Wellington The Magazine January 2018

WELLINGTON January 2018

Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

PATRON POLO PLAYER

Gillian Johnston

FACES OF

POLO Plus

Busy Season Planned At The International Polo Club Wellington’s Tony Coppola The New USPA President Wellington Polo Icons Headed For Hall of Fame Brad Peacock Goes From Wellington To The World Series Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Redefines Mexican Street Food

WELLINGTON January 2018

Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

PATRON POLO PLAYER

Gillian Johnston

© philippa davin photography

FACES OF

POLO Plus

Busy Season Planned At The International Polo Club Wellington’s Tony Coppola The New USPA President Wellington Polo Icons Headed For Hall of Fame Brad Peacock Goes From Wellington To The World Series Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Redefines Mexican Street Food

2018 December 31 – April 22

SUNDAY POLO SCHEDULE

Herbie Pennell Cup Final December 31, 2017 Joe Barry Cup January 7, 2018 Joe Barry Cup January 14, 2018 Joe Barry Cup Final January 21, 2018 Ylvisaker Cup January 28, 2018 Ylvisaker Cup February 4, 2018

Ylvisaker Cup February 11, 2018 Ylvisaker Cup Final February 18, 2018 CV Whitney Cup February 25, 2018 CV Whitney Cup Final March 4, 2018 Gold Cup March 11, 2018 Gold Cup March 18, 2018

Gold Cup Final March 25, 2018 Butler Handicap Final April 1, 2018 U.S. Open April 8, 2018 U.S. Open April 15, 2018 U.S. Open Final April 22, 2018

International Polo Club | 3667 120th Ave. South | Wellington, FL 33414 | internationalpoloclub.com | 561.204.5687

Ad e q u a n ® G l o b a l D re ss a g e Fe st i va l

2018

W I N T E R E Q U E S T R I A N F E S T I VA L

JANUARY 10 – APRIL 1, 2018 WEF 1 • Premier AA/National January 10–14 WEF 2 • Premier AA/CSI 2* January 17–21 WEF 3 • Premier AA/CSI 3* January 24–28 WEF 4 • Premier AA/CSI 4* January 31–February 4 †$216,000 CSI4* GRAND PRIX HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 5 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* February 7–11

© 2017 elena lusenti photography

WEF 6 • Premier AA/CSI 3* February 14–18 †CSI3* EVENTS HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 7 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* February 21–25 WEF 8 • Premier AA/ CSIO 4* February 28–March 4 WEF 9 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* March 7–11 WEF 10 • Premier AA/ CSI 3* March 14–18

AGDF 5 CDI 5* & National February 8–11

March 9–11

AGDF 1 CDI-W & National January 11–14

AGDF 6 National

February 16–17

AGDF 10 CDI 4* & National

AGDF 2 CPEDI 3* & National

AGDF 7 CDI-W & National February 22–25

AGDF 11 National

March 24-25

AGDF 3 CDI-W & National

AGDF 8 Palm Beach Derby CDI-W & National

AGDF 12 CDIO 3* & National

January 4–7

WEF 11 • Premier AA/CSI 4* March 21–25 †CSI4* EVENTS HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 12 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* March 28–April 1

January 18–21

© 2017 PHILIPPA DAVIN

PA L M B E AC H I N T E R N AT I O N A L EQ U E ST R I A N C E N T E R | P B I EC .C O M

AGDF 0 CPEDI 3*

January 24–28

March 1–4

AGDF 9 National

March 15–18

March 27–31

THE STADIUM AT PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER 13500 South Shore Blvd. | Wellington, FL 33414 | globaldressagefestival.com

Ad e q u a n ® G l o b a l D re ss a g e Fe st i va l

2018

W I N T E R E Q U E S T R I A N F E S T I VA L

JANUARY 10 – APRIL 1, 2018 WEF 1 • Premier AA/National January 10–14 WEF 2 • Premier AA/CSI 2* January 17–21 WEF 3 • Premier AA/CSI 3* January 24–28 WEF 4 • Premier AA/CSI 4* January 31–February 4 †$216,000 CSI4* GRAND PRIX HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 5 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* February 7–11

© 2017 elena lusenti photography

WEF 6 • Premier AA/CSI 3* February 14–18 †CSI3* EVENTS HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 7 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* February 21–25 WEF 8 • Premier AA/ CSIO 4* February 28–March 4 WEF 9 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* March 7–11 WEF 10 • Premier AA/ CSI 3* March 14–18

AGDF 5 CDI 5* & National February 8–11

March 9–11

AGDF 1 CDI-W & National January 11–14

AGDF 6 National

February 16–17

AGDF 10 CDI 4* & National

AGDF 2 CPEDI 3* & National

AGDF 7 CDI-W & National February 22–25

AGDF 11 National

March 24-25

AGDF 3 CDI-W & National

AGDF 8 Palm Beach Derby CDI-W & National

AGDF 12 CDIO 3* & National

January 4–7

WEF 11 • Premier AA/CSI 4* March 21–25 †CSI4* EVENTS HELD AT EQUESTRIAN VILLAGE

WEF 12 • Premier AA/CSI 5*/CSI 2* March 28–April 1

January 18–21

© 2017 PHILIPPA DAVIN

PA L M B E AC H I N T E R N AT I O N A L EQ U E ST R I A N C E N T E R | P B I EC .C O M

AGDF 0 CPEDI 3*

January 24–28

March 1–4

AGDF 9 National

March 15–18

March 27–31

THE STADIUM AT PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER 13500 South Shore Blvd. | Wellington, FL 33414 | globaldressagefestival.com

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B E ST VA LU E ANY WHER E CENTRALLY LOCATED WITHIN 5 MINUTES DRIVE OF WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • ACREAGE N.W. CORNER SOUTHERN BLVD. & ROYAL PALM BEACH BLVD.

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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

Personal Injury Litigation: • Auto Accidents • Motorcycle Accidents • Bicycle Accidents • Trucking Accidents The attorneys at the law offices of Pike & Lustig, LLP represent accident victims, and their families, throughout the State of Florida.

• Talina Bidwell, Esq. - Partner • Daniel Kirschner, Esq., of Counsel • Michael J. Pike, Esq. - Partner • David Lewis, Esq. • Daniel Lustig, Esq. - Partner • Amy A. Hinkler, Esq.

Turn to Us For Your Legal Needs

561-855-7585

www.thebigfi rmalternative.com Además, le podemos ayudar en Español

MARTHA W. JOLICOEUR PROVIDING THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE SERVICE FOR THE GLOBAL EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY | WELLINGTON, FL

PALM BEACH POINT EAST FARM | $6,700,000 | A short hack away from PBIEC, this incredible 10-acre farm is fit for any professional rider. The 12-stall center-aisle stable, complete with the finest amenities, recently underwent a full renovation, leaving it totally updated and ready for the new season. The property features a spacious owner’s lounge with full kitchen and 2.5 bathrooms, a large grand prix field and a new ring with top-grade fiber footing.

LUXURY HOME IN MIZNER ESTATES | $3,200,000 | This secluded estate home features the best view in Palm Beach Polo. With an infinity edge pool that seamlessly blends with views of the lake, golf course, and the 92-acres wildlife Preserve, the 4 bedroom 5.5 bath home features pocket glass sliders in the kitchen and family room that allow for an outstanding indoor/outdoor living experience. The full-length frameless windows bring light, openness and sophistication to this opulent residence.

MIZNER ESTATES COURTYARD HOME | $2,200,000 | RENT AT $25,000/ MONTH FOR SEASON | A rare find in the Mizner Estates of Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, this 4 bedroom, 6 bath home includes a guest cottage and a perfectly manicured courtyard with lush landscaping, comfortable lounge areas by a private pool, and a lakefront view highlight the property outdoors.

Inside the main house, an immaculate kitchen, breakfast nook, high ceilings, and detailed design make this home a truly special find. This property offers secluded luxury at its best!

AERO CLUB ESTATE | $1,450,000 | If hopping on a jet in your own backyard sounds like a dream come true, it’s time that you make your move to this fabulous, beautifully renovated 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home at Wellington Aero Club. The property offers impact glass, a new roof, floors, kitchen and baths, and the unique opportunity to build your own hangar for your jet located on its own personal taxiway lot. Golf cart distance from the worldfamous equestrian showgrounds.

MARTHA W. JOLICOEUR, PA BROKER ASSOCIATE 561 797 8040 www.marthasproperties.com 1111 LINCOLN RD, MIAMI BEACH, FL 33139. 305.695.6300 © 2017 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS ARE DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

Wellington's Newest Restaurant

Where great food, community and fabulous events come together for a truly unparalleled dining experience.

Polo Bar & Grill is more than a local restaurant -We’re the community favorite for a true dining experience. The menu is a compilation of farm-to-table lunch, dinner, and brunch plates with a California West Coast twist. From the atmosphere to the flavors, our fresh ingredients inspire a handcrafted menu of flatbreads, entrees, and signature desserts that will leave ent your palate craving more. Polo Bar & Grill is reasonably priced, dog friendly, and now open seven days a week! Visit us at Polo West Golf and Equestrian.

Polo Bar & Grill

2470 Greenview Cove Dr, Wellington, FL 33414 561.429.2049 | PoloBarandGrill.com

Sunday- Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Thursday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

NAUTICA LAKES

4 bedroom/2 bath lakefront home. Many upgrades and extras, including 66 gallon H2O heater, whole house gutters and accordion shutters. Screened patio with fullyfenced backyard. Gated community with easy access to the turnpike and I-95. 2-car garage.$310,000.

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.

ED C DU RE

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. $1,595,000.

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.

D CE U D RE

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. $269,500.

Jim Corbin Jim@JimCorbin.com

561-798-2224

LOXAHATCHEE FARM

Working horse farm on 2.78 acres, with 12-stall center aisle barn plus feed and tack rooms, wash stalls, ring, fenced paddocks and ample trailer parking. 3 bedroom/2.5 bath house with 2-car garage, and private, tropically landscaped pool. $595,000.

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

David Corbin DCorbin@IPRE.com

561-628-4262

12479 CYPRESS ISLAND WAY

SOLD

PALM BEACH POLO

This expansive contemporary home opens to a formal living space with beautiful backyard views.

An impressive master wing includes a wet bar, oversized walk-in closets, a dream bathroom, and a private loggia. The west wing of the home enjoys the remaining guest suites; including a VIP guest suite that can be found on the second floor and includes a private balcony and wet bar.

The wide open kitchen is a chef’s dream with top quality appliances and a gas cooktop. $7,000,000 | 5 BR | 5.2 BA | 6,954 SF

2345 Golf Brook Drive

PALM BEACH POLO

11381 Long Meadow Drive

PALM BEACH POLO

This custom built home is possibly the most appointed and immaculate home in Golf Brook. Stunning features throughout and is being sold fully furnished.

This one of a kind custom estate home is located on an oversized private culde-sac and features a spacious backyard with a pool and summer kitchen.

$2,425,000

$895,000

5BR | 5.1BA | 5,907 SF

5BR | 4.1BA | 4,833 SF

12313 Equine Lane

EQUESTRIAN CLUB

1967 Breakers Pointe

BREAKERS WEST

This beautifully upgraded turnkey Stockton Model includes gourmet kitchen, large fenced in yard and heated Freeform pool. Being sold fully furnished.

This light and bright home located at the end of a cul-de-sac offers beautiful upgrades and a spacious backyard.

$895,000

$499,000

5BR | 4.1BA | 4,833 SF

4BR | 3BA | 3,623 SF

Honesty and Integrity are the Foundation of our Business.

KIM JENARD

Real Estate Advisor 561-644-9650 kim@jenardkeiserteam.com

BETSY KEISER Broker Associate

561-644-0438 betsy@jenardkeiserteam.com

Quality Aesthetic & Medical Services - Close to Home Providing professional and quality care in a safe medical environment

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Give the gift of beauty Purchase a gift certificate for that special someone in your life* *Discount cannot be applied to purchase of gift certificate

www.premierfamilyhealth.com 1037 State Road 7, Suite 115, Wellington, Florida 33414

r edefining

Lu xur y

IN W ELLINGTON

Provident Jewelry is proud to present The Dream Factory in Wellington, Florida. An innovative approach to luxury. Deliberate over the finest timepieces and the most luxurious jewelry available while indulging in a vintage wine, fine scotch or gourmet coffee. Come experience The Dream Factory today, where dreams become a reality.

D e s i g n • E s t a t e J e w e l r y • F i n e T i m e p i e c e s • L u x u r y B r a n d s • A p p r a i s a l s • R e pa i r s WEST PALM 561.833.7755

NAPLES I 239.649.7737

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FORT MYERS 239.274.7777

NAPLES II 239.649.7200

P rov i de n tJe w el r y.c om

PALM BEACH 561.833.0550

WELLINGTON 561.798.0777

12773 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 1201 • Wellington, FL 33414 Phone: (561) 543-5711 • Info@pbirealty.com

WWW.PBIREALTY.COM Amazing Spanish Style

13412 57th Place S, Wellington 10 acre property nestled in a delightful peaceful area in Wellington. This two-story home includes a ground floor master suite and five additional bedrooms and a 600 sqft studio. Living and dining areas both overlook the oversized infinity pool. Impressive custom made wine room, exercise room, sauna and steam room. 12,000 sqft barn with 24 stalls, 2 Trainers apartments, grooms quarters, jumping arena, dressage arena and plenty of paddocks. $4,499,000

Beautiful farm in a quiet area in Wellington

13349 60th Place S. Wellington

Stunning Wellington Penthouse

13274 Polo Club Road B301, Wellington Stunning 3/4 Penthouse, always bright and sunny, open layout, glamorous modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, modern fixtures, quartz countertops and new floors. Balcony in every room and screened terrace where you can enjoy sunsets with fresh breeze from the lake. Includes 2 storage rooms and 3 parking spaces. $650,000

Property with a gorgeous 4 bedrooms single-story home, features tennis court, Volleyball arena, huge kids park, gorgeous pool and a spacious Tiki Hut for your afternoon barbecues. House has a sauna and a relaxing outdoor shower. It also includes a 9 stalls barn recently renovated.

Jumping arena, 5 paddocks, tack room and feed room. Two Grooms quarters and a one bedroom apartment $1,850,000

1st Floor Condo in Wellington

11397 Pond View Drive E103, Wellington Beautiful 1st floor condo completely remodeled with porcelain floors, quartz counter tops in kitchen and bathrooms. It also features frameless shower doors, new kitchen and stainless steel appliances. Do not miss the opportunity to invest in one of the most prestigious communities in Wellington. $309,000

Palm Beach Polo · Maidstone - Classic elegance abounds in this newly renovated, custom estate home. This spacious home includes 5 beds and 5.5 baths. It is beautifully situated in a cul-de-sac, on an acre lot overlooking the golf course.

This custom home has a first-floor grand master suite featuring a wall of windows, sliding glass doors, and an expansive custom closet with large island. The resort-style pool and patio feature a separate spa and outdoor kitchen with built-in seating. Offered at $3,999,000

Palm Beach Polo · Las Casitas - Spacious 3 bed and 2 bath home pr ovides per fect space for enter taining inside and out. Professionally decorated by Joseph Davis, recognized as one of the “Top 100 Interior Designer '' by House Beautiful magazine. A 20’ Nano wall in the living room opens for unobstructed access to the pergola-covered pool deck which provides a stunning place to host a grand party or enjoy an intimate dinner al fresco. Watch the sunset over the lake and golf course beyond. The design of the home lies in the details. Offered at $750,000

Wellington · Aero Club · Located on taxiway · Zoned Binks Elementary Enjoy luxury and comfort in this custom built two-story estate home. This stunning property features a 5 bed and 5.5 bath main house with over 5,000 square feet of living area surrounding a private courtyard. Your guests will enjoy a 1 bed and 1 bath private suite located off of the resort-style pool. Outdoor entertainment area features a fully covered outdoor kitchen and pergola . Enjoy the convenience of having your plane in your 4,500 square foot custom hangar directly on the taxiway. The hanger can accommodate planes with wing clearance of 68’ and tail clearance of 15.6’. Aero Club features a paved, lighted runway accommodating jets up to 12,500 lbs. Offered at $2,499,000 Wellington Luxury Estates - A Division of United Realty Group l 1035 S State Rd 7, Suite 121, Wellington l 561.469.8706 l LuxuryEstatesWellington.com

Wellington · Palm Beach Point · Elegant, gated estate home with 5 beds and 4.5 baths, 1 bed 1 bath detached guest house, and heated pool situated on 5 dry acres. The interior has a beautiful gourmet kitchen, hardwood floors, fireplace, and crown molding details throughout. The CBS 3-stall barn allows enough room to increase it to a 12 stall barn. The barn also features a fly system, separate feed and tack rooms. The property has a large sand arena, grass riding field, and pvc paddocks and fencing. Owner Financing A vailable.

Offered at $2,699,999

Wellington · Little Ranches · Dr essage lover s dr eam! 31 stalls situated on 4.9-acre professional dressage facility. Property features include an over-sized GGT Dressage arena with mirrors, lunging pen, 6 large grass paddocks, concrete aisles, overhead fans, chandeliers, fully matted 12x12 stalls with auto-waterers, automatic fly spray system, multiple hot and cold wash stalls, 3 air-conditioned tack rooms, feed room, and complete laundry room with commercial grade washer and dryer. The upgraded home features 3 bedrooms with a den/office and 2 full bathrooms. Offered at $1,650,000

Fox Trail · Shetland Lane - Beautiful 5 acres equestrian property situated on 5 acres. Recently renovated to please the most discriminating buyer. Property features a 10 stall center-aisle barn, 11 paddocks, 200’ x 125’ irrigated sand arena. The spacious home has an open floorplan with 4 beds, 3 baths, guest suite featuring a full kitchen, and salt water pool. The property comes fully furnished and equipped. It is conveniently located just off of Southern Blvd and minutes to PBIEC. Offered at $1,650,000

James Pefanis 561.704.0213

Todd Kroupa 561.929.5272

Wellington Luxury Estates - A Division of United Realty Group l 1035 S State Rd 7, Suite 121, Wellington l 561.469.8706 l LuxuryEstatesWellington.com

The Future is Now at

The King’s Academy

Emmanuel Lamur ’07 – NFL Player

Tess-Soltau ’05 Broadway Star

Matthew Wensing ’00 – Founder and CEO Riskpulse

Envision Your Future at The King’s Academy!

• Preschool through Grade 12 • New Athletic Performance Center • 2016-2017 Football, Golf & Cheerleading Championships • STEM & Gifted Programs

• New Page Family Center for Performing Arts • Top 5 Music Theatre Program • Boswell Science & Technology Center (opening 2018) • FREE Transportation

• Pre-Law Program • Business Program • Engineering Program • Sports Medicine Program • Ministry Program

Schedule a tour today or join us for our Open House on Thursday, January 18th

THE K ING’S ACADEMY Where Christ is King

A National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Visit TKA.net or call 561.686.4244

contents 34 41

january 2018

Features

GILLIAN JOHNSTON KEEPS FAMILY POLO TRADITION ALIVE As patron of the Coca-Cola polo team, Gillian Johnston is carrying on a long family tradition. Back in Wellington this winter, she is looking forward to the 2018 high-goal season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. By Y.A. Teitelbaum

FACES OF POLO: THE NAMES BEHIND THE SPORT OF KINGS The New Year brings the start of a new polo season here in Wellington, which brings world-class athletes from around the globe to compete in the sport of kings. As we do each January, Wellington The Magazine is highlighting just a small handful of the amazing athletes you will see vying for top polo accolades this season. By Jack Lowenstein

62

EYES OF POLO WORLD ON IPC WITH START OF 2018 SEASON

86

TONY COPPOLA TAKES ON A NEW ROLE AS USPA PRESIDENT

93 100

62

Polo enthusiasts descend upon Wellington each winter season to enjoy the sport at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the premier polo destination in the world, hosting the largest field of high-goal teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States.

Wellington’s Tony Coppola has done it all in the sport of polo — player, announcer, club operator, business owner, hall of fame honoree — and now he can add president of the United States Polo Association to his long list of achievements. By Craig Campbell

86

LOCAL POLO ICONS TO BE INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME An elite group of individuals has been inducted into the Museum of Polo’s Hall of Fame.

For 2018, the nominating committee has chosen Sunset “Sunny” Hale, Ruben Gracida, Jimmy Newman, Roy L. Barry, and horses Lovely Sage and Ruifino. By Deborah Welky

BRAD PEACOCK: WELLINGTON’S OWN WORLD SERIES CHAMP Brad Peacock has three priorities in his life: family, friends and baseball — and the past year has been full of milestones for the Houston Astros pitcher and longtime Wellington resident. By Craig Campbell

Departments 22 24 26 28 30

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE Wellington’s Winterfest Event With Vanilla Ice A Smashing Success 34th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade Brings Community Cheer Wellington Ballet Theater Dancers Perform ‘Nutcracker’ At WHS Wellington Cares Hosts Annual Holiday Luncheon At Casa Tequila Oak Bistro Anniversary Party A Fundraiser For The Semper Fi Fund

118

WELLINGTON HOME

123

WELLINGTON TABLE

107 110 115 117 126 129

100

Wellington Home this month visits a two-story Aero Club estate that features a sleek, contemporary look. The two-story home is located directly along the community’s taxiway. Also featured is a resort-style pool, a spacious master suite and an open floor plan with plenty of natural light. By Deborah Welky Fashion Cuisine Group co-founders Dustin Parfitt and Juan Gando have completed the creation of their new Wellington taco eatery. Don Chepo’s Taco Shop is a restaurant that they created to offer a laid-back, Florida-style Mexican restaurant for families and locals to enjoy. By Jack Lowenstein

WELLINGTON PROFESSIONAL WELLINGTON SENIOR WELLINGTON REAL ESTATE WELLINGTON HEALTH WELLINGTON DINING GUIDE WELLINGTON CALENDAR ON THE COVER Gillian Johnston, patron of the Coca-Cola polo team, is keeping a long family tradition alive. She is featured in this polo-themed issue.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

110 123

wellington the magazine | january 2018

17

WELLINGTON Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

volume 16, number 1 january 2018

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 Ray Burow Craig Campbell Chris Felker Denise Fleischman Jack Lowenstein Y.A. Teitelbaum 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 2018, 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.

18

january 2018 | wellington the magazine

FACES OF POLO 2018

publisher’s | message

International Polo Club Kicks Off New Season On High Point

Congratulations to the International Polo Club Palm Beach and Wellington Equestrian Partners for securing the future of high-goal polo for three more years at IPC. The equestrian season is in full swing, with the 2018 polo season kicking off a day early on Dec. 31. Both longtime polo enthusiasts and those getting to know the sport will descend upon Wellington this winter to enjoy the “sport of kings” at IPC, one of the world’s top polo destinations, hosting the largest field of high-goal teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States. A key focus this year is growing the sport of polo, and aside from an overview of the traditional high-goal polo season, we take a look at the popular Gladiator Polo program and new Polo School at IPC. On our cover this month is none other than Gillian Johnston, who is keeping her family’s longtime polo traditional alive. Profiled this issue, the well-known patron of the Coca-Cola polo team is back in Wellington this winter, looking forward to the 2018 season at IPC. We also profile the poloplaying Obregon family this month. With three generations of players, the Obregons understand what it takes to make it on the field and stay competitive. Read more about their involvement with polo and how it all began.

Wellington The Magazine congratulates longtime Wellington resident and “Voice of Polo” Tony Coppola on being elected president of the United States Polo Association. He shares with us some of his plans for the future of the sport nationwide. We also salute the Wellington polo icons who will be inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame in 2018, including the beloved Sunny Hale, who last year lost the battle with breast cancer she fought so bravely and privately. Joining Hale as inductees are Ruben Gracida, Jimmy Newman and Roy L. Barry, as well as horses Lovely Sage and Ruifino.

Stepping from the sport of polo to the sport of baseball, we chatted this month with 2006 Palm Beach Central High School graduate Brad Peacock, star pitcher of the Houston Astros, who experienced magic in 2017 — both helping his team win the World Series and becoming a father for the first time when his wife Stephanie gave birth to son Colton in June.

During this busy holiday season, Wellington Table stopped by the newest food hotspot, Don Chepo’s Taco Shop, where co-owners Dustin Parfitt and Juan Gando serve up a laid-back, Florida-style Mexican restaurant.

Wellington Health brings us to the office of chiropractor Dr. Matt Symons, who offers patients a different option for those who want a holistic and preventative approach to healthcare. Wellington Real Estate profiles Milko Castellanos, branch manager of U.S. Mortgage, while Wellington Home steps into a sleek and contemporary two-story Aero Club estate. We kick off the new year with two brand-new series. Wellington Professional features Jay Froehlich, longtime area accountant for whom community service is of utmost importance. Wellington Senior launches with a profile of longtime Wellington Seniors Club supporters Mary and Tony Alfalla.

It is an exciting time in Wellington, and we look forward to seeing all of you out and about this season. Meanwhile, we wish all of our readers, advertisers and supporters a new year filled with peace, health and prosperity!

Dawn Rivera Dawn Rivera, Publisher

FACES OF POLO 2018

WELLINGTON IS IS IN IN THE THE DETAILS. DETAILS. WELLINGTON ANDNOBODY NOBODYKNOWS KNOWS THEM THEM BETTER. BETTER. AND For almost a decade,The TheFite FiteGroup GroupLuxury LuxuryHomes, Homes,has hassuccessfully successfullyrepresented representedbuyers buyers and and sellers sellers of of luxury luxury For almost a decade, properties throughout the Palm Beaches.

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Meet your local experts

David Fite Principal 561-847-0187

Stephen Jara Senior Vice President 561-436-1000

Alison Biddulph

Holly Chaney

Waverly Ernst

Susan Hemmes

Peggy McClelland

561-719-0828

561‐906‐4330

Laura Gambino 561-846-1714

Jeremy Greene

561-465-6010

716-997-8681

561-222-8560

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Chris Pancione

Kimberly Peterson

Melanie Peterson

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Dawn M. Sears

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The Fite Group Luxury Homes | 13501 S Shore Blvd, Suite 102, Wellington | 561-440-4560 | www.FiteGroup.com

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The Fite Group Luxury Homes

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The Fite Group Luxury Homes | 13501 S Shore Blvd, Suite 102, Wellington | 561-440-4560 | www.FiteGroup.com

wellington | social scene

Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Wellington’s Winterfest Event With Vanilla Ice A Smashing Success

(Left to right) Special guest Vanilla Ice performs for the crowd; singer Aliyah Pike with Wellington Chamber Executive Director Michela Green; and Little Smiles volunteers Reina Delgado, Ken Parent, Gabriella Chang, Debbie Best and Reenie Bessette.

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Village of Wellington, hosted Wellington Winterfest at the Wellington Amphitheater on Friday, Dec. 8. Headline performer Vanilla Ice joined local singers, dance performers, exhibitors, vendors, a blizzard beach with snow, zip lining, obstacle courses and more at the holidaythemed event. The collection of new, unwrapped toys for Little Smiles was done in partnership with KVJ Show.

(Left to right) Mayor Anne Gerwig stands next to the DJ during the Vanilla Ice performance; Matt Stone performs rockabilly music; performers Alex Shaw and Dimitri Theros backstage; Marcela, Paul and Louis Apolito at Winterfest; and Cameron, Monica and Mike Harper, Jacqui and Chris Gannon, and Justin Brady enjoy the evening.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

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wellington | social scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

34th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade Brings Community Cheer

(Left to right) Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig and State Attorney Dave Aronberg with Cookie; 100-year-old World War II veteran James Zell was honored during the parade; and Sophia Drahos, Victoria McGovern and Julia Drahos.

The 34th annual Wellington Holiday Parade, hosted by the Village of Wellington and the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, was held Sunday, Dec. 10.

The judged parade was filled with imaginative floats, marching bands, characters, dance troupes and more.

(Left to right) Bethesda Health won for best adult float; Julie Pickens of Wellington National Golf Club, which won for best decorated vehicle; American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Post 390 in the parade; Kem Kids Dance Studio won for best in show; and Santa and Mrs. Claus ended the parade, courtesy of the Wellington Rotary Club.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

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wellington | social scene

Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Wellington Ballet Theater Dancers Perform ‘Nutcracker’ At WHS

(Left to right) Clara (Kaylee Quinter) places the nutcracker on the stage; the angels rise with the Snow Queen (Halle Schwartz) and the Snow Angel (Lilly Simpson-Gay); and Drosselmyer (Desmond Lewis) winds up the harlequin doll (Devan Solomon).

Wellington Ballet Theater presented its production of The Nutcracker last weekend in the Wellington High School auditorium. The event was free of charge, as part of the local nonprofit’s mission to provide free cultural events for the community. However, donations were accepted during intermission. The production featured choreography and staging by Melissa Waters, scenic design

by Chris Gay and artistic direction by Rocky Duvall.

(Left to right) Josie Chase, Kaylee Quinter as Clara, Mia Cyril, Lilly Simpson-Gay, Josetta Wang and Jocelyn Spellman dance; Daniela Braun performs the Spanish Dance; Devan Solomon as the Sugar Plum Fairy; Victoria Lay, Samantha Garboden and Maci Leitner perform the Dance of the Reed Flutes; and choreographer Melissa Waters is honored at the end of the performance.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

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wellington | social scene

Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Wellington Cares Hosts Annual Holiday Luncheon At Casa Tequila Wellington Cares hosted its supporters and participants for a holiday luncheon at Casa Tequila in Wellington on Friday, Dec. 1.

Wellington Cares recognized the hours its volunteers have put in to support the organization and its clients. All participants left with gifts and flowers, made possible by community partners the Wellington Community Foundation and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.

(Left to right) Tom Wenham of the Wellington Community Foundation with Diane Gutman, Chris Simpson, Marion Frank, Joan Manning, Selena Smith and Dan Turner; and Geri O’Neil, Sally Stegall, Ann Brinson and Betty Naulty with their gifts.

(Left to right) Evelyn Regan is recognized by Wellington Cares for her 142 volunteer hours; Ellie Vogt and Lucy McQuillan with flowers; Noel and Arline Shevack hold their gifts from Wellington Cares; Ann Brinson is recognized by Wellington Cares for her 113 volunteer hours; and Evelyn Regan with Rivka Shevach.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

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wellington | social scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

Oak Bistro Anniversary Party A Fundraiser For The Semper Fi Fund

(Left to right) Oak Bistro owners Lisa and Brian Jacobsen; U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Peter Pazos, Lance Cpl. Cole Herndon and Cpl. Douglas Hicks pick up Toys for Tots; and Lenyce and Al Boyd with Carrie Wheeler.

Oak Bistro & Wine Bar in Royal Palm Beach hosted its Third Anniversary Party & Fundraiser benefiting the Semper Fi Fund on Friday, Dec. 1. There were several brands of wine and craft beers for sampling. U.S. Marine Corps members collected toys for Toys for Tots. For more info., call (561) 753-6217 or visit www.oakrpb.com.

(Left to right) Honor Brewery partner Dave Keuhner pours for Bill Boss, Ed Corrigan, Salvatore Sgroi and Denise Sgroi; PBSO Chief Deputy Mike and Phyllis Gauger; Scott and Mair Armand; Cecilia Butel of Republic National Distributing serves Jamie Crocker; and Kelsie Kopicki and Gage Brekke with bites from Oak Bistro for guests to enjoy.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

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Gillian Johnston is focused on the upcoming season with simple goals. “To win a few tournaments would be nice,� she said.

Gillian Johnston (above) leads the Coca-Cola polo team. Joining her this season are Julio Arellano, Sugar Erskine and Steve Krueger.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

Is Keeping The Family Polo Tradition Alive

Story by Y.A. Teitelbaum • Photos by David Lominska

As patron of the Coca-Cola polo team, Gillian Johnston is carrying on a long family tradition. Back in Wellington this winter, she is looking forward to the 2018 high-goal season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach.

The team is named after the family business. Johnston’s great-grandfather got the first Coca-Cola bottling license back in 1899, and her father inherited the Chattanooga, Tennessee-based franchise and turned it into the largest independent Coke bottler in the world.

Johnston, like most polo players, lives a gypsy lifestyle. After spending four months in Wellington, Johnston heads to the Flying H Ranch in Big Horn, Wyoming. She also spends time at Bendabout Farm, outside of Chattanooga, where she grew up and the family has hosted polo tournaments and exhibition matches for charity since the early 1970s.

Her grandfather played polo, and her father is a former high-goal player — and one of the last to play left-handed.

Beginning in 1974, all new players were required to play right-handed for safety.

Coca-Cola won the 26-goal U.S. Open Polo Championship in 2002,

making Johnston the second woman to win the most prestigious polo title outside of Argentina, following the late Sunny Hale, who first accomplished the feat in 2000. Johnston has won dozens of titles throughout her career — including the 20-goal Ylvisaker Cup three times in the last five years (2017, 2015 and 2013), and reached the U.S. Open semifinals in 2015 and 2013, and the 26goal USPA Gold Cup final last year.

Johnston said the U.S. Open championship is the highlight of her career, although she quickly added that winning the season-ending Don King Days tournament seven times at the Big Horn Polo Club ranks up there as well. “It’s a fun, competitive tournament,” she said.

Johnston, who carries a 2-goal handicap, is focused on the upcoming season with simple goals.

“To win a few tournaments would be nice,” she said prior to a recent practice in Wellington. “I’m not doing the 26-

wellington the magazine | january 2018

35

goal [tournaments, including the U.S. Open] this year, so, hopefully, we can win some 20 goals.”

This year’s 20-goal Coca-Cola team features 8-goaler Julio Arellano, the highest-rated American player, and crowd favorite Sugar Erskine, who is returning after a year’s absence due to an injury. Steve Krueger rounds out the team.

Arellano, who grew up in Wellington, has anchored Johnston’s teams for the last 10 years.

“She’s a great No. 1, a hidden talent on the team,” said Arellano, who usually wears the red-and-white No. 3 jersey.

“She always seems to get that goal when we need it. She’s good under pressure.

She knows her placement on the field, and knows where to be, which makes my job easier.”

Johnston also has played in a few women’s tournaments with Arellano’s 13-year-old daughter, Hope.

“She [Johnston] never liked play-

ing in women’s tournaments,” Arellano said. “This past year, because of Hope, she played tournaments in California and the Villages, and won both. She also played in the 6-goal tournament with all three of my kids at Grand Champions.

She’s like a big sister to them.”

Johnston’s doesn’t consider herself a trailblazer, instead heaping praise on the late Sunny Hale for that honor. But young girls do come up to her and talk polo.

“I think it’s awesome,” Johnston said.

“Women’s polo has really improved. I’m impressed.”

Off the field, Johnston has many talents.

One is photography, something she began experimenting with while in high school. She is often seen at polo matches on the backfields at IPC taking pictures of the action. But she doesn’t just take pictures of polo action. Her family and friends are subjects, and her nature shots are gorgeous.

“I just do it for fun,” said Johnston, who doesn’t have any of her own photos hanging on the walls of her barn or house. “I shoot anything and everything.

Basically, they just go on Facebook.”

Photography isn’t her only passion away from the field.

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“I’m pretty crafty; I crochet and knit, and I like to cook,” Johnston said. “And turn wood. And hunting and fishing. I have lots of hobbies. I just bought a cutting horse, so I might do that.”

With all her hobbies, it is her love of animals that is legendary within the polo community.

“I always had dogs and cats, donkeys and pigs,” said Johnston, who is currently a little low, as she is traveling with three dogs and two cats, including a Sphynx, which is hairless. “I do collect a lot of animals.”

The latest addition to her animal kingdom is mini horses.

“I bought those for my nieces and nephews,” said Johnston, who loves when all the kids ride the ponies.

Boone Stribling has worked for the

Johnston family for the last 26 years, and remembers when Johnston had two horses and was just stick-and-balling. He isn’t surprised at all of her animals. “She loves her menagerie, as her father calls it,” Stribling said.

Johnston has a minivan she loves calling “the mothership,” which hauls her animals around.

“You see that how she loves her animals,” said Arellano, who has gifted Johnston with several, including a pig.

“She’s a wonderful person, very giving, very kind. Yeah, she might be a little bit shy. My kids, all the kids, love her.”

During the winter season in Wellington, Johnston is focused on polo. Typically, if she’s not playing or practicing, she is riding singles or taking out sets, and watching polo matches.

When the sun goes down and the horses are settled in, it’s dinnertime.

“I go out to dinner a lot,” admitted Johnston, who said she often goes to Whole Foods for their buffet. But her favorite is the buffet at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club, where she joins fellow polo players and good friends, Jeff and Tom Blake.

In addition to her hobbies, she takes time to give back to the community.

When asked, Johnston usually says yes to helping local charities, including the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, where she has been a judge for their annual “Buck Off” competition the last two years.

“I’ll jump in and try to help,” Johnston said. “Vinceremos is great. I like supporting them.”

Coca-Cola won the 2017 Ylvisaker Cup Tournament at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. (L-R) Del Walton, Gillian Johnston, Julian de Lusaretta, Julio Arellano, Wes Finlayson and Sugar Erskine.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

Pauli & Uribe Architects Architects Monika Pauli and Juan Uribe are building upon the legacy of their former mentor and partner, renowned Boston Architect, James McNeely, by specializing in historically correct projects demanding attention to detail.

Their passion for perfection draws on classical forms, integrating modern materials, ideas and technology, to create one-of-a-kind dwellings.

The Pauli & Uribe portfolio boasts private estate homes; renovations and additions; and the design of an equestrian facility for the Bina Farm, which includes two large indoor riding arenas, swimming pool and yoga studios. With over 30 years of experience connecting discerning clients to their surroundings, they are equally at home in New England, Palm Beach, Wyoming, Costa Rica, France and Mustique.

Combining traditional hand drawings, rich with texture and dimension, as well as stateof-the-art computer animations, the talented P&U team bring their clients’ functional and aesthetic goals to life.

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Celebrating Our 1 Year Anniversary

In Our New State-of-the-Art Offices!

FACES

O F

POLO The New Year brings the start of a new polo season here in Wellington, which brings world-class athletes from around the globe to compete in “the sport of kings.” Along with the action — horse and rider pairs flying down perfectly manicured fields, all eyes on the goal — is a whole other set of entertainment, whether it is people watching, high fashion, tailgating, the halftime divot stomp, a luxurious Sunday brunch and more. The International Polo Club Palm Beach attracts the world’s top talent to play in its annual winter high-goal season. Once again, IPC is the place to see the high-goal action, but this year, Gladiator Polo also brings top arena polo action to Wellington. As we do each January, Wellington The Magazine is highlighting just a small handful of the amazing athletes you will see vying for top polo accolades this season. Turn the page and meet the Faces of Polo 2018.

wellington the magazine | january 2018

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BLANCA GREENSTEIN IS FLYING SOLO! She is now the Founding Partner of her own office,

The Law Office of Blanca P. Greenstein Offering legal services in Wellington, West Palm Beach, and Boca Raton

“The Laws Of Life with Blanca Greenstein” will be returning for its SECOND SEASON IN JANUARY 2018!

The show Airs live every Monday at 9:00am EST and our Facebook page.

Listeners are invited to call in and be a part of the conversation.

Facebook@ The Laws of Life with Blanca Greenstein If you are interested in being a guest on the show, then please call Blanca Greenstein

Open House January 2018 Dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of customer service.

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Personal Injury/Car Accident Wills and Estates Contract Review and Drafting Sales & Acquisitions

561-222-2222 www.greenstein-law.com

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

DIEGO C AVA N AGH

W

DIEGO CAVANAGH Argentine 8-goaler Diego Cavanagh had a great season last year at the International Polo Club as part of the Valiente team. Along with Adolfo Cambiaso, Matias Torres Zavaleta and Bob Jornayvaz, Cavanagh captured IPC’s three 26-goal tournaments, winning the C.V. Whitney Cup, the USPA Gold Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship. The final moments of the season were all Cavanagh’s. In overtime, he broke out of the back end of the line-up to put the ball through the posts to hand Valiente the 13-12 victory. Cavanagh scored 92 goals across 15 games and went 57 for 78 on penalty shots. He returns to South Florida after a busy summer, which included a stop at the inaugural Colorado Open and victory at the San Jorge Open in Argentina. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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THE TEAM

Legacy Farms ofJupiter from

LEGACY’S COSMICO Ridden by Paula Matute Bred by Juan Matute Photo by Joanna Jodko

LEGACY’S AMBICIOSO Ridden by Paula Matute Photo by Joanna Jodko

LEGACY’S ALMINAR Ridden by Paula Matute Photo by Joanna Jodko

Team Legacy is proudly owned

by Ken and Debi Berger Jupiter, Florida

Enjoy the Ride!

Juan Matute – Trainer Wellington, Florida 561.779.4814

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

A DOLFO C A MBI ASO

W

ADOLFO CAMBIASO Argentine superstar Adolfo Cambiaso remains the top-ranked polo player in the game with a 10-goal handicap and more wins than any other current player. Cambiaso continued on his road to victory in 2017, capturing polo’s Triple Crown with Valiente, winning the U.S. Open, the USPA Gold Cup and the C.V. Whitney Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. He scored 58 goals in 15 games last season at IPC. Cambiaso continues to awe and amaze spectators and players alike, racking up tournament victories around the world in 2017. He ended the year back home in Argentina, once again capturing the Argentine Open crown with La Dolfina. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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25 Varsity Sports Baseball Basketball (boys & girls) Cheerleading Cross Country (boys & girls) Equestrian Flag Football (girls)

Sports don’t build character. They reveal it.

Football

— Sportswriter Heywood Hale Broun

Golf (boys & girls) Lacrosse (boys & girls) Sailing (boys & girls) Soccer (boys & girls) Softball Swimming (boys & girls) Track & Field (boys & girls) Tennis (boys & girls) Volleyball (girls)

Join us for an Open House Athletics is an integral part of the educational experience at Oxbridge Academy. As an extension of the classroom, participation in sports provides the opportunity to develop self-discipline, leadership skills, and loyalty to team, school and the community. Oxbridge Academy encourages all students to participate in athletics and offers a well-rounded program for both young men and women.

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FACUNDO PIERES

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FACUNDO PIERES From a well-known polo-playing family, 10-goaler Facundo Pieres is currently the No. 2-ranked player in the world, according to Polo World Tour. The talented Argentine continues to dazzle the crowd with his expert stickwork and horsemanship. In 2017, Pieres won the British Open with King Power Foxes, the Sotogrande Gold Cup with Ayala and the Hurlingham Open with Ellerstina. He played the 26-goal season at the International Polo Club last year with Orchard Hill, coming just one goal away from victory, falling to Valiente 13-12 in overtime. He scored 105 goals in 16 games last season at IPC and went 56 for 73 in penalty shots. Pieres is currently slated to start the 2018 season playing in the 20-goal season on the Sonny Hill team. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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MATIAS TORRES Z AVALETA

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MATIAS TORRES ZAVALETA Argentine 6-goaler Matias Torres Zavaleta went all the way last season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, achieving polo’s elusive Triple Crown with his Valiente teammates. Along with the legendary Adolfo Cambiaso, Diego Cavanagh and patron Bob Jornayvaz, Zavaleta ran the table on IPC’s 26-goal tournaments in 2017, winning the C.V. Whitney Cup, the USPA Gold Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship. Zavaleta’s contributions in the U.S. Open final earned him MVP honors. Zavaleta scored 40 goals across 14 games at IPC last season and went 7 for 8 on penalty shots. Zavaleta heads back to Wellington after a busy off season, which included a stop at the inaugural Colorado Open Polo Tournament in August. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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A LFREDO C A PPEL L A

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ALFREDO CAPPELLA Alfredo Cappella, a 9-goaler from El Trebol, Argentina, was in the United States last winter to play in the U.S. Open Polo Championship at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. He was on the Travieso team with Teo Calle, Sebastian Merlos and Mariano Gonzalez. Cappella played in the No. 4 position. The team had a great run, making it all the way to the semifinals, where Travieso fell to eventual tournament winner Valiente. Cappella was a key player in the team’s 12-10 quarterfinal victory over Coca-Cola. Also last season, Cappella made it to the finals of the Dubai Gold Cup with the Abu Dhabi team. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

JULIO A REL L A NO

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JULIO ARELLANO At 8 goals, Julio Arellano is one of the highest-rated American polo players. A lifelong player, Arellano has anchored Gillian Johnston’s Coca-Cola team for years. Now in his 40s, he has won the U.S. Open Polo Championship no less than three times and is known as a pressure player. His team won the Ylvisaker Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach last season, and Coca-Cola made it to the final match of the USPA Gold Cup before falling to Valiente. He also took part in the inaugural season of Gladiator Polo, the new arena polo series in Wellington. He will be back in action for Coca-Cola during IPC’s 20-goal series. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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SEBA STI A N MERLOS

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SEBASTIAN MERLOS Sebastian Merlos is one of the few elite polo players in the world to achieve the coveted 10-goal ranking.

Currently playing as a 9-goaler, he has captured the titles of every major tournament in more than 18 countries. He counts three U.S. Opens at the International Polo Club Palm Beach among his successes, as well as victories at the British Open and the Argentine Open. Merlos has a fierce passion for horses, making him one of the strongest horsemen playing polo today. Merlos played for Travieso in 2017, making it all the way to the semifinals of the U.S. Open with teammates Teo Calle, Mariano Gonzalez and Alfredo Capella before falling to eventual champion Valiente. He will be back in action on Travieso for the 20-goal season at IPC. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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SA PO C ASE T

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SAPO CASET Argentine 10-goaler Guillermo “Sapo� Caset Jr. was riding by age five, hitting a polo ball around the field.

During his teenage years, he quickly soared from a 1-goal handicap to a 6-goal handicap. By 2011, Caset had established himself as one of the best players in the world, reaching the coveted 10-goal rating. Polo runs in his family; his father held a 7-goal handicap. Last year, Caset competed in the Hurlingham Open Final with Alegria and the Deauville Gold Cup Semifinal with Talandracas. He played at the International Polo Club Palm Beach last season with Jeff Hildebrand, Facundo Obregon and his cousin, Costi Caset, on the Tonkawa team, advancing to the final match of the Ylvisaker Cup. He will be back in action with Tonkawa in 2018. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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MIK E A Z Z A RO

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MIKE AZZARO American polo star and former 10-goaler Mike Azzaro has won the U.S. Open eight times. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2013. Azzaro opened last season winning the Joe Barry Memorial Cup as a member of La Indiana with Michael Bickford, Jeff Hall and Gringo Colombres at the International Polo Club. Azzaro participated last year in the inaugural season of Gladiator Polo, the new Wellington league leading a resurgence in the sport of arena polo. Azzaro played on Team Crixus with Santi Torres and Matias Magrini, making it all the way to the final match. Most recently, Azzaro won the USPA National 20-Goal Tournament as a member of Casablanca with teammates Grant Ganzi, Juancito Bollini and Jeff Blake in November. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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JEFF H A L L

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JEFF HALL Jeff Hall, with a 7-goal handicap, hails from Houston. One of the top American-born polo stars, he has played professionally since he was just 12 years old and has won just about every high-goal trophy available in the sport here in the United States. He splits his time between Wellington during the polo season and his ranch in Texas. In 2017, he played for La Indiana in the 20-goal series at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, capturing the Joe Barry Memorial Cup with teammates Michael Bickford, Mike Azzaro and Gringo Colombres. He also participated in Gladiator Polo, playing for Team Spartanburg in the North Carolina series last summer. He is slated to be back in action with La Indiana during the 2018 20-goal season at IPC. wellington the the magazine magazine || january january 2018 2018 wellington

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INTERNATIONAL POLO CLUB Welcomes Eyes Of The Polo World With Start Of 2018 High-Goal Season Polo enthusiasts descend upon Wellington each winter season to enjoy the sport at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the premier polo destination in the world, hosting the largest field of high-goal teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States.

The 2018 season opens on Sunday, Dec. 31, and will conclude 16 weeks later with the USPA 114th U.S. Open Polo Championship final on Sunday, April 22. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating, including elegant grandstand viewing, field tailgating, stadium seating, field-side champagne brunch and exclusive sponsor boxes.

In the spring of 2016, Wellington Equestrian Partners, the managing entity of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival and the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, announced

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the acquisition of IPC, transforming and expanding the group’s massive portfolio in Wellington.

“We’re thrilled with the progress we’ve made since acquiring IPC in 2016 and feel that we’re providing an expanded platform for the sport of polo, not just in Wellington during the winter season, but around the world,” said Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of Wellington Equestrian Partners. “The upgrades that we’ve made to this point are just a small piece of the ultimate footprint that we’d like to leave at IPC and for the sport of polo.”

IPC draws the attention of the polo

The International Polo Club will host high-goal polo action every Sunday from Dec. 31 through April 22.

world during the winter months, and the 2018 season is expected to be one of the largest yet, welcoming players and teams from around the country and the globe to South Florida for one of the most competitive succession of tournaments, highlighted by the 114th U.S. Open during the month of April.

IPC will once again serve as the social center of activity each Sunday, offering attendees numerous hospitality options and prime viewing opportunities for some of the best polo matches of the season.

To enjoy polo in style, the luxurious brunch in the Veuve Clicquot Pavilion

is back this season featuring delicious breakfast and lunch options, a full bar, and field-side seating on the patio.

Guests will also have exclusive access to a meet-and-greet with some of the world’s favorite polo players throughout the afternoon in the Pavilion. Each week, a different pair of players will be available for photos and autographs.

The fun continues after the match at the Pavilion After Party. Live entertainment and cocktails will be served to celebrate the winning team.

For the ultimate VIP experience, guests can purchase tickets to the Coco Polo Lounge, presented by Seminole

Casino Coconut Creek. Each ticket includes seating at a front-row table, exclusive field-side lounge seating, a lavish gourmet brunch, a complimentary specialty cocktail, a gift bag, celebrity meet-and-greets, expedited valet entry and more.

General admission is also offered for all of the Sunday afternoon games and includes access to all the favorite food and drink options. The fun-filled Kids Zone will return for children to enjoy each Sunday afternoon. Bounce houses, games, face painting and more will be available to any child attending the 3 p.m. match. Multiple shopping op-

tions are also accessible to all spectators while they are on site Sunday behind the stadium. During half time, everyone is invited onto the field for a complimentary glass of champagne and ice cream — and, of course, to stomp some divots.

IPC offers a collection of nine polo fields accumulating 248 acres of pristine land, as well as a main grandstand, croquet facility, meeting and breakout rooms, 7,000 square feet of indoor usable floor space, a private health club, a pool, tennis courts and sufficient parking options. In addition, the facility has proven to be an ideal site for soccer, PHOTOS BY LOIS SPATZ

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PHOTOS BY LOIS SPATZ

lacrosse, field hockey, rugby and a variety of other sports. Just last June, IPC was selected as the Large Market Sports Venue of the Year by the Florida Sports Foundation. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission has utilized the venue to host some of the largest sporting events in the nation, including the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) National Games, USA Field Hockey’s National Hockey Festival, the Florida United Lacrosse Cup Series – Palm Beach Blast and the Florida Draw Lacrosse Classic.

Several updates have been made to the facility in order to improve the game of polo and continue IPC’s tradition of distinction. Five of the playing fields, including the main Engel & Völkers Field, have undergone major renovations in recent months.

Each of the fields were sprigged with a one-of-a-kind strain of durable Bermuda grass, which will lengthen longevity and durability. These characteristics of field grass are crucial when hosting high-goal polo for a prolonged season and will benefit both the players

and the venue looking ahead.

In addition to improving the grass fields, IPC has also begun developing a new field surface that will create high availability and dramatically lower relative cost of ownership per polo practice.

The special mixture of sand, felt, fiber and a unique binding agent allows for a safe surface for players and horses, while reducing cupping and divots created by horses’ movement that may impede the travel of a traditional grass polo ball.

This approach has the potential to

ational Polo Club Palm Beach International Polo Club Palm Beach International Polo Cl

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International Polo Club Palm Beach 2018 High Goal Tournament Schedule

PHOTO BY JONATHAN CONNOLLY PHOTOGRAPHY

offset limited field access and the high cost of renting practice fields.

“This innovation is not intended to replace grass polo fields, but rather provide an option for a renewable, high-availability practice environment on a regulation-size field, which allows practice at game speed,” Bellissimo explained.

Guests are welcome to visit the International Polo Club throughout the week to watch qualifying matches on the backfields. These matches offer a more laid-back experience to see some of the world’s top polo teams compete before the main match on Sunday.

Whether one prefers a low-key match during the week or Sunday’s impressive 3 p.m. featured stadium game, IPC has options for all levels of polo enthusiasts.

For more information about the International Polo Club Palm Beach, visit www. internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 2045687.

December 31 Herbie Pennell Cup Final January 7 January 14 January 21 January 28

Joe Barry Cup Joe Barry Cup Joe Barry Cup Final Ylvisaker Cup

February 4 February 11 February 18 February 25

Ylvisaker Cup Ylvisaker Cup Ylvisaker Cup Final C.V. Whitney Cup

March 4 March 11 March 18 March 25

C.V. Whitney Cup Final Gold Cup Gold Cup Gold Cup Final

April 1 April 8 April 15 April 22

Butler Handicap Final U.S. Open U.S. Open U.S. Open Final

The International Polo Club Palm Beach is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. For tickets and additional information, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

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Major Sponsors Bring Visibility And Support To Polo At IPC Each year, as the high-goal polo season swings into gear at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the venue highlights a large group of committed sponsors, each aiming to help grow the reach and expansion of the sport, and preserve the tradition of polo in South Florida during the winter months.

As one of the most popular and exclusive social scenes on the weekend for players, spectators and other polo enthusiasts, sponsors of the high-goal season reap extraordinary benefits, both for their own brand visibility and engagement with the fun-loving and energetic audience base of polo.

Katherine Bellissimo of Wellington Equestrian Partners, the ownership entity of the International Polo Club Palm Beach, managed by her husband, Mark Bellissimo, oversees the sponsorship and marketing efforts at IPC during the intense winter season and is committed to broadening the sponsorship opportunities for lifestyle and commercial brands at the venue.

“Sponsorship support is a key component in the success we’ve experienced to this point at IPC and is something that our team focuses on tremendously throughout the year leading up to high-goal competition,” Bellissimo said.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

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IPC offers one of the most popular and exclusive social scenes.

“It’s an incredible market for sponsors to activate and display their brands, as we see thousands of spectators at IPC from December through April each year. We manage one of the largest sponsorship portfolios for equestrian sport at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and are confident that we will be able to do the same with polo over the coming years.”

Following suit with many of the major professional sporting league trends, corporate sponsorship deals continue to have a major influence on the prominence and distinction in the sports sector and industry, helping brands reach new target audiences and provide unparalleled experiences for fans and attendees.

“Sponsorship, in general, has to be

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

a very forward-thinking department in terms of what we can offer or provide that will give these brands and businesses the most reward or success in reaching their target audiences,” Bellissimo explained. “We’re incredibly thankful to all of the sponsors that we’ve seen step up since we acquired IPC and are looking forward to the future of polo thanks to their continued support.”

As brands and businesses look for new creative ways to tap into new and pre-existing audiences, one thing remains certain: sports and sporting events provide a unique gateway for fan engagement and recognition, the ultimate key to a successful sponsorship.

With a trifecta of opportunity, including audiences attending the Winter Equestrian Festival at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the Adequan Global Dressage Festival at Equestrian Village and the continued expansion at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, corporate sponsor-

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This year, IPC will welcome the following sponsors to the venue for the 2018 season: AIG Private Client Group; Engel & Völkers, Amy Carr and Carol Sollak; Goldmund; Hinkley Yachts; Lugano Diamonds; the Michelle Farmer Collaborative; NetJets; Rosenbaum PLLC; Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, featuring the Coco Polo Lounge; Socapri; the United States Polo Association; U.S. Polo Assn.; Veuve Clicquot; The Wall Street Journal; and the Wanderers Club.

Polo competition will begin this

season on Sunday, Dec. 31, and continue through Sunday, April 22, featuring some of the best polo in the world throughout the duration of the threemonth tournament season, concluding with the prestigious 114th U.S. Open Final. General admission tickets are available for grandstand seating at every match on Sunday. Pavilion brunch seating and Coco Polo Lounge tickets are also available for purchase at www. internationalpoloclub.com.

For more information about the International Polo Club Palm Beach, or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com.

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Gladiator Polo is leading a resurgence in the sport of arena polo.

Last year’s inaugural Gladiator Polo season took Wellington by storm, ushering in a new era of arena polo and offering an additional evening of equestrian entertainment during the popular winter circuit.

Gladiator Polo is a re-energized form of traditional arena polo, which pits teams of three against each other in an “ice hockey-like” environment, where play of the boards is encouraged and the fast-paced nature of the game captivates spectators and fans alike.

The brainchild of Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of the Wellington Equestrian Partners, which oversees the ownership and management of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, the Adequan Global Dressage Festival at

Equestrian Village, and the Wanderers Club, Gladiator Polo seemed to be a surefire way of re-engaging polo fans and introducing the sport to an entirely new spectator group on Thursday and Friday evenings at Equestrian Village on South Shore Blvd.

“It has always been our intention with Gladiator Polo to engage fans and spectators on a global scale. Gladiator Polo can become a tremendous catalyst in promoting interest in the sport of polo and equestrian sport as a whole,” Bellissimo said. “The fan base and support we’ve seen surrounding Gladiator Polo motivated us to expand the reach of the game so we can interact with a broader audience around the world and ultimately offer an opportunity to provide enormous exposure for the sport.”

The response to the inaugural season was incredible.

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first evening game in January to watch the action unfold live.

Themed by the ancient Roman era in 2017, Gladiator Polo featured four teams during the inaugural season: Team Spartacus, Team Priscus, Team Spiculus and Team Crixus, each named after famous gladiator figures from antiquity.

The teams played for an ultimate purse of $250,000, the largest prize money offering known in modern day polo in the final match of the season.

Team Spiculus ultimately captured the top title in 2017, using the teamwork of Sebastian Merlos, Mariano Obregon and Pelon Escapite to outplay opponent Team Spartacus to take home the largest cut of the massive check.

The game of arena polo is traditionally played in a 300-foot-by-150-foot arena on packed footing, helping the ball to move quickly across the playing surface, but also allowing fans to sit close to the action and experience the game like never before.

This season, Gladiator Polo will once again return to Wellington during the winter season as the perfect accompaniment to traditional field polo hosted at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Sundays from December through April.

This year’s Gladiator Polo season will feature 13 league games followed by another high-dollar final match at the end of the season in April. The number of teams in the Gladiator Polo league will also expand in 2018, increasing from last year’s four to a total of eight teams.

Following a successful debut in Wellington, Gladiator Polo transitioned to a summer home hosted at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in North Carolina, sister venue to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, where once again the derivative of arena polo was met with immense enthusiasm.

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Mariano Obregon, Pelon Escapite and Sebastian Merlos of Team Spiculus claim last year’s $50,000 Gladiator Polo Final.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

More than 10,000 fans attended the inaugural match in June, before returning for the Gladiator Polo Fall Series at the venue, which hosted four weeks of competition in September.

“We were thrilled with the support and engagement of the fans and spectators surrounding Gladiator Polo this year, and thoroughly impressed with the level of play we saw across the board

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“It has been very clear from the response and popularity that we’ve experienced to this point that the future of Gladiator Polo is very bright,” Gladiator Polo Manager Gates Gridley said. “Fans love the action, the players love the pace of the game.”

from each of the participating players,” Bellissimo said. “Our goal is to expand this game on both a national and international level and feel that these players and this atmosphere translates well anywhere in the world. We’re looking forward to the future of this game and are eager to unveil a re-energized version of the series in 2018 in Wellington.”

Gladiator Polo Manager Gates Gridley is eagerly anticipating the start of the 2018 season and is confident that the play and intensity of the second season will entice more spectators to become involved with the sport.

With its fast-paced nature and simplicity of regulations and rules, Gridley believes that Gladiator Polo is the perfect introduction to the sport of polo that can help bring a broader spectator audience base to the game, not just

on a national level, but also on a global scale.

“It has been very clear from the response and popularity that we’ve experienced to this point that the future of Gladiator Polo is very bright,” Gridley said. “Fans love the action, the players love the pace of the game, and I think it checks a lot of boxes for people wanting to experience something new in Wellington during the winter. The expansions that we have planned for the upcoming 2018 season will be major, and we feel that it will only help to broaden the platform the sport provides. We’re incredibly excited.”

The first match of Gladiator Polo’s season in Wellington will take place in the beginning of January and continue through the peak season, with a final in April. For more information about Gladiator Polo, visit www.gladiatorpolo.com.

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The Polo School At International Polo Club Opens Doors In 2018 A new feature has been added to the grounds of the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Opening this winter to students of all ages, riding levels and disciplines is the Polo School at IPC. The program currently has six polo ponies available for lessons seven days a week by appointment. Ponies are stabled on-site at IPC and lessons will take place on one of the practice fields located near the barn.

To celebrate the launch of the school and to promote the sport of polo, introductory lessons are half price. Lessons are offered at an hourly rate, and packages of ten lessons are available at a discount.

Lesson instructor Gates Gridley has been playing polo for more than 17 years and has competed around the world. He spent four years learning from former 7-goaler Joey Casey, where he broke yearlings, trained green horses and played competitively.

Gridley was also instrumental in bringing Gladiator Polo to the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring, N.C., after the concept was created and launched in January 2017 in Wellington by Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of Wellington Equestrian Partners.

Bellissimo’s motivation behind Gladiator Polo was to broaden the reach of equestrian sports to fans and enthusiasts of action-packed, mainstream sports such as hockey or football.

Following its success in both Wellington and North Carolina, Bellissimo is now motivated to grow interest in polo through the new Polo School at IPC. “It has always been, and remains, our intention to make polo more accessible at all levels,” Bellissimo said. “We have made great strides in 2017 with the introduction of Gladiator Polo, as well

as the Polo School at Tryon Resort. We are excited to bring this success back to Wellington with the implementation of the Polo School at IPC. We believe that it is imperative that the International Polo Club, home of the U.S. Open, has a lesson program.”

Rates for lessons are $150 per hour, or a package of ten lessons can be purchased for $125 per hour. An introductory lesson costs $75.

For more information about the school, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or contact Gridley at (203) 232-6935 or jgridley@ equestriansport.com to book a lesson.

To celebrate the launch of the school and to promote the sport of polo, introductory lessons are half price.

wellington the magazine | january 2018

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Facundo Obregon is among the leaders of the third generation of Obregon family players on the polo field.

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Obregon Family Finds Success During Wellington’s Winter Polo Season

There are many occupations in the world that require travel, but the polo industry demands excessive time on the road. It can be exhilarating and adventurous for the young and curious, but taxing on those who long for an established home and lifestyle.

None know the positive and negative attributes of polo better than the Obregon family. With three generations of players, the Obregons understand what it takes to make it on the field and stay competitive.

The family’s involvement with polo began with their grandfather when he joined the cavalry and started playing polo in Argentina. After completing his military service, he continued to play polo, even traveling to England and New York to compete. Following in his father’s foot-

steps, Mariano Obregon entered the military during his 20s in Buenos Aires.

Later, he and his wife Margarita moved to Denver to pursue his professional polo career.

Margarita also came from an equine background, riding and competing in the sport of show jumping for many years in Argentina. Today, they live on a farm just outside of Aiken, S.C. Rather than traveling back to their native country during the popular high-goal fall season, they stay in South Carolina and relax on the farm.

The patriarch of four very successful high-goal players, Mariano Obregon began teaching his sons polo at a young age. He started them off with the basics of the sport and taught the classic style and discipline of the game first. But it was never required or expected that the boys would continue the polo tradition.

“If you liked to play polo, you played. If you didn’t like wellington the magazine | january 2018

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(Above) The Obregon family is close, both on the polo field and off. (Left) 5-goaler Agustin Obregon in action.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

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to play polo, you didn’t,” said Geronimo, the youngest of the four brothers.

Yet, they all did. All four brothers improved their skills and eventually began playing in top tournaments throughout their home country of Argentina, as well as the United States.

The oldest of the brothers, Mariano Jr. or “Nino,” began riding and competing at age 12 in Argentina. Facundo and Juan Martin followed, and started playing at just eight years old and six years old, respectively.

Geronimo competed in his first tournament by age nine.

Their father’s military background meant he could be a strict parent at home, but that helped the boys improve their discipline on the field. Geronimo dedicates much of his achievement and character to his dad.

“He taught us the meaning of working hard and appreciating what you have,” he said. “We were expected to tack up our own ponies and get on without help.”

None of the boys had grooms growing up, even when traveling to tournaments with a full string of six to seven horses. But they value each person on their team today who works hard and helps them succeed.

As a young and aspiring player, Geronimo loves to travel. Playing in different places helps his game and technique. “In Argentina, the game is much more open and fastpaced, whereas in the States, it’s more con-

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Members of the Obregon family can be seen playing at the International Polo Club Palm Beach this season.

trolled,” he explained. “So, you get in a special mindset when playing in each location based on the style of play.”

When there are multiple Obregons on a team, however, the sport sees a whole new style of play. Not only is it more fun for the brothers to compete together, but it gives them an advantage.

“You click a little bit faster than regular teams. You know them and exactly what they’re going to do and how they react, so the play is faster, too,” Geronimo said, adding that when playing against one another, the competitiveness increases. “[You] definitely feel the pressure to win because you want to beat them, and when you’re the youngest, you want to beat them even more.”

The Obregon family can be seen playing at the International Polo Club Palm Beach this season or battling against the boards in Gladiator Polo, but one thing remains for sure, the polo in their blood runs deep, and their passion for family and the game are evident.

Their rise to the top of the sport has been a long road, but the family that plays together stays together, and is eager for a competitive season this year in Wellington.

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“I have to carve out a little bit more of my time, and give back as much as I possibly can to the sport.�

Tony Coppola at his iconic Wellington store, the Tackeria.

PHOTO BY ABNER PEDRAZA

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Wellington’s ‘Voice Of Polo’ Takes On A New Role As USPA President

By Craig Campbell

Longtime Wellington resident Tony Coppola has done it all in the sport of polo — professional player, announcer, club operator, business owner, hall of fame honoree — and now he can add president of the United States Polo Association to his long list of achievements in the sport.

Coppola was elected to the position at the annual member meeting held in late September in Stevenson, Wash.

Coppola joins Chairman Chip Campbell III, Chief Executive Officer Robert Puetz, Secretary Stewart Armstrong, Treasurer Sam Ramirez Jr., Paul Jornayvaz, Dan Walker, Maureen Brennan, Stephen Orthwein Jr. and Tom Gose on the Executive Committee of the USPA Board of Governors.

“To be elected by my peers means a lot,” said Coppola, who has been a fixture of Wellington’s equestrian community since the 1970s.

Known locally as “the voice of polo” for his many years of play-by-play announcing at polo matches, he is taking his new role at an important transition in the USPA’s history.

Although president is second to chairman in the board’s hierarchy, Coppola said he and Campbell share the same vision: a reorganization of the USPA. “There is a different dynamic to polo in the U.S. over the past 10 to 15 years. It’s grown from an association of players into a business. It was time to bring in some new blood,” Coppola explained.

In 2015, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan ruled that the USPA can’t be held in contempt for selling sunglasses with the “double horsemen mark” — which depicts two mounted polo players vying for a ball

— and is also featured on merchandise sold under the Polo Ralph Lauren brand trademark.

The USPA — in a partnership with JRA Trademark Co. — also sells products, sometimes in competition with Polo Ralph Lauren, under the brand name U.S. Polo Assn. The decision in favor of the USPA is a departure from the original ruling in favor of Polo Ralph Lauren in 1984, and more than 20 years of supporting judgments.

The USPA was founded in 1890, while the Ralph Lauren Corp. started in 1967.

The revenue stream from royalties will allow the organization to initiate programs previously only dreamed about.

Many of these programs are focused on growing the sport of polo, introducing the sport to youth and developing world-class players to compete on the international stage.

“A lot of my focus and attention has been spent on young players,” Coppola emphasized.

Coppola is also president of the Polo Training Foundation, a nonprofit organization that offers programs for players from as young as six and up to 16 years of age, as well as a gap program for those 16 to 21 years old.

The programs currently include teaching and mentoring young players by more experienced ones, but he would like to take them further.

“The youth is the future of U.S. polo,” Coppola stressed.

Coppola knows a little about developing a world-class player. His 23-year-old son Matt has been competing internationally since he was 16. This year, he has traveled to Argentina, as well as Texas and California multiple times to compete in high-level tournaments.

“Matt has been doing pretty well for himself,” the proud father commented.

Coppola said there will also be an emphasis on female polo players, through training and development programs, along with tournament sponsorship and sup-

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tony coppola port. He pointed to the fact that approximately 40 percent of USPA membership is comprised of women.

“The U.S. women’s team has won a number of international tournaments, including making it to the semifinals of the Argentine Open,” Coppola said.

He felt new blood was needed in the USPA leadership to combat what he characterized as a “slight decline” in polo across the U.S. He recognizes polo is an expensive sport, but pointed to the different levels players compete at based on their ability and financial resources.

“Polo is not only an elitist sport. You have ‘country club’ golf and ‘public course’ golf — the same is true for polo,” Coppola explained. “We need to promote the sport at the grassroots level.”

He spends a lot of time on the road throughout the year, including three months every summer in the Northeast, where he is involved with a number of polo clubs.

His travels frequently take him to the center of the polo universe — Argentina, known around the world as the “Mecca of polo.”

Coppola explained there are a thousand or more polo fields in and around the city of Pilar, which has a population of approximate(Above) Tony Coppola (right) receives the Philip Iglehart Award for outstanding lifetime contributions to polo from Steve Orthwein, then chairman of the Museum of Polo.

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Tony Coppola (left) announces a game at the International Polo Club, joined by IPC Director of Polo Jimmy Newman.

“We had less competitors in all equestrian areas last year, plus there is increased competition from other suppliers, especially on the internet,” Coppola explained. “There’s a lot of people competing for the same dollar.”

However, he noted that he is seeing polo players returning to Wellington

this year that he didn’t see last year — a good sign for the future, both over the short term, and the long term.

Coppola has been a member of the USPA since 1969 and has been in leadership in the Florida and Caribbean Circuit for years. He feels ready for leadership at the national level after all he has done for the sport here.

“I played professionally and have been involved in polo for many years.

This means I have to carve out a little bit more of my time, and give back as much as I possibly can to the sport,” Coppola said.

For more information about the United States Polo Association, visit www.uspolo. org. The Tackeria is located at 13501 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 793-2012 or visit www. tackeria.com.

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ly 300,000 people and is located close to the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires.

In Argentina, polo is a top-tier sport, and the popularity of polo in Argentina probably can’t be duplicated in the U.S. However, the focus on growing youth programs can be.

Coppola feels that the future of polo in Wellington, known as the winter capital of the sport here in the U.S., is fundamentally sound over the long term, although there was a decline in players here last season.

“There are four polo clubs in the greater Wellington area, which means there are plenty of places for players of all levels to participate,” he said.

The tough season last year also affected a decline in sales at Coppola’s iconic tack store, the Tackeria on South Shore Blvd.

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

WELLINGTON POLO ICONS To Be Inducted Into Hall Of Fame

By Deborah Welky

Since its inception in 1990, an elite group of individuals has been inducted into the Museum of Polo’s Hall of Fame. For 2018, the nominating committee has chosen inductees Sunset “Sunny” Hale, Ruben Gracida, Jimmy Newman, Roy L. Barry, and horses Lovely Sage and Ruifino.

Criteria for each category are clearly outlined for the nominating committee, and the museum’s Director of Development Brenda Lynn said the process focuses on the development of the sport in the United States.

“We are an American museum, so the Hall of Fame is geared toward people who were not only outstanding players, but who had influence on the sport in America,” Lynn said. “Sunny Hale had an outstanding impact on polo in the U.S. and set the standard for women playing polo with men. It’s just incredible what she has given back to the sport in general. In the case of both she and Ruben, who made his living in the U.S., it wasn’t only their playing ability, but what they’ve given back to the sport.”

Sunny Hale, unfortunately, will be honored posthumously. Following a valiant battle with breast cancer, she succumbed to its complications on Feb. 26, 2017 at age 48.

In the less than five decades she was alive, however, Hale achieved a remarkable record on the playing field, reaching a five-goal handicap in the male-dominated sport and making history when she became the first woman to win the U.S. Open Championship.

The late Sunny Hale will be honored posthumously.

PHOTO BILL BARBOSA

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Ruben Gracida will receive the Living Hall of Fame award.

“Ruben came to the States as a very young player and made the U.S. his home,” Museum Vice President Tony Coppola recalled.

“Starting out at three goals, he rapidly rose through the ranks to eight goals. He worked hard and racked up a long list of impressive wins on his way up the ladder.”

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She was hired as a polo professional to play on teams alongside the world’s greatest male players for more than 20 seasons, leaving shards of the women’s “glass ceiling” in her wake.

But Hale, a longtime Wellington resident, achieved great things off the field as well.

She consistently strove to promote the sport, horses and horsemanship. She was an avid mentor and inspiration to aspiring polo players, both male and female, young and old. She wrote a series of polo help books, created an online clinic, and traveled the world lecturing and giving polo clinics and seminars.

Hale also founded the American Polo Horse Association to establish polo ponies as a breed and preserve their information for posterity, much like the American Kennel Club. She created the women’s handicap system that was adopted for use by the United States Polo Association, started the Women’s Championship Tournament to give greater opportunities to polo-playing women and helped revive the United States Women’s Open. In addition to her induction into the Hall of Fame, an exhibit paying tribute to Hale has been ongoing at the Museum of Polo.

In short, Hale more than met Hall of Fame criteria by contributing to the game “in an extraordinary and honorable manner, whether by dedication to the sport or by ability and record as a player.”

Museum of Polo Executive Director George DuPont agreed.

“What she accomplished in giving back to the sport in her short life is nothing short of amazing,” he said. “Her achievements are multi-faceted. Because of her talent, courage and her relentless efforts to share her knowledge with others, Sunny was regarded the world over as the most influential woman in polo of our time.”

The museum’s award for Living Hall of Fame is being awarded to Ruben Gracida, who won the U.S. Open four times and was its MVP in 1983. He also won the 1983 International Gold Cup, the Avilo Camacho Cup in 1981 and 1988, back-to-back Coronation Cups in 1985 and 1986, along with numerous other tournament victories.

“Ruben came to the States as a very young player and made the U.S. his home,” Museum Vice President Tony Coppola recalled. “Starting out at three goals, he rapidly rose through the ranks to eight goals. He worked hard and racked up a long list of impressive wins on his way up the ladder and made a name for

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Jimmy Newman will receive the Philip Iglehart Award.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

Roy L. Barry is the posthumous inductee for the Iglehart Award.

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himself as a tough competitor and an influential figure on the American polo scene.”

Jimmy Newman got the nod as this year’s living honoree for the Philip Iglehart Award for “exceptional lifetime contributions to the sport.”

Over 54 years, Newman has become well known in polo, working his way through the sport, training, selling countless polo ponies and going on to play medium- and high-goal polo, including the U.S. Open.

Having attained a three-goal outdoor handicap and four indoor, Newman won the 1985 U.S. Open Handicap, also known as the 26-goal C.V. Whitney.

During his career, he has served as manager and organized tournaments for Retama in Texas, Palm Beach Polo & Country Club, the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and the International Polo Club Palm Beach. He managed 27 U.S. Open championships and served the USPA as southwest circuit governor, governor at large and more.

“The Iglehart Award is for outstanding lifetime contributions for the sport, not necessarily on the playing field, but as a help to people within the sport and the sport in general,” Lynn explained.

The posthumous inductee for the Iglehart Award is Roy Lawson Barry, who began playing polo in Texas in his 20s and made his reputation buying, training and selling horses. Through his natural ability, he quickly attained a seven-goal rating in 1948, won the Monty Waterbury Cup in 1951, was a finalist in the U.S. Open and played in clubs across the United States, often managing the clubs as well as his sponsors’ strings of polo ponies.

In 1954, at age 45, Roy suffered a stroke while playing in the Monty Waterbury tournament on Long Island. He was advised to quit working with horses and playing polo but, just three years later, he returned, ultimately enjoying many years of club polo. He taught his son the game and, in 1995, Roy Matthews Barry was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a ninegoaler.

The Horses to Remember award recognizes outstanding polo ponies whose achievements on the field were singled out by contemporary judges in tournaments and shows, and by other experts, as worthy of special recognition.

Lovely Sage made her mark as the very first winner of the Hartman Award for Best Playing Pony of the U.S. Open when it was established in 1965. At

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Lovely Sage made her mark as the very first winner of the Hartman Award for Best Playing Pony of the U.S. Open when it was established in 1965. that time, it was given to the best playing horse of the entire tournament, not just the final.

In the mid through late 1930s, the gray mare Ruifino played with distinction, most closely associated as a mount for the great Tommy Hitchcock in the U.S. Open and Waterbury Cup matches. Owned at the time by J.H. “Jock�

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In the mid through late 1930s, the gray mare Ruifino played with distinction, most closely associated as a mount for the great Tommy Hitchcock.

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she was declared the winner of the coveted Prince Friarstown Challenge Cup. In later years, she was called upon to play under other notable Hall of Fame players in the most important matches of the era.

To join in the celebration of these accomplishments and contributions to the sport of polo, reserve your space in advance for the awards gala and induc-

tion ceremony, to take place at the Museum of Polo on Friday, Feb. 16. Reservations are $250 each. Contact Brenda Lynn at (561) 969-3210, (561) 969-7015 or polomuseum@att.net to RSVP. The Hall of Fame Awards Dinner is the primary fundraiser for the Museum of Polo, a not-for-profit organization.

To learn more about the Museum of Polo, visit www.polomuseum.com.

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By Craig Campbell

Brad Peacock has three priorities in his life: family, friends and baseball — and the past year has been full of milestones for the Major League Baseball pitcher and Wellington resident.

The 2006 Palm Beach Central High School graduate experienced a magical 2017. His wife Stephanie gave birth to their son Colton, known as Colt, in June, and then he won the World Series with his Houston Astros teammates in seven thrilling games over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Nov. 1.

“It’s what you dream about as a little kid. It’s a dream come true, especially because we got to win the first time I was in the playoffs,” Peacock said.

When the Astros went to the playoffs in 2015 and lost the American League Divisional Series to the eventual champions, the Kansas City Royals, Peacock was recovering from back surgery. “I was watching on TV and rooting very hard for them, but it was fun to be healthy and have a chance to go to the World Series and win it this year,” he said.

Peacock appeared in four out of seven games in the World Series. He pitched a total of seven and one-third innings while giving up four hits and three walks, recording eight strikeouts and an earned run average of 2.54. He earned his first major league save in Game 3 by finishing the final three and twothirds innings of a 5-3 win at Dodger Stadium.

Peacock played under legendary high school coach Scott 100

january 2018 | wellington the magazine

Benedict at Palm Beach Central. Benedict was a former professional baseball player who produced numerous major leaguers during his time coaching at both the high school and collegiate levels, before retiring in 2016.

“The practices he ran for us in high school were identical to the practices I had in the minor leagues,” Peacock recalled.

After high school Peacock was drafted by the Washington Nationals, but chose to be a “draft and follow” prospect and enrolled at Palm Beach Community College, now Palm Beach

Brad Peacock pitching in Game 5 of the 2017 World Series.

PHOTO COURTESY HOUSTON ASTROS

ALL HOUSTON ASTROS MARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

State College, for one year. While there, his pitching coach, Kyle Forbes, helped him complete the transition from a third baseman to a full-time pitcher he began in high school.

Between high school and college, Peacock played with more than a dozen teammates who were drafted and went on to play in the minors, with some joining him in the majors.

“I’m still friends with all of my high school teammates, and we hang out nearly every weekend during the baseball offseason,” he said.

He joined the Nationals organization in 2007 and worked his way up through every level of the minor leagues before making his major league debut in 2011.

“There is nothing like having the AAA manager call you into his office and tell you you’re going to the majors,” Peacock said.

In his first appearance in “the show,” he faced Matt Kemp at Dodger Stadium. “I said to myself, ‘It can’t get any tougher than this,’” he recalled. wellington the magazine | january 2018

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After his rookie season, Peacock was traded to the Oakland Athletics organization, where he played for their AAA farm club. And after the 2012 season, he headed to the Astros. In five seasons with them, he spent time in the majors, with their AAA team and on injured reserve.

His dad, Jerry, retired from a career in law enforcement, converted a small trailer into a sleeper in order to follow his son throughout the minors.

“It meant everything to me,” Peacock said. “He wouldn’t tell me he was coming to a particular game, but when I would see him in the stands, it made me feel more comfortable, which helped me a lot.”

However, it was Peacock’s mother, Jacyne, who got him playing baseball.

“My dad is from Pahokee, where everyone played football, but I hated it,”

Peacock recalled. “My mom played softball and taught me how to catch and throw. She was the first female manager at Okeeheelee Park, and we won the championship.”

Peacock was recently honored as a special guest at the Wellington Holiday Parade in December. He loves the traditions of his hometown — especially the parade.

“I used to attend the parade every year while growing up in Wellington, and my dad still takes my young nephews every year,” Peacock said.

He hadn’t been to the parade for a while but was excited to be able to be a part of the 2017 event with his wife Stephanie — who is also a Wellington native — and infant son.

There were two events which played a huge part in the eventual championship for the Astros and Peacock. The first was

Brad Peacock spends the off-season at home in Wellington. PHOTO BY ABNER PEDRAZA

Colt being born in June, and the second was when Hurricane Harvey devastated the Houston metropolitan area and the Texas Gulf Coast in late August.

“I’m from South Florida, which is hurricane prone, but I’ve never seen anything like that,” Peacock explained.

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“We were feeling for the people of Houston, and worried about our own families, because we were out on the road when Harvey hit. Wanting to win for our fans helped jump-start our run to the World Series.”

(Above) Brad and Stephanie Peacock at home with baby Colt. PHOTO BY ABNER PEDRAZA (Below) The couple ride in the Wellington Holiday Parade. PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

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He said much of the Houston area is still a mess, but getting better.

Peacock and his wife made a deal during the season that she would take care of Colt so he could get some sleep and be fresh during the pennant stretch and playoffs, but he is paying her back during the off-season.

“Being a dad is hard, but it’s fun. Colt is definitely my good luck charm,” he said.

Peacock has certainly paid his dues to get where he is now. A number of years in the minors, injuries and being part of a Houston Astros team that went from 111 losses and last place in 2013 to World Series champions in 2017.

He feels that Wellington was a great place to grow up, lives here during the off-season and wants to raise his family here when his playing career is over.

He is also fortunate that the Astros spring training home is at the Ballpark

Brad Peacock holds a ball that honors his save in Game 3 of the World Series.

PHOTO BY ABNER PEDRAZA

of the Palm Beaches in nearby West Palm Beach.

“It gives me an extra two months at home with my family and friends,” Peacock said.

To follow Peacock and the Houston Astros, visit www.mlb.com/astros.

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wellington | professional

Community Service Is Important To Longtime Area Accountant Jay Froehlich Story by Deborah Welky | Photo by Abner Pedraza

Betty De La Rua and Jay Froehlich of the Froehlich & De La Rua CPA Firm.

Whenever a community is being built, there are people who step up and stand out as leaders. But there are also those who work diligently behind the scenes — carrying out the missives, offering improvements and making sure the ducks stay in a row.

When Wellington was young, it was lucky enough to have Jay Froehlich working behind the scenes to help the community grow.

Like many early Wellington residents, Froehlich hailed from New York, where he had graduated from Hofstra University. Inspired by an uncle who was an accountant, he was working as a licensed certified public accountant when a visit to his wife Trish’s parents in Florida convinced him to move south in the 1980s.

Froehlich was immediately hired by a CPA firm in Palm Beach Gardens but soon moved to Wellington because of the excellent schools.

“Trisha’s parents liked Wellington and recommended it,” Froehlich re-

called. “I saw the opportunity for a CPA practice here, as Wellington was an up-and-coming community and close to home. After long commutes in New York, close to home worked very well.”

Over his 35 years in Wellington, Froehlich helped shape the community through thousands of volunteer hours.

One of the first things he worked on was the annual Wellington Holiday Parade, co-chairing the event for several years alongside Sharon Edelman Reuben and, later, David Leland.

“In 1990, I joined the board of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and was vice president of operations for three years,” Froehlich said. “I worked on the exercise path behind the old

chamber building with Bobby Ewing, Michael Mauck, Mark Miles and others.”

Froehlich also donated time as a tball coach; a budget committee member at the Acme Improvement District, Wellington’s pre-incorporation government; a member of the Wellington Incorporation Committee; and as treasurer of the Wellington Cultural Society.

He also volunteered at many of the hometown events in the fledgling community, such as Huck Finn Day, the Fourth of July celebration and WestFest.

He was active with the Boy Scouts and the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, serving on its board as executive secretary and as committee chair for its Little League before the Village of Wellington took over this function.

Froehlich sat on the Parish Council for St. Rita Catholic Church. He was also executive officer, then training officer, for the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Palm wellington the magazine | january 2018

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wellington | professional Beach, and acted as treasurer of the U.S. Navy League Palm Beach Council from 2002 to 2013, winding up his service as treasurer of the Navy Seal Foundation Palm Beach Tribute in 2013.

“I think that pretty much covers it,” Froehlich laughed. “I participated because I wanted to give back, participate with my son John in his activities, and be able to help people and our youth. I kept my accounting practice in Wellington all that time because most of my clients were here, and the clients that were not, were still close.”

In 2004, he teamed up with fellow accountant Beatriz “Betty” De La Rua to form the Froehlich & De La Rua CPA Firm.

“When I was lucky enough to have Betty become my partner, we decided that Wellington was definitely the place for our practice,” Froehlich said.

This included the company’s evolution into an international accounting

Yet, except for a higher-than-normal number of equestrian clients, accounting and tax preparation are pretty much the same in Wellington as everywhere else, he said.

Froehlich enjoys helping clients maximize their businesses and “plan properly for tax consequences.”

He offered a bit of advice to those people just starting out as an accountant.

“For young people coming into this career, be prepared for constant changes and challenges,” Froehlich said. “This career can definitely be rewarding and satisfying.”

His uncle’s legacy lives on, with one more helpful hint. “Find a great partner!” Froehlich added.

The Froehlich & De La Rua CPA Firm is located in the Chancellor Corporate Center at 12008 South Shore Blvd., Suite 210, in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 795-9500 or visit www.froehlichcpa.com.

“I participated because I wanted to give back, participate with my son John in his activities, and be able to help people and our youth,” Jay Froehlich said. and consulting firm, De La Rua’s specialty.

“Our practice is constantly busy, as we work mostly with business clients, as well as international clients,” Froehlich said.

He cites “constantly changing tax laws, and accounting rules and practices” as the most challenging part of the job, noting that the weeks just prior to April 15 are especially busy, “mainly due to procrastinators.”

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Mary And Tony Alfalla Stay Active By Supporting The Wellington Seniors Club Story by Ray Burow • Photo by Abner Pedraza

The late comedian George Burns said, “You can’t help growing older, but you don’t have to grow old.” Burns may have said it, but Mary and Tony Alfalla of Wellington live as if it were their mantra.

Growing older is a non-issue for Mary, who will turn 76 years of age in January. Nor is it a problem for her octogenarian husband, Tony, who partially credits good genes for his longevity.

Aside from good genes, the Alfallas stay young by keeping active in the community and are leaders of the Wellington Seniors Club, serving faithfully through the years.

“After 21 years in the military and another 20 with the federal government, I said to myself I would never volunteer again,” Tony recalled. “But once I saw what was there, an opportunity to give to the seniors, something that they would be able to relish, to come out of the house and so forth, it made it a lot easier.”

They began their time with the Wellington Seniors Club taking part in variety shows.

“We actually performed. We would sing, dance, anything. We had so much fun doing it,” Mary explained.

However, singing and dancing was only part of what the couple brought to the club’s seniors. Tony has served on the board of the organization for 11 years and is currently the president, tapped for the position a second time when the former president stepped down last September.

According to the Alfallas, the Wellington Seniors Club is very unique and unlike other senior clubs across the country. Mary is a director at the Wellington Seniors Club and for seven years 110

january 2018 | wellington the magazine

served as the social chair. This involved intense event planning, since the primary focus of the club is to provide a social environment for seniors who live in the community.

There are only two requirements to becoming a member. Members must be age 55 or older, and the club is open only to residents of Wellington. There is a nominal annual fee. Seniors only pay $20 per year. The Village of Wellington generously supports the club. This is helpful to seniors, since many live on a fixed income.

The Wellington Seniors Club was a godsend to the Alfallas. Mary’s son was seriously ill for some time before he passed away. He lived in Connecticut,

“You have to continue being active,” Mary Alfalla said. “Continue the lifestyle that you have. Don’t keep changing it because the birthdays come around. Illness does come as you age, but just keep as active as you can and keep interested.”

and Mary was dedicated to his long-time care.

“When Mary was going through the thing with her son, [the club] just got us involved and took us away from our thoughts. It was something to do without continuously thinking about what happened,” Tony said.

Volunteering with the club and reaching out to help other seniors refocused the Alfallas’ attention and helped them through the grieving process.

“We got very deeply involved, and once we got involved, I mean the grieving was still there,” Tony said.

Mary continued: “It was a good feeling to have a senior walk up to you and say: ‘We just love coming to this meeting. It’s the only chance we get to go out except for doctors and things like that.’”

The Alfallas also found solace in the many cards and notes sent to them by grateful seniors, thanking them for all they do with the Wellington Seniors Club.

“It’s very rewarding,” Mary said.

Caring for a son with a disability caused her to be especially sensitive to the needs of other people, and has aided in her role with the Wellington Seniors Club.

“I’ve noticed over the last few months since I’ve had to use a cane, that people have been very considerate. I’ve had people try and open doors and just little things like that,” Mary said.

That’s the good side of people, but the Alfallas have also experienced rude treatment and believe that it goes both ways.

“I believe it is probably the same as it has been for years and years,” Mary said.

“I think some [people] are very respectful of senior citizens. There are others

wellington | senior

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According to the Alfallas, the Wellington Seniors Club is very unique and unlike other senior clubs across the country. who are not respectful, but then they aren’t respectful of anything.”

There is a broad spectrum of seniors living in Wellington. According to the couple, some seniors are very active and others have made a conscious choice not to be, and not necessarily due to physical hindrances they might have.

“You’ve got to keep active. I mean, we see both sides, a 75-year-old who is still very active and alert, and then the 75-year-old who chooses to be very sedentary,” said Mary, who herself has had a poor health history. “I keep going. You have to continue being active. Continue the lifestyle that you have. Don’t keep changing it because the birthdays come around. Illness does come as you age, but just keep as active as you can and keep interested.”

Growing older is a process that everyone faces, if they’re lucky, and the Alfallas believe there is a strategy to aging.

“In your spare time, volunteer and help others older than you are,” Tony said. “It’s not saying that someday you may be in the same position, as long as they keep themselves alert, helpful and do things to better themselves, as well as other human beings, their neighbors and so forth, they’ll do good.”

In addition to the many activities available through the nonprofit Wellington Seniors Club, it also convenes once a month for lunch. To learn more, call Membership Chair Sally Schwartz at (561) 793-8735.

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GRAYHILLS AND MOHIP

561.798.1600 L-R Dr. Laurence Grayhills, DMD, MS, MAGD Dr. Vikram Mohip, DMD, MIDIA Dr. Grayhills is Chairman of Advanced Crown & Bridge at Atlantic Coast Dental Research Clinic and a Visiting Lecturer at University of Florida College of Dentistry.

John F. Froehlich

Dr. Mohip has received Fellowship with the American Dental Implant Association and Masters International Dental Implant Association He is also preferred provider for Invisalign.

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250 Professional Way, Wellington, FL 33414

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12008 South Shore Blvd., Suite 210 Wellington, Florida (561) 795-9500 www.froehlichcpa.com

wellington | real estate

Milko Castellanos Of U.S. Mortgage Enjoys Helping Clients Buy The Perfect Home Story by Matthew Auerbach • Photo by Abner Pedraza

For Milko Castellanos, branch manager of U.S. Mortgage of Florida in Wellington, it comes down to getting the deal done.

“My career’s passion is to always find a way to get the deal done,” Castellanos said. “Every loan is like a puzzle that must be completed correctly and on time in order to close. As a branch manager, I am consistently asked by my loan officers to assist in structuring deals. I enjoy helping others close the difficult, ‘hard to close’ deals. This is how we have built U.S. Mortgage to be one of the leading lenders with builders throughout Florida.”

The Miami-raised Castellanos has lived in Wellington with his wife and daughter for the past 15 years. His career in mortgage originating was a natural move for him.

“It just made sense after I worked in my father-in-law’s real estate/title agency for a few years,” he said. “The market’s boom and my high interest in the business aided the easy transition.”

Castellanos and his team are dedicated to providing their total commitment to every client.

“My customers should expect premium customer service and competitive, low rates,” he said. “We are available nights and weekends, which sets us apart from big banks. U.S. Mortgage of Florida is its own lender and has relationships with 18 different lenders. This gives us the ability to approve loans that other lenders cannot close.”

The journey to a successful experience at U.S. Mortgage of Florida begins the moment a client fills out an application.

“Our system then walks the client through every step of the process, starting with when the appraisal has been ordered, to the loan being approved, and finally, to the favorite words of every loan officer, Realtor and customer: ‘clear to close,’” Castellanos said.

His years of experience have taught Castellanos that being accessible to his clients anytime he is needed is absolutely necessary, not only to their peace of mind, but also to the successful culmination of any deal.

“Buying a home is one of the most stressful times in most people’s lives,” Castellanos said. “I pride myself on being able to walk people through this process step by step. My phone is a 24/7 tool that is utilized to assist my clients with any questions they may have.”

Heading up a solid team is another plus.

“I have two full-time loan officer assistants who aide all my clients in gathering information asked of them by the banks,”

he said. “Since I have worked with many first-time home buyers, I am very aware of what it takes to get a deal closed. And on the flip side, I have dealt with clients multiple times as investors and return buyers as well.”

Castellanos sees a bright future for anyone thinking of settling down in Wellington.

“I am very excited about the real estate market, as banks have started to adapt to the market,” he said. “The conforming loan limits have just been raised to $453,100 from $424,100 in 2017. What this means is more buyers will be able to qualify for higher-priced homes and still reap the benefits of getting low conventional rates for homes in the higher price range. This is very significant here in Wellington as home values continue to rise.”

U.S. Mortgage of Florida is located at 1200 Corporate Center Way, Suite 104, in Wellington. For more information, contact Castellanos at (561) 886-0300, (954) 410-6013 or milko@usmtg.com. wellington the magazine | january 2018

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Triumph in Tryon!

January 19, 2018 Join us in supporting our U.S. Equestrian Teams at the 2018 World Equestrian Games “Triumph in Tryon”, a USET Foundation Benefit.

Purchase tickets online at USET.org or call 908-234-1251 Dancing and Live Auction Cocktail Attire

International Polo Club 3667 120th Avenue South Wellington, Florida

Supporting Athletes Promoting International Excellence Building for the Future

U S ET F O UNDATIO N Photos by Shannon Brinkman, Phelps Media Group, McMillen Photography, Waltenberry, Jon Stroud, Cealy Tetley, Becky Pearman Photography

Dr. Matt Symons Takes A Holistic, Preventative Approach To Healthcare

wellington | health

Story by Craig Campbell • Photo by Abner Pedraza

Chiropractor Dr. Matt Symons offers patients a different option for those who want the holistic and preventative approach to healthcare his practice offers.

“Rather than typical treatment models, I want to get to the cause of the problem,” Symons explained. “In their lifetime, five out of six people are diagnosed with either diabetes, heart disease or cancer, and these diseases are preventable. I want to take care of the situation before it becomes a major issue.”

He does this by following his model called the “5 Essentials Delivery System,” which focuses on patients having a maximized mind, nerve supply, quality nutrition, oxygen and lean muscle, as well as minimized toxins in their bodies.

Symons also uses equipment, developed by NASA, which allows him to see if a patient’s spine is in proper alignment. Motion study x-rays look at the functionality of the spine. This gives Symons data he can use for a personally customized adjustment that will move and loosen the joints systematically and scientifically.

“90 percent of the stimulus in the cerebellum comes from movement of the spine,” Symons explained.

He promotes nutritional testing and a specific diet for new patients. Also, since chronic inflammation can lead to pain, an inflammatory reaction test is also recommended for new patients, Symons said.

He feels an individual’s health goals are highly important, and he promotes fitness and energy ergonomics in order to allow the body to heal itself.

Symons has been a chiropractor for nearly 20 years, and has been at his practice —Palm Beach Health Center — for nearly 16 years.

The practice has two chiropractors, two massage therapists, two physical therapists and two nutritional consul-

tants, and is adding a licensed therapist who will offer meditation, life coaching and counseling aimed at reducing stress.

Born and raised in the New York City metropolitan area, Symons moved to South Florida after his education and internships were completed because his wife is from here.

He chose to become a chiropractor after he suffered a traumatic wrestling injury when he was 16 years old, followed by six months of constant headaches.

“Traditional medicine prescribed me to take acetaminophen with codeine, but that ate a hole in my stomach,” Symons said.

The father of a friend suggested going to a chiropractor, and Symons was able to find relief from the headaches.

His sister and mother both suffered from scoliosis, so Symons has a deep understanding of how important a properly aligned spine and proper posture are to an individual’s well-being.

Due to his own background in athletics, Symons works with athletes often.

From 2010 to 2014, he was one of the team doctors for USA Judo, Wrestling and Weightlifting. His duties took him to the 2011 Pan American Games in Mexico and the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The Palm Beach Health Center is the official wellness center for the Wellington Soccer Club.

Symons said most chiropractors base their treatment on how the patient feels, but he stressed that he is a spinal corrective chiropractor who uses x-rays to show exactly what the adjustment did for the individual patient.

“I have individual physicians who believe in what we do here, but these are selective consultations,” Symons said.

Reducing unnecessary thoughts, traumas and toxins are vital to a healthy lifestyle plan, he stressed.

Symons also pointed out that a preventative approach also benefits the patient’s financial well-being because catastrophic hospitalizations are avoided.

“50 percent of bankruptcies are due to medical bills, and 70 percent of those people had medical insurance,” Symons noted.

He especially wants to teach young people how to avoid disease. “I want to educate my patients so that they will take care of themselves properly,” Symons said. “The best doctor is inside of them.”

The Palm Beach Health Center is located at 1011 N. State Road 7, Suite D, in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 3338353 or visit www.palmbeachhealthcenter. com. wellington the magazine | january 2018 117

Family Room: The family room offers expansive views of the pool and access to the backyard patio area, while a wet bar serves the needs of those who choose to stay inside. Overhead is a unique twin paddle fan, and to the left, catch a glimpse of the cabana bath with a full shower.

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Foyer: Whether you enter through the foyer or down the sweeping staircase from upstairs, the coquina stone faรงade of the gas fireplace, two-story arched windows and stunning chandelier all draw your attention to the formal living room.

wellington | home

Two-Story Aero Club Estate Home Features Sleek, Contemporary Look Story by Deborah Welky

• Photos courtesy Melanie Peterson

This two-story estate home in Wellington’s Aero Club community is located directly along the community’s taxiway. With interior walls of environmentally safe poured concrete, four bedrooms, fourand-a-half baths, an oversized three-car garage, impressive landscape lighting and a truly stunning back patio, this home seems to have it all on its .92 acres. Also featured is a resort-style pool, a spacious master suite and an open floor plan with plenty of natural light.

Living Room: The spacious and welcoming living room shows off the open floor plan.

The expansive downstairs space is sleek and contemporary. A ground floor office to the left includes its own half bath, and the room showcases two big bonuses — a loft hallway and an alcove on the landing. Just off camera, to the right, a wood-burning fireplace soars upward, providing warmth and ambiance on cool evenings.

Kitchen: Clean and pristine, this sparkling white kitchen offers the perfect backdrop to the art of cooking. With an oversized six-burner Viking gas range, island bar sink, butler’s pantry and multiple wine coolers, it serves as the perfect space for the cook who enjoys entertaining.

Master Bedroom: The ground floor master bedroom opens out onto the lanai for easy access to the resort-style pool. It features his-and-her closets with built-in cabinetry and shoe storage, as well as access to the huge en suite bath. wellington the magazine | january 2018

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wellington | home

Guest Bedroom: This upstairs bedroom has two double doors that exit to its own balcony, as well as its own private bath.

Pool Deck: The 20-foot-by-40-foot resort-style freshwater pool features gas heat and a spa. A pair of Italian cypress trees, gardens that flank the back staircase and a lanai sheltered by an elevated portico complement the outdoor space.

Master Bath: The huge master en suite bath offers a soaking tub with a front bench, a walk-in shower with five showerheads, his-and-her sinks, custom sconces, a bidet and access to its own patio.

Lanai: This view of the back lanai proves that a picture is worth 1,000 words.

Aerial View: This aerial view of the property highlights the lush landscaping and uninterrupted views.

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wellington | table

Don Chepo’s Taco Shop Takes Mexican Food To A New Level Story and Photos by Jack Lowenstein

Fashion Cuisine Group co-founders Dustin Parfitt and Juan Gando have completed the creation of their new Wellington taco eatery. Don Chepo’s Taco Shop is a restaurant that they created to offer a laid-back, Florida-style Mexican restaurant for families and locals to enjoy.

Parfitt is the executive chef of the local restaurant group, while Gando is the restaurateur. They both pride themselves in what Don Chepo’s has to offer, from fresh ingredients to its family atmosphere.

“Everything in this restaurant has a history,” Gando said.

“We built it with our hands, like the tables, the frames, everything you see is with a little bit of love. Everything has a story.”

The choice to venture into a taco eatery was a chance to continue working with different styles of cuisine and break away from what the Fashion Cuisine Group already offers in the community.

“Something that I’ve always been good at is making deli-

Juan Gando pours the Mercadito, a signature margarita creation.

cious food, as I’ve been a chef for, gosh, 16 years. I’ve developed my own style,” Parfitt said. “I can kind of have different flavors at each place.”

So, when the two co-owners decided to create a new dining experience, they knew they wanted it to be based around tacos.

“We have so many fine dining restaurants in one town,” Parfitt said. “We’ve got Oli’s, the Grille, White Horse, and we wanted a more casual, laid-back, atmosphere, with games for the kids to play, and just a more reasonable price point.”

While the other Fashion Cuisine restaurants cater to a high-end diner, Parfitt and Gando want Don Chepo’s to be a place where families with children feel welcome to come by for a bite to eat.

The first thing to make note of are Don Chepo’s housemade corn tortillas.

“It’s something really special. They have to be made fresh every day,” Parfitt said. “Right now, we’re cooking them. It’s right before lunch, and we store them hot, and as soon as they’re gone, we make more.” wellington the magazine | january 2018

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(L-R) Taquitos topped and filled with oaxaca and cotija cheeses, salsa verde and pico; churros coated in sea salt with strawberries and Nutella sauce; grilled street corn topped with queso cotija, poblano crema and cilantro; and guacamole with tomato, cilantro, lime, jalapeño and onion.

Parfitt said the corn tortilla is something both he and Gando take tremendous pride in.

“There is no comparison to a corn tortilla that you can buy in the store,” Parfitt said. “Once you cook those tortillas down, the texture is just not the same. The texture of our corn is more of like a flour texture. It’s really soft, and it’s delicious.”

For $29, the Small Platter is a great way to have a first experience of what Don Chepo’s offers on the menu.

“It’s a chef’s choice of tacos, usually it’s pollo, al pastor and usually the asada, which is a steak,” Parfitt said.

“Smoked pork with a little bit of chorizo, pineapple and some pickled red onion. You get rice, beans, cucumber salad, a tamale, the grilled corn and

also our house-made hot sauce.”

While Parfitt serves as executive chef, Gando designed the drink menu at Don Chepo’s. A special cocktail on the menu is the Mercadito, a margarita with muddled berries and more. Mercadito isn’t just a name; it’s an action.

“When you go to the flea market, you take your basket, and you go and buy a lot of berries, or you buy a lot of fruit,”

“My place is to make sure people come happy and leave happy,” coowner Juan Gando said. “So, that is always our goal. Since the day we met, it’s the service. We provide service, and of course amazing food.”

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Chocolate Cake or Cannoli Soft Drink or Hot Coffee or Hot Tea NO SUBSTITUTIONS/NO SHARING

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WE NOW DELIVER LOCALLY!

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wellington | table Gando said. “This is pretty much a fresh berry margarita, which is blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, and you put two ounces of tequila, any preference that people have, and ice… We make our own sour mix and shake it really hard. It’s all about the shake.”

Parfitt said it pairs great with the tacos al pastor. “Smoky pork — cool it down with a little bit spicy margarita,” Parfitt said.

Meaning and history is a theme at Don Chepo’s, and it’s in the name.

“My dad used to call me that,” Gando said. “It’s a guy in Ecuador. I am from Ecuador. My name is Juan Gando, and since a baby, he used to call me, ‘You are the chepo.’ It’s like the cool guy in the United States.”

So, the moniker is a family name, and that is what makes Don Chepo’s come together in harmony, Gando said.

“The whole thing about me and Dustin, we are like a family,” Gando said. “We have a great team. The team

Executive Chef Leo Espin adds cucumber salad to the small taco platter. we have is amazing. It’s all pretty much family.”

Gando also takes responsibility to build rapport with all the people who dine at the restaurant.

“My place is to make sure people come happy and leave happy,” Gando said. “So, that is always our goal. Since the day we met, it’s the service. We pro-

vide service, and of course amazing food, decent prices, kids welcome. This is a family place. It’s not just a bar. It’s for a family. It’s Wellington.”

Don Chepo’s Taco Shop is located in Wellington Green Square at 10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 170, in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 660-7391 or visit www. donchepos.com.

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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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wellington the magazine | january 2018

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january 2018 | wellington the magazine

wellington | calendar Tuesday, Jan. 2 • Finding Neverland will be at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall from Tuesday, Jan. 2 through Sunday, Jan. 7. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

Thursday, Jan. 4 • The Wellington Amphitheater will host a concert with a 1980s tribute band, along with a food truck invasion on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writer’s Critique Workshop for adults on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Attendees will be able to share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve your fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.

• Horses Healing Hearts will hold its Season Kickoff Party at the Wellington National Golf Club on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 6:30 p.m. Come and enjoy a “Night in Tuscany” with authentic Neapolitan pizza, live music and drinks. For more information, visit www.hhhusa.org, contact Susan Shelly at (561) 3051432 or Lizabeth Olszewski at (561) 713-6133 or liz@ hhhusa.org.

Friday, Jan. 5 • The 30th annual Wellington Dinner Dance benefiting the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club will take place Friday, Jan. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. To reserve your tickets, table or other sponsorship opportunities, contact Christine Martin at (561) 683-3287, ext. 1103, or cmartin@bgcpbc.org.

Saturday, Jan. 6 • Audubon of the Everglades will car pool in Stormwater Treatment Area 1E in Wellington on Saturday, Jan 6 from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Visit www. auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• The Green Market at Wellington will be

open Saturday, Jan. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the Wellington Amphitheater. For more info., visit www. greenmarketatwellington.com.

Sunday, Jan. 7 • The 2018 high-goal polo season will continue Sunday, Jan. 7 with the Joe Barry Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating options. For more info., visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

Monday, Jan. 8 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host its Chess Club for Adults on Monday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. Practice strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host English Exchange for adults on Mondays, Jan. 8, 22 and 29 at 6:30 p.m. Practice speaking English in a fun and informal atmosphere. Intermediate knowledge of the language is recommended. Call (561) 894-7529 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Jan. 9 • One Night in Memphis: Presley, Perkins, Lewis and Cash will be at the Kravis Center’s Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Preserving Your Family Heritage: Scanning Images for adults Tuesday, Jan. 9 through Thursday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. Bring up to 100 photos in good condition and a flash drive to save the digital images using a high-speed scanner. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Vibrant Hands for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 3 p.m. Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a colorful and vibrant handprint mural. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

Wednesday, Jan. 10 • The 12-week-long 2018 Winter Equestrian Festival, the largest and longest-running horse show in the world, will open Wednesday, Jan. 10 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Featured during the first week will be the $75,000 Battle of the Sexes on Saturday, Jan. 13. For more info., call (561) 793-5867 or visit www.pbiec.com.

• Audubon of the Everglades will hold a family-friendly walk in Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge on Wednesday, Jan. 10 from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Book Discussion: Rabbit Cake by Annie Hartnett for adults on Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Pick up a copy at the research services desk.

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

Thursday, Jan. 11 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Tween Gaming for ages 8 to 12 on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 3 p.m. Bring a friend for Wii gaming and board game fun. Call (561) 790-6070 for info.

• The Wellington Amphitheater will host a concert with the Gypsy Lane Band, along with a food truck invasion, on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 5 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Friday, Jan. 12 • The opening ceremonies for the 2018 South Florida Fair will take place Friday, Jan. 12 at 11:30 a.m. at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The fair will continue until Sunday, Jan. 28. For the complete fair schedule, visit www.southfloridafair.com.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of Cars 3 on Friday, Jan. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/events for more info.

• JustWorld International will bring Hollywood to Wellington for the 15th annual JustWorld Gala on Friday, Jan. 12 at Belle Herbe Farm to raise funds to support children around the world. For more info., visit www.justworldinternational.org.

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wellington | calendar • Night of Stars: A Broadway Celebration will be at the Kravis Center’s Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall on Friday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

Saturday, Jan. 13 • The Green Market at Wellington will be open Saturday, Jan. 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the Wellington Amphitheater. For more info., visit www.greenmarketatwellington.com.

• Chris MacDonald’s Memories of Elvis Rockin’ Birthday Bash will be at the Kravis Center’s Marshall E. Rinker Sr. Playhouse on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

• The Wellington Amphitheater will host a free Bruce Springsteen tribute concert featuring Top of the World on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Sunday, Jan. 14 • The 2018 high-goal polo season will continue Sunday, Jan. 14 with the Joe Barry Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating options. For more info., visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

Monday, Jan. 15 • The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Polo for a Purpose event will take place Monday, Jan. 15 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington.

It will be a fun-filled experience for all ages with opportunities to join in at all price levels, day and night.

To purchase tickets, visit www.poloforapurpose.org or call (561) 616-8682.

Tuesday, Jan. 16 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Presidents and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking: John & Abigail Adams for adults on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 11 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. featuring William and Sue Wills. Pre-register at www. pbclibrary.org/presidents-2018.

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Wednesday, Jan. 17 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Anime Nation for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. View new anime titles.

Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for info.

• Dick Fox’s Golden Boys Starring Frankie Avalon, Fabian and Bobby Rydell will be at the Kravis Center’s Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

Thursday, Jan. 18 • The Wellington Amphitheater will host a concert with That ’70s Band, along with a food truck invasion, on Thursday, Jan. 18 at 5 p.m. Visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center will host its 2018 Buck Off Competition on Thursdays, Jan. 18 and Jan. 25 at 6 p.m. at the White Horse Fashion Cuisine, with the finals at the annual Vinceremos gala, set for Friday, Feb. 2 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 7929900.

Friday, Jan. 19 • Chicago The Musical will be at the Kravis Center’s Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall from Friday, Jan. 19 through Sunday, Jan. 21. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

• The United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation will host a benefit Friday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. “Triumph in Tryon” will help raise necessary funds for the foundation to further support the United States Equestrian Team riders as they prepare to compete at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon, N.C. For more info., visit www.uset.org/2017-gala-sign.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of the movie Despicable Me on Friday, Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/events for info.

Saturday, Jan. 20 • The Green Market at Wellington will be open Saturday, Jan. 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the Wellington Amphitheater. For more info., visit www.greenmarketatwellington.com.

• The Wellington Garden Club will hold a document shredding fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) in the east parking lot area. For a $5 donation, a letter-sized box/ container will be shredded. For a $10 donation, a legal-sized box/container will be shredded. Only cash or checks will be accepted. For more info., call Kathy Hernicz at (561) 791-4419.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Treasure Tales for ages 2 to 6 on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 11 a.m. Is the pirate life for you? If so, drop by for fun stories, songs and a craft featuring pirate pals. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington Amphitheater will host a free Pink Floyd tribute concert featuring Top of the World on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Sunday, Jan. 21 • The 2018 high-goal polo season will continue Sunday, Jan. 21 with the Joe Barry Cup Final at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating options. For more info., visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Bridging Culture Series: Musical Concert for adults on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. Vikash Sharma, celebrated local singer and musician of Guyanese descent, will perform Indian classical music.

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

Tuesday, Jan. 23 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Craftapalooza for ages 2 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. Create multiple crafts from fun selections. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

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24/7 SERVICE

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Wonders of the Night Sky: Telescope Viewing Session for adults on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. Encounter numerous celestial wonders with a presentation and telescope viewing. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Jan. 24 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Painting Pals for ages 5 to 12 on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 3 p.m. Unleash your imagination to create colorful artwork. Call (561) 790-6070 for info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Paper Roses for adults on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 6:30 p.m. Use recycled paper to create colorful paper roses. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Thursday, Jan. 25 • The Wellington Amphitheater will host a Tom Petty tribute band concert, along with a food truck invasion, on Thursday, Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “The Myth & Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe” for adults on Thursday, Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m.

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

• The Aquila Theatre will present Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility in the Kravis Center’s Marshall E. Rinker Sr. Playhouse on Thursday, Jan. 25 and Friday, Jan. 26. For info., visit www.kravis.org.

Friday, Jan. 26 • The Palm Beach Opera will present Tosca from Friday, Jan. 26 through Sunday, Jan. 28 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. For more information, visit www.pbopera.org.

Saturday, Jan. 27 • The Susan G. Komen South Florida Race for the Cure will take place Saturday, Jan. 27 at the Meyer Amphitheatre in downtown West Palm Beach.

Registration gets underway at 5:30 a.m. with the race kickoff at 7:30 a.m. For more info., call (561) 514-3020 or visit www.komensouthflorida.org/race.

• The Wellington Art Society will host its annual Artfest on the Green juried show on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www. wellingtonartsociety.org.

• The Wellington Amphitheater will host a free Pink Floyd tribute concert featuring Top of the World on Saturday, Jan. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host DIY Galaxy Jars for ages 5 to 10 on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. Create colorful and shiny art that looks just like the night sky. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Aquila Theatre will present William Shakespeare’s Hamlet at the Kravis Center’s Marshall E. Rinker Sr. Playhouse on Saturday, Jan. 27 and Sunday, Jan. 28. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

WELLINGTON Bringing You The Best Of Wellington

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Sunday, Jan. 28 • The 2018 high-goal polo season will continue Sunday, Jan. 28 with the Ylivasker Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating options. For more info., visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

Tuesday, Jan. 30 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host the Palm Beach County Bar Association in a presentation on Wills & Estate Planning on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 3 p.m. Discuss basic estate planning, from wills and trusts, to powers of attorney, to living wills and medical directives. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Winter Windows for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 3 p.m. Celebrate the winter season with beautiful stained-glass snowflake window decorations. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Paul Anka will be at Kravis Center’s the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 8 p.m. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

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