Julie Schalm Bringing New Energy, Fun Events To The Mall At Wellington Green

By Mike May

Julie Schalm is on a mission to spread the word about all the great things happening at the Mall at Wellington Green.

Last September, Schalm was hired as the new director of marketing at the mall. Her mission is to bring new energy and more people to the mall. This increases foot traffic, which, in turn, generates more revenue for the many tenants at this local shopping destination.

In many respects, Schalm was the perfect choice at the perfect time for the perfect job.

“I grew up in Wellington, and this is my hometown mall,” Schalm, 33, said. “I was a young girl when the mall first opened. In fact, October 2026 will be the 25th anniversary of the opening of the Mall at Wellington Green.”

For Schalm, it has been a nonstop marketing effort ever since she assumed her new role. Prior to joining the Mall at Wellington Green, she was the director of marketing for a local restaurant chain known as AP Restaurant Group. Education-wise, she graduated from the Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach in 2010, and from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton in 2013 with a business degree.

“Since the mall is expecting a few new restaurants, they were looking for somebody with experience in marketing restaurants,” Schalm explained.

According to Schalm, one of the appealing aspects of the Mall at Wellington Green is that it has a great balance of national outlets and local mom-and-pop businesses. As a whole, there are roughly 160 tenants operating inside the mall, and there are more than 6,500 free parking spaces to accommodate the many vehicles that converge on the mall every day.

The main anchor stores inside the Mall at Wellington Green are Macy’s, Dillard’s, and JCPenney, joined by top brands such as Apple, Bath & Body Works, Brighton, Chico’s, Forever 21, H&M, Tommy Bahama and City Furniture. It is also home to the CMX Wellington cinemas. And another big store — European-based JD Sports — will be setting up shop soon at the mall.

There are also a number of locally owned businesses inside the mall, offering a wide variety of products and services, six of which are Ncognito, a personal training gym that offers stretching and massage therapy; Eyes of Wellington, which provides optical services; Ella Bella Collection, which sells organic and handmade soaps, candles and bath salts; Palm Beach Autographs, which sells sports collectibles; Perfect Oil, which sells fragrance and body oils; and Cottage Garden Teas, which sells a variety of tea products and accessories. Of course, the food court, with about a dozen tenants, remains an ever-popular destination as well.

“We have a good blend of stores representing established brands and smaller businesses that are owned and operated by locals,” Schalm said.

When asked about comparing online shopping with purchasing items from tenants at the Mall at Wellington Green, Schalm had a thought-provoking response.

“Pricewise, our tenants are very competitive with online retail outlets,” Schalm said. “Plus, when you visit the mall, you’re in for an overall and broad shopping experience where you can get the brand names you want or shop local, small businesses.”

Other unique experiences you can find at the mall are the many events held as a way of connecting with the community.

“Our events are very popular, as I’m noticing more people at each function. The tenants and I are on the same page, and we all just really want to connect with the families and people in our area,” Schalm said. “At each event, I usually prepare at least 150 swag bags, and I’m running out of them at every event.”

In March, the most popular event was the Spring Break Staycation.

“We had events inside the mall during each weekday of spring break for local students,” Schalm explained.

In April, events included a Community Health & Wellness Fair in partnership with the Village of Wellington, a Kids Club Garden Party and Easter Bunny Pet Photos — and, of course, Bunnyville, featuring photos with the Easter Bunny, in the weeks leading up to the holiday.

In May, one of the big events will be the seventh annual Mother’s Day Fashion Show and Tea Party on the morning of Saturday, May 10. Here, the mothers and their children will serve as the runway models. On May 20, there will be a Mommy and Me Dance Class, which will target young mothers and their children.

Also in May, a Hurricane Expo will be held in partnership with the Village of Wellington on Saturday, May 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Grand Court. It will include an appearance by WPTV meteorologist Kate Wentzel and a generator giveaway.

On the horizon for June is a Baby Shark Bubble Dance Party for children. Learn more about upcoming mall events at www.shopwellingtongreen.com/events.

Schalm is also working on bringing educational activities to the mall this summer for area children, as well as devising ways to make the mall more appealing during the hot summer months, which is traditionally a slower time of the year inside the mall.

“I want the mall to continue to grow as a key part of the Wellington community,” Schalm said. “My goal is to have the mall become an even more popular place to visit and hang out for locals throughout the year.”

One of Schalm’s summertime functions for children will be a Kid’s Hip-Hop Dance Class on Tuesdays. She also plans more traditional dance classes, weekly, for other local residents.

With the success of each event, Schalm enjoys her job even more.

“I do what I have to do to help the Mall at Wellington Green,” she said. “I love my job, and it doesn’t feel like work.”

Another location inside the mall that Schalm is using to market the shopping destination is previously vacant space in the underutilized former Nordstrom wing, which has been transformed into a studio space for events, functions and mixers.

One of the benefits of the job for Schalm is that she doesn’t have to drive anywhere to do her shopping. She just steps outside her office and keeps walking.

“I get my steps in, and I show financial support for the tenants,” Schalm said.

In her nine months working at the mall, Schalm has seen first-hand the two busiest shopping days of the year, which are Black Friday (the Friday after Thanksgiving Day) and Super Saturday (the Saturday before Christmas Day). On those days, the vast majority of the 6,700 parking spaces at the mall are filled.

When Schalm is not working on various mall projects, she enjoys working out, fishing and going out on the ocean in her boat. Yet she rarely allows herself to get distracted from fulfilling her mission to bring new energy to the Mall at Wellington Green.

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

Thank You To Our Generous Derby Sponsors, Donors And Volunteers!

The Wellington Community Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors who made the Official Wellington Derby Party an unforgettable success. With your incredible support, this year’s celebration of southern charm, high fashion, mint juleps and racing excitement was one for the books!

From the festive flair of the venue to the attendees’ cheers during the big race, every moment of this stylish and spirited event will be powered by the generosity and partnership of our esteemed sponsors. Your commitment to community, hospitality and local engagement helps create an atmosphere that will truly capture the spirit of the Kentucky Derby right here in Wellington.

To our presenting sponsors, donors and volunteers, thank you for going the distance with us. Your support doesn’t just make the event possible — it made it exceptional!

Whether through sponsoring themed bars, providing signature drinks and bites, or contributing to the elegant décor and entertainment, each of you played a pivotal role in the success of this highly anticipated official Wellington tradition.

We are proud to share this moment of thanks with the entire community and spotlight the outstanding businesses, organizations and individuals that stood behind the magic of the Wellington Derby Party.

On behalf of the WCF Board of Directors, and the entire Wellington community, thank you for your continued support, your community spirit and your role in making the Wellington Derby Party a signature event again this year.

We look forward to helping our Wellington neighbors in need, and together, with your help, continue

“Building A Stronger Community.”

Wellington’s Favorite Food And Wine Party Hits The Road Again

By Shannon Anastasio

Get ready, Wellington, Flavors 2025 is revving up for another unforgettable ride through taste, time and total entertainment.

Back for its 22nd year, this beloved event is more than just a tasting — it’s a rolling celebration of food, wine, music and community spirit. Hosted by the Greater Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Flavors is the only mobile food and wine festival of its kind in Wellington, and it’s gearing up to deliver a night of delightful nostalgia like no other.

Taking place on Thursday, June 5, the event kicks off at the Wellington National Golf Club, the official meet-up point, where guests will check in, enjoy live music and mingle before hitting the road. Registration begins promptly at 5 p.m. and closes at 5:30 p.m., so don’t be fashionably late! You’ll want to soak in every minute. From 5 to 6:15 p.m., guests can sip and shop local vendors while grooving to live entertainment. Then, starting at 6:15 p.m., the fun really begins, as the themed buses line up and guests board for the ride of the year.

Each luxury coach will transport guests to multiple tasting stops featuring savory bites, sweet treats and boozy sips — all curated by local restaurants and beverage sponsors. This year’s theme — “The Decades Tour” — turns every bus into a time-traveling party. From the sock hops of the 1950s to the flower power of the 1960s, the disco fever of the 1970s and the neon-soaked vibes of the 1980s, each ride offers an immersive experience. Expect themed décor, throwback fashion, music from your favorite eras, and, of course, irresistible food and drinks.

This adults-only event is strictly for age 21 and over, and all guests must sign a waiver before boarding. Guests registering for others must provide their guest’s e-mail address or take responsibility for ensuring that all waivers are completed and shared by the deadline. Waivers will not be accepted on the night of the event, and anyone without a signed waiver will not be allowed to board. There are no refunds for missed buses.

When registering, chamber members must select the “member” option, and non-members must choose the “non-member” option. Incorrect selections will result in voided tickets and a need to re-register, so double-check before submitting.

With a few buses already sold out, now is the time to secure your seat on this ride through the decades. Pick your favorite era and register today before the remaining spots vanish.

So, dust off your vintage digs, grab your dancing shoes and join the celebration as Wellington’s favorite food and wine party hits the road again. Flavors 2025 is ready to roll!

To purchase tickets, or get more information, visit www.wellingtonchamber.com/events/flavors-2025. For questions, contact the Greater Wellington Chamber of Commerce at (561) 792-6525 or info@wellingtonchamber.com.

Here’s a sneak peek at this year’s themed lineup:

Bus One (1980s): Sponsored by FPL. Big hair, shoulder pads, Valley Girls and Michael Jackson hits set the tone.

Bus Two (1970s): Sponsored by K&E Travel and Celebrity Cruises. Channel Studio 54, disco balls, fuzzy dice and all things groovy.

Bus Three (1950s): Sponsored by JH Massey Group and the Modern Savvy CPA. Think soda shops, leather jackets and jukebox tunes.

Bus Four (1970s): Sponsored by Hack Tax and Accounting Services. More disco love and 8-track nostalgia.

Buses Five & Six: Sold out! Guests will receive their surprise themes via e-mail.

Bus Seven (1960s): Sponsored by FNBCC. Flower power, hippie glam and VW van vibes all the way.

Bus Eight (Palm Beach 1969): Sponsored by Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County. High-society meets vintage drama in a nod to the stylish world of Palm Royale.

Flag Sales Now Open For Patriotic ‘Flags Of Wellington’ Display

The Village of Wellington has partnered with the Wellington Rotary Club and others to present the “Flags of Wellington” display beginning Saturday, May 10 and continuing through Saturday, June 14 (Flag Day) along Forest Hill Blvd., just behind the Patriot Memorial. The flags represent a community celebration of remembrance, unity and spirit.

Wellington Rotary Club President Walter Imperatore introduced the project at the Tuesday, April 8 meeting of the Wellington Village Council.

“On behalf of the Rotary Club of Wellington, we are pleased to announce the launch of our joint inaugural Flags of Wellington program, created in partnership with the Village of Wellington and with the support of Scout Troop 777 and Comcast VetNet,” Imperatore said.

He invited community members to get involved in the project.

“For a $75 sponsorship, individuals, families or groups can dedicate a three-foot-by-five-foot flag on a six-foot pole with a personalized note, either in honor of a veteran or loved one, or to share a message of pride and hope. Participants will have the opportunity to keep the flag, pole and tag at the end of the program,” Imperatore explained.

Emergency Management & Public Safety Director Nicole Coates is overseeing the project for the village. She said that the idea began with Village Manager Jim Barnes.

“He had us look into the concept of bringing a field of American flags to the Village of Wellington, and when we said the Wellington Rotary Club would be perfect for this, they embraced the concept to help bring this project to life,” Coates told the council.

Each flag will be assembled by the Eagle Scouts and installed by the Village of Wellington onsite with support from Comcast VetNet. The flags can be dedicated to a loved one or used to share a personal message of hope and pride in the community. Each flag will include a tag with this personalized message.

The flags will be on display during the village’s annual Memorial Day observance on Monday, May 26. The observance will include a parade from the Patriot Memorial to the Wellington Veterans Memorial, right past the display of flags.

All proceeds will benefit the Wellington Rotary Foundation, a registered nonprofit that supports a wide range of community initiatives, including education, youth service and leadership programs, at-risk teen support, essentials for children in need, scholarships, assistance for veterans and first responders, resident aid programs, and meals and holiday gifts for homeless families.

Program organizers thank Comcast, whose Veteran Network (VetNet) has generously donated 100 American-made flags for the display. Comcast’s VetNet team will also volunteer their time to assist with the installation of the flags.

Comcast is a dedicated supporter of military heroes and veterans. VetNet supports numerous veterans service projects, including Wreaths Across America, a tribute to fallen veterans, and Operation Old Glory, which replaces American flags.

Flags can be purchased online at www.zeffy.com/ticketing/flags-of-wellington. Contact the Wellington Rotary Club at wellrotary1@gmail.com to learn more.

Banach Family Has Created A Sports Mecca At Matt’s Dugout

by Mike May

If you’re interested in sports trading cards and collectibles, you’ll be delighted to know that Wellington has a family-run business that serves as a local go-to source to buy, trade, swap and sell those items. It’s called Matt’s Dugout, and it’s owned and operated by the Banach family — husband John (53), wife Katie (52) and son Matthew (26). Katie’s nephew, Dylan McKercher, 28, also works at the store.

Matt’s Dugout has been in existence for two and a half years. Located in the Kobosko’s Crossing shopping plaza in eastern Wellington, the store is filled with thousands of trading cards, as well as jerseys of prominent athletes and a plethora of autographed footballs, baseballs and basketballs. The store is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The store is closed on Mondays.

At Matt’s Dugout, the walls are adorned with large picture frames featuring the jerseys of well-known athletes, such as Tyrese Maxey of the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers, Stephen Curry of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors, Tom Brady of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots, Luka Dončić of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, Tua Tagovailoa of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and Bryce Harper of baseball’s Philadelphia Phillies. Some of the other premium items for sale include a football signed by quarterback Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals, a football signed by Super Bowl-winning quarterback Steve Young of the San Francisco 49ers and a basketball autographed by ex-NBA great Hakeem Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets. The most expensive card for sale is of the late, great NBA superstar Kobe Bryant for $7,500.

As you continue to peruse what’s on display, you’ll notice other cards and collectibles from an array of other sports, such as ice hockey, soccer, car racing, wrestling and more. There are also non-sports memorabilia affiliated with Pokémon, Star Wars and Marvel.

While Matt’s Dugout stocks and sells a wide variety of sports memorabilia, the sports cards and collectibles are the heart and soul of the business, as shown in the store’s logo, which features a football flanked by a basketball on the left and a baseball on the right.

“More than 95 percent of our business is selling sports cards,” John said. “Baseball card sales represent the most volume, while football cards generate the most in sales.”

The family’s joint interest and passion for sports is what motivated them to start their business, making the Banach family’s avocation their vocation.

For more than 25 years, John worked in the food business as a chef for Sodexo, and Katie worked in sales for D’Artagnan Foods, a high-end meat company. They met while both were attending the Culinary Institute of America in the mid-1990s.

For the majority of their careers, they lived and worked in central New Jersey. But in 2018, their careers brought them to South Florida. They first lived in Plantation, when John was an executive chef for Sodexo at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami and Katie continued in her sales role with D’Artagnan.

The idea of starting a sports collectibles business began when Matthew was working at a similar business in Broward County in 2018. In 2019, he professed his interest in starting his own sports card, collectibles and memorabilia business. That declaration started the family thinking about it, and in October 2022, the dream became a reality — and they chose to base it in Wellington.

“I loved the tree lines along Forest Hill Blvd.,” Katie said. “It reminded me of Beverly Hills, California.”

Just like the key to the success of a restaurant is “location, location, location,” that same theory applies to the success of Matt’s Dugout.

“I attribute much of the store’s success to our proximity to the Olympia subdivision,” Katie said. “We are so close to Olympia that many children can ride their bikes here and hang out during the day. And in our shopping plaza, there are two family-run businesses — Basilico’s Pizza and Kobosko’s Kreamery — which helps attract families, which is also good for our business.”

Clearly, starting a collectibles business is quite a professional transition from working in the food business.

Over the years, John and Matthew’s ongoing fascination with sports never wavered. Now, Katie also has the sports bug, but she’s not as consumed by sports as her husband and son.

“John and Matthew love sports and love watching sports,” Katie said. “They live and breathe every single sport.”

Not surprisingly, there are two big-screen TVs inside Matt’s Dugout, which are always showing some game being played somewhere.

The family is so committed to sports that their cat, Jimmy, is named after former Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins.

“Having grown up in central New Jersey, we’re all big fans of Philadelphia pro teams — the Eagles, the 76ers, the Phillies and the Flyers,” added John, who said that his favorite pro athletes who played in Philadelphia are Randall Cunningham (Eagles), Jimmy Rollins (Phillies), Allen Iverson (76ers) and Simon Gagné (Flyers).

As for their day-to-day roles, John and Matt oversee inventory, pricing and dealing with daily customers, while Katie oversees purchasing and handling invoices. Dylan is in charge of all the card grading.

To attract customers, many events are held at the store throughout the year. One of those special events is called “trade day.” It’s held four times a year. Six tables are placed inside the store. Each is surrounded by a number of chairs, where customers gather to review the latest cards from Topps, Upper Deck and Panini.

On “trade day,” customers will also bring in their own collection of cards, which they may swap, trade or buy from one another.

“A trade day experience lasts four or five hours,” Katie explained. “We provide pizza from Basilico’s and drinks for our customers.”

Other special occasions include trivia night and rip night. To excel on trivia night, it helps to have an extensive knowledge of sports. On a rip night, customers arrive and then literally rip open new packages of sports cards to see what’s inside. To add some sizzle and excitement to a rip night earlier this year, two members of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, who were in Palm Beach County for spring training, were on hand to pose for pictures and sign autographs.

Meanwhile, during the recent March Madness NCAA college basketball tournament, Matt’s Dugout encouraged customers to complete their own brackets and then offered prizes to the participants who correctly picked the most winning teams.

To stay in touch with its ever-expanding customer base, Matt’s Dugout utilizes social media and electronic forms of communication.

“We utilize Facebook, Twitter [now X], Instagram, e-mail, text messages and pop-up displays on our web site to promote and publicize what’s happening in the store,” Katie said.

According to John, business has been good since the store opened in 2022.

For those older customers who remember getting a piece of bubble gum inside their packets of sports cards years ago, that tradition has been discontinued, but not at Matt’s Dugout.

“Every day, we offer free Big League Chew bubble gum to our customers,” John noted.

Matt’s Dugout is located at 9180 Forest Hill Blvd. in Kobosko’s Crossing. To learn more, call (561) 235-0860 or visit www.mattsdugout.com.

A Look At The Wellington Environmental Preserve

By Jim Barnes, Wellington Village Manager

The Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat shows the Village of Wellington’s decades-long legacy of stewardship, with an eye on a future of sustainability.

The Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat, located off Flying Cow Ranch Road, stands as a powerful testament to the village’s commitment to environmental responsibility, water quality and public education. Since its opening in November 2010, the 365-acre preserve has offered more than scenic beauty — it serves as a vital component in South Florida’s water management and Everglades protection efforts.

The preserve was established as a collaborative effort between the South Florida Water Management District and the Village of Wellington in response to the 1994 Everglades Forever Act, legislation aimed at reducing phosphorus levels in water flowing into the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge and the greater Everglades ecosystem. With the goal of improving water quality, the preserve was designed to treat stormwater runoff from the southern half of Wellington, known as Basin B.

Rainwater is routed west to the preserve, where it flows through a system of wetlands, marshes, littoral shelves and sediment traps, allowing it to be naturally cleansed before reaching the Everglades. Seven stormwater pump stations help manage the flow of water through this critical environmental infrastructure.

The preserve currently filters runoff from approximately 9,230 acres and provides an additional 274 million gallons of water storage capacity. It is an example of how nature-based solutions can address complex environmental challenges.

While its primary function is environmental, the preserve has also become a popular public space for recreation, learning and appreciation of natural beauty. Visitors can explore nature trails, equestrian paths, boardwalks and a six-story observation tower offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. With seven designated learning areas, the preserve also serves as an outdoor classroom for students and nature enthusiasts alike.

The preserve’s innovative design and community impact have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association named the Wellington Environmental Preserve as the winner of the 10th annual Great Places in Florida People’s Choice Award. This recognition, themed “Great Resilient Places,” honors locations that exemplify visionary planning, cultural significance and community involvement. The award highlights Wellington’s dedication to building a sustainable and resilient future.

Building on this legacy, Wellington is actively working to expand the preserve by incorporating the 45-acre Moncada parcel — also known as the “missing link.” This critical expansion will square off the preserve’s footprint, bringing the total area to 410 acres and restoring the land to its historical use as a wetland.

In May 2024, the Wellington Village Council officially broke ground on the Moncada Expansion Project. Funded in part by the Resilient Florida Grant Program, this project aims to enhance flood protection and water quality while providing an additional 30 million gallons of water storage. The expansion also supports the preservation of habitat for numerous species and will include new hiking trails, equestrian trails, picnic areas, a wildlife observation area and an educational kiosk, thanks to funding from the Florida Communities Trust.

The Wellington Environmental Preserve is more than a stormwater treatment area — it’s a place where ecology, education and community converge. With the addition of the Moncada parcel and continued support from local and state partners, the preserve remains at the forefront of Wellington’s efforts to protect natural resources, enhance public spaces and build a more resilient future.

As we look ahead, Wellington remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental stewardship — preserving the past, protecting the present and planning boldly for the future.

Wellington Derby Party: A Night Of Elegance And Giving Back

Story by Shannon Anastasio  |  Photo by Frank Koester

Wellington, known for its equestrian charm, will be the setting of an unforgettable event that combines southern elegance with a meaningful philanthropic cause on Saturday, May 3.

The official Wellington Derby Party, presented by the Wellington Community Foundation, will take place at the stunning Diamante Farms Dressage facility at 11223 Acme Road, starting at 4 p.m.

This exclusive event offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the legendary Kentucky Derby experience while supporting a cause that truly matters to the community. Attendees will be treated to an evening filled with the excitement of horse racing, gourmet cuisine and southern hospitality. It’s an ideal way to spend an evening with friends, family and fellow equestrian enthusiasts.

The Wellington Derby Party isn’t just about enjoying the thrill of the races, it’s also about giving back. Starting at $250 per ticket, guests not only gain access to a spectacular event but also help raise funds for the Wellington Community Foundation’s local initiatives.

Every dollar raised at the event goes directly toward projects that benefit Wellington’s seniors, children and veterans in need.

“Our official Wellington Derby Party is going to be an unforgettable evening where people can enjoy the excitement of the Kentucky Derby while also making a positive impact in our community,” said Jim Sackett, chair of the Wellington Community Foundation. “We’re excited to bring people together for an evening of fun, philanthropy and community spirit.”

In addition to the tickets, the event offers businesses and individuals the chance to make a deeper impact through sponsorship opportunities. Sponsors will align their brands with a cause that supports the local community, gaining visibility while contributing to meaningful projects.

Current sponsors, all of whom recognize the importance of supporting this philanthropic event, include Michael & Phyllis Gauger, Wellington Regional Medical Center, Jasmine Velez/Douglas Elliman, Katie Edwards-Walpole P.A., Wellington Florist, Star Wine & Spirits and Red Clover Farm & Nursery, as well as host venue Diamante Farms Dressage.

The culinary experience at the Wellington Derby Party is sure to impress. Renowned chefs will curate a mouthwatering selection of gourmet dishes, designed to enhance the evening’s refined atmosphere. From fine hors d’oeuvres to delectable main courses, guests can indulge in a dining experience that complements the event’s stylish vibe.

The spirit of the Kentucky Derby will fill the air, with the scent of mint juleps and the excitement of the race adding to the night’s energy. Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable evening with a purpose, the official Wellington Derby Party promises an experience you don’t want to miss.

Organizers encourage all those interested in attending to secure tickets early. The goal is to make the 2025 Wellington Derby Party another huge success, raising funds that directly benefit the Wellington community while providing guests with an unforgettable evening.

Don’t miss out on this special occasion to enjoy a night of elegance and entertainment while supporting the Wellington Community Foundation. Purchase your tickets today at www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available, with more information on the foundation’s web site.

To learn more, contact the Wellington Community Foundation at (561) 281-3603 or wellingtoncommunityfoundation@gmail.com.

GPL Reflects On 15 Years Celebrating Diversity In Wellington

By Rebecca Baldridge

As the Gay Polo League prepares to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the International Gay Polo Tournament in Wellington, it’s a good time to reflect on the enormity of what GPL founder Chip McKenney has achieved.

McKenney’s determination and leadership have built a singular organization that challenges stereotypes, promotes equality and expands access to a sport long considered elite. And while it may be the Gay Polo League, he stressed that the GPL is inclusive, open to anyone, regardless of sexual orientation.

“Our goal is to offer a rare space where everyone, LGBTQ+ and allies, feel comfortable being their authentic selves,” McKenney said. “We welcome others as we wish to be welcomed, and offer a safe, family-friendly space where everyone is free to enjoy the most beautiful of sports.”

McKenney also emphasized that the GPL would not exist if so many people along the way hadn’t demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity by contributing their support. “From the very beginning, I was lucky enough to meet wonderful people who wanted to help and be part of GPL’s evolution,” he said. “I’m thankful for the many people who have contributed to making the league what it is today, and I’m grateful that we can count on so much support as GPL continues to grow and evolve.”

Among those longstanding members is Jesse Lee Eller, CEO of Everbright Talent. “I discovered the Gay Polo League while searching for a community where my love for polo and my values could intersect,” Eller said. “From my very first match, I felt a profound sense of belonging and camaraderie that went far beyond the sport itself. Playing with GPL has enriched my life by introducing me to a vibrant and supportive community where authenticity is celebrated both on and off the field. It’s not just about polo; it’s about the friendships, shared experiences, and the joy of being part of something that champions inclusivity and passion.”

Through its visibility and advocacy, GPL sends a powerful message. It demonstrates how traditions can evolve, and how inclusivity can enrich even the most exclusive environments. It’s a shining example for other sports and organizations dedicated to the ideals of equity, diversity and equality.

All it took was one polo lesson. No, not even. Halfway through his first lesson, former show jumper McKenney pulled up his pony and had an epiphany. “Polo is a fantastic sport for gay people. I’m going to start a gay polo league,” he recalled thinking.

That was nearly 20 years ago. Looking at the organization today, it’s obvious that when McKenney has a brainwave, he makes things happen. From a few guys getting together for lessons at the Santa Barbara Polo Club, the GPL has grown to become the world’s only global LGBTQ+ polo league.

As a team sport, polo would offer a bonding experience that many gay men had missed out on during their school years. A gay polo league would create a safe and inclusive space to experience competition and camaraderie on the field.

With the idea firmly taken root, McKenney wasted no time getting the ball rolling. He called two friends on his way home from that first lesson, and they called two friends. In no time, a group of enthusiastic gay men and women were gathering monthly for lessons, arena polo, clinics and tailgates at the Santa Barbara Polo Club. With a fervent belief in building a solid foundation, McKenney focused heavily on skill-building clinics. The hard work paid off, and in 2008, the GPL was invited to play in a grass tournament at the Menlo Polo Club.

“We were so excited, you would have thought we were playing in the U.S. Open,” he recalled. “There we were in our shiny new boots and pristine whites, ready for action.”

The GPL not only fielded three teams but won the tournament, and the program was expanded to include three-day clinics. By 2009, the GPL had produced tournaments at many California polo clubs.

Not one to settle for the status quo, McKenney was thinking bigger. His ambitions were grand; he was determined that the GPL should play in Wellington, the center of polo during the winter high-goal season.

A conversation with Mason Phelps of the Phelps Media Group led to an article about the GPL. Intrigued, Polo Hall of Famer Joey Casey set out to help make their Wellington dreams come true. He introduced the GPL to Melissa Ganzi, owner of the Grand Champions Polo Club, and Argentine polo professional Juan Bollini.

“In the early years Joey, Melissa and Juan were incredible, introducing us to a superlative quality of polo that elevated our vision,” McKenney said.

The first International Gay Polo tournament took place at Grand Champions in 2010, and with enthusiastic support from the Ganzis, called Grand Champions home for the next four years.

In 2015, the tournament moved to the International Polo Club, the most famous polo venue in the United States. The storied Field One is where the world’s top professionals vie for glory.

“The GPL has allowed me to meet wonderful people from all walks of life and make friends who have become like family,” said Peter Secor, a longtime GPL member and executive with Harry Winston. “But winning on Field One is a crowning achievement for any polo player. There’s nothing like it.”

The league produced its annual tournament there for the next eight years.

In 2024, the tournament moved to the Patagones Polo Club, a breathtaking property where guests can enjoy spectacular outdoor art installations, as well as fast and open polo, an ever-expanding tailgate competition and luxurious hospitality.

Today, the Gay Polo League has welcomed players from more than 15 countries around the globe and has produced tournaments in London and St. Tropez. This July, the GPL will host its first ever tournament in Chantilly, France. The league also organizes an annual trip to Argentina, which includes the final of the Argentine Open, and offers members a chance to play for a week in Pilar, the polo capital of the world.

As the International Gay Polo Tournament prepares to celebrate this year’s milestone, it’s important to remember that the GPL is also deeply committed to its mission of giving back.

Over the past 15 years in Wellington, the organization has raised a total of more than $357,800 for organizations such as SAGE, OnePulse and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. The 2025 event will once again support the Elton John AIDS Foundation, hoping to top the $111,000 raised last year.

Learn more about the Gay Polo League at www.gaypolo.com.

International Gay Polo Tournament To Celebrate 15th Anniversary

By Rebecca Baldridge

This year the Gay Polo League will hit a milestone as it celebrates its 15th annual International Gay Polo Tournament in Wellington. As is only appropriate for such a significant anniversary, the event promises to be the biggest and best yet with several important additions this year.

The event will take place from Thursday, April 24 through Saturday, April 26 at the Patagones Polo Club. For the first time, six teams will hit the field instead of the traditional four, with two teams in the intermediate bracket and four in the senior bracket. Preliminary matches will be held on Friday, with the winners of the senior bracket games meeting on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. to vie for the Senator’s Cup. The runners-up will meet in the Founder’s Cup at 2 p.m. At the intermediate level, the two teams will play a preliminary match on Friday, then face off for the Futures Cup to kick off the tournament at 1 p.m. Saturday.

The addition of an intermediate bracket is intended to give less seasoned players an opportunity to gain valuable tournament experience, while the senior bracket will become even faster and more competitive. “Our goal is to continue helping players enhance their tournament skills while elevating the level of play to offer spectators a fast and open game,” GPL President & Founder Chip McKenney explained.

Fun Isn’t Limited to the Polo Field — The tournament will return to the Patagones Polo Club for this year’s anniversary event, and for the first time, the league will host an elegant black-tie dinner under the stars for players and their guests. As they dine al fresco, attendees can marvel at the breathtaking sculpture installation, courtesy of the Sladmore Gallery in London, with the meal to be followed by a candlelight concert.

On Friday night, April 25, the evening will be dedicated to raising funds for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. GPL members and guests, along with ticket holders, will trade black-tie for their most fashion-forward ensembles and their most outrageous wigs for GPL Polotini presents “Wigstock!” International DJ, singer and songwriter CJ Citizen Jane will be on hand with her unique blend of Latin rhythms, percussion and electronic sounds. Guests will enjoy an open bar and delicious hors d’oeuvres when they’re not grooving on the dance floor.

Saturday Offers Something for Everyone — There’s not much more fun than watching polo on a sunny Saturday afternoon, champagne glass in hand. This year, the GPL will be offering the best opportunity yet to do it in style in the Cherry Knoll Farm VIP tent.

Sheltered under the welcoming roof of the VIP tent, guests can take advantage of an open bar and enjoy an expanded buffet. In addition to shrimp Creole and smoked salmon, the buffet will include a carving station and a seafood extravaganza, as well as savory sides and luscious desserts.

As if the polo weren’t enough, the 2025 tournament will offer entertainment, including the Gay Marching Band, Miami Cheer and the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida. GPL is strongly committed to allowing other organizations to use its established platform to increase awareness of their talents. In addition, spectators will be invited onto the field at half time to enjoy the traditional champagne divot stomp.

Partnering for Diversity in Sport — One of the beloved highlights of the International Gay Polo Tournament is the annual tailgate competition. With 64 spaces available, expect plenty of participants and a flamboyant exhibition of creativity. Gates open for tailgate ticketholders at 8 a.m. to allow ample time to set up the often-elaborate installations. Attendees are invited to visit all of the tailgates, where the fun lies in sparking new friendships while enjoying the extravagant and often witty displays.

The United States Tennis Association will sponsor this year’s tailgate competition, as both the USTA and the GPL have parallel goals. Polo and tennis have traditionally been viewed as “country club sports,” and each organization is working to change perceptions and increase diversity in their sports. Each reach out to diverse audiences and the goal is the same — to ensure that all feel welcome to participate in an atmosphere where each person’s unique contributions are valued.

Tailgaters play a special role in helping to create the tournament’s party atmosphere, and their hospitality is an essential part of the GPL experience. McKenney noted that the tailgaters “bring spirit and value to our culture. Their buy-in through planning and investing their time, creativity and money is as important as the matches in enhancing visibility.”

Visibility is the essence of the International Gay Polo Tournament, as it leads to awareness, stimulates conversation and promotes understanding. Creating this path to acceptance is the very cornerstone of inclusion. The Gay Polo League is proud to offer an environment of inclusivity and acceptance where the LGBTQ+ community, allies and families can come together for a wholesome and uplifting day of sport.

Learn more about the Gay Polo League at www.gaypolo.com.