(Left to Right): John Paul O’Connor, Mayor, Greg Langowski, Vice Mayor, Gary Werner, Councilman, Erik Gleason, Councilman, and Charlotte Leonard, Councilwoman.
FLORIDA’S NEW CITY IS JUST GETTING STARTED! Join hundreds of families who are moving to Westlake for
features
executive editor
Joshua I. Manning
SPRINGFEST: EGG-ZACTLY RIGHT FOR KIDS, PARENTS & VENDORS
There’ll be music in the air and colorful eggs in the grass when Westlake celebrates its third annual SpringFest event.
GREAT FOOD WITH AMAZING SERVICE AT LEWIS PRIME GRILL
If you’re searching for a desirable dinner destination with many delectable dishes, then head to Lewis Prime Grill in the plaza at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd.
CHRIST FELLOWSHIP CHURCH IN WESTLAKE REACHING ACROSS CITY-COUNTRY DIVIDE
Jonathan and Natalie Ferguson, the young co-pastors of Christ Fellowship Church’s Westlake location, say they feel uniquely qualified to minister to the needs of both those who live behind HOA gates and farm-style fences.
ENJOY THE ULTIMATE LIFESTYLE AT WESTLAKE ADVENTURE PARK
The Westlake Adventure Park is more than just a collection of amenities — it’s a vibrant community centerpiece.
WESTLAKE SOCIAL SCENE
Hundreds Participate In Second Annual Westlake 5K Run/Walk 25
WESTLAKE TODAY
Saturday, April 5 will be a day of fun, family and community spirit in the City of Westlake as residents and visitors enjoy the third annual SpringFest Spectacular.
WESTLAKE TABLE
Made-to-order donut chain Duck Donuts has arrived in the western communities, “sprinkling happiness” through sweet treats at its new location in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center.
publisher
Dawn Rivera
senior writer
Louis Hillary Park
senior graphic designer
Stephanie Rodriguez
graphic designer
Yolanda Cernicky
account managers
Betty Buglio
Evie Edwards
Joetta Palumbo
administration
Christina Charles
Shanta Daibee
Jill Kaskel
Carol Lieberman
photography
Frank Koester
Abner Pedraza
contributors
Shannon Anastasio
Angelic Bringas
Meredith Burow
Kenneth Cassel
Mike May 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33 Wellington, FL 33414
Phone: (561) 793-7606
Fax: (561) 793-1470
www.westlakethemagazine.com
published by Westlake Magazine LLC
chairman/ceo
Barry S. Manning
Thank you to everyone who reached out with positive feedback regarding our inaugural issue of Westlake The Magazine. We are so proud that the community has expressed such wonderful enthusiasm for having its own publication, and we are excited to return with this second issue for everyone to enjoy.
In this edition, you’ll find previews of the third annual Westlake SpringFest event returning Saturday, April 5. We also tour the fabulous Westlake Adventure Park, and chat with Jonathan and Natalie Ferguson, the young co-pastors of Christ Fellowship Church’s Westlake location.
Looking for an amazing dining experience? Check out our feature story on Lewis Prime Grill, located just two minutes north of Westlake at the corner of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd. Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, make plans to visit Duck Donuts in Royal Palm Beach, featured this issue, where the options are as endless as your imagination.
Thanks to all the readers and advertisers who have made this new venture possible. We shall return in May with our next edition of Westlake The Magazine.
William Sepulveda with his son Emory at the second annual Westlake 5K Run/Walk.
PHOTO BY MEREDITH BUROW
Dawn Rivera publisher from the publisher
HUNDREDS PARTICIPATE IN THE SECOND ANNUAL WESTLAKE 5K RUN/WALK
More than 260 brave and bundled-up contestants came out amid chilly weather Saturday, Jan. 25 to take part in the second annual Westlake 5K Run/Walk. Friends, family and coworkers of all ages stepped up to the starting line for the race, the proceeds of which will benefit Westlake-area schools. In the end, participants George Klein, Judith Nguyen and Robert Chae were the first three to cross the finish line. Afterward, participants could enjoy carnival games and cotton candy, courtesy of Victory Sports Management.
(Left to right) Members of the Westlake Bike & Run Club; 5K first, second and third place finishers George Klein, Judith Nguyen and Robert Chae; Sienna Burgess, Haia Al Noor and Reetika Sookoo hand out medals at the finish line; and running family Robert, Sonia, Spencer, Stanley and Skyler Chae.
8-year-old male division winners Spencer Chae and Robert Woodard; William Sepulveda with his son Emory; Kimberly James and Jason Cole with children Jayce and Kayden; Bella Savoia and Kaleigh Lloyd present medals to the racers; and AT&T team members from around the state joined the 5K as a team-building exercise.
(Left to right) Julian Martinez with Patricia, Pedro and Jhuliana Contreras; Melissa Limauro, Emily Kurczyk, Fatlom Kelmendi, Krystal Lexima and Shannon Rauh; George Klein finished first overall in just under 21 minutes; Marcela, Jayce, Jakob and Jaiden Lugo and Alicia Standish raced with her daughter Josephine.
(Left to right) Brendan Duncan, Samantha Braswell and Heather Downing of sponsor Orangetheory Fitness; Peter Torres of Victory Sports Management; Summer Blair with her son Hunter; Tami and Scott Shoemaker; siblings Mackenzie and Bryce Rauh; and Nancy and Tim Murr with Toni Medvetz.
SpringFest Is Egg-Zactly Right For Children, Parents And Vendors
STORY BY LOUIS HILLARY PARK | PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER
There’ll be music in the air and colorful eggs in the grass when the City of Westlake celebrates its third annual SpringFest event on Saturday, April 5.
Besides live music and Easter egg hunts for various age groups, there will be a petting zoo, face paintings, balloon twisting, food trucks and craft vendors. And, of course, the Easter Bunny will be on hand for fun and photos.
“We’re thrilled to bring the community together for another unforgettable SpringFest,” Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families, friends and neighbors to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. And it’s not just for West-
lake — it’s for all the western communities.”
All types of vendors will be on hand — from Loxahatchee’s Green Gorilla Print House, which is known for its custom t-shirts and other apparel, to Westlake resident Leonna Hatcher promoting her recently published children’s book, The Adventures of Bella & Bee
Hatcher, who writes under the name L. Dev Hatcher, described her booth set up as a “bright, whimsical and engaging a storytelling wonderland for kids and parents” including a “cozy reading nook with bean bags or kid-friendly seating; vibrant signage featuring the Bella
and Bee characters; and table displays showcasing books, activity sheets and giveaways.”
There will also be an opportunity to hear the author read from her work.
Hatcher noted that she had a booth at Westlake’s Holiday Pop-Up Market in December and enjoyed it while more than recouping the $50 fee.
“I always make a profit,” said Hatcher, who has a master’s degree in business administration.
Having lived in Westlake since 2021, Hatcher said that beyond the business aspect, “this is my community, and I try to get out and meet as many people as I can.”
The Easter Bunny visits with children before
Lizmaria and her twin sisters Ashley and Allison Alfaro visit with a mini horse at the petting zoo during last year’s event.
There will also be get-to-know-you booths such as the one planned by Dr. Deanna Pandolfo, who is opening her Westlake Orthodontics practice in the Shoppes of Westlake Landings in March.
In the application for the booth, she describes her business as a “familyowned orthodontic practice dedicated to providing innovative, top-quality care” with customized plans for children, teens and adults.
“I’m very excited to be opening my practice here,” Pandolfo said, adding that SpringFest “is a good opportunity to meet members of the community and interact with them.”
“We’re looking forward to being on the threshold of the city that’s emerging there,” said Wellington resident Michelle Pandolfo, the doctor’s mother and office manager. “Our focus is going to be on Westlake and Loxahatchee.”
Food trucks also will be plentiful during the four-hour event — from pizza and sandwiches (That’s Amore) to popcorn, chips and cookies (Nuts About Sugar) to ice cream and edible cookie dough (Tina’s Treats).
Haritina Carstea, who has owned the Tina’s Treats truck since 2022 with her fiancé, said they are in different locations around Palm Beach County nearly every weekend but always try to make the Westlake events because
“the crowds are good and people there come out as families.”
Carstea said for children, cotton candy ice cream is the No. 1 seller, while adults enjoy the milkshakes.
Running a food truck is hard work, but good, family friendly events such as SpringFest make it easier and keep it profitable despite the $150 permit fee, said Carstea, a Royal Palm Beach resident.
Springfest is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. across the street from the Lodge at Westlake Adventure Park at 5490 Kingfisher Blvd.
The egg hunts will kick off at 11:30 a.m. for ages 2 and under and those in need of special accommodation; ages 3 and 4 will join the hunt at 11:45 a.m.;
“This has been well attended. It’s another opportunity for the community to get together and celebrate.”
— City Manager Kenneth Cassel
followed by 5 through 7 at noon; and ages 8 through 10 at 12:15 p.m.
Parents are welcome to join their children in the hunt. Attendees should bring a basket or bag for egg collection.
Those wishing to participate are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot in line.
“This has been well attended,” City Manager Kenneth Cassel said. “It’s another opportunity for the community to get together and celebrate.”
The next municipal celebration will be the city’s popular FourthFest event with fireworks on July 4 celebrating Independence Day.
To learn more about City of Westlake events, call (561) 530-5880 or visit www. westlakegov.com.
There will be several food trucks at the Westlake SpringFest event, including Tina’s Treats (right), specializing in ice cream and edible cookie dough.
(Left) Scenes from last year’s Westlake SpringFest event.
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Great Food With Amazing Service At Lewis Prime Grill
BY MIKE MAY
If you’re searching for a desirable dinner destination with many delectable dishes, then head to Lewis Prime Grill in the Publix plaza at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd.
Lewis Prime Grill is as appropriate for a family dinner as it is for a group of business associates or a couple on a romantic date. The menu provides enough variety to satisfy any potential patron. The doors open daily at 4 p.m. for happy hour or those wanting to eat dinner early. The quality and diversity of the menu selections at Lewis Prime Grill — and the 48 whiskey choices on the bar menu — are the main appeals of this standout local restaurant.
The quality of the food and the generous portions have positioned the restaurant as one of the finest in the western communities and one of Palm Beach County’s best restaurant choices for dinner. At Lewis Prime Grill, you’ll never leave hungry, and the price for your high-quality meal won’t break your budget.
Lewis Prime Grill is a restaurant with a strong pedigree, as it’s owned by Ralph Lewis, who is a co-owner of West Palm Beach’s historic Okeechobee Steakhouse, which has been in the Lewis family since it first opened in 1947.
According to Lewis, if you have enjoyed past visits to the Okeechobee Steakhouse, you’ll also enjoy eating at Lewis Prime Grill, where the price points are a bit lower, yet the quality of the food remains top notch.
“We have the best happy hour in Loxahatchee, and you eat for free on your birthday,” said Lewis, whose favorite steak is a dry-aged, bone-in rib-
eye served medium rare. “We provide a legendary dining experience, which has superior food and exceptional service.”
Convenient to all of the western communities, the restaurant is in the heart of the Acreage/Loxahatchee area and only two minutes from Westlake, and nine minutes from Avenir and Ibis.
The atmosphere inside Lewis Prime Grill, which opened in November 2022, is cozy, comfortable and very welcoming. When you walk through the front door, you’ll have three seating options — at the U-shaped bar, at one of the tabletops or in one of the many highback booths. The restaurant has a seating capacity of 120.
“We have a family-friendly restaurant, and we pride ourselves on making the dining experience special and memorable,” said Ron Streib, the general manager at Lewis Prime Grill. “Our staff is personable, accommodating, well-versed in our menu and understands the importance of hospitality. Many of our regular customers eat here two or three times a week.”
The menu is filled with many delicious options that include 10 starters, eight premium sides, seven house specialties, four salads, four steaks, four handhelds and six desserts. There’s also a separate menu offering four weekly features, which include items such as Shepherd’s Pie, Crispy Chicken Burrata, Yellowtail Snapper, the Butcher’s Cut, Black Grouper, Filet Mignon Stroganoff and Short Rib Quesadilla, among others. It will be a tough decision sticking to the traditional menu when there are such mouth-watering featured dishes, which change every
Greatest Happy Hour In The Western Communities
Enjoy your steak at Lewis Prime Grill with the addition of a broiled cold water lobster tail.
week. I ordered the Yellowtail Snapper accompanied by pan-seared, roasted fingerling potatoes, asparagus and a butternut squash puree, accompanied by the broccoli au gratin side dish and finished with the Crème Brûlée dessert. Every bite was better than the previous one.
The two most popular starters are the Bang Bang Shrimp and the Dip Flight. There is enough delicious Bang Bang Shrimp in one order for a quartet of diners to enjoy this tasty seafood appetizer. There’s a three-way tie for the most popular premium sides, with garlic spinach, broccoli au gratin, and the gourmet mac and cheese requested the most by customers.
Of the seven house specialties, the Country Fried Chicken, Linguine Alfredo and the Slow-Braised Short Rib are
ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
the most popular choices. After trying the Country Fried Chicken, you may never order fried chicken from anywhere else. It may well be better than your grandmother’s fried chicken.
The Cobb Salad is the top salad option, but the other three salads — Classic Caesar, House Gorgonzola and Iceberg Wedge — are equally as good and are terrific additions to your dining experience. For each salad, you can add either chicken, shrimp or steak as an added protein.
The four signature steak options — the Filet Mignon, Delmonico, Split Bone Cowboy and the Prime RanchCut Sirloin — are terrific cuts of beef. Of those four steaks, the most popular choice is the filet mignon. The four handhelds — the Lewis Prime Burger, Classic Burger, Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich and Prime Rib French Dip — are tasty and delicious. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich is the most popular handheld option.
Each of the six dessert options are worthy of being labeled as the best on the menu. As good as each dessert item looks on a plate, when each bite hits your taste buds, it will generate a delightful satisfactory smile.
The Chocolate Mousse is delicious; the Reese’s Pie appeals to lovers of chocolate and peanut butter; the Key Lime Pie is as good as you’ll find; the New York-Style Cheesecake will get “two-thumbs-up” from the harshest critics; the Crème Brûlée gets better with every bite; and the Triple-Layer Chocolate Cake is a perfect choice for
chocolate lovers and big enough to share.
Lewis Prime Grill also offers a kids’ menu featuring three entrees — a burger, chicken fingers and mac-andcheese. For dessert, there’s a weekly ice cream feature.
While Lewis Prime Grill prides itself on the 48 types of whiskey that it serves, other popular alcoholic beverages are a variety of wines and the signature, hand-crafted cocktails.
While the majority of white and red wines come from California, there are also wines from Argentina, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and Spain. Besides California, other U.S. wines on the list come from Oregon.
The most popular hand-crafted cocktails are the Blackberry Smash and the Classic Old Fashioned.
“We sell three times more Blackberry Smash cocktails than any other drink. We also sell a number of Classic Old Fashioneds,” said Layden Pruitt, who is Ralph Lewis’ grandson, works on marketing Lewis Prime Grill and doubles as a waiter at the restaurant. “Out here, we market to a younger crowd.”
After a great meal, when customers walk out the door, everybody leaves happy, nobody leaves hungry and there are always plans made for another visit to Lewis Prime Grill.
Lewis Prime Grill is located at 7040 Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, Suite 31, at the corner of Seminole Pratt and Orange Blvd. in the Publix plaza. For more information, call (561) 619-5115 or visit www.lewisprimegrill.com.
(Above, left to right) The Lewis Prime Burger features eight ounces of prime, house-blended ground beef, white cheddar, thick-cut bacon, fried egg and truffle aioli; the Prime Rib French Dip is slow-roasted and thinly shaved with provolone cheese, au jus and shown here with fries; and Lewis Prime Grill prides itself on the 48 types of whiskey on offer. Lewis Prime Grill Offering FREE DINNER
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Christ Fellowship Church In Westlake Reaching Across City-Country Divide
The City of Westlake has quickly risen over the last nine years as an island of suburbia amid more than 100 square miles of rural and semi-rural properties. Around the edges of Palm Beach County’s hottest housing market, feelings often have been rubbed raw. Suburbanites versus dirt road rural.
Jonathan and Natalie Ferguson, the young co-pastors of Christ Fellowship Church’s Westlake location, say they feel called, compelled and perhaps uniquely qualified to minister to the needs of both those who live behind HOA gates and farm-style fences.
“We knew coming in there was tension,” Pastor Jonathan said recently. “One of our prayers since the day we landed is that we would be a church that unifies people. That’s always in our heart.”
And in their sweat and bent backs when their neighbors are hurting, such as after last year’s tornado that roared through the western communities, taking off roofs, snapping trees and downing power lines.
“We mobilized 50 to 60 people,” Jonathan recalled. “Next day, we were helping clean up yards in Loxahatchee, Wellington and Avenir.”
“It’s very intentional that every week we introduce this as the Westlake and Loxahatchee location of Christ Fellowship because we want to make sure people realize it’s inclusive,” Pastor Natalie added.
These efforts are paying off, said Westlake Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard, who splits her worship time between Christ Fellowship and her childhood church, St. John Missionary Baptist Church in West Palm Beach.
“I think Christ Fellowship is bringing so many people together,” she said. “It’s a neutral zone — a place where the walls come down and people from Loxahatchee and Westlake can come together in one place.”
The Christ Fellowship location at 16561 Water’s Edge Drive opened its doors March 5, 2023, as the first and to date only church building in Westlake.
Christ Fellowship is well known for its modern, up-tempo music ministry; broad and interactive children’s programs; emphasis on creating neighborhood Bible study groups among members; faith-based counseling services; and the use of big-screen video to deliver sermons from its primary location on Northlake Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens to its multiple campuses in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee counties. The church also has active prison and online ministries.
“When the initial plans for the City of Westlake were being finalized, we knew that we needed and wanted to be a part of this new community,” Senior Pastor Todd Mullins said.
Christ Fellowship Westlake is locat-
ed on 12.7 acres just off Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. The 38,155-squarefoot building features an 800-seat sanctuary, a large meeting room, a staffed area for younger children and a lobby with plenty of coffee for adults.
A total of some 1,500 worshipers, including members of the children’s program, attend the 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday services, the Fergusons said.
“I said on day one at the ribbon cutting, ‘We may not have an ocean, but now we have a lighthouse in Christ
BY LOUIS HILLARY PARK
Christ Fellowship Church opened two years ago at 16561 Water’s Edge Drive in Westlake.
Fellowship,’” Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor recalled recently. “Now their roots are planted… and their light continues to shine.”
Since the beginning, the Fergusons have been lighthouse keepers.
Jonathan, 29, grew up in Fort Lauderdale, though he said he always preferred the rugged interior of Florida to the surfer-dude culture of the coast. He was “saved” — which in Evangelical parlance means he committed his life to Christ — in his early teens and could be
found attending church youth camps or leading music with his guitar. “I always knew I’d do something for God, but I didn’t know I’d be pastor,” he said.
Jonathan got a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in social work from Southeastern University in Lakeland. That’s where he met Natalie Glenn, now 30, an organizational leadership major. Both also took numerous Bible and religion-related courses at the private Christian university affiliated with the Assemblies of God.
Jonathan and Natalie Ferguson are the co-pastors of Christ Fellowship Church’s Westlake location.
Natalie was raised in a semi-rural neighborhood outside Knoxville, Tennessee. Among her favorite memories are long walks on nearby wooded trails. Like Jonathan, she committed her life to Christ at an early age, during an eighth-grade summer camp, and knew some sort of ministry was in her future.
After meeting Mullins during a speaking engagement on campus, Natalie said she felt “called” to move to South Florida and become part of the Christ Fellowship team. Jonathan soon followed, and they married in 2018 and began working their way up through the church’s ranks. Along came children Clay, now 5, then Cade, 3, and a girl named Charlotte, who was born in February of this year.
“I never expected to come back to South Florida,” Jonathan said. “We thought we’d be missionaries in Africa… raising our children in a hut, but instead God called us to plant a church in the most HOA community in Palm Beach County. God does have a sense of humor.”
So do the Fergusons.
“Natalie wanted a puppy; I convinced her to have another baby,” Jonathan said, interviewed shortly before their daughter was born.
Looking down at her prominent baby bump, “I don’t know how we got from a golden doodle to this,” she said smiling.
Though now firmly planted in suburbia, the Fergusons said their love of the outdoors and wild places, such as the nearby J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area, gives them the perspective they need for the Westlake and Loxahatchee campus, while their personalities and skill sets complement and complete each other as a ministry team.
“My gift is for vision and strategy,” Natalie said. “This is where we’re going, and this is what we need to get there, [along with] logistically running and managing the campus.”
“I love rallying people to a vision,” Jonathan explained. “I’m a people person. I love shepherding and caring for people.”
But even with these talents, it’s a lot for a young couple raising three children to do.
“We don’t pastor alone,” Jonathan stressed. “We have a good team above us. We share the load. They share the message. We implement it and care for the flock.”
Many of the people cared for by Christ Fellowship are young professionals drawn to Westlake, including many members of law enforcement and fire-rescue.
With that in mind, Jonathan explained, “We want to be the first responders as Jesus would have been, to come to people when they are in their darkest moments. We believe that is
what the church is here for, to bring life and the hope of Jesus to this community.”
Much of that work, however, is not done on Sunday mornings, Natalie stressed.
It’s done in parenting and marriage classes, in the clubs that Christ Fellowship has helped establish at Acreage Pines Elementary School and Western Pines Middle School, in supporting Seminole Ridge High School athletics, or by serving on one of the church’s kids, usher, parking, coffee, greeting or security teams, the Fergusons explained.
Most crucially, it’s done among the 30 to 40 small groups of individuals meeting in homes, coffee shops, the library, restaurants and Publix creating “accountability” with each other, they say.
“The worship [music] may be great, the message may be great, but what keeps people coming back is community,” Natalie said. “Church is not just a building, it’s a family.”
As for the Ferguson family, they plan to stay rooted in Westlake — God willing.
“We imagine being here until our kids graduate from high school,” Natalie said. “We really feel called to love this community well.”
Go to www.christfellowship.church/ locations/westlake to learn more about Christ Fellowship Church in Westlake.
Christ Fellowship is well known for its modern, up-tempo music ministry.
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Enjoy The Ultimate Lifestyle At Westlake Adventure Park
Nestled in the heart of Palm Beach County’s fastest-growing city, the $22 million Westlake Adventure Park is more than just a collection of amenities — it’s the vibrant centerpiece of a growing community. Designed with every resident in mind, this 15-acre playground brings resort-style living to your backyard, offering a dynamic blend of recreation, leisure and social spaces that make everyday life feel like a vacation. Whether seeking high-energy thrills or peaceful moments under the sun, the park has something for everyone.
A Water Lover’s Paradise — At the core of the Westlake Adventure Park is its stunning resort-style lagoon pool, where families can float, swim or simply lounge under the Florida sun. Those seeking a bit more excitement can glide down the towering water slide before plunging into the waters below. Younger residents can safely enjoy playing at the soft-surface splash pad, while adults can relax under a shady pavilion. Those who prefer a more peaceful setting can retreat to the lodge pool, an adult-only lap pool
that allows for a serene swimming experience.
Action-Packed Adventures — The Westlake Adventure Park is designed with recreation in mind, featuring activities that cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. The BMX pump park offers an adrenaline rush for bicycling enthusiasts, with rolling terrain perfect for bikers of all skill levels. Sports lovers can challenge friends and neighbors on the four full-length, lighted basketball courts or take on a round of bocce ball in the open lawn areas. For little ones with boundless energy, the Adventure Playground is the ultimate jungle gym, featuring climbing structures, slides and swings that spark imagination and play.
A Place to Gather & Celebrate — Beyond its sports and water attractions, the Westlake Adventure Park is designed to bring residents together. The event lawn and concert pavilion set the stage for outdoor movie nights, live music and seasonal festivals, fostering a true sense of community among neighbors. The Lodge, a beautifully designed multi-purpose venue, is the
STORY BY ANGELIC BRINGAS | PHOTOS BY ROB-HARRIS PRODUCTIONS
The Westlake Adventure Park is a 15-acre playground offering a dynamic blend of recreation, leisure and social spaces.
perfect setting for private events, club meetings and social gatherings. Featuring a state-of-the-art catering kitchen, a large retractable movie screen, a high-quality sound system and an expansive covered patio, it’s an inviting space for both intimate get-togethers and large-scale celebrations.
Dining & Leisure — No adventure is complete without great food, and the Westlake Adventure Park offers a variety of options. The Snack Shack and Scoops Ice Cream serve up delicious treats, from refreshing drinks to classic poolside favorites. Meanwhile, the barbecue grilling stations and picnic areas provide the perfect setting for weekend cookouts, where families and friends can gather for a casual meal. The adjacent food truck court adds even more variety, bringing a rotating selection of flavors to the community’s doorstep.
A Home for Furry Friends — The Westlake Adventure Park isn’t just designed for people, it also caters to pets! The Paw Park offers a dedicated space where residents’ four-legged companions can run, play and socialize in a safe, enclosed environment. With separate areas for large and small dogs, shaded seating and agility features, it’s the perfect spot for pet owners to meet and connect while their dogs enjoy some off-leash fun.
Community-Centered Vision — Since
its inception, Minto Communities has been dedicated to creating more than just homes; it has focused on developing a thriving, connected lifestyle. The Westlake Adventure Park embodies that vision by providing a space where residents can engage, unwind and build lasting memories.
“Our goal from the very beginning was not just to build quality, affordably priced homes at Westlake, but to create an active and entertaining lifestyle to go with it. It’s gratifying to see our full vision for the Westlake Adventure Park come to fruition for the benefit of
“Our goal from the very beginning was not just to build quality, affordably priced homes at Westlake, but to create an active and entertaining lifestyle to go with it.”
— Minto Senior Vice President John Carter
our residents,” Minto Senior Vice President John Carter said.
With its expanding list of amenities, the Westlake Adventure Park is the ultimate backdrop for making memories, bonding with neighbors and embracing the best of Florida living. Whether you’re cooling off in the pool, enjoying a sunset concert or just spending a lazy afternoon on the lawn, this one-of-akind destination brings the essence of fun, relaxation and community to life.
To learn more about Westlake, call (888) 299-3628 or visit www.westlakefl. com.
The Westlake Adventure Park isn’t just designed for people, the new Paw Park also caters to four-legged friends.
The Adventure Playground is the ultimate jungle gym, featuring climbing structures, slides and swings.
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WESTLAKE RESIDENTS
The Town-Crier Newspaper is the only community newspaper regularly covering the City of Westlake, and you can get it delivered directly to your mailbox for FREE just by requesting to be placed on the mailing list.
BY KENNETH CASSEL, WESTLAKE CITY MANAGER
Springfest: A Day Of Fun For The Whole Family
Saturday, April 5
will be a day of fun, family and community spirit in the City of Westlake as residents and visitors enjoy the third annual SpringFest Spectacular.
Get ready for an unforgettable day of family-friendly fun at the City of Westlake’s third annual SpringFest Spectacular on Saturday, April 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free event, set to take place directly across the street from the Adventure Lodge at 5490 Kingfisher Blvd., is the perfect way to celebrate the joy of spring with friends, family and the local community. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the excitement of Easter egg hunts, vibrant live entertainment or explore unique food offerings, SpringFest has something for everyone.
The highlight of the day will be the thrilling Easter egg hunts, which will kick off promptly at 11:30 a.m. The egg hunts will be organized by age group, so everyone has a chance to find those prized eggs. The youngest age group, two and under, will begin the hunt at 11:30 a.m., followed by ages three to four at 11:45 a.m., ages five to seven at noon, and ages eight to 10 at 12:15 p.m. The egg hunts are designed to be fun, accessible and inclusive. Parents are welcome to join their little ones in the hunt, making it a fantastic bonding experience for families. Be sure to bring a basket or bag to collect eggs and arrive early to secure your spot in line!
No festival is complete without music and entertainment, and SpringFest
delivers just that. Throughout the day, local performers will fill the air with tunes, creating a festive atmosphere for all attendees. Whether you’re tapping your feet to the rhythm of the music or enjoying the entertainment with your family, there’s no shortage of excitement to enjoy. In addition to the live entertainment, the event will feature a petting zoo with adorable animals for kids (and adults) to interact with. From fluffy bunnies to cuddly goats, there’s an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most charming creatures. It’s a terrific way to introduce little ones to the joys of animals in a safe, friendly environment.
The fun doesn’t stop with the animals. Kids will love the face-painting and balloon-twisting stations, where they can transform into their favorite characters or animals. It’s the perfect way to add a little magic to the day and create lasting memories. Of course, no festival is complete without delicious food, and SpringFest has you covered. A variety of food trucks will be on site offering mouthwatering bites for every taste bud. Whether you’re craving savory dishes, sweet treats or something in between, you’ll find plenty of options to fuel your day. Additionally, market vendors will be showcasing local crafts and products, so you can
shop for unique items while supporting the local community.
SpringFest also provides a chance to capture special memories with a visit to the Easter Bunny. Snap photos with the beloved holiday character and create lasting memories of this special day. It’s a perfect opportunity to get a family photo, capturing the essence of the season’s festivities.
There are numerous ways you can be a part of the third annual SpringFest Spectacular. First, you can attend the
event and bring your family, friends and loved ones to enjoy a day full of fun activities. With Easter egg hunts, entertainment, food and more, there’s something for everyone. If you’re interested in helping out, the City of Westlake welcomes volunteers to assist in event activities. It’s a wonderful way to give back to your community while ensuring that everyone has a fantastic time.
For local businesses and organizations, sponsoring the event is an excellent way to increase brand awareness and engage with the community. By becoming a sponsor, you’ll not only enjoy exposure through listings on the city’s web site and social media pages, but you’ll also be supporting a beloved local tradition.
Finally, even if you’re not able to volunteer or sponsor, spreading the word is an important way to help make the event a success. Share the event details with friends, family and colleagues to ensure that everyone can join in on the fun. The more
people who attend, the more exciting the festival will be!
Westlake’s third annual SpringFest Spectacular promises to be an exciting and memorable celebration of spring for the whole family. With Easter egg hunts, live music, a petting zoo, face painting, food trucks and more, there’s no better way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Whether you’re participating in the egg hunt, enjoying the entertainment or supporting the event as a sponsor, there are plenty of ways to get involved. So, mark your calendars for Saturday, April 5 and join the City of Westlake for a day of fun, family and community spirit!
Duck Donuts Brings Warm, Made-To-Order Happiness To Local Area
BY SHANNON ANASTASIO
Made-to-order donut chain Duck Donuts has arrived in the western communities, “sprinkling happiness” through sweet treats at its new location in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center.
Duck Donuts
11051 Southern Blvd., Suite 200 | Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 791-6464 | www.duckdonuts.com/royal-palm-beach
Duck Donuts, the beloved chain known for its warm, delicious and made-toorder donuts, recently opened its doors in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center. It is the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth while indulging in a unique, family-friendly experience that promises to delight people of all ages.
Duck Donuts has garnered a loyal following across the country, thanks to its signature donut-making process that allows customers to create their own customized treat. Whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate icing with sprinkles or prefer something more adventurous, like maple icing topped with crispy bacon, the possibilities are endless. The Royal Palm Beach location is no exception, offering the same mouth-watering experience in a vibrant, modern atmosphere.
The grand opening event in January was a hit, drawing in eager customers from across the western communities. The first guest in line was treated to a fantastic prize — a dozen donuts free every month for a year. The next 50 guests were welcomed with the Sprinkling Happiness Package, which includes two dozen donuts and a bucket of coffee for a future visit. It was a celebration of warmth, sweetness and community spirit, as friends and families lined up to be part of this exciting, fun event.
Spencer Carpenter and Kevin Harris, childhood best friends and the local owners of this new Duck Donuts location, were thrilled to open their doors to the community. Both are passionate about supporting local businesses and giving back to the community. Carpenter, with his background in financial services and real estate investment, and Harris, an entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the public and private sectors, make a dynamic duo who bring an infectious enthusiasm and dedication to this new venture.
“We are excited to open a small business in this thriving community and look forward to serving warm, delicious and made-to-order donuts,” Harris said when the store opened. “Spencer and I have spent our careers in business while serving our community, and we look forward to continuing those efforts through our ownership of Duck Donuts Royal Palm Beach.”
Donut Stack
Caramel Macchiato
with caramel.
(Above) The store blends the brand’s iconic beach theme with a modern, sleek aesthetic. (Top) Emil Pedral, Ethan Ojofeitimi and Jay Dart ready to serve up made-to-order, custom donuts.
A visit to Duck Donuts is a sensory experience. The 1,440-square-foot shop boasts the franchise’s reimagined design, which blends the brand’s iconic beach theme with a modern, sleek aesthetic. The cheerful, family-friendly vibe makes it an inviting place for guests to relax, enjoy a treat and watch the magic happen. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the irresistible scent of fresh, vanilla cake donuts being made right before your eyes.
In addition to its iconic donuts, you can pair your donut with Duck Donuts’
signature coffee blends or indulge in a donut breakfast sandwich or a unique donut sundae. Frozen beverages and milkshakes are also on the menu for those seeking something cool to balance out the warmth of the donuts. If you’re in the mood for a gift, the shop also offers a selection of fun retail items that embody the brand’s playful spirit.
As part of the brand’s larger commitment to creating a unique and personalized experience for each guest, the Royal Palm Beach location invites donut lovers to join their QuackChat text messaging program. By texting “DOZEN” to 50282, guests receive a welcome offer for a free donut and can stay up to date on the latest specials, events and seasonal topping updates directly on their phones.
From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, customers can walk into Duck Donuts Royal Palm Beach and expect the same highquality, made-to-order treats that the franchise is known for. And with its commitment to quality, freshness and community, the new location is destined to become a beloved hotspot for both locals and visitors alike.
So, whether you’re craving a warm donut to start your day, seeking a sweet treat to share with friends or just looking for a fun family outing, Duck Donuts is the place to be. Join the community in celebrating this exciting new offering, and get ready to indulge in the warmest, most delicious donuts you’ve ever tasted. You’ll leave with a smile on your face, and maybe even a few extra donuts for later. After all, according to Duck Donuts, it’s all about “Sprinkling Happiness!”
Duck Donuts Royal Palm Beach is in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center at 11051 Southern Blvd., Suite 200. For more info., call (561) 791-6464 or visit www. duckdonuts.com/royal-palm-beach.
Find Duck Donuts in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center near Pet Supplies Plus.
