Home For The Holidays

Traditional Family Recipes Passed On Through Generations

By Deborah Welky

Part of what makes this holiday time of year so special is the memories — the sights, sounds, smells and tastes that suddenly pull us right back to our youth. This magic is perhaps never as strong as when we sit down to a meal that includes favorite dishes made by our parents and grandparents for special occasions — especially if they only appeared at holiday time.

Food has been bringing families together for centuries, especially during winter holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and the Chinese New Year. Traditional family recipes get handed down from generation to generation, even when silver tea sets and antique dolls fail to make the cut. And what creates more of a stir at the holiday table than the presentation of a time-honored favorite? Join us now as we recall some of our favorite cultural holiday food traditions.

Turkey & Ham

Rather than be torn between the two, many American families enjoy turkey for Thanksgiving and ham for Christmas, though the topic of what to serve for each holiday’s main course often rallies the relatives to lively debate. Cutthroat Kitchen host Alton Brown’s Thanksgiving recipe calls for a 15-pound natural young turkey to be soaked in a brine consisting of vegetable broth, brown sugar, allspice berries, candied ginger, kosher salt, peppercorns and iced water before roasting. On Christmas, a honey-baked ham with pineapple topping is hard to beat — and easy. If you follow Paula Deen’s Southern-style recipe, you buy a spiral-sliced half ham and reserve your energy for the glaze, a combination of brown sugar, yellow mustard and pineapple juice. Affix pineapple rings to the top of the ham using whole cloves, place a maraschino cherry inside each ring and follow the package directions for warming time. Pour on the glaze about 30 minutes before you remove the ham from the oven. Yum!

Paella

This Spanish seafood extravaganza, named after the two-handled pan it is cooked in, is often made only for special occasions, as it requires about two hours of prep time and a bevy of freshly purchased ingredients. Mussels (or manila clams), shrimp, chicken, prosciutto and Spanish chorizo (or andouille) sausage are married together with paella rice (sometimes labeled as bomba or Valencia), peas, garlic, tomatoes, onion, saffron threads and other spices for a sensational flavor that is only enhanced when served with lemon wedges, a crusty baguette, red wine and a light salad. This dish can also be made on the grill, where the smoky flavor from the fire can be absorbed and a crusty caramelized layer of rice (called socarrat) will form on the bottom of the pan. To elevate the taste even further, a few lobster tails can be added to the recipe. ¡Delicioso!

Latkes

Around the light of the Hanukkah menorah, both young and old enjoy the crisp, savory taste of potato pancakes, called latkes. Although any potato will do, starchy potatoes work best, particularly baking potatoes. To make this holiday treat, peel a dozen potatoes, coarsely grate by hand, soak and drain. Wring out the liquid, stir in one egg, a half cup of onion, a half teaspoon of salt and a half cup of olive oil. Now comes the challenging part — spoon four dollops (about two tablespoons each) of the mixture into a hot skillet, spreading each into a three-inch round. Turn down the heat to medium and fry about 5 minutes until brown. Flip and repeat. Put your phone down or you could burn them! Keep the latkes warm in the oven until serving with sour cream and/or apple sauce. This recipe makes about 16 latkes. Taiym m’od!

Lasagna

Although Christmas Eve is traditionally a “fish-only” affair in many Italian homes, you had best believe that lasagna is on many tables Christmas Day. A family staple during the holidays, mouth-watering lasagna is a layered combination of ground beef, pork sausage, tomato sauce, lasagna noodles, eggs, Italian spices and lots of tasty, stretchy cheeses that often include provolone, mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan and more. The baking pan is layered to the rim, put in the oven for 50 minutes covered and 20 more minutes uncovered, and then left to rest for 15 minutes before cutting, giving all the yummy ingredients a chance to coalesce before being served. Even better the day after, lasagna is a godsend to any cook who doesn’t want to spend Christmas Day in the kitchen. Squisito!

Chinese Fried Meatballs

The Chinese New Year takes place on the first day of the first lunar month. This 15-day holiday, which in 2017 begins on Jan. 28, is the most important on the Chinese calendar, and celebrations feature many traditional meals, including Zha Xiao Wan Zi (Chinese Fried Meatballs). The primary ingredient of this dish is pork, to be combined with egg, scallion, water chestnuts, ginger, sugar, egg white or cornstarch, dry sherry and salt, then cooked in a wok at 375 degrees until the outside of each meatball is golden (about 3 minutes per side). Commonly known as Lion’s Head Meatballs, they can be dunked into a dipping sauce made of green onion, coriander, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, salt and Thai chili peppers — or into a light soy sauce. Měiwèi de!

Hoppin’ John

Whatever your culture, the holiday season is an opportunity to revisit your roots by way of your taste buds. Enjoy all the food that this season has to offer, but remember — the responsibility of passing your family’s epicurean heritage on to the next generation rests with you. And what a delicious responsibility it is!  

Kwanzaa has been celebrated from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1 since 1966 by Americans of African heritage. It was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, chairman of black studies at California State University, as a way to bring African-Americans together following the Watts riots in Los Angeles. While the primary focus of Kwanzaa is its “Nguzo Saba” (seven core principles), the now-traditional Kwanzaa dish of Hoppin’ John can be enjoyed anytime. Emblematic of South Carolina, this simple fare consists of one cup of white rice and one cup of black-eyed peas, sometimes cooked together, sometimes separately, plus one medium onion and often with a ham hock thrown in for good measure. The dish probably arrived on American shores with African slaves centuries ago. Okumnandi!

Bricks Busting Boredom

WHS Student Creates Nonprofit To Help Kids In The Hospital

Story and Photos by Julie Unger

Little multicolored bricks might be a nightmare for wary parents, but for Wellington High School student Daniel Clein, they’re something extremely special. They hold the power to cheer up a sick child, spur creativity and make a long-term hospital stay less dreary.

Clein’s mission started in 2015, when he was visiting his cousin in the hospital and met a child named Anthony who loved Star Wars Lego collections.

“That’s what he wanted, and nobody supplied Legos to hospitals because they’re so expensive. When they contacted me, saying, ‘If you have anything you can do to help us out, it would be amazing,’ I realized how useful Legos are as a toy for kids, because they can play with them over and over and with different ways every time they’re played with. They really, truly foster that curiosity and imagination,” Clein said.

And so, Bricks Busting Boredom, which recently received its official nonprofit status, came to be.

Clein started a Bricks Busting Boredom club at Wellington High School, where a group of students wanted to help Clein with his goal of sharing Lego bricks, which are easily washable, with children in the hospital.

He delivered 230 pounds of “upcycled” Lego bricks and 50 boxes of new Lego packages to Palms West Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 19 for young patients to enjoy.

Once Clein graduates next year, other students will remain working on the day-to-day operations of the organization with Clein overseeing things.

“They’re an absolutely amazing help in doing what we do,” he said. “I couldn’t appreciate them more for their initiative and for helping out.”

Wherever Clein winds up for college — his goal is to attend the University of Florida — he will be able to remain in constant communication with the club, which will continue organizing Lego drives.

The teacher sponsor for the group, Candace Vollrath, along with other teachers at the school, have been supportive, Clein said.

“Our goal for the future is to reach out to as many schools… and set up as many Lego donation drives as possible, so we can then take those collected Legos and donate to as many hospitals as we can,” he said.

There are currently collection boxes at Wellington High School, Wellington Landings Middle School and Binks Forest Elementary School.

Bricks Busting Boredom has donated to the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Palms West Hospital, and next plans to donate Lego bricks to Palm Beach Children’s Hospital.

To assist in his endeavor, Clein won a $12,000 grant through the Palm Beach Philanthropy Tank program.

“This is wonderful. I couldn’t be more proud of him,” mom Deborah Clein said.

Rather than saying they are “recycling” Lego bricks, Clein prefers to say that Bricks Busting Boredom is “upcycling” them — they’re giving something a new, more valuable life.

“What we do is take their Legos and upcycle them to these children, and let them know that they’re benefiting the lives of these children and helping the children pass the time between treatments, helping keep their spirits up, keeping them busy and keeping the creative juices flowing,” Clein explained.

Aside from schools, several businesses are now Bricks Busting Boredom drop off locations, such as the Farmer’s Daughter Produce Market on Southern Blvd. If the drop-off locations aren’t convenient, contact Clein to make other arrangements. “We’re looking to expand to more business partners and get more boxes out there,” he said.

When Clein dropped off his latest batch to Palms West Hospital in October, his grin stretched ear-to-ear.

“It feels absolutely amazing to see the kids have their days brightened by this and see their eyes light up when they see the new toy,” he said. “We do this solely for the fact that, if we can brighten the kids’ day just for the smallest bit, then it makes it all worth it.”

Clein is looking forward to “more smiling kid’s faces,” he said, as the program continues to grow. Eventually, he’d like to introduce the idea to every school in Palm Beach County.

“That’s why it’s so exciting to come and do Lego drop-offs, because that’s the best part, it’s the most fun, seeing those kids get so excited and seeing that we had an effect on them, even in the smallest way,” he said.

Palms West Hospital CEO Eric Goldman is especially appreciative of Clein’s efforts. “To have a member of the community, and specifically another child in the community, be so willing to give of themselves, not just at the hospital but in their time away from the hospital, really says a lot about his compassion, his caring, and it makes me feel really good to be a part of something so special,” Goldman said.

He added that it’s important to hospital staff to give young patients some room to express themselves and grow through play. “We have to allow them to continue to be a child while they’re here at the hospital,” Goldman said. “We have to not just care for the illness, we need to care for all the child’s needs.”

Clein’s hopes to brighten as many children’s days as possible. “To any schools that would like to help, we’d absolutely love to get in contact with you,” he said.

For more information, e-mail Clein at daclein@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/BricksBustingBoredom.

Wellington National Golf Club Showcases A Fresh Start

By Lenore Brown

Most Wellington residents are aware that a golf course, once rated among the best in the nation, is located on Binks Forest Drive. Though the facility had fallen into disarray over the past few years, the course was recently purchased and is now home to the new Wellington National Golf Club.

Since its acquisition, extensive renovations have been done to make the club once again one of the best golf and event facilities in the western communities.

In recent years, the Binks Forest golf course left much to be desired. The 18-hole course, which historically hosted championships, fell into disrepair and neglect. That changed earlier this year when businessmen and golf enthusiasts Doug Marty, Chip Smith and Andy Apple purchased the property.

Reborn under the name Wellington National Golf Club, the new owners initiated work on a massive project that, when completed, will include a refurbished 18-hole championship-caliber golf course, beautiful ballrooms, a piazza, a sparkling swimming pool, an international wine bar and a top-notch bistro. The club also offers amenities such as yoga and massage to complete the country club experience.

The partnership that has rejuvenated Wellington National is a unique mixture of some of the most successful and innovative minds in the golf world today. Each partner came to the project with a professional set of skills and a keen eye on how to make a golf course more than just a place where you play a round on the weekend.

With track records that include founding successful marketing firms and building world-renowned golf resorts, the partners knew that they could achieve great results in Wellington because of its considerable sports background and widespread outdoor lifestyle.

Marty and Smith met on the golf course years ago at the Tournament Players Club in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“Doug called to tell me that he was interested in purchasing a golf course and asked me to fly down to Wellington and share my professional assessment of the club’s potential,” Smith recalled. “Once I saw the course, I knew immediately, under the right leadership, it would turn out to be something very special.”

The most challenging aspect of preparing the Wellington National course for its members was led by one of the partners — an agronomist named Andy Apple.

Apple, who has 34 years’ experience in the golf industry with an exceptional background in golf course projects, programs and operations management, honed in on the course’s problematic areas.

“I knew it was not going to be easy,” Apple said. “I didn’t know the extent of it, and it turned out to be tougher than I first envisioned. Initially, I was focused on weed eradication to reclaim the fairways. It is an ongoing process; however, we’re in a great place as the course is now in excellent condition.”

After much effort was put into restoring the course to top condition, golf pro Brett Carman was hired to be the director of golf at the facility.

“When I was offered the position, I was excited about the opportunity, because I believe the course at Wellington National is one of the best layouts in Palm Beach County,” Carman said.

After Marty, Smith and Apple had put their plan into action, transforming the 250 acres into the gorgeous, award-winning course, they directed their collective efforts to the clubhouse facilities to bring the dining facilities to their current condition. Now, Wellington National offers an upscale and unique dining experience, in addition to luxury event catering opportunities.

Executive Chef Troy Sheller, who specializes in the popular American Gastro style, has brought his passion for avant-garde cooking and restaurant operations to the recently reopened country club. Wellington National Golf Club members can look forward to specially prepared dishes that incorporate local ingredients from Swank Farms and Seminole Pride. The chef also plans to continuously modify the menu based on the season.

Sheller oversees onsite restaurants that are available to members — the Champion’s Bistro, which features stunning views of the 18th hole as well as an open chef’s kitchen, and the Wine Bar, which is decorated with one-of-a-kind handcrafted tables of reclaimed wood and brass.

The Wine Bar, which serves a tapas and cartouche menu, offers the unique opportunity to sip rare wines from an enigmatic wine machine or store members’ own wines in beautiful custom wine lockers.

The Wellington National Golf Club also aspires to open its doors to non-members and be the premier location for equestrian-related social events, fundraisers, weddings and other lifecycle happenings in Palm Beach County.

Wellington Hospitality Group, formerly Aaron’s Catering, headed by renowned event planners Aaron Menitoff and Julie Larson, have led the charge in helping the club be prepared to host a variety of spectacular events.

Aided by years of experience catering some of the area’s most prestigious events, including the famous Sunday brunch at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the Palm Beach Masters and everything in between, Wellington Hospitality Group was the perfect company to help Wellington National design spaces that would be both beautiful and functional.

“We were fortunate that people saw the value in the space and wanted to start doing events right away,” Menitoff said. “It has been a fun challenge to manage the club’s renovations with our events, but the product has been fantastic, and we cannot wait to do more.”

One of the most significant upgrades to the facility is the expansion of the banquet hall. Wellington National can now comfortably seat up to 500 guests with a dance floor, making it the largest banquet facility in Wellington. With the addition of sliding glass doors that open to a travertine marble piazza, events that expect more than 500 attendees will have plenty of room for a fantastic party.

“Whether you’re coming in for golf or you’re coming in for a yoga class, lunch or a family dinner, wherever you go and whatever you do, the philosophy here will be that everyone is treated graciously so you feel this is your home away from home,” Membership Director Julie Pickens explained. “We have a fabulous team of professionals that have been in this industry for a long time, which maximizes each member’s experience at Wellington National. Our goal is to exceed members’ expectations by creating a warm and friendly atmosphere coupled with an unsurpassed membership service.”

Excited Wellington residents looking for an upscale, family-friendly country club have given positive initial reviews of the facility and the golf course. The club has already exceeded membership goals for the 2016-17 season and has sold out at the Founders Membership Level.

The owners welcome everyone in the Wellington area to stop by and see the renovations, meet the team and explore membership options that work for their family.

The Wellington National Golf Club is located at 400 Binks Forest Drive in Wellington. To learn more, call (561) 333-5731 or visit www.wellingtonnationalgolfclub.com.

Host Your Perfect Event At The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center This Season

The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center is known for some of the best equestrian sports in the world, but many Wellington residents may not know about the variety of venues and entertainment options available there.

Corporations and sponsors that have a presence during the Winter Equestrian Festival and the Global Dressage Festival have the opportunity to host guests during the winter season. PBIEC can host events at seven venues: the Wellington Club, the Gallery, the Suites, the Tiki Hut, the Tiki Hut at the Global Dressage Festival, the Main Pavilion at the Global Dressage Festival and the Special Events Pavilion.

Led by PBIEC Director of Catering Patti Miele, the facility aims to make any event extraordinary, for any occasion, size or theme. A full catering menu is offered, and expert staff ensures a successful event.

Miele oversees a staff of more than 60 employees for catering and events at PBIEC. With a background in hospitality, she has been a part of the team for six years. Miele was also recently named director of catering at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, recently purchased by Wellington Equestrian Partners, the owners of PBIEC. Additional hospitality opportunities at the beautiful IPC venue round out a full portfolio of facilities, which also includes the Wanderers Club.

“My favorite part of working at PBIEC is putting together so many different events and finding new ways to make them exciting, fun and memorable,” Miele said. “We have a large and varied group of clients, and I enjoy getting to know them and making their events special.”

The largest event venue on the main WEF grounds, the Special Events Pavilion, can serve up to 500 people and combines the best of both worlds, with beautiful décor and an al fresco setting. Exclusive private functions can host large events, and the pavilion is divided into “the Suites” on Saturday nights, which give a special VIP experience to smaller groups of up to 22 people. The Special Events Pavilion has hosted such events as charity functions, a toy drive and luncheon, and a children’s lip sync contest concert with celebrity judges Lyle Lovett and Gloria Gaynor.

Two beautiful tents with floor-to-ceiling glass line the north side of the International Arena, with seating for 140 people or cocktail-style settings for up to 250 people. The Wellington Club is the perfect setting for private events, small dinner receptions, galas and full-scale celebrations. Award-winning culinary creations and beverage service is offered through White Horse Catering.

“Many of our high-level sponsors use the opportunity to host guests or customers in a special event at the Wellington Club,” Miele said. “It’s a unique setting with grand prix show jumping happening in the background.”

The Gallery has panoramic views with modern décor that perfectly suits cocktail receptions or smaller, seated groups. Connecting the two tents is a covered outdoor area called “Central Park,” where guests can enjoy fresh air and hear the hoofbeats of horses galloping past. The Gallery transforms into a nightclub following the Saturday Night Lights events, so bring your dancing shoes!

A laid-back atmosphere and a ringside view makes the Tiki Hut one of the hottest seats in the house. The open-air, two-level bar and restaurant is for those who love a fun time and want to loudly cheer for their favorites in the ring.

A second Tiki Hut on the grounds of the Global Dressage Festival, located on South Shore Blvd., has stunning views overlooking the grass derby field and is used for special events on the WEF schedule.

“It’s perfect for a casual outing with friends, corporate lunches and more,” Miele explained.

Also located on the Global Dressage Festival grounds, the Main Pavilion borders the long side of the Global Arena and can serve up to 600 people cocktail-style for special events. Large dinners and charity fundraisers have been staged there.

“We have had ballroom dancing, horse auctions and media events in the pavilion,” Miele said. “We even have served a giant pan of paella for hundreds of people.”

No matter where you choose to host your event at PBIEC, one thing is consistent: the service. On-site catering, a florist, sculptures, photographers, videographers, music, content lighting, wi-fi, valet parking, security, specialty linens and a creative department all are on hand to help make your event perfect.

Directional signage will guide guests to the correct place, podiums and sound systems are available, and spaces are open day and night. Even special enhancements like fireworks and theatrical entertainment can be arranged.

“We are open to any kind of idea,” Miele said. “We want to offer a stellar event and have people enjoy their time at PBIEC.”

In addition to venues and catering, there are also many dining options and food vendors for spectators who come to the show grounds. Those also fall under Miele’s purview.

On Saturday nights, food vendors open up and offer an array of culinary delights, including wood-fired pizza and crepes, along with crowd favorites kettle corn and corn dogs, and more.

On-site restaurants include Tito’s Tacos, the Tiki Hut, the Oasis Café and White Horse Fashion Cuisine, which are open to anyone at the show grounds.

White Horse Fashion Cuisine, located on Equestrian Club Drive, is owned by well-known restaurateur Juan Gando and chef Dustin Parfitt. There is a casual weekday buffet where you will see riders in boots and breeches, and an adjacent fine dining room has a formal menu and a fabulous wine list. Daily happy hours and signature cocktails make it a must-see place to visit with friends and family.

While many come to watch top horses and riders jumping, many more return thanks to the outstanding service and events found at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

For more information, visit www.pbiec.com and click on “Hospitality.”

Tis The Season For Holiday Fashion

Enough of those ugly sweater parties and fluffy plaids. This year, step out and step up. Over the next few pages, we showcase holiday fashion styles that offer lots of glitz and glam with a pop of color. You are sure to make a statement at any party this holiday season in one of these beautiful dresses.

Wellington The Magazine teamed up with La Casa Hermosa to bring you some of the latest trends in holiday fashion. From sleek black to beaming fuchsia and every color in between, these holiday styles will set you apart at any affair.

Counting down to 2017 should have you looking gorgeous while keeping you in the party mood and looking fabulous as you ring in the New Year.

Our featured cover model, Kaylee Brooke, sparkles in four different looks that include a deep rich red floor-length jersey fit, a classic black lace, an all-American red rose and white dress with bling to accentuate the waistline, and an outside-the-box two-piece stunner with a hot pink skirt and fine embroidery appliqués.

So check your calendar and party plans, then head out to find the perfect dress for you. Remember: be bold, be beautiful and, most of all, be yourself (all glammed up that is) this holiday season!

Dress Provided by La Casa Hermosa

Photographer I Kendra Paige

Hair I Crystal Ramos

Makeup I Nika Dernis

Photography Assistant I Chris Brodsky

This Jovani ruby fitted sleek glitter jersey fabric

floor-length sleeveless gown features a plunging neckline and scoop back with a long, elegant train.

wellington the magazine | december 2016

Dress Provided by La Casa Hermosa

Photographer I Kendra Paige

Hair I Crystal Ramos

Makeup I Nika Dernis

Photography Assistant I Chris Brodsky

This stunning A-line satin dress features a sweetheart neckline and a multiton red floral print. The rhinestone belted ruche bodice features an open-faced ball gown skirt.

wellington the magazine | december 2016

Dress Provided by La Casa Hermosa

Photographer I Kendra Paige

Hair I Crystal Ramos

Makeup I Nika Dernis

Photography Assistant I Chris Brodsky

A gorgeous floor-length, two-piece black and fuchsia dress made of a Mikado fabric, the top features a halter neckline, beaded embellishments, floral detailing and an open back. The full skirt showcases a black waistline with a pop of fuchsia to the floor.

wellington the magazine | december 2016

Dress Provided by La Casa Hermosa

Photographer I Kendra Paige

Hair I Crystal Ramos

Makeup I Nika Dernis

Photography Assistant I Chris Brodsky

This Jovani sleeveless black-beaded lace mermaid gown features a mock neckline and racerback. Princess seams throughout create a fluid mermaid silhouette.

wellington the magazine | december 2016

Adequan Global Dressage Festival A Proving Ground For Olympians And Up-And-Coming Athletes

The Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF) has grown steadily since its inception in 2012, developing into a world-class competition. Seventeen riders participating at the 2016 festival went on to represent their respective countries at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

With many success stories surrounding AGDF, the festival is sure to be a proving ground for upcoming championships, including the 2017 FEI World Cup Dressage Finals in Omaha, Neb., in late March.

The 2017 AGDF will take place once again at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Stadium in Wellington, from Jan. 11 through March 26, 2017.

The circuit will be imperative for riders who want to gain scores for the World Cup finals, since the AGDF hosts four World Cup qualifying events. Starting in January, riders can also record qualifying scores for the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games.

“We are proud to host such an important event for dressage riders from around the world,” said Thomas Baur, AGDF’s director of sport. “We see the performances increasing every year, but more than that, we see more and more great horses and riders entering the sport at the lower levels and enjoying dressage.”

For local spectators who want to enjoy dressage as well, everyone is welcome with free general admission. The special Friday Night Stars events, which happen every Friday during CDI events (with the exception of AGDF 8/Palm Beach Dressage Derby on Saturday, March 4), host the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle class, where horses and riders compete to their own choreographed routine and music.

Friday Night Stars offers a fun evening of dressage and entertainment. Special musical acts, such a string quartet or the Yale a capella singing group, are sprinkled throughout dressage performances.

Visitors will get to see all four members of the U.S. Dressage Team, which recently won the bronze medal at the Olympics. Steffen Peters, Laura Graves, Allison Brock and Kasey Perry-Glass will compete for top honors at the 2017 AGDF.

Joining them is seven-time Olympian Tinne Vilhelmson-Silfven of Sweden, as well as 2016 Olympians Belinda Trussell and Megan Lane of Canada, Yvonne Losos de Muniz of the Dominican Republic and Christian Zimmermann of Palestine.

Along with these 2016 Olympians are riders such as Christoph Koschel and Michael Klimke of Germany, along with other top riders from around the world.

Along with the four weeks of World Cup qualifying for CDI riders, there is the CDI 5* week that occurs Feb. 8-12, offering the highest-rated international competition in the world.

The Palm Beach Dressage Derby, a historic South Florida dressage competition, returns March 1-5 as the last FEI World Cup qualifier in North America before the finals.

On March 15-19 is the CDI 4*, and then countries will compete against each other during the finale week, March 22-26, at the CDIO 3*.

The FEI Nations Cup will welcome teams riding to see which country can claim top honors. Nations Cup competition has become hotly contested and a timely opportunity for countries from Central America and South America, as well as North America and Europe, to gain vital team experience and represent their home countries. It remains the only Nations Cup competition for dressage in the Western Hemisphere outside of championship events and is part of the FEI Nations Cup series.

The 2016 Paralympic Games were also hosted in Rio this summer, and thanks to two CPEDI 3* events at the AGDF, riders gained valuable experience in Florida before heading to South America.

Last year, the AGDF hosted U.S. Paralympic Team riders Roxanne Trunnell, Rebecca Hart, Margaret McIntosh and Angela Peavy, as well as Canadian Paralympians Ashley Gowanlock, Lauren Barwick and Robyn Andrews.

Para-dressage riders will return to AGDF in 2017 for two events, including a CPEDI 3* on Jan. 19-22 and on March 9-12.

“We are committed to making dressage special in the United States,” Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo said. “We want to showcase the sport and bring in new fans to appreciate the talent, strength and artistry of these athletes. We welcome everyone from South Florida to come and experience dressage.”

While international-level riders are the main attraction, the AGDF also hosts competitions for horses and riders of varying experience. The popular CDI and national competition for amateur riders will make its return for the 2017 circuit.

Classes for juniors, young riders, ponies and young horses are also offered and make the circuit one to which any rider can aspire.

The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Stadium is located at 13500 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. To find out more about the 2017 Adequan Global Dressage Festival, and for a full schedule, visit www.globaldressagefestival.com.

New Flying Cow Polo Club Growing Strong In Wellington

By Deborah Welky

Veterinarian Dr. Richard “Doc” Fredericks of Cedar Croft Farm has been coming to Wellington since the 1980s, attending polo matches, practicing his own game and playing in and around the area as part of his Cedar Croft Polo Team. Last year, he decided to expand his reach with the creation of the Flying Cow Polo Club.

“He wanted to bring more friends and family down,” explained Robert Piacente, vice president of the club. “He wanted to get a club together, get his affiliation with the USPA and expand.”

Fredericks turned over his Rustic Ranches estate to the newly formed polo club, including its arena and practice area. Work is underway constructing a new barn.

“The snowbirds’ horses are beginning to be transported down from New York this month,” Piacente said. “The horses are kind of anxious. They’ve been playing all summer. So we have to give them some time to calm down and get settled in.”

More horses will continue to arrive until polo season kicks off, but Piacente is greatly anticipating the end of December, when the club holds its own first match. “Right after Christmas, we have a Santa Claus rally,” he explained. “It’s not an official public game. There’s no advertising, but we’ll have a small crowd for sure.”

Then things kick into high gear. Matches and tournaments will be played, lessons given, horses rented and stables full. Resident pros Cristian Vasquez and Horton Schwartz will be on hand to offer help and advice through hour-long private or group lessons and coached chukkers.

“We’re a rustic kind of club,” Piacente said. “We offer low-goal polo for the beginner, the weekend warrior and the fly-in. We attract some medium-goal players from other clubs as well. Although we keep a tent at IPC, we are more cowboy-oriented.”

Parking and grandstand seating are free for matches. VIP seating is $25 with food and wine included.

In 2017, the Flying Cow Polo Club will host its second Women’s Arena Polo Invitational — an event that was hugely popular in the club’s inaugural season.

This year, the club is introducing an umpires’ clinic and a youth polo program. Piacente is seeking sponsors for the youth program in order to keep tuition low.

“We teach kids ages 7 and up, with little or no riding experience, how to take care of horses, about the game of polo, teamwork and riding,” Piacente said. “We try to do this at little or no cost to the student.”

The club does not require membership to play, but expects to double its membership rosters within the next 12 months. Chukkers, riding, practice and stick-and-ball are free to members, who must also register with the United States Polo Association. Match fees are reasonable, and there’s a clubhouse with a pool.

For the Flying Cow Polo Club, plans for the future include deciding whether to designate a second house on the property as a guest house, or working with a polo travel company to offer it as a bed-and-breakfast.

Piacente projects strong growth, keeping with the club’s mission to bring the joys of polo to everyone.

To help sponsor the youth program, call (631) 897-9174. For more information about the club, visit www.flyingcowpc.com.

Imagination Leads The Way For Local Charities At 2017 GREAT CHARITY CHALLENGE

What if you didn’t have to remain a child to dream of miracles? Once again, the Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, will aim to raise more than $1.5 million, which will bring its fundraising total to more than $10 million raised over the last eight years.

Heading into its eighth annual event, the Great Charity Challenge returns to Wellington during the 2017 Winter Equestrian Festival on Saturday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. With fun and creative themes from super heroes to fairy tales, the event has brought thousands of people to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center to celebrate those who have dared to imagine a better community: the GCC sponsors, the riders donating their time and all those involved with the charitable organizations. To date, the event has distributed more than $9.2 million to hundreds of nonprofits in Palm Beach County.

Founded in 2010 by Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo and his daughter Paige, the Great Charity Challenge has seen the equestrian community take charitable giving to a new level. The event has impacted thousands of lives through its unique equestrian competition, with 100 percent of the proceeds donated directly to Palm Beach County charities.

While many organizations are supported and funded via the community, the GCC fills a true need to cover operating expenses; expenses that donors often shy away from supporting. A homeless shelter needs new windows. A food pantry needs a vehicle to reach hundreds of clients every week. An organization needs operating costs to help foster children. These are a few examples of the ways that the event enables Palm Beach County charities to better serve the community.

“As always, my daughter Paige and I, along with the many generous families and companies that contribute to this charitable evening, look forward to this great event each year,” Bellissimo said. “This eighth year marks a milestone; as of Feb. 4, 2017, we will have officially surpassed the $10 million donation mark. Our theme of ‘animated characters’ is a perfect fit to acknowledge those who imagine a better community. This event is truly the legacy of the Winter Equestrian Festival and the sponsors involved.”

Friends of Foster Children, an organization that provides services to foster and adoptive children in Palm Beach County, was one of the recipients from last year’s GCC.

“The winnings from the GCC will be used for operating costs to sustain our agency,” Chief Executive Officer Wendy Tippett said. “Operating costs are difficult to come by in the nonprofit arena, and the ability to utilize these dollars for those costs ensures that Friends of Foster Children will be in existence another year and able to provide continued services to the more than 1,700 children in foster care in Palm Beach County.”

The Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County secured $75,000 through the 2016 GCC, which enabled them to provide permanent housing and end the homelessness of 33 families to date. “Last year we were able to help 107 families, and with this additional funding, we will be able to help even more this year,” Executive Director Marilyn Munoz said.

The George Snow Scholarship Fund, winner of the 2016 GCC, was recognized in 2015 as the National Scholarship Providers Association’s “Scholarship Provider of the Year.” The money received from the GCC went straight to work to benefit the scholarship fund, endowment fund, the young people served with financial assistance and an array of scholar support services designed to improve scholars’ college experience and maximize graduation rates.

“A major added benefit of the GCC’s contribution to the endowment was that it put our organization over a preset benchmark, which triggered an additional $100,000 contribution from one of our donors, who had created a challenge grant to benefit the Snow Education Endowment. This essentially meant a total benefit of $250,000,” President Tim Snow said.

A full list of charities that have benefitted from the Great Charity Challenge since its debut in 2010 can be found at www.greatcharitychallenge.com.

“We are very excited to have our very own event mascot join us this year; a mini horse that we rescued last fall named Starsky,” GCC co-founder Paige Bellissimo said. “We will be visiting some of the involved charitable organizations to raise awareness of the diverse groups the event impacts in the upcoming months. We are very grateful for our rider teams, sponsors and partners who support the effort.”

This year’s event is sure to inspire adults and children alike as riders will be dressed as their favorite animated characters, bringing beloved movies to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Costume awards will determine a bonus for the lucky charities. The competition will offer free general admission.

For the latest event information and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.greatcharity challenge.com and follow the Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/greatcharitychallenge.