WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – August 2023

WHS DANCE TEAM

Youth Of The Year Award Winner Alonza Lloyd Buckeye Plumbing Celebrates 40th Anniversary Wellington Has A Deep Commitment To Education Enjoy Unique Beers At Royal Palm Brewing Company

Plus

Shines In Statewide Competition

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

Joetta Palumbo

bookkeeping

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Abner Pedraza contributors

Jim Barnes

Meredith Burow

Erin Davisson

Denise Fleischman

Frank Koester

Melanie Kopacz

Mike May

Callie Sharkey

Julie Unger

Deborah Welky

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB YOUTH OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER

Resilient, determined, passionate and a true leader. These adjectives accurately describe 18-year-old Wellington resident Alonza Lloyd, who was named Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County earlier this year. BY MIKE MAY

A TALENTED TEAM OF LOCAL DANCERS

One of the many Wellington High School teams that had an excellent season of competition this past year was the school’s dance squad, the Wellington Royals, led by head coach Alex Snyder. BY MIKE MAY

BROOKE USA DONATES $10,000 TO VINCEREMOS

The Brooke USA Foundation, an international equine welfare organization, recently presented a $10,000 donation to the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center in honor of hosting the first Divertimentos & Dressage event.

from the publisher

In our annual education issue this month, we salute the hard work and success of the Wellington High School dance team, known as the Wellington Royals, which is under the direction of head coach Alex Snyder. We also profile Alonza Lloyd, an amazing young Wellington resident, who was recently given the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s Youth of the Year Award.

Also in this issue, we salute Buckeye Plumbing, a local business now celebrating its 40th anniversary. Since 1983, this local success story has grown from two people and two trucks to a huge staff and a fleet of 70 trucks. Founders Kevin and Cindy Gillum are proud of their company’s reputation for superior service. We also learn more about the equestrian nonprofit Brooke USA, which recently made a $10,000 donation to the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center.

Barry

BUCKEYE PLUMBING: FOUR DECADES OF SUPERIOR SERVICE

This month’s Wellington Today feature by Village Manager Jim Barnes focuses on Wellington’s top-rated educational facilities, which the village works hard to support, both during the school year and during the summer months. Wellington Table visits the Royal Palm Brewing Company, which offers its array of unique, locally brewed beers at a tasting room off State Road 7.

It’s time to cut the cake and break out the champagne. Buckeye Plumbing is celebrating its 40th anniversary serving clients in the western communities and beyond. BY MIKE MAY

Departments

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

Wellington The Magazine will return in September with our annual Our Wellington edition, featuring the 2023 Our Wellington Awards. Contact us today to learn more about this unique, special edition.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

17 21 31 38

WELLINGTON TABLE

BY JIM BARNES

31 wellington the magazine | august 2023 7

Wellington High School dance team captains Kennedy Smith and Jade Barnett. The team is profiled in this issue.

Julie Thornburg, APRN | Vincent Apicella, DO, President & Founder | Sonya Jackson, APRN | Teresita Brunner, APRN

Premier Family Health is expanding our provider network and is excited to welcome Julie Thornburg, APRN; Sonya Jackson Simmons, APRN; and Teresita Brunner, APRN to the team.

CareYou Can Count On

When it comes to your family’s health, you can count on our dedication to deliver compassionate, quality care every time. Wellington Regional is here with award-winning services, including cardiovascular, maternity and Level III NICU, emergency medicine, an Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI and Resuscitation by the American College of Cardiology, an Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV, an Accredited Bariatric Center of Excellence by MBSAQIP and much more.

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER

THOUSANDS ENJOY FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT VILLAGE PARK

On Tuesday, July 4, the Village of Wellington held its annual holiday celebration at Village Park. The day was filled with activities for both adults and children, such as a petting zoo, an obstacle course, face painting, bingo, bounce houses, crafts, and ax throwing, hosted by Seven Axes. Many vendors gave out prizes, and 20 food trucks provided an array of treats. Whisky Six and the Justified Loxahatchee Band filled the park with music before a fireworks display

evening.

presented by Zambelli Fireworks International capped the

(Left to right) The Whisky Six Band kicks off the day’s music on stage; David Stefano gets his face painting by artist Stella Bona; face painting artist Tiffany Tibbetts finishes up her work on Hyun Lee as his siblings, Sol and Luna Lee, look on; and the watermelon-eating contest drew in many young competitors.

(Left to right) Sophia Reneau, shown with dad Dmitri, placed first in the watermelon-eating contest; Sara Silverstein enjoys a fun day; the Justified Loxahatchee Band on stage; Giuliana Gehring and Angie Pierce; and a colorful Zambelli fireworks show capped the evening.

CLASSICALLY MODERN LIVING. There’s a place in the heart of Palm Beach County where new Minto homes open the door to friendly neighborhood traditions. It’s a place where the conveniences of tomorrow meet life’s timeless simple pleasures. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, looking to move up, or downsizing, it’s a place where you can enjoy life at your own pace. From the bustling Westlake Adventure Park to the quiet of your own backyard, experience the best of both worlds in Westlake. Now reintroducing two new single-family floorplans from the Cypress Collection, Cassia and Aster!

CLASSICALLY MODERN LIVING. There’s a place in the heart of Palm Beach County where new Minto homes open the door to friendly neighborhood traditions. It’s a place where the conveniences of tomorrow meet life’s timeless simple pleasures. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, looking to move up, or downsizing, it’s a place where you can enjoy life at your own pace. From the bustling Westlake Adventure Park to the quiet of your own backyard, experience the best of both worlds in Westlake. Now reintroducing two new single-family floorplans from the Cypress Collection, Cassia and Aster!

NEW TOWNHOMES, SINGLE-FAMILY AND ESTATE HOMES FROM THE $400 s

NEW TOWNHOMES, SINGLE-FAMILY AND ESTATE HOMES FROM THE $400 s

Ask about our Welcome Heroes Program – a special discount on Minto homes for civil servants such as healthcare workers, first responders, teachers and more!*

Ask about our Welcome Heroes Program – a special discount on Minto homes for civil servants such as healthcare workers, first responders, teachers and more!*

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

WELLINGTON ART SOCIETY HOLDS ANNUAL OFFICER INSTALLATION

The Wellington Art Society held its annual installation of officers on Sunday, June 25 at the Wellington National Golf Club. Members heard about the highlights of the past year over a buffet lunch. Outgoing President Laura Jaffe stepped down after three years, and Heather Bergstrom was installed as the new president. Learn more about the Wellington Art Society at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Our goal at Shults Orthodontics is to help our patients achieve more attractive and healthier smiles with minimal discomfort and inconvenience. We are committed to serving you and your children efficiently in our comfortable family-centered practice in Wellington, Florida.

(Left to right) Heather Bergstrom, Leslie Pfeiffer, Faye Ford, Jan Gmitter, Sue Oakes, Ayesha DeLorenzo, Laura Jaffe, Marcia Greene and Elaine Weber; incoming President Heather Bergstrom accepts the gavel from outgoing President Laura Jaffe; Maria Cruz and Lois Spatz; and incoming President Heather Bergstrom with Emily, Michael and Michael Bergstrom.

(Left to right) Carol Krenkel, Heather Bergstrom, Ava Rhodes and Nancy Fried; Jan Gmitter, Lou Ann LaBohn, Tracy Scheihing, Victoria Albrecht, Leslie Pfeiffer, G.G. Gonzalez, Melenie Ramos and Randy Pfeiffer; Leslie Pfeiffer with outstanding volunteer Cindi Taylor; Leslie Pfeiffer with raffle winners Lou Ann LaBohn and Tracy Scheihing; and Marcia Greene presents Yusuf DeLorenzo with the 50/50 raffle winnings, which he donated back.

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

WELLINGTON SENIORS ENJOY AN OLD-FASHIONED SOCK HOP PARTY

Wellington seniors headed back to the 1950s for an old-fashioned Sock Hop on Tuesday, June 13 at the Wellington Community Center. The Whitestone Band entertained while the seniors showed off their best 1950s attire.

(Left to right) Liz and Amy Bates; Jack and Paula Brownson with Lorraine and Steve Brunner; Kim, Kyle and Rick Ostroff; and raffle winners Betty Murray, Jacquie Goldman and Denise Julien.

(Left to right) Maryann Murray, Norma Heeland and Betty Murray; Ingrid Biegler, Elfriede Beyer and Joan Walter; Bob Nappi and Sherie Scalzitti; and Ramon and Alina Silvacol.

Paloma Reiter DO,

L. Zaulyanov Scanlan MD, FAAD

Irina Milman DO, FAAD

Florida Eye Welcomes

Jonathan Lam, M.D.

Laser Cataract Surgery & Comprehensive Ophthalmology

Florida Eye is excited to announce Dr. Lam is now seeing patients at our newest office, located on the campus of Bethesda West Hospital in West Boynton Beach.*

Please call our office for more information and to book appointments. 561.737.5500 *Our new location is at the corner of State Road 7 & Boynton Beach Blvd, Suite 240.

EYE CARE for the Entire Family

• Laser Cataract Surgery

• Refractive Laser Surgery

• Medical & Surgical Retina

(Macular Degeneration/Diabetic Retinopathy)

• Medical & Surgical Cornea & Glaucoma

• Advanced Dry Eye Care and Treatment

• Pediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus

• Eye Allergy Treatments

• Clinical Trials

Lee Friedman, M.D.

Randy Katz, M.D.

Barry Schechter, M.D., F.A.A.O.

Jonathan Criss, M.D.

Megan Rowlands, M.D., M.P.H.

Steven Naids, M.D.

Jonathan Lam, M.D, M.B.A.

James Walsh, O.D.

YOUTH OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER

Wellington’s Alonza Lloyd

Honored By The Boys & Girls Clubs Of Palm Beach County

BY MIKE MAY

Resilient, determined, passionate and a true leader. These adjectives accurately describe 18-year-old Wellington resident Alonza Lloyd, who was named Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County earlier this year.

During a banquet dinner at the Hilton West Palm Beach, Lloyd was honored with the organization’s highest award for club members. It was an evening that he will remember as one of the most pivotal and impactful moments of his young life.

Lloyd, 18, a member of Wellington’s Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club, is a great example of how the Boys & Girls Club experience can help young people learn valuable life lessons and reach their full potential.

Lloyd, a 2023 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School, was named the Palm Beach County winner after several rounds of essays, interviews and speeches. All seven Palm Beach County

finalists received a four-year Florida Prepaid College Scholarship, while Lloyd also received a four-year university scholarship with room and board from the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation.

In addition to honoring Lloyd as the overall winner of the 2023 Youth of the Year Award, Coke Florida presented all the finalists with new Chromebook laptops. The finalists were also given brandnew tablets, courtesy of the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation and K12 Print.

In addition to Lloyd, the 2023 fi-

nalists also included Kelvin Rolle from the Florence De George Boys & Girls Club of West Palm Beach, Kimberly Pierre from the Marjorie S. Fisher Boys & Girls Club of West Palm Beach, Eric Wilson from the Max M. Fisher Boys & Girls Club of Rivera Beach, Frank Zamor from the Boys & Girls Club of Delray Beach, Lynnshelsie Antoine from the Boys & Girls Club of Boca Raton and Jada Lovely from Smith & Moore Family Teen Center of Belle Glade.

(Above) Youth of the Year Award winner Alonza Lloyd of Wellington addresses gala attendees. (Inset) Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Jaene Miranda with Alonza Lloyd.

The seven finalists were selected to represent their Boys & Girls Club location after a preliminary competition that included a comprehensive application, three essays, three letters of recommendation and an interview in front of a panel of judges. The threeminute speeches were presented live at the awards dinner at the Hilton. The speeches were the final scoring factor used to determine the overall winner of the ninth annual Palm Beach County Youth of the Year Award.

By winning the award, Lloyd earned the right to compete for the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year Award.

“The Youth of the Year Award dinner is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s mission-defining moment, and it is our most cherished occasion,” said Jaene Miranda, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. “Were it not for the devoted staff and premier programs, many of our teenage members would never have the encouragement to grad-

uate from high school on time with a plan for the future.”

Miranda said that Lloyd is a very deserving recipient of this recent honor.

“From the first moment I met him, I could tell that he’s a very special person,” Miranda said. “He has been very involved in his local club in Wellington. He spoke about his ability to connect with an audience. Clearly, he speaks from the heart, and he has a very positive outlook on life. He’s determined to fulfill his dreams.”

As the Palm Beach County representative, Lloyd advanced to the Florida statewide competition held in Port St. Lucie. In that statewide competition, which featured more than 30 other finalists, Lloyd finished second.

The key part of that program was Lloyd’s speech, where he began by stating that “the most beautiful things in this world cannot be heard or seen or even touched, for they must be felt through the heart.”

Lloyd knows a little bit about the value of “heart,” since he was born with

a congenital heart condition known as Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). He required two heart operations, although he is now in good health.

“I had one operation at six months and another one when I was 10, but I have been cleared to play sports and work out at the gym since I have been 13,” Lloyd said. “I feel great now, with lots of energy.”

Lloyd’s presence at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club has impacted both the staff and the other club members.

According to Anthony Davis Sr., the director of operations at the Wellington facility, Lloyd is an example of how the Boys & Girls Club can influence academic success, character, leadership and healthy lifestyles.

“Alonza has made an amazing transition from his sophomore year to his senior year of high school,” Davis said. “He is now a paid part of our staff, and he’s mentoring, counseling and providing guidance to 5- to 12-year-olds.”

As a result of being named one of the top Florida winners, Lloyd was one of nearly 50 students from Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the United States who were given an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy from July 9 through July 17. There, they participated in group discussions geared at building better relationships, being a better person and learning how to respect others.

Lloyd is now focused on college. He is currently enrolled at Florida International University in Miami, where he plans to major in biological sciences. If he continues being a true leader who is resilient, determined and passionate, his life will continue to be positively influenced by many more pivotal and impactful moments.

Learn more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County at www. bgcpbc.org.

(Front) Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Jaene Miranda with Youth of the Year Award winner Alonza Lloyd of Wellington, along with (back) the other six finalists in the annual competition.

Harvey Montijo, MD Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery;

Robert Lins, MD Orthopedic Spine Surgery; Hand Surgery

Gavin P. Hart, MD

Lima,

Garvin K. Yee, MD

Robert Rochman,

Mark A. Waeltz, MD Orthopedic Spine Surgery

David R. Simpson, MD Orthopedic Sports Medicine; General Orthopedics

Veronica Pedro, MD Hand Surgery

Anand P. Panchal, DO Orthopedic Sports Medicine; Shoulder & Elbow Surgery

José R. Ortega, MD

Sports Medicine

Harvey E. Montijo, MD Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery; Foot & Ankle Surgery

Dana Desser,

A TALENTED TEAM OF LOCAL DANCERS

The Wellington Royals Dance Team Looks To Continue The Magic After A Successful Season

BY MIKE MAY

One of the many Wellington High School teams that had an excellent season of competition this past year was the school’s dance squad, the Wellington Royals.

Led by head coach Alex Snyder, the squad produced great results when it finished first in the pom division and second in the hip-hop division in the regional competition at Jupiter High School in January. That propelled them to the Universal Dance Association (UDA) Florida State Championship held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. There, against statewide competition, the Royals finished fourth in the hip-hop divi-

sion and sixth in the pom division.

The success of last year’s team laid the foundation for what is expected to be another great season for the Royals.

“There are 22 amazing young ladies on the Wellington Royals Dance Team,” Snyder said. “They are supertalented, but more importantly, they are sweet, respectful, loving, kind, encouraging to one another, great friends, hard workers, passionate about dance, focused to improve, and extremely crazy, wacky and goofy!”

The 22 members of the Wellington Royals for the 2023-24 school year are: Abby Kitlas, Adriana Maranto, Alexa Iannone, Ava Alessi, Bri Maida, Daniella

Iglesias, Erika Braswell, Gabrielle Torre, Helen Mossberg, Jade Barnett, Jayden Smith, Kennedy Smith, Lilly SimpsonGay, Lola Simpson-Gay, Mackenzie Sauers, Mariana Villafane, McKelle Rhodes, Morgan Myers, Nailah Grullon, Sabrina Lucca, Sasha Campbell and Sofia Alessi.

For the upcoming Royals squad to be successful, Snyder needs leadership from within the team. To that end, she has named Kennedy Smith and Jade Barnett as the team’s captains.

“I need my captains to encourage everyone on the team, keep spirits high, be responsible for helping make team decisions and lead the warm-ups,” Snyder said.

Smith is delighted to be on the team, and she wants the upcoming season to be memorable.

“To me, being a Wellington Royal is an incredible honor,” Smith said. “Last year, my main focus was really pushing myself to improve. My inspiration is my teammates, and I want to do the best I can for them. My main goal for this year is to bond with the new team and have the most amazing season.”

Barnett takes her role as a captain seriously.

“It’s an honor and a huge privilege to get to be a part of this team and help lead our girls this year,” Barnett said. “I am pumped for this season and can’t wait to see what we accomplish.”

They agreed that the team’s camaraderie is one of its strengths.

“I love hanging out with girls from the team outside of school. It helps us connect better in things other than dance,” Smith said. “The best part of being on a team is the support system. One of our main goals is to really uplift each other. This helps during competitions because I know that we’re in this together.”

“The connection between all the girls is extremely close,” Barnett added. “We don’t just dance for the betterment of ourselves, but truly for each other.”

The Royals are a closely knit unit.

“One of my favorite parts of the dance team is the family aspect,” Smith explained. “I never feel alone, and I know that no matter what, I have 21 best friends by my side. The best part about being on a team is that you do

everything together. You practice hard together, you cry, laugh and bond as one.”

“This team is a family,” Barnett agreed. “We are honest with one another, and we also are each other’s hype sisters. To be on the Wellington Royals team is a blessing for which I am truly grateful.”

Smith feels blessed to be on the team and to follow in her mom’s footsteps.

“My mother was on the Wellington High School dance team, so I love that I get to dance for this team,” she said.

The Wellington Royals will practice twice a week during the school year as they prepare for regional and state competitions. They also have other performances that allow them to hone their dance routines.

“We perform at every Wellington High School home football game and at any away football game where the band also travels to play,” Snyder said. “We also perform at a few boys and girls home basketball games, plus all the student pep rallies.”

When the squad practices, the team works on synchronization, which is a key component of their two-minute routines, which involve leaping, jumping, lifting and turning.

The Wellington Royals’ first dance competition of the new season will be in early December.

“We hope to host a dance competition on Dec. 2 for local high school dance teams,” Snyder said.

The regional competition will be on Jan. 6, 2024, and the UDA Florida

State Championships are scheduled for Jan. 16, 2024, in Orlando.

If the squad is going to repeat the success that last year’s team had, it will all come down to preparation.

“As a team, if we all continue to give 110 percent at practice, I have no doubt how far we can go and what we can achieve,” Barnett said.

According to Barnett, the experience of competing at the UDA Florida State Championship this past January made a big impression on the entire team.

“Exposing ourselves to higher-level competition really allowed us to see how we could push ourselves to be better,” she said. “Other dance teams who compete every year were a huge inspiration to us. We have grown tremendously by challenging ourselves with more intricate choreography.”

In addition to focusing on the team’s immediate goals, the group also sets aside time to focus on the program’s future.

“We do two clinics for kids — kindergarten through eighth grade — in our community,” Snyder added. “Our dancers love investing in the kids, and it’s a great opportunity for younger kids to see if it’s something they may be interested in pursuing. The first clinic will be Aug. 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The junior dancers will get to perform at a Wellington High School football game.”

For more information about the Wellington Royals and the junior clinics, contact Snyder at wellingtondanceteam@ gmail.com.

Last year’s Wellington Royals team first in the pom division and second in the hip-hop division in the regional competition, which qualified them for the Universal Dance Association Florida State Championship in Orlando.

Here, Children Matter Most

Hope and compassionate care fill every room and hallway at Nicklaus Children’s. With the brightest medical minds dedicated to children’s wellbeing, we proudly maintain our position as the top-ranked children’s hospital in South Florida according to U.S.News & World Report’s 2023-24 Pediatric Rankings. Leading with compassion and extraordinary care, we demonstrate every day why this is where your child matters most. nicklauschildrens.org

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is the top-ranked children’s hospital in South Florida.

Massage Facials

Stretch & More

Anita Kane High School Director Judy Blake Lower School Director

Anita Kane and Judy Blake, both life long educators bring over 60 years of Montessori teaching and administrative experience to #1 Education Place.

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

Brooke USA Donates $10,000 To The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center

The Brooke USA Foundation, an international equine welfare organization headquartered in the United States, recently presented a $10,000 donation to the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center in honor of hosting the Wellington area’s first Divertimentos & Dressage, a part of Brooke USA’s annual Paint Wellington Orange campaign. The event, which took place in March, featured a one-of-a-kind evening of live symphony music and freestyle dressage. Held at Vinceremos, Divertimen-

tos & Dressage attracted the participation of leading riders and their Grand Prix horses, including Todd Flettrich, Rebecca Hart, Sahar Daniel Hirosh, Allison Kavey, Jim Koford and JJ Tate. Throughout the program, the audience was captivated by the classical repertoire performed by the Palm Beach Symphony with works by Beethoven, Brahms, Holst, Mozart, Sousa and Strauss II. Brooke USA ambassador and Paralympian Hart closed the evening with a standing ovation as she performed to

the music of John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes.”

Thanks to those in attendance, and a matching gift from event chair and Brooke USA founding ambassador Margaret H. Duprey, the board of directors of Brooke USA designated $10,000 in support of Vinceremos’ mission and work.

“We are thrilled to support Vinceremos and their important work,” Duprey said. “Vinceremos provides equineassisted activities to children and adults

(Above) Vinceremos Therapeutic Executive Director Susan Guinan, pictured alongside Divertimentos & Dressage Co-Chair Margaret H. Duprey and Brooke USA CEO Emily Dulin, with a check for $10,000 to support the expansive community programs at Vinceremos.

with disabilities, and their programs have a profound impact on the lives of those they serve. We are proud to be a part of their mission and to make an impact in the western communities of Palm Beach County.”

Ruth Menor founded Vinceremos in 1982. The center’s programs use horseback riding to help people with disabilities improve their physical, emotional and social well-being. Vinceremos serves more than 500 people each year, and its programs are offered at no cost to participants.

“We are so grateful to Brooke USA for this generous donation,” said Susan Guinan, executive director of the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center. “This donation will help us continue to provide our life-changing programs to people with disabilities. We are truly honored to be a part of Brooke USA’s mission to improve the lives of horses and people around the world.”

Vinceremos is located at 13300 6th Court North in Loxahatchee Groves. Learn more about its programs at www. vinceremos.org.

Divertimentos & Dressage raised more than $80,000 toward programs across the developing world and here in the United States. The Brooke USA

volunteer-created event aligns the nonprofit with the equestrian community by entertaining and engaging supporters, while raising funds to alleviate the suffering of working horses, donkeys and mules, and the people they serve in vulnerable communities worldwide.

The mission of Brooke USA is to significantly improve the health, welfare and productivity of working horses, donkeys and mules and the people who depend on them for survival. Brooke USA is committed to sustainable economic development by reducing poverty, increasing food security, ensuring access to water, providing a means to education and raising basic standards of living through improved equine health and welfare.

Brooke USA strives to alleviate the suffering and vulnerability of developing communities by funding and implementing programs that improve the quality of life and health of working equines and thereby positively impacting their economic sustainability, protecting the planet, ensuring gender equality and guaranteeing life on land resilience.

To learn more about Brooke USA’s mission, or to attend future events, visit www. brookeusa.org.

Charming 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage, first floor condo in gated waterfront Bay Reach community with amazing waterfront pool, beach style lounging area, community grilling area, clubhouse, & fitness room located directly on intracoastal waterway with stunning views and close to ocean access. Open floor plan with passthrough from kitchen to dining area, covered porch, washer & dryer in unit, and neutral tile throughout. Master and guest room have walk in closets. Property is deeded 1 car parking in addition to garage. Offered at $285,000

ANDALUCIA:

Welcome to Your Lakefront Oasis! Spacious 3 bed, 2.5 bath, + loft, townhome with 2-car garage and a tranquil long lake view. This premium lot features a covered paver patio, fenced-in back and side yard, plus an added bonus greenspace/easement on the side of the property. Perfect for a seasonal home, can lease twice a year. Pet friendly community has gated entry, gym, pool, tot lot, & open green spaces. Offered at $590,000

3/3.5/2 Car Garage - Only ½ mile to Roger Dean Stadium! All 3 bedrooms have private full bathrooms, plus there’s a powder room on the 2nd floor. Plenty of parking with a 2-car garage, plus street & driveway parking. Features include; a covered balcony, primary bedroom includes a sitting area & an adjacent office/loft space, hardwood floors in living and dining areas. Formal dining room can be used as an office space or den/4th bedroom. Pet friendly. 1 block from Independence Middle School which is a hurricane shelter. Offered at $3,300.00/Month

ABACOA ANTIGUA:

BAY REACH CONDO:

Brooke USA celebrated a milestone this past winter season with the successful debut of its new signature event, Divertimentos & Dressage, presented by Lugano Diamonds. It featured a freestyle dressage performance by Grand Prix riders to the live music of the Palm Beach Symphony and was well-received by passionate equestrians and classical music aficionados.

PHOTO BY JOANNA JODKO

40 YEARS OF SUPERIOR SERVICE

Buckeye Plumbing Marks Four Decades Serving The Western Communities And Beyond

It’s time to cut the cake and break out the champagne. Buckeye Plumbing is celebrating its 40th anniversary serving clients in the western communities and beyond.

If you look at how this longtime Royal Palm Beach-based business has grown in the last 40 years, the changes have been meteoric.

“In 1983, we started with two people and two trucks,” recalled Cindy Gillum, lead administrator at Buckeye Plumbing and wife of the founder and president,

Kevin Gillum. “At first, we just worked on plumbing jobs associated with new construction. Now, we have a fleet of 70 trucks.”

While Buckeye Plumbing now has many plumbers on staff, the expansion has been pragmatic and calculated.

“We won’t hire a plumber to visit a customer’s home who we would not be comfortable making a repair in our own home,” Cindy said.

On a day-to-day basis, Kevin operates the business side of the operation,

STORY BY MIKE MAY | PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

Kevin Gillum and Cindy Gillum, founders of Buckeye Plumbing.

Buckeye Plumbing staff members.

while Cindy oversees human resources, insurances, marketing, social media and the computer systems.

While Kevin and Cindy remain involved in running the company’s daily affairs, they have help from their nowexpanded family. Daughters Jennifer and Sara are on the payroll.

“Jennifer manages water services, and Sara works in human resources,” Cindy said. “Sara’s husband Casey is a manager who has worked here for 23 years.”

A third daughter, Kimberly, used to work for Buckeye Plumbing, but she’s now a teacher. A fourth daughter, Melanie, is married and lives in Orlando. She also started her career at Buckeye Plumbing.

Not surprisingly, there have been a few employees who have worked for Buckeye Plumbing for 30-plus years. Two of the longest-serving employees are Ron Quintal, who has worked at the firm for more than 35 years, and Calvin Haylas, who has been at Buckeye Plumbing for more than 30 years.

Over the past four decades, the folks at Buckeye Plumbing have worked hard to become known across the region as experienced plumbing experts committed to maintaining a rock-solid reputation. More than 80 percent of its business is returning customers and referrals.

“We really do care about each client,”

Cindy said. “We are committed to taking care of people. We want our customers to call us the next time.”

As for the company’s name, it’s connected with Kevin and Cindy Gillum’s roots in the Buckeye State. “We are both from Ohio, specifically Brunswick,

If you need a plumbing specialist for general plumbing issues, water filtration issues or backflow issues, Buckeye Plumbing is ready to respond, repair or replace. Its team of plumbers is available 24/7/365.

“We will respond at any time if there is a true emergency, such as no water in the home or a home without a working toilet,” Cindy said.

If your home has no water on Christmas morning, Buckeye Plumbing is ready. If there’s a plumbing emergency on New Year’s Eve, Buckeye Plumbing can get the problem solved before the ball drops. “We have had to respond to those kinds of emergencies in the past,” Cindy said.

Top-notch service is all part of the Buckeye Plumbing experience.

which is just south of Cleveland,” Cindy said.

The both graduated from high school in 1978, got married in 1980 and moved to South Florida in 1981, where Kevin started working for Seppala & Aho, a Canadian-owned construction company operating out of Lantana. Before too long, Kevin decided to go out on his own and formed his plumbing company.

“Our technicians are fully prepared and trained, our trucks are fully stocked with all the necessary parts and supplies, and our office staff is experienced to handle any client’s plumbing emergency,” Cindy said. “Although times, technology and the trade have changed, Buckeye Plumbing has continued to evolve through the years. We provide up-to-date services and techniques that assist our customers with today’s demands and challenges.”

While Buckeye Plumbing is based just off State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach,

“We are committed to taking care of people. We want our customers to call us the next time.”

— Cindy Gillum

(Left) Buckeye’s commercial trucks can be seen all over the western communities. (Right) Warehouse Manager Luis Trujillo moves merchandise with a forklift.

the company has clients throughout the region — across Palm Beach County and into northern Broward, and north into Martin and St. Lucies counties. A quick analysis of Google reviews contains a series of testimonials from clients that are indebted to Buckeye Plumbing’s highly rated professional services.

While Buckeye Plumbing is a forprofit entity, the company is well aware of the costs of its services. In order to provide some cost savings to customers, there is a section on its web site that provides a discount coupon for the next time you call for plumbing help.

Buckeye Plumbing is also a big supporter of local charities and nonprofit causes in Palm Beach County.

“We support local food banks, homeless programs, Habitat for Humanity, Urban Youth and local high school graduation programs,” Cindy said. “We sup-

Purchaser Jan Neeley and Warehouse Manager Luis Trujillo move a water heater.

port community programs because we are part of the community.”

As for the company’s 40th anniversary celebrations, Buckeye Plumbing hosted a company picnic at the Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach in mid-June for its employees and their families. And a fourhour cruise is planned for December, which will travel up and down the Intracoastal Waterway near Delray Beach. But don’t worry. Even if you call during

the cruise, Buckeye Plumbing will still be ready to help a customer in need.

“There are always people who won’t be on the cruise, so they volunteer to be available to respond to a plumbing emergency,” Cindy said.

Buckeye Plumbing is located at 310 Business Park Way in Royal Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 2825393, e-mail service@callbuckeye.com or visit www.buckeyeplmg.com.

ARDING PASS WELCOME HOME.

BWe believe the broker selling YOUR home is equally as important as the pilot flying the plane you’re traveling on. It takes a very skilled pilot to handle turbulent situations.

Se Habla Español

John F. Froehlich

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS

The Village Of Wellington Has A Deep Commitment To Education And Community

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

As summer fades away, it’s time to gear up for an exciting new academic year in our great hometown. Wellington takes pride in its top-notch schools, known for educational excellence, offering a welcoming environment for students of all ages. With an array of recreational opportunities, programs and community support, Wellington continues to be an ideal place for families with school-age children.

High-Quality Education

Wellington’s public schools consistently rank among the best in the county and state, providing exceptional learning environments and dedicated educators who are committed to their students’ success. The Palm Beach County School District serves the community, ensuring a high-quality education for students. Additionally, private and charter schools in the area cater to diverse educational needs.

Our schools and village facilities are modern spaces that encourage interactive learning and innovation, providing students with resources that foster their creativity and intellectual growth. But education extends beyond the classroom. Wellington offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, music and arts programs, and

community service projects. These options promote holistic development and enrich students’ educational experiences.

A strong sense of community is another key aspect of Wellington’s educational landscape. Parents, teachers and local community partners collaborate to create a supportive environment that nurtures student success. The community actively participates in school events and volunteer programs, reinforcing the notion that education is a collective effort. Wellington’s residents understand the importance of investing in their youth and working together to provide opportunities that shape the next generation.

Summer Programs

Over the summer, Wellington has been bustling with programs and activities to support our students’ academic

and personal growth. One notable program was the New Horizons academic summer camp. Certified teachers educated small groups, helping students stay academically sharp and prepare for the upcoming school year, while our community services staff engaged them with various activities and organized field trips. From swimming at the Wellington Aquatics Complex to showcasing their artistic skills and enjoying Adrenaline Entertainment, the camp offered a wellrounded experience.

The Students Working to Achieve Greatness (SWAG) internship program provided students with the opportunity to develop their professional identity and experience new career opportunities. They interned at local organizations such as the State Attorney’s Office, Art Cellar, Wellington All Stars, Premier Family Health, the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center and Health Insurance Solutions. These internships al-

Subscribe To ONLY $24/year

(Please Print Neatly) Name:

lowed students to grow as young adults and gain valuable insights into various fields.

Fostering Partnerships

Wellington’s Community Services Department works closely with community groups and organizations to provide ongoing opportunities for our youth to stay active and academically engaged throughout the school year. By fostering partnerships, we ensure that our students have access to a wide range of resources and support, both during the summer months and beyond.

As students prepare to head back to school, they can look forward to an en-

riching and supportive educational experience in Wellington. With excellent schools, engaging extracurricular activities, and a strong community spirit, our village provides a nurturing environment that fosters academic and personal growth. From dedicated educators to passionate community members, Wellington stands united in its commitment to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.

The new school year holds great promise for our students, and Wellington is proud to be at the forefront of educational excellence. Together, let’s celebrate the achievements of our students and continue to support their journey toward a bright future.

Over the summer, Wellington has been bustling with programs and activities to support the academic and personal growth of students.

Celebrate Summer!

LOCALLY BREWED BEERS ON TAP

Royal Palm Brewing Company Serves Up Unique Brews And More At RPB Tasting Room

BY FRANK KOESTER

What started as a home brewing hobby 14 years ago has grown into the Royal Palm Brewing Company, a beer-brewing enterprise with a local tasting room featuring more than a dozen unique beers at any given time, as well as a distribution system that supplies the beers to restaurants and retailers across Florida.

Royal Palm Brewing is the brainchild of the husband-and-wife team of George and Pam Shetka, along with George’s brother Geof Shetka.

“People laugh when we tell them, but the first beer we ever brewed was what we call Psycho Sisters today,” George said, referring to the company’s awardwinning Russian imperial stout. “It turned out really good, and we still have a bottle of it.”

That very first brew was a life-changing experience for Geof. “The very first day that we brewed that first homebrew, I knew I wanted to do that,” he recalled. “I wasn’t sure if it was going to be working for another brewery or starting our

own, but it was just one of those things always in the back of my head.”

After years of home brewing, the Shetkas began putting together their business plan in 2016, but it took two years before the tasting room off State Road 7 opened in 2018. Much of that time was taken up in finding an appropriate site, and then getting the necessary approvals. The Village of Royal Palm Beach had to change its rules to allow microbreweries.

“One of the councilmen, Jeff Hmara, took us under his wing and said, ‘That’s cool. I think that’s something that would be good for the community,’” George said.

Pam noted that their goal was not to create a bar, serving beer and other alcohol into the early morning hours.

“We want it to be a place where people in this community can go,” she said. “They can feel safe, they can bring their children, they can eat, they can have our craft beer and appreciate what we do.”

At any given time, Royal Palm Brewing serves up more than a dozen craftbrewed beers to fit every taste. Aside from the popular Psycho Sisters stout, you’ll find several other award-winning beers, such as the 63 Axe Handles American lager, the Half Moon Island American wheat ale and the Sour Yeti sour ale made with raspberry, hibiscus and Persian lime puree. There’s also a Mexican-style lager (Cerveza de Jorge), an American pale ale (the Mountains Are Calling), an amber ale (SR 7) and much more.

The beers are of their own creation through the years, some based on suggestions from patrons. George compared brewing beer to baking chocolate chip cookies.

“There’s a basic foundation to a chocolate chip cookie. It’s what you do with that cookie that makes it your own,” he said. “A beer is grain, water, hops and yeast. There’s pretty much a standard of what you can do in each category…

(Left) Co-owner Geof Shetka with his brother George Shetka and Pam Shetka of Royal Palm Brewing Company. (Top, left to right) The pepperoni flatbread pizza with large-sliced pepperoni, mozzarella and marinara sauce; Breanna Smith and Brodi Knodell share a Bavarian-style pretzel; bingo is free on Bingo Night, and the round winner receives a prize featured on the wheel; cooks Donnie DeMarr and Robert Diaz with a charcuterie board and a pepperoni flatbread pizza; the charcuterie board includes a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, fruits and nuts; and patrons Rick Schanzle, Brian Piccolo, Jennifer Schanzle and Barb Yevchak enjoy some brews.

You have to have that foundation, but you can take that and make it your own. You’re not really reinventing the wheel, you’re just kind of unique at the wheel.”

Right now, Royal Palm Brewing has a maximum capacity of about 1,100 to 1,200 barrels a year, although they are not producing that much. They plan to grow as needed, but they don’t want to over-expand, nor bring in outside investors.

“We brew everything ourselves. We’re also very proud that we own this,” George said. “It is ours, and we want to be able to make that final decision on what we’re going to do.”

Working with partner Progressive Distribution, the company’s beers can now be found in dozens of local restaurants and retail shops across the state. Locally, that includes PapiChulo Tacos, JoJo’s Raw Bar, Tree’s Wings, Bonefish Mac’s, Big Rocco’s Pizza, World of Beer and on

the shelves at Total Wine & More.

Royal Palm Brewing is one of the few beer-tasting rooms to offer a full menu of food and appetizers. Popular items include a charcuterie board featuring a taste-tempting selection of sliced meats, cheeses, fruit and nuts; a variety of flatbread pizzas, such as the pepperoni with large-sliced pepperoni, mozzarella and marinara sauce; and a jumbo Bavarianstyle pretzel, perfect for sharing.

Other options include a variety of waffle snackers, all-beef hotdogs and Polish sausages, hot sandwiches, grilled wraps and fresh-made salads. Initially, they weren’t going to have an extensive menu, but it grew due to requests from patrons.

“We started these little pita pizzas for the kids, and then we found that adults were eating them. So, now we have our wood-fired flatbreads,” George explained. “We used to do hotdogs and

Royal Palm Brewing makes its unique beer blends in house. Shown here, hot wort is transferred via pump from the mash tun to the boil kettle.

Claudia Diesti Monica Diesti World Educated Stylists Board Certified Hair Colorist

Polish sausages for our October festival. It’s popular, so let’s add that to the menu.”

The tasting room is set to expand over the next year with the planned addition of outdoor seating and more space by taking over a bay next door. The space will be used to increase the capacity of the brewing business. “Now we’ll be able to increase our productivity to distribute more beer,” George said.

The tasting room is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, with happy hour specials all day Tuesday and from open until 6 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday. The tasting room is closed on Monday. Check the online calendar for an array of fun weekly and special events.

Royal Palm Brewing Company is located in the Commons at Royal Palm shopping plaza at 543 N. State Road 7, Suite

103, in Royal Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 792-5822 or visit www.royalpalmbrewing.com.

(Above left) Geof Shetka holds up a handful of hops, which will soon be added to the brewing process. (Above right) Geof mixes grain with water as his brother George pours a bucket of grain.