Random Thoughts…

Dare 2 Be Great Scholars Believe in 'paying it forward'

Dare 2 Be Great Scholars Believe in ‘paying it forward’

This is the time of year that the Dare 2 Be Great board pours over applications for scholarships.
It’s a humbling experience to read through the resumes and essays of these incredible young men and women.
Many of the essays are inspirational and more than a few are heartbreaking.
The common thread seems to be resilience. It just seems that some people are built by adversity. They succeed regardless of life’s circumstances and overcome hurdles. It’s almost as if they succeed because they are determined to live better lives.
These kids inspire me. I wish we could help them all. It breaks my heart that we can’t. We’ll keep you posted on the Class of ’16.

It’s a Miracle
Congratulations to the Miracle League of Palm Beach County which pulled off its first successful dinner on the diamond last week.
Julia and Jeff Kadel and their team of volunteers have done a remarkable job bringing the great game of baseball to kids who might not otherwise have an ability to play.
So good to see this wonderful non-profit grow and thrive. And I’m pleased to see Celsius, a company I’m involved with, step up and sponsor.

An Affair to Remember

We hope you’ll visit the Delray Affair this weekend.
The 54th annual event is a great chance to see friends and to adopt a rescue pet.
That’s right.
We’ve adopted two pets at the Affair over the years: Randy and Sophie.
Both little dogs enriched our families beyond words. We also hope the city doesn’t “fee” this event to death.

It’s Delray’s signature event, a tradition and helps our Chamber of Commerce stay healthy and more than ever this city needs a healthy chamber.

Hello Rhys, Goodbye Kim
We wish Tech Runway’s founding director Kim Gramm well on her new job in Texas.
Kim did a lot to put FAU’s ambitious project on the map.
She will be missed.

We are excited to see our Leadership Florida friend Rhys Williams step into the role of leading Tech Runway.

Thanks, Alyona

We’ll also miss Alyona Ushe well as she departs Delray’s innovative Arts Garage.
Alyona won’t be far away as she will continue to work her magic in Pompano Beach.
It’s not easy to start something and make it relevant. Alyona put the Arts Garage on the cultural map in South Florida creating buzz and staging lots of memorable shows and performances.
She made an impact.

Weekend Best Bets: Happy Anniversary Arts Garage

Arts Garage Executive Director Alyona Ushe has made lots happen in the past three years.

Arts Garage Executive Director Alyona Ushe has made lots happen in the past three years.

Gala Gig III Night of the Gypsies
It’s hard to believe but the Delray Arts Garage is still a toddler.
Despite awards, tons of press, unforgettable performances and a tad of controversy–the organization is only three years old.
Three years running and just getting warmed up!

The  Arts Garage celebrates Gala Gig III, their third anniversary in true Gypsy style this Saturday.
Come drink and dine with the lights, colors, sounds and entertainment that only gypsies can deliver.
The anniversary party takes place April 5 and will include delectable food,  vivacious entertainment and enthralling works of art.
Oh and there will be music too–the exciting sounds of Washington, D.C.-based Trio Caliente which has vocals in Spanish, Portuguese, Catalan, and English set to a wide array of Latin grooves.
Trio Caliente’s sound is reminiscent of The Gypsy Kings, Buena Vista Social Club, Strunz & Farah, and Jobim— but with a flavor all their own.
“…be seduced by the blend of fiery guitar work…rumba beats, bossa nova rhythms, flamenco-tinted guitar flourishes and romantic ballads…evocative vocals…shimmering guitars…” – The Washington Post

Single ticket: $100 per person | Table for 6: $550
Visit www.artsgarage.org for tickets and information

Real Men Bake
On Sunday, April 6 at 6 p.m. head on over to the Arts Garage for some tasty treats.

Presented by GFWC Woman’s Club of Delray Beach, Real Men Bake is an all-you-can eat feast of baked goods (sweet or savory) prepared by about 30 “bakers” — men who come from all walks of life. There may be one or two actual chefs, but most of the men are just real good cooks.
The best “bakers” will receive prizes, and the public selects the best.
While you are there, for another dollar or two, you can take a chance on a 50/50 raffle.
GFWC Woman’s Club of Delray Beach is a diverse group of women dedicated to volunteering in the greater Delray Beach community. The Club actively supports the Caring Kitchen, the Achievement Center for Children, scholarships for HS graduates, and the Veterans Administration to name but a few.
Admission is $20.
Film Series
At yourdelrayboca we like to extend the weekend until at least Tuesday.
That’s why we are telling you about a film series you won’t want to be miss.
Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library – Film Series

When: Tue, April 8, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Where: Downtown Boca Raton Library
Description:Film Series “A Separation” 2nd Tuesday of each month @ 6:30pm
Have a safe and fun weekend! Go Gators!