Delray Beach, FL – Kids who are passionate about music and enjoy cultural pursuits will march to the beat of their own drum this summer at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.
Starting Monday, June 24 through Friday, June 28, from 9am to 4pm, Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens will transform into an educational playground of incredible sights and sounds during its Youth Music and Culture Summer Camp. The immersive, five-day camp is open to students in grades 3 through 12. The curriculum features a rotating mélange of musical theory, history, culture, instrumental instruction, and an introduction to Japanese traditional arts. Classes will include memorizing basic Japanese phrases, kanji (Chinesenumbers) to read sheet music, and learning to play traditional musical instruments like the taiko (drum) and koto (13-string zither). Camp will conclude with a recital concert by the campers alongside their instructors for their families. Cost is $295 per person. For more information, visit morikami.org/event/youth-summer-music-and-culture-camp.
The Morikami will also present Traditional Japanese Music Workshops for children and adults on Saturday, June 29 through Sunday, June 30, from 9:30am to 12:30pm (Youth Grades 6 – 12 and Adult Beginners); and 1:30pm to 4:30pm (Intermediate). The two-day intensive workshops will focus on the 13-string koto and are taught by renowned music instructor Shirley Kazuyo Muramoto. Cost is $200 per person. For more information, visit morikami.org/event/japanese-traditional-music-workshops.
Photo credit: Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
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.
Congress has averted another government shutdown. But often lost in the shuffle during these multi-trillion-dollar budget battles are appropriations for lifesaving veteran programs that employ wagging tails to heal invisible wounds of war. Policymakers should consider throwing these types of initiatives a bigger financial bone. Current funding for veteran service dog initiatives is scant.
For example, the 2021 Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) for Veterans Therapy Act created a five-year pilot program in select cities where service dogs would be implemented into veteran treatment programs. However, the initiative has been plagued with funding hiccups, and eligibility remains extremely limited. Although good in theory, the program has so far fallen short.
More veterans need help now — not years down the line. Veterans are navigating a crisis of epic proportions. Untreated or undertreated mental health conditions are leading former service members to an early grave. In a particularly sobering statistic, more veterans have died of suicide than from combat since the September 11 terror attacks. Meanwhile, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 24 former military members take their lives daily.
A growing body of research confirms what former service members have anecdotally said for years: specially trained service dogs can act as a lifeline in these cases. A wagging tail can play a significant role in helping veterans recover and readjust to a more normal life after returning from the battlefield.
A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that veterans — as well as first responders — suffering from post-traumatic stress demonstrated fewer symptoms when accompanied by service dogs. In addition to companionship and emotional support, these animals can help detect and then interrupt flashback episodes — stopping panic attacks, intense shaking, and heart palpitations early on.
At American Humane, we’ve seen firsthand how service dogs can benefit former men and women in uniform.
Through the Pups4Patriots program, dogs in search of forever homes are trained to be lifesaving service animals for veterans suffering from the mental wounds of war — all free to the veterans. Success stories are plentiful. Last year, for example, an Army veteran who participated in the program graduated from college after being paired with a lifesaving service dog.
Unfortunately, the current level of government resources committed to programs like these — even when combined with the generous support of private donors — is not cutting it. The problem is just too big. Fortunately, a path forward has already been introduced. The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act is legislation establishing an annual $10 million grant program to support nonprofit organizations that train and pair service dogs with veterans.
It is through private-public partnerships like these that we can truly make a difference in the lives of veterans struggling with mental health.
Lawmakers in Washington continuously butt heads about funding the federal government. Amid the debate, Congress should consider appropriating a small fraction of that money to provide veterans with a healing leash. In the grand scheme of a $6 trillion federal budget, it is a small price to pay to save heroes in uniform.
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Dr. Robin Ganzert, a West Palm Beach resident, is president and CEO of American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization.
Wellington, FL – April 3, 2024 – The Wellington Community Foundation is thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable Derby celebration at the stunning Diamante Farms Dressage on Saturday, May 4th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the legendary race as you don your finest hats and dapper derby attire for an evening of elegance and excitement.
This event is more than just a party; it’s a fundraiser for a cause close to our hearts – The Wellington Community Foundation. Your ticket purchase will directly support our efforts to uplift and empower the local community, particularly benefiting Wellington Seniors, Children, and Veterans in need, as we strive to improve their quality of life.
Doors will open and guests will be welcomed from 4:00 PM onwards for pre-party Mint Juleps, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Tickets are priced at $200 per person and can be purchased through our website at www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.
Highlights of the event include:
Live Viewing: Catch all the action of the Derby on our big screen.
Mint Juleps: Sip on the traditional Derby drink, crafted to perfection.
Delectable Delights: Indulge in full culinary delights prepared by Chef Gardo Vincken. Photo Opportunity: Capture memories with our themed photo booth.
Horse Race: Choose the winners and get a chance for your raffle to be chosen for one of our grand prizes. Don’t miss out on the most talked-about Derby party in Wellington!
Reserve your spot now and be part of the “Run for the Roses” excitement while supporting the Wellington Community Foundation.
Event Details: Date: Saturday, May 4th, 2024 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Doors open at 4:00 PM)
The Wellington Community Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the Wellington community. Through various initiatives and partnerships, we strive to support education, healthcare, arts, and culture, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community for all residents. Join us in our mission to create a brighter future for Wellington.
Mission: The Wellington Community Foundation, Inc. is a charitable 501(c)3 organization committed to benefiting Wellington Seniors, Children, and Veterans in need by supporting and improving their quality of life, so that together we can help “Build A Stronger Community”.
Enjoy a spectacular twilight procession through the Roji-en: Garden of the Drops of Dew, and explore the peaceful Yamato-kan, the Morikami’s original museum, during the annual after-hours event series.
There will also be live taiko drumming performances by Fushu Daiko and a “Harajuku meets Otaku” fashion show presented by OtakuFest in the museum’s theater. The colorful world of Harajuku Fashion, born on the streets of Tokyo, is an artistic movement of self-expression that intersects with sub-trends like otaku fashion, celebrating a passion for anime (Japanese cartoons), manga (Japanese comic books), and all things pop culture.
Additional Sunset Stroll dates include May 23, June 13, and September 12. Each event will have its own theme.
Cost is $5 for members, and $10 for the general public. Tickets will be available for purchase online starting April 1, 2024.
Space is limited. Rain or shine. Tickets will not be available for purchase at the door.
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.
About Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens has been a center for Japanese art and culture in South Florida since opening in 1977. Morikami invites guests to discover its South Florida history, connection with Japan, and explore a series of six diverse gardens, each inspired by a different historical period and style of Japanese gardening. Visitors experience traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through revolving exhibits, distinctive educational programs and seasonal events, a world-class bonsai display, Pan-Asian cuisine, and an eclectic museum store. Morikami Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
WELLINGTON, FL – This April, The Mall at Wellington Green will kick off the Spring season with a plethora of exciting, family-friendly programming. From dinosaur-themed Kid’s Club parties and baby fitness classes to nautical adventures in the Florida Keys, there is something for everyone at Wellington’s favorite mall.
Wrecking in the Florida Keys Lecture
Friday, April 5
6:30–8pm
The District at Wellington Green
Free
The South Florida Chapter of the Archaeological Institute of America and The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History are pleased to present “Wrecking in the Florida Keys.” Hosted by Robert Feeney, Curator of Material Culture & Technology at The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, this special lecture will illustrate how the wrecking industry in the 1800s made Key West one of the wealthiest cities in the US. Guests will also have an opportunity to view the navigational tools and artifacts related to wrecking, the intrepid practice of saving the crew and cargo from shipwrecks along the Florida Reef. Refreshments served. For more information, visit pbmnh.org or call (561) 729-4246.
Kids Club Dino Roars
Saturday, April 13
11am-1pm
Grand Court
Free
Dinosaur loving kiddos should join the Kids Club for this exciting event, hosted in partnership with the Palm Beach Museum of Natural History. Children will become archeologists for a day as they search for fossils in the museum’s dig pits, plus enjoy a dinosaur puppet show, balloon art, and face painting. Kids can also get their photos taken with a 14-foot dinosaur and take home a real fossil of their own!
Mommy & Me Spring Fling
Wednesday, April 24
10:30-11:30am
Grand Court
Free
Kids five and under are invited to The Mall at Wellington Green for a morning full of engaging, spring fun! The Mommy & Me Spring Fling will include themed crafts, musical entertainment, and refreshments.
Zumbini with Regina Rossi
Every Wednesday
11–11:45am
The District at Wellington Green
$135 for 6 classes (includes music app to download songs)
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.
Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
Every Saturday
10:30–11:30am
The District at Wellington Green
Free
Livin’ La Vida Zumba! Enjoy The Mall at Wellington Green’s fun, dance fitness party program that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance.
OneBlood Blood Drive
April 12, 13, and 24
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.
As a life-long road tripper, I’ve seen my share of roadside attractions. I can’t resist a stop. As a result, numerous roadside attractions across the United States and Europe make their way into my travels. This month I’m sharing some of my favorites with you. You’re welcome!
A Classic Route 66 Attraction
Perhaps one of the most recognized roadside attractions in America, Cadillac Ranch is the brainchild of a group named Ant Farm. Founders Chip Lord, Doug Michels, and Hudson Marquez often made use of popular USA icons as a strategy to display the trends in current cultural imagery.
Sponsored by and installed on the property of Texas millionaire Stanley Marsh 3, Cadillac Ranch began when 10 Cadillacs were driven into his field. Half-buried, nose-down in the dirt, the Cadillacs supposedly mimic the same angle as the Great Pyramid of Giza. They face west in a line, chronologically from the 1949 Club Sedan to the 1963 Sedan de Ville, their tail fins held high for all to see. The exhibit serves as a tribute to the rise and fall of American culture – just like the rise and fall of the Cadillac tail fin.
At the time of the burial in 1974, minimal thought was given to preservation. As a result most of the cars no longer have doors, tail lights, or bumpers. Initially, people scratched their names into the paint. Today everyone brings spray paint and adds their own interpretation to this iconic exhibit of Americana.
World’s Largest Working Fire Hydrant
They say everything’s bigger in Texas. The 24-foot-tall Dalmatian-spotted fire hydrant standing in front of the Fire Museum of Texas in Beaumont confirms the rumor. Donated to the city by Disney to mark the re-release of the animated movie 101 Dalmatians in 1999, the 4,500 lb. hydrant can blast 1,500 gallons of water a minute. The big dog doesn’t stand alone. Twelve small Dalmatian-spotted hydrants also surround the square.
A Remote Alaska Igloo Attracts Wild Guests
Driving along Alaska’s Parks Highway from Anchorage to Fairbanks you expect to see epic landscapes, snow-covered mountains and possibly wildlife. You might not expect to see a giant four-story concrete igloo. Originally intended to be the Igloo City Hotel, this 1970s structure couldn’t meet building codes at the time. So now it sits abandoned at Mile Marker 188.7, littered with graffiti and occasionally occupied by the wild locals – bears, moose and wolves.
Art in the Desert
Driving into the small town of Borrego Springs, CA at the edge of Anza-Borrego State Park, unexpected large-scale artwork dots the landscape. The vision of the now-deceased Dennis Avery, the founder of Avery Labels, 130 metal sculptures are scattered across the Galleta Meadows Estate. You’ll find dinosaurs, giant insects, camels, wild horses and Nessie the Loch Ness Monster among the sculptures. Avery commissioned artist and welder Ricardo Breceda to craft these intriguing sculptures. The art legacy Avery left behind is a local treasure and a surprising find in this desert landscape.
Forever Marilyn
Wander the streets in the heart of Palm Springs and you’ll find yourself staring up at a larger-than-life sculpture of Marilyn Monroe. Forever Marilyn captures the essence of the star’s magnetic charm and allure. This larger than life sculpture serves as a testament to her lasting impact on American popular culture.
Cheese Please
America isn’t the only place with roadside attractions worthy of a stop. In Sweden I happened upon the world’s largest cheese slicers. Although Norway gets credited as the origin of the cheese slicer, Sweden gets to claim the world’s largest title. You’ll find these eye-catching kitchen tools between the cities of Umeå and Skellefteå just outside of the tiny town of Ånäset in an area known as the Kingdom of Cheese. Admittedly, it is difficult to depart from a place known as the Kingdom of Cheese. But, at least I had the opportunity to photograph two 23-foot-tall, 1,800 pound cheese slicers. Priceless.
Keep Your Eyes on the Moose
Sweden may claim the giant cheese slicers, but Norway claims an equally impressive moose. A drive down Norway’s route E3 delivers views of scenic forests, waterfalls and mountains. It also serves up a mega moose. Standing at just over 32 feet tall, Storelgen, the majestic moose was created as a rest stop for road trippers driving between Oslo and Trondheim. It also offers a not-so-subtle reminder for drivers to keep an eye out for moose along the road.
National Student Athlete Day, April 6, is not just an opportunity to honor the athletic prowess of our student-athletes, but also to recognize the dedication, resilience, and leadership qualities they exemplify both on and off the field. This annual celebration recognizes the extraordinary contributions of student-athletes who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their sport, while also excelling academically and serving as positive role models within their communities. From early morning practices to late-night study sessions, these individuals exemplify the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Local organization Student ACES, a 501c3 with the mission to create Champions, shines a light on the remarkable impact of these high school student-athletes and has been doing so since 2013.
Since inception in 2013, Student ACES (ACE: Athletics, Character, Education) has shaped the leaders of tomorrow by creating a pathway for young men and women to achieve the highest standards of leadership. Through customized character education programs, incorporating the 9 ACES core values – Command Respect, Honor Your Word, Aspire to Greatness, Maintain Courage, Possess a Work Ethic Second to None, Inspire Others, Own a Winning Attitude, Never Settle, Sacrifice for Self and Team – student-athletes have the opportunity to engage with one another and learn through the application of case studies in an interactive environment.
“As we commemorate National Student Athlete Day, we are reminded of the incredible dedication and perseverance displayed by student-athletes across the nation,” said Krissy Webb, Executive Director of Student ACES. “Within our Student ACES program, these exceptional individuals not only excel on the field but also serve as mentors to one another and leaders in their communities. Their commitment to academic excellence, sportsmanship, and character development sets a shining example for us all. Today, we honor their achievements and celebrate the profound impact they have as role models, both on and off the field.”
The organization was founded in 2013 by father-daughter team Buck Martinez, who today is the president of the board, and Krissy Webb who oversees the organization as Executive Director. The inspiration for Student ACES stemmed from their desire to see every student achieve a foundation of leadership that would generate positive outcomes and tremendous success in the students’ lives.
Character education programs provide the foundation upon which Student ACES creates Champions and shapes the leaders of tomorrow. Through customized programs, student-athletes throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties have the opportunity to engage with one another as they develop into Champions.
Beyond the accolades and trophies, National Student Athlete Day serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing athletic pursuits with academic excellence. Student-athletes juggle demanding schedules, often waking before dawn to train, attending classes throughout the day, and dedicating countless hours to their studies. Their ability to manage these competing priorities with grace and determination is a testament to their extraordinary character and work ethic. And let’s not forget that they are often looked upon as role models and carry a responsibility to exude positive behaviors.
Moreover, National Student Athlete Day underscores the invaluable lessons learned through sports participation – lessons of teamwork, leadership, perseverance, and sportsmanship that extend far beyond the playing field. These qualities not only shape the lives of student-athletes but also prepare them for success in their future endeavors, whether in their chosen careers or as contributing members of society.
As we celebrate National Student Athlete Day, let us pause to applaud the unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements of these outstanding individuals. Their passion, drive, and commitment inspire us all and serve as a testament to the boundless potential that lies within each and every one of us. Today, and every day, let us honor and support our student-athletes as they continue to reach for the stars and make a difference in the world.
For more information about how to get your student athlete involved in Student ACES, visit www.studentaces.org.
Wellington is hosting multiple events on Saturday, April 20, 2024, in recognition of Earth Day and Arbor Day.
The Great American Cleanup® Each year, the Great American Cleanup®, an initiative of Keep America Beautiful®, inspires thousands of volunteers of all ages across America to take part in efforts to clean up and improve their local communities. This year, the Village of Wellington is participating by organizing cleanup activities throughout the Village, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Volunteers are asked to check-in at Olympia Park (9830 Stribling Way) at 9:00 a.m. If you are interested in participating, please register by contacting the Community Services Department at 561-791-4796. The Great American Cleanup® in the Village of Wellington is coordinated in partnership with Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, Inc. and the Solid Waste Authority.
Wellington Garden Club Plant Sale The Wellington Garden Club will be hosting a plant sale from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Boulevard), in combination with the Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration. Proceeds benefit the Wellington Garden Club’s youth programs, scholarships, civic beautification, and environmental efforts. Offerings include plants from local nurseries and vendors, and plants grown by Wellington Garden Club members. Plant Sale Features
Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration Following The Great American Cleanup®, the community is invited to enjoy a free day of fun and learning at Wellington’s Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration located at the Wellington Amphitheater, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Join the Village Council at the start of the event for the planting of a Red Maple Tree in honor of Arbor Day. Event Features
Earth friendly products and demonstrations
Free glitter tattoos
Free native seedlings
Free raffle for a Red Maple Tree in a 7-gallon container
Giveaways
Local vendors and community partners
Meet Smokey Bear!
Proper tree pruning demonstration
The event will also feature a F.L.O.W.E.R. Awards Ceremony (Fabulous Landscapes Of Wellington Earning Recognition), and visitors can stop by booths highlighting the Wellington Garden Club, the Wellington Art Society, and Wellington Tree Board.
Stay up to date on events and activities coming up in Wellington by signing up for the monthly Play Wellington Newsletter at www.wellingtonfl.gov/PlayWellington.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter.
Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
May 2: NO CLEMATIS BY NIGHT | Enjoy SunFest
May 9: The Dee Dee Wilde Band (R&B & Top 40)|Visit Website
The Dee Dee Wilde Band is a 5-piece ensemble. The band is led by Dee Dee Wilde, one of South Florida’s most dynamic and captivating entertainers with undeniable vocal range. Wilde can sing low and sweet like Sade, tempestuous like Chaka, or dramatic like Whitney. From the high-energy, blow-your-hair-back dance tunes to her commanding talents as a soul-ballad singer, Wilde and her band deliver pure entertainment and enjoyment that spans over six decades.
The Mighty Flea Circus is a nationally touring, award-winning, non-stop good-time rockabilly, swing and jump band on a mission to make you move! Their modern take on classics, including Wanda Jackson, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Stray Cats and Squirrel Nut Zippers, mixed with their original music, will get you out of your seat and on your feet from the first note until the last!
May 23: The Tim Charron Band (Country Rock with a twist of lime) | Visit Website
Tim Charron is a country rock recording artist who divides his time between Nashville and Florida. With a fire for performing, Tim Charron’s sound makes you want to move, giving you the feeling of complete euphoria and making it clear why fans are flocking to him. He’s a country rocker in a prime position to continue serving up greatness for many years to come.
A five-member group from South Florida, Wonderama is a high-energy, current Top 40 and dance music party band. The group performs a “one-of-a-kind” sound in each show by fusing the most popular songs mixed with classic favorites. Waterfront guests will enjoy their energetic show, featuring today’s chart-topping songs from the Billboard Hot 100 playlist!
SCREEN ON THE GREEN
Second Friday of the month (May 10), 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Waterfront – The Great Lawn | 100 N. Clematis Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Armed with nothing but a hatful of dreams, young chocolatier Willy Wonka manages to change the world, one delectable bite at a time.
SUNDAY ON THE WATERFRONT
Third Sunday of the month (May 19), 4 – 7 p.m.
Meyer Amphitheatre | 104 Datura Street, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401
Slip & The Spinouts (Rockabilly & Rock ‘n’ Roll) |Visit Website
Slip and the Spinouts are an established Vintage American music band on the South Florida circuit. They are South Florida’s only rockabilly and roots band playing throughout the entire state, East Coast, and Las Vegas. Their blend of rockabilly, rock ‘n’ roll, western swing, surf, old country, swinging blues and roots music appeals to people of all ages.
Guests buy one, get one SMART and PREMIUM rides through May 31
MIAMI (April 1, 2024) – It’s no April Fools’ joke – get ready to double the excitement with Brightline’s limited-time buy one, get-one-free offer on SMART and PREMIUM fares! From now until Saturday, April 6, passengers traveling between South Florida and Orlando can enjoy savings on select trains.
For the first time, we’re thrilled to launch a BOGO offer for PREMIUM fares, and we assure you, it’s no joke. PREMIUM rides offer a first-class experience, including a $10 Uber voucher, access to the PREMIUM lounge, and elevated food and beverage offerings in-station and onboard. Guests can also experience the convenience and comfort of SMART. Here’s how to claim your savings:
· Find your fare: select your station, travel dates, and destination.
· Add your promo code: add NOJOKE24 in the promo code field in the search box and click apply.
· Search discounted tickets: double the fun at half the cost for both SMART and PREMIUM fares.
Brightline’s NOJOKE24 BOGO offer is available for booking from April 1st to April 6th, 2024, for travel through May 31st, 2024. Customers must book at least 7 days in advance of their trip, with Orlando as either the origin or destination, to avail of this exclusive offer. The terms and conditions of the offer include booking by April 6, 2024, for SMART or PREMIUM travel through May 31, 2024. For more information and to book your BOGO deal, visit www.gobrightline.com/offers/nojoke.
Brightline seamlessly connects travelers to top destinations and major events between Central and South Florida. The company serves Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando with future stops in Stuart and Cocoa. Brightline is recognized by Inc. 5000 Regionals as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast for 2023 and is one of the World’s 50 Most Innovative by Fast Company in 2024. Brightline offers a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road. The company plans to bring its award-winning service to additional city pairs and congested corridors across the country that are too close to fly and too long to drive, with immediate plans to connect Las Vegas to Southern California. For more information, visit www.gobrightline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
