Town-Crier Newspaper September 19, 2025

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

Crestwood Presentation

Focuses On New ‘A’

Rating From The State

Crestwood Middle School

was the focus of the Monday, Sept. 8 meeting of Royal Palm Beach’s Education Advisory Board. The meeting featured a presentation by Principal Dr. Stephanie Nance regarding recent progress at the school, which includes being awarded an “A” grade by the state. Page 3

9/11 Observance Held

At Mission BBQ In RPB Mission BBQ in Royal Palm Beach held a 9/11 Observance Ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 11, during which first responders received a free lunch. Meanwhile, attendees, including village officials, recalled the tragic events on Sept. 11, 2001. Page 5

Seniors Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

At ‘Havana Nights’

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Wellington seniors enjoyed a Havana Nightsthemed luncheon at the Wellington Community Center on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Guests enjoyed delicious Latin food from Don Ramon, along with festive music that brought everyone together for a joyful afternoon. Page 7

RPBHS Showcasing

Dominance On Both

Sides Of The Football

The varsity football team from Royal Palm Beach High School continues to impress, both on offense and defense. As a team, the Wildcats are currently undefeated, notching a 4-0 record to date. The Wildcat offense is averaging 48.7 points per game, while the defense has yet to surrender a point in any of the team’s four games. Page 17

9/11 OBSERVANCE IN WELLINGTON

The Village of Wellington held a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 11. The ceremony was held inside the council chambers due to inclement weather instead of the

Wellington

Representatives

above, Scott and

Wellington Council Approves 25 Homes For Islepointe

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council on Wednesday, Sept. 3 begrudgingly approved an amended plan for the Islepointe project, which would convert a 10-acre commercially zoned parcel into a residential community of 25 single-family homes on the land at the northeast corner of 50th Street South and 120th Avenue South. Islepointe, part of the Orange Point planned unit development, consists of land that was once intended to be a commercial equestrian center. Those plans never came to fruition. However, the applicant, SIWBG2 LLC, last year sought to change the designation of the parcel for residential usage. Since then, several proposed plans have been made. There were plans to build 72 homes in the area, but concerns over privacy and traffic caused

multiple revisions. Developers repeatedly reduced the number of homes to finally settle on 25 in total, with the average price of each being more than $3 million.

Representatives of the developer also negotiated with the village and neighboring communities to address anticipated issues. Eventually, the developers agreed to prohibit the homes from being leased and to add landscaping to create a large buffer between the property lines. With these concessions and agreements, neighboring community associations approved the revised plan.

“I have been authorized by the board of directors of the Isles, a community of 759 homes, to settle on the lines we’ve agreed to,” said Michael Mishkin, president of the Isles of Wellington Homeowners’ Association. “It’s the interest of the community as a whole — all 759 members we are trying to protect.”

Westlake Cuts

The developer also voluntarily agreed to pay a $280,000 proportionate share for off-site improvements. These funds could be used to build additional pathways and sidewalks adjacent to the property, or whatever else the village deems necessary.

Council members did not love some aspects of the project but believed that the plan was the best solution for the village. They conceded that their hands were tied on the matter and acknowledged that the owners had every right to build something there, and that they made every possible positive change. Their other options were to develop an equestrian center or have it purely for commercial uses — neither of which had support.

“This applicant has conceded and is making payments and different things that they probably aren’t legally required to do,”

Tax Rate For The Fourth Consecutive Year

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The City of Westlake finalized another trim to its millage rate during its Thursday, Sept. 11 budget hearing, locking in 4.6 mills for the 2026 fiscal year that begins Oct. 1. It was the fourth straight tax rate decrease for the 10-year-old municipality. The 2025 rate was 4.7 mills.

That means the average Westlake homeowner with a property valued at $500,000, with a Homestead exemption, will pay approximately $2,070 in city property taxes, a decrease of about $45 from the fiscal year 2025 rate.

Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor said that even though Westlake remains one of the fastest growing municipalities in the state, that doesn’t mean government has to grow at the same pace.

“We can run a lean city and provide essential services, without

huge government coffers,” he said. “As more commercial real estate comes online, I’m confident we can lower the millage rate further.”

Councilman Gary Werner, a professional city planner, said that he was comfortable with the rate cut.

“It preserves the city’s ability to do the things that are necessary… [and] provides our residents with a tax break,” he said. “Hopefully, we’ll be able to lower them again next year.”

The unanimous 5-0 vote also formalized the FY 2026 budget at $12,292,000 — up 14.9 percent, or $1,596,500, from the FY 2025 budget.

Meanwhile, Westlake’s operating budget increases by 16.7 percent, or $1,270,600, to $8,898,300. Tax revenues increased by 23.2 percent, or $2,705,919, to $14,370,730. According to the Palm Beach

County Property Appraiser’s Office, the taxable value in Westlake has increased 26 percent over last year, City Manager Kenneth Cassel wrote in his introduction to the budget.

“The growth in home sales and commercial development coming online accounted for this increase,” he noted. “The sale of single-family homes and commercial development continue to be strong.”

That 4.6-mill rate continues a glide path that the council has pushed for several cycles.

Westlake held the rate at 5.125 mills from its 2016 founding through 2022. It stepped down to 5.1 for 2023, trimmed to 5.0 for 2024 and cut to 4.7 for 2025. That equates to a $180 reduction for the average homeowner since 2023.

In other business:

• The council formalized their

See WESTLAKE, page 4

Cassel’s Legacy: Permitting Rules That Have Fueled Westlake’s Growth

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The City of Westlake will turn the page on a foundational chapter this month as its first and only manager Kenneth Cassel wraps up nearly a decade at the helm on Sept. 26.

“The time is right,” Cassel said during a recent interview. “Every organization needs a change in management every 10 or 12 years if it doesn’t want to get stagnant.”

Zoie Burgess, the current city clerk, will take over as acting city manager on Sept. 27 while a search is undertaken.

Cassel came to the area first in 2013 as an employee of Inframark, a management company hired to oversee the Seminole Improvement District (SID) — the special district that would later finance and operate most of the infrastructure for the still unborn Westlake community. After Westlake’s 2016 incorporation, he also took over as municipal manager, tasked with starting up a government while rooftops were still plywood and paint was still wet in spec houses. The dual role has been central to Westlake’s explosive growth but has drawn increased scrutiny in recent years as residents have questioned costs, accountability and the boundary between the city and the district. Cassel noted that early on he sought and received a ruling from the Florida Office of Inspectors General stating that there is no conflict.

Still, “it looks shady,” Vice Mayor Greg Langowski said at

a recent council meeting. “It creates the appearance of a conflict of interest,” Councilman Gary Werner agreed.

The city and Inframark have since agreed that it is time for the two positions to be separated and for Westlake to hire its own manager answerable only to the council.

In early days, however, the dual roles helped Westlake to become the most nimble municipality in Palm Beach County, perhaps in Florida, when it came to issuing building permits on its 6.5 square miles, most of which was and is owned by Minto Communities USA. Senior Vice President John Carter oversees the project for Minto.

Cassel said city officials met with Minto representatives “two or three days a week, sometimes having discussions that last eight or 10 hours. We talked about every aspect of the project… and one of the main aspects was to create a permitting and development process that was predictable, transparent and consistent.”

Cassel said many established communities have permitting processes that are costly and time consuming for builders.

“It could take years to get a project going,” he said. “We knew what definitely worked. So, we set up parameters so that they didn’t interfere with that.” This included communication and clear rules.

“We built a box… and listed See CASSEL, page 4

JEWELS OF BOLLYWOOD

an Indian restaurant in Royal Palm

on

of

its second annual

Sept. 13. The ladies-only event featured gourmet Indian cuisine and cocktails, along with Bollywood dance performances and music, raffles, prizes and more. The evening was a benefit for the Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County Foundation, with a portion of the proceeds going to programs that empower and

Wellington Historical

Society

Teaching

Community’s History To Fourth Graders

By Lys Hayes Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council last month recognized the Wellington Historical Society for its pioneering work developing a local history unit for fourth graders in Wellington-area elementary schools.

“It’s important for a child to know and understand where they live,” explained Sue Bierer, president of the Wellington Historical Society. As of the 2024-25 school year, almost every elementary school in Wellington has introduced lessons on the history of the community into their classrooms. The Wel-

lington Historical Society held its first official board meeting in 2018. Since then, the organization has worked hard to preserve and share the history that has shaped the area. Now, they have created a curriculum to incorporate into social studies courses. According to Learning for Justice, local history has a profound effect on communities, but it requires educators to learn and teach students about the history in their own backyard.

While most school districts emphasize the importance of state history, covering laws, historical figures and events, it is far less common for a single community to

create its own curriculum. Bierer, who was a fifth-grade teacher for 27 years before retiring, saw that as a gap needing to be filled.

Recognizing the importance of the project, Bierer brought together a team of retired teachers like herself to bring this idea to life. Among the retired teachers who joined her were Pam Strassner, Joy Riley and Diane Grosso. When the unit was completed by the group of former educators, the Wellington Historical Society worked with the School District of Palm Beach County to get it approved.

“I, being a teacher, knew that fourth grade does a Florida studies program. So, fourth grade would

Masala Mantra,

Beach, held

Jewels

Bollywood event

Saturday,

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

nearby

Patriot Memorial.

from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the New York Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3100 were in attendance. Shown

Bonnie Bresalier point to the name of relative Eric Sand at the Patriot Memorial’s etched-glass panels. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 14

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

See ISLEPOINTE, page 12

Wellington Council Approves $155.9 Million Budget For 2026

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council approved the first reading of the village’s tax rate, budget and capital improvement plan for fiscal year 2026 on Wednesday, Sept. 3. The budget prioritizes financial transparency and continues to maintain key Wellington priorities.

Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel presented the tentative budget. The budget focuses on five priorities: neighborhood renaissance, economic development, protecting investments, responsive government and respecting the environment.

Quickel also emphasized how the budget was created in collaboration with the council and with input from residents.

“The budget is about collaboration, resiliency and sustainability,” Quickel said. “We are here to support the council and help our new council members as we all work to provide information for sound decisions. We listen very closely to each of you on the council and

strive to incorporate into this budget much of what you have told us, and we listen closely to our residents.”

The FY 2026 budget is estimated to be $155.9 million, a 4.7 percent increase from the current year’s budget. These increases are in part because of capital improvements, enhanced public safety, and the continuation of resident programs and services. There were no proposed changes to the 2.47 millage rate, which has remained the same for 17 years. With the current millage rate, property tax revenue is expected to reach $31 million, a $1.77 million increase from last year.

This boost in revenue comes from increasing property values, marking 13 consecutive years of value increases. Despite there being no change in the tax rate, homeowners will still pay more in village taxes if the assessed value of their property has gone up. However, those with homestead exemptions will see only a small increase.

Councilman John McGovern said that the growing property values show that people want to live in Wellington.

“We’ve had property value increases, some small, some larger, for the last 13 years, and that is not an accident,” McGovern said. “It shows that people want to live here, and that they want to buy property here.”

Nearly 50 percent of the budget revenue will come from charges for services and property taxes. The remainder will come from permits, fees, other taxes and reserves. The budget also focuses on improving services. These include plans for nearly $29 million for public works, $21 million for capital projects and $18 million for public safety.

“Strengthening services means focusing on what our community wants and needs from us and how we can improve the service we provide the public, day in and day out,” Quickel said. “We are continuously expanding services and programs while evaluating

efficiencies throughout the village’s operations. All of this with the overall filter of improving outreach, transparency and accessibility for residents.”

Overall, Quickel highlighted how the budget was balanced and committed to funding those services and projects that Wellington is known for. She also emphasized how this is all possible even in the face of some economic concerns.

“We have so much to be proud of because we are stronger today than ever before,” Quickel said. “Wellington is sustainable, stable and the future is bright, but that does not happen accidentally. Wellington’s commitment to strong fiscal responsibility, evidenced by your direction and policies, has served the village well.”

Quickel concluded the budget presentation by showing key budget objectives. Notable priorities included maintaining the optimal condition of facilities and infrastructure, providing parks and recreation programs, and supporting safety and security.

Residents also showed their support for the budget. Speakers asked the council to consider adding additional multi-modal pathways for golf carts and installing sunshades over playgrounds.

“I’m really tickled about our taxes. For what I get to live here, it’s absolutely amazing,” resident Rick Christmas said. “I’m thrilled that you guys do it.”

Council members praised the proposed budget for its transparency and emphasis on important features of Wellington.

“There are three major hallmarks to Wellington’s greatness, and those are… an investment in enhanced public safety and investment in supporting education, and continual expansion and revitalization of our parks and recreation and green spaces,” McGovern said. “This budget does that and doubles down in every one of those categories.”

The council unanimously approved the budget but noted that parts are subject to change. The second public hearing for the

budget and final adoption was set for Thursday, Sept. 18. The new fiscal year begins on Wednesday, Oct. 1. In other business:

• The council unanimously approved the second and final reading of an ordinance to amend the candidate qualifying period for the March 2026 municipal election. The qualifying period will begin on Nov. 4 at noon and run through Nov. 18 at noon. The election will be held Tuesday, March 10 with two open council seats on the ballot. Four candidates have already filed paperwork to run: Johnny Meier and Jay Webber for Seat 2, and Stephen Levin and Joshua Zillmer for Seat 3.

• The council also unanimously approved the second and final reading of an ordinance that updates and clarifies property maintenance rules to keep areas clean and visually consistent with community standards. It also sets stricter requirements for trash pickup and storm preparation.

Crestwood Presentation Focuses On New ‘A’ Rating From State

By Christopher Vargas Town-Crier Staff Report

Crestwood Middle School was the focus of the Monday, Sept. 8 meeting of Royal Palm Beach’s Education Advisory Board. The meeting featured a presentation by Principal Dr. Stephanie Nance regarding recent progress at the school, which includes being awarded an “A” grade by the state.

Joining Nance for the presentation were assistant principals Claude Smith, Melissa Kaliser and Martin Pasquariello, along with members of the National Junior Honor Society.

Nance was thrilled to announce the restoration of Crestwood’s “A” rating this school year. The school maintained an “A” rating from 2001 to 2012 before being downgraded to a “B” rating by the state.

“At Crestwood Middle School,

least 18 languages are spoken on campus, and the student body includes individuals from approximately 25 different countries of birth, with a total enrollment of approximately 750 students.

The school’s performance metrics show significant growth, particularly in the progress monitoring assessments. In the 2024 school year, 57 percent of students met or exceeded grade-level expectations, and this figure rose to 67 percent in 2025. Double-digit improvements were recorded in both English language arts (ELA) and math. Meanwhile, seventhgrade civics scores increased from 57 percent to 67 percent, while science scores improved by five percent. Algebra proficiency rose by six percent, and geometry maintained a 100 percent pass rate. Crestwood also demonstrated strong performance in student

Overall, the school made impressive strides in district accountability, showing a 78-point increase. These gains were especially notable in ELA, math, science and civics, underscoring Crestwood’s continued commitment to academic excellence, Nance said. Crestwood has set clear goals and initiatives to drive continued success. The school is focused on increasing student performance across all assessments while strengthening professional learning communities (PLCs) to enhance teacher collaboration. In addition, Crestwood is committed to fostering positive relationships with students, parents and community stakeholders. A strong emphasis is also placed on supporting inclusion through tailored academic and social-emotional strategies designed to meet the needs of all learners.

courage students to pursue scholarships, motivate participation in community service and support leadership skill development for character growth. In recent years, the National Junior Honor Society has participated in many activities, including presenting gifts and performances at the Capstone at Royal Palm senior living facility, assisting sixth graders with academic subjects, and organizing fundraisers to provide food, money and supplies for those in need.

Mayor

he was glad to even share some of those moments with the

“I enjoyed the opportunity to spend the time at Commons Park with the National Junior Honor Society. And you know, it’s a really worthwhile event when you learn something, and I did,” Hmara said. Nance concluded by noting that her goal is to help create the leaders of tomorrow.

“So, as we wrap up, as one author once stated, that as educators, it is so important that we know that the leaders of tomorrow are in our classrooms today. And their success is truly our collective legacy,” she said.

The board members recognized the school for its significant achievements and continued progress, as well as its grade “A” rating. The meeting also included reports from the School District of Palm Beach County.

Principal Dr. Stephanie Nance and advisor Dr. Sheena Powell with members of the National Junior Honor Society. PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER VARGAS/TOWN-CRIER

Jeff Hmara, liaison to the Education Advisory Board, said

NJHS students.

Loxahatchee Groves Council Takes Initial Votes On Town Budget

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

To make up some of the shortfall during a difficult budget year, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council set its tax and assessment rates slightly higher for the upcoming fiscal year at the first of two public budget hearings. The hearings were held over two days, on Wednesday, Sept. 3 and Thursday, Sept. 4. Final votes on the budget for fiscal year 2026 were set to be taken on Wednesday, Sept. 17. The results of that meeting were not available at press time. At the Wednesday, Sept. 3

Westlake

Sept. 11

Council Meeting

continued from page 1 decision to name current City Clerk Zoie Burgess as acting city manager, effective with Cassel’s departure from the job on Friday, Sept. 26. Burgess is an employee of Inframark, a government staffing agency, as is Cassel. The appointment keeps Westlake’s contract services with Inframark intact while the council designs its search for a permanent manager. Council members have made clear that they want the new manager to be answerable only to the city.

Earlier this month, the Florida City & County Management Association (FCCMA) outlined a no-fee advisory process that Westlake can use. An agreement to formalize that engagement is expected to be on an upcoming agenda, along with a plan to hold a public workshop to define a candidate profile.

O’Connor said that finding

Cassel Stepping Down On Sept. 26

continued from page 1 what builders couldn’t do instead of what they could do,” Cassel continued. “That way, most of what the builders would ever consider doing was already in the box.”

The streamlined permitting process, plus Minto’s focus on affordability through its Welcome Heroes program that discounts homes to teachers, police officers, firefighters, members of the military, healthcare and government workers, ignited home sales

meeting, the council agreed to set the annual assessment for the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District at $220 per acre. That figure was more than the previous $200 per acre, but less than town staff’s suggested $300 per acre necessary to fund the budget.

The LGWCD assessment is used to run the Public Works Department, as well as drainage and road projects. The council suggested cutting a road crew, and cuts at town hall to make up the difference.

Reconvening on Thursday, Sept. 4, the council agreed to keep the

someone who is committed to “lean government” and “cutting taxes whenever possible” will be crucial in the selection.

FCCMA’s playbook, as explained publicly, calls for the council to settle on the must-have traits for a Westlake manager, advertise broadly through professional networks, have senior advisors screen the pool into groupings, then bring forward finalists for one-on-one and public interviews.

Background and reference checks remain the city’s responsibility, but proponents said the advisory model saves a $30,000 to $50,000 recruiter fee and has been used successfully in similar Florida searches.

• The council adopted the annual residential solid waste special assessment at a base rate of $324 per home for Waste Management Inc. services for the 2026 fiscal year, unchanged from 2025. Werner and Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard had earlier supported a move away from Waste Management, the city’s longtime trash hauler, in favor of a less expensive bidder, Coastal Waste and Recycling. While the difference in price is

that eight years later remain hot. Westlake issued 352 certificates of occupancy in the first half of 2025, Cassel noted. Commercial construction on either side of the main thoroughfare, Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, slowed during the pandemic but has regained momentum with the recent announcements that a Tractor Supply Company and Lowe’s Home Improvement are coming to Westlake. Cassel’s résumé stretches well beyond Westlake. He previously served as an assistant city manager in multiple Florida jurisdictions, including the Town of Bay Harbor Islands and the City of Homestead. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran with a master’s degree in public administration from Florida In-

annual solid waste assessment fee unchanged at $450.

Next, the council turned to the property tax rate, which was suggested to remain at 3.0 mills, unchanged from last year, but slightly above the rollback rate, which would bring in the same amount of actual revenue as last year.

Before voting on the tax rate, Town Attorney Jeff Kurtz warned that the LGWCD decision created a $625,000 deficit in public works, noting that most of that money would need to come from labor costs, probably reducing a road crew.

“I don’t think you all considered

only about $1 a month, Werner said that when a possible 5 percent annual increase is figured in to the five- to seven-year contract, multiplied by the growing number of homes in Westlake, sticking with Waste Management could cost residents between $800,000 to $1 million overall.

• The council set Sunday, Dec. 7 as the date for Westlake’s fourth annual Holiday Pop-Up Market, billed as a “festive blend of shopping, dining and holiday cheer.”

The event will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. along Kingfisher Blvd.

“Our Holiday Pop-Up Market brings the heart of Westlake together each December,” O’Connor said in a recent press release. “It’s a joyful way to celebrate the season, support our local businesses and share in the spirit of community.”

• Vice Mayor Greg Langowski was recently appointed to serve on the Florida League of Cities 2025-26 Development, Code Compliance and Redevelopment Committee.

The FLC also announced that Councilman Erik Gleason has been appointed to serve on the 2025-26 Municipal Operations Committee.

ternational University. A Miami native, Cassel has been married to his wife Wenette for 52 years. They have three children and nine grandchildren. The Cassels currently live in The Acreage but plan to move to central Florida to be closer to family.

Though Cassel also is leaving Inframark after 17 years, he said he will not be leaving municipal management or fully retiring but declined to elaborate on specific plans.

Policy-wise, the Cassel years will be remembered for building a new city while guiding council members in lowering its tax rate.

“I’ve always looked at government as a service business,” he said. “The difference is [government] has a captive audience. “I’ve

“It could take years to get a project going,” Cassel said. “We knew what definitely worked. So, we set up parameters so that they didn’t interfere with that... We built a box… and listed what builders couldn’t do instead of what they could do. That way, most of what the builders would ever consider doing was already in the box.”

History Curriculum

For Fourth Graders

continued from page 1 subjects become more sophisticated for elementary schoolers. In addition, it is the primary age that students begin to develop stronger critical thinking skills, making it a great entry point for learning about local history.

At the Aug. 26 council meeting, officials outlined how the new unit would be taught in a four-part series, with each lesson in the series consisting of a script, PowerPoint presentation and student activity.

“It was four of us, and we worked very hard just going through archives and books,” Bierer said. “We got all of our information and then compiled it and divided it into four different sections.”

Part 1 focuses on how Native Americans influenced the Wellington area. Part 2 teaches how early development determined Wellington’s future. Part 3 focuses on how historical events affect the current lives of Wellington

residents. Finally, Part 4 focuses on how becoming an incorporated community gave Wellington citizens the ability to control their own growth and development.

As of 2025, Wellington is the only municipality in Palm Beach County to be creating and partaking in this unique initiative.

Mayor Michael Napoleone shared his excitement about the project as well.

“I really love the fact that [we are] the only ones who have done this in Palm Beach County,” he said. “No one has done this and taught it to their students, because so many people don’t know anything about where they live. So, it’s nice to instill that at a young age and give people an appreciation for the place where they are growing up.”

Councilman John McGovern also shared his gratitude regarding the project.

“I just think that this is really exciting that this is getting done to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the village,” McGovern said. “It is really a gift that we have people who are as invested as all of you have been, making sure that the [Wellington] Historical Society was created, that it grew,

TOWN-CRIERTHE

what that meant,” he said, suggesting that current projects, such as work on A Road, would need to be delayed or eliminated.

Councilwoman Lisa El-Ramey did not agree with that estimation. “There are different ways to look at how to balance that number, rather than threatening to stop a capital improvement project,” she said. “We are not just talking about cuts at public works, we are talking about cuts at town hall, too.”

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog did not like the idea of cutting a road crew. “Cutting crews is a slap in the face to the community,” she said.

Councilman Todd McLendon suggested that the council should consider raising the tax rate to somewhere between 3.0 and 3.5 mills.

This would increase taxes for homesteaded residents a small amount, but a larger amount for commercial businesses, he explained.

McLendon would prefer to use the extra money to subsidize the solid waste assessment and give money directly back to the residents. However, that extra money could also be used for capital projects, if that’s what residents want.

“We need to give the manager the tools to do her job,” he said.

El-Ramey was not convinced.

“That’s an interesting concept, but taxes tend to only go one way,” she said.

Since the preliminary Truth in Millage (TRIM) rate was set at 3.5 mills, that is the highest the town could go. However, that would require a unanimous council vote.

Town officials noted that a rate of

3.2564 mills could be set with a 4-1 supermajority vote. McLendon made a motion to set the rate at 3.2564 mills, which passed 4-1 with El-Ramey opposed. Councilman Paul Coleman stressed that it was not the final vote on the rate and asked for additional information before the Sept. 17 meeting. To balance the budget, the extra money was put into the general fund as contingency money requiring council approval. Total expenditures, including transfers and reserves, are approximately $8.9 million.

Before voting on the budget itself, El-Ramey said she wants a cap on discretionary spending and a closer look by the council on all contracts.

The preliminary budget was also approved 4-1.

Superintendent Burke Receives Perfect Annual Evaluation Score

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, the Palm Beach County School Board unanimously awarded Superintendent Michael Burke his highest evaluation to date, a perfect 5 out of 5 score.

The board cited the School District of Palm Beach County’s strong performance under Burke’s leadership, including its “A” rating from the state and a record-high 95.9 percent graduation rate for district-operated high schools.

Board members commended Burke for his steady leadership, strong community engagement, and focus on preparing students for the future through innovative programs and expanded career pathways.

The evaluation measured his performance against the district’s strategic plan, with the board noting his ability to motivate staff

always looked at getting the best return on every tax dollar.”

Cassel also became the face of the city in everyday Westlake. The monthly “Coffee with the City Manager” sessions — sometimes spirited, sometimes granular — offered residents a direct line to ask about roadwork, utilities, code, parks and the next grocery store. The interest reflects both the appetite for detail and the public’s growing sophistication about how the city and SID divide the work.

As Cassel prepared to leave, he said the two biggest unfinished projects are finding a suitable location for a city hall and the money to build one; and moving forward with the 50-acre regional park project south of Seminole Ridge High School.

The council meetings and other public meetings are currently held at the Adventure Park Lodge at 16610 Town Center Parkway North. The park is a joint project between the city and SID but mostly unfunded. Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed $600,000 from the state’s fiscal year 2026 budget intended for the project.

At the Sept. 11 meeting, Mayor

thrived and continues to do so in a community as young as this one.”

After initially being built by a series of developers starting in the mid-1970s, residents of Wellington voted to incorporate as the “Village of Wellington” in November 1995. The village was formally established on Dec. 31, 1995. The village will host a celebration to mark the milestone from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at the Wellington Amphitheater to kick off a full year of 30th anniversary events.

The new history curriculum developed by Wellington Historical Society is set to be a part of that celebration by bringing the community’s local history into classrooms, honoring Wellington’s achievements and ensuring that future generations learn the village’s journey.

“We used plenty of hours working together and forming this curriculum,” Bierer said. “It has just been such a joy to see this project come together, finally. And even more rewarding to know that Wellington’s history is being passed down to future generations.”

Learn more about the Wellington Historical Society at www. wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

and build trust across the county’s various communities.

After the board voted, Burke thanked them.

“It is an honor to serve as superintendent,” Burke said. “I’m as excited today as I was four years ago when I first got this opportunity, and I greatly appreciate the support of the board. We are all part of a larger team, Team Palm Beach, and I really feel like we’re heading in the right direction.”

Burke was appointed by the school board in 2021 after serving the district in several leadership roles for more than two decades.

The School District of Palm Beach County is the 10th-largest school district in the United States and the fifth-largest in Florida.

The district serves approximately 170,000 students from Pre-K to 12th grade across more than 180

JohnPaul O’Connor thanked Cassel for his service, adding that his “fingerprints will be on the city forever.”

City Attorney Donald Doody called Cassel “the ultimate professional… a man of integrity,” predicting that the council “will appreciate you long after you’re gone.”

For his part, Cassel used his final manager comments to remind council members of the philosophy at Westlake’s inception — to build a city at the pace of its growth, not at the pace of someone else’s queue. He said the municipality should remain practical, procedural and still very much about people. Cassel credited his team for setting up a development structure that is predictable and warned that if the model “gets broken, you won’t be able to put it back together.”

“I hope council members and residents understand, appreciate and hold on to the vision that got us here,” he said recently.

That way, the city will not miss a beat, he added.

“It will go on… because that is the way we set it up… It will run almost automatically with a little maintenance and tweaking,” Cassel said. “Everyone knows their job, and everyone does their job.”

Wellington

The

Village Council presents the Wellington Historical Society with a proclamation

oring them for the work done to create and enact the

OF WELLINGTON

Kenneth Cassel is the only manager that the City of Westlake has ever had. He steps down next week after leaving an indelible mark on the community.

schools. As the largest employer in Palm Beach County, the district employs approximately 23,000 people. The district is governed by a seven-member board.

Superintendent Michael Burke

9/11 OBSERVANCE CEREMONY HELD AT MISSION BBQ IN ROYAL PALM BEACH

Public Safety Night At Mall On Saturday, Oct. 4

In recognition of National Crime Prevention Month in October, the Village of Wellington invites the community to attend a free Public Safety Night offered in partnership with the Mall at Wellington Green (10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Come get to know local first responders while enjoying fun activities for the whole family. The Public Safety Night event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 in the east parking lot near the food court from 5 to 8 p.m. Event highlights include vendors, bounce houses, DJ music, face painting, a Kids’ Korner, spe-

cial character photo opportunities and special performances. Touch-a-truck with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue will also be on hand. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ publicsafetynight to learn more.

World Peace Day Ceremony Sept. 21 At Rotary Peace Park

The Wellington Village Council has declared Sunday, Sept. 21 as the United Nations Day of Peace within the Village of Wellington. During the month of Septem-

ber, International Peace Day is celebrated across the country and around the world. The Village of Wellington and the Wellington Rotary Club will hold an International World Peace Day Ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 21 at 3 p.m. at the Rotary Peace Park, located at the intersection of Royal Fern Drive and Birkdale Drive.

The ceremony commemorates and strengthens the ideals of peace. The event includes awards presentations for local poetry, essay and drawing contests with the Wellington Rotary Club, and readings in different languages. For further information about the ceremony, or to sponsor the Rotary Peace Park, call Donald Gross with the Wellington Rotary Club at (561) 723-8461.

Wellington To Celebrate Expansion Of Environmental Preserve Sept. 27

The Village of Wellington invites the community to join a special celebration marking the official opening of the Wellington Environmental Preserve expansion on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 8:30 a.m. The event will take place at 3501 Flying Cow Ranch Road. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will commemorate the opening of the preserve’s new expansion area, enhancing one of Wellington’s most treasured natural spaces. The celebration will also be held in conjunction with the Wellington Garden Club’s 11th annual Com-

munity-Wide Tree Planting Event held on National Public Lands Day each year. With its scenic nature trails, upland and wetland habitats, and innovative rainwater filtration system, the Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat is a model of environmental stewardship.

The new expansion will provide additional opportunities for walkers, runners, cyclists, bird watchers and nature lovers to enjoy the unique beauty of this ecological sanctuary.

“This project reflects Wellington’s commitment to preserving our natural resources and providing spaces that enrich the quality of life for our residents,” Village Manager Jim Barnes explained. “We are proud to open this expansion alongside our valued partners at the Wellington Garden Club on National Public Lands Day.”

The Village of Wellington Council welcomes residents and visitors to take part in this special event celebrating community, sustainability and the future of Wellington’s green spaces.

Mission BBQ General Manager Anthony Natoli, Area Director Kyle Gilmore, Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps, PBSO Capt. Ulrich Naujoks, Mayor Jeff Hmara and Community Ambassador Lisa Whisnand.

Deputy Douglas Carranza, Doug “Nightowl” Miller of the Patriot Guard and Diane Smith of the PBSO.

Members of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard stand at attention during the ceremony.

PBCFR’s Frank Watson, Andy Garcia, Luis Cespedes, Cesar Calderon, Capt. Dwight Babb and Lt. Richard Retaleato.

PBCFR’s Daniel Jusino, Rich Patterson, Capt. Janice Vassalotti, Frank Watson, Andy Garcia and Lt Richard Retaleato.

PBSO Deputy Anthony Dukes sings the national anthem.

Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara addresses the gathering.

PBSO Bomb Squad detectives Juan Jurado and Nick Orsino with robot dog Scout.

Diane Smith, Kyle Gilmore, Deputy Douglas Carranza, Mayor Jeff Hmara, Major Tristram Moore, Sgt. Robert Govantes, Kelly Turaniczo and Monique Kohlhagen.

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COME CELEBRATE THE HIGH HOLIDAYS AT TEMPLE B’NAI JACOB!

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All services are being held at Temple B’nai Jacob of wellington.

A limited number of in-person tickets are available for $150pp for non-members or 2 tickets for $250. Please Contact the temple for more information and a full schedule of services.

Rosh Hashanah Sept. 22-24

Yom Kippur October 1-2

Yiskor October 2nd

12794 W Forest Hill Blvd, #6 Wellington, Fl 33414 561-793-4347

WWW.templeBnaijacoB.org templeBnaijacoB@gmail.com

Rabbi

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Cantor

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WELLINGTON SENIORS CELEBRATE

Baxter’s Push For Palm Beach County Millage Rollback Stymied In Budget Vote

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

A bid by Palm

Beach County

Vice Mayor Sara Baxter to hold the county’s effective fiscal year 2026 tax rate to current levels was defeated Tuesday, Sept. 16 in the second and final budget hearing of the season. Instead, a supermajority of the Board of County Commissioners voted 5-2 to support keeping the countywide tax rate of 4.5000 mills — unchanged from last year but a 6.1 percent increase above the so-called “rollback rate.”

The “rollback rate” — in this case 4.2413 mills — is the prop-

Many

erty-tax rate that would bring in the same total dollars as this year from existing properties. Anything higher is legally considered a tax increase.

By keeping the millage rate at 4.5000, another $89 million will be generated, county staff estimated.

“I urge my fellow commissioners to support going to the rollback rate… Our residents need the break from taxes going up every year,” said Baxter, who also is the commissioner for District 6, which includes most of the county west of State Road 7. Baxter said Wednesday, “I don’t

think we should be raising taxes on people who are already struggling… people who are getting kicked out of their homes, or not able to afford groceries.”

Commissioner Marci Woodward supported Baxter’s plan and urged reviewing all budget components next year, not just the general fund.

Both Baxter and Woodward are running for re-election in 2026. Baxter already is facing Republican primary opposition from Indian Trail Improvement District President Elizabeth Accomando.

Commissioner Bobby Powell probed rollback impacts with staff,

estimating that about $88.7 million would have to be cut across county departments, such as the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

“Rollback doesn’t mean cutting law enforcement or fire-rescue,” Baxter said. “I can think of a hundred other places we could cut first.”

For instance, Baxter later made a motion to pull funding for the Homeless Coalition, which she said Wednesday is top-heavy with administrative costs while delivering few services to those who need them.

“We need prioritization of spending,” she said.

Recreational Events Planned In RPB This Fall

By Fiona Slusarev

Town-Crier Staff Report

As the fall season begins, activities in Royal Palm Beach are set to ratchet up, members of the Recreation Advisory Board learned at a meeting Monday, Sept. 15. The Young at Heart Club, a local social group for people 50 years and older, has already sold out of their 290 memberships for the 2025-26 year. The organization holds eight luncheons throughout the year, on the first Friday of every month. Non-member guests can attend for an additional fee of $25. Business breakfasts are also held on the third Wednesday of every month. For those who missed the membership window, no need to worry. There are 10 spaces held each month for non-members to sign up for an individual event. The

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

Friday, 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. or can be viewed on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@ st.michaellutheranchurch244/ streams. For more information, contact Donna Murphy at donnamur@ aol.com.

Feeding South Florida 5K

Sept. 20 At Okeeheelee

Feeding South Florida will host its annual Outrun Hunger 5K in Palm Beach County in celebra-

YAH community is gearing up for another great year of serving the Royal Palm Beach community. Look forward to other senior events like Halloween, Ugly Sweater and Valentine’s Day socials. For more information, call (561) 790-5124. Royal Palm Beach’s Camellia Park, located at the south end of the community, is also receiving renewed attention as a $200,000 grant through the Florida Recreational Development Assistance Program enters the submission process.

Village officials hope to replace tennis court lights with LEDs, update trails that have flooding or damage, replace the storm drains in the north parking lot and remodel the bathrooms. Events at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park are in full swing.

The Hispanic Heritage Month concert series continues with Viva Band performing on Friday, Sept. 19 from 7 to 9 p.m.

The Rock N Fall Festival welcomes the spooky season to Royal Palm Beach on Friday, Oct. 3 and Saturday, Oct. 4. Get excited for a fun zone, a bounce house and carnival games, as well as a Creed tribute band (6 p.m.) and a Steely Dan tribute band (8 p.m.) on Oct. 3. Halloween activities arrive on Oct. 4 with pumpkin carving, costume contests, carnival rides and much more. Adults will enjoy axe throwing, escape rooms and performances by Kiannely (6:30 p.m.) and a Journey tribute band (7:30 p.m.). The fun at Commons Park doesn’t stop there. A concert series begins on Oct. 17 and runs on the first and third Friday of

NEWS BRIEFS

tion of Hunger Action Month on Saturday, Sept. 20. Runners, families and community leaders of all ages will come together to take steps in the scenic Okeeheelee Park to raise funds and awareness to end hunger in South Florida. This year’s event will be emceed by Noura Salman, a finalist from Survivor Season 39. Hunger Action Month, a nationwide initiative created by Feeding America, takes place throughout September and is designed to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in America and inspire others to take action toward ending it.

Outrun Hunger race day checkin opens at 6:30 a.m., and the 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. After the race, an awards ceremony and a raffle will take place. Participants can join the event as an individual or a team and conduct online fundraising prior to race day. The cost is $25 for registration or $40 for registration and a t-shirt. You can also become a Hunger Hero for $250. To register, visit www.feedingsouthflorida. org/5kpbc.

To learn more about Feeding South Florida’s Outrun Hunger 5K or Hunger Action Month, visit www.feedingsouthflorida. org/events or contact events@ feedingsouthflorida.org.

St. Matthew Craft & Tag Sale Returns Nov. 15

St. Matthew Catholic Church’s 14th annual Craft & Tag Sale, a

celebration of creativity, community and connection, will take place Saturday, Nov. 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The rain date is Nov. 22. The church is located at 6090 Hypoluxo Road.

Shoppers can discover 130-plus vendors offering handmade crafts, unique gifts, vintage finds, baked goods, raffles and more — perfect for early holiday shopping or just a fun day out.

Vendors can showcase their talents to hundreds of eager shoppers. The cost for one space is $30, and $50 for two spaces. Vendors keep all their profits. Spaces fill fast, so reserve yours today. To learn more, e-mail giantcraftandtag@gmail. com or call (561) 966-8878.

Mounts Summer Plant Sale

Sept. 20-21

Mounts Botanical Garden is inviting flower fans, horticulture buffs, friends and neighbors to its Summer Plant Sale & Family Fun Weekend, set for Sept. 20-21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — with 8 a.m. early admission on Saturday for Mounts members only. Palm Beach County’s largest botanical garden is located at 531 N. Military Trail in West Palm Beach.

Mounts Botanical Garden is combining the always popular annual Summer Plant Sale with a full weekend of fun and informative events for the whole family, and kids are admitted free all weekend. For a complete list of vendors and

INDIAN TRAIL THANKS THE PEGG FAMILY FOR FLAG DISPLAYS

every month, October through December. First up is a Foreigner tribute concert with a food truck expo, set for Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. Concerts will be Nov. 7 and 21, and Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.

For more information, visit www.royalpalmbeachfl.gov.

Runners can rejoice this fall with a plethora of 5K events at Commons Park to choose from. US Road Running is hosting 5Ks, 10Ks and half marathons on Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Nov. 22, Dec. 13 and Dec. 27, all starting at 7 a.m. There’s also the Kids Cancer Foundation 5K on Oct. 25 and the Imagination Library Run for Reading 5K on Nov. 15, both beginning at 7 a.m.

Though the days start to shorten this time of year, Royal Palm Beach seems to have no intention of slowing down for the season.

activities, visit www.mounts.org.

The weekend will include more than 60 highly sought-after top plant growers and artisan vendors.

Shop a wide variety of rare, exotic and hard-to-find orchids, plants, trees, herbs, ornamentals, succulents, cactus, bonsai, butterfly/native plants, shrubs and fruit trees, as well as garden accessories, baskets, fine crafts and more.

Learn about South Florida’s plant culture by speaking directly with growers. There will also be fun and informative presentations by speakers and authors who are experts in their respective fields.

Horticultural must-haves and unique treasures for your home and garden are also available in the garden’s gift shop, nursery and vintage garden thrift shop.

There will also be family fun activities, including arts and crafts and lawn games, live music, and food and beverage vendors.

Admission is free for Mounts members and AHS reciprocal program members. The cost is $20 for adults and $18 for seniors, college students and military with ID. Annual memberships starting at $60.

Admission is by credit/debit card only; no cash.

With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants. For more information, visit www.mounts.org.

Winn-Dixie and Feeding South Florida are teaming up to host a drive-through mobile food pantry to support neighbors facing food insecurity in Royal Palm Beach.

The event will provide fresh produce and shelf-stable items to serve 300 families, available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last.

The mobile food pantry will take place Friday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, located at 11600 Poinciana Blvd.

This local event is part of WinnDixie’s recognition of its 100th anniversary and its continued commitment to hunger relief. In honor of Hunger Action Month, Winn-Dixie and the Winn-Dixie Gives Foundation are donating $100,000 to Feeding America and providing an additional $100,000 worth of produce and shelf-stable

The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, has announced that Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara was recently appointed to serve on the Florida League of Cities 2025-26 Finance and Taxation Committee, one of the league’s five Legislative Policy Committees.

Legislative Policy Committee chairs, vice chairs and members were appointed by Florida League of Cities President Holly D. Smith, vice mayor of Sanibel. As a Legislative Policy Committee member, Hmara will help develop the league’s legislative platform, which details priority issues that are most likely to affect daily municipal governance and local decision-making during the upcoming legislative session, as well as help league staff understand the real-world implications of proposed legislation. Com-

items to seven food bank partners through multiple food distribution events across the southeast. Feeding South Florida serves more than one million people across South Florida each year, making events like this critical to ensuring neighbors have access to nutritious meals.

Winn-Dixie has a long-standing tradition of investing in the communities it serves and remains committed to enriching the lives of neighbors who experience hunger daily. According to Feeding America, more than 47 million people across the nation are food insecure, relying on food banks as lifelines for nutritious meals. Through its partnership with Feeding America, Winn-Dixie donated more than $1 million last year and continues to fight hunger throughout the southeast.

mittee members are also asked to serve as advocates for local decision-making throughout the legislative process.

“I’m honored to serve on the Florida League of Cities Finance and Taxation Committee,” Hmara said. “This is likely to be a very critical year in the Florida Legislature. Eliminating property taxes would jeopardize the stable funding our communities rely on, and I’ll work to ensure that Florida municipalities keep the tools they need to protect essential services and quality of life.” Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Wellington seniors enjoyed a Havana Nights-themed luncheon at the Wellington Community Center on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Guests enjoyed delicious Latin

from Don Ramon, along with festive music that brought everyone together for a joyful afternoon. The sponsor was Wellington Regional Medical Center. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Mara Haines, Pat Dye, Carol Dunn, Judy Diehl, Vivian Kerr and Debra Viggiano.

PBSO volunteers Kat Holland, Mary Monnet, Robert Downs, Mike Anderson and Bob Kruger.

Wellington’s Gus Ponce and Ian Williams lead the Macarena.

Lore Pereira of Sugar Music performs.

Lynn Alfalla with her father Tony Alfalla.

Karen Hosking, Alice Newhouse, Maria Anatra and Mina Anafi.

Roman and Gladys Chizhik with Mercedes Calero.

Mary and Roger Hansen.

Richard and Pamela Johnson with Lisa Meltzer.

Christina Long Pegg (center), her son and several friends were honored with a resolution of appreciation from the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors on Wednesday, Aug. 20. Since 2020, the Peggs have been placing American flags on gates and fences at the owner’s request in The Acreage to celebrate the Fourth of July. The Peggs use social media to spread the word and take requests. The resolution was presented by ITID President Elizabeth Accomando (third from right).

WOMEN OF THE WESTERN COMMUNITIES HOLD FIRST MEETING OF SEASON

The Women of the Western Communities held their first meeting of 2025-26 season on Thursday, Sept. 4 at the Wellington National Golf Club. Christy Waters of Christy’s Bakery, who is starting up a mobile bakery truck, brought a sweet treat box for attendees. Meghan Mayo received donations for the Tree of Life Resource Center. Learn more at www.womenofthewesterncommunities.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Make Plans To Visit The 23rd Year Of Fright Nights At The Fairgrounds

The scariest season of the year is coming up! Fright Nights, the area’s largest haunted house event, is looking to terrify those who dare to attend. The 23rd annual event will take place on Oct. 9, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 and 31, as well as Nov. 1, at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Event hours are Thursdays from 6 to 11 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight. In addition to four haunted houses, which open at 7 p.m., there will also be carnival rides, live music, food and entertainment. A behind-the-scenes tour is planned for Oct. 8 to give the public an opportunity to get a glimpse of the four haunts before the event opens. The tours start at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. Limited tickets

are available with a maximum of 40 people per hour. The tour lasts 45 minutes and costs $39 per person. Guests also can meet and have their picture taken with the featured characters and ask questions. Each tour purchase will receive a free promotional ticket for opening night on Oct. 9, which includes one admission and one haunted house. Fright Nights’ haunted houses this year will include “The Autumn Terror Returns,” “Nuclear Beats: Frenzy in the Fallout” and “Watery Grave.” For a full description, visit www.southfloridafair. com/p/fright-nights/haunts. The theme of the fourth house, currently being called “Project X,” will remain “top secret” until three days before the event opens. When guests aren’t screaming

their way through the haunted houses, they are subjected to two scare zones. One is themed “Scary Christmas,” where the holidays are no longer merry because the village of Hollow Pines has fallen under a sinister curse. The second scare zone is themed “Coven of the Scorned.” In the shadow of the Salem witch trials, four elemental witches were betrayed by the very villagers they once protected. Accused of sorcery and sentenced to death, the public will experience their vengeance. Advance discount tickets are currently on sale. Once the event opens, online tickets are $48.50. Each ticket includes admission and 40 Fright Credits. These credits can be used on haunted houses (10 credits per house) or midway rides (4 to 5 credits per ride). RIP tickets,

which grant VIP access, cost $15 on Thursdays and $20 on Fridays and Saturdays. Parking is $10. Group rates are available for $35 per person. Contact the event box office at boxoffice@southfloridafair.com or (561) 790-5225 for more information. Introduced last year, the Dead Ringers Club is designed as an experience like none other, designed to plunge its guests into the depths of fear. This exclusive pass grants admission to all four haunts, entry to the RIP Lounge and a fast pass to bypass the lines. As a token of their bravery, they’ll receive a haunting souvenir cup, a custom lanyard and survival token. Each ticket is $150 per person, limited to only 100 souls per night. Visit www.myfrightnights.com/ frighttickets for details. Fright Nights 2025

The Wellington Rotary Club invites the Wellington Community to participate in our annual celebration of the United Nations World Peace Day.

Sunday, September 21st ~3pm Wellington Rotary Peace Park 1825 Royal Fern Drive

The program includes:

• PBC Sheriff’s Honor Guard

• Students and Teachers from all Wellington Schools, who participated in contests for Peace Posters, Poems, and Essays.

• We also celebrate a local member of the Wellington Community with a Peace Award and a local student to receive the “Student Motivational Award for Resolutions Today”.

• Release of the Peace Doves

The United Nations World Peace Day is observed annually to strengthen the ideals of peace worldwide. It is dedicated to the absence of war and violence and serves as a call to action for all humanity to commit to building a culture of peace.

Michelle Haines, Audrey Valentine, Donna Banno, Mair Armand and Susan Vogt.

Mair Armand, Paula Castro, Audrey Valentine and Donna Banno.

Lizz Smith, Meghan Mayo and Michelle Haines with donations for the Tree of Life Resource Center.

Jill Bernard, Joan Manning and Dr. Jolene Reiter.

Stella Macedonio, Linda Rosbrough, Phyllis Burke and Teresa Harrington.

Ann Kuchling, Mair Armand, Dr. Jolene Reiter and Teresa Harrington.

Christy Waters of Christy’s Bakery.

Meghan Mayo of the Tree of Life Resource Center.

Islepointe Live Local Act A Concern

continued from page 1

Councilman John McGovern said.

“We have our friends in the Isles and the Windsor Bay association who have also really spent not only legal fee money but countless hours and time to get us to this final end result. While it’s not ideal, it’s not great and it’s not perfect, we don’t live in a world of great, ideal and perfect here on this day.”

Council members also cautioned that not approving the revised plan could create further issues. If they left the parcel for commercial usage, that could open up the possibility for hundreds of new multi-family units to be built through the Live Local Act.

The Live Local Act is a new state law aimed at increasing the availability of affordable and workforce housing. Due to the law, local governments must allow multifamily residential projects to be built on land designated for commercial usage if plans have at least 40 percent of the units set aside for affordable housing. For the Islepointe land, this could result in three-story buildings with 201 units to be built on the parcel, bringing far more impact on the surrounding communities and area.

“I do believe that the best out-

come of this is to do this project,” Councilwoman Maria Antuña said. “I say that because we know what Live Local does.”

The revised plan comes with some downsides. There are concerns over the property lacking non-vehicular access to the rest of Wellington. There were discussions about building a boardwalk or walkway over a canal bank to connect it to the rest of the village. However, doing so brought logistical challenges and additional costs.

The council recognized these issues, but their main concern was mitigating the impact on neighboring communities.

Ultimately, plans to build walkways were scrapped because of the cost and expected minimal usage. Moreover, the council said the School District of Palm Beach County committed to adding a bus stop nearby for area children.

“The question is, either the best bang for our buck or the least impact on our residents,” Mayor Michael Napoleone said. “I think 25 single-family homes, with the concessions they made and the [proportionate] share, is probably the best way to deal with this property.”

In the end, the council unanimously approved the Islepointe project. Representatives of the developers also formally agreed to a restrictive covenant to prohibit renting the units, and any amendments to the agreement require approval from the village.

RPB Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps Appointed To Florida League Of Cities Committee

The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, has announced that Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps was recently appointed to serve on the Florida League of Cities 2025-26 Intergovernmental Relations, Mobility and Emergency Management Committee, one of the league’s five Legislative Policy Committees. Legislative Policy Committee chairs, vice chairs and members were appointed by Florida League of Cities President Holly D. Smith, vice mayor of Sanibel.

As a Legislative Policy Committee member, Sharps will help develop the league’s legislative platform, which details priority issues that are most likely to affect daily municipal governance and

local decision-making during the upcoming legislative session, as well as help league staff understand the real-world implications of proposed legislation. Committee members are also asked to serve as advocates for local decision-making throughout the legislative process.

“I am looking forward to being a part of this committee and learning more about the Florida League of Cities,” Sharps said. Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. The league believes in “Local Voices Making Local Choices,” which focuses on the impact citizens and municipal leaders have in improving Florida’s communities. For more information, visit www.flcities.com.

Palm Beach State College Opens New Dental And Health Innovation Building

On Tuesday, Sept. 16, Palm Beach State College (PBSC) celebrated a historic milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to announce the official opening of the Dental and Health Innovation building at its Dennis P. Gallon campus in Loxahatchee Groves. The $68 million, four-story, 83,954-square-foot facility will transform healthcare education in Palm Beach County while expanding access to care for residents in one of the county’s fastest-growing regions.

“The Dental and Health Innovation building positions PBSC as the cornerstone for healthcare education in our region,” President Ava Parker explained. “It’s more than just a building — it’s a commitment to opportunity and to the well-being of our county.”

There was some initial skepticism from the local community about how such a large institutional building would fit into the rural landscape of Loxahatchee Groves, Mayor Anita Kane conceded.

“But Palm Beach State Col-

lege’s administration and board of trustees answered that question with a passion,” she said, noting how the building was designed to blend with the natural surroundings. “The result honors who we are while opening the doors to higher education and healthcare careers.”

Designed as an integrative, high-tech hub, the new facility enables students to receive immersive, hands-on training that mirrors real-world clinical practice. The building features virtual reality

laboratories and an Anatomage Table, an advanced 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection system, typically seen in advanced medical training centers.

The facility supports multiple health disciplines critical to the region’s workforce pipeline, including: Dental Sciences — A teaching clinic and X-ray suite, 3D imaging tools, interactive classrooms and 3D printing resources prepare students for a future in dental hygiene and assisting.

Surgical Services — A stateof-the-art simulated operating suite with surgical tables, anesthesia workstations, touchscreen monitors and electronically controlled mannequins gives students hands-on experiences in surgical environments.

Physical Therapy Assisting — A new program launching soon, supported by labs with ultrasound machines, treatment and traction tables, and exercise areas to help train students in patient care transitions.

State Rep. Anne Gerwig

Students join Palm Beach State College officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON’S WEEKLY LAKESIDE MARKET OPENS FOR SEASON

On Friday, Sept. 12, Wellington’s Lakeside Market officially opened for the season with vendors, food trucks, free samples and live

music. The band On The Roxx hit the main stage, keeping everyone entertained. The Lakeside Market will continue Thursday evenings until next spring at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.), featuring more than 35 market vendors. The event is sponsored by Wellington Regional Medical Center and is accompanied by food trucks and live performances. Learn more at www. wellingtonfl.gov/lakesidemarket.

Community Partners of South Florida recently hosted its annual BRIDGES partner brunch at the Wellington Community Center, bringing together community leaders and partners to celebrate the impactful work of the program.

The event, held on Thursday, Aug. 21, honored the strong collaborations that support families across Palm Beach County.

The BRIDGES program, a key initiative of the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, provides 10 neighborhood gathering places and offers free services to families, including parent workshops, tips for child development, assistance finding community resources, and access to lending libraries and business centers. By connecting families to vital resources, BRIDGES helps ensure that children are born healthy, remain safe, are prepared for kindergarten, and have access to quality after-school and summer programs.

This year’s brunch theme, “Where Are You From? Celebrating Diversity,” honored the rich cultural backgrounds of the families and partners served. Attendees, representing diverse sectors such as education, healthcare and faith-based organizations, were encouraged to wear attire reflecting their heritage, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. A highlight of the event was a video tribute featuring children from the program who shared how the services have positively impacted their lives. The program also included presentations from partners like Journey Church, as

well as 30-second spotlight videos from each of the 10 BRIDGES sites.

A standout table talk activity titled “Serving Better Together” sparked meaningful conversations about unmet community needs, aligning services to reduce duplication and the vision for future collaborations.

“The BRIDGES partner brunch was a beautiful opportunity to pause and honor the people and partnerships that make our community stronger,” said Torrie Conley, community and partner engagement director for Community Partners of South Florida. “Sharing a table together reminded me that connection is at the core of everything we do.”

BRIDGES staff are planning on using the information gathered

during the talk to inform future initiatives.

“This annual brunch is a testament to the power of our partnerships,” said Kelly Powell, CEO of Community Partners of South Florida. “The BRIDGES are crucial for ensuring that children thrive. They act as resource centers that connect families to a wide range of opportunities and work alongside parents and caregivers to build a strong foundation for children’s well-being, while providing necessary resources and supports.”

Community Partners of South Florida is a $19 million comprehensive community development nonprofit agency that provides services to families facing social, emotional, and financial adversity. For additional information, visit www.cpsfl.org.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Attendees enjoy the Lakeside Market on opening day.

The band On The Roxx performs on stage.

The community enjoyed an evening of live music on the amphitheater stage.

Assiel Landa, Amarilis Martinez and Veronica Roman of Dynasty Guacamole.

Wellington’s Jenifer Brito prepares the shirt launcher.

Michael and Colton Heinrich check out some of the many vendors with Suzie Fritz.

Vendors offer samples at the Lakeside Market.

Jacky Leser is one of the lucky guests to catch a shirt.

Takesia Richardson with dog Noel.

Curtis LeBlanc Attorney

Sgt. Matthew DeJoy, Commissioner Sara Baxter, Mayor Michael Napoleone, guest speaker Joseph Toscano, PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero, Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri, Councilwoman Maria Antuña and Councilman John McGovern.

Representatives from the New York Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3100.

Heather Durand sings the national anthem as Mayor Michael Napoleone looks on.

County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Wellington Councilwoman Maria Antuña, Mayor Michael Napoleone, Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri and Councilman John McGovern with a wreath to be placed at the Patriot Memorial.

Scout troops 125 and 222, and pack 125 led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mario Villao, Maria Perez Rodriguez, Harvey Rodriguez, Carole and Stanley Kriegsman, and Lee Ann and Paul Read.

Johnny Meier and Walter Imperatore join in as scouts lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

The guest speaker was Joseph Toscano, a retired detective with the NYPD Emergency Service Unit. Pastor

of St.

Masala Mantra owner Purnima Patel, Westlake Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard, Women’s Chamber Executive Director Selena Samios and Reisha Roopchand Allen of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Attendees enjoy a toast.

Lauren Cheek gives attendees some belly dancing pointers.

Cathy Frantz and Lin Lee. Rena Amaro and Usha Patel.

Donna Fanelli, Ria Roopchand, Sylvia Roopchand, Rena Nannan and Rosa Rodriguez.

Belly dancer Lauren Cheek provides entertainment.

Justina Garrison and Jennifer Peavy. Stephanie Edison and Melany Armand.

Sherron Permashwar and Jennifer LaFrance take a 360-degree photo.

Ravali Kota with Donna Fanelli, who won a gift from Ravali’s store, the Mana Vastra.

Lauren Cheek balances a sword on her head.

Lisa Creese, Amy Nannan and Crystal Amado.

Amisha Gandhi sings.

RPBHS Showcasing Dominance On Both Sides Of The Football

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The varsity football team from Royal Palm Beach High School continues to impress, both on offense and defense. As a team, the Wildcats are currently undefeated, notching a 4-0 record to date.

The Wildcat offense is averaging 48.7 points per game, while the defense has yet to surrender a point in any of the team’s four games. RPBHS head coach Sam Curry is equally impressed by his prolific offense and his staunch defense.

“Our defense is playing really quick, really smart and is showing great discipline,” Curry said. “On offense, we have some talented playmakers. We are three or four deep at running back, we have two talented slot receivers, and we have two tall wide receivers.”

Statistically, Royal Palm Beach is led by senior running back Tyree Pearson, who is averaging 102 yards rushing a game. To date, Pearson has scored 10 touchdowns — nine on the ground and one pass reception.

Junior quarterback Max Griner is completing nearly 70 percent of his passes. So far, Griner has thrown 11 touchdown passes, six of which have been to sophomore wide receiver Demetrius Gibson.

The next game for the Wildcats is Friday, Sept. 19. It’s a rather unique road game, as the Wildcats will make a long journey to Kingsland, Georgia — located just outside Savannah — to face the Wildcats from Camden County High School.

Curry says Camden County is a talented squad and will provide a great test for his Wildcats.

“Camden County is big, disciplined and well coached,” Curry explained. “This game will be a great test for us.”

After that, Royal Palm Beach will host Boca Raton High School on Friday, Oct. 3.

Wellington High School — After a lackluster season in 2024, the Wellington High School football program appears headed back in the right direction under new head coach Pete Walker.

After three games, Wellington has a 2-1 record. The Wolverines are on the road for their next two games. On Friday, Sept. 19, Wellington plays at Spanish River High School. On Friday, Sept. 26, Wellington travels to play Palm Beach Lakes High School.

Looming large on the calendar is Friday, Oct. 24, which is when Wellington hosts Palm Beach Central High School for the annual Wellington Cup clash. Palm Beach Central High School — The Broncos are having an unusually rough beginning to this year’s season. Normally one of Palm Beach County’s strongest programs in recent years, the Broncos are currently 1-3.

Palm Beach Central could easily be boasting a 3-1 mark had it not lost by just two points to Pahokee High School on Aug. 22 and by one point to Santaluces High School on Sept. 12.

After a bye week on Sept. 19,

Palm Beach Central will travel north to play Friday, Sept. 26 at Jupiter High School for an allimportant FHSAA Class 7A, District 12 matchup. Of Palm Beach Central’s next five games, three of them are district games, which are the keys to earning a postseason playoff berth.

The King’s Academy — Based on last year’s team, which had a strong season that resulted in a berth in the FHSAA Class 2A regional semifinals, TKA head coach Dan Burack was cautiously optimistic that the beginning of the current season would feature more wins than losses. Unfortunately, after two games, TKA is 0-2 after dropping a pair of fourpoint games against St. Andrew’s School on Aug. 22 and Gulliver Prep on Sept. 4. The Lions had a bye week on Sept. 12, and they will spring back into action with a road game at undefeated American Heritage (4-0) on Friday, Sept. 19, followed by a home game on Friday, Sept. 26 against visiting Inlet Grove High School.

Seminole Ridge High School — After posting a 1-9 record in 2024, this year’s Hawks from Seminole Ridge High School were ready for a positive start to the season. But it was not to be. After opening the year at the 0-3 mark, the Hawks are hoping to break into the win column with a road victory on Friday, Sept. 19 at Santaluces High School. On Friday, Sept. 26, Seminole Ridge returns home to face Palm Beach Gardens High School.

Future Golf Star Staci Pla Competes At U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

While Megha Ganne of New Jersey may have won this year’s 125th U.S. Women’s Amateur Golf Championship last month when she defeated Brooke Biermann of Missouri in the matchplay finale by the score of 4 and 3, it’s worth noting that one of the players in the field at the beginning of the tournament was local golfer Staci Pla. Pla is an 18-year-old high school homeschool student who plays golf for Berean Christian School. She is a high school senior and is focused on advancing to the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 1A state golf finals on Nov. 14-15

at the Mission Resort & Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. Not only does she want to earn a spot in the field, Pla wants to win the state title as the top female high school golfer. Pla gained some valuable competitive experience in big-time golf events by earning a spot in the field of 156 at this year’s U.S. Women’s Amateur, which was held at the prestigious Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in Bandon, Oregon. In order to determine a winner of the U.S. Women’s Amateur, all 156 players in the field played a tworound, 36-hole stroke-play qualifier at the outset of the tournament.

After the 36-hole qualifier, the top 64 players advanced to a series of single-elimination match-play

rounds, which reduced the field from 64 players to 32, then 16, then eight, then four, until the final pairing of two — Ganne and Biermann. While Pla did not advance past the 36-hole stroke-play qualifier, the experience of playing well enough to earn a spot in the field and participate in the tournament was priceless. In the 36-hole qualifier, Pla shot 78-77 for a two-round total of 155, which was 11 over par. Pla said that while her ballstriking was strong, it was not good enough. The putting surfaces on the Dunes course and the windy conditions along the Pacific Ocean added to the overall degree of difficulty of the competitive playing experience.

“The greens were an undulating challenge,” Pla explained. “It was a great learning experience, and I never quit.”

Even though her stay at the U.S. Women’s Amateur was shortlived, she enjoyed the players’ dinner and also had fun competing in the Par 3 contest. Her most priceless keepsake from the competition is a USGA money clip, which is given each year to participants of USGA events, both professional and amateur.

Pla plans to play in next year’s U.S. Women’s Amateur, which will be held at the Honors Course in Ooltewah, Tennessee, but she would like to return having won the state girls golf championship this coming November.

Spookyville, known for being the go-to place to experience an old-fashioned Halloween for families and children, is expanding its offerings this year.

The annual event will take place in Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds and kicks off Saturday, Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. and continues until 10 p.m.

Additional dates and times are: Sunday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 17, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 19, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 25, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 26, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Friday, Oct. 31, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The Spookyville grounds will be more decorative this year and for the first time will include a nightly light show and a witches’ walk. There also will be a full array of safe trick-or-treating, kiddie rides, costume contests at 1 p.m. on Sundays, live entertainment, magic shows, plenty of photo ops, a bal-

loon twister and pumpkin sales.

“Spookyville is a throwback to the traditional days of family Halloweens in a fun, secure and family-friendly environment,” Exhibits and Special Events Manager Lorie Stinson said. “We also encourage our visitors to get a bite to eat while here and visit our vendors

(Left) Donovan Mays fields a kickoff for Seminole Ridge High School in the game against West Boca Raton High School on Sept. 12. (Right) Seminole Ridge quarterback Caelin Argue with the ball in the game against West Boca.

SEMINOLE RIDGE PHOTOS BY RICHARD AREYZAGZ JR.

(Left) The scoreboard following Royal Palm Beach’s shutout victory over William T. Dwyer High School on Sept. 11. (Right) Head coach Sam Curry patrols the sidelines. RPBHS PHOTOS BY ERIC PATTERSON

(Left) Staci Pla works on her swing. (Right) Staci Pla at the 125th U.S. Women’s Amateur Golf Championship

Using

Heat to Shrink Tumors: Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital Employs Hyperthermia Therapy for Some Cancers

Some patients with aggressive cancers may now receive hyperthermia therapy as part of their treatment at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital. Hyperthermia uses heat to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors by enhancing the effectiveness of radiation and chemotherapy.

“Hyperthermia therapy is not for all patients,” says Christopher Fleming, MD, a radiation oncologist at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital. “We currently use hyperthermia to treat certain patients with very aggressive or recurrent head and neck tumors which include malignancies of the lip, mouth, sinus and salivary glands. We also have extensive experience treating recurrent breast cancers along the chest wall. These are challenging areas to treat due to the complex anatomy.”

During local hyperthermia therapy, Dr. Fleming and his colleagues apply a surface applicator on the skin in the area of the tumor. The applicator is heated to a temperature of between 105 to 110 degrees for one hour immediately before or after radiation therapy.

Patients benefit from increased blood flow to the tumor When administered with chemotherapy, hyperthermia increases blood flow to the area, delivering higher amounts of the drug in and around the affected site. When the patient receives hyperthermia along with radiation therapy, the increased blood flow delivers more oxygen to the tumor, making the radiation therapy more effective.

“For the patient, it typically feels like having a plastic bag with warm water on the site,” says Dr. Fleming. “If a patient

World Class Cancer Care

becomes uncomfortable with the heat level, we have ways to alleviate the discomfort. Most patients find it quite tolerable; they return home the same day and resume normal activities after they receive hyperthermia.”

Each treatment takes about an hour and is timed around a patient’s chemotherapy or radiation schedule. Since the procedure is noninvasive, there are no incisions of any kind.

“In addition to improving the effectiveness of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, hyperthermia minimizes damage to healthy tissues surrounding the tumor.”

–

Christopher Fleming, MD

“This type of therapy is beneficial for patients who are not planning to undergo surgery, either because they aren’t healthy enough or their tumors are not amenable to a resection,” says Dr. Fleming. “In addition to improving the effectiveness of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, hyperthermia minimizes damage to healthy tissues surrounding the tumor.”

Following treatment, patients will have periodic blood tests and/or imaging done to determine the impact on their tumor or cancer cells.

While hyperthermia therapy has been around for years, studies are ongoing to evaluate its impact on the long-term outcomes for individuals with cancer.

At Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital, we’re treating cancer with expertise, innovation and heart – because every breakthrough brings us one step closer to a cure.

Scan the QR code or call 877.463.2010 to schedule an appointment.

For Every Care in the World

National Polo Center Unveils 2026 Winter Season Schedule

The United States Polo Association (USPA) and the National Polo Center-Wellington (NPC) recently announced the 2026 winter season schedule, anchored by NPC’s signature Gauntlet of Polo.

Competition will begin in late December and feature an extended schedule, concluding in early May. The season will include tournaments at various levels, highlighted by marquee events, such as the NPC 16-Goal Championship, the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship, the National President’s Cup and the annual international event.

Public admission and Sunday brunch tickets will be available for purchase online at www. nationalpolocenter.com later this year. In 2026, select tournaments will be livestreamed on the USPA Polo Network.

The season opener, the George Miller Memorial, will take place on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, kicking off a high-octane winter of polo in Wellington. Action resumes with the Heritage Cup final on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.

Women’s polo returns with unmatched intensity, showcasing the world’s top female players. Taking place earlier in the season for the second year in a row, preliminary matches of the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship will be

hosted by the Port Mayaca Polo Club in Okeechobee, with the high-stakes semifinals and final to be held at NPC. All eyes will turn to U.S. Polo Assn. Field One on Sunday, Feb. 15 for the championship final. In addition, the Women of Wellington (WOW) Polo Series, a medium-goal league dedicated to supporting and advancing women in polo, will hold two Florida Circuit Women’s Challenge finals at NPC.

The centerpiece of the NPC season, the iconic Gauntlet of Polo, unfolds as a three-part series, beginning Feb. 11 through March 1 with the prestigious C.V. Whitney Cup. The battle continues with the fiercely contested USPA Gold Cup from March 4-29, and culminates in the sport’s pinnacle event, the U.S. Open Polo Championship, running April 1-26.

The prize money distribution for the 2026 season will follow last year’s format, awarding $25,000 to the C.V. Whitney Cup winners, $75,000 to the USPA Gold Cup champions and $100,000 to the U.S. Open victors. The NPC 16-Goal Championship remains a cornerstone of the winter season. Qualifying rounds will be hosted across several clubs in South Florida, concluding in the championship event at the National Polo Center. This season’s

contenders will compete at venues including the Port Mayaca Polo Club, as well as the Wellington Polo Tour (WPT), led by the Patagones Polo Club in Wellington and a select group of private fields under the WPT umbrella.

The championship is built on four key USPA tournaments — the Joe Barry Memorial, the Ylvisaker Cup, the Iglehart Cup and the Outback Cup. Each event serves as a qualifier, with teams accumulating points based on their standings in the four designated tournaments. The top performers across all four events will advance to the championship showdown at NPC.

Alongside the NPC 16-Goal Championship, the 2026 season will continue to shine a spotlight on some of the nation’s top 8-goal teams. Now in its third season at NPC, the National President’s Cup features up to 14 qualifying tournaments held from June 2025 through April 2026. Regional President’s Cup qualifying tournaments may be awarded to one member club in each of the 11 USPA circuits.

The Florida Circuit, host of the National President’s Cup, is the only exception, with four qualifying events. The winner of each qualifier is invited to the National President’s Cup competition, and teams advancing from a club out-

side the Florida Circuit receive a $10,000 travel stipend.

NPC invites spectators every Sunday afternoon from Dec. 28, 2025, through May 3, 2026, for an unforgettable season of worldclass polo on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One.

NPC, the perpetual home for polo in America, is owned and managed by the United States Polo Association to showcase the finest the sport has to offer. Spectating from the stadium, private boxes, fieldside tailgates or special hospitality tents, all overlooking the U.S. Polo Assn. Field One, is an unparalleled experience. Learn more at www.nationalpolocenter.com.

The United States Polo Association exists for the purposes of promoting the game of polo; coordinating the activities of its member clubs and registered player members; arranging and supervising polo tournaments, competitions and games; and providing rules, handicaps and tournament conditions for those events. Its overarching goals are improving the sport and promoting the safety and welfare of its human and equine participants. The USPA is currently made up of more than 200 member clubs and more than 5,000 registered player members. For more information, visit www. uspolo.org.

Berean Girls Volleyball Salutes First Responders To Mark 9/11

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

On Thursday, Sept. 11, Berean

Christian School’s girls volleyball program paid tribute to first responders during its junior varsity and varsity games against Palm Beach Gardens High School. The junior varsity match was at 5:30 p.m., followed by the varsity game at 7 p.m.

According to Athletic Director Doug Walters, the event was dubbed Stars and Spikes, which was the brainchild of Berean’s Student Government Association.

“This special celebration began at 4 p.m. in the school’s parking lot, where we honored our first responders on the anniversary of 9/11,” Walters said. “Before the games, the fans, students, staff and school parents enjoyed various outdoor activities, including games, music and mouth-watering meals from food trucks, which prepared tacos, seafood, chicken

fingers and ice cream. Our goal was to create a festive ‘tailgate’ atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. We recognized all first responders in attendance between the junior varsity and varsity matches.”

Berean sophomore Micah Weir, a member of the school’s SGA, said it was an ideal opportunity to show appreciation for anybody who works or has worked as a first responder.

“It was our way of remembering the tragedy of 9/11 and showing our respect for first responders, both back in 2001 and to this day,” Weir said.

In the junior varsity match, Berean won the first set, 25-18, but Palm Beach Gardens responded by winning the next two sets, 25-19 and 15-10.

In the varsity match, Berean swept Palm Beach Gardens, 2516, 25-2 and 25-4. According to Berean head volleyball coach Sam Skelton, his

varsity squad was quick, alert and communicating well on the court during its three-set sweep. Standout performances were turned in by freshman outside hitter Briana Downs who had 15 kills, sophomore libero Ja’el Quezada chipped in with 19 set assists, and sophomore outside hitter Olivia Gard recorded nine aces.

Skelton is impressed by the growth of the players, both as individuals and as a team, since the season started in mid-August.

“I’m very proud of the way the girls have been playing lately,” he said. “The team’s focus is to grow as Christian young ladies first, and how do they incorporate volleyball into their life with excellence. I have seen a constant maturing in them as individuals since we started this season. It’s also very evident in their gameplay and game IQ when their perspectives are straight. As they continue to

See BEREAN, page 20

Feature matches begin Dec. 28 and will run through May 3.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

Fieldside Sunday brunch is a great way to enjoy the winter polo action at NPC. PHOTO BY CHRISSY BRAHNEY

Berean’s volleyball team takes a time out huddle during the match against Palm Beach Gardens.

Berean Volleyball Victories

continued from page 19 better themselves, their gameplay is improving by leaps and bounds. Just as in life, we always have our hurdles, but it has been a joy to see the girls grow in their faith. I’m excited to see how far it will take them.” Berean’s next match was on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at home against Clewiston High School. Berean swept the varsity match, winning 25-10, 25-7 and 25-9. The theme of that game was Christmas. “We have a theme for every home game,” Skelton added.

The varsity Bulldogs (6-5) have now won three straight games. The group has its sights set on completing the regular season with a series of winning performances as

The Wellington Runners Club will host the 20th anniversary of its signature event: the Wellington 10 Miler, Tower Challenge and 5K on Sunday, Nov. 2, starting at Tiger Shark Cove Park.

This beloved race has become a cornerstone of the local running community, drawing participants of all levels while raising funds for area charities, including this year’s featured beneficiary, the Kids Cancer Foundation. Reliant Fire and Security is on board again as the diamond sponsor for the special 20th anniversary race.

The 10 Miler and Tower Challenge kick off at 7 a.m., followed by the 5K at 7:20 a.m. Runners will wind through the scenic Village of Wellington and the Equestrian Preserve Area, with the Tower Challenge offering an optional climb up

SCHOOL NEWS

and down the village’s five-story observation tower — a favorite among thrill-seeking athletes.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate two decades of running for a cause,” said Sheri Kleinman, president of the Wellington Runners Club.

“This race is more than a fitness event — it’s a celebration of Wellington’s spirit. We’re especially grateful to Reliant Fire and Security for joining us as a sponsor this year. Their support helps us make a real impact in the lives of children and families in our community.”

Registration is now open for all race categories. To sign up, visit www.runsignup.com and search for “Wellington.”

This year’s event is made possible by sponsors including the Drip Bar Royal Palm Beach, Ideal Nutrition, Lindburgers, the Mall at Wellington Green, Paw Prints, Synovus, WGI, Provident Jewelry, the Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute and Fit 2 Run.

Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, the Wellington 10 Miler and 5K offer something for everyone. The 5K follows a paved path along Greenbriar Blvd., while the 10 Miler takes runners through the lush Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat, featuring a mix of paved trails, shell rock roads and elevated boardwalks. The Wellington Runners Club is an organization with the common interest of running and personal health. The club is dedicated to training runners for distances from 5K to marathons. Learn more at www.wellingtonrunners.org.

Habitat For Humanity Of PBC Celebrates 11th Student-Built Home

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County hosted a home dedication ceremony this month

celebrating Ke’Yanna Ramsey and her two young children as they moved into their new Habitat home, built in partnership with the students in the Weitz Construction Academy at Seminole Ridge High School.

“I still cannot believe I am a homeowner, and I am standing right in front of my home.”

Ke’Yanna said during the ceremony. “I am grateful and overjoyed.”

This home is the 11th house built in partnership with students from the Weitz Construction Acad-

Habitat’s Homeownership Program equipped 24-year-old Ke’Yanna with the skills and support needed to build a brighter future for her family. She is the first person in her family to purchase her own home, an accomplishment she is immensely proud of.

emy at Seminole Ridge, a unique program that provides students with hands-on construction experience while making a tangible impact in their community.

Students build the homes in modules, including interior and exterior framing, plumbing and electrical rough-ins, and roof trusses. The homes are then transferred to a Habitat lot and completed by staff and volunteers, then purchased by a local family, like Ke’Yanna’s.

Boca West Country Club sponsored Ke’Yanna’s home and brought out a bus full of supporters to celebrate. During the home dedication ceremony, they presented a check showcasing their financial contribution to the home. In addition to financial support, they brought out 20 volunteers to help work on the home earlier this year.

“It was quite an honor for me and several members of the board of governors to participate in the Ramsey family dedication,” said Jeanine Banks, chair of the Boca West Country Club. “One of Boca West’s core values is its commitment to community. We are a proud sponsor of Habitat for Humanity and have witnessed countless members and staff experience the joy of giving back through volunteerism and engagement.”

The ceremony also featured a special presentation from the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational Tournament team. Tournament Director Stephen Marino presented Habitat with a $50,000 donation, funds raised during the April 2025 tournament, where the organization was one of three beneficiaries.

“This celebration reflects Habitat’s mission, uniting people to build homes, communities and hope,” said Jennifer Thomason, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County.

“Ke’Yanna’s journey motivates us all, and we are thankful to every partner and supporter who made this milestone possible.”

Sponsors and partners included: Boca West Country Club (home sponsor), the City of South Bay (land donor) and the Weitz Construction Academy at Seminole Ridge High School (home partner). This home was able made possible by Carrier, David Porter Associates Architects, James Hardie, Moraca Builders, the Palm Beach County School District and Weitz Construction (in-kind construction partners); and BallenIsles Charitable Foundation, the Federick A. DeLuca Foundation, the James

RIVER BRIDGE GEM WITH LAKE VIEWS

Discover your dream home in the highly sought-after, gated community of River Bridge! This updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse at 1007 Island Manor Drive in Greenacres, Florida offers 2,130 sq ft of comfortable living with a desirable first-floor master suite. Enjoy peace of mind with recent upgrades, including a new roof, AC, and water heater. The home boasts beautiful lake views from a screened patio, perfect for enjoying the Florida lifestyle. The River Bridge community provides an incredible array of amenities, including a clubhouse, fitness center, tennis, pickleball, a pool with a Jacuzzi, and 24/7 security. With HOA dues covering landscaping, internet, and cable, this home simplifies your life.

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

for

Families and individuals needing safe and affordable housing partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Learn more at www.habitatgreaterpbc. org.

Warren, 561-350-7247

Royal Palm Beach Rotary Meets Tuesdays - 7:30 a.m.

Hilary’s

For additional information call Andre Blackwood 772-631-1716

friendships.

good fellowship.

Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews, students and instructors of the Weitz Construction Academy at Seminole Ridge High School, and new homeowner Ke’Yanna Ramsey.

Students and instructors of the Weitz Construction Academy at Seminole Ridge High School in front of the home. PHOTOS BY MASTERWING CREATIVE AGENCY

Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation, the McDade Family Foundation and the William & Helen Thomas Charitable Trust (Weitz Construction Academy funders). Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County is an affiliate of the global nonprofit Habitat

Humanity.

The Berean girls volleyball team enjoys a Christmas theme following their win against Clewiston.

ALEENA NICHOLAS SHINES

BRIGHT

ON TEAM USA

Wellington Elementary School student Aleena Nicholas is not your ordinary fifth grader. She recently represented Team USA in Cycling (Cruisers) at the World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark. Nicholas did absolutely amazing and came in fourth place, achieving her best times. Her school family at Wellington Elementary congratulates her on this achievement.

BARKY

PINES CELEBRATES

10TH BIRTHDAY OF FIRST LITTER

On Sunday, Sept. 7, Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary celebrated the 10th birthday of the first litter born at the rescue, lovingly dubbed “The Naughty Nine.” The party was held at Downers Dog Park at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Downers Drive. Festivities included romping at the park, treats, lots of pets, slobbery kisses and, of course, a celebratory pup cake. (Right) A cake celebrates “The Naughty Nine.” (Below) Tucker, Nala and Dakota with Elizabeth Accomando and Mary Montanaro.

CROS Gleaning Projects Rescue 460,245 Pounds Of Produce

The United States wastes 92 billion pounds of food annually. Locally, CROS Ministries is working with community partners and volunteers to rescue some of this unnecessary waste through its gleaning program.

During the 2024-25 season, which closed at the end of August, CROS gleaned 460,245 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to help feed the food insecure in Palm Beach and Martin counties.

It is estimated that more than 192,000 residents in Palm Beach County struggle with hunger. As a leading South Florida nonprofit providing hunger relief, CROS is boots-on-the-ground six days a week, working to ensure access to healthy food for all in need.

“Our gleaning program is a critical component to addressing local food insecurity. Thanks to our growing partners that allow

us to rescue their produce before the fields are plowed and prepared for the next crop, and to the many volunteers who help us harvest in the fields, we are able to stand in the gap for the hungry in our community. We are working together to solve this public health crisis by preventing food waste and increasing access to healthy food for our neighbors,” CROS Ministries Executive Director Ruth Mageria said. In collaboration with local growing partners RC Hatton, Bedner Family Farms, Agri-Gator Inc., Hundley Farms, Mecca Farms, Growers Management, Roth Farms, TKM Bengard Farms and PM Management, CROS Gleaning recovers fresh fruits and vegetables that would otherwise go to waste. This includes tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn, green peppers, potatoes, sweet potatoes,

squash, radishes, green beans, lettuce, zucchini and cabbage.

CROS also has a partnership with Palm Beach County and the Solid Waste Authority to glean mangos at the SWA’s Central County Transfer Station in Lantana. The transfer station was built on a mango grove, and some of the trees were kept as a noise buffer. CROS manages the grove and harvests the mangoes for distribution.

Gleaning encompasses various rescue activities: field gleanings where volunteers go to local fields to recover the produce and “grower direct” where the grower donates the produce.

A portion of the gleaned produce is allocated to CROS food pantries and its Caring Kitchen program. The remaining produce goes to distribution partners, including Feeding South Florida, Farm Share, the Palm Beach

County Food Bank, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, the Glades Initiative and House of Hope of Martin County.

“We are providing more food sources and increasing the availability of healthier, nutritious food, thus contributing to the overall well-being of our community,” Mageria said.

Providing hunger relief through food waste reduction is only possible with community support. This past year, 3,707 volunteers helped CROS with 244 scheduled gleaning events. CROS also continues to explore new distribution channels and is open to any credible agency feeding the hungry and looking to access fresh produce.

The next gleaning season begins later this year and will run through July 31, 2026, weather pending. Gleaning is open to individuals and groups of all ages. For more

Volunteers rescue bell peppers from becoming food waste during a CROS Ministries gleaning event.

PHOTO COURTESY DAVID

Aleena Nicholas is a fifth grader at Wellington Elementary School.

Aleena Nicholas on her bicycle.

The finish line shows her fourth-place finish.

On Wednesday, Sept. 3, officials from the Village of Royal Palm Beach went to the Royal Palm Beach High School media center to roll out the new Youth Civic Leadership Program. More than 100 juniors and seniors attended the session. The program is a pilot that will begin in October and continue through the entire school year. Upon successful completion, the students will be presented with a certificate, and the school will award a distinctive rope at graduation.

Pace Center Unveils New Resources For Girls

The Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach recently celebrated two special renovations that support the expansion of services at its second-chance school for girls and young women in Palm Beach County, thanks to a generous $12,500 contribution from Cleveland Clinic Florida.

Pace Palm Beach hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies at its campus, located at 1640 South Congress Avenue in Palm Springs. The event unveiled the Posh Shop, a welcoming boutique where girls can shop for clothes, shoes, accessories and learn laundry skills with a new washing and drying machine, as well as the Creation Station, a creative media space designed by Khanna House Studios for podcasting, art, music, video production, journalism and more. Officials from Palm Springs, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County joined the celebration.

The ribbon-cutting ceremonies were a way to highlight the en-

hancement of Pace Palm Beach’s supportive services for girls and young women in the county. The event included tours of the newly renovated spaces on its campus.

The Posh Shop was designed to help meet the basic needs of students by providing access to clothing, shoes and personal hygiene knowledge for girls, with hopes of fostering confidence and removing barriers to learning. The Creation Station was designed as a safe and inspiring environment where girls can build communication skills, explore their creativity and find their voice through the arts.

“At Pace Palm Beach, we believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to thrive. the Posh Shop and Creation Station are more than just new spaces; they are symbols of empowerment, dignity and hope,” said Mindy Hanken, executive director of the Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach.

“By removing barriers and creating safe, inspiring environments, we’re helping our girls build confidence and express themselves.

Educational Forum Oct. 4 At Canyon Branch Library

Defend the Freedom to Read, Write and Learn, an informational non-partisan session with light refreshments, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4 at noon at the Canyon branch library, which is located at 8915

Palm Beach Atlantic Announces Name Change At Business School

Palm Beach Atlantic University

recently announced a major milestone in the growth of its business programs. Effective immediately, the Marshall E. Rinker Sr. School of Business will become the Marshall E. Rinker Sr. College of Business, and its new home will open as the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall next spring.

The elevation to “college” status enables Palm Beach Atlantic to position its business programs for long-term scale and strategic growth. All the accredited business programs will now be housed within this newly formed college, which will encompass two distinct academic schools.

The first is the School of Free Enterprise, which reflects the university’s historic embrace of American free enterprise, and will

include programs in accounting, business data analytics, economics and finance, along with the Raney Center for Free Enterprise and the Center for Financial Literacy. The second is the Catherine T. MacArthur School of Management, which will include business administration, business and law, entrepreneurship and franchising, international business, management, and marketing programs, as well as the Titus Center for Franchising.

“These changes reflect the university’s continued trajectory of academic excellence and its increasing stature within the growing business landscape of West Palm Beach,” Provost Dr. Stephen P. Johnson said. “As Fortune 500 companies and major industry players continue to relocate to the

region, the transition to college status positions PBA as a premier destination for Christ-centered business education and leadership development.”

Undergraduate enrollment in the Rinker College of Business has increased 58 percent over the last three years. During the 2024-25 academic year, the college served 844 students with 26 full-time faculty. The college offers 14 unique undergraduate degrees, seven graduate programs and two minors.

“This milestone stands as a symbol of what’s possible when we align strategic vision with a rigorous, Christ-centered business curriculum,” said Dr. Brian Strow, dean of the Rinker College of Business. “As we grow alongside the South Florida region, we

remain dedicated to preparing the next generation as they learn to lead with integrity in today’s global market.”

The renaming honors the legacy of Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker, whose generosity and vision have helped shape Palm Beach Atlantic for decades.

In 2023, the college received accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), placing Palm Beach Atlantic among the top six percent of business schools globally — and one of only 10 Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) schools to earn the accreditation. The AACSB is the longest-serving global accrediting body for business schools.

“We are grateful to the Rinker family for their continued support

“Thanks to their partnership, we are equipping the next generation of leaders to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction and serve God boldly.” To learn more about the Rinker College of Business, visit www. pba.edu.

A ribbon cutting opens the Posh Shop, one of the new resources available at the Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach. PHOTO COURTESY KHANNA HOUSE

A rendering of the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall. of PBA and its students,” President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn said.

Way. Learn more about the office at https:// kwwellington.kw.com.

Wellington International Expands With Coastal Steel Structures Arena

Coastal Steel Structures recently partnered with Wellington International and Wellington Lifestyle Partners to construct a landmark covered riding arena that will redefine the future of equestrian sport. Rising on Wellington International’s 111-acre property, the 86,000-square-foot facility structure will stand as the largest equestrian arena ever built for both Wellington International and Coastal Steel Structures, and the biggest in South Florida.

As one of the most prestigious equestrian venues in the world, Wellington International is synonymous with excellence, tradition and global recognition. The addition of this expansive covered arena will provide riders and horses with a premier and competitive environment, regardless of weather conditions, further enhancing Wellington International’s reputation as a leader in equestrian sport.

“This new covered arena will allow riders and horses to train and compete at the highest level yearround, while offering spectators an unmatched experience,” Wellington International CEO Murray Kessler said. “We are especially

proud to be building this structure with Coastal Steel Structures, not only as our construction partner but also as a valued sponsor of Wellington International and the Global Dressage Festival. This arena is an investment in the future of our sport, our venue and the generations of champions yet to come.”

For Coastal Steel Structures, this project represents more than steel and engineering. It is a chance to contribute to a world-renowned event deeply rooted in the equestrian community.

“This project is more than steel and structure. It is fulfilling a vision we have long held,” President Chris Glykas said. “To partner with an organization as distinguished as Wellington International is a privilege, and to build an arena of this scale for a community we deeply love is truly inspiring. We proudly create a space to elevate the experience for riders, horses and spectators at the sport’s highest level.”

The design of the new arena brings together strength, elegance and attention to detail. Beyond its impressive size, the structure is

HCI College, an institutionally accredited postsecondary school, recently announced a significant milestone — more than 800 graduates of its associate degree in nursing (ADN) program have successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEXRN) since 2018.

The NCLEX-RN is a nationally standardized exam and a key indicator of nursing readiness and competency.

This milestone represents the collective achievement of testers from HCI’s West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale campuses through the second quarter of 2025. Since 2019, approximately 100 HCI graduates have obtained their nursing license each year, prepared to enter the workforce and deliver exceptional care in hospitals, clinics and healthcare systems throughout Florida.

“This success is more than a number,” said David Shelpman, group campus president and chief operating officer at HCI College.

“With every student who passes the NCLEX, we are helping to close the gap in Florida’s nursing workforce and contributing to the

quality of care that patients receive statewide.”

Florida continues to face a critical shortage of registered nurses.

Nearly 60,000 additional RNs are needed by 2035 to meet projected demand, according to the Florida Hospital Association. As hospitals and health systems across the state work to address staffing gaps and rising patient needs, the importance of well-prepared, workforce-ready nurses has never been greater.

HCI is helping to meet that demand by strengthening Florida’s pipeline of clinically skilled professionals, offering a combination of classroom learning, simulation-based instruction and hands-on clinical experience. The college’s consistently strong NCLEX-RN pass rates reflect not only HCI’s dedication to academic excellence but also a deep commitment to graduating students who are prepared to deliver quality care from day one.

In addition to its ADN program, HCI offers a variety of healthcare-focused programs, including diploma programs in practical nursing, medical assisting and veterinary assisting. Learn more at www.hci.edu.

Advanced Surgical Physicians held its second annual Obstacle Course 5K Race on Saturday, Sept. 6 at Okeeheelee Park. The event brought together the community to raise awareness and support for Sojourners With Healing Hearts, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping African American women and women of color navigate their breast cancer journeys.

Led by Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Kyle Eldredge and the entire Advanced Surgical Physicians team, the event featured a challenging yet fun obstacle course with 10 unique stations, including a balance beam, double sandbag carry and wall climb, and participants of all fitness levels ran, walked, climbed and crawled their way to the finish line.

“We are incredibly pleased with our second annual Obstacle Course Race,” Shapiro said. “It was inspiring to see so many peo-

ple come together to support this vital cause. On behalf of everyone at Advanced Surgical Physicians, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the participants, volunteers and vendors who made this event a success. We are proud to support Sojourners With Healing Hearts, an organization that provides such crucial support to women in our community.”

Shapiro’s team is dedicated to the idea that treating breast cancer goes beyond medical procedures and that support is crucial for women navigating this challenging journey. The event was a testament to that philosophy and the ongoing commitment to community support.

Advanced Surgical Physicians provides expert breast, hernia, gallbladder and general surgical care. Learn more at www.toplinemd. com/advanced-surgical-physicians or call (561) 333-1335.

The Keller Williams Wellington office is celebrating its diversity by celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. The office is located at 1400 Corporate Center

Visiting The Walt Disney Hometown Museum Was A Fun Time

There are many people, especially in Florida, who consider themselves to be bona fide Disneyphiles. They travel to the theme parks regularly, collect all manner of Disneyana and are virtual encyclopedias of knowledge when it comes to Disney movies, cartoons and products. To these people, I say hie thee to Marceline, Missouri. (Yes, “hie.” I said it.) Marceline is referenced in many Disney biographies as the place where a young Walt Disney was happiest. He lived on a farm just outside of town from ages 5 to 9. And he himself said, “More things of importance happened to me in Marceline than have happened since — or are likely to in the future. I’m glad I’m a small-town boy, and I’m glad Marceline was my

town.” He also credits Marceline with providing the fodder for what Main Street USA looks like.

So, I figured I’d better see it.

The town itself is disappointing. Like many small towns, it has fallen on hard times. Then I found the Walt Disney Hometown Museum. What a treasure

trove of unusual stuff! Housed in the large, brick train station (brand new when the Disney family first stepped off the train there), there is room after room of Marceline-related memorabilia.

There are photographs and signed correspondence from when Walt and Roy Disney came out from California to dedicate the Walt Disney Elementary School and the Walt Disney Municipal Park and Swimming Pool, both funded by residents of Marceline. There is a little “drivable” car from the original Autopia at Disneyland. When the California ride was updated, Disney gave the old ride to Marceline for installation in Walt Disney Park, something he’d never done before or since. Needless to say, kids

rode that thing into the ground and now, only one of the original cars is left. There is a recording Walt made on an LP record, using Disney technology, of his parents on their 50th anniversary. I never thought I’d hear their voices! The museum also chronicles the lives of Walt and Roy’s other two brothers, Herbert and Raymond, and their sister, Ruth. Ruth enjoyed fashion. Herbert was a postal carrier. And Raymond? He was an insurance salesman who provided insurance for Disney enterprises. As if that commission weren’t enough, he would roam the halls inferring that Disney employees should buy insurance from him or their jobs maybe/might/just could be in jeopardy. He was eventually banned from the grounds.

But my favorite story came from a filmed interview with a Marceline resident who said she had the only house with air conditioning at the time Walt was coming to town for a dedication. There was no hotel, so the city asked if she would be OK with Walt staying at her home. She said no (!!) because she and her husband had over-extended themselves on the building of the home, so it contained only their old, hand-me-down furniture. A council member said, “Well, I just

‘Splitsville’ Is A Horrible Movie You Should Avoid At All Costs

After seeing good reviews for the movie

Splitsville, I decided to go. These are the summer doldrums when few movies of any sort come out. This movie, for me, is a real dog. It is billed as an “unromantic comedy.” I would make that an “unromantic un-comedy.” I do not remember anyone in the audience laughing at anything at all during the course of the movie.

Of course, there are people who believe that having everyone in your cast act like morons is funny. It did sort of work for the Three Stooges. It falls flat here. Watching two couples mess up their marriages because they are idiots is not a great source of amusement. One of the best things about most romantic comedies is having people you can identify with. That is difficult to carry off when the main characters are essentially fools.

‘I’ On

CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

The movie starts with Carey (Kyle Marvin) and Ashley (Adria Arjona), a married couple, driving to a beach house. She decides to perform a sexual act on him that leads to poor driving that ends up with a fatal accident for someone in another car. Great for a laugh! Then Ashley tells him she wants to see other people and wants a divorce. In what presumably is a great laugh scene, Carey leaves her in the car and runs off, eventually getting to the home of his best friend Paul (Michael Angelo Covino) and his wife Julie (Dakota Johnson). After what some call a wildly humorous

scene featuring Carey’s nudity, where Paul gets in the shower to examine him closely for ticks, Paul and Julie tell Carey they avoid his problem by having an open marriage. Paul soon leaves for work, and Julie and Carey, well, you figure that one out. And then Paul finds out, and he and Carey have what has been described by some critics as a really funny fight where they grab anything they can get their hands on inside Paul’s house and try to kill each other.

Carey goes back to the house he shares with Ashley only to find her with naked Fede (David Castañeda). They have a delightful bit as Carey, who refuses to move out, watches Ashley with a whole group of men and women. Carey tries to bond with all of them while Paul throws his business away. Sounds like a Mel Brooks film, right? Eventually it comes down to a big birthday party for Paul and Julie’s son,

highlighted by an abysmal performance from a very fine actor, Nicholas Braun, where things sort of fall into place.

As I wrote earlier, you have to like people in a romantic comedy. But Marvin’s Carey is a self-centered fool who manages to mess things up for everyone. Covino’s Paul, who should have been more interesting, particularly since he was the main writer and director, comes across as someone who cannot, under any circumstances, accept any truths about himself. Arjona comes across as an idiot slut. Her line to Carey, when she wants to come back, was, “I’ve had lots of lovers, maybe a thousand, but you are the one.”

How could any man resist something like that? Johnson is almost vapid. She just seems to go with the flow. It’s OK for her husband to cheat, for her to have sex with his best friend, and so forth. We need good comedies. And we cer-

tainly, in this era where we are supposed to hate all other folks whose political or economic ideas differ from our own, could use more tolerance. And we need love. But in this film, no one seems to really learn any lessons. Attachments seem temporary. There is a kid in the middle of this who is adorable but seems headed for real trouble, and none of the adults seem able to provide a good example. From this review, you might think I did not care for the movie. Actually, I detested it. I have sat through a lot of films that were not great just because I wanted to find out the

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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.