WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – October 2024 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

TheBeautyof SouthernPalm

Our outdoor wedding venue is a private paradise where you can create the perfect wedding!

Weddings & Events: Please call or visit our website and send us a message about your wedding or event and your desired date!

Bed & Breakfast: Eight beautiful guest suites are available for nightly, weekly, monthly, and off season rates.

561-790-1413

15130 Southern Palm Way Loxahatchee, FL 33470 southernpalmbandb.com

Thank you for considering Southern Palm for your wedding! We are delighted that you are interested in our beautiful grounds and are committed to making certain that your event is everything you hope for. Our outdoor wedding venue is a private paradise where you can create the perfect wedding for you! Situated on 20 picturesque acres, the property offers several ceremony sites, paved areas for cocktail hour and reception, twinkling bistro lights, and so much more. Whether you are dreaming of rustic elegance, a tented soiree, or an intimate celebration, Southern Palm is the perfect canvas to design the wedding of your dreams.

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

Christina Charles

Shanta Daibee

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Abner Pedraza

contributors

Shannon Anastasio

Matthew Auerbach

Jim Barnes

Denise Fleischman

Frank Koester

Mike May

Callie Sharkey

Y.A. Teitelbaum

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33

Wellington, FL 33414

Phone: (561) 793-7606

Fax: (561) 793-1470 www.wellingtonthemagazine.com published by Wellington The Magazine, LLC chairman/ceo

Barry S. Manning

Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2024, 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.

PALM BEACH BRIDES 2024

Welcome to Palm Beach Brides 2024, where elegance meets sunshine! In this issue, we feature the wedding of local couple Amanda Peck and Thomas Wessels; visit with the party planners ready to help at the Wellington National Golf Club, the National Polo Center and the Wellington Community Center; and take a look at this year’s traditions and trends.

LOOK YOUR BEST WITH HELP FROM WELLINGTON REJUVENATION CENTER

QUALITY CARE CLOSE TO HOME AT P.W. HOSPITAL

At HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, a board of trustees made up of community leaders, physicians and hospital officials meet regularly to provide oversight of the hospital and advice to its board of managers. BY SHANNON ANASTASIO

Departments

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

WELLINGTON TODAY

Wellington’s commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability is reflected in the village’s spending plan for fiscal year 2025, which began Oct. 1, 2024. The budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels while maintaining its core infrastructure. BY JIM BARNES

WELLINGTON HISTORY

What if the Village of Wellington was never created? It almost happened! It took six years, three votes by residents and an unexpected victory in Tallahassee to make incorporation a reality. This month, we recall a battle that divided the community but set Wellington residents up to control their own destiny. BY JOSHUA MANNING

WELLINGTON TABLE

The fast-growing South Florida chain Carmela Toast & Coffee Bar has brought its proprietary Costa Rican coffee products, avocado toasts and much more to a new location in Wellington Green Square near Publix. BY MATTHEW AUERBACH

We’re so excited to present Palm Beach Brides 2024, our annual celebration of brides, grooms, love, marriage and more. In this section, you will meet our spotlight couple, Amanda and Thomas, and also visit some of the incomparable wedding venues available right here in Wellington, including the Wellington National Golf Club, the National Polo Center and the Wellington Community Center. Next, we look at some of the unique traditions and trends that everybody will be seeing in weddings this season.

Keeping with our wedding theme, we offer a fascinating Q&A with Dr. Kelly DiStefano of the Wellington Rejuvenation Center. She and her amazing staff offer a range of advanced aesthetic treatments tailored to brides, grooms and the entire wedding party. Meanwhile, at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, a board of trustees works to improve healthcare for everyone in the community. The board includes community leaders, such as attorney Mickey Smith, who we spoke to for this issue.

In Wellington Today, Village Manager Jim Barnes looks back over the many successes of the past fiscal year and looks forward to the many projects that Wellington has planned over the next year. Our Wellington History series continues with a look at the six-year battle for the incorporation of the Village of Wellington. Finally, Wellington Table visits Carmela Toast & Coffee Bar, a fast-growing South Florida chain that recently opened in Wellington. We will be back next month with our annual Equestrian Season Preview issue, as we wind our way toward the festive holiday season and look ahead to all that 2025 has to offer Wellington residents.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

Bride and groom

Amanda Peck and Thomas Wessels, featured in Palm Beach Brides 2024. PHOTO BY JACK BATES PHOTOGRAPHY

Palm Beach Dramaworks’ 2024-25 Season

Twenty-fifth anniversaries are traditionally commemorated with a gift of silver. But when Palm Beach Dramaworks embarks on its twenty-fifth anniversary season in November, what the company has in store for its audience is pure gold. PBD will celebrate this milestone occasion with an eclectic array of invigorating plays that epitomize the notion of “Theatre to Think About.”

The season features revivals of Ronald Harwood’s The Dresser and Mark St. Germain’s Camping with Henry and Tom, two compelling plays that were performed early in the company’s history; the world premiere of Gina Montet’s Dangerous Instruments, which continues PBD’s commitment to new plays; Neil Simon’s Pulitzer Prize-winning Lost in Yonkers; and Stephen Karam’s Tony Award-winning The Humans

“When PBD was founded in 2000, we believed that there were local audiences hungry for challenging work, plays that illuminate the human condition and resonate in deeply personal ways,” said Producing Artistic Director William Hayes. “We were naïve enough to think, ‘If you build it, they will come.’ It turned out that we were correct. We are so grateful to the community for their steadfast support and encouragement as we have expanded and evolved.”

That evolution is exemplified by the company’s new plays festival. Launched

Don & Ann Brown Theatre

in 2019, it officially became the Perlberg Festival of New Plays last season. PBD’s goal is for the festival to become a leader in fostering the future of the American theatre canon. This popular annual event, which will be held from January 17-19, 2025, features professional readings of five developing plays, each one followed by a post-performance discussion. “Playwrights have told us again and again how nurturing, informative, and invaluable the festival is for them,” said Hayes. “And our audiences love the opportunity to offer feedback to the playwrights, as it gives them a part in the development process.”

Here’s a look at each of the season’s plays:

LOST IN YONKERS

By Neil Simon

November 1-17, 2024

Set during World War II, this funny and touching Pulitzer Prize-winning memory play is both an exploration of the wounds inflicted by family, and a testament to the power of familial love and resiliency.

THE DRESSER

By Ronald Harwood

December 20, 2024 - January 5, 2025

The co-dependent – if unequal – relationship between Sir, a renowned but fading actor, and Norman, his devoted, self-sacrificing dresser, is the heartbeat of this warts-andall, tragicomic valentine to the transcendent magic of theatre.

WORLD PREMIERE

THE HUMANS

By Stephen Karam

February 14 - March 2, 2025

“A family play that is sort of infected by my love of the thriller genre,” is how the playwright once described this Tony Awardwinning comedy drama, in which the foibles, fears, and fragilities of an American family play out with great insight, humor, and compassion.

CAMPING WITH HENRY AND TOM

By Mark St. Germain

April 11 - 27, 2025

A work of fiction inspired by an actual 1921 camping trip taken by Warren G. Harding, Henry Ford, and Thomas Edison – three men with starkly different personalities and world views – the play deals with issues and ideas that remain as relevant today as they were 100 years ago.

World Premiere DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS

By Gina Montet

May 23 - June 8, 2025

Laura, a single mother, finds herself thrust into a gripping battle against a broken system when her son, Daniel, spirals into darkness. She must confront a parent’s deepest fears and sacrifice everything to rescue Daniel from the brink of becoming America’s next tragic headline.

For ticket information contact the box office at (561) 514-4042, or visit www.palmbeachdramaworks.org.

WELLINGTON ROTARY HOLDS ANNUAL WORLD PEACE DAY CEREMONY

The Rotary Club of Wellington held its annual World Peace Day ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 22 at Wellington Rotary Peace Park. The ceremony is aimed at promoting multicultural understanding as a means to achieve world peace. The words on the peace poles — “May Peace Prevail on Earth” — were read in eight different languages by local residents. Students were recognized for their contributions for promoting world peace through posters, poetry and essays. Mayor Michael Napoleone read the Peace Declaration and local dignitaries made speeches. The ceremony concluded with Dr. Wes Boughner’s release of peace doves.

(Left to right) One of the peace poles at Wellington Rotary Peace Park; Wellington Rotary President Walter Imperatore addresses the gathering; Vice Mayor John McGovern at the podium; Councilwoman Maria Antuña speaks; and elementary school poster competition winner Grace Ehrlich with Caroline Pena.

(Left to right) Councilwoman Maria Antuña, Vice Mayor John McGovern, Student Motivational Award for Resolutions Today (SMART)

winner Jennifer Han of Palm Beach Central High School and Mayor Michael Napoleone; George Kinoshita leads the Pledge of Allegiance; Carly Cantor sings the national anthem; and Mayor Michael Napoleone reads the Peace Declaration.

(Left to right) Elementary school poster competition winner Emily Le with her teacher Dr. Nicole Crane and Caroline Pena; elementary school poster competition winner Sophia White with her teacher Erica Bordonaro and Caroline Pena; elementary school poster competition winner Nathalie Luna-Guitierrez with her teacher Lisa Gifford and Caroline Pena; elementary school poster competition winner Fateh Singh with Jennifer Patterson; Maria Fernanda Cruz with middle school poetry contest winner Sabio Petiote; and Maria Fernanda Cruz with middle school poetry contest winner Ethan Oliver.

(Left to right) Middle school poetry contest winner Vanisha Mathurin receives her award; high school essay competition winner Erika Braswell with her teacher Flora Rigolo and Maria Fernanda Cruz; Jay Broder presents the Student Motivational Award for Resolutions Today (SMART) to Palm Beach Central High School student Jennifer Han; Randy Pfeiffer presents the Community Peace Award to Diana Stanley, accepted by John Gillmore; and Dr. Wes Boughner releases the peace doves.

Beautiful, Healthy You!

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH and Associates

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH, FAAD

Irina Milman, DO, FAAD

Paloma Reiter, DO, FAAD

Justin Rubin, DO, FAAD

Sheril Campbell, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

Brianna Victoria, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

Paloma Reiter DO, MHS

Justin Rubin DO, FAAD Irina Milman DO, FAAD

wellington | social scene PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR WELLINGTON SPORTS ACADEMY

A groundbreaking ceremony was held Saturday, Sept. 7 for the Wellington Sports Academy project at Village Park. Wellington Sports Academy is a public-private partnership between the Village of Wellington and Wellington Athletics, a company led by 10-year NFL veteran Jon Bostic. Bostic, a Palm Beach Central High School graduate and former University of Florida linebacker, is joined by a number of other sports luminaries on the project, which will offer advanced athletic training to talented participants across multiple sports.

The experienced and compassionate breast surgeons at Palm Beach Health Network Physician Group provide patients with diagnostic procedures and tissue-conserving surgical options utilizing some of the most advanced technology.

CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS:

• Benign Breast Disease

• Breast Cancer

• Cryoablation of Breast Tumors

• High Risk Surveillance

• Oncoplastics

• Intraoperative Radiation Therapy

(Left to right) Dignitaries from the Village of Wellington join Jon Bostic and representatives of Wellington Athletics for the groundbreaking; Verdex Construction Project Executive Colin Stephens, CEO Rex Kirby, Project Executive Rob Lees, Vice President Alex Smith and Superintendent John Sabatano; Brad Peacock, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Devon Travis, Jon Bostic, Sean Burnett and Scott Feyereisen; and Jon Bostic with Wellington’s Markus Lockhart, Michelle Garvey and Eric Juckett.

(Left to right) Tony Nelson, Jon Bostic, Jacqueline Bostic and Brian Tilley; Devon and Bo Travis with Jon Bostic; members of the Crowned Pearls of Wellington with Jon Bostic and Dr. Brian Coleman; and an artistic rendering of what the finished project will look like.

Kathleen Minnick, MD Breast Surgeon

Donna H. Kleban, MD, FACS Breast Surgeon

WELLINGTON’S LAKESIDE MARKET NOW OPEN THURSDAY

EVENINGS

On Thursday, Sept. 5, Wellington’s Lakeside Market officially kicked off its new season with a new night and new location. This year, the market has moved to the Wellington Amphitheater grounds on Thursday evenings and includes even more vendors, joined by food trucks. Hundreds of people came out for the opening evening and enjoyed a pop-up German beer garden with Bavarian music. Later, Almost ABBA hit the main stage, keeping everyone entertained with ABBA tribute music. The event will continue each week on Thursday evenings until the spring. Learn more at www.wellingtonlakesidemarket.com.

(Left to right) Vice Mayor John McGovern, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and Councilwoman Maria Antuña excite the crowd with t-shirt cannons; Almost ABBA performs on the Wellington Amphitheater stage; Bavarian Bob plays German music at the pop-up beer garden; and Danielle Kemp and Gary Atwell enjoy Bavarian beer and music.

(Left to right) Robert Vasvary of Tennessee Bob’s Hot Sauce Company; Michelle Hayward, Frank Cochrane and Sandra White enjoy the evening; Renee Ferrin and Jessica Quastler of the American German Club of the Palm Beaches; Bengala Ngobene with his Chakalaka hot sauces; and Liat, Mike and Noah Bruck enjoy their food truck treats.

B&G CLUB HOSTS A SOCIAL GATHERING AT MOLÉ MEXICAN CANTINA

The advisory board of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington hosted a social gathering at Molé Mexican Cantina on Thursday, Aug. 29. The gathering helped bring awareness to upcoming events, including the Trunk or Treat in October and the annual Wellington Dinner Dance in January. Guests enjoyed drinks, appetizers, a DJ and time to mingle with local community members. About 40 people were in attendance, including several members of the Wellington Village Council and Jaene Miranda, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County.

(Left to right) Wellington Village Council members Amanda Silvestri, Maria Antuña, Michael Napoleone and John McGovern with Boys & Girls Club board members; Board Member Marcella Montesinos with Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County CEO Jaene Miranda; Luc Limbourg, Duane O’Connor, Patricia Limbourg and Lisa Tvedten; and Kevin Crosby and Charles Orozco of event sponsor JP Morgan.

(Left to right) Mary Coleman, Wellington Vice Mayor John McGovern and Marcella Montesinos; Jenny Pettis-Hassell and Debra Jackson; Louis and Beth Eisenberg; Ian Williams and Byron Smith; and board members Marcella Montesinos and Luc Limbourg with Wellington Mayor Michael Napoleone.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER

Welcome to Palm Beach Brides 2024, where elegance meets sunshine! This season, we celebrate love in the heart of paradise, showcasing breathtaking venues, stunning gowns and unforgettable moments. From intimate ceremonies on the beach to grand receptions in lush gardens and polo fields, our features highlight the vibrant spirit of South Florida weddings. Join us as we explore the latest trends, local vendors and inspiring stories that make this tropical destination the perfect backdrop for your dream wedding.

A Amanda Thomas

Amanda Peck and Thomas Wessels were married on Feb. 23, 2024, at the picturesque Pelican Club in Jupiter. Wellington The Magazine recently had a chance to catch up with the newlyweds and learn more about their enchanted wedding.

Their love story is a beautiful testament to fate, joy and family traditions, making their special day unforgettable. The journey of Amanda and Thomas began in college at Florida Atlantic University, specifically at Blue Martini in Boca Raton. Their meeting was nothing short of serendipitous. As Thomas approached Amanda, his charming pick-up line, “You have the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen,” immediately caught her attention. Amanda playfully responded, “How many girls did you say that to tonight?” It was this exchange that sparked a connection, with Thomas knowing in that moment that Amanda was the

The proposal was a memorable occasion that perfectly captured their love story. Over Labor Day weekend, during a friends’ trip to Tampa, Thomas had planned a romantic surprise at Pier Teaki, a stunning rooftop bar in St. Petersburg. Faced with pouring rain, he was determined to wait it out. After the rain subsided, Thomas got down on one knee, surrounded by friends, as the sunset painted the sky. He had even hired a photographer, Ben Barbee of Jack Bates Photography, to capture the moment. Amanda was blissfully unaware of the plan, a testament to Thomas’s careful orchestration.

The couple exchanged vows at the elegant Pelican Club, where family and friends gathered to celebrate their union. The day was filled with personal touches, including Amanda wearing a stunning dress designed by Calla Blanche from Bacio Bacio Bridal in Wellington. A particularly poignant moment was when Amanda honored her family legacy by wearing her mother’s wedding dress, reimagined and handsewn by her sister and maid of honor, Alison, a fashion designer, for the reception. This beautiful garment represented a lineage of love, having been originally crafted by their grandmother, a seamstress.

“The most magical moment at my wedding was right before walking down the aisle,” Amanda recalled. “Throughout the whole wedding process, it never hit me until the doors were about to open before the ceremony. This was the moment I was the most emotional because it’s

Said ‘I Do’ February 23, 2024

Tell Us Your Wedding Story

a moment you never thought would come and dreamed about since you were a little girl. It was the moment you were actually getting married to your person, and all of your friends and family were in one place. This will probably be one of the only moments where friends and family from both sides will be together, so it’s really special.”

Their reception was a lively affair, marked by the couple’s first dance to “Millionaire” by Chris Stapleton, setting a romantic tone. Thomas’s brother, Kevin Wessels, was by his side, and he couldn’t have asked for a better best man. To kick off the celebration, Amanda and Thomas entered the reception to the infectious rhythm of “Pepas” by Farruko and surprised guests with espresso martinis, ensuring that the energy was high right from the start.

After the wedding, the couple delayed their honeymoon to the end of 2024, allowing them to settle into their new home just two days after tying the knot. They looked forward to a dream getaway in Italy, exploring the breathtaking cities of Rome, Florence and Sorrento — a fitting start to their new life together.

The wedding of Amanda and Thomas was not just a celebration of their love, but also a beautiful homage to family, heritage and shared joy. As they embark on this new chapter, we wish them a lifetime filled with happiness, romance and endless love. Congratulations to the newlyweds! Their love story was captured by talented photographers and videographers like Jack Bates Photography, who beautifully documented their magical day.

Amanda Thomas

Venue/Catering: @pelicanclub_jupiter

Day of Coordinator: @eventfullyemily

Florals: @larasthemesfloral

Photographer/Videographer: @jackbatesweddings @ben.barbee

Photo booth/360 Booth: @fotofunphotobooths

DJ & Entertainment: @djbennigrelli @dreammachineent

Hair & Makeup: @bombshellmakeovers @bombshellmakeup.amanda

Late Night Bites: @empanadas.psl

Bridal Dress: @baciobaciobridal

Wellington National Golf Club

An Exquisite Location For Distinctive Weddings

The dedicated professionals at the Wellington National Golf Club are committed to bringing your wedding vision to life. The venue offers personalized support in crafting distinctive menus, as well as arranging entertainment and rentals. With meticulous attention to detail, they can coordinate timelines, floor plans and staffing to ensure that every event unfolds seamlessly.

Found in the heart of Wellington, the facility offers an exquisite backdrop for couples seeking the perfect wedding venue. With its lush greens, picturesque golf course views and elegant architecture, Wellington National creates a romantic setting that is both enchanting and unforgettable.

As you enter the club, you are greeted by sprawling landscapes that provide a stunning visual feast. The manicured fairways and vibrant flowerbeds offer countless photo opportunities. The breathtaking views serve as a natural canvas for the ceremony, whether you choose to exchange vows outdoors amid swaying palms or indoors in the elegantly appointed ballroom.

Wellington National specializes in personalized service, allowing couples to customize every detail. Experienced event coordinators work closely with you to bring your vision to life, whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. The club can accommodate both small and large parties, making it a versatile choice for any wedding.

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of Wellington National, with talented Executive Chef Brian Scotto crafting a menu that reflects your tastes and preferences. From exquisite hors d’oeuvres to a sumptuous multicourse dinner, guests will be treated to an unforgettable dining experience. The venue also offers full bar service, complete with a selection of fine wines and signature cocktails.

With stunning scenery, exceptional service and top-notch cuisine, Wellington National is more than just a wedding venue; it’s a destination that transforms your dream into reality. Celebrate your love surrounded by elegance and natural beauty at this remarkable location.

The primary contact for wedding planning at Wellington National is Annelisse

Siena, who has a background in marketing from New York University. “I’ve had the privilege of working in various sectors of event planning, from intimate, family-run catering to large-scale corporate functions and weddings,” she said. “My favorite part of working in the event industry would have to be our clients! It is such an amazing honor to be able to help clients plan their dream events.”

Wellington National also offers an exquisite setting for bridal showers and rehearsal dinners. The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests, featuring a grand ballroom adorned with elegant ceiling draping, refined plank-style flooring and abundant natural light. The ballroom opens onto a beautifully landscaped piazza, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor ceremonies. “We focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere for large gatherings,” General Manager John Siman said. “Arranging seating that encourages interaction among guests enhances the overall experience.”

Wellington National takes pride in offering a stunning venue paired with attentive service, ensuring that the planning process is as effortless and enjoyable as possible.

The Wellington National Golf Club is located at 400 Binks Forest Drive. For more information, call (561) 333-5731 or visit www. wellingtonnationalgolfclub.com.

The club and grounds provide an idyllic setting for memorable celebrations. “Our expansive courtyard areas are perfect for outdoor events, and our grand ballroom accommodates indoor weddings with ample space for a dance floor,” Siman explained. “We can configure the space to create an intimate atmosphere during the ceremony, then seamlessly transition to a vibrant reception.”

Annelisse Siena Event & Banquet Sales Manager

National Polo Center

A Bride’s Dream Venue To Say ‘I Do’

If you are searching for the perfect wedding venue that combines elegance with a touch of equestrian charm, look no further than the National Polo Center (NPC). Nestled in the heart of Wellington, this stunning location offers a unique backdrop that will make your special day unforgettable.

Imagine exchanging vows beneath a canopy of swaying palm trees, with lush polo fields stretching out before you. NPC boasts a variety of outdoor spaces, from an intimate veranda to expansive green spaces, allowing you to create the ideal setting for your ceremony. The elegant Pavilion ballroom features high ceilings and panoramic windows that provide breathtaking views of the grounds.

What truly sets the National Polo Center apart is its commitment to personalized service. A dedicated team of event specialists are on hand to help navigate every detail, including customized catering menus that al-

low you to express your unique style, to a list of preferred vendors that will make all your dreams come true.

Imagine a menu crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients, paired with signature cocktails that your guests will rave about, all enjoyed on the veranda as the sun sets over the polo field.

The party does not have to end at the wedding reception either, the National Polo Center offers your guests a chance to turn your wedding into a mini vacation. Consider arranging a group outing to a Sunday polo match and brunch at the Pavilion, or catch a game from box seats in the Stadium.

At the National Polo Center, your unique wedding can be as grand or as intimate as you wish, all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Florida’s equestrian paradise. Begin your love story at this exceptional venue, where unforgettable memories await.

For more details, or to schedule a tour, visit www. nationalpolocenter.com.

Rachel Duewer Hospitality Director of Sales

The National Polo Center is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington.

Comprehensive Breast Cancer Care You Can Count On

As an American College of Radiology (ACR)

Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, WRMC has demonstrated excellence in:

• Mammography

• Breast ultrasound

• MRI of the breast

• Stereotactic, ultrasound and MRI-guided breast biopsies

If surgery is needed, breast surgeons perform a wide range of breast cancer surgery. Surgical options typically include:

• Breast conservation (lumpectomy)

• Mastectomy (removal of all breast tissue)

The breast nurse navigator provides individualized guidance and support to patients, families and caregivers throughout your treatment, from screening through survivorship.

Wellington Community Center

The Perfect Place To Plan Your Wedding

The Wellington Community Center has become a sought-after venue for various special events, including weddings.

“Assisting community members with room reservations and event planning at our facility is something we look forward to,” said Heather Navarro, program coordinator for the Village of Wellington. “The center offers the space and flexibility to host a wide range of events, from weddings and birthday celebrations to quinceañeras, bar and bat mitzvahs, and corporate functions. If you can imagine it, our team can help make it a reality.”

Navarro enjoys connecting with new clients and collaborating on the details of their special occasions.

“From our first meeting through the planning stages to the final dance, watching someone’s vision come to life is the highlight of my job,” she said. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to help individuals plan significant life events. Being part of that journey and witnessing it come full circle is deeply rewarding.”

Navarro lets couples know that they can count on her to be by their side from the day they reserve their date, all the way through the end of their event.

“That’s what makes considering the Wellington Community Center for their special day so important. I am present throughout, leaving no loose ends for couples to worry about,” she said.

The Wellington Community Center stands out as a picturesque wedding venue. Located in the heart of Town Center with views of Lake Wellington, the facility provides a stunning backdrop.

“The beautifully paved Wellington Promenade along the waterfront is perfect for wedding ceremonies, cocktail receptions and evening gatherings,” Navarro noted. “Illuminated columns and fountains enhance the natural beauty and elegance of the site. Whether it’s an outdoor ceremony on the patio or a gathering in the upstairs ballroom, guests can enjoy breathtaking western sunsets, creating a fantastic setting for memorable photos.”

Planning an event at the Wellington

Community Center is also surprisingly affordable.

“We understand that many people have specific budgets, and we work with them to meet their needs,” Navarro said. “Fortunately, our center offers great flexibility for events of all sizes and budgets. We can accommodate large gatherings of up to 225 guests in our Grand Ballroom overlooking the lake, or more intimate events of up to 150 in our Lake View Room on the ground level. All rentals come with banquet tables and chairs, along with various setup options. The center is equipped with a full catering kitchen, commercial-grade ovens and refrigeration, plus additional amenities like a room, portable stage and dance floor.”

She encourages anyone planning a wedding or special event to visit and explore the venue.

“The Wellington Community Center is budget-friendly, with beautiful surroundings and amenities to accommodate every-

one,” Navarro said. “Our team is dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for all our guests and events. From booking to setup, and throughout the planning process, we are committed to helping you realize your vision. Repeat business is the highest form of praise, and with even more to offer, we continue to attract returning clients.”

The Wellington Community Center is located at 12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 7532484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Heather Navarro Program Coordinator

Traditions

In the world of weddings, the balance between enduring traditions and modern innovations creates memorable celebrations. One time-honored custom that remains is the exchange of vows, a profound expression of commitment. In 2025, couples are enhancing their ceremonies with unique, personalized elements that truly reflect their stories.

One notable trend is the blending of cultural backgrounds, as couples celebrate their diverse heritages within their ceremonies. These inclusive events honor a rich mix of traditions, showcasing shared values and individual identities in a beautiful way.

Design-wise, there is a shift toward minimalist sophistication. Soft, muted color schemes accented with gentle pastels convey elegance and warmth. Customized details, such as handcrafted stationery and thoughtful favors, add a distinctive flair to each celebration.

Sustainability continues to be a core principle for many couples. From sourcing local, organic foods to choosing ecofriendly décor, these choices reflect a commitment to the environment. This mindful approach not only resonates with modern sensibilities but also fosters a celebration that is gentle on the Earth.

Ultimately, the combination of cherished customs and fresh ideas allows couples to create weddings that are uniquely reflective of their journey together, filled with personal meaning and beauty.

Over the next several pages, Wellington The Magazine explores some of the most inspiring traditions and trends for your special day — perhaps you’ll find the perfect elements to incorporate into your own celebration!

Destination Micro-Weddings

With a focus on intimate gatherings, destination micro-weddings are gaining popularity in 2025. Couples are opting for small, exclusive ceremonies in picturesque locations, such as famous landmarks, secluded beaches, vineyards or mountaintop retreats. This trend allows couples to prioritize quality time with loved ones in a stunning setting, creating cherished memories in an intimate and meaningful way.

Cultural Fusion Celebrations

In a celebration of global diversity, weddings in 2025 will often embrace cultural fusion by blending traditions and customs from different cultures. Couples are incorporating elements such as rituals, music and cuisine from their respective cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of traditions. Dresses and attire may feature intricate patterns and fabrics inspired by diverse cultural heritages, reflecting a harmonious union of traditions and identities.

Retro And Vintage Revivals

Nostalgia for past eras continues to influence wedding trends in 2025, with couples drawing inspiration from retro styles and vintage aesthetics. From 1920s Art Deco glamour to 1970s Bohemian Chic, weddings may feature nostalgic elements like antique lace dresses, classic cars for transportation and old-fashioned cocktails at the reception. This trend celebrates timeless elegance and adds a touch of romance to modern celebrations.

Wellness And Mindfulness Integration

Reflecting a focus on well-being and mindfulness, weddings in 2025 may integrate wellness experiences into the celebration. Couples are offering activities such as yoga sessions, meditation breaks or spa treatments for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Healthy, organic catering options further promote a holistic approach to wedding planning, emphasizing the importance of balance and self-care during the festivities.

Gender-Neutral And Fluid Fashion

Reflecting a growing acceptance of gender diversity, many weddings in 2025 will feature gender-neutral and fluid fashion choices. Couples are redefining traditional gender roles in attire, with brides and grooms opting for outfits that defy conventional norms. Styles may include tailored suits paired with flowing skirts, or dresses designed with androgynous silhouettes. Celebrating individual expression, couples can express their identities authentically on their special day.

Eco-Friendly Weddings

As environmental consciousness continues to grow, eco-friendly weddings are becoming increasingly popular. Couples are opting for sustainable practices, such as locally sourced catering, biodegradable decorations and minimizing waste. The color palette often reflects natural elements, like earth tones, leafy greens and soft blues. Dresses might feature organic fabrics, like hemp or bamboo silk, and couples may choose outdoor venues to emphasize their commitment to nature.

Interactive And Collaborative Weddings

Weddings in 2025 are becoming more collaborative and interactive, involving guests in various aspects of the celebration. Couples are inviting guests to participate in creating art installations, capturing extra photography, crafting personalized wedding favors or even contributing to the ceremony script. This trend fosters a sense of community and connection, making guests feel valued and engaged throughout the wedding experience.

Multisensory Experiences

Weddings in 2025 are increasingly focused on creating immersive multisensory experiences for guests. Couples are incorporating elements like scent stations with personalized fragrances, interactive food stations that engage taste and touch, and ambient soundscapes to enhance the atmosphere. This trend elevates the wedding celebration into a sensorial journey, ensuring that guests have a memorable and engaging experience beyond just visual aesthetics.

Virtual And Augmented Reality Experiences

Advancements in technology are revolutionizing weddings in 2025, with couples incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences into their celebrations. Guests may participate in virtual tours of the wedding venue, engage in AR-enhanced interactive elements during the ceremony or even share VR experiences of the couple’s journey together. This trend adds futuristic and immersive dimensions to weddings, enhancing guest experience and creating unforgettable moments.

DIY And Handcrafted Weddings

In a return to craftsmanship and personalization, weddings in 2025 may feature do-it-yourself and handcrafted elements. Couples are creating handmade decorations, crafting their own wedding attire or accessories, and even brewing their own specialty drinks for the reception. This trend emphasizes creativity, individuality and a personal touch, allowing couples to showcase their talents and create a truly unique wedding celebration that reflects their personalities and passions.

Minimalist And Modern Aesthetics

In 2025, weddings may embrace minimalist and modern aesthetics characterized by clean lines, simple décor and sleek attire. Brides might opt for minimalist dresses with architectural silhouettes or avant-garde designs, while grooms choose tailored suits in monochromatic tones. Color palettes for these weddings often feature muted shades, such as blush, ivory and dove gray, creating a sophisticated and understated atmosphere.

QA &

Look Your Best For Your Wedding With Help From Wellington Rejuvenation Center

As you embark on the journey to your wedding day, Dr. Kelly DiStefano and her experienced team at the Wellington Rejuvenation Center are dedicated to making you look and feel your absolute best. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for personalized care, the Wellington Rejuvenation Center offers a range of advanced aesthetic treatments tailored to brides, grooms and the entire bridal party. To help you navigate the world of beauty enhancements and discover how to achieve a radiant glow for your special day, we’ve asked Dr. DiStefano about the many services she offers at her conveniently located facility on Southern Blvd. Dive into this exclusive Q&A to learn how the Wellington Rejuvenation Center can transform your pre-wedding preparations into a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

Q: Do you offer packages or discounts for bridal parties? What services are included?

A: We offer many bridal packages, ranging from facials, all the way through Botox and dermal fillers. We also offer discounts depending on the size of the bridal party. Our goal is to make you look your best for your important day.

Q: How far in advance should treatments be scheduled to ensure optimal results and to allow for any necessary follow-up sessions?

A: Timing really depends on the treatment. For example, you can get a facial a day or two before the wedding, whereas with Botox and fillers, I would recommend four to six weeks to allow for any followups appointments needed. Any carbon peel or microneedling, I would recommend four weeks before.

Q: Are there specific treatments that can help with skin rejuvenation and reduce signs of stress or fatigue leading up to the wedding?

A: I would recommend a HydraFacial. It will exfoliate the dead skin and infuse hyaluronic acid. You will leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and relaxed.

Look Your Best For Your Wedding

Q: Can you provide guidance on the best treatments for addressing specific concerns before the wedding, like fine lines, uneven skin tone or stubborn fat pockets?

A: Absolutely. Fine lines or wrinkles can be addressed by using a toxin such as Botox, Dysport or Daxxify. I would recommend this four to six weeks before the event. This gives us enough time to address any follow-ups needed. Uneven skin tones can be addressed multiple ways by using our LaseMD lasers, which uses laser technology to address this issue. We also offer a homecare option, in which we sell brightening pads that contain Hydroquinone. This helps with uneven skin tones, especially in darker skin types. Lastly, stubborn fat pockets can be destroyed by freezing fat cells with our CoolSculpting Elite system. CoolSculpting freezes fat pockets, thus destroying those cells. Think of CoolSculpting as getting rid of the speed bumps in the road. I would recommend two rounds of treatments and to prepare four to six months before the wedding.

Q: What are the recommended treatments for men who want to look their best on their wedding day? Are there any special packages for grooms?

A: Men can enjoy the same treatments as brides — facials, Botox, CoolSculpting, as well as a technology called CoolTone. These are aesthetic treatments that can be performed before the big day. We do offer packages and can customize treatments and pricing for the wedding party.

Q: Are there any treatments of services that you would advise against close to the wedding date due to potential side effects and recovery time?

A: Yes, all treatments. I mentioned before, a bride or groom can get a facial a day or two before the wedding. However, I would also recommend having a facial done a couple of weeks before to see how your skin responds. I would never recommend any other service that is close to the wedding date, just in case. That should be a universal response from all providers.

Q: Do you offer any services or treatments that are particularly effective for enhancing photo readiness on the wedding day?

A: We do. There are a wide range of services that we can offer to help enhance photo readiness. The most common will be facial-type services, such as our HydraFacial, chemical peels,

carbon peels and others. The key to all aesthetic services provided before the wedding date is proper planning on timing, with your aesthetic provider.

Q: What are the most popular treatments for brides-to-be, and what kind of results can you expect from each?

A: The most popular treatments performed by our aestheticians are skin care treatments known as facials and chemical peels. These services will make your skin look bright, tight and dewy. The second most common service would be performed by our medical staff, and that would be toxins. Those services would include Botox, Dysport, Daxxify and dermal fillers. Toxins will iron out any wrinkles that may have formed, and fillers are mostly used for brides who want fuller lips.

Q: What should people do to prepare for treatments to ensure the best results?

A: I think the right answer to this question is make sure you leave yourself enough time before the wedding date. Set up an appointment for consultation with your provider, and plan accordingly. I would also avoid using any new products right before the wedding date because you don’t know how your skin will react. Stick with the products you know and trust.

Q: Do you have any unique offers or packages that combine multiple treatments, such as skin care and body contouring, for a comprehensive wedding prep plan?

A: What we do, and we do this well, is customize treatment packages on all services that we offer at an advantageous price point.

Build,

With

Look Your Best For Your Wedding

Q: What is the typical recovery time for treatments like laser procedures or microneedling. How can people minimize downtime?

A: With microneedling, we ask that you take it easy for a day or two. We ask that you don’t work out or shower for one day because we want to keep those channels that were created clean. Laser treatments can vary depending on the type of laser. LaseMD has very little downtime, maybe a day or two at most.

Q: Walk us through the step-by-step process of a typical treatment, such as neurotoxins or dermal fillers.

A: I recommend making an appointment with one of my medical staff members to go over any concerns. In the complimentary consultation, we will develop a treatment plan for a client’s concerns. Typically, with neurotoxins, the main areas of concern are the forehead, crow’s feet (side of the eyes) and the elevens (which are between your eyes). Dermal fillers can be used on most facial features and give a fuller appearance or lifting. The jawline has more definition with this method as well. Like neurotoxins, I recommend a consultation, and we can do treatment on the same day if needed.

Q: Are there any specific preparations required before undergoing treatments like Kybella injections or CoolSculpting?

A: Both treatments involve removing fat. There are no specific preparations for either treatment. I would recommend wearing a sports bra and shorts for CoolSculpting because the applicators go directly on the skin, and there is a gel pad that is used. Kybella removes fat, and the most common area for injection is the neck region. Clients will have tenderness for a few days after the procedure. As with all our injectable treatments, we will numb the treatment area to limit pain from the injections.

Q: Can you offer any suggestions for maintaining results and keeping skin looking its best in the weeks and months following the wedding?

A: I would recommend setting up a daily skin care plan and quarterly visits. Our aestheticians can create customized treatment plans designed specifically for each client. This would include home skincare regimens, treatments and procedures to correct and maintain the results achieved.

Choosing the right aesthetic treatments leading up to your big day should be an exciting and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The staff at the Wellington Rejuvenation Center believes that preparing for your special day is not just about enhancing your appearance, but also about creating memorable moments and boosting confidence. The dedicated team ensures that every treatment is personalized to bring out the best in each individual, all while making the process as delightful and stress-free as possible. Embrace the journey of looking and feeling fabulous and let your pre-wedding preparations be as joyful and radiant as the celebration itself.

The Wellington Rejuvenation Center is located at 11917 Southern Blvd., Suite 200. For more info., call (561) 8781282 or visit www.wellingtonrejuvenationcenter.com.

Meet Dr. Kelly DiStefano

Dr. Kelly DiStefano, M.D., is the founder of Montclair Rejuvenation Center, MRC West Medspa and now the Wellington Rejuvenation Center in Royal Palm Beach. With a deeprooted passion for aesthetics influenced by her father, Dr. Kenneth DiStefano, a celebrated plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Kelly DiStefano has dedicated her career to enhancing both physical appearance and emotional wellbeing.

Her approach is grounded in the belief that aesthetics significantly boost self-confidence, as she emphasizes, “Aesthetics is a cognitive booster.” At the Wellington Rejuvenation Center, Dr. DiStefano and her expert team provide cutting-edge cosmetic services for men and women, focusing on personalized care and advanced treatments.

From the initial in-depth consultation to selecting the most effective products and procedures, the Wellington Rejuvenation Center ensures that safety and individual needs are prioritized. With a commitment to excellence and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Dr. DiStefano and her team look forward to helping each patient achieve their unique beauty goals.

Board Of Trustees

QUALITY CARE CLOSE TO HOME

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Trustees Work To Improve Healthcare For Everyone In The Community

BY SHANNON ANASTASIO

Recently, attorney and Wellington civic leader Michael “Mickey” Smith joined the board. He hopes to use his experience and connections to help improve healthcare for everyone in the community.

“I served on the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board with Palms West Hospital CEO Jason

Kimbrell,” Smith explained. “He asked me if I was interested. When I saw how excited Jason was about everything happening at the hospital, it got me excited, too.”

Smith has been practicing law for more than 40 years and has been a shareholder in the personal injury law firm Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith PLLC since 2004. A graduate of the Duke University School of Law, he has been involved with many local nonprofits. Aside from the Boys & Girls Club, he is a leader with the Rotary Club of Wellington and serves on the board of direc-

tors of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce.

However, his new role at the hospital is different than the other volunteer work he has done.

“It interested me, as it was something new. It was not like other boards I had been involved with in the past. There has been a learning curve for me, but I have found it both challenging and fun,” Smith said.

Aside from the oversight work, he sees this new role as being a top cheerleader for Palms West Hospital in the community and beyond.

Tanya Siskind Community Member, Board Chair

Jason L. Kimbrell CEO, Secretary

Charles Gressle President EFD

Dr. Rich Giroux Chief of Staff Marcia Andrews Community Member

Tara Gallagher Community Member

Dr. Roger Duncan Community Member

Dr. Deborah Loney Community Member

Michael Smith Community Member

Joey Wolffer Community Member

“Many people probably do not know that it employes over 1,000 people,” he said. “More importantly, it is providing world-class care right here in our own backyard.”

A Wellington resident for decades, Smith believes that his service will be beneficial for the hospital.

“I believe just living in the community for 33 years is quite helpful, as it provides a perspective on how much things have changed in the western communities, both in healthcare and otherwise,” he said. “Being a lawyer is helpful in analyzing the hard data. I have been extremely impressed by how well the hospital consistently does, as measured by objective metrics.”

In his time as a Floridian, Smith has seen a dramatic upgrade in the quality of hospital services across the region.

“This area has become a mecca for healthcare, with so many providers from New York and elsewhere recently opening outposts here,” he said. “That said, I am proud to say that Palms West Hospital is leading the way in providing world-class healthcare. It has deep roots right here in the community and has the backing and resources of HCA, the largest operator of hospitals in the country. Now, instead of people flying out of Palm Beach County for care, many are flying here to come to HCA Florida Palms West Hospital.”

As an example, he noted the hospital’s major focus on cutting-edge robotic surgery.

“The hospital has invested heavily in its Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence and has some of the most experienced robotic surgeons in the country, and the investment continues,” Smith noted. “An $80 million patient tower is scheduled to break ground later this year. The new tower will be home to the Surgical Suites at Palms West Hospital. This 36bed, post-surgical unit will provide cus-

tomized care for patients who undergo robotic surgery by the expert surgeons on the hospital’s staff. Palms West is a leader in robotic surgery, and this investment demonstrates its commitment to stay there.”

As a board member, he was thrilled by the opportunity to shadow Dr. James Goad during two robotic surgeries.

“It was fascinating. Dr. Goad has performed more than 3,200 procedures on the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System,” Smith said. “The fact that a surgeon of his reputation and ability chose HCA Florida Palms West Hospital speaks volumes about the hospital’s reputation and quality.”

Smith added that engagement and outreach play a huge role in the health and success of the entire community.

“The physicians at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital frequently provide free programs to educate the public and help keep us healthy,” he said. “They do it because it is the right thing to do. I would like to be a part in spreading the word about these available resources.”

While he is proud to serve on the board, Smith noted that his goal is to support the real heroes of the community. “The hospital’s staff is second to none and saves lives daily,” he said. “They are heroes and have every reason to be proud of what they do. Without question, this hospital is the crown jewel of our community, and we are so very fortunate to have it.”

Also joining Smith as a new appointee to the Palms West Hospital Board of Trustees this year is Dr. Deborah Loney, a head and neck surgeon who has treated patients at the hospital since 2010. She received her medical degree from the Stanford University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Iowa College of Medicine.

“HCA Florida Palms West Hospital

is strategically located in a growing community where a variety of health services are crucial. There is thus both immense need and immense potential. I have witnessed the steady growth and improvements over the last 14 years and consider it a privilege to be asked to serve as a member of the board of trustees,” Loney said at the time of her appointment earlier this year.

Also serving on the board is CEO Jason L. Kimbrell; HCA East Florida Division President Charles Gressle; physician members Dr. Richard Giroux and Dr. Roger Duncan; and community members Tara Gallagher, School Board Member Marcia Andrews, Joey Wolffer and Wellington Councilwoman Tanya Siskind.

“This talented and committed group of professionals that make up our board of trustees is exactly what HCA Florida Palms West Hospital needs to continue to grow to meet the demands of our growing community,” Kimbrell said. “I am confident that through our collaborative leadership, Palms West will continue to be the number one hospital of choice for quality healthcare in our area.”

Serving central Palm Beach County for nearly 40 years, HCA Florida Palms West Hospital is a 206-bed full-service acute care hospital accredited by the Joint Commission. The hospital is home to the only Women’s and Children’s Center in the western communities, featuring a dedicated pediatric emergency department, pediatric services, pediatric intensive care, maternity, Level III neonatal services and a breast center. It is the first hospital in Palm Beach County to be named a Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence and provides award-winning, high-quality patient care.

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital is located at 13001 Southern Blvd. Learn more at www.palmswesthospital.com.

AN EXCEPTIONAL YEAR HERE IN WELLINGTON

Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Continues Efforts To Keep Wellington A ‘Great Hometown’

What makes Wellington an exceptional community? First and foremost, it is the people. From our visionary Wellington Village Council and dedicated team members to our engaged residents, hardworking businesses and community partners, and generous volunteers; each individual plays a vital role in making Wellington a community of choice and the best place to call home.

As we reflect on the last fiscal year and start the new fiscal year, I am proud to share that our village is in outstanding shape. We are enthusiastic about accomplishments this past year and look forward to opportunities in the coming year.

The fiscal year 2025 budget continues Wellington’s commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability. The adopt-

ed 2025 budget is $148-plus million as compared to the fiscal year 2024 budget of $137.7 million, including interfund transfers. The $10 million increase is primarily due to two major utility capital projects — the Meter Replacement Project and the Membrane Plant Expansion Project.

The 2025 budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels and maintaining its core infrastructure. It addresses capital projects while still maintaining the same millage rate. Specifically, the budget has no increase in the millage — the rate remains 2.47, which is the same rate as the past five fiscal years. In fact, the rate of 2.47 is also the average millage rate for the past 16 years.

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

Wellington remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing our community as a safe, family-oriented environment with exceptional parks, schools and a vibrant equestrian culture. As we continue to evolve, we aim to solidify our position as the model for the western communities and the county, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike through strategic projects and initiatives.

One such initiative is the Wellington Sport Academy, a public-private partnership with Wellington Athletics, an entity founded by Jon Bostic, a Palm beach Central High School and University of Florida graduate, and retired NFL linebacker. The official groundbreaking for this state-of-the-art sports complex took place on Sept. 7. The facility, located at Village Park, will feature amenities and spaces designed for athletes of all ages and skill levels, from youth to professionals. The academy will foster local talent and create new pathways for success. It will also serve as a hub for families, offering a place where they can come together, support each other, and celebrate their shared passion for sports and fitness.

The facility will join our new Wellington Aquatics Complex, also located at Village Park. This project aligns with

our objective of providing a modern and inclusive aquatic center to benefit Wellington residents of all ages. It is slated to open in late 2025.

Other capital projects continue our focus on maintaining our critical infrastructure. We have completed major renovations of both our utility water and wastewater plants and will embark on replacing water meters throughout the village in the coming year. We will also continue our water treatment plant improvements, transitioning completely to membrane treatment in order to provide the highest quality water supply to our utility customers.

The coming year and corresponding budget will see us continue our focus on youth engagement, as well as continued investment in education. Our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment remains a top priority for our community. The SWAG (Students Working to Achieve Greatness) Program is a remarkable initiative that offers young students mentoring and workplace opportunities. Since 2019, 100 percent of our high school graduates who participated in the SWAG summer internship program have gone on to college, the trades or the military.

The HYPE program provides academ-

ic assistance to our elementary school students in need, while the Tom Atkins Civics 101 program encourages civic engagement and interaction between local elected officials and high school students. We plan to expand these engagement opportunities with a youth council, empowering young leaders to engage in community initiatives. Rounding out our dedication to education, the Keely Spinelli Education Grant remains a key element of our budget, providing our 11 public schools more than $400,000 in funding. Over the life of the program, we have provided in excess of $4.6 million in grant funding to schools.

Sustainability across all of our operations is critical to our success. The village recently advanced a significant expansion to the Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat, demonstrating our continued commitment to sustainability and resiliency. We have been awarded a $1.7 million grant for resiliency infrastructure as part of the Resilient Florida Grant Program administered through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, as well as more than $700,000 for tree planting as part of the project. We are in the design and permitting phase of the project with construction scheduled to begin later this year for this multi-year project.

As a result of our unwavering focus on strategic planning, we are confident in our foundation for a prosperous future for our great hometown. None of these achievements, however, would be possible without the village’s remarkable staff — our all-star team — who are driven by excellence, better together and dedicated to service. With these shared beliefs as our foundation, Team Wellington is unified in our promise to serve this exceptional community. I am privileged to collaborate with this talented team and inspired by their diligence, expertise and outstanding achievements.

Village officials join with Wellington Athletics to break ground on the Wellington Sport Academy project.

Dr. Wisnicki has practiced in Palm Beach County Since 1986

THE FIGHT FOR WELLINGTON’S INCORPORATION

The Narrowly Decided 1995 Referendum That Created The Village Capped A Six-Year Effort

STORY BY JOSHUA MANNING | PHOTOS COURTESY THE WELLINGTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY

What if the Village of Wellington was never created? It almost happened! It took six years, three votes by residents and an unexpected victory in Tallahassee to make incorporation a reality. This month, we chat with incorporation activist Mark Miles and others on a battle that divided the community but set Wellington residents up to control their own destiny.

It’s not easy to create a new municipality out of a mostly residential area already home to more than 20,000 people. The creation of the Village of Wellington took six years, three votes by the residents, a legislative tussle in Tallahassee and a final campaign that divided the community.

Looking back nearly 30 years later, it’s almost impossible to imagine what Wellington might be like today if it had never seized its own destiny. However, the vote that finally created the village passed by a slim margin.

When all the votes were counted late into the night on Nov. 7, 1995, a total of 3,851 Wellington residents voted in favor of creating a new municipality, while 3,713 opposed the measure — a margin of 138 votes that made all the difference as far as Wellington’s future was concerned.

On that day, Wellington — the huge

development approved by Palm Beach County 23 years earlier — moved in a new direction. It was in control of its own future.

The fight for incorporation began as Wellington grew from a developercontrolled patchwork of subdivisions to a living, breathing community. While strong voices could be heard calling for incorporation as far back as the early 1980s — Town-Crier founder Bob Markey Sr. for one — it wasn’t until 1989

that the first mechanism was in place to get a plan into action. That was when the Acme Improvement District, Wellington’s pre-incorporation government, voted unanimously to support the idea.

When Acme’s bylaws were changed in 1990, wording was added that specifically allowed for the district to lead an incorporation effort. That effort led to an initial charter prepared by Acme attorney Charlie Schoech, among others, that went to the voters on Nov. 6,

1990. It failed by a slim margin — a failure that many attributed to the fact that the impetus for incorporation came from Acme, rather than from Wellington residents.

That was the opinion of the late Michael McDonough, an attorney who later served on both the Acme board and the inaugural Wellington Village Council. He sent a personalized letter to residents days before the vote, criticizing Acme’s role in the effort and a tax cap

felt was too high. Many on the proincorporation side cited McDonough’s letter when 53 percent of voters rejected that first referendum.

While Acme remained in support of the incorporation goal, they took a back seat to resident involvement in the future attempts to incorporate. That resi-

(Above) Keith Stahley, second from right, along with other Acme Improvement District staffers, announce the creation of the new village on Dec. 31, 1995.

Mark Miles, shown here in 1994, was one of the key leaders in the incorporation effort. he

A sample ballot from the 1995 referendum that created the new Village of Wellington. dential input came from groups such as WISE and POWER.

WISE — “Wellington Incorporation Study and Education” — was founded in 1992. Its leader was Mark Miles, a local business leader and later a member of the Wellington Village Council. The group’s stated goal was to revive the incorporation question and put it to a vote in 1994.

Miles ran a series of well-attended meetings to discuss the idea. His goal was to provide a public discussion where residents could determine what was best for the future.

“[County Commissioner] Ken Adams asked me to lunch one day. He sat me down and explained what it would be if we were incorporated. He asked me to take on the project, and I agreed to it,” Miles recalled. “I took out an ad in the Town-Crier asking people to join me for a community meeting to discuss the possibility of incorporating.”

For Miles the crucial issue was the millions in state money that Wellington was losing each year by not being incorporated.

“People were overpaying property taxes, and Palm Beach County was keeping all of it and returning nothing to us,” Miles said. “We had to prove to people that, in fact, it would be in the best interest of the community and that it would save them money.”

By 1993, WISE representatives were running from community events to civ-

ic group meetings, pitching the benefits of incorporation. WISE even went so far as to commission an accounting firm to study the financial impact of incorporation. That report bolstered the claims that incorporation would bring a financial windfall to the new village.

“The most important thing was that we were not receiving our property taxes back, and it simply was unfair that our tax money was going to other communities and improving their parks and facilities and infrastructure. I thought it should be coming back to us,” Miles said.

WISE used the slogan, “Vote facts, not fear.”

“Debbie, my wife, came up with that slogan to use,” Miles said. “We had the facts that we would literally get tens of millions of dollars back that we were losing to other communities. People were frightened of change.”

In 1994, another group stepped in to help push the incorporation plan as well. It was led by Linda Bolton, a community activist who also later sat on the Wellington Village Council.

Bolton had just been one of the leaders opposing the controversial “Town of Wellington” project west of Flying Cow Road. She had been successful in rallying her neighbors against that project. Her new goal would have to rally a whole community in favor of incorporation. The group she led was called POWER, which stood for “People of

Wellington for Educated Residents.” Like WISE had done, POWER conducted town hall meetings, which drew a strong response from residents.

The combined attempts led to a non-binding “straw poll” on Nov. 8, 1994. For the first time, a vote showed that a majority of residents (57 percent) supported Wellington’s incorporation.

That successful straw poll allowed the incorporation supporters to draft a charter and try to get it approved by the state legislature. After comparing dozens of different charters, from communities as diverse as Boca Raton, Key Biscayne and Daytona Beach, the pro-incorporation forces drafted a document that was unique to Wellington. Protecting equestrian interests was a crucial factor, as was eliminating points that residents said would make them oppose incorporation. There was a much lower tax cap included, and the government was set up with a council-manager form of government with what was initially an appointed mayor. Term limits for council members were also added.

“It took many meetings to write, rewrite and study it,” said Miles on the proposed charter. “In the end, I think we put together one of the best charters in the whole state.”

The charter was also careful in designing the boundaries for the new village. Pro-incorporation supporters poured over the results of the 1994 straw poll and noted areas that voted strongly against the idea, the Wycliffe neighborhood for one. Although part of the Acme Improvement District, Wycliffe was left out of the boundaries of the new village after its residents voted 2-1 against incorporation during the straw poll.

With a plan for incorporation in place, the proponents took their cause to

“Vote Facts, Not Fear” was the motto of the proincorporation effort, as shown on this election placard.

the legislature in Tallahassee, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Minton, who wrote the bill. But when the plan went to the legislature, it almost didn’t make it. The village’s incorporation did not get to the floor during the lawmakers’ regular session. Many people thought the entire effort had failed, and those opposed to the idea celebrated. But their relief was short-lived. A special session was called, and Wellington’s incorporation was one of the few items on the agenda.

Pro-incorporation supporters travelled to Tallahassee to lobby legislators, including Acme Improvement District Supervisor Dr. Carmine Priore, who later served on the Wellington Village Council. “I lobbied the legislators,” he recalled when interviewed in 2001. “I walked the halls in an attempt to get the legislators to support incorporation. It was one of the few items on the agenda. When we were able to get it approved, we were thrilled.”

The late Ken Adams, whose political career took him from the Acme board to the Palm Beach County Commission, was another key supporter. He had a large hand in writing the charter approved by the legislature in 1995. “We got a unanimous vote of the Florida Legislature,” Adams recalled when interviewed 20 years later in 2015. “That doesn’t happen very often, and I’m awfully proud of that, not just for me, but for all the people who participated.”

The Village of Wellington’s charter was approved by the legislature as House Bill 1439 on May 11, 1995. But the fight for incorporation was not over. The supporters still had to convince the residents to accept the charter and make incorporation official.

Groups such as “Safeguard” and “Citizens Against Incorporation” spent months disputing the benefits of incorporation, notably the financial benefits, which opponents said were likely to be offset by the extra services that the vil-

lage would require. Some remained suspicious of the motives behind incorporation.

In the end, the voters — by a very slim margin — chose to become Palm Beach County’s first new municipality in more than 30 years.

“I stood up on top of a table at Cobblestones restaurant and held up the returns that night from the vote and said, ‘Finally, finally, finally.’ I had been working on the project for more than four years,” Miles recalled.

After the vote on Nov. 7, 1995, the village came into existence on Dec. 31, 1995. That set off a mad scramble with 27 candidates seeking the five seats on the inaugural Wellington Village Council, which met for the first time on March 28, 1996.

Miles is proud of his work, along with many others, to make the Village of Wellington a reality.

“It is certainly my legacy for the community,” he said. “I built more than 300 homes in Wellington during my career, and built many friendships, but it doesn’t compare to the net result for the community as my participating in the incorporation effort.”

What would Wellington be like today if the effort was not successful?

“It would not be as beautiful as it truly is,” Miles said. “When I drive through Wellington today, the mirror still shines. If anything, it shines even brighter. The quality of life in Wellington is far superior today than it would have been without incorporation.”

A pro-incorporation placard used during the 1995 drive to create the Village of Wellington.

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

CARMELA TOAST & COFFEE BAR NOW OPEN IN WELLINGTON

BY MATTHEW AUERBACH

(Top row) The California Chicken Flatbread with mozzarella, chicken, bacon, avocado, sun-dried tomatoes and chipotle ranch, and the Rustic Grilled Cheese with rustic bread, cheddar, swiss, mozzarella and parmesan.

(Middle row) A mocha coffee with the Avocado Madness Salad featuring mixed greens, grape tomatoes, burrata, avocado, balsamic glaze and basil oil. (Bottom row) Peach chamomile tea with Avocado Toast Caprese featuring avocado, mozzarella, grape tomatoes, basil oil and balsamic glaze.

As long as there are coffee lovers devoted to their beverage of choice, there will be coffee shops offering to fill their cups with a multitude of tasty brews. The fast-growing South Florida chain Carmela Toast & Coffee Bar has opened a new location in Wellington and is ready to brighten your day with its devotion to “the bean.”

First off, the name. Who is “Carmela?” Is she some beloved relative? A partner in the business? Perhaps an investor? Wrong on all counts.

“Carmela is a name that we chose, among many female names, to represent the woman in general — the hardworking and tireless working woman,” said Rainier Abreu, owner and founder of Carmela Coffee. “We wanted to give representation and honor the gender in general.”

This isn’t just a politically correct move. There’s real motivation behind the creation of this character.

“The majority of our coffee pickers where our coffee is from, which is Costa Rica, happen to be women, as well, so we saw the opportunity to create this persona and this company after someone we call Carmela.”

Carmela would be happy to know that the shop bearing her name is a place that affords customers a welcoming vibe. When you arrive, you’ll leave your stress at the door.

“It’s a place for people to go and relax and spend time and play games and read a book and share moments with other members of the community,” Rainier said. “It’s a casual dining concept. It’s meant to be a home away from home where customers can share a life event, enjoy food and coffee in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.”

No matter what the atmosphere is when you’re enjoying your coffee, you want what you’re sipping on to be top quality. After all, one of the biggest perks (sorry) about going one-on-one with a cup of Joe is that first taste; that eye-closing “ahh” feeling. You’ll get that

feeling when you visit Carmela Coffee in Wellington.

“We own the farm in Costa Rica where we bring the coffee from, so we grow the soil, and we grow the beans,” Rainier said. “We don’t source coffee. It is a proprietary for Carmela, and we’re pretty proud of that. It’s a very high-quality coffee. We take care of everything, from the growing of the plant to the harvesting of it, to the whole process of dried coffee, roasted coffee and, finally, serving it. We have just one type of coffee at our store, the coffee from our farm in Costa Rica.”

Nevertheless, there’s a lot to choose from at Carmela Coffee. We’ll help you get a head start on your order.

“We focus mostly on coffee and beverages,” Rainier said. “We do have teas made from loose tea leaves. We have coconut lemonade and regular lemonade, as well. You’ll find bowls, salads, flatbreads and sandwiches here. We get our bread delivered daily from a local baker.”

Sounds great, right? Wait until you learn about the top seller.

“Outside of our coffee, our customers come back again and again for our Avocado Toast,” Rainier said. “We have eight different varieties. Our best seller is the Caprese (avocado, mozzarella, grape tomatoes, basil oil and balsamic glaze). The Breakfast (avocado, poached egg, bacon and cheddar cheese) and the Smoked Salmon and Egg (avocado, salmon, poached egg and truffle oil) are two of my personal favorites.”

If Avocado Toast is not your thing, there are a variety of other toast options, as well as brunch and lunch choices to fit any diet.

Carmela Coffee dates back to when its first store opened in Parkland in 2018. Folks may already be acquainted with Carmela Coffee from nearby locations in West Palm Beach, Delray Beach and Boca Raton. Wellington has been on the company’s radar for a long time.

(Clockwise from top left) The Chicken & Basil Mayo Sandwich with rustic bread, chicken, swiss, spinach and basil mayo; the popular Coconut Lemonade with coconut milk, lemonade and coconut syrup; the Goat Cheese & Caramelized Onion Flatbread with goat cheese, caramelized onion and basil oil; the Breakfast Avocado Toast with poached egg, bacon and cheddar cheese; the Quinoa Strawberry Salad with quinoa, strawberries, avocado, feta cheese, dried cranberries, almonds and honey dijon dressing; the Prosciutto & Swiss Cheese Croissant Sandwich with prosciutto, swiss, arugula and balsamic glaze on a butter croissant; the Salmon Cream Cheese Bagel Sandwich with salmon, cream cheese, boiled egg, capers and chives on a bagel; the Keto Europa with poached eggs, prosciutto, avocado, mozzarella pearls and strawberries; the Nutella & Strawberry Toast with Nutella, strawberries and powdered sugar; the Arugula & Chicken Salad with arugula, chicken, grape tomatoes, almonds, mixed seeds, feta cheese, balsamic glaze and basil oil; the Crispy Bacon & Brie Sandwich with rustic bread, caramelized onions, bacon and brie; the Charlie Special with peach chamomile tea, lemonade and lavender; the Honey Nuts & Seeds Toast with cream cheese, fig jam, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts, cranberries and honey; the Breakfast Sandwich with cheddar, bacon and scrambled eggs on a kaiser roll; and the Vegan Hummus Bowl with arugula, quinoa, hummus, cucumber, grape tomatoes, olives and mixed seeds.

“Wellington had been a very strategic community that we wanted to be part of and bring the Carmela experience to this community, as we had been able to do in other communities,” Rainier said. “We see Wellington as a natural fit, and we wanted to just present ourselves to the residents.”

Now that Carmela Coffee is operating in the village, Wellington residents have a place to go to cool off, kick back and enjoy some of finest coffee (and other delights) around.

“You can expect an extension of your home where you feel safe and comfortable,” Rainier said. “Come enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, have lunch or brunch, or simply connect with friends and loved ones.”

The store is open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Carmela Toast & Coffee Bar is located in Wellington Green Square at 10630 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 60, near the newly opened Publix store. For more information, call (561) 729-0522 or visit www.carmelacoffee.com.

The new location of Carmela Toast & Coffee Bar is located in Wellington Green Square near

Publix.

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