Town-Crier Newspaper April 21, 2023

GPL TOURNAMENT IN WELLINGTON

Acreage Equestrians Holding On, Hoping

For Safer ‘Trails’

When Linda Rainbolt moved with her horses from Lantana to The Acreage 33 years ago, it was a different place. Fewer people. Less traffic. Most roads still were dirt. Most people expected to share the sandy lanes with horses and riders on what constituted the Indian Trail Improvement District’s equestrian trail system. Page 3

Wellington Hosts Senior Citizens Prom Luncheon

Senior citizens in Wellington got to travel back to their youth and enjoy a Senior Prom luncheon on Wednesday, April 5 at the Wellington Community Center. Wellington Regional Medical Center sponsored lunch from Agliolio, while Prominence Insurance sponsored the dessert table. Page 16

Hundreds On Hand To Participate In

Annual Egg Hunt

The Village of Wellington held its annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8 at Village Park. Thousands of eggs were laid out over the baseball fields for children to find at the Easterthemed event. Page 18

PBCHS Baseball Team

Focused On Improving

Their Fundamentals

As the regular season draws to a close, the Palm Beach Central High School boys varsity baseball team is busy working to get physically stronger, more mentally alert and playing better defense. According to PBCHS head baseball coach Tony Gullo, his squad is trying to finish the regular season in the way it started. Page 21

Fighting Northlake Annexation Tops ITID’s Agenda

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Indian Trail Improvement District supervisors are worried that an effort by the City of Palm Beach Gardens to annex property along both sides of Northlake Blvd. from Bay Hill Estates to Grapeview Blvd. will be only the first bite of the apple for surrounding municipalities.

As part of ITID’s Wednesday, April 19 board agenda, Executive Director Burgess Hanson asked the supervisors to consider a resolution opposing the involuntary annexation attempt by Palm Beach Gardens of the valuable commercial property south of the sprawling Avenir development now underway.

New PBSO Captain And PBCFR District Chief In Wellington

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report

There is new leadership at the public safety agencies serving the Village of Wellington, and the Wellington Village Council meeting Tuesday, April 11 featured the introduction of Capt. Nichole Addazio, the new leader of Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 8, which serves the Wellington community. The council also met new Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue District Chief Amanda Vomero.

Addazio has taken over for retiring Capt. Rolando Silva, who has been working with her during a transitional period.

“We’ve had the opportunity to work together for the last three weeks, and it has been invaluable,” Addazio said of the support she received from Silva.

Transfers, she explained, can happen quickly, and often do not allow for an overlap. This one has. Addazio took over the position on April 1, and Silva will be retiring early this summer.

Silva thanked the council for their support over the past seven years, and also thanked his former second in command, Lt. Eli Shaivitz, who is also moving to another position.

“Thank you, guys. It has been a privilege and a high honor to be here as your district commander,” Silva said. “You guys are in good hands, and I can’t thank you enough for the last seven years.”

Mayor Anne Gerwig called Silva a “true partner” and “fantastic leader.”

“I am just happy for you, and know that we’re going to be fine,” she said. “No one cared more that I’ve seen serve.”

Councilman Michael Drahos said it was a huge honor, and he felt extremely lucky to work with Silva, calling him “a class act.”

Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone said Silva is leaving Wellington better than it was when he arrived.

“I thank you for your service to our community, and I thank you for your friendship. We’re going to miss you as you ride off into the sunset,” Napoleone said.

“I know you’ve left District 8 in good hands.”

Councilman John McGovern called Silva “someone who this community could rely on in the

See PBSO CAPTAIN, page 14

Committee: Loud Peacocks No Need For More Regulations

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

The piercing cries of vividly plumed peacocks are raising questions about what animals besides horses should be allowed along for the ride in Wellington’s equestrian areas.

Complaints about non-horsey critters, ranging from peacockian disturbances of the peace to alleged slaughterhouse operations involving chickens or wild boars, prompted village staff to bring the matter before Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee on Wednesday, April 12.

“The village, over the last year or so, has received a number of

complaints, not a large number, about, actually, peacocks,” said Robert Basehart of the village’s Planning, Zoning & Building Department. “Today, basically peacocks would be considered a farm animal, and they would be allowed.”

Still, state and local regulations don’t always specify every permitted animal in some sort of Noah’s Ark checklist. So, the question before the panel was whether clarifying action might be helpful.

It is the sort of issue that provides reminders of the distinctive blend of suburban and pastoral elements that in so many ways define Wellington. At more than 65,000

residents, it has been ranked as Florida’s largest “village” by population in recent years. Yet part of the undeniable attraction for many is its proximity to horse farms and trails that make it a place where billionaires and future kings might care to spend some time.

A seven-page report by staff laid out the issues at hand.

In the last four years, there have been 52 animal-regulation complaints in Wellington, and at least five of these have originated in the equestrian area, according to the report. Some highlights:

• In 2020, there were complaints about chickens being raised and

See ANIMALS, page 4

“This type of incursion by other municipalities to expand their geographic size, impose their respective lifestyles, potential land use changes, road usage or seek new revenue sources is counterproductive and will have a negative impact upon the landowners, natural resources and wildlife of the Indian Trail Improvement District,” Hanson wrote.

The 301-acre area proposed for annexation is owned by more than a dozen property owners. According to a report from the City of Palm Beach Gardens, the majority support the annexation, but some do not, which is why it requires an involuntary annexation process.

The move by Palm Beach Gardens is “disappointing,” ITID Vice President Betty Argue said prior to the meeting. “We’re at risk of this happening in other areas of the community. At some point, it begins to tear the community apart. We’re no longer The Acreage.”

The Village of Wellington and the Town of Loxahatchee Groves have explored the possibility of annexing some ITID land along the north side of Southern Blvd. as far out as Arden at 20-Mile Bend, and it has long been believed by some that the City of Westlake, established in 2016, has annexation designs on property along

Seminole Pratt Whitney Road all the way to Northlake Blvd. That is a concept that Westlake City Manager Kenneth Cassel rejected this week. “No. We have enough to deal with here,” he said. On the east, ITID also is bordered by the City of West Palm Beach and the Village of Royal Palm Beach. Supervisor Elizabeth Accomando said she is most concerned for the residents of Hamlin Blvd., who could end up with much-increased truck traffic and an unappealing view of the backside of a major commercial development. “We’ll have no control over it, and neither will the county,” she said.

Hanson noted that there is another large, nearby piece of property that could be annexed and used for multi-family, workforce housing, which Avenir does not provide in its plan.

In August 2022, Konover South, the developers of a 28.7-acre shopping center at the corner of Northlake and Coconut boulevards, agreed to concession sought by the ITID board to mitigate traffic and an unpleasant view for the residents of Hamlin Blvd. However, if the property is annexed into Palm Beach Gardens, whether that commitment would be enforceable is an open question, Hanson said. An involuntary annexation of the property along Northlake also would deal a heavy blow to the tax base of ITID if it ever were incorporated into its own municipality, Accomando said. “As someone else put it, [the impact of the annexation] on Palm Beach Gardens’ tax base is peanut shells; for us, it’s the entire peanut,” she said.

Palm Beach Gardens has scheduled a first reading of the annexation plan for Monday, April 24, with a second reading planned for May 4.

In other agenda matters:

• The supervisors were scheduled to discuss a proposal by Accomando to create an adopt-a-road program.

“Over the past few years, the

TEMPLE BETH TORAH HOSTS ANNUAL GALA

Temple Beth Torah held its annual gala Saturday, April 15 at the Wellington National Golf Club. The theme was Black & White, and guests enjoyed festive entertainment, a variety of wines and specialty cocktails, and delicious cuisine, paired with great music, casino games and a silent auction. At the event, the temple honored members Eric and Robin Forti with the Temple Beth Torah 2023 Gala Service Award. Shown above, Robin and Eric Forti are honored by Robin Kantor. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 17

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RPB’s Tuttle Royale Project Continues To Take Shape

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission had the busy agenda Monday, April 17, filled mostly with requests related to the Tuttle Royale project, a large, mixed-use social center development located on Southern Blvd., just west of State Road 7. The community can now begin to prepare for many new shops, events and other activities coming to the currently undeveloped space.

Urban Design Studio, agent for developer Brian Tuttle, began with a request to alter the master plan to include about 9.3 additional acres, pushing the project to over 165 total acres.

With the additional land request supported unanimously by the commissioners, the developers began laying out requests for specific amenities to be built. These include a full-sized grocery store, a movie theater, a fitness center, restaurants and a bowling alley. All items were recommended for approval by village staff, and the commissioners followed suit.

One local resident expressed concerns about the impact such a project will have on nearby neighborhoods, specifically the potential of losing her neighborhood’s security gate.

“There is no design nor any plans to make her community a non-gated community. Her community will remain intact the way

it is today,” Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien said. The commissioners seemed impressed with the new plans, and Tuttle was encouraged by their feedback.

“Everything we are bringing in is best in class, and it’s really nice,” Tuttle said. “When we get into the site plan, we will tell you about all the exciting restaurants. Ruth’s Chris, Cheesecake Factory, Tommy Bahama, there is an Italian restaurant and a Mexican restaurant, an ice cream place, a chocolate shop — they are all coming.”

Village staff proceeded to provide details on seven requested landscape waivers for Tuttle’s project, but much of the deviations

from village code were necessary to accommodate this new type of development. Staff supported all of the requested waivers to allow for safe traffic flow of both vehicles and pedestrians.

Vice Chair June Perrin raised questions about the amount of vegetation overall and wondered if there would be enough trees.

“You are going to be overwhelmed. The long area on Southern, instead of spacing trees, we have them lined up. There are no red lights, only roundabouts. It will be really pretty with all the lights on the trees,” Tuttle said.

He emphasized the importance of open space as the focal point of the entire project. “We started this 10 years ago; it was no man’s land

when I bought the first piece,” he said. “We flew all over the United States to look at successful centers, and the common theme in the new retail days is activities. There had to be things to do. If you just go to shop, it’s not going to work. So, we designed the park first.”

Some of the events will be minor, and major events will go through the permitting process, but all the events are designed for the local community in mind.

“We will have a Christmas village and a train track,” Tuttle said. “In the spring, we will have ice skating, and one month we are going to set up 20 bounce houses. It’s all about activating the park.”

Some of the stores expected

The Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament, presented by Douglas Elliman, was held Saturday, April 8 at the National Polo Center. The festive atmosphere included many elaborately decorated tailgates. Shown above are Alfie Preit, Greg Romanczyk, Joe Chillemi, Kristin Hagerman, Andy Wilson and Jamel Giuma at the Barbie tailgate, which won Best in Show. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PBSO Lt. Robert Humphrey, Capt. Nichole Addazio, Capt. Rolando Silva and Major Eric Coleman at the Wellington council meeting.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Acreage-Area Equestrians Holding On, Hoping For Safer ‘Trails’

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

When Linda Rainbolt moved with her horses from Lantana to The Acreage 33 years ago, it was a different place. Fewer people. Less traffic. Most roads still were dirt. Most people expected to share the sandy lanes with horses and riders on what constituted the Indian Trail Improvement District’s equestrian trail system.

No more. Rainbolt said most area equestrians have been driven off the “trails,” which they must share with everything from motorcycles to cars to delivery trucks, because of safety concerns.

“People don’t think about the fact we’re on a 1,200-pound animal, and we could die any minute [if the horse spooks],” said Rainbolt, who was vice president of the

Acreage Horseman’s Association (AHA) until it was disbanded several years ago. “We need to make the trails safer out here.”

ITID Vice President Betty Argue agrees, proposing at the board’s March 29 meeting the creation of an Equestrian Trails Committee. The committee would be charged with taking stock of the current trails situation and making recommendations to the board for ways to increase their safety and use.

“I get tired of hearing people say, ‘I never see horses in this community.’ We are a designated equine community,” Argue said. “But no one is going to ride horses out here again until we can provide safe trails for them.”

Supervisor Elizabeth Accomando supported Argue’s call for a new committee.

Argue has asked Rainbolt to be part of the committee if it is approved by the board. Further discussion of the proposed committee was scheduled for the supervisors’ meeting on Wednesday, April 19.

Among concerns aside from traffic, Argue said, are missing and damaged signage and adequate trail maintenance. The committee would also look at obtaining grants to help defray the cost of an improved trail system, Rainbolt said.

ITID Parks & Recreation Director Kenny Lawrence said he could envision an interconnected trail system with rest/water stops that would tie together the district’s parks. That and other ideas are items that the proposed committee would have input on, he said.

“We don’t need to recreate the wheel,” Argue said. “We have a

mobility plan that includes equestrian trails… [but] it never gets off the ground. There’s a perception that it’s not important to the district.”

Despite the equestrian community designation, some district officials wonder if the label still is valid. Supervisor Keith Jordano suggested that only a small percentage of ITID’s 45,000 residents now are horse people. “We still have equestrians, but [the population] certainly is not as equestrian as it used to be,” Jordano said this week. “Maybe we’re not a true equestrian community anymore.” Rainbolt said that while equestrians are not as visible as they once were due to the lack of safe trails and an umbrella organization, “This is not a dead equestrian community.”

Not that long ago, the AHA was hosting multiple annual events that included everything from barrel racing to hunter-jumpers, she pointed out. A 2015 Halloween event with classes, games and refreshments at the Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park drew some 80 horses and their riders in costume, according to an article at the time in the Town-Crier “This is a terrific way for the community to get together and have fun,” Rainbolt said then, and remembers it fondly now, but said it’s harder these days. Because of safety concerns, “a lot of people trailer their horses out of the area [for rides],” she said, including her — sometimes going as far as Georgia to enjoy multi-day rides with others from The Acreage. But Rainbolt said she’s not

giving up on her home turf. She’s planning a tack sale and free obstacle clinic at Hornstein Park in the near future. She said such events and safe trails are crucial for developing young equestrians, whether they are riding merely for pleasure or have an eye on local, national or even international competition.

“A lot of people moved here who don’t have the money for Wellington or Ocala,” Rainbolt said. “I have a personal investment in my heart with [The Acreage equestrian community]. Kids just grow up different when they love horses.”

Accomando, Argue and Rainbolt said they believe Hornstein Park is being underused and would like to see more planned equestrian

Wellington Community Foundation Grants $11,000 To Support Fine Arts Departments At Local Schools

On Wednesday, April 5, the Wellington Community Foundation hosted its annual Our Schools breakfast event to honor the principals from all 11 public schools serving the Wellington community. At the event, the WCF board presented $11,000 to support the fine arts departments at these schools through the Our Schools grant program.

The WCF board of directors, including Chair Barry Manning, Vice Chair Jim Sackett, Secretary Terri Kane and directors Mike

Gauger, Pam Tahan, Maggie Zeller and Herta Suess, were in attendance to celebrate the principals and representatives from the 11 schools.

The principals and school representatives were welcomed with opening remarks from Tahan, a foundation board member and CEO of Wellington Regional Medical Center, which hosted the event. She stressed the mission of the foundation, which serves seniors, children and veterans, and expressed her respect for the public school system as a product of it.

Tahan then introduced Manning, the foundation’s newly elected chair, who thanked everyone for coming and thanked the Wellington Regional Medical Center team for hosting the event. He also highlighted the importance of children, a key focus of Tom Wenham, the foundation’s founding chair, who passed away late last year.

“This foundation will continue doing all it can to move that mission forward,” Manning said, praising each of the schools for their contributions to the community’s children.

Tahan and her staff did a great job organizing and preparing the room, the menu and each table, adorned with freshly cut flowers to complement the bright and cheerful colors of the event. The

delicious buffet-style breakfast included a made-to-order omelet station with all the fixings, French toast casserole, bacon, sausage, kielbasa, home fries with peppers and onions, a smoothie station, fresh fruit, assorted pastries, and coffee, water and freshly squeezed orange juice.

The WCF Our Schools grants have been awarded for the past six years with different concentrations of spending, from elementary after-school programs to middle school requests for laptops, additional tutoring staff and assisting students needing help affording the annual safety patrol trip. This year, the board felt it was necessary to fund every Wellington school’s fine arts department and found the budget to do so, thanks to the generosity of hundreds of donors and annual sponsors, such as Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith, Wellington Regional Medical Center and Tom & Regis Wenham.

“This morning has been a true example of what makes our village an amazing community for families with children,” Manning said. “The foundation is proud to support local schools in their efforts to provide students with opportunities to excel in the arts.”

For more information about this grant project and other foundation projects, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

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Ask your physician if TCAR is right for you.

(L-R) Jim Sackett, Elizabeth Rochaine, Herta Suess, Pam Tahan, Gail Marshall, Lindsay Ingersoll, Edilia De La Vega, Dr. Jennifer Galindo, Darren Edgecomb, John Rejc, Dana Pallaria, Michele Chorniewy, Dr. Eugina Smith Feaman, Chad Phillips, Michael Gauger, Michella Levy, Diana Fernandez, Terri Kane, Maggie Zeller, Stacy Morast, Mellissa Heath and Barry Manning.

WCF Chair Barry Manning addresses attendees.

(Above) WRMC Director Culinary Services Anthony LaBriola and his team members prepared a delicious breakfast (shown right).

WRMC REUNITES A CARDIAC PATIENT WITH THE TEAM THAT SAVED HIS LIFE

On Thursday, April 6, Wellington Regional Medical Center reunited a cardiac patient with the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue crew members, emergency responder colleagues and WRMC physicians who helped save his life. The “Call of the Quarter” celebration featured patient Chris Provenzano and the team that worked together to save him last November after responding to a call regarding chest pain. PBCFR crew members from Station 34 brought Provenzano to WRMC, where he was treated by emergency department physician Dr. Brandt Delhamer, internal medicine physician Dr. Nathaniel Fleischner, critical care physician Dr. Jose Castaneda; cardiologists Dr. Lawrence Lovitz and Dr. Andrew Krasner, and critical care ARNP Jonathan Eker. PHOTOS BY

DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

ITID Incorporation Bill Fails To Gain Traction In The State Legislature

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

With only two weeks left in the 2023 session of the Florida Legislature, it appears that any glimmer of hope for the incorporation of the Indian Trail Improvement District area is gone, at least for now.

The negative handwriting already was writ large in early March when the incorporation referendum bill — House Bill 1113, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Roth (R-District 94) — was not reported favorably out of the House’s Local Administration, Federal Affairs & Special Districts Subcommittee.

“After almost three years of hard work, hundreds of hours away from our families, we are disappointed that once again, our request to have a referendum on determining our own future has been denied by our own state government,” Bob Morgan, one of the three leaders of the VoteLox citizens group behind the bill, recently wrote on the organization’s

Animals Peacock Problems?

continued from page 1 slaughtered on a property in the equestrian area. Disposition: Case closed because raising chicken is a permitted use, and no evidence of a slaughterhouse could be found.

• In 2021, complaints alleged pigs or wild boars were being raised on a property. Disposition: Raising pigs is permitted, and no evidence was found of wild boars.

• In 2022, complaints said a property owner’s goats were wandering uncontrolled into neighbors’ territory. Disposition: The property owner agreed to put up a fence. Then came the matter of peacocks.

“Wellington has always considered peacocks to be legitimate farm animals,” the report noted.

“Although seldom specifically

ITID Meeting Adopt-ARoad

continued from page 1 district has seen tremendous growth and traffic throughout the community. The district is not necessarily responsible for litter collection or debris removal, but does so, but not to the level that the landowners and board of supervisors would like,” according to the staff report. “Members of the community would like an

web site (www.votelox2022.com).

The bill would have called for a referendum of qualified electors residing within the proposed “Village of Loxahatchee.” The new municipality would not be created unless the voting residents supported the referendum.

A look at the bill’s legislative journey shows that five individuals registered to lobby regarding the bill — three representing ITID and two representing developer Minto Communities, according to the House web site. Minto is the major developer and landowner in the City of Westlake, which sits in the middle of the ITID area.

Not everyone is disappointed by the outcome.

“Honestly, what I mainly feel is relief,” said John Rivera, a longtime area resident who ran unsuccessfully for the ITID board in 2022 on an anti-incorporation platform. He lost to incumbent Michael Johnson.

“I just don’t think it is the right thing to do,” said Rivera and re-

mentioned, peacocks have traditionally been allowed and considered farm animals in all codes that we have reviewed. However, complaints received by Wellington relating to farm animals include objections to allowing them. Primarily, objections relate to the noise they make.”

The staff’s research concluded that peacocks have been “part of farm life for centuries. They are not raised for their meat or eggs. However, they can be considered to be the agricultural industry’s first security system. They have keen senses of sight and smell and make considerable noise when a perceived threat is in the area (wolves, coyotes, foxes, etc.).”

Members of the committee asked how many complaints there had been about peacocks, in particular. Three to five over time, Basehart said.

“I have the perfect story for this,” said Jane Cleveland, the committee’s chair. “I have a horse farm in Loxahatchee Groves. It’s a

opportunity to collect debris and garbage along segments of certain district roadways… We suggest a pilot program to start in Unit 20 since it has limited traffic volumes, but certainly has trash issues. Once it is implemented, the district can expand it to other roadways that meet certain safety standards and criteria.”

Staff recommended a participation fee of $100 for an individual, family or nonprofit, and $250 for commercial groups.

• The supervisors were scheduled to hear a recommendation

peated his view that the time when incorporation would have been valuable or feasible has passed.

Now, proponents of the proposed Village of Loxahatchee are left wondering: What’s next?

“We’re still figuring that out,” said Elizabeth Accomando, a Santa Rosa Groves resident who also is part of the VoteLox group. Accomando is also an ITID supervisor but serves on the VoteLox committee only in her capacity as a district resident.

“We’re not done,” Morgan said. “We’re looking at options.”

One option would be to bring another incorporation bill to the House in the future, but Morgan said that would require a new feasibility study. The study, plus a publicity campaign to inform the public, would cost $75,000 to $100,000, said Morgan, who is also president of the Acreage Landowners’ Association.

“That’s our biggest hurdle,” he said. “We’re looking for donors.” Speaking only as an interested

lot more rural up there. Next door is a farm for exotic animals. I kid you not.”

She proceeded to name some of the neighboring creatures.

“Zebras, monkeys, elk, gazelles, parrots, you name it,” she said. “The guinea fowls come over, and they’re super loud.”

Yet a barking dog turns out to be the biggest nuisance, she said.

“I don’t know how in my world you could go after one animal and not the other,” Cleveland said.

Village Attorney Laurie Cohen noted that one option is to let neighbors take action on their own, perhaps by going to court.

“For individuals who do believe they are causing a nuisance, they have a private course of action,” Cohen said.

For now, a will to address the peacock issue with recommendations to village authorities failed to materialize among committee members. The seven-member panel voted unanimously to take no action.

from the district’s engineering department that they approve an interlocal agreement with West Palm Beach that would allow the reconstruction of 60th Street North between 180th Avenue North and Mandarin Blvd. as part of the R3 Road Paving and Improvement Plan. It was determined that 60th Street North, rather than 60th Lane North, was the preferred route, the staff report noted.

• The supervisors were scheduled to hear a request for board direction on speed tables and possible pedestrian paths on 180th

ART AND ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS

observer, ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson said another option would be ITID’s legal “conversion” from a special district to a municipality, which would require a petition signed by 40 percent of the district’s registered voters.

This is the second time that an effort to pass a Village of Loxahatchee referendum bill has failed.

In 2021, a similar bill did not gain the necessary support from the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation and so did not even make it to Tallahassee.

Although the ITID board was not directly involved in the effort to pass the latest referendum bill, the group will have decisions to make whether it will continue to support VoteLox citizens’ initiative concept, Hanson said.

“I think the board will have to look at the entire process again,” he said.

“VoteLox will continue to inform the public,” Accomando said. “But it’s important to take a step back.”

“If there are only five or six complaints over four years, I don’t see any reason to do anything about it,” Committee Member Carlos Arellano said.

Meanwhile, an issue not on the immediate agenda but expected by June concerned the pending plan called “Wellington 3.0” to develop parts of the equestrian area with residential and commercial proposals.

Cleveland said she had been approached by supporters of the plan to meet outside of formal committee meetings, but she felt uncomfortable doing so.

“My line is I tell people to come to the meetings,” she said. “That’s why I want it to happen here and not at Starbucks.” Cohen advised members that they could meet with interested parties outside scheduled meetings but were obliged to disclose that publicly and should not form opinions about a proposal before it had been heard in the agreed-upon civic forum.

Avenue North, and Calamondin Blvd. from Hamlin Blvd. to 94th Street North.

• The supervisors were scheduled to hear a resolution of condolence to the family of Dale Hawkins, who died April 1. Hawkins worked as a heavy equipment operator for ITID from 2016 until January 2023. Those who worked with Hawkins described him as a “dedicated, down to earth, allaround great guy.” He is survived by Donna, his wife of 39 years, along with children and grandchildren.

On Tuesday, April 11, the Wellington Village Council honored the winners of the village’s 2023 Public Safety Art and Essay Contest. Winners in the elementary art category were Sebastian Trento (first place), along with Tia Zifnite and Olympe Carmona Dubois (runners-up). Winners in the high school art category were Allie Alder (first place), along with Samantha Aragones and Victoria Daley (runners-up). Honored in the high school essay contest were Russel Golab (first place), along with Ewa Tryniszewski and Jonathan Hamze (runners-up). PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

DONATE LIFE MONTH PROCLAMATION

April is National Donate Life Month, and at the Tuesday, April 11 meeting of the Wellington Village Council, the village issued a proclamation recognizing the importance of organ donation. Community activist Maureen Budjinski, a longtime advocate of organ donation, addressed the council on the importance of this critical issue. More than 104,057 Americans and 5,343 Floridians are currently on the national transplant waiting list. Budjinski asked everyone to sign up as an organ donor.

Trails

New ITID Committee?

continued from page 3 activities there. Lawrence agreed and said much of the drop-off could be traced to the pandemic, which forced a year-long closure of the district’s parks.

This isn’t the first time that Argue, who rides but is not a horse owner, has sought to take steps to “preserve our equestrian lifestyle.”

In October 2018, when Argue was president of the board, the supervisors held a workshop on the issue.

The reality is that most of the district’s “trail system” is and always has been simply a delineation on a map, ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson said. “It’s not like

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington, where there are fences and trails set back from the roads,” he explained. “The ‘trails’ here are mostly dirt roads and swale.” Hanson said that ITID still “operates under the flag of an equine/ agricultural/residential community” but population increases and demographic shifts over the last few years are increasingly calling that description into question.

Improving the district’s trails “is not as simple as fixing a couple of fence posts and rails,” Hanson said. “I think people are more concerned with roads, sidewalks and athletic fields.”

In a time of limited budgets, it is a complicated issue.

“I’m not saying we should kill the [equestrian ethos] all together,” Jordano said. “But does it keep its niche as our identity? I want to use our taxpayer dollars wisely.”

WRMC CEO Pam Tahan, Serenity Williams, Rita Brown, Christine Schergen, patient Chris Provenzano, Galo Poveda, Wendy Jones, Andre Thompson, Christina Todaro and Zack Kramer.

Dr. Brandt Delhamer with Chris and Candice Provenzano.

PBCFR responders, WRMC staff members and physicians gather with patient Chris Provenzano.

Dr. Brandt Delhamer, WRMC CEO Pam Tahan, PBCFR Lt. Jason Frisbie, paramedic Ryan Bouse, patient Chris Provenzano and paramedic Anthony Macias.

WRMC CEO Pam Tahan, Dr. Brandt Delhamer, Dr. Andrew Krasner, Dr. Lawrence Lovitz, patient Chris Provenzano, ARNP Jason Eker, Dr. Jose Catsaneda and Dr. Nathaniel Fleischner.

Luz Jordan, Jose Cepeda, Michelle Castellon, Rita Brown, Chris and Candice Provenzano, Christine Schergen, Christina Todaro and Zack Kramer.

LEXUS INTERNATIONAL GAY POLO TOURNAMENT HELD AT NPC IN WELLINGTON

The Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament, presented by Douglas Elliman, was held Saturday, April 8 at the National Polo Center-Wellington. The festive atmosphere included many elaborately decorated tailgates. Best in Show went to the pink Barbie-themed display by Tim Minerd, while Emerald Elite Senior Care took the prize for Best Corporate. Cheer Miami won Best Theme, William Vertucci’s display was named Best Dressed, and Douglas Elliman Real Estate won for Best Food & Drink. On the field, Team Greenberg Traurig (Jesse Lee Eller, Peter Secor, Ryan Cronin-Prather and Juan Diego Rizo Patron) won the Senator’s Cup, while Woodford Reserve (Adrian Pia, Joaquin de la Piedra, Gustavo Larossa and Agustin Arellano) won the Founder’s Cup. Learn more at www.gaypolo.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Pediatric General & Thoracic Surgery in the Palm Beaches

At Palm Beach Children’s Surgical Specialists, we are committed to providing compassionate and experienced pediatric surgical care to children in our community. Using advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques we solve surgical issues in our littlest patients up to teens, helping parents and their little ones navigate treatment options.

Our Pediatric Surgeons

Josh and Christine Kotler, Barbara James, Reggie Laroche, Michelle and John McGovern, and Nicola and Stephen Rousseau at the Baptist Health tailgate.

The “Barbie” tailgate won Best in Show.

Douglas Elliman Real Estate won for Best Food & Drink.

The gang from When Pigs Fly and Flamingos Frolic.

“Miami Cheer” won for Best Theme.

Elizabeth Houlihan, Jenniffer Norman and Suzanne Fuller.

Emerald Elite LGBT Senior Care’s “Golden Gays” won Best Corporate.

Alexandra McCabe, Ms. Tula, Tanya Siskind and Dr. Jane Lamp.

Stephanie Soto and John Maroussas.

Michael Drahos and John McGovern.

Team Woodford Reserve won the Founder’s Cup.

Team Greenberg Traurig took home the Senator’s Cup.

Julie Khanna, John McGovern and Jennifer Martinez. Troy and Ingrid Webster.

Allyson Seligman, Samantha Duncan and Pam Rada. Cyndi and Michael Napoleone.

Sunshine Kessler and Michael Glikes.

Rebecca Baldridge and Ryan Keser.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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.

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!*

POLO PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL HONORS BUSINESS PARTNERS & VOLUNTEERS

On Wednesday, April 12, Polo Park Middle School hosted its first Business Partners and Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast since the pandemic began three years ago. About 30 people were in attendance and got treated to muffins, bagels, fruit, pastries, coffee and tea. School partners and volunteers were recognized with certificates and gifts for their help over the past year.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Business partners and volunteers are acknowledged for all their support during the school year.

Former PBSO Chief Deputy Michael Gauger Files To Run For PBC Sheriff

Former Palm Beach County

Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Michael Gauger, a longtime Wellington resident, has filed to run for Palm Beach County sheriff in the 2024 election cycle. Gauger, a Republican, is challenging five-term incumbent Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, a Democrat, who is planning to seek a sixth term.

In his distinguished, decadeslong career at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Gauger earned promotions from deputy to detective, then sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major and colonel, before being named chief deputy.

As the PBSO’s second in command from 2005 until his retirement in 2021, Gauger was responsible for an annual budget of

Tuttle Moving Forward

continued from page 1 include Lululemon, Anthropologie and Sephora. Tuttle explained that of the top 20 retailers, 10 of them

Great American Cleanup In RPB

The Village of Royal Palm Beach will hold a National Great American Cleanup event on Saturday, April 29 from 8 a.m. to noon. Civic organizations, scout groups, students, retirees and everyone else who is interested in participating are welcome as part of the National Great American Cleanup helping to keep Royal Palm Beach beautiful.

This event will take place at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center, located at 100 Sweet Bay Lane. Come to the Recreation Center at 7:30 a.m. to sign up and get a safety vest, gloves, pick-up tool and bags, and join the group as they work together to maintain the appearance and health of the community. Refreshments will be served after the event.

For more information, contact Michael Cheatham at the Public Works Department at (561) 7905199.

Wellington Free Hurricane Expo Set For May 6

In preparation for the Atlantic hurricane season, Wellington invites the community to a free Hurricane Expo at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Saturday, May 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with exhibitors and receive information on hurricane preparedness.

During the expo, attendees will learn about trusted sources of information during a storm, as well as how to prepare their families and home for severe weather.

The expo will also feature 20 vendors and presentations covering important safety topics, including a preview of the upcoming hurricane season.

Presenters include: Florida Power & Light’s Ilan Kuafer; a Homeowners’ Insurance Updates by Anne-Marie Batten of Allstate Insurance; a National Weather Service 2023 Hurricane Season Outlook by meteorologist

$594 million with a staff composition upward of 3,200 employees (1,560-plus sworn officers and 1,730-plus non-sworn personnel), as well as a corrections budget of $154 million with a staff of more than 700 sworn personnel.

Gauger has a long history of community involvement. He currently serves as an advisory board member of the Comprehensive Alcoholism Rehabilitation Programs Inc. (CARP), a director and past chair of the Law Enforcement Assistance Foundation (LEAF) and a trustee of the South Florida Fair, to name just a few.

Additional notable positions formerly held by Gauger include director of the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, board member and

are expected to be in this center. The idea is to bring a new and fresh design concept to Florida, he said, where the community can stay local for fun instead of driving downtown or to other areas. After the landscape waivers were approved unanimously, planner Lentzy Jean-Louis of Urban

chair of Families First of Palm Beach County, chair and board member of the Southeast Florida Behavioral Network, and chair of the board of trustees at JFK Hospital.

Passionate about lifelong learning, Gauger has continuously pursued continuing educational opportunities throughout his career. He holds a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and a master’s degree in social work from Barry University. He is also a graduate of the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government - Senior Executives in State and Local Government, the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville, and Leadership Palm Beach County.

Design Studio came forward with drawings and additional designs of how this new mixed-use space will look and feel.

“There is an impetus and a focus on creating this connectivity that everyone can traverse this site safely and have a great experience,” he said as he showed drawings of both

NEWS BRIEFS

Robert Molleda; American Red Cross Palm Beach and Treasure Coast Executive Director Eric Roby; Solid Waste Authority Chief Operating Officer Patrick Carrol; Michael Jankowski of the Palm Beach County Emergency Management Shelters and Special Needs Registry; and a Wellington Flood Control Seminar by Village Engineer Jonathan Reinsvold.

The expo will also have emergency vehicles on display from the American Red Cross and FPL, along with an interactive photo booth. Free disaster supply kits will be provided while supplies last, sponsored by Ceres Environmental Services, FPL and the Solid Waste Authority. For more info., call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/hurricane.

National Sweet Corn-Eating Championship Set For April 30

Top-ranked competitive eaters from around the nation will converge for the 19th annual National Sweet Corn-Eating Championship during the 23rd annual South Florida Sweet Corn Fiesta on Sunday, April 30 at 3 p.m.

Sponsored by the Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida, the event will take place in Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.). In addition to the Corn-Eating Championship title, a $6,100 prize purse is on the line for competitors.

Reigning champ Gideon Oji will return to defend his title against some of the world’s greatest eaters while attempting to beat Carmen Cincotti’s world record of 61.75 ears in 12 minutes. Last year, Oji claimed a narrow victory with 54 ears of corn — just 1.6 ears more than No. 4-ranked competitive eater Nick Wehry.

“Wehry has earned his title as one of the greatest in the world, and he is currently on a winning streak that he will fight Oji to maintain,” Major League Eating Chair George Shea said. “The world is anxious to see who will emerge victorious from one of the

most difficult eating disciplines on the circuit.”

The annual South Florida Sweet Corn Fiesta will also feature a children’s corn-shucking contest and offer festivities, including children’s rides, live music performances and all things corn from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The annual South Florida Sweet Corn Fiesta, presented by the Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau, is buttered with a family festival of children’s games, music, a national eating competition and plenty of mouth-watering and locally grown sweet corn. Learn more at www.facebook.com/ sweetcornfiesta.

TAP To Hold Auditions For ‘School Of Rock’

Theatre Arts Productions will hold auditions for School Of Rock

The Musical on Friday, April 21 from 3:30 to 8:30 p.m. with call backs on Sunday, April 23 from noon to 5 p.m. All roles are open. Schedule a time slot as soon as possible.

Ages 5 to 80-plus are welcome. For the audition, prepare 16 bars of a song and be prepared to do some acting.

Rehearsals will be held May through August on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5 to 8:30 p.m., and performances are Aug. 4-6 in Wellington.

The show is directed and choreographed by Jaycie Cohen with musical direction by Dorothy Romano. Spots are filling up quickly, but no roles have been cast yet.

To schedule an audition, or for more information, contact Theatre Arts Productions (TAP) at tapstars. info@gmail.com or (561) 5688659. Visit www.tapstars.org to learn more.

Children’s Home Society Run/Walk At Okeeheelee

Gauger is the recipient of numerous community-based awards. Some of his most distinguished honors include Governmental Official of the Year from the Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce, the Trailblazer Award from the Urban League of Palm Beach County, the Citizen of the Year Award from the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and the Nettie Finkle Award from the Town of Palm Beach United Way, among many others.

“I look forward to continuing my service to the people of Palm Beach County as your new sheriff,” Gauger said. “I will draw from my decades of experience working with every department of the PBSO in addressing the issues important to our residents,

traditional and elevated pedestrian pathways that connect the entire site. “What we really want it to be designed for is that open space in the middle for events such as car shows and food trucks. Really bring people out with their families and friends to these events and make it a social center.”

ety of Florida at the For the Love of Children 5K Run/Walk and Fun Run for Kids benefiting the Children’s Home Society of Florida on Saturday, April 22 at 7:30 a.m. at Okeeheelee Park’s Micanopy Pavilion.

The registration fee is $40 and free for kids 12 and under, sponsored by KidsStride Run Club. Learn more at www.chs5k.org.

Funds raised at the 20th annual For the Love of Children 5K Run/ Walk will help keep families safe, strong and together. Programs to benefit include adoptions, mentoring, teen outreach, and child abuse intervention and prevention.

On the front lines since 1902, the Children’s Home Society of Florida is the oldest and largest statewide organization devoted to helping children and families. CHS is driving child well-being in Palm Beach County through innovative core solutions in child welfare, mental health counseling, early childhood education and more. Learn more at www. chsfl.org.

Genealogical Society Virtual Meeting April 25

The Genealogical Society of Palm Beach County will host “Introduction to Family Tree Maker” on Tuesday, April 25 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom. Visit the calendar section at www.gensocofpbc.org for the link.

This free virtual event will be presented by Family Tree Maker ambassador Mark Olsen. He will take attendees through all aspects of the FTM software. He will also discuss FTM partner products. Questions from the audience will be welcomed in this class for all levels of genealogical researchers. One lucky attendee will also win a door prize: a copy of Family Tree Maker 19.

The Genealogical Society of Palm Beach County maintains a genealogical library, provides instruction and promotes scholarly research. For more information, contact the GSPBC at (561) 6163455, ancestry@gensocofpbc.org or visit www.gensocofpbc.org.

and I will apply my extensive community involvement experience in advocating for and engaging with issues related to mental health and substance abuse rehabilitation, bringing fresh ideas and a more comprehensive approach to law enforcement.”

The filing deadline for next year’s sheriff’s race is still more than a year away. Bradshaw has not yet filed for re-election, although he has said that he plans to run. Aside from Gauger, Lauro Diaz has also filed to run as a Republican. Diaz lost to Bradshaw in the 2020 general election. Democrat Alex Freeman, who lost to Bradshaw in the 2020 primary election, has also filed to run in 2024.

This project also comes with uniformed security guards that will always be roaming the space, with extra support on the weekends and at special events. There will be security cameras throughout the entire center. The plan is to have everything that the community needs in one area, from a dog park and fire pit to splash pads for kids and yoga in the park. The commissioners supported all the requests.

“This project is my legacy,” Tuttle said. “This is my kids’ legacy. We are going to make it work, and we are going to make it perfect.”

In other business, Royal Palm Beach’s Art in Public Places program moved forward with a new sculpture presented for placement in the Cypress Key project on the north side of Southern Blvd. Applicant Boulevard Shoppes

LLC received a recommendation for approval to install a 13-foot, 6-inch tall sculpture by artist Lucy Keshavarz. The work, titled “Ring Canopy,” is an aluminum piece 6-feet wide and 6-feet deep, covered in a bright white gloss powder coat. “It demonstrates an intricate and elegant arrangement of rings and beams of the sculpture that act as an abstract rendition of the natural environment,” Public Art Professional Mario Lopez Pisani said. “The rings of the sculpture especially represent the complex play of light and shapes observable in the canopy of a tree.”

A similar piece is currently on display in Clearwater, Florida. The request was approved unanimously.

“I think this art looks wonderful and impressive,” Commissioner Adam Miller said.

Wellington Garden Club Celebrates Earth Day With Plant Sale And Specialty Flower Show

The Wellington Garden Club will celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day in conjunction with the Village of Wellington on Saturday, April 22 at the Town Center Promenade and the Wellington Community Center at 12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd. This free day of fun and learning will include a plant sale outdoors on the promenade and a Horticulture Specialty Flower Show

“Earth Day… Every Day” indoors at the community center.

The Horticulture Specialty Flower Show, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Lakeview Room. The show will feature a wide variety of potted and cut horticultural specimens, as well as botanical arts horticulture, educational exhibits, and plants grown by the Greenacres Junior Garden Club and the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. All exhibits

will be judged by National Garden Clubs (NGC) accredited judges with awards given to exhibitors having the most outstanding horticultural specimens.

The plant sale on the promenade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. will include fabulous plants from Florida nurseries and plants grown by Wellington Garden Club members. Items include Florida native plants, perennials for sun and shade, butterfly plants and annuals for home garden enthusiasts.

In addition, there will be master gardeners available for questions, a plant raffle and a special craft table for children. Proceeds from the plant sale benefit the club’s youth programs, scholarships, civic beautification and environmental efforts.

For more information, visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org or find the club on Facebook.

Board members Jackie Diaz, Pallavi Singh, Allison Browning, Jennifer Pollak, Christina Sullivan, Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig, Aimee Croatti, Corynn Poirrier, Principal Dr. Jennifer Galindo, Laura Davis and Ren Araujo.

Volunteers Heba Gabry, Emily Knowles, Rodger Pollak, Jennifer Pollak, Diane Prince, Janice Graham Neal, David Bartolucci and Christy Bartolucci.

Business Partners: (L-R) Polo Park Middle School Principal Dr. Jennifer Galindo, Prince Wayne, Nicholas Pinto, Alessandra Minardo, PTSA President Jennifer Pollak, Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig, Sheryl Wilk, PTSA Vice President Christina Sullivan, Scott Edelsberg, Nick Massimino and Chris Seal.

Principal Dr. Jennifer Galindo speaks to guests as PTSA President Jennifer Pollak and Vice President Christina Sullivan look on.

PTSA Vice President of Business Partners Christina Sullivan thanks attendees as the PTSA President Jennifer Pollak looks on.

Michael Gauger

(Left) Carol Ralph and Huguette Damas select plants for the plant sale. (Right) Petra Russell, Stormi Bivin and Caroline Kessman prepare horticulture specimens for the show.

‘A DAY FOR KIDS’ MARKS 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

In honor of the 10th anniversary of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington, the club partnered with the Village of Wellington and the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce to present “A Day For Kids” on Saturday, April 15. The event included free food, slides, free shirts, Kona ice, a foam party, face painting, laser tag, video games, music, local vendors and more.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Kids

Rotary’s ‘Kids Count Raffle’ A Success

The Rotary Club of Wellington held its annual Kids Count Raffle on Thursday, April 13 at the Wanderers Club. Club members sold all 300 of the $100 tickets, with member Tom Carreras selling more than 60 tickets.

The $5,000 cash prize was sponsored by the personal injury law firm of Lesser, Lesser, Landy and

Smith. This sponsorship allowed the entire $30,000 raised by the raffle to be used for initiatives to help local children. “It is a great, feel good project,” said Mickey Smith, chair of the club’s raffle committee, “and who doesn’t enjoy a raffle?”

Mayor Anne Gerwig gave her “State of the Village” talk to the

club and drew the winning ticket. Those interested in learning more about the club can visit www. wellingtonrotary.org.

ALA Concert Series Will Continue On April 23 At Acreage Community Park

The Acreage Landowners’ Association Rock Your Park Concert Spring Series started off with an awesome turnout and fantastic music in March. The band “Beer For My Horses: A Toby Keith Tribute” was a great start to the short series. The next show will be on Sunday, April 23 featuring the Mr. Nice Guy Band. Formed in 2002, they play a variety of classic rock. Vendors, a kids’ zone and food trucks will start the event off at 5 p.m. The music will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Acreage Community Park. The next date will be Sunday, May 28 featuring a band to be announced. Vendors and sponsors are needed. The ALA is also planning for the upcoming 2023-24 season and

Beer For My Horses: A Toby Keith Tribute performs at the March ALA concert.

looking for sponsorships to continue with these shows. For more information, e-mail alaeventsco@ acreagelandowners.com.

Village officials gather with Boys & Girls Club representatives.

Cadet #24205 Troop Leader Winny Dorce-Evans, Ella Evans, Tamara Almasoodi, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Alissa Anderson and Taylor Browning.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Jaene Miranda, former Wellington Councilman John Greene, Dr. Laura DeLuca Hirsch and former State Rep. Matt Willhite.

Marcella Montesinos with John and Julie Kime.

PBSO Lt. Robert Humphrey, Jaene Miranda, Deputy Charles Bahruth with therapy dog Lars, who is being petted by Jayla Fugge.

B&G Club Youth of the Year Alonza Lloyd addresses the gathering.

have fun in the foam pit.

Kassidy Jackson gets her face painted by Noelle Dibble.

Club members Don Gross, Walter Imperatore and Mickey Smith.

Mayor Anne Gerwig draws the winning ticket.

Food allergies can cause a variety of symptoms in children

What is a food allergy?

A food allergy is an abnormal immune system response which occurs when the body mistakes an ingredient in food – usually a protein – as harmful.

The reaction typically occurs shortly after the food is ingested and reactions can vary from mild to severe. Individuals with food allergies are advised to strictly avoid the offending foods in order to avoid a potentially serious life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.

Milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish and shellfish are responsible for 90 percent of food allergies in children.

“Any food may cause an allergic reaction, but some food allergies are much more common than others,” says Arnaldo Perez, MD, a Cleveland Clinic Florida allergy and immunology specialist who practices at the Cleveland Clinic Florida locations in Wellington and Coral Springs. “Eight foods – milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, soy, tree nuts, fish and shellfish – are responsible for 90 percent of food allergies in children.”

What are the symptoms of a food allergy?

Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe. These may include:

• Skin problems: rash, hives, swelling, itching

• Stomach problems: cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Respiratory symptoms: shortness of breath, cough or wheezing

TALK WITH AN EXPERT.

Anaphylaxis is a very serious allergic reaction that is quick in onset. It can involve a number of symptoms including an itchy rash, throat swelling or a drop in blood pressure; if untreated, it can even result in death.

What should I do if I think my child has a food allergy? If your child has symptoms that indicate an allergy to a particular food, keep that food out of your child’s diet and discuss the symptoms with your child’s pediatrician right away. Your child’s pediatrician may refer you to an allergist who can help you confirm whether your child has a true food allergy and if strict avoidance of the offending food is necessary.

Physicians in Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Department of Allergy and Immunology treat patients with a wide range of allergic and immunologic disorders, from asthma to food and skin allergies. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Perez or another Cleveland Clinic Florida allergy specialist, call 877.463.2010 or visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Access.

SOUTH FLORIDA’S #1 HOSPITAL FIVE YEARS IN A ROW

We’re proud of the care we deliver. For routine checkups. For life-enhancing treatments. For every care in the world.

Arnaldo Perez, MD Allergy and Clinical Immunology

PET SUPPLIES PLUS IN ROYAL PALM HOSTS EASTER PARTY FOR CUSTOMERS

Pets like getting holiday treats as much as any family member, and Pet Supplies Plus gave patrons an opportunity to have some family fun on Saturday, April 8. In addition to great deals, the Easter Bunny was on site for photos with both kids and pets, customers could spin for prizes, and there were adoption opportunities from Barky Pines and Ali Cat Rescue. Pet Supplies Plus is located at 11051 Southern Blvd., Suite 160, in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping plaza.

Minto Opens Final Phase Of $22 Million Adventure Park In Westlake

Minto Communities USA has unveiled its newest amenities in the community of Westlake. The award-winning developer/builder has completed construction of the final phase of its $22 million resort-style Westlake Adventure Park, the centerpiece for social gatherings and activities at the 3,800-acre master-planned community.

On Wednesday, March 29, Westlake and Palm Beach County officials, and other invited guests, joined the Minto team to officially dedicate the new amenity spaces with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception. A grand opening event for residents took place the following Friday with live music, food trucks, a basketball trick shots demonstration and more.

“Our goal from the very begin-

ning 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 said. “It’s gratifying to see our full vision for the Westlake Adventure Park come to fruition for the benefit of our residents.”

The newly opened amenities include four full-length, lighted basketball courts, a lap pool for adults only, and a versatile multi-purpose building called the Lodge, designed for community meetings, activities and social events. The 8,386-square-foot Lodge can be configured as one large space or divided into three separate rooms. It is equipped with a state-ofthe-art catering kitchen, a large retractable movie screen with 4K projection for movie nights, and a

sound system that can pipe music within the building or throughout the entire park. The Lodge building opens to a large, covered patio that is connected to the Lodge Lawn, a spacious outdoor gathering area with synthetic turf for special events, lawn games and parties.

The original section of the Westlake Adventure Park was completed in 2019. It features a large, resort-style lagoon pool with a tower water slide, a splash pad, and the Snack Shack and Scoops Ice Cream poolside concessions. Other amenities include a BMX pump park, children’s playground, an expansive lawn area with a concert pavilion for community events, bocce ball courts, barbecue grilling stations, a dog park and a food truck court that is adjacent to the new Lodge Lawn.

Westlake Councilwoman Pilar Valle Ron, Palm Beach County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Minto Vice President John Carter, Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor, Westlake Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard and Westlake Vice Mayor Greg Langowski at the March 29 ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Minto Vice President John Carter with Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor.

VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH PUBLIC NOTICE

The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has a vacancy for one (1) alternate member on the Planning and Zoning Commission with the term expiring in March of 2025. The Commission meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. All meetings are held in the Village Meeting Hall. If you are a resident of Royal Palm Beach and would like to volunteer your service and expertise on this local government Board, visit the Village’s website at www.royalpalmbeachfl.gov and go to Commission/Board Application to submit. Applications must be received no later than June 7, 2023 for Council consideration at its June 15th meeting.

If further information is desired, please call the Village Clerk at 790-5102.

We offer coverage for: Homes, Rental Homes, Farms, Barns, Equine Liability, Commercial, Flood and Auto We have access to more carriers than any other insurance agency in Wellington. More Realtors and mortgage lenders call us for our speed and proficiency. Quality of service of matters. Contact me to insure your peace of mind.

Bill Thomas Agency Owner,

PHOTOS BY CALLIE SHARKEY/TOWN-CRIER

Vanessa Diaz and Olivia Wojtowicz with the Easter Bunny.

Pet Supplies Plus team members Patty Foranciosi, David Bronson, Vic Cucuzza and Brycen Sink.

Max Siman with Max has Easter fun with Olivia Manzanero and Leo.

Tom Huffman and Havilah brought Mr. Chicken for some treats and fun. Kyle Sessions with Harvest 360.

Seven-year-old Amaya Brown got her face painted.

Sherry Brown with her dogs Dixie and Pomzilla.

Mary Montanaro of Barky Pines with Tootsie and Beth Beckum and Sammy Cruz.

Amanda Wood and Valdano Jean Baptiste with Homes for Heroes.

Ali Cat Rescue’s Jeannine Barr holds two kittens up for foster before adoption.

Dr. Randy Shults DDS, MA, PhD

ROYAL PALM SENIORS ENJOY THEIR OWN EGG HUNT AT RECREATION CENTER

PBSO Captain Nichole Addazio

continued from page 1 good times, and the bad times,” wishing him a wonderful retirement.

Village Manager Jim Barnes thanked Silva and the PBSO for their seamless transition, which the village has already experienced with Addazio.

Village officials also had kind words for Shaivitz, who has worked closely with Wellington on many special projects.

“Thank you all for the kind words. It really means a lot,” Shaivitz said. “On behalf of the whole District 8, we’re grateful for the support we always get from you guys... you’re in good hands.”

Addazio has been with the PBSO for 25 years, she said,

starting as a cadet and working her way through the ranks, first as a civilian, then District 1 road patrol, the organized crime bureau as a gang detective, the special victims unit as a detective and trainer for more than eight years, a road patrol sergeant, an internal affairs sergeant, a gang lieutenant and a watch commander.

At Florida Atlantic University, she studied sociology and criminology before earning her graduate degree.

“I am a long-term Palm Beach County resident, and proud of it,”

Addazio said. “This is really a full circle moment for me to come back to Wellington.”

Addazio noted that she moved to Wellington with her family at age 14. Her parents picked Wellington because it’s a safe community with great public schools.

“It is a blessing and honor that I am in this position to sit as the

commander in Wellington and ensure that public safety, now with our team at District 8 and working collaboratively with the village,” Addazio said. “I really appreciate the opportunity from the sheriff, the trust of the previous command and my current command.”

Addazio introduced PBSO Lt. Robert Humphrey, who will be taking over for Shaivitz. He has 20 years of law enforcement experience that started in Greenacres. He was in the street crimes unit, SWAT operator and instructor, general assignment investigator and was a sergeant with Greenacres and the PBSO.

“He is articulate, intelligent, he is personable, he is a go-to person, and I believe he will bring this district up to the level that Eli and Rolando were working at,” she said.

A late addition to the agenda, PBCFR District Chief Phillip

Olavarria of Battalion 2 introduced new District Chief Amanda Vomero to the council.

She will be taking over, since Olavarria has been promoted to division chief of emergency management.

Olavarria said that he has known Vomero for 22 years.

“We were actually hired together,” he said. “She is absolutely the person for the job. She’s a Wellington resident. She has been here for about 20 years, and her kids are going to school here.”

Olavarria thanked the council for welcoming him into the Wellington family over the last year, and he said he looks forward to working with the council from the emergency management side of things.

Vomero said she is excited to be working with everyone in the Wellington area.

“I have a vested interest in

Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M. COMMON CAT BEHAVIOR ISSUES

Like humans, cats experience many emotions that may affect their behavior. Many cat behaviors are seen as undesirable and can affect the quality of life for them and their owners. Fortunately, many of these behaviors can be corrected. Excessive vocalizing at night, scratching, chewing, urinary problems, aggression, obsessive-compulsive licking, and jumping on the kitchen counter are common. While some behavioral issues stem from a cat’s instincts, a medical crisis could also be the reason. It is best to consult a veterinarian to determine the source. Some issues can be as simple as switching cat litter, introducing different toys, or providing a scratching post. Cats react well to positive reinforcement, and they should never be disciplined through fear.

Cats and kittens add immeasurably to our lives in so many ways, and it’s up to us as pet owners to attend to all their needs. This includes educating ourselves as to what they need to live healthy, happy lives—a warm, safe environment; lots of playtime and TLC; nutritious food; a clean cat box; and routine preventive care. Preventive care is the cornerstone of our practice at COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH, in addition to our up-to-date medical, dental, and surgical services for small pets of all kinds. Conveniently located 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., we offer complete, state-of-the-art health care services for small pets of all kinds. Please call 798-5508 for an appointment. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

P.S. Grabbing a cat by the scruff of its neck can cause the cat pain.

the level of care and the level of service that the residents of the Village of Wellington receive,” Vomero said. “I am a resident myself, and I just want you all to be confident and to know the same level of care and same level of service that the residents have always received will continue. I am very confident in this new role that I am taking on, and I am really looking forward to working with everybody.”

McGovern noted the historic significance of both Addazio and Vomero joining the Wellington family.

“We would be remiss if we did not note, as we have just departed Women’s History Month, we have a female leader of the police, a female leader of fire-rescue and a female mayor,” McGovern said. “As the father of two daughters, that is a remarkable thing, and we are excited about it. It is history.”

Gerwig further noted that both the village clerk and village attorney are also women.

Senior citizens from Royal Palm Beach enjoyed an Easter holiday treat usually reserved for children at the Senior Egg Hunt held at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center on Wednesday, April 5. Seniors scoured the gym looking for eggs with treats, as well as special prize tickets. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Stacy Grinnell and Edward Castillo set up the eggs.

Lucky ticket holders Ray Dellorfano, Joyce McCrackan, Shakeera Thomas, Elizabeth Daniel, Hanna Weidgans, Olivia Abel, Ferdinand Hines, Claris Anderson, Maureen Wallace and Angelina Dawkins.

Victoria Gloria gets ready to hit a bunny piñata with help from Shakeera Thomas.

Seniors look for lucky tickets.

Catherine Brooks sends the candy flying.

Raffle prize winner Claris Anderson, Pedro Dominguez from sponsor Florida Blue, Shakeera Thomas and prize winner George Trautmann.

Ray Dellorfano gets help with egg gathering from Francine Bryant.

PBCFR District Chief Philip Olavarria with new District Chief Amanda Vomero.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

WELLINGTON HOSTS SENIOR CITIZENS PROM LUNCH AT COMMUNITY CENTER

Wellington Community Foundation, Wellington Florist & Wellington Cares Bring Joy To Seniors On Their Birthdays

The Wellington Community Foundation is proud to announce the continuation of Celebrating Our Seniors, a heartwarming project in partnership with Wellington Florist and Wellington Cares. Now in its sixth year, this initiative has brought countless smiles to the faces of senior citizens in Wellington by delivering exquisite floral arrangements to them on their special day.

Under the coordination of J.P. Varvarigos and his dedicated team at Wellington Florist, the foundation ensures that seniors in

the community are remembered and appreciated on their birthdays.

“We have been deeply touched by the heartfelt thank-you notes we receive from our seniors,” WCF Chair Barry Manning said. “It’s truly heartwarming to know that these small gestures of kindness brighten their day and make them feel cherished.” For many seniors, receiving a birthday card and a hand-selected bouquet of flowers delivered right to their door means the world to them. As some seniors may not have many family members or

friends as they age, knowing that they are still thought of and cared for can make a significant difference in their lives.

Diane Gutman and the compassionate volunteers at Wellington Cares, a nonprofit organization dedicated to caring for aging neighbors, work closely with the foundation to identify seniors in need and follow up to ensure that their visits go smoothly.

The Wellington Community Foundation has a longstanding partnership with Wellington Florist and Wellington Cares, collaborat-

ing on various projects, including “Celebrating Our Seniors” and “Delivering Smiles.”

The foundation is committed to continuing these meaningful initiatives to bring joy and happiness to senior citizens in the community.

If you would like to learn more about the Wellington Community Foundation, or get involved in future projects, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org and join in making a positive impact in the lives of seniors, veterans and children in Wellington.

Wood.Paper.Glass is a make and take art studio, here for all of your arts and crafts needs. You will be able to choose from a variety of fun creative art classes including stained glass, wood decor, mosaics and jewelry making to name a few. These classes are perfect for everyone from ages 1-101!

Senior citizens in Wellington got to travel back to their youth and enjoy a Senior Prom luncheon on Wednesday, April 5 at the Wellington Community Center. Wellington Regional Medical Center sponsored lunch from Agliolio, while Prominence Insurance sponsored the dessert table.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Prom King Joe Clancy and Prom Queen Maria Anatra.

Wellington staff members (front) Antonella Seorele and Ian Williams, and (back) Aixa Bucca, Heather Navarro, Kyle Ostroff, Jenifer Brito, Markus Lockhart, Gus Ponce and James Smith.

Johnny T provided entertainment.

Maureen May, Myron May, Linda Whitfield, Nancy Salviola, Rick Scofield, Katie Batten and Eileen Biernat.

Maria Anatra is crowned Prom Queen as Jenifer Brito looks on.

Kyle Ostroff and Pat Tormey.

Arlene Morosco of Prominence Insurance sponsored the dessert table.

Yvonne Bembenek with Patty and Ken Klammer.

Stacie Allyn, Roberta Jacobs, Prom Queen Maria Anatra, Sylvia Dudley, Ronnie Castiglia and Judith Lauro.

WCF Director Don Gross, WCF Vice Chair Jim Sackett, Wellington Florist owner J.P. Varvarigos, WCF Chair Barry Manning, WCF Director Pam Tahan and WCF Director Herta Suess with the check from the foundation to Wellington Florist to cover the delivery cost of the Celebrating Our Seniors floral arrangements sponsored by Melinda and J.P. Varvarigos.

TEMPLE BETH TORAH HONORS MEMBERS ERIC AND ROBIN FORTE AT GALA

Temple Beth Torah held its annual gala on Saturday, April 15 at the Wellington National Golf Club. The theme was Black & White, and guests enjoyed festive entertainment, a variety of wines and specialty cocktails, and delicious cuisine. The food and wine were paired with great music, casino games and a silent auction. At the event, the temple honored members Eric and Robin Forti with the Temple Beth Torah 2023 Gala Service Award. Eric is the current vice president of the temple, while Robin is a teacher in both the preschool and religious school. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Delmar Farm in Loxahatchee held its Storybook Easter fundraiser on Saturday, April 8 with 110 children and their families in attendance. The day included an enchanted forest with all the Alice in Wonderland characters, along with a tea party setting with crafts for the children, croquet with other games, a bunny trail leading to Peter Rabbit and his mother, bouncy balls for the kids to ride on, story time with Snow White, and, of course, pony rides, miniature horses and farm animals. It was all topped off with a visit from the Easter Bunny and an Easter egg hunt. Learn more about Delmar Farm at www.delmarfarm.org.

Rabbi Erica and Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz, honorees Robin and Eric Forti, Robin and Lee Kantor, Cantor Rachel Slusky andJake Harris.

Rhoda Hasson and Stefany Eberhart on the dance floor.

K.C. Cook, Jodi Beyer and Vicki Ward.

Todd and Debra Barron with Brenna and Michael Barron.

David and Alice Rosenblatt with Beth and Louis Eisenberg.

Honorees Eric and Robin Forti with Pam Tahan and Jeremy Ring.

Alice Rosenblatt and Beth Eisenberg. Pam Tahan and Jillian Loss. Jill and Joshua Cohen at a casino table.

HUNDREDS ON HAND TO PARTICIPATE IN WELLINGTON’S ANNUAL EGG HUNT

The Village of Wellington held its annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8 at Village Park. Thousands of eggs were laid out over the baseball fields for children to find at the Easter-themed event. The kids were split into four age groups: two and under along with those in need of special accommodations, ages three to four, ages five to seven, and ages eight to 10. Hundreds of children and their families were in search of pink bunny tickets hidden inside the eggs. Anyone finding one of these eggs received a special prize. Also, Christ Fellowship Church was there handing out free ice cream sandwiches.

William (Bill) Roy Petersen October 4, 1960 ~April 14th 2023

William (Bill) Roy Petersen, 62, of Royal Palm Beach, Florida passed away on April 14th 2023. Bill was born in Tampa, Florida to Robert and Gladys Petersen on October 4, 1960. He went to school at King High School and Hillsborough Community College in Tampa. He married Ann Parks on June 24, 1989 at First United Methodist Church in Tampa. He worked as a Building Maintenance Technician for various companies for 20 years.

He was a veteran and served in the Marine Corps and the Coast Guard. While doing so, he was awarded numerous medals. Bill was a member of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church and spent many years coaching his children in various sports. Bill is preceded in death by his parents. Bill is survived by his wife, Ann; children Brandy Cruzado, Son in law Jesus Cruzado, Beau Petersen and Brett LaFrance and son in law Jeremiah LaFrance. He has one grandson, Derek William Cruzado.

A Celebration of Life was held April 19th at St. Peters United Methodist Church. Memorials may be given to CROS Ministries, Wounded Warriors or any Veterans Group.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Luca Napoleone, Councilman Michael Napoleone, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Councilman John McGovern, Victoria McGovern, Emilia McGovern, Vice Mayor Michael Drahos and Julia Drahos.

Cain Diaz, Jessica Diaz and Dr. Scott Meier of Meier & Benitez Orthodontics hand out ice pops.

William Artheor with his opened eggs.

Natalia and Mariangel Hernandez sort through their egg treasures.

The Dillard family goes through some of the many eggs they collected.

Victoria McGovern sounds the horn to start Wellington’s Egg Hunt.

Elliana Zajac, 2, examines an Easter egg.

Hector Sanchez of Christ Fellowship Church hands out ice cream sandwiches.

Polina Tymoshenko shows off her Easter basket.

Sofie and Valentina Echenagucia, 4, are all dressed up and have their Easter baskets ready.

Mia and Amy Davis take a picture with the Easter Bunny.

Hanny and Helan Armas with their eggs.

Charlie and Capri Thompson, 3, at the egg hunt.

Colton Artheor sorts through egg treasures.

Emily Maria Santana, 2, collects her share of Easter eggs.

PBCHS Baseball Team Focused On Improving Fundamentals

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

As the regular season draws to a close, the Palm Beach Central High School boys varsity baseball team is busy working to get physically stronger, more mentally alert and playing better defense.

According to PBCHS head baseball coach Tony Gullo, his squad is trying to finish the regular season in the way it started the season.

“Despite losing 12 seniors from last year’s team, we got off to a good start this season with four straight wins, and then we hit a few bumps in the road,” said Gullo, whose team sports a 10-8 record.

“Frankly, there have been at least four games this season that we should have won.”

Despite the up-and-down nature of the current season, Gullo and his coaching staff remain committed to getting the players to finish the regular season strong and to have a long postseason run with strong performances in the batter’s box, while running the bases and playing a tough defense.

According to Gullo, the biggest reason why his team doesn’t have more victories this season has been inconsistent play on defense.

“You can’t give teams extra outs, but we are committed to getting better,” Gullo said. “We

are still working on improving our defense. Our program has always prided itself on playing good defense.”

In recent games, Gullo noted that a number of his players have found their stroke with their bats.

“Ryan Schulman is hitting .347, Zach Pollock is hitting .340, Kyle Baxt’s average is up to .328 and Jake Carman is hitting .318,” Gullo said. “And freshman catcher Slade Wayne has caught some big games for us and had some big hits.”

During Palm Beach Central’s 5-4 win against Palm Beach Gardens High School on April 14, the Bronco bats came alive late in the

game to rally with four runs in the last two innings for the victory.

Gullo has a strong feeling that win will catapult his team in the right direction for the final five games of the regular season.

In addition to playing better team defense, Gullo said that his pitching staff also needs strong performances.

Three of Palm Beach Central’s pitchers have extremely low earned run averages (ERAs).

Gavin Batallan has an ERA of 0.93 in 15 innings of work; Hector Camacho’s ERA is 1.23; and Ryan Schulman has an ERA of 1.65. In addition, senior David Urrutia has been able to get some

big outs while on the mound. Urrutia also plays third base and catches.

“David is a good pitcher, and while catching, he has done a good job of controlling the game,” Gullo said.

Fortunately, Gullo has great pitching depth this year with 11 players on the team who have pitched at least 12 innings this season.

“We have been pitching by committee,” he said.

While Gullo may be the team’s head coach, he’s thankful to have such a dedicated group of assistant coaches that includes Brad Peacock, Lou Todaro, Ryan An-

Not only is Peacock a former Palm Beach Central baseball player, he went on to play 16 years of professional baseball, which included seven years with Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros.

“It’s great to have a coach on my staff with big league experience,” Gullo said. “Brad is such a cerebral mind. He works well with the players. Lou has a ton of energy, lots of baseball knowledge and is a great batting practice thrower. Christian is an invaluable member of my staff, and Ryan will do whatever I need him to do to help our team get better.”

Wellington Landings Squad

Wins County Girls Soccer Title

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

For the second straight year, the Wellington Landings Middle School girls soccer team (11-1-1) has won the Palm Beach County middle school soccer championship.

The big win — a 3-0 victory over Don Estridge Middle School — took place on Tuesday, April 11 at Village Park in Wellington.

Wellington Landings also defeated Don Estridge in last year’s county final, 2-0. For Caitlin Waites, head coach of the Wellington Landings Middle School’s girls soccer team, it was

her second county championship victory in as many seasons as the team’s leader.

In the championship match, the twin-sister tandem of Ella and Isla Oldham accounted for all three of the goals for Wellington Landings. Ella scored twice, while Isla scored once.

The two goalkeepers for Wellington Landings — seventh grader Sydni Ibana and eighth grader Eleanor Kelley — combined to keep Don Estridge at bay.

“My keepers are both returning players,” said Waites, who teaches language arts and physical education at Wellington Land-

ings. “I tried to split the games between the girls by quarters or by halves. Once we got into the playoffs, Sydni started every game, and Eleanor came in during the second half. Two of our three playoff games went into penalty kicks. Eleanor had all the confidence in the world to stop them, and she did in both games. She stopped two penalty kicks in each game, helping us claim the victory.”

Their job was made easier by strong defensive performances by teammates Marleigh Suniga (eighth grade), Kaylee KendSEE WLMS Soccer, page 23

Wellington’s Scarlett Stephens Advances To States In Tennis

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington High School sophomore Scarlett Stephens began the current high school tennis season as a member of her school’s varsity tennis team. Now, she represents the entire team as the only member of the squad still playing for the Wolverines in the state tennis tournament.

On Tuesday, April 11, Stephens earned a trip to this year’s Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Class 4A state tennis tournament when she won the local district title by defeating Jupiter High School’s Gabriella Michels (6-3, 6-3). That district final match was played at Palm Beach Central High School.

According to Stephens, one of the keys to her success in the match against Michels was being able to effectively adapt to the weather.

“I felt that I adjusted well to the

conditions, as it was quite windy,” said Stephens, who just turned 16.

“I didn’t commit any double faults the entire match.”

This will be Stephens’ second-straight trip to the FHSAA’s Class 4A state tennis tournament. Stephens, who was an all-area first-team selection last year, will be joined by 15 other district champions at the Class 4A state tournament.

This year’s Class 4A tennis finals will be held at Sanlando Park near Orlando on April 2627. To become the Class 4A girls state singles champion, Stephens will need to win four matches in two days.

To succeed, Stephens will focus on enjoying the experience and executing basic fundamentals.

“I need to appreciate every moment of each match,” said Stephens, who plays with a Wilson Ultra racquet. “On the court,

I need to relax and make sure I don’t rush my shots. I also must work on keeping my feet moving during every point.”

Stephens also indicated that she plans to bring a small chair so she can sit down and rest when she is changing sides of the court after every other game.

This is the fifth time that somebody in Stephens’ family has won a district tennis title in Palm Beach County — all while playing for Wellington High School. In addition to Stephens’ success at the district tournament this year, she won both district singles and doubles last year.

In 2000, Stephens’ father, Luke, won the district and team district titles. In 1997, Luke was part of a district team title at WHS. And, in 1991, Paul Stephens, Scarlett’s uncle, won a district singles title when he played for the Wolverines.

Wellington High School sophomore Scarlett Stephens on the tennis court.

PHOTO BY LUKE STEPHENS

schuetz and Christian Benhart.

Bronco pitchers (L-R) Gavin Batallan, Hector Camacho, Ryan Schulman and David Urrutia. PHOTOS COURTESY TONY GULLO

The Palm Beach Central High School boys varsity baseball team.

The Wellington Landings Middle School girls soccer team celebrates their county title victory.

Iconica’s Impressive Performance Earns Team Super-Series Title

The first Florida Circuit 16-Goal Super-Series Championship came to an electrifying conclusion on Sunday, April 9 at the National Polo Center-Wellington. The title match brought together the dominant Iconica team (Maureen Brennan, Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez, Lucas “Luckitas” Criado and Santos Merlos) and late competition qualifier La Fe (Rufino Merlos, Robi Bilbao, Francisco Elizalde and Louis Devaleix). Generating an early lead in the second chukker, Iconica kept their eyes on the prize and never wavered, maintaining the lead throughout the remainder of the game to grasp a triumphant 14-11 victory.

An innovative and unique addition to the Florida winter season, the inaugural 16-Goal Super-Series offered teams the opportunity to qualify for the championship by winning one of four qualifiers: the Joe Barry Memorial, the Ylvisaker Cup, the Iglehart Cup and the Continental Cup. Making waves early on, Iconica captured the first three trophies, raising the Joe Barry Memorial Cup, the Ylvisaker Cup and the Iglehart Cup. Their wins in multiple qualifiers not only guaranteed them a place in the championship, but also allowed them to advance directly to the championship final.

A strong team throughout the competition, La Fe played in all four of the qualifiers. In the first three qualifiers, La Fe fell in the

WLMS Soccer County Champs

continued from page 21 all (seventh grade), Mia Ciezak (eighth grade) and Parker Leimberger (sixth grade).

“The girls worked together and made sure to stop the majority of the shots from even getting to our keepers,” Waites said. According to Waites, the entire team, even the non-starters, worked together from the beginning of the season and throughout the championship game.

“Every single one of them earned the title of back-to-back champions when it comes to this team,” Waites said. “I have been very lucky to not only be their coach, but to be a small part of their lives watching them grow as players and young ladies. This age can be difficult with finding a

semifinals. In the Continental Cup, held at the Sarasota Polo Club, La Fe sailed to a 4-0 record and ultimately defeated G-Squared 14-10 to earn their place in the Super-Series semifinal.

In the singular semifinal, La Fe met BTA. Originally, BTA and Dundas were set to compete in a shootout to determine the last semifinalist, as both competitors had been runners-up to Iconica in qualifiers. Unfortunately, Dundas removed themselves from the competition due to a player injury, allowing BTA to advance directly to the semifinal. Both teams performed well, with La Fe ending with the edge, defeating BTA 13-9 to advance to the title match.

“We’ve played against them a couple times, and we most of the time try to stay to our style of playing,” Iconica’s team owner Brennan said of La Fe. “They have a very specific style that we obviously have to deal with, but we made changes about two or three times today. Which, I think is a good thing to do as a team, to be fluid and be able to adapt and change as things are going on the field. I think our ability to do that quickly helps us. We always have a Plan A and a Plan B. We went to both of them today.”

Gonzalez also noted how his team observed La Fe’s semifinal game to better understand their playing style. “We went to the game, and we met yesterday after-

group of girls who mesh well all the way around, and for the last two years, that’s exactly what this team has had.”

According to Waites, her players are great teammates on the field and remain in sync with one another off the field.

“Both years, I have had an amazing team full of girls with heart and the desire to win,” Waites said. “Every practice, every game and every team bonding experience allowed us to produce the season we had. Our team breakfasts on game days were a huge way for the girls to bond, especially at the beginning of the season. It allowed them to come out of their comfort zone and talk to each other about other things besides soccer. I love watching them laugh and joke around and hype each other up on game days. It truly is a special team to be part of. I am so incredibly proud of this team and what they have accomplished.”

noon in Maureen’s barn to watch their game again and watch a little bit the last time we played them to see how we were going to prepare the game for today,” he said.

Starting with a one-goal handicap advantage, field goals from Iconica’s Criado and Merlos offset three from La Fe’s Bilbao to end the first chukker tied 3-3. Iconica led the remainder of the game. Between the second and third chukkers, Gonzalez, Criado and Santos Merlos contributed a total of six goals, while La Fe was only able to respond with three from the mallet of Elizalde, keeping Iconica safely in the lead 9-6.

Entering the second half, goals from Gonzalez and Elizalde maintained Iconica’s 10-7 advantage in the fourth. Similarly in the fifth, two goals on each side canceled each other out, leaving Iconica ahead 12-9 headed into the final chukker. As time wound down, Elizalde heroically scored twice, one off a penalty conversion and another field goal to bring La Fe within one of Iconica. Determined not to let this final 16-goal match slip through their fingers, Gonzalez and Criado each responded with a field goal of their own. Creating an insurmountable distance between the two teams, Iconica secured the 14-11 victory and inaugural Florida Circuit 16-Goal Super-Series Championship title.

The win solidified an impressive 16-1 series record for Iconica.

“A 16-1 record doesn’t come around often,” Brennan said. “My ultimate goal was to win this, but I can’t believe how we did it. To win three tournaments and then this. I didn’t say this to anybody before, but it’s like, ‘If we don’t win today, it feels like that negates everything.’ And that’s not true but, it would feel that way, so I was like, ‘There’s no way we’re going to lose today.’ These guys deserved it.”

An unusual format for a tournament, since Iconica did not play in the fourth qualifier, the team went nearly a month without practicing or competing together. This large period of time away from one another makes their dominant performance all the more impressive. Discussing the last time they played together, the Iglehart Cup Final on Saturday, March 11, and how they used the time in between to prepare individually, Brennan said, “It was four weeks ago, actually. I think March 11 was our last final together as a team. I literally did nothing but practice this entire time. Unfortunately, my three best horses ended up back in the locker room for today. So, I was a little stressed myself, not being as mounted as I normally could be and having that time off. But, as you know, both Peke and Luckitas have been playing with Valiente [in the U.S. Open Polo Championship], so they’ve been in rhythm. Thank goodness! It

Iconica won the 2023 Florida Circuit 16-Goal Super-Series Championship. Shown (L-R) are Maureen Brennan, Peke Gonzalez, Lucas “Luckitas” Criado Jr. and Santos Merlos. PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

has been really helpful. And when Santos went back to Argentina for these weeks, he has been playing the whole time there. As a team, we practiced on Thursday, and that was our only time together as a group since back on March 11.”

Brennan also thanked the efforts of Iconica’s coaching team, including Sebastian Merlos, Mariano Gonzalez and Francisco Lanusse. For his five-goal performance, Peke Gonzalez was awarded Most Valuable Player. Francisco Elizalde’s Lavinia Magia was presented Best Playing Pony honors.

“Lavinia Magia is a mare that’s seven years old,” Elizalde said.

“She’s really handy. I bought her from Salvador Ulloa, who’s my brother-in-law. I brought her here this year to America. She played in the East Coast Open, and now she’s playing the 22-goal, and I brought her here for this final.” An incredible end to a fantastic first Florida Circuit 16Goal Super-Series Championship, Iconica’s impressive performance will go down in history as an inspiration to other teams. Also paving the way, the overall success of the series offers promise for the future, ensuring the continued development, growth and prestige of medium-goal polo in America.

The

Middle School team roster this season featured a mix of all grade levels, including eighth grad -

ˆ Show vehicles — $10

$20

ˆ VIP non-show vehicle parking — $10

ˆ Register on-site or prepay on Eventbrite

ˆ Free parking also available

ˆ Family Friendly

ˆ Activities, food, music

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UPCOMING 2023 DATES

June 11 | July 9 | August 20 | September 10 | October 8

November 12 | December 3

Wellington Landings Middle School goalkeepers Eleanor Kelley (left) and Sydni Ibana (right).

Wellington Landings

ers Marleigh Suniga, Luciana Pardo De Figuera, Mia Ciezak, Isla Oldham, Ella Oldham and Eleanor Kelley; seventh grad-

ers Sydni Ibana, Jordan Huber, Macey Gunsalus, Ariella Sevilla, Sienna Morales, Kaylee Kendall and Quinn Mawhinney; and sixth

graders Zoe McCrannels, Chayse Ludlam, Parker Leimberger, Sofia Davila, Laney Browne and Leah Browne.

Caroline Epstein Named School District’s Media Specialist Of The Year

Caroline Epstein from Binks Forest Elementary School has been honored as the 2023 Palm Beach County School District Library Media Specialist of the Year.

“Caroline Epstein exemplifies what a true educator is,” Principal Michella Levy said in her nomination form. “She not only teaches the mind, she reaches the heart. Epstein’s ability to work with students is a talent worth recognizing. She makes it a point to know everyone’s name and what books interest them. Epstein connects with each student and their families. She invites struggling readers to the media center to select the ‘just right’ books for them, and they come on a daily basis. To know her is to know that Epstein is passionate about learning and gives every student an equal opportunity to grow.”

Levy said that Epstein prides herself on creating a media center that is the hub of the school. In addition to teaching library skills, such as using Destiny to locate books, she also teaches reading and writing skills, including sequencing and retelling. She is always coming up with innovative ways to challenge and motivate readers, such as the popular Battle

Panther Run Students Shine In National Art Contest

Five talented students from Panther Run Elementary School recently competed at the state level of the National PTA Reflections Art Contest. A total of 17 entries made it to the county level.

The PTA Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts, which boosts student confidence and success.

The National PTA Reflections Program welcomes students of all grades and abilities to explore and be involved in the arts. Students reflect on a theme and create original works of art in the areas of Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition,

Photography and Visual Arts.

Panther Run students who moved on from county level to state level include: Gabriella Small (fifth grade, intermediate music), Melodie Masset (first grade, primary music), Isabella Shull (fourth grade, intermediate dance), Stella Rossi (fifth grade, intermediate visual arts) and Leone Rossi (second grade, primary photography).

Small’s song was named top four in the state, while Melodie Masset’s song was named top five in the state. They will both be receiving an award of merit from the state and will be attending an awards ceremony in Orlando in May.

Panther Run students who made it to the county level are Kaitlyn

Small (third grade, intermediate photography and dance), Julia Harry (third grade, intermediate visual arts), Emma Agocs (fifth grade, intermediate visual arts), Zoey Narrain (fourth grade, in-

termediate visual arts and dance), William Agocs (second grade, primary visual arts), Ava-Marie Narrain (fifth grade, intermediate dance), Gabriella Small (fifth grade, intermediate photography) and Melodie Masset (first grade, primary visual arts).

EMERALD COVE FBLA STUDENTS HEAD TO NATIONALS

of the Books program, and has also done an amazing job at promoting summer reading at Binks Forest.

“Epstein updated the media center for the first time in nearly 20 years when taking over the space as the new media specialist five years ago,” Levy said. “She quickly decided to redesign it so that it was more kid-friendly and reflected a cheerful personality all of its own. It’s a beautiful place that is, at once welcoming, comfortable, and a place kids love to visit.”

WES CELEBRATES NATIONAL PI DAY

On Tuesday, March 14, Wellington Elementary School celebrated “National Pi Day,” an annual celebration of the mathematical constant π. Pi Day is observed on March 14 since 3, 1 and 4 are the first three significant figures of π. The observance was founded in 1988 by Larry Shaw, an employee of the San Francisco science museum, the Exploratorium. Fourth and fifth grade students in Kimberly Portilla’s and Lisa Robinson’s classes learned about calculating the radius, diameter and circumference of a circle. They happily ended the lesson with a slice of apple pie.

A total of 19 students from Emerald Cove Middle School participated in this year’s FBLA State Conference in Orlando over spring break. Students attended various leadership workshops, student elections and competitive competitions. Congratulations to Lilly Hennessy and Keya Patel (first place ML Multi-Media and Website Design), Isabella Quiceno (second place ML FBLA Concepts), Eesha Sakamuri (third place ML Leadership) and to all the students for their hard work and dedication during their spring break conference. The school wishes Lilly Hennessy and Keya Patel good luck as they continue to compete at the national level in Atlanta this summer.

PBCFR VISITS WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY PRE-K

Recently, Wellington Elementary School’s pre-K classes had a visit from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. The students in the five classes were so excited. They waited for the fire trucks to arrive, then suddenly heard the sirens and honks and saw the trucks pull in. The paramedics showed the children what was inside each fire truck and rescue vehicle. They showed them what tools were used in an emergency situation and all the fire gear. There was a demonstration on safety inside the classrooms as well.

Camp Lingua is a unique, bilingual summer camp where children enjoy an enriching, fun experience while developing language and critical thinking skills in a nature-based environment. The camp’s all-new Palm Beach County location is home to an action-packed, equestrian-themed camp and offers day and sleepaway experiences. Geared toward those 5 to 15 years old, it includes horseback riding, indoor and outdoor camp activities, arts and crafts, hoe-downs, waterfront fun, sports, archery, ropes, barn care and much more. For more information, and to register, visit www.camplingua.com.

Science and tech camps are back in session this summer! Summer at the Cox Science Center is made for marine biology, astronomy, dinosaurs and more. Join in the upcoming summer camps for young scientists and engineers ages 5 to 12. Camp days are packed with engaging lessons, labs, crafts and outdoor activities led by expert science educators. For additional information, visit www. coxsciencecenter.org/camps.

For those exotic animal lovers interested in an exciting summer program, Wellington Conservation Center is now taking reservations for children ages 8 to 14 for the summer months. This camp is an all-access pass to animal fun for the summer! Become a junior zookeeper, learn about conservation or even just focus on some of the animals at the farm. There are three unique programs, with each week full of hands-on learning experiences sure to excite the interest of kids of all ages. Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with before and after care available. The cost is $300 per week per child. To register, call Cole at (203) 206-9932. Learn more at www.wellingtonconservationcenter.org.

LMC’s summer camp programs are interactive, educational and stimulating. Geared towards children ages 6 -13 and includes fun activities such as snorkeling, fishing and scientific projects.

• Camps start on June 5th and hours are: Monday - Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

• Late pickup is available for an extra fee

• Three unique experiences to choose from

• Multi-week and sibling discounts available

Located

Questions? Email: reservations@marinelife.org

(Left) Sarah Lanouette’s pre-K class with the PBCFR visitors. (Right) Preschoolers listen to safety instructions.

Superintendent Michael Burke with Binks Forest Media Specialist Caroline Epstein.

Panther Run’s National PTA Reflections winners (front row) Leone Rossi, Melodie Masset, Kaitlyn Small and Gabriella Small; and (back row) Principal Edilia De La Vega, Emma Agocs, Stella Rossi, William Agocs, Julia Harry, Zoey Narrain, Ava-Marie Narrain and Isabella Shull.

Several Area Educators Named Finalists For William T. Dwyer Awards

The Economic Council of Palm Beach County Foundation recently announced the 28 finalists for the 39th annual William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education, presented by the Hanley Foundation.

Educators from schools in the western communities who were named finalists include: Cathy Eckstein of Wellington Elementary School in Grow Up Great/ Early Learning Education, Jacqueline Barreras of New Horizons Elementary School in Elementary Education, Steven Gordon of Western Pines Middle School and Fern Long of Emerald Cove Middle School in Middle School Education, Jennifer Tobin of Elbridge Gale Elementary School in Special Programs, Caroline Westervelt of Western Pines Middle School in STEM Education, and Randi Schietz of Binks Forest Elementary School in Student Advancement & Career Education.

The announcement was made via Facebook on March 31. The finalists were honored at a beautiful waterside reception at Rybovich Marina on Tuesday, April 11 hosted by Huizenga Holdings.

The Dwyer Awards, an annual program developed in 1984 and supported by the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, honors outstanding educators from public and private schools in Palm Beach County. The program seeks to increase awareness of the exemplary

teaching in the community and promote high standards of excellence in education. The awards recognize educators and provide financial awards.

The Economic Council of Palm Beach County comprises business leaders committed to educational excellence as a key tenet for creating a prosperous environment for businesses. Nearly 450 nominations of educators from public, private and charter schools were considered for the 2023 Dwyer Awards. The nominees complete a comprehensive application process carefully evaluated by Palm Beach County business leaders. Judging takes place over a multiround process to identify the top four applicants in each of the seven categories.

“We are thrilled to continue the rich tradition of the Dwyer Awards, celebrating remarkable teachers in Palm Beach County,” said Michele Jacobs, president and CEO of Economic Council of Palm Beach County. “The Economic Council of Palm Beach County Foundation has had the privilege of honoring outstanding teachers in our community for the past 39 years.”

The seven categories for the 2023 Dwyer Awards include: Grow Up Great/Early Learning Education, Elementary Education, Middle School Education, High School Education, STEM Education, Special Programs and

Student Advancement & Career Education. The 2023 finalists are:

Grow Up Great/Early Learning Education — Cathy Eckstein, Wellington Elementary School; Courtney Ensor-Acevedo, Manatee Elementary School; Cindy Fakhoury, Lake Worth Elementary School; and Magaly Hodgkiss, South Olive Elementary School.

Elementary Education Jacqueline Barreras, New Horizons Elementary School; Amy Carroll, Marsh Pointe Elementary School; Susana Diaz Hernandez, Greenacres Elementary School; and Will Rhymes, Northmore Elementary School.

Middle School Education

Steven Gordon, Western Pines Middle School; Fern Long, Emerald Cove Middle School; Rebecca Patterson, the Conservatory School; and Shannon Solis, Village Academy.

High School Education

Arnekua Jackson, Boynton Beach High School; Adiane Leon, Lake Worth High School; Alison Moe, Santaluces High School; and Monica Russell, Suncoast High School. Special Programs Ashraf Abdelsayed, Discovery Key Elementary School; Claudia Bueno, Palm Beach Public Elementary School; Jennifer Tobin, Elbridge Gale Elementary School; and Rita Wicks, Lantana Elementary School.

STEM Education — Kristin Delatorre, the Conservatory

Dwyer Award Finalists — (Front row) Olivia James, Jennifer Tobin, Rita Wicks, Cathy Eckstein, Randi Schietz, Caroline Westervelt, Shannon Solis and Arnekua Jackson; (middle row) Karen Kummerlen, Fern Long, Kristin Delatorre, Amy Carroll, Claudia Bueno, Alison Moe, Charles Fisher, Amy Goldberg, Courtney Ensor-Acevedo, Magaly Hodgkiss and Jacqueline Barreras; and (back row) Ashraf Abdelsayed, Will Rhymes, Monica Russell, Susana Diaz Hernandez, Rebecca Patterson, Steve Gordon and Thomas Hrebin. Not pictured: Cindy Fakhoury and Adiane Leon.

PHOTO BY TRACEY

Student Advancement & Career Education — Thomas Hrebin, Pioneer Park Elementary School; Olivia James, Discovery

Key Elementary School; Karen Kummerien, Palm Beach Gardens High School; and Randi Schietz, Binks Forest Elementary School.

The award recipients will be announced and honored along with all finalists, nominees and past recipients at the Dwyer Awards ceremony on Monday, May 1 at

the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. Felicia Rodriguez, news anchor at WPBF 25, will serve as emcee. Tickets are $40 each. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. and the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. To buy tickets, visit www.economiccouncilpbc. org/dwyerawards.

American Heritage Pre-Law Program Wins High School Mock Trial State Title

American Heritage Schools recently announced that its Palm Beach Campus Mock Trial Team won the state championship of the Florida High School Mock Trial Competition for the second year in a row. In addition to earning the highest award, the team also earned the Outstanding Professionalism and Ethics Award in legal advocacy, voted by coaches and students. Jonah Samara, team captain and a senior at American Heritage, earned the Outstanding Witness Award.

Led by attorney coaches Kelly Harris, Adam McMichael, Rinku Tribuiani and Ani Porter, American Heritage pre-law students and team successfully competed in every round, dominating their opponents as prosecution and defense. Team members from American Heritage included Daniel Bednar (senior), Lindsay

Brauner (junior), Pooja Gudoor (junior), Maia Merkel-Leavitt (sophomore), Bryan Li (junior), Sophia Reynoso (sophomore), Jonah Samara (senior) and Anna Shullman (junior). The team will represent Florida at nationals in Little Rock, Arkansas, May 18-21.

The Florida High School Mock Trial Program was designed in 1991 by Annette Boyd Pitts and former Florida Bar Executive Director Marshall Cassedy. Hundreds of student participants have graduated, attended law school and become members of the Florida Bar or other state bars. In the program, students learn critical thinking skills, legal reasoning, analysis and professionalism, in addition to the structure and function of the courts and the legal process.

“We’re thrilled that our mock trial team has been undefeated in Palm Beach County for nine

years in a row, and we have been named the state champions for the last two years,” said attorney Ani Porter, pre-law program director at the Palm Beach campus. “Our success is not limited to Florida, as we are also the 2022 champions of the Yale Bulldog Competition, and back-to-back 2021 and 2022 Providence Cup Champions in Denver. We attribute our success to our students’ commitment to preparation, determination and teamwork. As coaches, we emphasize the importance of an ethical, productive and inclusive environment to model the students’ future successes in the real world. We are very proud of their accomplishments.”

The American Heritage pre-law program is a four-year honors program taught exclusively by practicing attorneys and judges. Each year, students take unique law-school-level courses that no

Know an aspiring scientist? Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Junior Marine Biologist Summer Camp gives children ages 6 to 13 the amazing opportunity to explore Florida’s coastal ecosystems, enjoy hands-on science activities and so much more. Campers will also learn about fun ways to protect the oceans. Sessions include Sea Turtle Savers, Ocean Adventures and Conservation Kids. Camps run Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Late pickup at 5 p.m. is available for an additional fee. For more information, and to register, visit www. marinelife.org/camp.

Western Academy Charter School will host a summer camp for grades K through 8. Kindergartners must be five years old by the first day of camp on June 5. Campers from other schools are welcome. There are three field trips per week, plus two campus activity days. The camp fee includes breakfast, lunch and snacks each day, plus transportation and admission to field trips. Call (561) 792-4123 or (561) 795-2186 for more information.

other high school offers, such as Trial Advocacy, Constitutional Law, Homicide Law and Criminal Law.

The program culminates in a senior year internship where students experience the practice of law in real life. Seniors leave campus a few times per week to rotate through different law firms, agencies, offices and courtrooms throughout South Florida. They also visit judges in the circuit court, the sheriff’s office, the state attorney’s office, the public defender’s office and the United States attorney’s office. The connections that the seniors make with practicing judges and attorneys are invaluable and often result in future law school clerkships and internships.

To learn more about the pre-law program, visit www.ahschool. com/pre-professional-program/ pre-law.

Mock Trial State Champs — Rinku Tribuiani, Kelly Harris, Jonah Samara, Anna Shullman, Adam McMichael, Sophia Reynoso, Lindsay Brauner, Maia Merkel-Leavitt, Daniel Bednar, Pooja Gudoor, Bryan Li and Ani Porter.

BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY School; Charles Fisher, Calusa Elementary School; Amy Goldberg, Del Prado Elementary School; and Caroline Westervelt, Western Pines Middle School.

ROTARY SERVES UP SUNDAES AT WRMC

Attorney Caryn A. Stevens Is Honored With Rising Star Leadership Award

Wellington resident Caryn A. Stevens of Stephens & Stevens PLLC was honored with the Rising Star Leadership Award by Herizon, formerly the Jewish Women’s Foundation, on March 8 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. The award recognizes an outstanding young woman who has demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of women and girls in our community through volunteerism and philanthropic investment.

Members of the Wellington Rotary Club enjoyed an afternoon scooping ice cream for ice cream sundaes with all the toppings for the nurses, doctors and staff at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Friday, April 14. The event provided a nice treat for the community’s hometown heroes — the doctors, nurses and staff members at Wellington Regional Medical Center.

Abigail Lofstead OF PBCHS Named To All-State Team

The Palm Beach Central High School Athletics Department congratulates Abigail Lofstead for being named to the FHSAA Florida Dairy Farmers Academy All-State Team.

Lofstead has a 4.0 GPA, received her Cambridge AICE diploma, and ranks fifth in her senior class of 675 students. She is a foursport varsity athlete participating in lacrosse, soccer, cross country and golf throughout high school.

Outside of sports, Lofstead served as her school’s vice president and head of community service. She was also an AICE program committee leader, founded the Women in STEM club and was the Environmental Honor Society president. She accrued more than 260 service hours through her work with UNICEF, Key Club and Dance Marathon. She is the daughter of Geoff and Tricia Lofstead and plans to attend the University

Abigail Lofstead of Florida in Gainesville in the fall to study biology.

Lofstead will receive $1,700 in scholarships from this nomination and will be attending a banquet in Gainesville with the other nominees, where she is eligible to receive an additional $4,600 in scholarships.

Herizon, whose mission is to create long-lasting social change for women and girls, presented Stevens with the award during the group’s 20th anniversary celebratory luncheon. More than 200 guests attended the reception, which was themed “20 Years of Transformation.”

Stevens was recently a speaker in Herizon’s free educational workshop series, Money Mavens. The workshops empower women and teen girls to manage their own money and make informed financial decisions. Stevens spoke about how marital law impacts finances and assets in Florida. Stevens is a partner along with Eddie Stephens at the marital and family law firm Stephens & Stevens PLLC. The firm was recently recognized by 2023 U.S. News - Best Lawyers Best Law Firms. Both attorneys also received the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar’s Alberto Romero Making a Difference Award recognizing outstanding pro bono services and significant volunteering to improve the lives of children and families.

“It is truly an honor to receive this Rising Star Leadership Award,” Stevens said. “Given the current climate of women’s rights in our society, advocating for women and girls is more important than ever.”

Stevens is president of the Susan Greenberg Family Law Inn of Court of the Palm Beaches. She was recently included in the 2023 edition of the Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America for her work in family law.

She spent more than 12 years in mental health and counseling before practicing law. As a mental health counselor, school guidance counselor and counselor for the Department of Children & Families, Stevens assisted thousands of children, families and couples through difficult life circumstanc-

es. As a family law attorney, she uses her mental health training and therapeutic skills to create positive change for each client.

Western Pines Student Takes Second In Essay Contest

The Florida League of Mayors recently announced the 2023 “If I Were Elected Mayor” essay contest winners. Hosted annually, the contest is sponsored by the Florida League of Mayors and the Florida League of Cities.

The contest required participants to write a 250-word essay describing how they would make

a difference in their community if they were elected mayor and how Home Rule, the ability for local governments to address local problems with local solutions, helps make their community a great place to live. All middle school students in the state were invited to participate. More than 750 essays were submitted.

This year’s contest winners are:

First place, Carmin Farrington, Championship Academy of Distinction of West Broward (Lauderhill); second place, Isabelle Jo Petit, Western Pines Middle School (Westlake); and third place, Susanna Stille, Gulf Coast Classical Academy (Clearwater).

All three contest winners will be

recognized by their mayors during meetings of their local government. They will be presented with a joint resolution from the Florida League of Cities and the Florida League of Mayors and have their essays published on the Florida League of Mayors web site and by the Florida League of Cities’ Quality Cities magazine.

Kids Cancer Foundation Hosts Easter Eggs-travaganza

The Kids Cancer Foundation hosted its annual Easter Eggs-travaganza at the Kids Cancer Center in Royal Palm Beach on Saturday, April 1. This social event was a great

opportunity for families battling childhood cancer in the community to unwind, enjoy a morning of fun and games, and connect with each other far removed from the hospital.

The children enjoyed participating in several indoor egg hunts, and snacking on Kona Ice and a Chick-Fil-A breakfast. Every child also went home with their own Easter basket.

Support for the event came from the Childhood Leukemia Foundation, Polo For Life, the Port of Palm Beach, Arium Royal Palm and numerous individual KCF donors.

Wellington resident Caryn A. Stevens with her award.

The Easter Eggs-travaganza was held at the Kids Cancer Center in Royal Palm Beach.

Kool Runnings Ice Cream Café In RPB To Celebrate Grand Opening April 29

Kool Runnings Ice Cream Café, located at 1036 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in Veterans Park, will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, April 29 from noon to 4 p.m.

The public is invited to celebrate the occasion and to experience the exciting flavors that the store offers to the community. Kool Runnings features gluten free and vegan products, with a wide range of ice cream flavors and toppings to satisfy all desires. A range of treats and pastries make chilling in the park with the family or that special someone more memorable.

Kool Runnings ice cream is of great quality and taste and offers unique texture and flavors, with soft and hard scoop options to satisfy all customers. The grand opening includes free ice cream for all children, discounted prices, face painting, giveaways and more.

“Our ice cream café is unique to this market and offers convenience for families that enjoy time in the park,” said Gerald Brown, CEO and president of Kool Runnings.

Tampa General Educates South Florida Community About Its Statewide Impact

Tampa General Hospital gathered the South Florida community for its second annual educational event on Wednesday, March 29. Held at the Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Tampa General hosted a “fireside chat” to inform guests about how the academic medical center is progressing academic medicine, innovation and research to provide world-class care to the State of Florida.

Kool Runnings Ice Cream Café is located in Veterans Park.

“We strive to provide excellent service with hands-on and online ordering options. Our community is built on embracing family values. We look forward to cooling our community down this summer, one scoop at a time. Brown said that he decided to open Kool Runnings Ice Cream Café during one of his regular

visits to the park. “While observing all the activities, we realized there was nothing to foster family time, outside of planned events,” he said. “We wanted to create a place where families can enjoy and create memories that would last a lifetime.” Learn more about the café at www.kricecreamecafe.com.

WRMC Wound Care Center Wins Award

Wellington Regional Medical Center physicians, leaders and clinicians recently gathered to recognize the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine, a recipient of the Center of Distinction Award by Healogics, the nation’s largest provider of advanced wound care services. The center achieved outstanding clinical outcomes for 12 consecutive months, including a patient satisfaction rate higher than 92 percent.

“I am thrilled to announce that we have once again been recognized as a Wound Care Center of Excellence for the eighth consecutive year,” said Pam Tahan, chief executive officer at WRMC. “This prestigious designation reflects our unwavering commitment to

providing exceptional care to patients with complex wounds. I am immensely proud of our dedicated team of healthcare professionals whose expertise, compassion and tireless efforts have earned us this distinction. It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, and we will continue to strive for the highest standards of wound care for our patients.” The Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine is a member of the Healogics network of more than 600 wound care centers and offers highly specialized wound care to patients suffering from diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, infections and other chronic wounds that have not healed in a reasonable amount of time.

Advanced wound care modalities include negative pressure wound therapy, total contact casting, bio-engineered tissues, biosynthetic dressings and growth factor therapies. The center also offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which works by surrounding the patient with 100 percent oxygen to help healing.

Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital that has been treating residents in Wellington and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Healogics is the nation’s wound healing expert. Last year, more than 300,000 patients received advanced wound care through its network.

Dance Party And WRMC Hiring Event At The Mall

Upcoming events at the Mall

at Wellington Green include a Mommy & Me Dance Party and a Wellington Regional Medical Center Hiring Event.

The Mommy & Me Dance Party will be held Wednesday, April 26 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. This free event will be held in the Grand Court. Mommy & Me events are perfectly designed for children five and under. Gather the little ones

and come to the dance party featuring the popular arts and music center Rhythm & Hues. The WRMC Hiring Event will be held Saturday, April 29 at the District @ Wellington Green.

If you’re interested in starting a career, or building on your present career, join hospital representatives for a unique hiring event. Meet and learn more about the positions available across

all departments and disciplines while enjoying lite bites and conversation. Bring your résumé and be prepared for on-the-spot interviews. For more information, call WRMC Human Resources at (561) 798-8544.

The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit www. shopwellingtongreen.com.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, dinner-by-the-bite and dessert, while hearing from Tampa General President and CEO John Couris, along with a panel of world-class physicians, about Tampa General’s role as a leading hospital in America. Topics included Tampa General’s services for residents across the state, including complex care, transplants, oncology and a multidisciplinary approach. Patients from Florida’s East Coast also told inspiring stories about how the academic medical center saved their lives when they were unable to receive the treatment they needed locally.

The event aimed to educate the community about TGH’s expanded presence across the state, and how the institution works to augment regional hospitals by taking on rare, complex medical cases.

Tampa General is the third highest-ranked hospital in Florida by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-23 and is the primary teach-

Tampa General President and CEO John Couris speaks at the March 29 event in Jupiter.

PHOTO COURTESY TRACEY BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY

ing affiliate of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. Tampa General has been affiliated with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine since the school was created in the early 1970s. More than 300 residents are assigned to Tampa General

Hospital for specialty training in areas ranging from general internal medicine to neurosurgery. In addition, USF medical, nursing, pharmacy and physical therapy students all receive part of their training at Tampa General. Learn more at www.tgh.org.

Condo Guardian Earns NHWA Accreditation

Condo Guardian has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association. The NHWA was formed in 2009 to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for home watch and absentee homeowner services throughout the United States and Canada.

Home watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, looking for obvious issues, which means that it is a service that “keeps an eye on things” at your vacation or primary home while you are not in residence. All principals of NHWA accredited member companies are background-checked, insured and bonded.

Owner and operator Jennifer Cavallaro is a resident of Palm Beach County. She has 30 years’ experience in business management and customer service. She has worked in the insurance,

fashion, medical and automotive industries. Cavallaro has overseen and managed appointments, scheduling, billing, maintenance, and customer follow-up and satisfaction.

Cavallaro has worked directly with company principals and clients. She most recently managed a family-owned portfolio of rental properties, overseeing contracts, leases, repairs, maintenance and regular interaction with tenants. Her experience and dedication to detail and customer satisfaction creates a thorough and dependable home watch service for her clients’ condominiums.

Condo Guardian serves Palm Beach County, including Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Lake Worth, Lantana, Greenacres, Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, West Palm Beach, Lake Park, North Palm Beach, Juno Beach, Jupiter and

Jennifer Cavallaro

Tequesta. For more information, contact Cavallaro at (561) 4857655 or condoguardianpbc@ gmail.com. Learn more at www. condoguardian.net.

Praise The Caregivers! A Week With Mom Left Me Exhausted

This column is dedicated to anyone living with a person who needs near-constant attention because of a medical problem. God bless you all.

Last week, my mother, a 94-year-old who is usually sharp as a tack, suddenly wanted to know why her TV set wouldn’t print out paper “like everyone else’s does.”

(This, according to my brother Dave.) I got to her assisted living place in Wisconsin on Wednesday and watched with fear as she swung back and forth between completely normal behavior and anxiously asking me why everything was so confusing. “There’s so much going on — in my head and everywhere else. What am I supposed to do? What is my purpose?” she asked.

“If you’re asking me the meaning of life, I don’t know — and if you figure it out, we need to get you booked on a national speaking tour because this is an answer many people want to know,” I replied. She smiled but was not amused. I don’t know what kind of circus was going on in her head, but it was not a fun circus.

So I spoke with the on-site nurse who thought maybe she had forgotten to take the one pill a day that she needs. But her pill case was up-to-date. I was told that the doctor would be in the next day.

On Thursday, he was in, but he didn’t see her. He did order a blood test — to be performed on Monday.

By Friday, my mother had started to make plans based on worry. She wanted me to take her $850 Waterford crystal vase and some of her jewelry. She wanted Dave to take her checkbook. She started pulling papers from drawers and filing them in her “Pending” file.

“Mom! all those things can’t be pending! Some are done! Throw them out!”

“To me, they’re pending.” I didn’t have

an answer for that. The rest of her life was now pending. So, I got her a new doctor. He ruled out a lot of things, but not the big one, the one we had begun referring to as “fuzziness.” Wait for the blood test, he said.

On Saturday, she wanted to go back. She’d thought of another thing it might be. The doctor ordered a new test, but it required a machine he didn’t have. He sent us to the emergency room. This only caused mom more anxiety.

The ER doctor ordered a sonogram, an EKG, a cat scan, a chest x-ray and four vials of blood. We were startled when he came back almost immediately with her chart in his hand. “I have good news and not-so-good news,” he said.

We held our breath. “The good news is that your mother is perfect,” he said. “She rates average or above-average across the board. The not-so-good news is that I can’t find anything wrong with her.”

On Sunday, we went out for ice cream and counted the minutes until Monday. On Monday, they took her blood and called us at 4:30 p.m. to say her medication was “off.” The original doctor would be in to adjust it on Tuesday. Mom and I looked at each other and hugged. That took one week of our lives and we are both exhausted.

But there are people who do this every day for years with no nice little cure to look forward to. They are silent, suffering heroes of humanity, and I salute them.

Director Ben Affleck’s New Movie ‘Air’ Is Surprisingly Good

Some movies surprise us. Air, a new film by Ben Affleck, does that in a marvelous way. Knowing the movie was about the sneaker brand Air Jordan, I assumed Michael Jordan would be at the center. Instead, we never really see his face. It is his mother Deloris (Viola Davis) who is at the center of the movie. Her brilliant performance helps create the heart that allows an intelligent look at the creation of a product that eventually dominated the world.

The movie follows Sonny Vaccaro (Matt Damon), who is sort of the basketball guru for Nike as he battles to bring his company’s products up to the top level, dominated by Adidas and Converse. They rule the field by getting the top athletes to wear their shoes (paying them, of course) so that fans, particularly young ones, want to wear similar shoes.

Sonny goes to Nike CEO Phil Knight

‘I’ On

CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

(Affleck) with a new concept in marketing. He believes that the company should gamble its entire basketball budget on one player: Michael Jordan.

Of course, we know that Jordan is one of the greatest (in my personal opinion the greatest) basketball players of all time. But the movie takes place in 1984, the year he was drafted (third, not first) by the Chicago Bulls. He had been brilliant in that years’ Olympics and was a new star. Vaccaro is certain that they will be able to compete

at the highest levels if Nike focuses on creating their sneakers about him. Thus: Air Jordans.

At the time, Nike was going nowhere on the basketball court. No top player wanted anything to do with a brand known for running shoes. The all-stars wore Adidas or Converse, leaving Nike’s basketball division stunted. But Sonny believes that the “third-rate” shoe brand has a chance to break through if instead of their usual method of selecting three players to endorse the brand, they focus on one potential star.

The film avoids dealing with Jordan the player or even Jordan the man. Instead, we see the inner working of Nike, a sort of friendly nod to entrepreneurial capitalism. Knight comes across as a sort of generally amiable bear, occasionally critical to allow some drama.

The real drama, however, comes in

Nike’s dealings with Jordan’s parents. Deloris, his mother, is a real force when it comes to getting the best for her boy. She is balanced by James R. Jordan Sr. (Julius Tennon) as the more genial father. But Deloris pushes Nike further than they really want to go. For her, if the sneakers are going to be identified with her son, she feels he should get a percentage of the action. In other words, instead of being a paid endorser, he would become a partner. Or to be more precise, the family would become the partner.

The film, in essence, uses symbolism, to demonstrate the change in the 1980s in the balance of power within sports. Instead of basketball owning players, they came to really owning the sport. And it started with Jordan. We all know that wearing Air Jordans will not make us better players but, well, it’s still nice to dream. The cast is really good. As mentioned

above, we never really see Jordan. There is a body double for a scene, but we never see his face. But he is still the key person in the film. Damon is good as Sonny. Affleck, wearing a terrible wig to match Knight’s own hair, is OK, although the acting job is not all that tough. Chris Tucker as a cynical Nike executive and Chris Messina as Jordan’s agent do well. I liked Tennon a lot as a balance wheel for Davis. She is the center of the film with her incredibly strong performance. She never lets us forget that the movie is also about family love. Director Affleck wisely keeps the pace up throughout the entire film. Davis provides the heart of the film, but it is Michael Jordan himself, without ever appearing, that is its soul. If you like essentially feelgood movies, you will like the film. If you remember and loved Jordan, this film will really get to you.

- Job Openings -

Front Desk Clerk

Person with good verbal/written communication skills and the motivation to provide good customer service. Flexible schedule needed. Experience preferred, but we will train the right motivated person. Royal Palm/Wellington/Acreage residents will save on gas and travel time.

Housekeeper

Responsible for cleaning guest rooms in a timely and thorough manner. Experience and fluency in English is preferred. Must be able to work weekends and/or holidays. To

We’re Hiring for the following position!

Position: Dispatcher–Fuel

Job type: Full-time

Location: Riviera Beach, Florida

About the Job

A dynamic growth-oriented distributor of lubricants and fuels to wholesale, retail, and commercial end-user markets throughout Florida. We are seeking a Dispatcher for our Riviera Beach location. Previous dispatching a plus but willing to train the right person that is a motivated, self-starter and open to learn and grow with the company.

Responsibilities will include:

 Dispatch deliveries in an efficient and profitable manner.

 Maintain and review driver DOT logs.

 Monitor vehicle tracking system.

 Establish cost-effective delivery routes and schedules.

 Establish performance standards for drivers.

 Review driver delivery paperwork for accuracy and compliance.

 Maintain relationships with customers and resolve delivery complaints.

 Investigate and resolve delivery issues, spills, accidents.

 Other duties as requested.

Requirements:

 Minimum 2 years’ experience dispatching and supervising drivers.

 Computer literacy and competency with Microsoft Office programs Excel, Outlook, and Word.

 Experience with vehicle tracking systems, order entry, and dispatching software.

Offering a Very Competitive Compensation Package Comprehensive Benefits:

SSI

To apply or learn more, contact: