Lee Friedman, M.D.
Randy Katz, M.D.
Barry Schechter, M.D., F.A.A.O.
Jonathan Criss, M.D.
Megan Rowlands, M.D., M.P.H.
Steven Naids, M.D.
Jonathan Lam, M.D, M.B.A.
James Walsh, O.D.
EYE CARE for the E ntire Family
• General Eye Care
• Laser Cataract Surgery
• Laser Vision Correction/LASIK
• Medical & Surgical Retina (Macular Degeneration/Diabetic Retinopathy)
• Diabetic Eye Exams
• Corneal Transplantation, Tumors & Lesions of the External Eye
• Medical & Surgical Glaucoma
• Advanced Dry Eye Care & Treatment
• Pediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Strabismus
• Eye Allergy Treatments
volume 4, number 4
JULY/AUGUST 2024
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
Frank Koester
Melanie Kopacz
Mike May
Callie Sharkey
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.
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Barry S. Manning
Royal Palm The Magazine is published six times a year in Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Copyright 2024, 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.
Features
EMBRACING ARTISTRY AND EXCELLENCE AT DANCE UNIVERSE
Dance Universe in Royal Palm Beach is a testament to artistic dedication and excellence. Founded in 2010 by Artistic Director Traci-Ann Pearce Skinner, the studio has not only cultivated technical proficiency but also nurtured a profound love for dance among its students. BY
SHANNON ANASTASIO
from the publisher
18
15 A TEAMWORK APPROACH TO ORTHOPEDIC CARE
SERVING THE COMMUNITY
The South Florida Fair recently announced Becky Isiminger as its new board chair and also added eight new board members. Among them is Pam Rada of Wellington Regional Medical Center, who hopes that she can use her expertise to support the wider community. BY
SHANNON ANASTASIO
For more than 20 years, the Wellington Orthopedic Institute, led by Dr. Michael Mikolajczak, has been ready to provide professional care, advice, guidance and surgical assistance. BY MIKE MAY
Departments
ROYAL PALM TABLE
For something healthy and satisfying, visit Fresh Mangos, now open in the Mall at Wellington Green. The new location is the fifth outpost for this locally owned chain. BY MATTHEW AUERBACH
ROYAL PALM TODAY
Nestled within the industrial hub of Aldi Way, the recently unveiled sculpture titled “Transcendence” by South Florida artist Robert Fehre marks a significant addition to the village’s public art scene.
Dance is an art form that has been captivating the human spirit since the dawn of time. However, this age-old art form is being brought to new heights under the leadership of Artistic Director Traci-Ann Pearce Skinner at Dance Universe in Royal Palm Beach. We profile this inspiring local business this issue. Along the way, we also meet local photographer Neil Cohen of Neil Cohen Photography, which is also based in Royal Palm Beach. Neil took the amazing cover photo and inside photo for our Dance Universe feature.
Also in this issue, we learn about the work being done at the Wellington Orthopedic Institute, led by Dr. Michael Mikolajczak, and how many local leaders are serving the community through the board of directors at the iconic South Florida Fair.
If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy treat, look no further than Fresh Mangos, which opened recently in the Mall at Wellington Green and is our Royal Palm Table feature for this issue. This new location is the fifth South Florida outpost for this locally owned chain. Aside from amazing mango creations, they also offer smoothies, açaí bowls and more. Finally, Royal Palm Today takes a look at the unique new public art sculpture by artist Robert Fehre at the Aldi warehouse facility off State Road 7.
We hope that you are enjoying a wonderful South Florida summer. We will be back next issue with more exciting features of interest to everyone here in Royal Palm Beach.
Dawn Rivera, Publisher
Fourth Of July Celebration Brings A Day Of Fun Events To RPB Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club Hosts Installation Ceremony RPB’s Young At Heart Group Hosts Senior Citizen Prom Night
Dancer Shelby Elmore. PHOTO BY NEIL COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Dawn Rivera
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION BRINGS A DAY OF FUN EVENTS TO
The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its annual Fourth of July Celebration at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park on Thursday, July 4, filled with family-friendly fun, including a whirlwind of activities, delicious food, live music and spectacular fireworks to cap the evening. Music on stage included the Cher/KC and the Sunshine Band tribute band, an Earth, Wind & Fire tribute band and the Celebrate Three Dog Night tribute band. Before the fireworks lit up the sky, the Military Branch Tribute was held on stage.
(Left to right) Councilwoman Selena Samios, Councilman Richard Valuntas, Councilwoman Jan Rodusky and Mayor Fred Pinto welcome residents; Diane DiSanto with Cody, Lou Recchio and Beverly Atkins; Makenzie, Madison and Colton Ferry; PBSO Lt. Mike Ferrante, Deputy John Matthews, Agent Enrique Perez, Agent David Maccarone and Deputy Joao Pacheco; and Victoria Recchio with baby Kaylie Titley and dog Niko.
(Left to right) Celebrate, a Three Dog Night tribute band, performs onstage; the Greene family enjoys the music; Jake Hampu, Caden Oakley Hampu and Michelle Beaupied; Sam Rodriguez with Zero and Stephanie Rodriguez with Kouga; and fireworks light up the sky over Commons Park.
ROYAL PALM BEACH ROTARY CLUB HOSTS INSTALLATION
The Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club held its 34th annual awards dinner and installation ceremony on Saturday, June 29 at Hilary’s Restaurant with the theme “The Magic of Rotary.” Outgoing President Chris Durham presented several awards, including Rotarian of the Year to Keith Jordano and Rookie of the Year to Steve Avila. Incoming President Lynn Balch was installed by Eric Gordon.
(Left to right) Board members Lynn Balch, Jeff Hmara, Steve Avila, Keith Jordano, Chris Durham and Steve Epstein; Chris Durham presents Keith Jordano with the Rotarian of the Year award; Chris Durham gives Steve Avila the Rookie of the Year award; and Jeanette and Charlie Borg with Keith Jordano.
(Left to right) Phyllis and Mike Gauger, Matt and Alice Saroka, and Jeff and Carolyn Hmara; Steve Epstein and PBSO Capt. Ulrich Naujoks; Sally Balch, George Zahul and incoming President Lynn Balch; Eric Gordon installs Lynn Balch as president; and outgoing President Chris Durham receives a gavel plaque from incoming President Lynn Balch.
The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its Young at Heart Senior Citizen Prom Night on Friday, May 24 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The evening included dinner, dancing, raffles, a photo booth and awards. Event sponsors included the Capstone at Royal Palm Beach, Aetna, Wellington Regional Medical Center and Premier Family Health.
(Left to right) Best Dressed Queen and King Pearl and Tony Carey with Best Dancers King and Queen Andres Palacio and Primrose Graham; Maria Gonzalez, Francine Bryant, Vinette Tracy, Hilary Varlack, Lorna Pearson, Dolly Hughes and Prudel Bell; Dahlia Comerie and Charmaine Wint; and Jane Dhliwayo, Fay Currie and Merleen Parsons.
(Left to right) Ann Dean with Marina and Joe Coleman; gift card winners Rhonda Ninfo, Ann Dean, Monique Lananna and Dahlia Comerie; Shakeera Thomas with her husband Frank Ghezelaiagh; David and Sandra Samore; and Carolyn and Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara.
Dance Universe student Alexa Tatum. NEIL COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY
EMBRACING ARTISTRY AND EXCELLENCE
Dance Universe In RPB Lets Young Artists Explore The Boundless Possibilities Of Self-Expression
Through
Dance
BY SHANNON ANASTASIO
Perfectly centered in the heart of Royal Palm Beach, Dance Universe stands as a testament to artistic dedication and excellence. Founded in 2010 by Artistic Director Traci-Ann Pearce Skinner, the studio has not only cultivated technical proficiency but also nurtured a profound love for dance among its students.
With a commitment to blending classical foundations with contemporary innovation, Dance Universe offers a transformative space where young artists can explore the boundless possibilities of selfexpression through dance.
“In 2010, I had recently moved back to Florida from New York City. I wanted to re-invent what the typical dance studio was,” Pearce Skinner recalled. “I felt that our community needed a studio that would bring the professional, innovative dance world here — a boutique studio that would fit the needs of serious, elite dancers.”
The studio opened its doors with six high school-aged students. Now, in 2024, they have a studio with mostly serious, elite dancers ranging in age from 5 to 18. Along with that, some students are recreational dancers who take classes and
perform in studio showcases. The faculty, meanwhile, has grown from two to 10 staff members.
“Since 2010, we have established an outstanding reputation with prestigious colleges, college dance teams, dance competitions, summer programs and art schools in our area,” Pearce Skinner said.
Pearce Skinner’s journey from Palm Beach Gardens to the stages of New York City and beyond serves as the foundation upon which Dance Universe was built. Her early training at local studios and prestigious arts schools, including the Bak Middle School of the Arts in West Palm Beach and the Ailey School in New York City, laid the groundwork for an impressive career in dance. Her experiences performing across the United States in renowned productions and competitions underscore her commitment to elevating the art of dance and nurturing the next generation of performers.
At Dance Universe, fostering artistic
growth is the emphasis, which extends beyond technical proficiency to encompass holistic growth. Under Pearce Skinner, the studio’s faculty, which includes accomplished instructors like Charlotte Campagnuolo, fosters an environment where creativity flourishes. Campagnuolo’s background at the American Ballet Theatre and her accolades in choreography bring a wealth of experience to the studio, enriching students’ understanding of ballet, pointe, contemporary ballet and choreography.
Dance Universe’s commitment to artistic diversity is reflected in its extensive repertoire and performance opportunities. The studio’s ensemble, composed of students selected through an invitationonly process, undergoes rigorous training to prepare for performances, competitions and conventions nationwide. These experiences not only showcase the students’ talent but also instill confidence and resilience as they navigate the com-
“I felt that our community needed a studio that would bring the professional, innovative dance world here.”
— Traci-Ann Pearce Skinner
petitive world of dance. Jazz and Pilates teacher Isabella Murcia Santana exudes a passion for choreography and integrates her Pilates expertise throughout the training experience.
As Dance Universe celebrates past achievements and prepares for its 15th season, the studio continues to uphold its reputation for excellence.
“Our niche is offering the utmost elite training while also pushing the student’s artistic expression,” Pearce Skinner said. “As a boutique studio focusing on quality over quantity, we are a small, family-run business. Miss Joy, my mom, a retired nurse and our office manager, is called ‘Mama Joy’ by some, as she is everyone’s dance mom and takes such great care of our students. The elite training combined with a small family feel makes us truly special.”
Awards and scholarships earned by students at prestigious institutions such as the Juilliard School, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and the Tisch School of the Arts highlight the caliber of training provided.
“Our philosophy is that it is important to cater the training to each dancer’s needs,” Pearce Skinner said. “Dance education and training is not one size fits all. Principles I find essential are character development, resilience, mindfulness, value of teamwork, leadership, confidence, performance quality, self-expression, technical foundation and the importance of remaining humble.”
Beyond technical skill, Dance Universe prides itself on nurturing a supportive community of artists. Students of all ages and skill levels come together to learn and grow under the guidance of enthusiastic instructors. The studio’s commitment to inclusivity and mentorship ensures that each student receives personalized attention and encouragement, fostering a love for dance that extends beyond the studio walls.
Looking to the future, Dance Universe remains dedicated to expanding its impact on the local and national dance scene. By continuously evolving its curriculum, embracing new choreographic styles, and integrating innovative techniques, the studio ensures that its students are prepared to meet the challenges of a dynamic and competitive industry.
“I must say that we are immensely proud of our students and their recent accomplishments,” Pearce Skinner said. “Kailey Worontsoff, a recent graduate of Dance Universe, is a Young Arts Presidential Scholar and was accepted into the Juilliard School. Also, graduate Amanda Servidio is currently in contract with Royal Caribbean cruise line as a performing artist, and Ryan Jaffe is now dancing in a professional dance company.”
Moreover, students have recently won impressive awards at national conventions and competitions.
“We continue to have students accepted into college dance programs and dance teams, such as New York University, Fordham University, Southern
Methodist University, the University of Florida, Florida State University’s dance program, along with the Golden Girls and the University of Miami’s Sunsations,” Pearce Skinner said.
Campagnuolo is proud of the wellrounded curriculum at Dance Universe.
“Within our curriculum, we can find balance,” she said. “Classical ballet, refined technique and a solid foundation are very important to us. Within our class schedule, we make sure to offer these classes weekly. Within our choreography and class combinations, it is important for us to maximize creativity. Furthermore, we strive to diversify our repertoire and bring in guest artists who are up to date with fresh, innovative ideas.”
Whether a novice or an experienced performer seeking to refine your skills, Dance Universe welcomes individuals to explore the transformative power of dance.
“My advice would be to run with your sense of wonder,” Pearce Skinner said. “Never compare your own journey to anyone else’s, as that will never allow you to be fully present in your own training process. No dream is too big. With the right training, resilience, work ethic, passion, determination and grit, you will get there. Never give up!”
Thanks to Pearce Skinner and her dedicated faculty, which is inspiring and mentoring the next generation of dancers, Dance Universe continues to shape the future of dance education in South Florida and beyond.
Dance Universe is now gearing up for its 2024-25 season, and registration is now open for dancers eager to embark on a journey of artistic discovery.
Dance Universe is located in the Village Shoppes at 10485 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach, in the plaza with Burlington. For more information on classes, events and registration, visit www.danceuniversewpb. com or call (561) 784-0680.
Now With 2 Convenient
ON THE COVER
Neil Cohen is a wedding and lifestyle photographer based in Royal Palm Beach and the owner of Neil Cohen Photography. He creates dramatic photos using expert lighting, vivid colors and techniques he has mastered over two decades in his professional career. Neil prides himself on visual storytelling through his photographs.
When he was in high school, Neil’s family lived in Key West. His father, who had always loved photography, decided to open a photo lab. Neil started working there while in his junior year and quickly found his passion. His first photography class was taken his senior year, and he photographed his first wedding at 17 years old.
Shortly thereafter, in 2001, Neil received his associate’s degree in photography from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. While in school at the Art Institute, Neil was working at a small portrait studio in Weston when he received an offer to run the photography department for a company based in Boca Raton. After starting there, he quickly learned about the event industry.
Neil had to prepare for a very fast-paced, wild ride. While at that company, he learned to hone many skills, capturing weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, family portraits and corporate events. It wasn’t long before he found his niche as a people person and learned the ins and outs of the photography industry from the shooting side to the business side.
After a five-year run, it was time for Neil to start his own company. Neil Cohen Photography was established in June 2006, first based in Palm Springs. In 2016, the company relocated to Royal Palm Beach, where it remains today.
In 2011, Neil put on his first solo gallery show, “Passions Collide,” with a focus on dance photography, which portrayed beautiful dancers in rundown, dilapidated environments from Miami to Sebring. Soon thereafter, he became the staff photographer for a local dance magazine, which lasted for three years. Since then, he has put on four more solo shows.
Inspiration for his art comes from implementing different elements, such as rain, sparks, light painting, smoke, powder and now underwater to take the final result to the next level. Anyone can take a beautiful photo, but what separates Neil’s work from others is that his approach is that every shoot is his only one, and it has to stand out and leave the viewer with a “wow” factor.
www.neilcohenphotography.com
Dancer Shelby Elmore by Neil Cohen Photography
SERVING THE WIDER COMMUNITY
South Florida Fair Installs New Chair And Eight New Board Members, Including WRMC’s Pam Rada
BY SHANNON ANASTASIO
The South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions Inc. recently announced Becky Isiminger as the new chair of its board of directors and also added eight new members to its board. They were installed at the fair’s annual meeting on Thursday, April 25.
Among the new board members is Pam Rada of Wellington Regional Medical Center, who hopes that she can use her expertise to support the wider community.
“With my background and experience, I plan to leverage my skills by joining the South Florida Fair’s marketing committee and providing feedback on their already robust marketing program,” Rada said. “My goal is to help create compelling narratives that highlight the fair’s unique offerings and engage the community in meaningful ways. By doing so, I aim to enhance the
fair’s outreach and ensure it continues to captivate and connect with a diverse audience.”
Rada’s career spans more than 15 years of marketing, public relations and sales experience. She currently oversees the marketing, advertising and community outreach for Wellington Regional Medical Center. Prior to healthcare, Rada served as a marketing director in the shopping center industry.
“I am particularly excited to collaborate with the South Florida Fair’s marketing team to learn about and enhance their digital strategies for reaching a larger audience,” she explained. “Another initiative I am passionate about is contributing to special events and programs that celebrate the cultural diversity of South Florida. These projects will allow us to connect with a broader community and showcase the vibrant cultural
community that defines our region.”
Rada believes that her work at Wellington Regional fits well with her volunteer work with the South Florida Fair.
“At Wellington Regional, we pride ourselves on providing care you can count on to all members of the community,” she said. “We’ve extended this commitment to the South Florida Fair by sponsoring hand-washing stations and emergency services, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees. My experience in community outreach will help me foster strong connections and ensure that our engagement efforts at the fair reflect the same dedication to inclusivity and support.”
Rada hopes to help expand the reach of the South Florida Fair beyond its traditional communities of support.
“One of the biggest opportunities for growth lies in expanding our reach into
Shawna Ahmad Yinett Florentino
Ilan Kaufer Charity Lewis Chris McAllister
Pam Rada Frank Sardinha III Brannan Thomas
Becky Isiminger
“My goal is to help create compelling narratives that highlight the fair’s unique offerings and engage the community in meaningful ways.
By doing so, I aim to enhance the fair’s outreach and ensure it continues to
captivate and connect with a diverse audience.”
— Pam Rada
Healthcare. Beyond his professional commitments, he is deeply involved in community service, dedicating 13 years as a volunteer at the South Florida Fair.
Broward County through digital transformation. By leveraging new technologies and digital marketing strategies, we can effectively attract the Broward audience,” she said regarding the fair. “Additionally, enhancing our sustainability practices presents a significant chance to make the fair more eco-friendly and appealing to environmentally conscious attendees. I aim to contribute by bringing innovative ideas and best practices from my marketing background, fostering community partnerships, and driving initiatives that promote growth, inclusivity and sustainability.”
On the fair’s board, Isiminger replaces outgoing chair Robert Weisman. As the new chair, Isiminger is responsible for leading the 106-member volunteer board of directors and working closely with the executive staff of the fair to ensure the continued success of the nonprofit organization.
For the past 20 years, Isiminger has served as the corporate secretary/treasurer for Isiminger & Stubbs Engineering, overseeing the financial department. She has been a director at the fair since 2005 and a trustee since 2012. Beyond the fair, she currently serves on the Quantum House Board of Directors, is a past president of the Junior League of the Palm Beaches and is an elder at First Presbyterian Church in North Palm Beach.
Aside from Rada, other new board members are Shawna Ahmad, Yinett Florentino, Ilan Kaufer, Charity Lewis, Chris McAllister, Frank Sardinha III and Brannan Thomas.
Ahmad has been a Florida educator for 29 years. Currently, she teaches and learns with academically progressive high school students and colleagues at Seminole Ridge High School. Her goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity and kindness.
Florentino is a small business owner, providing consultancy services in the administrative realm. With a background in business, nonprofit organizations, marketing and accounting, she is passionate about helping and supporting business leaders lead with purpose in both the profit and nonprofit sectors. Her interests include leadership, business development and innovation.
Kaufer serves as the external affairs manager for Florida Power & Light Company. In that role, he manages external relations for portions of Palm Beach County and all of Okeechobee County. He has worked for FPL since 2009 and has served the company in various roles.
Lewis works as the civic engagement supervisor for the City of West Palm Beach. With many years of experience in fulfilling multifaceted roles in customer and public service, in both the public and private sector, she possesses a unique blend of communications, marketing and public relations expertise.
McAllister is a registered nurse with more than a decade of experience in the emergency department, currently serving as a team manager at VITAS
Sardinha is a practicing attorney in Palm Beach Gardens at Loren & Kean Law. A proud Palm Beach County native, he has been attending the South Florida Fair since elementary school. Since 2005, he has volunteered for the Florida American Legion Boys State, serving as its executive director for several years, and on its board of directors since 2018.
Thomas is the director of community relations for U.S. Sugar. In this role, he manages the company’s community support and engagement initiatives, serving the Glades and coastal communities where the U.S. Sugar people live and work. He is responsible for overseeing U.S. Sugar’s generous community outreach efforts.
The South Florida Fair is produced by the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County Expositions Inc., a nonprofit organization, and has a longstanding tradition of raising funds for educational and charitable purposes. The 2025 South Florida Fair will be held Jan. 17 through Feb. 2. The fair staff also present many additional events throughout the year.
For additional information about the fair, call (561) 793-0333 or visit www. southfloridafair.com.
A TEAMWORK APPROACH TO PATIENT CARE
The
Wellington Orthopedic
Institute Provides Expert Treatment For A Wide Range Of Conditions
If you have an orthopedic issue involving your neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles or feet, you don’t have to travel far to find medical help. For more than 20 years, the Wellington Orthopedic Institute has been ready to provide patients with professional care, advice, guidance and surgical assistance, if necessary.
Located on the campus of Wellington Regional Medical Center, the Wellington Orthopedic Institute team is led by Dr. Michael Mikolajczak, known as Dr. Mike. For more than 12 years, he has been assisted by certified physician
assistant Leah Saporito. They are a dynamic duo of orthopedic care and surgical procedures.
Dr. Mike’s local roots go all the way back to the 1980s, back when the intersection of Forest Hill Blvd. and State Road 7 had a flashing red light.
With each patient who enters the Wellington Orthopedic Institute office, the ability to efficiently communicate is the key to a successful experience.
“If you speak with the patient, ask questions and listen, they will often tell you what the real problem is,” said Dr. Mike, whose practice deals with patients
who range in age from adolescent teenagers to those more than 100 years old. “We are now treating three generations of people within the same family.”
“On occasion, a patient presents having back pain, but it is often traced to the hips,” Saporito added.
A major strength of the practice is its teamwork approach.
“I have a dedicated team here,” Dr. Mike said. “My office manager has been with me for 23 years, my X-ray technician has been with me for 13 or 14 years, and Leah has been working here for 12 years or so.”
STORY BY MIKE MAY | PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN
Strong customer service is another strength of the Wellington Orthopedic Institute. “We are a boutique orthopedic group. Every patient has different needs,” Saporito said. “We make sure that every phone call to the office gets answered by a person in the office.”
While the business hours for the Wellington Orthopedic Institute are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dr. Mike is available at any time if a patient really needs help.
“I’m available 24/7 for my patients,” he said. “If they need me, I’m available to help.”
While he is an experienced, proven and talented surgeon, surgery is always his last and least preferred course of action.
“We take great pride in a course of action where patients have control over their care,” Dr. Mike said. “We give each patient the best evaluation based on a physical exam and a conservative approach to their care. Surgery is the last option for most patients when exhaustive, conservative care fails.”
When Dr. Mike enters the operating room — either in the hospital or at his surgery center — he is usually assisted
by Saporito. She is impressed by his attention to detail. “He’s very meticulous in every operation,” she said.
The atmosphere in the operating room, while sterile, is serious and upbeat.
“During surgery, I like to listen to music that patients usually select,” Dr. Mike noted. “The music is a background tranquilizer for the patient.”
Successful orthopedic practices, such as Wellington Orthopedic Institute, are often known for their stunning success stories. And the Wellington Orthopedic Institute is no exception.
Wellington Orthopedic Institute staff members (L-R) certified physician assistant Leah Saporito, Wendy Ibanez, Claudia Rodriguez, Jennifer Tesauro, Beate Hernandez and Dr. Michael Mikolajczak.
“A few years ago, a man in his 90s was pushed into our office while in a wheelchair, and he was in very bad physical shape,” Saporito said. “He had a bad hip and didn’t think anything could be done. He was in desperate need of help, and he was high-risk, due to his age. Well, we performed hip surgery, and he recovered. Two years later, he walked into our office unassisted and asked that we operate on his other hip. And we did, with success.”
The Wellington Orthopedic Institute also has worked on many patients within the equestrian arena from around the world — riders, handlers, trainers and owners.
“About 12 years ago, U.S. Olympic jumper McClain Ward suffered a shattered knee,” Dr. Mike said. “I operated on him, fixed his knee, and he returned to competition within a few months. He competed in the Olympics a few months later, and he won a gold medal in the team competition.”
The Wellington Orthopedic Institute also works with athletes in many other sports to repair most extremity injuries.
In addition to providing care for human beings, Dr. Mike has a successful
track record of operating on animals in the western communities, as a volunteer.
“I’m a voluntary consultant with Lion Country Safari,” he said. “I operated on Lissa, the white rhinoceros, about five or six times. She lived for another 10 years. She had a cancerous tumor on her horn, which was successfully treated.”
Dr. Mike is always reminding patients what they can do to stay healthy.
“We are always telling our patients to exercise regularly by riding a bike, going swimming, using an elliptical machine, doing yoga and/or going to a Pilates class,” he said. “Those forms of exercise are easier on the joints. Also, I’m always reminding my patients about making better footwear decisions.”
He understands the importance of his patients maintaining a high quality of life and is committed to making that a priority. “Joint mobility and balance are the keys to life,” Dr. Mike said.
In addition to providing words of wisdom to his patients, he practices what he preaches.
“I try to keep myself in good physical shape. I currently enjoy biking, swimming and playing golf,” Dr. Mike add-
ed. “I played competitive basketball and baseball until I was in my 50s.”
Another positive influence was his father.
“My dad was a master tool and die maker,” Dr. Mike said. “Having to deal with that kind of equipment and mechanical knowledge helped me with my orthopedic skills.”
Even though Dr. Mike admits that he’s now in the “autumn” of his life, he has no plans to slow down, as he enjoys helping residents of the western communities.
Through the years, Dr. Mike has been active in the local hospital and community growth. He has served on multiple hospital staff positions at Wellington Regional Medical Center during his tenure. From a present member of the orthopedic steering committee and active teaching staff, he has served as chief of surgery and past chief of staff.
“I feel voluntary positions helped grow the hospital, community and medical staff,” Dr. Mike said.
The Wellington Orthopedic Institute is located at 10115 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 102, on the campus of Wellington Regional Medical Center. For more information, call (561) 670-2010 or visit www.orthowellington.com.
Dr. Michael Mikolajczak and certified physician assistant Leah Saporito go over a patient’s X-rays.
Dr. Michael Mikolajczak at his desk.
ENJOY QUICK AND HEALTHY SNACKS AND TREATS AT FRESH MANGOS
BY MATTHEW AUERBACH
For something healthy and very satisfying, visit Fresh Mangos, now open in the Mall at Wellington Green. This new location is the fifth South Florida outpost for this locally owned chain.
You can work up quite an appetite during a day of shopping. If you’re looking to dive into something healthy and tasty during a break in your buying, head on over to Fresh Mangos. The company recently opened its fifth South Florida location in the Mall at Wellington Green.
Fresh Mangos began as a way to fill a need for shoppers.
“We observed that malls had very few, if any, healthy snack options for their customers,” owner Jessica Tafur said. “If someone is hungry while in the mall, they have to eat some kind of junk food or high-carb or high-sugar snack. We decided to change that and offer something healthy and delicious.”
Fresh Mangos has been around since 2018, when the first Fresh Mangos opened at the Palm Beach Outlets (now the Tanger Outlets). Since then, they’ve developed a menu that’s hard to beat.
“Now we have mangos with more than 20 topping choices, depending on the location, up to four varieties of natural juice, frozen drinks, açaí and pitaya bowls, smoothie bowls, parfaits, fruit bowls, energizing teas, boba tea and more,” Tafur said.
If you like to eat your mangos sliced, you’re in the right place.
“The five sliced mango options on the menu were actually the clients’ top five combinations,” she said. “We decided to name the most popular combinations and put them on the menu for convenience, and to make the ordering process faster.”
You can choose between the Classic, Mexican Spicy, Flavor Explosion, Sweet Temptation or the Build Your Own, each with their own particular toppings, to satiate your mango mania.
As for which offerings are among customers’ favorites, it’s a question of where and who.
“This really depends on the mall we are in and the demographic of our customers,” Tafur said. “But in general,
besides the mangos with toppings, the smoothies and açaí, pitaya and smoothie bowls are very popular.”
What, then, is the magic of the mango? Apparently, it all comes down to its adaptability.
“Mangos are one of those fruits that grow in just about every continent and are enjoyed in so many different ways,” Tafur said. “In Latin America alone, there are many ways of eating this fruit. Some like it green with salt and lime, others ripe and sweet, still others like to add hot sauce or sweet condensed milk. Travel to Asia, where it is eaten with sticky rice and cilantro, and then North America, where it is enjoyed ripe and in smoothies and drinks. The possibilities with mangos are quite vast.”
Fresh Mangos is well-aware that time is of the essence. Maybe you’re on a lunch break, maybe you’ve only got a few minutes to spare and need something to “grab and go.” Not only are they ready for you, but Fresh Mangos is also dedicated to making sure whatever you’re buying will keep you in the game.
“We like to think of ourselves as healthy fast food,” Tafur said. “We have our fruit ready to go, our juice is in the dispensers, and everyone has been trained in the most efficient way of preparing everything, so we can get our customers taken care of quickly. We are not as fast as a drive-through, since everything is made to order, but we do our best to be quick.”
Fresh Mangos and the Mall at Wellington Green is a match made in commercial heaven. They’d been waiting to set up shop in the area for a while, and finally, all the stars aligned.
“We have been wanting to open in this mall for years, but for several reasons, that was not possible,” Tafur said. “Many of our customers would come to our Tanger Outlet location in West Palm Beach and ask us if we would open in Wellington. We finally did! We are a bit hidden, but you can find us on the first
(Clockwise from top) Fresh Mangos has a wide variety of treats to enjoy; the Mixed Fruit Bowl features mango, banana, strawberry, blueberry and two toppings; the Sweet Temptation; the Strawberry Rainbow Boba Tea; and the Flavor Explosion Mango with mango slices, salt, pepper, seasoning and vinegar. (Top left) The Flavor Explosion Mango with the Bonjour Parfait featuring layers of strawberry yogurt, sliced banana, mango, strawberry, blueberries, granola and whipped cream.
floor, in front of California Pizza Kitchen. Our clients in the western communities also deserve a healthy snack alternative.”
Check out Fresh Mangos during your next visit to the Mall at Wellington Green, and you — and everyone with you — will come away happy.
“We do not just have to be a snack, we have sandwiches and crepes as well for a larger meal,” Jessica said. “We have many families stop by, and everyone finds something on the menu that they like. Parents are happy their kids got a healthy snack, and kids are happy with their snack. Young adults and teens can also find something to their liking, usually smoothies or frozen drinks or boba tea. For our clients who like to work out, we have protein smoothies and zero sugar energizing teas. We have something for everyone.”
Fresh Mangos is located on the lower level of the Mall at Wellington Green across from California Pizza Kitchen and near Dillard’s. For more information, visit www.myfreshmangos.com.
(Top row, left to right) The Strawberry Lemonade; the Peruvian Açaí Bowl features açaí paste topped with mango, strawberries, blueberries and honey; the Mexican Spicy Mango features mango slices, lime juice, salt, Tajin, chamoy and Valentina hot sauce; the wonderfully colorful Butterfly Pea Lemonade; the Green Detox Shake with spinach, mango, pineapple and banana; the Classic Mango features mango spirals with lime juice, salt and pepper; and the Frozen Mango Juice is great for cooling off on a warm day. (Bottom row left) A look at some of the many drink varieties available at Fresh Mangos. (Middle row right) The Mango Peach Energizing Tea and the Mexican-inspired Frozen Mangonada drink with frozen mango juice, Tajin, chamoy, fresh lime juice and pieces of mango. (Bottom row right) The Fresh Mango Cosmo Smoothie.
(Below) The Fresh Mangos location in the Mall at Wellington Green is designed to look like a farmer’s market. It is located on the lower level near California Pizza Kitchen and Dillard’s.
FINDING ART IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
Royal Palm Beach’s Newest Public Sculpture Is At The Aldi Warehouse Center
In the bustling landscape of Royal Palm Beach, amid the construction of warehouses and distribution centers along State Road 7, a new beacon of creativity has emerged. Nestled within the industrial hub of Aldi Way, the recently unveiled sculpture titled “Transcendence” marks a significant addition to the village’s public art scene.
Designed by South Florida artist Robert Fehre, “Transcendence” stands as a testament to innovation and perseverance. Composed of three towering steel pipes arranged in an ascending formation, the sculpture symbolizes
progress and the journey in overcoming obstacles. Within these pipes are intricately welded circular rings, adding a sense of movement and depth to the artwork. Fehre, known for his diverse artistic repertoire spanning photography, painting and sculpture, drew inspiration from the vibrant hues and geometric forms of South Florida’s natural landscape.
The genesis of the “Transcendence” piece stems from Royal Palm Beach’s commitment to integrating art into its community fabric through its Art in Public Places ordinance. Champi-
oned by Councilwoman Jan Rodusky in 2018, the Art in Public Places ordinance mandates that a percentage of construction costs be allocated to artistic endeavors. “Transcendence” serves as a cultural anchor amid the industrial/warehouse development of the Aldi regional distribution center off SR 7. This initiative not only enriches the aesthetic appeal of the area but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and its surroundings.
Robert Fehre, based in West Palm Beach, holds a degree from the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sara-
Robert Fehre’s sculpture “Transcendence” (shown above) is now in place along Aldi Way.
sota. His goal was to create a permanent fixture that resonates with both residents and visitors. It was created through a collaborative effort between
the artist and the developer. The sculpture’s strategic placement within the Aldi Way warehouse site ensures that it is accessible to all, inviting passersby to enjoy and contemplate its symbolism. Beyond its artistic merit, “Transcendence” serves as a gathering point, encouraging dialogue and sparking curiosity among those who encounter it.
Royal Palm Beach, known for its dynamic blend of residential tranquility and commercial vigor, embraces “Transcendence” as a testament to its forward-thinking spirit. As the village continues to evolve, so does its cultural landscape.
Public art initiatives like this not only beautify the community but also stimulate economic growth and tourism, positioning Royal Palm Beach as a destination where creativity thrives.
In unveiling “Transcendence,” Royal Palm Beach affirms its commitment to nurturing artistic expression in unex-
pected places. The sculpture stands as a reminder that art has the power to transcend boundaries, inspire change and forge connections across diverse communities. Whether admired from afar or explored up close, “Transcendence” invites all to witness the convergence of art and industry, where creativity flourishes amid the everyday.
This summer, the village is working on its own unique public art piece, having recently commissioned a work by renowned artist Beth Nybeck. Her “Rooted” sculpture will be at the north end of the reflection pool near the newly completed Royal Palm Beach Village Hall.
As Royal Palm Beach looks toward the future, these unique public art creations will stand as symbols of resilience and renewal — a testament to the village’s enduring spirit and its dedication to cultivating a vibrant cultural landscape for generations to come.
South Florida artist Robert Fehre with “Bhadrasana” (The Gracious Pose), at Norton Gallery Park in West Palm Beach.
Dr. Michael Mikolajczak, DO
Leah Saporito, PA-C
Dr. Michael Mikolajczak is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon who has been practicing conservative and surgical orthopedics for over 25 years in the western communities in Florida. He is blessed to be taking care of multiple generations of families. He practices comprehensive value based compassionate care. He specializes in conservative non-surgical care including the latest techniques in regenerative medicine. PRP/A2MG/STEM CELL in office procedures. He does the latest technology Reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, Anterior Approach total hip arthroplasty. Tru-Match total knee arthroplasty. Dr Mike is active in the hospital and community. He has served multiple leadership roles throughout his tenure. Dr Mike has a dedicated team who has been with him for over 20 years.
Wellington Orthopedic Institute (WOI) provides compassionate orthopedic care with boutique service to patients in Wellington and surrounding communities. The WOI team takes pride in finding the very best possible solutions for patients’ orthopedic needs.
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• Reverse Total Shoulders
• Anterior Approach
Total Hips
• Foot And Ankle Injuries
• Neck/Back Non-surgical
• Workers Compensation/ Auto
