Town-Crier Newspaper October 3, 2025

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE • WESTLAKE

BINKS PTA PARTY WITH A PURPOSE

Ribbon Cutting And Tree Planting Celebrate Preserve Expansion

On Saturday, Sept. 27, the Village of Wellington celebrated the official opening of the expanded Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat off Flying Cow Road. Along with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Wellington Garden Club held its 11th annual Community-Wide Tree Planting Event. Page 5

Xcel Padel Opening Brings Growing Sport To Westlake

The fast-growing sport of padel arrived in Westlake on Friday, Sept. 19 with the long-awaited opening of Xcel Padel. The largest indoor padel club in the U.S., Xcel Padel is located at 17035 Persimmon Blvd. in the James Business Park. Another Xcel Padel location is slated to open in November near the South Florida Fairgrounds. Page 13

Dave Jimenez Has A Huge Love For Soccer

By day, longtime Wellington resident Dave Jimenez works for a local landscaping company. By night and on weekends, Jimenez spends many hours each week on the soccer field, where he both coaches and plays the sport. Jimenez, 56, has been living in Wellington since 2004. Soon after arriving 21 years ago, he started coaching in Wellington’s recreational youth soccer league. Page 17

The Binks Forest Elementary School PTA held its annual “Party with a Purpose” eighth annual casino night and auction at the Wellington National Golf Club on Saturday, Sept 27. Themed “Palm Royale,” the event included a full casino, dancing, auction items, basket prizes and refreshments. Money raised will be used to purchase educational tools for students. Shown above, PTA board members and event committee members gather for a group photo.

Indian Trail Approves One-Year Trial Agreement With The ALA

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

After months of debate and sharp exchanges, the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors agreed on Wednesday, Sept. 17 to approve a one-year nonprofit user agreement with the Acreage Landowners’Association (ALA).

The agreement has the option for five more years, but it also has a 30-day cancellation clause. Supervisors said the clause was necessary because of what some members of the board see as unwarranted and unreasonable attacks in meetings and on social media by outspoken ALA members.

“I want the ALA to succeed,” said Supervisor Betty Argue, a former ALA board member. “But the behavior of a few people has been unacceptable. It divides this community, and it has to change.”

The deal is modeled after ITID’s arrangement with the Acreage Athletic League and gives the ALA access to district facilities for community events. Unlike the old service provider agreement (SPA), the new pact is lighter on reporting obligations for the ALA and liability for the district.

“I’m happy with it,” ALA President Bob Morgan said of the agreement. “There are a lot fewer administrative hoops to jump through. Staff can approve a lot of the events we might want to do.”

ITID President Elizabeth Accomando was happy with the agreement.

“What it boils down to is, the ALA has first dibs on ITID space for any event they might want to put on,” said Accomando, also a former ALA board member. “It always should have been this way.”

ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson said the decades-old

ALA “has a watchdog role” in terms of the board of supervisors. Replacing the SPA with the nonprofit user agreement gives the ALA more independence, he said. Therefore, it should give residents more confidence that the ALA is speaking for them and cannot be manipulated by the district.

The vote came only after supervisors delivered a blunt message: the ALA must rein in internal conflicts and public attacks if it wants to survive.

ITID board members cited repeated social media posts and phone calls that they said misrepresented the district and personally attacked supervisors. Accomando called it “awful things… screaming, name calling” that risk driving residents away.

Morgan acknowledged the group’s struggles with dwindling membership, creating possible

Lox Council Sets Tax Rate To Fund $8.9 Million Town Budget

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council capped a difficult budget season with a series of votes Wednesday, Sept. 17 on a spending plan totaling $8,850,751 for fiscal year 2026, which began on Oct. 1. The final tax and assessment rates were less than the Truth in Millage (TRIM) rates set over the summer, but somewhat higher than the rates for last year.

Property owners in the town will pay municipal taxes at a rate of 3.2564 mills, up from 3.0 mills last year, but lower than the TRIM rate of 3.5 mills. The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District assessment for roads and drainage was set previously at $220 per acre, up from $200 last year, but far below the $300 per acre rate that town staff said would be necessary. The solid waste as-

sessment was unchanged at $450 per unit.

The key issue at the final budget hearing was exactly how to classify $675,000 in the budget that would be due to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office if there are no changes with the PBSO contract.

Councilman Todd McLendon wants to see the current PBSO contract either eliminated or cut back, but that would require a potentially difficult negotiation with the PBSO. He would like to see that money returned to the residents to subsidize the solid waste assessment and make up for the increase in the property tax rate.

The version of the budget under discussion moved the PBSO money from “public safety” to “contingency,” which can only be released with council approval.

Councilman Paul Coleman did not want that change made

before there are discussions with the PBSO.

“You are asking us to poke the bear without hard evidence,” he told McLendon.

Mayor Anita Kane asked Town Attorney Jeff Kurtz which way would give the town a better legal position to either pull out of the contract or to negotiate a lesser amount.

“It will not necessarily be an easy thing. It depends upon what their response is,” Kurtz said, adding that it could lead to a lawsuit, which would then cost money.

In the end, the council agreed to leave the bulk of the money in the contingency fund but move two months’ worth of payments back into the public safety fund.

The tax rate of 3.2564 mills then passed 4-1 with Councilwoman Lisa El-Ramey opposed.

During the discussion of the

See LOX BUDGET, page 12

Meetings Gather Public Input On Transportation Master Plan

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

By Denis Eirikis Town-Crier Staff Report

Kelly Shivery of Wellington’s Olympia neighborhood has an ambidextrous brain. During the week, she uses her critical thinking skills to solve complex whistleblower cases as a senior paralegal for a prestigious law firm. Come the weekend, she trades in depositions and legal analysis for creative tools like sculpting chocolate, buttercream and isomalt, with which she creates cakes that have been judged as world-class. The producers of the Food Network’s “Halloween Wars” show were so impressed with her cake-decorating skills, as seen

on Shivery’s Instagram page, that they invited her to compete alongside expert cake decorators from around the country. The sixepisode series premiered Sept. 21 and airs Sunday nights at 9 p.m.

Shivery describes how she stumbled into professional cake decorating and sugar artistry.

“While I really love my job as a paralegal, I am passionate about sugar! I’ve always had this creative side and enjoy cake artistry,” she said.

Shivery started selling cakes commercially in 2018 when someone saw one of her birthday cakes at a party and asked to hire her to decorate a cake for their function.

at multiple sites across Palm Beach County to get a broad understanding of the issues and priorities of each county region. This included a meeting in the western communities, at Palm Beach State College’s Loxahatchee Groves campus on Sept. 10.

Representatives from WSP, in collaboration with local officials, prepared a presentation on the plan they are hoping to develop. The goal is to collaborate with the various county agencies and municipalities to create a common goal that balances mobility and safety.

“Our goal is to provide a countywide vision for transportation that connects people,” said Claudia Bilotto, project manager and southeastern executive for WSP.

“We want to coordinate amongst those diverse community needs.” The CTMP will be a planning framework for transportation and mobility. It will recognize that different areas in the county will have different needs but establish a common vision and goals to effectively plan for the future. Overall, it will be a way to coordinate a See MASTER PLAN, page 4

By Denis Eirikis

private school in the community.

The private school item was what drew several dozen people to the council chambers, largely in support of the change.

The request by EDX Royale Property LLC asked for approval to modify the master plan for the Tuttle Royale development, changing the requirement of Pod 7 from specifically including a “charter

Since then, thanks in part to scores of YouTube instructional videos she studied during the pandemic, Shivery has successfully tapped into her creative genius and has emerged as one of the most skilled cake decorators and sugar artists in the nation. She is especially adept at using a sugarlike substance, isomalt, to sculpt cakes into fine art.

Shivery is not in it for the money.

“I love my day job and don’t want to think of my cake decorating as work,” she explained. “I only accept projects that interest me, and that’s usually three or four orders a month.” Her most expensive cake was a

tricked-out wedding cake, but she is fine with much more modest projects, as long as they interest her.

“I was pretty shocked when the producers called,” Shivery said. “At first, I thought it was a scam, but it turned out to be real — and I am so glad I did it. It was so much

The Great Gatsby Gala, a fundraiser to benefit the Kids Cancer Foundation in honor of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, was held on Saturday, Sept. 20 at the Adventure Park Lodge at Westlake. The event was organized and co-chaired by Robin and Jeff McDonald through their group Building Hope. Shown above are Robin McDonald, Barrie Hughes, Jeff McDonald, Michelle O’Boyle and Marla Pipkins. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 14

PHOTO BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 15

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

See ITID MEETING, page 12

Wellington Presents Awards To Top Cop And Top Firefighter

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council on Thursday, Sept. 18 honored the recipients of the village’s Top Cop and Top Firefighter awards for 2025.

Officials from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) and Palm Beach County FireRescue (PBCFR) were on hand for the award presentations to PBCFR Driver/Operator Andrew Moreira and PBSO Deputy Dwayne Brown

for their service and commitment to the village. The two were selected for the awards by Wellington’s Public Safety Committee earlier this year.

PBCFR Battalion Chief Amanda Vomero saluted Moreira for winning the Top Firefighter Award.

“Throughout his career, Andrew Moreira has embodied the values of courage, integrity and selfless service,” Vomero said. “He is a role model to his peers and a trusted guardian to the residents he serves. His continued dedication to both the fire service and tactical medical makes him uniquely deserving of this recognition.”

Moreira is a lifelong resident of Wellington, who lives in the community with his wife and three children. He relocated to Wellington when he was eight years old and said he remembers watching the village grow from dirt roads to where it is now.

For the past seven years, he

has been serving at Station 20 off Greenview Shores Blvd. Not only is he a driver/operator, but he is also a SWAT medic for the PBSO, where he provides emergency medical support for deputies at critical incidents.

“Growing up in the community for so long and being able to give back to [it], that’s given me so much,” Moreira said. “I’ve been here for… almost 40 years, and seeing how much it’s grown, it’s an honor to give back.”

PBSO Lt. Matthew LaVigna joined in presenting the Top Cop Award to Brown. LaVigna said that Brown is a proven problem solver who helps improve coordination during incidents and hastens the deployment of resources in areas that are most needed.

“Deputy Brown embodies services, partnership and compassion on duty and off,” LaVigna said. Brown patrols the sector that contains the Mall at Wellington

Park Vista Student Turns Mom’s Battle Into Nonprofit Mission

By Lys Hayes Town-Crier Staff Report

Justin Schoen, a senior at Park Vista High School was inspired by his mother’s cancer diagnosis to create a nonprofit initiative to help patients preserve their hair during treatment with “cooling caps.”

For many years, two area moms bonded through watching their sons play hockey together. In 2024, both of them were dealt the devastating news of cancer diagnoses. For Justin, one of their sons, the fear went beyond his mother’s health — he worried about her losing a defining part of her identity.

“It was a very emotional moment, and after we got over the fact that she has breast cancer, we [Justin and his brother] were thinking about all the side effects and treatments, and we went, ‘Oh, my God, is mom going to lose her hair?’” recalled Justin, founder of Cap My Crown. Cap My Crown, a nonprofit organization founded by the 17-yearold, focuses on providing access to cooling caps for breast cancer patients, who often can’t afford them to save their hair.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, Cap My Crown will be hosting its first event of Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Moda Hair Design, located at 10475 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach near Costco.

At this event, the organization will have cooling cap devices on display.

According to the American Cancer Society, “cooling caps” are automated scalp cooling systems that lower the temperature of the scalp, potentially reducing hair loss caused by chemotherapy.

Justin is a senior at Park Vista. Along with being a full-time student in the classroom, he plays hockey and is a member of several academic clubs. Founding a nonprofit adds to his accolades.

After Justin’s mother, Sharyn Schoen, sat both of her sons down to tell them of her cancer diagnosis, as a family, they immediately jumped into research around treatment and basic knowledge about what Sharyn would be facing.

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2024, and we sat down to tell them I have cancer.

After Justin got through the initial shock, he asked if I would lose my hair. It was a fear of mine. My hair used to be really big and curly, and people know me for my hair,” Sharyn explained. “It’s so much a part of my identity, and it was something I was always afraid of.”

Cooling caps can cost up to $3,000 during the course of chemotherapy treatment. In the United States, insurance coverage for scalp cooling is not yet standard.

After discovering the idea of cooling caps, Sharyn used it throughout her entire treatment.

But when Justin learned how expensive the caps were — and that insurance didn’t cover them — he began to wonder how cancer patients without financial stability could ever afford them. This sparked him to create the nonprofit initiative.

Over the past year, Justin has already raised $5,000 to support patients and has partnered with other organizations, like HairToStay, a nonprofit organization based in California that also helps raise and donate money to help cancer patients afford scalp cooling during their treatments.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, Cap My Crown will be partnering with Moda Hair Design in Royal Palm Beach to kick off a month-long campaign centered around Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

At the event, which starts at noon, Justin and his team will be showcasing the cooling cap devices to customers, and there will be chances to join raffles, and a chance to get pink hair extensions in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a donation. Specials will run the entire month of October. Learn more by calling (561) 753-7888 or visiting www.modahairdesign.com.

Schoen with his mother

event for

This collaboration with Moda Hair Design reflects not only the nonprofit’s commitment to advocating for cancer patients, but also Justin’s longtime connection with the salon owner, Stefanie Falsetto. “Stefanie’s known him since he was a toddler, running around,” Sharyn recalled.

Stefanie, co-owner of Moda with her husband, has owned the salon for more than 17 years. Over much of that time, Stefanie and Sharyn have been friends. They were introduced to each other through their sons, who’ve been playing hockey together

a

since they were five years old. Last year, that connection grew deeper when both women were diagnosed with cancer — Sharyn with breast cancer and Stefanie with ovarian cancer. Now, both cancer survivors, they’re helping Justin build a mission they have all been affected by. Stefanie said she was very excited when she found out that Justin wanted to run a fundraiser centered on cooling caps.

“It’s such an amazing thing because it sucks that this isn’t a free service, and to me, it should be a free service,” Stefanie said.

With the month of events Cap My Crown will be hosting in October, honoring breast cancer patients and survivors, all the proceeds from donations and pink hair extensions will be going to Cap My Crown to help patients. “We hope to supply and help people with cooling caps to save their hair, and eventually pass them on to another patient to use, or donate them to hospitals,” Justin said. Call or stop by Moda Hair Design to learn more, or donate direct to Justin Schoen’s Cap My Crown fundraiser at https://bit.ly/ CapMyCrown.

Justin

Sharyn Schoen at

fundraising

Cap My Crown, the nonprofit he founded.

PBSO Deputy Dwayne Brown (left) and PBCFR Driver/ Operator Andrew Moreira (right) accept their awards. PHOTOS COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

Wellington Village Council members

Justin Schoen with Stefanie Falsetto, owner of Moda Hair Design in RPB, where the Oct. 4 kickoff event will be held.

Officials: Safety Must Come First At Citrus Grove Halloween

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Like pumpkins on porches and colorful leaves in store windows, the annual brouhaha over the “Halloween on Citrus Grove” block party is back. What began years ago as a small neighborhood gathering has swelled into a large, loosely organized street festival that operates without the normally required Palm Beach County permit or insurance in case of an accident or criminal misbehavior.

Crowd sizes have been estimated from 3,000 to 8,000 with dirt bikes, golf carts, ATVs and side-by-sides moving among adult revelers and costumed kids seeking candy for their bags. That has raised concern for Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Robert Sandt, who is in

his first year overseeing the area in which the event occurs. Sandt said he has been meeting with local leaders to better understand the scope of the event and the resources he’ll need to deploy.

“Our intent is not to cancel or stifle a community holiday tradition, rather to preserve it in a safe and measured way for everyone,” Sandt said Wednesday. Sandt will be meeting again Thursday, Oct. 9 with local leaders.

In 2024, the PBSO deployed 12 deputies to the event. “I’m being told by deputies who were there that’s not enough,” Sandt said. “Then what happens if there is a serious accident on the other side of the district or criminal activity?”

Sandt oversees deputies in the Acreage/Loxahatchee area, the

Town of Loxahatchee Groves and the City of Westlake. He has suggested moving the event to Acreage Community Park.

“That’s like trying to hold Mardi Gras in a mall,” Acreage Landowners’Association (ALA) Board Member Lou Colantuoni said. “It’s a street event. It wasn’t created for something like ACP.”

Colantuoni said Indian Trail Improvement District officials, who oversee the area, are overly concerned with liability issues, and that crowds are not as large or rowdy as detractors claim.

ITID is sponsoring a “Sleepy Hollow Halloween” event Saturday, Oct. 25, beginning at 5 p.m. at Acreage Community Park. The ALA is working with the district on that event.

“It’s fully sponsored by local businesses that were happy to

do so,” ITID President Elizabeth Accomando said this week. “So, it’s not costing district taxpayers anything.”

“I just want to say again, loud and clear, we’re not trying to kill Halloween,” added Accomando, while reiterating that she has serious safety concerns regarding the Citrus Grove event.

Promoted through social media, “we have people coming up from as far away as Broward and Miami-Dade,” she said. “This has grown into something that no one planned on when it started.”

Confusion has spread on social media that ITID is pulling the plug on the annual Citrus Grove celebration, but supervisors stressed at their Sept. 17 meeting that the district itself does not issue permits for road closures. Those come from the county,

and the PBSO normally requires insurance, traffic-control plans and other safeguards before approving road closures.

“That’s one of the problems,”

Sandt said. “This is a loose, organic, neighborhood thing and no one wants [to put their name on a permit request] and take responsibility.”

Several residents spoke at the ITID meeting in favor of preserving the tradition, but officials emphasized that they have no authority to waive county rules.

“We want these events to happen,” Supervisor Richard Vassalotti said. “We just need to make sure they’re done safely.”

The debate reflects broader tensions in The Acreage as community groups, law enforcement and ITID itself navigate their respective roles in the wake of a

tidal wave of growth in the area, particularly since the pandemic.

“The Acreage is under a lot of pressure,” Colantuoni said. “That doesn’t mean we have to give up our lifestyle.”

Hanson said that ITID staff will continue to help coordinate logistics as requested by the PBSO but will seek to limit the district’s role as much as possible. He emphasized that ITID does not have the authority to close a public road for an event such as “Halloween on Citrus Grove.”

In the end, supervisors said they were committed to not allowing Halloween to become only a ghostly memory.

“Nobody here wants to take this away,” Supervisor Betty Argue said. “We just need to work together so families can enjoy it without putting anyone at risk.”

Royal Palm Beach Launches Youth Civic Leadership Program

By Mark Caracciolo

Town-Crier Staff Report

On Wednesday, Sept. 3, a total of 102 juniors and seniors at Royal Palm Beach High School attended a meeting in the media center. The reason? The launch of the new Royal Palm Beach Youth Civic Leadership Program.

“It got a start in our strategic planning session that we usually do in March or April of each year,” Mayor Jeff Hmara told the Town-Crier. “We identify activities, initiatives, programs and issues that we treat with a priority…

One of those priorities was to see if we can enhance our support of our Royal Palm Beach schools.”

One way to do that is for the village to create a program to get RPBHS students more involved in local government and the wider community.

According to Hmara, of the

102 students who showed up, 37 signed up to take part in the inaugural Youth Civic Leadership Program. That’s more than a third of the initial interested participants.

“Everything’s in the beginning phases right now, and it’s all starting with showing up, and trying to generate some interest,” Hmara explained.

Hmara said he is happy with the initial interest shown in the new program.

“A lot of times, our schools are criticized for not teaching civics well enough,” Hmara said. “And the thought that I had was, well, who better to teach civics than those who are actually involved in running our local government?”

The goal of the program is to increase students’ interest in civics and local leadership through real-life experiences. Hmara hopes that it will lead to more community

engagement among local youth.

“One of the challenges we have at the local level is getting people to turn out to vote in local elections,” he said. “When you’re only voting on your municipal positions and seats, it’s hard to get people to turn out. They oftentimes just don’t realize how much of an influence local governments have on their day-to-day lives and their quality of life.”

Currently, the RPBHS student council president sits on the village’s Education Advisory Board, providing a needed student perspective. Hmara is the council liaison to the board.

As part of the Youth Civic Leadership Program, the village is considering adding student members to other village boards, such as the Recreation Advisory Board and the Planning & Zoning Commission.

“There’s a basic rule of thumb that I have for any kind of participation in any kind of community, or even nonprofit groups,” Hmara said. “Rule No. 1 is that you’ve got to show up. And so, we’re

going

and then we’ll see how it goes from there.”

Lox Groves Council Inks One-Year Deal With Town Manager

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

A divided Loxahatchee Groves Town Council approved a oneyear contract agreement with Town Manager Francine Ramaglia on Thursday, Sept. 18. Discussion of the contract was postponed from a meeting Wednesday, Sept. 17. It was initially proposed to run for three years, expiring on Sept. 30, 2028, with a base salary of $160,000. In the end, the council approved a one-year contract, ending Sept. 30, 2026, with a base salary of $155,000. Ramaglia will also get a fairly generous benefits package. The vote on the one-year agreement was 3-2 with Councilwoman Lisa El-Ramey and Councilman Paul Coleman dissenting. Before council discussion on the item, more than a dozen residents commented on the contract, either in-person or through e-mails read into the record. Residents opposed to keeping Ramaglia made reference to inves-

Master Plan

The Future Of County Transit

continued from page 1 wide array of transportation projects. Local governments will be able to use the CTMP as a basis for adopting and/or updating their own transportation plans. During the presentation, officials outlined that developing the CTMP would first involve creating community-driven goals. Following this, a wide range of assessments will be completed of current transportation options and future needs based on land use, travel patterns, travel conditions, and planned growth and development to gain a better understanding of the state of transportation in Palm Beach County. Community feedback and data analysis will then be used to create a list of multi-modal solutions and an implementation strategy.

Palm Beach County Planning Division Director Thuy Shutt said that the CTMP project involves everyone across the county as stakeholders — from residents to transportation companies.

“We’re hoping with these public

tigations into actions taken by the manager, with others believing that the benefits package is too generous, and some suggesting that she does not have the best interests of residents in mind.

Ramaglia also had supporters at the meeting, who thought that the town was moving forward and getting things accomplished under her leadership. She has been with the town for seven years, joining as assistant town manager in 2018, taking over the top spot in 2022.

Town Attorney Jeff Kurtz took issue with some residents mentioning criminal complaints” against Ramaglia. He called that “hearsay and rumor,” and objected to how it was being characterized. Right now, he explained, it is just an anonymous complaint made to the State Attorney’s Office.

“The bulk of the contract comes from her current contract, which was drafted by the Torcivia law firm three years ago,” said Kurtz, who did not think that the contract, including its benefits, was unusual

meetings that we can have your input, so our team… can come up with a plan that would take us to the next 10- and 20-year plan horizon,” Shutt explained.

The presentation emphasized that about 97 percent of all commute patterns in the county were by car, with a small amount using other forms of transportation. With this in mind, the project team has identified three potential solutions that can be used to address current or future issues: major capital investments, operations and safety improvements, and bicycle/pedestrian improvements. The cost and effectiveness of each solution will be considered when developing the plan.

After the presentation, attendees had the opportunity to comment firsthand on issues or areas they believe are impacting their communities the most. Officials conducted a live interactive poll where attendees answered questions on what they believed the plan should include or address. Attendees also had the chance to ask additional questions to the project team during the poll to get more details. The data gathered from the poll and these interactive sessions will then be used to help create the plan.

At the end of meetings, there

TOWN-CRIERTHE

for a public sector employment agreement.

Kurtz said that the contract is unusual in that it specially reiterates the role of the manager and “calls for a strategic plan to be entered into and worked on.”

Councilman Todd McLendon said that the contract is not perfect, but he would support it.

“Previously, we’ve gone through multiple town managers here,” he said. “Every three or four years, they’re the bad guy, and we get rid of them. You lose a year or two of productivity, and it has happened time and time again.”

He said that the council and residents “need to pick our battles, instead of everything being a battle.”

“I’m amazed that Francine even wants this contract,” McLendon said.

El-Ramey said that she doesn’t like town policy being included in the agreement and wanted to see “performance-targeted standards for the manager.”

were open houses where attendees could directly speak with the project team more in-depth. Signs and maps posted around meeting rooms also gave people more information about future land use and other transportation projects occurring in the county.

Barbara Roth, president of the Coalition of Boynton West Residential Associations (COBWRA), which represents more than 140,000 residents, said she is glad that they have been given a voice as part of the plan.

“It’s always important for elected officials, our county commissioners, to hear from their residents,” Roth said.

At the moment, how the plan will be funded has not been decided yet. However, officials emphasized that when they design the CTMP, there will be funding opportunities that can be taken advantage of. As a result, when it is time to decide how to distribute transportation funds, or find grants to apply for, there will be a plan in place to do so.

For those who could not go to the meetings, the CTMP web site at www.pbcmoves.com details what the project is and what it is hoping to accomplish. It also provides multiple online surveys for various stakeholders to submit

She noted that six employees have quit and several written claims of a hostile work environment.

“We have an obligation as the elected officials of this town to protect the residents’ interest, and entering into a new contract at this time is reckless and a dereliction of our duty,” El-Ramey said.

Coleman said that he likes Ramaglia personally but feels that the contract is too generous.

“I don’t agree with the amount of the contract,” he said. “I can’t get past the dollars and cents.”

Coleman added that the “very capable staff” that Ramaglia has assembled would be able to take over.

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog said that she has seen much progress in Loxahatchee Groves since Ramaglia has been in charge.

“In the last few years, the town has made many advancements because of programs developed by the manager, staff and the town lobbyist,” she said.

El-Ramey said that she wanted a number of changes to the contract, but admitted to McLendon that even if the changes are made, she will not support keeping the manager.

El-Ramey favored making a “clean break” and appointing an interim manager.

“That way they can hold workshops and design a whole new contract and job description for a new person,” she said.

A motion by McClendon to approve a one-year contract with Ramaglia was then approved 3-2.

After the meeting, Ramaglia said that her immediate focus will be on getting a strategic planning process underway. The contract requires a strategic plan to be in place by March 1, 2026.

In other business, the council unanimously agreed to establish a Charter Review Committee with the goal of putting charter changes on the March municipal ballot, although the deadline to get that done is tight.

Kurtz said that the 15 members of the committee, with three appointed by each council member, would likely need to meet every night for 10 days to get everything ready by a December deadline set by the Supervisor of Elections Office. Some of the items up for review could be: supermajority voting requirements within the charter, the town’s election cycle and terms of office that result in the town having at least one council seat open for election each year, the town attorney’s role in approving all contracts and the 36-month limitation on debt repayment without a voter referendum.

McLendon does not like any of the proposed areas to change, except needing to have the attorney approve all contracts. During public comment, former Councilwoman Marianne Miles, who sat on a previous Charter Review Committee, said she doesn’t think it can be done in just a couple of weeks.

Interested residents listen to the presentation at the Sept. 10 session at Palm Beach State College’s Loxahatchee Groves campus. PHOTO BY

public feedback. There is an area where you can sign up for e-mail updates on the project as well.

“We’re excited to hear from folks and look forward to producing a plan that really meets high-level needs to maintain quality of life and things like safety, efficiency, options for users and connections that are important

for the transportation system,” Bilotto said.

Moving forward, there will be digital engagement through web-based workshops related to the project. The project team will be communicating with the community through various means, including newsletters, videos and more. Next spring, the project

team will host another series of meetings to gain additional feedback on the CTMP before it is finalized and sent to the Palm Beach County Commission for adoption. For more information about the CTMP, and to provide your own feedback, visit www.pbcmoves. com.

to start with showing up,

Mayor Jeff Hmara (left) explains the Youth Civic Leadership Program as Royal Palm Beach High School students listen (right).

PATRICK SHERRY/TOWN-CRIER

Ribbon Cutting, Tree Planting Celebrate Expansion Of Wellington Preserve

On Saturday, Sept. 27, the Village of Wellington celebrated the official opening of the expanded Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat off Flying Cow Road.

The new expansion area provides nature lovers with additional opportunities for walkers, runners, cyclists and bird watchers to enjoy the unique beauty of the preserve.

Along with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Wellington Garden Club held its 11th annual Community-Wide Tree Planting Event in honor of National Public Lands Day.

The tree planting had about 120 volunteers come out to help plant more than 1,100 South Florida native slash pine seedlings (Pinus elliottii densa). The volunteers were joined by Mayor Michael

Napoleone and other members of the Wellington Village Council, and included students, teachers, scout troops and members of the Wellington Garden Club. The pine seedlings were planted by the volunteers in pre-dug holes that were placed strategically in the new expansion section of the preserve by Wellington Landscape Superintendent Will Gurney and his staff.

“As residents of this community, it is our responsibility and duty to be great Earth stewards to protect our natural resources, wetlands, preserves, and flora and fauna that make up our ecosystem in this beautiful village,” said Kathy Siena, who chairs the annual tree planting for the Wellington Garden Club.

The next tree planting will be held on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, on National Public Lands Day.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER AND COURTESY THE WELLINGTON GARDEN CLUB

The volunteers gather with Village of Wellington officials for the ribbon cutting.

Mayor Michael Napoleone speaks at the ceremony.

Wellington Garden Club Event Chair Kathy Siena speaks as Landscape Superintendent Will Gurney looks on.

Landscape Superintendent Will Gurney, Diane Rice, Carol Ralph, Mayor Michael Napoleone, Annette Lubsen, Kathy Siena, John Siena, Mark Forrest, Marianne Forrest, Sera Peat, Aidan Cronin from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri and Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind.

Mayor Michael Napoleone cuts the ribbon to open to expanded preserve area.

Some of the 1,100 trees to be planted.

Nico Tsilevich, Ella Motizuki and Victoria McGuckian ready to plant trees.

Wellington High School students volunteer at the tree planting.

Mayor Michael Napoleone delivers trees. Erika Torres and Gabby Garcia Fernandez plant a tree.

Volunteers take part in the tree-planting event.

Jennie Reel plants a tree.

Cooper Berndt with a tree he planted.

WELLINGTON ART SOCIETY HOLDS RECEPTION FOR ‘DREAMSCAPES’

The Wellington Art Society held a reception, sale and awards ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 16 for “Dreamscapes,” an art exhibition at the Wellington Community Center. The event included docent tours, the People’s Choice Awards, door prizes, boutique items and refreshments. The exhibition will continue to be on display until Monday, Nov. 10. Learn more at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

“Dreamscapes.”

The Rotary Youth Exchange program gives high school students an opportunity to live in another country, make friends from around the world and experience a new culture firsthand. On Thursday, Sept. 18, the Wellington Rotary Club heard presentations from two

Award-winning artists Heather Bergstrom, Kim A. Bailey, Halyna Albanese, President Hermi Zumbado and Sue Oakes.

Heather Bergstrom won an honorable mention for “Fancy Free.”

Music was performed by Vincent Jablonski.

Kris Dru Hilles won second place for “Hibiscus #42.”

First-place winner Kim A. Bailey with “Young Blue Heron.”

Third place and People’s Choice Award winner Halyna Albanese with “Serenity.”

Elaine Weber, Sue Oakes and President Hermi Zumbado.

Gallery visitors admire the artwork in

Walter

Rotary Club President Maria Fernanda Cruz with William Coburn.

Jonathan Groettrup, an exchange student from Germany, discusses his experiences.

JULIE B. FOUNDATION MASQUERADE GALA HELPS FIGHT SARCOMA CANCERS

On Saturday, Sept. 27, supporters and sponsors of the Julie B. Foundation gathered at the Hilton Downtown West Palm Beach to honor the life of the late Juliet Brown with a masquerade gala fundraiser. The foundation works to spread awareness of sarcoma cancers. Attendees enjoyed dinner, live entertainment, speakers, auctions, prize giveaways and fellowship. Proceeds from the event went to the foundation’s scholarship fund and the Gift a Warrior Project. The foundation was created by Juliet’s daughter Jaelyn Brown to honor her mother, who passed away in 2020. There was strong support from the Wellington Rotary Club at the event in honor of Rotarian Dwayne Brown, Jaelyn’s father. Learn more about the foundation at www.thejuliebfoundation.org.

PHOTOS BY MARGARET HUNT/TOWN-CRIER AND COURTESY MAGGIE ZELLER

Shivery TV Cake Artist

continued from page 1

Michael Valeroso as pumpkin artist. Judges made clear that they were looking for seamless collaboration.

Each episode, the teams are issued a challenge from producers, such as incorporating a skull, or bats, or monsters, etc. At the end of each episode, teams are judged, with the losing team going home.

On Episode 2, which aired last Sunday night, the challenge was to create a cake that featured a ghoulish crime scene. Shivery created a ghost out of sugar, baked yeast

The Wellington Historical Society will host master storyteller Carrie Sue Avyar for a Lunch & Learn program on “Florida Folktales: Stories That Connect Us.” It will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Wellington National Golf Club, located at 400 Binks Forest Drive.

An award-winning storyteller, Chautauqua Scholar and national credentialed teaching artist, Ayvar leads her audience to discover Florida’s diverse cultures through its folktales. Learn how the state’s history and culture have been influenced and shaped going back to when Juan Ponce de Leon first arrived on its sandy shores. “Meeting” these Florida folk provides a window into the cultures that make up the state.

“The Wellington Historical Society is pleased to welcome Carrie Sue Avyar as the next speaker of

Espressivo Concert At St.

Michael Church

The Espressivo Choral Group will perform on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. at St. Michael Lutheran Church, located at 1925 Birkdale Drive in Wellington. Admission is $15 ($8 for students).

Espressivo is directed by Dr. John Weatherspoon. It consists of approximately 40 singers, most of whom are music teachers or music therapists in Palm Beach County. There will be coffee and fellowship after the concert. For more information about St. Michael Lutheran Church, visit www.stmichaelelc.com.

Palm Beach County Offering

‘Neighborhood Dashboard’

Palm Beach County is proud to announce the launch of “Your Neighborhood Dashboard.” This comprehensive online tool is a convenient, one-stop resource for staying informed and connected, enabling residents to access valuable, district-specific information. By entering a valid Palm Beach County address, users can instantly view a personalized neighborhood snapshot. The dashboard displays local, state and federal representatives, public safety and evacuation zone information, area public schools, property and land use details, and links to available utility providers. It also provides

donuts and was the team spokesperson. The good news is that her Team Terrifying Trio rose to the challenge by coming in second place, so viewers will see her in future episodes.

Shivery admitted that the mood on set was anything but warlike. “We might have been at ‘cake war,’ but all the contestants and the producers were so nice. At one point, I really needed a certain tool, and a member of another team freely lent it to me. The entire experience was wonderful,” she said. While she was honor-bound from revealing the end results of the show, interested viewers can tune into the Food Network on Sunday nights at 9 p.m. to see how this local food artist did.

our Lunch & Learn series,” WHS President Sue Bierer said. “We are dedicated to preserving Wellington’s history, which includes many great stories about our community, and we look forward to hearing Carrie Sue’s presentation, which will touch on folks who impacted culture throughout the state.” Founded in 2018, the Wellington Historical Society preserves Wellington’s past through several programs and initiatives. In addition to hosting its popular Lunch & Learn series, the Wellington Historical Society has an archive of items and documents representative of Wellington’s history. It has created an educational program taught in Wellington’s elementary schools and has compiled oral histories from many of Wellington’s early pioneers and leaders. The cost for the program is $45 for members and $50 for non-

For more information on Kelly Shivery’s cake-making business, visit her online at www.instagram. com/cakesbykellyfl.

Carrie Sue Avyar members. For tickets, membership information or to learn more, visit www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety. org.

NEWS BRIEFS

residents with county services, including housing assistance, libraries, parks and recreation, and business resources. Additional features include access to local chambers of commerce, transportation services, live traffic and beach cameras. This user-friendly dashboard is integrated with county databases, ensuring that the information presented is current, accurate and relevant.

Explore Your Neighborhood Dashboard by visiting www.pbc. gov/neighborhood.

Alzheimer’s Association Fundraiser In Wellington

The Club at Wellington senior living community, located at 14115 Lily Court, will host its inaugural Purple Sneaker Kickoff as part of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. All proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include a live band, children’s singing choir, 50/50 raffles, a silent auction, vendors, food and a special walk with everyone, including residents of the Club at Wellington. Learn more at www.wjgllc.com/ purple-sneaker-kickoff.

Hope 5K: “You Are Not Alone” on Sunday, Oct. 5 at Village Park, located at 11700 Pierson Road.

The race is organized in partnership with Angels of Provision Inc., a Wellington-based nonprofit founded by breast cancer survivor Kelita Vaughan. Proceeds from the event will support programs that provide financial assistance, survival resources and emotional support to breast cancer patients, survivors and their families.

The officially certified 5K course is part of the Equestrian Aid Foundation Strides for Hope 5K series and will be professionally managed and chip-timed by Accuchip Timing. Registration begins at 5:30 a.m., with the race starting promptly at 7 a.m. Following the run, participants and guests are invited to stay for an awards ceremony, community recognition and special presentations.

Event highlights also include vendor booths and wellness activities for families and participants. Registration is available at Fit2Run in the Mall at Wellington Green the week before and on-site on race day.

“I know firsthand the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis,” Vaughan said. “This event is about hope, healing and unity. We want every patient and family to know they have a community standing beside them.”

Bracelets On Sale

For Wellington’s Annual Fall Festival, Set For Oct. 18

Wellington’s annual Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 18, from 3 to 10 p.m., at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Extended hours provide families with younger children an opportunity to enjoy plenty of fun and activities earlier in the day, while still getting their little ghouls and goblins home in time for bed.

Enter the Haunted Hallways, if you dare, or enjoy one of the many spooktacular attractions, including: bounce houses, costume contests, food trucks, hayrides, laser tag, a petting zoo and trickor-treating.

Some attractions start and end times will vary from the event time frame.

New this year is the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show. Watch as world champion lumberjacks demonstrate incredible logging skills.

Admission to the Fall Festival is free. However, unlimited allaccess bracelets are required for activities. Bracelets purchased by Oct. 17 are $7 for children and $5 for adults. Bracelets purchased on

race bib and t-shirt or in person at Fit2Run the week before the event.

Group registration options are also available for schools, businesses and community organizations.

For sponsorship or registration details, contact Vaughan at (561) 552-8885 or kelitavaughan@ angelsofprovision.com.

Angels of Provision is dedicated to helping survivors, patients and families by providing financial assistance, connecting them with resources, and offering hope and encouragement throughout their journey. Learn more at www. angelsofprovision.com.

Drive-Through Pet Blessing At St. Michael Church Oct. 4

the day of the event are $10 for children and $5 for adults.

Children ages 2 and under are admitted free. Adult bracelets are only needed if the adult will accompany a child on the hayride, play laser tag or go through the haunted hallways. Bracelet purchases are non-refundable.

Purchase bracelets in-person at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) or Village Park (11700 Pierson Road).

Bracelets can also be reserved online by purchasing a “ticket” at www.wellingtonfl.gov/civicrec (one ticket = one all-access bracelet). Tickets can be redeemed in advance at the Wellington Com-

You’ve been summoned by royal decree to solve a murder most foul. Get tickets now for Wellington’s “A Royal Betrayal” Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, for ages 21 and up. The event takes place on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Set in a fantastical medieval court filled with lords, ladies, knights and knaves, this interactive dinner theater event promises a night of delicious food, deadly secrets and devious fun.

As guests dine and drink, a mysterious murder will unfold around them, and it’s up to everyone in the room to discover whodunit. Interrogate the suspects, unravel the clues, and see if you can identify the traitor in time.

munity Center or Village Park, or on the day of the event at the “Will Call” tent.

Free shuttle service, sponsored by the Mall at Wellington Green, will be available from the Palm Tran bus stop located near Macy’s, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Special thanks to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center, the featured sponsor. Additional sponsors include: Assurance Power Systems, Boss Roofing & Construction, Everglades Farm Equipment, FPL, Next LVL Mobile Infusion, Pediatric Dentistry Family Orthodontics and Southern Septic. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ fallfestival for more information.

Keep it casual or dress it up! Don your finest medieval garb, or just come as you are. Prizes await those with the sharpest minds and the best costumes. Tickets are $60 per person and include appetizers, dinner, beer and wine. Tickets can be purchased in-person at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) and the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Buy a table of eight and save the price of one ticket. Because this is an adult-themed event, Wellington will provide free on-site child care for children ages 5 to 12 only, including pizza and plenty of fun activities. The child care room will be separate from the event. This event is expected to sell out, so don’t wait to secure your tickets. For more info., visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/murdermystery.

Angels Run For Hope

5K Oct. 5

The Village of Wellington will host the first annual Angels Run for

Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, and local businesses are encouraged to participate as sponsors, vendors or team registrants. Participants may register online at www.runsignup.com to secure a

Saturday, Oct. 4 is the feast day for St. Francis of Assisi, known as the patron saint of animals and the environment. St. Michael Lutheran Church at 1925 Birkdale Drive in Wellington will celebrate the day with a community wide drive-through pet blessing from 9 a.m. to noon. All are welcome. Pastor AJ Striffler will offer each pet and their owner an individual blessing. Pets will receive treats, water and a blessing. For more information about St. Michael Lutheran Church, visit www.stmichaelelc.com. You can contact the church office Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at (561) 793-4999. Sunday morning services are at 9:30 a.m.

The Wellington Garden Club will meet on Monday, Oct. 6, at 10 a.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The meeting will feature a presentation by Emily Marois on growing native Florida plants in your garden. She specializes in Florida native plants, edible gardening and “Florida-Friendly Landscaping.” Marois is a UF/IFAS (Institute of Food & Agricultural Sciences) urban horticulture extension agent in Palm Beach County. She creates and delivers educational programs with the support of other master gardeners. A South Florida native herself, she holds a master’s degree in agriculture education and communication and a bachelor’s degree in plant science from the University of Florida. Her background includes working as a horticulturist at the Naples Botani-

cal Garden and in the floriculture industry. She served as coordinator of the Master Gardener Volunteer Program for Palm Beach County. The community is invited to join the club for coffee and a plant raffle beginning at 9:30 a.m. Visitors are asked to check-in at the desk upon arrival. Reserving a spot at the meeting is recommended. Contact the Wellington Garden Club Membership Chair Anne Hlasnicek via e-mail at ideasmith@comcast.net to RSVP. The Wellington Garden Club, founded in 1981, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating its members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, floral design and landscape design; and to promoting conservation of natural resources, civic beautification and youth education. For more

Iris Chapman, Dwayne Brown, Jaelyn Brown and Travis Crayton.

Julie B. Foundation founders Dwayne Brown and Jaelyn Brown address the attendees. Christopher Wilson and Omar Matari.

Bridget and Don Hoffman with Joyce and Tom Rossin.

Volunteers hand out tickets as guests arrive.

Sean, Isabel and Jennifer Patterson, Don Gross, Maria and Dr. Maurice Cruz, and Manny Andre.

Marisa Heidelmeier, Ann Thomas, Shivani and Terrence Lall, and Sadfeen Sadiq.

Frank and Herta Suess, Maggie Zeller, Sabrina Zeller, Larry Falk, and Maureen and Don Gross.

Gilberto Nouel, Dr. Maurice Cruz, Ana Carrasco, Sandra and George Kinoshita, Maria Fernanda Cruz, Maggie Zeller and Larry Falk.

Team Terrifying Trio is made up of (L-R) Kelly Shivery, Michael Valeroso and Kylie Holt.

PHOTO BY KIM RAFF/THE FOOD NETWORK

A few examples of custom cake artist Kelly Shivery’s amazing sugar creations.

Meets Thursdays - 12:15 p.m. The Wanderer’s Club For additional information

Chris Warren, 561-350-7247

Palm Beach Rotary Meets Tuesdays - 7:30 a.m. Hilary’s For additional information call Andre Blackwood

Village Manager Ray Liggins, Carolyn and Mayor Jeff Hmara, Donnielle Pinto, Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas, Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps and Les Johnson.

Donielle Pinto, an-

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Former Councilwoman Selena Samios and Village Manager Ray Liggins.

HCA Palms West Hospital volunteers were on hand to help out.

Volunteers Laura, Deborah, Michelle, Velma and Barbara joined Donnielle Pinto to serve lunch.

Donnielle Pinto and former Councilwoman Selena Samios hold a painting of Fred Pinto created by artist Carrie.

Marcella Montesinos, Maki Criscaut and Sonali Mendiratta serve cotton candy.

Maci, Chalyria, Camille, Zuri and Marie with Board Member Linsey Desich.

Taylor and Sydney on the bounce slide.

Shelley Nesbitt and Tara Bossarte serve popcorn.

Palms West Hospital CEO Jason Kimbrell with Sonali Mendiratta.

Boys & Girls Club board members Marcella Montesinos, Elliot Bonner, Reed Kellner, LaTricia Jenkins, Dr. Brian Coleman, Maki Criscaut, Sonali Mendiratta, Linsey Desich and Jason Kimbrell.

96TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

Family and friends this week celebrated the 96th birthday of Helio Gonzalez, whose birthday was on Sept. 30, at the Royal Palm Beach DOSS Program for seniors at the RPB Recreation Center. Gonzalez was in Pearl Harbor in 1950, just five years after the end of World War II, during the Korean War. Everyone sang “Happy Birthday” played by the DJ after lunch. Gonzalez enjoys music and dancing with his wife Effie, after both being widowed until they remarried 15 years ago, and enjoy a happy life with family, friends, and all of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. (Front row) Effie Nazareth, Helio Gonzalez and Carol Fernandes; and (back row) Ray Nazareth, Victor McBarnett (also age 96) and Cindy Nazareth.

Lox Budget Tax Rate

Up Slightly

continued from page 1 overall budget, the council formally directed Kurtz to open up negotiations with the PBSO about eliminating or renegotiating the existing contract.

Wellington Top Cop And Firefighter

continued from page 3 dation, which was created in honor of her late mother. The foundation helps provide scholarships for students pursuing medical careers and creates care packages for families with loved ones fighting cancer.

“It’s such an honor. I’m humbled… because there’s a lot of deserving deputies out there,” Dwayne Brown said. “I love my job. I love serving the public. I like to bring peace to a crisis.”

Council members praised the recipients of the awards, as well as the agencies they represent.

“Without the PBSO and [PBCFR], there is no Wellington,” Councilman John McGovern said.

“They are the core of keeping us

In addition, Kane asked Town Manager Francine Ramaglia to cut a total of 5 percent out of the budget to create additional money for capital projects. That would be approximately $375,000, which Ramaglia said that she would do. With those changes, the budget passed 4-1, with El-Ramey again dissenting.

safe… They are the core of our outreach to our community. They do so much more than just put out fires and make arrests… It is nights like tonight, where we get to say thank you — something that we cannot say often enough.”

In other business:

• The council unanimously approved the second and final reading of the budget and property tax rate for fiscal year 2025-26. The total adopted budget is $155.9 million, and it maintains the current tax rate of 2.47 mills. The new fiscal year began on Wednesday, Oct. 1.

• Members of the council reminded the public that the village’s new School Zone Safety Program’s warning period is now over. Drivers going more than 10 miles per hour over the speed limit in school zones during school hours will receive a $100 citation.

LUNCH & LEARN

CARRIE SUE AYVAR

Award-winning Storyteller, Chautauqua Scholar, and National Credentialed Teaching Artist

Discover Florida’s diverse cultures through its folktales!

Join Master Storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar for an engaging lunch program that celebrates the stories and traditions that connect us, benefiting the Wellington Historical Society.

ITID Meeting Agreement With ALA

continued from page 1 volunteer burnout leading to uncomfortable outbursts.

Supervisors said they hoped the pact would stabilize the ALA and encourage residents to rejoin and volunteer.

“We don’t want to see ALA go away,” Supervisor Richard Vassalotti said. “But something has to change if it’s going to work.”

The ALA has traditionally run the district’s Christmas parade and supported concerts and other events at Acreage Community Park.

Longtime ALA Board Member Lou Colantuoni noted this week that the organization is in the process of launching a new web site at www.acreagelandowners.org and trying to recruit new members.

“I remember the days when

we sent out tri-fold mailers and everyone kept them up on their refrigerator,” Colantuoni said. “But the times and technology have changed, and we have to communicate differently… The web site has gotten a lot better, and I think we’re leaning in the right direction.

Hanson said he feels for the ALA’s struggles with attracting members and volunteers for its board, especially since the pandemic and a large influx of residents with no previous connection to the area.

“I know they’re trying to grow their membership and get more people involved in the process,” he said. “We’re not trying to save the ALA. We’re trying to unite the community. Hopefully, with the help of the ALA, we can bring the community closer together.”

The ALA will host a “Help Us Shape the Future” event Sunday, Oct. 5 at 2 p.m. at Acreage Community Park’s North Pavillion at 6701 140th Avenue North.

Supervisors said they hoped the pact would help stabilize the ALA. “We don’t want to see ALA go away,” Supervisor Richard Vassalotti said. “But something has to change if it’s going to work.”

School Site RPB Allows Private School

continued from page 1 would include a two-story building for kindergarten through grade eight of 40,000 square feet, as well as a high school of 37,000 square feet, and a gymnasium of about 9,500 square feet. Details about the private educational institution were not released.

The project is so significant to the local economy that the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County wrote the village a letter citing that “a high-quality private school has expressed interest in Royal Palm Beach” and urged approval, saying that the school would bring new people, new money and new ideas to the community.

Some 34 people filled out comment cards, all in support of the private school project, carrying placard signs in favor of approval. Representing the property owners’ association at Tuttle Royale, Michael Tuttle spoke about how

changing demographics in South Florida have depressed the charter school market while expanding the private school market, and how allowing a private school is important to the overall project.

Amy Bennett, an expert on education, spoke of the excellence of the interested academic institution, and how private schools offer choice to everyone because of scholarships and voucher programs. Bob Bradley, who has owned businesses in Royal Palm Beach for 40 years, said that the project will benefit the local small business community.

Missy Rodberg said she has experienced public, private and charter schools as a student and spoke of the benefits of a private school. Local mother Stephanie Russell noted the long waiting lists for other private schools and how they could best benefit her disabled child.

It was not the first time that the council has heard a similar request. In April 2024, the council voted 3-2 to reject opening the site up for a private school. At that time, owners of several other pods in Tuttle Royale objected to the change. That is no longer the

A roundtable discussion on the Acreage Neighborhood Plan will be held.

Also, the ALA will hold its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the ITID office, located at 13476 61st Street North. The public is invited.

In other business:

• ITID staff members acknowledged that the roadbed beneath Orange Grove Blvd. is failing and that patching an increasing number of potholes is not a solution. They suggested taking up the current pavement, redoing and widening the roadbed with in-house crews, then bringing in a private company to do the paving.

Supervisors asked staff to bring a funding and procurement plan to the next meeting. If successful, the project could be a model for reworking other troubled roads, Hanson said.

• ITID’s staff and attorney reiterated the district’s intent to keep ownership of the parts of Florida Power & Light’s transmission corridor where roads and canals already exist, even as it explores selling adjacent strips to abutting landowners in Unit 1.

The 29 acres owned by the district sit beneath FPL transmission

case. In addition, the expansion of school vouchers across the state has altered the financial picture for private schools.

Mayor Jeff Hmara commented that his main concern was “affordability,” and that he is pleased to see the scholarship and voucher programs. Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps admitted that she was at first against the idea of a private school, but that she did her research, and she is now in support of the project for its potential to raise reading and academic scores for local students.

Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas added that even though he is a product of public education, with three children who have attended public schools, he still supports the private school idea, as he did in 2024. Councilwoman Jan Rodusky was happy to learn that the school would incorporate a STEAM philosophy, which means that the arts are promoted alongside math, engineering and science.

The two agenda items related to the school wording change passed unanimously.

In other business:

• At the final budget hearing,

lines from Persimmon Blvd. to 60th Street North. The property has been valued at approximately $3,000 per acre, for a total of $87,000.

ITID’s 2020 mobility study suggested that the property could be used for horse trails. However, some of the 25 or so property owners have expressed concerns about the smell of manure and the possibility of fecal matter getting into their wells.

“Equestrians don’t want to ride there,” said Accomando, “and residents don’t want horses there… In the long run, if we have to fence off the property and permanently maintain it, it’s going to cost taxpayers a lot more money.” Staff will return with appraisals, draft legal descriptions and policy options, perhaps at the board’s next meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 15. • The board learned that the Acreage Community Park South Expansion synthetic-turf project cleared its final permit at the South Florida Water Management District, with construction expected to get underway soon. In other park news, the supervisors agreed to re-submit improvements to Downers Park for the next state grant cycle.

the council approved an estimated $60.5 million budget for fiscal year 2026, which began Oct. 1. That is down significantly from last year’s budget of $68.2 million. Royal Palm Beach prides itself on having one of the lowest municipal property tax rates in the county, which continued this current year. The council gave final approval to keeping the village’s current property tax rate of 1.92 mills. The village has maintained this tax rate for the past 16 years. However, that rate will bring in additional revenue to the village due to rising property values. The rate of 1.92 mills is 6.15 percent above the rolled-back rate of 1.8087 mills, which would have brought in the same amount of net revenue.

• Other items on the long agenda included the approval of a “pet training” designation in village code that will allow Dynamite Dog Training to operate a business within the village. The council also approved a sculpture entitled “Colorful Perspectives,” submitted by the Aldi warehouse to comply with the village’s Art in Public Places Program.

Xcel Padel Grand Opening Brings Growing Sport To Westlake

The fast-growing sport of padel arrived in Westlake on Friday, Sept. 19 with the long-awaited opening of Xcel Padel.

The largest indoor padel club in the U.S., Xcel Padel is located at 17035 Persimmon Blvd. in the James Business Park. Another Xcel Padel location is slated to open in November near the South Florida Fairgrounds.

Padel is a fast-growing racket sport that mixes tennis and squash. It’s played on smaller glass-walled courts with solid paddles, doubles play and tennis scoring. It is designed to be fun, social and

accessible for all ages. The sport originated in Mexico in 1969, expanded significantly in Spain and Argentina, and is now gaining popularity in the U.S.

The 46,000-square-foot Westlake location features 10 AI-powered courts, a French restaurant open to the public, wellness services and spa-style locker rooms. The grand opening event featured live demonstrations, tours and a chance to try out this unique, growing sport. For more information, call (561) 839-8777 or visit www.xcelpadel. com.

PBSC Opens New Frank DiMino Center For Medical Innovation

By Mark Caracciolo Town-Crier Staff Report

On Tuesday, Sept 16, board members, employees and students of Palm Beach State College, joined by community leaders from across the western communities, gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the brand-new Frank DiMino Center for Medical Innovation on PBSC’s Loxahatchee Groves campus. They all gathered into the lecture hall after a meeting of the PBSC District Board of Trustees.

A number of speakers took the podium to give their thoughts on the opening of the new medical building, including PBSC President Ava Parker; Kimberly Lancaster, executive dean of the Loxahatchee Groves campus; philanthropist and PBSC Board Member Julie Kime; State Rep. Anne Gerwig (R-District 93); PBSC Board Chair Daniel Epstein; Loxahatchee Groves Mayor Anita Kane; and others.

The $68 million building is

83,954 square feet, four stories tall, has 10 laboratories and 16 interactive classrooms.

“We needed this second building in order for [students] to be able to earn their full associate’s degree on this campus,” Parker told the Town-Crier

Before, if a student wanted to earn a degree in medical studies, they would have to travel to the Lake Worth campus, which is a 30-minute drive away. Now they can earn a degree in an array of health sciences without leaving the area.

On the first floor, there are classrooms for surgical classes, physical therapy assistance and open classrooms. The second floor has dental rooms and labs. The third floor has more classrooms, while the fourth and uppermost floor has wet labs.

Programs in the building will also offer free or discounted medical and dental care services to residents.

“When you see a building like this, I’m hoping that a person who walks in knows we are innovative, we are forward-thinking, and that we look to have experiences for our students that will prepare

(L-R) Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor, Xcel Padel senior advisor and partner Marcos Del Pilar, investor Leon Rozenfeld and CEO Iryna Ryzhuk at the grand opening ceremony. Xcel Padel’s Westlake facility features 10 glass-enclosed courts.

Xcel Padel is the largest indoor padel club in the U.S. Padel, originating in Mexico, has elements of tennis and squash. Padel is a racket sport played with solid padels.

Students work with a dummy patient in an operating room. Some of the students taking health science classes at PBSC.

State Rep. Anne Gerwig speaks about the new building during the ceremony. PHOTOS BY MARK CARACCIOLO/TOWN-CRIER

Tammy and John Giunta with Zai Bandell.

Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor with the whiskey basket he provided for the fundraiser. Robin McDonald, Barrie Hughes, Jeff McDonald, Michelle O’Boyle and Marla Pipkins.

Stacey and David Scheinman.

Tatiana Vasilenko performs for the guests.

Guests bid on the many fabulous silent auction items. Angie Rivera and Nelsi Casado.

Arnie Kaplan entertains with jazz music.

Event co-chairs Robin and Jeff McDonald.

Michael O’Brien, Rich Gustke and Andy Snitz

Gloria O’Brien and Sophia Riger enjoy the evening.

BINKS

FOREST PTA HOSTS

The Binks Forest Elementary School PTA held its annual “Party with a Purpose” eighth annual casino night and auction at the Wellington National Golf Club on Saturday, Sept 27. Themed “Palm Royale,” the event included a full casino, dancing, auction items, basket prizes and refreshments. Money raised will be used to purchase educational tools for students. Learn more about the Binks Forest PTA at www.binksforestpta.org.

DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS BY

ANNUAL ‘PARTY WITH A PURPOSE’ CASINO NIGHT

Award-Winning Stroke Care …

PTA board members and event committee members gather for a group photo.

Caroline Epstein, Mechelle Oh, Gianna Gouveia, Nicole Haggerty, Robin Peck and Stacey Oswald.

Dara and Daniel Lustig of sponsor Pike & Lustig.

Andrea Mariaca, Stefanie DeGrocco, Stephanie Scocchera and Nicole Buss at the check-in desk.

Audrey Cook with Andrea and Sergio Mariaca of sponsor Mariaca Wealth Management.

Principal Michella Levy taught Joey DeCamillo in fourth grade, and now he has two children in school at Binks Forest. Stacie and Scott Poritz.

Eleana and Jason Johnson of sponsor Exclusive Charter Service.

Dr. Tiffany McCalla-Bottorff and Binks Forest Principal Michella Levy.

Stefanie and Paul DeGrocco.

Andre and Angela Bustamante of Atomic Electric.

Victoria and Richard Boyle of sponsor the Boyle Law Firm.

Xavier and Lazara Sanchez.

Kelvin Chang and Lisandra Perez.

Tina Yates of High Point Farm, Tracey Byrne of the Mixed Bag and Alex Welles of Team Welles.

Matt Dunn throws the dice.

Lucky Richard D’Imperio with Dan Zottoli. Jay and Lisa Molbogot with Lauren and Kyle Lemon.

David Jimenez and Binks Forest Principal Michella Levy. Amy Rochman and Wellington Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind.

Schedule your mammogram today.

To schedule yours: BaptistHealth.net/Mammo 833-596-2473

A prescription and appointment are required.

If you don’t have a referring physician or medical professional to write a prescription for you, call 786-596-2464. Any abnormal findings will be sent to your referring physician. This offer is not contingent on receiving any additional services from Baptist Health. If further care is necessary, you can count on Baptist Health Cancer Care to provide you with the most comprehensive care. For additional information, please visit BaptistHealth.net/Mammo.

Wellington’s Dave Jimenez Has An Unmatched Love For Soccer

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

By day, longtime Wellington

resident Dave Jimenez works for a local landscaping company. By night and on weekends, Jimenez spends many hours each week on the soccer field, where he both coaches and plays the sport.

Jimenez, 56, has been living in Wellington since 2004. Soon after arriving 21 years ago, he started coaching in Wellington’s

recreational youth soccer league, which conducts games on Saturday mornings every year in the fall and the spring on the soccer fields at Village Park off Pierson Road.

The age groups for the league range from U-8s to U-16s. Jimenez has coached soccer at all levels in Wellington. He’s still spending weeknights and weekends immersed in soccer as a volunteer coach at Village Park, and he has often coached

more than one recreational soccer team at a time. Jimenez is also comfortable coaching soccer to boys and girls teams. As a result, his weeknights in the fall and spring are busy with practices, while his calendar on Saturday mornings is always set aside for soccer games at Village Park.

Jimenez brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his soccer practices and games.

“I bring energy, inspiration and excitement to each team that I coach,” he said.

Jimenez’s commitment to his soccer teams has been second to none.

“In 21 years, I’ve never missed a game,” he added.

As a coach, Jimenez focuses on improving every player’s basic fundamental skill set.

“In practice, we work on controlling the ball, trapping the ball, passing the ball and moving without the ball,” Jimenez explained. “I teach the basics of playing defense. We then run 3-versus-2 drills and 4-versus-3 drills.”

Early in his coaching career, Jimenez led the recreational soccer teams of his children, Kayla and Christopher. Both of his children have grown up, but Jimenez is still out there coaching the sport he loves to watch and play.

“I coach soccer to help the local kids,” Jimenez said. “I love it.”

In addition to being a volunteer coach for local children, he’s also the head coach of the boys varsity soccer team at Palm Beach Central High School. This coming season

will be his second in charge of the Broncos. Prior to being the head coach of the boys team, he was the head coach of the girls varsity soccer program at Palm Beach Central.

In Florida, high school soccer is a winter sport. His team at Palm Beach Central will open the 2025-26 season on Nov. 3 at Suncoast High School. He’s very excited about the prospects for this year’s team.

“We have a number of young players on the team,” Jimenez said. “It will be an exciting season.”

The roots of Jimenez’s interest in soccer started more than 50 years ago.

“I started playing soccer when I was a five-year-old growing up on Long Island, New York,” said Jimenez, who played high school soccer at Massapequa High School.

On the field, he played center back, which is at the heart of the defense. He’s still playing center back for a local soccer team that competes on Sunday mornings in an over-45 league playing in the Loxahatchee area.

Jimenez’s passion for soccer will continue for years to come, as he’s not showing any signs of slowing down.

“I’m still playing soccer, coaching soccer and watching soccer. It’s my favorite sport,” Jimenez said.

His favorite players are Argentina’s Lionel Messi on the men’s side and Alex Morgan on the women’s side. Messi remains ac-

Competition Heats Up As High School Football Season Reaches Mid-Point

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The 2025 football season for area high schools has so far been a mixed bag of success and failure.

At the outset of the season, Royal Palm Beach High School, Palm Beach Central High School and the King’s Academy had high aspirations, based on success last fall. To date, Royal Palm Beach is playing well, Palm Beach Central is still looking for a consistent winning formula and TKA has rediscovered its winning ways.

Meanwhile, the football programs at Wellington and Seminole

Ridge high schools have been inconsistent this season — but hope springs eternal.

Royal Palm Beach High School — After beginning the season with a quartet of shutout victories against Port St. Lucie, John I. Leonard, Suncoast and William T. Dwyer high schools, RPBHS hit the road with its undefeated 4-0 record and traveled north to Kingsland, Georgia, to play another undefeated team, the Wildcats from Camden County High School. While traveling north by bus was a team-building and team-bonding experience, so

was the game. After four quarters of play, Camden County prevailed 37-20.

According to RPBHS head coach Samuel Curry, his squad learned a great deal from the loss. For a few of the Royal Palm Beach players, it was the first time that they had been outside Florida in their lives.

“Despite the loss, it was a great team-building experience for my players,” Curry said. “They enjoyed the fellowship of traveling together, eating together, practicing together and praying together.”

Two of the standout performances by Royal Palm Beach were by Demetrius Gibson and Demetrice Rolle. Gibson scored two touchdowns, and Rolle returned a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown.

After a bye on Friday, Sept. 26, RPBHS (4-1) will resume its schedule Friday, Oct. 3 when the Wildcats host Boca Raton High School. It will be Teacher Appreciation Night and Youth Sports Night at the game.

Then, on Friday, Oct. 10, the Wildcats will travel to West Boca Raton High School to play the Bulls, who are the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) reigning Class 5A state champions.

The King’s Academy — TKA’s varsity football team began this season with a pair of heart-breaking four-point losses — 28-24 to Saint Andrew’s School on Aug. 22 and 14-10 to Gulliver Prep on Sept. 4.

Despite the 0-2 start, the Lions have responded with three straight victories — a close 15-14 win over American Heritage School on Sept. 19, an impressive 28-6 victory against Inlet Grove High School on Sept. 26, and a thrill-

ing 21-20 win against Fort Pierce Westwood Academy on Monday, Sept. 29.

The win against American Heritage was a big emotional boost to the team.

“We relied on unity and faith in each other. Our players and coaches put God first, and the players leaned in on teammates,” TKA head coach Dan Burack said. “We had a great defense, and our special teams really paid off.”

The top performer in the American Heritage game was linebacker Levi Champion, who had 24 tackles, including four tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, an interception and a rushing touchdown.

In the win over Fort Pierce Westwood, quarterback DJ Beneby threw for 222 yards and two touchdowns. Those touchdown passes were caught by Jack Miller and Hudson Champion. Levi Champion scored a rushing touchdown on defense, and he had 20 tackles, an interception and three tackles for a loss on defense.

With a 3-2 record, TKA will look to improve when it hosts Somerset Prep on Friday, Oct. 3 and travels to Somerset Academy Canyons on Thursday, Oct. 9.

Palm Beach Central High School — With a 1-4 record, it has been a tough season for the Broncos. With the exception of a 50-7 loss on the road against West Boca Raton High School on Aug. 28, Palm Beach Central’s three other losses have been by a touchdown or less. Palm Beach Central’s lone victory remains a 39-6 win over Spanish River High School on Sept. 5.

The Broncos will look to return to their traditional winning ways when they travel to Palm Beach Gardens High School on Friday, Oct. 3 and then host Palm Beach

tive in men’s professional soccer playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and for his native Argentina at the international level. Morgan is a former player for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team.

Lakes High School on Friday, Oct. 10.

One of Palm Beach Central’s statistical leaders is senior middle linebacker Antoine Sharp. He is averaging 11 tackles a game, and he has recorded four quarterback sacks.

Wellington High School —

With a 2-3 record, the Wolverines, under the guidance of its new head coach Pete Walker, have had an up-and-down season. The most recent game was a 19-12 loss at Palm Beach Lakes High School on Friday, Sept. 26. That was the first FHSAA Class 7A, District 12 game for Wellington. In the game, Wellington led 6-0 at halftime and was still leading 12-7 after three quarters. Unfortunately, the Rams outscored the Wolverines 12-0 in the decisive fourth quarter to prevail, 19-12.

The Wolverines will look to even their record at 3-3 when they host Dr. Joaquín García High School on Friday, Oct. 3. The following week, on Friday, Oct. 10, Wellington will play at Jupiter High School for another all-important district game.

On the field, Wellington’s leading tackler has been senior outside linebacker Julian Riaboukha, who

is averaging five tackles a game. Looming large on the schedule for both Wellington and Palm Beach Central is the Wellington Cup game on Friday, Oct. 24, when Wellington will be hosting Palm Beach Central. Seminole Ridge High School — After beginning the season with three consecutive losses, the Hawks have rebounded with a pair of victories on the road. Those two wins were a 35-14 victory at home against Santaluces High School on Sept. 19 and a 17-14 triumph against Palm Beach Gardens High School on Sept. 26. In the game against Santaluces, senior Steven Sistrunk rushed for a pair of touchdowns. With a 2-3 record, the Hawks will be looking for more wins when they host the Benjamin School on Friday, Oct. 3 and Spanish River High School on Friday, Oct. 10.

Statistically, Seminole Ridge has been led by junior running back Rasheed Lamar, who is averaging 51.4 rushing yards per game. In the scoring department, three Seminole Ridge players have each scored two touchdowns — junior Elijah Smith, sophomore Caelin Argue and Sistrunk.

Like millions of soccer fans around the world, Jimenez plans to watch the men’s World Cup when it returns to the U.S. next summer. You would expect nothing less from Wellington’s “Mr. Soccer.”

Dave Jimenez (right) with former player Madison McDevitt at Village Park.

Coach Dave Jimenez with some of his young team members.

TKA senior Ardin Jeanty

TKA Girls Volleyball Squad Is Heading In The Right Direction

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The King’s Academy girls varsity volleyball team is currently trending in the right direction. Since late August, TKA has been a tough team to beat. Since Aug. 30, the Lions have played 16 matches

and won 13 of them. Between Sept. 2 and Sept. 20, the squad won 10 out of 11 matches.

“Our team has had a great streak,” said Bethany Avila, the head coach of the girls volleyball program at TKA. According to Avila, the team

currently has good chemistry in practice and in games.

“I think it is a combination of having all players back and at peak performance during that streak and having each [player] in the right positions, with strategic serving, and players playing for God’s

glory and not their own,” Avila said. “We’ve improved since the start of the season.”

During Labor Day weekend, they traveled to play the top teams in the country at the Southeast Tournament of Champions.

“It helped us see what we needed to work on, and we worked really hard in those areas in practice,” Avila said. “I had a few players in and out of practice and games due to extenuating circumstances at the start of the season.”

Avila is proud of the leadership role many of her players are assuming.

“During the streak, junior Miranda Knoll stepped up not just with her explosive attack, but also with defense and her voice of leadership on the court,” Avila said. “Freshman Mikayla Matuszko has been on fire with her hitting from the outside and her serving. Senior Bella Pons is always hungry to attack and block, and she leads well in practice. Senior libero Alanis Molina works so hard to anchor our defense and serve-receive, and she communicates well with her teammates. We also have solid setting and blocking, but our serve-receive passing and ability to put the ball away right away is

what has outshined other teams.”

In addition to having an athletic and talented team, Avila is proud of the way her players have conducted themselves on the volleyball court this fall.

“A ref said to me last week, ‘Your team is a delight to ref. They are so kind,” Avila explained. “For me, this is what we are striving for, growth in Christ-likeness that is noticed and felt even by refs and opponents.”

Other high school girls volleyball news:

• On Tuesday, Sept. 30, Berean Christian School (11-8) won its senior night game against Highlands Christian in five sets (25-17, 25-21, 24-26, 24-26, 15-9). Senior Ellie Skelton is Berean’s lone senior on this year’s squad, which has won three straight games.

• On Tuesday, Sept. 30, Wellington High School defeated Park Vista High School in three sets (25-21, 25-16, 25-17). The Wolverines have won two straight games.

• On Monday, Sept. 29, Royal Palm Beach High School (13-8) dropped a three-set match to Dr. Joaquín García High School (2520, 25-14, 25-14).

• On Tuesday, Sept. 30, Sem-

Up-And-Coming Golfer Sofia Mayer Enjoys Her Time On The Course

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

When Royal Palm Beach resi-

dent Sofia Mayer steps on a golf course, she looks like she belongs, she acts like she belongs, she dresses like she belongs, and, most importantly, she swings a golf club like she belongs on a golf course. Fifteen-year-old Mayer and the game of golf are a perfect fit. It has been that way for nearly 10 years, ever since she was first introduced to the game as a six-year-old. Since Mayer is homeschooled, she decided to align herself with the varsity golf team at Berean Christian School this fall. The team practices and plays at the Village Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Back in mid-September, in the midst of the high school golf season, Mayer had a unique competitive golf opportunity to pursue in Mississippi. She was a member of

the BallenIsles PGA Junior League team, which had qualified to compete in the PGA Junior League Regionals held at the Sunkist Country Club in Biloxi, Mississippi. It was a mixed team event, and Mayer played with a student from Suncoast High School. While in Mississippi, she played a nine-hole practice round and two nine-hole competitive rounds. The BallenIsles team finished in fifth place.

Despite not winning, she enjoyed the two team dinners, and she had a great time traveling to Mississippi to play in such a prestigious amateur golf event. It was Mayer’s first time playing competitive golf in Mississippi. While there, she hit some memorable shots and made quite a few big putts.

“I putted very well that week, including a big 45-foot putt in one match,” Mayer said.

When she’s back home in Palm

Beach County, Mayer is dedicated to improving her golf game.

Whether that improvement results in her eventually playing college golf and possibly reaching the LPGA Tour remains to be seen.

“I practice at least 10 hours a week, where I am constantly working on my chipping, pitching and putting,” Mayer said.

“I always need to work on my putting.”

One of her most memorable golf experiences took place earlier this year when she worked a number of the TGL Golf events held in Palm Beach Gardens and broadcast on ESPN. She was nominated for the job by Glen Beaver, her golf instructor, who is based at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Mayer was assigned a number of jobs during the weekly two-hour broadcasts, which did involve meeting and working for

the pro golfers. She met a number of prominent PGA Tour pros, such as Rickie Fowler, Tommy Fleetwood, Patrick Cantlay, Kevin Kisner and Justin Thomas. Mayer is hoping that she gets rehired for the next TGL season early next year.

When it comes to specific product brands in golf, Mayer enjoys using a driver from Cobra, a golf ball from Titleist, a golf glove from FootJoy and golf shoes from Adidas. Her two favorite golf courses in Palm Beach County are the East Course at the BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens and Palm Beach Par 3 in Palm Beach.

When Mayer is not playing competitive golf, she enjoys recreational rounds of golf with her dad Joey. Outside of golf, she enjoys playing volleyball and volunteering at her church, Connect Church in Royal Palm Beach.

The 2025 girls varsity volleyball team from the King’s Academy. PHOTO BY DEREK CHIRCH

Berean head coach Sam Skelton with his daughter, senior Ellie Skelton.

PHOTO BY MIKE MAY/TOWN-CRIER inole Ridge High School (9-12), coached by Scott Barnwell, had an impressive win against Dr. Joaquín García (25-22, 21-25, 25-17, 1525, 16-14).

• The next match for the Palm Beach Central High School (8-9) will be Friday, Oct. 3, when the Broncos host Seminole Ridge in a match that starts at 6 p.m.

Sofia Mayer while playing golf for Berean Christian School. PHOTO BY MIKE MAY/TOWN-CRIER

Curtis LeBlanc Attorney

TROOP 111 HOLDS COURT OF HONOR CEREMONY AT THE RPB CULTURAL CENTER

Scout Troop 111 of Royal Palm Beach held a Court of Honor ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. At the ceremony, outgoing Senior Patrol Leader Keenan Stack was honored, and incoming Senior Patrol Leader Kirill Montoya was sworn in.

Nonprofit Organizations Called To Apply For 2026 Great Charity Challenge

Galloping into its 17th edition, the Great Charity Challenge (GCC) has left a lasting mark on Palm Beach County’s nonprofit community. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the event has served as a true catalyst for change, blending equestrian sport and philanthropy to distribute more than $24 million to 370 local charities over the past 16 years. The application process for this year’s GCC is open through 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15. Originally founded by the father-daughter team Mark and Paige Bellissimo, the GCC has grown from distributing $500,000 in its inaugural year to raising and distributing more than $1 million every edition since. With another ambitious goal of $2 million in 2026, the event will once again return to Wellington International,

home of the Winter Equestrian Festival, on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026.

The electrifying evening will feature show jumping paired with the unstoppable spirit of giving. Participating nonprofits are guaranteed a minimum of $15,000, while the winning team will take home $100,000 for their paired organization.

Following the application and vetting process, all qualified charities will be assigned a “lottery ball” and entered into a raffle drum, with selections taking place during the month of December. In keeping with tradition, the drawing will remain random and will be livestreamed via the event’s social media channels.

Additional smaller grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, will also be awarded through a random

draw among vetted nonprofits.

To be eligible, applicants must be a registered 501(c)(3) organization, serve residents of Palm Beach County, have a physical presence in the county, commit to spending at least 75 percent of funding received locally, and have a non-discrimination statement and/or policy. If you know of a deserving Palm Beach County charity, encourage them to apply at www.greatcharitychallenge. com/2026-gcc.

“We cannot thank our generous donors enough for making this event continue to grow and thrive,” said Anne Caroline Valtin, executive director of the GCC.

“Looking back on the last 16 years and the tie this event has created between Palm Beach County and the equestrian community, we see the growing need to support our

RIVER BRIDGE GEM WITH LAKE VIEWS

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For more information or to schedule a showing, please contact Krystle L. Rea, PA with Sutter & Nugent, LLC at 561-707-8383.

neighbors. We urge organizations to apply for the chance to access unrestricted funding during these challenging times.”

This year’s theme will be “Rhyme Without Reason,” promising a night filled with imagination, color and creativity as equestrian teams bring whimsical pairings to life in support of the community. Beyond the costumes, this year’s theme captures the heart of what the GCC is all about: creating impact through unique and unexpected pairings.

Just as a bee, a ski and brie might rhyme without reason, the event unites sponsors, nonprofits and equestrians in powerful ways that defy expectation — but deliver extraordinary results. The GCC will celebrate and honor the spirit of teamwork while supporting dozens of Palm Beach County

Mayor Jeff Hmara and Jannette Sharpe-Paul thank Keil Grieser, Hadi Okkashi, Lucas Schnick Baker, Caleb McNally, Nael Issa, Mohammed Almasoodi, Haroon Almasoodi and Isabella Page for having volunteered at CAFCI’s Cultural Diversity Day.

Eagle Scouts Mohammed Almasoodi, Keenan Stack, Caleb McNally and Christopher Clarke with their parents.

Benjamin and Irene Recio.

Scoutmaster Ryan McNally with Eagle Scout Mohammed Almasoodi, who is working to become a new assistant scoutmaster.

Incoming Senior Patrol Leader Kirill Montoya “fights” Keenan Stack over the leadership staff.

Senior Patrol Leader Keenan Stack gave orchids to Irina Montoya, Zulema Grieser and Emily Schnick Baker.

Scoutmaster Ryan McNally swears in Kirill Montoya.

Keenan Stack presents a gift to Lori Cabrera.

Hadi and Jodi Okkashi with Kirill and Irina Montoya.

charities making a difference in the lives of thousands. For additional event information, including information about the application process, donations and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.greatcharitychallenge. com.

The 2026 Great Charity Challenge will be held Saturday, Jan. 31.

The Prosperity Academy Will

Host ‘Night Of A Thousand Lights’ Oct. 18

The community is invited to a new, exciting upcoming event called “Night of a Thousand Lights,” an inaugural Diwali gala, being hosted by the newly registered nonprofit organization, the Prosperity Academy. It will be held at the National Polo Center in Wellington on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m.

Created by local business leader Sherron Permashwar, the Prosperity Academy is dedicated to ending the financial literacy crisis by empowering other nonprofit organizations through hands-on education, community support and generational wealth-building. The nonprofit’s goal is to break cycles of poverty, one community at a time. Permashwar’s motto is, “We don’t just give a fish, we teach how to fish.”

The Hindu holiday of Diwali, also known as the “Festival of Lights,” is celebrated for conquering darkness and triumphing over

struggle, which is the mission of the Prosperity Academy.

The community is welcome to join in a night of culture and community while investing in the future of youth and families. Tickets are $150 per person and will benefit the programs, tools and resources needed to teach those in need. To purchase tickets to the Oct. 18 gala, or to learn more about the Prosperity Academy, visit www.theprosperityacademy.org.

Talented Teen Club Celebrates 20 Years With Groundbreaking Event

The Talented Teen Club, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth, marked its 20th anniversary with a groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new community hub in Greenacres.

The event brought together community leaders, families and supporters to celebrate two decades of impact and the bright future ahead.

“We are beyond grateful for the support of our partners and sponsors, especially the Henry Nias Foundation,” said Shawn Ho-Hing King, founder and CEO of the Talented Teen Club. “Your mentorship, guidance and gen-

erosity to the families we serve have been extraordinary. This groundbreaking is not just about a building — it’s about building dreams and generational change.”

The Talented Teen Club also honored its board of directors and other partners, whose continued investment in youth empowerment has fueled its growth. The new facility will serve as a dedicated space for mentorship, leadership development and community programming, expanding TTC’s reach to more than 1,000 students annually in Palm Beach County. Learn more about the club at www.talentedteenclub.org.

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Two New Members Join WRMC Board Of Governors

Wellington Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the appointment of two distinguished community leaders, Maggie Zeller and Michael Drahos, to its Board of Governors. Their extensive professional experience and deep commitment to the Wellington community will bring valuable perspectives to the hospital’s mission of delivering high-quality, compassionate care.

Zeller, founder and independent health insurance advisor at Zeller Health Insurance Solutions LLC, has been a trusted advocate for individuals navigating the complexities of health insurance since 2013. With a career spanning five decades in banking, business development and health insurance, Zeller is known for her integrity, personalized service and dedication to helping clients find coverage that meets their unique needs.

A Florida resident since 1991 and a resident of the western communities since 2002, Zeller is also

a passionate community volunteer. She serves on the boards of the Wellington Rotary Club, the Wellington Community Foundation, Back to Basics and the YWCA, exemplifying her belief in giving back through service.

Drahos is a seasoned attorney specializing in maritime medical malpractice defense, with more than 15 years of experience representing shipboard medical professionals worldwide. He is a recognized expert in jurisdictional defenses and frequently lectures at cruise industry seminars. Drahos also brings a broad legal background in product liability and medical device litigation, serving as regional counsel to a global sports equipment and apparel company.

In addition to his legal career, Drahos is a dedicated public servant. He served for eight years on the Wellington Village Council. His civic involvement also includes six years on the Planning,

Maggie Zeller

Michael Drahos Zoning & Adjustment Board and two years on the Education Committee. He is also the founder of the Young Professionals of Wellington, a group focused on community advocacy and economic development.

“We are thrilled to welcome Maggie and Michael to our Board of Governors,” said Pam Tahan,

chief executive officer of Wellington Regional Medical Center.

“Their leadership, expertise and commitment to our community will be instrumental in guiding our hospital’s continued growth and excellence in patient care.” To learn more about Wellington Regional Medical Center, visit www.wellingtonregional.com.

Mayors Participate In Literacy Coalition Kickoff Lunch

The Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County, in partnership with the Palm Beach County League of Cities and presenting sponsor Comcast, hosted the annual Mayors’ Literacy Initiative Luncheon and Read for the Record celebration at the Blume Literacy Center on Wednesday, Sept. 17, spotlighting literacy, community engagement and the joy of reading.

This year’s featured Read for the Record book is See Marcus Grow by Marcus Bridgewater, also known as “Garden Marcus,” a social media sensation and author whose work connects gardening with personal growth. Bridgewater was the guest speaker at the luncheon.

The event kicked off the 20th anniversary of the Read for the Record initiative, which connects adults and children through shared reading experiences. In an extended celebration leading up to Read for the Record Day on Feb. 26, 2026, the coalition is highlighting five books from past Read for the Record campaigns and featuring them in their “Read with Me” volunteer program throughout the year. Volunteers can read the book and share activities with kindergarten students each month through March.

Bridgewater also read See Mar cus Grow to students from the Lit

eracy Coalition’s Building Better Readers afterschool program.

The Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County provides adult and all aimed at improving the quality of life in the community by pro-

(Left) Wellington Mayor Michael Napoleone with Jeanne Siccone, the Literacy Coalition’s director of children’s literacy. (Right) Literacy Coalition CEO Kristin Calder, author Marcus Bridgewater, Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Jan Rodusky and Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara. PHOTOS COURTESY TRACEY BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Sherron Permashwar

Talented Teen Club supporters gather for the groundbreaking.

The King’s

Academy Earns Recognition

As A National Blue Ribbon School

The King’s Academy (TKA) was recently selected a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School, marking the school’s third national recognition. This prestigious honor celebrates overall academic excellence and outstanding student achievement and places TKA as one of the top 50 private schools nationwide this year.

TKA President Randy Martin was thrilled by the accomplishment.

The 13th annual Suncoast High School PTSA College Fair is back, and it’s free for all Palm Beach County families on Wednesday, Oct. 8 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Suncoast High School, located at 1717 Avenue S in Riviera Beach.

The community is invited to join in a unique opportunity to connect with more than 100 universities, academies and colleges. Students from every grade level are welcome — it’s never too early to start exploring.

Direct Access: Meet one-on-one with college admissions represen-

tatives and get answers to your questions about applications, majors, campus life and more.

Wide Selection: With more than 100 schools represented, attendees will have a chance to discover new options and find the perfect fit.

Expert Advice: Attend breakout sessions to learn valuable strategies for applications, personal projects, scholarships and more. Dress to impress! This is your chance to make a great first impression. Visit https://app.strivescan.com/ registration to register.

“Being selected as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School is an incredible achievement and a tribute to the leadership of Principal Adam Miller and Assistant Principal Alex Adams, as well as the dedication of our faculty, staff, students and families. Their commitment to excellence continues to set TKA apart.”

Although the U.S. Department of Education has since concluded the National Blue Ribbon program, the recognition stands as a significant milestone.

“The King’s Academy earned this distinction in 2025, and we claim it with gratitude,” Martin

said. “As Colossians

TKA second graders Liam Agraviador, Zoey Silva, Victoria Martin and Richerson Jeune.

Derek Romero was the proud winner from Emerald Cove Middle School for the peace poem competition sponsored by the Wellington Rotary Club. Shown here, Wellington Rotary President Maria Fernanda Cruz presents Romero and teacher Lisa Welz with a cash prize.

WRMC Among Nation’s Top Hospitals For Heart Attack Patients

Wellington Regional Medical Center has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025. WRMC is one of only 323 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

The award recognizes WRMC’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that the hospital has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

To receive this award, WRMC demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain-MI Registry for two consecutive years

(2023 and 2024) and performed at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

“It is an honor to award Wellington Regional Medical Center with the Platinum Performance Award for their valuable national leadership and dedication to meeting comprehensive performance measures in patient care,” said Dr. Michael Kontos, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Steering Subcommittee. “The receipt of this award indicates that Wellington Regional Medical Center remains committed to pro-

viding top quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients. Their success ensures patients are receiving the highest quality cardiovascular care.”

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that more than 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

“Receiving the ACC’s Platinum Performance Achievement Award is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering

exceptional, evidence-based cardiac care. This honor reflects the dedication of every clinician, nurse and support staff member who works tirelessly to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of treatment during some of their most critical moments,” WRMC CEO Pam Tahan said.

Chest Pain-MI Registry empowers healthcare provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients.

To learn more about the hospital, visit www.wellingtonregional. com.

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Welcomes The DRIPBaR To Royal Palm Beach

The Palm Beach County Office of Equal Business Opportunity (OEBO) recently announced its official name change to the Office of Small Business Development, effective immediately.

This transition marks a strategic alignment with the Palm Beach County Housing and Economic Development Department,

under which the office will now operate.

While the name and departmental structure have evolved, the office’s mission remains unchanged: to promote the growth, development and success of small businesses throughout Palm Beach County. The office will continue to provide resources, guidance and

advocacy for local entrepreneurs, with a strong focus on access, growth and economic empowerment.

“This change reflects our commitment to better serve the small business community while maintaining the core values and services that have defined OEBO,” explained Axel Miranda, the new

division director for the Office of Small Business Development.

“We remain dedicated to fostering opportunity and supporting the diverse entrepreneurs who drive Palm Beach County’s economy.”

For more information, visit https://discover.pbc.gov/HED/ osbd or call (561) 616-6840.

team Vafa Tahernia and Mike Pouran, Executive Leather has been a trusted name in luxury leather craftsmanship since 1991. After more than three decades at the Festival Flea Market in Pompano Beach, the couple relocated their business to Wellington following the sale of the original building. The 1,210-square-foot store opened in June 2025. “We fell in love with the welcoming community here,” Tahernia said. “Wellington is the perfect home for Executive Leather. It’s close to our Boynton Beach home, full of friendly customers and with no other store in the area offering what we do.”

Executive Leather specializes in custom and ready-made belts crafted from 100 percent genuine leather and exotic skins such as crocodile, alligator, ostrich, python, lizard, bison and stingray. The leathers are sourced from Italy, while exotic materials come from Spain, Turkey and India.

Shoppers can also browse an extensive collection of belt buckles in sterling silver, Swarovski crystals, marcasite, ivory and turquoise-inspired styles; RFID-blocking wallets, business briefcases and

travel accessories; leather jewelry including bracelets and bolo ties; and leather hats for men and women.

Customers can also create their own belts onsite, choosing from premium leathers, buckles and styles. Same-day leather repair services are also available, personally performed by owner Mike Pouran. Executive Leather’s offerings extend beyond everyday fashion. Many products are ideal for Wellington’s renowned polo and equestrian community, with specialty belts, buckles and hats designed for riders and horse enthusiasts.

To learn more, call (561) 5178958 or e-mail executiveleather@ yahoo.com. Find them on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ executive_leather_goods.

This MonTh’s WellingTon hisTory spoTlighT

From Ireland To Wellington

Irish Transplant Denis Quinlan Was A Key Member Of Wellington’s Early Development Team

Denis Quinlan was an integral part of Wellington’s early development. Born in Limerick, Ireland, on Oct. 18, 1932, Denis would later leave his homeland and travel throughout North America and South America working for developers.

In the early 1970s, Denis was the vice president of development at the Investment Corporation of Florida (ICOF) and was working on a project in The Bahamas. His boss, Jim Nall, president of ICOF, had studied the development of Coral Springs, west of Fort Lauderdale, and wanted to develop a similar project west of West Palm Beach. He began looking for property and came across the vast tract of land that was then owned by the Wellington family.

Nall put together a proposed plan of development that was intended to emulate the best features of both Coral Springs, Florida, and Mission Viejo, California. Wellington’s original master plan was prepared by the same land design company that designed Mission Viejo. The plan was presented to the Wellington family, who liked it and agreed to sell 7,400 acres of land to ICOF in 1971. They also agreed to allow the developers to use the Wellington family name. The property was bounded on the south by Pierson Road, on the east by a portion of what is now known as Stribling Way, on the north by Southern Blvd., and on the west by Flying Cow Road. In 1972, ICOF entered into a joint venture with Alcoa Aluminum and formed Breakwater Housing Corp. for the purpose of developing what was to become Wellington. Denis was asked to be part of the development team.

Wellington’s development team initiated discussions

with the PGA to make Wellington its home. When those negotiations failed, the focus shifted to making equestrian sports a key part of the community, thanks in large part to polo-playing businessman William Ylvisaker, chairman and CEO of Gould Inc., which purchased Alcoa’s interest in the joint venture in 1977.

When Denis first came to the area, he viewed it as just another development project. He oversaw the construction of one of the early buildings in Wellington — the tennis house and golf shack located in the Palm Beach Polo and Country Club — as well as the extension of Forest Hill Blvd. into Wellington and the excavation of Lake Wellington. The fill from Lake Wellington was used to form the contours of the golf course within the Palm Beach Polo community. Denis also oversaw the construction of the initial infrastructure and roadways and was charged with finding builders who were willing to work so far west, which was not an easy task at that time.

By the time the first homes were sold in January 1975 to Frank and Rose Brass and Bill and Betty Janes, Denis, along with his wife Sandi and their three children, had decided to move to Wellington and make it their home. Denis remembered fondly how nice it was to have a chance to build his own hometown.

Although Denis passed away in September 2020, his legacy lives on in the great hometown that he helped create and that we all call Wellington.

To learn more about Denis Quinlan and his contributions to Wellington, visit www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org, and view his oral history.

CEO Pam Tahan with members of Wellington

3Natives

Quiñones with

Leonard, owner of the DRIPBaR Royal Palm Beach.

Denis Quinlan was the vice president of development at the Investment Corporation of Florida (ICOF), Wellington’s first developer.

Chatting With Mom Always Leaves Me With A Puzzle To Solve

Well, my 96-year-old mother has been assigned hospice care. She’s 100 percent healthy, except in her head, so we expect her to be in hospice a long time. But the home where she’s currently living said she needs extra care, and we believe them. My brother, who lives within a mile of her and is her self-proclaimed advocate (the saint), said that someday he’ll tell us what’s really been going on — things that right now he “doesn’t want to scare us with.” Mom’s not violent. She doesn’t yell or scream or blame. It’s just not in her nature. Maybe she’ll get there, I don’t know. But, for now, every phone call is up for interpretation. My sister Pam called her. “How are you doing, mom?”

“Oh, I’m OK, even though I slept out in the hall last night.”

“Out in the hall? On the floor?”

“Yes. But it’s OK. I’m in my chair now.”

(She has a wingback chair that she just loves. It’s the most uncomfortable-looking chair I’ve ever seen, but dad refinished it, and mom re-upholstered it, so I guess

it’s the sentimental value that keeps her comfortable.) When Pam told me about this phone call, I said, “I find ‘sleeping in the hall’ hard to believe. Her hallway is around the corner from everyone else’s, and that’s where the staff goes to hide and be on their phones. I think they’d notice a client lying on the floor.” Pam felt better after hearing my opinion, but still, did mom sleep on the hall floor all night?

My brother brings her candy. Later, when she can’t find it, he searches her apartment, and it usually turns up “hidden” between two pieces of furniture. Sounds like what she used to do when we were young. If you want to have

some candy in a house with four kids, you hide it. “I’ve started buying two of everything, so I have backup in case I can’t find it,” he said. The last time I called, mom made me hang up. She said, “I have the TV on. How would it look if one of my tenants came in here, and I’m on the phone and watching TV?”

It would probably look like any other landlord, but the bigger question is, what tenants? It’s not like she owns the place. I consoled myself with the fact that whenever she tells my brother she wants to go home (a common theme), he replies, “You are home. This is your home.” In my mother’s mind, “Then who are all

these other people milling around? Must be tenants.”

Score 1 for getting her to believe she’s home. Score -1 for the whole tenants thing. It must be exhausting for her — constantly trying to find logical answers for situations that seem, to her, illogical. All that being what it is, it’s still fun to call her. Her voice is still my mom’s voice. We like to talk about what things were like when I was a kid, even if it’s new news to her. Her stories about the present are farfetched but

Great Acting And Great Action In ‘One Battle After Another’

I was looking forward to the new Paul Thomas Anderson movie One Battle After Another because he is a fascinating film maker. He did Boogie Nights and There Will Be Blood. And this movie lives up to those. It is easily the best film I’ve seen all year. It is long, with more plot than the last four or five Marvel films combined. And it is violent; boy, is it violent. And it’s also weird in a screwball sort of way. No one in the film seems normal. And the story, inspired by an old Thomas Pynchon novel, seems torn in some way from the headlines.

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

“Ghetto” Pat Calhoun (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Perfidia Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor) are part of the French 75, a revolutionary group. They rescue illegals from a center, and along the way, Perfidia humiliates Col. Steven Lockjaw (Sean Penn), who becomes obsessed with her. He even releases her after he catches her in exchange for having an affair, despite her involvement with Pat; even having a baby, Charlene (Chase Infiniti). Perfidia then betrays her whole group, and Pat and the baby go into hiding as Bob and Willa. Perfidia goes to Mexico, although everyone thinks she is dead. Sixteen years later, Bob and Willa live in a sanctuary city. Bob is burned out, but Willa is a revolutionary. Lockjaw arranges an attack, hunting for Willa, who he believes is his.

And then things get complicated, including the arrival on the scene of Sergio St. Carlos (Benicio del Toro), a sensei who works to help migrants. There’s lots of betrayal on all sides, fighting, an incredible chase scene and plenty of surprises.

I left out much of the plot. But let me add that Anderson does not let it get in the way. The film never bogs down, despite the large number of action pieces. I felt like I was riding an out-of-control roller coaster. Of course, like any good film, it really is never out of control. However, it is very long, two hours and 42 minutes long. But it does go by quickly.

One of the best things about the film is that the director allows the actors to really let go. They all chew up the scenery, each creating a unique character. DiCaprio is a top actor and really fills up his character. At first with revolutionary fervor and later paranoia and weariness. And through it all,

his love for his daughter. Chase Infiniti is fabulous as Willa. She is a revolutionary because of her mother and not willing to compromise until she starts to learn and grow, and we get the chance to watch that. A newcomer in a cast of top veterans, she holds her own. Taylor is excellent as the complex but self-centered Perfidia. A fitting name, since it means faithless betrayer. Of course, Penn really gets a chance to push his character to extremes, because the character itself is extreme. I really like the name Lockjaw for him. An extremist all the way, who feels the rules just do not apply to him. And del Toro provides an element of charm as Sergio. To add to it all, the rest of the cast is top notch. That results in many small pleasures, since so many come across as real people. With its focus on migrants and revolution, you might think this was all part

of recent events. But the filming began in January 2024. Still, the subject does make the movie feel very up to the minute. But the real focus is on family and other relationships. Even crazy Lockjaw feels its pull. Surprisingly, the mother Perfidia does not. But the love between Pat/Bob and Charlene/Willa is at the center of the story. This movie is not for everyone. As noted, it is very, very violent. And many of the characters are extreme. Add to all of that the length of the movie, and it might be better to get it at home where you can stop it for bathroom breaks and snacks. But despite all of that, it is an exceptional film. And in a year where the small-scale horror movie Sinners has been the best, it really stands out. As of this moment, I would (assuming I actually could vote for it) be awarding Oscars to DiCaprio, del Toro, Infiniti, Anderson and the film. It is that good.

GOVERNMENT WRITER WANTED

Looking for a freelance writer to cover government meetings for the Town-Crier newspaper. Must have a desire to watch government meetings and report on what happens. Some experience with journalistic-style writing preferred. To apply, contact Joshua Manning at jmanning@gotowncrier.com or leave a message at (561) 793-7606.

are seeking motivated and talented people to fill a variety of roles, including: front desk, housekeeping and maintenance. Hotel or hospitality experience preferred. If you’re a dedicated, passionate, detailoriented individual with an interest in the hospitality industry, we encourage you to apply by emailing your resume to info@royalinnhotel.com