WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – July 2026

Beautiful, Healthy You!

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH and Associates

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH, FAAD

Irina Milman, DO, FAAD

Paloma Reiter, DO, FAAD

Justin Rubin, DO, FAAD

Sheril Campbell, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

Brianna Victoria, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

We’re Ready.Emergency?

When you or a family member is involved in a medical emergency, experience and speed are extremely important. The Emergency Department at Wellington Regional Medical Center offers both — qualified and well-trained emergency physicians and other healthcare professionals, and a streamlined evaluation and treatment process so you can get the care you need as quickly as possible. In addition to treating serious illnesses and injuries, our staff also treats minor injuries, such as cuts and bruises.

The ER at Westlake* is a freestanding emergency department that is staffed 24/7 with a physician and other medical staff and is capable of treating general emergency cases from cuts and bruises to stabilizing care for heart attacks and strokes. Outpatient Radiology and Laboratory Services are available 24/7 with no appointment needed.

If you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

*This emergency department is part of Wellington Regional Medical Center. This is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates. Physicians are on the medical staff of Wellington Regional Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Wellington Regional Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 264388407-4436064 5/26

executive editor

Joshua I. Manning

publisher

Dawn Rivera

creative director

Stephanie Rodriguez

account managers

Betty Buglio

Evie Edwards

Dean Glorioso

Joetta Palumbo

Jennifer Preville

administration

Shanta Daibee

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Frank Koester

Abner Pedraza

contributors

Shannon Anastasio

Jim Barnes

Meredith Burrow

Denise Fleischman

Mike May

Patrick Sherry

Sally Shorr

Fiona Slusarev

Y.A. Teitelbaum

Julie Unger

WELLINGTON

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33

Wellington, FL 33414

Phone: (561) 793-7606

Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.wellingtonthemagazine.com published by Wellington The Magazine, LLC

chairman/ceo

Barry S. Manning

Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2026, all rights reserved by Wellington The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

WRMC CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF CARE

Wellington Regional Medical Center is celebrating 40 years of serving the western communities through top-quality, compassionate healthcare. The 235-bed acute-care hospital, owned by Universal Health Services (UHS), boasts a wide variety of health services. BY FIONA SLUSAREV

GROUP HELPS PEOPLE

LEARN MINDFUL MEDITATION

A new Mindful Meditation Club is meeting Tuesday evenings at South University in Royal Palm Beach, bringing a unique new opportunity to local residents. BY JULIE UNGER

NEW PBSC BUILDING HONORS JULIE & JOHN KIME

Julie and John Kime, longtime business leaders and philanthropists in the western communities and beyond, were recently honored by Palm Beach State College with the naming of a building on the Loxahatchee Groves campus. BY FIONA SLUSAREV

MORIKAMI: YOUR DOORWAY TO THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN

At the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, art, history, nature, cuisine and culture come together in one of the county’s most distinctive destinations. BY SALLY SHORR

WELLINGTON PHILANTHROPY

Our Wellington Philanthropy series this month features the work of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington. BY PATRICK SHERRY

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

WELLINGTON TODAY

July is filled with traditions that seem small in the moment but become the memories we carry forward. If you ask most people what they love about their great hometown, they rarely start with infrastructure. They talk about experiences. BY JIM BARNES

WELLINGTON TABLE

With a retro flair and a twist on classic American burgers, Hausmash is serving highquality flavors while transporting customers back to the 1980s. Diego Ucciferri opened Hausmash in the Wellington Green Square plaza last October. The restaurant is attracting local residents with its signature smash-style burgers combined with bold flavors and premium ingredients. BY PATRICK SHERRY

On our cover are local philanthropists John and Julie Kime, who have been deeply involved in the Wellington community for decades. They are also graduates and longtime supporters of Palm Beach State College and were recently honored by having their name attached to the new Dental and Health Innovation building on the Loxahatchee Groves campus. Learn more about them in this issue.

Keeping with our healthcare theme, we take a look at Wellington Regional Medical Center, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The hospital has grown by leaps and bounds since opening in 1986. Meanwhile, if life has you stressed out, you might want to look into the new Mindful Meditation Club meeting at South University in Royal Palm Beach, also featured in this issue.

Our Palm Beach County cultural series continues in this issue with a look at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, where Japanese culture comes to life through programs, exhibits and its signature 16 acres of Japanese gardens.

Our Wellington Philanthropy series continues this month with a look at the Crowned Pearls of Wellington. This amazing group of women can be seen at nearly every volunteer initiative in the village and lead their organization with the aim of improving the lives of those in the community. In Wellington Today, Village Manager Jim Barnes looks at all the ways to create summer memories. Finally, Wellington Table visits Hausmash in Wellington Green Square, which offers a new, high-quality take on a classic burger joint.

We hope you are enjoying a leisurely summer. We will be back next month with our annual education-themed issue.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

‘RALLY FOR A CAUSE’ TENNIS TOURNEY SUPPORTS OUR COMMUNITY CARES

Twenty-four teams of doubles served up an exciting evening at the second annual Rally for a Cause Tennis Tournament to benefit Our Community Cares on Friday, June 5 at the Wellington Tennis Center. Teams of friends and family members stepped onto the courts to serve, swing and volley during the friendly matches. The event raised crucial funds to support Our Community Cares, an organization committed to assisting senior citizens in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach. To learn more about Our Community Cares, visit www.ourcommunitycaresfl.org.

VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON HOSTS ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE & CEREMONY

The Village of Wellington held its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, May 25. The parade began at Wellington Village Hall, with the procession ending at the Wellington Veterans Memorial. Several hundred people were in attendance, honoring those lost in service to the nation. Heather Durand opened the ceremony by singing the national anthem. Speakers included members of the Wellington Village Council. Joining them to give remembrance was Krissy Robbs of American Legion Post 390. The ceremony concluded with a gun salute and the playing of “Taps” by Armando Cedeno.

WELLINGTON SENIORS ENJOY HAWAIIAN LUAU EVENT AT COMMUNITY CENTER

Wellington seniors enjoyed a Hawaiian Luau on Tuesday, June 16 at the Wellington Community Center. The Aloha Island Dancers performed a variety of Polynesian dances as seniors enjoyed lunch catered by the Poké Company.

• Advanced Dual Curriculum, Individualized Learning, and Personal Growth

• 3 High-Tech Innovation Labs, where Students Learn Coding, Robotics, 3D Printing, Engineering and Design

• Outstanding Performing Arts and Athletics

• Large Spacious Campus

WELLINGTON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF COMPASSIONATE CARE

BY FIONA SLUSAREV

Wellington Regional Medical Center is celebrating 40 years of serving the western communities through topquality, compassionate healthcare.

The 235-bed acute-care hospital, owned by Universal Health Services (UHS), boasts a wide variety of health services ranging from its birthing center and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to the cancer center and neurology, and everything in between. Wellington-area residents can access everything from primary care to sur-

gery and rehabilitation without having to drive far from home.

“Celebrating 40 years is an incredible milestone and a source of great pride for our team,” WRMC CEO Pam Tahan said. “For more than four decades, Wellington Regional has been here for our community’s most important moments — from welcoming new babies into the world to providing care during all seasons of life.”

When the hospital first opened its doors in 1986, Wellington itself had

not yet been incorporated as a village. The population of the western communities was a fraction of what it is today, but growth was already starting to take place.

As Wellington and the surrounding areas developed, so did WRMC. A maternity unit, cancer center, wound care center, outpatient center, Level III NICU, minimally invasive surgical technologies and a neurological intervention suite are just some of the highlights that have contributed to the

hospital’s growth across its first decades.

“Wellington Regional was founded because local leaders recognized the need for quality healthcare close to home as the western communities continued to grow,” Tahan said. “Over the years, we have expanded right alongside the community by adding new services, advanced technology, physicians and facilities to meet those evolving needs.”

In the past 10 years alone, WRMC has expanded its offerings and received awards for the quality of care provided. The hospital received an A grade from Leap Frog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade for ensuring patient safety from errors and accidents. U.S. News & World Report ranked WRMC in the Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings as a High Performing Hospital for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and stroke, as well as a High Performing Hospital for heart failure. The center was further honored with the 2025 and 2026 Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award.

“Today, residents no longer have to travel east for many lifesaving services,” Tahan said. “We are proud to be home to the only Comprehensive Stroke Center in the western communities, a Level III NICU, expanded intensive care services, advanced surgical technology and enhanced patient-centered amenities, including renovated postpartum suites designed for families. Our growth has always been guided by one goal: ensuring that our community has access to exceptional healthcare close to home when they need it most.”

This includes an array of awardwinning healthcare programs. For example, the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine has been lauded for patient satisfaction and high wound healing rates. The center received numerous distinctions from Healogics, the top wound-care provider in the U.S., with the 2025 awards marking 10 years of recognition. Most recently, WRMC received both the Center of Distinction award and the Robert A. Warriner III Clinical Excellence Award.

The Comprehensive Stroke Center

Celebrating 40 years is an incredible milestone and a source of great pride for our team. For more than four decades, Wellington Regional has been here for our community’s most important moments — from welcoming new babies into the world to providing care during all seasons of life.

— CEO Pam Tahan

has a robust care program that utilizes a Stroke Alert Team to rapidly examine, assess and diagnose patients. The center has received many accolades, such as when the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association awarded WRMC the “Get with the Guidelines Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award.” The Comprehensive Stroke Center has also been honored by the Det Norske Veritas group with the highest-level accreditation for the treatment of severe strokes.

As a leader in breast cancer treatment, WRMC is constantly expanding

the modalities offered and integrating the newest technology. The Savi SCOUT procedure was added in 2018 to offer an alternative surgical approach for women with breast cancer. That same year saw the addition of advanced 3D mammography imaging in the Comprehensive Women’s Imaging Center to aid in early detection. The hospital has been honored with top awards from the American College of Radiology and the National Consortium of Breast Centers.

WRMC’s Weight Management Center opened in 2018, giving patients options when choosing weight-loss surgery. It was quickly certified by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) from the American College of Surgeons, as well as being named an Aetna Institutes of Quality Bariatric Surgery Center, Cigna 3-Star Quality Bariatric Center and Center of Excellence, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery and an Optum Center of Excellence for Bariatrics.

The cardiology department is home to a dedicated team that identifies and treats cardiac disorders, and the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory offers lifesaving procedures. The American College of Cardiology has awarded WRMC with Chest Pain Center Accreditation with Primary PCI and Resuscitation, among other awards.

WRMC expanded in 2019 with the opening of the ER at Westlake, making emergency medical services attainable for residents who live in that fast-growing area. Meanwhile, coming in early 2027 is the ER at Hypoluxo, which will serve WRMC patients to the east.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, WRMC was on the frontlines. Healthcare professionals showed up for the western communities amid new restrictions and uncertainty. The hospital was one of six centers from across the nation to participate in the second phase of the clinical trial of the IV medication Dociparstat sodium, intended to reduce the severity of the COVID-19 infection.

“Without question, the COVID-19

pandemic was the greatest challenge we have faced in the last decade,” Tahan said. “I vividly remember hearing there were only a handful of confirmed cases in Palm Beach County and knowing several of those patients were being cared for at Wellington Regional. It was a time filled with uncertainty, concern and rapidly changing circumstances.”

However, what Tahan remembers most is the extraordinary dedication of the hospital’s “healthcare heroes.”

“Our physicians, nurses and staff showed up every day, supporting patients, families and one another through some of the most challenging moments in healthcare history,” she said. “The pandemic strengthened our organization in many ways. It enhanced our preparedness, reinforced collaboration across departments, and reminded us of the resilience and compassion that define our culture. Most importantly, it proved that when faced with adversity, our team comes together to provide exceptional care and support for our community.”

WRMC is consistently at the forefront of emerging technologies and advancements. The first Inspire Therapy Procedure for sleep apnea in the center was performed in 2024. The hospital was accredited by the Surgi-

cal Review Corporation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery in 2024 and celebrated a milestone achievement of 5,000 robotic surgical cases this year.

“Personally, it has been an honor and privilege to spend the last 11 years serving alongside our physicians, nurses and staff while building strong partnerships with the Village of Wellington and so many outstanding community organizations,” Tahan said. “We love hearing stories from patients who were born here and later returned to have their own children at Wellington Regional. This anniversary reflects the trust our community has placed in us for 40 years, and our ongoing commitment to provide safe, compassionate, high-quality care for generations to come.”

If Wellington Regional Medical Center’s past 40 years of history are any indicator, the community can expect continued dynamic growth that since 1986 has turned a single hospital building into a bustling medical campus, matching the continued growth of the Wellington community.

Wellington Regional Medical Center is located at 10101 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. To learn more about the hospital, call (561) 798-8500 or visit www. wellingtonregional.com.

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NEW LOCAL GROUP HELPS PEOPLE LEARN THE ART OF MINDFUL MEDITATION

STORY AND

BY JULIE UNGER

The reverberating hum of a crystal harp danced through the air on Tuesday, June 2, as Yani Daes, founder and CEO of Soham Yoga, walked among a group of 25 people meditating at the South University Learning Commons.

Daes led the group through a guided meditation before the silent meditation took place.

“What is important about meditation is where you give your attention,” she said. “What are you giving your attention to?”

Daes explained that when you’re working on something you enjoy, time passes quickly and seems to disappear

because you’re present in the moment. She asked participants to concentrate on their breathing, to be fully involved in what they were doing, and to only think about their breath.

The week of June 2 was the third week for this new Mindful Meditation Club, and its first meeting while partnered with South University in Royal Palm Beach.

“Meditation groups are important because they create a sense of connection and belonging,” said Nickeshia Bullock, South University’s campus director and dean of academic affairs and operations. “They provide a safe

and welcoming environment where individuals can step away from the demands of daily life, focus on their well-being, and build meaningful relationships with others who are seeking balance and personal growth.”

Hosting the meditation club at the school was the perfect fit.

“In today’s world, opportunities to slow down, reflect and connect with one another are more valuable than ever. That is one of the reasons I wanted to open our campus space to the meditation group,” Bullock said. “South University is more than a place of learning, it is a part of the commu-

nity. I believe our campus should serve as a resource where people can come together, learn, grow and support one another. By opening our doors to this group, we are creating opportunities for wellness, connection and community engagement, all of which align with the values we strive to promote both on our campus and throughout the community.”

Denis Eirikis and Michelle Elliott met through social media and co-founded the club together.

Elliott had been interested in starting a meditation group, and the two connected, utilizing Elliott’s HOA clubhouse as the location for the first two sessions.

Eirikis, who has always been drawn to meditation, likens group meditation to the difference between bowling alone and bowling in a fun league.

“This is a place for people who want to meditate to come and meditate,” Eirikis said.

The Mindful Meditation Club is free, and everyone is welcome to join. Meetings take place every Tuesday from 6:20 to 7:30 p.m. at South University’s University Centre (9801 Belvedere Road, Royal Palm Beach), with doors closing at 6:30 p.m.

All experience levels are welcome.

Use the south entrance facing Belvedere.

The South University Learning Commons has plenty of comfortable chairs available, and participants are welcome to bring a yoga mat to sit on.

“Group mindful meditation is powerful medicine,” Eirikis said. “Mindful meditation is a simple, evidence-based practice that helps people develop greater awareness of the present moment. Regular practice has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and emotional reactivity, while improving focus, resilience and overall well-being. Many people also find that mindfulness helps them cope more effectively with chronic pain, improve sleep, and respond to life’s challenges with greater calm and clarity.”

Many of the attendees mentioned stress, pain and community as their reason for attending, including cancer survivor Gretchen Prevatt. It was her second time joining for group meditation.

“I like it,” Prevatt said. “When I’m meditating, I do feel relief, which is great because normally I have pain 247, even on pain medicines and nerve medication.”

Each week, volunteers will be leading the meditations. To learn more, e-mail kindfulness@aol.com.

“Group mindful meditation is powerful medicine. Mindful meditation is a simple, evidence-based practice that helps people develop greater awareness of the present moment.”

PBSC’S NEW DENTAL AND HEALTH INNOVATION BUILDING HONORS JULIE AND JOHN KIME

STORY BY FIONA SLUSAREV | PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN AND COURTESY PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE

Julie and John Kime, longtime business leaders and philanthropists in the western communities and beyond, were recently honored by Palm Beach State College with the naming of a building on the Loxahatchee Groves campus.

The Julie and John Kime Dental and Health Innovation Building is a fourstory space dedicated to readying students for successful careers in healthcare. The 83,954-square-foot building on the Loxahatchee Groves campus provides a place where students gain hands-on experience in dental and sur-

gical fields. The center also gives back to the surrounding community by offering the public dental services.

“This new facility will help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals and expand access to lifechanging careers for students from the western part of Palm Beach County,” PBSC President Ava Parker explained. “It is a remarkable space — and most importantly, it will provide residents with access to affordable dental care.”

Palm Beach State College was Florida’s first community college when

it was founded in 1933. It has grown exponentially since its inception, both academically and physically. In 2008, the school’s first bachelor’s degree program was approved by the Florida Board of Education, joining the associate’s degree programs already offered. The college now boasts five campuses in Lake Worth, Belle Glade, Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton and Loxahatchee Groves.

Both Kimes are alumni of PBSC, or Palm Beach Junior College as it was called at the time. They credit their

time at the college for their success over their careers. Before their time at PBSC, John grew up in Martin County and served in the U.S. Navy. Julie, born in Connecticut, moved to Cuba in high school after her grandfather’s passing in order for her father to care for his mother.

Julie credits this transition, from the U.S. to Cuba, and subsequent transition back, for teaching her the importance of resilience, education and community. With PBSC as their foundation, the Kimes found successful careers in the insurance industry. Julie was the first Hispanic insurance agent in Palm Beach County, opening her Wellington Allstate agency in 1979. John likewise joined Allstate and opened his own office in Juno Beach.

“This community supported me. It trusted me. And I wanted to lift others up the way people lifted me,” Julie explained.

The Kimes have given back to Palm Beach County in many ways through the years. John served on the board of the Cox Science Center & Aquarium, formerly the South Florida Science Museum. Both Kimes have supported the Boys & Girls Club in Wellington for 38 years and are on the local club’s advisory board. They have also helped organize the annual Wellington Dinner Dance. Additionally, Julie sits on the corporate board of directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

“Philanthropy has been part of our lives,” Julie reflected.

John currently serves on the board of directors for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation. Julie, meanwhile, was a co-founder of the Executive

Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation (EWPBF) in 1982, a leadership organization for professional women, and she remains a member more than 40 years later. She was also a founding member of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce, now the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce.

Julie has consistently been an example of what it means to be an active member of the community. She has been recognized with numerous accolades, such as the 1994 EWPBF Women in Leadership Award, the 2023 Lifetime Leadership Award for 30 years of philanthropy from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, the 2024 PBSC Emerald Torch Award, and many more.

With their many avenues of community involvement in Palm Beach County, the Kimes remain perennial supporters of PBSC. They already had a history of supporting the school be-

fore the Dental and Health Innovation Building.

The Julie and John Kime Library Resource Center opened in 2022, providing students with a place to study, access course materials, and use technology like laptops and iPads. They also created the Julie Kime Hispanic Women’s Scholarship at PBSC.

“Establishing the Hispanic Women’s Scholarship was one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done,” Julie said.

Education has always been important to the Kimes. Both worked fulltime during their college careers and understand the fortitude needed to pursue a degree. They hope to make it easier for students to access a lifechanging education at PBSC, like they were able to.

Parker noted that their support for the school and its students truly supports the community at large.

“For decades, Julie and John Kime have exemplified what it means to give back with purpose,” Parker said. “Their commitment has helped shape Palm Beach State College into the thriving institution it is today, reaching every corner of our community.”

Looking to the future, the Kimes have no plans to halt their commitment to Palm Beach State College. “We are so, so grateful and will continue to support PBSC,” Julie said.

To learn more about Palm Beach State College, visit www.pbsc.edu.

THE MORIKAMI IS YOUR DOORWAY TO THE LAND OF THE RISING SUN

BY SALLY SHORR

At the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, art, history, nature, cuisine and culture come together in one of Palm Beach County’s most distinctive destinations.

This transportive cultural experiences awaits just west of Delray Beach’s palm-fringed beaches and hospitality heartbeat. At the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, serenity and verdant natural surroundings sustain an evocative link to the Land of the Rising Sun, where visitors stroll past dew-soaked gardens hedged with ancient stone lanterns, and wood bridges hover above lush koi-filled ponds. Founded as a cultural and educational center honoring the legacy of the Yamato Colony, Morikami tells a story that is both global and deeply local. In the early 1900s, a group of young Japanese farmers led by Jo Sakai established the Yamato Colony in northern Boca Raton, hoping to introduce innovative farming practices to Florida. George Morikami, a native of Miyazu, Japan, and one of the colony’s settlers, later helped transform that history into

a lasting cultural bridge between Japan and Palm Beach County.

Today, Morikami continues that legacy through its mission to present Japanese cultural experiences that educate and inspire. The campus features traditional Japanese architecture, three exhibition galleries, a theater, an authentic tea house, classrooms, a museum store, the Cornell Café, lakeside terraces and 16 acres of Japanese gardens.

For many visitors, the gardens are the heart of the experience. Known as Roji-en: Garden of the Drops of Dew, the gardens were designed as a living extension of the museum. Created by garden designer Hoichi Kurisu, Roji-en is composed of six distinct gardens inspired by significant historical periods and styles of Japanese garden design. Rather than serving as replicas, the gardens are conceived in the spirit of Japan’s garden masters, offering a contemplative journey through landscape, water, stone, plantings, bridges and shifting views.

That sense of movement is part of

what makes Morikami so resonant. The gardens invite visitors to slow down, pause and experience Japanese culture through nature and design. Families may come to explore the paths and koi, garden lovers may linger over the plantings and bonsai, and solo visitors may find a place for reflection. For groups, schools and cultural travelers, the museum and gardens together offer a meaningful introduction to Japanese history, art and aesthetics without leaving Palm Beach County.

Inside the museum, rotating exhibitions explore the arts and humanities of Japan through objects, images, textiles and stories. For visitors, one of the most compelling exhibitions is Threads of Silver & Gold, on view through Sept. 20. The exhibition focuses on uchikake, elaborately decorated outer robes that date to the Edo period, when highranking women wore them at court and brides in samurai families wore them for weddings. Their rich colors, raised silk weaving, padded hems and symbolic motifs, including cranes, turtles and cherry blossoms, offer a striking

look at status, ceremony, craftsmanship and good-fortune imagery in Japanese textile traditions.

Museum guests can also experience two traveling exhibitions on view now through Aug. 30.

Yōkai: Scenes of the Supernatural in Japanese Woodblock Prints explores mysterious creatures, shape-shifting animals, vengeful ghosts, demons and other supernatural figures that have inhabited Japan’s folklore, theater, literature and visual culture for centuries. The exhibition includes 90 works, including woodblock prints and printed books spanning more than 250 years, with imagery that connects historic Japanese folklore to the visual language that continues to inspire manga and anime today.

Also on view is Courage & Compassion: Our Shared Story of the Japanese American World War II Experience, which examines the forced removal and incarceration of Japanese Americans during and after World War II. Through images, audio and interactive elements, the exhibition offers a 360-degree perspective on a difficult chapter of American history while honoring those who stood up for Japanese Americans as friends, neighbors and fellow citizens.

Morikami’s programming expands the experience far beyond the galleries. Visitors can take classes and workshops in Japanese cultural arts, from ikebana and bonsai to taiko drumming and tea ceremony.

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, is offered through different schools of study. The Ikenobo School dates back to the 15th century and is considered the oldest and most traditional school, while Sogetsu takes a more contemporary approach centered on creativity and individuality, with the idea that ikebana can be practiced by anyone, anywhere, with almost anything. In both, students create arrangements to take home, making the class both cultural instruction and hands-on artmaking.

Bonsai classes offer another way to understand the patience and discipline embedded in Japanese aesthetics. Students learn to trim and train trees

in containers, creating the illusion of age, maturity and nature in miniature. Morikami offers both beginner and intermediate classes, allowing guests to approach bonsai as an art form, a horticultural practice and a meditative discipline.

For those drawn to music and movement, taiko classes introduce students to Japanese drumming. Taiko can refer to the drum itself, a drumming style, a drum group or drum music, and Morikami’s classes give participants the opportunity to learn the history, culture and techniques behind the instrument.

The museum’s Sunset Strolls also bring the gardens to life after hours with live taiko performances by Fushu Daiko, along with koto performances and cultural programming. On Sept. 17, the Sunset Stroll theme is Japanese Fashion & Cosplay, with a cosplay fashion show hosted by Florida Supercon, offering a lively connection between traditional Japanese culture and contemporary pop culture.

The tea house is one of Morikami’s most distinctive cultural offerings. Seishin-an, the museum’s authentic tea house, allows visitors to observe or study sado, commonly known as the Japanese tea ceremony or “the way of tea.” While tea culture in Japan developed over many centuries, the form most closely associated with today’s tea ceremony was shaped in the 16th century by the influential tea master Sen no Rikyū, who elevated the practice into an art centered on simplicity, hospitality, mindfulness and seasonal awareness. At Morikami, tea ceremony classes are offered in the Omote-Senke style, and students learn in the tea house under instructor Yoshiko Hardick. The experience is never static. The tea ceremony changes from month to month and season to season, making each gathering a reflection of time, place and intention.

Family programs are also forefront to Morikami’s appeal. Craft activities, cultural celebrations, seasonal programs and youth camps invite children to encounter Japanese culture in accessible ways. A child might first experience Morikami by creating a Tanabata-inspired craft,

listening to a story, attending a family program or walking through the gardens. For older children and teens, programs such as taiko and cultural workshops can turn curiosity into deeper engagement.

For visitors who want to complete the experience with cuisine, Cornell Café offers Pan-Asian-inspired dining overlooking the gardens. Menu offerings include bento boxes, teriyaki salmon, teriyaki chicken, cellophane noodles, vegetarian selections, sushi rolls, dumplings, edamame and other dishes that make the café a natural extension of the museum’s cultural mission. It is a place where a visit can become a full afternoon, moving from gallery to garden to table.

Morikami is also an important philanthropic and educational resource. Contributions and memberships help support exhibitions, educational programs, lectures, demonstrations, and the specialized training and maintenance required to preserve the Japanese gardens. Donations help ensure that visitors encounter world-class exhibitions, the gardens remain carefully conserved, children benefit from programs and communities continue to experience the beauty and connection that Morikami offers.

Morikami is both a destination and a historical reminder of the cultural depth available throughout Palm Beach County. It is a place for families, students, art lovers, garden enthusiasts, food lovers, history seekers and anyone interested in experiencing Japan through a South Florida lens. Whether visiting for a garden stroll, special exhibition, classes and workshops, or a delicious lunch at Cornell Café, Morikami offers a thoughtful and transportive experience rooted in beauty, education and cultural connection.

The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach. The museum and gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Cornell Café is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays and major holidays. For tickets, memberships, donations, upcoming exhibitions, programs and visitor information, visit www.morikami.org.

CROWNED PEARLS OF WELLINGTON SERVE THE COMMUNITY WITH HEART

BY PATRICK SHERRY

Across western Palm Beach County, children and parents recognize women wearing pink and green with pearl necklaces as the “Pearl Girls.” The women of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington Inc., a local nonprofit organization, can be seen at nearly every volunteer initiative in the village and lead their organization with the aim of improving the lives of those in the community.

The organization is the philanthropic arm of Alpha Alpha Upsilon Omega Chapter, a local chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. The sorority was founded in 1908 on the campus of Howard University. Its sisters wear a strand of pearls to honor the sorority’s 20 founders.

A group of Alpha Kappa Alpha women founded the Crowned Pearls of Wellington to bring their educational and professional expertise to improve the lives of the underserved here. Their local chapter is one of more than a thousand in communities around the world.

“The motto of our organization is service to all mankind,” Alpha Alpha

Upsilon Omega Board President Joan Asbury said. “The development of the foundation has given us the philanthropic pathway to move forward and fund programs and projects that positively impact our community.”

In 2020, the organization began to formally collaborate with the Village of Wellington through assisting with a variety of charitable initiatives. A major turning point for the Crowned Pearls of Wellington was the COVID-19 pandemic. Countless families across South Florida faced food insecurity as shutdowns and stay-at-home orders became the new normal. Members of the organization stepped up and partnered with the village to help distribute food provided by Feeding South Florida to those in need.

After seeing the impact they had during the pandemic, the group sought nonprofit status to further support their volunteer-based projects. In 2021, the Crowned Pearls of Wellington became a registered nonprofit, which allowed them to expand their fundraising efforts and continue supporting their charity work. The organi-

zation has since grown from 52 members to 83 members today.

“We wanted to help improve the quality of life for those in the community who could benefit from our efforts,” former Crowned Pearls President Jenny Pettis-Hassell said. “As volunteers, we were committed to bringing our time, our talent, our education and our expertise to bear in support of causes that we felt would enhance the lives of those in our community.”

The foundation was established to provide financial support for Alpha Alpha Upsilon Omega Chapter programs and Crowned Pearls of Wellington initiatives that address critical community needs. Its primary areas of focus include youth development and education, hunger relief, women’s health, transitional housing support, voter education and civic engagement. Their reach spans beyond Wellington to The Acreage, Loxahatchee Groves, suburban Lake Worth, Greenacres, Westlake, Arden and Royal Palm Beach.

President Adriana Ortiz-Coffie said that what sets the organization apart is its wide range of initiatives that are

all intended to make a positive impact.

“Many organizations, they focus on maybe one area, whereas we address multiple community needs while creating pathways for long-term success with our programs,” she said.

Among the most notable is their work with Wellington’s Students Working to Achieve Greatness (SWAG) program.

The Crowned Pearls of Wellington partners with the village to administer the program that is designed to cultivate student success through mentor-

(Above) One of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington’s largest initiatives is its work with the village on the SWAG (Students Working to Achieve Greatness) Program, which empowers high school students, offering them invaluable personal and professional growth prospects. Shown here are members of the Crowned Pearls (in pink) with last year’s SWAG graduates and Wellington officials. PHOTO COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

(Inset) To address food insecurity, the Crowned Pearls of Wellington delivered 1,000 snack packs to students last year.

ship and professional development. Those who are a part of the SWAG program participate in bi-weekly workshops that teach them skills in personal and career advancement. It also includes the opportunity to complete a six-week, paid summer internship to apply skills they learned.

“SWAG is very important, as it provides structure and support that often many high school students may not otherwise receive, and it helps prepare them for life after graduation,” Vice President Mercedes Parks said. “It

helps build practical skills, allows them to enhance their communication skills, and gives them hands-on work experience at such a young age that will help develop them into future leaders.”

Many students who have participated in the program have gone on to receive scholarships and attend top universities. Some now even work for Fortune 500 companies and are starting careers in government. Members of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington said that one of the most rewarding parts of their work is seeing students

who were a part of the SWAG program return to mentor younger students.

The organization’s Regal Scholars program similarly seeks to empower students across the western communities who face social and economic barriers. The program offers ACT/SAT tutoring, scholarships, community service opportunities and workshops focused on college preparation.

These education-based programs are paired with initiatives to address food insecurity. The “In Tune with Every Bite - Feeding Students Right” initiative distributes snack packs to local youth in need. Last school year, the Crowned Pearls of Wellington delivered 1,000 snack packs to students at seven different schools in the western communities.

“I’ve heard nothing but positive [feedback] about the Crowned Pearls of Wellington and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s presence in the Village of Wellington and our surrounding service areas,” Asbury said.

The women of the Crowned Pearls serve out of a commitment to the community rather than for recognition. But their extensive volunteer projects have made them well known to many. Pettis-Hassell said that children and parents recognize them as the “Pearl Girls” because of their iconic pink and green outfits with their signature pearl necklaces.

“It makes us feel great that people recognize the good work we’re doing in the community and have built that kind of relationship with us,” she said. “They’re really comfortable calling us the ‘Pearl Girls,’ and we smile when they do.”

The organization’s many volunteer initiatives rely on fundraising, donations and community partnerships. Their signature fundraiser is its annual Night Lights & Crowned Pearls gala held at Wellington International. It features live music, dinner and world-class show jumping. Their many programs regularly need volunteers, and the organization is happy to collaborate with other organizations to meet community needs.

“I welcome any other members of

“SWAG provides structure and support that often many high school students may not otherwise receive, and it helps prepare them for life after graduation. It helps build practical skills, allows them to enhance their communication skills, and gives them hands-on work experience at such a young age that will help develop them into future leaders.”

— Mercedes Parks

Alpha Kappa Alpha in the surrounding areas to come join our organization,” Ortiz-Coffie said. “It’s a great organization.”

Women of all walks of life volunteer with the Crowned Pearls of Wellington because of its mission to promote causes serving others. Its members emphasize that all their work comes from the heart because they are committed to transforming lives and building a stronger future. With their extensive experience and drive to strengthen the community, they hope to address future needs and make a meaningful difference.

To learn more about the Crowned Pearls of Wellington and to find out about upcoming activities, visit www. crownedpearls.org.

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

July is filled with traditions that seem small in the moment but become the memories we carry forward. If you ask most people what they love about their great hometown, they rarely start with infrastructure. They talk about experiences.

CELEBRATING THE PLACES BETWEEN THE FIREWORKS

July has a way of reminding us of what community looks like. Maybe it’s the neighborhood cookout. Maybe it’s watching children enjoy the water playground at the new Wellington Aquatics Center while parents catch up. Maybe it’s seeing families spread out blankets and chairs on the field at Village Park waiting for the fireworks to begin. For many of us, July is filled with traditions that seem small in the moment but become the memories we carry for years.

This year, those celebrations feel especially meaningful. Across the country, communities are commemorating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, a milestone that invites us to reflect on the generations who came before us and the values that continue to bind us together. Here in Wellington, we are also celebrating a significant an-

niversary of our own: 30 years since incorporation.

While 250 years and 30 years are vastly different chapters of history, both anniversaries prompt the same question: What kind of community are we building for those who come next? When people think about local government, they often think about roads, budgets, utilities, permits or public meetings. Those things matter, and they are an important part of what we do every day. But if you ask most people what they love about their great hometown, they rarely start with infrastructure.

They talk about experiences. They remember the park where their child learned to ride a bike. The community event where they ran into an old friend. The youth sports field where they spent countless evenings cheering from the sidelines. The park where they

take an early morning walk. The holiday celebration that has become a family tradition. In other words, they remember the places between the fireworks.

Thirty years ago, Wellington’s residents made a decision to take ownership of their future by incorporating as a village. They believed that local decisions should be guided by local values, and that Wellington’s unique character was worth preserving and strengthening. The community they envisioned was not defined solely by buildings, roads or budgets, but by quality of life, strong neighborhoods, excellent parks, public safety and opportunities for families to thrive.

Three decades later, those aspirations continue to guide us. As your village team, we spend a great deal of time planning, maintaining and improving the spaces that bring people together. Sometimes those efforts are highly visible: a new playground, a renovated facility or a community event. Other times they are almost invisible: maintaining irrigation systems, trimming trees, repairing sidewalks or preparing athletic fields before the first game of the season. The goal is always the same. We want Wellington to be a place where people can connect.

That connection is becoming increasingly important. In a world where so much of our interaction happens through screens, communities need places where people can gather in person. Parks, trails, community centers, sporting events, festivals and neighborhood gatherings aren’t simply recreational amenities. They are where relationships are built. They are where newcomers become neighbors and neighbors become friends.

One of the things I appreciate most about Wellington is that we have never lost sight of that idea. We are fortunate to live in a community that values quality of life. Residents consistently tell us they care about parks, open spaces,

recreation opportunities, public safety and community events. They want Wellington to remain a place where families can thrive and where people feel connected to one another.

That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because residents volunteer. It happens because local organizations step forward and help. It happens because coaches invest time in young athletes. It happens because business owners support community events. It happens because people choose to participate rather than simply observe. Most importantly, it happens because people care.

As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary and Wellington’s 30th anniversary, I hope we take a moment to appreciate not only the milestones themselves, but the everyday experiences that give them meaning. The evening walks. The conversations with neighbors. The youth sporting games. The community gatherings. The shared spaces that belong to all of us.

Anniversaries are ultimately about more than looking back. They are an opportunity to consider what comes next. The people who founded our nation 250 years ago could not have imagined the communities we live in today. Likewise, the residents who incorporated Wellington on Dec. 31, 1995, could not have predicted every challenge or opportunity that lay ahead. Yet both groups shared something important: a belief that investing in their community would create a better future.

That same responsibility now belongs to us. The fireworks may last only a few minutes, but the community they bring together lasts much longer. That is the real strength of Wellington. Not just the places we have built, but the relationships we have nurtured within them, and the legacy we are creating for the next generation of Wellington residents. And that’s something worth celebrating all year long.

HAUSMASH BRINGS NEW TAKE ON THE CLASSIC BURGER JOINT TO WELLINGTON

BY PATRICK SHERRY

With a retro flair and a twist on classic American burgers, Hausmash is serving high-quality flavors while transporting customers back to the 1980s.

Founder and CEO Diego Ucciferri opened Hausmash in the Wellington Green Square plaza last October. The restaurant is attracting local residents with its signature smash-style burgers combined with bold flavors and premium ingredients.

Unlike traditional burgers, Hausmash’s burger meat is flattened on the grill to create a thin patty with crisp edges and a juicy center. Customers can pair these unique burgers with oldschool milkshakes or a side of fries.

“The idea for Hausmash, or the

smash burger, especially in this area, is that there are not that many around,” Ucciferri said. “No one has this particular touch.”

The burgers are made with certified Angus beef and preservative-free French brioche buns. Ucciferri specifically picked out the beef after going to different butchers to make sure he got the best cuts of meat. Chefs prepare the fries exclusively in beef tallow, a traditional cooking method that enhances flavor and delivers a more authentic taste.

The menu at Hausmash offers six different burgers, six milkshakes and five types of fries. The simplicity of the menu is complemented by the bold,

unique flavors of each option. Customers can choose from classic options to more specialty offerings that will keep them coming back for more.

“You should come and try,” Ucciferri said. “You would notice the difference as soon as you take the first bite. Quality is number one.”

Ucciferri said that the most popular items on the menu are the Rockin’ Bacon Burger with crispy bacon, American cheese, pickles and the signature Smash sauce, as well as the Truffle and Pecorino Fries, and the Nutella Milkshake. However, his personal favorite item is the Soulful Truffle Burger, served with Gouda cheese, crispy onion, pickles and truffle sauce.

Customers can enjoy 1980s music and retro-themed décor while they eat at Hausmash. Hits from artists like Madonna and Michael Jackson create a nostalgic atmosphere that pairs with the menu’s emphasis on traditional fast-food cooking methods.

“I think we have a lot of people fascinated with the music, with the colors, and they really like it,” Ucciferri explained.

The Hausmash location in Wellington is joined by another location open in Weston. Additional locations are planned to open in Hollywood, Lauderdale by the Sea and Coral Springs by the end of the year.

So far in Wellington, Ucciferri said that the reception has been great. He believes the brand’s focus on quality and targeting families is part of the restaurant’s success.

“The experience has been fantastic. The customers and clients have responded really, really well,” Ucciferri said. “We are in a slow season right now but are still producing really good numbers.”

Ucciferri has more than 30 years of experience in the food service industry. He immigrated to the United States in 1995 from Argentina and attended Florida International University. He started his career as a busser and worked his way up to a waiter, bartender, manager and eventually a general manager of a restaurant. Ucciferri has since opened multiple restaurant concepts across South Florida, includ-

“You should come and try. You would notice the difference as soon as you take the first bite. Quality is number one.”

— Founder and CEO Diego Ucciferri

ing Bellini Italian Bistro and Banchero Express.

He created Hausmash because its simplistic menu and unique retro aesthetic made it easy to open different locations across South Florida. The name was created by combining the German word for “house” with “smash” to convey that the restaurant is the House of Smash Burgers.

“I’ve been working in the industry for more than 30 years, and I’ve opened multiple locations and multiple concepts,” Ucciferri said. “I think this concept is simple and easy to replicate.”

As Hausmash continues to build its presence across South Florida, the Wellington location is ready to serve customers authentic flavors in its signature 1980s atmosphere. The restaurant often offers promotions through delivery services.

Hausmash is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Pickup and delivery op-

tions are available through on-demand food platforms.

Hausmash is located in Wellington Green Square at 10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 170, in Wellington. To learn more, or view the restaurant’s menu, visit www.hausmash.com, or call (561) 2846400.

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