Wellington The Magazine September 2010 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

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contents

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departments 12 14 16 18

Wellington Social Scene Justin Bartlett Memorial Golf Tournament At Madison Green Wellington Classic Dressage In The Tropics At Brandon Center Bands With Local Ties Participate In The Warped Tour At Cruzan Back-To-School Bonanza At Wellington’s Whole Foods Market

44 Wellington At Home Steve and Sandy Axelrod have lived in Wellington for 27 years. But it wasn’t until son Brian was out of the house that they purchased their current central Wellington townhome. Over 13 years, they have slowly converted it into an artist’s paradise. by Deborah Welky

52 Wellington Table For great steaks, seafood and chops, visit Lock Stock and Barrel Restaurant Bar & Grill. The family-owned restaurant, located on Forest Hill Blvd. in Palm Springs, offers patrons delicious meals in a beautiful setting. By Lauren miró

20 WELLINGTON WATCH 55 Wellington DINING GUIDE 58 Wellington Calendar 62 around wellington ON THE COVER Palms West Chamber of Commerce Chairman Carmine Priore III and Vice Chair for Economic Development Susan Giddings are working on the Economic Development Task Force initiative. Photo By BILL BARBOSA Photo Designs Inc.

features 22 Economic Development Task Force A task force created by one of the area’s key business organizations, steered by a panel of stakeholders in cooperation with local governments, seeks to map an economic future for the region that will create commerce and maintain the unique character of Wellington and its surrounding communities. By ron bukley

30 Randy Pfeiffer, movie Executive In his younger days, longtime Wellington resident Randy Pfeiffer played guitar in rock bands and even cut a record. However, those artistic endeavors gave way to a career in finance. Most Wellington residents identify Pfeiffer with Pfeiffer Financial Services or his long association with the Wellington Rotary Club. Still, once an artist, always an artist. He’s now transitioning into the movie industry, and his first feature film has begun to pick up awards. by Deborah Welky

35 La La Land: Fun For Kids And Parents When kids want to play and parents want to get away, La La Land provides a relaxing experience for parents while opening up a world of fun to kids. Now open in the Pointe at Wellington Green, La La Land is a playground and café that caters to parents and kids under age six. Parents can enjoy a latte or cappuccino while their children explore an indoor wonderland of activities and experiences. By Lauren miró

40 A Chat With Mark Llano Of Source One Mark Llano has successfully navigated careers as an investment banker, a highly decorated U.S. Marine and president and CEO of Source One Distributors, a Wellington-based company that has become one of the country’s top providers of gear to American soldiers, private industry and law enforcement agencies. He is the ninth nominee for Wellington The Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award. By matthew auerbach WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Wellington The Magazine

A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

Planning The Region’s Economic Future volume

What does the future hold for Wellington and the surrounding areas? That is a question long pondered by many. Now, the Palms West Chamber of Commerce has created an independent panel to study the question and figure out ways to make the future more profitable and business friendly. This Economic Development Task Force — made up of business leaders, government representatives and chamber officials — has been meeting, trying to better plan for the future. In this issue, we speak to a number of the people behind the task force and learn some of the goals of this important venture.

7, number 9 | september 2010

publisher/executive editor

Joshua I. Manning associate publisher

Dawn Rivera graphic designer

Suzanne Summa circulation coordinator

Betty Buglio bookkeeping

Carol Lieberman account managers

Evie Edwards Wanda Glockson Scott Hyber Nicola Jimenez photography

Bill Barbosa Bea Bolton Gary Kane Susan Lerner Abner Pedraza Gregory Ratner contributors

Matthew Auerbach Jason Budjinski Ron Bukley Denise Fleischman Lauren Miró Carol Porter Deborah Welky Wellington The Magazine

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31 Wellington, FL 33414 Phone: (561) 793-7606 Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.WellingtonTheMagazine.com

Published by Wellington The Magazine, LLC Barry S. Manning chairman/chief executive officer Maureen Budjinski vice president Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2010, all rights reserved by Wellington The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

8 september 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

My good friend Randy Pfeiffer is better known to Wellington residents as a local financial expert and longtime Rotarian, but nowadays he’s trying a new role on for size — movie executive. His Cinema Island Productions currently has two film projects in the works: the award-winning Angel Camouflaged, which could be in theaters later this year, and Vision, a story based on the life of fellow Wellington resident Michael Chastain. In this issue, we recount Pfeiffer’s unlikely foray into films. Our Wellington Entrepreneur of the Year series continues in September with a profile of Mark Llano, whose Wellington-based Source One Distributors is a key provider of gear to American soldiers and law enforcement agencies. This veteran of the U.S. Marines explains why he chose Wellington as base of operations for his company, which has accounts across the nation. Also, if you’re a parent or grandparent looking for an entertaining activity you can enjoy with your young ones, look no further than La La Land, the new indoor playground and café located in the Pointe at Wellington Green. Featured this issue, La La Land is the first of what CEO Devin Kalvaitis hopes to turn into a chain of locations where parents can enjoy a refreshment and mingle with other adults while their children explore a world of imagination. Wellington at Home visits with longtime Wellington residents Sandy and Steve Axelrod, who have turned their central Wellington townhome into a true artist’s paradise, filled with bold colors, unique art and fascinating furnishings. Wellington Table heads east to Palm Springs, stopping by Lock Stock and Barrel, a family-owned restaurant located on Forest Hill Blvd. Lock Stock and Barrel merges comforting décor with great steaks, chops and seafood. I close this month’s letter with a note about one of our company’s other ventures, the new TCIN.TV Internet television station currently broadcasting four live programs a week on Sunday and Thursday evenings. The shows are also available anytime on demand. It’s a new concept, developing niche programming using local talent. A visit to www.tcin.tv will let you see how Wellington The Magazine writers Deborah Welky (Elsie Bell’s Secrets) and Matthew Auerbach (Night Shul) look on the other side of the camera. Check it out and let us know what you think! Joshua Manning Publisher/Executive Editor ﬁ

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Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

Inaugural Justin Bartlett Memorial Golf Tourney At Madison Green The inaugural Justin Bartlett Memorial Golf Tournament was held Saturday, July 31 at the Links at Madison Green in Royal Palm Beach. The Justin Bartlett Foundation donated proceeds to A Second Chance Puppies and Kittens Rescue, a cause near to Bartlett, a Wellington man who lost his life in a 2008 car accident. Approximately 120 people signed up to play golf and support the Justin Bartlett Foundation and the Bartlett family.

Jamie Garris, Brittney Thomasson and Sydney Garris donate money to the Justin Bartlett Foundation.

Mark Ellis, Brent Andrews, Chris Parsons and Corey Sherk.

Jacob, Joshua and Rick Bartlett and Dirk Garris on the 18th hole.

Masi Saari, Phyllis and Mike Gauger, and Rusty Lamm.

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A Second Chance volunteers Tammy and Kayla Long with Daphne and Ukon.

Rick and Karen Bartlett with a memory box presented to them by Dana Silva.

Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

Wellington Classic Dressage In The Tropics At Brandon Center

Team competition first-place winners Hannah Brummer on Awesome Blossom, Heidi Basler on Donna Karan, Danielle Barber on Just Jack and Caitlin Klueber on Lucky Lord with show manager Ann Sterling Hart.

Olympian Bent Jensen and Cassidy placed first in the Prix St. Georges test.

Dr. Kristy Truebenbach Lund rides Le Savant.

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Dream of Love (a.k.a. Lover Boy) with Katrin Dagge.

Wellington Classic Dressage in the Tropics was held in the covered arena at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center on Saturday and Sunday, July 24 and 25. The event featured two Great American/ USDF qualifying competitions from Training Level testing up through Grand Prix. Visit www. wellingtonclassicdressage.com for more info.

First place Intermediaire 1 Freestyle winner Chris Curiger with Helios.

Chloe Hatch gives Shela Lark a cooling rinse down.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Lauren Mirรณ

Bands With Wellington Ties Participate In The Warped Tour At Cruzan

Hey Monday bassist Jersey Moriarty sings backup.

Wellington High School alum Cassadee Pope sings with her band Hey Monday.

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Adrianne Bowers, Preston Ramos, Billy Hart and Justin Gianoutsos enjoy the Warped Tour.

Rumor Has It guitarist John Fiorentino.

Chris Gentile of Rumor Has It addresses the crowd.

Fans flocked to the Cruzan Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 24 to see local and national bands as part of the Warped Tour. Local bands included Rumor Has It and Wellington natives Hey Monday. For more information, visit www. vanswarpedtour.com.

Sarah Piles and Elizabeth Reilly enjoy a day at the amphitheater.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Jessica Gregoire and courtesy Whole Foods Market

Back-To-School Bonanza At Wellington’s Whole Foods Market

Tatiana and Jonathan Celestin with McGruff the Crime Dog.

James, Tara, Kayla and Taylor Vernic of Wellington with new ID cards.

Garrett Wanamaker with Whole Foods’ Lauren Belinsky in front of a fire truck.

The PBSO’s Denise Frazier aboard MoMo.

A magician was on hand to entertain the children.

Whole Foods Market in Wellington held its annual Back-to-School Bonanza on Saturday, Aug. 14. The storewide event featured food sample stations, free ID cards courtesy of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, a fire truck tour and much more, including a breakfast barbecue, which raised $300 for the Police Athletic League. The store donated an extra $200 to the PAL.

Barbara Masi from the PBSO’s Animal Kindness Program with Dillon, an Irish wolfhound.

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

Wellington Watch

BY joshua manning, lauren miró & ron bukley

Wellington Adjusts Speed Limits Throughout The Village People traveling on Wellington roads should be prepared to check their speed now that the Wellington Village Council has decided to change the speed limit on several roadways. Council members, concerned with safety and roads being used as a cut-through for drivers, ordered a speed study on 22 roads. In August, the council voted to alter the speed limit on seven roads, raising or lowering each of them to 40 mph. The speed limits on Forest Hill Blvd. and Big Blue Trace between South Shore and Southern boulevards were lowered from 45 mph to 40 mph. Stribling Way from Lyons Road to Forest Hill Blvd. was set at 40 mph, a change from 35 mph east of State Road 7 and 45 mph west of SR 7. Greenview Shores Blvd., which formerly had a 35 mph limit south of Wellington Trace and a 45 mph limit north to Binks Forest Drive, was changed to 40 mph for its entire length. Aero Club Drive between Greenbriar Blvd. and Binks Forest Drive

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was changed from 45 mph to 40. Wellington Trace west of Forest Hill Blvd. and east of Paddock Drive was lowered to 40 mph, but raised from 35 mph to 40 between Greenbriar Blvd. and Paddock Drive. Mayor Darell Bowen said that roads leading in and out of the village are different from roads within the village and should retain a higher speed limit. “They’re getting people out of here in the morning and getting them home in the afternoon,” he said. However, Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Carmine Priore said he supported the lower speed limits because Wellington’s roads are used to bypass more heavily traveled roads. “It’s not just our residents who are using it as a bypass,” he said. “It’s those people who come and use our roadways as through ways.” The council voted 4-1 to approve the changes with Bowen dissenting. Primary Election Results — An unusually active primary election season drew to a

close in August, and while Rick Scott’s dramatic win over Bill McCollum in the GOP gubernatorial primary and Kendrick Meek’s thrashing of billionaire Jeff Greene in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary grabbed national headlines, a number of Wellington races were also decided. In his bid to earn a second term, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria defeated Glades activist Michael Jackson in a Democratic primary. Santamaria now faces Republican John Carroll and independent candidate Andy Schaller in November. Expect plenty of new faces on the Palm Beach County School Board come November. In the race to replace Dr. Sandra Richmond in District 6, retired educator Marcia Andrews and businessman Dean Grossman are headed to a November runoff. In the District 3 race, education activist Karen Brill with 36 percent of the vote topped a five-candidate field, well out-polling longtime incumbent Bill Graham, who took

22 percent. With three other candidates eliminated, Brill and Graham will go head to head in November. In closely watched State Senate primaries, former Wellington Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto won the Republican nod in District 27, while State Rep. Kevin Rader of Delray Beach took the Democratic contest. They will face off in November to replace retiring State Sen. Dave Aronberg. In District 25, the other Wellington-area State Senate seat, State Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff defeated State Rep. Carl Domino for the GOP nomination. She will face State Rep. Kelly Skidmore and independent candidate Miranda Rosenberg in November. The winner will replace Senate President Jeff Atwater, who is seeking higher office. In two area State House races, District 88 incumbent Mark Pafford survived a Democratic primary challenge from Wellington restaurant owner Ron Miranda, while Tami Donnally won the right to challenge freshman State Rep. Joseph Abruzzo in District 85. Finally, area congressional primaries set up

a November rematch between incumbent Ron Klein and Republican challenger Allen West in District 22, while Palm City businessman Jim Horn defeated Wellington school teacher Ed Tautiva to earn the right to take on freshman Congressman Tom Rooney in District 16. Wellington Plans For Redevelopment — The Wellington Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board recently discussed the creation of a new zoning district that would provide for redevelopment in aging neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Residential Renaissance Overlay Zoning District would change land-use designations to attract potential investors. “This ordinance is specifically drafted to aid in the redevelopment of our neighborhoods,” Economic Development Director Martin Hodgkins said at the Aug. 11 meeting. The new district would allow minor commercial uses in the neighborhoods, such as daycare centers, and allow for the creation of live-work residential units. It also would

allow increases in residential density to encourage redevelopment of older residential units. The measure is part of Wellington’s Economic Development Initiative. The zoning could apply to as many as 15 Wellington neighborhoods. The areas listed in the staff report that could qualify for the new district include: the 12th Fairway, Folkstone Circle, Goldenrod Road/ Hyacinth Place, Hawthorne Place, Periwinkle Place/Lily Court, White Pine Drive and Yarmouth Circle. PZA Board Member Elizabeth Mariaca was concerned about existing tenants who might be displaced. “We’re talking about folks who are good tenants now being displaced because of this,” she said. “I’m not sure I understand how that’s going to improve that neighborhood.” Hodgkins noted that most tenants have leases and contracts that would have to be adhered to by developers. The board made several suggestions for changes, such as a minimum lot size for a commercial project. The ordinance will return in a more complete form at a later date.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Economic Development Task Force Group Aims To Strengthen ‘The Heart Of Palm Beach County’ Story by Ron Bukley Photos by Bill Barbosa/Photo Designs Inc.

A task force created by one of the area’s key business organizations, steered by a panel of stakeholders in cooperation with local governments, seeks to map an economic future for the region that will create commerce and maintain the unique character of Wellington and its surrounding communities. The Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Committee has sponsored the creation of an Economic Development Task Force.

accomplished already. One key objective is to help the region retain the family-friendly environment that brought residents here in the first place.

Current Palms West Chamber Chairman Carmine Priore III has volunteered to chair the task force, which is independent of the chamber.

“In order for it to fit, we’ve all got to be working together as a group,” Giddings said. “One of the most fantastic things about our region is the uniqueness of it, the difference of these communities, the lifestyle you can have if you’re in Royal Palm or The Acreage, or Loxahatchee or Wellington or Greenacres.”

The members of the task force are from Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Greenacres, Loxahatchee Groves and The Acreage. Its membership includes municipal and county officials, along with other stakeholders in the region. “This is truly bringing different groups of people together to work as a team and develop the opportunities to further expand and develop our area and allow it to economically prosper,” Priore said, adding that the task force will “also look at how we can sustain that prosperity.” The goal is to create strength through one, unified organization, Priore said. “We refer to our region now as the ‘Heart of Palm Beach County,’” he said. “That’s the basic area that the Palms West Chamber of Commerce supports and covers.” An organizational meeting to get the ball rolling was held in March. “The first meeting was to introduce the individual members to each other and make sure they understood the objectives of the task force,” Priore said. “We invited everyone in the community to attend, and we had a great turnout.” Priore stressed that participation in the task force concept is not limited to the panel’s membership. “We invite and encourage participation from the community,” he said. Susan Giddings, the chamber’s vice chair for economic development, has been impressed by what the initiative has

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While Priore chairs the task force, attorney Frank Gonzalez serves as vice chair. The stakeholder steering group includes Dorian Bordenave as chair, Nat Roberts as vice chair and members Bland Eng, Jody Gleason and Kelly Smallridge. Giddings and John Spillane sit on the task force as representatives of the chamber’s Economic Development Committee. Aside from the task force, Giddings noted that much of the groundwork is being done by the Economic Development Committee. “They are meeting and putting in an enormous amount of hours,” she said. “We actually meet every other week, and sometimes every week, like when we host our business forums. They are really the driving force with what’s being done. They discuss and come up with goals and objectives.” The task force has joined together municipalities, private business and corporations to work together to make systems easier to navigate when people are struggling. The advantage of having diverse stakeholders is that governmental and business enterprise can work together, Giddings said. What happens in Wellington, for example, affects all the other communities in the Palms West Chamber area.

Among the business leaders working with the Economic Development Task Force are: (L-R) Jody Gleason, executive director of the Palm Beach County Education Commission; Dorian Bordenave, general manager of the Mall at Wellington Green; accountant John Spillane; Palms West Chamber of Commerce Chairman Carmine Priore III; Susan Giddings, the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vice chair for economic development; Bland Eng, CEO of Palms West Hospital; and attorney Frank Gonzalez. WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ september 2010

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“We’re trying to build a strong regional effort that will build a road map for the next 20 years, where everyone is working together and not separately, and that everything is compatible,” Giddings said. Priore said the task force will help carry out his primary goals during his year as chamber chairman. “One of the opportunities I have as chairman of the chamber is to provide areas of focus and objectives for 2010-11,” said Priore, who works for Florida Power & Light and also sits on Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board. “The three areas that I feel very passionate about is, first, economic development; second, education; and third, leadership… The bottom line is that economic development is a primary focus in providing opportunity.” Priore said the effort will both bring in new businesses and help existing businesses in their current location or expand into other locations in the area. One key goal of the task force includes securing more area employment centers with a focus on cutting-edge and emerging (Right) Susan Giddings, the Palms West Chamber’s vice chair for economic development, has been instrumental in getting the new task force organized.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

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industries. Early successes in this area have been to get local governments to streamline development processes and identify “shovel-ready” land. Another goal is to improve educational opportunities across all levels, with a special focus on getting more opportunities for higher education and career education. Education ties in to the task force’s mission in several ways, first providing educational opportunities for everyone, creating a better-educated workforce, but also in how educational institutions can further economic development by their presence in the area. Gleason, executive director of the Palm Beach County Education Commission, stressed that the integration of education with economic development is crucial to success. “Successful economic development relies on quality education,” Gleason said. “The Palm Beach County Education Commission offers proactive oversight and integration of education services provided by both public and private educational institutions, prekindergarten through post-secondary, to respond to economic development initiatives and changing workforce needs.” (Right) Working to spur economic development in the western communities has been a key goal of Carmine Priore III during his year as chairman of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Bordenave, general manager of the Mall at Wellington Green, became involved with the Economic Development Task Force after seeing a need for a primary resource to help stimulate economic development. “The purpose of the task force is to develop a goal-oriented five-year and 10-year plan to sustain and encourage economic growth,” she said. “The main focus will be business retention and expansion. Our goal is to create a vision for what this growth plan should be and still expound on the uniqueness and diversity of all of our communities.” Gonzalez has long been interested in the economic health of the region. “With the recent decline in real estate values, and consolidation and relocation of local corporate employment centers, I, like many others, am concerned about the long-term sustainability of our area,” he said. “I have been a proponent of developing a strategic plan to not only survive the existing economic downturn, but to provide the foundation for continued growth.” When approached to participate in the task force, Gonzalez quickly accepted. “I very much look forward to working alongside fellow business leaders and governmental officials to help lay down the framework for economic sustainability and growth,” he said. Some associate the words “economic development” with uncontrolled growth, but Gonzalez said that the task force’s goal is sustainability through controlled and directed growth. “My vision for our region is not to abandon the family-oriented quality of our communities that drew many of us here initially,” he said. “Instead, we should embrace it, not sacrifice it, and build around those industries and economic centers already in place. These 28 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

‘In order for it to fit, we’ve all got to be working together as a group. One of the most fantastic things about our region is the uniqueness of it, the difference of these communities, the lifestyle you can have if you’re in Royal Palm or The Acreage, or Loxahatchee or Wellington or Greenacres.’ Susan Giddings, Palms West Chamber Vice Chair For economic development

should be the building blocks for existing business retention and expansion.” For example, Gonzalez was enthusiastic about Wellington’s plans to build on the region’s already strong system of hospitals and other healthcare infrastructure. “The Village of Wellington has elected to expand upon such industry by attempting to establish a Medical Arts District,” he noted. “The proposed Medical Arts District would, among other things, add an education component to our healthcare industry which, in turn, would create additional health-related jobs and businesses.” Eng, CEO of Palms West Hospital, also feels that healthcare is crucial to the area’s future. “I look forward to working with the members of the Economic Development Task Force and the Palms West Chamber to further this initiative,” he said. “Although healthcare has changed dramatically in the past few years and

will continue to do so in the future, one constant remains — healthcare and its various facets will be a vital part of our local community’s present and future economy.” Spillane, who runs a local accounting firm, has lived and worked in the western communities for more than 30 years and has seen many changes during that time. “I believe that it is really important to plan what our communities will look like over the next 30 years,” he said. “It is my hope that if all of the government officials and business leaders intentionally plan what industries and educational facilities we will need, working together we can continue to enjoy the family lifestyle that we call our home.” While the Palms West Chamber launched the effort, support from the entire community will be necessary to ensure success. The task force, in essence, is a tool to help secure the region’s future, Priore said. “Our obligation is to be visible as a chamber and to be out there and demonstrate our leadership, helping our area and our businesses prosper, providing those opportunities,” he said. At a public meeting in August, the task force saw a presentation on efforts to map available land for economic development and discussed regional transportation issues. The group’s next public meeting is set for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 1 at a location to be announced. For more information on the task force or the chamber’s other economic development programs, e-mail Giddings at economicdevelopment@palmswest.com or call her at (561) 753-7296.

Shelley Sandler Realtor/Associate

(561) 371-1075

shelleysells4u@bellsouth.net

Illustrated Properties

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ September 2010

Randy and Leslie Pfeiffer with fellow Wellington resident Michael Chastain (center). Chastain’s story of being a blind football player started the Pfeiffers on their path to the movie business. (Below) Angel Camouflaged director Michael Givens checks his shot. (Bottom) Scenes from the award-winning independent film.

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30 September September2010 2010••WELLINGTON WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 30

Wellington’s Randy Pfeiffer Relishes His New Role As A Movie Executive Story by Deborah Welky

Photos by Abner Pedraza and Courtesy Cinema Island Productions

During his high school and college days, longtime Wellington resident Randy Pfeiffer played guitar in rock bands and even cut a record. However, those youthful artistic endeavors gave way to a career in finance. “I was good with numbers and ended up working with an investment banking firm when I graduated,” he recalled. Indeed, most Wellington residents identify Pfeiffer with Pfeiffer Financial Services or his long association with the Wellington Rotary Club. Still, once an artist, always an artist. “I had been wanting to get into the movie business since I was young,” he said. “So now I’m transitioning into the movie industry.” Pfeiffer’s Cinema Island Productions is a motion picture and music production company with offices in Wellington and Weston, in Broward County. It is involved in major motion picture production, commercial filming, distribution, literary publishing and music. Pfeiffer serves as president and managing director. Other officers include Matteo Cucchiara as CEO, Ken Dalton as director of development and production, and Bruce Livergood as vice president. “The whole industry is a lot more fun than financial services,” Pfeiffer said. “Our insurance agency is more of a financial company that deals in guaranteed investments. Essentially, we sell annuities.”

(Ab0ve) The movie poster for Angel Camouflaged. (Below center) Filming on location in California. (Bottom) Dilana, director Michael Givens and actor Warrick Grier and camera operator have some fun on the set.

But even though he’s “transitioning” into movie production, Randy still is good with numbers, particularly the number four — because that’s how many awards Cinema Island Productions’ first motion picture, Angel Camouflaged, received at the Action On Film International Film Festival in Pasadena, Calif., one of the world’s top 25 film festivals as rated by Movie magazine. The film’s female lead, singer/songwriter Dilana, was declared Best Actress; James Brolin took Best Supporting Actor; and director/cinematographer Michael Givens received two awards, one for Best Cinematographer and the other for Best Art for a Feature Film for the movie poster he created. Other keys to WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Angel’s success are the musicians in the production — the iconic Marshall Tucker Band, rock ’n’ roller Patty Smyth, blues artist James Harmon and rapper Kurtis Blow.

left eye had lost all vision due to macular degeneration. Yet talent, perseverance and constant encouragement allowed him to become a football star, despite his blindness.

Cinema Island Productions won just about every category for which it was nominated. It was off to quite a start. But how?

Chastain started and starred in the final championship game against an undefeated rival for his high school’s homecoming, eventually leading his school to victory. For his exploits as a blind football player, he was honored by the National Football League and presented with a plaque by Bill Cosby.

Although Pfeiffer had done radio shows regarding finance, he got into the movie business through his wife. Leslie Pfeiffer is a member of the Wellington Art Society, as was one Matthew DeGennaro. DeGennaro had written a screenplay about another Wellingtonian — Michael Chastain — whose story was so compelling that Pfeiffer felt he had to take it on as a movie project. Chastain grew up in Troy, Mich., where he was blinded in his right eye following a childhood accident. By eighth grade, his

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The movie Vision will recount the struggles that made Chastain a football legend. But there’s more. Since that game, Chastain went to college and, ultimately, founded “Adventure Bound,” a nonprofit wilderness hiking and mountain climbing club for blind youth. “I use my hearing like a radar,” Chastain said. “They say when you lose your sight,

your hearing takes over. That’s not true. It’s just that people use their sight as a substitute for the other four senses.” Chastain was supposed to wrestle in the 1980 Olympic Games in Moscow, which the United States boycotted. Through that, he met Arthur Jones, the late inventor of the Nautilus machine. Jones invited Chastain to Fort Lauderdale to help him make educational films to develop self-esteem through exercises for handicapped people. While working out in 1986, Chastain was badly injured in a gym accident. He suffered a fracture of the fifth vertebrae and became paralyzed from the waist down. Against all odds, and with motivation from Marc Buoniconti (paralyzed son of Miami Dolphins Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti), Chastain overcame his handicap to walk again. After the surgery, Chastain recalled his

Leslie and Randy Pfeiffer of Wellington on the set of Angel Camouflaged with actor James Brolin.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ september 2010

(L-R) Director Michael Givens instructs actors Carlos Bernard and Tessie Santiago; the world-famous Marshall Tucker Band on the set of Angel Camouflaged; singer/songwriter Dilana Robichaux stars in the movie.

determination when doctors told him he might not walk again. “I decided to work my butt off to see if I could get out of my wheelchair and onto a walker,” he said. “When I got onto the walker, I thought, ‘If I could just get on two canes.’ One week later, I wanted to use just one cane. Then I decided I didn’t want to use a cane at all.” Currently, Chastain lives in Wellington, where he has been a manager at Club FitnessWorks since it opened 14 years ago. While Chastain’s story brought Pfeiffer into the movie business, Angel Camouflaged beat Vision to the big screen. Directed by Michael Givens, Angel Camouflaged includes an impressive cast. Aside from Dilana and Brolin, the acting talent includes Warrick Grier (The Scorpion King: Rise of a Warrior), Carlos Bernard (24) and Terry Serpico (Army Wives). Dilana stars as Scottie, a singer who inherits a rundown bar called Kokonuts and labors to revive the ramshackle tavern and rekindle her passion for music. Dilana composed and performed nine songs for the soundtrack. If Angel Camouflaged is any indication, the making of Vision could take some time. “We started it right after real estate collapsed and then the market collapsed,” Pfeiffer recalled. “And while we were trying to raise money for the football movie, my friend and business partner Ken Dalton found a script written by a friend about a bar in the Keys called Kokonuts.” From there, the movie took on a life of 34 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

its own. “Our original plan was to shoot the ‘Kokonuts’ film and send it straight to DVD and foreign markets as a low-budget film,” Pfeiffer recalled. “But it got bigger, bigger, bigger and bigger and became a whole different animal.” Angel was selected for viewing at the Cannes International Independent Film Festival and the Action On Film International Film Festival (AOF). “It was interesting that Dilana got AOF’s Best Actress and Angel was her first movie,” Pfeiffer said. “And James Brolin got Best Supporting Actor. I give a lot of credit to Michael Givens, the director and the director of photography. He’s a very talented fellow.” So what is Pfeiffer’s favorite part of the movie business? Going on location. “To shoot the opening scenes of Angel Camouflaged, we went out in the Mojave Desert in California, and I was out in the sun every day and have some incredible pictures of that shoot,” he said. His least favorite? “Raising money is the most difficult,” Pfeiffer said. “Especially in this climate. We have some strong leads to finance Visions, but money is all that’s holding us back from doing it. Chris Kane, an A-list director, has agreed to direct.” Right now, Pfeiffer and his partners are working on distribution for Angel Camouflaged. He said Angel could be released as early as this fall, but the ultimate decision will be up to the distribution company. Pfeiffer gets strong support from his wife.

Leslie is in her third year as development chair for the Wellington Art Society and is committed to helping the arts thrive locally. “Randy and I are passionate about the arts and supportive at the local, national and international level,” she said. “Randy is an avid music fan, and I have been a visual arts teacher and worked with all types of mediums for 30 years. Film is an extremely important and powerful medium, with global impact to educate, inspire, entertain and record the human experience.” Like her husband, she has enjoyed the roller-coaster ride that is the movie industry. “The past four years have been an incredible, fast-track learning experience, covering every aspect of film production from creative vision to cinematic reality.” she said. “The talented people we have met have allowed us to share in the creative process and to dream big.” So are the Pfeiffers ultimately headed to Hollywood? “No,” Randy said. “The coast is beautiful, but I spent a month in L.A. when all the fires were going on and hated it. Plus, I like really warm weather and the Pacific Ocean is cold… It’s nice to be in L.A. for post-production because that’s where all the companies are, but you can just send your stuff there.” Cinema Island Productions — another Wellington-based company t0 watch, literally. To learn more, visit www.cinema island.com.

Summer

Gold

Photo by Susan lerner

Spectacular Values For You

Photos By Gary Kane

Wellington’s New La La Land

Fun For Kids, Relaxing For Parents Story by Lauren Miró

Photos by Abner Pedraza

When kids want to play and parents want to get away, La La Land provides a relaxing experience for parents while opening up a world of fun to kids. Now open in the Pointe at Wellington Green, La La Land is a playground and café that caters to parents and kids under age six. Parents can enjoy a latte or cappuccino while their children explore an indoor wonderland of activities and experiences. CEO Devin Kalvaitis, a commercial developer, conceptualized La La Land after partnering with a similar business in Coral Springs. He has three children under age five and found that he enjoyed the business. When the real estate conditions were right, he opened La La Land. “I’m used to the real business world,” he said. “I’m not used to playing and having fun every day. It was fun to get into a business that is all about fun.” Wellington is the company’s flagship location, but Kalvaitis has plans to expand. He said he chose Wellington because of its family-oriented environment flush with children. The playground opened in July with more than 1,000 people at its grand opening, and Kalvaitis said the response from the community has been positive.

(Top) Manager Guilmarie Quintero with CEO Devin Kalvaitis in front of the La La Land Library, an area where kids can practice their reading skills. (Above) One of many puppets to play with. (Background) Foam cubes from a play station.

wristband for their child ($12 for the first child and $8 for each sibling). The children can then run, play and explore the playground all day. Parents can choose to join them or sit in the café area, dubbed the Living Room. “This is for parents as well as their kids,” Kalvaitis said. “Parents have so much fun in the café.” The decoration in the café is sleek and modern with a funky twist that grabs your attention. The Living Room has a collection of eclectic overstuffed chairs, sofas and tables and a café area that serves up tasty organic salads, pastries and other treats in addition to coffee and drinks. Everything is made on-site by in-house chefs, Kalvaitis said.

“We’ve been welcomed by Wellington,” he said. “It’s wonderful, and we really appreciate it.”

Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling along with birds of various patterns. The deep moss green walls combined with the large, bright windows provide a clean, relaxing atmosphere, but the décor gives it a chic and hip look.

The setup is simple: Parents buy a

In contrast, the play area is vibrant

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

and boldly colored with trampolines built into the floors, foam pits, slides and many varied activities. Children can visit several small buildings, including the La La Land Library reading area, a general store, or they can enjoy story time and circle time and play with various toys. And the toys are not just about playing — they are designed to be manipulated and stimulate the children’s minds. “It’s not all about running around and being crazy kids,” Kalvaitis said. Additionally, the play area features a special area for children under age two, filled with toys to suit their age. “Everything to do with this place is unique,” Kalvaitis said. “When you first walk in, the poshness of the café stands out. Merging your way into the play land, we’ve got three-inch rubber flooring. If you go to the other competitors, you don’t find that.” La La Land staffs certified childcare specialists to keep an eye on the children, but parents also have that luxury of large, bright windows looking into the play area from the café. There, they (Top left) Children even have their own place to enjoy the café area. (Bottom left) A child-sized table stationed near a bookcase filled with puzzles and games.

36 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

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can keep a watchful eye on their kids but still relax. Both parents and children will be able to participate in a variety of activities, including classes and special nights. “We have a whole schedule of classes for parents and children,” Kalvaitis said. “Mommy and me classes, yoga classes, baby sign language classes.” La La Land also offers a movie night where parents can drop off the kids for a few hours and enjoy a night out. And for birthday parties, look no further than La La Land. The all-inclusive packages push the stress onto the business, which will manage the guest list, personal invitations, RSVP management, personal photography and wish lists in addition to providing hours of fun for your child and freshly made cupcakes in the party’s theme. 38 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

“When you come to book a birthday party with us, we treat you like you’re booking a wedding,” Kalvaitis said. “We can do anything that you can possibly imagine. Birthday parties are really awesome here. And one thing that we really pride ourselves on is making sure the parties are phenomenal. When moms and dads leave, we want them to always be in awe of their experience.” Through the wish list service, a guest could call La La Land for gift ideas, and choose to have the business order and wrap it so it’s ready to go on the day of the party. If not, La La Land also has a boutique featuring toys and other children’s items. “It’s a great advantage for your guests to know that they aren’t going to show up with the same gift as 20 other people,” he said. “And to not have to go out and scramble at the last minute. It’s free ship-

The café area offers parents a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a refreshment while their children play. (Below) Various play areas available at La La Land.

ping and free wrapping, and it’s already here.” Kalvaitis said he hopes La La Land will be a place for parents to come in and unwind while their children play. “We want moms and dads to come in here and hang out and have fun in the café. They can enjoy free wireless Internet, a nice cappuccino, or if it’s later in the evening, a glass of wine or a microbrewery beer,” he said. Kalvaitis expects parents to enjoy the concept as much as the children. “It’s simple, but it’s fun,” he said. “We’re looking forward to being here in Wellington and having a good time.” La La Land is located at 10120 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Pointe at Wellington Green. For more information, call (877) 642-LALA (5252) or visit www.lalalandplaycafe.com. WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Mark Llano

His Wellington-Based Source One Distributors Outfits Law Enforcement And The Military Story by Matthew Auerbach  Photos by Susan Lerner

“If you believe in who you are, you will become what you believe.” Wellington businessman Mark Llano heard his grandfather utter those words many times as he was growing up, and it made a lasting impression on him. The son of Cuban immigrants, Llano was taught to believe in the value of hard work and love of family. Those beliefs have successfully carried Llano through his various careers as an investment banker, a highly decorated U.S. Marine and president and CEO of Source One Distributors, a Wellington-based company that has become one of the country’s top providers of missioncritical gear to American soldiers, private industry and law enforcement agencies. For this reason, he is the ninth nominee for Wellington The Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Llano’s commitment to protecting U.S. security here and abroad did not start as an intellectual concept. He served five years in the Marine Corps and served on active duty during the first Gulf War in 1991-92. “I have a passion for freedom,” Llano said. “Freedom comes at a price. While I don’t believe you necessarily have to see action to understand that concept, the experience of being a part of our country’s fighting forces is something that had a profound effect on me.” After his service ended, Llano went back to the University of South Florida, where he graduated with a degree in criminology in 1992. He later worked on Wall Street for several financial companies, but the lure of starting his own business remained strong. In 2003, Source One Distributors was born. “I moved to Wellington’s Aero Club in 2001,” Llano recalled. “With two young kids, this seemed like a great place to raise a family.” Llano made sure his daughter, Brooke, 12, and son, Hunter, 10, were involved in his business from the time that they were old enough to walk. “I made sure they would know what daddy does for a living from the start,” he said. “Whether it was slapping stickers on catalogues in our warehouse or becoming involved with Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, an organization that delivers care packages to 40 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

our troops, my kids were going to learn the importance of the entrepreneurial mentality and giving back.” Community involvement is something he’s compelled to do. “I’ve coached football. I’ve coached baseball,” Llano said. “We’ve sponsored various local organizations and projects. One of my proudest moments was receiving a proclamation from the village for donating $10,000 to help build the planned Patriot Memorial at Wellington’s new Town Center.” Another high point occurred in 2008 when Llano was named an honorary sheriff by Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw. “Yeah, I’ve got to admit that was pretty cool,” he said. Wellington immediately appealed to Llano as a father and as a businessman. “The village has A-rated schools. The community has a close-knit, small-town feel,” he said. “I like that. I also appreciate how well-maintained everything is and the positive effect the equestrian and polo communities have on Wellington.” Llano also has found the village’s talent pool to be beneficial to the success of Source One Distributors. “I employ approximately 40 people,” he said. “I want potential employees who are good quality people and are dedicated to our mission, not just a paycheck. They need to be team players and look forward to coming to work every day, myself included. My leadership is crucial and important; I know I set the tone for the entire company.” One quality stands out above all others for Llano. “I

Wellington Entrepreneur

Mark Llano, owner of Source One Distributors, with coins from Armed Forces bases around the country.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;˘ september 2010

need to delegate responsibility to smart people, and I’ve had no trouble finding them,” he said. Smart is good, especially when your customers include the Department of Defense, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Agency, the U.S. Border Patrol and other agencies. “We have a lot of government contracts,” Llano said. That makes sense, considering Source One Distributors is truly one-stop shopping for the federal government.

(Above) Mark Llano with his daughter Brooke and son Hunter. (Right inset) Some of the many awards and acknowledgements received by Llano and Source One Distributors.

42 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

“We work with many manufacturers and can meet every need,” Llano said. “Field equipment, firearms, uniforms, protective eyewear, optics and night vision; whatever the situation requires, our mission is to meet that requirement with the best quality products available.” Llano’s commitment and passion aren’t

the only things that make Source One Distributors attractive to the Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies. “We are a preapproved contractor with the federal government,” he said. “So when they come to us, we can start working immediately and don’t have to get involved with bidding and other timeconsuming processes.” Llano’s experience in business and combat has also made him a sought-after motivational speaker. “I love talking to groups about what it takes for businesses to succeed and, at the same time, support our soldiers,” he said. “In my opinion, any new business has to create a flow chart. You need a good accounting firm, a good national bank and a good law firm behind you if you want any chance of making it. Just as important is your availability to your neighbors.” He sees Wellington as an ideal place for potential businesses to flourish. “The village is very supportive of the business community,” Llano said. “We have a good council that is looking after all commercial ventures, top-ranked law enforcement and a great environment in which to bring up your kids. Wellington continues to set the bar high for its residents.”

‘I want employees who are good quality people and are dedicated to our mission, not just a paycheck. They need to be team players and look forward to coming to work every day.’ MARK LLANO Wellington also offers two other features Llano feels are sometimes overlooked. “We are within minutes of both Palm Beach International Airport and Florida’s Turnpike,” he said. “They make the village both local and national. Traveling is such an integral part of the success of so many businesses today. Having those two treasures at our doorstep truly makes Wellington a phenomenal location.” The motto of Source One Distributors is “Committed to the Mission.” That commitment starts at the top with Llano. His grandfather would be proud. Source One Distributors is located at 3280 Fairlane Farms Road in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 296-0520 or visit www.buysourceone.com.

(Right and below) Some of the military and law enforcement outfitting equipment offered by Wellington-based Source One Distributors. Clients include the Department of Defense, the FBI, the DEA and other agencies.

Wellington The Magazine will feature one entrepreneur each month during 2010 and, with the help of our readers, award the first “Wellington’s Entrepreneur of the Year” award to one of the featured business owners at the end of 2010. To nominate a Wellington business owner who you find inspiring, visit www. wellingtonthemagazine.com. WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

like ou y e uld Wo ur hom ? yo tured ! fea HERE CK CLI

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W ELLINGTON at Home

The Axelrods Have Turned Their Central Wellington Townhome Into An Artist’s Paradise Story by Deborah Welky  Photos by Susan Lerner

Steve and Sandy Axelrod bought their first home in Wellington — a model home in Park Place — 27 years ago. They have since lived in Greenview Shores and “on the road” in a Winnebago doing six months of art shows. But 13 years ago, with son Brian grown and married, they purchased a townhome that they have slowly converted into an artist’s paradise. “Many people think of resale when decorating their home,” Steve said. “But we’re not leaving this place, so we decided to make it like we wanted it.” The Axelrods started by gutting the place right to the studs. Steve did much of the work himself with Sandy as his cheerleader. “He’s so handy,” Sandy said. “When we bought this place, it had four different wallpapers in the foyer alone. We scraped the popcorn off the ceilings and put in our own moldings and fixtures.” Upon entering, one is greeted by a cheerful hallway and, just to the right, a powder room painted gloss black. You’d think the color would be dark and smothering in such a small room but, decorated in a beach theme with plenty of seashells and a pair of flip-flops off to the side, the room actually seems big. Holding pride of place is a 24-carat gold-plated pedestal sink with matching fixtures. “We got that at Adam & Eve Architectural Salvage for $160,” Sandy recalled. “It had been pulled out of a home in Palm Beach. But later we saw it in a designer showroom, new, for $2,700.” Halfway down the hall, a lighted glass display cabinet holds the couple’s

(Left) Steve Axelrod painted the coffee table in the colors of the house, while Sandy’s collage of their travels is wall-mounted to the right of the kitchen passthrough. (Inset) The Axelrods stand in the middle of their living room. (Right) The dining room table is cemented to the floor, and its glass block pedestals allow the light of the living room to reflect and shine. WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE••september september2010 2010 WELLINGTON

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crystal collection — miniature Swarovski creations, an heirloom punch bowl and an assortment of wine glasses. “This is the result of 41 years of collecting,” said Sandy, who has been married to Steve for, yes, 41 years. “The punch bowl was in a box in the garage and almost got thrown out. We never really cared about it until we saw one in an antiques store for thousands of dollars... It belonged to my grandmother and is over 100 years old.” The wine glasses are a more recent addition. Whenever they travel, the Axelrods buy just one as a souvenir. “When we have guests, each person gets a different wine glass. It’s a real conversation starter,” Sandy said. Across from the powder room is Sandy’s studio. Although the Axelrods gained fame in the western communities for their 17-year Affairs to Remember catering business, Sandy now focuses on offering private cooking classes, making jewelry and writing a blog — www.foodandfondmemories.blogspot. com. The room is a testament to a life fully lived, with photos of Steve and Sandy from childhood to marriage and several collages of their family and travels. Speaking of “food and fond memories,” there also are pictures of Sandy with celebrity chefs Julia Child, Aaron Sanchez, John Besh and Bobby Flay. “Bobby Flay is her true love,” Steve joked. Dozens of drawers, cabinets and cubbyholes attest to the hours of work logged in the studio, yet everything remains neat as a pin. The Axelrods collect one wine glass from every destination they visit, making for interesting conversation come party time.

Down the hall, the comfort of the master suite beckons with its vanity area, roomy closets and wall mural — a towering palm tree painted by Sandy. “The (Below) This bed was the only thing the Axelrods brought with them from New Jersey. The palm tree mural was painted by Sandy. (Right) A close-up of one of Sandy’s collages.

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

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bed is the only thing we brought with us from New Jersey,” said Sandy, pointing out a bed that seems to float on a cushion of light, installed by Steve. “It’s a really good piece of furniture.” The room features a collection of SunFest posters. A yellow display cabinet contains more collectables and two pairs of baby booties — Sandy’s and son Brian’s. Off to one side, a lounge chair and ottoman hint at quiet times spent reading. Exiting to the living room, one can almost feel the happiness. Red, yellow, turquoise and more are repeated in the artwork, the rug, the furniture and a unique builtin media center designed by Sandy and (Left, clockwise from top) As art patrons, many original works adorn the walls of the Axelrod home; on the patio, Sandy’s herb garden thrives, thanks to a misting system installed by Steve; a pair of dining chairs was painted — and signed — by Sandy in 1995 to match upholstery fabric at a previous home; and sculpture and paintings abound in the home, such as this one on the dining room table.

adapted to fit by Steve. The unit is brightly painted with carefully measured cutouts that house the couple’s television, DVD player, stereo and even a wine cabinet. Directly opposite, collages and wall sculptures rise from the back of the turquoise wraparound sofa to the ceiling above. There is a copper piece and a picture of Sandy as a child, both created by her mother. There are more posters, several works by Edna Hibel and some Russian plates. Anchoring the collection is what Sandy calls a “zigzaggy cool thing” in metal purchased at SunFest. “The artist actually came here to see the colors we had in the house before he created it,” she recalled. A glass coffee table rests on a wedge and a sphere painted by Steve to better match the décor. He also created a “decorator plant” in a pot from copper tubing and rope found at Home Depot. “I wanted to do something with the materials because the colors were so perfect and Sandy sketched it out right there on the spot,” he said.

In the dining room, a stained glass globe hovers over an inch-thick sheet of glass resting on glass block and concrete screwed to the floor. “That table isn’t going anywhere,” Steve smiled. Two of the dining chairs were painted and signed by Sandy, who originally created them to match the upholstery she used in a previous home. Glass block also appears atop the loft area railing, providing an extra six inches of privacy for the couple’s exercise room, and repeating the theme of the dining room. The kitchen, just off the dining room, is a study in turquoise and stainless steel with black granite countertops and under-cabinet lighting casting a soft glow over everything. Steve installed the tile backsplash while Sandy designed a tile mosaic for the center of the floor. A collection of copper trivets, molds and cookie cutters dances just under the ceiling. Sandy’s chef collection keeps a careful eye on the goings-on.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

(Above) A collection of copper molds accentuates the area above the turquoise kitchen cabinets. Steve installed the black tile backsplash himself. (Below left) Steve built a custom rack to house Sandy’s collection of souvenir spoons collected from exotic locations around the world. (Below right top) In the prep area, a rolling chest houses Sandy’s knives next to a butcher block table, while condiments and cookbooks line the shelves. (Below right bottom) A collection of chef figurines stand guard over the kitchen, shining under spotlights installed by Steve.

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“This is the room I love the most,” Sandy said. “But maybe because it’s the room I use the most.” In the prep area, a generic rolling tool cabinet holds not drills and bits but carving knives and other tools of the culinary trade. A 400-pound butcher block was a gift to Sandy from Steve, signaling the end of all renovations. Books line the walls — food for thought. Heading upstairs, one is greeted again with floor-to-ceiling artwork, but also a custom-made red spoon rack, another of Steve’s creations. “I started collecting souvenir spoons at age 20 when I went to Europe,” Sandy explained. Upstairs, there’s an exercise room where Sandy works out with a trainer three days a week, and a sauna, built by Steve from a mail order kit of numbered cedar planks. “It gets up to 180 degrees in there, and you’ll notice the door is made of glass so

I can watch the TV across the room,” he said. Back downstairs, visitors exit to the back yard through sliders. “This is our little oasis,” Steve said. There’s a hot tub, a rattan bar and a vertical herb garden with parsley, rosemary, tarragon, thyme, sage, mint, assorted hot peppers and lots of basil. “I tried every place out here to get the herbs to grow, but they weren’t getting enough water,” Sandy said. “So Steve ran this mister/dripper system, and now they’re happy. I use them in my cooking every day.” A small barbecue shares space with a wallsize Jenn-Air gas range. “My wife couldn’t cook on just a barbecue!” Steve laughed. “It’s a high-energy, very happy home,” Sandy said. The explanation isn’t necessary. This home speaks for itself.

The Axelrods’ dog HERSHI (it’s an acronym) goes Hawaiian.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Wellington Table

(Background) An interior view of Lock Stock and Barrel restaurant on Forest Hill Blvd. in Palm Springs. (Below inset, L-R) Lock Stock and Barrelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prime rib dinner; a 10-ounce filet mignon with crisp bacon, garlic toast and mushroom caps au jus; four t-bone lamb chops with a cabernet demi glaze; and broiled sea scallops with lemon butter and mushrooms.

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52 September 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

Great Food, Comforting Décor At Lock Stock And Barrel Story by Lauren Miró · Photos by Abner Pedraza

For great steaks, seafood and chops, visit Lock Stock and Barrel Restaurant Bar & Grill. The family-owned restaurant offers patrons delicious meals in a beautiful setting. Owners Patricia and Araldo Gonnella opened Lock Stock and Barrel on Forest Hill Blvd. in Palm Springs last February and have since gained a loyal following of customers and a family of managers and staff members who make the restaurant stand out. “We’re all family,” Dining Room Manager Diane Decker said. “We’ve all been together since we opened. We love what we do. We may not be blood-related, but we’re family.”

and a glass window gives the customers a view of great food to come. A brick wall extends into the bar area, where customers can choose to sit at the bar or slide into one of several booths.

Decker, a West Palm Beach native, has several years of experience in the dining industry, including with the National Croquet Center. She noted that customer service is a priority at Lock Stock and Barrel. “The intent of our customer service standards is to treat our customers in the same manner that we would like to be treated when we are dining out,” she said.

Behind the bar is Bar Manager Diane Sheridan, who has 35 years of experience in the trade locally. Her expertise has helped the restaurant establish a carefully crafted selection of wines and spirits to accommodate every taste.

And Lock Stock and Barrel does that well. The atmosphere is cozy and tranquil — the perfect spot for a romantic night out. In the dining room, dark wooden booths offset white paneled walls creating a peaceful, crisp-looking environment. Beautiful stained glass panels adorn the restaurant. Some hang from the ceiling while others are backlit and mounted on the walls, serving both as works of art and as a light source. A wooden piano sits in the corner, providing soft music while customers enjoy their meals. In the center of the restaurant, a vintage-looking grill made of brick and adorned with copper trimmings

Rounding out the management staff is Restaurant Supervisor Christopher Sadej, who graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. His background is in service and catering. Decker said that Sadej is an asset to the team. “We are fortunate to have him,” she said. “And all our customers who have been associated with him agree.” While customers will no doubt fall in love with the décor, the food at Lock Stock and Barrel will keep them coming back for more. Executive Chef Lucinda Bell graduated from culinary school in 1998 after having three children. After three months as a line cook at Ben’s Steak House in Palm

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Springs, she became the executive chef there. Bell started as a server at Lock Stock and Barrel when it opened, and when the position of executive chef became available, her outstanding background qualified her for the job. “I have a passion for cooking,” she said. “I love it. It’s just good food.”

Executive Chef Lucinda Bell with the Fisherman’s Catch and the broiled sea scallops.

The restaurant is locally minded and buys fresh, local produce and locally caught seafood, Bell said. Each steak is hand-cut by Bell, and everything is prepared as ordered. Each day, Bell makes a soup of the day, two appetizers and three specials that keep her constantly creating new meals. She also makes several desserts, including a mile-high banana cream pie and homemade chocolate mousse. “I try to incorporate something different,” she said, noting a previous recipe of Gorgonzolacrusted steak that was successful. Bell’s ingenuity as a chef is reflected even in the established menu. For something new and different, try the 10-ounce filet mignon ($25.95), a juicy and tender piece of meat served with crispy, tasty bacon, garlic toast and a succulent mushroom cap au jus. The contrast of the crispy bacon and tender steak is delightful. A popular dish is the Fisherman’s Catch ($22.95), which pairs shrimp, scallops, clams and mussels in a skillet, sautéed with garlic and plum tomato sauce with lemon white wine and served over linguini. The sauce is zesty and flavorful,

(Above) Dining Room Manager Diane Decker with Restaurant Supervisor Christopher Sadej. (Below) Diane Sheridan behind the bar.

54 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

complementing the fresh seafood. The linguini provides a hearty base for a wonderful meal that leaves you satisfied, but not stuffed. For a melt-in-your-mouth meal, choose the broiled sea scallops with lemon butter and mushrooms ($17.95). Cooked to perfection, they are creamy, delicious and packed with flavor. The presentation highlights the freshness of the scallops and robust mushrooms. But if seafood isn’t for you, try the four tbone lamb chops in a cabernet demi glaze ($24.95); the meat falls off the bone and into your mouth. The demi glaze adds a rich flavor that complements the meat. No matter what your preference, Lock, Stock and Barrel offers something for everyone. Whether it’s steak, seafood or chops, customers are sure to be satisfied with the food — and the fact that it comes with great service is a bonus. Lock Stock and Barrel is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and dinner is served from 4 to 9 p.m. each evening. The restaurant also offers a Sunset Menu from 4 to 6 p.m. with an array of meals under $15, served with a house salad, vegetable, bread and choice of three sides. Lock Stock and Barrel is located at 3206 Forest Hill Blvd. in Palm Springs. For more info., call (561) 649-4545 or visit www.lock stockandbarrelrestaurant.com.

(L-R) Restaurant Supervisor Christopher Sadej, Dining Room Manager Diane Decker, Executive Chef Lucinda Bell, owners Patricia and Araldo Gonnella, and Bar Manager Diane Sheridan.

Wellington Dining Guide Agliolio Fresh Pasta & Wine Bar is Wellington’s newest gathering place for a fine dining experience at casual dining prices. Create your own “Pasta-Bility” with Agliolio’s 100-percent fresh pastas and homemade sauces full of bold and fresh flavors. Ask about the “Perfect Pair” entrees. Agliolio offers an extensive wine list by the glass and the bottle. For more info., call (561) 798-7770 or visit Agliolio in the Wellington Plaza at 12793 W. Forest Hill Blvd. at the corner of Wellington Trace. Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant is located on Forest Hill Blvd. near the Mall at Wellington Green. Specializing in family-style Italian cuisine, Buca di Beppo is known for its large portions designed to serve several people. If you’ve got a large party, reserve the Pope’s Room; for a unique experience, reserve the table in the kitchen. For more info., call (561) 7903287 or visit www.bucadibeppo.com. Centanni Café & Restaurant in Royal Palm Beach serves up delicious Italian dishes cooked to order. It is located at the corner of State Road 7 and Southern Blvd. near Kmart. Call (561) 792-7677 for info. Enjoy a delicious drink, a beautiful water view, fantastic music and authentic Mexican food all without packing your suitcase at El Toro Mexican Family Restaurant adjacent to the Royal Inn at the corner of Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards. Dine in or enjoy the patio bar. For more info., call (561) 296-7102. Field of Greens, located at 10140 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Pointe at Wellington Green, serves some of the freshest and healthiest food in town. It is a quick, contemporary restaurant specializing in salads and sandwiches. Enjoy customized salads with homemade dressings, as well as signature salads and wraps. For more info., call (561) 795-4345. Gabriel’s Cafe & Grille is Wellington’s oldest restaurant. Serving breakfast and lunch, Gabriel’s is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily in the Wellington Plaza at the intersection of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. For more info., call (561) 793-0675. Grand Buffet is located in the Royal Plaza at the corner of Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards featuring an all-you-can-eat Chinese and Japanese buffet. Enjoy a 40-foot-long sushi bar, barbecue bar, teriyaki bar, salad bar, dessert bar and hibachi station. Meeting and party rooms are available. For more info., call (561) 784-9902. Drop by the Gypsy’s Horse Irish Pub & Restaurant and relax in a warm, traditional Irish setting complete with oak-barrel tables and a full bar with many types of beer flowing from the taps. Regular live entertainment is offered. The Gypsy’s Horse is located in the original Wellington Mall at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd. Call (561) 333-3700 for more info. Hilary’s Restaurant, an authentic kosher-style diner in Royal Palm Beach, serves breakfast and lunch any day of the week and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Good food, generous portions and great service make Hilary’s a hometown favorite. It is located in the Royal Plaza at the corner of Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards. For more info., call (561) 790-7301. I’m Greek Today features a menu with a strong emphasis on one of the world’s healthiest diets — food that is simple and elegant, fresh, timeless and Mediterranean. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine as well as wines from around the world. I’m Greek Today is loWELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Wellington Dining Guide cated in Southern Palm Crossing at 11051 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 333-4233 or visit www.imgreektoday.com. Jason’s Deli is where all the food is free of artificial trans fats, MSG and high-fructose corn syrup. Enjoy wonderful sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads and fruit. You can even build your own sandwich! Jason’s Deli is located at 2605 State Road 7 near Whole Foods Market in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 333-1263 or visit www.jasonsdeli.com. Joe’s American Bar & Grill, a neighborhood staple for traditional American cuisine, is now open in the Mall at Wellington Green near the food court. Lunch, dinner and weekend brunch are served featuring a menu full of items prepared using the freshest quality ingredients. Joe’s is a favorite for a casual lunch, a family dinner or a gathering of friends. Visit Joe’s at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more info., visit www.joesamerican.com or call (561) 7987433. Kontiki Wine & Raw Bar is located in the Courtyard Shops at the corner of Wellington Trace and Greenview Shores Blvd. Steaks and seafood are featured, prepared with a Euro-Asian fusion flair. Enjoy the full sushi bar and a glass or bottle of wine from a large and varied list. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. For more info., call (561) 296-0404. La Fogata Restaurant serves delicious Mexican cuisine. The restaurant, located in the Wellington Town Square at 11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd., features a tequila bar. Call (561) 422-1641 for info. Lock Stock and Barrel Restaurant, located at 3208

Forest Hill Blvd. in West Palm Beach, is your neighborhood grill for steaks, chops and seafood. Enjoy a full bar with wines and cocktails that complement wonderful appetizers, salads and sandwiches for lunch, as well as a selection of the finest steaks, chops and featured seafood entrees. A children’s menu is available. For info., call (561) 649-4545 or visit www.lockstockandbarrelrestaurant.com.

outside smoking bars, live entertainment and catered events. Call (561) 795-0080 for more info.

Mamma Mia’s Trattoria has served South Florida since 1983. Huge portions; open for lunch and dinner; featuring New York-style brick oven pizza; specializing in fresh seafood, oakwood-grilled lambchops, slow-roasted ossobuco and frutti di mare. Mamma Mia’s is located at 8855 Hypoluxo Road at Lyons Road. Call (561) 963-9565 for more info.

Stonewood Grill & Tavern in the Pointe at Wellington Green serves up exciting flavors in a casually sophisticated setting. The gourmet American fare features delicious entrees with the perfect wines to accompany. Call (561) 784-9796 or visit www.stonewoodgrill. com for more info.

Mitch’s Westside Bagels Too is a little slice of Brooklyn right here in Wellington, located at 2465 State Road 7. Enjoy the delicious fresh breakfast or lunch. The bagels are baked fresh daily right in the store. All deli meats are prepared fresh on site. Enjoy legendary salads like tuna, whitefish and chicken. Catering is available. For more info., call (561) 422-6114 or visit www.mitchswestsidebagels.com. Other locations are in Boynton Beach, Boca Raton and Coral Springs. Nicole’s Pasta & Grill, originally Nicole’s Village Tavern, is located at 12300 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. Recent changes have added a full menu of popular Italian dishes while maintaining a number of favorites from the old menu. For more info., call (561) 793-3456 or visit www.nicolesvillagetavern.com. The Players Club Restaurant & Bar (13410 South Shore Blvd., Wellington) features gourmet cuisine along with a popular piano bar, outside dining, two

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Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Vino, located at 12041 Southern Blvd. at the corner of Crestwood Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. The restaurant opens for dinner at 5 p.m. seven nights a week. For reservations, call (561) 790-3232.

Sushi Yama Siam is located at 12785 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza at the corner of Wellington Trace and Forest Hill Blvd. Specializing in sushi, Sushi Yama Siam also offers exciting appetizers, sushi rolls, temaki, tempura, katsu, stir-fry, curry and signature rolls. For more info., call (561) 747-6875. Drop by the award-winning TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli in the Mall at Wellington Green for breakfast, lunch or dinner. TooJay’s is reminiscent of your favorite New York delicatessen. Specialties include signature overstuffed sandwiches, chicken noodle soup and traditional deli classics. For more info., call (561) 784-9055 or visit www.toojays.com. Tree’s Wings & Ribs is located at 603 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in the Royal Plaza. Eat in or pick up your order of signature wings, ribs, chicken and more. Tree’s also delivers mouthwatering menu items, and caters events and parties. Visit www.treeswingsand ribs.com or call (561) 791-1535 for more info.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • September 2010

Wellington Calendar Monday, Sept. 6 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hold its monthly chapter meeting Monday, Sept. 6 at the Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. with an ice cream social, followed by a Clyde Butcher DVD Visions of Florida. Call Sherry at (561) 963-9906 for more info. Wednesday, Sept. 8 • The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the PGA Doubletree Hotel (4431 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens). Networking will be from 6 to 6:30 p.m. with the dinner and program to follow. The cost is $35 and guests are welcome. The speaker will be chiropractor Dr. Michael Papa with the program topic “Three Secrets to a Healthy Life.” RSVP to Sharon Maupin at (561) 624-3816. Thursday, Sept. 9 • The Lake Wellington Professional Centre and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a Reception for Small Businesses in Wellington on Thursday, Sept. 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Light hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served. Seating is limited. RSVP to (561) 227-1500. Friday, Sept. 10 • In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Armory Art Center will feature the work of Rafael Carrillo Alejandro Domenech in a solo exhibition opening Friday, Sept. 10 and continuing through Friday, Oct. 22. An opening reception will be held Sept. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. Admission to the opening reception is free for Armory members and $5 for non-members. For more info., visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. Saturday, Sept. 11 • The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Everything Orchids: A Shady Affair Plant Sale” on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. It will showcase a select number of top orchid and shade plant growers, artists and craftspeople who will share their knowledge and passion for orchids and plants. For more info., call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org. Monday, Sept. 13 • The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a membership luncheon Monday, Sept. 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the South Florida Fairgrounds. RSVP to Tracey Benson at (561) 790-6200. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Interviewing Techniques” for adults Monday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Interviewing methods have changed in the last few years. Learn how to prepare for your interview. The program is sponsored by Dress for Success. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Monday, Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

58 september 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

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Wellington Calendar Tuesday, Sept. 14 • A “Girl Scout Round Up” will be held Tuesday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. in the lunch room at Binks Forest Elementary School (15101 Bent Creek Road, Wellington). For more info., e-mail sholmes@ gssef.org or call (561) 427-6902. Thursday, Sept. 16 • The Norton Museum of Art (1451 South Olive Ave.) will present “Art After Dark: East Meets West” on Thursday, Sept. 16 from 5 to 9 p.m. Curator of Chinese Art Laurie Barnes will introduce the special exhibition “On the Silk Road and High Seas.” Try Tai Chi and see a Chinese brush painting demonstration. Call (561) 832-5196 or visit www.norton.org for more info. • Models of Success, a charity fashion show to benefit the Southeast Florida Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America, will hit the runway Thursday, Sept. 16 at 5:30 p.m. at B.B. King’s Blues Club at CityPlace. For more info., call (561) 279-8606 or e-mail info@lupusfl.org. Saturday, Sept. 18 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will feature Okeeheelee Park Adventure, a one-hour stroll, always on a new route, Saturday, Sept. 18 at 7:30 a.m. at Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). Participants will have breakfast afterward at Pete’s Restaurant. Call Daisy at (561) 439-5780 for more info. • The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Farm-YourBackyard: Vegetable Growing” on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $35 for members and $45 for non-members. Early registration is recommended. For more info., call (561) 2331757 or visit www.mounts.org. • Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement in Florida Inc. (CAFCI) will host its annual Friendship Ball on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way, Royal Palm Beach). Music will be provided by CRoy the Entertainer. Tickets cost $60 per person. Dinner will be served at 8 p.m. For tickets or more info., visit www. cafcipbc.org. Monday, Sept. 20 • The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a Mini Biz Expo & Networking Mixer on Monday, Sept. 20 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. RSVP to Jessica Clasby at (561) 790-6200. Tuesday, Sept. 21 • The Wellington Rotary Club will mark U.N. World Peace Day on Tuesday, Sept. 21 with a ceremony at 6 p.m. at the Wellington Peace Park on Royal Fern Drive. Thursday, Sept. 23 • The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a Women In Business Luncheon at noon on Thursday, Sept. 23 at the Binks Forest Golf Club featuring best-selling author Tami Hoag. RSVP to Maureen Gross at (561) 790-6200. • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a Meet the Candidate Networking Reception

60 september 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

at White Horse Tavern (3401 Equestrian Club Rd., Wellington) on Thursday, Sept. 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. RSVP to (561) 792-6525. Saturday, Sept. 25 • The Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida will hold its 11th Annual On the Green for Girl Scouts Golf Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 25 at Indian Spring Country Club (11501 El Clair Ranch Road, Boynton Beach). Registration will open at 7:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The cost of $175 per player or $650 per foursome and includes green fees, cart rental, goodie bag, breakfast, range balls, on course beverages, a luncheon, Girl Scout cookies, and the opportunity to bid in an auction and participate in a raffle. Register online at www.gssef.org or contact Kandi Osman at (954) 513-3769 or kosman@gssef.org. • The South Florida Fair and United Way of Palm Beach County will hold the 20th annual Gigantic Garage Sale on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.). Admission is $3. Many local nonprofit organizations will participate. For more info., call (561) 790-5219. • The American Orchid Society will feature “Visitor Appreciation Week” at the Visitors Center & Botanical Garden (16700 AOS Lane, Delray Beach) opening Saturday, Sept 25 and continuing through Friday, Oct. 1. Residents of Palm Beach County will be admitted free with proof of residency. Call (561) 404-2000 or visit aos.org for more info. • The South Florida Science Museum will feature “Animal Grossology” opening Sept. 25 and running through Jan. 9. “Animal Grossology” brings to life all the gritty and gross facts about some of nature’s most disgusting critters. The South Florida Science Museum is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org. Monday, Sept. 27 • The Wellington Village Council will meet Monday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. Wednesday, Sept. 29 • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon Wednesday, Sept. 29 at 11:30 a.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club. The topic will be amendments on the November ballot, including Wellington’s charter changes. RSVP to (561) 792-6525. Friday, Oct. 1 • The inaugural Palms West Community Foundation Golf Classic Tournament 2010 will be held on Friday, Oct. 1 at Breakers West Country Club with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. Following the afternoon play, the participants and their guests will enjoy an awards reception and barbecue dinner. The cost is $600 for foursomes; $150 for single players. The price includes golf, the awards reception and dinner. Call Maureen Gross at (561) 790-6200 or e-mail maureen@palmswest.com for more info. Sign up at www.palmswest.com/golf. WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september 2010

Around Wellington

(Above) A look at the pre-K classroom. (Below) Owner Eddy Sarnow with his wife Liora.

Goddard School Opens — The new Wellington location of the Goddard School celebrated its grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 21. Young children and their families enjoyed refreshments, games, music, face painting, balloon animals, a bounce house and fun activities. For more info., call (561) 333-2020 or visit www.goddardschool. com. Photos by Lauren Miró

‘Pizzazz Gives Back’ — Pizzazz Hair Design hosted its annual fundraiser “Pizzazz Gives Back” on Sunday, Aug. 8. This year’s event benefited the charity Little Smiles, a non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of children in hospices, hospitals and shelters. Stylists from all five Pizzazz locations came together and donated their time and money doing customers’ hair and nails to benefit the charity. Shown here is customer Breanna Berry (left) with stylist Letty DePietto. Photo By Jessica Gregoire

Salon Helps Fight Kids Cancer — Capricious Salon & Spa in Wellington held its inaugural haircut-athon to benefit the Kids Cancer Foundation on Sunday, Aug. 15. All money made from haircuts, pedicures and other services was donated to the foundation. Shown here are Christina Garcia, Armineh Gharakhani and Derna Lopez with Michelle O’Boyle and Sandy Erb of the Kids Cancer Foundation. For more info., visit www.kidscancersf.org. Photo by Denise Fleischman

Kim Reynolds and Lesa Cardin at the raffle table.

‘A Taste Of The Town’ — BJ’s Wholesale Club in Royal Palm Beach hosted its “Taste of the Town” on Saturday, Aug. 7. Shoppers sampled dishes from area restaurants and participated in activities such as face painting and raffles. Restaurants included Chappy’s Food Cart, Kobosko’s Kreamery, Centanni Italian Restaurant, Domino’s Pizza, Tree’s Wings & Ribs, KFC, Philly Connection, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Mario Bros. Gourmet Pasta, I’m Greek Today, Original Pancake House and more. Photos by Denise Fleischman Izzy Navarro and Erin Peel of Tree’s Wings.

JULY 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE 62 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

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65 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

66 September 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE