Military Appreciation Month highlights importance of pets for active-duty military and veterans
WELLINGTON, FL – The Human-Animal Alliance has announced two campaigns to keep military personnel united with their pets. The first campaign will provide foster care and emergency medical support to animals of active-duty military members during deployments, and the second will cover pet deposits for veterans in need of affordable, pet-friendly housing.
Some 67% of the United States population – nearly 85 million households – own at least one pet. According to military.com, the number of service members owning animals is comparable. But being in service often brings a unique set of challenges in pet ownership, including lack of care options for pets while owners are deployed – leading to animals being surrendered to shelters or euthanized. The Human-Animal Alliance is offering solutions to these terrible scenarios, providing military members with foster care opportunities and financial support. Funds raised will keep military pets safe, well-cared for, and united with their owners – where they belong.
“Military personnel often rely on their animals as a main source of emotional support post-deployment,” said The Human-Animal Alliance Founder Jackie Ducci. “Many veterans have even stated that their deep connections to their pets have prevented suicide attempts and, quite literally, saved their lives. The bonds that military members share with animals before, during, and after deployment are valuable beyond measure, and we are doing everything we can to protect them.”
Keeping people and their animals together has been central to The Human-Animal Alliance’s mission for years. In 2022, grants were given to the charity Harley’s Hope (and other similar organizations) to cover vet bills, pet food, and other pet expenses to families on the brink of being forced to surrender their animals due to financial hardship.
“The issue of owner surrenders is heartbreaking and, in many cases, preventable,” said Ducci. “This Memorial Day, we ask the public to recognize the importance of keeping military members and their beloved animals united, and to please join us in preventing animal surrenders by donating to the cause.”
The Human-Animal Alliance is a nonprofit organization whose overheads are privately funded so that every dollar donated from the public goes directly to helping humans and animals. Donations can be made through their website at www.h-aa.org.
Photo: ‘Keeping military members united with their pets is important for mental health and wellbeing. [Photo courtesy of The Human-Animal Alliance].
About The Human-Animal Alliance
The Human-Animal Alliance provides grants to exceptional, yet often overlooked nonprofit organizations that support and enhance human-animal connection. Programs receiving funding are identified nationwide through an extensive sourcing and screening process. The Alliance also supports relevant legislative policy initiatives and educates the public on the importance of human animal connection. For more information visit www.h-aa.org or call (561) 485-0445.
Have you ever wondered how to attract butterflies and other pollinators to your yard? Here’s your chance to learn from an expert! In celebration of National Garden Week, June 2-8, Wellington Garden Club is pleased to sponsor a presentation by CJ McCartney, Master Gardener and Environmental Steward, who will help you learn how to enhance your landscaping by using native plants to attract butterflies and other pollinators.
The event will be held on Thursday, June 6, beginning at 5:30 PM at the Wellington Branch Library, 1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington. Free native plant seedlings will be given to attendees.
CJ McCartney began her journey to become an Environmental Steward in the late 1990s when she moved to South Florida from Chicago where she owned a public affairs consulting firm. The move prompted a shift in interests. Unfettered from her company, and now living in a subtropical climate, she began cycling and hiking natural habitats, and started noticing all the wildlife that lived in and depended upon those habitats for survival. Thus began her journey to become a knowledgeable and effective Environmental Steward. Along with training to become a Master Gardener, she began taking a variety of botanical and horticulture classes as well as seminars to supplement her formal Harvard education in public policy and urban management. Currently, she vouchers native plants for Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management (ERM), serves on several Boards and committees and works as the Master Gardener in Residence at the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden.
She is passionate about native plants, their benefits to the environment and the pollinators that depend on the plants for survival. When she’s not hiking, gardening, photographing wildlife and giving presentations, she propagates native plants from seed and freely shares the seedlings with gardening enthusiasts who attend her presentations. Wellington Garden Club is delighted that CJ has agreed to help the club celebrate National Garden Week by sharing her knowledge and seedlings with our community on June 6. No reservations are required. All are welcome.
Wellington Garden Club, founded in 1981, is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating its members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, floral design, and landscape design; and to promoting conservation of natural resources, civic beautification and youth education. For more information: www.wellingtongardenclub.org.
National Garden Week, June 2-8, 2024, is a program of National Garden Clubs, Inc. Each year during the first week of June, garden clubs across the country have an opportunity to encourage pride in their communities, interest new members, and work with other groups to be part of those efforts. www.gardenclub.org.
By Jaime Joshi Elderwith photos provided by Max Wright
Everything is bigger in Texas.
From the trucks to the churches to the physical size of the state itself – it is the largest in the contiguous United States at over 200,000 square miles with a population of over 30 million proud Texans.
But nothing is bigger in Texas than football.
From Friday night lights to Saturday afternoons tailgating at college games to Sundays supporting the Dallas Cowboys or Houston Texans, football is part of the state culture and no-one reflects this better than Texas A&M tight end Max Wright.
The Katy native played six seasons for the Aggies, competing in 39 games and catching 32 passes for 441 yards and three touchdowns.
These numbers are the result of a strict training regimen and dedication to his craft.
“My training regimen is a combination of lifting, mobility, exercise, and field training,” Max said. “My Monday is usually a leg workout with treadmill sprint work. Tuesdays are an upper body workout and field drills that consist of route running and blocking drills and Wednesday is my recovery and rehab day. I use this day to stretch and recover in order to train hard for the rest of the week.”
Rest and recovery is vital to maintaining peak athletic performance.
“Intense workout routines are designed to physically overload the athlete with the goal of improving athletic performance. To achieve maximal performance and obtain the most out of workout routines, it is important for an athlete to balance a workout routine with periods of recovery,” said John Hinson, M.D., board certified orthopedic surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute. “If there is no allowance for recovery between these workouts, the athlete can suffer from the accumulation of physical and psychological stresses of the overload. This can ultimately increase the risk of injury and lead to compromise of athletic performance.”
Maintaining good mental health is as vital to attaining peak athletic performance as exercise and good nutritional practices.
As a sophomore, Max suffered a neck injury which changed the trajectory of his athletic path. Once a part of the Aggie defense as a defensive end, Max’s injury forced him to play offense as a tight end. The rehab was grueling but Max persevered, bolstered by his loved ones, the Texas A&M coaching staff and a strong spiritual center.
“The rehab was difficult from a mental standpoint as neck surgery is hard to bounce back from because of the limitation of mobility,” Max said. “But the staff at Texas A&M was great in helping me bounce back. My faith was a huge part of my recovery. I’m a Christian and it was my dependence on the Lord that helped me stay positive and push through the doubts and frustration.”
Dr. Hinson echoed Max’s statements.
“Focusing on your mental recovery including support from friends and family can help physical recovery and return to sports,” he said. “After having a plan in place there are ways to help speed and maximize your recovery. Appropriate rest and immobilization are important to protect the injured area so it can heal, I recommend continued use of ice, compression and anti-inflammatories if appropriate during the early recovery period, as well as instituting rehabilitation exercises when appropriate.”
For young athletes looking to follow in Max’s footsteps and dream of one day playing professionally, Max has some advice.
“I think the combination of structured workouts and a good nutrition plan put you in a great position to train your body hard and safely,” he said. “It is important to work hard on lifts like power clean and other high mobility lifts that best prepare you for moving in sport. I admire (San Francisco 49ers tight end) George Kittles’ game a lot. He’s a great blocker and also a dynamic route runner.”
Safety and structure are foundational to any young athlete’s burgeoning career and with the proper training, coaching and attention to detail, Palm Beach County’s young football players could achieve their dreams of collegiate and professional glory.
“Research on weightlifting in adolescents has shown that it can be done safely when done properly,” said Dr. Hinson. “The use of specific stretching and strengthening programs of the shoulder can help protect athletes from injuries to the shoulder and elbow. I encourage young athletes in these sports to consider making these exercise programs part of their workout routine.”
Interview with Stephen Willey, Co-owner of Village Music, Musician, and MC of Open Mic Night
I know that my life has been shaped by a lot of fated incidents – definitely not mere coincidences! My writing has always been a big part of my life, especially the genre of poetry. But, about six years ago I was wanting to try something courageous and life-changing; to give my poetry at home. Of course, as they say, “when the student is ready the teacher appears” (pun intended with my own teaching career), and that is when I saw the neon sign for Village Music. Something told me to park my car and go in. I had passed the sign a million times, making excuses each and every time why I couldn’t go in, why I couldn’t ask about open mic…But, this one time I took the plunge and I asked, “Do you have open mic here?” And the rest is history…Open mic literally gave me a voice, newfound courage and the inspiration to write my books. I have been able to read from my books and even sell some at Open Mic. Imagine your life changing with the response to one simple question! Hence, the time has come to “turn the tables” and interview the man behind the concept and the man that started my “stage life,” Stephen Willey (pictured below).
Next “On Deck” …
AW: When did you first start doing open mic?
SW: We did it right in the beginning, when we opened here in the Wellington location over 6 years ago; it was the perfect way to connect with the community of Wellington and other communities.
AW: How often do you do it?
SW: We do it on the first and third Thursday of every month. Sometimes it is busier at the beginning of the month than the other date, but we always expect the “unexpected.”
AW: What is the GOAL of Open Mic?
SW: Basically, to let people have the chance to perform on a stage where they might not have been afforded that opportunity with a professional sound system and an audience that is receptive. Newcomers have commented to each other and in passing that they, “love the intimate environment” here. When hear comments like that, it makes me feel that our goal is being accomplished on many levels.
AW: Do you have to be a resident of Wellington to perform there?
SW: You can come from anywhere in the world to perform here. There are no boundaries-all are welcome.
Above: A Magician at Open Mic Night
AW: How has open mic changed throughout the years at Open Mic?
SW: We have a core bunch of people that seem to come most weeks but through time we’ve had different acts and stuff; things have changed that way. But we actually had built up a lot of momentum at one point and then Covid hit; we had to start all over again. We have stayed the course, time and time again.
AW: Can you order “regular” items for dinner at Open Mic? What is being offered on the food, drink, and dessert menu?
SW: Yes, Chef Brian is still serving delicious Cuban sandwiches, amazing cheesecake and killer Double Chocolate Cake. We also have a variety of adult beverages, including Cugini Wine.
AW: How long does each performer get on stage?
SW: Well, we go through the “set” first. There is a sign-in sheet of performers’ names, and it is first come, first serve. Each performer gets 8 to 10 minutes on stage whether they are a musician, poet, comedian, magician etc. Usually, musicians get to perform 2 songs on the first “round.” If we go through the list once, whoever wants to come up again is welcome.
AW: Are there any rules that the performers need to be aware of?
SW: If there are any children present in the audience or around in the vicinity, we cannot use any profanity or vulgar language. But you can be either really awesome or really bad (laughing).
AW: Do you “vet” anyone from Open Mic?
SW: Sure, if someone wants the opportunity to play here, it gives us the chance to check them out but most bands that play here have been recommended by other people or the public. It never hurts to try – everyone is welcome!
AW: Are there any requirements to perform?
SW: You just have to be ready, willing, and able and get yourself up there. We all get “butterflies,” even me and I ‘ve been on stage many, many times. It is great practice for future performances or wherever life takes you.
AW: What’s your advice for someone shy or scared to perform at Open Mic?
SW: Just in itself, it is a supportive and very receptive environment. Realize that EVERYONE has had to start at the beginning, and nobody is going to judge you. Even if you don’t give the best performance, you can still gain confidence. Just do it! (laughing and smiling)
AW: What’s the most interesting act that you’ve seen people perform here? Something “unexpected”.
SW: Most interesting might not be the word…BUT, definitely had my mind blown with some people. We had Yuri Didenko, a Russian, Classical Piano Player that actually played at Carnegie Hall and then played here. Also, Gigi Perez has performed here. She has played stadiums and has a hit song on Spotify! The first time that I heard her voice, my jaw was on the ground!
AW: You’ve had musicians, poets, comedians, and magicians on your stage; what would you like to see for the future?
SW: I would like to see younger generation people engaging in learning instruments and playing. In addition, people “coming out of their shells” for the first time on a stage with an audience. We also thrive on the support of the people that come in and enjoy great food or see the music store and realize they want to purchase something for themself or as a gift for someone else. There’s a lot of give and take on both ends, but we absolutely love it! (Glowing with pride). Open Mic is available for anyone, but I would personally love to see more musicians playing music. It ebbs and flows here, but there is a consistent base.
AW: Is it true that you perform at Open Mic?
SW: Yes, sometimes I do. I fill in gaps and get the crowd energized. I also let people know that everyone gets stage fright, even people like me that have been doing this for a very long time. I like to make people feel encouraged and Open Mic definitely accomplishes that goal.
Exit the Stage
If you’ve never been to an Open Mic, you are truly missing out on a wonderful and lively experience where you can support local musicians and other artists. Village Music and Cafe is a great place to relax, socialize, and learn more about how performers get their start. If you are a performer and have always wanted to showcase your work, this is the perfect, unintimidating and receptive environment. I love reading my poetry at Open Mic. I am there once a month, and you never know who you are going to meet… I have seen a lot of regulars but also have had the opportunity to see some new faces. If you are a new or upcoming musician or someone that wants to share your “art,” then Steve Willey would love for you to come to Open Mic.
You can order a drink, appetizer, dinner and dessert! Remember to bring friends with you and spread the word… Dinner Service begins at 6:30 and continues throughout the evening. Open Mic begins around 7pm but the sign-up sheet is there by 6pm. You can make a reservation, but all performers must sign the list in person. Hope to see you there on the First or Third Thursday of the month, maybe…BOTH!
(Below: the menu and the wine list)
(Below: Donna and Steve Willey, Co-owners of Village Music)
It is an honor and a joy to write this column, my first as your newest Mayor. I look forward to using this opportunity to share important information with you about our community. For the first time in eight years, we have new leadership on our Council. Following a contested election that included nine candidates for two open seats, and then a runoff among the top vote-getters, we welcomed Council members Amanda Silvestri for Seat #1, and Maria Antuña for Seat #4, who will serve alongside Vice Mayor John T. McGovern, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, and myself as your newly elected Mayor. This change marks a significant moment in our history, as for the first time we have a majority female council, and Councilwoman Antuña is the first Hispanic member of our Council.
As we transition into this new chapter, I wanted to use this column to help you learn a little bit more about each of our Council members and their dedication to serving our community.
Councilwoman Maria S. Antuña
Councilwoman Maria Antuña, elected in 2024, has had a remarkable journey of leadership and service. Maria is a 45-year resident of Wellington and a 45-year veteran of banking where she had a successful banking/sales career. She currently serves as the CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County, and her advocacy for business growth and support for minority-owned businesses through leadership has left a lasting impact on Palm Beach County. She has received accolades including the Community Leadership Award from the Hispanic Education Coalition and a service recognition from West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James for her contribution as a member of the Mayor’s Task Force for Racial and Ethnic Equality. She is a Hispanic Women of Distinction Honoree and is fully engaged on numerous boards and committees including the Urban League of Palm Beach County, the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, Good Samaritan Hospital, and the Criminal Justice Board of Palm Beach County. She also served as Chair and past Co-Chair of Wellington’s Architectural Review Board. She is a Rotarian of the Wellington Rotary Club and a 2023 graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County. Maria is of Cuban heritage, has been married to her husband Juan for over 48 years, and they are parents to two sons who attended Wellington public schools. Her presence on our council marks a historic moment for Wellington, and her commitment to our community is truly inspiring.
Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri
Councilwoman Silvestri, also elected in 2024, brings a deep love for nature and a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Her dedication to preserving Wellington’s unique way of life and supporting local businesses is commendable. A devoted wife and mother of two children attending Wellington’s public schools, Amanda has been an active member of the community for over a decade. Alongside her husband Richard, she successfully owns Silvestri and Associates Insurance. Her commitment to Wellington is evident through her involvement in the School Advisory Council and PTO at both Wellington Elementary and Wellington Landings Middle School. Her passion for enhancing our community for future generations is truly admirable and she is a great addition to our Village Council.
Vice Mayor John T. McGovern
Vice Mayor McGovern, a native Floridian, has been deeply rooted in our community since 1986. He is a managing partner at McGovern Gerardi-Law, P.A. – Dedicated to the Injured, and has been serving on the Village Council since his appointment in 2015 to replace Councilman Howard Coates. He was elected in 2016 without opposition to complete the balance of Mr. Coates’s term, re-elected to his first full term in 2018, and then elected again in 2022. He served two terms as Vice Mayor, first from 2016 to 2018 and again from 2021 to 2022, and is the first member of the Village Council to have grown up in Wellington and was a member of the first graduating class of Wellington High School. Mr. McGovern holds both a Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Florida where he served as President of the student body and is a member of the student Hall of Fame. He’s been married to his wife Michelle for 22 years and together are raising their daughters, Emilia and Victoria. Vice Mayor McGovern’s commitment to Wellington’s greatness is unwavering, and his dedication to public service is truly commendable.
Councilwoman Tanya Siskind
Councilwoman Siskind, a 23-year resident of Wellington, has been actively involved in our community through various leadership roles. All three of her children attended Wellington public schools where she was extremely active in local and County PTA’s, as well as serving on Wellington’s Education Committee. She has served on the Village Council since her appointment in 2016, winning her seat in 2018, serving as Vice Mayor in 2020, and winning re-election in 2022 for her final 4-year term. Tanya’s extensive involvement in local organizations and her dedication to our community’s well-being are exemplary. She currently serves on the Government Affairs Committee for Broward, the Palm Beach and St. Lucie Realtors, the Board of Directors for the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, and as Vice Chair of the HCA Florida Palms West Hospital. Over her many years of service, she has demonstrated her commitment to making Wellington a better place for all.
Mayor Michael J. Napoleone
As for me, I have had the pleasure to serve on the Council since 2016 and was elected to be the seventh Mayor of Wellington in March of this year. In addition to my service to Wellington, I have the privilege to serve as Wellington’s representative and an executive board member on the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency, as well as an elected member of the Board of Directors for the Palm Beach County League of Cities. I am a past president of the Palm Beach County Bar Association and past chair of its Professionalism and Diversity Committees. I’m the past chair of The Florida Bar’s Constitutional Judiciary Committee, which focused on promoting civics education to adults and served for many years on the governing and executive boards of the Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County. As for my “other job,” I am a partner in the law firm of Day Pitney LLP where I represent businesses and individuals in corporate disputes, trust, probate, and real estate litigation. I graduated from the University of Florida and St. John’s University School of Law. My wife Cyndi and I will celebrate our 24th wedding anniversary this year, and our two boys, Christopher and Luca, have grown up in Wellington and attended Binks Forest Elementary, Wellington Landings, and Wellington High School. In my “free time,” I enjoy biking through the Wellington Environmental Preserve, hiking, gardening, participating in scouting with my sons, and family travel.
As we welcome these new members, we also celebrate the achievements of our previous Council, who set a high standard of service and open government, and ensured that we maintain Wellington’s reputation as a great place to live, work, and play. This new Council is committed to maintaining and building upon that legacy. Our top priorities remain promoting public safety, delivering outstanding services and facilities to residents, and serving the best interests of our community. Thank you for your continued support as we embark on this new chapter together.
April 8, 2024 (WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.) – The Armory Art Center is preparing for a busy, art-filled spring and summer at its historic West Palm Beach campus. Over the next few months, the Armory will host the Scholastics Art & Writing Awardsexhibition, the next sessionof classes and workshops, and the beloved, popular Summer Art Camp.
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards exhibition runs April 15-27, 2024, featuring the Gold Key-winning art by 125 students grades 7-12 from Palm Beach County and Martin County. It has grown into what is now a model program for the nation, exhibiting the best student artwork—including works in painting, drawing, digital art, photography, and mixed media.
Meanwhile, the Armory’s next session of classes is the perfect way for artists of every level to sharpen their craft, from jewelry making and figure drawing to painting, ceramics, and more. The session takes place April 22-June 15, 2024. Visit canvas.armoryart.org/classes for details or to register.
The Summer Art Camp will once again return, giving students ages 51/2-17 the chance to enjoy fun, educational art workshops in the heart of West Palm Beach—in a safe environment with professional art educators and teaching artists. Campers will discover the work of renowned artists, experiment with different materials, and try new techniques to make their own masterpieces. Camps run June 3-Aug. 2, 2024. Visit armoryart.org/sac for more details or to register.
If You Go (Details)
All events take place at the Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla. 33401) unless otherwise noted. For complete details about these upcoming events, visit armoryart.org.
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards April 15-27, 2024 Gold Key Ceremony (April 27, 10 a.m.-noon)
Session 5 Workshops & Classes
April 22-June 15, 2024
Summer Art Camp
Junior Cultural Art Camp (ages 51/2-8; 9-12): Budding artists will journey across the globe and throughout history during Cultural Art Camps. Led by seasoned teaching artists, campers will attend two different studio classes, allowing them to explore various media and projects throughout the day.
Week 5, July 1-3: Space Odyssey *The week of July 4 will be a 3-day camp with reduced pricing
Week 6, July 8-12: Island Time
Week 7, July 15-19: Larger than Life
Week 8, July 22-26: Then and Now
Week 9, July 29-Aug. 2: Super-Sized Sculptures
Teen Studio Intensives (ages 13-17): This camp is for students currently enrolled in the arts or those interested in learning and experimenting. Students will work in specific media to develop their skills, prepare portfolio-ready artwork, and explore and elaborate on their practice—in a studio atmosphere free of judgment and full of encouragement.
Week 1, June 3-7: Drawing & Painting Studio, Portfolio Development, or Ceramics Handbuilding
Week 2, June 10-14: Sketchbook Construction or 3D & Mixed Media
Week 3, June 17-21: 3D & Mixed Media or Ceramics Handbuilding
Week 4, June 24-28: Ceramics Wheel Throwing, Drawing & Painting Studio, or Portfolio Development
Week 5, July 1-3: Drawing Out & About or Sketchbook Construction *The week of July 4 will be a 3 day camp with reduced pricing
Week 6, July 8-12: Portfolio Development or Ceramics Wheel Throwing
Week 7, July 15-19: Drawing & Painting Studio, 3D & Mixed Media, or Ceramics Wheel Throwing
Week 8, July 22-26: Sketchbook Construction or Portfolio Development
Week 9, July 29-Aug. 2: Ceramics Handbuilding or Drawing Out & About
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About the Armory Art Center:
Having served the community for over 30 years, the Armory Art Center’s art school and galleries provide creative opportunities to enhance your life. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and the Armory Art Center’s vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students ranging in age from preschool to retiree. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, and sculpture are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. Twelve exhibitions are hosted annually in three galleries. The Armory’s exhibitions, lectures, and special events are open to the public.
The Armory is proud to have been the recipient of several awards in recent years, including The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.
For information, visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.
The Alliance of Women Executives (AWE) held its 7th annual scholarship awards ceremony on May 7th at the Wellington National Golf Club. The event, emceed by WPTV news anchor Shannon Cake, saw the recognition of 24 deserving high school graduates awarded scholarships.
Sponsors for the event included Plastridge Insurance, Universal Property and Casualty Insurance, Florida Power & Light, Flagler Credit Union and Quatrro Business Solution Services.
Each scholarship recipient received a new laptop, a Maxwell Career Assessment and a one year membership to the Young Professional Group of the Boynton Beach Online Chamber. Additionally, Prom Beach invited scholarship recipients to select formal wear for future events.
A highlight of the evening was awarding the first multiyear scholarship to one fortunate student, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the event.
The scholarship recipients come from diverse backgrounds, with 7 planning to attend Palm Beach State College, 13 becoming Florida Atlantic University students, 2 attending Palm Beach Atlantic University, and 2 entering Lynn University. Notably, 10 of the recipients will be the first in their family to attend college, highlighting the significance of the scholarships in supporting these students’ educational aspirations.
The students expressed their intentions to pursue a range of degrees including nursing, law, forensic investigations, STEM fields, medicine, psychology and the arts showcasing their academic diversity and ambition.
AWE, founded 8 years ago by Vicki Tate, is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization. With the inclusion of the 2024 awards, AWE has now granted 127 scholarships to young women in Palm Beach County.
Vicki Tate, the founder of AWE, expressed her gratitude to the members and donors for their passion and dedication, emphasizing the importance of AWE’s mission to Palm Beach County and the young women it serves.
AWE’s mission focuses on providing a platform for professional women to come together, share knowledge and experiences, while making a positive impact on future generations of young women in Palm Beach County through academic scholarships. The organization has received recognition for its efforts including the Florida’s Children First Advocates for Children award and multiple nominations for Best Small Nonprofit.
For more information about AWE, please email info@aweinc.org or visit www.aweinc.org
Local Leaders Come Together to Transform Education through the Arts in Palm Beach County
Above: Robert Hamon and Chelneca Templeton. Photo: courtesy of CCE.
(West Palm Beach, FL). The Center for Creative Education (CCE) recently welcomed members of its newest standing committee, the Educational Services Advisory Committee (ESAC), with a reception at its West Palm Beach campus on April 11. The group serves a vital role within CCE, with a clear focus on governing the organization’s independent school, The Foundations School (TFS).
“Our aim is to ensure that our educational services exceed expectations, not only offering strategic guidance to enrich the TFS student’s learning experience through creativity and the arts, but also serving as a model for the field of teaching and learning,” said CCE’s Chief Operating Officer, Jerry Crank. “This group’s unwavering commitment to revolutionizing education is impressive, as are their credentials. We are fortunate to have the benefit of their expertise, experience and guidance.”
ESAC members include Marcia Bedasse, Associate Professor/Dean at the School of Education and Behavioral Studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University; Anthony Bethel, CEO at Godspeed Academy; Susannah Brown, Professor of Visual Art Education, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Florida Atlantic University; Fabiana DesRosiers, Chief Executive Officer at the Hispanic Human Resources Council; Charles Hagy, Head of Middle School at The Benjamin School; Tracy Haynes, Crisis Intervention Teacher at The School District of Palm Beach County; Grace M. Joyce, Development Service Operations Manager at The City of Riviera Beach; Timothy Ladd, Director of Teacher Education at Palm Beach Atlantic University; Eileen Lyons, Artist; Mary Moffett, Education Consultant; Eliana Mukherjee, Professor of Teacher Education at Palm Beach State College; Daniel Seager, Retired Lieutenant Commander of S.W.A.T. Team at the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office; Sylvia L. Sharps, Legislative and Advocacy consultant; Pilar Forero Taylor, Director of Stiles-Nicholson STEM Teacher Academy at Florida Atlantic University; Eric Telchin, author and broker at The Telchin Group LLC; and Chelneca Templeton, retired Provost and Dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Studies at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
The Foundations School at CCE is a K-5 independent school focused on improving literacy and weaving the arts into academic subjects. At the end of the last year, 89% of third graders at The Foundations School were reading on or above grade level compared to 21.5% in surrounding schools and 33% of 4th grade students nationwide. The Foundations School aims to enroll students from underserved communities; the school uses a sliding fee scale to determine family contributions to tuition and applies significant scholarships to cover the balance. This ensures that no family is turned away for an inability to pay.
“Transforming teaching and learning is at the heart of what we do,” said CCE President and CEO Robert Hamon. “With the support of the ESAC, we’re making significant strides towards our vision of a world where every student, regardless of their circumstances, can achieve academic success.”
The committee’s responsibilities are wide-ranging, from ensuring that the CCE’s work remains aligned with its mission and vision to identifying beneficial partnerships that can enhance the organization’s impact. Members are selected to represent a diverse cross-section of the community, ensuring that a variety of perspectives are brought to the table, and that all stakeholders are represented, which is crucial for fostering an inclusive educational environment.
For additional information on The Foundations School or Center for Creative Education, visit cceflorida.org. To make a donation toward a scholarship, please call please call Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla at 561.805.9927; extension 106.
