95% billion annual economic impact on Palm Beach County million awarded in scholarships since 2018
$1.1 scholarships awarded by the Foundation, 2021-2023 ranking for outstanding services for veterans nationwide amongst two-year colleges TOP 10 of emergency responders in Palm Beach County complete their training at PBSC 85% million secured to advance medical innovation, providing real-world training for future healthcare professionals $15
Recently, my fellow colleagues on the Village Council voted to appoint me Mayor following the passing of former Mayor Fred Pinto.
Now, I’m running to complete the remainder of his term.
As your current Mayor and former Village Councilman, a retired Colonel in the U.S. Army, a longtime resident of Royal Palm Beach and a former Director in some of our nation’s largest federal organizations, under several different Presidents, I have the qualifications and experience to hit the ground running on day one!
I have always put our community first. I show up every day, roll up my sleeves, and work tirelessly to ensure our village thrives.
Together, let’s continue building a future we can all be proud of. I ask for your vote.
Thank you.
volume 5, number 1
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025
executive editor
Joshua I. Manning
publisher Dawn Rivera
senior graphic designer
Stephanie Rodriguez
graphic designers
Nancy Pobiak
Yolanda Cernicky
account managers
Betty Buglio
Evie Edwards
Joetta Palumbo
administration
Shanta Daibee
Jill Kaskel
Carol Lieberman
photography
Abner Pedraza
contributors
Shannon Anastasio
Matthew Auerbach
Erin Davisson
Denise Fleischman
Dean Glorioso
Margaret Hunt
Frank Koester
Mike May
ROYAL PALM
12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33 Wellington, FL 33414
Phone: (561) 793-7606
Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.royalpalmthemagazine.com published by Royal Palm The Magazine Inc.
chairman/ceo
Barry S. Manning
Royal Palm The Magazine is published six times a year in Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Copyright 2025, all rights reserved by Royal Palm The Magazine Inc. 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.
RPB MOM CREATES GROUP TO HELP LOCAL PARENTS
Necessity is the mother of invention, and necessity is what caused Royal Palm Beach resident Destiny Ivey to create “Helping One Nugget at a Time,” a Facebook-based group she founded to help other parents. The group’s roots can be traced to the community where Ivey was born. BY
MIKE MAY
15
SHAKESPEARE’S ‘AS YOU LIKE IT’ COMING TO RPB
from the publisher
19
21
In a major change, the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival will present its first wintertime festival from Thursday, Jan. 30 to Sunday, Feb. 2 at the Commons Park Amphitheater in Royal Palm Beach. The county’s oldest professional theater company will host the William Shakespeare comedy As You Like It. BY
Happy New Year! We start 2025 with an amazing issue with several fascinating feature stories. On our cover is a look at the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival’s upcoming performances of the play As You Like It at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. This is a change from previous years, when the festival only had performances during the summer. This year, they will be offering separate shows in the winter here in Royal Palm Beach and in the summer at Jupiter’s Carlin Park. This is wonderful for lovers of live theater! Be sure to make it out to Commons Park for the performances, which, by the way, are free.
JOSHUA MANNING
EDUCATION THROUGH INNOVATION AT PBSC
Palm Beach State College has a mission to transform lives and strengthen the community, particularly through the health sciences. BY DEAN GLORIOSO
ROYAL PALM TABLE
Great food in a great atmosphere has kept the crowds frequenting Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant in Royal Palm Beach, where the authentic flavors are served up expertly prepared with fresh ingredients. BY SHANNON ANASTASIO
ROYAL PALM TODAY
Royal Palm Beach residents will vote in contested municipal elections on Tuesday, March 11. Three candidates are running for mayor, while three are seeking the Group 3 seat. Learn about the candidates in this issue. BY
JOSHUA MANNING
Also in this issue, we chat with Destiny Ivey, a Royal Palm Beach mother who started “Helping One Nugget at a Time,” an organization designed to support other new parents. Next, we take a look at the many exciting, high-tech healthcare programs available at Palm Beach State College.
Royal Palm Table samples the authentic and traditional Mexican cuisine at Los Agaves, while Royal Palm Today introduces the six candidates vying for two seats on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council during the March election.
With this issue we start our fifth year of providing the Village of Royal Palm Beach with its own community lifestyle magazine. Many thanks to the dedicated readers, advertisers and other supporters who have made it all possible.
Dawn Rivera
Dawn Rivera, Publisher
Royal Palm Beach Winter Fest Brings Holiday Fun To Commons Park RPB Young At Heart Club Celebrates New Year With Luncheon Post Office Facility Returns To New Royal Palm Beach Village Hall Royal Palm Beach Seniors Enjoy Holiday Fun At Ugly Sweater Party
Lee Ritter as Rosalind and Tristen Hooks as Orlando in Shakespeare’s As You Like It PHOTO BY JEFFREY LANGLOIS
Bringing
ROYAL PALM BEACH WINTER FEST BRINGS HOLIDAY FUN TO COMMONS PARK
The Royal Palm Beach Winter Fest celebration was held Saturday, Dec. 7 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. The family-friendly festival included carnival rides, a skating rink, food vendors and a children’s craft station. There were performances by students from the Western Academy Charter School and Dazzle Dance Studio, as well as the festive sounds of the Victorian Voices. Santa Claus joined the Royal Palm Beach Village Council on stage at 6 p.m. to help light the village’s 28-foot Christmas tree, followed by photos with Santa Claus.
(Left) Ray and Cindy Nazareth, Councilman Adam Miller, Councilwoman Jan Rodusky, Councilman Richard Valuntas, and Mayor Jeff and Carolyn Hmara. (Right) Students from Dazzle Dance Studio in their holiday costumes.
(Left to right) The Victorian Voices of South Florida on stage; students from the Western Academy Charter School perform; Linda Morris, Penny Orsini, Bill Cipriano with Tia Marie, Margie Allen and Diane Edwards; and mom Sabrina Godfrey helps Cecilia at the ice-skating area.
(Left to right) Jackie Rojas gets her face painted by Iryna; Eric and Margie Sturz with Annette Watson at the Seafin Creations tent; Guests got a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus; and Ana Adler with Oliver.
(Left to right) Kristy Michel with cats Frasier and Niles; Andrea and Tracy Schiola look over earrings at the Frutilla Jewelry tent; Little Camila Munoz spends some time with Santa; and Jennifer Porta with Rudy and Cooper, and Diana Mensah and Frederick Mensah with Oreo.
(Left to right) Violet Rolle with Santa and Mrs. Claus; Eric, Allee, Jayce and Avree Carter with Milo; Jayce and Marina Halle with Santa and Mrs. Claus; and Santa joins the Royal Palm Beach Village Council on stage to light the Christmas tree.
ROYAL PALM YOUNG AT HEART CLUB CELEBRATES NEW YEAR WITH LUNCHEON
The Royal Palm Beach Young at Heart Club celebrated the new year on Friday, Jan. 3 with a luncheon at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Entertainer Wayne L. sang and danced for the seniors in attendance.
(Left to right) Diana Arboledo, Marina and Joe Coleman, and Ann Deann; (seated) Rose and Philip LaForge, and Ben Parisi, with (standing) Tommie Walters, Rhonda Beitmen, Virginia Guido and Joy Parisi; Patty McFarland, Barbara Searls, Margie Cruzado, Monique Lananna and Jenny Lopez; and Linda Foutty, Walburga Hickey and Hanna Weidgans.
(Left to right) Councilman Dr. Adam Miller, Shakeera Thomas, and Mayor Jeff and Carolyn Hmara; Decorating Committee members Mary and Steve Kaminski, Dolly Hughes, Carolyn Hmara and Pamela Williams; and entertainer Wayne L. sings to Marina Coleman.
POST OFFICE FACILITY RETURNS TO NEW ROYAL PALM BEACH VILLAGE HALL
Fee-for-service patients only; cannot be redeemed with insurance plans, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, discount dental plans, or combined with other discounts, treatment offers, or programs. Offer of Free dental exam, X-rays ($499 value, ADA codes D0150, D0210, D0330), and $100 off every $400 of General Treatment is non-transferable and valid at participating Sage Dental practices only for new patient appointments and for dental services performed by a general dentist. Minimum fee. Fees will vary depending upon required treatment. ADDITIONAL CHARGES MAY BE INCURRED FOR RELATED SERVICES WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED IN INDIVIDUAL CASES. Discount is not contingent on referring patients or purchase of additional services. Must mention offer(s) at the initial new patient appointment within 30 days of receipt of the offer(s) to redeem. Not valid for orthodontics or specialty treatments. Free Opalescence® Go Mini Whitening Kit ($45 value) offer cannot be redeemed by patients with insurance plans, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, discount dental plans, or combined with other discounts, treatment offers, or programs. Offer is non-transferable, one per patient, while supplies last, only at participating Sage Dental practices, and upon completion of a new patient
Returning a service that was once offered at the old Royal Palm Beach Village Hall, the United States Postal Service opened a post office location at the new village hall building with a celebration on Monday, Dec. 2. Village officials and USPS representatives were on hand for the grand opening ceremony. Located at 1050 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., the new post office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
(Left to right) The new post office serves its first customer; Vice Mayor Selena Samios, West Palm Beach Postmaster Orlando De La Osa, Mayor Jeff Hmara and Councilwoman Jan Rodusky; Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins, West Palm Beach Postmaster Orlando De La Osa and Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara; and the first customer at the new post office was Cathy Eiseman.
(Left to right) RPB Mayor Jeff Hmara and West Palm Beach Postmaster Orlando De La Osa perform a ribbon cutting to open the new post office; Michelle Inman, Kristopher Novy, Postmaster Orlando De La Osa, David Guiney and Edwin Vivas; and West Palm Beach Postmaster Orlando De La Osa introduces the new post office.
ROYAL PALM BEACH SENIORS ENJOY HOLIDAY FUN AT UGLY SWEATER PARTY
The Royal Palm Beach Seniors Activity Group held its annual Ugly Sweater Holiday Party on Friday, Dec. 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Guests enjoyed delicious food, exciting prize giveaways and a chance to showcase their fun holiday attire in the Ugly Sweater Contest. Guests also enjoyed a DJ spinning festive tunes and plenty of dancing.
(Left to right) Andre Carroll sings to Lee Stoodley; Courtney Rollins from Humana and Sara Taklani from Ventura with Shakeera Thomas; Joyce Gropper, Randee Strassler and Jackie Kennedy; Moreen Fand and Mindy Saltzman; Michael and Kathy Compagnone; and Angela and Jose Delatorre.
(Left to right) Ugly sweater contest winners Virginia Guido, Lisa Shall and Doreen Anderson with Santa; (seated) Barbara Searls, Jenny Lopez and Patty McFarland with (standing) Linda Catron, Elissa Hardue, Margie Cruzado and Monique Lananna; and Carolyn Hmara, Mary Kaminski, Mayor Jeff Hmara, Steve Kaminski and Eliott Gordon.
Royal Palm Mother Creates Group To Help Other Local Parents
BY MIKE MAY
Necessity is the mother of invention, and necessity is what caused Royal Palm Beach resident Destiny Ivey to create “Helping One Nugget at a Time,” a Facebook-based group she founded to help other parents.
The roots of Helping One Nugget at a Time can be traced to the community where Ivey was born, raised, prayed, played and educated — Royal Palm Beach.
“I attended Cypress Trails Elementary School, Crestwood Middle School and graduated from Seminole Ridge High School in 2020,” Ivey said. “I attended church at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles and played soccer for the Royal Palm Beach Strikers and the Wellington Wave. I’m a Royal Palm Beach girl.”
Clearly, she is passionate about her community roots.
Soon after Ivey became a stay-athome mom, which started when her son Colton was born Dec. 23, 2023, she quickly realized that she needed assistance in order to survive the dayto-day rigors of being a young mother.
Ivey admits that she was at first overwhelmed with the demands and expectations of being a stay-at-home mom. “I was at home, alone with my son, and experiencing postpartum depression soon after he was born,” Ivey explained. “I was overwhelmed with too many things in my home that I didn’t need, and not enough of what I truly needed at the time.”
She realized that other young mothers in the area were probably going through the same challenges, both logistical and financial. That’s when a light bulb went off in her head.
“I established Helping One Nugget at a Time in April 2024, which is primarily dedicated to assisting families — specifically young mothers — with babies, toddlers, teens and various loved ones,” Ivey said. “I’d rather donate something directly to somebody who needs it rather than give it to Goodwill.”
Ivey began using Facebook to communicate what’s needed and what’s available, communicating directly with other parents like her. To become a member of Ivey’s “Helping One Nugget at a Time” Facebook group requires passing her thorough screening and background checks. Her goal is to only include mothers and families who truly need items, and not people looking to get free products.
In the beginning, the porch of Ivey’s Royal Palm Beach home served as the central hub for collecting and distributing products. Upon arrival, people left what they wanted to donate, and then picked up what they needed. There was no exchange of cash. It was simply an exchange of items. As soon as an item would get dropped off, Ivey would notify her quickly growing Facebook community that a certain item was ready for pick-up. Items were available on a first-come, first-served basis.
BY
(Center) “Helping One Nugget at a Time” founder Destiny Ivey with Colton, joined by supporters Alexa Murphy with Ryder (left) and Vanessa Quigley with Aurora (right).
PHOTO
DENIS EIRIKIS
Those early items were limited to diapers, clothes and toys. Now, items also include bikes, kitchen accessories, beds, dressers, and items as small as soap and toothpaste.
“I’ve also had a washer and dryer dropped off once,” Ivey added.
Because the mothers on Ivey’s list are always paying attention to Facebook updates, donated products move quickly. “Most items didn’t hang around for very long,” she recalled.
In the beginning, Ivey was in touch with 10 mothers in the greater Royal Palm Beach area, via Facebook, but it quickly blossomed into the hundreds.
Since Helping One Nugget at a Time was founded in April 2024, Ivey has since expanded into other South Florida communities, such as Loxahatchee, Lake Worth, Riviera Beach, Lake Park, West Palm Beach and Okeechobee.
The key to getting “Helping One Nugget at a Time” to succeed in other communities is to have an “ambassador” act as the main point of contact for local donations and collections. Ivey aims to find ambassadors who are just as passionate as she is about an online community of mothers taking root in other cities and towns.
“Just in Palm Beach County, I am in touch with more than 1,200 families through Facebook,” Ivey said.
Ivey is proud of how Helping One Nugget at a Time’s work expanded dur-
ing the recent holiday season. “We had a toy drive in December 2024, where we helped 115 children from 43 families,” she noted. “Our community wanted to spoil our children, and we did just that.”
Ivey also spearheaded an effort during Thanksgiving that helped 14 families with much-needed side items for their Thanksgiving meals.
Ivey is also now focused on expanding “Helping One Nugget at a Time” to communities in other states.
“I’m looking to name ambassadors in various cities in Georgia, Tennessee
“I established Helping One Nugget at a Time in April 2024, which is primarily dedicated to assisting families — specifically young mothers — with babies, toddlers, teens and various loved ones.” — Destiny Ivey
and Texas,” Ivey said. “My sister is moving soon to Texas, and she might be our ambassador in her new hometown.”
As for the origins of the group’s name, Ivey points to her son Colton, who celebrated his first birthday on Dec. 23, 2024.
“When I was pregnant with Colton, he looked like a little chicken nugget on my first ultrasound,” Ivey said. “He’s my little nugget. The name just stuck.”
And it looks like “Helping One Nugget at a Time” has stuck, too.
To get involved, search Facebook for “Helping One Nugget at a Time.”
Volunteer Alexa Murphy with Ryder, founder Destiny Ivey with Colton and volunteer Alexis Allison with Ophilia.
PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN
(Above) Destiny Ivey receives donations from Maria Orihuela and Enzo Colmenarez. (Inset) Ivey checks her baby food inventory.
PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN
Dr. Kelly DiStefano
WELLINGTON REJUVENATION CENTER
OUR MISSION IS: To help our patients look and feel their best through all stages of life and to provide affordable aesthetics to our community.
WHY DO CLIENTS CHOOSE YOU: Our clients choose Wellington Rejuvenation Center because of the family feeling atmosphere we provide in our offices. We use only the best products and devices at our practices and believe that patient knowledge and transparency is very important. Our office staff makes everyone feel welcome at each visit!
WE ARE UNIQUE BECAUSE: At WRC we are able to provide quality, reliable services at an affordable price to the community. We have a positive reputation in the community, and strong patient loyalty.
I AM EXCITED ABOUT 2025 BECAUSE: We have expanded our New Jersey businesses and brand with the addition of our 3rd location: Wellington Rejuvenation Center. The new spa is officially open and accepting new patients in Royal Palm Beach.
MY REAL JOB DESCRIPTION IS: Mother, wife, friend, and doctor.
MY BIGGEST TIP FOR CLIENTS: Is to make sure they are seeking aesthetic treatments for themselves, and to do what makes them happy. This helps patients feel comfortable, at ease, and positive about the overall experience. It is also never too late to start a medical-grade skincare routine, with SPF of course.
WHEN I AM NOT IN THE OFFICE: I am spending time with my family and friends. I run a book club and enjoy staying active by exercising regularly. These activities keep my mind sharp and my body healthy. I also spend lots of time researching and expanding my knowledge on the latest trends in the aesthetics world.
Dr. Kelly DiStefano with husband Ed Fritz, owners of Wellington Rejuvenation Center
Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ Coming To Royal Palm Beach Commons Park
STORY BY JOSHUA MANNING | PHOTOS BY JEFFREY LANGLOIS
In a major change, the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival will present its first wintertime festival from Thursday, Jan. 30 to Sunday, Feb. 2 at the Commons Park Amphitheater in Royal Palm Beach. The county’s oldest professional theater company will host the William Shakespeare comedy As You Like It.
This Shakespeare by the Palms V production is presented by the Village of Royal Palm Beach and sponsored by Gary and Katherine Parr. The performances take place from 8 to 10 p.m. each night. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5 per person. Tickets are not necessary.
“We are incredibly excited to have a multi-talented group of artists join us for our first wintertime Shakespeare festival,” Managing Producer Elizabeth Dashiell said. “Artistic Director Trent Stephens has put together a brilliant script that plays to the strength of our talented performers, and we cannot wait to share it with our year-round residents and seasonal visitors.”
As You Like It follows the resourceful
Rosalind and her friends as she journeys from the Royal Court to the Forest of Arden. Disguised as a shepherd, Rosalind encounters her love, Orlando, and decides to befriend him as a shepherd boy and cure Orlando of his “lovesickness” for Rosalind. Witty words and romance play out while the disputes between a pair of brothers come to a happy ending.
The cast list includes last summer’s Dr. Kevin Crawford Fellowship recipient Lee Ritter in the role of Rosalind and festival newcomer Tristen Hooks as Orlando. Company actor Sara Grant is featured as Celia, with Madi Fernandez returning to the festival in the role of Phoebe. Guest artist Ben Lusk portrays the role of Oliver, and company veteran performer Daryl Willis will be Adam. All performers will play multiple roles, and live music will be performed by guest artist Ben Lusk.
For the past four years, the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival has performed its mainstage show, Shakespeare by the Sea, at the Seabreeze
Amphitheater in Jupiter’s Carlin Park, and then brought that same production to Commons Park for a limited run.
This year, the nonprofit theater company has decided to split its productions, and perform two different shows, one in the winter in Royal Palm Beach and one in the summer in Jupiter.
Dashiell explained that the heat at Commons Park last summer had the company thinking about alternative months for the show, but the idea really took off with the goal to do more than one play in a season.
“Our artistic director wanted to do another play — something that we would be able to bring into the schools
Lee Ritter as Rosalind in As You Like It.
during the school year,” Dashiell said. “For more than 30 years, we have been a recourse for the educational community. We will provide performers to go in and give lectures.”
This has often included urging teachers to encourage their students to see one of the summertime performances.
“But we wanted to have an offering during the school year,” Dashiell said. “A chance for the students to study Shakespeare in school and then see a play live on stage — which is what he wrote them for.”
The company is offering a slimmeddown version of the production at Commons Park to be performed directly at schools all across Palm Beach County in the week following the close of the upcoming production. Several schools are already set up with more expected, Dashiell said.
“This is brand new for us, presenting it in winter and creating a production
to go into the schools, and it is all starting with Shakespeare by the Palms, which is presented by the Village of Royal Palm Beach and produced by us. It is truly a gift from the village to the community,” Dashiell said.
She is so enthusiastic about the response from Royal Palm Beach officials regarding hosting the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival.
“I cannot tell you how wonderful the village has been,” Dashiell said. “They have been so accommodating and so open to working with us. They have fully embraced us. It is a lot more work, and lot more challenging for us to do it that way.”
People attending the production are invited to bring a beach chair or blanket, picnic basket and enjoy on-site concessions each evening.
Dashiell noted that the number of Royal Palm Beach attendees has grown each year, and she expects strong growth this year, with fans of the Jupi-
“Artistic Director Trent Stephens has put together a brilliant script that plays to the strength of our talented performers.”
— Elizabeth Dashiell, Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival
ter production also excited about a festival offering during the winter months.
She urged everyone to show up and bring a friend, since they don’t require tickets or an admission fee — and haven’t for 35 years.
“We love the fact that people who were toddlers when they first saw a production are involved in the company now,” Dashiell said. “We were founded to provide a professional theatrical experience to local residents.”
She is hopeful that this ambitious change will work out.
“If everyone enjoys this and it turns out to be a success, we will work to keep it going next year, and we will continue to have two shows a year,” Dashiell said.
After the Royal Palm Beach shows, the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival’s 35th anniversary season continues with the Shakespeare by the Sea XXXV production of The Winter’s Tale set for July 10-20, Thursdays through Sundays, at the Seabreeze Amphitheater in Jupiter’s Carlin Park, produced in partnership with the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department.
The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival’s Shakespeare by the Palms V and Shakespeare by the Sea XXXV productions are made possible thanks to generous support from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Village of Royal Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Cultural Council, and Gary & Katherine Parr. Additional funding is provided by Frank Cona & Lisa Calberg and an anonymous donor.
The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival is a nonprofit professional theater company dedicated to enhancing the accessibility and appreciation for Shakespearean, classic and contemporary theater. For more information about the festival, www.pbshakespeare.org.
Tristen Hooks as Orlando in As You Like It.
The evolution of MRI
The evolution of MRI
What a weight-bearing MRI reveals vs. a Supine MRI
G-scan Brio Reveals What Supine MRI Misses
Conventional
G-scan Brio Reveals What Supine MRI Misses
G-scan Brio Reveals What Supine MRI Misses
Conventional MRI may not demonstrate the pathology related to these symptoms, but G-scan Brio gives you a new point of view so you can accurately diagnose MSK pathologies affected by weight-bearing position.
The
Conventional MRI may not demonstrate the pathology related to these symptoms, but G-scan Brio gives you a new point of view so you can accurately diagnose MSK pathologies affected by weight-bearing position.
More Detail, Better Accuracy, Greater Confidence
More Detail, Better Accuracy, Greater Confidence
G-scan Brio: Adds Weight To Your Diagnosis
The
The G-scan Bro is superior to other MRIs because both the magnet and patient can rotate from 0 to 90 degrees.
G-scan Brio offers a revolutionary MRI approach that increases diagnostic accuracy and confidence for musculoskeletal applications.
G-scan Brio: Adds Weight To Your Diagnosis
G-scan Brio: Adds Weight To Your Diagnosis
G-scan Brio offers a revolutionary MRI approach that increases diagnostic accuracy and confidence for musculoskeletal applications.
G-scan Brio offers a revolutionary MRI approach that increases diagnostic accuracy and confidence for musculoskeletal applications.
The Vision
Care You Trust You
Lee S. Freidman, MD
Randy S. Katz, MD
Steven M. Naids, MD
Megan A. Rowlands, MD
James M. Walsh, OD
Education Through Innovation At Palm Beach State College
BY DEAN GLORIOSO
Changing lives is not easy. But when you’re the oldest college in the community, it’s kind of what you do.
Check your history. It’s 1933 and the country is firmly in the grasp of the Great Depression. Daily life is a struggle for most. A world war looms in the near future, one that changes the global landscape for decades. And, despite the challenges of the time, Florida’s first junior college opens its doors to 41 students in West Palm Beach.
Nearly a century later, Palm Beach State College is still the community’s college, boasting 40,000 students across five campuses, an annual $1.3 billion economic impact on Palm Beach County, and a mission
to transform lives and strengthen the community, particularly through health sciences.
Palm Beach State College has been sending its nursing and medical technician students to a myriad of partner hospitals, including Wellington Regional Medical Center, to complete their onsite clinical training. Now, with local facilities not always able to accommodate this vital, real-world experience, the decrease in training sites has prompted the Florida Center for Nursing to estimate a shortage of more than 50,000 registered nurses by 2025 and a need for 10,000 more medical and surgical technicians.
Increasing Palm Beach State’s ca-
pacity to train nursing students by way of simulation technology advances the quality of both the college’s health sciences programs and the community’s healthcare providers. With a 95 percent job placement rate for nursing graduates, Palm Beach State is sustaining a classroom-to-career pipeline of highly qualified medical professionals to the Palm Beach County community.
Palm Beach State’s progressive advancements are preparing tomorrow’s healthcare workers at three key locations: the Center of Excellence in Medical Simulation, the newly named Oristano Center for Innovation in Health Sciences and the Frank
DiMino Center for Medical Innovation at Loxahatchee Groves. Known as the college’s “medical technology campus,” Loxahatchee Groves has earned an apropos moniker with Palm Beach State’s foray into medical innovation.
The college’s Center of Excellence in Medical Simulation houses stateof-the-art simulators and equipment currently used in the healthcare field. In 2016, the Florida College System recognized the center with the Chancellor’s Best Practice Award, which recognizes exemplary initiatives and advancements at Florida’s state colleges. Moreover, to ensure best practice, the center has partnered with the University of Florida and the Yale New Haven Health System, leading institutions in the use of medical simulation.
Located on the Lake Worth campus, the renovated center replicates actual patient-care environments, including emergency and intensive care units. Medical procedures are enacted with human simulators, such as the SimMan 3G, a durable patient manikin used for realistic scenarios and hands-on experience. In addition, an ambulance simulator allows students to engage in transfer of care while high-tech innovation provides for authentic medical training. In fact, nursing students are now able to complete 50 percent of their clinical training through simulation rather
than the previous 25 percent, illustrating the need for and significance of expanding the existing center to accommodate larger cohorts of future nurses.
David Rutherford, vice president of advancement and CEO of the Foundation for Palm Beach State College, has been instrumental in securing much-needed funding for health sciences.
“Embracing this movement of innovation for healthcare education helps us to diminish barriers to skill acquisition, essential training and job preparation and placement,” he said. “Ultimately, the use of educational technology increases our capacity to supply the community with competent healthcare professionals.”
At the college’s Palm Beach Gardens campus, the Oristano Center for Innovation in Health Sciences is home to cutting-edge technology. Diagnostic Medical Sonography is Radiography’s flagship program, while Ophthalmic Medical Technology is nationally recognized and the only such program in the state that is accredited to offer Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist training.
The DiMino Center and newly constructed Dental and Medical Services Technology Center at the Loxahatchee Groves campus house Surgical Technology, Dental Hygiene and Health Information Technology,
as well as the Dental, Medical and Physical Assisting programs. While all use modern medical technologies, it’s still the human element that remains at the heart of health sciences at Palm Beach State College.
The role of any responsible institution of higher learning resides in the guidance of its students. Palm Beach State programs emphasize mentorship while providing students with experiences that allow them to develop fundamental skills, become confident in their fields of study and be better prepared for transitions to actual workplace environments.
With its commitment to ensuring the well-being of those who call this community home, Palm Beach State’s strongest contribution perhaps lies with emergency services, as 85 percent of Palm Beach County’s first responders complete their training with the college. Hopefully, we’ll never need these services, but, if we do, the care we receive likely came because of education through innovation at Palm Beach State College.
Learn more about Palm Beach State College at www.palmbeachstate.edu.
Discover Traditional, Authentic Mexican Cuisine At Los Agaves
BY SHANNON ANASTASIO
Great food in a great atmosphere has kept the crowds frequenting Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant in Royal Palm Beach, where the authentic flavors are served up expertly prepared with the freshest of ingredients.
Los Agaves
Mexican Restaurant
1179 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 798-1229 | www.losagavesmexicancuisine.com
Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant in Royal Palm Beach is a vibrant celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine and the rich traditions that make it so beloved. At Los Agaves, every dish tells a story, rooted in recipes passed down through generations in the owners’ hometown in Mexico. This dedication to authenticity is at the heart of every meal, where ingredients are fresh, flavors are bold, and every plate is prepared with care and passion. Whether you’re stopping by the restaurant for a quick lunch or gathering with friends and family for a festive dinner, Los Agaves offers an experience that goes beyond food.
When you step into Los Agaves, you’re greeted not only by the warm aroma of sizzling fajitas and fresh tortillas but also by the welcoming smiles of a team that treats each guest like family. It’s no wonder this spot has become a local favorite, known as a place where friends and families can meet to enjoy some of the best Mexican food in Royal Palm Beach. Every aspect of the dining experience reflects a commitment to doing things right. From their famous guacamole, prepared fresh at your table, to signature dishes like the Carnitas Bowl with slow-roasted pork, or the sizzling, perfectly marinated fajitas, Los Agaves serves up meals that are as satisfying as they are unforgettable.
The menu is a showcase of variety and freshness, with dishes that cater to every taste. For lighter appetites, the Agaves Salad and Veggie Bowl offer vibrant, healthy options packed with fresh produce and classic Mexican flavors. For heartier fare, the Arroz con Pollo, with its tender chicken strips and rich red sauce, and the Carne Asada, grilled to perfection, bring comfort and indulgence to your table. Each dish is carefully crafted, combining homemade Mexican rice, refried beans, and fresh garnishes like pico de gallo, sliced avocado and sour cream, ensuring that every bite is a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
The dedication to quality extends beyond the food to the very ethos of Los Agaves. Founders Maria and Fer-
The colorful interiors at Los Agaves complement the authentic Mexican dishes on the menu.
nando Chapman built their restaurant on wholesome values and a deep commitment to their community. They believe in serving others with the same care and attention they would offer to their own family. This philosophy is what sets Los Agaves apart, creating an environment where guests feel truly cared for and appreciated. In a world that often puts speed over substance, Los Agaves stands out as a place where quality and tradition come first.
Los Agaves also boasts great-tasting margaritas, with an impressive 20 flavors to choose from. Whether you prefer the classic lime, a sweet mango twist or something more adventurous, the margaritas are the perfect comple-
ment to the bold and savory dishes on the menu. Paired with the restaurant’s lively atmosphere and hospitality, it’s easy to see why Los Agaves is a destination for good times and great memories.
Located in the Village Royale shopping plaza at 1179 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Los Agaves is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., inviting guests to experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality that make it a true community gem.
Whether you’re craving a savory breakfast of Huevos Rancheros, a satisfying lunch like the Combo Taquito or a hearty dinner of sizzling fajitas, there’s something on the menu for everyone to enjoy.
With every dish made fresh to order and every guest treated like family, Los Agaves has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for authentic Mexican cuisine.
So, gather your loved ones, raise a margarita and discover why Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant is more than just a meal — it’s an unforgettable experi-
ence steeped in tradition, flavor and community.
To learn more about the many selections that Los Agaves has to offer, visit www.losagavesmexicancuisine.com.
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LosAgavesManager MariaChapman.
(Above) The Fajita Burrito features marinated chicken or steak, sautéed onions, bell peppers, Mexican rice and refried beans stuffed in a soft flour tortilla smothered in traditional Agaves burrito sauce and a perfect blend of melted cheese, topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream. (Inset) The Strawberry Margarita is one of 20 flavors to choose from.
Six Candidates Vying In March Village Election
BY JOSHUA MANNING
Royal Palm Beach residents will vote in contested municipal elections on Tuesday, March 11. Three candidates are running for mayor, while three are seeking the Group 3 seat.
Mayor Jeff Hmara, who was appointed mayor last October to fill the vacancy created by the unexpected death of Mayor Fred Pinto, is running to keep the village’s top job, challenged by Vice Mayor Selena Samios, as well as political newcomer Justin Plaza.
Jeff Hmara, who was first elected to the council in 2012, has been serving as mayor since Pinto passed away. He is running to continue the work he has been doing. “I have a number of ideas that I believe would lift this community from being a really good place to live to a really great place to live,” he said. One key focus would be on working with the county and other agencies on a countywide transportation plan. He also wants to provide more help for local schools. “The village can have more significant impact by engaging with schools more frequently and with greater depth,” Hmara said. Learn more about Hmara at www.votejeffhmara.com.
The race for Group 3 includes Steve Avila, who challenged Pinto for mayor last year, along with Pinto’s widow Donielle Pinto, and Sylvia Sharps.
Residents have a chance to meet the candidates and hear directly from them at a candidate forum hosted by the Town-Crier and the village on Monday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. The forum is open to the public and will be held in the Village Hall council chambers. It will also be broadcast and streamed live with the video later available on demand.
Justin Plaza is making his first bid for local office with a focus on a unique online platform he developed to enhance public participation in community governance called the 60|40 Platform, which he said allows residents a “vote after the vote.” “At heart, I’m a problem solver,” Plaza said. “I am at the point in my life that I want to give back.” He has a particular interest in how the village does bidding and contract negotiations, where he has a great deal of experience. Plaza has been a resident of Royal Palm Beach since 2016. He lives in the Madison Green neighborhood. Learn more about Plaza at www. rpbmayor.com.
Selena Samios, currently serving as vice mayor, was first elected to the council in 2016. “I am running for mayor to bring clear, results-driven leadership to Royal Palm Beach,” she said. “Our residents deserve straight answers and real solutions to the issues that impact our daily lives, not endless talk without action.” She said that she will continue her focus on the local senior population, local businesses and transparency. “I will preserve our village’s unique character by continuing to fight to reduce traffic congestion and manage growth responsibly,” Samios added. Learn more about Samios at www. selenaformayor.com.
Jeff Hmara Mayor’s Seat
Justin Plaza Mayor’s Seat
Selena Samios Mayor’s Seat
Steve Avila ran for mayor against Pinto last year. It was his first attempt at elected office. Avila’s focus will remain on his previous campaign themes of term limits, fighting overdevelopment and government transparency. “I received so much support this past election cycle,” he said. “I heard from so many people who want change that I decided to throw my hat in for this council seat.” Avila grew up in the community and graduated at the top of his class at Royal Palm Beach High School in 2007 before attending Dartmouth. Learn more about Avila at www.avilaforrpb.com.
Donielle Pinto, widow of the late mayor, said that she is running to continue the good work that her husband did for the village over the course of his 21 years in office. “My goal is to assist in continuing the passion of service to our citizens and the village that my husband was devoted to, especially for Royal Palm Beach being an even safer and wonderful place for entire families to live and thrive in,” she said. As a councilwoman, Pinto said that she would focus on safeguarding the village while listening to citizens and local business owners.
Sylvia Sharps ran for a seat on the Palm Beach County Commission in 2022 and her goals remain the same in this current campaign. “I just want to be a representative for the people and fulfill my goal to be an effective servant leader,” Sharps said. “Royal Palm Beach is a beautiful place to live. We are so blessed that we do not have a lot of the issues that other municipalities have.” Her focus on the council would be dealing with traffic woes, bringing more employment and more senior programs. Learn more about Sharps at www.sylviasharps.com.
