection into a manageable and identifiable whole. Works that challenge the viewer on an intellectual, emotional, and visceral level populates the DeWoody collection; the works take risks and demand a bit of risk from the viewer. In all, these selections from DeWoody’s collection trace the visual, intellectual, and conceptual underpinnings that have intrigued photographers and video artists for the past half-century.
4) Books and Discussions:
The time for criticism is always now, because the imperative to think clearly, to insist on the necessary balance of reason and passion, never goes away. – A.O. Scott
The New York Times film critic demonstrates why we need criticism now more than ever. A.O. Scott’s Better Living Through Criticism examines that we are, in fact, all critics: because critical thinking informs almost every aspect of artistic creation, of civil action, of interpersonal life. With insight and warm humor, Scott shows that while individual critics, himself included, often make mistakes and find flaws where they shouldn’t, criticism as a discipline is one of the noblest, most creative, and urgent activities of modern existence.
Drawing on the long tradition of criticism from Aristotle to Susan Sontag, Scott shows that real criticism was and always will be the breath of fresh air that allows true creativity to thrive. Better Living Through Criticism is available in both print and audio book formats.
Mounts Botanical Garden Book Discussion Series Tuesday, March 8, 2016 7 pm to 8:30 pm Clayton Hutcheson Complex – Conference Room – Admission: Free
In partnership with the Palm Beach County Library System, this new series provides an opportunity for book and garden enthusiasts to meet together to experience exciting fiction and non-fiction titles related to all aspects of gardening and horticulture. The featured book in March will be Silent Spring by Rachel Carson.
Stories in the Garden: Buzzy, Buzzy Bees Friday, March 11, 2016 10 am to 11:30 am Mounts – The Pavilion Speaker: Stacey Burford, Youth Services Librarian Celebrate the 12th year of Stories in the Garden by bringing young ones (ages 2-6) to these FREE nature-themed programs co-sponsored by the Palm Beach Library System. They’ll love the interactive stories, songs and learning activities in the Garden. Programs are held rain or shine in the sheltered Pavilion. No reservations required, except for parties of six or more. A craft activity to culminate each day will be reserved for the first 30 registrants.
For more information call 561.233.1757 or visit www.mounts.org.
5) Podcasts and Apps
Let’s get with the program. Smartphones are here to stay. With all the hype these days about whether or not mobile apps are damaging or enlightening, I’d like to recommend some apps that can enrich your lives. I am a strong advocate for taking advantage of the best that technology has to offer. Check out the following educational and entertaining apps available at the iTunes store:
BONUS: Upcoming 2016 – 2017 Theater Season
Obviously, BroadwayCon is in New York. If you can’t make it there in the near future, you must plan ahead in order to get good seats for the upcoming 2016 – 2017 theater season in Palm Beach County. The following venues have already announced their lineups. I must admit; we have a group of spectacular shows to look forward to. I am rather impressed how quickly these shows have jumped from Broadway to touring companies. It is exciting to note that so many are Tony Award winning musicals and plays that are still running on Broadway. This is the best seasonal offering that I have seen in years. Take advantage of the opportunity!
Kravis Center for the Performing Arts Kravis On Broadway 2016-2017 Series
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME (November 15-20, 2016) AN AMERICAN IN PARIS (December 6-11, 2016) DIRTY DANCING – THE CLASSIC STORY ON STAGE (January 3-8, 2017) BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL (January 31-February 5, 2017) THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (March 23-April 1, 2017) KINKY BOOTS (April 18-23, 2017) THE SOUND OF MUSIC (May 9-14, 2017)
The Lake Worth Playhouse
The Lake Worth Playhouse has been providing local theater talent for over 63 years. The 2016 – 2017 lineup has been announced with special pre-show dinner options at popular Lake Worth restaurants.
Rock Of Ages
July 7-24, 2016 – Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show July 7 at Paradiso $72
Urinetown – The Musical
October 6-23, 2016 – Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show October 6 at Paradiso $72
Death by Design
November 17- December 4, 2016 – Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show November 17 at Brogues $60
Evita
January 19 – February 5, 2017 Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show January 19 at Paradiso $72
The Sugar Bean Sisters
March 2-19, 2017 – Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show March 2 at Brogues $60
They’re Playing Our Song
April 13-30, 2017 – Tickets $23-$38
Dinner & A Show April 13 at Couco Pazzo $60
The Early Voting Site in Wellington is at the Wellington Branch Library; however, registered voters can vote at any of the Early Voting locations around the County. Other Early Voting sites can be found by accessing the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections website at: CLICK HERE
We are in high gear for the fiscal year 2016-2017 Budget. Wellington’s long-term financial plan is in progress and includes financial condition analyses and forecasts for the next five years. The budget kicks off this month, with all departments preparing their budget requests, and the capital plan will be put together in April. The budget staff looks forward to presenting a balanced and fiscally sound FY 2016-2017 budget that continues to make Wellington a great hometown.
To celebrate Leap Year 2016 and as part of our 20th Anniversary events, Council held a special “Topping Off” Ceremony for the new Wellington Community Center on Monday, February 29th. Residents and area officials joined Village Council in previewing the progress being made on the facility’s construction. The new center is located on the site of the former community center at 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard. We anticipate a grand opening in early summer as we welcome our newest addition. Click here to watch a video recap of the ceremony: CLICK HERE
The Village would like your feedback on golf cart usage in the community. The purpose of this survey is to gain a better understanding of how often residents use golf carts, and in what capacity. Information will be used for recommendations regarding potential improvements to accommodate low speed vehicle usage. Please click the link to take the survey: CLICK HERE
Wellington is ready to get moving against childhood obesity. The Village kicked off the “Let’s Move: Commit to Change” campaign with a party on Saturday, March 5th at Ultima Fitness (12799 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL). This local initiative supports First Lady Michelle Obama’s national initiative to reverse childhood obesity. For more information please call 561-833-6333.
Speaking of green, Wellington’s Green Market continues each Saturday this month. Food Truck Invasion happens every Thursday evening at the Amphitheater. We also have free ongoing entertainment at the Amphitheater, with great food, movies, and outstanding music. Find the complete schedule of events taking place this month by clicking here: CLICK HERE
The bad news is that the human body is not made to consume excessive amounts of sugar, especially in the form of fructose. In fact, your body metabolizes fructose differently than sugar, metabolizing it directly into fat.
BroadwayCon Memories Produced by Playbill Video:
