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Join us on May 11, 2024 | 9:00 AM Village Park, 11700 Pierson Road

On behalf of the Village of Wellington Council, staff, board and committee members, and residents, we extend this invitation to join us in celebrating the groundbreaking of Wellington’s new Aquatics Center.

Please note that the groundbreaking ceremony will take place outdoors. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothes, and applying sunscreen as needed.

We look forward to sharing this special occasion with you.

Kindly RSVP to ensure we can make appropriate arrangements for your attendance.

RSVP TODAY

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Delray Beach, FL – This May, celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach, Florida.

The zen oasis will showcase a plethora of adult and family-friendly programming, as well as two new art exhibits including the doll-centric Musha-Ningyō: Avatars of the Samurai Spirit and hapa.me, which features powerful portraits of Americans who self-identify as being part Asian or Pacific Islander. 

Throughout May, the museum is rolling out a list of cultural endeavours, from introspective garden walks to after-hours revelry and taiko drumming at Sunset StrollOcha (green tea) lovers will enjoy The Way of Tea: Sado Demonstration on May 11, which showcases a luxurious tea ceremony from start to sip. 

On Mother’s Day, treat your haha (“mom” in Japanese) to lunch at the Cornell Café. The museum’s Pan-Asian restaurant will showcase a spicy salmon poke bowl holiday feast ($22), along with breathtaking views of Morikami Lake and Roji-en: Garden of the Drops of Dew.

For more information on May events, visit morikami.org/event-calendar.

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

Garden photography HERE

Additional photography attached

Images courtesy of Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

About Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

In 1977, Sukeji “George” Morikami (1886-1976) arranged to donate his land for use as a park for the enjoyment by citizens of his adopted country. Four decades later, a quarter of a million people a year, from all over the world, visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. The legacy of George Morikami’s simple act of generosity and friendship continues to have a profound effect on the lives of those who experience the world of Japanese culture through the museum’s gallery exhibitions, educational programs, and Roji-en, the Garden of the Drops of Dew. 

DADA TO HOST CENTENNIAL BASH ON MAY 18 HONORING THE TARRIMORE HOUSE’S MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY

–Highlights will include musical performances by local talent, children’s entertainment/competitions, and a photography exhibit hosted in partnership with the Delray Beach Historical Society.–

DELRAY BEACH, FL—On May 18, Dada will host an honorary evening filled with history, music, art, and gastronomy in celebration of the 100-year anniversary of Delray Beach’s Tarrimore House where the award-winning restaurant has been ensconced since 2000. 

 The fun begins at 5 p.m. when the public passes through a fenced-in area set up along the restaurant’s northern perimeter on NW 1st Street. Here, they will find a range of activities and dining options that cater to every taste. From chargrilled cuisines like steak and seafood to a full bar serving cocktails and the evening’s signature libation, the “This Old House,” there is something for everyone. Additional dining in a tented space on-premise will also be available. And let’s not forget the live performances on the outdoor stage by S.D. Spady Elementary Chorus, The State Of, and The No Name Ska Band that promise a night of stellar entertainment.   From 6 to 7:30 p.m., parents with little ones in tow can head over to the parking lot across the street for interactive children’s activities like an obstacle course, a bounce house, face painting, plein-air painting moderated by The Peach, a West Palm Beach arts collective, and a sidewalk chalk art competition with creative prizes.  Dada’s indoor and alfresco dining areas will be open from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., and reservations are required. Executive chef Daniel Dore will prepare past favorites along with dishes from the daily menu. Guests will enjoy more musical entertainment in the restaurant’s living room by Dada’s Raul Vallecillo, who will be dressed in Salvador Dali-inspired regalia followed by Zoo Peculiar, a South Florida-based rock trio that lives up to its eccentric stage name.  The restaurant, in partnership with the Delray Beach Historical Society, will also host an exhibition of photography and other works from the 1920s depicting the dynamism of the era when Tarrimore House was built.  Click HERE for indoor/outdoor images of Dada. “This Old House” cocktail photo and press release are attached separately.  # # # ABOUT DADANamed after the farcical art movement of the early twentieth century, Dada is located in close proximity to Delray Beach’s bustling Pineapple Grove Arts District. Ensconced inside one of the city’s oldest residences, the historic Tarrimore House built in 1924, the award-winning restaurant hosts 140 seats (80 inside, 60 outside), an intimate cocktail bar that seats 6, and two en plein-air dining settings dotted with vintage playground toys—one anchored beneath a towering, 100-year-old banyan tree, the other nestled along the home’s mature vine-covered exterior overlooking a lush herb garden. The menu, authored by executive chef and Lantana native Daniel Dore, focuses on palate-pleasing dishes that reflect a reverence for fresh, wholesome ingredients and Dore’s adoration for travel.  Dada opens daily for dinner at 5 p.m. Between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., the restaurant hosts a daily “sunset special” offering of one complimentary entrée for each entrée purchased (up to $18 value off; dine-in only).  Sunday brunch, hosted from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., features time-honored classics with some recognizing chef Dore’s Sunshine State roots. Crowd-pleasers include breakfast bread pudding on ciabatta bread ($11), braised short rib hash with sunny-side-up eggs and horseradish sauce ($17), and coffee-rubbed steak and eggs featuring the butcher’s cut of the day, Subculture Coffee, two eggs, and fried potatoes (MP).  Dada is located at 52 N. Swinton Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444. For more information, call 561-330-3232 or visit sub-culture.org/dada/. Follow on social media at @dadadelray. 

Mother’s Day Bliss at The Seagate Hotel & Spa

DELRAY BEACH, FL – This Mother’s Day, The Seagate Hotel & Spa will showcase world-class pampering and holistic experiences for everyone’s favorite MVP (Most Valuable Parent).

Tucked inside the venerable Delray Beach hotel, the 8,000-square-foot Spa will celebrate the power duos that make motherhood magical. Treat the special lady in your life to a luxurious “Time-for-Two” holiday massage and receive two complimentary après-spa sips plus all-day access to The Seagate’s sybaritic pool. Available on May 11-12.

Mother’s Day Spa Special:

Time-for-Two Massage

Relax and reconnect with a trio of side-by-side massages

intended to transport you to a destination of absolute bliss

Choose from: 

Aromatherapy Massage

60 Minutes $480 | 90 Minutes $580

Hot Shell Massage

60 Minutes $440 | 90 Minutes $540

Seagate Custom Massage

60 Minutes $440 | 90 Minutes $540

Feeling zen? Mommy dearest can start her day peacefully at “Morning with Mom” poolside yoga on May 12 at 8am. Guests will power up with a 60-minute morning Vinyasa flow to help build strength, flexibility, and concentration. The class will conclude with a body and soul-soothing sound bath. Afterward, enjoy a delicious gratis cocktail from The Seagate Pool Bar and namaste the day away. Cost is $25 per person and includes free valet parking.

For “Time-for-Two” massage reservations, visit seagatedelray.com or call (561) 665-4950.

For “Morning with Mom” poolside yoga reservations, visit tinyurl.com/bddx4stt.

The Seagate Hotel & Spa is located at 1000 E. Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 665-4800 or visit seagatedelray.com.

Spa Photography

Spa Video

Courtesy of The Seagate Hotel

MAY PROGRAMMING AT THE MALL AT WELLINGTON GREEN

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WELLINGTON, FL The Mall at Wellington Green will host a variety of events this May. From educational and philanthropic events to live performances and fashion shows, there is something going on for anyone and everyone at the mall this month!

Strokes for Strokes

May 4

1pm 3pm

Grand Court

The Wellington Regional Medical Center will join the mall for an afternoon of education and awareness surrounding strokes. In addition to learning crucial information about the condition, attendees will also enjoy an exclusive opportunity to create a personalized painting alongside an instructor. To RSVP for the painting event, email pamela.rada@uhsinc.com

All About Moms Fashion Show

May 9
6:00–7:30pm

Grand Court

Free

The Grand Court will transform into a megawatt fashion show featuring local “supermoms” and their kids, who will rule the runway in the latest Spring fashions from mall retailers including Chico’s, Macy’s, Dawn Bacchus, and Tommy Bahama. Enjoy live music, hair and makeup beauty tips, and exciting gift card giveaways.

Puppy Pals Live!

May 11

12pm and 3pm

Grand Court

Free

Sit, stay, and heel for a howling good time! Puppy Pals is coming to Wellington, for two shows featuring adopted and rescue dogs performing spectacular tricks. As seen on America’s Got Talent, this heartwarming dog show is full of fun surprises and tail-wagging antics that would even make Lassie sit up and take notice.  

Pre-Mother’s Day Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
May 11
10:30–11:30am 
The District at Wellington Green
Free
Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Treat mom to a complimentary Zumba workout party with fitness instructor Jaime whose high- and low-intensity Latin dance-based program is designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance.

Mommy & Me Magical Morning

May 29

10:30–11:30am

Grand Court

Free

Magic, muggles, and more! Mothers and children ages 5 and under should join the mall for Mommy & Me Magical Morning. Attendees will enjoy a magic show, light bites and refreshments, and an exciting free giveaway. 

Zumbini with Regina Rossi

Every Wednesday 

11–11:45am

The District at Wellington Green

Free

Shake and shimmy with your baby at Zumbini! This fun, early childhood education program uses the power of music and movement to promote cognitive, social, and motor skill development for children ages 0-4. Register at zumbini.com/instructor/Regina-Rossi/806. For more information, email Zumbini instructor Regina Rossi at RME411@gmail.com or call (561) 244-0282. 

OneBlood Blood Drive

May 10, 11, and 12

11am-6pm

East Parking Lot

The Big Red Bus will be parked in the East Parking Lot and will be accepting blood donations. Every pint of blood donated has the potential to save three lives, and donors will receive a Chick-fil-A gift card. For more information, visit oneblood.org

The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.

Meet Albany: New York’s Capital City

Next time you visit New York City, consider taking a road trip to upstate New York to discover the bounty the Empire State delivers. From the fertile Hudson Valley to the picturesque Catskills Mountains, there’s much to see along the way. With affordable accommodations and an abundance of eateries and activities, Albany makes an ideal homebase for your upstate New York explorations. Located within 30 miles of historic Schenectady and Saratoga Springs of horse racing fame, day trips are a breeze. You can even get to Lake George within an hour. But before you start those day trips, check out all the fun things to do in the city of Albany.

Experience the Tulip Festival

Springtime in Albany brings a celebration of the city’s rich Dutch heritage at the annual Tulip Festival.  Thousands of people flock to Washington Park to see more than 100,000 tulip blooms. The festival follows Dutch traditions like sweeping the street. There’s even a tulip queen.

Spend an Afternoon in Washington Park

If you can’t make it to Albany in the spring, Washington Park is a worthwhile stop in any season. Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead of Central Park fame, the 84-acre Washington Park provides the backdrop for outdoor adventures in the heart of the city. From biking paths to walking trails and a fully stocked lake for fishing, there’s plenty to do. The park also includes basketball courts, tennis courts, handball courts and seasonal ice skating.

Tour the New York State Capitol

Take a guided tour of the New York State Capitol on State Street and Washington Avenue in downtown Albany. This eye-catching building showcases three unique architectural styles: Classical Romanesque, Renaissance Classical and Victorian Romanesque. Traveling with the family? While the kids might not focus on architectural styles, stories of lawmakers stepping into giant fireplaces to take private calls definitely entertain. Challenge the kids to find familiar faces in the carvings above the stately staircase. Some to look for include George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Visit the New York State Museum

Part of the Empire State Plaza, the New York State Museum connects to the capitol via an underground corridor. Local artisans often set up tables showcasing their creations hereYou’ll also find places for a quick lunch.

The free New York State Museum displays an impressive collection of New York’s stories. Focusing on New York’s indigenous wildlife, natural history and stories through the state’s history, the museum’s engaging exhibits bring history to life. Don’t miss a ride on the carousel located on the museum’s fourth floor.

Check out The Egg

In downtown Albany it’s impossible to miss “the Egg.” A popular performing arts center, the unusual shape of this structure on State Street looks more like a sculpture than a building. While it’s a great photo to capture, inside’s where the magic happens with live music concerts, dance performances and musical theater.

Take in the View from the Corning Tower Observation Deck

Elevators whisk you up to the top of the 42-story Corning Tower Observation Deck for spectacular views of the Empire State Plaza and downtown Albany. On a clear day, the Hudson River Valley, the foothills of the Adirondacks, the Catskills and even the Berkshires of western Massachusetts come into view.

Cruise the Hudson River

Henry Hudson once cruised the waters of his namesake river in 1609. Today, you can cruise the same water on a Dutch Apple Cruise. These sightseeing cruises share the stories of this iconic river while you take in the beauty of the capitol region. You’ll be voyaging on boats inspired by 19th-century Hudson River ferry boats crafted from Adirondack white cedar.

Shop and Dine on Lark Street

Explore the shops and eateries outside Washington Park in a historic neighborhood where brownstones line the streets. Here Lark Street boasts locally owned shops, cozy cafes, a variety of ethnic foods and takeout pizza—a delight for kids of all ages!

Your Guide to Albany

For more details on these special Albany experiences and more, order a copy of 100 Things to Do in Albany Before You Die written by my friend and colleague, Sandra Foyt who has lived in Albany for over 25 years.

City of West Palm Beach to Host Annual Independence Day  Celebration— 4th on Flagler  

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(Photo Courtesy of the City of West Palm Beach)

What: Save the date for South Florida’s largest, free outdoor Annual Independence Day Celebration — 4th on Flagler.

This event will be the City of West Palm Beach’s 36th Annual Celebration, and it will feature live entertainment (music on three stages), a Military Honor Ceremony, a kids’ entertainment zone, roving entertainment (such as stilt walkers), food and refreshments for purchase, and an 18 minute fireworks show over the Intracoastal Waterway. Viewers can also join the celebration remotely by tuning into a special show – WBPF 25 SPECIAL: 4th on Flagler LIVE Fireworks – from 9 – 9:30 p.m.  

  

When: Thursday, July 4, 2024  

6 p.m. to 10 p.m.  

Fireworks start around 9:09 p.m.  

   

Where: Waterfront Commons

100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401  

Activities are programmed along Flagler Drive between Banyan Blvd. And Fern St.  

Note: Public parking is available in the City of West Palm Beach garages. The closest garages to the event are Banyan and Evernia.   

Public info: For the latest info and updates, visit wpb.org/events or @eventswpb on Facebook and Instagram.  

    

   

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Sponsors to date: The West Palm Beach Community Redevelopment Agency, Town of Palm Beach, Discover The Palm Beaches, Bill Bone 5K, FPL, Jimmy John’s, BNT Impact Windows & Doors, Informa, PDQ, Solid Waste Authority, Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections, WPB Magazine, WPBF 25 News, 97.9 WRMF, SUNNY 107.9, X 102.3, New Country 103.1, PARTY 96.3, Fox Sports 640 South Florida, News Talk 850 WFTL and West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority. 

  

About the City of West Palm Beach:   

The City of West Palm Beach is a vibrant and dynamic City located on the Atlantic coast of Florida. With a rich history, a thriving arts and cultural scene, and a commitment to sustainability, the City of West Palm Beach is a great place to live, work, and play. As one of the three largest cities making up the South Florida region, and the central City of Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach is a vibrant, growing, waterfront City that seamlessly blends the business advantages available in the region with a more refined and relaxed environment for living and working, making it an exceptional destination for both residents and professionals alike. To learn more about the City of West Palm Beach, visit us on our official website, or follow us on our social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and/or Linked-in

Between Fingers

By Sarah B. Sullivan

how easily the flutter of bones

of wings that once knew weightless

can be muted in that moment

when hunger – bursting forth

from earth’s belly & trigger finger

in the form of boom & recoil –

whispers hallelujah. why

doesn’t blood rain from above

each time a flight dies midair?

do the white feathers bloom

and spread into crimson flower?

I should know what I hold –

blackened & abandoned

the ashy sum of all flights

memories of someone else’s wisdom

someone else’s bird’s eye view.

the whole earth is a kind of love

furled within the silence within

a stream where fish fly hard

& breathless; where lovers

mouth words, where letters bubble

into a current that carries anything

we wash from our hands.

all my life I have been rinsing

ash from my palms, scrubbing

dirt from my knees & grease

from my pores, tossing bones

& shells. how easily the crunch

my hips would soften if I dove.

I would know what I don’t hold—

wet & a taste of steel; know

what presses against skin—no gaps

between molecules, no time

between moment & bone, memories

& crimson, boom & recoil.

***

Endings and Beginnings and Red Spandex

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By Heidi Hess

Life is a series of beginnings and ends. Endings and beginnings. I’m pretty sure that’s some sort of Doctor Who mumbo-jumbo. He talks about that sort of stuff all of the time but there’s truth to that statement. 

The past few months have been the end of a lot of things. I was happy to see some things go. We struggle and try our best and sometimes our best isn’t good enough. We all have these things happen to us in real-time. Sometimes they are complicated and other times it’s as simple as returning a dress we bought on Amazon because it didn’t fit. I’m not gonna lie. Letting go of that Halara dress in Salsa Red with the built-in shorts was tough. I had such high expectations, but alas, it didn’t stretch in the right places and then stretched in the wrong places, if that makes any sense. Was it my fault? No. The dress, and a lot of other things, weren’t made/meant for me. The disappointment that comes with things not working out is really difficult. There’s a mourning. A real sadness. I sat there on TikTok watching the ads for that dress and thought “I’m going to look great in that dress!” Flash forward to trying the actual dress on…it was a hard no.

I’m using a small example to illustrate my point but you get the picture. Apply that to bigger things. When they don’t work out, are we less? Should we feel bad? Nope. Not even a little. 

This is a lesson I wish I could go back and teach my younger self. I can’t time travel (I lack a portal, wormhole, or TARDIS) but I can make sure my kids know this hard-learned lesson. Society encourages us to try things, and to make mistakes, but when things don’t work out, are we kind to ourselves? Do we pat ourselves on the back and say “Good Try”? Not usually.

My daughter is graduating high school. This is an ending and a beginning at the same time. I’m trying to teach her to take chances. Anything worth having is a risk and if things don’t pan out the way you thought they would, smile. Give yourself some grace. Perhaps we should take pride not in having things work, out but take pride just in trying.

And Lord knows I tried… but the red spandex said no.  

Tails from the Road: Essentials for Traveling with Your Pet

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Story and Photos By Hannah Deadman-Arnst

Taking a road trip with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience! It can also feel intimidating if you’re not sure where to start. While road-tripping with pets requires extra planning and a little more flexibility, it’s a great way to spend time together. Here are some key ways to ensure a memorable and safe pet-friendly road trip!

Packing the Bags

While planning your itinerary, do your research! Make a list of pet-friendly hotels, campsites, restaurants or bars, and experiences. BringFido is a great way to learn about the pet-friendly options your destination offers. You can also check out Google listings by searching for something like “pet-friendly breakfast places near me”. Or, search for a term like “dog friendly” to find specific reviews for a place you already have in mind. When it comes to restaurants, I always call ahead to confirm they’re still pet-friendly! PS: Breweries are usually a great choice.

As you create your packing list, include your pet’s supplies! Bring plenty of their favorite treats and toys, pack enough meals for the length of your trip (to be safe, I always bring an extra meal for my dogs), and don’t forget to bring extra litter or poop bags. You should also pack necessities for any specific outings your trip may include, such as a life vest, snow boots, a harness/backpack, and pet-safe tick spray for hikes.

Pro tip: Have a safety plan. Pack a pet first-aid kit (including but not limited to gauze, antiseptic, kwik stop gel, hydrogen peroxide, and Benadryl) and keep your pet’s vaccination papers or other medical info readily available. This way, you can easily share your pet’s records with a local vet in case of an emergency. I recommend keeping the files in a digital PDF on your phone.

Above: Buddy and Sapphire enjoy a stop at Starbucks

On the Road

Prepare your vehicle! Before you hit the road, make sure there are no dangerous or harmful items inside the car (like those old onion rings you accidentally dropped between the seats). Do not let them ride in the front seat—the safest place for them is in the back seat. Just make sure to leave enough room for your fur baby to safely and comfortably lie down. If you have a cat or a small dog, secure them in their carrier. If you have a larger dog breed, consider purchasing a special seat belt. We love our seat cover, too!

Now that your bags are packed, it’s almost time to hit the road. Before you go, make sure you fill up enough fresh water for yourself and your furry friend. And, always make sure they can access that water while in the car. Finally, place your supply of poop bags or litter in an easy-to-access location so you can grab them when it’s time for a bathroom break (more on that next).

Pro tip: Always carry a small towel that you can easily access in your car. This way, you can clean up any spills or wipe dirt and grime off your pet’s paws before they get back in the vehicle!

Rest Stops & Reservations

Just like people, pets need to relieve themselves often! During your road trip, take plenty of breaks along the way. Many Love’s Travel Stops have enclosed dog parks so your dog can stretch his legs, do his business, and get in some new smells. Don’t forget to scoop the poop! If you’re stopping for a bite to eat, you can also look for nearby dog parks. Starbucks locations continue to offer complimentary “pup cups”—making it a great place for you and your dog to recharge for a few.

Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. If you’re traveling alone and you must leave them for just a few minutes, check first that the car is cool. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. If the temperature is OK, crack open some windows, park in the shade, and lock your doors. You can even consider making a simple paper sign for the car that says something like, “My mom/dad ran to the restroom and will be back by [TIME]. If you have any questions or concerns, please call [NUMBER]”.

Pro-tip: If you’re heading out on a multi-day road trip, don’t forget to look for pet-friendly accommodations. Red Roof Inn and Kimpton Hotels are both fantastic choices—pets stay free! Finally, if there’s a day-long or overnight experience you’ll be enjoying without your pet (for example, a national park or a guided tour), look for highly rated reputable daycare or boarding facilities nearby that can keep your pet safe and occupied.

***

A creative thinker with a passion for storytelling, Hannah Deadman-Arnst is a full-time writer, communications professional and traveler. While she calls South Florida home, Hannah travels and works remotely in her camper with her husband, Ryan, and huskies, Buddy and Sapphire. She has explored 42 states, visited 36 national parks and, since 2021, has driven 20,000 miles with her RV. Born and raised in Chicagoland, her love for travel and the outdoors began at a young age—boating Lake Huron, exploring the woods, taking road trips, and having fun outside. She left her full time communications job in 2022 to pursue a freelance career and life on the road. With a background in journalism, arts & sciences communications, and tourism marketing, Hannah loves using stories to drive impact for people and organizations that enrich their communities. She is also a trained dancer and singer. When she’s not creating, she loves to photograph her travels, hike with her dogs, find really good coffee, and read. Follow her adventures at @hannaharnst!