Wellington The Magazine October 2010

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contents

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departments 10 12 14 16

Wellington Social Scene Beef Wellington Steakhouse/Social Club Opens In Wellington Smiles By Jiveh Joins Little Smiles For Hospital ‘Junk Food Run’ Wellington Women’s Club Members Enjoy ‘A Woman’s Affair’ Wanderers Club Captures Wellington Cup From Binks Forest

48 Wellington At Home Just off the taxiway in Wellington’s Aero Club sits the home of Dennis and Theresa Kaminski. It’s stately and grand and, although the couple doesn’t hangar a plane, there are plenty of wings inside — that is, if angel wings count. by Deborah Welky

54 Wellington Table For over 20 years, TooJay’s Gourmet Deli has been a staple throughout Florida, serving the best in overstuffed deli sandwiches, freshly baked breads and traditional deli favorites. Located in the Mall at Wellington Green, TooJay’s continues to offer the community a taste of those great, New York-style foods.

By Lauren miró

18 WELLINGTON WATCH 58 Wellington Calendar 61 around wellington ON THE COVER Mixed martial arts champion and cancer survivor Brian Mahecha photographed at American Top Team Wellington, where he trains.

Photo By BILL BARBOSA Photo Designs Inc.

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features 20 New Buildings Celebrate The Faith Spiritual faith is alive and well in the Wellington area, a fact shown by a number of new religious structures planned or recently completed.

This issue, Wellington The Magazine features four such projects — two Catholic churches, a Jewish temple and a community center celebrating the Baha’i faith. By ron bukley

28 Young Champ Battles Back From Cancer Brian Mahecha was tooling through life like any teenager when, at age 17, a tumor was found in his left shoulder. Devastating as this news was, it was made worse by the fact that Mahecha had spent the previous three years honing his martial arts skills to a championship level. Despite warnings that he might never fight again, Mahecha has battled his way back to glory. by Deborah Welky

40 Elegante Polo Features Top Designers When it comes to polo fashion, the newly opened Elegante Polo store offers the finest items from the best designers. The store carries men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, home furnishings, décor and polo equipment made by some of the most prominent labels in the industry. The unique collection was put together by owner and CEO Robert Kiger. By Lauren miró

44 Ben Boynton: Deep Community Roots In tough economic times, money management tops the list of priorities for individuals, families and businesses. A clear-eyed plan is needed to thrive. That’s where Ben Boynton comes in. As owner of the Wellington-based Boynton Financial Group, he has been helping residents of the western communities with their financial planning since 1997. As someone who grew up in Wellington, he has seen firsthand the impact his work has had. For these reasons, Boynton is the 10th nominee for Wellington The Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year award. By matthew auerbach WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • october 2010

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Wellington The Magazine

A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

A Story Of Triumph Over Adversity... volume

When you’re 17 years old, finding a tumor in your shoulder is devastating news, but for Brian Mahecha, it was made worse by the fact that he had spent years honing his martial arts skills. While doctors told him he might never fight again, Mahecha returned to his training just as soon as he could. Studying mixed martial arts with Emyr “Shark” Bussade at American Top Team Wellington, Mahecha has shown that his best fighting days still remain ahead of him. We’re proud to profile Mahecha this month, recounting his story of triumph over adversity.

7, number 10 | october 2010

publisher/executive editor

Joshua I. Manning associate publisher

Dawn Rivera graphic designer

Suzanne Summa circulation coordinator

Betty Buglio bookkeeping

Carol Lieberman account managers

Evie Edwards Wanda Glockson Scott Hyber photography

Bill Barbosa Bea Bolton Gary Kane Susan Lerner Abner Pedraza Gregory Ratner contributors

Matthew Auerbach Jason Budjinski Ron Bukley Denise Fleischman Lauren Miró Carol Porter Deborah Welky Wellington The Magazine

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31 Wellington, FL 33414 Phone: (561) 793-7606 Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.WellingtonTheMagazine.com

Published by Wellington The Magazine, LLC Barry S. Manning chairman/chief executive officer Maureen Budjinski

Religion is alive and well in the Wellington area with a number of local congregations taking part in a religious building boom. These structures stand as testimony of spiritual faith, offering hope for the future. In this issue, Wellington The Magazine features four such congregations participating in this building boom — St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church, the Magdalene Carney Baha’i Institute, Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church and Temple B’nai Jacob.

Our Wellington Entrepreneur of the Year series heads into its home stretch with a profile of money manager Ben Boynton of Boynton Financial Services, a local businessman with deep roots in the community and a penchant for community service.

We also visit the new Elegante Polo store near the Mall at Wellington Green and chat with CEO Robert Kiger about his concept of bringing some of the world’s top names in polo design under one roof, providing one-stop shopping for people who love this distinctive equestrian style. Following up on the equestrian theme, we learn how the Wellington-based Phelps Media Group has been redefining public relations for the social networking era.

Wellington at Home stops by the Aero Club estate of Dennis and Theresa Kaminski. They are a religious couple, and this aspect of their lives shows dramatically in their home’s décor, complete with angelic statues and heavenly art. Wellington Table heads to TooJay’s Gourmet Deli in the Mall at Wellington Green to sample the generous portions of traditional deli favorites found at this well-known South Florida icon.

As we leave the summer doldrums and sail toward the busy winter season, we’re glad you’ve chosen to spend some time with us here at Wellington The Magazine.

Joshua Manning Publisher/Executive Editor

vice president Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2010, all rights reserved by Wellington The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

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fi

Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Lauren Miró

Beef Wellington Steakhouse/Social Club Opens In Wellington Plaza

(Above left) General Manager Al Salopek, Executive Chef Leslie Rossetto and partner Lars Kjellerup beneath the restaurant’s indoor tree. (Above right) Scott McKee, Kevin Ranieri, Mark Eli and David Weeks.

Hostesses Jennifer Lisenbey and Nicholle Bem greet guests.

Rich Fossetti and Pat Evans at the bar.

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Beef Wellington, a new steakhouse and social club, opened Tuesday, Sept. 21 with great food, drinks and a tour of the restaurant. The restaurant offers the best in fine dining, along with a social club, complete with a dance floor and a VIP lounge. Beef Wellington takes the place of the iconic Silver Screen Cinema in the Wellington Plaza. The complete transformation from theater to high-end restaurant began in April. The two theaters were modified. One is now a social club with a large bar, tables and chairs, booths, and a dance floor.

The other side is the steakhouse, which boasts a large tree full of twinkling lights as its centerpiece. Overlooking both is the VIP lounge. The club also features an impressive outside patio area. For more information, call (561) 629-7985.

Bob Comeau, Kevin Ranieri, David Weeks, Dan Piccolo and John Hodgdon sit in the outdoor patio area.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

Smiles By Jiveh Joins Little Smiles For Hospital ‘Junk Food Run’

(Above Left) Dr. Farokh Jiveh, Debra Middleton, Alice Sofianos, Christi Hetzel, Raina Ruelle and Lisa Field shop at BJ’s. (Above Right) Dr. Jiveh visits with Alejandro Valdez and his family.

Little Smiles held a “Junk Food Run” on Friday, Sept. 10 from BJ’s Wholesale Club in Royal Palm Beach to the Palms West Hospital pediatric unit. Little Smiles Executive Director Raina Ruelle used donated money to buy macaroni and cheese, noodles, chips, granola bars, juice boxes and more. Items were handed out to patients, their families and nurses with help from local dentist Dr. Farokh Jiveh and his Smiles by Jiveh staff.

Ashley Rubsky gets shot with silly string to mark the end of her chemo treatments.

Alexander Cote gets some goodies from Christi Hetzel, Debra Middleton and Dr. Jiveh.

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Debra Middleton and Lisa Field with Armando Rodriguez.

Wellington Social Scene

Photos by Denise Fleischman

Wellington Women’s Club Members Enjoy ‘A Woman’s Affair’

Pamela Crocker of Nu Skin gives Teresa Cummings a galvanic spa facial as Debi Macedonio looks on.

Raffle winners Judy Ferguson, Margie Sandell and Jo Cudnik.

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Nordstrom’s Chanel counter manager Jenn Yates applies makeup to Debi Macedonio.

Sanda Gané of Sanda Gané European Day Spa.

The Wellington Women’s Club hosted “A Woman’s Affair” on Thursday, Sept. 16 at the Binks Forest Golf Club. Representatives from several companies were on hand offering massages, facials and other services, and club members and guests enjoyed hors d’oeurves and drinks. For more info., visit www. wellingtonwomensclub.com.

Selena Smith, Faye Ford, Allyson Samiljan and Maureen Gross.

Melany Broehm of Melany’s Crafty Creations shows off her diaper cakes.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Wellington Social Scene

Wanderers Club Captures 2010 Wellington Cup From Binks Forest

The 2010 Wellington Cup players.

Binks Forest owner Terry Strongin with his wife Kathy.

Binks Forest head golf pro Wheeler Stewart and Wanderers Club head golf pro Justin Thompson.

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On a recent Florida summer day, the 2010 Wellington Cup returned to the Wanderers Club for a third year of spirited competition. The Wellington Cup, self proclaimed to determine supremacy in the Wellington golf community, originated in 2008 when both the private Wanderers Club and the semi-private Binks Forest Golf Club opened their doors. The annual event features staff and management of both clubs coming together for friendly competition in the spirit of fellowship and camaraderie. The day’s three matches used a scoring system in which each match was worth three points: one point for the front nine, one point for the back nine and one point for overall match. At the end of the day, the Wanderers team came out ahead. After the match, the players and guests were treated to dinner.

Wanderers Club ambassador Joe Maguire with his wife Ashley and daughter Kathryn.

The Wanderers Club staff: (L-R) John Turchin, Michael Light, Tam Ha, Jim Campitelli and Nick Pearman.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Wellington Watch

BY joshua manning, lauren miró & ron bukley

Runway Paving Proposal Divides Aero Club Community A plan to pave a portion of the runway inside Wellington’s Aero Club neighborhood has residents divided. The Aero Club is a western Wellington community of about 250 homes centered around a 3,900-foot grass runway. In August, the Aero Club Board of Directors sent residents a survey notifying them that the board had directed its Runway & Taxiways Committee to study paving a 55-foot-wide strip of the 105-foot-wide runway. “The runway has always been grass,” Aero Club Homeowners’ Association President Larry Smith said. “But it is very expensive to maintain.” Along with being safer for pilots to land on, Smith said that a paved runway would result in a reduction of dues by about $100 each quarter. But the move has caused an outcry in the community and revived an old dispute: to pave the runway or to keep it grass. An informational workshop in September drew a stand-

18 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

ing-room-only crowd to the community’s Pilot House. Residents on both sides of the issue attended to learn about the plan and voice opinions. John Herring, chairman of the Runway & Taxiways Committee, told residents that the paving plan coincided with a plan for drainage that would help alleviate some of the community’s flooding problems on its taxiways. The board proposed a split plan with a 50-foot-wide grass runway and a 55-foot-wide paved runway with 13-foot drainage swales on each side to hold water rundown. The plan would cost approximately $482,000, Herring said. For many residents, the issue was not about drainage or paving, but rather about not having a voice in the matter.

Several residents noted that past boards have put the paving issue to a vote, and it had been struck down each time. “It’s not about the drainage,” Vickie Brint said. “It’s about what is right in this com-

munity. There are 250 homeowners in here who pay dues and pay taxes, and I should have a vote just like the members on the board.” While Smith noted that such a vote is not required in the bylaws, resident Gary Kozan said that the board should hold a vote according to the rules of special assessments. “This is a de facto special assessment,” he said. The Aero Club board will make a decision on the project at a future meeting.

No Tax Rate Hike In Wellington — Although the Wellington Village Council had previously voted to raise the property tax rate for the 2010-11 fiscal year, council members voted unanimously Sept. 13 to keep the millage rate at 2.5 mills, the same as last year. The council initially proposed a higher rate of 2.63 mills to partially compensate for the decline in the amount of taxes Wellington will collect next year due to falling

property values. Next year’s budget was proposed to be $75.7 million, down nine percent from $82.9 million this year, Director of Financial Management & Budget Mireya McIlveen said. Leaving the tax rate at 2.5 mills required the village to cut an additional $500,000, she said. Rather than specify exact cuts from the budget, the council decided to tap into projected extra money from sales tax revenues, lien search fees and utility service taxes. However, Village Manager Paul Schofield couldn’t guarantee that the extra money would make up for the entire loss, meaning that the council might have to trim programs and projects, or tap into reserves for part of the money once final numbers are in for the 2009-10 fiscal year. While village staff noted that the change would lead the average Wellington homeowners to save just $20, council members decided it was well worth it. “I think that this would be the opportune time to reach out into the dollars that we’re going to

receive,” Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Carmine Priore said.

Wellington Sticks With Cheatham For Tennis — An appeal by prospective tennis center provider A1A Tennis was rejected by the Wellington Village Council in September, meaning current tennis professional Tommy Cheatham and his company Tommy Cheatham Inc. will remain in charge of the Wellington Tennis Center.

The council voted unanimously to reject the appeal and uphold the decision of its selection committee to enter into negotiations with Cheatham. The facility has been operated by Cheatham and his company since its opening in 1999. The village has previously spent about $180,000 a year in personnel, maintenance and utility costs. In May, the council decided to seek bids for the programming and maintenance of the center. When bidding closed July 14, the village had proposals from Cheatham Inc., A1A Tennis LLC and Perry Sinett Inc. Cheatham was

ranked first, but A1A Tennis President Dennis Grainger appealed the decision to the council. “If you’re truly representing the entire tax base of Wellington, how can you not go with a company that doesn’t require that they be subsidized with village tax dollars?” Grainger asked, maintaining that his proposal would cost taxpayers less. The council decided that A1A’s protest was of the selection committee’s decision, not about any wrongdoing. “This hearing is not about running a tennis center,” Mayor Darell Bowen said.

“This hearing is about the process… and I haven’t heard one thing from anybody that’s telling me that the process is really flawed.” At a later meeting, council members voted to approve a roughly $120,000 contract with Cheatham Inc. Under the contract, Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz said Cheatham will take over the majority of the maintenance responsibilities and pay a portion of its gross revenue to the village starting at 4 percent and gradually increasing.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • october 2010

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Celebrating Celebrating

The

Fait

Faith!

Area Congregations Lead A Religious Building Boom Story by Ron Bukley

Photos by Susan Lerner

Spiritual faith is alive and well in the Wellington area, a fact shown by a number of new religious structures planned or recently completed. They stand as testimony of that spiritual faith, offering hope for the future. This issue, Wellington The Magazine features four such projects — two Catholic churches, a Jewish temple and a community center celebrating the Baha’i faith.

St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church on Lake Worth Road in Wellington is celebrating the recent completion of its 16,000-square-foot tabernacle complex. The first mass in the new building was held Mother’s Day weekend, and a formal dedication ceremony led by Bishop Gerald Barbarito is set for Sunday, Oct. 3.

“It’s a fairly simple design, but we were able to make it look unique on a limited budget,” said Father Brian Lehnert of the long-planned church facility. “We used a lot of arches outside and inside the church. Arches convey a sense of softness to the eye.

20 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

The entrance has a lobby where worshippers can immediately see into the church. “There’s a sense of what’s important to us, and when you walk in, there are arches on the side and around to the front so that your eyes follow right to the center, where the sanctuary is,” he said.

Warm colors, religious statues and candles add to the traditional feel.

“When people walk in, they definitely know it’s a Catholic church,” Lehnert said. “It’s very recognizable. All the focus is on the center of the church, the sanctuary where the altar and the crucifix is.”

St. Therese de Lisieux Parish was created in 2000 and currently has about 1,000 families, mostly from Wellington and the surrounding communities.

The cost of the new church building was about $5 million for the structure, site planning and the land, Lehnert said. The diocese owns about 40 acres there, of which 12 acres have been designated for the church complex, which includes the 575-seat tabernacle, meeting rooms and offices. “We also have a kitchen with a pavilion that serves as a fellowship area,” he said.

If there is sufficient growth, St. Therese plans to build a bigger church, and

th!

St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church in Wellington will dedicate its new tabernacle complex this month.

(Below left) Warm colors, Romanesque arches and religious statues give the interior a traditional church feel.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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the existing building will be remodeled into a parish hall.

Lehnert, who has been pastor since 2006, enjoys his work there. “It’s a vibrant community,” he said. “There are a lot of different age groups and a lot of young people.

They are very committed and faithful, so I enjoy it very much.”

While the church has gotten help for the project from a handful of larger donors, most of the $2.5 million raised thus far has come from small donations.

“It’s pretty much grassroots,” Lehnert said.

“The parish community has responded...

Everybody gave, and we were able to do it without a big donor to get started, which shows me the people really wanted it.

However, we do have debt, and we have to work as a parish to pay that down.”

The church will hold its annual carnival the weekend before Thanksgiving, Thurs-

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day through Sunday, Nov. 18-21. It serves as a key annual fundraiser. “We’re trying to make that a bigger deal than we have before, with entertainment,” Lehnert said.

“The big thing we’re trying to do is like a ‘Wellington’s Got Talent’ concept to get more people out.”

For more information, visit www.sttherese delisieux-wellington.myownparish.com or call (561) 784-0689.  Also new in the area is the 10,000-squarefoot Magdalene Carney Baha’i Institute on Summit Blvd. east of Jog Road.

Originally based in Belle Glade, the new, larger facility opened two years ago.

“We used to be located physically out in Belle Glade, but we have worked all over the county,” Board Member Charles Cornwell explained.

The new building serves primarily to conduct classes for various ages to learn about the faith. “We are mainly involved with youth groups to help in their understanding and development to become more service oriented to humanity and really be in charge of their own destiny,” Cornwell said. “We like to call them ‘spiritual empowerment’ groups.”

Youth groups come to study in weekend settings, and in the summer for two-week to one-month sessions. “These programs help kids understand that they are spiritual beings to be of service to humanity and not just their own needs, wants and desires,” Cornwell said.

The building includes a main area with breakout classrooms as well as a residence area for overnight stay. “This building gives us a chance to involve 40 to 45 young people at a time,” he said. “We have adult study as well open to all people. They do not have to be Baha’is.”

The Baha’i religion was founded in the mid 1800s by Baha’u’llah, Arabic for “The Glory of God.” It has an estimated six million adherents. “The pivotal principal of the Baha’i faith is the unity of mankind, and Baha’u’llah brought teachings to this day and age to guide mankind spiritually and materially,” said Cornwell, who describes Baha’i as a renewal of faith rather than a new religion. “Baha’u’llah is the latest of many teachers who have come to help guide humanity in its path toward God.”

The Magdalene Carney Baha’i Institute recently opened on Summit Blvd. east of Jog Road. (Inset) The new building serves primarily to conduct classes teaching the Baha’i faith.

The previous building in Belle Glade was only about 1,000 square feet. “It was a wonderful venue, a wonderful building, but it just didn’t have the size that we needed,” Cornwell said.

The current building has a main meeting area, living space and an administrative center on a five-acre campus. The total cost of the facility was about $1.8 million and money is still being raised to pay off the cost.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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“One of the key principals of Baha’i service is that only Baha’is can contribute to the Baha’i fund,” Cornwell said. “Essentially, Baha’is built this as a donation to the community, and the community is welcome to come serve, worship with us or send their kids here for learning and development.”

Baha’i members typically worship in their homes, so the center was not built for worship per se, Cornwell explained. “This particular building is really a learning center,” he said. “We worship in our homes, and occasionally the community will have a meeting here, but this building is set aside for small group learning and education.”

For more info., visit www.mcbiinstitute. org.  Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church on Crestwood Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach just recently opened a 24,000-square-foot church building 20 years in the making.

The church collected $4.2 million in mostly small pledges. “We had to do a lot of fundraising,” Father Andrew Rudnicki said. “We are still working to pay it off.

This is good because it brings people together.”

The church has about 2,600 families in the congregation representing a good cross The baptismal font at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles features a Latin American flair.

section of the community, Rudnicki said, noting that the design of the long-planned church structure reflects input gathered from meetings with parishioners. “The people, mostly middle class, motivated it,” he said. “I am very proud of it. I wanted to make a spiritual home. We have been waiting for this church over 20 years.”

The altar of Florida coral was selected as a reflection of the area. The statues of saints were based on a polling of parishioners.

The choir loft design was based on input from choir members and musicians to achieve the best possible acoustics. Other aspects reflect the wide variety of nationalities that make up the parish. The architect was Nicaraguan, the immersive baptismal font and the outside fountain were designed by Latin Americans. “I have a lot of parishioners from Latin America,” Rudnicki said. “I have 56 nationalities. I am Polish, but to be open to everyone is my goal.”

And if you stop by for a service, you might be surprised. “We don’t use books,” he said. “Everything is on the walls on plasma TVs so everyone can follow.”

The church had met previously in what is now a parish hall and pavilion that have been completely remodeled, re-opening last month. The church celebrates Mass every day at 8 a.m.; Wednesday at 6 p.m.; Saturday vigils at 4:30 p.m. and in Spanish at 6 p.m.; and Sunday Mass at 8, 9:35 and 11:30, a.m. and 2 p.m. in Tagalog. For more information, visit www.olqa.cc.  And the religious building boom is set to continue, thanks to plans from Temple B’nai Jacob. The Conservative Jewish congregation recently purchased 2.8 acres of land on Lake Worth Road from the Village of Wellington at a cost of $827,000.

The congregation, which has offices and a temporary temple in the original Wellington Mall, was created last year by the merg-

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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er of Temple B’nai Jacob of Palm Springs and Temple B’nai Avraham of Wellington.

The congregation has conceptual designs for the temple, but it might be a while before construction gets underway, said Jerry Bank, acting president of the congregation.

“Right now we’re trying to build up our membership,” Bank said. “This is a congregation that was started about three or four years ago to become the first and only Conservative Jewish congregation in Wellington. It started small, and we’re trying to grow.”

The temple needs more members to make the building process economically feasible.

“We’re trying to grow as fast as we can, but it takes a little time to do that,” Bank said.

“Now, economically is not the greatest time for people to join.”

(Above) Our Lady Queen of the Apostles’ 24,000-square-foot church building was completed last year. (Below) Temple B’nai Jacob’s Jerry Bank, Allan Ziker and Andrea Cohan on the site of the congregation’s future home.

There was enough money on hand to buy the land, leaving some additional money in the building fund. Several architectural firms have been interviewed for the job.

“We hope to start construction as soon as possible,” Bank said. “Hopefully within the next two or three years, we’ll be in a position to do so.”

The building will be done in phases, with the first being a combination sanctuary and recreation hall, with several classrooms for various ages. “We have 47 children in our religious school this year, which is good, so we’re growing from that aspect,” Bank said. “You really need a mix of young, middle aged and older members.”

Temple B’nai Jacob can accommodate 120 people currently at its services, which are held every Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 9 a.m. and holidays. On the fourth Friday of each month there is a family service at 7 p.m. On the second Friday of the month is a “Tot Shabbat” program from 6 to 7 p.m.

Services are conducted by Rabbi David Abrams. For more information, visit www. templebnaijacob.com.

26 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

Shelley Sandler Realtor/Associate

(561) 371-1075

shelleysells4u@bellsouth.net

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Brian Mahecha didn’t let a tumor in his left shoulder derail his dreams of martial arts glory.

28October October2010 2010• WELLINGTON • WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 28

Martial Arts Champion Brian Mahecha Fights Back After A Devastating Diagnosis Story by Deborah Welky Photos by Bill Barbosa/Photo Designs Inc.

Brian Mahecha was tooling through life like any teenager when, at age 17, a tumor was found in his left shoulder. Devastating as this news was, it was made worse by the fact that Mahecha had spent the previous three years honing his martial arts skills to a championship level.

“When I first began having shoulder problems, I took rehab into my own hands, trying different therapies and exercises,” recalled Mahecha, now 21. “But things were getting progressively worse. I bounced around from doctor to doctor for nine months, even getting MRIs done, but no one knew what was wrong. A lot of blame was placed on the rigors of training.”

Then, on May 1, 2006, Mahecha went to the University of Miami where he met Dr. H. Thomas Temple, an orthopaedic oncologist.

Temple looked deeper into the problem and found a malignant tumor in one of the four rotator cuffs in Mahecha’s left shoulder — and the tumor was spreading.

Doctors told him he may never fight again.

“Brian had a major portion of the supporting structures of his shoulder removed in treating the cancerous tumor,” Temple explained.

“In addition, he underwent radiotherapy that further compromised normal function.”

Nonetheless, Mahecha was back into training just four months after surgery.

“Realistically, they told me, ‘I wouldn’t do that if I was you,’ but I was optimistic,” he said.

“During the whole time I was recovering, my brother Kevin just kept training, and it motivated me, watching him grow and improve.”

Still, no one expected much.

Days later, Mahecha went in for surgery, where the ailing rotator cuff and part of his scapula were removed. He endured direct radiation therapy, which left him with bad scarring on his shoulder. “The skin had kind of melted off,” Mahecha said. “It was really painful.”

“My parents were really supportive but, in the back of their minds, they weren’t sure I’d get back to my 100 percent,” Mahecha said.

“They didn’t want to say anything, but it was a realistic thought. But my brother kept saying, ‘Of course you can.’”

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Mahecha began training at American Top Team Wellington, a mixed martial arts facility in the Pointe at Wellington Green run by Emyr “Shark” Bussade.

“I met Brian right after his doctor allowed him to start training again,” Bussade recalled. “On Monday, the doctor said he can train, and Brian was here on Tuesday.

He is a really hard worker and an excellent teammate.”

A year after his diagnosis, Mahecha was competing again, winning several small tournaments — and then, he got a big break.

Through his illness, Brian Mahecha was motivated by his brother Kevin, shown here with other friends. (L-R) Layton Minaya, Brian Mahecha, Kevin Mahecha and Andrew Restrepo.

30 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

“I had a chance to compete as a member of the U.S. National Grappling Team, a sport we’re trying to get into the Olympics,” Mahecha said. “I was added to the team one day before the weigh-ins. Unfortunately, I had just gotten back from Disney World the week before, eating all that food, and now I had a day and a half to lose 15 pounds.”

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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With sheer determination, Mahecha qualified for the team, placing third in the no-gi division.

It was only the beginning.

“That competition had been in late December, and I guess they remembered me, because I was invited to participate in the 2010 FILA Grappling World Championships in Krakow, Poland,” Mahecha said. “That competition was a bit more exclusive with only one fighter per weight class per country. They put me up against Poland’s ‘hometown favorite,’ and I won.”

Earlier this year, Mahecha came in first in gi jiu jitsu at the Florida State Championships. “It’s kind of confusing,” he explained. “Grappling is the name given to A year after his cancer diagnosis, Brian Macheca was back in training.

32 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

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Andrew Restrepo, Brian Mahecha, Coach Emyr “Shark” Bussade, Kevin Mahecha and Layton Minaya in uniform at American Top Team Wellington, a mixed martial arts studio located in the Pointe at Wellington Green.

sport wrestling — judo, jiu jitsu, and so on. Then there’s Brazilian jiu jitsu, which has its own rule set.”

Brazilian jiu jitsu is Mahecha’s favorite. It is also one of Bussade’s specialties.

“I started training with Shark in 2007,” Mahecha said. “I started focusing on Brazilian jiu jitsu, and I fell in love with it…

I’ve had great coaches and role models before, but Shark is my mentor, my main coach.”

34 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

And Bussade is also a fan of Mahecha.

“After what happened to him, a lot of people would just quit,” the coach said.

“Instead, he has gone from a white belt [up three] to a purple belt. For an average person, that takes about five years. He did it in three. Soon he’ll be a brown belt, then a black belt. Brian is also a wonderful person.”

Giving credit where credit is due, Mahecha also acknowledges the skills of his

doctor. “I searched for so many before I found him,” Mahecha said.

Like Bussade, Temple noted that Mahecha deserves most of the credit himself.

“The fact that he is able to perform at the highest competitive level is the mark of an extraordinary champion,” Temple said.

“It is a testimony to his will to succeed despite overwhelming odds. I am proud to be his doctor.”

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Photos By Gary Kane

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Phelps Media Group Transforms Equestrian Public Relations For The Digital Age

Facebook… Blog… Tweet… Google… These words have entered our everyday vocabulary. In the public relations field, interviews are done via e-mail and newspapers have gone digital. As the leading equestrian public relations firm, Wellington-based Phelps Media Group (PMG) continues to transform and update its services to suit clientele in a continually changing digital age.

Social media has moved beyond being a hobby for young adults to a way for businesses and professionals to network and market their product or service. Just recently, PMG began offering social media packages to current and new clientele in the equestrian industry. This social media package includes setting up, operating and updating Facebook accounts, Twitter accounts, LinkedIn accounts, blogs, live casts, virtual worlds, and even video and photo services. The company has taken it a step further by combining social media avenues so a potential prospect can find a specific equestrian business multiple ways. Activities have included tweeting results of competitions as they happen, updating client Facebook and Twitter accounts with the latest (Top Left) Mason Phelps Jr., founder and president of Phelps Media Group. (Bottom Left) Web design expert Kyle McCall of SuperTech Media. (Below) PMG staff members (L-R) Julie Tannehill, Karen Lucca, Lindsay McCall and Lauren Fisher.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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press releases and news, and even designing, operating and updating blogs.

Karen Lucca joined the PMG staff this year, offering her expertise in business, sales, marketing, web site design and operation, and most importantly, social media. Lucca has become the firm’s social media guru. She designs, updates and maintains all social media accounts for clients so they do not have to worry about the hassle of technology issues.

PMG makes it easy for a client to come to one place for all marketing services. In addition to social media, PMG has long specialized in advertising and web site design for clients. Their design team includes Jake Cormier, who has designed web sites for the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, Double H Farm and PhelpsSports.com, and Rebecca Walton, who has designed advertising for SBS Farms, Diane Carney, Callan Solem Show Stables and many others, in addition to her web site design work.

PMG’s network of resources for web design includes designers such as SuperTech Media. Owned by Kyle McCall, SuperTech offers the highest quality web design in the industry. Their focus is on creating an enjoyable online experience for visitors, portraying the image a client desires. Whether the client is seeking Rebecca Walton specializes in advertising design and web site design work.

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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a new web site, a redesign of their existing web site, technical support, upgrades or a boost in online traffic, SuperTech provides a one-stop shopping experience with superior customer support.

In addition to web site design and social media marketing, PMG has always specialized in hiring the top photographers and writers in the industry. The firm’s award-winning photojournalists can help a client to promote their business, a specific equestrian or an entire association. With backgrounds and experience in marketing, sales, advertising, photography, writing, Internet marketing, web site design, communication, journalism, social media and event management, the PMG staff combines to make a top resource for all clientele.

Mason Phelps Jr., founder and president of PMG, is a lifelong horseman who has participated in many aspects of the equestrian world, including as a rider, trainer, event manager, governance leader, charity organizer and multi-media executive.

Phelps was a rider and trainer in his early years, competing in eventing and the hunter/jumper ranks. While still in his 20s, Phelps expanded his role in the horse world to include event manager. In

38 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

2001, he founded Phelps Media Group International, followed in 2006 by PhelpsSports.com, an equestrian news web site.

McCall’s experience in search marketing, Internet marketing, public relations, photography and the hunter/jumper world brings another angle to PMG.

“As a leader in technology and public relations, we are now offering services to include all aspects of the media,” Phelps said. “From magazines, e-mail newsletters and our online, up-to-the minute web site PhelpsSports.com, to Facebook, Twitter, web site design, blogs and other social media — the entire team at Phelps Media Group is excited to offer these services and new opportunities for clients.”

For more information about Phelps Media Group’s services, call (561) 753-3389, email info@phelpsmediagroup.com or visit www.phelpsmediagroup.com or www.phelps sports.com. For more about SuperTech Media, visit www.supertechmedia.com or contact Kyle McCall at kyle@supertechmedia. com or (561) 200-7888.

Other key PMG staff members include Kenneth Kraus, a writer, photographer, reporter, creative consultant and executive director at PhelpsSports.com. His many years of experience in the equestrian industry both as an equestrian and behind the camera has made him a lead industry insider. Julie Tannehill leads the team as office and marketing manager. She is the first point of contact for a client, and her experience in marketing helps create packages specific to each client. Lauren Fisher, like many of the account executives at PMG, is also an experienced equestrian. She is skilled in writing, photography, video and web editing, graphic design and social media. Lindsay

(Above) Jake Cormier is part of the web design team at PMG. (Below) The reception area of the Wellington-based firm.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Top Polo Fashion Designs All In One Place At Wellington’s Story by Lauren Miró Photos by Abner Pedraza

Elegante ´Polo

When it comes to polo fashion, the newly opened Elegante Polo store offers the finest items from the best designers. Located on Forest Hill Blvd. in front of the Mall at Wellington Green, Elegante Polo carries men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, home furnishings, décor and polo equipment made by some of the most prominent labels in the industry.

Owner and CEO Robert Kiger established Elegante Polo because of his love for polo fashion and its world-renowned designers. “I took my heroes in the fashion polo theme business — Etiqueta Negra, La Martina, Vicomte A., guys with a long history in polo fashion — and brought them in here,” he said. “We brought great brands together and just added our own style and taste to it.”

The store, which opened in April, has found success within the community

40 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

and beyond. Kiger attributes this to the universal appeal of polo style. “[The response] has been really good,” Kiger said. “We opened when season was already over, but we’re not geared only toward the fact that there’s 50,000 equestrians coming here to show.”

Kiger and Director of Development Ron Allen have played polo for many years.

They love the sport and the fashions that have emerged from it. They opened El-

egante Polo to bring that style to fashion lovers everywhere, not solely polo enthusiasts or other equestrians.

Elegante Polo specializes in rare items that cannot be found elsewhere nearby, Kiger said. Although some of the designers may have a store in the United States, there are no other stores that combine polo brands for the best selection of the hottest items.

“Most of our selection you won’t find

(Below) Elegante Polo owner Robert Kiger with a watch from the store’s collection.

anywhere in the United States,” he said.

“You’d have to travel to Argentina or Italy or France to find many of these items.

We’re really trying to fill the store with unique items that you won’t see anywhere else.”

equestrian theme, its sleek, modern look coupled with equestrian influences does offer broad appeal. In addition to polothemed clothing, customers can shop for jeans, dresses, men’s and women’s suits, leather jackets and more.

Kiger stressed that although most of the clothing, accessories and décor are inspired by the polo lifestyle, the store is not exclusively for equestrians. “We’re really geared toward people who like to dress well,” he said. “Yes, we have polothemed shirts in here, and we have a large equestrian clientele, but it’s really geared toward the average person who wants a good lifestyle.”

Primary designers include Etiqueta Negra, whose clothes are made in Italy and Argentina; La Martina, made in Argentina; and Vicomte A., a Parisian company.

Elegante Polo also sells jeans by Parisbased Dish, and bags by several designers including Tipa y Caña of Mexico. Also popular is a line of Lucchese watches.

And although the store has an obvious

In addition to clothing, the store offers high-end home furnishings from Ralph Lauren and Baroness, a company that

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

41

(Above) Elegante Polo owner Robert Kiger with manager Angela York and director of development Ron Allen. (Below) The store offers a wide variety of high-end polo fashions, accessories, home furnishings and décor.

42 October October2010 2010• •WELLINGTON WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 42

‘I took my heroes in the fashion polo theme business — Etiqueta Negra, La Martina, Vicomte A., guys with a long history in polo fashion — and brought them in here.

We brought those brands together and just added our own style and taste to it.’

Robert Kiger, Owner and CEO Of Elegante Polo offers leather trunks, chairs and other home accessories.

Allen noted that the blend of high-end, coveted items by some of the most famous polo fashion designers is what makes Elegante Polo different.

“The concept here is that we’ve brought together prominent brands that you can’t find anywhere else in the United States,” he said. “And if you try to order this stuff

online, you’re talking about shipping from another country, and that adds to the cost of buying it and the time getting it.”

Elegante Polo’s customers can stop by the store and browse the latest collections or visit www.elegantepolo.com to see the store’s entire inventory. They can either walk out of the store with the item in hand, or make their purchase online and the company will ship it.

“It’s hard to order Etiqueta Negra and La Martina products online,” Allen said.

“So here, you can walk out of the store and take it with you, or we’ll ship it out as quick as you want it. It’s one-stop shopping, in that regard.”

Allen also noted that there’s a uniqueness factor that keeps customers coming back for new items.

“Especially women, they don’t like to go

somewhere and see themselves coming down the street in the same jacket or the same dress as someone else,” he said.

“We get around that because everything is unique, one-of-a-kind items. And the quality is beyond what you’re going to find in the malls. It’s pretty dynamic from that standpoint.”

And its appeal beyond equestrians is what Kiger and Allen hope will make Elegante Polo a staple in the community.

“Even though there’s an equestrian theme here,” Allen said, “this is probably the most unique, high-end store in all of Wellington.”

Elegante Polo of Palm Beach is located at 10620 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 40 in Wellington. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. For more info., call (561) 798-7816 or visit www.elegantepolo. com.

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BEN BOYNTON

Local Money Manager Enjoys Helping Others Do Well Story by Matthew Auerbach  Photos by Susan Lerner

I

n tough economic times, money management tops the list of priorities for individuals, families and businesses. A clear-eyed plan is needed not only to keep afloat, but to thrive. That’s where Ben Boynton comes in.

As owner of the Wellington-based Boynton Financial Group, Boynton has been helping residents of the western communities with their financial planning since 1997. As someone who grew up in Wellington and currently lives in Loxahatchee, he has seen firsthand the impact his work has had. For these reasons, Boynton is the 10th nominee for Wellington The Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Something significant happened to Boynton between graduation and his wedding day.

A lifelong Floridian, Boynton’s family has been in Florida for more than 100 years. Looking for pedigree? How about this — great, great grand uncle Nathan Smith Boynton founded Boynton Beach in the late 1800s.

Boynton was required to knock on more than 1,000 doors in the western communities as a way of introducing himself. “I’d be walking around the neighborhoods in my suit and tie sweating profusely,” he recalled. “But it worked — people opened up accounts, and with the company’s backing, I built my business up.”

After spending his first six years on a farm in Belle Glade, young Ben Boynton and his family moved to Wellington in 1976.

“There weren’t a lot of people around,” he recalled. “I remember having to take long car rides just to play with other kids in their homes. I did a lot of fishing and hiking — lots of outdoor stuff. I had a great time.”

While he enjoyed the outdoors, Boynton knew what he wanted to do with his life by the time he hit high school.

“My dream was to be a financial planner and own my own office in Wellington,” he said.

With his dream in place, Boynton attended the University of Florida and had an internship at Merrill Lynch. He graduated with a degree in business administration, and his personal life was set, as well.

“I met my wife Joanna in finance class,” he explained.

“We graduated in 1993 and were married the next year.”

They now have two children — William, 9, and Catherine, 7.

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“I opened up my financial planning office in Wellington right out of college,” he said. “It was in a three-story building right next to the old Wellington Mall. I had joined Edward Jones, and that’s how I really learned the business.”

Boynton spent the next four years learning his trade and getting involved with many organizations in the community, such as the Wellington Rotary Club and Junior Achievement.

In 1997, he opened the Boynton Financial Group office, an independently owned office of Raymond James Financial Services. This time, he wasn’t alone.

“Joanna began working with me at this time,” Boynton said. “Working together has been great since the start. We really complement each other. Her strength is the organizational side of things, which has undoubtedly helped our business succeed.”

Another key to Boynton’s success is his ability to choose effective co-workers.

“We only have three employees, but their performance is crucial to maintaining the level of customer satisfaction we aspire to,” he said. “I was determined to hire people who had the three qualities I believe are necessary to suc-

Wellington Entrepreneur

Ben Boynton of the Boynton Financial Group at his office in Wellington.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Ben Boynton is a collector of antique financial equipment, such as this stock ticker.

Other examples are shown inset and to the far right.

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ceed in my line of work: perseverance, a good work ethic and being confidential by nature.”

living and working in the community we serve. It never feels like we’re going to work; we’re just accomplishing things.”

Boynton may be the boss, but he knows it takes a team to make the Boynton Financial Group a success.

If Boynton has a secret to his success, it’s a simple one.

“I always try to be flexible and open,” he said. “The staff is really a team working together. The key to making the team a winning group comes down to each of us showing mutual respect for one another.”

These days, Boynton finds his responsibilities to his clients have changed.

“Fifteen or 20 years ago, people focused almost solely on what their rate of return would be,” he said. “But in the past decade, their goals have become more grounded. Folks are more concerned about things like retirement, estate planning and making it through these tough times.”

Many of Boynton’s older clients are in good shape when it comes to issues such as mortgages and foreclosures. Their concerns are more family-oriented.

“Many people who come to me are worried about their adult kids,” he said.

“They’re the ones who are in danger of losing their homes, and the parents want to know if simply giving them money is the best way to handle the situation.”

A good portion of Boynton’s business comes from fellow business owners.

“Their issues tend to run more along the lines of the best way to fund retirement plans for workers,” he said.

Hometown boy that he is, Boynton couldn’t imagine working any place other than Wellington. “I truly feel blessed to be serving the western communities,” he said. “Like all businesses in the immediate area, we benefit from the equestrian community… Joanna and I really enjoy

“I’d say staying in close contact with your clients is a must,” he said. “Community involvement ranks up there, too, as does being trustworthy when you’re working with people.”

His advice to aspiring business owners is equally uncomplicated.

“It’s imperative to set up your business plan in a well-thought-out way,” Boynton said. “Most businesses fail because their revenue planning is too optimistic; they don’t have enough money in the bank to stay afloat until they become profitable.

Just as they’re about to turn the corner, they have to shut down.”

Reflecting on his life, Boynton offered one more thought: “Wellington is a great place to start a business or a family — or both.”

The Boynton Financial Group, an independently owned office of Raymond James Financial Services, is located at 12400-B South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 795-9156 or visit www.boyntonfinancialgroup.com.

Wellington The Magazine will feature one entrepreneur each month during 2010 and, with the help of our readers, award the first “Wellington’s Entrepreneur of the Year” award to one of the featured business owners at the end of 2010. To nominate a Wellington business owner who you find inspiring, visit www. wellingtonthemagazine.com.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010 WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • september

47

Dennis and Theresa Kaminski by a bookshelf showing off family photos.

W

W ELLINGTON at Home

A Visit To The Angelic Aero Club Home Of Dennis And Theresa Kaminski Story by Deborah Welky Photos by Susan Lerner

Just off the taxiway in Wellington’s Aero Club sits the home of Dennis and Theresa Kaminski. It is stately and grand and, although the couple doesn’t hangar a plane, there are plenty of wings inside — that is, if angel wings count.

Devout Catholics, the Kaminskis have hosted the bishop at their home twice. A framed proclamation from the pope, a crucifix that belonged to Theresa’s parents and a copper rendering of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (painstakingly embossed by Dennis’ father Stanley) adorn the walls of the dining room. Statuary commemorating other saints appear here and there, but the rest of the decorating scheme revolves around angels — and family. “You can tell ‘family’ is very important to us,” Theresa noted.

The Kaminskis have three children — Nicholas, 31; Angela, 29; and Anthony, 23 — and three grandchildren. Very active in the community, the Kaminskis have been Wellington residents for over 21 years.

Originally from Detroit, the Kaminskis first moved to Wellington’s Chatsworth Village when Dennis accepted a job transfer. They relocated to the Aero Club in 2000, choosing a five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home that would be large enough to accommodate their expanded family.

The grandchildren stay overnight every Friday, and many church meetings and social events have been held at the residence.

48 October October2010 2010••WELLINGTON WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 48

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(Background) The Kaminskis’ Aero Club home now has a new roof. (Right) The Blessed Virgin keeps peace among the cherubs on the back patio.

WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE• •October October2010 2010 WELLINGTON

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(Left, top to bottom) A crystal angel gleams from behind glass doors in the dining room’s curio cabinet; the crucifix in the dining room belonged to Theresa’s parents; and angels serve as souvenirs from family trips. (Below) The dining room beckons from behind white French doors.

50 october October2010 2010• •WELLINGTON WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 50

A grand staircase takes center stage in the foyer, branching off to upstairs bedrooms on the left and the right. A large lantern glows brightly over an Oriental rug, and pillars with capitals welcome visitors to either the formal living room on one side or the dining room on the other.

In the living room, cheerful yellow walls are topped with a cherubic wallpaper border, just one of many changes made by the Kaminskis. A floral sofa and loveseat are countered with a striped side chair around a working wood-burning fireplace. Books and pictures are housed in an armoire, while a piano, played primarily by Anthony, graces one wall.

Bahamian shutters filter the light in an airy room where the walls have been painted gold below the chair rail and pearlized white wallpaper has been installed above.

A Queen Anne dining table offers seating for six, but two heirloom chairs that belonged to Theresa’s grandfather are often pulled up as well. A rounded glass curio cabinet houses the family’s collection of Waterford crystal, necessary when entertaining large holiday crowds.

“The cruise was so wonderful,” Theresa remembered. “We spent 14 days with my sister and her husband and Dennis’ sister and her husband. We did three days in Rome touring the Vatican and the Colosseum, then went on to Naples, Croatia, Venice and Sicily; then worked our way up to Spain and France.”

Purchased just last year, the chandelier above the table reminds Theresa of “the pope’s hat.”

“I start decorating for Christmas right after Thanksgiving and I read the Christmas story aloud every year,” Theresa said.

Across the hall in the dining room, white

“Everything has a religious connotation,” Dennis said. “To me, it’s just a chandelier.”

(Top left) The living room of the Kaminski home, bathed in golden light. Theresa likes things “light and airy.” (Center left) Dennis Kaminski’s father created the copper engraved art of da Vinci’s The Last Supper. (Below left) The family room with its media center and pair of built-in bookcases is located right off the kitchen.

Theresa runs to get her copy of The Christmas Glass by Marci Alborghetti, a novel she bought in Venice two years ago when the couple took a cruise, never realizing the book had seraphim on the cover. “Angels find her,” Dennis smiled.

Obviously, holidays featuring angels are extra-special for Theresa.

Through a set of white French doors is the kitchen, where most of the major renovations done by the Kaminskis took place. The first thing they did was to add a natural wood tongue-and-groove ceiling and white crown molding. They also replaced most of the cabinets with a light natural wood, ash, with plenty of knots for interest.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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52 october October2010 2010••WELLINGTON WELLINGTONTHE THEMAGAZINE MAGAZINE 52

Black granite provides an imperious surface for countertops and the center island.

The roomy square island has room for a prep sink, storage and a breakfast bar. A corner sink overlooks the outdoor patio area, defined by its outdoor billiard table.

“That table was made for the outdoors,” Dennis said. “It has a slate top that you can hose off. Resorts have purchased them and installed them right in the pool.”

Beckoning from the other corner are the cascading waterfalls of the swimming pool. “It’s very easy to entertain here,” Theresa said. “The house has a nice flow.”

Back inside, the hall to the guest bedroom and bath is decorated with more photos

of relatives, but not as many as are in the aptly named family room. There, a small bookshelf and most of the media center shelves are filled to overflowing with family pictures and mementos. “Those are the grandchildren, and the grandparents have their own corner in the kitchen,” Theresa explained.

The pictures in the hall are of Nicholas, Angela and Anthony.

Although the Kaminskis did not hire a decorator when they renovated, Theresa gives a lot of credit to her friend Anne Bixler for her insight and help.

Bright and airy, family-friendly and comfortable, the Kaminski home is (dare we say it?) simply divine!

(Top left) Portraits of the Kaminskis’ three children reside in the hallway to the guest quarters.

A Madonna statuette is one of many religious icons in the home. (Bottom left) The Kaminskis remodeled the kitchen by installing a natural wood ceiling, replacing the countertops and most of the cabinets, and bringing in a new tile floor. (Inset) Flowers beckon from the landing, where a staircase in the foyer branches off to upstairs bedrooms. (Right) The Kaminskis do a lot of entertaining and, if the weather’s nice, the outdoor billiard table sees a lot of action.

WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

53

Wellington Table

Generous Portions Of Great Food At TooJay’s Gourmet Deli Story by Lauren Miró  Photos by Abner Pedraza

For over 20 years, TooJay’s Gourmet Deli has been a staple throughout Florida, serving the best in overstuffed deli sandwiches, freshly baked breads and traditional deli favorites. Located in the Mall at Wellington Green, TooJay’s continues to offer the community a taste of those great, New York-style foods.

In the spring of 1981, owners Jay Brown and Mark Jay Katzenberg opened a modest, New York-style delicatessen on Palm Beach Island. Dubbed TooJay’s for the common part of both owners’ names, the deli quickly grew in popularity.

Wooden booths with teal cushions line the big, bright windows, which give the space an open feel. Just like in the city, customers can watch as shoppers walk by. There are also plenty of tables and chairs if a booth isn’t for you.

One year later, the deli expanded to a second location in Palm Beach Gardens, followed by a third restaurant in Lake Worth.

Since then, TooJay’s has continued to expand throughout the region and now has 26 locations across Florida, including nine in Palm Beach County.

Upon walking in, you’re immediately faceto-face with some of the mouth-watering options available in-store and to take home, located behind TooJay’s deli counter, where meats, salads, desserts and other treats are on display. Customers can choose to take something home, or dine in. But no matter which option you choose, you’re in for a tasty treat.

What really sets the restaurant apart is its emphasis on food quality, generous portion size and service. To maintain the best in quality foods, TooJay’s has a commissary and bakery adjacent to its corporate headquarters in West Palm Beach.

The Wellington location, located on the mall’s upper level near Macy’s, is large and airy with a bright, inviting atmosphere.

Reminiscent of a classic New York deli, the bright wooden walls are adorned with pictures of the New York City skyline, old photographs, various awards and kitschy décor.

Offsetting the wood is a large brick wall, with the remaining walls painted a cheery golden color.

54 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

TooJay’s is widely known for its overstuffed deli sandwiches, packed with layers of hot corned beef, pastrami, roast beef or turkey on your choice of thick, freshly baked breads. But from traditional favorites such as matzo ball soup, latkes and salads to hot meals and classic desserts, there’s something on the menu for everyone.

Perhaps the most iconic deli sandwich is the Reuben. Hot corned beef is paired with tangy sauerkraut, Russian dressing and Swiss cheese for a satisfying meal. And no other sandwich packs the melt-in-your-mouth flavors of TooJay’s Reuben ($8.75).

Wou you ld you like r re feat stauran Clic ured? t k He re!

(Background) The display case at TooJay’s in the Mall at Wellington Green. (Above inset) TooJay’s offers catering for all occasions.

(Below inset) The TooJay’s Chopped Salad with the Triple J and Reuben sandwiches.

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(Above) Staff members at the Wellington TooJay’s restaurant include: (L-R) Vonette Pierre Gilles, Monica Oakes, Sheryl Cohen-Rogers, Shawn Gibson, Susan Seidl, Ricky Noble and Mary Grace Dinoflo. (Inset) Try a piece of carrot cake for dessert.

But if you want more than just one type of meat on your sandwich, try the Triple J ($8.75) — one of the classic deli combos. Corned beef, roast beef, turkey and Swiss are rolled together with a medley of coleslaw and Russian dressing for a taste that is packed with flavor. The meat melts in your mouth and is offset by the crunchy texture of the slaw and creaminess of the dressing. If you’re indecisive, the Triple J combines a bit of the best from each classic deli-style sandwich into one big bite.

More than sandwiches, TooJay’s offers burgers, wraps and pitas, various platters, full dinners, soups and salads.

For a salad with a little bit of everything, choose TooJay’s Chopped Salad ($8.50).

The salad is a medley of flavors on a bed of romaine lettuce. There’s turkey, ham, 56 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE

carrots, tomato, onion, black olives, artichoke hearts, egg, bacon and gorgonzola cheese all topped with a blue cheese dressing. It’s a medley of flavors and textures that make for an appetizing, and very filling meal.

TooJay’s also offers a variety of food for the health-conscious and/or vegetarian diners. There is a Heart Healthy menu offering tempting meals with the same great TooJay’s taste. Vegetarian choices range from the vegetable quesadilla ($7.50) to the vegetable reuben ciabatta ($8.50), a whole wheat ciabatta filled with sautéed red and green peppers, mushrooms, caramelized onions, chopped spinach sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.

And for the smallest members of the family, TooJay’s has a full kids menu fea-

turing popular childhood favorites. The menu doubles as a coloring book.

In addition to the restaurant menu, TooJay’s offers a full line of catering, which brings great platters of food to your home or office. Choose from breakfast, lunch, appetizers, dinner and dessert options — you can’t go wrong no matter what time of the day you eat. No matter the occasion, whether it’s a party, reception, family get-together or office luncheon, TooJay’s offers everything from gourmet party platters to full-service dinner parties.

TooJay’s Gourmet Deli is located in the Mall at Wellington Green (10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on the upper level near Macy’s. For more information, or for catering service, call (561) 784-9055 or visit www.toojays. com.

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WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE • October 2010

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Wellington Calendar Wednesday, Oct. 6 • The Wellington Cancer Research Unit of the Papanicolaou Corps will hold its Fall/Holiday Bazaar on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Vendors will be selling jewelry, handbags, gift items, clothing, accessories, toys, personalized children’s items, pet portraits, decorative soaps, tie-dye clothing and more. For more info., call Karen Paull at (561) 333-8858.

Thursday, Oct. 7 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Election Time: Know the Issues” for adults on Thursday, Oct. 7 at 2:30 p.m.

In addition to candidates, several ballot initiatives will be voted on this year. Learn about the initiatives from the county’s Legislative Affairs Department. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Open Mic Night” for adults on Thursday, Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Join your neighbors and perform. Bring your friends to cheer for you.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington Women’s Club will meet Thursday, Oct. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington).

Members and guests will enjoy a buffet dinner, a cooking demonstration and a wine tasting. The guest fee is $30. RSVP to Allyson Samiljan at (561) 798-6741.

Friday, Oct. 8 • Palm Beach Dramaworks will kick off its 11th season with George Bernard Shaw’s Candida opening Friday, Oct. 8 at 8 p.m. at the company’s downtown theater (322 Banyan Blvd.). The production will continue through Nov. 21. For ticket info., call the box office at (561) 514-4042 or visit www.palmbeachdramaworks.org.

Saturday, Oct. 9 • Wellington Christian School (1000 Wellington Trace) will host its Fall Boutique Show on Saturday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 40 local vendors will be on hand. For more info., (561) 793-1017, ext. 2470.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Bicentennial: Chilean Fiesta” for adults on Saturday, Oct. 9 at 3 p.m. with music, dances and crafts to celebrate Chile’s bicentennial, sponsored by Organización Cultural Chilena.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Oct. 12 • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Thursday, Oct. 13 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer “Science Club: Shrunken Heads & Ghosts” for age 8 and up on Wednesdays, Oct. 13 and 20 at 4 p.m. Create a face from an apple, then watch the dehydration process shrink it. Create your own ghost necklace using glue and watch the evaporation process make it disappear. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

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Wellington Calendar Thursday, Oct. 14 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults Thursday, Oct.14 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism and comments to improve your fiction, non-fiction and poetry.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host an Amendment 4 Educational Forum on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

For more info., call (561) 790-6200.

• Fright Nights and Spookyville will return Thursday, Oct. 14 to the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) and continue every Thursday through Saturday, ending on Sunday, Oct. 31.

Visit www.myfrightnights.com for more details.

Saturday, Oct. 16 • St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington will host its fourth annual Harvest Fest on Saturday, Oct. 16 featuring craft vendors, a barbecue dinner, a bake sale, onstage entertainment and kid’s games. Limited vendor space is still available. For more info., call Al Bennett at (561) 753-6784.

• The inaugural DevilDog Charities Golf Tournament to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project will take place Saturday, Oct. 16 at the Jupiter Country Club. Registration will begin at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. For more info., visit www.devildogcharities.com.

• The Wellington Art Society will meet Thurs-

day, Oct. 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). For info., e-mail Adrianne Hetherington at tilemaker@aol. com or visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Monday, Oct. 18 • The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon discussing Healthcare Reform on Monday, Oct. 18 at 11:30 a.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

For more info., call (561) 790-6200.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Checkers Challenge” for age 6 and up Monday, Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register.

Tuesday, Oct. 19 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “The Wheels on the Bus” in a story time with tales and a craft about a bus for ages 3 to 5 on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 11:15 a.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Teen Game Night” for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo, Wii and board games. Snacks will be provided.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Oct. 20 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will offer “Enhancing Wellness with Music Therapy” on Wednesday, Oct. 20 at 6 p.m.

A music therapist from Hospice of Palm Beach

County will offer information on how music can be used to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety and manage pain. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Thursday, Oct. 21 • The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a Grand Opening Celebration for the new chamber building at 13901 Southern Blvd. on Thursday, Oct. 21 at 4:30 p.m. For more info., call (561) 790-6200.

Saturday, Oct. 23 • The Wellington High School Boys Basketball Team will host its third annual golf tournament Saturday, Oct. 23 at Palm Beach Polo Golf & Country Club. Proceeds from the event will help the boys basketball program. Registration and a three-point putting contest is at 7:30 a.m. The tournament will begin at 9 a.m. For more info., call coach Matt Colin at (803) 439-5348 or e-mail at matthew.colin@palmbeach.k12.fl.us.

• The Village of Wellington and the Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a Fall Festival at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road, Wellington) on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 5 to 10 p.m. For more info., call (561) 790-6200.

Monday, Oct. 25 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Legos” for age 8 and up on Monday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. Builders will create their own vehicle or building out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

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Wellington Calendar Tuesday, Oct. 26 • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Wednesday, Oct. 27 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer “Slightly Scary Tales” for ages 7 to 10 on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 4 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “All About Wine” on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Dive into a fast-moving discussion with “the Wine Guy” Bob Burchill and learn how to navigate your way through the world of wine. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

Thursday, Oct. 28 • The Wellington Art Society will host an art exhibit Thursday, Oct. 28 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Amtrust Bank on State Road 7 near Whole Foods Market. For info., e-mail Adrianne Hetherington at tilemaker@aol.com or visit www.wellingtonart society.org.

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a Candidate Debate on Thursday, Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call (561) 792-6525.

• The Village of Wellington will host performances of Paradise Lost performed by Immeasurable Theater Productions at the Wellington Amphitheater from Thursday, Oct. 28 through Friday, Oct. 30. For more info., call (561) 791-4000.

Saturday, Oct. 30 • The Briana Marie Cox Foundation will host the Briana Marie Cox Memorial Golf Tournament on Saturday, Oct. 30 at the Palm Beach National Golf & Country Club (7500 St. Andrews Road, Lake Worth). The entry fee is $100 per golfer or $400 per foursome and includes balls, dinner, raffle and auction. Dinner/auction tickets are also available. For info., call Danny Boivin at (561) 5022187 or visit www.brianamariecoxfoundation.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Costume Parade Story Time” for age 2 and up on Saturday, Oct. 30 at 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Show off your Halloween costumes at story time and then walk in a parade around the library. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• St. Rita Catholic Church (13645 Paddock Drive, Wellington) will host “St. Rita Rockin’ the Nite Away” on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 11 p.m. at the parish center. Sponsored by the St. Rita Council of Catholic Women and the Knights of Columbus, the event will feature ’50s music, food and plenty of prizes. The cost is $23 per person or $45 per couple. For more info., call Nancy Wall at (561) 798-3929.

Saturday, Nov. 6 • The Palms West Community Foundation will host the 2010 Wellington Community Fitness 5K Run & Walk on Saturday, Nov. 6. Proceeds will benefit Scott’s Place playground. To register or for sponsorship info., visit www.communityfitness run.com or contact Maureen Gross at (561) 7906200 or maureen@palmswest.com.

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Around Wellington

(Above) Players at the Florida Public Utilities table. (Below) The chamber’s Debi Leed (left) and Jessica Clasby (right) with 50/50 winner Yvonne Cabrera.

Wild West Poker — On

New Art Society Season — The Wellington Art Society held

Saturday, Aug. 28, the Palms West Chamber of Commerce held its third annual Wild West Poker Tourney at the Binks Forest Golf Club. At the event, chamber members and friends dressed in Western attire and played Texas hold ’em poker.

an open house Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the Wellington Community Center. It was the first meeting of the season and a chance to welcome back current members and invite new members.

Wellington Art Society President Suzanne Redmond discussed upcoming events such as the annual Fall Fling set for Nov. 1314 at the new Wellington Amphitheater. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. Shown here are new members MariJane Canova and Sue Hampton with First Vice President Linda Rovolis and Redmond. Photo by Denise Fleischman

Photos by Denise Fleischman

New Films Feature Wellington Stylist Claudia Diesti — Earlier this year, Wellington hair stylist Claudia Diesti was interviewed for Joseph Kellner’s The Real Hair Truth film released in September. During that interview, Diesti was introduced to Phil Stone, a former international educator for the Rusk brand of hair products. Stone, impressed with Diesti’s story, spoke to Kellner about his interest in producing an educational DVD collaboration featuring Diesti. Filming took place over three long days and showed Diesti as she consulted, cut and colored four very different clients. Look for the film’s release in early 2011.

Mini Biz Expo — The second annual Mini Biz Expo sponsored by the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington was held Monday, Sept. 20 at the Wellington Community Center. Local businesses set up vendor tables, and there was food courtesy of Di Salvo’s Trattoria and Costco Wholesale.

Photos by Denise Fleischman

(Above) Susan Giddings of Spare Hands with Elisa Armetta.

(Below) William Brasmar of KPA Promotions with Dennis Barnish of Computer Resolutions.

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62 October 2010 • WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE