A Day Wandering Through Wellington’s Hidden Garden Gems

Story and Photos by Shannon Anastasio

There is something quietly magical about being invited into spaces that are typically tucked behind gates, hedges and winding driveways. As I stepped into the Wellington Garden Club’s “Garden Inspirations” tour on Saturday, March 21, I felt that sense of anticipation building with each step that beckoned me forward.

This exclusive, self-guided tour unfolded like a living storybook — one written in petals, textures, fragrances and the unmistakable spirit of the homeowners who so graciously opened their private sanctuaries for just one special day.

“The Wellington Garden Club has proudly hosted a biennial garden tour for more than 20 years,” tour co-chair Carol Coleman said. “It has become our signature fundraiser, supporting meaningful community outreach and educational initiatives throughout the village.”

The club’s Twig Morris explained how the gardens are chosen.

“Gardens are chosen for their curb appeal, diversity of plant material and creative use of hardscape elements, such as garden structures and art, all while reflecting strong landscape design principles,” she said. “We also strive to showcase a variety of styles, from structured and formal to natural, pollinator-friendly environments.”

The first garden I explored, nestled along Westbury Close in Paddock Park, set the tone for the day. At the home of Lisa Ferrano, the landscape revealed itself through softly winding paths bordered by lush greenery and thoughtfully layered plantings. Here, Florida’s natural beauty took center stage. Native plant varieties blended seamlessly with gentle pops of tropical color, creating a serene setting that felt both curated and completely natural. Birds flitted from branch to branch, while butterflies drifted effortlessly across the sunlight — reminders that these gardens are not only designed for human admiration but also for the thriving ecosystems they nurture. This garden emphasized sustainability and resilience, and stood as a living tribute to the Sunshine State.

Just a few doors away, Nina Williams’ beautifully sculpted property is an English garden with a harmonious blend of natural charm and cultivated beauty. Here, elegance and structure define the landscape. Formal design elements guided visitors through carefully arranged beds that highlight symmetry, balance, and the timeless beauty of roses and flowering ornamentals. The atmosphere felt refined but welcoming — a testament to the idea that sophistication in garden design can co-exist with warmth and accessibility. As I walked the gently curving pathways, I could not help but imagine how many quiet morning coffees and twilight conversations this enchanting space had already witnessed.

Throughout the tour, a lively cul-de-sac marketplace near two of the featured gardens added an extra layer of inspiration. Vendors displayed an array of plants and garden-themed merchandise, allowing visitors to take a piece of the day’s beauty home with them. Conversations flowed easily among neighbors and new friends alike, united by a shared appreciation for the artistry and tranquility found in these cultivated outdoor spaces.

The cheerful buzz around the 50-50 raffle and other prize opportunities added a festive energy that complemented the peaceful rhythm of the gardens themselves. I chatted with vendors like Mike Sands of Tangled Roots Orchid Nursery about the amazing array of plantings he had for sale, as well as Denise Abruzzese of Foxview Roses, who shared the many varieties available for purchase. Of course, I could not resist and took home something special.

The journey continued at Denise Bassaline’s home on Jonquil Place in Sugar Pond Manor. Tropical varieties mingled with native species, creating layered visuals at every turn. Winding pathways led through shaded enclaves and sunlit clearings, each revealing its own distinct vignette. It was here that the essence of the tour seemed to come together. The exquisite craftsmanship of landscape design, the earthy touches of personal creativity, the mindful use of native plants, and above all, the generous spirit shared by every participating homeowner.

Roxanne Henry’s home on DeHavilland Court in the Aero Club felt like a celebration of abundance. This garden was alive with color, texture and movement — adoringly whimsical in its personality. Walking along the meandering garden paths, I found delightful surprises tucked into every corner: unexpected sculptures, playful arrangements of flowering shrubs, and charming seating areas that invited visitors to pause and breathe it all in. It was a garden that celebrated imagination as much as horticulture, demonstrating how personal expression can transform an outdoor space into a story uniquely its own. Henry got the inspiration to create her garden when she took the tour herself more than two decades ago. Now on her third time being selected as one of the tour destinations, she beamed with pride welcoming visitors.

My final stop was at Mida Farms, the equestrian property of Victoria McCullough. The sweeping grounds and expansive views offered a striking contrast to the more intimate residential gardens earlier in the day. Here, lush landscaping framed open green spaces, while the presence of champion Clydesdale horses added an almost storybook quality to the experience. The garden design embraced both natural beauty and the rhythms of equestrian life, blending ornamental plantings with practical spaces that support the property’s daily activities. Visitors gathered with excitement near the raffle display, dreaming of the chance to win a private carriage ride through the picturesque surroundings, an experience that perfectly captured the romance of the setting.

What struck me most as the day drew to a close was how each garden, though entirely distinct in style and scale, reflected a common thread of passion and purpose. Some landscapes felt exquisitely polished, others delightfully whimsical, and many celebrated the resilience and charm of Florida’s native flora. Yet all were infused with genuine pride and hospitality. The Wellington Garden Club’s mission to educate, beautify and inspire was evident in every thoughtfully placed bloom and smiling volunteer greeting visitors along the way.

Founded in 1981, the Wellington Garden Club continues to cultivate more than just beautiful landscapes. Events like the garden tour directly support youth gardening initiatives, summer camp experiences, scholarships and civic beautification projects that enrich the Welington community. As I finished the tour, I carried with me not only fresh ideas for my own outdoor spaces but also a renewed appreciation for the role gardens play in connecting us to nature, to creativity and to one another.

“Our mission is rooted in education, sharing knowledge of gardening, horticulture, floral and landscape design, botany, and environmental stewardship with both our members and the public, including youth,” tour co-chair Carol Ralph said. “Proceeds from the tour help fund summer camp experiences, student scholarships in environmental and conservation studies, Habitat for Humanity support, and the National Garden Clubs’ Plant-A-Tree program.”

In a community known for its elegance and equestrian heritage, the garden tour offered a softer, equally captivating glimpse into Wellington’s heart. It was a reminder that behind many gates and garden walls lie worlds of inspiration waiting to be discovered.

Visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org to learn more about the Wellington Garden Club.

In The Year Of The Horse, GPL Celebrates Equine Athletes At The Patagones Polo Club

By Sharon Kersten

As the lunar calendar marks the Year of the Horse — a symbol of strength, elegance and boundless energy — the Gay Polo League (GPL) returns to Wellington for its 16th annual International Gay Polo Tournament, taking place April 23-25.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Patagones Polo Club, this signature event has become a highlight of the season, drawing more than 1,000 guests and top-tier players from around the world for a weekend that is socially vibrant and fiercely competitive.

The connection between the Year of the Horse and the sport of polo feels particularly fitting. Both are rooted in centuries-old traditions that originated in East Asia, where horsemanship was revered as both art and discipline. In polo, that reverence is on full display — each match is a carefully choreographed interplay between rider and horse, where speed, agility and intuition must align seamlessly. Much like the horse in the lunar zodiac, polo ponies embody endurance, grace and a fiercely competitive spirit. The GPL tournament channels that same dynamic energy, offering a modern celebration of authenticity, freedom and global camaraderie.

Since its founding in 2006 by Chip McKenney, the Gay Polo League has evolved from a small group of enthusiasts in Los Angeles into an international community spanning 15 countries. What began as a shared passion for polo has grown into a movement — one that champions inclusion while maintaining a deep respect for the sport’s traditions. Along the way, the league has raised more than $400,000 for charitable causes, reinforcing its commitment to giving back as much as it celebrates.

This year, GPL has named Equality Florida as its beneficiary, with proceeds supporting the organization’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project. The initiative focuses on creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments for LGBTQ students across Florida, addressing issues such as bullying, social isolation and mental health challenges.

The festivities begin Thursday, April 23 with one of the weekend’s most anticipated traditions: GPL Polotini presents Wigstock! at Mary Lou’s. Equal parts playful and glamorous, this high-energy “FUNraiser” invites guests to lean all the way into fantasy, by arriving in bold ensembles and sky-high wigs that defy gravity and convention alike. With internationally acclaimed DJ Citizen Jane setting the tone, the dance floor quickly transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, creativity and unapologetic self-expression. The evening’s signature Wig Contest adds an extra layer of excitement, with the winner taking home two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States — courtesy of Delta Air Lines. Beyond the spectacle, the event carries a meaningful purpose, with proceeds directly benefiting Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project.

On Friday, April 24, the focus shifts to the field as preliminary matches commence at the Patagones Polo Club. Beginning at 10:30 a.m., these early games offer a glimpse of the skill and strategy that define the tournament, as teams from across the globe compete for a coveted place in Saturday’s finals. Later that evening, the atmosphere turns decidedly elegant with the invitation-only VIP Black Tie Dinner Reception, where sponsors, players and league members gather under the stars for an evening of refined dining and celebration.

Saturday, April 25 marks the main event — a day where sport, style and spectacle converge. Four teams, composed of 16 international players, will take to the field at Patagones for the tournament finals.

“We have a joie de vivre, a lighthearted enjoyment of our sport and community, yet we’re dead serious when it comes to fierce competition,” said McKenney, capturing the spirit that defines GPL so distinctly.

Gates open at noon, welcoming guests to an afternoon filled with excitement and tradition. The Founders Cup Polo Finals begin at 1 p.m., followed by the beloved divot stomp at 2:15 p.m., a time-honored polo ritual where spectators take to the field to help repair the turf while mingling and enjoying the social atmosphere. At 3 p.m., the Senator Cup Polo Finals bring the competition to its thrilling conclusion.

Award presentations will follow the end of each match, recognizing standout moments and participants including: Most Valuable Player, sponsored by Lauracea & McCourt Partners; Best Goal, sponsored by Lauracea; Best Dressed, sponsored by RBC Wealth Management; Best Playing Pony, sponsored by Tackeria; and Best Tailgate, sponsored by USTA.

Indeed, while the polo itself is world class, the surrounding pageantry is equally captivating. Spectators can enjoy the colorful Flags of Nations procession, the Parade of Teams, and spirited performances by the Miami Cheer and Fort Lauderdale Cheer squads. The energy is both sophisticated and welcoming, creating an environment where seasoned polo enthusiasts and first-time attendees alike feel at home.

For those seeking a more elevated experience, the Cherry Knoll Farm VIP Tent offers an exclusive vantage point along the field. Here, guests can enjoy reserved seating, an open bar and an array of curated culinary offerings, all while taking in the excitement of the final matches. It’s an up close and personal way to experience the tournament — where luxury and sport meet just steps from the action.

Visitors traveling from afar, as well as locals looking to indulge in a weekend escape, can take advantage of special accommodations at the Hampton Inn & Suites Wellington, offering a preferred rate for tournament guests. It’s yet another way the GPL experience extends beyond the field, inviting attendees to fully immerse themselves in the weekend’s festivities.

While Wellington serves as the league’s flagship destination, GPL’s reach is global. The organization has hosted events in destinations such as the United Kingdom, St. Tropez and Chantilly in France, Menlo Park, Lexington and Palm Beach, while also making an annual pilgrimage to Argentina each December for the Argentine Open and a week of polo in Lobos. This international presence reflects not only the sport’s worldwide appeal but also GPL’s role as a unifying force within it.

None of this would be possible without the support of an extensive network of sponsors and community partners, whose contributions help bring the event to life year after year, including Cherry Knoll Farm, the Debbie and James Burrows Foundation, Delta Air Lines, Equity Performance Equine, Ethel M. Chocolates, Goshen Hill, Greenberg Traurig, JP Morgan Chase, Lauracea, McKenney Media, McCourt Partners, Melzer/Lorenzo Compass, MEP Juice, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, the Palm Beaches, PBSC, Provident Jewelers, RBC Wealth Management, USTA and the Village of Wellington. Media sponsors include Equestrian Living, HotSpots, HappeningOUT Television, Lux Wellington Magazine, Passport Magazine, OutClique, OutSFL and Wellington The Magazine.

As the Gay Polo League celebrates 16 years of its signature Wellington event, its mission remains as clear as ever. “My initial goal was to encourage greater diversity and inclusion in the sport of polo,” McKenney said. “Now we have players, fans and allies coming from all over the world to participate. GPL is changing perceptions in the LGBTQ+ community, athletics and society at large — one chukker at a time.”

In the Year of the Horse, that message feels especially resonant. With its powerful symbolism of strength, unity and forward momentum, the horse serves as a fitting emblem for an event that continues to break barriers while honoring tradition. And in Wellington this month, that spirit will once again take center stage — galloping confidently toward a more inclusive future.

For tickets and more information about the International Gay Polo Tournament’s schedule of events, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25.

 

Sport, Celebration And Philanthropy Unite At GPL Tournament

As the Gay Polo League, the world’s only LGBTQ polo league, returns to Wellington April 23-25, the tournament once again promises a weekend where competition and community meet purpose.

This year, the league has selected Equality Florida as its beneficiary charity, with a portion of proceeds supporting the organization’s impactful Safe & Healthy Schools Project.

The initiative is dedicated to advancing safer, more inclusive environments for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning) students throughout the state — an effort that resonates deeply with GPL’s mission of fostering acceptance both on and off the field.

Philanthropy has long been at the heart of the Gay Polo League. To date, GPL has raised more than $400,000 for a range of charitable partners, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation, SAGE (a national advocacy organization for LGBTQ seniors), and the Compass Youth Program, which provides critical resources such as computers and health kits for homeless youth. Each year, the tournament builds upon this legacy, demonstrating how sport can serve as a powerful vehicle for community impact.

Founded in 1977, Equality Florida has grown into the state’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ community. Through lobbying, grassroots organizing, public education and coalition building, the organization works tirelessly to ensure that no individual faces harassment or discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression.

At the center of this year’s partnership is Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project, which aims to foster a culture of inclusion in schools while addressing the bullying, harassment, social isolation and bigotry that disproportionately affect LGBTQ youth. The program works with all 67 Florida school districts, equipping principals, assistant principals, counselors, psychologists, social workers, teachers and administrators with the tools they need to create affirming and supportive environments for every student.

“The selection of Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project is a natural synergy for us,” GPL Founder and President Chip McKenney said. “We share a commitment to inclusion, encouragement and creating safe spaces where everyone can thrive. Together, we look forward to continuing to change perceptions in the LGBTQ community and its allies — one chukker at a time.”

Since the program’s inception in 2016, more than 30,000 individuals have been trained in nearly every Florida school district, making it a model for similar initiatives nationwide. In addition to working with educators, the project provides parents with vital resources to better support their LGBTQ children, reinforcing the idea that acceptance begins both in the classroom and at home.

Of course, no GPL weekend would be complete without its signature blend of glamour and celebration. Guests can kick off the festivities with one of the league’s most beloved traditions: the wildly popular “FUNraiser,” GPL Polotini Wigstock!, held at Mary Lou’s on Thursday, April 23. Proceeds from this high-energy, hair-raising evening will directly benefit Equality Florida and its Safe & Healthy Schools Project, adding even more meaning to the festivities. Guests are invited to embrace their most fabulous selves in a dazzling display of big hair, bold fashion and unapologetic self-expression — all in support of a truly impactful cause.

As the music pulses and the dance floor fills, internationally renowned DJ Citizen Jane will spin an electrifying mix of favorites and high-energy tracks, transforming the chic venue into a vibrant playground of creativity and individuality. Sequins shimmer, wigs soar to new heights and personalities shine as guests compete in the much-anticipated Wig Contest. The stakes are as fabulous as the looks, since the winner will receive two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States, courtesy of Delta Air Lines.

A portion of the proceeds from the International Gay Polo Tournament on Saturday, April 25, at the Patagones Polo Club will also benefit Equality Florida. From the pageantry of the opening parade to the beloved divot stomp and tailgate competitions, the day offers something for everyone — whether you are a seasoned polo enthusiast or a first-time spectator.

Adding to the philanthropic impact, more than $100 from each tailgate tent sponsorship and $10 from every tournament ticket sold will directly benefit Equality Florida, ensuring that every cheer from the sidelines contributes to meaningful change. It’s this seamless integration of sport, celebration and social good that sets the International Gay Polo Tournament apart.

As Wellington’s equestrian season reaches its stylish crescendo, the Gay Polo League once again proves that polo is more than a game — it is a platform for visibility, for community and for progress. With its signature blend of athleticism, elegance and advocacy, this year’s tournament invites guests to be part of something truly special: a weekend where every chukker, every cheer and every dazzling moment helps build a more inclusive future.

For tickets and further information about the International Gay Polo Tournament schedule of events, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25. To learn more about Equality Florida, visit www.eqfl.org.

A Hair-Raising ‘FUNraising’ Event Kicks Off GPL Weekend

As Wellington’s social season gallops on, the Gay Polo League (GPL) returns with one of its most anticipated traditions: “GPL Polotini Presents Wigstock!” Set for Thursday, April 23, the event kicks off the league’s 16th International Gay Polo Tournament weekend with an evening that is equal parts high-energy celebration and community gathering — with just the right touch of whimsy.

Hosted at Mary Lou’s in West Palm Beach, Wigstock! transforms the venue into a lively playground of style and self-expression. Known for its vibrant nightlife scene, Mary Lou’s provides the perfect backdrop for a night where revelers dress up in their most fabulous ensembles and outré wigs. Personality and creativity take center stage, and sequins shimmer.

From the moment guests arrive, it’s clear that this is no ordinary night out. Wigstock! invites attendees to embrace bold self-expression, with wigs ranging from glamorous to delightfully outrageous taking center stage. The unofficial motto says it all: “The higher the hair, the closer to heaven!” It’s a visual feast that reflects both the playful spirit of the Gay Polo League and the vibrant community it brings together.

Music drives the energy throughout the evening, as guests enjoy an energetic night of dancing to the beats of world-famous DJ Citizen Jane. Known for her upbeat, crowd-focused sets, she keeps the dance floor going with a mix of remixes and familiar favorites. A hosted bar serving premium spirits keeps things flowing, while the open, social atmosphere makes it easy to move between dancing, conversing and people-watching.

The highlight of the evening is the Wig Contest, where creativity takes the spotlight and guests compete for top honors. Equal parts fun and friendly competition, attendees are invited to show off their most creative looks. An added incentive to get those creative juices flowing is the prize for the Most Outrageous Wig: two round-trip tickets to anywhere in the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, courtesy of Delta Air Lines.

While the event leans into its playful side, it is a party with a purpose. To date, the Gay Polo League has raised more than $400,000 for charitable causes, and this event continues that tradition. Proceeds benefit Equality Florida’s Safe & Healthy Schools Project, which supports inclusive and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students across the state.

What sets Wigstock! apart is its balance. The crowd is diverse, the energy is upbeat and the tone remains welcoming throughout. Whether guests come to dance, socialize or simply take in the scene, there’s a sense that everyone is part of something both joyful and meaningful.

In Wellington, where style and sport so often intersect, Wigstock! adds a welcome dose of whimsy to the season’s lineup. So put on your boldest wig, bring your friends and be part of a night where style, music and community come together for a meaningful cause.

GPL’s Polotini Wigstock! will take place Thursday, April 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. at Mary Lou’s, located at 250 Southern Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Tickets are $250, with proceeds supporting Equality Florida. For tickets, visit www.gaypolo.com/wellington-fl-april-23-25.

Peter Brant And Melissa Ganzi Highlight The 2026 Polo Hall Of Fame Ceremony

By Y.A. Teitelbaum

The polo world celebrated its legends, highlighted by Peter M. Brant and Melissa Ganzi, at the record-setting, sold-out 37th annual Polo Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner on Friday, Feb. 13 at the Museum of Polo. More than 500 guests attended the ceremony.

Brant developed the powerhouse White Birch team and organization, which dominated high-goal polo in the United States for about 25 years beginning in 1979, winning 31 tournaments at the 26-goal level or higher. This spurred other teams to build and maintain a professional organization.

Brant thanked his family, his mentors, his players and staff during his illustrious 50-year polo career.

Despite his many victories, Brant explained how he thinks more about the horses in his career, “Not just mine, but my teammates and my opponents.”

He closed his remarks with, “I love this game.”

Melissa Ganzi, philanthropist, entrepreneur, club owner and high-goal patron, received the Iglehart Award for exceptional lifetime contributions to the sport.

Ganzi’s moving, prerecorded acceptance speech was the emotional highlight of the night.

“Giving back to polo is important to me,” Ganzi said. “It has been a privilege to be a part of the sport’s past, present and future.”

She accepted the award along with her husband Marc, and their children, Grant and Riley.

Billy Stevens, a terrific player in both the arena and on the grass, was also inducted into the Hall of Fame. Stevens, who turns 99 years old in two months, accepted his award with a video, as his wife, Ruth, and their sons, Charlie and Jimmy, attended the event.

Elisabeth “Pansy” Ireland Poe, a trailblazing pioneer who unofficially became the first woman player to obtain a handicap rating with the USPA in 1925, was inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame posthumously. Her great-niece, Nancy Ireland Stahl, accepted the award.

Equine advocate Clint Nangle was honored as the posthumous Iglehart Award recipient, and he was remembered as a caring, kind, dignified champion of the sport. Clint, a natural-born lefty who started in polo at Myopia in 1962, was always positive and passionate about doing what was good for the betterment of polo. His daughter, Dana Nangle Scott, and grandson, Sam Scott, accepted the award.

Well-respected Joe Casey Sr., the 2025 Iglehart Award recipient, attended the ceremony after missing last year’s event due to illness. Mike Carney accepted the award for Casey Sr.

The Horses to Remember honoree of the early pre-Hartman era was Citroen, the award-winning Argentine-bred chestnut gelding purchased by Robert Lehman. His son, Robin, and granddaughter, Morgan, accepted the award.

Longpocket, Billy Mulcahy’s raw-boned and wiry Australian Thoroughbred, was recognized as Horses to Remember, post-Hartman Award era. Numerous high-goalers, including Memo Gracida, Esteban Panelo, Piki Alberdi, Juni Crotto and Mike Azzaro, played Longpocket.

Wendy Hollander, Longpocket’s early groom and Mulcahey’s former wife, accepted the award.

The Polo Training Foundation (PTF) Player of the Year awards in the annual scholastic and collegiate awards were included for the first time.

The honorees were Zak Coleman of Texas A&M (Intercollegiate Stephen A. Orthwein Male Player of the Year), Alana Benz of UVA (Intercollegiate Daniel J. Wallace Jr. Female Player of the Year), Joe Bob Lequerica of Houston (Interscholastic Russell A. Sheldon Male Player of the Year) and Kylie Beard of Maryland (Interscholastic Lynn Thompson Female Player of the Year).

The event’s success was due to generous dinner sponsors Grand Champions Polo Club and Aspen Valley Polo Club, as well as major sponsors Olexa Celine, the Robert I. Goldman Foundation and U.S. Polo Assn.

Also supporting the event were Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and spirits from longtime sponsors Robert S. Lipman and Margaret Lipman Orthwein. Premium wine and champagne were supported by new sponsor Shelby Meisler and Inlet Harbour Liquors. Special thanks to Alex Pacheco Photography, Krystal Zaskey Photography and Chukker TV for their contributions.

The black-tie Hall of Fame Awards Dinner is the most important annual fundraising event for the museum, an independently run, not-for-profit organization.

Learn more about the museum at www.polomuseum.org.

 

Our Community Cares Continues To Expand Services Supporting Local Seniors

By Patrick Sherry

Helping senior citizens age in place and providing meaningful companionship is the foundation of the mission of Our Community Cares. Through its volunteers, this local nonprofit is working to maintain the independence of local seniors, so they can continue to live in their chosen community.

Our Community Cares is one of just a handful of South Florida organizations that offer free non-medical support services to seniors. Its goal is to keep seniors connected through providing basic assistance to improve their quality of life. Throughout Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, volunteers from Our Community Cares are helping support the growing senior populations in both villages.

Kathy Foster, the first mayor of Wellington, founded the organization in 2010. She explained how she began learning that seniors around the country did not want to give up living in their homes, even though they could no longer get around easily. She spent months researching how many seniors were “aging in place,” then started building the organization with a group of friends and supporters to help them.

“They spend a lifetime working, contributing to a community, taking care of their families,” Foster said. “In their later years, they want to enjoy the fruits of their labor, in their home, with the community that they have enjoyed and been part of.”

For more than a decade, the organization was known as Wellington Cares. Originally, volunteers primarily assisted seniors in Wellington, but those at the organization quickly recognized a need for such services in other nearby communities.

In 2020, the nonprofit’s board looked into expanding its assistance programs to the Village of Royal Palm Beach. Four years later, they rebranded the organization to Our Community Cares to better represent its ambition to support more seniors across Palm Beach County.

“We needed to make sure that we could handle another whole community of seniors who needed assistance,” Foster said. “After careful research and outreach into the Royal Palm Beach community, looking for donors who might assist us in the additional costs, we stepped up to the plate about a year and a half ago and have been very successful.”

Dozens of volunteers help over a hundred senior participants 65 and older with basic living tasks through free transportation, minor home repairs, respite championship and social connections through regular interaction. Many of the participants involved in the program have lost the ability to do many of these activities themselves, but the organization enables them to remain independent and healthy while creating social connections.

Director of Operations Diane Gutman started as a volunteer for the organization and said working with seniors helped her family have a deeper connection to the community.

“I am very proud that this organization started out helping a handful of people in the Wellington community, and now we are helping so many throughout Wellington and Royal Palm Beach,” Gutman said.

Those interested in volunteering go through a vetting and training process where they get to select their preferences for what type of help they would like to provide. Many of them are younger seniors or retirees looking to give back to the community. The organization emphasizes that volunteer schedules are flexible, so people can contribute as much as they are able to.

Importantly, seniors can develop relationships and create friendships that overall improve their quality of life.

“Kindness is the foundation of a happy life,” Foster said. “All these people step forward to help strangers, and as a result, have built friendships and a stronger community for all of us to benefit from.”

Volunteers like Shannon Berthiaume, who is a program manager and provides services to participants in both Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, said that these small acts of kindness mean a lot to seniors in the programs.

“For me, it’s just a way to give back,” Berthiaume explained. “I feel accomplished… I do it because it’s good.”

Since its creation, Our Community Cares has provided over a million dollars in free support.

With the senior population growing, the organization is always looking for volunteers to give help to participants in need.

“We grow right alongside our communities,” Foster said. “The more people who’ve come to move into the area, the more need there is for our services, and the more volunteers that are needed.”

Royal Palm Beach, in particular, needs more volunteers. With most current volunteers providing services in Wellington, Royal Palm Beach can always use more people to meet the growing need.

Gutman reiterated that the organization appreciates any help it can get, even if it is small. Any assistance people can give to seniors goes a long way to improving their lives.

“Age does not discriminate,” Gutman said. “We’re all going to grow older, and we’re all going to need help at one time or another.”

For more information about Our Community Cares services, volunteering or becoming a participant, call (561) 568-8818 or visit www.ourcommunitycaresfl.org.

Wellington Today:  The State Of Our Village Is Strong

Spring has fully arrived in Wellington. While we don’t have the seasonal weather extremes our friends in more northern states do, daylight savings time is here, the days are a little longer, the weather is just about perfect and our community calendar begins to fill with the kinds of events that remind us why so many people are proud to call Wellington home.

As the season shifts and our community moves from the energy of winter into the steady pace of spring, it also provides a natural moment to reflect on where we are as a village, and where we are headed. It’s a time when families return to neighborhood parks, students approach the end of the school year and our community once again settles into the rhythms that make Wellington feel like home.

It’s also a natural time to talk about the state of our village. A wellness check if you will, to see how we’re doing and how the last year has been. Each year, local governments release an Annual Comprehensive Financial Report that looks back at the previous fiscal year. For Wellington, that report covers the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2025. While financial reports are often filled with charts, tables and accounting language, at their core they tell a simple story: how well a community is managing the resources entrusted to it.

The good news is that Wellington continues to demonstrate strong financial stewardship. Our annual audit once again resulted in the highest opinion an independent auditor can issue: an unmodified or “clean” opinion. Even more importantly, the audit included no findings, no material weaknesses and no significant deficiencies in internal controls. In practical terms, that means Wellington’s financial statements accurately represent the village’s finances and meet the highest standards of governmental accounting. It’s something residents might understandably take for granted, but it reflects the careful work of many people across the organization who take seriously the responsibility of managing public resources.

This strong financial foundation allows Wellington to continue investing in the things that matter most to residents. The village’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget maintains a stable municipal property tax rate while continuing to fund high-quality services and long-term capital investments. Maintaining stability while planning for the future has long been part of our approach to responsible local government.

One of the most important areas of investment is infrastructure, the systems that keep a community functioning every day, often without most of us noticing.

For example, we continue to move forward on a multi-year program to upgrade and modernize stormwater pump stations throughout the community. South Florida communities know that managing water is part of daily life, and these improvements help ensure that our drainage systems remain reliable, resilient and prepared for the future.

At the same time, the village continues to invest in the amenities that contribute to Wellington’s unique character. Residents and visitors alike continue to enjoy the natural beauty of the Wellington Environmental Preserve, a remarkable community asset that provides walking and cycling trails, wildlife viewing areas and a peaceful place to experience South Florida’s natural environment. It’s a reminder that thoughtful planning can preserve green space while supporting a growing and vibrant community.

You’ll also see continued momentum around improvements in the Town Center area. Town Center has long been envisioned as a place where residents can gather for events, dining, recreation and civic life. Investments in this area are helping create the type of community space where neighbors meet, families attend events and Wellington’s sense of community continues to grow.

Of course, any conversation about Wellington would be incomplete without recognizing the global equestrian community that has become such an important part of our identity. Each winter season brings athletes, visitors and spectators from around the world, reinforcing Wellington’s reputation as one of the premier equestrian destinations anywhere. While that international spotlight shines brightest during the winter months, the infrastructure and planning that support it are year-round efforts that benefit the entire community.

What makes all of this possible is not just sound budgeting, it’s a community that stays engaged and involved. Local government works best when residents participate: attending meetings, volunteering, sharing ideas or simply staying informed about what’s happening in their hometown. Wellington has long benefited from residents who care deeply about their community, and that civic spirit continues to shape the village’s future.

When people ask about the “state of the village,” the answer isn’t found only in financial reports or capital projects. Those are important indicators of progress, but they are only part of the story. The real strength of Wellington comes from its people — neighbors who support one another, families who invest in the community, volunteers who step forward and residents who care about the future of the place they call home.

As we move further into spring, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the strong foundation that Wellington continues to build upon. Because when a community manages its resources wisely, invests in its future and stays connected to its shared values, the state of the village is strong. And in Wellington, that story continues to be written every day.

Experience Irish Culture & Heritage At Inaugural Wellington Irish Festival

The inaugural Village of Wellington Irish Festival will be held Saturday, March 7 at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., presented by Brian Marketing Group. The public is invited to celebrate Irish culture with authentic food, entertainment and a fun day for the entire family.

The event will include a day of Irish entertainment. On the Slane Castle Stage will be the Black Thorne Pipe Band, Rogue Theory, the Tir Na Greine Irish Dancers, Clar Killoran, Bangers & Mash Celtic Irish rock and more. Franny from mornings on 98.7 FM the Gator and Real Radio will host a “Split the G” challenge with attendees and Guinness. The public is invited to sign up for the Irish Dance competition with more details to be announced on Facebook.

An Irish festival isn’t complete without Irish food favorites, such as corned beef sandwiches, fish & chips, shepherd’s pie and more. There will be a Guinness Beer Garden and a full-service bar serving mixed drinks, wine, a Phoenix Park Whiskey tasting, Baileys and Irish coffee. Additional family fun will include facepainting, activities for kids and games.

The best way to enjoy a VIP cultural experience at the festival is to reserve an Irish Cottage, which includes seating and a table for eight, a 10-foot-by-10-foot tent and general admission, or VIP stage pods, which include four seats and a table close to the stage. Both offer cocktail service for the day. These special seating areas can be reserved through Eventbrite.com.

Ireland U.S. Experience will be raffling off a trip for two to Ireland. Proceeds will benefit Southeast Florida Honor Flight, an organization that flies local World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials honoring their service and sacrifices. Proceeds from a 50/50 cash raffle will benefit the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, which provides emergency financial support to qualified disabled veterans living in Florida.

Sponsors include Brian Marketing Group, the Village of Wellington, Guinness, Cairlinn Bay, Kettle One, Captain Morgan, Johnny Walker, Baileys, Smirnoff, Lake Preserve Management, Guarantee Garage Doors and Repair, the Town-Crier newspaper and Wellington The Magazine.

Ireland U.S. Experience is a family-owned and operated travel business providing customizable trips to Ireland. With more than 20 years in the travel industry, it aims to ensure that customers have the vacation of a lifetime. They are currently offering a 10-day trip July 17-26, 2026, and a seven-day golfing tour Sept 14-20, 2027. Learn more at www.irelandusexperience.com.

General admission is free to the Village of Wellington Irish Festival. For VIP seating options, search for “Wellington Irish Festival” at www.eventbrite.com. Learn more by finding the event on Facebook.

Dressage Olympian Laura Graves Building Her Next Chapter At Home In Wellington

By Mike May

Veteran dressage rider Laura Graves, who has been traveling here for competition since 2009, recently decided to make Wellington her full-time home.

“Wellington is unlike any other place,” said Graves, who is busy this season training up her newest dressage mounts.

Highlighted by medal-winning performances at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio and the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon, Graves continues to compete as a top-level dressage rider traveling the world circuit.

While today, Wellington is her home base, for Graves, it all started in her native New England.

“I grew up near Waitsfield, Vermont, with two sisters,” said Graves, now 38. “My family had friends who owned horses. While in elementary school, my dad, who was in the hardware business, was able to swap a used washer and dryer for two ponies. One was an Appaloosa, and the other one was a Welsh Cob pony. We also had access to a free barn, which my father carefully dismantled piece by piece. He labeled each piece, and then rebuilt the barn on our property. That’s where the two ponies lived. That barn remains standing to this day.”

Taking care of those two ponies was a hobby for Graves and her two sisters. As a result of getting them, the three girls had to pitch in to take care of them.

“We fed them, mucked the stalls, groomed them and provided water for them to drink,” Graves recalled.

It didn’t take long for her interest in riding horses to become “a serious hobby.” Graves’ passion for taking care of and riding horses ended up being more serious than it was for her sisters.

The next equestrian purchase by Graves’ parents was a horse that she rode and looked after for many years.

“We bought a four-year-old Quarter Horse from Canada. His name was Sunny,” Graves explained. “I first rode Sunny while competing in eventing, and later in dressage.”

Graves soon decided that she preferred competing in dressage, and Sonny was her first dressage partner. The first big dressage event that the pair won took place when Graves was in middle school.

“I had a high finish in the New England Junior Young Rider Dressage Championship, when it was held in Connecticut,” she said.

Graves was recognized by the judges for her high level of horsemanship. For her impressive performance, she received a number of prizes, one of which was a new saddle. She was thrilled to do so well and enjoyed the benefits of her high finish. It was the beginning of a very promising career in dressage. And, looking back, Graves gives much of the credit to Sunny, who lived until his mid-20s and died in 2021.

When Graves was in high school, a new, young horse entered her life. It was a foal from The Netherlands who was born in the fall of 2002. The horse was a Dutch Warmblood, and his name was Verdades.

“We had a small, limited budget to buy a horse. Verdades was what we were able to afford,” Graves said. “We bought this fancy horse, and I was ready to live the dream.”

While Verdades was a major upgrade from Sunny, he provided Graves with many restless days and nights, and a few nightmares along the way.

“Verdades was a talented, but a very difficult horse. But I believed in him and all his electric energy,” Graves said. “Riding him was the easy part. It was like wearing a glove. It was unfairly easy.”

But that was the case only for Graves. She quickly realized that she was really the only person that Verdades would respond to on a daily basis. Outside the training and competitive arenas, Verdades was non-compliant with other people, and only Graves could connect with him.

Graves’ frustration with Verdades was so high that she twice sent him to a horse trainer. In both instances, she received phone calls where she was told to come pick up Verdades because he was so uncooperative and impossible to work with for the trainers.

“He forced patience on you. He was a very sensitive creature,” Graves said. “Everything was difficult with Verdades, whether it was grooming him, clipping him, washing him and getting him inside the horse trailer. I eventually broke him by trail riding him.”

While competing, Verdades and Graves formed a formidable partnership.

“I was the only one who could ride him,” Graves said. “In the end, he picked me.”

Even though Verdades had a unique spirit, Graves understood, tolerated, respected and loved Verdades. And the two were very successful inside the dressage arena.

“That horse took me all over the world,” Graves recalled. “I have traveled many miles in a horse van. Over the years, I have competed at many places in the U.S., and all over Europe. I have also been invited to compete in Dubai and Australia.”

The list of global dressage events that Graves and Verdades competed in is impressive. This dynamic duo had a dominant stretch from 2014 to 2019. During those six years, Graves was the best rider on the U.S. dressage team, and at one point was the world’s top-ranked dressage rider.

At the World Equestrian Games in 2014, held in Normandy, France, Graves took fifth in the freestyle. That same year, she was an American reserve Grand Prix champion. In 2015, Graves and Verdades were fourth at the World Cup Finals. Also, in 2015, Graves competed in the Pan American Games for the United States, where she won a team gold medal and an individual silver medal.

In 2016, Graves and Verdades traveled to Brazil to represent Team USA in the Rio Olympics, where they won a team bronze medal. The highlights of 2017 for Graves and Verdades were their second-place finish at the World Cup and winning the Grand Prix Special at the COD in Aachen, Germany.

At the World Equestrian Games in 2018 in Tryon, North Carolina, Graves and Verdades were part of the U.S. dressage team and took home two silver medals.

Finally, in 2019, Graves and Verdades recorded a second-place finish in the World Cup Finals.

At the end of 2019, Graves and Verdades concluded their competitive partnership. He lived out the rest of his life in Wellington and died just recently, in December 2025.

For Graves, she remains committed to returning to the spotlight as a world-class dressage rider, but it will be with a new horse. Two of her new horses are Sole Mio, a Rhinelander stallion, and Java Dulce, a Dutch Warmblood. She is focused on earning a spot on the U.S. squad that will compete in the World Equestrian Games this summer in Germany. She also has her eye on earning another competitive trip to the Olympic Games, specifically Los Angeles in 2028.

Right now, in addition to enjoying all that Wellington has to offer, she has never been as busy as she is now. Her days are filled with training, competing and teaching dressage, exercising her six horses, and overseeing an online dressage educational platform — called Performance Riders — via Zoom.

“I am busy seven days a week,” Graves said.

To keep up with dressage star Laura Graves, you can follow her on Instagram @lauragravesdressage.