Town-Crier Newspaper August 11, 2023

TAP’S ‘SCHOOL OF ROCK’ ON STAGE

Inflation, Upgrades

Bring Increased Wellington Water Bills

A proposed 10 percent jump in water bills will leave Wellington still a bit easier on the wallet compared to Riviera Beach and Fort Lauderdale, but pricier than Tequesta, Lantana, Palm Beach County, Jupiter and Delray Beach, village officials heard at a workshop Aug. 7. Page 3

Foundation Delivers

Backpacks, Uniforms

To Elementary Schools

Thanks to the generosity of many donors and sponsors, the Wellington Community Foundation has successfully orchestrated its eighth annual back-to-school distribution of 300 fully equipped backpacks and 400 new uniforms, catering to the needs of elementary school students across six Wellington schools. Page 5

Interim PBCHS Principal

Aims To Get Year Off

On The Right Foot

Wellington’s Education Committee approved village grants for its public schools to kick off the month when school starts, but also grappled with the aftershocks of startling news from last month. The interim principal at Palm Beach Central High School pledged his best efforts to lead a school shaken by the arrests of five employees.

Page 7

Wellington Hosts

Back-To-School

‘Party In The Park’

The Village of Wellington held a free Back-to-School “Party in the Park” on Friday, Aug. 4 at the Wellington Amphitheater.

Page 13

Wellington, Seminole Ridge Training Hard

For Football Season

This year marks the start of a new chapter in the Wellington High School football program. Entering the upcoming season, there is a new head coach and many new players on the squad.

The new head coach is 27-yearold Ross Pryor, who has been an assistant coach at WHS for the last three years. Page 21

Council Reviews Six Proposals For Wellington Green Park Site

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

With a few refined conditions, the Wellington Village Council decided Tuesday, Aug. 8 that it wants to hear “best and final” offers from six developers regarding what to do with 10 acres known as Wellington Green Park.

A big question is whether to leave it as green space for families and drop-in sports activity, or perhaps sell the village-owned land near the Mall at Wellington Green — but only if council members believe recreational needs are being met at other, expanded park sites.

“I think we’ve tried to be fair in saying, ultimately, we may decide to do nothing,” Councilman Michael Drahos said.

New ITID Millings Plan To Be Offered At Aug. 16 Meeting

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors will soon hear a staff proposal on a new plan for selecting dirt roads to be covered over with asphalt millings. It is one of several items expected to be on the board’s Wednesday, Aug. 16 agenda. Other likely items include supervisors’ efforts to push back against a proposed off-highway vehicle (OHV) park and campground in the northwest portion of the district; annexation anxieties spurred by indications that Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington may want to bite off valuable pieces of commercial property currently part of ITID along Northlake and Southern boulevards, respectively; and a discussion of the board’s priorities for the 2024 session of the Florida Legislature.

Led by ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson, district staff will propose a lottery system for those seeking to have their dirt road milled and a no-petition method for those who oppose millings to let their feelings be known.

Meanwhile, the district would move forward with milling “blocks” of dirt roads as they fit into ITID’s schedule. “We will continue to do blocks of roads until we have milled all the roads,” Hanson said. “It’s financially unsustainable to keep [maintaining 389 miles] of dirt roads.”

Under the new plan, those dirtroad residents with a 50 percent plus one petition asking for millings will no longer have to wait in line — sometimes camping out overnight — to be one of the first five petitioners at the ITID offices on Oct. 1, the first day of the fiscal year.

Instead, over a multi-day period, yet to be determined, those seeking millings would be able to present their petition at ITID’s offices at 13476 61st Street North, and the five streets to be milled would be selected in a blind lottery, Hanson said.

Residents would not have to pay $500 up front to participate in the lottery, but those selected would be charged.

Once the petition is accepted and the road is selected for millings, there would be no mechanism for backing out, Hanson said.

Meanwhile, residents of dirt roads selected through the district’s block formula will be notified through the mail and via door and gate hangers, he said, giving them the opportunity to vote on millings via postal mail or e-mail. Precautions will be taken to en-

See MILLINGS, page 4

Town’s Troubled Drainage Gates Need Swift Repairs

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

Public Works Director Larry

Peters updated the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday, Aug. 1 regarding repairs needed to the town’s drainage system, as well as suggestions for a generator at Loxahatchee Groves Town Hall and easement issues that have held up some planned paving projects.

Peters first updated the council on “storm season priorities.” His focus was on the drainage gates at Folsom Road near Crestwood, A Road near the Palm Beach State College campus, and two on D Road near the town’s public works building. Peter noted that the problem was not exclusively with the gates themselves, but with the systems that control them.

Many parts of the system are old and need replacing. The current gate system dates back to

2004, and at the moment, only the D Road east gate is functioning properly.

“Out of four gates, we have one that actually works,” Peters said.

The two at D Road are powered by a three-phase motor. While it should shut down when it loses power, that has not been happening properly, which has twice led to one of the motors being destroyed.

“We need a better phase monitor to shut down the motor when it loses power, so it doesn’t burn out,” Peters said.

On the brighter side, the town recently upgraded its computer system.

“We are in better shape electronically if we could just fix a few minor things,” Peters said. “With the gate system, there is a lot of work to be done, and we’re in the process of doing it.”

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia said that the repairs should be done

correctly, once and for all. “Do you have a number to make this right?” she asked. “I don’t want to just put a Band-Aid on it.”

Town Manager Francine Ramaglia said that the repairs can be funded by money already in the budget, and if additional money is needed, the town could use part of the recent $750,000 appropriation from the state for stormwater management.

Peters said he is collecting the numbers to fix all the issues. Maniglia said it should be prioritized as part of the upcoming budget year.

Vice Mayor Robert Shorr said that the money should be there already to fix this issue. “We recognized this last year and put $35,000 in the budget to repair the gates,” he said. “We also put in money to make the pump house safer.”

Next, Peters turned to his recommendation to get a portable

See LOX COUNCIL, page 4

Still, Drahos argued that it was prudent to see if the half-dozen developers, now aware of each other’s proposals in writing to the village, care to make a final pitch and see if anything breaks through for continued consideration.

The latest guidance from the village emphasizes a land purchase, as opposed to a lease, and density no greater than 220 residential units without a compelling reason, as Councilman John McGovern put it.

A proposal by a group known as Project Lighthouse, allied with developer Blue Road, has been trying to make a case for what it considers compelling reasons for many months — including a performing arts center and workforce housing, meaning it is designed to be affordable to middle-class workers.

Project Lighthouse was joined by the other five offers after the council opted to throw the process open to competing proposals in May. One other proposal mentions workforce housing, along with a 200-room hotel, but no others talk about a performing arts center. Most focus on apartments.

Blue Road’s plan would purchase the land for $20 million. It would put 480 condominiums on the property, with 30 percent designated as workforce housing, along with a 1,500-seat performing arts center, a sculpture garden, and 80,000 square feet of retail and office space.

“For nearly a year now, we’ve been working to bring our community vision for a world-class performing arts center to the Village of Wellington,” said Steven Traynor, representing Project Lighthouse.

In earlier meetings, questions from council members pressed for more details on how the project would support a performing arts center that could face financial headwinds to remain viable. The current proposal ties funding for the performing arts center to monthly payments from condominium owners.

A competing vision from Dan Enterprises Team LLC would put 180 residential units on the site, including a clubhouse with two tennis courts, swimming pools and a “horse stable,” along with 50,000 square feet of shopping areas with 25 establishments, according to a village summary of the various proposals. Its plan refers to a “finance loan of $20 million” while pledging a share of net income and taxes over time. A representative noted it focused on low density with 180 residences while conserving 60 percent of the land as open space. Bainbridge Companies LLC and Brefrank Enterprises LLC would offer a purchase price after site plan approval, proposing 400 apartments in six-story buildings and amenities including a fitness center and pool.

Inter Related Construction Services Corp. pitched a 99-year ground lease with an option to pur-

See PARK SITE, page 14

SARA BAXTER OPENS DISTRICT OFFICE IN RPB

Drainage And Trash Fees Going Up In Wellington

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council approved budgets and assessments for key parts of its 2024 spending plan on Tuesday, Aug. 8, including the first assessment increase for the Acme Improvement District since 2015 and an increase in the cost for solid waste collection to reflect rising costs from the vendor.

Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel led the presentation, noting that four parts of the overall budget were up for approval that night: the Acme Improvement District, which handles drainage issues for the village; the solid waste budget, which also includes recycling services; and budgets for the Lake Wellington Professional Centre and the Saddle Trail Park Neighborhood Improvement District. “The four resolutions presented

tonight cover important services and responsibilities,” Quickel said. “First, the Acme Improvement District provides for surface water infrastructure maintenance and improvements, conservation of preserve areas and equestrian trail upkeep.”

While Wellington is not changing its tax rate of 2.47 mills, other budget items do have slated increases. The Acme assessment is going up $25 from $230 per unit to $255 per unit. The Acme assessment has been at $230 since 2015. Solid waste service fees, meanwhile, will be $290 for curbside service (up $70) and $225 for containerized service (up $55). There is also a 10 percent increase in water rates. According to Quickel, the changes reflect the rising costs facing the village over the past several years. The other two items do not

reflect costs for most residents. The Saddle Trail budget funds the resident-requested improvements approved in 2016. This is the eighth year of a fixed 15-year project. The Lake Wellington budget covers operations of that facility through Dec. 31, 2023, which is when the village will close the facility, as voted on earlier this year.

Wellington’s total budget for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 is $137.7 million, which is $9 million more than the current year budget of $128.5 million, Quickel said. This is up from the previous budget estimate but does not change the proposed tax and assessment rates.

While the general government and capital projects budgets will not be approved until September, the four items on the Aug. 8 agenda represent $14 million in annual spending.

That includes $6.7 million for Acme, which is up 2.3 percent. The solid waste budget is $7.0 million, up $460,000. This increase is based on a five percent increase from the village’s trash vendor.

Unlike previous years, the village is not using its fund balance to subsidize the solid waste budget.

“This is the first year in quite some time that the revenues fully cover the solid waste contract costs,” Quickel said.

Wellington taxes and assessment represent 18 percent of resident tax bills, with the rest from other county taxing authorities.

Mayor Anne Gerwig was not happy with the Acme assessment increase of $25. She recalled 10 years ago when the council raised the rate from $200 to $230 to fund a series of drainage improvements.

“I was told at the end of 10 years, we would go back to $200,”

she said. “Now, instead, we are going up to $255.”

Councilman John McGovern said that 10 years ago, there was not the same inflationary pressures that there are today.

Councilman Michael Drahos wanted to know what in the budget Gerwig would like to change to offset the assessment increase.

“If everyone on this council took that same position, it would be catastrophic,” he said. “It seems politically convenient for you to do that and force us to do the responsible thing, which is to pass an increase because it is necessary.”

McGovern asked how much of a shortfall there would be if the Acme assessment was left at $230.

Quickel replied that the shortfall would be approximately $250,000. He asked Gerwig what cuts she

District 6 Palm Beach County Commissioner Sara Baxter held a celebration Friday, Aug. 4 to mark the opening of her office in the Midwestern Communities Service Center, located at 200 Civic Center Way in Royal Palm Beach. Shown above are commission aides Joe Lafauci and Kyle Drexler, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Glades aide Regina Bohlen and intern Steve Avila. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 16

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

On Saturday, Aug. 5 and Sunday Aug. 6, Theatre Arts Productions (TAP) featured a production of the hit musical School of Rock at the Wellington High School theater. School of Rock featured a cast of 28 actors and 18 stage crew members across a wide variety of ages. Based on the wellknown movie of the same name, School of Rock tells the story of Dewey Finn (Jaycie Cohen), an out-of-work rock guitarist who pretends to be a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school run by Principal Rosalie Mullins (Dolly Romano). Shown above, the cast and stage crew take the stage for a picture just minutes before the start of the musical. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 18

PHOTO BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Inflation, Upgrades Bring Increased Wellington Water Bills

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

A proposed 10 percent jump in water bills will leave Wellington still a bit easier on the wallet compared to Riviera Beach and Fort Lauderdale, but pricier than Tequesta, Lantana, Palm Beach County, Jupiter and Delray Beach, village officials heard at a workshop Monday, Aug. 7.

Wellington’s projected customer tally for using 5,000 gallons in

2024 lands at $74.38, up from $67.54 now.

That beats $93.67 in Fort Lauderdale but comes in costlier than $61.98 for Palm Beach County, according to comparisons compiled by village staff. Some Wellington residents east of State Road 7 get county water service. The costs are tied in part to maintaining and improving village water facilities, officials said. In addition, expenses for things like

chemicals, power and replacement parts experienced inflationary bumps.

Ripples in the system can play out differently in various municipalities over time, depending on their pace of spending for improvements and adjusting rates, village staff explained.

“I think we’re used to seeing things go up right now, but we don’t want to see a failure that costs us more in the long run,”

City Of Westlake Eyes $9 Million Budget With No Minto ‘Lifeline’

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

No longer in its infancy, the seven-year-old City of Westlake must now stand on its own fiscally, with no more handholding from the municipality’s largest developer, Minto Communities USA.

Since 2016, when Westlake incorporated, Minto has supplied millions of dollars to prop up city government services, including a $776,000 “lifeline” in the 2023 budget. For 2024, there is no lifeline to underpin Westlake’s $9,030,000 budget, with the developer’s long-term agreement with the city running out.

“The last few years, we’ve been trying to make sure that when we reached this budget… that we’d be non-dependent [on Minto],” City Manager Kenneth Cassel said during the Westlake City Council’s Tuesday, Aug. 1 budget workshop. “So that’s where we’ve been very cautious and very careful.”

In fact, that caution, along with the city’s rapid growth in residential property tax revenues, made it unnecessary for Cassel to draw from the 2023 Minto “lifeline.”

“Which I think is pretty impressive,” Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor said. To maintain that fiscal discipline, Cassel proposed that Westlake continue its tax rate at 5.1 mills. Westlake’s tax rate was 5.125 mills from 2016 through 2022. Last year, O’Connor pushed for a reduction to 5.1 mills. That means that the average Westlake property owner, with an assessed home value of $450,000 and a $50,000 homestead exemption, would pay approximately $2,040 in city taxes. That does not include

taxes levied by other Palm Beach County taxing authorities.

O’Connor wants another cut, even if only a symbolic one, he told Cassel.

“I’d love to shave something off that, even if it’s just to say we lowered taxes two years in a row,” he said. “It sends a message to residents that we’re fighting for them.”

“We’re running a very lean operation in all areas already,” Cassel replied.

The city’s proposed $9,030,000 budget represents a $1,131,000 or 14.3 percent increase over the 2023 budget funded by a 53.3 percent or $1,782,737 increase in property tax revenues — for a total of $5,128,300 — as Westlake continues to be one of Florida’s fastest-growing municipalities.

Among the largest areas of proposed budget increases are:

• $80,800 for the council, bringing the total for that line item to $401,400, representing a 25.2 percent increase to cover legislative initiatives and travel by council members and their $1,000-amonth stipend, which has not increased. It also includes $253,000 to pay for four annual seasonal events to which the council has tacitly committed. The largest of the events is FourthFest, Westlake’s annual Independence Day celebration and fireworks display. This year, the July Fourth event cost more than $200,000, exceeding the $193,000 set aside for it in the 2023 budget.

• Community services, which is slated to get a 25.2 percent increase ($454,800) up to $2,204,500.

This item includes solid waste disposal, law enforcement services provided the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, street lighting and

infrastructure repairs provided through the Seminole Improvement District.

• $16,000 for City Attorney Donald Doody, bringing the fees for Goren, Cherof, Doody & Ezrol P.A. to $101,400 — an 18.7 percent increase.

Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard questioned whether the city should be spending a quarter of a million dollars on a community party. Cassel agreed that was one of the few areas that could be trimmed without affecting city services.

O’Connor, who has championed the event since its inception, pushed back.

“Aside from July 4, the city has been unbelievably fiscally responsible,” he said, adding that a lot of sponsorship dollars that could have eased the cost of FourthFest 2023 were “left on the table.” He suggested it would be good to engage an events coordinator who also could seek sponsorship dollars.

Cassel said there are advantages to having such a person on the Westlake team, and that he is looking at whether it would be better to contract with someone or create a staff position.

O’Connor said that he believes the city has made a commitment to its citizens regarding the annual party. Later, he said he hopes that the 2024 event can be held in the 50-acre park being developed along Seminole Pratt Whitney Road south of Seminole Ridge High School as a joint project with the Seminole Improvement District.

Some $700,000 that Westlake has received through the fed -

See WESTLAKE, page 4

Mayor Anne Gerwig said. The council will review and approve its final budget numbers in the coming weeks.

A lot of costs involving water, whether directly tied to utility bills or not, figure heavily in the overall 2024 budget picture.

About $7.4 million of Wellington’s fiscal year 2024 budget goes to utility projects related to water supply and treatment, Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel said.

A number of projects involve ways to manage water if Wellington gets swamped with doubledigit inches of rain in a short period of time, as happened in 2012, for example.

One planned upgrade involves updating diesel engines at a water pumping station. The original engines came from Rolls Royce in the 1970s, forcing reliance on sometimes tricky supply chains connected to England, staff members said.

Elsewhere in the capital improvements budget for next year, spending of more than $5.1 million

on a new aquatics center figures prominently in “one-time projects” that also include $3.5 million in improvements to public works facilities and more than $100,000 in landscaping along the State Road 7 corridor.

As for landscaping, village officials encountered some difficulties with contractors in public areas that Wellington maintains.

Ruts in swales and other problems left Wellington leaders thinking that the grass might be greener with different vendors.

The village phased out a relationship with one such contractor and the council approved “emergency contract” orders for replacement services on Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Village leaders ratified emergency purchase orders to Mainguy Landscape Services and Wellington Professional Lawn Care for the remainder of the 2023 fiscal year for more than $289,000.

On its Aug. 8 consent agenda, the council further voted to award contracts to the companies for about $1.5 million annually.

The low bidder for the original contract had been BrightView Landscape Services, records show. However, there were issues that arose. “They were cutting in wet areas and doing a lot of rutting,” Village Manager Jim Barnes said. This led to the abrupt, mid-year change.

“This is money well spent,” Councilman Michael Drahos said. “This is something people notice.” Gerwig agreed. “Our residents noticed it,” she said.

Gerwig asked if new “E-Verify” requirements to make sure workers are legally qualified to work in the United States might have complicated the situation. However, village staff said that Wellington had already moved to such standards at the start of 2021.

Landscaping mishaps can easily become noticeable to the public in places such as swales, the spaces between sidewalks and roads. Wellington pays various contractors for maintaining spaces such as parks, facilities and the sides of public roads.

WELLINGTON HELPS COLLEGE CELEBRATE MAJOR MILESTONE

The Wellington Village Council presented a proclamation Tuesday, Aug. 8 commemorating Palm Beach State College for 90 years of service to the residents of Palm Beach County. The Wellington proclamation marks 16 municipal proclamations to date presented to PBSC by municipalities in Palm Beach County marking this milestone anniversary. Throughout the year, PBSC is celebrating its 90th anniversary with activities such as campus celebrations, open houses, innovation initiatives and capital projects. Stories will spotlight the achievements of alumni, students, faculty, staff and community partners on the college’s web site. To learn more about the milestone, visit www. palmbeachstate.edu/90th. PHOTO COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

A New Approach to Treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

If you are a male over the age of 45, and suffer from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), there is a new treatment option for you.

BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. There are a variety of treatments — from medication to major surgery — but, until recently, the choices lacked a less-invasive option. Now there is the UroLift® device, which is inserted through the urethra and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, so it no longer blocks urine flow. Patients typically can return home the same day without a catheter, and experience rapid symptom relief and recovery with low complication rates.

To schedule an appointment, or find a physician, call 561-798-9880.

Groves Officials Celebrate Legislative Success With Lobbyists

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town

Council celebrated a successful legislative session with its lobbying team on Tuesday, Aug. 1, reviewing the details of what happened in Tallahassee last spring and making plans for the upcoming legislative year.

On hand for the meeting was lobbyist Rana Brown, joined by fellow lobbyists Ronald Book and Sean Pittman via Zoom.

“We are proud to have had the opportunity to represent you,” Book said. “During the session, we reiterated to people that the Town of Loxahatchee Groves is not just a place on a map, it is a place with real rural lifestyle and a real community that deserves to be paid attention to in the process.”

After several years of not seeing any returns from its lobbying efforts in Tallahassee, the town this

Millings New ITID Proposal At Meeting

continued from page 1

sure that the votes are legitimate, he said. “No individual citizen will have to go door to door,” said Hanson, and the residents’ decision would be good for three years.

Currently, ITID crews are milling approximately 20 miles of roads per year, according to a report shared by district staff at the supervisors’ July 25 meeting. Hanson said this week that if the funding is available, ITID crews could do 30 miles per year.

Lox Council Generator For Town Hall?

continued from page 1 generator for the town hall building.

“This building has storm windows, and is better suited, in my opinion, for an emergency operations center,” he said. He explained that while town hall has the hookup for a generator, it does not have one. His suggestion was to contract for a portable generator to be on site during the storm season. The price from one vendor for that is $3,100 per month. The building would need an automatic transfer switch for a seamless power shift.

“We should have the same thing here that we have at public works, and just have a generator sitting out there so that any time this building goes out of service, it clicks back on, and we don’t miss a beat,” Peters said.

year ended up with a $750,000 appropriation to help fund the rehabilitation of its stormwater system. That money was not vetoed by the governor, like many other projects across the state.

Book also noted that he worked with others to stop a number of bills that would have been detrimental to Loxahatchee Groves, such as bills that would have curtailed home rule and intruded on agricultural communities.

After initially deciding not to hire a lobbyist at all, the council voted 3-2 last December to spend no more than $25,000 on lobbying services this year. Both Book’s firm and Pittman’s firm lowered their fees in order to meet the town’s spending limit.

“It was a pleasure to speak your name in offices that hadn’t heard in ways that we spoke it,” Pittman said. “That’s not just in the legislature, but in the governor’s office

That same report stated that maintaining the district’s dirt roads will cost $22.8 million over the next 10 years, all of which must be paid for by per-acre assessments to property owners, since ITID is a special district and not a municipality, thus it gets no state, county or federal funding for roads.

Most of the district’s dirt roads require grading every 10 days, some once a week, Hanson said. “We just can’t keep up with [maintaining] the dirt roads. At the same time, road rock prices continue to increase,” he said.

By contrast, millings — also known as “reclaimed asphalt pavement” or RAP — are considerably cheaper. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 90

A permanent generator system is more expensive. An initial bid came in at about $130,000 for the 400-amp service needed at the building.

Maniglia supported adding a generator system at town hall, but she doesn’t like a portable diesel system. She wants to look into using the existing natural gas line on Southern Blvd. “I think it is necessary, but I’d rather not spend $100,000 on one,” she said.

Shorr asked if having an EOC is necessary. “Right now, there is no plan for an EOC command center,” he said.

Ramaglia explained that there are many things that the town needs to do immediately in the wake of a storm.

“We have damage assessments and all types of FEMA reporting that needs to be done,” she said.

“We have a whole emergency management manual.”

Mayor Laura Danowski said she does not support purchasing a generator.

The council consensus was to pursue quotes for a generator at

and with the governor’s budget people.”

Pittman and Book have joined together to represent several Palm Beach County cities, and they have plans for ways to benefit the town in the future. “The best is yet to come,” Pittman said.

Brown thanked State Sen. Gayle Harrell (R-District 31) and State Rep. Rick Roth (R-District 94) for sponsoring the funding request and working to get it approved. She also thanked Vice Mayor Robert Shorr for coming up to Tallahassee to support it as well.

Shorr spoke glowingly of his time with Pittman in Tallahassee.

“It was not like previous meetings,” he said. “These people take a very different approach. Everyone was super-responsive and cordial.”

As for the future, Brown said she is working with Town Manager Francine Ramaglia in talking

million tons of asphalt pavement are reclaimed as millings each year.

Many of the district’s milled roads have been in service for 12 to 15 years with no ongoing maintenance, Hanson said.

The issue has come to a head recently as residents of 94th Street North have gone back and forth with mill and don’t-mill petitions for their two-mile dirt road that offers scenic views of the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. In a spirit of compromise, staff will recommend that 94th Street be milled from Mandarin Blvd. east to the L Canal and left dirt from Mandarin west to 190th Street North, Hanson said.

But Hanson explained that people seeking a non-urban, even

town hall, either renting a portable generator, which is more affordable over the short term, or getting a permanent system, which is pricey up front but saves money in the long term.

Regarding the town’s ongoing paving projects, there were 11 road segments scheduled for the current fiscal year. Of those, seven have been completed. The other four have been held up due to easement issues.

Three of those four were held up by one property owner with parcels touching Folsom Road, 25th Street North and West G Road. The other issue is on North E Road, which could be paved up until the very northern section, where a property owner has not granted an easement.

Peters gave his opinion that while the proper documents have not been found, he believes that the easements exist and have for a very long time. “It is my opinion that we don’t need their approval,” he said.

Given that fact that several of the property owners already have lawyers involved, the council was

OPINION

with the Department of Economic Opportunity, now known as the Department of Commerce, to formally designate Loxahatchee Groves a state-recognized “rural community.” “This would benefit the town in absolving you of the requirement of matching funding for different state grants that you may be eligible for,” Brown explained. “They were very enthusiastic about the town asking for this designation.”

Ramaglia said the designation will allow the town to apply for funding that it can’t apply for currently. It might also be able to request elimination of matching funds retroactively.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia asked if the matching grant money is in the budget for the $750,000 appropriation. Ramaglia explained that more than $375,000 is in the current year’s budget for stormwater management upgrades,

which allow the town to access the $750,000 in state funding.

The lobbying agreement approved earlier this year was set up as a three-year plan. Ramaglia will be bringing forward a contract renewal.

Book noted that the upcoming session starts early in January with committee meetings this fall.

Brown said she is also working with the town on applying for a resiliency grant for larger water-related infrastructure projects.

“I look forward to helping you work out your upcoming funding requests,” Brown said.

Mayor Laura Danowski asked how long it will take to get the state’s rural designation.

Brown explained that it is based on data that will then be presented to the governor’s office, since it would be a gubernatorial designation.

“They want us to narratively

demonstrate the reasons that we suffer economically because we are a rural community amid an urban environment,” Ramaglia added, explaining that it is a combination of things that will help the town qualify. She added that the Resilient Florida planning grant approved that evening through support from engineering firms Keshavarz & Associates and the Engenuity Group will eventually allow the town to apply for even more grant money. “The Resilience Florida grant on the agenda tonight takes the town through the process that allows it to qualify for other grants,” Ramaglia said.

During public comment, resident Virginia Standish asked the town and the lobbyists to consider getting state approval for a fireworks ban, similar to the one now in place in Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Area.

non-suburban, way of life are fighting an unnecessary fight for something that is not sustainable. “Rural is a state of mind, it’s not about what’s on the surface of your road,” Hanson said.

Acme Budget Assessment Increase

continued from page 1 would like to make to the Acme budget. “I’m pretty sure they could manage that,” Gerwig said, referring to the village staff. “The plans proposed did not sound significant.” Quickel said the Acme projects next year include work at two major pump stations, which she would consider significant work.

Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone

not willing to proceed without proof of easements. Instead, Peters gave suggestions for other roads to pave, including Gruber Lane and Casey Road, which are possibilities for next year’s paving work.

Shorr said that the roads planned for next year, like Gruber and Casey, have wider easements available and will not have this problem.

“I don’t think we need to rush a solution,” he said. “All the people I talk to like the paving, but there’s reasons people choose not to give easements.”

According to Peters, the North E Road property owner is worried about paving leading to the long-discussed E Road and 140th Avenue North connection.

Peters said that is not going to happen because of existing town policy. “And if the county was going to do it, they would do it on the east side of the canal because they own that property,” he said. E Road can be paved up to that property line, Peters added.

Councilwoman Marianne Miles supported including that in next

Proposed Wellington Equestrian Projects Would Be Setting A Dangerous Precedent

Editor’s note: The following opinion piece is in response to the opinion piece “Proposed Projects Enhance Wellington’s ‘Equestrian Lifestyle Community’” by Katherine Kaneb, published in the July 28 issue. After reading an opinion piece in this publication, I was motivated to write my own. Ms. Kaneb was an interested party at the [Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board] hearing, with a farm adjacent to the south parcel. She wrote in support of granting Mr. [Mark] Bellisimo his requested zoning and land use changes. She neglects to mention that she is the ex-wife of Mr. Bellisimo and the mother of the applicant, Paige Bellisimo. She was under contract to sell her farm when she portrayed herself as an interested party and has subsequently

closed on her farm for just shy of $22,000,000.

Also never mentioned is the concept of precedent. If this petition is successful, land is removed from the preserve and other land’s density is dramatically changed, what is to stop others from applying for the same? We have thousands of acres in the preserve that are owned by developers, LLCs, groups and individuals, all that would stand to increase the value of their parcels with density and zoning alterations. Many would say there are entities lying in wait for a precedent to be set.

The promise of a new showgrounds is the bait here. Right now, the schematics for that ignore the South Florida Water Management District permit that Mr. Bellissimo was granted years ago (based on the residential use zoning). Staff

at the Village of Wellington has also apparently ignored it. But the fact is, the land the show would like to expand on has a prohibition on building and has two huge retention ponds already in place. The fantasy grounds? No Water Retention. It is a fantasy that will not likely ever become reality. Also being danced around is funding. The horse show is a for-profit business. If they need to raise money to build out, likely they will increase entry fees. Fees are already incredibly high, and if fees go higher, I fear that people will stop coming to Wellington and instead seek out other winter events. I am not talking about the international riders who come to compete for significant prize money. I am talking about the juniors, the children with their families, and the adult amateurs.

The people who purchase homes. Those groups make up the vast majority of competitors at the show. If entry fees are increased, some of those people will seek another winter venue, which will, in turn, decrease our property values due to supply and demand. This is exactly the opposite of what residents should want.

Mr. Bellissimo purchased the land decades ago and knew exactly what the restrictions were. Now he wants to make as much money as possible by selling the land to developers, who will only buy if the density is changed. Bottom line, this is a self-serving application, and it is all about money. Money that will go directly into the developers’ pockets at the expense of the Village of Wellington.

Lauren Brody Wellington

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said that staff has been saying for quite some time that an Acme increase is necessary.

“I would like to pay what I paid 10 years ago for almost everything I have, but I can’t do that now, and I can’t make promises to people that I’m never going to keep my prices up to inflation because then we would go bankrupt,” he said.

Quickel said that the Acme assessment increase funds critical needs. “There is always necessary renewal and replacement,” she said. “Those are the critical projects that protect and sustain our infrastructure.”

year’s plan. “It is not fair to everybody else who has been waiting,” she said.

While Peters offered to make a change order to pave the easier roads instead, the council consensus was to hold off until the next budget year, when a new list of roads will be included among the capital projects.

On one final item, Peters updated the council on his efforts to repair canal berms. The repairs need sod to prevent future washouts, and he has been getting some sod donated by a local sod farm. It is remnant sod that would be thrown away if not donated. Ramaglia said that if the relationship continues, the council will need a consent agenda item to accept the donations.

Westlake $9 Million Budget

continued from page 3 eral American Rescue Plan will be used to jumpstart infrastructure work — ground leveling, stormwater drainage and more — for the project, O’Connor said. That work should be completed within 12 months, he said, calling that a “conservative estimate.”

The park will need to be done in phases, and O’Connor hopes that sports fields, food truck hookups, parking and a multi-modal trail can soon follow.

Looking ahead, O’Connor said he is committed to cutting residential property taxes significantly once more commercial property comes onto the tax rolls, even though 5.1 mills is in the middle of the pack among the county’s 39 municipalities. “We don’t want to be an average city. We’re an above-average city… a low taxes, high services city,” O’Connor said. “We believe in government lite. We have the rare opportunity to do things right the first time.”

Following the workshop, the council held its regular monthly meeting, taking up several action items:

• The council approved 5-0 the replat of the 23-acre Terraces townhouse complex Phase 1, east of Christ Fellowship Church. Phase 1 is composed of 109 single-family units.

“We’re ready to break ground and get rolling,” said John Carter, senior vice president of Minto Communities USA. “This is going to be an excellent addition of product to the city.”

He said this will be a different

Gerwig said that she understands that things cost more, but the $30 increase in 2015 was already an increase, and Wellington shouldn’t add to the other costs that are already going up. McGovern said that Acme plays a critical role in drainage and life safety.

“I understand the desire to make political points, but I think it is critically important that life safety comes first,” he said. In the end, the Acme budget was approved 4-1 with Gerwig dissenting. The other three items were approved unanimously.

In other business:

• The council unanimously approved an updated agreement with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office for the upcoming fiscal year. The new agreement includes a three percent increase from the current year of approximately $19,000, bringing the total to $660,092.

• The council also approved an updated legal agreement with its law firm of Torcivia, Donlon, Goddeau and Rubin. The updated agreement included a rate increase from $205 per hour to $235. The firm’s rate has not increased since 2019. The increase was approved, but not before a disagreement between Maniglia and Danowski over council member meetings with the attorney.

product, containing smaller townhomes. Carter expects homes to go on sale in early 2024.

When Phase II of the project comes online, the Terraces will include 250 townhomes.

The Terraces is located in the southern portion of Westlake, south of Waters Edge Drive and east of Ilex Way. Behind the Terraces on the east side will be a lake and a multi-modal path.

• The council also unanimously approved the Pines of Westlake Phase II, which will encompass 55 acres broken into 232 single-family lots.

The Pines Phase II is located in the northeast portion of Westlake, east of both East Town Center Parkway and the Woodlands of Westlake. It will be surrounded on three sides by long, linear lakes.

“The lakes won’t be hidden [behind homes],” Carter said. “They’ll be there for people to enjoy.”

The area also will feature a long, multi-modal path that will give broad community access to Golden Grove Elementary School and Western Pines Middle School to the east. Exactly how that access will be accomplished is still being worked out, Carter said.

• O’Connor noted that ground was officially broken Tuesday, Aug. 1 for the 145,000-square-foot James Business Park, located at the corner of Town Center Parkway and Persimmon Blvd. The facility is expected to be completed next spring.

• The council heard during the monthly report from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office that an expected additional deputy started work in Westlake on Tuesday, Aug. 1. That brings to seven the number of deputies assigned to the community.

The Wellington Community Foundation Delivers Hundreds Of Backpacks And Uniforms To Elementary Schools In Wellington

By Shannon Anastasio Town-Crier Staff Report

Demonstrating an unyielding dedication to fostering a stronger community, the Wellington Community Foundation has once again showcased its commitment through a transformative endeavor focused on enhancing the prospects of Wellington children in need.

Thanks to the generosity of many donors and sponsors, the foundation has successfully orchestrated its eighth annual backto-school distribution of 300 fully equipped backpacks and 400 new uniforms, catering to the needs of elementary school students across six Wellington schools. This impactful initiative received unanimous approval during the foundation’s July 10 board meeting. Committee Chair Maggie Zeller led the effort to reimagine the distribution process, ensuring that backpacks and uniforms are directly delivered to each school.

This approach empowered school principals, staff and faculty to promptly address the needs of those students requiring a hand-up, providing them with backpacks, school supplies and brand-new uniforms. These resources will undoubtedly find their way into the hands of Wellington’s students, laying the foundation for a promising and successful school year.

At the core of this endeavor lies the foundation’s commitment to gather funding for a comprehensive array of school supplies, backpacks and uniforms, a testament to the dedication of its board of directors. Collaborating with the local nonprofit organization Back to Basics, the foundation was able to secure new uniforms through their wholesale agreement, and donors and sponsors provided funds to enable the assembly of the jampacked school supply backpacks. With an assist from the Village of Wellington, the foundation

organized backpacks for delivery by Wellington Village Council members John McGovern, Michael Napoleone, Tanya Siskind and Mayor Anne Gerwig to the six elementary schools serving the community.

In an era where the unity of communities holds unparalleled importance, the Wellington Community Foundation shows an unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of the upcoming generation through initiatives like this year’s back-to-school program. This achievement stands as compelling evidence of the boundless potential of working together and the profound effects that materialize when a community rallies together toward a shared goal. To learn more about this initiative, or how you can become part of the Wellington Community Foundation’s mission, visit www. wellingtoncommunityfoundation. org.

World-class fetal and pediatric cardiology care has arrived in Wellington

For more than 70 years, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital has served as a pediatric care leader for children and families locally, regionally and internationally.

Same-day* and next-day appointments with fetal and pediatric cardiologists are offered right here at our new Wellington location.

Wellington Community Foundation Chair Barry Manning, WCF Board Member Michael Gauger, Binks Forest Elementary School Principal Michella Levy, and WCF board members Herta Suess, Maggie Zeller, Don Gross and Jim Sackett.

WCF board members Herta Suess and Maggie Zeller, Wellington Elementary School Principal Dr. Maria Vaughan and WCF Chair Barry Manning.

Wellington Community Foundation board members Jim Sackett and Maggie Zeller, Elbridge Gale Elementary School teachers Tiffany Swensson and Stephanie Casertano, Assistant Principal Chad Phillips, Principal Gail Pasterczyk, WCF board members Don Gross and Herta Suess, teacher Susan McBray and WCF Chair Barry Manning.

WCF Chair Barry Manning, Board Member Maggie Zeller, Equestrian Trails Principal Michele Chorniewy, and WCF board members Don Gross, Herta Suess and Jim Sackett.

Panther Run Elementary School Principal Edilia De La Vega with WCF board members Don Gross, Maggie Zeller, Barry Manning, Herta Suess and Jim Sackett.

WCF’s Barry Manning and Herta Suess, New Horizons Assistant Principal Monica Anthony, Principal Dana Pallaria, and WCF board members Don Gross, Maggie Zeller and Jim Sackett.

Interim PBCHS Principal Aims To Get Year Off On The Right Foot Despite Upheaval

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington’s Education Com-

mittee approved a fresh round of distinctive village grants for its public schools to kick off the month when school starts, but also grappled with the aftershocks of startling news from last month.

The interim principal at Palm Beach Central High School pledged his best efforts to lead a school shaken by the arrests of five employees, including the previous principal, on charges of failing to report a student’s alleged abuse away from campus.

“Hopefully, we’ll be able to continue to keep the Wellington community proud of Palm Beach Central,” Reginald Myers told the committee on Tuesday, Aug. 1. “I just beg of you patience — second day on the job there — but that comes with the territory.” Committee Chair John Webber said that the committee will help out in any way it can.

“We really appreciate your will-

ingness to step into this situation and try and make the best, putting our kids in the forefront where they need to be,” Webber said.

Myers came out of retirement to take the role on short notice, drawing on more than 40 years of experience, including serving as principal of Park Vista High School from 2008 until his retirement in 2021.

“It’s not about me,” Myers said.

“It’s about getting school open and getting it ready for the students and the teachers so it can continue the good work.”

Palm Beach County School Superintendent Michael Burke also addressed the committee.

“I just want you to know we have our full attention on Palm Beach Central High School, to make sure they have the staff in place and all the resources they need,” Burke said. “We’re very confident we’re going to have a great school year.”

Events unfolded quickly just as the start of classes approached.

Longtime PBCHS Principal Darren Edgecomb and four other staff members were arrested July 24 on charges of failure to report an alleged incident of sexual abuse in 2021 involving a 15-year-old female student and a male student of about the same age, according to court documents. Records in Edgecomb’s case show a notguilty plea July 31.

An assistant principal who was also charged filed a motion to dismiss Aug. 1, arguing he believed the abuse allegations involving his son were not warranted, but he appropriately passed along information to his superiors, published reports show.

A probable cause affidavit from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office referred to an incident happening at the beach, after which the female student’s family chose not to pursue charges as she experienced emotional distress. The criminal case was closed Oct. 18, 2021.

The PBSO report maintained

that school officials eventually learned of the alleged abuse, in part from a letter written by a friend of the female student, but they failed to report it in timely fashion to the Department of Children & Families as mandatory reporters under law.

Affected employees were reassigned to roles with no student contact, district officials have said.

The developments rattled a community that prides itself on highly rated schools, while standing out as a rare municipality that gives its own grants to help students most in need.

The Education Committee at the Aug. 1 meeting approved renewed Keely Spinelli grants, named in honor of a pioneering village educator, for more than $36,000 each to Wellington’s 11 public elementary, middle and high schools.

The money is used for tutoring and other programs to help students in the lowest 25 percent of proficiency improve in subjects

like reading and math. “This is a model we brag about across the county, and we encourage other cities and municipalities to maybe take up a similar-type program,” Burke said.

Committee Member Marcella Montesinos thanked the school district officials present at the meeting. “I just want you to have an amazing year,” she said. “I really thank you so much for [your efforts] day in and day out.”

The committee also sent a signal it wants the Wellington Village Council to consider enhanced grants for the village program

Former Mayor Bob Margolis Files To Run For Open Seat On The Wellington Village Council

Former Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis has filed to run for Seat 1 on the Wellington Village Council. The election will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.

The seat is being vacated by Councilman Michael Drahos next spring, when a majority of the council will have to relinquish their seats. Two council members and the mayor are all prohibited from running for re-election again due to term limits, leaving just two members of the current governing body.

“I believe a senior voice, blessed with institutional knowledge and experience in local government, is an important perspective to have at the table.,” Margolis said.

“Therefore, I’ve decided to run for village council.”

Margolis noted his many years of Wellington government experience.

“As the very first chair of Wellington’s Parks & Recreation Advisory Board in 1998, and in my past terms as both mayor and on the council, I helped move the

village toward our common goals: superb quality of life, safe and secure neighborhoods, superior senior services, and unsurpassed parks and recreation facilities. I look forward to continuing this work.,” Margolis said.

Throughout a long career with Procter & Gamble, Margolis also served his community. He coached youth basketball for more than a decade and was president of the Wellington High School Booster Club. He entered public service on Wellington’s

first Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, serving from 1998 to 2003. Margolis served on the Wellington Village Council from 2003 to 2008, and as mayor from 2012 to 2016.

He is currently the development director and Glades area liaison for the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches, a youth music program for 350 children.

“I’ve always considered it a privilege to serve the people of Wellington in whatever way I could, and I can’t wait to be ‘back

in the saddle,’” Margolis said with a grin.

Two council seats and the mayor’s seat are up for election next March. Candidates have until November to qualify for the ballot.

As of this week, Margolis and Jay Webber have filed to run for Seat 1, being vacated by Councilman Michael Drahos. Shelly Albright has filed to run for Seat 4, being vacated by Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone. Napoleone, meanwhile, has filed to run for mayor, as has Kesnel Theus.

committee.

known as Students Working to Achieve Greatness (SWAG).

“This year-round program is designed to help empower and motivate at-risk and underserved high school students in order to overcome social and economic barriers that impact their quality of lives,” according to the village’s description of the program.

The panel approved a motion to urge the council to consider such a commitment, with discussion that the Education Committee might refine its proposal in written form at its next meeting, scheduled for Sept. 19.

Bob Margolis

WOMEN OF WELLINGTON CELEBRATE A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

On Thursday, Aug. 3, the Women of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce held their annual back-to-school supply drive. The event was hosted at Hurricane Grill & Wings. Little Smiles Executive Director Brittany Perdigon was on hand to speak about her organization and where the donated supplies will go. WOW members also enjoyed an evening of networking, drinks and tacos while providing much-needed school supplies to the local community.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

Women’s Health

Lunch At PWH

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital will host a women’s health lunch and learn on Tuesday, Aug. 22.

“The Challenge of Change:

Understanding Women’s Health

After 50” will include ob/gyn Dr. Aliese Smith and Megan Barrett, the pelvic floor therapist at the Palms West Hospital Breast Center.

The discussion will begin at noon in Classroom 2 of Palms West Hospital, located at 13001 Southern Blvd. Seating is limited. Reserve your spot by visiting www.palmswesthospital.com and clicking on “Classes and Events” or by calling (561) 345-7009.

Swim Meet Alters Schedule At Aquatics Complex

The Wellington Wahoos are hosting a fall swim meet at the Wellington Aquatics Complex from Friday, Aug. 25 through Sunday, Aug. 27. The entire pool will be closed to accommodate the meet. The meet will consist of approximately 10 to 12 swim teams and 700 competitors.

Adjusted facility hours are as follows:

• On Friday, Aug. 25, the pool will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The pool will then close for the remainder of the day.

• On Saturday, Aug. 26 and Sunday, Aug. 27, the pool will be closed for the entire day to accommodate the meet. The aquatics complex Is located at 12072 W. Forest Hill Blvd. and features an Olympic-sized swimming pool, diving boards, water slides, an aquatic spray ground, a baby pool, a concession stand and locker rooms. For more information about aquatics programs, contact the Wellington Aquatics Complex at (561) 791-4770 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/aquatics.

Art Society Announces New Exhibition

The Wellington Art Society has announced its new municipal art exhibition, “Creative,” going on now through Nov. 24 at Wellington Village Hall, located at 12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. The exhibit is free and open to the public on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The public is invited to the show’s reception on Tuesday, Oct. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. Enjoy the

NEWS BRIEFS

original artwork of 24 artists and 70 works of art in various media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor, ceramics and photography.

All artwork in the exhibition is for sale, and a portion of the proceeds goes toward Wellington Art Society scholarship and outreach programs. To arrange for the purchase of artwork in the exhibition, e-mail presidentofwas@ gmail.com.

Featured Wellington Art Society member artists are: Barbara Bailey, Heather Bergstrom, Betty Brodie, Nancy Cinieri, Ayesha DeLorenzo, Kim Hope DiGiacomo, Nancy Fried, Cynthia George, Jan Gmitter, Laura Jaffe, Lou Ann La Bohn, Nancy Lee, Joseph Marcou, Paul Marshall, Rose Gong Monier, Susan Mosely, Susan Oakes, Lucille Pallante, Leslie Pfeiffer, Ava Rhodes, Marion Roberts, Carl Stoveland, Cindi Taylor and Elaine Weber. For more information about the featured artists and the exhibition, visit www.wellingtonartsociety. org.

ACC Waiving Adoption Fees

In August Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control (PBCACC) is excited to announce “DOGust,” a

month-long celebration dedicated to finding loving homes for shelter dogs. To address the increase in the number of abandoned, stray and surrendered animals in recent months, and ease overcrowding, the shelter is offering waived adoption fees.

Aug. 1 was the universal shelter pet birthday, emphasizing the significance of every shelter animal finding a caring home. PBCACC recognizes the importance of this occasion and aims to make a difference for the furry friends in need.

The shelter is currently operating above capacity, which limits the care that can be provided to each animal. To alleviate this strain and give these dogs a chance at happiness, PBCACC urges the community to consider adopting a furry friend locally, rather than seeking a pet from outside the county. Adopting a dog not only brings joy and companionship to the family, but also saves a life and opens up space in the shelter for another animal in need.

“During ‘DOGust,’ we want to remove any barriers to adoption and find caring homes for our wonderful community dogs,” Division Director Jan Steele said.

For those looking to help their community animals but cannot adopt, PBCACC offers a two-tosix-week foster program called

Foster2Rescue. Through this program, community members give PBCACC dogs the opportunity to enter the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League adoption program directly after fostering. PBCACC welcomes individuals and families interested in fostering to e-mail accfoster@pbcgov.org to get started. Supplies are provided for free.

To explore the wide array of pets available for adoption or fostering, interested individuals can browse the online gallery of adoptable pets at https://secure.co.palm-beach. fl.us/snap/home or visit PBCACC in person. Appointments are not needed. Adoption center hours are Monday through Friday, noon to 6 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Adoption fees are waived for all adoptable pets.

Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control is located at 7100 Belvedere Road, just west of the Florida Turnpike. For more information, call (561) 233-1200 or visit www.pbcgov.com/animal.

PBC Coastmen Celebrate 75th

Anniversary

Very few organizations last 75 years, especially singing groups. However, the Palm Beach County

Coastmen Chorus recently celebrated its 75th year of providing four-part a cappella harmony to its many fans.

One of the truly Americangrown music styles, barbershop harmony is practiced by tens of thousands of adherents worldwide. The chorus thanks all previous and current members (some with more than 50 years singing barbershop) who kept this unique hobby alive on the local level and contributed to the international success of four-part harmony. The chorus is not just for retirees. It has recently added high school students and recent graduates to its growing list of members.

The chorus rehearses Wednesday nights, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Boynton Beach Leisureville Clubhouse (1807 SW 18th Street, Boynton Beach). There is no requirement to read music, as most of the members learn by ear. Guests are welcome.

The Palm Beach County Coastmen Chorus is an official chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, an international organization dedicated to preserving and promoting this uniquely American form of music.

For more information, visit www.palmbeachcoastmen.org, find them on Facebook at www. facebook.com/coastmenchorus or call (561) 770-1237.

Mayor Anne Gerwig, Dr. Desiree Garzon, Ashley Schroth and Kathleen Leischen.

Little Smiles Executive Director Brittany Perdigon tells members about where their donations will go.

Lucy Vandejen, Jen Massey, Jenn Cohen, Bobbi Rottman.

Little Smiles Executive Director Brittany Perdigon, Lucy Vandejen and Bobbi Rottman with school supply donations.

Lauren Small, Shanell Foster and Ashley Schroth. Mili Von Lindenberg and Manasa Parripati. Sommar Clark, Amanda Carpenter and Kristen Mariani.

Interim Principal Reginald Myers addresses the

New James Business Park Project Breaks Ground In Westlake

Jamyln Supply, a national e-commerce business specializing in pet and garden/outdoor supplies, has broken ground on the first warehouse/distribution development in the City of Westlake.

On Tuesday, Aug. 1, company representatives were joined by Minto Communities Senior Vice President John Carter, Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce CEO Mary Lou Bedford, city officials and other guests to put ceremonial shovels into the ground to mark the start of the construction of James Business Park.

The business park will be developed with a 10,103-squarefoot office/flex building and a 135,540-square-foot warehouse/ distribution facility. Jamlyn will relocate its corporate headquarters and distribution activities from West Palm Beach to Westlake, creating approximately 40 new jobs.

“We are very proud to be the first company to deliver a Class A industrial and flex office project to the City of Westlake,” Jamlyn founder Ben Tristano said. “I grew up next door in Loxahatchee and fondly remember my teenage years working as a bag boy at the original Winn-Dixie grocery store across the street from where our new facility is being built. So, it gives me personal satisfaction to be able to make a positive economic contribution to the area where my working life began.”

The nine-acre site is at 17035 Persimmon Blvd., just west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. In December 2022, Jamlyn acquired the land from Minto Communities, the master developer and lead builder in the Westlake community. “I want to welcome Jamlyn to Westlake,” Carter said. “They are a wonderful addition to the mix of

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

businesses we aim to attract here.”

Jamlyn expects to move into its new home in the second quarter of 2024 and will rent some excess space to outside businesses. The company also plans to open its first brick-and-mortar retail location, Aubrey’s Pet Supplies, located next to James Business Park in the new Publix at Westlake Plaza. Aubrey’s Pet Supplies has leased 3,600 square feet and plans to open later this year.

A second business park is planned for Westlake. In May 2022, Mitchell Property Realty and Ridgeline Property Group acquired 17.5 acres from Minto to develop the Westlake Commerce Center, a 227,000-squarefoot warehouse/distribution/office complex in Westlake Landings, a 50-acre master-planned business park. A groundbreaking date has not yet been scheduled.

Longtime Prosecutor Craig Williams Files To Run For State Attorney

Democrat Craig A. Williams has filed to run for state attorney in the 15th Judicial Circuit, serving Palm Beach County.

The state attorney’s position is an open seat. Incumbent State Attorney Dave Aronberg is not seeking re-election.

Williams has been a dedicated prosecutor, seeking justice for the families of Palm Beach County for more than 26 years. He is currently a chief assistant responsible for the Felony Trial, Intake, Organized Crime, Traffic Homicide and Mental Health units, as well as the

Gun Club and Belle Glade offices. Williams has successfully tried more than 300 jury trials and works every day to teach and train other prosecutors to make sure the community has the most qualified, ethical and dedicated prosecutors. Some of Williams’ more high-profile cases have been featured on episodes of Forensic Files and Cops, like the Cathy Lamb murder trial and the Dalia Dippolito murder-for-hire trial. He was also a successful criminal defense attorney from 2010 through 2012.

Williams has a bachelor’s of business administration (BBA) degree from Florida International University and a law degree from Nova Law School. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as one of Palm Beach County’s top lawyers, known for his fair and ethical approach to law.

“This is your State Attorney’s Office, and I am grateful every day that I can be your public servant to make sure this is the best-run State Attorney’s Office anywhere,” Williams said. “You only get one real shot at getting justice for all

involved. My goal is to make sure we get it right every time.”

Williams has been married to CBS 12 news anchor Liz Quirantes for 36 years. They have two adult children, Casey and Emma, and a new Aussie Doodle puppy named Louie.

Williams is one of three candidates who have filed to run for the position as of now. The others are Aronberg’s current Deputy Chief Assistant Alexcia Cox, and longtime local defense attorney Gregg Lerman, both Democrats. The filing deadline is in April 2024.

Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M.

YOUR PETS

It happens every day: a pet wanders away and becomes lost. Collars, harnesses, leashes, and tags are susceptible to falling off. Those who have chosen to microchip their cats and dogs can breathe a little bit easier than those who haven’t. A microchip is a device around the size of a grain of rice embedded with a unique identification number. It is injected under the loose skin between the animal’s shoulder blades. It is typically done in a vet’s office and takes approximately ten minutes. Keep in mind that a microchip is not a GPS tracker. Once the microchip is in place, pet owners must register it with a national pet recovery database, giving all required pertinent information.

The ability to reunite a microchipped pet and owner only works if the information in the recovery data base is accurate, so be sure to update new phone/address information. If you would like to learn more about microchipping your pet, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for a wellness visit or for a particular pet concern, please call us at COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH. We provide complete medical, surgical, and dental services, and we feel a strong commitment to promoting preventive care. Conveniently located 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., we offer complete, state-of-the-art health care services for small pets of all kinds. Please call 798-5508 for an appointment. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

P.S. Many veterinarians recommend having a puppy microchipped at eight weeks of age.

Groundbreaking Ceremony — (L-R) Central Palm Beach County Chamber Chair Pam Tahan, Central Palm Beach County Chamber CEO Mary Lou Bedford, Westlake Councilwoman Charlotte Leonard, Jamlyn Supply Special Projects Manager Julianna Silva, Jamlyn Supply President & Founder Ben Tristano, James Tristano, Westlake Mayor John Paul O’Connor, Westlake Councilman Julian Martinez, Minto Communities USA Senior Vice President John Carter, Itasca Construction Associates Project Manager Danny Montero, Minto Communities USA Director of Westlake Community Development Zane Beard, Itasca President Joe Galinis and Itasca Vice President Chase Durrett.

Jamlyn Supply President & Founder Ben Tristano with his son James Tristano, the business park’s namesake.

(L-R) Jamlyn Supply Special Projects Manager Julianna Silva with President & Founder Ben Tristano and his son James Tristano.

Jamlyn Supply President & Founder Ben Tristano welcomes everyone to the groundbreaking ceremony.

Minto Communities USA Senior Vice President John Carter speaks at the James Business Park groundbreaking ceremony.

Prosecutor Craig A. Williams has filed to run for state attorney.

Anita Kane High School Director Judy Blake Lower School Director

Anita Kane and Judy Blake, both life long educators bring over 60 years of Montessori teaching and administrative experience to Education Place.

Welcome home to The Capstone at Royal Palm Senior Living!

We are Palm Beach County’s premiere senior assisted living and memory care community, offering modern and comfortable retirement living for seniors looking to remain active around like-minded peers.

• No monthly buy-in fees and a flexible monthly lease

• Award-winning social programs and tailored services

• Robust social calendar that engages the mind

• Personalized senior care from loving staff to take care of the body

• Chef-prepared meals with friends to nourish the soul

We are conveniently located along Okeechobee Boulevard near SR 7 in Royal Palm Beach, Fla., and proudly serve residents from Wellington to West Palm Beach.

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BACK-TO-SCHOOL ‘PARTY IN THE PARK’ HELD AT WELLINGTON AMPHITHEATER

The Village of Wellington held a free Back-to-School “Party in the Park” on Friday, Aug. 4 at the Wellington Amphitheater. Sponsored by the Christopher Aguirre Memorial Foundation, in partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the event featured free, family-friendly activities, such as bounce houses, costumed character entertainment, DJ music and dancing, face painting, food trucks, PBSO and PBCFR vehicles, a trackless train and vendors.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

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The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office

Honors the memory of Deputy Sheriff James R. Dickinson

Who died in the line of duty on August 22, 1989

While proudly serving the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Palm Beach County Deputy James R. Dickinson will always be Remembered by his PBSO Family

TO SERVE AND PROTECT WAS THEIR OATH TO HONOR THEM IS OUR DUTY AND

Honors the memory of Deputy Sheriff George C. Douglass

Who died in the line of duty on August 27, 1921 (102nd year)

While proudly serving the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Palm Beach County Deputy George C. Douglass will always be Remembered by his PBSO Family

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home. We believe that every child deserves exceptional care and attention during their

PBSO Deputy Jennifer Baker, Administrative Assistant Pam Finkleman, volunteer Samantha Ditosto, Deputy Madison Lamm and Sgt. Heather Maharaj.

Wellington Wizards rugby team members.

PBCFR Station 25’s Capt. Brant St. Louis, driver Landon Smith, Kevin Zamorano, Lt. Cedric Wilks and firefighter Jesse Bogle.

Ashton Kleinman and Ethan Humphrey visit with the PBSO.

Author Elizabeth Felton with Caden the lemur.

Michele Kulpa, Nic Kelley, Alejandra Acosta and Matt Davidson of Trader Joe’s.

Taisha Urize, Christy Miles, Paola Gomez and Emma Gomez of Generations Christian Homeschool.

Catherine Tucker, Madelyn Merola, Aaliyah Ouellette, Mia Zhang, Mikayla Giuliano, Charlize Giuliano and Pearl Stiles of Dazzle Dance Studios.

Owen Scantlebury and Sophia Jerez with Spider-Man and Wonder Woman.

Alan Gerwig and Mayor Anne Gerwig with grandchildren Leighton and Millie.

Matt and Alice Saroka, Dr. Gordon Johnson, and Phyllis and Michael Gauger.

Carrie Vanhoesen and Dr. Benita De Mirza of It’s A Smile World.

Alessandra Seracchiani with K9 therapy dog Reggie.

Councilman John McGovern, Mayor Anne Gerwig with Millie, RoseAnn Voils, Capt. Nichole Addazio, Lt. Robert Humphrey, Anthony Aguirre and Kelli Schaming.

Cameron Clay on a PBSO ATV.

Christopher Aguirre Memorial Foundation Director RoseAnn Voils, Anthony Aguirre and Kelli Schaming.

Dr. Randy Shults DDS, MA, PhD

National Water Ski Championships Now Underway At

The Palm Beach County Sports Commission and the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches have partnered together to host the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports’ 81st Goode Water Ski National Championships at Okeeheelee Park from Aug. 9 through Aug. 12.

This year’s event will mark the fifth time the national championships has been held in the Palm Beaches, and the first time since 2019.

The nation’s top water ski athletes are competing for national titles in slalom, tricks, jumping and overall, in respective age divisions and two open divisions during the four-day event. More than 600 adult participants, 200 youth participants and thousands of spectators will travel from across the nation to participate in this event.

Advancement to the Goode Water Ski National Championships is primarily earned through placement on the national rankings list. Athletes can also qualify for nationals by placing in the top five at regionals or by placing in the top five at the previous year’s nationals.

In addition to the thrills and excitement that will be generated by this action-packed event, the Goode Water Ski National Championships will bring tremendous economic benefits to the local

Park Site Proposals From Six Developers

continued from page 1 chase, along with 300 apartments, 40 percent workforce housing and a hotel with 200 rooms.

RD Investment Properties LLC, affiliated with the Related Group, would offer $10 million to purchase the land and build 300 apartment units in four-story buildings, with a clubhouse and pool. W & W VIII LLC would offer $8 million for the land and build 150 to 200 apartments and a clubhouse.

In verbal or written comments, several residents supported keeping the property at 2175 Wellington Green Drive, behind the

The nation’s top water ski athletes are competing for national titles at the 81st Goode Water Ski National Championships.

community. This event will fill thousands of room nights during the month of August, while creating an enormous level of economic benefits for Palm Beach County’s hospitality industry.

USA Water Ski & Wake Sports is the national governing body for the sport, which is comprised of more than 600 member clubs throughout the nation. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission is supporting the Ski Club of the

Hampton Inn northwest of the mall, as open space.

Some acknowledged that it amounts to little more than grass next to a parking lot, without finely manicured fields or many amenities, but contended they still found it valuable for adult soccer and family outings.

Drahos asked for more information from village officials about whether existing and recently added athletic fields meet demand, not just for organized teams and leagues, but informal users.

Survey results presented at the meeting by the National Research Center and Polco found that more than 90 percent of Wellington residents rated safety, as well as parks and recreation, among their highest priorities.

Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone said that whatever happens, there should be some public benefit besides cash for the land.

Palm Beaches and its efforts to organize the Goode Water Ski National Championships. The Ski Club of the Palm Beaches is one of the most active clubs in the country and partners with Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation to maintain five freshwater ski lakes custom-designed for competition waterskiing at Okeeheelee Park. Learn more about the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches at www.okeeski.com.

“We’re not just selling it for the money,” he said. “It has got to be something that’s compelling.” There was discussion about giving 30 days to hear final offers from developers, as staff members said they would prepare the relevant communication.

In other action, the council heard an unsolicited proposal from a company called 10by20 LLC to build padel courts and a café without displacing existing tennis courts at the Wellington Tennis Center. Council members gave a go-ahead for village staff to advertise for any competing proposals before opening negotiations into a public-private partnership with the company.

Padel is a racket sport popular in Europe and South America, which is making inroads in the United States. It takes place on a court with dimensions that vary a bit from both tennis and pickleball.

District 6 Palm Beach County Commissioner Sara Baxter held a celebration Friday, Aug. 4 to mark the opening of her office in the Midwestern Communities Service Center, located at 200 Civic Center Way in Royal Palm Beach. Representatives from across the western communities attended the event.

Enrique Perez of the PBSO, Sara and Brian Baxter, and Lenny Sanchez of the PBSO.

County Commissioner Sara Baxter with Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Geoff Sluggett, County Commissioner Sara Baxter and Mary McNicholas.

County Commissioner Sara Baxter (center) with Royal Palm Beach councilmen Richard Valuntas and Jeff Hmara.

County Commissioner Sara Baxter with Loxahatchee Groves Mayor Laura Danowski.

ITID Supervisor Elizabeth Accomando, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, ITID Supervisor Keith Jordano and ITID Supervisor Patricia Farrell.

Commission aides Joe Lafauci and Kyle Drexler, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Glades aide Regina Bohlen and intern Steve Avila.

Daniel Moreira of Local 2928, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Ricky Rodriguez of PBCFR and Dion Ambrogio of Local 2928.

RPB Councilwoman Selena Samios, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, ITID Supervisor Elizabeth Accomando, ITID Supervisor Keith Jordano and RPB Councilman Jeff Hmara.

Jon Carter, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, State Rep. John Snyder and Mayor Anne Gerwig. VIPs gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

South Bay Mayor Joe Kyles, County Commissioner Sara Baxter and Belle Glade Mayor Keith Babb Jr.

Michael Gauger and Ron Howard.

ROYAL PALM BEACH SENIOR CITIZEN HEALTH EXPO AT THE CULTURAL CENTER

Village of Royal Palm Beach presented a Senior Citizen Health Expo sponsored by Humana on Tuesday, Aug. 1 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The event featured an array of health and wellness vendors. Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue demonstrated how to correctly use a fire extinguisher and how do to hands-only CPR and use an AED machine. Attendees won a variety of raffle prizes.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Inaugural ‘Bartle BBQ Hang’ Skateboarding Event Aug. 23 At The National Croquet Center

The Hanley Foundation, Florida’s largest provider of grant-funded prevention programs and recovery scholarships to combat addiction, will officially launch the “Cory Bartle Memorial Fund” on Saturday, Aug. 26, with a skateboard and barbecue event at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach.

The “Bartle BBQ Hang” was conceived by the Bartle family, their close friends and Sandy James Catering, in honor of Cory Bartle, a 34-year-old skateboarding enthusiast and rising culinary star, who lost his battle with addiction in October 2022.

“This is an opportunity for our friends in the skateboarding and

culinary communities to come out and ‘get on board’ to support this critical cause,” said James Bartle, co-founder and proprietor of Sandy James Catering. “It’s heartbreaking that too many young people in our community fall victim to addiction, but we want anyone suffering to know that help is available, which is why we partnered with the Hanley Foundation.”

The event takes place on Saturday, Aug. 26, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the National Croquet Center, located at 700 Florida Mango Road in West Palm Beach. Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased at www.hanleyfoundation.org/bbq. Admission includes a barbecue feast catered and donated by Sandy

James Catering, activities, community camaraderie, a skateboard half pipe competition with prizes, and a demonstration by skateboard pro Kai Canduba. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Hanley Foundation’s Cory Bartle Memorial Fund.

Cory Bartle was a masterful culinary artist by the age of 25 whose work brought him an incredible amount of joy. He was an avid outdoorsman, and he loved skateboarding and the beach. Bartle was passionate about the people he loved and was willing to help people in any way he could. He was working hard on his recovery and wanted to be free of addiction. Unfortunately, an accidental over-

Aug. 24 Community Job And Resource Fair In WPB

dose took his life in October 2022. In honor of Bartle’s life, his family created the Cory Bartle Memorial Fund to support efforts to combat addiction.

Donations made to the Cory Bartle Memorial Fund, administered by the Hanley Foundation, will provide lifesaving scholarships for individuals with substance use disorders who would not otherwise be able to afford treatment. The fund will also support work to educate individuals and their families on substance use disorders and the road to recovery.

For more information, visit www.hanleyfoundation.org, call (561) 268-2355 or e-mail info@ hanleyfoundation.org.

Better Together and The Light WPB are partnering to host a community job fair for West Palm Beach-area residents from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 24.

Registration is now open for hiring employers and job seekers to participate in the August event. The church-based job fair not only connects job seekers with local employers who are ready to hire, but also provides resources to facilitate stronger connections and more hires.

Free one-on-one job coaching sessions are also available to job seekers to review résumés and interviewing skills, and other additional services will be available onsite.

The community job fair is part

of Better Together’s “Better Jobs” program, which has helped 39,000 applicants connect with employment opportunities across 22 states.

At job fairs hosted by Better Together, two-thirds of attendees get a job interview, and one in four receive a job offer on the spot.

The Aug. 24 job fair will take place at Forest Hill High School, located at 6901 Parker Ave. in West Palm Beach. Job seekers and employers can register at https:// bettertogetherus.org/events/wpbjf or by texting “JOBS” to (844) 987-3949.

Churches interested in hosting a Better Together job fair can visit https://bettertogetherus.org for more information.

The

PBCFR Public Educator Dottie Diedrick demonstrates hands-only CPR while RPB Supervisor of Senior Programs Shakeera Thomas holds the microphone.

RPB Supervisor of Senior Programs Shakeera Thomas (center) with event organizers Alicia Jean Pierre and Pamela Avalos.

Marvin Badler of the Seniors vs. Crime program from the Florida Attorney General’s Office.

Raffle winner Yvette Bouffard.

Insurance agent Sabrina Zeller and Prominence community liaison Arlene Morosco.

Inspired Living’s Christy Zillman, raffle winner Marilyn Trimble and Maxine Minott.

Wellington Regional Medical Center’s Kresha Suniga, Tammy Levasseur and Pam Rada.

Vinette Tracy, Shakeera Thomas, Mary Wall and Dolly Hughes. Gloria Palenzuela and Iri Tatur.

Sandy Rubin, Lee Messina and Francine Bryant of RPB’s Young at Heart Club.

TAP PERFORMS ‘SCHOOL OF ROCK’ MUSICAL AT WELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL

On Saturday, Aug. 5 and Sunday Aug. 6, Theatre Arts Productions (TAP) featured a production of the hit musical School of Rock for three shows at the Wellington High School theater. TAP puts on four shows a year featuring local talent. School of Rock featured a cast of 28 actors and 18 stage crew members across a wide variety of ages. Based on the well-known movie of the same name, School of Rock tells the story of Dewey Finn (Jaycie Cohen), an out-of-work rock guitarist who pretends to be a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school run by Principal Rosalie Mullins (Dolly Romano). Auditions for the next TAP musical will be held at the end of August. Learn more at www.tapstars.org.

PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

The behind-the-scenes stage crew meet before the start of the show.

Company Manager Marlo Cohen gives a final stage prep inspirational talk to the actors before the show.

The teachers perform “Faculty Quadrille.”

Dewey and the kids perform “Stick It to the Man.” Dewey during the number “You’re in the Band.”

Cohen and Marlo Cohen watch as the actors do a final sound

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Wellington, Seminole Ridge Training Hard For Football Season

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

This year marks the start of a new chapter in the Wellington High School football program. Entering the upcoming season, there is a new head coach and many new players on the squad.

The new head coach is 27-yearold Ross Pryor, who has been an assistant coach at WHS for the last three years. Meanwhile, 49 players who were on last year’s team are not members of this year’s squad — 29 graduating seniors and 20 underclassmen who have transferred to other high schools.

According to Pryor, he has inherited a group of young, coachable and enthusiastic players.

“We will probably be the underdog in every game, and I’m OK with that,” said Pryor, who was named head coach in March.

“So far in practice, our players are learning, have lots of energy, are having fun and they are enjoying being a part of this team.”

Pryor and his staff of coaches have strong numbers — more than 90 players — at practice. He expects 50 of them to play varsity football this fall. The remaining

players will be on either the junior varsity team or the freshman squad. There are a number of talented players from whom Pryor is expecting on-the-field productivity. They include sophomore quarterback Jonathan Paul, sophomore running back Tyree Pearson, senior long-snapper Carson Perusse, senior wide receiver/defensive back Andre Powell and senior placekicker/punter Cameron Romano, who has successfully kicked a 53-yard field goal in practice.

According to Pryor, Paul is very similar to Ryan Anthony, Wellington’s quarterback for the last three years, who graduated in May.

“Paul reminds me a great deal of Ryan Anthony, and that’s a big deal,” Pryor said. “Paul is starting to be more vocal in practice, which is important.”

Another part of Wellington’s team that must rise to the occasion this year is the offensive line, coached by veteran offensive line coach Alan Lawson.

There are nine players on Wellington’s offensive line roster. Their job will be to keep the quarterback safe and secure. If each

offensive lineman does his job, the Wolverines may well string together more wins than losses.

Those offensive linemen are senior William Stepp, freshman Ari Carranza, freshman Jonathan Struthers, sophomore Freddi Thermitus, sophomore Jake Torres, junior Landon Brodeur, junior Connor Olivares, freshman Ayden Lombardo and junior Jonathan Ciceron.

“They set the tone for the team, and their conduct on and off the field reflects their character,” Lawson said.

According to Lawson, each of the offensive linemen is a valuable member of the team.

“Stepp is a leader and has the heart of champion with no quit in him,” Lawson said. “He is the smallest on the line at 195 pounds, but he plays like a 300-pound player.”

“Carranza is 300 pounds and moves like the wind. He will be the best lineman in the southeast when he’s a senior,” Lawson said. “He doesn’t know how good he is yet, and I cannot wait for when that day comes.”

“Struthers is a first-year player,

but you wouldn’t know it,” Lawson said. “He is 6-foot-2 now as a freshman. He is tough, strong, attentive and has what it takes to be a great football player.”

“Thermitus has a quiet intensity and is very well liked by his teammates,” Lawson said. “He is learning quickly and challenges himself every day at practice. His attitude is tremendous.”

“Torres pushes himself to excel every day,” Lawson said. “He will be one of the toughest linemen in the state over the next three years.”

“Brodeur is just tough as nails,” Lawson said. “He will be allconference when he is a senior.”

“Olivares is as physical as they come,” Lawson said. “He is so easy to coach, I feel like I have been coaching this young man for years. He knows his body and knows how to leverage it the right way.”

“Lombardo is a first-year player who doesn’t realize how tough and strong he really is,” Lawson said. “I cannot wait to see when he realizes what he can do in the trenches when that light comes on.”

“Ciceron is a second-year starter,” Lawson said. “He is one of the leaders on the offensive line. He is always positive. He has a great spirit and is a fine young man.”

“We are a young squad, but they play like old veterans and support each other,” Lawson explained. “I cannot remember when I have enjoyed coaching so much.”

Wellington’s preseason kickoff classic game will be Friday, Aug. 18 at Santaluces High School. The season opener is Friday, Aug. 25 at home against Park Vista High School with a 6:30 p.m. kickoff.

Seminole Ridge — Seminole Ridge High School head football coach Chad Chieffalo currently has 73 players at practice. His squad is filled with level-headed playmakers on both offense and defense.

“This year’s team has leadership and maturity,” said Chieffalo,

whose team has 15 starters returning from last year’s squad.

For Seminole Ridge, the key players on offense will be his two quarterbacks and his offensive line.

Junior Dylan Reid will be the starting quarterback, and his very capable backup will be junior Garrett Rimes, who will also be playing cornerback on defense. If Rimes is called upon to be the quarterback, Chieffalo has the utmost confidence in him.

The Seminole Ridge offensive line is filled with experienced, talented players, three of whom started last year. Last year’s starters are junior left tackle Daniel Pierre Louis, junior right tackle Isaiah Smith and junior left guard Alexander Binda. The other two offensive linemen are two brothers, senior center Mike Jean-Mary and sophomore right guard Nathan Jean-Mary. He expects those starters to open up holes along the offensive line so that the running backs in the team’s “Tight T” offense can penetrate the opposition’s secondary.

On defense, Chieffalo is expecting another banner year from ju-

nior middle linebacker Ty Jackson.

“Last season, as a sophomore, Ty established a new school record for tackles with 138,” said Chieffalo, who won’t be surprised if Jackson breaks his own record this season.

Jackson is already being courted by a number of prominent NCAA Division I programs, such as the University of Tennessee.

Seminole Ridge’s preseason kickoff classic game will be Friday, Aug. 18 at Martin County High School in Stuart. The season opener is Thursday, Aug. 24 at home against Glades Central High School. Kickoff is at 6:30 p.m.

A year ago, Seminole Ridge traveled to Belle Glade and emerged victorious.

“We won last year at Glades Central by throwing one pass, and it was for a touchdown,” Chieffalo recalled. “We played the entire game in the ‘Tight T’ offense.”

Between now and the seasonopener, Chieffalo and his staff of four assistant coaches — Alex Locker, Morgan Roland, Jake Jones and Ethan DiBerardino — will be working to bring clarity to the depth chart.

Wellington’s Trent Frazier Gives Back To Area Basketball Community

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Wolves, the Village of Wellington, Wellington High School and local basketball standout Trent Frazier teamed up on Saturday, Aug. 5 to stage the inaugural Trent Frazier Basketball Camp.

The camp was a three-hour basketball clinic for local children, ages 8 to 18. The best thing about the camp was that there was no charge to attend. This first-time event was held inside Wellington High School’s gymnasium from 9 a.m. to noon. In all, 80 players were in attendance.

For Frazier — who led the WHS boys varsity basketball team to the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 8A state championship in 2015 and later starred at the University of Illinois from 2018 to 2022, where he was selected to the second team Big Ten

squad in 2022 — this clinic was a chance to share his passion for basketball and his knowledge of the game with younger players who may also have dreams of playing basketball at a higher level.

“I want to give back to this community,” said Frazier, who is currently under contract with the Zenit Basketball Club in St. Petersburg, Russia. “Wellington High School and the community have given me a chance to fulfill my basketball journey.”

Clearly, there are many children who want to be like Frazier.

“I want to just be an inspiration for everyone who attended the camp,” Frazier said. “No matter where you come from or your background, always stay true to yourself and believe you can do it, no matter the route you take.”

The camp was a special experience for two brothers, Chris and Carter Nixon.

Chris is 15, while Carter is 8. Both had a great time, and they learned a great deal, especially Chris, who is an incoming sophomore at Seminole Ridge High School.

“It was a great experience and great fun,” said Chris, who hopes to make the varsity basketball team this winter at Seminole Ridge. “I learned a lot from the step-back drills, the dribbling drills and the game-speed corner drill.”

For Frazier and 11 area coaches, some of whom are on the staff of WHS head boys basketball coach Matt Colin, the main goals of the clinic were to emphasize being strong, physically and mentally.

The physical side had to do with grasping fundamental bas-

ketball skills, which include catching, passing, dribbling, shooting and moving without the basketball. The mental side was being determined to keep working toward your overall goal of being the best basketball player that you can be.

“Always believe in your dreams,” Frazier added. “But more importantly, improve your life skills. As much as you give, you will receive. Basketball is just a sport, so be willing to always give back to your community. Having a place you can call home is what’s important.”

The key sponsors of the Trent Frazier Basketball Camp were the Village of Wellington, the Wellington Wolves, the Council of Dads and ESPN West Palm.

WHS offensive linemen (L-R) Ayden Lombardo, Freddi Thermitus, Connor Olivares, Ari Carranza, William Stepp, Landon Brodeur, Jonathan Ciceron, Jonathan Struthers and Jake Torres.

Trent Frazier with Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Seminole Ridge middle linebacker Ty Jackson with head coach Chad Chieffalo.

RPB 14U All-Stars Capture Babe Ruth Softball World Series Title

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

On Tuesday, July 25, the 14U Babe Ruth Softball World Series was held in Martin County, and the winning team was the 14U Royal Palm Beach All-Stars.

During the World Series competition, Royal Palm Beach played 10 games, winning eight of them. Their only losses were against a team from Madeira Beach, Florida, and a team from Puerto Rico. As it turns out, the Royal Palm Beach squad faced those two teams again later in the tournament, during the single-elimination rounds. This time, Royal Palm Beach prevailed, outscoring Madeira Beach, 10-9, in the semifinal round, and then outlasting Puerto Rico, 16-6, in the championship final. This was the third trip to the Babe Ruth Softball World Series for this squad in as many years. After falling short in 2021 and 2022, the third time was the charm for the 14U Royal Palm Beach All-Stars.

According to head coach Ed Bianco, the biggest key to the team’s overall success this year was a deeper pitching staff.

“We didn’t have enough pitchers during the last two years,” Bianco said. “We added some good pitchers to our team for this year.”

The three main pitchers for Royal Palm Beach were Caroline Duncan, Yanaira Andrade and Jazz Borjas. “I had total confidence in each of those players when they pitched for us,” Bianco said. “They were outstanding.”

There were some statistical stars on the Royal Palm Beach AllStars. The team’s best hitter was Andrade, who led the team with a .622 batting average. Gabriela de los Reyes had a team-leading

11 RBIs, and Bailey Nixon, the team’s starting catcher, was the tournament MVP. She had the most extra base hits with six.

Defensively, de los Reyes had a team-leading 27 put-outs. During the World Series, she played four different defensive positions: pitcher, catcher, first base and third base. “Gabi was the cleanup hitter in our lineup this year,” Bianco added. “And she was our fourth pitcher.”

As a way of honoring top players from the championship teams, de los Reyes — who had 10 hits, scored eight runs, drew five walks

and never struck out — was the subject of a player-profile post on Babe Ruth Softball’s Facebook page. In addition to an image of de los Reyes in her Royal Palm Beach uniform, a few interesting facts about de los Reyes were displayed on Facebook. For instance, she bats and throws right-handed. In school, her favorite class is TV

Berean Christian School Adds Pickleball To Its Physical Education Curriculum

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

Tuesday, Aug. 8 was National Pickleball Day. To help celebrate the occasion, Berean Christian School, in coordination with the national nonprofit PHIT America, invited WPTV’s roving morning show reporter T.A. Walker, the station’s “Shining a Light” correspondent, on campus to draw attention to the school’s adoption of PHIT America’s new “Play Pickleball” program. The first shot from the Berean campus this past Tuesday morning on WPTV was just before 5:30 a.m. Segments aired throughout the morning on WPTV’s morning show until 7 a.m. After that, shots aired on WFLX/Fox 29. To add substance and content to each shot taken from inside Berean’s gymnasium, nearly 40 members of the student body arrived on campus as early as 5 a.m. to provide a setting of students actually playing pickleball. Those interviewed on WPTV

and WFLX included Luke Schartner, the head of physical education at Berean; Dean Hendricks, Berean’s athletic director; Jim Baugh, the founder of PHIT America; Lois Lantz, a third-grade teacher at Berean; and KaSandra Gehrke, PHIT America’s national pickleball ambassador, who is also a former PE teacher and currently a professional pickleball player.

Schartner and Hendricks were delighted with the idea of expanding their school’s PE program with PHIT America’s Play Pickleball curriculum.

Baugh said that PHIT America, which is based in Jupiter, is looking to promote its Play Pickleball program, specifically to schools in South Florida.

Lantz explained that when students participate in PE programs, they produce immediate learning dividends for the students back in the classroom.

“Students are more alert and ready to learn after returning to my classroom from a PE class,”

Lantz said. “Playing pickleball and being physically active helps with academic achievement.”

According to Gehrke, roughly 40 public school PE teachers in Palm Beach County are interested in more information about PHIT America’s Play Pickleball program.

According to Baugh, PHIT America, which provides programming for school PE programs around the U.S., is dedicated to working with schools and school districts around the nation in order to enhance the amount of daily, quality PE programs.

Berean is the first school in Palm Beach County to implement PHIT America’s Play Pickleball program, but, hopefully, it won’t be the last. PHIT America is in the midst of publicizing the existence of its pickleball initiative with elementary school PE teachers throughout Palm Beach and Martin counties.

According to Baugh, expanding the focus on PE in schools

is important because children in the United States are ranked last in physical health among 38 developed countries, according to a survey by UNICEF. In a separate study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine, children in the U.S. are ranked 47th out of 50 countries in overall fitness. Meanwhile, 75 percent of all American teenagers are not physically fit enough to join the military, based on reports from the U.S. Army.

Another obstacle to expanding PE is the low amount of money that schools budget for PE. According to Shape America, the professional association of PE teachers, the average budget for physical education for elementary schools is $462 per year.

“If school districts understood the true academic dividends that PE provides, they would increase the emphasis on daily, quality PE,” Baugh said. “Fortunately, some schools and school districts are beginning to realize the importance of PE for all students.”

production. Not surprisingly, her favorite interests and hobbies are related to sports, as she enjoys watching softball, baseball and volleyball.

During the 10 games played by the 14U Royal Palm Beach AllStars at the Babe Ruth Softball World Series, they played teams from Australia, New Jersey, Indi-

ana, Florida and Puerto Rico. Prior to winning the World Series title, the team won the South Florida district title in Wellington on June 2, and then won the U14 Babe Ruth Florida State Championship on June 26 in Lake City. The team entered the World Series competition with a perfect, 10-0, record.

Berean students play pickleball while the cameras roll.

KaSandra Gehrke (left) and Lois Lantz (right) are interviewed.

The Royal Palm Beach 14U All-Stars after winning the Babe Ruth Softball World Series.

Gabriela de los Reyes at bat and Caroline Duncan pitching.

Kids Cancer Foundation Hosts

Back-To-School Kids Night Out

As the sound of school bells quickly approached, the Kids Cancer Foundation held its annual Back-to-School Bash at the Kids Cancer Center in Royal Palm Beach on Friday, Aug. 4. Kids Cancer Foundation fami-

lies gathered last Friday evening to collect backpacks filled to the brim with school supplies for every child. The backpacks were donated by Life.Church Wellington. Children also enjoyed crafts, food and fun.

The event was made even more successful by the charitable hearts of the Kids Cancer Foundation’s many supporters and volunteers. The foundation wishes all the students a great first day of school. The Kids Cancer Foundation

is a nonprofit charity founded in 2001 with a mission to provide hope and support to local children and families battling childhood cancer and/or blood disorders. Learn more at www.kidscancersf. org.

Hospital’s First Micro-Preemie Graduates From New Palms West Level III NICU

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital’s first micro-preemie at its new Level III NICU has graduated. Baby Eimon was recently released to go home after more than three months in the hospital.

Born on April 20 at just one

pound, 13 ounces, Eimon coded several times in his first week and required bedside surgery, as his condition was too fragile to transport him to the hospital’s operating room. After months of round-the-

clock, specialized care by the hospital’s gifted and compassionate physicians, nurses and specialists, Eimon graduated from the NICU on Tuesday, Aug. 1.

The NICU team held a little goodbye ceremony and lined the

halls to celebrate Eimon’s next big step as he prepares to take on the world. The Level III NICU expansion at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital opened in February to serve the area’s tiniest patients.

Eimon has made impressive progress in his time at the hospital.

Hospital team members gather to say goodbye.

Eimon and his mother prepare to go home.

The fun evening celebrated the end of the summer recess.

Children also enjoyed crafts, food and fun at the event.

Students received backpacks filled to the brim with school supplies. PHOTOS BY LOIS SPATZ PHOTOGRAPHY

PALMS WEST PEOPLE EAGLE SCOUT COURT OF HONOR CEREMONY FOR ALEXANDER GUAGLIONE

An Eagle Scout Court of Honor Ceremony was held Sunday, Aug. 6 at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington for new Eagle Scout Alexander Guaglione of BSA Troop 125. Guaglione’s Eagle Scout project was creating an opossum enclosure for the Okeeheelee Nature Center. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

A cake celebrates Alexander Guaglione’s achievement. Scouts in attendance gather on stage.

Grandparents George and Diane Grosso, Eagle Scout Alex Guaglione, and parents Adrea and Tony Guaglione.

Stu Geller, Blake Levy, Mario DeArmas, Tim Monahan, Randy Lane, David Taylor, David Sunderman and Michelle DeArmas.

Alex Guaglione with other Eagle Scouts.

Angelo, Aidan, Tony, Alex, Adrea, Anthony and Hanna Guaglione.

Eagle Scout Alex Guaglione with Life to Eagle Coach Tim Monahan.

Adrea Guaglione looks on as Alex pins his father Tony.

Alex Guaglione with Scoutmaster Mario DeArmas.

Okeeheelee Nature Center Manager Emilie Travis, Alex Guaglione and Mark Halleran of the Palm Beach County Woodturners.

Friends Jonah Monahan, Charlie Doran, Anthony Gasso and Christopher De Armas with Alex Guaglione.

Eagle Scout Alex Guaglione gathers with his family.

Adrea and Tony Guaglione help Alex with his Eagle Scout kerchief and slide.

Alex Guaglione (center) with his parents Tony and Adrea.

Bank Of America Announces PBC Student Leaders

Bank of America recently announced that four Palm Beach County high school juniors and seniors were selected as Student Leaders, an eight-week paid summer internship providing students with first-hand experience in serving their communities. Among the honorees is Jacob Liu of Wellington. As part of the program, the students will develop leadership and practical workforce skills while working for the local nonprofit Communities in Schools of Palm Beach County, all the while earning $17 per hour.

In Palm Beach County, only 38 percent of residents aged 25 or older have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher, according to the latest U.S. Census. With changing economic environments and a shifting job market, young people need access to workforce experience and career skills-building opportunities. The private sector has a role to play to help better position and support young adults to be successful in today’s workforce.

“By providing the pathways and resources for young adults to gain the foundational work skills and leadership experience they need to succeed, we are investing in

Palm Beach County’s long-term economic growth,” said Fabiola Brumley, president of Bank of America Palm Beach County.

“The teens selected for this paid summer intern program are truly extraordinary but may not have had access to opportunities like this until now. The Student Leaders program is just one example of how we connect people to meaningful employment resources that also builds a stronger pipeline of diverse talent for our local workforce.”

Jacob Liu of Wellington is a student at the A.W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, where he serves as the president and co-founder of Venture, a nonprofit organization that provides financial education to underserved children in Palm Beach County. His organization uses educational curriculum and engaging activities to equip youth with the knowledge and skills to make smart economic choices and to plan for their future. Through his leadership, he was able to secure $10,000 in funding through Philanthropy Tank to continue the group’s efforts. The other 2023 Palm Beach County Bank of America Student Leaders are: Aditya Ananthakrishnan of Jupiter, who is a William T.

Dwyer High School student with a devotion to addressing food insecurity throughout Palm Beach County; Ellis Daggs of Jupiter, who is a student at the Oxbridge Academy in West Palm Beach, where he is the founder and president of the school’s Black Student Union; and Marjorie Joseph of Delray Beach, who is a student at Atlantic High School who has been inspired by her mother, who came from Haiti and started a new life here in the U.S.

In mid-July, Student Leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., for a week-long, all-expenses-paid, national leadership summit focused

WES LEADERSHIP TEAM MEETS BEFORE SCHOOL BEGINS

on the power of cross-sector collaboration and community advocacy. At the first in-person Summit since 2019, Student Leaders from across the nation discussed the importance of civic engagement and met with members of Congress.

Started in 2004, the Student Leaders program recognizes 300 community-focused juniors and seniors from across the U.S. annually. The Palm Beach County-based Student Leaders are participating in programming that includes a collaborative project with Communities in Schools to engage in each of their program areas.

On Tuesday, July 25, Wellington Elementary School’s Leadership Team met for the first time in the new school year. It was a very informative meeting, and everyone is looking forward to the new school year. The school’s theme this year is, “What You Do Matters!” Pictured are: (front row) Fourth Grade Chair Anais Amador, SAI Stephanie Morrison, ESE Chair Dina Lewis and Fine Arts Chair Cathy West; (back row) Guidance Counselor Barbara Farmer, Kindergarten Grade Chair Laura Ann LaSpisa, First Grade Chair Lindsay Oerter, Assistant Principal Donna Dekersky, SLP Chair Amy Midlarsky, Pre-K Chair Cathy Eckstein, Principal Dr. Maria Vaughan and Second Grade Chair Gloria Conway. Not shown: Third Grade Chair Karlie Young and Fifth Grade Chair Kristine Frey.

Lowe’s Foundation Awards PBSC Grant To Expand Skilled Trade Programs

Palm Beach State College is one of 10 community and technical colleges nationwide to receive the first-ever round of Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants to support skilled trades workforce development initiatives. The grants are the first in a five-year, $50 million commitment to help prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. This investment will fund cutting-edge programs in appliance repair, carpentry, construction, electrical, HVAC and plumbing.

PBSC received the grant based on its comprehensive plan to expand the impact of its degree and certificate programs in construction trades and management. Putting the grant’s mission into action, PBSC will reach out to residents throughout Palm Beach County to recruit, train and develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople, including groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the trades. PBSC aims to grow its number of graduates who are ready to build and revitalize homes, neighborhoods and infrastructure with the goal to increase Palm Beach County’s skilled workforce by 1,500 by 2028.

Foundation for its generosity and belief in our mission to transform lives and strengthen the community.”

Key to PBSC’s plan is the creation of a unique training space on the Lake Worth campus. The Construction Trades Center for Workforce Innovation will simulate construction jobsite conditions, providing real-world experiences for students. The center will incorporate both residential and commercial construction sites — an innovative smart house and an office suite facility — and be equipped with all the tools and equipment needed to design, build and renovate.

Palm Beach State and Lowe’s are introducing a ‘next generation in trades’ initiative that provides an essential pipeline of highly skilled professionals to local industries and the Palm Beach County workforce.”

In addition to Palm Beach State College, nine other community and technical colleges across the nation were awarded grants.

Students gain hands-on experience in the HVAC lab at Palm Beach State College.

“Our partnership with the Lowe’s Foundation paves a path to a better future for our young people through the college’s trades programs,” PBSC President Ava L. Parker said. “Serving this vital initiative, we are excited to provide this opportunity to our county, one that ensures career readiness and enhances the economic mobility of our students and their families. I would like to express my gratitude to the Lowe’s

Colorectal Surgery in the Palm Beaches

Palm Beach Health Network Physician Group provides comprehensive care for patients with conditions that involve the lower digestive system – the colon, bowel and rectum. When surgery is required, our colorectal surgeons use some of the latest surgical advances, including minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, to detect and treat colorectal illnesses and disorders.

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The Construction Trades Center will be integrated into the 150,000-square-foot Education and Training Center, which houses the majority of the college’s industrial and technical programs. The PBSC programs directly supported by the grant train students to become building construction specialists and managers; architectural drafters; electricians; heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians; smart home technology installers; engineering technicians; and welders. The simulated jobsites will be continuously constructed and then torn down for the next classes to tackle.

“We are proud to partner with the Lowe’s Foundation for its first-ever Gable Grant for the PBSC Construction Trades Center for Workforce Innovation,” said David A. Rutherford, vice president of advancement and CEO of the Foundation for Palm Beach State College. “By enhancing education and training,

“These deserving schools are driving transformation in the skilled trades workforce through sustainable and inclusive career pathways. We had many outstanding applicants for these grants, which speaks to the urgency needed to increase the capacity for skilled trades labor nationwide,” said Janice Dupré, chair of the Lowe’s Foundation. “Our grants are inclusive of all groups to ensure that we achieve the overall goal of preparing 50,000 people for skilled trades careers in five years, including groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the trades, such as women, people of color, people in rural areas and individuals participating in second-chance programs. We are confident that these college programs will strengthen the skilled trades infrastructure for years to come.”

In addition to these grants, the Lowe’s Foundation will invest at least $5 million more to assist community-based nonprofit organizations and national nonprofit partners with a strong local presence. This puts the foundation on pace to invest more than $12 million in 2023 as part of its $50 million, five-year commitment.

Aditya Ananthakrishnan, Jacob Liu, Marjorie Joseph and Ellis Daggs.

IDA Development Brings Safety Expertise To Lion Country Safari

IDA Development, experts in providing high-quality equestrian products and services to world-renowned facilities and private barns alike, has taken working with animals to a whole new level. While they have primarily worked with horses, IDA’s updated list of clients now includes impalas, greater kudus and scimitar horned oryx — oh my!

IDA Development recently installed 1,600 square feet of Equitan Rubber Flooring in the petting zoo exhibit, exotic hoof stock barn and veterinary hospital stalls at Lion Country Safari.

“This was an exciting new project for us, and we’re proud of the work we did to make Lion Country Safari more comfortable for the animals,” said Harry Knopp, owner of IDA Development. “The well-being of the animal is our priority, whether it’s a dressage

champion, an Olympic jumper, an alpaca or a tortoise.”

Safari officials were pleased with the project’s success.

“IDA Development was very accommodating and easy to work with,” said Jen Rucker, assistant curator at Lion Country Safari.

“They were professional, flexible and willing to work around our animal needs when it came to scheduling. We look forward to more projects with IDA Development in the future.”

The one-inch-thick, cushioned Equitan flooring is safe and seamless. It provides excellent shock absorption and is easy to clean. It can be utilized at a major equestrian facility, a world-class attraction such as Lion Country Safari, or in a private custom barn.

“From kudu to zebra, IDA flooring has provided solid footing for all of the animals under our care,

and it is easy to clean with a hose or pressure washer,” said David Backus, lead keeper at Lion Country Safari. “I wish I could put IDA flooring everywhere.”

With more than 30 years of experience, IDA Development can make all your custom-building dreams come true, whether it’s a barn or home, all-weather outdoor arena, covered arena, mirrored arena, steel building or steel barn.

As a full-service provider, IDA walks clients through each phase of the planning and construction while meeting individual needs, timeline and budget.

IDA Development’s latest venture, IDA Steel, focuses on building prefabricated metal horse barns, as well as a covered steel riding arena designed to the clients’ specifications and built in virtually any dimension. These products can easily be designed

to the clients’ specifications, built in virtually any dimension, and installed anywhere in the country cost effectively.

For more information about IDA Development, visit www. idadevelops.com or contact Harry Knopp at (561) 486-0502 or harrylknopp@me.com.

Lion Country Safari opened in 1967 and was developed with the goal of bringing the African safari experience (then, and now, an expensive and time-consuming trip) to families who would otherwise not be able to experience this type of adventure. The park prides itself on caring for large social groups of animals, including some of the largest herds of zebra, giraffe and rhino on record in North America, in wide open, natural habitats. To learn more about Lion Country Safari, call (561) 793-1084 or visit www.lioncountrysafari.com.

Singer Mark Morrison Buys Shoes At The Mall For Underprivileged Kids

British R&B star and area resident Mark Morrison really cares about what kids wear on their feet.

On July 25, Morrison took 33 underprivileged children from the local nonprofit Student & Athlete Mentoring Program (STAMP) shoe shopping for the new school year at the Mall at Wellington Green.

Famous for his hit song “Return of the Mack,” Morrison knows going back to school is difficult for many students, especially those lacking resources. Childhood memories of being teased for wearing what the kids called “cheap shoes” have stayed with him. He empathizes with youth

who may face similar situations due to their financial circumstances.

“I can still remember the kids calling my shoes cheap. I didn’t care until they started teasing me,” Morrison said. “I don’t think any kid should have to go through that, and I will do my part to make sure that does not happen.”

Morrison’s shoe donation directly helps STAMP’s Prepped, Pressed & Dressed for School program, which sends 200 students back to school with three new uniforms, shoes and school supplies, as well as haircuts for the boys, and hair salon visits for the girls.

“All summer long, we prepare

the kids for their academic success, so when they get back to school, they can keep up with their work,” said Mark Brown, founder of STAMP. “Now we have to make sure they are all pressed up and dressed for school.”

To make a donation to STAMP’s Prepped, Pressed & Dressed for School program, visit its GoFundMe page.

Located in West Palm Beach,

STAMP is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 to empower student-athletes to achieve better math, reading, test taking and athletic skills. Its mission is to increase high school graduation rates, create and support dreams of becoming college athletes, and promote good citizenship among area youth.

For more information, visit www.stampmentoring.org.

IDA Development team members work hard to prepare the surface for new, safer footing at Lion Country Safari.

Dr. Stephanie Kane Celebrates One Year At New Office On PWH Campus

Top-rated podiatrist Dr. Stephanie Kane just celebrated the first anniversary of her new practice, Signature Foot & Ankle, located on the Palms West Hospital campus.

At her warm and inviting office, Kane takes a very different approach to patient care and strives to understand every patient’s unique needs before recommending a treatment plan, so they are able to return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

Kane is a South Florida native who grew up in Wellington and attended school locally before moving to Connecticut. She then returned to South Florida to attend the University of Miami for her undergraduate studies, and subsequently obtaining her doctorate of podiatric medicine degree from Barry University. She then completed her residency in podiatric medicine and surgery at Bethesda Hospital in Boynton Beach, where she served as chief resident.

Kane has extensive experience in the field of podiatry and is highly skilled in treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, fractures, trauma, including bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, ingrown toenails, nail fungus and more. She enjoys helping patients of all ages.

Kane is highly trained in surgical techniques, completing more than 1,000 surgeries during her

Dr. Stephanie Kane residency. She performs procedures such as bunionectomies, tendon repair and ankle arthroscopy.

In addition to her clinical work, Kane is involved in several professional organizations, including the American Podiatric Medical Association and is treasurer of the Palm Beach County Podiatric Medical Association. Serves on the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Young Physician Emerging Leaders, volunteers with Special Olympics and serves on the American Heart Association’s Peripheral Arterial Disease Collaborative committee.

To learn more about Dr. Stephanie Kane and Signature Foot & Ankle, visit them online at www. signaturefoot.com.

Oh No... My Pothole-Filled Parking Lot Needs To Be Repaved

Today is a Red Letter Day for me. Today is the day I spend a huge amount of money on something I never thought I would need or want — a re-paved parking lot at one of my stores. This lot was in pretty good shape when we bought the place four years ago. However, due to increased traffic — Shoppers found us! They like us! Yay! — and the fact that I’m situated in a very convenient spot for hundreds of vehicles wanting to turn around, it began disintegrating. At first, I tried to fix it myself. My son Charlie helped. He had worked on Wellington’s road crew for a while, and he showed me where to buy tar mixed

with tiny stones. We cleaned out the worst pothole and filled it, then ran over it a few times with my car to help it settle. That cost less than $1,000 and held us for about a year while new potholes quickly opened up wherever they possibly could,

hoping for the same treatment.

One of the things I used to like about my store was that it has great “frontage.” Situated horizontally on the parcel, you can almost window-shop while you park. You can slowly tool along the vast banks of display windows and begin salivating about all the cool antiques inside.

I don’t like great frontage anymore. A long, horizontal building means a long, horizontal parking lot, which is almost like putting hundred-dollar bills end-to-end and then running over them with a steam roller. But something needed to be done. The most envious of the potholes was now about 8 inches deep, and I was afraid

someone was going to lose a tire — probably me. So, I called an asphalt guy.

“I can do it for twenty-five,” he said.

“Twenty-five hundred?” I eagerly asked, ignorant fool that I am.

He looked at me funny. “$20,500,” he clarified.

“Oh.” I was shocked.

So, I called my husband. Mark has more than 50 years of experience in construction, and he had estimated the job to be worth about $15,000. Evidently, that was then. This is now.

The asphalt guy and I settled on $18,500 because, according to him, he had all his machinery and a crew of 20 working about

three blocks away, and I told him he could start right away.

Never mind that the store would be open with no way to get to it.

Never mind that I rent booths to other antiques dealers, most of whom had spent the week blissfully gathering merchandise that they were eager to put into their booths.

Never mind that I would be paying a clerk to rattle around inside the store just in case someone found alternative parking and a pathway into the store. The asphalt guy promised one day service.

So, Merry Christmas to me.

Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ A Triumph Of Film Making

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is a triumph; the best movie I have seen all year. Actually, the best movie I’ve seen in quite a few years. He wrote it, directed it, and turned a three-hour film that mostly consists of men in suits talking into an exciting, fascinating biopic.

J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) is called “the father of the atomic bomb,” a fitting designation for the man who led the scientists on the Manhattan Project, which created the bomb during World War II. But this movie does not focus simply on that, but the complex social history of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s. Nolan’s genius is that he moves back and forth so well. A congressional hearing for Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey Jr.), the first head of the Atomic Energy Commission, for an appointment as Secretary of Commerce frames the whole movie, since his dealings with Oppenheimer and Oppenheimer’s loyalty

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

are called into question. At the start, we see young Oppy (as he was called) in Europe, learning about quantum mechanics from the top brains of the day, some of whom will work with him and some against the U.S. during World War II. Teaching at Berkeley, he works with Ernest Lawrence (Josh Hartnett), a specialist in dealing with atomics. He becomes part of the left-wing culture there, mostly because he is Jewish and only the communists seem willing to fight the fascists in Spain. Although he is never a

communist, his wife Kitty (Emily Blunt), lover Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh) and brother Frank (Dylan Arnold) are. As a result, he is under suspicion.

But Colonel, later General, Leslie Groves (Matt Damon) chooses him to head the project. The scenes leading up to the creation and testing of the bomb (the famed Trinity Test) are superb. And once the bombs are dropped, Oppy became a national hero.

That is, until the McCarthy era. He was brought before a board and declared a security risk, his clearances taken. The 1950s section is all in black and white, a fascinating contrast. Oppenheimer, whose personal life was a mess, not only had the ability to arouse great loyalty, but could offend pretty well.

One of the great things about the film is that it is not one-sided. Too often, the hero is perfect or one side or another is great and the other all evil. In this film,

the McCarthyites are shown (rightly) to be short-sighted and nasty, but it does show that, yes, there were communists working to steal information. And, while we might judge one way now, it might have seemed different close to the time when Russia had moved into Eastern Europe and China supported North Korea.

Nolan gets brilliant performances from all his actors. Murphy, with piercing blue eyes, is exceptional as the complex Oppenheimer. But we expect great acting from stars. The key in the film is that even the supporting cast is brilliant. Downey is incredible; this might be his best, most subtle acting ever. Damon is very strong as Groves, projecting a superb calm. Blunt manages to make Kitty, often drunk and bitter, a powerful presence. Pugh, although naked more often than not, brings an emotional power to her part. Hartnett does his best acting in years as Lawrence, and there are dozens of other actors in small parts

that are excellent. Tom Conti stands out in a few short scenes as Einstein. David Krumholtz stands out as Isidore Rabi, a very moral scientist.

Nolan is one of our great directors. Here he takes a film based on a lot of ideas and turn it into an explosive “who done it” as characters maneuver. The world these people lived in was changing rapidly, and some took advantage and others became victims. There are sections of the film that do get slow unless you’re a history buff or political junkie. But there is so much tension, so much contrast in this film, you will wind up thinking about different elements long after you have left the theater.

This is one movie you must see. It is not for kids (it is rated R for good reason), but it also serves as an intelligence test. Most of you do not follow history as much as I (I was a social studies teacher for more than 20 years) or are experts in nuclear science. But Nolan makes it easy to follow. See it.

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER