ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE – March/April 2025

The Village of

Royal Palm Beach Recognized As One Of The 10 Best Towns In The United States To Raise A Family!

Royal Palm Beach Village Council

Adam Miller Councilman

Selena Samios Vice Mayor

Jeff Hmara Mayor

Jan Rodusky Councilwoman

Royal Palm Beach “A Place We Call Home”

Richard Valuntas Councilman

Main Number ............................ 790-5100 Administration ........................... 790-5103 Code Enforcement.................... 790-5138 Community Development ......... 790-5128 Cultural Center ......................... 790-5196 PBC Fire-Rescue.......................790-6105* Parks & Recreation................... 790-5124 Planning & Zoning .................... 790-5131 PBC Sheriff Office .....................904-8250* Public Works..............................790-5122 *For emergencies,dial 911

$1.1 billion annual economic 95% impact on Palm Beach County

4500 scholarships awarded

95% job placement rate

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$10 million awarded in scholarships since 2018

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outstanding services for veterans nationwide amongst two-year colleges

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$15 million secured to advance medical innovation, providing real-world training for future healthcare professionals

contents March/April 2025

volume 5, number 2 MARCH/APRIL 2025

executive editor Joshua I. Manning

Features

publisher

Dawn Rivera

senior graphic designer Stephanie Rodriguez

graphic designers Nancy Pobiak Yolanda Cernicky

account managers Betty Buglio Evie Edwards Joetta Palumbo

CLASS OF 2005 TO 10 RPBHS CELEBRATE 20TH REUNION

Royal Palm Beach High School’s Class of 2005 is gearing up to celebrate its 20th reunion Saturday, June 21 at the Royal Palm Brewing Company.

The reunion is being organized by the former 2005 class officers Amanda McArdle, Julie Querido Peters, Amanda Phelps and Kristin Eaton.

BY CHRISTOPHER VARGAS

EDUCATION 15 SUPPORTING IN ROYAL PALM BEACH

administration

A quality education is so valued by parents that property values tend to increase around better schools. In a nutshell, the mission of the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board is better schools, better educational outcomes and a better village.

Shanta Daibee Jill Kaskel Carol Lieberman

photography Abner Pedraza

contributors

BY DENIS EIRIKIS

FOOD, SERVICE 18 GREAT AT LEWIS PRIME GRILL

Shannon Anastasio Matthew Auerbach Denis Eirikis Denise Fleischman Margaret Hunt Frank Koester Mike May Christopher Vargas

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. BY MIKE MAY

ROYAL PALM Bringing You The Best Of Royal Palm Beach

THE MAGAZINE

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

published by

Royal Palm The Magazine Inc.

chairman/ceo

Barry S. Manning Royal Palm The Magazine is published six times a year in Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Copyright 2025, all rights reserved by Royal Palm The Magazine Inc. 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.

21 ROYAL PALM BUSINESS

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25 ROYAL PALM TABLE

from the

publisher

This issue features the upcoming 20-year reunion of Royal Palm Beach High School’s Class of 2005, including the reflections from several class officers regarding their memories of their high school years. Next, we profile the village’s Education Advisory Board, which aims to support schools, students and educational initiatives in the community, with an eye on expanding its focus in the future.

We also take you on a culinary adventure at Lewis Prime Grill, a local restaurant brought to you by the same family that owns the landmark Okeechobee Steakhouse. Lewis Prime Grill features great steaks, 48 whiskey choices and amazing happy hour deals.

Next, check out our Royal Palm Business profile on Roofing Systems of Florida Inc., where the father-and-son team of Herbert and William Frank have been serving customers for decades. Finally, Royal Palm Table samples the tasty creations of Duck Donuts, which just opened in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza, where the donut possibilities are endless.

We will be back in two months with a special issue celebrating the 65th anniversary of the Village of Royal Palm Beach, which we are working on with the village and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club. To learn more about how you can share your message in this very special edition, call (561) 7937606.

Dawn Rivera

Made-to-order donut chain Duck Donuts has arrived in the western communities, “sprinkling happiness” through sweet treats at its new location in Royal Palm Beach’s Southern Palm Crossing shopping center. BY SHANNON ANASTASIO

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

Social Scene

6 Shakespeare Fest Stages Comedy ‘As You Like It’ In Royal Palm Beach 7 Royal Palm Beach West Fest Brings Country Fun To Commons Park 8 CAFCI And RPB Honor Enduring Legacy Of Martin Luther King Jr. 9 RPB-Based Kids Cancer Foundation Holds Valentine’s Night Out

on the cover

Penelope Gibbs tries to conquer the bull at West Fest 2025.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 5

ROYAL PALM | SOCIAL SCENE PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

SHAKESPEARE FEST STAGES COMEDY ‘AS YOU LIKE IT’ IN ROYAL PALM BEACH

The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival and the Village of Royal Palm Beach presented performances of William Shakespeare’s comedy As You Like It at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park from Thursday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 2. Learn more about the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival at www.pbshakespeare.org

(Left to right) Tristen Hooks, Lee Ritter, Madi Hernandez, Sara Grant and Darryl Willis on stage in a scene from As You Like It; RPB Councilwoman Jan Rodusky with Chris and Chuck Andersen; Rebekah McCarthy and Olivia Shively; and Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival Producer Lisa Calberg and Audio Engineer Christopher Bell (seated) with Managing Producer Elizabeth Dashiell and Artistic Director Trent Stephens (standing).

(Left to right) John Moran and Sabrina Kelly; Blana Marsie-Haden and Alex Courson; Sal and Denise Sgroi; Isha Kumar and Shefali Choksi; and Sara Grant, Stephen Hedger, Tristen Hooks, Lee Ritter, Madi Hernandez and Darryl Willis take a bow.

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ROYAL PALM BEACH WEST FEST BRINGS COUNTRY FUN TO COMMONS PARK

Royal Palm Beach West Fest was held Friday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 2 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park featuring live music and family fun all weekend long. The event included live music on stage all three days featuring tribute bands and local performers.

Attendees also enjoyed a lumberjack show, a fun zone for kids, arts and crafts, and much more.

(Left to right) Penelope Gibbs tries to conquer the bull; Mayor Jeff Hmara, Councilman Richard Valuntas, Vice Mayor Selena Samios and Councilman Dr. Adam Miller welcome everyone; Kiara and Kiannely Hidalgo sing on stage; and Alycia and Anika enjoy cotton candy.

(Left to right) Ally Hatzissimou, Cloe Dobbins, Charlie Cunninham and Rachael Dobbins; log rollers Mason Bishop and Chase Vieweg; a puppy from Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue gets attention from Aubrey, Sarah and Ava Meehan; Garry and Joann Hiebert on the great lawn with Nikki; and the musical group Whiskey Six performs on stage.

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ROYAL PALM | SOCIAL SCENE PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

CAFCI AND RPB HONOR ENDURING LEGACY OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

CAFCI and the Village of Royal Palm Beach presented their 23rd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, Jan. 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The theme was “Unity in the Arts: Bridging Divides with Creativity.” The event included a continental breakfast followed by singing, dancing and musical performances.

(Left to right) Event committee members Lauriston Simms, Jilon Rhoden, Audrey Smith, Elet Cyrus, Jannette Sharpe-Paul, Norma Smith-Hill, Micaela Ferguson, Robin Ferguson and Paul Baker; Councilwoman Jan Rodusky, Councilman Richard Valuntas, Mayor Jeff Hmara, Councilman Dr. Adam Miller and Vice Mayor Selena Samios; and CAFCI board members Rhonda Ferrin-Davis, Dennis Wright, Norma Smith-Hill, Paul Baker and Carolyn Hmara.

(Left to right) Jannette Sharpe-Paul and Dennis Wright thank keynote speaker Dr. Idell McLaughlin; Chunky Harrigan on the drums and Bernard Bain on the saxophone; Henworth Ferguson recites a poem; Rachel Ferguson sings “We Shall Overcome;” the RPBHS Wildcat Dancers perform; and Copeland Davis plays the piano.

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RPB-BASED KIDS CANCER FOUNDATION HOLDS VALENTINE’S KIDS NIGHT OUT

On Friday, Feb. 7, the Kids Cancer Foundation held its annual Valentine’s Kids Night Out at the Kids Cancer Center in Royal Palm Beach.

Families of pediatric cancer patients and survivors gathered to enjoy Valentine’s Day-themed food and activities. Kids participated in crafts, video games and played as they celebrated with their families.

(Left to right) (Front row) Emily Deem, Sandy Erb and Franchesca Cuparo, and (back row) Michelle O’Boyle, Megan Smith, Barrie Hughes, Lisa Armstrong and Marla Pipkins; Janette Bruno checked people into the event; volunteers Gina Mehalko and Carolina King at the craft table; and volunteer Evelyn McClendon helps Mario with his craft.

(Left to right) Volunteer Susan Love with baby Jessica; attendees enjoyed Valentine’s Day-themed cakes; kids enjoy a jumbo game of Connect 4; and young attendees create at the arts and crafts table.

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 9

Class of 2005: Amanda Taplin, President; Julie Querido, Vice President; Amanda Cook, Secretary; Kristin Peekstok, Treasurer. Sponsors: Mrs. Bonnell and Mrs. Simmons.

RPBHS Class Of 2005 To Celebrate 20th Reunion In June

BY CHRISTOPHER VARGAS

Royal Palm Beach High School’s Class of 2005 is gearing up to celebrate its 20th reunion Saturday, June 21 from 5 to 8 p.m. The event will take place at the Royal Palm Brewing Company, located at 543 N. State Road 7, Suite 103.

The cost to attend is $75 per person, and aside from members of the Class of 2005, any spouses, partners and family members over age 21 are also invited to attend with a purchased ticket. The ticket covers venue fees, food, three drink tickets and more — and the first 50 people to register will automatically be entered into a raffle to win prizes.

The reunion is being organized by the former 2005 class officers, includ10 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

ing Amanda McArdle (president), Julie Querido Peters (vice president), Amanda Phelps (secretary) and Kristin Eaton (treasurer).

Money for tickets will be collected via Venmo. E-mail RPBHS2005@gmail. com for more information.

The organizers are looking forward to reconnecting with other 2005 graduates and recalling the many fun and memorable moments from their time at school.

“It feels crazy that we graduated 20 years ago,” McArdle said. “I remember the first day I started high school, and all of the memories we made throughout our four years at RPBHS. It’s an absolute honor and privilege to be planning our 20-year reunion now. It really

makes me reflect on how fast time really does go.”

She noted that the same group planned a 10-year reunion in 2015.

“I remember thinking about high school and how I couldn’t believe it was 10 years ago, and now... 10 years later, we are back again doing the same thing,” McArdle said. “I feel so grateful to have such wonderful, supportive, smart and kind class officers who work so well and effectively together.”

Querido Peters added, “Our 20-year reunion isn’t until June, but I’m sure it will be a nostalgic experience.”

Like many others, life has taken them away from Royal Palm Beach, yet they relish the opportunity to return and reflect.

“After graduation, I moved to Tallahassee and went to school at Florida State University. Go Noles!” McArdle said. “After college, I moved back to Royal Palm Beach for a few years before moving to New York City. I now live outside the city in the suburbs of northern New Jersey and work in the corporate world for Tripadvisor.”

Querido Peters also attended Florida State University, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree in sport management and a master’s degree in sport administration.

“After that, I moved to California and worked in the athletic department at Fresno State, focusing on facilities, events and game operations,” she recalled. “After five years, I relocated to San Francisco, where I became an event manager with Cal Berkeley athletics — also where I met my husband.”

They spent a year in Scottsdale, Arizona, before returning to Florida in 2019.

“I worked as an associate director of events in the athletic department at my alma mater, Florida State University. After two and a half years, I moved

to Orlando, where I currently work at Walt Disney World with Buena Vista Construction,” said Querido Peters, who has been married to her husband Anthony for going on four years.

Phelps also moved away after high school but returns to Royal Palm Beach frequently.

“I still have family down here, so I visit at least once a year,” she said. “I’m excited to see some old friends and get to catch up with everyone in person.”

Phelps got married in 2014 and has two children. She currently works as a coach in Lakeland.

“After graduating high school, I received a scholarship to play volleyball at Saint Leo University,” Phelps recalled. “I earned my bachelor’s degree in marketing and then proceeded to attend the University of West Georgia to pursue coaching and get my MBA. I started a brand-new high school volleyball program in the central Florida area and taught for a few years, then pursued coaching college volleyball full time. I coached at Lake-Sumter State College for eight seasons and am now currently the head women’s volleyball

coach at Southeastern University in Lakeland.”

It’s a career path that she continues to enjoy.

“I always knew I wanted to stay in sports, but had no idea I’d love coaching so much,” Phelps said.

Life took McArdle in a different direction than originally planned. “When I was in high school, I wanted to be a physical therapist or a teacher,” she recalled. “I ended up studying economics and business in college and went a completely different route.”

Querido Peters stayed in the world of sports management until she got married. “That’s when I made a career change to better align with our life together,” she explained.

However, her time at RPBHS certainly helped shape her into the person she is today.

“High school helped me understand my strengths, weaknesses and passions,” Querido Peters said. “It helped challenge me to develop discipline, problem-solving skills and critically think. The friendships I formed taught me a lot about empathy, loyalROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 11

ty and how to navigate different personalities. It introduced me to a variety of perspectives and experiences that help shape my identity and views.

It’s where I started figuring out who I wanted to be and what I wanted to pursue in life.”

That included support from teachers, such as Mrs. Ahmad, who had a big impact on her life.

“I never had the opportunity to take one of her classes, but I was able to have her as a mentor and a coach,” Querido Peters said. “She taught me many lessons that extend beyond textbooks. She always created a safe, supportive environment where I felt valued, and helped me navigate any challenges I faced.”

“It feels crazy that we graduated 20 years ago...

It’s an absolute honor and privilege to be planning our 20-year reunion now. It really makes me reflect on how fast time really does go.”

— Amanda McArdle It was a time in their lives full of lessons to learn.

“Definitely a life lesson that has stuck with me is to always be kind to people,” McArdle said. “High school is made up of some really great and some really awful memories for people.

There are moments we can all reflect

Class of 2005 event organizers Amanda (Taplin) McArdle, Julie Querido Peters, Amanda (Cook) Phelps and Kristin (Peekstok) Eaton — shown here at the 10-year reunion — were the former class officers.

12 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

on that don’t feel great, so I think the best thing I would recommend for anyone, at any point in life, is to lead with kindness. The world is tough enough, and being kind doesn’t cost you anything.”

Querido Peters added that, “High school can be full of challenges — academically, socially and emotionally — but learning to bounce back from setbacks and adjust to new situations is a valuable skill that sticks with you for life. It’s a time when you start to understand that failure isn’t the end, but an opportunity to learn and grow.”

If she could relive one high school moment, McArdle would love to experience graduation day with the Class of 2005 all over again.

“It was such a pivotal moment in my life, and I remember feeling like I was on top of the world, about to head off to college,” she said. “Or one of the late nights that me and the officers stayed to decorate the hallways for homecoming week.”

Querido Peters gravitated to her flag football days during her sophomore year. “That team was a lot of fun,” she recalled.

Phelps loved game days, particularly when the Wildcats beat Wellington in any sport.

“I don’t know that I’d want to relive anything specific, but I am grateful for my time at RPBHS,” Phelps said.

“I had a great group of friends/teammates, some I stay in touch with, and had some really awesome experiences.

I loved homecoming week and getting to decorate the hallways and dress up for the different themed days.”

If you are or know a member of the RPBHS Class of 2005, don’t miss the opportunity to reconnect on Saturday, June 21. E-mail RPBHS2005@gmail.com to learn more.

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Supporting Education In The Village Of Royal Palm Beach

BY DENIS EIRIKIS

Think for a moment how many dedicated teachers, administrators, parents, support staff and volunteers it takes to educate a child. It’s a team effort with outcomes of immense importance. A quality education is so valued by parents that property values tend to increase around better schools.

In a nutshell, the mission of the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board (EAB) is better schools, better educational outcomes and a better village.

The all-volunteer board is made up of five regular members and one alternate serving two-year terms. Besides managing the village’s annual scholarship program, the board plays a key role in bringing together and creating synergies between schools in the village.

The committee usually meets on the first Monday of each month during the school year. One village school is featured each meeting, during which principals and staff members make presentations. Students are heavily involved, with each meeting starting with a performance by a student group, or perhaps a presentation from students outlining current school programs. Student performances encourage parents to turn out, and most meetings start to a packed house.

Aside from the regular members,

Council liaison Mayor Jeff Hmara and student member Alexa Acosta with Education Advisory Board members Nancy Pennea, Paula Wilson and Sergio Herrera. PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

the EAB has one student member. By tradition, this member is president of the Royal Palm Beach High School Student Council.

“I’m learning so much. I never knew about the way government works,” RPBHS Student Council President Alexa Acosta said. “This is a valuable learning experience for me, but it’s a two-way track. I bring first-hand information of what it’s like to be a student in a village school.”

EAB Chair Jennifer Sullivan is thrilled to have Acosta’s input on the board.

“Having a representative from Royal Palm Beach High School on the committee provides the senior student an opportunity to gain valuable leadership experience and report on what’s important to the student body,” Sullivan said. “Alexa is doing an excellent job of acting as a liaison between the board and students.”

As a longtime village resident, Sullivan has seen positive changes in the community. “I understand that schools and strong educational offerings can attract businesses and residents to a community. That’s why I welcomed this opportunity to be a part of Royal Palm Beach’s future,” said Sullivan, a senior vice president for the Palm Beach County Cultural Council.

EAB members are a diverse mix of parents and professionals who are all Royal Palm Beach residents who value education.

Vice Chair Neisha Mitchell and Board Member Paula Wilson are both professors who know a thing or two about education. Board Member Nancy Pennea has postgraduate degrees in both math and urban affairs, who has served as math teacher/professor in Palm Beach County for more than 40 years. Board Member Sergio Herrera is a professional operations director who cares deeply about the board’s mission.

Herrera has lived in Royal Palm Beach for about eight years and has two children in village schools.

“I hate to sound like an old ’80s song, but children are our future,” Herrera said. “I think that developing foundational values and discipline early on in their lives will pave the way toward their future success. I believe that our success will ultimately be measured by how successful our future generations are in their lives. That is something I want to be a part of.”

A former foster parent, Mitchell has two school-aged children and is very active at Cypress Trails Elementary School.

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 15

Royal Palm Beach High School Student Council President Alexa Acosta is enjoying her experience serving on the Education Advisory Board.

PHOTO BY DENIS EIRIKIS

“I enjoy serving on this board because I enjoy making a difference in a broader capacity,” she said. “I am a strong advocate of preparing future generations to lead the community and the nation at large.”

Pennea is pleased with the work that the board has been doing. “After sitting on the EAB for three years, I have come to appreciate the excellence in education that is offered by all of the public schools in Royal Palm Beach,” she said. “There is great emphasis on collaboration between the schools, so as to share best practices and to provide continuity between the elementary, middle and high school levels that village students progress through.

Without exception, village schools are among the highest academically rated in Palm Beach County and in the state.”

Wilson is a product of Royal Palm Beach schools and loves her board service. “I think the educational opportunities in Royal Palm Beach are wonderful and unique,” she said. “All our village schools offer diverse student bodies, academic rigor and a family-oriented feel.”

She also has ideas that could make the entire school system even better. “I would incorporate more tangible incentives for classroom teachers and staff,” Wilson said. “Our schools would not 16 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

be what they are without our teachers, and they deserve higher compensation, more benefits and more access to quality professional development.”

This is Sullivan’s fourth year on the committee and her second time serving as chair. “This board provides a platform to hear from each of the schools in our village so that the residents can learn more about the excellent programs being offered and the dedicated principals, teachers and staff who make our schools special,” she said. “I volunteered to be part of this board because I am interested in giving back to my community.”

She particularly enjoys when it is time to award scholarships to high school seniors.

“The highlight of our service is the selection of the high school scholarship recipients,” Sullivan said. “We read dozens of amazing applications, select the top for interviews, and then award 10 students with $1,000 scholarships.

It is very rewarding to hear about the ambitions of these kids and the impact our schools have had on their futures.”

Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara attends each meeting as the board’s council liaison. School Board Member Marcia Andrews can also usually be found attending each meeting, cheering on principals and staff, and applauding teamwork from the podium.

Behind the scenes, Jacqueline Davy of

Board Chair Jennifer Sullivan and Board Member Paula Wilson. PHOTO BY DENIS EIRIKIS

the village clerk’s office prepares agendas, takes minutes and handles administration.

Going forward, Hmara has plans to expand the role of the board. “My vision for all Royal Palm Beach schools is to be A-rated, delivering the best education in the county,” Hmara said. “A critical condition to achieve this is to attract more village students to attend Royal Palm Beach schools at all levels.”

His proposal is to empower the EAB by increasing its authority and responsibility by adding new initiatives, such as coordinating Florida City Government Week civics presentations in schools, establishing and overseeing Classroom Teacher of Year awards, establishing and overseeing a new village youth council, and advocating to bring unique special programs to the village.

Learn more at www.royalpalmbeachfl. gov/bc-eab.

Council liaison Mayor Jeff Hmara, student member Alexa Acosta, EAB Member Nancy Pennea, School Board Member Marcia Andrews, EAB Member Paula Wilson and EAB Member Sergio Herrera. PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

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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 rib18 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

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 located in the heart of the Acreage/Loxahatchee area and only 10 minutes from Royal Palm Beach.

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

DAILY EXTENDED HAPPY HOUR 4PM - 7PM

Enjoy your steak at Lewis Prime Grill with the addition of a broiled cold water lobster tail.

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 19

(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.

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

Lewis Prime Grill Offering

FREE DINNER ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

Specifically, the 10 oz. Prime Ranch-Cut Sirloin A $30.99 Value

20 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

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.

ROYAL PALM | BUSINESS Superintendent Luis Leite, Director of Operations Daulton Suarez, Service Manager Scott Sternberg and Vice President William Frank with one of the company trucks.

Roofing Systems Of Florida Offers Clients Decades Of Experience

The father-and-son team of William Frank and Herbert Frank.

STORY BY MIKE MAY | PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

For more than 40 years, homeowners, builders and commercial property managers have called upon the expertise of Roofing Systems of Florida Inc. for all their roofing needs.

As a full-service roofing contractor, Roofing Systems specializes in complete roof replacements, roof repairs, and roof inspection and maintenance plans.

“As a family-owned business — three generations strong — we serve a customer base that expands from Palm Beach County to Martin County and St. Lucie County,” said William Frank, vice president of operations. “We take great pride in exceptional customer service while combining modern technology with old-world craftsmanship. Whatever your roofing issue, we are the right

choice. No job too big or small, one call does it all.”

According to Herbert Frank, the owner of Roofing Systems of Florida, the company has more than 50 years of experience in the industry and has installed some of the finest roofs in South Florida. The company has strong roots in the western communities.

“This has been our home for more than 40 years,” Herbert Frank said.

“These are not just our customers; they are our friends and neighbors.

The majority of our work comes from referrals. I know we are doing the right thing when we have replaced the roof on a home. Then, 30 years later, we are being asked to install a new roof on the home of one of the kids who lived there.”

When you select Roofing Systems of Florida as your contractor of choice, you will have an experienced sales representative who will walk you through every step of the process.

The only real decision that a homeowner has to make is what type of roof to install.

“We install shingles, concrete and clay tile, metal panels, flat decks and commercial roofs,” Herbert Frank said. “Traditional shingle roofs remain the most popular and affordable. We are proud to be a certified master elite installer for GAF roofing materials. We are one of only two percent of the roofers in the nation that hold this designation. As a master elite installer, we can offer the finest warranties in the industry.”

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 21

ROYAL PALM | BUSINESS

“This has been our home for more than 40 years. These are not just our customers; they are our friends and neighbors.”

— Herbert Frank

(Seated) Vice President William Frank with Sophie, President Herbert Frank and Director of Business Development Bill Kennedy; and (standing) Luis Leite, Marianne Scherl, Daulton Suarez, Breanna Napoletano and Scott Sternberg.

This dynamic father-and-son team pledges to provide the best job-site supervision possible. In addition to its certified team of project managers, you will also have the constant presence of Herbert and William Frank, as well.

“This is our family business, and you can bet that one of us will be on site

22 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

to ensure a happy customer and an exceptional job,” William Frank said. “We love what we do. We consider it a privilege to be selected as your roofing contractor. We expect the highest level of quality and strive for 100 percent customer satisfaction.”

“We understand that the home-

owner has many contractors to choose from,” Herbert Frank added. “When making your selection, remember that experience counts.”

According to both Herbert and William Frank, potential customers are welcome to stop by the office at any time to look at samples and ask questions.

Roofing Systems of Florida is located at 583 105th Avenue North, Suite 9, in Royal Palm Beach. The company can be reached at (561) 795-5566, or visit www.myroofsystem.com for more information.

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Duck Donuts Brings Warm, Made-To-Order Happiness To RPB

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 Royal Palm Beach’s 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

(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.

Donut Stack

It begins with Duck Donuts’ signature vanilla cake donut, freshly made and topped the moment you order.

Caramel Macchiato

Enjoy freshly brewed espresso poured over milk, flavored with vanilla and drizzled with caramel.

Maple Drizzle Sandwich

A breakfast sandwich featuring maple drizzle, chopped bacon, sausage, egg and cheese.

ROYAL PALM | TABLE 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.”

ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE | March/April 2025 25

ROYAL PALM | TABLE

Find Duck Donuts in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center near Pet Supplies Plus.

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’

26 March/April 2025 | ROYAL PALM THE MAGAZINE

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.

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