A blast from the past made this exhibit happen…

When Brandy Brownlee worked at the Spady Museum as its museum educator, her energy and influence were unmistakable. She brought a level of friendliness and warmth to every person who entered, and her laughter and sing-song voice echoed through the building. When she left, not only did she take her infectious attitude, but she also took her knowledge and expertise in art history and presentation.

Of course, she left to have her baby boy, so we were happy for her… but that experience can only be channeled into play dates and Sesame Street for so long.

When you come to visit the new “Local Treasures of African-American History” now on display at the Spady Museum, you’ll see Brandy’s return in every piece. She curated the show, which originated from the museum’s archives of donations and gifts, which she also helped to organize and manage. The masks, sculptures, dolls and shields of the exhibit were selected and displayed according to Brandy’s vision, and reflect the travels and contributions of Delray Beach’s globally influenced citizenry.

Shows such as these illustrate the treasures that are inherent to Delray Beach and the appreciation our residents have for the history and culture of Africa. “Local Treasures of African-American History” also illustrates the talent of our staff, so please come take in the beauty of Africa and the gifts of Brandy Brownlee.

We’re so glad she decided to come back one more time!

THANK YOU, FPL!!

Florida Power & Light people don’t play around.

They show up ready and don’t waste time. Yes, they are a friendly lot, joking and laughing. But when plants need removing, mulch needs laying and weeds need pulling, they are a focused and dedicated group of individuals, working with the utmost efficiency and speed.

That’s why when they arrived at 8 a.m.  on March 9 for their “Power to Care” volunteer effort at the Spady Museum, things started on time and ended a scant two hours later. FPL employees, sporting lime green T-shirts and safety gear, transformed the Spady Museum complex into a freshened, manicured space, replete with new shrubs and plantings from the Delray Beach Plant Center.

FPL Area Manager of Corporate External Affairs Ethel Williams kicked off the effort with introductions of Spady Museum staff and leaders – Vera Farrington, Charlene Jones and Michael Brady – then safety goggles and leather gloves  were pulled on, and dirt started flying. Old shrubs and bushes were bagged up and replaced with new plants and fresh mulch, placed around the museum and the Williams Cottage. Everything was watered, swept and neatly put away. Santa’s elves have competition!

FPL has been a supportive partner to the museum and a premier sponsor of the “Ride & Remember” Trolley Tour. The relationship has yielded a continuing collaboration, which led to the “Power to Care” event. A group of about 20 employees and their family members donated their time, elbow grease and ideas to making the Spady Museum more attractive and alive with natural beauty – and for that we say “THANK YOU, FPL!” from the bottom of our museum hearts.