Voters will choose Tuesday, Nov. 5 whether to support a half-cent sales surtax to raise $2 billion for Palm Beach County schools over a decade. If approved, that levy would begin in 2026, replacing a one-cent sales surtax expiring in 2025. The current tax supports not only schools but also county and municipal projects. Page 3
Three Seek To Replace Dave Aronberg As The County’s Top Prosecutor As Election Day nears in Palm Beach County, one of the most closely followed contests is the race to be the next state attorney for the 15th Judicial Circuit. Incumbent Dave Aronberg has decided not to seek re-election after three terms in office. This year’s general election ballot features three contenders seeking to replace him: Democratic candidate Alexcia Cox, Republican candidate Sam Stern and independent candidate Adam Farkas. Page 4
Lakeside Market Now Open Thursdays At The Amphitheater
On Thursday, Sept. 5, Wellington’s Lakeside Market officially kicked off its new season with a new night and new location. This year, the market has moved to the Wellington Amphitheater grounds on Thursday evenings and includes even more vendors, joined by many food trucks. Hundreds of people came out for the opening evening and enjoyed a popup German beer garden with Bavarian music. Later, Almost ABBA hit the main stage, keeping everyone entertained with ABBA tribute music. Page 18
college education and worldwide travel. It helps that she enjoys playing rugby, understands the sport and plays very well. Page 21
SPORTS ACADEMY GROUNDBREAKING
A groundbreaking ceremony was held Saturday, Sept. 7 for the Wellington Sports Academy project at
District 31 State Senate Race Pits Youth Versus Experience
By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report
are Martin County residents, District 31 also encompasses parts of
St. Lucie County and most of northern and western Palm Beach County, all the way to Lake Okeechobee. This area includes Royal Palm Beach, The
New Law Has District Struggling To Change School Start Times
By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report
A state law that hits the snooze button on early starts for students in middle schools and high schools by August 2026 was pitched as improving attendance, concentration and mental health.
However, actually configuring a schedule to please all folks affected will prove challenging, if a community-input meeting in Wellington on Thursday, Sept. 12 is any indication.
Early results from more than 12,000 surveys show a virtual tie among three local options for a new schedule, including one that starts elementary school students at 7:30 a.m., said Joseph Sanches, chief operating officer of the School District of Palm Beach County.
Parent Alishia Phillips asked why the law does not seem to worry about early starts for elementary school students, who might begin
By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report
Shouldering responsibility to do their part in helping those in need, the Wellington Rotary Club is hosting a Ruck March and Food Drive on Sunday, Nov. 10 at 9 a.m. at Village Park on Pierson Road. Participants can compete or simply stroll over a 5K or 2K course wearing backpacks — known in military parlance as “rucks” — filled with nonperishable food items, explained retired U.S. Army Col. George Kinoshita. After runners and walkers cross the finish line, they’ll empty their rucks into collection bins for the Village of Wellington’s annual holiday food drive.
“This is a completely unique event,” Kinoshita said. “You’ll not see this combination anywhere else in the country.” The event will combine timed and competitive races for veteran
their transportation process in the dark under one scenario.
“Why weren’t we asked for our opinions before these changes were made?” asked parent Justina Mann, referring to passage of the state law, adding that it makes life difficult for parents trying to coordinate sports and work schedules.
The meeting at Wellington High School, attended by about 50 people, emphasized that school officials are trying to follow the law, which is House Bill 733 (2023). It requires that all middle schools begin no earlier than 8 a.m. and all high schools start no earlier than 8:30 a.m.
That shakes things up in Palm Beach County, where the most common high school start time is currently 7:30 a.m., according to district officials.
There has been talk of urging legislators to undo the law in the spring session before it takes effect. If that does not happen, of-
“ruckers” and team competitions, plus a “fun ruck” that requires no registration.
“Just show up with your backpack and do a friendly walk,” said Kinoshita, who heads the Rotary committee that has been working for months to organize the event.
People who do not wish to ruck around the park but do want to donate will be able to do so at a drive-through drop-off point, Kinoshita added.
Food trucks and hydration stations will be available, and a live band or DJ will provide entertainment. And statistically, the first weekend in November is one of the nicest of the year weatherwise, noted Rotarian Marc Strich, who is assisting Kinoshita. “Ruck races are a big thing in a lot of places,” said Strich, who managed the Mall at Wellington Green until his retirement. “We’re expecting ruckers from across the country.”
Royal Palm Mourns Sudden Passing Of Mayor Fred Pinto
By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report
The Village of Royal Palm Beach is mourning the unexpected passing of Mayor Fred Pinto, who died suddenly on Saturday, Sept. 14, at the age of 73.
The village released the following statement on Monday, Sept. 16: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mayor, Fred Pinto, who left us over the weekend. Mayor Pinto’s unwavering commitment and service to our community will forever be remembered and cherished. During this difficult time, Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara will assume the mayor’s responsibilities. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Mayor Pinto’s family, friends and all those whose lives he touched.”
Pinto was first elected mayor in 2016, but his service on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council dates to his first election in 2003. He served continuously as an elected leader in the village for more than 21 years. He was most recently reelected to his fifth term as mayor in March 2024.
Hmara said that he will honor Pinto at the beginning of the council meeting that was set for Thursday, Sept. 19. He lauded Pinto as an exceptional leader for the community.
“During his six-plus years as mayor, he led the village through the pandemic into a highly successful recovery,” Hmara said.
“Royal Palm Beach opened many more beautiful parks, an incredibly upgraded Cultural Center and a spectacular new Village Hall while he was mayor. Fred was well-spoken and very quick on his feet. His ability to connect with an audience was a lesson for me. Fred enjoyed explaining complex things, usually saying: ‘Let me put this in context for you.’ He excelled at running an efficient council meeting and leaving everyone feeling heard and respected. This was no easy task. Fred Pinto gave Royal Palm
Beach 20-plus years of dedication and leadership, for which we will be forever grateful. He will be missed.”
Former Palm Beach County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, a longtime supporter of Pinto’s, praised his late friend for his dedication to the community.
“Fred Pinto was often urged to run for my former seat on the county commission, but he said he would rather stay as mayor of Royal Palm Beach, because of his love of and commitment to the village,” Santamaria said. “He cared more about Royal Palm Beach than higher political aspirations. I will miss him greatly for his sincere friendship and for his passionate service to the community.” Pinto’s fellow council members expressed shock and sadness in heartfelt tributes to the late mayor. “I am saddened and overwhelmed by the sudden passing of Mayor Pinto,” Councilman Richard Valuntas said. “The village has suffered a tragic loss, and my heart goes out to his loving family. Fred was a dedicated public servant and a tireless advocate for the citizens of Royal Palm Beach for more than two decades. He was a trailblazer who had a tremendous impact on our community. Fred touched the lives of See FRED PINTO, page 14
ficials will have to settle on a plan.
Three options have been proposed locally, without any endorsement or preference in their order, according to the school district.
Option 1 sets elementary school hours from 7:30 a.m. to 1:35 p.m., meaning the day really starts well before that to arrive a recommended 20 minutes before classes start, so as to allow for school breakfast or traffic delays. High schools would then run from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and middle schools from 10:15 a.m. to 4:50 p.m.
Option 2 sees middle schools in operation from 8 a.m. to 2:35 p.m., high schools from 9:15 a.m. to 4:35 p.m., and elementary schools from 9:45 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Option 3 sets high schools from 8:30 a.m. to 3:50 p.m., elementary schools from 9 a.m. to 3:05 p.m., and middle schools from 10:20 a.m. to 4:55 p.m. All options carry big implicaSee TIMES, page 14
Kinoshita, who served in the military police and the Army Criminal Investigation Division, said the event also will feature strong patriotic and military themes, since it is occurring on the birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps and over Veterans Day weekend.
“We’ll have a Marine Corps celebration on the mobile stage,” he said. “This event will really resonate with the veterans’ community, and particularly with Marines.”
It was Kinoshita’s military experience that inspired him to ask his fellow Rotarians to support the creation of the event.
“In the Army, we take our rucksacks and fill them with our equipment — helmets, canteens and so on, and we go off on a ruck march,” he said. “It’s not only a physical challenge; it’s a teambuilder.”
This led to merging the concept with the community food drive.
See DISTRICT 31, page 7
Acreage, Loxahatchee, Loxahatchee Groves, Westlake, Arden and western Palm Beach Gardens. “I think as people go to the polls,
Royal Palm Beach Mayor Fred Pinto
Gayle Harrell Aaron Hawkins
RPB Education Board Spotlights H.L. Johnson Elementary School
By Denis Eirikis Town-Crier Staff Report
With the new school year in full swing, the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board has resumed its meetings. Each month, the board focuses its attention on a different village school. The Monday, Sept. 9 meeting featured H.L. Johnson Elementary School with Principal Crystal Amado Kucharski presenting.
The philosophy of the board is that education is a team sport. One evening a month, educators come together at Royal Palm Beach Village Hall. The mission of the Education Advisory Board is to provide a forum where educators can collaborate with parents, village leadership, the school district
and with other school officials to ensure that village students are receiving the best possible education.
Meetings typically kick off with the featured school providing brief entertainment. Last week was no exception, as Kucharski introduced Pentatonic Pride, H.L. Johnson’s excellent chorus. A standing-room-only crowd of parents responded with rousing applause for the beautiful music before the principal addressed the board.
The big news is that H.L. Johnson is currently celebrating its 40th anniversary educating village students. The school opened in 1984, the second public school built in the village, opening only two years
after Crestwood Middle School.
During the late 1980s and into the 1990s, Royal Palm Beach was one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the United States. Kucharski reminded the audience that H.L. Johnson was originally designed to hold about 700 students. Longtime residents might remember when the school hit a record 1,700 students and was featured on “Good Morning America” as the most overcrowded grade school in the country.
“The school was super-crowded, there were portable classrooms everywhere, and I was a student!” Kucharski exclaimed.
She went on to explain that she is a local girl, having attended H.L. Johnson and Crestwood. She later spent time on the senior staff at Royal Palm Beach High School, so she has strong local knowledge and fully understands how education is so important to village parents.
“I also want to mention that I am not alone — 13 other current staff members attended H.L. Johnson as children, and 34 staff members have children who attended,” Kucharski said.
H.L. Johnson currently boasts 866 students and 109 staff members. The school has a long list of accomplishments, including great parental involvement. This past year, H.L. Johnson dropped three points and received a “B” rating.
Kucharski spent time at the podium outlining in detail her four-phased plan to significantly improve student outcomes as
measured by standardized testing.
“It is evident that Dr. Amado Kucharski is meeting the challenge head-on to regain the A rating,” said Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara, council liaison to the Education Advisory Board. “The rigorous plan for improvement currently underway includes increasing in-class teaching support, yearround professional development, strategic monitoring of data and intentional planning for instruction. I’ve known Principal Amado Kucharski for several years, going back to her time as an assistant principal at RPBHS. She’s an extraordinary professional educator with the necessary skills to make H.L. Johnson an A-rated school again.”
One of the realities facing modern educators is the threat of school shootings.
“Safety is our No. 1 priority,” said Kucharski as she outlined highlights from the school’s robust safety plan, which includes mandatory ID badges for everyone, locked classrooms, diligent supervision and frequent drills.
Kucharski outlined her “Whole Child” concept, which features “Noble Jaguars.”
“Students learn how to feel safe, included and supported,” she explained. “Jaguars promote kindness, empathy and understanding.”
She went on to describe how mental health is stressed alongside physical health and wellness.
Betsy Bonano is the parent of a child at H.L. Johnson, and she also works as a school employee in af-
Principal Crystal Amado Kucharski addresses the Education Advisory Board. H.L. Johnson parent Betsy Bonano with her son
tercare. “My son Jayce loves H.L. Johnson, and so do I. The principal has an open-door policy, and she genuinely cares about students and staff,” she said. Kim Pabst agreed. “My son Evan loves this school and all his teachers. In fact, now he wants to be a teacher when he grows up,” she said. Nurse Fizelene Dumerlus has a daughter attending H.L. Johnson.
“The thing I appreciate most about the school staff is that they go an extra mile to communicate with parents,” she said. “I feel included and involved.” School Board Member Marcia
School District Asking Voters To OK Half-Cent Surtax In
By Charles Elmore
Town-Crier Staff Report
Voters will choose Tuesday, Nov. 5 whether to support a halfcent sales surtax to raise $2 billion for Palm Beach County schools over a decade.
If approved, that levy would begin in 2026, replacing a onecent sales surtax expiring in 2025. The current tax supports not only schools but also county and municipal projects, including almost $39 million in Wellington, for example.
The new sales surtax would be focused on public schools around the county. Charter schools would also receive a share.
“With more than 30 million square feet of facilities, the district
needs to maintain and replace aging roofs, renovate restrooms, and upgrade lighting and HVAC systems throughout local schools,” according to a Palm Beach County School District web site explaining the measure. “Additionally, funds from this half-penny measure would enhance school security, purchase buses, and update technology for students and teachers. Schools will also receive School Enhancement Funds for projects decided by their School Advisory Council.”
The surtax money must be spent on capital projects, not operational needs, according to the district. It cannot be spent on teacher salaries, for example.
An Independent Sales Surtax
Oversight Committee will oversee the use of funds.
The Economic Council of Palm Beach County came out in support of the half-cent surtax earlier this year, according to its web site. Established in 1975, the council is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that supports what it calls an “open and collaborative relationship between the public and private sectors in Palm Beach County.” County officials chose not to ask voters to pay for county and municipal projects on this ballot measure, which is why it is limited to schools. A school district flyer says the half-cent sales surtax will help Palm Beach County remain an A-rated school system, generating about $200 million annually.
The ballot measure represents a “continuation of an existing sales tax rate for schools in Palm Beach County and will not raise taxes,” according to the district.
Not everyone embraces this framing of the issue. Some skeptics say schools already receive a large budget, and this represents a revenue stream that, if approved, bypasses the budget process and becomes automatic through 2035.
“My plan is to vote no on this issue,” said Fred Scheibl, cofounder of the Palm Beach County Taxpayer Action Board, a group that analyzes public spending.
He noted the current surtax passed a decade ago, attracting 57 percent of the vote on an appeal to make needed investments.
“The argument at the time was that our infrastructure was crumbling, and the money was needed to ‘catch up’ on maintenance that had been deferred,” Scheibl said. “It was estimated to generate $270 million annually ($135 million for the schools). In reality, it generated quite a bit more than that, averaging about $175 million to the schools in the years 2018 to 2023.”
This year could produce even more than average, he said. “Have we not already ‘caught up’?” Scheibl asked. “I believe that creating funding sources outside of the normal budget process is a way to obfuscate spending from public scrutiny.”
In any case, voters will have the ability to say YES or NO on their
Andrews regularly attends Educational Advisory Board meetings. “I am so proud of the Royal Palm Beach educational community,” she said. “I love the way we come together and freely communicate about problems and solutions. Principal Kucharski and the other principals and assistant principals here genuinely care about the students.”
The Education Advisory Board meets at 6 p.m. on the first Monday of each month during the school year at Royal Palm Beach Village Hall. The next meeting is set for Monday, Oct. 7. Meetings are open to the public.
November
general election ballots. The ballot language is as follows:
“To support educational opportunities for students by upgrading and enhancing safety and security of schools; classroom technology and equipment, school buildings and facilities, and school buses, for Palm Beach County traditional public and charter public schools; shall the School Board levy a onehalf cent sales surtax beginning January 1, 2026 and, by law, automatically ending December 31, 2035, with oversight of all funds by an independent committee of citizens and experts?”
To learn more about why a school district flyer says, “1/2 penny keeps our schools strong,” visit www.strongschoolspbc.com.
H.L. Johnson’s Pentatonic Pride chorus performs. PHOTOS BY DENIS EIRIKIS/TOWN-CRIER
Jayce.
Casanova, Middleton Vying In Runoff Election For Court Seat
By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report
Palm Beach County residents
will vote in a runoff election to fill a rare open seat on the Palm Beach County Court bench during the November general election.
The vacancy in the Group 2 seat is due to the retirement of County Court Judge Ted Booras, who was appointed to the bench in 2006.
The nonpartisan election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 5 with two attorneys still seeking the position — Lourdes Casanova and Jean Marie Middleton. They were the top two vote-getters in the August primary, which also included attorney Douglas Leifert, who came in third and was eliminated. Casanova topped the initial balloting with 37.92 percent, while Middleton took 33.86 percent.
Casanova worked as a prosecutor and is now in private practice. Middleton is currently employed by the School District of Palm Beach County.
Lourdes Casanova — Casanova attended Palm Beach County public schools and was the valedictorian at Royal Palm Beach High School in 2005. She graduated from the University of Florida and later earned her law degree there.
“I have dedicated my career to serving our community,” she said.
“As a former prosecutor, I sought justice for Palm Beach County while appearing in court daily and conducting jury trials. In private practice, I help clients navigate various areas of law within the county court system, including criminal, civil small claims, fish and wildlife, and traffic tickets. My community involvement includes Special Olympics, Latinos
in Action and the Florida Association for Women Lawyers. Last year, I served as president of the Palm Beach County Hispanic Bar Association.”
Casanova noted that she is the daughter of immigrants who “came to America seeking freedom.”
“I have a profound appreciation for our constitutional principles of due process, separation of powers and access to courts,” she said. “My parents instilled in me a deep sense of duty to preserve our liberty, inspiring me to uphold the principles of integrity, fairness and justice in our legal system.”
Casanova said that she is the best person to serve on the county court bench because she is the candidate with the most courtroom and trial experience.
“Throughout my career, my focus and passion has been the county court,” she said. “During my time as an assistant state attorney for the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, I managed a caseload of 300 to 400 cases… My county court experience in various areas of law, in government and private practice, and in working both sides of the courtroom, makes me the candidate with the most well-rounded and relevant experience.”
She added that she is the only candidate who has run a small business. “My role as a small-business owner for nearly a decade has showcased my ability to make tough decisions, multi-task and successfully address new issues and circumstances while serving the people of Palm Beach County,” Casanova said. A key issue in this race is en-
suring fairness and objectivity, she said. “As judge, I will seek equal treatment under the law, ensuring our courts remain free from prejudice of any kind,” Casanova explained.
She also vowed to run an efficient and accessible courtroom.
“As a former prosecutor who has managed high-volume caseloads and a small-business owner who wears many hats, I will bring my experience as a multi-tasker and decisionmaker to the courtroom to ensure our judicial system continues to serve the people in the most efficient and effective way,” Casanova said.
She added that working weekly in the county court system, Casanova sees firsthand the need for greater public understanding of the judicial system.
“Many individuals, often representing themselves, are unaware of how the system works,” she said. “As judge, I will instill confidence and understanding in the judicial process by upholding the rule of law, ensuring courts are accessible, conducting fair and transparent procedures, and managing my caseload efficiently. Temperament and approachability are also crucial in demystifying the court process for everyone.”
Should she be elected, Casanova looks forward to serving the people of Palm Beach County while also mentoring young attorneys.
“The county court involves everyday matters that have a direct impact on our local residents. As a people person, I enjoy interacting with the public and place importance on the issues that affect our residents daily,” she said. “Many of the lawyers practicing in our
county court system are recent law school graduates and are new to the legal profession. I am committed to making a positive impact on the legal profession and our community by mentoring young attorneys at the beginning of their journey in a rewarding career.”
Casanova noted that Hispanics represent the fastest-growing population in Palm Beach County. “It is crucial for our elected leaders to reflect the communities they serve,” she said. “I would be the first Hispanic woman elected by the voters to serve as a judge in Palm Beach County.”
She added that her campaign has received a number of key endorsements from county organizations and from more than 300 legal and community leaders.
“I am the most prepared candidate to lead a courtroom, bringing a diverse range of experiences essential for a county court judge,” Casanova said. “I am the only candidate who has simultaneously practiced law, served as president of a nonprofit/professional organization and run a small business. As a former prosecutor and now an attorney in private practice, I have both public and private sector legal experience.”
Visit www.casanovaforjudge. com to learn more about Casanova’s campaign.
Jean Marie Middleton — Middleton earned her bachelor’s degree and law degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C. She has 38 years of practice in both the public and private sectors.
“I have been married to Ellis Middleton for 19 years. We have one daughter and four grandchildren,” Middleton said. “I have
been committed to serving Palm Beach County citizens both professionally and personally through my community service of 24 years as a voluntary Youth Court judge serving in a quasi-judicial capacity handling criminal misdemeanor matters committed by first-time juvenile offenders. I am the current president-elect of the Palm Beach County Bar Association, and for the past 22 years, I have served as registration coordinator for His Daily Bread Food Bank. On the professional side, I have been a Florida Supreme Court certified circuit civil mediator since 2009.”
Middleton added that she has worked for two Fortune 500 corporations, three municipalities, two large school districts, the Legal Aid Society and in private practice. “My depth and breadth of experience is extensive,” she said.
Middleton believes that this diverse experience makes her the best person to serve on the county court bench.
“I have 38 years of complex trial experience in the areas of employment and labor, contracts, land use, bankruptcy, landlord tenant/ wage claims, criminal, intellectual property and family law,” she said. “As such, I have a thorough understanding of statutory law, case law and legal principles.” The work that she has done makes her a strong judicial candidate, she said.
“In cases where a jury is not involved, judges review evidence, listen to legal arguments, and make factual and legal determinations based on the presented information,” Middleton said. “I have successfully drafted motions and proposed orders in favor of my client in complex civil cases that have been adopted by state court judges and upheld by the appellate courts in the 3rd and 4th District Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court of Florida.” She has tried cases at all levels
Work Underway On New Pool Facility Set To Open Next Year
By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report
Whenever the time comes, the plan is to demolish the existing village pool complex near Town Center soon after and not operate it simultaneously with the new one, even temporarily, officials said.
“We will not have both of them running at the same time,” Quickel said.
“What is the plan for the pool site that is being demolished at this point?” Board Chair Dr. Samuel Falzone asked. “Or is there a plan?”
Costs for Wellington’s new aquatics complex have crept up slightly to $31.3 million, but the budget is ready for it and work has begun at the site, set to open in the summer of 2025, Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel told Wellington’s Parks & Recreation Advisory Board on Monday, Sept. 9. The exact date of the opening has been a bit of a fluid issue. Quickel told the board that the opening could range from next July to September, but Labor Day, or Sept. 1, 2025, has come up in recent discussions.
Village staff members said there is no formalized plan, but it could become green space that adjoins the Town Center area hosting municipal offices, the Wellington Promenade and the Wellington Amphitheater south of Forest Hill Blvd.
The new aquatics complex at Village Park near its 120th Avenue South entrance is split into two major areas for recreational and competitive swimming. It will be located next to the also-under-construction Wellington Sports Academy facility, a public-private partnership spearheaded by village
native and NFL linebacker Jon Bostic and his company Wellington Athletics.
“It’s exciting to see everything that’s going on in Wellington, and it’s nice to be a part of it,” Board Member Marc Murray said.
In March, the Wellington Village Council approved a spending limit of $28 million for the aquatic center’s main builder, Wharton-Smith Inc., but ancillary spending for a NinjaCross System of water obstacles and various architectural and other services pushed the total near $30 million. Quickel’s update to the advisory
board pegged the total just above $31 million.
The aquatic center is one of the main projects in Wellington that benefits from a soon-expiring countywide one-cent sales surtax for school and community projects.
Wellington has collected $38.3 million from the tax over the better part of a decade. The village stops receiving the money when its share reaches $38.9 million, or by Dec. 31, 2026, whichever comes first.
That revenue stream already has helped, or will aid, projects
from the Town Center community facilities to Community Park on South Shore Blvd., Village Park and others, including a small, unspecified amount likely to assist in demolition of the old pool complex, Quickel said. County officials decided not to put a renewal of the one-cent sales surtax on the ballot this fall, but voters will decide on a halfcent surtax earmarked for school improvements. By way of a vote at the meeting, Falzone continued as board chair and Stephanie Cagnet Myron was chosen as vice chair.
Three Seek To Replace Aronberg As County’s Top Prosecutor
By Christopher Vargas Town-Crier Staff Report
As Election Day nears in Palm Beach County, the spotlight sharpens on several pivotal races that will shape the future of local governance. One of the most closely followed contests is the race to be the next state attorney for the 15th Judicial Circuit, which serves all of Palm Beach County.
Currently the county’s top prosecutor, State Attorney Dave Aronberg has decided not to seek re-election after three terms in office. This year’s general election ballot features three contenders seeking to replace Aronberg: Democratic candidate Alexcia Cox, Republican candidate Sam Stern and independent candidate Adam Farkas. Each brings a unique vision and determination to the race.
Alexcia Cox — A Palm Beach County native, Cox is a distinguished legal professional who currently works at Aronberg’s office on the leadership team as deputy chief assistant state attorney. She defeated two other candidates, Gregg Lerman and Craig Williams, in the August primary to win her party’s nomination. Cox brings a strong educational background, having attended both the University of Central Florida and the Florida State University College of Law. Over the years, Cox has become a prominent figure in the community, actively participating in and leading organizations such as the Guardians of the Glades Women’s Leadership Program, the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers and the Palm Beach County Black Chamber of Commerce.
“I am a dedicated prosecutor and trusted leader in Palm Beach County with a 19-year
legal career, successfully prosecuting complex cases including first-degree murder, elder abuse, child abuse, robbery and domestic violence felonies,” Cox said. “As an award-winning attorney and community leader, I’ve held various leadership roles and received over a dozen awards for my advocacy, leadership and community service.”
Her nearly two decades of experience include prosecuting a number of high-profile cases, such as the 2022 conviction of Euri Jenkins, sentenced to life in prison for hiring a hitman to kill his pregnant wife.
Cox is proud of the work that has been done under Aronberg’s three terms. “Our conviction rates are among the highest in the State of Florida, and we have worked tirelessly to protect the community and hold criminals accountable,” Cox said.
However, she does see areas for improvement. If elected, Cox’s key priorities would be the creation of a dedicated Hate Crimes Unit to tackle growing concerns over targeted violence in the county that pertain toward antisemitism, racism, homophobia and all other similar crimes.
“In addition to implementing a Hate Crimes Unit, I intend to build a strong Elder Crimes Unit with dedicated prosecutors who participate in specialized training and possess the expertise needed to remain two steps ahead of cybercriminals who prey on our most vulnerable residents,” Cox said.
Another plan is to establish a “Community Engagement Officer” position to lead a community outreach program within the office and regularly engage with residents and the business community, ensuring that residents
feel heard, respected and know that they can trust the State Attorney’s Office. “I do not believe our only interactions with the community should be when police are called because something has happened,” Cox said.
She explained that being a state attorney is more than a career; it’s a calling that requires deep commitment.
“I am the only candidate with a successful track record as a prosecutor and trial lawyer with a proven record of leadership in the State Attorney’s Office and service to the greater Palm Beach County community,” she said. “No one will work harder to protect our residents and increase public safety.”
Learn more about Cox at www. alexciacox.com.
Sam Stern — Stern defeated Boca Raton attorney Forrest Freedman in the August primary to win the Republican nomination. He hails from a distinguished lineage of prosecutors and public servants. A graduate of Fordham University School of Law, Stern has built a legal career spanning D.C., New York, New Jersey and Florida. He currently serves as a partner at Stern, Kilcullen & Rufolo LLC, based in Palm Beach Gardens. In 2019, he was elected to the board of trustees at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, his undergraduate alma mater.
“I have been a prosecutor in the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office,” Stern said. “This prosecutorial background provides unique experience into how different offices function and insight into optimal investigative techniques.”
Stern is also an active educator,
teaching at the University of Miami School of Law and the National Trial Advocacy College at the University of Virginia. Known for his successful prosecutions of violent crimes, sexual offenses and economic fraud, Stern’s platform includes keeping violent criminals out of the community, creating a task force to deal with felons caught committing gun crimes and protecting seniors from fraud and financial crimes.
“I am the most qualified candidate given my unique background as a state and federal prosecutor, defense attorney, law professor and a published author,” Stern said.
Stern said that his main reason for running is “because I am passionate about keeping our community safe and protecting the rights of victims. This is the community where my wife and I are raising our two boys, and where my parents and mother-in-law live. I care about this community and want it to be safe for everyone’s families.”
If he were elected state attorney, Stern said his mission would be to recruit, train and run the
finest office anywhere. “A highly trained office leads to better outcomes for the community, even for defendants, and it enhances retention,” said Stern, the author of The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Cross-Examination “I have also been a defense attorney specializing in white collar cases, and this experience provides important perspective and depth in evaluating how prosecutor’s offices can operate more effectively and appropriately,” he said.
Learn more about Stern at www. votesamstern.com.
Adam Farkas — The independent candidate, Farkas, brings a diverse legal background and extensive trial experience, driven by a commitment to defending the integrity of the justice system against politicization. After earning his bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, Farkas pursued his law degree at Nova Southeastern University, graduating cum laude. Specializing in trial advocacy and criminal defense, Farkas built a strong foundation in litigation. He started his career as a prosecutor with the Palm Beach County
State Attorney’s Office in 2009, where he tried more than 100 cases. Transitioning to defense work, he has tried an additional 100 cases, establishing a strong reputation in criminal defense, family law (including dependency) and personal injury.
“The skillset and knowledge I have gained through the consistent practice of law — as opposed to the supervision of other attorneys engaged in its practice (like my Democratic opponent) or the teaching of students who may one day engage in its practice (like my Republican opponent) — will allow me to hit the ground running after the election,” Farkas said. Farkas believes that his legal background is what the office needs.
“I feel that having served as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney provides me with a balanced and thoughtful understanding of the commitments each side shares to the pursuit of justice — as well as where their interests diverge,” he said.
Farkas acknowledged that,
See PROSECUTOR, page 14
Lourdes Casanova Jean Marie Middleton
See COURT SEAT, page 14
Sam Stern Adam Farkas
Alexcia Cox
artistic rendering of what the finished project will look like.
Tony Nelson, Jon Bostic, Jacqueline Bostic and Brian Tilley.
Brad Peacock, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Devon Travis, Jon Bostic, Sean Burnett and Scott Feyereisen.
Verdex Construction Project Executive Colin Stephens, CEO Rex Kirby, Project Executive Rob Lees, Vice President Alex Smith and Superintendent John Sabatano.
Dignitaries from the Village of Wellington join Jon Bostic and representatives of Wellington Athletics for the groundbreaking.
Devon and Bo Travis with Jon Bostic.
Members of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington with Jon Bostic and Dr. Brian Coleman.
Jon Bostic with Wellington’s Markus Lockhart, Michelle Garvey and Eric Juckett.
Jon Bostic and Andrew Foster.
Jamiese Holmes, Duke Allen, Jon Bostic and Henry Haston.
Jon Bostic with Dr. Brian Coleman and Ronald Mills.
Wellington and Verdex officials with NFL star Jon Bostic, who is leading the Wellington Sports Academy project.
Colorectal & General Surgery
Dr. Hayder Al-Azzawi is a colorectal and general surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted abdominal procedures, anorectal procedures and robotic abdominal procedures for a wide range of colon and rectal cancer, digestive and abdominal ailments including cancer and benign diseases such as diverticulitis, polyps and hernias.
Dr. Al-Azzawi and his experienced medical team offer treatment options using some of the most advanced techniques and specialize in same day discharge colon surgeries, that may benefit patients with an easier, more comfortable recovery.
• Colon and Rectal Cancer
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• Minimally Invasive Hemorrhoid Procedure
WELLINGTON FAMILY AUTOFEST CHARITY CAR SHOW RETURNS FOR SEASON
Vice Mayor: Westlake Budget ‘In Good Shape’ After Millage Cut
By Louis Hillary Park
Town-Crier Staff Report
The City of Westlake’s 2025 budget and millage rate are official after a Tuesday, Sept. 11 final budget hearing. Both passed 5-0. While the overall budget will increase $2,364,000 over 2024, the community’s fast-growing residential homes sales, a steady increase in commercial real estate investment and a decision to trim $300,000 from staff-suggested reserves allowed a reduction in the tax rate from the planned 4.95 mills to 4.7 mills.
That means the average Westlake resident owning a $600,000 home will pay some $180 less in municipal taxes than last year, when the millage rate also was 4.95, city officials have said.
District 31
Hawkins Challenges
Sen. Harrell
continued from page 1 they’re going to look at records,” Harrell said. “I have a significant track record over many years. I have a track record of working with people across party lines.”
For the 2022-24 session, Harrell is chair of the Appropriations Committee on Health and Human Services, vice chair of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, and a member of the Appropriations Committee, the Appropriations Committee on Education, the Committee on
Oct. 10 Chamber Healthcare Breakfast
The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County will host an Economic Forum Healthcare Breakfast on Thursday, Oct. 10 from 8 to 10 a.m. at Palm Beach State College’s Loxahatchee Groves campus. The breakfast will focus on “the future of the healthcare workforce in Palm Beach County.” Guest speakers will include Dr. Miguel Benavente of the Palm Beach County School District, Edward Willey of Palm Beach State College, Dr. Kristen Smethurst of South University and Dr. Jennifer Illes of the Keiser University College of Chiropractic Medicine. The day’s presenting sponsor is Florida Blue. Register at www.cpbchamber.com.
A Night Of Unity And Community
To mark the one-year anniversary of one of the most horrific days in modern Jewish history, all faiths and backgrounds are invited to join together in solidarity for “A Night of Unity and Community” on Monday, Oct. 7, at Dreyfoos Hall at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.
The evening, recommended for those ages 13 and older, will include survivors of the Oct. 7 attacks, including one from the Nova Music Festival and another whose
The vote marks the third consecutive year that Westlake has cut the property tax rate, even as overall budgets have increased. The budget for the 2025 fiscal year that begins Oct. 1 is $10,695,500 — a 19.8 percent increase over 2024.
Vice Mayor Greg Langowski, who suggested holding less money in reserves, said this week, “It’s not a huge cut. We’re still putting $1 million in reserves. But any little bit that we can put back in the pockets of residents is a good thing.”
Langowski noted that Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor was a big supporter of the tax rate reduction, and that city staff was comfortable that the change would not negatively impact the budget. “I always meet with city staff and the city manager [Kenneth
Health Policy, the Committee on Judiciary and the Select Committee on Resiliency. Hawkins graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a master’s degree in international affairs. Since graduating, he has worked in data management, real estate, small business consulting and organizational management. He returned to Stuart during the pandemic and said it was the struggle he went through as a young person trying to find rental housing in the area’s pricy real estate market that opened his eyes to the need for change. Hawkins said this week he got into the race because “leaders are not speaking to the concerns of young people like myself… We
Cassel],” Langowski said. “I trust our staff. I believe we’re in good shape.”
Even with the cut, Westlake will be adding $1 million to the $4 million already in municipal reserves. The reserve funds are for an emergency, such as a hurricane, and for use when state, federal or other grants require up-front matching dollars.
Langowski said he hopes state and federal grants — matching or otherwise — can be found to help defray the cost of a 50-acre regional park now under construction on the west side of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, just south of Seminole Ridge High School. The park is a joint project between the City of Westlake and the Seminole Improvement District (SID).
need people who understand the world we live in today.”
Hawkins noted that Republicans have been in control of Florida government for most of the last 30 years. “A whole host of things have degraded around them,” he said. “It’s time for change.”
For her part, the 81-year-old Harrell touts her long record of community service before and after entering politics. A 49-year resident of the Treasure Coast, she has served on boards of many local civic organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and a master’s degree in Latin American history from the University of Florida, where she was Phi Beta Kappa.
Harrell was married to the late Dr. James Harrell for 53 years, and
NEWS BRIEFS
family was murdered at Kibbutz Kfar Aza, as well as Ambassador Michael Oren, musical performances and more. The event is hosted by the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County in partnership with more than two dozen other organizations.
The aim of the event is to bring together the entire community to stand together to commemorate the tragic events of Oct. 7, 2023, as well as the resilience of the Jewish people. More than 100 hostages are still being held, including seven American citizens. Six hostages were recently murdered, further igniting the local and global need for all people to unite against antisemitism and all forms of hate.
“This evening is about bringing the entire community together, all faiths, Jews and non-Jews alike, all ethnicities, to stand up for Israel and our Palm Beach County Jewish community as we demonstrate solidarity, strength and love while remembering the lives lost, honor survivors and first responders, and pray for and demand the safe return of hostages,” said Susan Shulman Pertnoy, co-chair of the evening with her husband and fellow community leader, Ronnie Pertnoy. “In the face of global challenges, adversity and rising hate, this evening will be tremendously meaningful for all who attend. Let us join together, united.”
“A Night of Unity and Community” will include: Ambassador Michael Oren: An American-Israeli diplomat, statesman, historian, soldier and author, Oren will provide illuminating insights into the significance of Oct.
7 and the path ahead for Israel and the Jewish community throughout the world.
Survivor stories: Hear courageous survivor stories from Oct. 7, including Asher Levy, whose sister’s family, including her three children and husband, were murdered at Kibbutz Kfar Aza, as well as a survivor of the music festival. Music and prayers: Powerful musical performances and reflections from global leaders and prayers for peace, Israel and the U.S. government led by local clergy.
In addition to the Pertnoys, 150 community leaders are serving on the committee. “A Night of Unity and Community” is free and open to the public; advance registration required, and guests can select their seats at Kravis Center during the registration process. Walk-ins will not be accommodated. For more information, and to register, visit www.jewishpb.org/october7.
St. Michael Drive-Through Pet Blessing
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 this day with a community-wide drive-through pet blessing from 4 to 7 p.m. All are welcome regardless of faith.
Pastor A.J. Striffler will offer each pet and their owner an individual blessing. Pets will also be
Langowski noted that the city has contracted with an as-needed grant writer, and that officials will be urging the area’s state legislators to help when the new session kicks off in March.
“A lot of municipalities do very well getting help with parks,” he said. “Any help we could get would be great.”
Unfortunately for residents, the $180 reduction in municipal taxes will be more than offset by the assessment agreement created with SID when the city came into being in 2016. SID supplies most of the community’s infrastructure, including roads and drainage.
The average Westlake homeowner living on a quarter-acre lot will see a 30 to 37 percent increase — $262 to $294 — in their SID
said her experience as the wife of an ob/gyn sharpened her views on healthcare, childcare and abortion. Harrell said she is strongly prolife, recalling how, “a lot of babies stayed in our home” when mothers could not take care of them. “We helped place many of those children,” Harrell said.
On his web site, Hawkins said he supports Amendment 4, which would lift newly enacted state limits on abortion. He calls the state’s current six-week abortion limit “utterly insane and another example of [the legislature’s] tendency to overreach.”
Overall, however, Hawkins said he prefers to stay away from the culture war battles, believing that most Americans agree on about 60 to 70 percent of most issues.
offered treats and water as well.
For more information about St. Michael Lutheran Church, visit www.stmichaelelc.com or contact the church office Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at (561) 793-4999. Sunday morning services are at 9:30 a.m.
St. Matthew Church Seeks
Vendors
Vendors are wanted for Saint Matthew Catholic Church’s 13th anniversary Craft & Tag Sale on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The church is located at 6090 Hypoluxo Road in Lake Worth. Registration is underway. Rent a 9-foot-by-17-foot space for $25, or two spaces for $40; all profits are yours to keep. For more info., call (561) 966-8878 or email stmatthewsale@gmail.com.
Sheriff’s Scholars Golf Classic Oct. 14
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation will host its 12th annual Sheriff’s Scholars Golf Classic to benefit the foundation’s scholarship program on Monday, Oct. 14 at the Wanderers Club, located at 1900 Aero Club Drive in Wellington. Registration starts at 11 a.m. with lunch and a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start to follow. An awards banquet is set for 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Steve Moss at (561) 688-3899 or steve.moss@pbcsf.org.
assessment, according to data supplied by the district. That will increase the average assessment from $829 to $1,107.
The SID budget received final approval 3-0 at its board’s Aug. 19 meeting.
While Cassel also manages SID, the Westlake City Council has no say in the district’s budget.
SID’s 2025 budget will increase from $6 million to $7 million, that’s $2.7 million less than anticipated in 2016, according to a letter sent to property owners and posted at www.seminoleimprovementdistrict.com.
The letter explained that the original operations and maintenance methodology of 2016 that was adopted by SID projected build-out in 2036, with an opera-
“I try to stick to my core values… putting people before politics,” he said. “We need to open our ears and open our minds. I’m really focused on policy… and open to making deals with Republicans.”
He wants to put a focus on helping working people.
“Workers and small businesses are the backbone of our state,” Hawkins said. “I want to make sure they continue to have the resources to thrive.”
Both candidates said they strongly support “home rule” through referendums, including allowing residents of the Indian Trail Improvement District to vote on incorporation. Harrell was among the Palm Beach County legislators who supported moving the incorporation referendum bill forward into the House in 2022 and 2023.
Neither effort succeeded.
“I believe in local decision-making,” she said. “We have to make sure the state doesn’t interfere unless it has a statewide impact.”
tions and maintenance budget of approximately $21.7 million based on 4,546 single-family residences and 2.2 million square feet of nonresidential buildings. The assessment rates in the projected 2036 buildout were between $2,593 and $3,807, depending on the single-family property size, the letter continued. However, Westlake remains the fastest-growing municipality in Palm Beach County and one of the fastest growing in Florida. Thus, residential buildout is expected to occur much sooner than originally projected — perhaps as early as 2027. Currently, there are some 3,825 single-family parcels platted (84.1 percent), while roads, pathways, landscaping and lakes are approximately 90 percent constructed.
Hawkins, however, said that the legislature already is interfering too much. He said he’d work to get rid of “preemptive laws” passed by the legislature in recent years that he said have taken away home rule powers from counties and municipalities. Hawkins conceded that he has much to learn about the Palm Beach County swath of the district but said that he has been meeting with local officials, community organizations and attending meetings and forums to get up to speed. He said “overdevelopment” and the stress on infrastructure it brings seems to be the top concern of Palm Beach County residents. He also said residents cited environmental concerns over the burning of sugar cane fields from October to May, which meshes with his deep concern for Florida’s environment.
Learn more about Harrell at www.gayleharrell.com. Find out about Hawkins at www.hawkinsforflsenate.com.
Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month in September with the Palm Beach County Library System and the American Library Association. Everyone is invited to discover the incredible resources and opportunities available at the local library by signing up for a library card. This year, Optimus Prime from the Transformers is the special ambassador, highlighting that there is more than meets the eye at the Palm Beach County Library System. Whether looking to enhance skills, find valuable information or connect with fellow avid readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities. As part of the celebration, all Palm Beach County Library System locations are offering a free special promotional item. Members can receive an Optimus Prime sticker decal to customize the look of their library card. These sticker decals are made of a durable material and fit perfectly on the library card. During September, members (both new and current) can visit their local branch to pick up one.
This is a limited-time offer, while supplies last. Join others throughout September for Library Card Sign-Up Month activities.
Today’s libraries are vibrant community centers offering books and beyond. The Palm Beach County Library System offers diverse activities, job search assistance, free online homework help, book clubs, author talks, story times and more. Curious about exploring a new hobby or learning a new language? The Palm Beach County Library System has CreativeBug and Transparent Language. Interested in starting or growing a small business? The library provides access to Gale Business: DemographicsNow, Data Axle and Nexis Uni. Did you know that the Palm Beach County Library System offers STEM kits, birding backpacks and “Book Club in a Bag” kits? There is truly something for everyone at the Palm
County Library System. Getting a library card is an easy and essential step toward academic success and lifelong learning for students of all ages. Don’t miss out! Visit the Palm Beach County Library System in September to sign up for a library card and discover all that the library has to offer. Learn more at www.pbclibrary.org.
Tony Blevins accepts the Best in Show award for his customized 2023 Jeep Gladiator from Rotarian Scott Armand.
Scott Weiss with his restored 1931 Original Ford Model A.
A 1952 Chevy 3100 remodeled and owned by Jim Faucet.
Cars lined up for the show, which was held at Wellington Town Center.
A 1974 GMC Canyonlands motor home, owned by John and Dawn Niedzwiedzki.
A 1932 Ford Deuce Coupe restored and owned by Tony Tammaro.
Donald Neely with his restored 1939 Buick Century.
An Air Force-themed Corvette, owned by Bill Jones.
Brayden Hogg interacting with Project Lift’s virtual welding learning simulator with help of Project Lift member Robert Hogg.
THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON HOSTS ANNUAL 9/11 REMEMBRANCE EVENT
The Village of Wellington held its annual 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The ceremony is usually held at the Wellington Patriot Memorial, which includes one of the largest steel beams salvaged from the World Trade Center site. However, due to inclement weather, the ceremony was moved inside to the Wellington Village Council Chambers. The guest speaker was Roger Gross, retired deputy chief of the U.S. Treasury Police.
BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
PHOTOS
Cub Scouts Pack 125 Julia, Matthew and Anthony gave a card to PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero, shown with Cubmaster Stephanie King and Deputy Casey Lussier.
American Legion Post 390 Color Guard members David Roman, William Bartels, Roberto Carballoso and Commander Laz Sed.
Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue officers at the ceremony.
Heather Durand sings the national anthem.
Mayor Michael Napoleone, Councilwoman Maria Antuña, Vice Mayor John McGovern, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri with a wreath.
PBSO Lt. Robert Humphrey, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri, PBSO Capt. Nichole Addazio, Mayor Michael Napoleone, former Mayor Anne Gerwig, PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero, guest speaker Roger Gross, Vice Mayor John McGovern, Councilwoman Maria Antuña and Royal Palm Beach Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara.
Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz speaks from the podium.
Guest speaker Roger Gross, retired deputy chief of the U.S. Treasury Police.
Arnie Dansky, Stanley Kriegsman, John Tanella, Roger Gross, Frank Rocanello, Freddie Solomon, Madeline Schaeffer and Guy Van Noy of NY 3100 FOP, retired New York law enforcement officers.
PBSO Sgt. Matt DeJoy, Deputy Roy Gonzalez, Deputy Casey Lussier, Capt. Nichole Addazio, Lt. Robert Humphrey, Deputy Madison Lamm and Deputy Brad Shouse.
The Wellington Patriot Memorial features a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.
Debbie Werner and Daniel Cain with Ollie place a tribute to George Cain of Ladder 7 FDNY.
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Ted’s opponent is being investigated by the Florida Ethics Commission and other agencies for alleged extortion and retaliation (August 15, 2024 StetNews.org, “You need to support my Campaign,” Port Commissioner Varisa Dass tells tenant)
If elected, Ted will deliver honesty, transparency, increased port security, and election integrity
Ted is supported by local leaders like Westlake Councilmember Gary Werner and Hispanic and Christian Community Leader Lydia Maldonado
If elected, Ted, who lives near you, will be the only local Port Commissioner representing the Wellington and Acreage areas—all the rest live on the coast an hour’s drive east
If elected, Ted will provide much needed political balance as he would be the only Republican on the Commission, which is monopolized and controlled by Democrats and has been for decades
“I
respectfully ask for your vote and encourage you to vote by mail now”
—Ted
KCF GOLD RIBBON PARTY HONORS CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
On Saturday, Sept. 14, the Kids Cancer Foundation held a Gold Ribbon Party celebration for all children battling cancer and their families at the Wellington Community Center in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Members of the organization were excited to see many children having fun and enjoying themselves. There were tables with a variety of activities, such as glitter tattoos, Lego bricks and crafts. Food and drinks were available, and a DJ provided musical entertainment. Special guest author Loverly Sheridan made an appearance. Her new book, The Girl with the Beret, spreads a message of awareness not only of childhood cancer but also bullying.
The Wellington Historical Society invites the community to join in an evening of polo lore at the National Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame on Wednesday, Oct. 16 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Champagne and Chukkers features guest speakers George Dupont and Brenda Lynn, curators of the National Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame. With more than 60 years of combined experience at the museum, Dupont and Lynn are true ambassadors of the sport and are dedicated to preserving the rich history and tradition of polo. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the museum, sharing the sport’s history with visitors from around the world. “We spend every day
preserving yesterday for tomorrow,” Dupont explained. Guests will enjoy a selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres, bubbly, wine and beer while learning about the “sport of kings” that put Wellington on the worldwide equestrian landscape. All proceeds support the Wellington Historical Society’s mission of preserving Wellington’s past for future generations.
George Dupont has been an integral part of the Museum of Polo since its inception in 1989. As the museum’s vice president and chief operating officer, Dupont has been instrumental in the development and ongoing success of this landmark institution. From its early days at the Kentucky Horse Park to its current home on Lake
Worth Road, his leadership has ensured that the museum remains a monument to the sport of polo. His deep knowledge and passion for polo are evident in every exhibit, from major trophies to the stories of great polo ponies.
Brenda Lynn has been a part of the Wellington community since 1978, raising Arabian horses and contributing to the area’s growth. She joined the Museum of Polo as a volunteer and quickly became a full-time staff member, serving as vice president of operations. Her creativity and commitment have helped shape the museum into the vibrant cultural hub it is today. Her efforts in raising awareness and engaging the community have made the museum a beloved institution.
Champagne and Chukkers is presented by Seacoast Bank. The National Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame is located at 9011 Lake Worth Road. Humana also is a sponsor. Tickets are $50 for members and $60 for non-members and include all food and beverages. Purchase tickets and learn more about the Wellington Historical Society at www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety. org.
The Wellington Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to gathering, preserving and sharing the history of Wellington. All proceeds from the event will support the society’s efforts in maintaining and promoting the community’s rich heritage.
County To Host National Recovery Month Conference In Wellington
Join in Palm Beach County’s annual National Recovery Month Conference, held this year in Wellington on Wednesday, Sept. 25. The theme for the sixth annual conference is “A Journey of Resilience, Recovery and Renewal.” Join the county in celebrating September as National Recovery Month, receive updates on the county’s substance use disorder and mental health initiatives, learn ways to achieve health and wellness, and join in a community feedback session and other fun activities. It is hosted in partnership with Palm Beach County Community Services, the Recovery Community Hub of Palm Beach County, BeWell of Palm Beach County and Commonly Well. This year’s conference features
Dr. Julie Radlauer-Doerfler as the keynote speaker. She is a leading expert in the social influences of mental health and uses her experience to create an impact within communities, systems, organizations and individuals. The first 100 attendees to check in at the conference will receive her newly released book, 100 Ways to Create Happiness in Your Life Residents and leaders from governments, nonprofits, foundations and businesses are all invited to attend this free event. Check-in and networking start at 9 a.m., with the event running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Register at https://lp.constantcontactpages. com/ev/reg/g2phkf3.
PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON/TOWN-CRIER
Lisa Armstrong, Megan Smith, Sandy Erb and Marla Pipkins.
Volunteers hand out Childhood Cancer Awareness Month socks.
Score at the Top Academy volunteers Ilene Kent, Gina Proscia, Gianna Marcellino, Yasmine Calder, Noah Soto, Christian Poe and Aidan St. Ama.
The Bricks Busting Boredom table had plenty of Lego bricks for kids to use.
Attendees enjoy the Gold Ribbon Party.
KCF Community Outreach Coordinator Sandy Erb. Loverly Sheridan is the author of The Girl with the Beret
Fred Pinto Community
Mourns
continued from page 1 so many people over the years, and he will be sorely missed.”
“I am deeply saddened for the sudden loss of Mayor Fred Pinto,” Councilwoman Selena Samios added. “He was a leader who not only served his community but also his country. He helped shape Royal Palm Beach into what it is today. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this unexpected time.”
Ruck March Planned
For Nov. 11
continued from page 1 factor in how much weight will be carried in a rucker’s pack, anywhere from 8 to 15 pounds. There are 10 categories for four-person mixed teams — five for each distance — that can be made up of friends, business associates or even family members. Trophies will be awarded.
The cost is $28 per person, which is “ridiculously low” compared to other ruck races around Times
Conforming To New Law
continued from page 1 tions for bus schedules, parents’ before-care and after-care arrangements, rush-hour traffic, athletic and after-school activities, as well as older students’ part-time jobs and training.
“It seems each of these options is insufficient,” Wellington Vice Mayor John McGovern said. Other ideas thrown out by at-
Prosecutor Candidates For State Attorney
continued from page 4 given his independent affiliation, his views may hold little weight with some. However, he firmly believes that allowing political biases — whether subtle or overt — to influence the scales of justice would inflict irreparable harm on
Councilwoman Jan Rodusky said that Pinto was a staunch protector and defender of Royal Palm Beach. “He wanted the best for our residents and businesses,” Rodusky said. “As mayor, he led with a thoughtful and open mind, welcoming different viewpoints before carefully casting his votes for what he believed were the fair and principled decisions for the village and the community. It has been a privilege to work alongside him. His contributions were many and he has left an indelible legacy.”
Pinto’s passing was felt well beyond the Royal Palm Beach
the country, Kinoshita said. Team signup is $500.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will provide security and traffic control.
Members of the Wellington High School Interact Club will be on hand to help as needed. Interact clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to “develop leadership skills while discovering the power of Service Above Self,” according to the Rotary web site.
While the Wellington Rotary Club is providing money and manpower to get the event off the starting line, experienced village staff members have been supply-
tendees included extending the school calendar to shorten the average day or eliminating some class periods for electives not necessary for graduation.
The Wellington meeting was the first of six community-input sessions planned around the county through October. The second was held at Palm Beach Gardens High School on Thursday, Sept. 19.
Upcoming sessions are scheduled for Monday, Sept. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Glades Central High School in Belle Glade; Monday, Sept. 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Atlantic
the legal system and erode public trust in its legitimacy. “Partisan considerations should never impact or impede the vital work of prosecutors at our State Attorney’s Office,” Farkas said, adding that he is determined to fight relentlessly to safeguard the impartiality and integrity of the justice system.
His key areas for improving the State Attorney’s Office focus on securing appropriate funding to ensure prosecutors earn a living wage, fostering a workplace
community. He served on several regional boards and committees, where he interacted with leaders across the political spectrum.
“Mayor Pinto’s life personified public service,” said State Rep. Jervonte Edmonds (D-District 88), whose district includes parts of Royal Palm Beach. “He championed the needs of the local community and was a tireless advocate for his constituents. He served the people of Royal Palm Beach for more than 20 years. Mayor Pinto also held leadership roles in various community organizations, including as chairman of the Palm Beach Transportation Planning
ing input on how to coordinate such a large event.
“It took their involvement to work out the logistics. Having their expertise has truly helped,” Strich said.
He added that the club hopes to break even on the project. Any profits after expenses will go toward the club’s veterans’ outreach and youth programs.
“Our goal is to make this an annual event,” Strich said. “And to highlight Wellington as a destination.”
To sign up for the race, visit www.runsignup.com, click “Find a Race” and search for Wellington.
High School in Delray Beach; Monday, Oct. 7 at 5:30 p.m. at Park Vista High School in suburban Lake Worth; and Thursday, Oct. 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Forest Hill High School in West Palm Beach. If the law remains in effect, the Palm Beach County School Board would need to choose a schedule in 2025 to be implemented in August 2026.
To complete the school-district survey on school start preferences, visit http://l.sdpbc.net/dnwqy.
To learn more, visit www.palmbeachschools.org/newstarttimes.
culture where leaders are more engaged, building strong professional and interpersonal relationships, offering support to colleagues and distributing caseloads more evenly to reduce stress on individual attorneys. Farkas also plans to provide division chiefs with the opportunity to observe areas in need of improvement and identify younger attorneys who could benefit from mentorship or the support of a co-counsel.
Learn more about Farkas at www.adamfarkasforthe15th.com.
Agency… We celebrate his life and mourn his loss. Mayor Pinto will forever be remembered for his selfless leadership and unwavering commitment to his community. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Edmonds also noted that Pinto was a seasoned business leader and lauded him for his service in the United States Army, where he retired as a lieutenant colonel.
Pinto was born and raised in Harlem, New York. He graduated from Fordham University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration while studying finance and accounting. He also studied at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
Before moving to Florida, Pinto served as a technology executive for several Wall Street investment banking firms, including Salomon Brothers, JP Morgan and Lehman Brothers, and a software development firm, Memco Inc. In Florida, he worked as a technology and business consultant.
Aside from his village service, Pinto served as chair of the Palm Beach Transportation Planning Agency and on the board of the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. In other community service activities, he was past president of the Palm Beach
Court Seat Casanova Versus Middleton
continued from page 4 of the courts in Florida and the federal level.
“I have tried cases before administrative law judges and arbitrators in the various areas of the law,”
Middleton said. “Recently, the 4th District Court of Appeal upheld the jury instructions I proposed in an employment retaliation case where there were no pattern jury instructions, making law on this issue. Knowing how to apply the appropriate jury instructions is integral to the qualifications of a judge.”
Middleton added that she has been short-listed four times and recommended to the governor for appointment to both the circuit court and county court bench.
“My management skills, supervising a staff of attorneys and paraprofessionals as an assistant general counsel for the Palm
County Caucus of Black Elected Officials, past president of the Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and a former member of the Palm Beach County Fair Housing/Equal Employment Opportunity Board. He also served as treasurer of the Palm Beach County Board of Directors for the American Cancer Society and served as legislative advocacy chair for the ACS Royal Palm Beach Relay for Life. Pinto is survived by his wife Donielle, along with four adult sons and six grandchildren, as
Beach County School District, and other leadership roles in the community, will serve me well in efficiently managing a court docket,” she noted.
Middleton said that voters should look for someone with well-rounded trial and legal experience, integrity, ethics, empathy and a well-balanced temperament, with a commitment to fairness, community service and public engagement — qualities that she believes she has.
The ideal county court judge should have the ability to make rulings and issue judgments that fairly and impartially apply the facts of each case to the established law, she said, while additionally making sure that all individuals have access to the court system, regardless of their economic status, background or personal circumstances. In the courtroom, Middleton said that she would maintain respect, professionalism and treat all litigants with dignity.
Being a county court judge would be “utilizing my 38 years of legal knowledge and experience
to provide a service to the Palm Beach County community where I can have a tangible impact on the lives of my neighbors and contribute to the community’s well-being,” she explained. Middleton said that her qualifications make her the best candidate in the race.
“I am the most qualified candidate with 38 years of diverse trial, legal and life experiences,” she said. “I have a strong track record of impartiality, having served as a volunteer Youth Court judge for more than 24 years and having served as a supreme court certified circuit civil mediator since 2009, and integrity, as chair of the Florida Bar Professionalism Committee and vice chair of the 15th Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee, which helps ensure that the legal process is fair for everyone. A vote for me will help shape the quality and nature of justice in our community in a manner that is fair and equitable for all who appear before me.” Visit www.jeanmarieforjudge. com to learn more about Middleton’s campaign.
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Wellington, FL 33414
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PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Anjana Anil dances on stage.
Arun Anil plays the saxophone.
Keerdhana Biman and Jace Brown sing.
Janaki Raj and Bhavani Raj dance.
Viji Savio, Evelyn Noel, Tiji Thomas, Tina Joseph and Ann Joseph.
Women perform a ceremonial dance on stage.
Rachel Sebastian sings. Deepak Vasudeven sings.
Matthew Thomas recognizes Suncoast High School student Joel Vincent for becoming an officer of the Future Business Leaders of America.
Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara lights the lamp as Matthew Thomas of the Kerala Association looks on.
The King is welcomed by drums and women with flowers.
The Joseph sisters sing the U.S. national anthem.
Prakash Mathew with the umbrella, Abraham Kalathil as King Mahabali and Saji Johnson.
RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara with cultural program MC Joel Vincent.
Anil, Rosy, Lona and baby Pearl Dsouza.
The Indian national anthem is performed on stage.
Father Santhosh Thomas of St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church South Florida, Father Joshi Elambasseril of Our Lady of Health Catholic Church Coral Springs and Mathew Thomas of the Kerala Association of Palm Beach light the lamp.
Ashlyn and Alvin Thomas with Harsh, Mahesh and Pallavi Gharge.
SANDRA THOMPSON GUEST SPEAKER AS ART SOCIETY OPENS NEW SEASON
Audrey Valentine, Michelle Haines and Donna Nicholson.
Michelle Schaffner, Lisa Zarza, Jill Bernard, Dr. Jolene Reiter and Dr. Thuymi Nguyen.
Lou Ann LaBohn, Heather Bergstrom, Tammy Wolfson, Charles Moses, Elaine Weber and Leslie Pfeiffer.
The Wellington Art Society held its first
The guest speaker was famed Palm Beach artist Sandra Thompson.
Guest speaker Sandra Thompson receives flowers from Xitong Yang.
Marcella Montesinos and Lizz Smith.
Jenifer Wilbers, Sharon Gregory and Cynthia George.
Mair Armand, Teresa Harrington and Lynda Chicano.
Lou Ann La Bohn with “Kingfisher.”
Maureen Gross, Maggie Zeller and Allyson Samiljan.
Donna Kuebler sold the winning 50/50 ticket to Paula Castro. Herta Suess, Joan Imperatore and Lizz Smith.
Melissa Lawler, Christine Vocaturo and Sue Welch.
Denise O’Sullivan, Anne Gerwig and Faye Ford.
Marcia Greene of Mimi G Glass Art with “Fritillaria.”
WELLINGTON’S
Michelle Hayward, Frank Cochrane and Sandra White enjoy the evening.
Adelyn and Ken Young enjoy some food truck treats.
Food trucks line the street for opening day.
Vice Mayor John McGovern, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and Councilwoman Maria Antuña excite the crowd with t-shirt cannons.
Danielle Kemp and Gary Atwell enjoy Bavarian beer and music.
Robert Vasvary of Tennessee Bob’s Hot Sauce Company.
Renee Ferrin and Jessica Quastler of the American German Club of the Palm Beaches, which will celebrate its 50th Oktoberfest event next month.
Bavarian Bob plays German music at the pop-up beer garden.
Bengala Ngobene with his Chakalaka hot sauces.
Bruce Tumin keeps cool with a misting fan. Liat, Mike and Noah Bruck enjoy their food truck treats.
A sign welcomes residents to the new location of Wellington’s Lakeside Market.
Almost ABBA performs on the Wellington Amphitheater stage.
TKA Football Remains Unbeaten, Broncos And Wildcats At 3-1
By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report
As the fifth week of the high school football season gets underway, three of the six varsity teams in the western communities have winning records. The King’s Academy is undefeated at 4-0, while Palm Beach Central and Royal Palm Beach high schools are both 3-1.
The King’s Academy Lions, under the direction of head coach Dan Burack, are getting better every week. Their most recent win was the strongest performance of the year. It was a 42-0 shutout of Somerset Prep on Thursday, Sept. 12. In that game, TKA senior Javian Jones was brilliant on offense and defense. On offense, the senior wide receiver caught a touchdown pass and had 100 yards receiving. On defense, Jones had six tackles, three pass breakups, two tackles for a loss and an interception.
After four games, two of TKA’s victories have been shutouts. As a team, the Lions have scored 118 points while only allowing 36 points. So far this season, quarterback Joe Dailey has thrown for
13 touchdowns and has rushed for four TDs.
The Lions have a bye week on Sept. 20 and will pursue their fifth win of the season on Friday, Sept. 27 when they travel to Inlet Grove High School.
To remain unbeaten, Burack said the emphasis in practice will be on improving the basic building blocks to success. “We have a few items for team building,” he said. “Football-wise, we will focus on fundamentals and agility drills.”
Palm Beach Central — The Broncos are riding a two-game winning streak and have a bye on Friday, Sept. 20. They will return to action on Friday, Sept. 27, when they host the undefeated Warriors from Jupiter High School, who are 4-0 and also enjoying a bye on Sept. 20.
The Broncos and Warriors share one common opponent — Boca’s Spanish River High School. On Sept. 6, Palm Beach Central defeated Spanish River, 40-21. And on Sept. 13, Jupiter outscored Spanish River, 28-13. The upcoming game should be very competitive, as both teams are ranked near
one another in the current Florida High School Athletic Association Class 7A rankings. Palm Beach Central is ranked 19th, while Jupiter is ranked 23rd. Palm Beach Central’s most recent win was a 23-8 victory against Santaluces High School on Friday, Sept. 13.
Royal Palm Beach — The Wildcats were 3-0 following a strong 40-11 victory on the road against the Suncoast Chargers on Friday, Sept. 6. The key to that victory was a strong second-half defensive effort, as Royal Palm Beach’s defense gave up no points at all.
The highlight of Royal Palm Beach’s second half was a defensive score. It was an 85-yard pick six by defensive back Demetrius Gibson. Key performers in that game were quarterback Max Griner, who completed 12 of 15 passes for 231 yards and three touchdowns. Treven Tipton was Royal Palm Beach’s leading rusher with five rushes for 44 yards and a touchdown.
The following week, on Thursday, Sept. 12, the Wildcats hosted William T. Dwyer High School. It was a key FHSAA Class 6A, District 12 game. Even though Dwyer entered the game winless (0-3), it was expected to be competitive. It was just that, and Dwyer prevailed 21-6. Royal Palm Beach wide receiver Demetrice Rolle scored the Wildcats’ lone touchdown on a fourth-quarter pass from Griner.
According to RPBHS head football coach Chuck Kenyon, his team had many chances to beat Dwyer but didn’t seize the opportunities.
“We must improve offensive productivity,” Kenyon said. “We were in the red zone four times in the first half against Dwyer and came away with no points. We had a third and-goal from the two-yard line and couldn’t punch it in. We
had too many self-inflicted stops.”
The Wildcats will work on getting a bounce-back victory on Friday, Sept. 20, when they host undefeated Forest Hill High School (3-0).
Other Football Action — After opening the season with a pair of close losses — by three points against Glades Central and four points against Spanish River — the Hawks from Seminole Ridge High School are having difficulties getting on track. On Sept. 6, the Hawks were outscored 28-3 at Pahokee High School. And on Sept. 13, West Boca Raton High School dominated Seminole Ridge, 42-8. Seminole Ridge will be looking for its first win of the season on Friday, Sept. 20, when they host the Chiefs from Santaluces High School. On Friday, Sept. 27, the Hawks host the Palm Beach Gardens Gators.
At Wellington High School, head coach Ross Pryor’s team has had an inconsistent start to the season. After three games, the Wolverines are 1-2. Despite the losing record, Wellington has outscored its opposition, 54-40. The one win was a 31-0 victory against Lake Worth High School in late August.
After a bye week, the Wolverines return to the gridiron on Friday, Sept. 20 when they host Spanish River High School. The following week, Wellington hosts Palm Beach Lakes High School. Pryor is expecting his team to respond with two strong performances in late September by eliminating unnecessary mental errors.
“In games, we must tackle on first contact and execute on offense,” he said. “We only had 29 plays of offense in our last game. We can’t win games like that. We have to execute and do what we know we can do. Penalties have been killing us as of late.”
The Bulldogs from Berean
Wellington’s Morgan Suniga Aims To Get More Young Women Interested In Rugby
By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report
Morgan Suniga, an 18-year-old senior at Wellington High School, realizes that the sport of rugby is her ticket to a college education and worldwide travel. It helps that she enjoys playing rugby, understands the sport and plays very well.
Suniga is currently preparing for the 2025 season, which starts in January. Meanwhile, she’s actively recruiting more high-school-age girls to join her on this athletic journey with the Wellington Wizards Rugby Club.
Five years ago, Suniga was first introduced to rugby with the Wellington Wizards by her sister MacKenzie. While her sister is no longer playing rugby, Suniga
quickly realized that this is the sport for her. It was love at first sight, and she has been playing rugby ever since.
After being taught how to play by the Wizards’ coaches, Suniga has determined that her best position is to play scrum half, which is somewhat similar in responsibility to the quarterback in American football. To play scrum half, you must be smart, quick, alert, clever, strong and vocal. According to her coaches, Suniga checks all those boxes.
In rugby, the scrum half is the heartbeat of the team and the link between the eight players in the “pack” that form the scrum, and the six players in the backline. Those backline players are the equivalent of a tailback or a run-
ning back in American football.
According to Wellington Wizards Rugby Club President Alan Lawson, Suniga has the ideal demeanor to play rugby.
“You find the true character of the individual when you play rugby,” Lawson said. “She’s tough, plays hard, plays smart, and she never stops moving or talking. When in charge, take charge. She does just that.”
In rugby, the scrum half must verbally direct the “pack” of eight teammates that play alongside you. The pack’s job is to secure possession of the ball after a tackle takes place, and then give the ball to their scrum half, that being Suniga. From there, the scrum half can either run with the ball, pass the ball to a nearby teammate or kick the ball down the field. The kick can be high in the air or along the ground.
“She has a split second to make the right decision, and she rarely makes a wrong decision,” said Ron Vargo, one of the Wizards’ longtime coaches.
What’s even more remarkable is that in the last 12 months, all of Suniga’s games with the Wizards have been with and against boys her own age, since there are not enough girls to form an all-girls rugby team with the Wizards, yet. Suniga and the leadership of the Wizards are trying to change that.
Being the only girl on an allboys team has not been an issue
for Suniga or her male teammates.
“I have earned the respect of the boys, and they have my back on the field during games,” said Suniga, who has a 3.8 unweighted GPA and a 4.6 weighted GPA at WHS.
In her five years playing rugby, Suniga has been chosen to travel overseas with two different allgirls all-star U.S. rugby squads.
“In June 2022, I traveled to Ireland with the Celtic Barbarians,” Suniga recalled. “In June 2023, I traveled to Germany and Austria with the Texas U18 Outlaws.”
Despite being so passionate about rugby, Suniga believes in cross-training to remain physically fit and mentally tough.
“I wrestle and run track at Wellington High School in order to be a better rugby player,” Suniga said. It’s no coincidence that she’s good at wrestling, and she’s also a fast runner.
As a sophomore, while wrestling at the 120-pound weight class, she won the Florida High School Athletic Association’s district title. She didn’t wrestle during her junior year, but she plans to wrestle at the 130-pound weight class this coming winter. This past summer, she was able to get a head start on her senior year of wrestling.
“In June, I went to the AAU Scholastic Duals, where I became an All-American and placed third,” Suniga said.
a
As for her plans after high school, Suniga will be attending college and playing rugby — it’s just a matter of where. Suniga just returned from a fourday trip to Annapolis, Maryland, where she toured the U.S. Naval Academy and visited with the head coach of the women’s rugby team, Murph McCarthy.
She enjoyed her visit to Annapolis.
“I thought it was really pretty, the girls I stayed with were nice, and the town is very cute,” Suniga said. “The classes were surprisingly small.”
In addition to the Naval Academy, she has looked at Dartmouth, Brown and Queens University of Charlotte. From Sept. 27-29, she will visit Newberry College in South Carolina.
Suniga is quick to dispel popular
misconceptions about rugby.
“It’s not a dangerous sport, and girls are meant to play rugby,” Suniga said. “After all, did you see the bronze-medal-winning performance by the U.S. Women’s National Sevens rugby team at the Paris Olympics?”
Don’t be surprised if Suniga is a member of that squad at the next Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. When asked to compare rugby to American football, she doesn’t hesitate to answer that question. “Rugby is the better sport,” Suniga said.
The Wellington Wizards practice on Monday and Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Greenview Shores Park behind Wellington High School. Three more Sunday morning introductory clinics are scheduled from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 6, Oct. 27 and Nov. 3. To learn more, visit www.wizardsrugby.com or e-mail registration@wizardsrugby.com.
Morgan Suniga during her visit to the U.S. Naval Academy.
Christian School are 1-4 on the season. The one bright spot was a 14-7 victory against Central Florida Christian Academy on Friday, Sept. 6. The Bulldogs were on the
road on Thursday, Sept. 19 against Marco Island Academy. The result was not available at press time. On Friday, Sept. 27, Berean will host Miami Country Day School.
Morgan Suniga runs past the opposition. In track, she runs the 200-meter dash, the 400-meter dash and is
member of the 4 x 400-meter relay team.
Ridge’s
Jackson
RPBHS coach Chuck Kenyon congratulates his team after their win over Suncoast High School.
Kate DeSimone Named Collegiate All-American Softball Player
By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report
Kate DeSimone — a 2020 graduate of Wellington High School and a member of the 2017 WHS softball team that played in that year’s Florida High School Athletic Association Class 7A state championship game — has been named an NCAA Division
II All-American softball player, based on her play during the spring 2024 season.
DeSimone has just started her final year of athletic eligibility at the University of Tampa, which competes in the Sunshine State Conference. DeSimone is expected to be a dominant pitcher for Tampa in the upcoming spring 2025 season, based on how well she performed inside the circle last season.
Following the 2024 season, DeSimone was selected as the Sunshine State Conference Pitcher of the Year. She was also named as the Conference Commissioner’s Award NCAA Division II AllSouth Region Pitcher of the Year, which encompasses seven states; named to the CCA/NCAA Division II First Team for the All-South Region; chosen as a member of All-Sunshine State Conference First Team; and named to the CCA/NCAA Division II Third Team All-American team. Last year, her pitching record was impressive. Her win-loss record was 11-3. Of the 16 games
she started, she had 11 complete games, of which seven were shutouts. She pitched a total of 102 innings, struck out 68 batters and only issued 15 walks. Her earned run average (ERA) was 1.30.
Last spring, the Spartans advanced to the final of the NCAA Division II South Regional, where they fell to fourth-ranked Mississippi College, 3-0. The Spartans finished with a record of 43-11.
Looking forward to next spring, Leslie Kanter, the head women’s softball coach at the University of Tampa, is impressed with DeSimone’s growth since she arrived at the university in the fall of 2020.
“Kate has matured nicely in her years at UT,” Kanter said. “When she is on the mound, you can’t read her expressions and would not know if we were winning or losing, as she does a great job of keeping her emotions intact.”
In addition to her exploits on the softball field, DeSimone has done well academically. She was named to the Sunshine State Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll in each of the past four years. She
graduated in May of this year with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
DeSimone earned a fifth year of athletic eligibility because the 2021 season was marred by the pandemic. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in instructional design and technology.
DeSimone, a resident of Royal Palm Beach, is the ninth player in University of Tampa history to be recognized as a softball AllAmerican.
One of the keys to DeSimone’s success is her excellent command of the curveball, screwball and rise ball.
“Kate throws a curve, rise, screw and inside curve, and her velocity is probably around 62 miles per hour, but keep in mind that she is throwing from 43 feet away, so it comes at the batter very quickly,” Kanter said.
Kanter is also impressed at how passionate DeSimone is about softball and is amazed how powerful she is, despite her small stature.
“The thing that surprises me the most about Kate is that for her
thin stature, she is very strong and loves to eat!” Kanter said. “In the dugout, if she is not eating, she is cheering her teammates on.”
While DeSimone was an excellent high school pitcher, she has improved as a pitcher since she started her collegiate softball career.
“Every aspect of my pitching has improved,” DeSimone said. “My pitching coach made some adjustments to my pitching style early on, and I quickly gained some speed and had some better movement on my pitches.”
Another key to DeSimone’s success has been her ability to successfully make the transition from being a high school athlete to a collegiate athlete.
“College softball is your job,” DeSimone said. “It requires a lot of dedication and hard work. The physical training in college is much more intense.”
While DeSimone’s softball talents extend beyond the pitching circle, her true value to the team is to focus more on pitching than hitting.
“In the 2023 season, I hit and played first base, but last year, my role was strictly as a pitcher,” DeSimone said of the 2024 season.
“Last year, I still hit at practice and warmed up before games in case I needed to hit in the game.” DeSimone and her Spartan teammates will open the 2025 season on Sunday, Feb. 2, when they play Georgia Southwestern at home. The goal is to reach and win the
Experiencing Links Golf At Unique Courses Throughout Scotland
By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report
During my recent 13-day trip to Scotland, I spent half of my time working on Wellington-based R2 Innovative Technologies’ scoring team at the LPGA’s ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open — held at the Dundonald Links in western Scotland — and the other half of my trip playing some of Scotland’s most spectacular and historic seaside links golf courses.
My first two rounds were played at the Western Gailes Golf Club and the Prestwick Golf Club. Both layouts are perched adjacent to the Firth of Clyde, along the west coast of Scotland. If you can imagine an ideal links golf destination, Western Gailes will fit your description. It’s simply brilliant. My favorite tee shot was to the par-three 7th hole, which is called Sea.
As for Prestwick, it’s a true
memory maker, as its historical significance in golf is second-tonone, since it was the site of the first Open Championship on Oct. 17, 1860. Back then, Prestwick only had 12 holes, and now there are 18. When you play Prestwick, you will play one of golf’s most significant and treasured destinations. The last Open Championship at Prestwick was held in 1925. Good luck on your blind tee shot on the par-three 5th hole (Himala-
yas) and your blind approach shot on the par-four 17th hole (Alps). From there, I drove north to Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands. My first destination was the Royal Dornoch Golf Club, which has been in existence since 1877. This club has been on my bucket list for nearly 40 years, and I finally made it! The Royal Dornoch sits on the northeast coast of Scotland, along the Dornoch Firth. I played the two courses at Royal Dornoch — the Championship Course and the Struie Course. The Championship Course is truly one of golf’s all-time treasures and best designs. When you play the course’s back nine, relish the seaside views on your left. You should always play the Championship Course twice. Your first round will be an experience. During your second round, you’ll know how to play it. The Struie Course, which will deliver a fun and relaxing links golf experience, is considered one of Scotland’s top 50 links courses. In 2007, Golf Digest ranked the Championship Course at the Royal Dornoch as No. 3 on its Top 100 International (outside the U.S.) golf courses. Golf writer
Kate DeSimone in action for the University of Tampa.
The Prestwick Golf Club’s 10th hole is called Arran.
Mike May putts at the Western Gailes Golf Club in August.
See GOLF, page 24
A sign welcomes guests to Scotland’s Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
NCAA Division II Women’s College World Series, which will be held May 22-28, 2025, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Kate DeSimone on the mound.
TKA Football Playbook Includes Relying On The Power Of Prayer
By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report
The King’s Academy football program lives by a seven-word belief that has nothing to do with playing or winning football games.
“A team that prays together, stays together,” explained TKA head varsity football coach Dan Burack, now in his second year as the head coach for the Lions.
To help implement that belief, the TKA football team prays as a group before every practice, prays as a group after every practice and prays together after every game with the opposing team.
“It’s great that two teams can play a tough, physical football game and then agree to pray together afterward,” said Burack, who was an all-county and all-state
middle linebacker on Glades Day School’s state championship football team in 2006. “It’s amazing to see more than 100 people — players, coaches and cheerleaders — gather together at the 50-yard line praying together after a very competitive football game.”
But the big event for the TKA football team is when the team gathers in the school cafeteria
Golf Adventures
In Scotland
continued from page 23
David Brice has referred to Royal Dornoch as “the king of Scottish links courses.”
If you want a referral on Royal Dornoch, ask five-time British Open Champion Tom Watson, who is an honorary member at Royal Dornoch. “It’s the most fun I’ve ever had on a golf course,” Watson said. During my three-day, threeround experience at Royal Dornoch, I stayed at the fabulous Dornoch Station Hotel, which caters to visiting golfers. The well-decorated Bar Ross, with its snooker table, is a popular destination at night. The quality of the fare served at the Golden Gorse restaurant and its overall ambiance add to the allure and appeal of
the Dornoch Station Hotel. The practice putting green out front is another appealing amenity. Upon leaving Dornoch, I drove south to Nairn, which is another small seaside community based along the Moray Firth. While in Nairn for three days and two nights, I stayed at the four-star Golf View Hotel & Spa, which is an ideal destination for visiting golfers. Every room has a view of the Moray Firth. The Coast Spa, which includes a heated indoor pool, is truly first-class. The hotel’s overall service is what you deserve. The quality of the food served at the Hickory Restaurant is superb. The hotel does have two resident dogs, Fudge and Finn. You are allowed and encouraged to take them for a walk along the beach. The two top draws around Nairn are the Nairn Golf Club and the Castle Stuart Golf Links. Nairn is a former host of the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup and the
2021 Men’s British Amateur Championship. Many avid golfers say playing golf at Nairn is as exciting as playing the Old Course at St. Andrews. When you play Nairn, make a pit shop for a snack, drink or a bathroom break at the halfway house known as the Bothy, which is adjacent to the 9th green. Bothy is a Scottish word that means shelter.
More than 100 years ago, former five-time British Open champion James Braid recognized Nairn’s positive qualities, which continue to this day. “The texture of the turf and character of the greens are unrivalled,” said Braid, who was the first player to break 70 at Nairn when he shot 69 in 1901.
In my opinion, Castle Stuart is a “Mona Lisa,” as it’s one of the most perfect golf course layouts in the world. It’s also a four-time host of the Scottish Open. The many views of the Moray Firth from the tees, fairways and greens at Castle
every Thursday night prior to a Friday night game for a 90-minute session featuring food, family, fellowship and scripture.
This team-bonding concept was introduced by Burack when he assumed control of the football program two years ago. For this gathering, all 62 varsity and junior varsity football players, all nine football coaches and the coaches’ family members meet for a dinner catered by many of the football team moms.
“We eat well,” Burack said. “We’ve had baked ziti, tacos, and chicken and rice.”
For this time of fellowship, everybody in the room turns off their cell phones, and starts listening and learning.
“Every coach in the room gives a devotional and how they got to know God,” said Burack, who played college football at Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina. “We talk about life and what it means to be a man.”
As a result of developing Christian-based relationships, the players become more than just teammates.
“Our players are not just close teammates,” Burack said. “They grow to love each other, and they develop strong, lifelong friendships. As a result, they will play for one another in football games.”
When Burack hears players quoting scripture and sees upper-
classmen providing guidance to lowerclassman, it confirms that those fellowship gatherings are reaping dividends.
“We use football as a vehicle to teach our players about God’s will,” Burack said. “It’s something special.”
As a result of teaching and reinforcing these values, philosophies and approaches to life, the TKA football players are able to form a powerful bond and, as a result, they play better as a team during football games.
is focused on continuing those winning ways for the balance of the regular season and into the postseason. The King’s Academy will be pursuing its fifth win of the regular season Thursday, Sept. 26 when the Lions travel to Riviera Beach to play Inlet Grove High School.
TKA’s belief system is working off the field and on the field, as the football team is currently undefeated (4-0) after winning its first four regular season games — two of which were shutouts — and
The King’s Academy hosts a postgame prayer for both football teams.
Family members serve the players during a fellowship dinner.
Stuart are spectacular. The wind is the biggest form of defense at Nairn and Castle Stuart.
Western Gailes, Prestwick, Royal Dornoch, Castle Stuart and Nairn — plus the Dornoch Station Hotel and the Golf View Hotel & Spa — await your arrival and my return.
An amazing view of Dornoch Firth alongside the Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
TOP HISTORY AWARD FOR COLIN HOLZEMER
Colin Holzemer, a sixth-grade student at Western Academy Charter School, qualified for the 2024 International Academic Championship competition held in Orlando. He won the United States History National Championship, taking Third Place-Fifth Grade Champion. Holzemer just recently qualified again for the history category, as well as geography, for the 2025 regionals to be held in January.
ST. MICHAEL LUTHERAN CHURCH TAKES PART IN ‘GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS.’ PROGRAM
On Sunday, Sept. 8, about 50 members and friends of St. Michael Lutheran Church in Wellington joined with Lutherans across the globe to take part in a program called “God’s Work. Our Hands.” Church members used their hands and feet to help others. St. Michael assembled 100 hygiene kits and 100 utensil kits for the homeless, and they produced 175 dog toys for a local animal rescue. These dog toys, along with a trunk full of pet food, were donated to Peggy Adams Animal Rescue. The hygiene and utensil kits will be donated to CROS Ministries.
Hannah DeMarco Promoted At The Center For Child Counseling
The Center for Child Counseling (CFCC) recently announced that Wellington resident Hannah DeMarco has been promoted to director of marketing and communications to continue to grow and lead the nonprofit agency’s outreach and communications efforts in advancing its mission to provide hope and trauma-informed care and support to children and families.
DeMarco received her undergraduate degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University and is currently pursuing a master’s of public health degree in social and behavioral sciences from the University of Florida. Prior to her promotion, DeMarco served as CFCC’s marketing and communications coordinator since 2021, where she has already
significantly impacted the agency through her deep passion for its mission and work. Previously, she was the program manager of community engagement for Best Buddies International.
“Hannah’s commitment to promoting mental health and well-being for children and families is evident in her approach, which I believe will only deepen as she completes her master’s program. Her strategic vision and creative leadership will further amplify CFCC’s voice and impact on our community and beyond,” said Renée Layman, chief executive officer at the Center for Child Counseling.
DeMarco is excited about her work for the nonprofit agency.
“With prevention at the forefront of our public health approach
and communications efforts, I’m looking forward to continuing to expand our reach within the community and beyond, providing accessible education on ACEs to prevent trauma before it happens and spreading hope for the future of children and families,” DeMarco said. The Center for Child Counseling has been building the foundation for playful, healthful and hopeful living for children and families in Palm Beach County since 1999. Its services focus on preventing and healing the effects of adverse experiences and toxic stress on children, promoting resiliency and healthy family, school and community relationships. Learn more about the nonprofit at www.centerforchildcounseling. org.
Hannah DeMarco
Carolyn and Kathryn Boswell with Vern Thornton.
Faith Padgett, Mary Ann Mountz, Sarah Mathews and Jana Bolinder.
St. Michael volunteers put together utensil kits.
Kits are boxed for delivery.
Gary and Robin Sallenbach.
PRE-K FAMILIES ENJOY BOOKS DONATED BY CHILDREN’S
The Children’s Services Council recently donated one book per pre-K student at Wellington Elementary School. The books were given to support parent engagement with their children. Shown here are teacher Cathy Eckstein’s VPK students reading with their families. Wellington Elementary School thanks the Children’s Services Council for their support. The children and their families really enjoyed all the books.
Wellington Debater Students Win Awards At Suncoast High School
Wellington Elementary School hosted Curriculum Night on Wednesday, Aug. 28. It was a great opportunity for parents to find out what their child will be learning this year and how they can support them. The sessions were split up with grades K-2 coming earlier, then grades 3-5 later.
Principal Dr. Maria Vaughan and Assistant Principal Donna Dekersky started the night welcoming everyone. There was also school spirit wear to buy and PTO members and staff on hand to answer questions. Shown here are WES fifth-grade teachers, the last to leave for the evening.
chamber, as did Colten Pride. Placing fourth were Aliah Oliva, Caden Sahlberg and Chloe Wijngaarde. Fifth place was earned by Quinn Mawhinney, while Anthony Morgan and Gwendolyn Mace each placed sixth. Three WHS debaters placed seventh in their respective chambers, just missing out on recognition: Jesse Santos, Eileen Gonzalez-Salcedo and Riley Hidalgo-Gato. Overall, 20 first-year debaters earned at least one judge ranking at the tournament.
Among varsity members, Emma Gardner and Patrick McDermott placed first and second in their congressional chamber,
while Jonathan Paul placed third and Richard Tanton took fourth. Five Wellington students earned gavels as their chambers’ presiding officer: Yhazaliyah Avila, Maddox Manriquez, Romessa Patel, Gilberto Quintanilla Chapa and Ava Redfield.
Wellington earned eight new National Speech & Debate Association honor degrees and memberships. Earning the Degree of Distinction (surpassing 250 NSDA honor points) was Maddox Manriquez. Romessa Patel earned her Degree of Excellence (150-plus NSDA honor points).
Two students, Maggie Crum and
VPK student Luca Sarmiento and his sister Michaela enjoy their book.
Jordan-Anthony Scott, surpassed the 75-point plateau and earned the Degree of Honor, meaning they have earned their varsity letter, which they will receive at the spring banquet, and the right to wear honor cords at their graduation ceremony. Four first-year students earned their NSDA Degree of Merit and
Aliah Oliva, Kathryn Polcz and Chloe Wijngaarde.
VPK student Clara Aubin reading with her sister Jeanne and father Charles.
Senior Living Community In Lake Worth Joins The Arbor Company
pany has added another
community to the Arbor family — the Arbor at Lake Worth. Formerly known as Mariposa, the community is located at 9130 Hypoluxo Road.
The Arbor Company has more than 35 years of luxury senior living management experience and has assumed management of the community, which will continue to offer independent living, assisted living and memory care apartments.
“This community already has a great reputation in the Palm Beach County area. Our Arbor team is excited to continue to build upon that strong foundation,” said Judd Harper, president of the Arbor Company. “We look forward to welcoming the residents and staff into the Arbor family and continuing to provide them with the best possible care and support.”
The Arbor at Lake Worth joins eight Florida communities already managed by the company. The Arbor at Delray, a community that opened last year, has quickly built a reputation as a premier senior living community.
The Arbor Company’s approach is to provide residents with a
balance of engagement and support in comfortable and inviting community environments. Certified as a “Great Place to Work,” Arbor also focuses on supporting the professionals who work in the community, including growth opportunities and market-leading pay and benefits, such as tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment assistance. The community’s amenities include Spanish-style architecture, sunny terraces, fountains, outdoor living spaces, a salon, library, theater, pool and auditorium, as well as a gym with the capability to provide on-site therapy and rehabilitation for residents.
In addition to tasty and beautiful chef-prepared meals, residents
will experience an award-winning dining program focused on engagement and creating meaningful moments.
Additional services and amenities, such as regular housekeeping, personal linen, laundry and concierge services will be offered. Scheduled transportation services are also available for off-site activities and appointments.
“We’re excited to get started,” said Judy Rotenberg, executive director of the Arbor at Lake Worth. “Our team is dedicated to creating a vibrant community where seniors can enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle.”
For more info., visit www. arborlakeworth.com or call (561) 898-9801.
Registration Is Now Open For The Citizen’s Criminal Justice Academy
The Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission (CJC) will host its 47th Citizen’s Criminal Justice Academy from Oct. 7 through Dec. 9. The eight-week program runs 10 consecutive Mondays from 6 to 9 p.m., with exceptions for federal holidays. It is free and open to all residents living in Palm Beach County who would like to learn more about law enforcement and the criminal justice system. Local, state and federal law enforcement professionals will provide lectures and demonstrations. The program includes sessions with personnel from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and other local law enforcement agencies. Certificates of completion are provided at the end of the session.
The CJC’s winning formula includes providing topical infor-
mation to the public in a relaxed, down-to-earth setting, where oneon-one engagement is the norm. Sheriff Ric Bradshaw and his staff are also committed to educating citizens and providing them with knowledge to be informed members of the community. The Riviera Beach Police Department and others will also participate. The program will include cybercrime, homeland security and a demonstration of police body cameras, juvenile justice, targeted violence and more. There will be various opportunities to see hightech equipment firsthand. Most of the program consists of lectures with interactive presentations, and there will be plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion. Among the highlights are tours of many specialized criminal justice facilities. The classes are held at the Palm
Beach County Sheriff’s Office at 3228 Gun Club Road in West Palm Beach in the first floor Community Room near the main entrance. Dinner will be served.
For those who have always been curious about law enforcement and the criminal justice system, the academy provides an opportunity to get involved and learn from experts.
The program is sponsored by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners as a free service to all residents. Community service hours are offered, and participation from students over the age of 14 is encouraged.
Registration closes Friday, Oct. 4 at 5 p.m. For more information and registration, visit www.pbc. gov/criminaljustice. Because of space limitations, only 50 people will be able to enroll. Call (561) 355-2332 for more information.
Wellington Regional Medical Center recently announced that it has received certification from DNV as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, reflecting the highest level of competence for treatment of serious stroke events.
“With stroke care, you must have the best clinicians and resources, but also the ability to act organizationally with extreme efficiency because of the time-critical nature of these events,” WRMC CEO Pam Tahan said. “This certification from DNV validates all the effort we have put into this program and to ensuring the health and safety of our patients.”
The DNV Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification is based on standards set forth by the Brain Attack Coalition and the American Stroke Association. It affirms that the medical center addresses the full spectrum of stroke care — diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and education — and establishes clear metrics to evaluate outcomes.
“Achieving certification shows commitment to excellence,” said Kelly Proctor, president of DNV Healthcare USA Inc. “And it helps demonstrate to your community that you are performing at the highest level.”
Retailer BH2.0 Opens At Wellington Green
On Thursday, Aug. 29, the Mall at Wellington Green and the Village of Wellington hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for new retailer, BH2.0. Mall leadership and staff joined Wellington officials and local leaders to officially welcome the new tenants to the community.
Canada-based brand Boathouse, known as BH2.0 in the U.S., recently opened their first four U.S. locations, all in Florida. The location at the Mall at Wellington Green is their most recent and marks the company’s first location on the east coast of the state.
Headquartered in Saint Catharines, Ontario, the fast-growing brand is thrilled to enter the Southeast Florida market. BH2.0 offers lifestyle apparel for women and men, as well as designer streetwear, beachwear, athleisure, footwear and accessories. The store houses dozens of niche and exclusive brands, including Princess Polly, Municipal by Mark Wahlberg, Island Haze and more.
“We are honored that BH2.0 chose Wellington as they expand into the Florida market,” Wellington Vice Mayor John McGovern said. “Unique stores like this one will continue to draw people to the area, and more specifically, our mall.”
Additional attendees from the village included Councilwoman Maria Antuña and Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri.
“We are happy to add such an established brand to complement our robust portfolio of retailers,” said Asad Sadiq, general manager of the mall. “We are confident that BH2.0 will enjoy much success in this market.”
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit www. shopwellingtongreen.com.
Vice Mayor John McGovern looks over the college-themed clothing available at the store.
Mall leadership and Wellington officials join store representatives for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The Arbor Company has taken over the Lake Worth senior living community formerly known as Mariposa.
Wellington Regional Medical Center staff members celebrate the Comprehensive Stroke Center designation from DNV.
Let’s Just Say That The New Clerk At My Store Did Not Work Out
The struggle is real. Finding good help is nearly impossible. Let me clarify: ever since the forced incarceration imposed by the pandemic, people have realized how much fun it is to simply sit home, watch TV and eat Doritos. I, myself, enjoy this. However, I also realize that buying Doritos takes money, and money comes from working. Other people have yet to make this connection and, because of that, I simply cannot find anyone I trust to work in my store. (I loosely define “trust to work” as getting there just before my store opens and staying there until it closes. I also have re-structured my definition of “good help” to be “anyone who can add.”)
The last clerk I hired was almost un-
definably bad. The word “disaster” is too kind. Blame my interviewing skills. Blame my stupid willingness to “give her a chance.” Blame my needing someone who could work on Sundays. Whatever.
After five solid days of training by my manager, the first sale this new clerk rang up was for an item priced at $7.50. It was
rung into the credit card machine as $750. An honest mistake. I fixed it. Perhaps my presence was making her nervous. I wandered off.
The second sale wasn’t rung in at all. The item cost $15; she took the person’s $20 bill; she handed them $5 out of the register. The customer mentioned that there should probably be some tax on it. Then they (again, the customer) walked her through the way our cash register probably worked. I wandered back. The third sale went well because I hovered over her shoulder like a starving vulture.
Day Two was no better. It began with $16.49 being rung into the credit card machine as $160.49. Half the store’s lights hadn’t been turned on, nor the air condi-
tioning on the south side. She did manage to run the vacuum cleaner, sucking up only one or two paperclips along the way. Reconciling the register at the end of the day was impossible. Nothing had been processed correctly.
I told her I’d figure it out. “You just turn off all the lights except the ones over the counter where I’m working,” I said, pointing out the appropriate switches.
Within two minutes, the lights over my head went dark. I took a deep breath, showed her again which switches not to touch, then went back to my work.
It went dark again. It is illegal to ask someone (either politely or by screaming in their face), “Have you had a freakin’ stroke?!” Compassion
and understanding are the order of the day, whether authentic or expertly feigned in order to avoid a lawsuit. We opened at 10 a.m. on Day Three. I took over the sales counter and asked her to put out merchandise instead. “The red-tagged items in the top of the cart go in the discount room, and I will take care of the white-tagged items in the bottom of the cart because they are full price items that go elsewhere,” I said. At 10:45 a.m., the cart came back empty.
New ‘Beetlejuice’ Movie Is A Fun Escape In Tim Burton’s Mind
‘I’ On CULTURE
By Leonard Wechsler
As a fan of Tim Burton, I was excited about Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, a sequel made 36 years after the original. That original movie was mind-blowing and fun, and I hoped this new one would be the same. Did it measure up? Well, almost. The original’s story was simple: nice married couple die in accident and become ghosts in their own house, then a weird, nasty family movies in, and they go to the demon Betelgeuse to get rid of the people — and the fun ensues. That’s it. The new film has a lot more plot, and the demon is in many ways just a supporting player. Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder, yes, the same one who played the part many years ago) is now the host of a talk show about the supernatural. She finds out from Delia, her stepmother, (Catherine O’Hara) that her father has died. The two women, along with Lydia’s boyfriend and producer Rory (Justin Theroux) go back to the old town, picking up Lydia’s estranged daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega) along the way. Astrid is still angry that her parents divorced and her father, it is explained, disappeared in the Amazon. Rory proposes, Lydia accepts, and Astrid runs off, where she meets Jeremy (Arthur Conti), seemingly the boy of her dreams. But he is a ghost who plans to betray her and get back to the living using her as a sacrifice. Notice anything? Much plot, and no titular demon. But Lydia finds out about Astrid’s prob-
lems and calls on (guess who?) Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) to help, agreeing to marry the demon in return. And then things get crazy. We also meet Beetlejuice’s ex-wife Delores (Monica Bellucci), and things get even freakier. And even after a more or less happy ending, there’s a bit more with vampires.
The plot is convoluted yet it works pretty well. Things move fast, perhaps a bit too fast, with all the plot twists. Burton is a really good director and keeps us both interested and amused, but things don’t really get wild until about an hour into the movie — and that’s a long time waiting for a payout. Added to that, a few of the twists were a bit too pat. But these are minor nits. Just having a comedy these days is worth a lot. Having one where you can really laugh raised it even higher. And having at least a trace of originality even more.
The cast is uniformly excellent. It was
nice to see some of the originals back. Keaton, of course, is brilliant in what may be his signature role among many. He is incredibly politically incorrect, a pleasure in these days where it seems every part has to be crafted not to offend. To put it simply, his part is to be offensive! And he does it so well. Ryder is also really good. No longer the whacked out little girl trying to survive weird parents, she is a tigress fighting to save her daughter. O’Hara again is charming and gets to do some real emoting. Theroux plays his part well, and I thought Conti did really well in his pivotal, if relatively small, role. Bellucci was a standout, however. She was a force to be reckoned with, using a great comic touch as a witch who had quite a murderous past with her ex. And, yes, they used the song “Banana Boat (Day-O)” in the movie. How could they not? But there was other music as well. One of my favorites, “MacArthur Park,” was there. And the special effects were, in this case, special. There was not that much really new, since a lot of them had been used in the first movie years ago but, after all, these came from the mind of Burton and were not simply some computer-generated mush that we are accustomed to. That increased the impact. This is not a stunning original like the first one, made more than a generation ago. That had the advantage of being entirely new and startlingly different. Here, Burton creates a complex story and used the demon mainly as a plot twist. But the main story is about the family love between the three generations of Deetz women. I enjoyed it. It is better than other recent films, and it is a comedy. And watching Keaton mug his way through ridiculous situations is still lots of fun. A nice film, an oasis in this desert of this year’s movies.
