Town-Crier Newspaper August 23, 2024

Divided Wellington Council OKs Pulte Plan For Homes Near Church

A plan to construct 42 luxury homes in Wellington’s southern end won 3-2 approval by the Wellington Village Council last week after builders pledged more than $500,000 for road improvements around the community’s proposed entrance at 120th Avenue South and the nearby intersection at Lake Worth Road. Page 3

RPB Council Learns About Local Nonprofit Our Community Cares The Royal Palm Beach Village Council heard a presentation Thursday, Aug. 15 from Diane Gutman, the director of operations for the local nonprofit organization Our Community Cares, previously known as Wellington Cares. The nonprofit changed its name after expanding its services for senior citizens into the Royal Palm Beach community. Page 4

Gym Catering To Special Needs Kids Opens In RPB

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, an international children’s gym franchise, recently opened its new location in Royal Palm Beach. The opening of We Rock the Spectrum Palm Beach was accompanied by a celebration on Saturday, Aug. 10 at the new gym, located at 1169 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Families with children from all walks of life will get to experience a breadth of sensory and physically beneficial activities within a safe, clean and controlled environment. Page 18

CALL OF THE QUARTER AT WRMC

Bradshaw And Gauger Advance In Sheriff’s Race; Eisinger To Serve As Next Public Defender

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

Nearly 200,000 voters across Palm Beach County, an estimated 22 percent of registered voters, took part in the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 20, which finalized the races that will appear on the Tuesday, Nov. 5 general election ballot.

Voters weighed-in on an array of countywide races, highlighted by a closely watched set of primaries for Palm Beach County Sheriff, in which incumbent Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, a Democrat, faced both a primary challenge, and a challenge from two seeking the Republican party’s nomination.

In the Democratic primary, incumbent Bradshaw defeated challenger Alex Freeman, a career law enforcement officer who retired as a major from the Riviera Beach Police Department. Bradshaw took 57,875 votes (60.79 percent) to Freeman’s 37,327 votes (39.21 percent), according to unofficial

results from the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office. Freeman has run unsuccessfully against Bradshaw twice before, in 2020 and 2016.

In the Republican primary, former Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Michael Gauger, a former Bradshaw ally turned political opponent, defeated retired PBSO Capt. Lauro Diaz, who was Bradshaw’s 2020 general election opponent. Gauger took 34,893 votes (53.53 percent) to Diaz’s 30,291 votes (46.47 percent), according to unofficial results.

Bradshaw was happy with his showing in the primary and believes that he is in a strong position to win the general election in November to secure himself a sixth term.

“I’m grateful for the strong victory and vote of confidence I received in the primary election,” he said. “Residents know I’ve had their back to keep them safe, and

they have had mine, re-electing me to continue serving as sheriff.”

He said he will focus on his record during the general election campaign.

“I look forward to sharing more about the safety initiatives I’m leading to ensure public safety remains priority No. 1,” Bradshaw said. “Across the nation, our sheriff’s office remains a public safety leader on issues dealing with homeland security, mental health, violent and gang-related crimes, and the use of technology to increase efficiency and keep us safe.”

Bradshaw reiterated his belief that he is the best candidate for the job.

“Serving as sheriff requires leadership that is stable, effective and decisive,” he said. “Every day, I make decisions based on what is best to keep people safe, and I don’t let politics influence my decisions. I’m confident that

Lox Council Meets With FAAC To Help Hammer Out Budget

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council held a joint meeting with its Finance Advisory & Audit Committee (FAAC) on Tuesday, Aug. 20 as the town hammers out its spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year.

The town is going through a challenging budget cycle, trying to come up with the right balance of tax increases and spending cuts to close what was originally an estimated $500,000 budget shortfall. The total proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 is approximately $10.5 million, or $8.2 million when excluding capital spending, interfund transfers, charges and use of reserves. That is already a

decrease from the fiscal year 2024 budget of $12.3 million.

Early in the budget cycle, the council set its preliminary TRIM (truth in millage) property tax rate at 4.00 mills, up from 3.00 in the current year. The assessment for roads and drainage was set at $250, up from $200, and the annual solid waste assessment was set at $450, up from $400.

Through the budget process, the council has been working to lower at least two of those numbers. While there appears to be a consensus to stop subsidizing the solid waste assessment and set it at its actual cost of $450, there is little desire to change the roads and drainage assessment from $200. While some increase in the

property tax rate may happen, it will likely be much closer to the 3.00 mills from last year than the TRIM rate of 4.00.

To start the meeting, FAAC

Member Manish Sood gave a financial overview from the committee to the council, summing up several meetings that the board held regarding the budget. The consensus of the board was that the town needs to find alternative revenue sources while cutting as much as possible out of the current year’s budget.

“For this particular year, our expenditures are higher than our revenues,” Sood said. He went over what he called “immediate risks and opportuniSee LOX BUDGET, page 14

County Approves Next Step In The Racetrack Effort Near 20-Mile Bend

By Louis Hillary Park

Staff Report

Developer Pitches Luxury Homes, Equestrian Amenities On Isla Carroll Land In

By Charles Elmore

Report

Isla Carroll project might have to hurdle over concerns it represents a gold rush of higher-density housing in the village’s equestrian area. That was the picture painted by skeptics after village approval of a blockbuster development plan by Wellington Lifestyle Partners, backed by equestrian businessman Mark Bellissimo, six months ago. Some 35 of the proposed houses will sit on a third of an acre each, smaller than the multi-acre lots

common in the area that traditionally allow room for things like stabling, application documents show.

“It’s very concerning,” said Maureen Brennan, a resident and equestrian who opposed the WLP project. “We knew Bellissimo’s approval was going to trigger it. We don’t need those houses.”

The proposal has been submitted to village planning staff, with no public meetings yet scheduled. It is likely to go before advisory equestrian and planning committees before the Wellington Village Council makes the final call.

It possibly sets up a big umpiring call from a reshuffled council, with two new faces since spring elections. Some returning members have downplayed the notion there is any precedent set by the

previous vote, saying each application will be taken on its own merits. The plan would require zoning and master-plan changes to allow 35 of the homes on a third of an acre each at the 80-acre site near the National Polo Center-Wellington off 120th Avenue South. Another five residences would be on 1.5 to two acres each, according to the proposal.

This is appropriate for the area, developers argue. In the end, 40 houses are being built on 80 acres, which in the big picture means an average of a house per two acres, the developers note. The plan “fulfills the village’s goal of preserving and furthering the equestrian lifestyle by creating a unique equestrian club concept that will allow for the further

Wellington

See ELECTION, page 4

Wellington Regional Medical Center last week reunited cardiac patient Hector Florentino with the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue crew members, emergency workers and WRMC physicians who helped to save his life. WRMC hosted its “Call of the Quarter”

‘MEAN GIRLS’ ON STAGE

Shown above are Isabella Espinal, Laila Powery, Sophie Palazzo and Chloe Tobias on stage.

The conceptual site plan for the Isla Carroll project shows an array of equestrian amenities at the southern half of the

Protesters in front of Arden held a rally Monday to make clear their opposition to the racing facility near 20-Mile Bend.

PHOTO BY LOUIS HILLARY PARK/TOWN-CRIER

Divided Wellington Council OKs Pulte Plan For Homes Near Church

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

A plan to construct 42 luxury homes in Wellington’s southern end won 3-2 approval by the Wellington Village Council last week after builders pledged more than $500,000 for road improvements around the community’s proposed entrance at 120th Avenue South and the nearby intersection at Lake Worth Road.

“I’m not prepared to say you can’t build it, because I think we’ve solved most of the issues related to 120th access,” Mayor Michael Napoleone said at the Tuesday, Aug. 13 meeting.

However, other council members were not as sure.

“I know what’s going to happen already,” said Councilwoman Maria Antuña, one of two no votes with Councilwoman Amanda Silvestri. “It’s going to be excessive traffic on 120th.”

The approved master-plan amendments clear the way for Pulte Home Company LLC to build on land it arranged to buy from the Catholic Diocese of Palm Beach. The property sits near St. Therese De Lisieux Catholic Church, about 800 feet south of the intersection of Lake Worth Road and 120th Avenue South. It was previously zoned for a future daycare center, school or other community use.

The 22.5-acre property is part of the Orange Point Planned Unit Development.

The latest tweaks involve developer contributions toward a new southbound turn lane on 120th leading into the prospective community entrance and an expanded culvert over a canal, among other items. Many homes will be two-story models, but builders agreed to limit four homes to one story where they back up to neighbors to their east. Some neighbors expressed concerns. April Clark said she worried that landscaping was not sufficient to block views and noise. Developers said they would work on strengthening that. Other speakers urged the council to slow down and look for better solutions because Wellington is not going to fail for lack of $2 million homes, as resident Kevin Turner put it.

“You’re talking about fixing problems when it comes to Pulte’s entrance, but it still bottlenecks when you go further north,” Turner said.

There are plenty of moving parts surrounding the project.

The council voted 5-0 to approve an action plan related to Vision Zero, a program that aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries in the village by 2030. It has potential components that affect 120th.

The plan is to apply for grants from outside agencies to supplement village spending for particular initiatives that could include a $4 million, five-entrance roundabout at Lake Worth Road and 120th Avenue South.

Part of Pulte’s pledge would go to intersection improvements there.

A roundabout guides motorists around a central island with the idea of avoiding back-ups at a traffic light.

In other business:

• The

the

• The council unanimously supported preliminary steps in approving a $148 million budget for fiscal year 2025 that will be finalized in September. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.

Vassalotti And Jordano Advance In Race For Indian Trail Seat 2

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The Tuesday, Nov. 5 general election contenders are set for Indian Trail Improvement District Seat 2 following this week’s primary election.

In the crowded, six-way ITID race, political newcomer Richard Vassalotti II ran ahead of his five opponents. The retired Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue captain got 40.03 percent (2,543 votes), according to unofficial returns from the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office.

Incumbent Supervisor Keith Jordano finished second with 22.48 percent (1,428 votes), good enough to earn a spot on the November ballot.

Vassalotti said Wednesday that the more time he spent shaking hands and talking to voters, the more he felt the “heartbeat” of the community. “I had a great feeling

that I was going to be successful,” he said. Jordano said that the crowded field made it a challenge. “I’m disappointed that I didn’t win outright, but with six people in the race, I did not expect anyone to get to 50 percent,” he said. “I am glad that I will be advancing to the next round.”

John Rivera, who owns a locksmith business, finished third with 12.44 percent (790 votes) in his third try for a seat on the board. Longtime ITID resident Lou Colantuoni finished fourth at 11.56 percent (734 votes). His employer-employee relationship with Seat 4 incumbent Supervisor Betty Argue was an issue that Vassalotti said was mentioned to him unfavorably by a number of voters.

Kirk Ljongquist, a frequent critic of district spending, was fifth with 10.52 percent (668 votes),

and Stian Oksavik, who works for a telecom company, finished far behind with 2.98 percent (189 votes).

Argue, a two-term incumbent, is facing a challenge from trucker advocate and local businesswoman Natalia Melian Torres in Melian’s first foray into politics. With only two candidates in the Seat 4 race, Argue and Melian automatically advanced to the general election ballot.

Vassalotti said he took the top spot with “a handshake and a smile… [and] a lot of hard work and dedication.”

“People out here know me,” said Vassalotti, who served as PBCFR captain in The Acreage for a number of years. “They know my dedication to my neighbors. They know my involvement with youth sports. They know they can call on me and depend on me.”

Vassalotti said that in talking

to voters, he found their major concerns to be increased taxes, a desire for more services and fending off unwanted annexation while not incorporating as a municipality.

Jordano, an insurance agency owner, was surprised by the nasty tone of the race and the money spent by outside groups to influence the election.

“I am glad that enough residents didn’t listen to fake propaganda and gave me enough votes to get to the second round,” he said. “I will work to convince people that I have taken action to keep the taxes down, and I deserve four more years.”

Jordano added that he has often served as a representative on the board, fighting for residents looking to have specific problems solved — people wanting millings for their roads, people who did not want a church built in the middle

of a residential street, and most recently, residents wanting to get their culvert replaced.

“When the residents from Santa Rosa Groves wanted their culvert back in, I said that I believe in democracy and I would fight for them, and they are in the process

of getting it back,” he said, adding that he voted against funding a road costing $500,000 that he believes the school district should have paid for, and he has represented ITID at numerous community meetings, across Palm Beach County and beyond.

A Minimally Invasive Option for Lung Biopsies

Wellington Regional Medical Center has acquired the Ion® Endoluminal System , developed by Intuitive™, creators of the da Vinci® robotic surgical system, which helps detect and address lung nodules in their early stages.

Benefits of the new technology can include:

• Perform complex procedures with more precision, flexibility and control than with conventional techniques.

• Reduced or avoided complications of more invasive approaches to biopsy, such as collapsed lung or pneumothorax.

• Diagnose and treat lung cancer at earlier stages than previously possible.

For more information, contact our clinical navigator at 561-500-5864 (LUNG) or email: wrmclungprogram@uhsinc.com.

council awarded

village’s Vision Zero Hero Award to Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jeffrey Taschner. The honor recognizes his work in traffic enforcement to help make roads safer.

Richard Vassalotti II Keith Jordano

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jeffrey Taschner received Wellington’s Vision Zero Hero Award for his work making roads safer. He is shown here with PBSO Capt. Nichole Addazio.

The Wellington Village Council recognized members of the Wellington High School boys swim team on Tuesday, Aug. 13 for being named to the National High School Athletic and Activity Association’s (NHSAAA) All-American Team for the 2023-24 school year, marking them as one of the top high school relay teams in the country. Honored swimmers included Caleb Da Silva, Dillon Metz, Andreas Da Silva and Julian Granison. PHOTOS COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

RPB Council Learns About Local Nonprofit Our Community Cares

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council heard a presentation Thursday, Aug. 15 from Diane Gutman, the director of operations for the local nonprofit organization

Our Community Cares, previously known as Wellington Cares.

The nonprofit changed its name after expanding its services for senior citizens into the Royal Palm Beach community.

“Our Community Cares is a non-for-profit program for seniors 65 and older, who are choosing to age in place,” Gutman said. “We offer free non-medical services. The support services provided by volunteers, who are vetted and trained, help to minimize the feelings of isolation and loneliness that are so commonly expressed through our participants. We extend the time that persons 65 and over can remain in their homes.”

Gutman explained the concept of “neighbors helping neighbors,” where local members of the community are helping each other directly. The services provided include transportation to both

medical and nonmedical appointments, social visits and phone calls, general correspondence, a light maintenance program and advocacy work.

“Our transportation services allow individuals who do not drive to still be able to get to their appointments. Our light maintenance program means we are not going to do any contracting work,” Gutman said, explaining that volunteers can change batteries in a smoke detector or replace an air conditioner filter.

As the cost of living increases throughout Palm Beach County, there is also a shortage of affordable assisted living facilities. Since Our Community Cares currently serves Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Gutman shared data on both municipalities.

“As of 2022, 16.7 percent of Wellington and 16.5 percent of Royal Palm Beach residents were 65 and over. More than 25 percent of Palm Beach County residents are aged 65 and over. It is predicted that this will grow by 10 percent by 2027,” Gutman said. “We have 52 volunteers and 146 participants.

The value of services provided for the last quarter was $37,200. The average age of our participants is 84 years old, and the average age of our volunteers is 67.”

From respite visits that allow caregivers a break to weekly food deliveries, volunteers will even assist participants in completing applications for programs like the Area Agency on Aging’s precooked meal delivery for homebound residents who cannot cook their own food.

Since new volunteers and participants are typically found by word of mouth, the council was interested in helping out.

“Thank you for the wonderful contribution that this organization is making to our community,” Mayor Fred Pinto said. “We are always looking to figure out what we can do to improve the quality of life for our seniors, and you’re doing it. You’ll be hearing from me, thank you.”

Volunteers are not required to commit to specific days of the week or hours per month, so it is easy to give back without the inconvenience. The organiza -

tion hopes to eventually expand into other parts of Palm Beach County, and both participants and volunteers can get in contact with Our Community Cares directly by calling (561) 568-8818 or visiting www.ourcommunitycaresfl.org.

In other business:

• During the time for residents to speak on items not on the agenda, Tim Woodcock addressed the council regarding an issue with waterways.

A Royal Palm Beach homeowner since 2009, he expressed concerns about the herbicide treatment being used in the waterways for the past few years.

“These are actual labels from some of the chemicals that you guys are using, and every one of them say highly toxic to fish and also to wildlife, and I clearly see a difference once they spray. I just find it to be kind of scary, especially for the fact that my neighbor across the street showed me this hanger on her door that said, “Do not water [your] grass for two weeks because we just treated the canal,” he said.

Woodcock brought up how

Weinberger Wins District 94 Primary, Will

Political newcomer Meg Weinberger said Wednesday, Aug. 21 that she’s now ready to saddle up and take on Democrat Rachelle Litt after winning the four-way Republican primary for State House District 94 on Tuesday, Aug. 20. Weinberger garnered 5,669 votes, or 47.7 percent of all the ballots cast, according to unofficial results from the Florida Division of Elections.

“We were out there for weeks and weeks, putting up signs and door-knocking — a lot of it on horseback, listening to people,” said Weinberger, who lives in the horse-friendly Caloosa neighborhood. Having long been involved with animal rescue, Weinberger said that is a style of campaigning she is comfortable with and plans to continue into November.

Election Sheriff’s Race

continued from page 1 on Nov. 5, voters will agree that when it comes to who is the most prepared choice to serve as sheriff, experience counts, and they will re-elect me.”

Gauger, a 30-year Wellington resident, said that his primary was a bit closer than he expected, but blamed that on outside political consultants who “released all kinds of horrendous and inaccurate allegations about me.”

“I think that caused it to be closer than had been anticipated. However, we prevailed, and I have

“I’m so grateful for the support of the people in the district,” she said. In the balloting, Anthony Aguirre was second at 27.7 percent (3,300 votes), followed by Christian Acosta at 16.6 percent (1,976 votes) and Gabrielle Fox at 7.8 percent (936 votes).

District 94 includes the Acreage/ Loxahatchee area, Loxahatchee Groves, Westlake, parts of Royal Palm Beach, parts of Palm Beach Gardens and all of western Palm Beach County, including the Glades. The seat is being vacated by State Rep. Rick Roth, a Republican, due to term limits. While Weinberger may have used a lot of boot leather and saddle soap in her campaign, her consultants also flooded local airwaves with television commercials touting her as a mentor and a supporter of foster children, and focusing strongly on her endorse-

an opportunity to move forward,” Gauger said. “I will focus on my history of service, not only in the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, but to all the civic organizations that I belong to, and what I have done to build a better quality of life for so many neighborhoods across this county.”

In the leadup to the general election, Gauger said that he will stay focused and “tell the truth on his record of service.”

“I plan to challenge the budget and take a very close look at the expenditures and where the money has been spent,” he said. “Having been there for so long, I know where money has been spent frivolously, like the Class A office space for a minimum number of people,

Carroll

Developer Pitches Project

continued from page 1 owned by disgraced polo patron John Goodman, is located on the west side of 120th Avenue South near Pierson Road. At present, it has an expansive single-family residence and stables, grooms’ quarters and associated facilities, and polo fields.

“Beyond its equestrian pedigree, Isla Carroll Wellington redefines luxury living with a comprehensive array of amenities tailored to enrich the lives of its residents and club members,” the project’s justification statement explains.

“The club will offer diverse dining

options and a grab-and-go market for everyday essentials. The site will also include an organic farm and petting zoo, offering members of all ages a place to learn, play and grow. Additionally, exquisite spa and fitness amenities will be available, along with a multipurpose event barn and adjacent lawn, capable of hosting member and community events.”

For good measure, there is also a promised “Trackman” golf simulation studio. The “petting zoo” could become a “rescue zoo” in the next version of the application, one person familiar with the plans said. McCourt Partners and Discovery Land Co. announced a joint venture partnership Aug. 4 to develop the project.

“Isla Carroll is a unique opportunity for us to evolve the

TOWN-CRIERTHE

ment by former President Donald Trump.

Weinberger, the county chair of the conservative Moms for Liberty chapter, said Wednesday that Trump’s endorsement was a “huge factor” in her victory and “I’m so grateful.”

Litt, a former Palm Beach Gardens councilwoman, vice mayor and mayor, said Wednesday in a prepared statement, “Meg Weinberger ran her primary campaign on the extreme agenda that has taken Florida backward in every metric — women’s reproductive rights, cost of living, access to quality affordable healthcare, and support for our teachers and public education. Her Moms for Liberty, MAGA agenda is just too extreme for the people of House District 94.” Litt said that she is a better choice for voters in the general election.

that has cost upward of $55,000 a month to maintain.”

Should he be elected, Gauger said that he will run a more transparent agency than Bradshaw.

“I will not hide things in internal affairs, so the public does not have the opportunity to see the outcome of investigations,” he said. “For the employees, I promise fair and equitable treatment across the board.”

Public Defender — With Palm Beach County Public Defender Carey Haughwout retiring after 24 years in office, voters were asked to choose her replacement in a universal primary election between Daniel Eisinger, a Royal Palm Beach resident who is currently the No. 2 person in Haughwout’s

“I’m running for the State House to make our community a more affordable, safe and prosperous place to live,” she said. “As mayor of Palm Beach Gardens, I worked across the aisle and in collaboration with our local businesses to find solutions to real problems. I’ll take that same approach to Tallahassee… We need an experienced leader to work on solving the problems our community faces, not someone focused on culture war politics.”

Learn more about Litt at www. rachellelitt.com.

According to Weinberger’s web site, for the past 10 years, she has been the driving force behind Rescue Life, an animal sanctuary that partners with organizations like Kid Sanctuary, Place of Hope, the Els Center for Excellence & Adult Day Program and Friendship Circle to use animals as sources of comfort for the most vulnerable

office, and former Delray Beach City Commissioner Adam Frankel, an attorney who worked at the agency early in his career.

The winner was Eisinger, who took 92,870 votes (55.84 percent) to Frankel’s 73,433 votes (44.16 percent), according to unofficial results.

Since no other candidates qualified for the ballot, Eisinger won the position and will take office in January.

“I am awfully thankful to our supporters and the voters for seeing how important the Office of the Public Defender is in Palm Beach County,” Eisinger said. “Our lawyers and staff are relieved, as am I, that we will be able to continue the great work that we do, and we have

chemicals in products such as the Roundup weed killer have been noted as carcinogens and would prefer to stop any issues before they become health hazards. He did propose a potential solution to the problem.

“I understand that Lake Challenger has Asian carp in it. Somehow, they were put in there, and they’re about 40 pounds at this point, and they control the weeds,” he said. “I did some research on it, and back about five years ago, it cost about $7 a fish. You only need about five fish per acre for waterways, so I’m going to say this is a much better solution.”

He noted that the village currently spends approximately $250,000 on herbicides for the treatment of the canals.

“You’re saying it might be safer to buy more fish?” asked Pinto, to which Woodcock responded that the carp would only eat the grass. “Which is why you’re here tonight, to bring our attention to it, and we appreciate that.”

Woodcock was directed to provide copies of his research for the village to review.

• Paint Lux Collision Center received plat approval, expansion and site plan modification support for the surplus property it recently purchased from the village at 6846 Seminole Palms Drive. These entitlements make the property viable for the expansion of the business’ parking lot. No new services are being added.

• Staff recommended approval for the Mazda dealership at 9305 Southern Blvd. to add a car wash to the facility. Other dealerships nearby have them already, and the council approved the request unanimously.

• The project at 9701 Belvedere Road in the University Centre development received approval for a site plan modification allowing the installation of a 10-foot loading space, an electric vehicle charging station, benches, bike racks and a playground. The playground will serve the clients of a tenant that offers services for special needs patients. To address concerns by a nearby resident, a special condition was put in place guaranteeing that the playground will not be used for a daycare facility.

Face Litt In November

members of the community. She is also an active supporter of Place of Hope, the Special Olympic Hometown Foundation, and is a former vice president and board member of Big Dog Ranch Rescue. In 2022, Weinberger was appointed to the Stetson University Board of Trustees.

“Meg will use her life experience and conservative values to solve the big problems facing Floridians,” she noted on her web site. “She will work to find market-based solutions to make Florida more affordable, expand options for parents to improve educational outcomes, and support the first responders.”

Learn more about Weinberger’s campaign at www.megforflorida. com.

Aside from Weinberger versus Litt in District 94, voters in nearby District 93 will also have a contested election in November.

done under Carey Haughwout’s leadership.”

He characterized the election as “a referendum of sorts on what kind of office we would be moving forward.”

“I am thankful that the voters want us to continue to advocate for our indigent clients in the way that we have done for so many years,” Eisinger said.

State Attorney — Voters from both political parties weighed-in on the race to replace Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg, who is stepping down after three terms.

Discovery experience in a new setting: an equestrian center with unparalleled amenities and service in the vibrant Palm Beach County community of Wellington,” said Michael S. Meldman, founder and chairman of Discovery Land Co., in a statement.

“We are proud to have found a partner in Discovery Land Company who shares our commitment to celebrating the long history of equestrian lifestyle and sport in the area,” added Jordan Lang, president of McCourt Partners.

“It’s our great privilege to work together to introduce a worldclass experience that honors the Village of Wellington’s equestrian preserve plan.”

Skeptics say the project means that the village is losing two polo fields on the property and heading further down a dangerous trail.

However, the Isla Carroll project does not require removing the land from Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Area (EPA).

On Feb. 7, the council voted for the first time in village history to remove 96 acres from the EPA to accommodate a new luxury golf community pitched by WLP.

Supporters of the project said this made sense because the plan made possible an expanded and consolidated Wellington International showgrounds, while allowing 203 luxury residences and a commercial main street with a hotel, shops, offices and restaurants.

“All of this is giving land for development,” said Jane Cleveland, former chair of Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee. “It’s another example of non-horse development.”

In the Democratic primary, candidate Alexcia Cox, currently deputy chief assistant state attorney in Aronberg’s office, was the clear favorite, defeating Gregg Lerman and Craig Williams. Cox took 60,900 votes (64.32 percent), while Lerman took 17,387 votes (18.36 percent) and Williams took 16,392 votes (17.31 percent), according to unofficial results.

In the Republican primary, Sam Stern, a former prosecutor currently with a law office in Palm Beach Gardens, easily defeated Boca Raton attorney Forrest Freedman. Stern took 40,341 votes (62.82 percent) to Freedman’s 23,873 votes (37.18 percent), according to unofficial results.

Cox and Stern will advance to the general election ballot, which will also include independent candidate Adam Farkas.

County Court Race — Also on the primary election ballot, voters chose between three candidates seeking a vacant seat on the Palm Beach County Court, replacing Judge Ted Booras, who is retiring.

Vying for the seat in the non-partisan race were attorneys Lourdes Casanova, Douglas Leifert and Jean Marie Middleton. The top two vote-getters were Casanova and Middleton, who will advance to the general election ballot in November.

Casanova topped the balloting with 66,994 votes (37.92 percent), while Middleton took 59,827 votes (33.86 percent), according to unofficial results. Leifert garnered 49,869 votes (28.22 percent) and was eliminated.

Advancing to the general election without primary challengers in District 93 were State Rep. Katherine

a Democrat who is completing her first term, and Republican Anne Gerwig, who recently stepped down as Wellington mayor due to term limits.

District 93 includes all of Wellington and western portions of Greenacres and Lake Worth. There will also be a State Senate race on the ballot in District 31, which includes all of Martin County and parts of St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties. Locally, it includes the Acreage/ Loxahatchee area, Westlake, Loxahatchee Groves and Royal Palm Beach. In District 31, incumbent State Sen. Gayle Harrell, a Republican, faces a challenge from Democrat Aaron J. Hawkins, a community activist from Stuart.

Port of Palm Beach — In the Democratic primary for Port of Palm Beach Group 2, incumbent Commissioner Varisa Lall Dass easily dispatched challengers Kelly Fleury and Jeffery Jackson. Dass took 14,654 votes (49.40 percent) to 9,045 votes (30.49 percent) for Jackson and 5,967 votes (20.11 percent) for Fleury, according to unofficial results. Dass will now advance to the general election ballot, where she faces a challenge from Republican candidate Ted Sarandis. Also in November is the race for Port of Palm Beach Group 3, where incumbent Commissioner Jean Enright, a Democrat, faces a challenge from Republican candidate Roderick Clarke. In Port of Palm Beach Group 1, incumbent Commissioner Wayne Richards was re-elected without opposition when filing closed in June. County Ballot Question — On Tuesday’s ballot, voters were asked to choose whether to renew Palm Beach County’s ability to give certain economic development tax breaks to employers for creating or retaining jobs. In County Question 1, titled “Economic Development Property Tax Exemptions to New Businesses and Expansions of Existing Businesses,” voters agreed to continue the Economic Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Program. A total of 101,320 people (62.10 percent) voted YES, while 61,832 people (37.90 percent) voted NO, according to unofficial results. Fall Countywide Races — Looking toward the fall, several races for countywide constitutional officers that did not have primary elections will appear on the November ballot. In the race for Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections, incumbent Wendy Sartory Link, a Democrat, is being challenged by Republican candidate Jeff Buongiorno. In the race for Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller, incumbent Joseph Abruzzo, a Democrat, is being challenged by Republican candidate Samuel Thompson.

By Louis Hillary Park

Town-Crier Staff Report

Waldron,

Isla

(Above) Michael Gauger with supporters at Bonefish Mac’s in Wellington on Tuesday after the polls closed. (Right) Gauger with his family (L-R) Phyllis, Amanda, Michael, Mike and Laura Gauger. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

WRMC Honors Responders Who Saved Man Having A Heart Attack

Wellington Regional Medical Center last week reunited cardiac

patient Hector Florentino with the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue crew members, emergency workers and WRMC physicians who helped to save his life.

WRMC hosted its “Call of the Quarter” celebration Monday, Aug. 12 to recognize the entire team that worked together to save Florentino’s life.

Florentino, a Wellington resident and an equestrian, was driving

on Southern Blvd. on March 12 of this year when he had sudden chest pains. He managed to pull over at the RaceTrac gas station and call 911, summoning the PBCFR team to his location. The hospital’s recognition was

for the excellent job done by PBCFR when they responded to Florentino. A STEMI alert was immediately initiated, and the patient was rushed to Wellington Regional Medical Center.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Florentino was then treated by Emergency Department physician

Dr. Adam Bromberg, as well as Dr. Jacob Chachkes (emergency medicine), Dr. Lawrence Lovitz (cardiology), Dr. Anderson Penuela (cardiology), Dr. Mark Simon

(cardiology) and Dr. Romuald Altine (internal medicine). The entire PBCFR and WRMC team was instrumental in helping Florentino achieve a positive outcome, which allowed him to be discharged home.

WRMC team members gather around “Call of the Quarter patient Hector Florentino.

Members of PBCFR Engine 28 and Rescue 29 with the Florentino family.

PBCFR Rescue 29 paramedic Christopher Denson and EMT Christian Dick with patient Hector Florentino (center).

Giovana and Hector Florentino with Chest Pain Coordinator Tammy Levasseur.

Jose Cepeda, Michelle Castellon, patient Hector Florentino, Christina Todaro and Jessica Schneider.

Giovana and Hector Florentino, along with mother-inlaw Regina Moreira, with WRMC CEO Pam Tahan.

Kravis Announces Final Weeks Of ‘Space Explorers: The Infinite’

The countdown is on for the final weeks to journey into the out-of-this-world experience, “Space Explorers: The Infinite.” Presented exclusively at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, in association with Infinity Experiences, Felix & Paul Studios and PHI Studio, and funded by William A. Meyer, the immersive experience is set to depart on Sept. 2. Since its June opening, the highly acclaimed, immersive experience has transported thousands of visitors from across the state on an extraordinary journey inside a state-of-the-art, virtual 3D replica of the International Space Station (ISS). Visitors are encouraged to not miss out on this rare opportunity to access never-before-seen 360-degree videos captured in space, witness breathtaking views of Earth and gain a unique perspective into the daily life of astronauts through exclusive encounters with the international crew. The program is designed for ages 13-plus; children under the age of eight will not be admitted. Those ages 8 to 12 will require a waiver signed by their parent/ guardian before beginning the experience. Tickets start at $45 for adults, $25 for children (ages

8 to 12), and $35 for students. For tickets, visit www.kravis.org.

“Space Explorers: The Infinite” will welcome experience seekers, space aficionados and guests alike as they ascend on this first-of-its-kind virtual reality odyssey into space. The highly acclaimed exhibit will take guests on a 60-minute journey as they roam freely inside a full-scale 3D replica of the ISS, float in space alongside the astronauts, and admire breathtaking sights of Earth that only a handful have ever seen before — all without ever leaving the ground.

Produced by Infinity Experiences, a joint venture of PHI Studio and Felix & Paul Studios, “Space Explorers: The Infinite” redefines the frontiers of the user experience. Guests will quickly become a part of the station’s crew as they lift off on their very own voyage into space, while interacting with offerings throughout the

ISS replica. Adding to the thrilling experience, explorers will witness the astronaut’s epic conquests first-hand, including the first-ever cinematic spacewalk captured in 3D, 360-degree virtual reality, shot outside the ISS — making for an immensely powerful and magnificent experience.

“Space Explorers: The Infinite” is an extension of the Primetime Emmy Award-winning immersive series, “Space Explorers: The ISS Experience,” the largest production ever filmed in space.

Shot over a period of three years and producing more than 250 hours of high-end virtual reality footage, the four-part immersive series documents the life of 10 international astronauts inside, and outside, the ISS.

Infinity Experiences is a joint venture between PHI Studio and Felix & Paul Studios, founded in April 2020 to create and market large-scale immersive projects, including the travelling exhibition “Space Explorers: The Infinite.” The two companies joined forces

Village Of Wellington Presents Proposed $137.7 Million Budget For Fiscal Year 2025

The Village of Wellington is preparing its budget for fiscal year 2025 based on the development, implementation and evaluation of plans for the provision of services and capital assets. The first phase of the budget process is presenting the overall village budget. The second phase, departmental budgets, will follow in a few weeks.

The total proposed budget is $148 million, as compared to the fiscal year 2024 budget of $137.7 million, including interfund transfers. The $10.3 million increase is primarily due to two major utility capital projects, the Meter Replacement Project and the Membrane Plant Expansion Project. The proposed budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels and maintaining infrastructure. It addresses

Art Reception To Benefit Kids Cancer Foundation

Zero Empty Spaces recently announced its upcoming art reception titled “Paint the World Gold” in support of the Kids Cancer Foundation (KCF). The event will be held at Zero Empty Spaces’ Legacy Place location, located at 11300 Legacy Ave., Unit 140, in Palm Beach Gardens. The public is invited to attend this free group art show, with festivities kicking off on Thursday, Sept. 12 with a free art reception from 5 to 8 p.m. As September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, “Paint the World Gold” will spotlight the work of 22 talented resident artists whose art features the gold ribbon symbolizing childhood cancer. This group art show not only aims to foster a vibrant cultural experience but also to support a vital cause. Guests will have the unique opportunity to explore all 22 artist studios, showcasing a diverse range of artworks in various mediums and styles. The evening will feature complimentary hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, as well as $5 raffle tickets with exciting prizes donated by participating artists. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to the Kids Cancer Foundation, a Royal Palm Beach-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local children and families battling childhood cancer. Participating artists include: Andrew Holliman, Anthony Burks, Arielle Charris, Astrid Mora, Bonnie Bruner, Carol Moon, Clifton G. Webb, Deborah Smith, Faith Schwack, Heather Bergstrom, Ilene Gruber Adams, Jamaal

capital projects while maintaining the same millage rate as the last fiscal year.

With a certified 9 percent increase in the village’s 2024 taxable value to $12.54 billion, the strength of Wellington’s residential market provides ad valorem tax revenues of $2.26 million more than last year at the preliminary 2.47 millage rate.

The ad valorem impact for a homesteaded property valued at $400,000 is an increase of about $33 with a 3 percent assessed value increase. The increase is $111 for a $450,000 non-homesteaded property with a 10 percent assessed value increase.

Besides higher ad valorem revenues based on increasing property values, revenue increases are included for permitting revenues, which is driven by activity

Clark, Jerilyn Brown, Judith Gaggero, Kathleen Ross, Lashica Hardy, Louis Schneiderman, Lupe Lawrence, Nancy Blaschke, Patrick Williams, Sue Carlson and Victor DiPilato.

The “Paint the World Gold” art show will be open to the public from Sept. 6 through the end of the month, with gallery hours from noon to 5 p.m. daily. This is a perfect opportunity to engage with the artistic community, support a worthy cause and contribute to raising awareness for childhood cancer. For more information about the event, contact Event Coordinator Heather Bergstrom at heatherbergstromart@gmail.com. The Kids Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 2001 dedicated to providing hope and support to children battling cancer and their families. For more information, visit www. kidscancersf.org.

Zero Empty Spaces is a rapidly growing affordable artist studio/ vacancy management company that creates affordable artist studios in vacant spaces around the country, where artists can create and collaborate at an affordable price. For more information, visit www.zeroemptyspaces.com.

Fright Nights To Hold Casting Call Aug. 31

Fright Nights, the largest haunted house event in West Palm Beach, with four full haunts, carnival rides, live music, and food and entertainment, will host a casting call for scare actors and makeup artists for the 22nd annual Fright Nights event in October.

The casting call event begins at noon on Saturday, Aug. 31. Enter through the main gate at the

in the Building Department, and increased investment income, as rates are higher. The proposed budget includes decreased revenue from the anticipated ending of the countywide sales surtax revenue.

The 2025 Acme Improvement District assessment remains unchanged at $255. The utilities user rates are proposed to increase by an average of $7.47 per month, or 10 percent. These increases are driven by continued operations, maintenance and construction project increases, and environmental mandates for lead in water and forever chemicals.

The preliminary budget funds 254 full-time governmental positions, 68,450 part-time hours, six supplemental positions and nine part-time positions. In the enterprise funds, the budget funds 64 full-time positions and eight

iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre at 601-7 Sansburys Way at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

Fright Nights is looking for energetic male and female performers to join its “family of freaks.” Participants must be at least 16 years old unless they have a parent who will volunteer to work alongside them. Both paid and volunteer positions are available with all levels of experience. Two forms of ID are required. Event organizers also are seeking makeup artists and makeup helpers. For more information, visit www. myfrightnights.com.

Fright Nights at the South Florida Fairgrounds starts the season with a Behind the Scenes Tour on Thursday, Oct. 3 and will open on Friday, Oct. 4, and continue to be held on Oct. 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26. The midway will open at 6 p.m., and the haunted houses will open at 7 p.m. This “carnival of terror” offers four new haunted houses, along with scare zones, midway carnival rides, live entertainment, video games and virtual reality.

Tax Collector Adds Additional Express Kiosks Palm Beach County Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon recently announced that her office has added four more MV Vehicle Registration Kiosks in Palm Beach County, bringing the total number of kiosks to nine. The MV Express Kiosks are a convenient way to renew and print motor vehicle registrations and decals on the spot in a matter of minutes. To renew vehicle registration at one of these ATM-like kiosks, vehicle owners will need a registration renewal notice PIN

supplemental positions.

The largest capital and major maintenance projects in focus for fiscal year 2025 include beginning work on the new Wellington Aquatics Complex in Village Park, intersection improvements at Lake Worth Road and 120th Avenue South, and funding in utilities for the Meter Replacement and Membrane Expansion projects throughout the village.

The budget process will continue with distribution of capital project and departmental budget information. Public outreach to gain input from residents and stakeholders continues with multiple online engagement options, including the Budget Balancing Act and Taxpayer Receipt, the Budget Challenge online survey, and Flashvote. Learn more at www.wellingtonfl.gov/budget.

or their license plate number, the date of birth of the first registered owner and a credit/debit card.

The kiosks are located in the following local Publix stores: Publix at Crestwood Square (new) at 11977 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Beach; Publix at the Shoppes at Village of Golf (new) at 11200 S. Military Trail; Publix at Gardens Towne Square at 4200 Northlake Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens; Publix at Greenwood Shopping Center at 1700 S. Congress Ave., Palm Springs; and Publix at Village Commons at 831 Village Blvd., West Palm Beach. Additional locations can be found in the North County and South County areas.

“The addition of these new kiosks is due to our commitment to market and promote the convenience and ease of using these kiosks,” Gannon said.

“Representatives from Intellectual Technology Inc. (ITI), the company that provides the kiosks, have remarked on how impressed they have been with the growing popularity of the kiosks located in Palm Beach County.” Learn more about these kiosks at www.pbctax.com/kiosks.

St. Matthew Church Seeks Vendors

Vendors are wanted for Saint Matthew Catholic Church’s 13th anniversary Craft & Tag Sale on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The church is located at 6090 Hypoluxo Road in Lake Worth. Registration is underway. Rent a 9-foot-by-17-foot space for $25, or two spaces for $40; all profits are yours to keep. For more info., call (561) 966-8878 or email stmatthewsale@gmail.com.

and set a mission to evolve how visitors experience new extended reality (XR) experiences, while creating a genuine and authentic connection around them.

PHI Studio has developed a reputation as an incubator for talent at the vanguard and as a catalyst for the conception and implementation of immersive multidisciplinary projects. PHI Studio is committed to collaborating with artists, producers and partners to foster the creation and development of innovative artworks, shaping the future of the immersive experience.

Felix & Paul Studios is an Emmy Award-winning immersive

entertainment studio dedicated to producing engaging, innovative and groundbreaking virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality experiences for audiences around the world.

Infinity Experiences thanks its partners for their financial support: Canada Economic Development, the Fonds d’investissement de la culture et des communications, the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles and Tourisme Montréal. The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. For more information, visit www.kravis.org.

Current members of the Wellington Toastmasters Club gather for a group photo.

Membership Drive Underway At Wellington Toastmasters Club

Toastmasters on Monday evenings from 6:55 to 8 p.m. and start your journey to greatness today. For more information, including meeting locations, visit http://wellington. toastmastersclubs.org, or contact President Sonia Garate at (561) 460-2179 to arrange a visit.

Wellington Art Society will host Sandra Thompson as featured artist and speaker at the group’s next meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at the Wellington Community Center, located

won the Next Generation

Book Award for Palm

most well-known locations and buildings. More than 160 of her paintings have been featured on covers of The Palm Beach Real Estate Guide Thompson is the founding

A Retrospective, The Art of Sandra Thompson. Private tours of her paintings may be arranged upon request. The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization in its 43rd year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display

Sandra Thompson owner of the Hangen Thompson Gallery on Palm Beach in Via DeMario off Worth Ave. She

Indie

Beach,

Toastmasters member Gary Neuper (center) with four recent inductees.

“Space Explorers: The Infinite” at the Kravis Center is an immersive, virtual reality odyssey into space featuring amazing views.

Guests will roam freely inside a replica of the ISS, float in space alongside the astronauts and admire breathtaking sights of Earth.

Rodolfo Romero of the Bedford Group with Dr. Timothy McCoy and Tara Chahine of Big Mac’s K9 Rescue.

Sapneil Parikh and Jason Perez.

Presenting sponsor Starpoint Dancesport owners Diana and Gian DiFranco and Charlotte Page.

Scott Harris, County Commissioner Sara Baxter, Michela Green, Arielle Weinberger and Charlotte Page.

Steve Gotha, Charlotte Page and Vicki Gotha with Shanell Foster from sponsor Thrivent.

Rodolfo Romero, Peter Bartuska, Adam Haas, Mark Rosenthal, Scott Harris and Robbie Swick enjoy cigars.

Animal Care & Control volunteer Sandy Querioz with Paige. Monika Geisz and Cheryl Leslie.

Celine Thibault with Betsy and Agita Jaber with Virgil.

Fabi Dupre with Kara and Siobhan Gallagher with Ruffian.

Kathleen Williams, Sharon Watson and Tara Chahine.

Join us at MarBar and

www.templebnaijacob.org Templebnaijacob@gmail.com

We are a conservative synagogue serving the western communities of Palm Beach County. Our services are traditional, engaging, and inspiring, in a setting where every congregant counts!

ROSH HASHANA

Erev Rosh Hashana Wednesday October 2nd @ 7 PM

First Day Thursday October 3rd @ 10 AM

Second Day Friday October 4th @ 10 AM YOM KIPPUR

Kol Nidre/Erev Yom Kippur Friday October 11th @ 6:30 PM

Morning Service/Yizkor Saturday October 12th @ 10 AM

Mincha & Book of Yonah October 12th @5:30 PM N’ilah/Closing Service October 12th @ 6:30 PM

FASTING ENDS AT approximately 7:30PM

All services are being held at Temple B’nai Jacob of wellington.

A limited number of tickets are available for non-members. Tickets are $150 or 2 tickets for $250.

Please Contact the Temple for information.

Hello Honey Bee

Hope You Like Dogs

Oh Hello Flock Golf

Hello Honey Bee

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Oh Hello Flockers Golf

Wellington To Gain A Rotary Clock Through Memorial Donation

Broder Family Trust,

Wellington and the Wellington

presence and volunteer for many organizations in the Palm Beach County area before her passing

from cancer-related issues. She was the director of ambassadors at the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches for many years while overseeing ribbon-cutting events and other activities. She

Wellington Regional Completes First Inspire Therapy Procedure

Wellington Regional Medical Center recently announced that Dr. Deborah Loney has completed the first Inspire procedure at the hospital. Inspire is an FDA-approved, mask-free obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment option for people who cannot use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

OSA affects 22 million Americans annually. When left untreated, it can cause vehicle and workplace accidents, worsening mood and memory, stroke, heart attack and even death. It occurs when the airway collapses during sleep and blocks the flow of oxygen to the brain. The brain senses a lack of oxygen and wakes the body up just long enough to take a breath, then falls back asleep. This cycle repeats throughout the night and causes poor, disruptive sleep.

Inspire works inside the body with a patient’s natural breathing process to treat sleep apnea. Mild

stimulation opens the airway during sleep, allowing oxygen to flow naturally. The patient uses a small handheld remote to turn Inspire on before bed and off when they wake up. The Inspire system is implanted during a short, outpatient procedure. The system is placed under the skin of the neck and chest through two small incisions. Most patients return home the same day and take over-the-counter pain medications as needed.

The safety and efficacy of Inspire was evaluated during a clinical trial. Five-year trial outcomes show patients using Inspire experience significant reductions in sleep apnea events and significant improvements in quality-of-life measures. There have been more than 150 peer-reviewed publications on Inspire that show results consistent with those seen in the trial.

“We are excited to have com-

pleted the first Inspire procedure at Wellington Regional Medical Center,” CEO Pam Tahan said. “Inspire represents a significant advancement in treating sleep apnea. It is clinically proven to reduce sleep apnea events, has a high level of patient satisfaction and a high therapy adherence.”

To learn more about Inspire, visit www.inspiresleep.com.

Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital accredited by the Joint Commission. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including comprehensive stroke care, comprehensive lung program, minimally invasive services, cardiac services, a birthing center and level III NICU, a comprehensive women’s center, hepatobiliary surgical procedures, intraoperative radiation therapy, interventional procedures, and a wellness and weight loss center. Learn more at www.wellingtonregional.com.

was also dedicated to the nonprofit Dress for Success of the Palm Beaches. She was given remote access to the office computers and agreed to handle all office duties from home and had their office phone lines transferred to her cell phone during the pandemic when the offices were forced to close.

Broder dedicated almost an hour per day for about a year to cover the office duties as a volunteer. She was a member of the Circle of Impact donors’ group and contributed $1,000 per year to their causes while maintaining her full-time position as vice president of the Card Solutions International LLC financial services company with her husband.

Broder’s tireless need to help was evident as she volunteered for many community activities of the Wellington Rotary Club, another important nonprofit organization. Personally, after moving to Royal Palm Beach in 2004, Broder got interested in helping her community of Madison Green by attending almost all HOA meetings for years. She was approached to be on the board of directors many times but felt that not being restricted as a board member was the best way for her to voice her opinions.

Broder was present to help in all ways she could and made many friends through her various

personal associations. She started a women’s social circle where the group went to dinner once a month. The group was called the Dining Divas, and now it’s called Donna’s Diving Divas and still ongoing. She also started a local book club, also ongoing today. Her graveside funeral on Feb. 28, 2022, was attended

Place Of Hope Hosts Packed Workshops To Fight Human Trafficking

In a powerful effort to combat the alarming rise of human trafficking in Florida, Place of Hope recently hosted a series of free workshops across Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. The events drew dozens of parents and students, all eager to learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers of online predators, grooming and human trafficking. Florida, which ranks third in the nation, and Palm Beach County, which ranks third in the state for calls to the National Trafficking Hotline, is facing a hidden epidemic of human trafficking that often occurs right in front of us.

The workshops, which kicked off last week at Place of Hope’s Kid’s Sanctuary campus, located west of Florida’s Turnpike near Wellington, provided crucial insights into recognizing the warning signs of human trafficking and taking preventive measures. These

sessions are designed to equip middle and high school students, as well as their parents, with the knowledge needed to stay safe in a world where the internet has become a primary tool for predators.

Kristen Adams, an “angel mom” with Place of Hope and one of the key organizers of the workshops, emphasized the critical role of awareness and communication in protecting children. “I’m a mom at home, and I’m also an aunt to lots of nieces and nephews,” Adams said. “We grow up in a home that we think is safe, but once our children walk outside our doors, they’re open to the entire world. Cell phones are changing the way that we parent, and we have to be aware and knowledgeable about what to look for — not just with our own children, but with others — so we can help protect them all.” Adams highlighted the importance of parental controls and monitoring apps like Bark and

Qustodio, which provide parents with insights into what their children are exposed to online. “It’s our job to know what they’re getting into, even if it means not winning the popular vote with our kids,” she added. The workshops also provided practical tips for parents to identify potential trafficking situations in their neighborhoods. Some of the red flags discussed included excessive security measures at a house, blacked-out windows, and unusual amounts of traffic in and out of a residence. Parents were also advised to watch for sudden changes in their children’s behavior, such as new tattoos or expensive items that they cannot explain, as these could be indicators of exploitation.

Jamie Bond Ciancio, director of advancement for Place of Hope North County and the leader of the workshop, stressed the often-overlooked reality of human trafficking. “What is most shock-

ing for people to find out is that human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children are not what we think they are when it comes to Hollywood,” Ciancio said. “Ninety percent of the children and youth who are being exploited, sexually abused and trafficked know their perpetrator.”

Ciancio encouraged parents to foster open communication with their children, making them feel safe and understood rather than focusing on punishment. “If they feel those things at home, we’ve seen success in opening dialogues to have these tough conversations,” she said, adding that when it comes to internet chat rooms, you shouldn’t be talking to someone you can’t text or call on the phone.

The workshops were a stark reminder of the vigilance required to protect children in today’s digital age. In addition to education and outreach, Place of Hope has also taken in more than 50 human

The

through its executor Jay Broder, has donated a Rotary clock in memory of his late wife, Donna A. Broder, to be erected at the newly refurbished site near Lake

Amphitheater. Donna Broder was an important

Donna Broder passed away

Jay Broder presents a big check to Scott Armand of the Wellington Rotary Club to fund the Rotary clock project.

Lox Budget Joint Meeting

With FAAC

continued from page 1

ties” and “long-term risks and opportunities,” noting that property values have gone up by 14 percent, which has increased revenues, but the town’s General Fund expenses have increased faster.

Sood noted that the town has brought in several new employees to improve service to the public, but that has led to increased expenses beyond what can be covered by rising property values.

He asked if the town is generating enough revenues from ancillary services, such as charging more fees, rather than spreading it across the entire town in taxes.

“Our recommendation is to generate more revenue,” he said.

Sood and the committee opposed the idea of raising the roads and drainage assessment from $200 to $250.

“If you do this, you are going to hit senior citizens, veterans, homesteaded, irrespective of people

Racetrack County Plan Moving Forward

continued from page 1 to the children and their chance to learn… [and] have a negative impact on property values,” said Brown, an Arden resident who also owns and manages other properties there. “People would stay away.”

Arden resident Nicole Conway said that she is not opposed to motorsports, “But I am opposed to a racetrack with high-performance vehicles being in our backyard. The sound will come home with us and be in our bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens, affecting every aspect of our lives.”

District 6 County Commissioner Sara Baxter, a strong proponent of the 20-Mile Bend project, said that she understood the concerns of Arden residents, but a recent noise study done as part of the due diligence for the project does not bear them out. The study commissioned as part of the report by county staff stated that sound levels in Arden

who make money or don’t make money. It will hit based on the size of your property,” he said. “In our view, this may not be the most efficient way to pass on the correct revenue to the correct cost.”

By his calculations, the town needed to cut the budget by $407,000 to balance it without increases in either the millage rate or the assessment rate. Sood suggested that this could be done by delaying projects.

The FAAC did support the idea of charging residents the actual cost for solid waste collection services, rather than subsidizing it.

“Our recommendation is to balance this budget by itself, so people know exactly what they are paying for their garbage,”

Sood said.

He noted that gas tax revenue is slowly going down, and money from the county is also decreasing, both of which could be a future threat to the town’s finances. He praised town staff for its money management, noting that there is an additional $90,000 in interest income, which might increase more to help offset the deficit.

The FAAC suggested an “easy path” (set the millage rate at 3.00,

would be only minimally affected by the track.

“From what I’ve seen and people I’ve talked to, I believe most Loxahatchee and Acreage residents are for it,” said Baxter, whose husband and sons are involved in racing.

Meanwhile, members of the racing community turned out in force at the county meeting, emphasizing that racing is not merely about turning fast laps, it’s a family undertaking that bonds children and parents.

“We have a whole family, and we all race,” Thomas Brown said. “I have an 11-year-old son who races. This isn’t just a drag strip to him. This is his football field. This is his baseball field.”

Despite commissioners allowing the RFP to move forward, many racers left the meeting disgruntled that the board did not agree to greater incentives to would-be developers beyond a long-term, little-money lease on the 161 acres of county property off County Road 880.

Madelyn Marconi, who hosted a “State of Motorsports in Palm Beach County” community event Aug. 12 in Riviera Beach, outlined the “three asks” that were

increase the assessment to $250 and increase solid waste to $450) and a “harder path” (increase solid waste, but not the assessment, and figure out what to cut in order to balance the budget).

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia agreed with the idea to stop subsidizing the solid waste fee. “It is absolutely ridiculous that this town has subsidized garbage for so many years,” she said.

FAAC Member Tracy Raflowitz wanted to know how many staff positions are open and if the town can save money by not filling them.

FAAC Chair Cassie Suchi said the overwhelming consensus was not to raise the millage or the assessments. “How do you do that?

There are really good cuts in the budget that we found — a bunch of items across separate funds that can be cut to save money,” she said.

Maniglia did not like some of the suggestions, including the further delay of planned road projects.

“The residents voted to pave the roads,” she said. “They were told there would be repercussions, and there are repercussions now. How are we going to pay for that?”

frequently referenced during the county commission session.

One, the county needs to bring utilities — water, sewer, electricity — to the property line, she said. Two, the heavy, wet muck soil that covers the land needs to be removed and replaced with construction-ready soil to 10 feet above the water table. And three, a noise variance needs to be passed to ensure that a racing business in that location cannot later be shut down by complaints from current or future neighbors.

“I’m asking commissioners to take action to get this property shovel-ready before the RFP is released,” Marconi said. Otherwise, “while it may not be intentional, this process is currently designed to fail.”

However, the commissioners quickly balked at the requests. Commissioner Maria Marino pointed out that typically, when the county provides land for a project, that is the extent of the county’s involvement. Everything else is on the developer or municipal government that is gaining the land.

“This is county land,” Marconi said later. “Right now, it’s just sitting out there undeveloped and

Notice of Competitive Bid Procurement

-Video Monitoring Security System -Access Control System

Temple Beth Torah 900 Big Blue Trace Wellington, FL 33414

Bidders to be evaluated on:

BUSINESS PROPOSAL 15%

TECHNICAL PROPOSAL 25%

SECURITY 10%

TRAINING PROPOSAL 10%

COST PROPOSAL 40%

TOTAL 100%

For RFP requests, please email: tbtseccompm@gmail.com by September 4th, 2024

Maniglia also did not like the idea of cutting staff members, many of whom were just added to fix an array of problems.

“Why do you want to cut staff right after saying that staff is doing a good job, and they seem to be needed?” she asked.

Councilman Robert Shorr went over a list of items from the budget that he believes can be cut, totaling more than $700,000.

Town Manager Francine Ramaglia said that money used for capital projects over the past several years came from outside the town, not residents. That includes federal and state grant money, as well as money from the countywide sales surtax — all funds that are drying up.

“There is no money to spend on any of the continued paving and maintenance, unless we can get it from outside sources,” she said, adding that the town can cut its way through the current year, but it cannot survive long-term without finding a different revenue model.

Mayor Anita Kane said she might favor raising the millage rate slightly, but not the roads and drainage assessment. She

undevelopable… We have the opportunity to pioneer a way to preserve motorsports that could be a blueprint for the rest of the country.”

Sachs said that any venture at the 20-Mile Bend site must be a public-private partnership.

Marconi has said that while the county would incur considerable upfront costs by agreeing to the racers’ three asks, the track would generate up to $130 million annually, and that the positive impact would go beyond dollars and cents.

She said such a facility would “help get kids off the streets” and could be used for research and development, and for education.

Baxter said she hopes the RFP can be out by November. Responses typically take between three to six months, she noted.

Racing has a long history in the county, dating back to the founding of Moroso Mortorsports Park on the Beeline Highway west of Palm Beach Gardens in the early 1960s. The track was later sold and renamed the Palm Beach International Raceway, but it closed in the summer of 2022 with the land to be used for warehouse space.

noted that she has been exploring the idea with others of creating a business district with a special taxing structure, which could raise additional revenue.

“I know that is a several-year process, but I would be in favor of starting that right away,” Kane said.

She also listed several projects that could be deferred to save money, as well as other cuts, and also suggested creating an in-house legal department, which she believes would save $100,000 a year.

Answering a question from Vice Mayor Marge Herzog regarding money for the upcoming year, Ramaglia noted that there is more than $1 million in state money in the budget that must be used for drainage projects.

Herzog favored cutting as many projects as possible to close the gap, including planned traffic-calming efforts on Okeechobee Blvd. and plans to upgrade town hall into an emergency operations center.

Kane liked many of the suggested cuts, but favored keeping the Okeechobee Blvd. work, which

she and other residents have waited a long time for. Shorr asked for a discussion on the town’s pay structure to make sure that employees are not being overpaid, and Ramaglia said that she will put together a presentation on it.

The council then agreed to a list of items to be cut. There was a consensus to raise the solid waste fee to $450 in order to no longer subsidize it. All the council members except Councilwoman Laura Danowski agreed to consider a small millage rate increase, but not an increase to the roads and drainage assessment.

Project Coordinator Jeff Kurtz said that he would update the budget spreadsheets and have them ready for a follow-up workshop that was set for Thursday, Aug. 22 at 5 p.m.

The council members thanked the FAAC for their hard work and suggested joint meetings with them more often.

“I think this is one of the best FAAC boards I’ve seen in a long time,” Danowski said. “Thank you for your hard work.”

A ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 17 recognized individuals from Florida with the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. The honorees came from various categories, which includes students, business leaders, clergy, civil rights leaders, musicians, politicians and professional athletes, all of whom were acknowledged for their exceptional contributions to community service.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw received a presidential letter and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award signed President Joseph R. Biden Jr. The event celebrated individuals who have dedicated themselves to community service, emphasizing its historical and social importance.

“I am deeply humbled to receive the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” Bradshaw said. “This honor holds a special meaning for me, as it reflects not only

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Spencer Steven Braley (1982-2024)

Spencer Steven Braley, 42, of Tyler, Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 3, 2024.

Spencer was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Steven and Merrilee Braley on June 23, 1982. At the age of four, Spencer moved with his family to Palm Beach County, Florida where he was an exceptional youth athlete, excelling at golf, baseball, basketball, and football. He graduated from Wellington High School in Wellington, Florida with the class of 2000 and a large, close-knit group of friends. Golf was a true passion of Spencer’s, and he was a natural talent. After high school, he was proud to attend Oklahoma State University to be a part of their renowned golf team. He earned his degree from Valencia College in Orlando, Florida before moving to Tyler, Texas in 2005. A determined entrepreneur, Spencer taught himself to build and launch several mobile apps. He loved music and was always creating, whether it be in the third-grade handbell choir or his hip-hop music studio. His family knew Spencer to be at his brightest during the holidays. It was a Christmas tradition for him to crawl under the tree to count and organize everyone’s packages. In addition, he was a very thoughtful and enthusiastic gift giver, driving all over town more than once to search for the perfect present. He regularly delighted the family with gifts purchased on a shoestring budget. He was a proud member of Greenacres Baptist Church and a student of the Bible. Those that knew Spencer attest that his spirit was sunshine, his heart was generosity, and he loved all people. Most of all, he cherished time with friends and family.

Spencer was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Jack and Pauline Braley and his maternal grandparents Curtis Faris and Frances Enz. Spencer is survived by his father and mother, Steven and Merrilee Braley, brother Gant Braley, sister-in-law Shannon Braley, nephews Jack and Barrett Braley, all of Tyler, Texas, and many beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins.

A memorial service was held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 15 in the Old Chapel at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas with David O. Dykes officiating. A reception followed in the 150 Room. Arrangements are under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home, Tyler, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Spencer’s memorial tree planting https://gofund.me/540e5f06.

(Front row) Cailee Carvalho, Maddy Martin and Sophia Lang; and (back row) Juliana Martin, Karla Martin and Rachael Lang.

Tricia and J.R. Rivera with Linda Mitten.

Karina, Lucia, Josh and Belen Andrews.

Zariyah Barr, Autumn Bennett, Clara Long, Gabriella Garcia and Sydney Tagleiri on stage.

Rick Febles, Deputy Brad Shouse and Kyle Ostroff. John, Aaron and Matt Fisher.

Teachers Melissa Long, Barbara Nicho and Nikay Jennings.

Cavallini Quijandri and Miranda Mari receive flowers from Atlas Savedra.

Isabella Espinal, Laila Powery, Sophie Palazzo and Chloe Tobias on stage.

Jake Maxime, Sophie Palazzo, Laila Powery, Chloe Tobias, Isabella Espinal and Hannah Fisher during the show.

Jessica and Plinio Martinez, Musical Director Zailyn Martinez, and Vicki and Jim Deitz.

Angela and James Tagleiri with Henry.

Autumn Bennett receives flowers from her cousin John Bennett.

Cast members take a bow after the show.

Theatre Arts Productions (TAP)

Artistic Director Jaycie Cohen and Hannah Fisher.

Cast members gather on stage.

Gym Catering To Kids With Autism, Special Needs Opens In

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, an international children’s gym franchise, recently opened its new location in Royal Palm Beach. The opening of We Rock the Spectrum Palm Beach was accompanied by a celebration on Saturday, Aug. 10 at the new gym, located at 1169 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Families with children from all walks of life will get to experience a breadth of sensory and physically beneficial activities within a safe, clean and controlled environment.

We Rock the Spectrum is a franchise opportunity that provides sensory-safe play for children with autism, special needs and neurotypical development. Each gym features 12 pieces of therapeutic equipment designed to

work with many of the sensory processing issues that children on the spectrum face, while providing all children with the sensory diet necessary for improved learning and neurological development. For example, the zip line helps children with vestibular sensations and sensory feedback, while allowing them to better develop upper-arm and core strength. Each We Rock the Spectrum location offers unique classes, children’s day camp opportunities, arts and crafts, additional pieces of play equipment and more.

Dina Kimmel, an autism mom from California, is the CEO and founder of We Rock the Spectrum. She opened the first gym in Tarzana, California, after her son was diagnosed with autism

and she struggled to find a safe place where both her son and her neurotypical daughter could go together. The motto for all We Rock the Spectrum gyms is, “Finally a place where you never have to say ‘I’m sorry!’”

Amber Rudishauser and Mike Krga are the new owners of We Rock the Spectrum Palm Beach. They are also the owners of the Jupiter/Tequesta and Davie locations. Amber has been a stay-athome mom since 2017 with their two children, Mila and Brooks, while also working as a Realtor. Mike, a former professional baseball player, has been working as an educator at the high school level since 2014. Coming from a family of teachers, he has always had a passion for working with children.

The family started going to We Rock the Spectrum when Mila was a baby and immediately fell in love with the gym. There, they were able to attend children’s classes and meet other parents, who later became close friends. It became a gathering place for their children to play and enjoy activities together.

When the opportunity arose to own a We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, they were convinced, from their wonderful experiences there, that they could continue and build on the efforts of previous owners, and positively impact their community.

To learn more about We Rock the Spectrum Palm Beach, call (561) 408-3066 or visit www. werockthespectrumpalmbeach. com.

Adam and George Schott.

We Rock the Spectrum Coral Springs owners Marla, Andrew and Lindsay Vidra with Royal Palm Beach owners Amber and Mike Krga.

Mike Krga, John Field, Jaime Gonzalez, Matthew Maccubbin, John Auricchio and Amber Krga with a $500 scholarship donation from AZ Contracting.

Mike Krga, Jaime Gonzalez, Jayson Field, John Field, John Auricchio, Amber Krga and Matthew Maccubbin.

Adrian and Sofia Suarez.

Shirley Alvarez with David Bravo.

Alyanna Malave hugs special guest Bluey.

Meadow and Matthew Berneche.

Special guest Bluey gets hugs from young attendees. Sadie Chmura and Janelis Ortiz.

High School Football Regular Season Kicks Off This Week

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

This week marks the official start of the 2024 high school football season in Florida, with most of the games being played on Thursday, Aug. 22 and Friday, Aug. 23. Five high school teams in the western communities are in action during the first week of play.

Royal Palm Beach is looking to improve upon last year’s 3-7 record, which easily could have been a 5-5 slate. This year, the Wildcats open up on the road against Port St. Lucie High School. The game is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 23 at 7 p.m.

According to RPBHS head coach Chuck Kenyon, his team will be looking to continue the momentum following its big 52-7 win over Olympic Heights High School on Friday, Aug. 16 in a preseason kickoff classic game.

“We have a few areas that we still have to work on,” Kenyon said. “Special teams is an area we have to get better at. Our continuity with the offensive line is a must as well.”

In week two of the season, Royal Palm Beach will play its home opener against John I. Leonard High School on Friday, Aug. 30. That game will kick off at 6:30 p.m.

Wellington’s second-year head coach Ross Pryor is optimistic that the Wolverines will have a solid season following his team’s convincing 42-0 win over Suncoast High School on Friday, Aug. 16 in its preseason kickoff classic game.

“We still need to improve and use this win versus Suncoast to help us keep moving forward to the next game,” Pryor said. “Sometimes, we win like this, and we can lose focus on things we need to get better at. The emphasis will be on just keep getting better and to find ways to improve every day.”

Wellington played its seasonopener at home against St. Lucie West Centennial High School on Thursday, Aug. 22. The results of the game were not available at press time. In week two of the season, Wellington will host the Trojans from Lake Worth High School on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m. According to Palm Beach Central High School head coach Kevin Thompson, his team must make big improvements in all areas now that the regular season has arrived. The Broncos had a tough 46-17 loss to Atlantic High School on Friday, Aug. 16 in their preseason kickoff classic game.

“We have to get better as a whole, both players and coaches,” Thompson said.

Palm Beach Central High School opens its regular season on Friday, Aug. 23 at Pahokee High School. The game has a 6:30 p.m. kickoff. In week two of the season, Palm Beach Central will travel to West Boca Raton High School on Thursday, Aug. 29 for a 6:30 p.m. game. At Seminole Ridge High School, the Hawks are coming off a close 20-17 loss to Martin County High School in its preseason kickoff classic game on Friday, Aug. 16.

Seminole Ridge head coach Chad Chieffalo is optimistic that this year’s squad will learn from that loss against Martin County and have a memorable season, since he has so many senior playmakers on this year’s team who will lead by example.

“We have several key players this year,” Chieffalo said. “Obviously, senior Ty Jackson (linebacker/wide receiver/kick returner) is going to be a huge difference maker in all phases. But he’ll be getting help from guys like senior Preston Swope (defensive end/tight end), senior Daniel Pierre Louis (offensive tackle/defensive tackle) and senior Willie Young (running back/linebacker).

In the days leading up to this Friday’s season and home opener against Glades Central High School, Chieffalo and his staff have been establishing their rushing attack and improving the play of the Hawks’ defensive line.

“The points of emphasis this week are stopping their run game, while getting ours going early,”

Strong Summer Shootout Showing For Seminole Ridge Flag Football Squad

By Mike May

Town-Crier Staff Report

On the weekend of Aug. 10-11, more than 30 high-school-age girls flag football teams gathered at West Palm Beach’s Lake Lytal

Park to participate in this year’s Palm Beach Summer Shootout flag football tournament, presented by Rising Stars Athletics. Of those 30-plus teams, the highest finishing team from the

Chieffalo said. “Both of these offensive lines were up for the ESPN Top Offensive Line Award, with the [Glades Central] Raiders taking home the prize. I feel like our guys are out to prove the experts wrong this week. It will be a matter of whose D-line holds up the longest. Either way, we’re looking forward to a great season opener.”

The King’s Academy Lions, under the leadership of secondyear head coach Dan Burak is expecting his team to follow in the footsteps of last year’s squad, which qualified for the Florida High School Athletic Association postseason playoffs.

The Lions had a strong showing on Friday, Aug. 16 when they defeated the Cobras from Park Vista

High School, 49-7, in a preseason kickoff classic game. TKA opens the regular season at home on Friday, Aug. 23 against cross-county rival Saint Andrew’s School. Kickoff will be at 6:30 p.m. In week two of the season, TKA will travel to Fort Pierce Westwood Academy on Friday, Aug. 30 for a 6:30 p.m. game. The Berean Christian School Bulldogs played Boca Raton Christian School in a preseason kickoff classic game on Thursday, Aug. 15. In that game, Boca Christian prevailed, 49-0. The Bulldogs don’t open their season until Friday, Sept. 6, when they travel to Orlando to play Central Florida Christian Academy. The game’s kickoff is set for 4 p.m.

western communities was the squad from Seminole Ridge High School, under the direction of head coach Scott O’Hara.

The team from Seminole Ridge played four games in the two-day tournament and finished with a winning record. “We finished 3-1, and the one loss was in overtime to South Florida Elite Gold,” O’Hara said. “So overall, it was a very good

performance, and we certainly had chances to win the semifinal game, as well.”

O’Hara was also pleased with the play of his sophomore quarterback. “Quarterback Aubrey Fogel played very well and certainly helped us to have a chance to win every game,” O’Hara said. “We lost to the champions (South Florida Elite Gold) in overtime in the semifinals.”

The City of Westlake has begun preparations for its second annual 5K Run/Walk & Carnival Games, set for Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at 8 a.m. on Kingfisher Blvd. Registration for the event kicked off this week. Registration windows and rates are as follows:

• From Aug. 21 through Oct. 31 — $35 for adults and $25 for children under 14.

• From Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 — $37.50 for adults and $27.50 for children under 14.

• From Jan. 1 through Jan. 24, 2025 — $39.50 for adults and $29.50 for children under 14.

• On race day, Jan. 25, 2025, registration will be $55 for adults and $45 for children under 14.

To register in advance, visit www.victorysportsmgt.com/ westlake5k.

“The Westlake 5K Run/Walk is more than just a race; it’s an opportunity for our community to come together, promote wellness and support our local schools,” said Westlake Councilman Julian Martinez, the driving force behind

the 5K event. “We’re thrilled to see the momentum of this event and look forward to continuing to build upon our success.” Kicking off directly across from the Lodge at Westlake Adventure Park, 5490 Kingfisher Blvd., the family-friendly Westlake 5K Run/ Walk & Carnival Games is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. The meticulously designed course offers a flat and fast track, ensuring an enjoyable race for seasoned runners and first-time participants alike. The first 400 registrants will receive a shirt and custom finisher medal to commemorate their achievement. The first 200 registrants will also receive a swag bag. Early registration is encouraged. Festivities will include carnival games, entertainment, vendors, dancing with a DJ and an awards ceremony following the race. For more information, contact the City of Westlake at (561) 5305880 or events@westlakegov. com.

Landon Brodeur (number 53) leads the charge as Wellington High School takes the field during its Aug. 16 kickoff classic game. PHOTO BY JACK BARTLETT

Seminole Ridge High School’s John Nardullo (left) and Garrett Rimes (right). PHOTOS BY RICHARD AREYZAGA JR.

(Above) Seminole Ridge flag football player Janiah Tejeda in action. (Left) Seminole Ridge players Channing Saunders, Janiah Tejeda and Jazlyn Ruiz take the field.

The King’s Academy 2024 football squad. PHOTO BY DEREK CHIRCH

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A Roundtable Chat About Basketball With Young, Local Players

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The opinions of seven teenage basketball players with ties to the western communities were featured in the current issue of Team Insight Magazine (www. teaminsightmag.com), a national bimonthly sports business publication. Those seven individuals are Brielle George, Gabby Fulton, Derek Vasquez, Alyk Smith, Holden Axtell, L.T. Noegel and Michael Paul.

George plays for the 11th-grade girls travel team with the Wellington Wolves. This fall, she will be a senior at the King’s Academy.

Fulton is a member of the eighth-grade girls travel team with the Wellington Wolves. This fall, she will be a freshman at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton.

Vasquez is currently a junior at Berean Christian School. He’s a member of Berean’s varsity boys basketball team and also plays for the school’s summer/travel team. Smith and Holden, both seniors, also attend Berean, where they are members of Berean’s varsity boys basketball team and play for the school’s summer/travel team.

Noegel plays basketball for the Wellington Wolves. This fall, he will be a senior at Cardinal Newman High School, where he will play for the school’s varsity boys basketball team.

Paul is a seventh grader at Polo Park Middle School in Wellington. He’s a member of Polo Park’s boys basketball team and also plays for the Wellington Wolves travel team.

In the current issue of Team Insight, the results of a questionand-answer poll were published, based on the feedback from each of those seven athletes. The goal was to collect their opinions on the quality, consistency and reliability of basketball shoes, gear, equipment and accessories. Each athlete was asked for their main thoughts on what they need and look for in their basketball gear — basketballs, shoes, uniforms, socks, practice gear and slides. As a result, the magazine was able to provide its readership — specifically sporting goods manufacturers, marketers, retailers and team dealers — with what today’s young basketball-playing consumers like and don’t like. Basketball is the most popular team sport in the United States, from the perspective of overall participation, based on the latest research conducted by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). Right now, there are roughly 28.1 million basketball players in the U.S. The SFIA research reveals that 73 percent of all basketball players are male; 56 percent of all basketball players are between the ages of 13 and 34; 33 percent of all basketball players come from families with annual household incomes of at least $100,000; and 58 percent of all basketball players are White, while 20 percent are Black. At the high school level in the U.S., basketball is very popular. According to the National Federation of State High School Associa-

tions (NFHS), basketball is the No. 1 high school sport in terms of it being offered by the most high schools, as more than 17,000 high schools in the U.S. have basketball teams for boys and girls. Currently, just more than 910,000 teenagers (boys and girls) play high school basketball. For boys, basketball is the third most popular high school sport, in terms of participants, behind track & field and football. Overall, for girls, basketball is the fourth most popular high school sport, in terms of participants, behind track & field, indoor volleyball and soccer.

Brielle George has specific needs in a basketball shoe.

“One of the most debated topics on my high school team this year was the team shoes,” George said. “We all look for different things in shoes. While color is an important factor for me, I also prioritize shoes with good ankle support, wider toe space and great grip. I don’t want to be caught slipping on the court! It’s crucial to find shoes that offer excellent quality and can last through a tough season.”

Gabby Fulton revealed her favorite brand of basketballs.

“I specifically love using Wilson Evo basketballs because of their lightweight feel and excellent grip,” Fulton said. “It’s an easier basketball to handle. They make

dribbling and shooting so smooth, giving me complete control over the ball. Plus, they’re super durable, which is perfect for our intense games. It feels like I’m playing with the best equipment out there!” Derek Vasquez gave his opinion on the “cool” brands in shoes, slides and apparel.

“In shoes, I like Nike and Adidas,” Vasquez said. “In socks, I buy from Dick’s Sporting Goods, and I like socks from Nike. In slides, I have no major brand preference, though I do like the Shark Slides.”

Alyk Smith addressed what he needs and wants in a basketball

shoe. “I own 18 pairs of basketball shoes at home in my closet,” Smith said. “I want my basketball shoes to be comfortable and have ankle support/protection, since I am always moving and jumping. In shoes, colors matter because I want all the eyes on me when I’m on the basketball court. I like vibrant colors, and I want to feel fast while wearing a basketball shoe.” Holden Axtell revealed his favorite players and team.

“My favorite NBA team is the Golden State Warriors,” Axtell said. “I like watching the Warriors play basketball. My favorite players are Jimmy Butler (Miami Heat), Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors), Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers) and Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks).”

L.T. Noegel shared what he thinks are currently the “cool” brands in shoes, slides and apparel.

“To me, the two top brands are still Nike and Adidas,” Noegel said. “For basketball shoes, there are many popular names right now: Nike KD (Kevin Durant), LeBron, JT, Adidas Hardens and AEs (Anthony Edwards), which didn’t work for me. For slides, I wear Birkenstocks.”

Michael Paul gave his opinion on the popular brands in basketball shoes, slides and apparel.

“For basketball shoes, I like shoes from Nike, Adidas and Jordan,” Paul said. “For slides, I like Crocs, Yeezy, Kappa and Uggs. For apparel, I prefer Fear of God Essentials, Denim Tears, Eric Emanuel and Sp5der.”

Berean Christian School basketball players (L-R) Alyk Smith, Derek Vasquez and Holden Axtell.

Wellington Wolves players (L-R) Michael Paul, L.T. Noegel, Gabby Fulton and Brielle George.

Home Depot Associate Arthur Frogel Celebrates 97th Birthday

Back in 2000, Arthur Frogel and his wife left South Florida to visit their daughter in Vermont. A planned two-week vacation turned into a 20-year relocation.

At the age of 80, Frogel wanted a part-time job to keep his mind and body active. He applied at a Home Depot in New Hampshire and was hired to work in the paint department. Within a week of starting, Frogel was asked to work full time.

Fast-forward to 12 years later, Frogel and his wife decided it was time to move back to South Florida, and he transferred to the Home Depot store at the corner of State Road 7 and Southern Blvd. five years ago.

He has been a valued, full-time employee in the paint department ever since. Recently, store associates helped Frogel celebrate his 97th birthday.

Asked what keeps him wanting to come to work, Frogel responded, “What am I going to do? Sit on the couch?... I enjoy having people around, and I like the associates and customers in the store.” Frogel is a U.S. Army veteran, having enlisted at the age of 17 and serving in World War II. He was later an entrepreneur who owned multiple business, including a New York City taxi fleet, restaurants, five hotels and more. Frogel still drives, makes his lunch for work and is a voracious

reader, enjoying books by J.D. Robb, James Patterson and others. The father of five, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great grandfather to more than 20 is an inspiration to all.

Asked what insights he would like to share, Frogel said that he has been very happily married to his present wife for 45 years. He also felt that it was important to mention that he lost a son to a drug overdose at the age of 61. He advised all people who are struggling with addiction to seek help. Meanwhile, if you are stopping by the Home Depot store in the Wellington/Royal Palm Beach area, visit the paint department and say hi to Arthur Frogel.

City of Greenacres Honors India Independence Day

The Greenacres City Council officially proclaimed Aug. 15, 2024, as “India Independence Day,” commemorating the 78th anniversary of India’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1947. This proclamation not only honors the enduring legacy of India’s non-violent struggle for independence but also underscores the deep cultural and democratic ties between India and the United States.

The proclamation, endorsed by Mayor Chuck Shaw, highlights the shared values between the two nations, emphasizing the commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law that both the U.S. and Indian constitutions uphold. It also recognizes the invaluable contributions of the Indian diaspora, whose vibrant presence and achievements continue to enrich communities across the globe.

A notable aspect of this proclamation is the acknowledgment of the work of Surinder K. Zutshi, founder and president of Kashmir Solidarity USA. Under his leadership, the organization has been at the forefront of combating global terror, promoting peace in the Kashmir region and advocating for the rights and stories of the Kashmiri Pandits. Zutshi’s efforts have made a significant impact, fostering greater understanding and unity between the Indian and American communities.

In a strong show of support, Zutshi also endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, praising her

of Kashmir

unwavering dedication to justice, equality and the well-being of all Americans. Citing her commitment to diversity, inclusion and her deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrant communities, Zutshi said, “Kamala Harris embodies the spirit of progress and unity that our country so desperately needs. Her leadership, experience and vision for a better America align perfectly with our mission to promote cultural harmony, social justice and solidarity among all communities.” Shaw congratulated Zutshi and the Indian American Festival Committee for their tireless

USA receives the proclamation from Greenacres City Manager Andrea McCue. efforts in strengthening the bonds between the Indian and American communities. “Their dedication to mutual respect for freedom, independence and unwavering support for the constitution exemplifies the essence of a thriving and vibrant democracy,” Shaw said.

As Greenacres and the broader Indian community in the United States celebrate India Independence Day, the community stands united in honoring the contributions and achievements of Indian Americans and looks forward to continued collaboration and cultural exchange between the two great democracies.

Abruzzo Announces Scholarship Winners, Including RPBHS Grad

Three local students will each receive $1,500 college scholarships, thanks to generous donations from employees at the office of the Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller. Palm Beach County Clerk Joseph Abruzzo congratulated Amari Dorvil of Delray Beach, a graduate of Atlantic High School; William Hicks of Royal Palm Beach, a graduate of Royal Palm Beach High School; and Demetrius Robinson of Lake Worth Beach, a graduate of Trinity Christian Academy.

The Clerks for a Cause Scholarship Program is open to dependent children of clerk’s office employees. The employee-led Charitable Giving Committee selects the winners based on the student’s community service, grade point average and a 500-word essay.

“It is our privilege to recognize the good work these students have done and give them a financial head start as they begin their academic journeys,” Abruzzo said.

Dorvil plans to attend Florida International University to major in environmental engineering. She is the daughter of Payroll Specialist Monique Bonimy.

Hicks plans to attend Palm Beach State College to major in business. He is the son of Lead Court Specialist Dawn Kelly. Robinson plans to attend the University of North Florida, where he will study marketing. He is the son of Recording Supervisor Tina Robinson.

RPBHS Grad William Hicks with Palm Beach County Clerk Joseph Abruzzo.

Surinder Zutshi

Solidarity

(L-R) Palm Beach County Clerk Joseph Abruzzo, Lead Court Specialist Dawn Kelly, William Hicks, Demetrius Robinson, Recording Supervisor Tina Robinson and Antoine Robinson.

Store employees help Arthur Frogel celebrate his 97th birthday.

When not working, Arthur Frogel is known as a voracious reader.

The scholarship program is funded solely through donations from employees who voluntarily participate in the office’s Dress

Down Program, which allows team members who donate $5 per pay period to wear jeans once a week.

PBSC Launches AI, Cybersecurity & Med Imaging Programs To Meet Demand

Palm Beach State College is expanding offerings in information technology and health sciences professions with the introduction of programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and medical imaging for the fall term, which begins Monday, Aug. 26.

These new degree and certificate programs in AI, cybersecurity and medical imaging will offer students a fast track to preparing for in-demand careers and provide opportunities for working professionals to gain additional credentials to step up in their fields or start a new career path. A 23 percent increase is projected in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers by 2030.

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of these dynamic programs designed to meet the evolving

needs of our students and the demands of the modern workforce,” said Dr. Roger Yohe, vice president of academic innovation and strategy at PBSC. “These new programs reflect our commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares students to thrive in their careers and make significant contributions to their professions and communities.”

PBSC’s Applied Artificial Intelligence associate’s degree and related college credit certificates aim to bring much-needed new talent into the growing AI field. Through a rigorous curriculum that builds technical expertise, critical thinking and problem-solving ability, the programs prepare students for immediate employment in all industries using AI to improve effectiveness and productivity. Students will gain knowledge and

skills in data science tools, machine learning, natural language processing and computer vision, as applied to managing AI project life cycles.

The new Cybersecurity associate’s degree and related college credit certificates are designed to meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals in Florida. Currently, there are 23,424 cybersecurity job openings in Florida, according to CyberSeek, and 469,930 nationwide. PBSC will prepare students through a comprehensive, industry-aligned curriculum that integrates technical and nontechnical skills and promotes employability, higher-order reasoning and adhering to ethical practices. The addition of these programs builds on PBSC’s strength in the cybersecurity field as recognized by its designation

in 2023 as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

The credits from the AI and cybersecurity college credit certificates transfer into the related associate’s degrees, and both lay the foundation to earn PBSC’s two-year bachelor’s of applied science degree in information management, which has a choice of three concentrations: database administration and data analytics, project management, and security and network assurance (cybersecurity).

For more information about these programs, visit the Computer Science and Information Technology section at www.palmbeachstate.edu/career-pathways/ pathway-STEM.

Wellington Elementary School Welcomes Back Teachers

On Monday, Aug. 5, Wellington Elementary School welcomed back all its teachers with a delicious breakfast and faculty meeting.

Training in PBSC’s cybersecurity lab on the Lake Worth campus.

The kindergarten team is ready to go. (L-R) Allyson Trama, Hope Coticchio, Mary Cano, Andrea Unger, Ronda Wayne and Danielle Tuchinsky.

Fifth-grade teacher Kristine Frey, third-grade teacher

Karlie Young, Assistant Principal Donna Dekersky and third-grade teacher Rosanne Tatti.

ESE Coordinator Dina Lewis helps with breakfast.

WES teachers listen to the presentation.

TKA Celebrates Grand Opening Of DiMino Early Childhood Center

The King’s Academy celebrated its newest on-campus addition, the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center, on Monday, Aug. 5 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event marked a significant milestone in the school’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young hearts and minds in a vibrant, engaging and thoughtfully designed environment.

The ceremony, attended by more than 100 supporters and guests, featured the official ribbon cutting by Frank DiMino and Wendy Balch, a representative of the Frank DiMino Foundation. DiMino’s generous contributions have been pivotal in bringing the facility to life, which will cater to the needs of children ages two to four.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Frank DiMino and the Frank DiMino Foundation,” TKA President Randal Martin said. “His vision and extraordinary support have been the cornerstone of this project and have significantly contributed to the remarkable growth of the King’s Academy.”

Darren Bardell, executive director of the Frank DiMino Foundation spoke on behalf of the foundation.

“We are honored to be a part of developing an on-campus early childhood center at the King’s Academy,” Bardell said. “This

gift represents our deep commitment to fostering the growth and development of young minds. We believe that providing a nurturing and enriching environment for early learners is essential for their future success and well-being. It is our hope that the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center will not only lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and help develop character, but also inspire a love of discovery and a sense of wonder in every child who walks through its doors.”

The Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center is a testament to DiMino’s commitment to impacting the next generation. His influence is evident throughout the campus with previous contributions, including the Frank DiMino Student Union, the Frank DiMino Science Center and the Frank DiMino Engineering & Technology Program of Distinction endowment. His foundation has also supported the school’s cheerleading teams and academics through generous matching gifts.

“It’s always a pleasure to see Mr. DiMino on campus,” Martin said. “His enthusiasm and dedication to our students are evident, whether he’s on the playground, joining in classroom activities or attending our various events.”

Supporters were recognized during the event. TKA parents

Kris Wall, Allison Taylor, Margo Karos, Jed Dorsey and Rocco Mangel, along with alumni parents Brendan and Shay Cavanagh, and Ray Dorsey, were recognized for their contributions to beautifully furnished classrooms, creating warm and inviting spaces for the school’s youngest students to learn and grow. The Padron and Lima families of Padron Flooring were recognized for their donation of beautiful tile, which can be seen throughout the facility. Regal Paint was recognized for its generous donation of paint for the mural, adding a vibrant touch to the learning environment. The project’s design team was in attendance, including Hedrick Brothers Construction, Simmons and White, Loveland Electric, Urban Design Kilday Studios and Randy Hansen of Interplan Architects. Christy Lungu, who works in the school’s development office, designed the beautiful interiors and engaging playground.

“Each of you has played a crucial role in making the Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center a reality,” Martin said. “Your support extends beyond these walls, touching the lives of our students, their families and the entire TKA community. We are profoundly grateful for your commitment and for investing in the future of our children.”

The Frank DiMino Early Childhood Center opened this month on the TKA campus and serves approximately 200 students. As an extension of TKA’s K-12 program, the early childhood program will provide the best in Christian early education for students in a safe, loving environment. The program is fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and licensed by the Florida Department of Health.

Palm Beach Central High School senior Jennifer Han recently completed her internship at the Herbert Wertheim University of Florida Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology. She presented her project, which was titled “Long-term Behavioral and Neural Effects of Prenatal Opioid Exposure,” which focused on brain development and risk/reward choices across generations. Han worked under Dr. Surya Pandey in the Miller Lab and is part of the Experimental Science program at Palm Beach Central.

Mall Hosts Back To School Block

The Mall at Wellington Green hosted its annual back-to-school block party event for the community during the last weekend of tax-free savings.

The community celebrated heading back to school with the Wellington Royals Dance Team

from Wellington High School, who taught the children some of their dances to perform with them. The first 250 students received a lunchbox filled with swag, while the kids enjoyed a magic show, a visit and giveaways from the

Dignitaries take part in a ribbon cutting to welcome the new building at TKA.

Benefactor Frank DiMino with Frank DiMino Foundation trustee Wendy Balch.

Faculty and staff from TKA’s early childhood program.

Party

The Wellington Royals Dance Team from Wellington High Schools kicks off the event.

Ray the Magician performs on stage.

Dior with Super Fit Champs leads young attendees through a fun workout.

WRMC Nationally Recognized For Commitment To Stroke Care

Wellington Regional Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll quality achievement awards for its commitment to ensuring that stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. A

stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

Get with the Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure that patient care is aligned with the latest guidelines. Get with the Guide-

lines - Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to these guidelines.

“Wellington Regional Medical Center is committed to improving patient care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines,” CEO Pam Tahan said. “Get with the Guidelines makes it easier for our teams to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in Palm Beach County can experience longer, healthier lives.”

The Mall At Wellington Green Announces New Store Openings

Two new retail destinations are joining the more than 160 stores at the Mall at Wellington Green. ALT. Fragrances and BH2.0 add to the robust offerings in apparel, health and beauty, and more. ALT. Fragrances — ALT. Fragrances, a leading purveyor of luxury-inspired fragrances and designer dupes, opened its sixth South Florida location on May 30 near the mall’s Grand Court. The freestanding perfume kiosk spotlights 125 extrait de perfumes whose women’s, men’s and unisex formulations share a similar DNA as “holy grail” scents by Chanel, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. Bestsellers include Crystal Intense No. 32, with a layered, complex piquancy that mimics Baccarat Rouge 540, and Thorned Rose No. 3, a sultry doppelganger inspired by Tom Ford’s Rose Prick. Prices start at $39. Founder Michael Saba debuted his line of expensive smelling, yet affordable fragrances in 2018 after being unable to find an economical alternative for his favorite Creed cologne. Each reusable bottle is mixed with sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, and Saba keeps pricing low by steering away from fancy packaging. For more information, call (561) 221-7309 or visit www. altfragrances.com.

BH2.0 — Signaling its confidence in America’s competitive, fast-casual fashion market, Canada-based Boathouse recently opened four BH2.0 brick-andmortar locations in Florida. Both Coastland Center Mall in Naples and Altamonte Mall in Altamon-

te Springs launched in March, Estero’s Coconut Point in April, followed by the Mall at Wellington Green on June 3. BH2.0, as Boathouse’s U.S. stores are named, sells active lifestyle apparel for women and men, along with designer streetwear, beachwear, athleisure, varsity collections, footwear and accessories. The 4,735-square-foot store houses dozens of niche brands, including Billabong, Crooks & Castles, Island Haze, Jetty, Katin and Z

Supply. Headquartered in Ontario, Boathouse originally opened in 1963 and has grown into one of Canada’s largest retail chains. For more information, call (561) 9544729 or visit www.bh2stores.com.

BH2.0 will host an official ribbon cutting on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 11:30 a.m.

The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit www. shopwellingtongreen.com.

Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality care for stroke patients. In addition to following treatment guidelines, participants also educate patients to help them manage their health and recovery at home.

“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Wellington Regional Medical Center for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Dr. Steven Messe, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association Stroke System

of Care Advisory Group and professor of neurology and director of fellowships of neurology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Participation in Get with the Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for healthcare systems, families and communities.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. This aims to ensure patients with Type

2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

Wellington Regional Medical Center also met specific scientific guidelines as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, featuring a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the emergency department. To learn more about Wellington Regional Medical Center, visit www.wellingtonregional.com.

Wellington Bay Seniors Stay Energized And Engaged Through Fitness Classes

Nothing makes Melissa Clark’s day better than hearing from residents at the Wellington Bay senior living community and its Lisbet Health Center, who tell her they can walk straighter, lift their arms higher, feel more upbeat and are seeing an improvement in their balance, strength, mobility, agility, endurance and overall fitness.

Clark, who is the wellness director at the luxury senior living community in Wellington, strives to offer a wealth of different exercise and fitness classes to help residents stay engaged and continue to lead healthy, happy lives no matter what their age, fitness level or level of care in which they live.

Wellington Bay offers 26 exercise classes each week for independent living and multiple classes each week for residents in the attached Lisbet Health Center’s assisted living and memory care facility.

“We keep a well-rounded and robust calendar so residents can work on all dimensions of wellness,” said Clark, who has been the wellness director since the community opened in 2022.

The classes, including mat or chair yoga, line dancing, mindful movement, functional fitness, water walking, water aerobics, barre balance, Pilates, strength training and more, are focused on helping residents improve their balance, strength, cardio fitness, agility, mobility and flexibility.

As a baseline, each resident completes a physical assessment before embarking on an exercise and fitness program. “I sit down with each resident to evaluate all those elements of overall physical fitness,” Clark said. “When they do

this assessment, they can evaluate for themselves what they want to work on. We talk about their fitness goals and how they can achieve those goals.”

Depending on their objectives, Clark suggests classes that residents should consider taking and recommends ways they can hold themselves accountable to their objectives.

Classes are scheduled and printed on a monthly calendar so residents can plan which they want to attend. The courses are offered on a drop-in basis, so Clark customizes each class to the fitness needs of the residents who show up. “It’s really important to teach to who is in the room rather than to follow a rigid plan,” she said.

Classes in independent living are generally more challenging — so much so that people from outside the community have praised the workouts. “People’s adult children will come to a class, and

they say to their parents, ‘Oh. That was hard,’” Clark said. Clark’s deep knowledge of yoga, breathwork and mind-body techniques help residents in all levels of care to manage stress and promote overall well-being. “You’re never too old to move and improve at whatever level you are,” she said.

Clark, who has extensive experience as a teacher and motivator in the fitness field, is passionate about helping people live their lives to the fullest.

Building bonds with residents and seeing them reach their goals is one of the best parts of her job.

“I love what I do, and the heart of my work is fostering meaningful connections with our residents,” she said.

Wellington Bay is a rental retirement community on a palm tree-shaded campus in Wellington. Visit www.wellingtonbayfl.com to learn more.

ALT. Fragrances operates out of a kiosk near the Grand Court.

I’m In Awe Of My 12-Year-Old Grandson, The Budding Politician

I don’t know what it is about grandchildren, but they’re always surprising us. You’ll be going through your day, admiring how much they look like you or act like you when, all of a sudden, they do something that makes you ask, “Where did that come from?”

A child who loves to dance will emerge from a family of bad dancers. A vegetarian will show up in a family of carnivores. Or there is suddenly a natural-born politician. This is the case with my grandson, Orion.

I don’t mean that, at age 12, Orion lusts after the office of student body president or wants to dominate schoolyard decision-making, he’s just a born leader who loves people and knows what to say to

each of them. Because he makes each person feel acknowledged and special, he is the one often turned to for his opinion. When asked, he will offer this opinion in a very unassuming way — a way that has people feeling it was their idea in the first place, which results in making his opinion very popular.

I don’t know how he does it, but he’s had this attribute all his life.

When Orion was 3, an 8-year-old bully at a local park blocked him from going down the slide. Orion pulled a plastic ring out of his pocket and offered it to him. (Orion had found the ring moments before, buried in the sand.) The bully accepted the bribe, and the toddler lobbyist was granted slide access. As for me, I just sat on the bench with my mouth open.

Orion’s favorite color is pink, and he wears it shamelessly, together with a number of string bracelets. Now all the boys at school are wearing pink and string bracelets. If Orion grows his hair out, all the boys grow their hair out. If he gets a punk cut, they all get punk cuts. He won’t

wear socks. His jerseys are baggy. He has somehow emerged as a fashion icon at school. As for me, I’m in sweatpants 24/7.

When Orion was 11, he got taken to Mr. Robinson’s office for leading a noisy charge down a school hallway.

“What’s going on, Orion?” his counselor demanded.

Orion looked at the floor and said, “I guess I just need to learn how to be a better person.”

It’s the perfect answer to any educator, especially when delivered without attitude, just sincerity.

The beginning of this school year, Mr. Robinson welcomed each middle schooler back by putting a lei around their neck.

“Then he bopped me on the back of

the head with the lei box!” Orion told me, grinning.

“He hit you?”

“No, just bopped!” Evidently, Orion took this assault to mean that he and Mr. Robinson were special friends. I believe they are. And it doesn’t stop there.

“Mr. Robinson doesn’t call me Tess, he calls me ‘Orion’s sister,’” my granddaughter giggled. She also felt a special friendship with Mr. Robinson, simply due to her familial connection to Orion.

I don’t know this guy myself, but I do know that if I ever am called to his office, I am immediately mentioning my relationship to Orion. Being politically unsavvy, I have to rely on name-dropping. It’s all I’ve got.

New Video-Game-Based Movie ‘Borderlands’ Is A Huge Mess

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

Let’s make it simple. Borderlands is not a good movie at all. It clearly wanted to be like Guardians of the Galaxy or Jumanji, but lacks the charm of either of them. It might well have been written by artificial intelligence (AI), since there are few really human emotions throughout. It is based on a computer game, and just as the characters the players choose, the characters are essentially empty shells at the start. The problem is that in this film, they are pretty much the same right up to the ending. A young girl, Tiny Tina (Ariana Greenblatt) is a mental patient in a major space station when it is attacked. Her bodyguard Roland (Kevin Hart) kills many of the attackers, but the two are separated, and she is grabbed up by another psycho patient — huge, masked Krieg (Florian Munteanu). The girl’s father Atlas (Edgar Ramirez), one of the richest, nastiest men in the galaxy, hires bad-ass mercenary bounty hunter Lilith (Cate Blanchett) to get the girl back, something logical because the girl has been taken to her home planet Pandora. Pandora is a total mess, and Lilith knows it. But she is being well-paid.

demolitions, and not willing to go back to her father, who only wants her because she can open what is called the Eridian Vault, a repository for all sorts of technology from an earlier race. But when the soldiers called the Crimson Lance come after Tina, Lilith joins with her, along with Krieg, Roland and Claptrap in a wild race to escape. Soon they come upon Dr. Tannis (Jamie Lee Curtis), Lilith’s foster mother, and she provides key information. At that point, it is mainly a chase to the end.

Early on, she meets the robot Claptrap (voiced by Jack Black), who has been programmed to assist her, and he is able to locate Tina. But Tina is far from a victim or crazy. She’s dangerous, an expert with

The problem really is that even though the cast is made up of good actors, the parts themselves are boring. The central characters in Guardians and Jumanji, played by Chris Pratt and Dwayne Johnson, are interesting, actually even fun. Blanchett, one of our best actresses, is simply one note for almost the entire movie. When “the Rock” is more interesting than Blanchett, you know things have gone bad. I kept

noting that throughout the action, as she was knocked around, her hair, a terrible red wig, stayed perfectly stable. It had an interesting wave and swept up to one side of her face, and even after she was blown aside several times and was bruised and limping, the hair was perfectly in place. Kevin Hart, really funny in Jumanji, played it totally straight here. No quick quips, no joking. It helped, I guess, that even after he was overwhelmed by dozens of semi-zombies, they were all dead and he crawled out from under them. Good in a game, lousy in a movie. Jamie Lee Curtis seemed in a trance for most of her part. Jack Black’s voice in the robot, a sort of mock Rocket Raccoon, was simply grating. Not efficient, singing part of the time, and used as a plot device far too often. Ramirez was OK as the nasty dad. Greenblatt, who was 13 when this was made, was the most interesting character, but there was no rational explanation given for a lot of the bits about her. There are a few things that make these kinds of movies interesting. The first of them is having characters that are themselves interesting or who change in ways that are interesting. This movie did not have that at all. Second, might be really scary enemies. Here, most of them were either gone so fast there was no suspense at all, or simply just orcs, game pieces that are there to be killed. When a tiny group can wipe out hundreds and walk away unscathed,

month or so on pay per view, you will only be wasting $4. In other words, this is a stinkeroo. Miss it.

St. Jude’s Novena

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred

Wellington Village Park 11700 Pierson Rd.

Participate in the Wellington Rotary Ruck March & Food Drive, a unique, one-of-a-kind event benefiting youth programs, veterans, and scholarships. Food donations benefit the Village of Wellington’s Annual Holiday Food Drive.

□ Register for the 2K or 5K course (walk or run)

• Individual or 4-person Ruck Team

• Participate with backpack filled with unopened, non-perishable food items

• Trophies and medallions awarded

□ Sponsor — options from $500 to $5,000

□ Open to all ages. Come out and have fun —

Food trucks, music, root for your friend or favorite team.

□ US Marine Corps Birthday Celebration

□ Can’t make it?........Donate!

Spectators are also encouraged to donate food for Wellington’s Food Drive!

Questions— wellrotary1@gmail.com

Note—Pets not allowed in park

AN EVENT SPONSORED BY

SCAN TO REGISTER, DONATE, MORE INFO: