Wellington The Magazine September 2017

The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

September 2017

THE MAGAZINE

Our

WELLINGTON THE SPIRIT OF GIVING

Anne Caroline Valtin Wants To Help Your Favorite Charity

Plus

EAF Helps Equestrians In Their Time Of Need Wycliffe Community Comes Together For Charity Panther Ridge Aims To Protect Exotic Cats Unique Entertainment And Cultural Options Home-Style Dishes At Aroma Indian Cuisine

The Perfect Blend of Sport, Lifestyle, and Family

Wellington’s Private Golf, Tennis, and Social Club Traditional golf with no tee times.

Casual dining at The Duke’s Bar, Veranda, and poolside Fine dining at Stables Restaurant Tennis, fitness, a junior Olympic-size pool, kiddie pool, and play area Year-round social calendar and child-friendly programs

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP

$5,000, non-refundable initiation with Annual Dues of $3,500

GOLF MEMBERSHIP

$10,000 non-refundable initiation with annual dues of $10,500. $25,000 refundable initiation with annual dues of $10,500.

1900 Aero Club Drive • Wellington, FL 33414 561-795-3501 | info@wanderersclubwellington.com

MAURICIO MELHADO, M.D Cardiologist

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Board certified in cardiovascular diseases, nuclear cardiology, echocardiography, and cardiac CT.

Now in his new office

10131 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 203, Wellington, FL 33414 3472Forest Forest Hill Hill Boulevard | Suite | West Palm Beach,FLFL33406 33406 3472 Blvd., Suite 38 3B West Palm Beach, Phone: 561.657.8131 | 561.619.3051 Phone: 561.657.8131 / 561.619 . 3051

OUR ER

ROCKS MOM-APPROVED ER

Life can be fun, fun, fun. Until it’s not. Accidents and illnesses happen. When it happens to you, you want excellent ER care — and fast. The Children’s Hospital at Palms West is the only full-service pediatric hospital in the Western Communities. So, when your child needs expert emergency care, you can count on us to provide it.

For more information about our Emergency Room and to check average ER wait times, visit MomApprovedER.com. Have health questions or need a physician referral?

Call 561-345-7009 to speak to a registered nurse 24/7.

Help spread happiness and inspiration! #PBCrocks

13001 SOUTHERN BLVD. • LOXAHATCHEE, FL 33470 • MOMAPPROVEDER.COM • 561-798-3300

HUNTER’S CHASE

Palm Beach Polo and CC - 3 bedroom/3 bath pool home. Marble floors, all redone. Large master bedroom suite that cabanas to over-sized private pool area. Screened and open patios, fully-fenced yard. 2-car garage. $799,000.

HUNTER’S CHASE ESTATES

Palm Beach Polo and CC - 3 bedroom/4.5 bath/2-car garage. Superior built, 1-story Eccelstone estate home. Featuring high end finishes including Impact windows and whole house generator. Water and golf course views. Fully-fenced yard with pool and spa. $1,395,000.

CO

MUIRFIELD

Palm Beach Polo and CC - major renovations including roof/gutters, impact windows, a/c to this 4 bed (plus den)/5 bath, 2-story home with golf views, private pool, on quiet culde-sac. Master suite on the ground floor, guest room and loft on upper floor. $1,695,000.

GOLF COTTAGE

Palm Beach Polo and CC - 2 bedroom/2 bath second floor unit. Totally remodeled.

Granite counters, Stainless appliances, marble flooring. Newer A/C and water heater. Offered Turn-key furnished. Centrally located to all club amenities. $285,000.

Jim Corbin Jim@JimCorbin.com

561-798-2224

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4 bedroom/2.5 bath pool home. 1+ acre lot with circle driveway and asphalt tennis court.

Newer appliances and kitchen, freshly renovated master bathroom. Large covered and open patio space. Family neighborhood with ‘A’ rated schools. 2-car garage. $549,500.

POND VIEW DRIVE

Palm Beach Polo and CC - 3 bedroom/3 bath second floor unit. Tile throughout, updated kitchen and baths, new washer and dryer. Partially covered, all screened rear balcony accessed from living, dining and master. Eat-in kitchen with open balcony. $329,500.

Illustrated P roPertIes 11924 Forest Hill Blvd. #18 Wellington, FL. 33414 www.JimCorbin.com

David Corbin DCorbin@IPRE.com

561-628-4262

Got Care? Bethesda Health Urgent Care!

Get back to doing what you do best at the new Bethesda Health Urgent Care. From colds and flu to minor cuts and sports injuries, our experts are ready to care for you. Designed with state-of-the-art treatment rooms and on-site imaging, the Bethesda Health Urgent Care provides care for a comprehensive array of medical conditions with convenient hours to fit your family’s needs.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK/365 Days a Year • 10 am to 10 pm

BETHESDA HEALTH Urgent Care 10520 Forest Hill Blvd. • Wellington, Florida 33414 • (561) 204-WELL • www.BethesdaHealthUrgentCare.com Affiliated with Bethesda Hospital West and Bethesda Hospital East

The Fite Group Luxury Homes

14475 WELLINGTON TRACE Saddle Trail

2971 TWIN OAKS WAY Palm Beach Polo & Country Club

Located on a cul-de-sac, this newly renovated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers This 7 acre estate has the only covered arena in Saddle Trail, 40+ stalls, regulation dressage arena, and a 60’ round pen. Lease $7,500 Sale $3,450,000 spacious living areas that bring the outdoors in. Lease $10,000 Sale $580,000

12492 EQUINE LANE Equestrian Club

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This updated 5 bedroom 4.5 bath Sacramento model is on 1/3 acre and features wood look tile, luxurious finishes, and an upgraded kitchen. Lease $17,500

Situated on an oversized corner lot, this 5 bedroom 4.5 bath home features an upgraded kitchen, wood burning fire place, and a heated pool. Lease $15,000

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12126 INDIAN MOUND ROAD Santa Teresita

This renovated 5 bedroom 4 bath home is near WEF, IPC, shops and dining, and includes an outdoor kitchen, marble and hardwood flooring. Lease $12,500

Located on the corner of Indian Mound and 120th, this 10 acre property features 46 stalls, 2 jumper rings, and a dressage ring. Lease $6,500

Kim Jenard 561-644-9650 kjenard@fitegroup.com

Betsy Keiser 561-644-0438 bkeiser@fitegroup.com

The Fite Group Luxury Homes | 101 N. County Road, Palm Beach, FL | 561-655-6570 | www.FiteGroup.com

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For more information contact Banquet Manager/Owner Maureen (Bunny) Pata.

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ON! O S !

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Luxury Townhomes In Wellington

Binks Pointe represents one of the most desirable communities that Wellington has ever offered. Situated amidst custom-built homes, Binks Pointe provides a dramatically different choice in resort-style townhome residences.

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561.508.1324 | BinksPointe.com The developer reserves the right to modify, revise, change or withdraw any information or specifications. Stated dimensions and square footage include floor space under all walls, are approximate and may vary in production.

contents 24 31 35 39 43 50

september 2017

Features

THE GREAT CHARITY CHALLENGE HELPS MANY NONPROFITS Wellington’s equestrian community has long been a leader in local philanthropy, and that tendency toward charitable giving has been magnified over the past nine years thanks to the Great Charity Challenge, led by Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin, held each February at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. By Julie Unger

EQUESTRIAN AID FOUNDATION HELPS HORSEMEN IN NEED

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Wellington is the winter equestrian capital of the world, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that among the unique philanthropic endeavors is the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which raises money that is then given as grants to equestrians in their time of need. By Julie Unger

WYCLIFFE COMES TOGETHER TO SUPPORT AREA CHARITIES The Wycliffe Charities Foundation has been a fixture for more than 20 years, putting one community’s philanthropic efforts to work for nonprofit organizations across the western communities and beyond. By Jack Lowenstein

PANTHER RIDGE AIMS TO SAVE BIG CATS FROM EXTINCTION The Panther Ridge Conservation Center, located in the Palm Beach Point community, is a special place — and also one of Wellington’s most unique nonprofit organizations. It was founded in 1999 by Judy Berens. By Julie Unger

THOUSANDS OF CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM BACK TO BASICS Back to Basics, a Wellington-based charitable organization, has easily helped more than 500,000 children in need in Palm Beach and Martin counties over the course of three decades. Founded by Beverly Perham, the nonprofit is now in its 34th year. By Julie Unger

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UNIQUE WELLINGTON CULTURAL & ENTERTAINMENT IDEAS Are you bored with the same old thing? We went searching for unique entertainment and cultural options. You can see a movie in the lap of luxury, take in an amazing tribute concert, check out an impressive public art gallery, visit a very moving memorial and experience the world’s most advanced riding simulators. By Deborah Welky

Departments 14 16 18 20 22

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE Wellington Community Foundation Hosts Back-To-School Fundraiser Wellington Physicians Urgent Care Center Opens On South Shore New Fire Truck A Leap Forward For WHS Fire Science Academy Garden Club Helps Boys & Girls Club Kids Prep Community Garden Wellington Chamber Hosts Membership Mixer At Bonefish Grill

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WELLINGTON HOME

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WELLINGTON TABLE

57 60 65 67 76 79 82

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Village Walk has become more desirable than ever thanks to renovations occurring under homeowners’ direction. A perfect example is this month’s featured home, where a bank of kitchen cabinets was removed to add to the open, airy feel. By Deborah Welky Aroma Indian Cuisine opened this year on Village Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Executive Chef Clarence “Rence” Xavier is the creative mind of the new restaurant. His goal is to serve Indian cuisine influenced by his unique culinary experience. By Jack Lowenstein

WELLINGTON DESIGNER WELLINGTON SPORTS WELLINGTON REAL ESTATE WELLINGTON HEALTH WELLINGTON DINING GUIDE WELLINGTON CALENDAR AROUND WELLINGTON ON THE COVER Anne Caroline Valtin, executive director of the Great Charity Challenge, is proud of the work the organization has done to help Palm Beach County nonprofits.

PHOTO BY STUDIOBRUNOCOHEN

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wellington the magazine | september 2017

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WELLINGTON

publisher’s | message

Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

volume 15, number 9 september 2017

executive editor

Joshua I. Manning

publisher

Dawn Rivera

senior graphic designer Stephanie Rodriguez

graphic designers

Nancy Pobiak Yolanda Cernicky

account managers

Betty Buglio Evie Edwards Wanda Glockson Joetta Palumbo

bookkeeping

Jill Kaskel Carol Lieberman

photography Abner Pedraza

contributors

Matthew Auerbach Ron Bukley Chris Felker Denise Fleischman Jack Lowenstein Y.A. Teitelbaum Julie Unger Deborah Welky

Wellington The Magazine

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33 Wellington, FL 33414 Phone: (561) 793-7606 Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.WellingtonTheMagazine.com

published by

Wellington The Magazine LLC

chairman/ceo

Barry S. Manning Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2017, 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.

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING

The Wellington Spirit of Giving

Wellington The Magazine took to the streets to profile some of Wellington’s amazing philanthropic organizations, and what we found was astounding. There is no other community that can match the “Wellington Spirit of Giving.”

This month, we feature several categories of charities and nonprofits highlighting some of the areas they serve, including Back to Basics, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children in need; the Panther Ridge Conservation Center, which aims to save big cats from extinction; the Wycliffe Charities Foundation, a community-based organization that raises money for many great causes; and the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which stands ready to help equestrians in need. Leading the charge, helping dozens of charities in and around the Wellington area each year, is the Great Charity Challenge, an annual event that harnesses the power of equestrian giving to support local philanthropies. The competition is the brainchild of co-founders Mark Bellissimo and his daughter, Paige, and it runs seamlessly thanks to the work of Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin. We sit down with Valtin in this issue to learn more about the woman behind this great mission.

Beyond the ones we’ve highlighted this month, there are so many great organizations throughout Wellington. Looking for others to consider when thinking about your next charitable donation? We’ve also included a much larger listing section with many more to choose from.

This issue is dedicated to Our Wellington, a special section that highlights some of the amazing things to do in our community. Each year, we touch on a variety of fascinating options. This year, we focus on some of the more unique entertainment and cultural options in Wellington.

Check out the places we include, and be sure to make your way there for some enjoyment.

Wellington Designer this month features PMI Remodeling & Repairs, a one-stop shop for projects both big and small. Wellington Sports leads us to the mat with female wrestler Hosanna Kropp, who continues to break down barriers at Wellington High School. Wellington Real Estate visits with Berkshire Hathaway’s Linda and Harold Wellman, who bring unique skills and years of experience to their clients, while Wellington Health checks in with veterinarian Dr. Christina Herejk, who brings an integrated approach to helping animals. Wellington Home takes readers through the door of a newly renovated, open and airy Village Walk home, and, finally, Wellington Table debuts unique home-style dishes and more at the new Aroma Indian Cuisine.

As we go to press with this issue of Wellington The Magazine, we must pause and take a moment to send well wishes to all our friends in Texas, as we pray for their safety and quick recovery from Hurricane Harvey. In the “Wellington Spirit of Giving,” we suggest you consider finding a way to help those in need, either through a monetary donation to the efforts of the Red Cross or by donating items to the various drop-off locations throughout our area.

Dawn Rivera Dawn Rivera, Publisher

Our

WELLINGTON

St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church

May God Bless Our Village and All Who Dwell Within It. Fr. Downey, the Deacons, Parish Staff and the Parish Family of St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm www.sttherese-church.org

frontoffice@sttherese-church.org

www.facebook.com/StThereseCatholicChurch

Mass Schedule Monday - Friday: 8:30 am Saturday Vigil: 4:30 pm Sunday: 7:30 am; 9:30 am; 11:30 am; 5:30 pm

11800 Lake Worth Road, Wellington, FL 33449 Phone: 561-784-0689 Fax: 561-784-8346

wellington | social scene

Photos by Julie Unger

Wellington Community Foundation Hosts Back-To-School Fundraiser

(Left to right) Wellington Community Foundation board members Jim Sackett, Robbin Lee, Mickey Smith, Maria Becker, Maggie Zeller, Tom Wenham and Barry Manning; Carla Neumann, Joanna Boynton and Maggie Zeller; and event hosts Dr. Edward and Maria Becker.

The Wellington Community Foundation held a special fundraising event at the Palm Beach Point home of Dr. Edward and Maria Becker on Friday, Aug. 4. The foundation collected donations to help Wellington children with their back-to-school needs. For more information about the foundation, visit www. wellingtoncommunityfoundation. org.

(Left to right) Mickey Smith, Tom Wenham, Maggie Zeller, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, Jim Sackett, Robbin Lee, Maria Becker, Councilman Michael Napoleone, Vice Mayor John McGovern and Barry Manning; Gabriel Finocchietti with Herta and Frank Suess; Dr. Jean and Mirna Foucauld; and Tom Wenham, Robbin Lee, Jim Sackett, Richie Barathy and Maria Becker.

(Left to right) Councilman Michael and Cyndi Napoleone with Amy and Andrew Beller; Norm Higgins and Elina Basham with Paula and Jim Sackett; Kenda Peterson, Julie Kime, Paulette Edwards and Roseann Voils; and Jason and Shari Calderwood with Tonja and Henry Mosley.

(Left to right) Al Malefatto and Mickey Smith with Mary Lou and Scott Bedford; Jim Mourelatos with Robbin and Robert Lee; Mayor Anne Gerwig, WCF Chairman Tom Wenham and Kathy Foster; and Kate and Bill Donnelly.

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(Left to right) Elinor and Barry Schimel; Eli Zambrano with Dr. Humberto and Alejandra Caldera; Paulette Edwards and Maria Becker with Regis and Tom Wenham; and Pam Tahan, Liz Herman and Elina Basham. september 2017 | wellington the magazine

NEED HELP? We are here for you.

Offices in Palm Beach County (WPB) and Dade County (Miami) MAIN OFFICE: 2465 Mercer Avenue, Suite 204, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 | 561-291-8298 | Fax: 561-855-7710 MIAMI: 777 Brickell Avenue, Suite 500, Miami, FL 33131 | 305-697-9799 | Fax: 305-809-8009

The attorneys at the law offices of Pike & Lustig, LLP, a full-service law firm, understand our clients’ business litigation needs, in both State and Federal Courts.

Business Litigation: • Breach of Contract • Shareholder Disputes • Real Estate Litigation • Partnership Disputes • Trademark Litigation • Copyright Litigation • Equine Law The attorneys at the law offices of Pike & Lustig, LLP represent accident victims, and their families, throughout the State of Florida.

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wellington | social scene

Photos by Julie Unger

Wellington Physicians Urgent Care Center Opens On South Shore

(Left) Local dignitaries join Dr. Nicholas Sama, Wellington Regional Medical Center CEO Robbin Lee and Dr. Adam Bromberg (center) for the ribbon-cutting ceremony; Dr. Adam Bromberg, Mayor Anne Gerwig, WRMC CEO Robbin Lee, Dr. Nicholas Sama, Practice Administrator Lori Fischer and Janice Sorenson of Independent Physician Management.

Wellington Physicians Urgent Care held a grand opening, ribbon cutting and tour on Tuesday, Aug. 1 to introduce the community to the new facility at 13421 South Shore Blvd., Suite 101, in Wellington. Every day, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., there is walk-in availability for minor emergencies, illnesses, injuries, special equestrian care, and health and wellness needs such as flu shots, physicals and more. For more information, call (561) 440-1616 or visit www.urgentcarewellington.com.

(Left to right) Tom Wenham, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Dr. Nicholas Sama, Robbin Lee, Dr. Adam Bromberg, Pam Tahan, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, Vice Mayor John McGovern and Tonja Mosley; Nurse Practitioner Reginald Perard and Medical Assistant Chelsea Neal examine Elizabeth Paine; Nurse Practitioner Ene Reiter; and members of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce with Wellington Physicians Urgent Care officials.

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

wellington | social scene

Photos by Julie Unger

New Fire Truck A Leap Forward For WHS Fire Science Academy

(Left) PBCFR Battalion Chief William Rowley hands the keys to WHS Principal Mario Crocetti; Ian Marshall, Miky Paredes, Battalion Chief Chris Yurick and Brandon Yurick; and PBCFR cadets wash the truck as part of the ceremony.

Officials from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the Wellington High School Fire Science Academy, including both former and current cadets, gathered at Wellington High School on Wednesday, Aug. 9 to decommission a fire engine, retiring it and passing it along to the academy as a vehicle for training and teaching. The new addition joins a 1970 ladder truck as training vehicles for the academy, which has approximately 90 students.

(Left to right) Academy students clean the truck as part of the ceremony; concluding the ceremony, students push the vehicle to its new home; and cadets and guests gather after the ceremony.

Since 1986

11199 Polo Club Road | Suite 1 | Wellington, FL 33414 | (561) 578-8900 18

september 2017 | wellington the magazine

wellington | social scene

Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Garden Club Helps Boys & Girls Club Kids Prep Community Garden

(Left) Wellington Garden Club members with children at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club community garden. (Right) Students show off their finished “garden in a glove.”

The Wellington Garden Club visited the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club to join them in setting up their community garden for the upcoming season. Garden club members also taught the youngsters about germination, helping them make “gardens in a glove” to take home so seeds can grow. The community garden is organized by the Young Professionals of Wellington in partnership with the Boys & Girls Club, the Wellington Garden Club and the Village of Wellington.

(Left to right) Jim Thompson, John Siena and Deb Russell; Sandy Sklar shows club members caterpillars on the plants; Kathy Siena, Maria Wolfe and Lisa Ferrano; Ann Finch teaches the children about germination and the “garden in a glove;” and Isabel Figuredo, Elizabeth Quintana, Armani Ross and Madison Price with Lisa Ferrano.

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Supporting the Wellington Community Part of our Mission at Wellington Florist is to give back to the community that has supported us for the last 26 years.

We are very proud to have contributed over $10,000 in kind to various non-profits and institutions during this 2016-2017 season.

Follow us on Instagram @wellingtonflorist for daily examples of our cutting edge designs by our A.I.F.D. accredited florists.

Wellington Marketplace | 13889 Wellington Trace A12, Wellington, FL 33414

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

wellington | social scene

Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Wellington Chamber Hosts Membership Mixer At Bonefish Grill

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce held a membership mixer hosted by Bonefish Grill at State Road 7 and Lake Worth Road on Thursday, Aug. 10. Board members, chamber members, family and friends gathered at the restaurant for food and drinks, which included the restaurant’s popular “bang bang shrimp.” For information on upcoming chamber events, visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

(Left to right) Henry Mosley, Jennifer Hernandez, Sharon Lasko and Leah Hack; Tymon Cook and Pam Toussaint; and Michael Russell and Jeanette Sassoon.

(Left to right) Jack Rosen, Wellington Vice Mayor John McGovern, Wellington Chamber Executive Director Michela Green and Lisa Banionis; Jacqui Welch and Dan Bond; Brandon West and Marie Falzon; Sue Kull, Jody Jorgensen, Joanne Kaminski and Debra Hoefl; and Dannielle Judd and Jason Calderwood.

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

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Great Charity Challenge Leads The Way In Equestrian Philanthropy

By Julie Unger

Wellington’s equestrian community has long been a leader in local philanthropy, and that tendency toward charitable giving has been magnified over the past nine years thanks to the Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, held each February at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

The Great Charity Challenge is a special event where equestrians — amateurs, juniors and professionals — are paired with local charities for a highenergy show jumping competition. The charities receive donations based upon how their team ranks, with each receiving a sizable minimum donation.

The competition is the brainchild of co-founders Mark Bellissimo and his daughter, Paige. The event runs like clockwork thanks to the hard work of Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin.

Valtin first experienced the Great Charity Challenge, or GCC for short, during its first year and knew she had to become involved. “I instantly fell in love with the concept,” she said. “I’m a true humanitarian at heart and passionate about equestrian sports. The event was a fairytale come true.”

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september 2016 | wellington the magazine

Mark, Katherine and Paige Bellissimo with GCC Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER

The evening allows passionate equestrians to foster change in the community.

A lottery picks each year’s participating charities, and Mark Bellissimo’s company Equestrian Sport Productions covers all of the costs associated with the event, which allows all of the money raised to go directly back into the community.

Currently, the GCC aims to distribute $1.5 million each year to dozens of Palm Beach County nonprofits. In 2017, the event surpassed the $10 million mark in total giving. Sponsors, and volunteers, are integral to the success of the event.

“We are extremely lucky and grateful to have long-time sponsors by our side.

They believe in making Palm Beach County a better place, and are eager to support the event and the many wonderful causes represented every year,” Valtin said. “I believe that the way the GCC is set up makes it easier for individuals, families and businesses to give back. It can be very challenging to pick just one organization to help while not being sure which one is best.”

The competition wouldn’t be possible without the horses and riders that fly through the relay course. Amateur and junior riders are teamed up with worldclass riders to form the three-person teams.

Anne Caroline Valtin speaks as Paige and Mark Bellissimo look on.

PHOTO BY LOIS SPATZ

For the amateur and junior riders, the opportunity to ride on a team with some of the world’s best equestrians, learning from them, is an experience to remember.

“Just like in every other sport, these Olympic riders are role models. We admire them for their dedication to the sport and their talent in the ring,” Valtin said. “Getting the opportunity to share the ring with them is something you dream of. You could compare it to boys getting the opportunity to play with their favorite football player.”

For those top professionals, riding for a charity event — risking themselves and their horses — shows their amazing character, Valtin said, noting that they take the competition seriously.

“One of my favorite memories of the event was during the fifth edition where 10-time Olympian Ian Millar captained the winning team with riders Kelly Soleau and Emily Kinch,” Valtin said.

During a press interview, she recalled that he said, “It was a great pleasure to do it, and when we finished our round, I can’t tell you the pleasure I had. It is a very enjoyable and rewarding class just because of the situation. I mean, winning

(Right) Great Charity Challenge Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin is also an accomplished equestrian.

PHOTO BY PIXEL EVENTS

(Below) Riders jump during the Great Charity Challenge.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER

wellington the magazine | september 2016

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PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER

PHOTO BY LOIS SPATZ

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER

The celebratory atmosphere at the Great Charity Challenge includes an annual costume theme.

a grand prix is great, but this is different.

This is special.”

Competing at the GCC allows the elite riders, as well as up-and-coming riders, to make a difference in the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals, Valtin said, stressing that the event is unlike other equestrian competitions.

“It’s a unifying competition where everyone genuinely puts their interests aside and focuses on giving a leg up to others,” she said.

After the event each year, Valtin takes the time to share on the GCC web site and social media how the competition impacts the many organizations involved. This lets sponsors and the community know where the money is going.

She has also had the opportunity to visit many of the organizations helped by the Great Charity Challenge.

“The impact can be as simple as updating all of the windows in a homeless

shelter, purchasing a new fridge/freezer for a food pantry, being able to assist an extra 100 students with tutoring, or even laying the foundation for a foster home,” Valtin said.

In addition to helping many local nonprofits, the GCC created a permanent partnership with the 12 public schools in Wellington. The schools are the only group that automatically participates in the GCC each year.

“We were surprised to realize that schools depend immensely on donations and external funding to cover basics, such as providing after-school tutoring, running special programs or even purchasing new lunchroom tables,” Valtin said. “Creating a partnership with them was a natural fit. The Winter Equestrian Festival is their backyard, and we wanted them to gain access to it.”

Each school is also invited during the winter season to showcase their talents

and perform the national anthem for the crowd during grand prix competition evenings.

“It is remarkable to meet so many wonderful and gifted students, along with the dedicated staff and parents,” Valtin said. “We will be once again inviting them out for a chalk art contest, on the night of the GCC, where each school will be given the opportunity to share what it means to them to give back. All schools are guaranteed a minimum of $1,000 for participating and will receive up to $2,500, based on a judging panel’s final results.”

Equestrian Sport Productions promotes the Great Charity Challenge and offers free general admission during the Winter Equestrian Festival. During the GCC, there is free admission and parking.

“The event is a community celebration,” Valtin said. “We want to make sure

(Left) Last year’s top winners gather with their big checks. (Right) Coming in first place was the team from Urban Youth Impact.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER

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september 2016 | wellington the magazine

that everyone and anyone who wishes to come can be there to witness the generosity of the sponsors, passion of the riders and the dedication of so many local nonprofit organizations. We believe that the world needs more feel-good stories — and the GCC is definitely one of them.”

Next year’s Great Charity Challenge

will take place Saturday, Feb. 10. The theme will be “Hollywood Feature Films: A Night Where Everyone is a Star.” Previous themes have ranged from superheroes to animated characters.

“Riders have showcased amazing costumes in the last few years,” Valtin said.

“We look forward to seeing what they come up with for the 2018 edition. We

invite everyone to join us ‘red carpet ready.’ Gates will open at 6 p.m., with competition set for 6:30 p.m.”

For sponsorship information, contact Valtin at (727) 678-8677 or acv@greatcharitychallenge.com. For additional information about the charities, application process and event details, visit www.greatcharitychallenge.com and www.facebook.com/greatcharitychallenge.

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Stands Ready To Help Equestrians In Need

By Julie Unger

Wellington is the winter equestrian capital of the world, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that among the area’s unique philanthropic endeavors is the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which raises money that is then given as grants to members of the equestrian community in their time of need.

In the horse industry, a catastrophic injury can occur in the blink of an eye. The aftermath of that injury, or a catastrophic illness, can be devastating — never being able to walk again, never being able to ride again, not being able to put food on the table, and, in essence, losing your identity.

“Horses are beloved, yet unpredictable animals. Things can happen or change within an instant,” Equestrian Aid Foundation Executive Director Louise Smith said. “It could happen to pretty much anybody.”

However, since 1996, the Equestrian Aid Foundation has been there to help those in the equestrian industry as they go through such difficult times, helping to rebuild their lives.

The EAF was founded as the Equestrian AIDS Foundation to help those battling that deadly illness. Its mission has since expanded to help all equestrians in need and has provided grants of more than $2.7 million, assisting equestrians in 30 states. “We help with things that insurance won’t cover,” Smith explained.

The EAF is a kind hand, extending hope and support when someone in the industry — riders, grooms, barn managers, trainers, farriers and more — is facing the inability to conduct life as they know it. After all, many equestrians eat, drink, work and sleep barn life. If that is taken away from them, it is devastating.

Smith was drawn to the organization when she learned about what EAF is and how it helps. She discovered that the EAF could have helped a friend of hers, but they didn’t know about it at the time. Therefore, raising awareness is an important goal for Smith, and other EAF leaders.

“The mission of the Equestrian Aid Foundation is to provide emergency grant-based financial support to horse men and women who are coping with catastrophic injury and ill-

Equestrian Aid Foundation President Stephanie Riggio Bulger and Executive Director Louise Smith.

PHOTO BY MEG MCGUIRE

ness,” Board President Stephanie Riggio Bulger said. “It started as the Equestrian AIDS Foundation, and the mission was to assist horse men and women who were living with HIV and AIDS.” Approximately 10 years after its inception, the “S” was dropped.

“It became Aid instead of AIDS, and we started helping any injury, illness, you name it, as long as it was catastrophic enough to prevent the person from being able to work, and it caused a loss of income,” Riggio Bulger said.

Based in Wellington, the EAF has impacted equestrians wellington the magazine | september 2017

31

Horses and humans work in harmony during the EAF’s Althea fundraising show in Wellington last season.

across the country. Many fundraisers, such as local events with stores such as On Course Consignment, BurgerFi, Charming Charlie and Consign & Design, where retailers have held activities, promotions or shopping days, and then donated revenue to the EAF, have a large impact.

“A diverse group of companies have lent their support to the organization,” Smith said. “That’s really amazing, and that really speaks to the generosity of people, not only in Wellington, who support the foundation, sponsor us, participate in our events and activities — they make an impact all across the country.”

The EAF also holds an annual fundraiser, such as last season’s Althea, an equestrian show featuring former Cavalia artists. A newer program with the EAF is the second annual Jump for Charity, taking place at the Hampton

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Classic Horse Show. Riders are paired with charities and special caps are made, and sold, with proceeds benefiting the charities. Georgina Bloomberg will be riding for the EAF this year.

“It was such a fortuitous pick because she’s an old friend of the foundation,” Riggio Bulger said. “She was a board member for many years, and she’s a dear friend of mine. It was extra special for us that Georgina got picked to be our rider.”

At other competitions, horse show managers are able to support the EAF through its Show You Care program, where a class can be designated as a Show You Care class, where anywhere from five to 50 percent of the entry fee is donated to the EAF. Competitors receive a green lapel ribbon to wear during the show.

Utilizing social media helps raise awareness for the organization, which

recently received gold star status from GuideStar, which rates nonprofit organizations. Only a small fraction of the 1.8 million organizations listed in GuideStar achieve gold status.

“It reinforces the work we’re doing and our stature in the community. It’s a gold star on our foundation,” Riggio Bulger said. “It shows we’re doing good work and high-quality work.”

Through EAF grants, individuals who thought they never would be able to walk again are able to receive physical therapy and other medical assistance that is able to make a difference in their mobility and ability to regain their lives.

“When you’re told you’ll never ride again, when you’re told you’ll never have your job again, when you’re told you’ll never walk again, it makes such a difference to get some help,” Smith said. “In the horse world, there’s so

many times your life revolves around your barn and your colleagues. And when you’re injured, oftentimes it’s a very lonely experience.”

Whether it is recovering from cancer, complications during back surgery or a debilitating injury, the EAF is there to provide hope, support and funds. Having money is one part of the battle, but knowing there is an organization of people offering support is one of the things that makes the EAF special.

“It’s such a feel-good organization, to hear that all the work we’re doing saves people’s lives, it saves people’s houses, it saves people’s horses, it allows them to keep food on the table while they’re recovering,” Riggio Bulger added. “Sometimes small gestures can have a huge impact.”

For more info., call (800) 792-6068 or visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org.

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Wycliffe Charities Foundation Treasurer Harriet Ross, Vice President Gale Horowitz and Past President Sue Webber.

Community Raises Money For Many Great Causes

By Jack Lowenstein

The Wycliffe Charities Foundation has been a fixture for more than 20 years, putting one community’s philanthropic efforts to work for nonprofit organizations across the western communities and beyond.

“The people of Wycliffe are very generous. They sponsor a number of events that we hold during the year,” Wycliffe Charities Foundation President Gerry Ranzal said. “It’s all very exciting. If you go to the different charities we sponsor, and you talk to the people that they help, and the love and respect and gratitude that they convey to you, it is a wonderful feeling.”

Today, the Wycliffe Charities Foundation continues to honor the goals of supporting community nonprofits serving central Palm Beach County. The foundation has signature annual events it continues to hold in order to raise

money for the long list of charities it donates to every year.

“That’s an ongoing thing all year, so even though the golf tournament is in March and the shredding is in April, and we have raffles in January, the tributes are collected all year,” Treasurer Harriet Ross said. “That’s how I started out on the board, just doing the tributes for about three or four years, and then I elevated to the treasury.”

This year, the charity broke its record for annual money raised — $158,500.

Sue Webber, past president of the organization, said the foundation has donated about $1.8 million over the past 20 years to the nonprofit organizations it supports.

“We embrace the charities, and they embrace us,” Vice President Gail Horowitz said.

The foundation’s annual golf tour-

nament continues to be its largest event of the year. The tournament hosts approximately 300 people who support the foundation’s mission.

“It takes all of us,” Horowitz said. “It’s not one person. It’s not two people. It’s the whole community that does it, coming together and being able to pull it off… every year, and saying, ‘Are we going to be able to do it?’ ‘Can we do it?’

‘Is it going to be ok?’ And, every year, it gets bigger and better.”

The Wycliffe Charities Foundation has the world “charity” in it, but it’s the word “foundation” that speaks more to its mission.

“We’re really not a charity. We are a foundation,” Webber said. “Again, making us unique, because it’s the community, and I have to say that the Wycliffe staff who work here are the most generous people. So, this is truly a whole comwellington the magazine | september 2017

35

Wycliffe Charities Foundation supporters gather at the annual Tour de Wycliffe bike/run walk event.

“It takes all of us. It’s not one person. It’s not two people. It’s the whole community that does it.”

Gail Horowitz munity, the employees, the staff at the country club and the residents who live here [who make it happen]. It’s amazing how really generous and supportive they are.”

When the foundation is not fund-

36

september 2017 | wellington the magazine

raising through its major golf tournament, shredding and bike/walk events, it has an active tribute program that allows people to raise money individually for the foundation.

“People in Wycliffe typically will do-

nate money in memory of or in honor of someone, or celebrating a birthday,” Horowitz said.

There is a strict foundation policy for a nonprofit to be considered eligible to receive donations from the Wycliffe

Charities Foundation. All of the money raised is donated to local health-related, educational and children’s organizations in Palm Beach County, as written in the foundation’s mission statement.

“Every charity has to write a grant request. The board of governors then goes through all the grant requests, and we decide which charities to give to,” Webber said. “Usually, by the time the golf tournament is over, we’ve raised all the money for the year, and we need to decide how we are going to divide it.

We’re very strict about what we do.”

Another way the charity makes money is participating in community events, and this year it won additional money through the Great Charity Challenge by placing eighth in the equestrian competition. That money helped the foundation break its annual donation record.

“We go out and visit the charities that we give money to, and they come here,”

Horowtiz said. “They come and they participate in the bike/walks and the golf tournament. So, they become an integral part of who and what we are.”

This year, the foundation donated money to 25 charities. This was up from the 18 charities it usually makes donations to each year, due to the extra money.

The 2017 grant recipients were: Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, the Alpert Jewish Family and Children’s Service, the Caridad Center, the Center for Child Counseling, the Center for Trauma Counseling, the Children’s Home Society of Florida, Clinics Can Help, Faith-Hope-Love-Charity Inc., Families First of Palm Beach County, Grandma’s Place, Home Safe, Horses Healing Hearts, the Hospice of Palm Beach County Foundation, the Kids Cancer Foundation, KidSafe, the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, the Mental Health Association of Palm

Beach County, the Palm Beach Habilitation Center, the Palm Beach School for Autism, Paws 4 Liberty, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Quantum House, the Sari Center, Speak Up for Kids and the West Palm Beach Library Foundation.

The main operations of the foundation are between December and April, Ranzal said. After the shredding event in April, there are meetings and preparations for the next year.

“It was a wonderful year. I really enjoy raising money for these charities,” Ranzal said. “It’s always a challenge, and everything happens at the last minute, but we all work through it, and the people who are involved work hard and get everything done on time.”

To learn more about the Wycliffe Charities Foundation, visit www.wycliffecharities. com. To contact the foundation, call (561) 434-2918 or e-mail wycliffecharities@ hotmail.com.

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Panther Ridge founder Judy Berens and Charlie the cheetah with Sadie Ryan, Alli Zimmerman, Traci Byron and Christine Williams.

Nonprofit Aims To Save Big Cats From Extinction Story and Photos by Julie Unger

The Panther Ridge Conservation Center, located in the Palm Beach Point community, is a special place — and also one of Wellington’s most unique nonprofit organizations.

Panther Ridge, founded in 1999 by Judy Berens, is a place where you can come face-to-face with a black leopard or a clouded leopard, or perhaps a jaguar or cougar.

The common thread between these

animals is that they are all exotic cats with dwindling numbers in the wild.

“We have eight species, and certainly two of them will be gone from the wild in 20 years, it’s predicted,” Berens said.

Originally, she founded Panther Ridge as a rescue facility for exotic large cats in need.

“But now, it has evolved to become an education mission to help people understand the threats against wildlife

that exist in the world today — and the fact that many of the species that are housed at Panther Ridge will be extinct within their range habitats within the next 20 years, if not sooner,” Berens said.

It costs approximately $150,000 a year to care for the animals, and the costs quickly add up, between food, vitamins, medicines, habitats and, of course, enrichment and toys. wellington the magazine | september 2017

39

“In the last 20 years, I have seen such a paradigm shift in the situation for animals in the wild.”

Judy Berens

Panther Ridge’s Judy Berens with clouded leopard Ming Too.

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“We depend on the generosity of individuals and corporations,” Berens said.

To help support the animals, Berens offers several types of tours of the facility.

A tour at Panther Ridge is a unique, intimate experience. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the cats, their stories, their species and how they live.

If you listen carefully, it’s possible to hear the purr of Charlie, a cheetah.

When the sun beams at just the right angle, you can see the spots on Amos, a black leopard who has been at Panther Ridge since he was a week old.

Last year, Mateo, a jaguar, and Meeka, a cougar, joined the Panther Ridge family as cubs. Over the last few months, they’ve grown up immensely, continuously changing.

Berens and her team have strong bonds with the feline residents of Panther Ridge and enjoy sharing their knowledge of these very rare cats.

With rapidly dwindling numbers in the wild, and only some species having enough genetic diversity for captive breeding, Panther Ridge offers an exquisite glimpse into the lives of majestic creatures that may not exist in the wild for much longer. Captive breeding might be the only way to save them.

“In the last 20 years, I have seen such a paradigm shift in the situation for animals in the wild. I am not only considering, but embracing the concept of captive breeding for some of these species that will surely be extinct in the wild very shortly,” Berens said.

As the situation for the animals has changed, she has adjusted the mission of Panther Ridge.

“As the world has evolved, we have evolved. Now we are trying to put our efforts where they will be more impactful,” Berens said. “The concept of returning animals to the wild, although it is beautifully idealistic, where is that wild to put them back into, after the forest has been cut down and the jungle

has been cut down? The wild will not exist.”

With their natural habitat dwindling, there is only so much people can do. Berens suggests becoming involved in worldwide conservation efforts and finding good quality, local projects to support.

“That will be making a difference in the everyday lives and survival of these animals,” Berens explained. “The impact of man on the environment is what’s causing the rest of them to go over the edge.”

At Panther Ridge, Berens and her team work with conservation centers around the world, gathering information about the cats and their behavior.

Sharing information about the animals, their medical histories and their behaviors is crucial for efforts to help them survive.

School groups visit Panther Ridge and are able to observe and learn about the cats in an up-close-and-personal atmosphere that is unique to Panther Ridge.

There are many ways the local community can choose to support Panther Ridge. The nonprofit conservation center offers tours by appointment only, either with Berens herself or with her team. During a tour, guests learn about the residents and conservation efforts.

Sponsorship adoptions are available for the cats that go toward their care and needs. Donations are also helpful.

On the Panther Ridge web site is a wish list of items such as a GoPro camera, playground mulch, cleaner, bleach, lumber and metal leaf rakes that are used to care for the cats and their habitats.

Panther Ridge also hosts several fundraising events each year, and it is possible to make Panther Ridge the recipient of a school or organization fundraiser.

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Back to Basics founder Beverly Perham (far right) with some of her volunteers.

Back To Basics

Wellington-Based Nonprofit Helps Children In Need

By Julie Unger

Back to Basics, a Wellington-based charitable organization, has easily helped more than 500,000 children in need in Palm Beach and Martin counties over the course of three decades.

Founded by Wellington resident Beverly Perham, Back to Basics is now in its 34th year.

Adamant in keeping her promises, Perham and her team help as many children as possible, be it through providing school uniforms in August or providing holiday gifts in December. Through its Christmas season An-

gel Program, each child receives new sneakers, socks, underwear and a toy.

Back to Basics recently provided school uniforms to students in 47 schools, as well as the GuatemalanMaya Center in Lake Worth. They delivered 12,000 school uniforms in Palm Beach County — up 2,000 from the 2016-17 school year.

However, the numbers, and the need, continue to grow.

“We took on a few more schools, and then a few more of the schools,” Perham said. “We really need to increase

how much we give, because they’re so desperate. However, I can’t commit to more than I think we can handle.”

This holiday season, she has 7,015 children on the list provided to the organization through schools — up from 5,800 last year. Students at 51 schools will be served during the upcoming holiday season.

“It’s sad that we have that many, and we could do more, but you can only do what you have funding for,” Perham said. “Right now, we’re going to be in desperate straits for Christmas.” wellington the magazine | september 2017

43

Tom Wenham and Maria Becker of the Wellington Community Foundation with representatives from Elbridge Gale and Binks Forest elementary schools as they pick up school uniforms for children in need.

Businesses, organizations and groups will come to Perham and ask for a list of children to “adopt” for the holiday season.

Back to Basics provides a first name only, the school and what size items the child needs. Then, the participating organizations purchase the clothing and gifts, bringing them to a drop-off location.

“They have to just call me, and we’ll make arrangements,” Perham said.

If there are children who haven’t been adopted, grants and cash donations help Back to Basics provide the muchneeded items for those children.

Perham takes as many names from the schools as possible — and will make sure those children receive their gifts. However, as more children are in need, it is getting more difficult to keep up with the demand.

Individuals are also able to receive names and information to help children in need. In fact, a core group of individual donors are one of the driving forces behind the organization.

Back to Basics is tax-exempt, and any gift is tax-deductible, Perham added.

Purchasing for Back to Basics is kept local, she noted, and each year, she estimates that $500,000 is poured into the local economy as individuals and businesses purchase items to help local children in need.

“It makes me feel good that it’s done in the community,”

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

(Left) Jim Sackett with Back to Basics founder Beverly Perham. (Right) Volunteers work to get holiday packages ready for children.

Perham said. “The best part is that it’s done anonymously and nobody gets highlighted. We don’t get praised for our work.

We do it because we have a love for the community and we want the community to survive, and the only way the community survives is if you take care of the children. If the kids go to school and learn, that’s the satisfaction involved. That’s what the purpose is, to keep the kids in school so they do learn, so they will be able to support themselves when they’re adults.”

The gifts are done anonymously, so the children and their families are protected and their privacy respected.

“It’s sad that kids don’t have underwear to wear to school, but it’s a fact,” Perham said. “It’s reality that it happens.”

Over the years, the need has consistently continued to grow, and like she has done every year, Perham has put out the call for supporters and volunteers to help out this holiday season.

Back to Basics is always accepting donations and has many volunteer opportunities available. For more information, call Perham at (561) 319-4277, e-mail info@backtobasicsinc.org or visit www. backtobasicsinc.org.

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Celebrating

THE WELLINGTON SPIRIT OF GIVING One of the most enjoyable parts of our job here at Wellington The Magazine is seeing first-hand the incredible work local charities and nonprofit organizations do for the Wellington community. We have been impressed to see groups both big and small adapting to new challenges and finding creative ways to stay relevant.

Wellington has a unique spirit of giving, and this issue is dedicated to celebrating the philanthropic organizations that call Wellington home. We have highlighted several diverse groups in this issue, and listed below, you will find many more organizations that serve the Wellington community and beyond.

We want all local charities and nonprofits to become more independent, more resilient and maintain their presence in our community. That is why we have dedicated this issue to them, to help encourage giving and support from donors whenever possible.

Thanks for being the spirited community you are!

Abi Kattel Memorial Foundation (561) 792-7772 abikattel.foundation@gmail.com www.abikattelfoundation.org

Bricks Busting Boredom (954) 253-3668 daclein@gmail.com www.bricksbustingboredom.org

American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Post 390 (561) 307-5131 wellingtonlegion390@gmail.com www.legion.org

Christopher Aguirre Memorial Foundation roseann@christophermemorial.org www.christophermemorial.org

Back to Basics (561) 319-4277 info@backtobasicsinc.org www.backtobasicsinc.org Big Dog Ranch Rescue (561) 791-6465 info@bdrr.org www.bdrr.org Big Hearts 4 Paws Rescue bighearts4pawsrescue@yahoo.com www.bighearts4pawsrescue.com Blooming with Autism (561) 251-3964 bloomingwithautismmarketing@gmail.com Blue Sky Foundation (561) 371-0036 dickstockton@att.net www.theblueskyfoundation.com Briana Marie Cox Foundation (561) 795-1070 info@brianamariecoxfoundation.org www.brianamariecoxfoundation.org

Danny & Ron’s Rescue (803) 900-9800 info@dannyronsrescue.org www.dannyronsrescue.org Dream Sponsors (561) 795-2223 carlaneumann@dreamsponsorsinc.org www.dreamsponsorsinc.org Equestrian Aid Foundation (800) 792-6068 contact@equestrianaid.org www.equestrianaidfoundation.org Forever Greyhounds (561) 574-7756 info@forevergreyhounds.org www.forevergreyhounds.org Freedom Riders Academy (561) 201-7884 freedomridersacademy@yahoo.com www.freedomridersacademy.org Friends of Veterans (561) 602-8414 jerry@fovwpb.org www.fovwpb.org

Friends of Okeeheelee Nature Center (561) 233-1400 okeeheeleefriends@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ friendsofokeeheeleenaturecenter Friends of Wellington Regional Medical Center (561) 798-8565 www.wellingtonregional.com Gay Polo League (323) 712-3514 chip@gaypolo.com www.gaypolo.com Gold Coast Dressage Association (561) 227-1570 nosullivan@ihspb.com www.gcdafl.org Grandma’s Place (561) 753-2226 roxanne@grandmasplacepb.org www.grandmasplacepb.org Great Charity Challenge (727) 678-8677 acv@greatcharitychallenge.com www.greatcharitychallenge.com Greyed A Greyhound Assistance & Placement Services (561) 385-3755 jyrose@greyedagreyhounds.com www.greyedagreyhounds.com

wellington the magazine | september 2017

47

Celebrating

THE WELLINGTON SPIRIT OF GIVING Guatemalan Project (561) 246-3014 guatemalanproject@gmail.com www.guatemalanproject.org

Michael Joseph Brink Foundation (561) 512-9728 info@michaeljosephbrinkfoundation.org www.michaeljosephbrinkfoundation.org

Heroes PBC jhaslup@heroespbc.com www.heroespbc.com

My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust (561) 793-2350 www.mbskct.org

Horses Healing Hearts (561) 444-8436 info@hhhusa.org www.horseshealingheartsusa.org Jacobs Family Foundation of Wellington contact@jffwellington.org www.jffwellington.org Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue (561) 684-1010 justinbartlettanimalrescue@gmail.com www.justinbartlettanimalrescue.org JustWorld International (561) 333-9391 info@justworldinternational.org www.justworldinternational.org Kenny’s Dream Foundation (561) 424-6877 kennysdream@bellsouth.net www.kennysdreamfoundation.org Kids Cancer Foundation (561) 333-8116 michelle@kidscancersf.org www.kidscancersf.org Kiwanis of Wellington (561) 309-8659 donaldmeyers.dm@gmail.com www.wellingtonkiwanis.weebly.com Knights of Columbus St. Therese de Lisieux Council 12873 (561) 784-0689 www.sttherese-church.org Knights of Columbus M.J. Benvenuti Council 8419 St. Rita Catholic Church (561) 793-8544 www.kofc8419.org Megan F. Durtschi Memorial Scholarship higginsconsulting@comcast.net

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Spirit of Liberty Chapter joinsoldar@aol.com www.fssdar.net/darspirit Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington (561) 790-0343 www.bgcpbc.org Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Retiree Association (561) 722-3224 www.pbcfr-retiree.org Palm Beach Hounds (772) 933-HUNT pbhsecretary@gmail.com www.pbhounds.com Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District (561) 792-2727 www.pbswcd.org Panther Ridge Conservation Center (561) 795-8914 pantherridge@aol.com www.pantherridge.org Polo Players Support Group (516) 528-3821 info@polosupport.com www.polosupport.com Rotary International of Wellington (561) 790-0558 tomneumann@allstate.com www.wellingtonrotary.org Society of St Vincent de Paul Palm Beach District Council (561) 697-9699 service@svdp-palmbeach.org www.svdp-palmbeach.org

United States Polo Association (800) 232-8772 www.uspolo.org United States P.R.E. Association (786) 264-1108 www.usprea.com Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (561) 792-9900 info@vinceremos.org www.vinceremos.org Wellington Art Society (561) 632-3677 wellingtonartsociety@gmail.com www.wellingtonartsociety.org Wellington Ballet Theatre (561) 296-1880 info@wellingtonballettheatre.org www.wellingtonballettheatre.com Wellington Cares (561) 568-8818 wellingtoncares@gmail.com www.wellingtoncaresorg.com Wellington Community Foundation (561) 333-9843 info@wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org Wellington Garden Club info@wellingtongardenclub.org www.wellingtongardenclub.org Wellington Seniors Club (561) 793-8735 www.wellingtonfl.gov Wellington Toastmasters Club (561) 231-1958 www.wellington.toastmastersclubs.org Women of the Western Communities (561) 635-0011 www.womenofthewesterncommunities.org Wycliffe Charities Foundation (561) 434-2918 wycliffecharities@hotmail.com www.wycliffecharities.com Young Professionals of Wellington info@ypwellington.com www.ypwellington.com www.facebook.com/ theyoungprofessionalsofwellington

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There’s Always Something Amazing To Do In Wellington

WELLINGTON Check It Out: Unique Entertainment And Cultural Options In Wellington

By Deborah Welky

Are you bored with the same old thing? We went searching for unique entertainment and cultural options right here in our community. You can see a movie in the lap of luxury, take in an amazing tribute concert, check out an impressive public art gallery, visit a very moving memorial and experience the world’s most advanced riding simulators.

How many of these hidden gems have you explored?

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

Experience The Equine Simulator Experience horseback riding in a new way at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center with the amazing Equine Simulators. PBIEC offers jumper, cross country, dressage and polo sessions to both competitive and beginner equestrians who are interested in improving their riding skills.

The Equine Simulator is a mechanical device that imitates natural equine movement and physical responses to mounted riders.

The simulators serve as a one-of-akind opportunity for equestrian enthusiasts to fine-tune their skills, as well as provide a platform for individuals who have never ridden a horse to begin their riding careers in a safe and controlled environment.

Three interactive screens surround the simulator, creating an immersive atmosphere for individuals. A certified instructor is always on hand to perfect seat position, leg stability and connection to the bit.

World-class trainer Barbro Ask-Upmark teaches show jumping, cross country and dressage sessions for all ages and rider levels. Ask-Upmark is an ac-

complished dressage rider earning her USDF gold, silver and bronze medals in the United States, following her successful career as a top dressage trainer in Sweden. Ask-Upmark became involved with coaching and training on simulators in 2006.

A second simulator offers practice for polo players. This device allows them to work on their position and their swing with the moving treadmills

located on either side of the horse. To practice hand-eye coordination, as well as near-side and off-side shots, both experienced players or first-time riders are encouraged to sign up for a session with polo instructor Gates Gridley.

The Equine Simulators are available for lessons at PBIEC. For more information about the simulators, or to book your first session, visit www.pbiec.coth.com or call (561) 793-JUMP.

See A Movie At The New Paragon Theaters Years in the planning, Paragon Theaters opening earlier this year at the Mall at Wellington Green, offering guests the latest movie entertainment options in the lap of state-of-the-art luxury.

“We love the Wellington area, our home office is located in Florida, and the mall was a perfect location for our newest Paragon Theaters,” Paragon’s Niki Wilson said.

In Wellington, Paragon has 10 auditoriums of varying sizes — all with its signature reclining seats. Tickets are available online, at an automated kiosk or through guest services. The smallest auditorium features 47 recliners, while the largest has 176. wellington the magazine | september 2017

51

Paragon Theaters While you’re enjoying the big screen in the same comfort as your living room at home, don’t forget the snacks. The concession stand has popcorn, candy, soda and all the typical stuff, but guests can also enjoy beer and wine — and even a full gourmet meal.

Cask + Shaker Craft Bar and Kitchen, the adjacent Paragon-owned restaurant, serves up amazing creations from a diverse menu. You can dine there, or have your meal served in the theater on your recliner’s tray table. Yes! Chef-

“We love the Wellington area, our home office is located in Florida, and the mall was a perfect location for our newest Paragon Theaters,” Paragon’s Niki Wilson said. prepared appetizers, meals and serious cocktails for mom and dad, paired with popcorn and soda for the kids. Everybody’s happy!

Even if you don’t have time for a movie, Cask + Shaker is open to help you relax while you visit the mall. The restaurant offers a happy hour every Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6

p.m. with amazing drink and appetizer specials.

“Look for more promotions for both the restaurant and the theater, coming soon,” Wilson said.

For more information, including a treasure trove of special movie features and pricing, including how to get group rates, visit www.paragontheaters.com/promotions.

Take In A Tribute Concert At The Amphitheater Live concerts by tribute bands — not the real deal, but pretty darn close — have been steadily gaining in popularity. Entertainers performing hits from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s can command audiences of up to 3,000, and tribute band musical shows are among the most popular events held at the Wellington Amphitheater.

Interest spans the age groups, with older residents looking to reclaim a bit of their youth, and a rock-loving younger generation wanting to learn firsthand what all the fuss is about. “The younger kids maybe heard these groups on the radio and want to hear what the music sounds like live,” Wellington Cultural Programs & Facilities Manager Joe Piconcelli said.

Concerts are held several times a month on Saturdays, and admission is always free. In case of inclement weather, concerts may be rescheduled.

Slated to appear between September and December are the sounds of Motown, the Eagles, Bruce Springsteen, Val Halen, Aerosmith, Eric Clapton and Fleetwood Mac. In December, there’s a holiday show with a Neil Diamond tribute band, as well as the Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s Winterfest, featuring Vanilla Ice (the real one). Negotiations are underway to bring in the 52

september 2017 | wellington the magazine

Tribute concerts are held several times a month on Saturdays, and admission is always free. sounds of the Beatles, Stevie Wonder, the Bee Gees, Prince and Michael Jackson during the 2018 winter season.

On Thursday nights, food trucks and local bands still working toward tribute band status inhabit the space and, on Friday nights, there are movie nights — and that doesn’t include the many festivals and special events that also visit the amphitheater.

Concert-goers are welcome to bring blankets or chairs and, for the little ones, it’s nice to know that bathrooms and Scott’s Place playground are nearby.

For more information about events at the Wellington Amphitheater, contact Piconcelli at (561) 791-4756 or jpiconcelli@wellington fl.gov. Find the complete schedule online at www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Visit The Wellington Patriot Memorial A more somber place for quiet reflecting is the incredibly moving Wellington Patriot Memorial, located along Forest Hill Blvd. in front of the Wellington Municipal Complex.

Following the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks that downed the World Trade Center towers in New York, hundreds of pieces of steel were used as evidence during the investigation and eventually offered for public display. In 2009, communities around the world sent letters requesting pieces of the World Trade Center, and Wellington was selected to receive one.

Wellington staff members traveled to New York and selected the piece they felt best suited Wellington’s planned memorial. The beam was solemnly transported here, where the memorial site, complete with an eternal flame and reflecting pond, was being readied.

“This piece was recovered from the South Tower, just below where the plane attack took place,” Wellington’s Nicole Coates said. “In addition to a plaque with the history of the piece of

steel, there is also a plaque with the names etched in glass of all the victims who lost their lives that day.”

The Wellington Patriot Memorial was dedicated on the 10th anniversary

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Patriot Memorial of the 9/11 attacks. It sits in a place of honor at the gateway to the village complex.

“That location is such a good fit for our public display. There are also unrealized benefits that cannot be quantified,” Coates explained. “There are all sorts of uses of that memorial that you wouldn’t think of. There has been a funeral there; one of the keynote speakers from the dedication wanted

“That location is such a good fit for our public display.

There are also unrealized benefits that cannot be quantified,” Wellington’s Nicole Coates said. to have his eulogy read there — and it was.”

Individuals and groups come for miles around to visit this unique Wellington treasure.

“Tens of thousands of people visit each year, especially considering that

we have a lot of activity around that site,” Coates said. “We are grateful to have this unique artifact, a part of American history, and we invite everyone to come out and take a look.”

The Wellington Patriot Memorial can be found at 12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.

Check Out The Wellington Art Society Gallery Craving a cultural fix? The Wellington Art Society hosts a year-round art installation at the Wellington Municipal Complex, where the works of its members span two floors in a rotating show.

“The dedicated gallery encompasses all the perimeter walls on both the first and second floors, with an atrium area in the center,” Wellington Art Society Board Member Leslie Pfeiffer said. “It accommodates 40 to 60 pieces of artwork and has professional natural spectrum track lighting, as well as the natural daylight from the windows. There’s enough space to accommodate smaller as well as larger pieces, including sculpture.”

Every four months, a committee chooses a theme for each installation, juries the entries, gets a Wellington Village Council member’s approval on the choices, then places each piece in the gallery for Wellington staff to install.

The gallery is open whenever the building is open, and each show features a reception during which the public can meet the artists.

“The Wellington Art Society is open to local and regional artists of all mediums, patrons of the arts and snowbirds,” Pfeiffer said. “We feature professional and emerging artists, as well as nationally acclaimed artists. Mediums include drawing, painting, photography, mixed media, sculpture and ceramics. To keep

“The dedicated gallery encompasses all the perimeter walls on both the first and second floors, with an atrium area in the center,” Wellington Art Society Board Member Leslie Pfeiffer said. it interesting, each show is a combination of mediums and techniques.”

The location is well-suited to offer an “art break” to those visiting the village’s nearby facilities. In addition to receptions and self-guided tours, the Wellington Art Society has scheduled private tours for scout troops, women’s groups and art groups from other areas.

The artwork on display is for sale, with 20 percent of the purchase price going toward the Wellington Art Society’s Scholarship Fund. Over the last

decade, $75,000 in college scholarships has been distributed among 50 talented students for advanced art studies.

“It’s our legacy, and we’re very proud of that,” Pfeiffer said.

The Wellington Art Society meets monthly and also hosts exhibits at other locations around the community. On the horizon is the annual ArtFest on the Green juried show slated for Jan. 27-28, 2018 at the Wellington Amphitheater.

For additional information, visit www. wellingtonartsociety.org. wellington the magazine | september 2017

55

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PMI Remodeling & Repairs A One-Stop Shop For All Projects, Big And Small

By Julie Unger

At PMI Remodeling & Repairs, “one call repairs it all.” The family business has been based in Wellington since it was founded by Paul Tonks in 1987.

After working at the old Wellington Club, Paul struck out his own when he saw the need for a remodeling and repair company in the growing community. He currently runs the business with his son, Phil, and the rest of their family.

“We’ve come from being a one-man company to now being a lot bigger than we were,” said Paul, who is originally from England.

Starting in Paul’s garage many moons ago, they have since moved to several different buildings in Wellington’s industrial centers, bringing them to the current office, where they have a showroom full of supplies and mock-

ups for clients to come and pick out anything they want, ranging from kitchens and bathrooms to whole house renovations and repairs.

“I came to the business when fax machines and computers started coming onto the scene, so I brought those kinds of technology in, and built the software to run the company,” said Phil, who is destined to one day take over the business.

Though Paul said he is looking to retire soon, Phil pointed out that he has been saying that for the last five years.

Phil is ready and able to take over for his father. He has had his state building contractor’s license for more than

Phil Tonks and Paul Tonks of PMI Remodeling & Repairs.

20 years and is devoted to the company.

PMI services include remodeling, commercial services, roofing, gutters, siding, windows, plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, irrigation and painting. Their approach is different from other companies. wellington the magazine | september 2017

57

PMI Remodeling & Repairs does repairs, both big and small, as well as complete remodeling of kitchens, bathrooms, dining rooms and more.

“We go out to their place, and we’re a little different because there’s no pressure,” Phil said. “We’ll go out and meet with the husband only, or the wife only, and go through their ideas, come back with a preliminary estimate, send it to them, and if it’s something they like, in the ballpark of what they’re thinking, they’ll come in here to the showroom.”

The showroom, which is more like a designer selection area, allows customers to peruse tiles, flooring, cabinets and other items, which, since PMI will already have the project’s measurements, allows clients to see what fits into their budget.

In addition to four different cabinet companies, with cabinetry at different price points, PMI also has a custom cabinet shop, giving them the ability to not only build custom cabinets for a project, but also the ability to modify cabinets to meet the needs of various projects.

Often people will come in asking for advice. On occasion, they’ll come in with their own decorators and already know

what they want. All they need is an estimate from PMI and they’re ready.

Because PMI is able to do all of the work in-house, with electricians, plumbers, tile people, materials and labor, when clients get an estimate from them, it is complete, Paul said, explaining how that is something unique PMI offers clients.

“You can come in here, pick out everything you want, and we’ll make sure it works. That’s the beauty of working with PMI,” Paul said. “We’re not going to ask them to go out and find another company. We’d rather they didn’t; we’d rather use our own people.”

Because of how they work, Phil added, PMI has extensive resources and is able to quickly and efficiently work on a project. For example, where some companies might run into roadblocks that delay a project, PMI has contractors ready to take care of anything, which means the project isn’t delayed.

PMI has the ability to work with anything from appliance repair companies, cleaning companies, window cleaning,

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wellington | designer pressure cleaning, plumbers, electricians, roofers, and grout cleaning and staining.

PMI works with an architect who draws up plans, Paul added. “It’s a one-stop-shop. It can all be done in-house,” he said.

The entire team works together to accomplish a project that makes PMI proud and customers happy. “It’s important that our subcontractors care about the customers like we do,” Phil said. “We answer the phone every day — it doesn’t go to voicemail. We have an emergency phone after hours that goes to me. We’re here every day from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. We hold a customer’s hand through the project. Also, we decided about 10 years ago to start doing big remodeling projects through the summer months when many customers aren’t here.”

During the summer, they’ll send photo updates, and when the client comes back for the season, the job is done, the house is clean, and they can move right in.

For those looking to take on a remodeling project, Paul suggests that people know what they want and do their homework. “Start early, when you know what you want to do. Get your prices together and work with a company you want to work with,” he suggested. “People try to control the job; it’s very difficult. You have to really let it go to a contractor who can take it, run with it and do it.”

PMI Remodeling & Repairs is located at 3340 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 6, in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 7985722 or visit www.pmi1call.com.

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Female Wrestler Hosanna Kropp Breaks Down Barriers At Wellington High School Story by Y. A. Teitelbaum • Photos by Abner Pedraza

Hosanna Kropp has come a long way in a short time. Two years ago, the Wellington High School wrestler could barely lift the 45-pound weightlifting bar and was unable to do one pullup. Now the junior regularly benches 140 pounds with ease and does five pull-ups while wearing a 25-pound steel chain.

“Hosanna’s work ethic is really unmatched,” wrestling coach Travis Gray said. “I have been coaching for 15 years, and I have never coached someone as committed and determined as her. If she can find somewhere to work out seven days a week, she will do it. All summer long, she has been attending camps, competing in tournaments and training in the weight room.”

Kropp gained great experience by competing in several major tournaments over the summer, including the U.S. Marine Corps Junior and Cadet Nationals in Fargo, N.D., held July 1522. She finished 2-2 in the individuals, highlighted by her second match, where she trailed 8-0 before rallying for a 15-14 victory.

“I wrestle all year long so colleges can look at me,” said Kropp, who was homeschooled before arriving at WHS as a freshman. “Eventually, I want to win an Olympic title — that’s my ultimate dream.”

The high school wrestling season begins in early November and ends with the state tournament in early March.

During the high school season, Kropp usually gets a run in before school and lifts four days a week through her wrestling class. Wrestling practice lasts between an hour and 90 minutes. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, she is an assistant coach at a youth wrestling class, and then wrestles in another practice from 6:30 to 8 p.m. After prac60

september 2017 | wellington the magazine

tice on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, she trains at PAL boxing.

During the summer, Kropp lifts six days a week and wrestles six or seven days a week. She participates in highlevel camps to improve her wrestling and train freestyle for national tournaments.

“I’d say I work way harder during the summer due to all the amazing national women wrestling opportunities that there are,” Kropp explained.

Kropp competed in other sports before focusing on wrestling. She was a competitive figure skater, a pole vaulter and boxed at the PAL, which was where she learned about the Wellington wrestling program.

“As a middle schooler, I was not very strong,” said Kropp, who turns 17 in November. “I wanted to learn how to fight so that I could get in shape and protect myself. I didn’t really know what wrestling was, but I really loved boxing and thought wrestling might be able to help me.”

When she arrived at WHS, she headed to a wrestling meeting to find a room full of boys staring right at her.

“Travis Gray asked me if I wanted to be a stat girl, I said, ‘No, I want to wrestle!’ It felt a little awkward that day being the only girl, but now my teammates are as close to me as family,” Kropp said.

The Wolverines have won the last four district championships and the last two county championships, and expect

to have new wrestlers at eight of the 14 weight classes. Their top returnees are seniors Jared Abramson (126 pounds) and Eric Saber (170 pounds), along with Chris Difiore (106 pounds) and Cameryn Townsend (138 pounds).

“I know one of Hosanna’s biggest goals is to make our varsity lineup, and it has been and will continue to be difficult, because she is at the weight classes where we have our best wrestlers,” Gray said. “Right now, we are just focused on getting her better every day.”

Kropp wrestled at 126 pounds last season and is planning to compete for a varsity spot at 120 pounds. Whatever happens, she knows that the team fully supports her.

“We have a great group of kids at Wellington, and they really received her well from the beginning,” Gray said.

“I know her father was very concerned about her wrestling with boys — and just wrestling in general. I had a long talk with her father before she began, and I actually thought that I may have unintentionally talked her dad out of letting her come out for the team by telling him that we haven’t had any other girls stay with the program. I recommended that maybe she could have a friend come out for the team with her so she felt more comfortable. She proved me wrong. Ever since her first day, she has fit in with the team, and she really has earned the respect of her coaches and teammates through all of her hard work.”

Kropp said she is known at school as “the girl wrestler” and wears it as a badge of honor. Wrestling has helped her develop character, which helps her in her everyday life.

“To be a quality wrestler, I have

wellington | sports

HOSANNA KROPP wellington the magazine | september 2017

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wellington | sports

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learned I must show excellence in not only wrestling, but everything I do,” Kropp said. “Whether it’s my grades, or taking out the trash, I always make sure I do the job to the best of my ability.

Doing these things will all fall back to wrestling and give you good habits. I’ve also learned that nothing is ever given; you must work hard for everything you have. There is no luck in wrestling; you must earn every point you get.”

Kropp understands that she is a role model and encourages other young women to pursue wrestling.

“This sport requires physical strength, but the majority of it is mental,” she said. “When you’re out there on the mat, it’s a battle where you must exhibit 100 percent of your physical, mental and emotional strength. It seems nerve-wrecking, but I love the thrill of competition. As a girl, many see me as having a disadvantage on the mat, but I don’t see it this way. It’s not always the strongest or fastest opponent who wins, it’s the opponent who is mentally tougher and perseveres through the last second of the match.”

This year’s Wellington Sports series profiles some of the many athletes across a wide range of sports who call Wellington home.

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wellington wellington | real estate | spa

Linda And Harold Wellman Bring Unique Skills And Years Of Experience Story by Matthew Auerbach • Photo by Abner Pedraza

Linda and Harold Wellman of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty didn’t start out as Floridians, but they both knew they would eventually settle here and begin their careers in real estate.

A New Jersey native, Linda majored in fashion design at Manhattan’s Fashion Institute of Technology while pursuing a career with United Airlines.

“Since I frequently traveled to Florida, I decided that’s where I wanted to make my roots,” she said. “In 1984, I took a buyout from United and moved to Boca Raton.”

Harold grew up in Michigan and got his degree in secondary education.

“My family spent all holiday vacations in Palm Beach County since 1968,” he recalled. “I was very honored to have met John D. McArthur, one of the largest land holders in Palm Beach County, which from a young age sparked my interest in real estate. I always knew that after I graduated from college, I would make Florida my home. So, I moved to Broward County in 1980 and through the years worked my way north, eventually settling in Wellington.”

The Wellmans married in 1986, the same year they both decided to get their real estate licenses. Their motto soon became “the husband and wife team that works for you.” The couple, who now have two college-age children, moved to Wellington in 2003.

“For the past 15 years, we have focused primarily on Wellington, selling family, active adult and luxury real estate, and Boynton Beach selling family and active adult,” Linda said. “There are so many choices in the adult market, and we are truly experts in that field. Our experience and knowledge is priceless, and we pride ourselves on always educating our buyers and sellers, and our video reviews speak for themselves.”

Their partnership not only highlights their individual strengths, but allows Linda and Harold to blend those strengths to provide the ultimate real estate experience.

“Linda and I have a fantastic working relationship,” Harold said. “She handles the marketing and customer relations, while I focus on contracts, appraisal issues, inspections and maintaining timelines. We are very easy-going and pride ourselves on maintaining a lasting relationship with our buyers and sellers.”

Linda’s background in fashion design has found its way into her real estate career. “There is a huge difference in listing a home and marketing a home, something that a majority of sellers don’t realize,” she said. “We truly offer

the highest level of marketing out there and have no competition at our level. I am trained in feng shui and staging, so as an added benefit to our sellers, we offer complimentary staging. It is crucial when a buyer walks up to a home that their first impression is good.”

For Harold, the keys to continuing success lie in never resting on his laurels and a no-nonsense approach when it comes to getting the job done.

“I pride myself in continuing with education and always staying on top of local real estate trends,” he said. “Our efficiency makes all the difference when working on a real estate transaction. It is very important to both Linda and I that we maintain a professional image in this industry.”

For more info., call Harold Wellman at (561) 389-8356 or Linda Wellman at (561) 676-8886, or visit www.thewellmanteam. com. wellington the magazine | september 2017

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wellington | health

Veterinarian Dr. Christina Herejk Brings An Integrated Approach To Helping Local Animals Story by Deborah Welky • Photo by Julie Unger

Sometimes human medicine’s loss is veterinary medicine’s gain. Such is the case with local veterinarian Dr. Christina Herejk of the Royal Palm Veterinary Center.

“As is the case with many veterinarians, I was completely in awe of animals and nature as a child,” Herejk recalled. “My mother was a nurse, so I grew up hearing great stories about medicine. I was considering working with humans, but my mother suggested that I might be better off going into animal medicine.”

It has been a passion she has followed ever since.

“Once I had my first dog, I fell in love with the profession,” Herejk said. “I loved the fact that I could work with both animals and people, the animals’ owners.”

She attended the University of Florida in Gainesville for both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees, graduating in 2005. She worked with Dr. Richard Ringler, who established the Royal Palm Animal Hospital more than 25 years ago, taking over his practice in 2013.

At the Royal Palm Veterinary Center, Herejk is continuing Ringler’s mission to help animals in the community.

“We are all about providing good care to our patients and clients, taking the reins from the late Dr. Ringler to continue his life’s work,” Herejk said.

Dogs and cats continue to be the center’s primary focus.

“In addition to annual wellness examinations and vaccinations, we treat a variety of problems,” Herejk said. “We deal with a number of geriatric problems, such as osteoarthritis and kidney disease, as well as skin problems. I love dermatology, and I have started to venture into integrated medicine — cold laser therapy, veterinary acupuncture.”

Integrated medicine is an alternative approach to treating the patient, taught at the Chi Institute just outside Gainesville, which specializes in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine.

“We’re taking what we’ve been trained to do in school and combining it with other modalities for the most optimal results for our patients’ health,” Herejk explained. “Sometimes western medicine is great, but it doesn’t hit it on the head. Being able to have another tool in my pocket is fantastic.”

And what advice would she give to other pet lovers considering life as a veterinarian?

“I would say, ‘Follow your dreams, follow your heart,’ because it is a lot of work,” Herejk said. “‘Study hard, do good in school and don’t be discouraged.”

She added that the cost of veterinary school is an obstacle

that keeps many from following their dreams of becoming veterinarians.

“It’s a big topic being tackled by the American Veterinary Medical Association right now. Debt could be a deterrent,” she explained. “But if you want to make a difference in animals’ lives and their owners’ lives, just go for it.”

The Royal Palm Veterinary Center is located at 610 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. For more information, call (561) 793-7000 or visit www. royalpalmvc.com. wellington the magazine | september 2017

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Renovation Brings An Open, Airy Feel To Village Walk Home Story by Deborah Welky

•

Photos courtesy Jacqueline and Paul Morris

One of Wellington’s more established neighborhoods, Village Walk has become more desirable than ever thanks to beautiful renovations and interior design upgrades occurring under the homeowners’ direction. A perfect example is this home, where a bank of kitchen cabinets was removed to add to the open, airy feel to an interior that already featured dramatic 12-foot ceilings — standard fare when the home was built. The popular gated community is known for its walking bridges over waterways and inter-connected finger lakes, offering nearly every home a water view.

Great Room: Walls of sliding glass and the calm of a Sherwin-Williams paint color called Krypton work together to enhance this open great room, usually buzzing with activity. Frosted sliders let the sun shine in, but also provide convenient access to the side yard, while two sets of triple doors provide access to the back.

Dining Area: Diners seated at the formal dining table, as well as casual brunchers at the island bar, all enjoy the view. The classic look of crown molding and a statement chandelier from Restoration Hardware define the space as both elegant and modern.

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Kitchen: A ceiling that seems to float above the kitchen offers acoustical quiet to this wellappointed workspace, complete with new stainless steel appliances and the same polished travertine marble flooring that extends through all the high-traffic areas of the home.

Kitchen Detail: Light kitchens never go out of style. Here, granite countertops and a backsplash of white subway tile join forces to provide a sanitary food prep area with easy cleanup.

wellington | home

Master Bath: Many Village Walk homes, including this one, feature his-and-her master bathrooms connected by pocket doors and a shower. As shown, “hers� has a soaking tub and built-in makeup vanity across from the sink.

Office/Den: Double-arched windows provide a well-lit corner in which to conduct correspondence. The office/den has a doubledoor entry off the foyer and a private pocket door to the kitchen.

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Master Bedroom: The newly carpeted master bedroom, located at the back of the home, offers another double-door entrance, as well as a set of sliders allowing easy access to the outdoors. Inside, a central vacuum system makes morning chores a breeze.

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wellington | home

Front Elevation: A coveted side entry from the windowed two-car garage sets this home’s design apart. Also featured are Spanish barrel tile, new carriage lights, a pristine paver driveway, butter yellow exterior and lush tropical landscaping.

Back Patio: With its overhead fan, rattan look sectional sofa, Pottery Barn drapes and defining area rug, the homeowners have everything they need to comfortably enjoy this back patio area. Off camera, a bar and television have been added to the space, and all the home’s lights are now on dimmers.

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Farali Pattice is an Indian dish from Gujarat in western India.

It is made with coconut, mashed potatoes, roasted cashews, cumin, fresh coriander, black salt, a dash of lime juice and more.

Signature Dish Unique Home-Style Dishes And More At Aroma Indian Cuisine

Story and Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Aroma Indian Cuisine opened in February of this year on Village Blvd. in West Palm Beach.

Executive Chef Clarence “Rence” Xavier is the creative mind and part owner of the new restaurant. His goal is to serve Indian cuisine that is also influenced by his culinary experience throughout his career as a professional chef.

Managing the new restaurant is a chance for Xavier to introduce something original to every plate that graces the tables at Aroma, and it is a chance for him to learn the flavors that people in the area enjoy.

“If you look at my menu, you’ll see many home-style dishes, and a lot of things that we are offering you may not see in any other restaurants here,” Xavier said.

“Most of these things, which I introduced, normally we cook only at home. That is the difference between us and other places around the area.”

Xavier grinds and roasts all the spices that are used in the dishes on the Aroma menu. “I personally don’t like to use any of the powdered spices,” he said. “So, that makes a lot of difference. When you eat the food, then you understand that.”

This doesn’t mean that classic Indian dishes won’t show up on the Aroma menu.

“We do offer the popular dishes,” Xavier said. “At the same time, we have our specialty. That is the home style.

That is what I believe will allow our business to stand out.”

A signature treat that Xavier offers under appetizers on the menu is a popular dish found in homes of people from Gujarat, a state in western India. It is called Farali Pattice — made of an outer layer of coconut, and mashed potatoes seasoned with fresh coriander, roasted cashew, cumin and black salt, with a dash of lime juice.

“This particular appetizer, it is made in people’s homes,” he said. “It has a bit of a spice and aroma. It wellington the magazine | september 2017

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Signature Dish has a very nutty flavor [from] the fresh coriander and the coconut. It has a light sweetness with a sour and tangy finish.”

The finished product comes out light and crispy because of the flash-fry technique Xavier uses with an Indian wok called a karahi.

“With a very high temperature oil, you just put it in and take it out,” Xavier said. “It won’t stay in the oil for too much time. It’s a matter of seconds.”

Unique items such as Farali Pattice are the center of the home-style dishes that Xavier likes to make for his customers. He is conscious of the ingredients and the cooking processes he uses to make the food at Aroma.

“Personally, I don’t like to use the deep-fryer,” Xavier said. “The first thing

is that it is unhealthy, and normally the people don’t want it in the oil.”

The black salt that helps season the Farali Pattice is important to the flavor of the dish. “It is a rock salt, which gives it the pungent taste,” Xavier said.

Each fritter is accompanied with a fresh-made garlic chutney, which is seasoned with roasted cumin and coriander. “I borrowed the recipe from a customer who came here the second week when we opened this place,” Xavier said.

Xavier had been using his own kind of chutney, but this customer was from Gujarat and offered a recipe that is commonly paired with Farali Pattice.

Xavier began a catering business in 2008, implementing a fusion of differ-

ent cultural cuisines in his food, adding Thai, Italian, Greek and Mexican elements to Indian cuisine.

Xavier was greatly influenced by his grandmother, who seemed to know that he would find a way in this world as a professional chef.

“She can make anything,” Xavier said. “She used to tell my mother, ‘You know what? You don’t need to worry about him. He’s going to become a cook. Don’t worry.’ She said that when I was young.”

Xavier became a professional chef at the age of 24. He went to school in India and earned a degree in food and hotel management. He worked in the kitchen for a large hotel chain in Southeast Asia. Then, he took his skills to Royal

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wellington | table Caribbean, the Miami-based cruise line. From there he moved to Fairfield, Conn., where he managed several restaurants that were either Indian or Thai cuisine.

He embarked on his current endeavor to lead the kitchen at Aroma last year when his friends and co-owners of the restaurant presented him with the idea and the opportunity.

Xavier believes in combining the passion he feels for food into the food he serves every day.

“I love what I do, and I enjoy every moment, even when I cook,” Xavier said. “It is very important to have a happy heart, especially when you are cooking for somebody else. Whatever you do, there is an energy. If you have a happy heart, then that energy is going to the food as well.”

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wellington | dining guide Arrabiatas Italian Restaurant serves up traditional Italian cuisine. The restaurant is in Aberdeen Plaza at 8260 Jog Road. For more info., call (561) 336-3862 or visit www.arrabiatas.net.

Aroma Indian Cuisine, located at 730 Village Blvd. in West Palm Beach, serves delicious Indian food seven days a week, including a buffet lunch and dinner. For more info., call (561) 619-6437 or visit www. aromawestpalmbeach.com.

At BurgerFi, gourmet quality is the name of the game. The Wellington location of this growing gourmet burger chain is at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. Call (561) 612-7853 or visit www.burgerfi.com to learn more.

Catania Italian Restaurant is in the Marketplace at Wycliffe at 4115 S. State Road 7. Hours are 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, staying open until 11 p.m. on weekends. On Sundays, doors open at 2 p.m. For info., call (561) 355-5900.

Centanni Italian Restaurant is located in Wellington’s Village Walk community at 2540 Village Walk Circle. Catering is available. Call (561) 6428700 for more info.

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.

The Grille Fashion Cuisine (12300 South Shore Blvd., Suite 10) is open for lunch and dinner daily. It is also a popular gathering place, open until 2 a.m.

Thursday through Sunday. For info., call (561) 7932110 or visit www.thegrillefashioncuisine.com.

India Grill & Bar is now open in Royal Plaza at 650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. serving authentic north and

south Indian cuisine. For info., call (561) 249-7168.

JoJo’s Raw Bar & Grill (13889 Wellington Trace in the Wellington Marketplace) features steaks, burgers, fresh fish and more, along with a bar stocked with 100 different beers. For info., call (561) 427-1997.

Experience the tastes of the world atop a burger at Lindburgers Restaurant in the Wellington Courtyard Shops at 13860 Wellington Trace. From Florida to the Far East, Lindburgers will take you on a trip as you bite into one of its 50 famous burgers. For info., call (561) 753-0555 or visit www.lindburgers.com.

Enjoy great Mexican food in a friendly atmosphere at Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant, located 1179 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in the Village Royale shopping plaza, open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more info., call (561) 798-1229.

A warm and welcoming restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, Oak Bistro & Wine Bar at 11051 Southern Blvd., Suite 210, in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza serves up delicious food complemented by great wine varietals. Catering and takeout are available, as are private parties and a great brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. For more info., call (561) 753-6217 or visit www.oakrpb.com.

Oli’s Fashion Cuisine & Bar is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks on Forest Hill Blvd. near the Mall at Wellington Green. For info., call (561) 7922220 or visit www.olisrestaurant.com.

Strathmore Bagels & Deli is a New York-style deli serving everything from smoked fish to corned beef.

It is located in the Marketplace at Wycliffe at State Road 7 and Lake Worth Road. For info., call (561) 357-0044 or visit www.strathmorebagels.com.

Suri West Tapas Bar & Lounge is located at 13410 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For info., call (561) 795-0080 or visit www.surirestaurant.com.

Taste of India is located at 7750 Okeechobee Blvd.

Aside from a full menu, it offers a bountiful buffet for lunch and dinner on weekdays and brunch on weekends. For more info., call (561) 721-8600.

Tokyo Bay Buffet, located at 165 S. State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach, raises the Asian buffet dining concept to a whole new level with a large sushi bar and a tasty hibachi grill. For info., call (561) 753-5566.

Drop by the award-winning TooJay’s Original Gourmet Deli at its new location in Wellington Green Square near Whole Foods Market for breakfast, lunch or dinner. TooJay’s is reminiscent of your favorite New York delicatessen. 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 take out wings, ribs, chicken and more. Visit www.treeswings andribs.com or call (561) 791-1535 for more info.

Rollatini Italian Trattoria is located at 10107 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 792-7677 visit www.rollatinitrattoria.net.

Voi-La, located at 13889 Wellington Trace, Suite A8, in the Wellington Marketplace, serves high-quality food that is good for the body and soul, with a focus on Venezuelan and South American favorites. For more info., call (786) 281-1589.

Stonewood Grill & Tavern in the Pointe at Wellington Green serves up exciting flavors in a casually sophisticated setting. Call (561) 784-9796 or visit www.stonewoodgrill.com for more info.

Located in the original Wellington Mall, Wellington Trace Tavern serves up American-style cuisine with a wonderful ambiance. For more info., call (561) 469-1109 or visit www.wttavern.com.

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

wellington | calendar Friday Sept. 1 • The West Palm Beach Antiques Festival will return to the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center from Friday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, Sept. 3.

For more info., visit www.wpbaf.com.

• Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds will host “Ghost Tours: An Evening in the Dark” on Friday, Sept. 1 at 8 p.m. Admission is $18 and reservations are required. For more info., call (561) 790-5232 or e-mail yyv@southfloridafair.com.

Saturday, Sept. 2 • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will walk and drive in Stormwater Treatment Area 1E in Wellington on Saturday, Sept. 2 from 7 a.m. to noon. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host an English/Spanish Storytime on Saturday, Sept. 2 at noon with children’s book author Cristina De Paula, who will read and sign her latest release, Sweet Pomchu 3: Junior Pulls the Cats’ Tails. Activities will follow. Call (561) 792-1292 or visit www.facebook.com/bnwellingtonfl for more info.

Tuesday, Sept. 5 • The Wellington Garden Club will meet Tuesday, Sept. 5 in the Lakeview Room at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

A light breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a business meeting at 10:15 a.m., and a program at 11:15 a.m. on “Florida Friendly Landscaping” presented by Laurie Albrecht, environmental horticulture agent for the Palm Beach County Cooperative and a member of the Florida Nursery Growers Association.

For more info., e-mail info@wellingtongardenclub.org or visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Paper Airplane Contest for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 2:30 p.m. Create your own paper airplane and compete against your peers to see how far your airplane can go. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will hold a Walk & Talk in the Periwinkle/Lily communities on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 4 p.m. Call (561) 791-4764 for more info.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. at the FAU Pine Jog Environmental Education Center (6301 Summit Blvd.). The topic will be “Bats of South Florida” with Dr. Frank Ridgley with the Conservation and Research Department at Zoo Miami. Learn about the Florida bonneted bat, the state’s largest bat, and what is being done to save this endangered species. For more info., visit www.auduboneverglades.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 6 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “I Love Art!” for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 3 p.m. If you love art, join in to show your creative side. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will hold Neighborhood Watch Meetings on Wednesday, Sept. 6 for Coventry Green at 6 p.m. and for Mayfair at 7 p.m.

Call (561) 791-4764 for more info.

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce wil host a speed networking event Wednesday, Sept.

6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellington National Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington). For more information, visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Thursday, Sept. 7 • The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will present Qigong/Tai Chi in the Garden on Thursdays, Sept. 7, 14, 21 and 28 at 9 a.m. Pronounced “chee-gong,” Qigong literally means “energy practice” and is for people interested in taking charge of their health and inner peace. Natural benefits include reduced stress, increased vitality, improved concentration and balance, how to heal or better manage an illness and more. For more info., call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org.

• The Palm Beach County Division of Senior Services will offer its Powerful Tools for Caregivers series on Thursdays beginning Sept. 7 and continuing through Oct. 5 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. each week

at the Mid County Senior Center (3680 Lake Worth Road) to provide caregivers with the tools needed to take care of themselves while caring for a family member or friend, whether that person lives nearby or far away. For more info., call (561) 357-7135.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Exciting Electrons!” for ages 5 and up on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 3 p.m. This electrifying demonstration from the South Florida Science Center & Aquarium includes many classic energy tricks. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium will host its Hack Shack Tech Club on Thursday, Sept. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. This club gives children in grades 5 through 8 the opportunity to explore science and technology in a whole new way as they experiment with computer programming and even design their own video games. Classes are held the first Thursday of each month. For more info., visit www. sfsciencecenter.org/hack-shack-tech-club.

• The first meeting of the 40th season of the Women of the Western Communities will take place Thursday, Sept. 7 at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Drive, Wellington). Cocktails begin at 6 p.m. with seating at 6:30 p.m. To RSVP, e-mail mair. armand1@gmail.com.

• The Village of Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Sept. 7 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with a free concert by the Samantha Russell band at 6:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

• Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper (HOW) will host its annual “Teal & Tango” girls night out on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. in the Bloomingdale’s Court at the Gardens Mall. For info., e-mail alexa@ howflorida.org or call (561) 406-2109.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writer’s Critique Workshop for adults on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve your fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

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wellington | calendar • The Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach will host Art After Dark on Thursday, Sept. 7 at 6:30 p.m. The new exhibition, Earth Works: Mapping the Anthropocene, is based on work inspired by flying with NASA scientists over Greenland in 2015 and 2016 to survey the impact of melting glaciers on sea level rise. The result is stunning, beautiful work inspired by ice formations that no longer exist. For more info., call (561) 832-5196 or visit www.norton.org.

Friday, Sept. 8 • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of the movie Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie on Friday, Sept. 8 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Saturday, Sept. 9 • The Florida Gun & Knife Shows will return to the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center on Saturday, Sept. 9 and Sunday, Sept. 10. For more info., visit www.flgunshows.com.

• The 2017 Jeff Annas Memorial Firefighters 5K will take place Saturday, Sept. 9 at the Wellington Amphitheater. For more information, visit www.jeffannas5k.com.

• The fourth annual Countdown 2 Zero (C2Z) Pet Adoption Event, presented by the Lois Pope Life Foundation and the Petco Foundation, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. inside the air-conditioned Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. For more info., visit www.countdown2zero.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Watercolor Painting for ages 5 to 10 on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 2:30 p.m. Create colorful and unique paintings with watercolors. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

• The Binks Forest Elementary School PTA will host a special fundraiser to help provide students with much-needed laptop computers on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Romeo’s Italian Cuisine in the Wellington Marketplace (13889 Welling-

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september 2017 | wellington the magazine

ton Trace). The event is for adults only, and each ticket includes unlimited tapas, soft drinks and $20 in casino chips. Plus, enjoy a chance to win great prizes during the raffle and live and silent auctions.

Visit www.bfespta.cheddarup.com to purchase presale tickets.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free Eagles tribute concert by the Long Run band on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Monday, Sept. 11 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host its Chess Club for Adults on Monday, Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Chess fans will unite to practice strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Sept. 12 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Tween Gaming for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 2:30 p.m. Bring a friend for Wii gaming and board game fun. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) hosts Yoga for Adults on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. Learn poses, standing or seated in a chair, during a class taught by Dr. Debra Weiss, a certified yoga instructor. Wear comfortable clothes and bring socks.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Wednesday, Sept. 13 • The Western Business Alliance will host a Business After Hours networking event at the Renaissance Charter School at Palms West on Wednesday, Sept. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.thewesternbusinessalliance.com.

• The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will

meet Wednesday, Sept. 13 at the Embassy Suites Hotel (4350 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens). Networking will be from 6 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the program. The speaker will be Coretta Talbot, a registered licensed mental health intern. The cost is $25.

Guests are welcome. For more info., visit www.abwa. org/chapter/northern-palm-beach-chapter.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Chinese Medicine: Ancient Medicine for the Modern World” for adults on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Learn about traditional Chinese medical theories and the treatment of modern disease. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• Well-known local artist and teacher Lynne Pittard will be the featured demonstrator for the Wellington Art Society’s opening membership meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at the Wellington Community Center. The meet and greet will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by a member spotlight and the meeting. Pittard’s demonstration will focus on “Tricks and Techniques for all Artists.” Visit www.wellingtonartsociety. org for more info.

Thursday, Sept. 14 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will hold an Economic Forum Luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 14 at 11:30 a.m. at the Breakers West Country Club (1150 Flagler Parkway, West Palm Beach). The luncheon will feature keynote speakers Nick Uhren, executive director of the Palm Beach MPO, and David Howard, CEO of Brightline.

Call (561) 790-6200 or visit www.cpbchamber.com for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Sept. 14 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with a free Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers/Steve Miller Band tribute concert at 6:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Scrabble for Adults on Thursday, Sept.

14 at 6:30 p.m. Join other Scrabble fans and enjoy a fun evening of wordplay. Basic game knowledge is

required. Bring your own boards if you have them.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Saturday, Sept. 16 • The South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) will hold its 27th annual Gigantic Garage Sale on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Some 250 nonprofit and for-profit organizations and families are expected to participate. A portion of the admission fee will be donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk. Call (561) 7930333 or visit www.southfloridafair.com for more info.

• Intergenerational Day in Yesteryear Village will celebrate grandparents and scouts on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with special activities. For more info., call (561) 795-3110.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Apple Mania for ages 2 to 6 on Saturday, Sept. 16 at 11 a.m. Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day with scrumptious apple stories, songs and a craft.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Well-known Jamaican gospel musician Kevin Downswell will hold a concert in Royal Palm Beach on Saturday, Sept. 16 at Royal Palm Beach High School (10600 Okeechobee Blvd.). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Aside from Downswell, the concert will feature Copeland Davis & Company, Prophet Peter, Ingrid Hunter, and Prophet Peart and the Full House Choir, along with the FCWC Dance Ministry, the Royal Palm Covenant Worship Team and Avea Bernard. Admission is $35 in advance and $40 at the door for adults, $50 in advance for VIP, and $20 for children under age 12. For more information, call Pastor Michael Rose at (561) 294-9258, Royal Palm Covenant Church at (561) 793-1077, e-mail rpbcovenant@ gmail.com or visit www.rpcchurch.com.

• Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) will hold its annual Friendship Ball on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport (150 Australian Ave., West Palm Beach). Tickets are $90 per person. For more info., e-mail cafci@bellsouth.net or visit www.cafcipbc.org.

Monday, Sept. 18 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Determining Authority Workshop for adults on Monday, Sept. 18 at 6:30 p.m. A Palm Beach State College librarian will teach students how to identify characteristics of quality information and practice evaluating sources based on these characteristics. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Sept. 19 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Genealogy Help: One-On-One SignUp on Tuesday, Sept. 19 at 1:30 p.m. Want to learn about your family tree? Schedule a 30-minute session with a librarian who will guide you through online genealogy research. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Magnet Design for ages 6 to 12 on Tuesday, Sept. 19 at 2:30 p.m. Create and design your own magnet to put on your fridge. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Kusudama Flower Origami for adults on Tuesday, Sept. 19 at 6:30 p.m. Make a kusudama flower out of easy origami petals. All supplies will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Sept. 20 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Lego Bricks for ages 5 to 10 on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 3 p.m. Play, imagine and create with Lego bricks. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Anime Nation for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. View new anime titles. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will hold a Neighborhood Watch Meeting for the Staghorn/Mulberry communities on Wednesday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. Call (561) 791-4764 for more info.

Thursday, Sept. 21 • The Village of Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W.

Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Sept. 21 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with a free Neil Young tribute concert at 6:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Saturday, Sept. 23 Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will hold a book signing on Saturday, Sept.

23 at 4 p.m. featuring Josh Sabarra and his newest release, Enemies Closer, a hilarious and crazy journey inside Hollywood, shining a shocking spotlight on entitlement and foul play. Call (561) 792-1292 or visit www.facebook.com/bnwellingtonfl for more info.

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Sunday, Sept. 24 • The Wellington Rotary Club will host its annual Rotary Peace Ceremony on Sunday. Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. at the Wellington Rotary Peace Park on Royal Fern Drive in Wellington. For more info., visit www. wellingtonrotary.org.

Monday, Sept. 25 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Yarn Wrapped Bottles for adults on Monday, Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. Upcycle empty glass bottles and turn them into beautiful decorations by wrapping them in different colors of yarn. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Sept. 26 • The Western Business Alliance will host a luncheon Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 11:30 a.m. at the Wellington National Golf Club. For more info., visit www. thewesternbusinessalliance.com.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Latin American Artists Showcased at the Norton Museum of Art for adults on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Glenn Tomlinson, the William Randolph Hearst Curator of Education, will discuss works by Latin American artists in the museum’s collection and gives a preview of the new Norton attractions. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Wednesday, Sept. 27 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Teen Takeover for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. Enjoy Wii games, board games and more. Bring a friend or make new ones. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will hold a Neighborhood Watch Meeting for the Aero Club community on Wednesday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. Call (561) 7914764 for more info.

Thursday, Sept. 28 • The Village of Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Sept. 28 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with a free “Summer of Love” 1960s tribute concert at 6:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Book Discussion on The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck for adults on Thursday, Sept. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Pick up a copy at the research services desk. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Friday, Sept. 29 • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of the movie Beauty and the Beast on Friday, Sept. 29 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Saturday, Sept. 30 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Music by Walter Voigt for adults on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 2:30 p.m. One-man band Walter Voigt will perform a wide variety of American and international music including Polish, German, Italian and more. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free Motown Tribute Concert

by N2 Nation on Saturday, Sept. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

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around | wellington

Photos by Denise Fleischman, Jack Lowenstein and Julie Unger

Tropical Santa Claus Visits Hospital — Tropical Santa Claus visited the Children’s Hospital at Palms West to bring Christmas cheer to patients in the summer on July 28. Every child who met Santa received a special gift.

Christmas in July was sponsored by the Believe in Santa Foundation. Shown above, Santa surprised Joanna Velasquez and her mother Diana Galves.

Paint & Wine Night At Oak — The Women of the Western Communities held a Paint & Wine Night on Thursday, Aug. 3 at Oak Bistro & Wine Bar in Royal Palm Beach. All proceeds went toward the YWCA Harmony House and the WWC Scholarship Fund. Shown above are participants with their completed door hangers.

Farewell To B&G Club Director — Kenda Peterson, director of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington, was the guest of honor at a farewell celebration held Tuesday, Aug. 22 at the Grille Fashion Cuisine in Wellington. Peterson will be moving to the Jacksonville area to take on the role of executive director for Youth for Christ. Shown above is Kenda Peterson surrounded by Boys & Girls Club board members.

WCFL Marks 25 Years — The Western Communities Football League celebrated its 25-year anniversary on Friday, Aug. 18 at the Wellington Amphitheater. Ring of Honor awards and Lifetime Legacy awards were given out, while Joe Piconcelli was honored for his 25 years of service. Shown above are Lifetime Legacy Award inductees Gus Pasquale, Mick Chavez, Dave Robinson, Joe Piconcelli, Kevin Carroll and Nestor Lantigua Sr.

Hooch & Hounds Event — The Wellington Chamber and Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control hosted Hooch & Hounds on Thursday, Aug. 17 at CJR Fine Arts & Frame. Shelter dogs and cats were available for adoption. The chamber has been raising money to transport dogs to northern rescue agencies that have people willing to adopt them. Stonewood Grill & Tavern catered the event, with wine provided by Wines of Wellington.

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(Above left) Elizabeth Harfmann of Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control with Roxanne Stein of News Channel 5. (Above right) Victor Figueredo with Pandora. (Left) A number of dogs were available for adoption. september 2017 | wellington the magazine

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