Town-Crier Newspaper September 22, 2023

City Of Westlake

Finalizes Budget With Tax Rate At 5.0 Mills

The Westlake City Council gave final passage to its budget for fiscal year 2024 on Wednesday, Sept. 20 after needing a re-vote to ensure that residents got their promised millage rate reduction. Council members voted 3-0 at their second budget hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 12 to approve the rate reduction from 5.1 mills to 5.0 mills, which will save the average Westlake homeowner approximately $40 to $60. Page 3

Culver’s Restaurant

Now Open On Southern

In Loxahatchee Groves

Culver’s Restaurant has arrived in the western communities.

On Saturday, Sept. 9, Culver’s held a grand opening ribbon cutting for the new location in Loxahatchee Groves. The local community was invited out for the day-long celebration to sample the Culver’s menu.

Page 8

Born2Dress Hosts A

Pop-Up Fashion Show

Born2Dress hosted a popup fashion show event for local women on Friday, Sept. 15. Born2Dress specializes in trendy and comfortable clothing for all women. Local business owners Dannielle Judd, Doreen Scheinpflug, Allison Valley and Ashley Layson modeled the fashions. Page 13

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

Metal Detectors Likely Coming To All High Schools In The County

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report

Now that schools have been in session for a few weeks, families, teachers and even traffic patterns are settling into a routine. But not all schools have the same challenges, and with the goal of increasing safety specifically in high schools, some locations have been testing metal detectors.

The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board received an update on security issues from School District Police Chief Sarah Mooney at a meeting Monday, Sept. 11.

Westlake Governments Move Forward On New Regional Park

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the Westlake City Council and the Seminole Improvement District (SID) Board of Supervisors have settled on a framework for a regional park they intend to construct along the west side of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road.

“It looks phenomenal,” Westlake Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor said as he studied the design. “I’m very excited.”

The consensus reached at a Tuesday, Sept. 12 joint meeting allows SID to write the contracts for $700,000 in stormwater drainage work that will begin to shape the park directly south of Seminole Ridge High School.

It also allows the landscape design firm of Cotleur & Hearing to draw up more detailed plans that city and SID officials can use to seek funding from the Florida Legislature during its 2024 session, as well as a variety of grants. The park will likely be done in

Palm Beach Central, Seminole Ridge Rack

Up Gridiron Victories

After four weeks of play, the varsity football teams from Palm Beach Central High School and Seminole Ridge High School remained undefeated on the season — Palm Beach Central with a 3-0 record, and Seminole Ridge at 4-0. Page 21

four to five phases over eight to 10 years, said Kenneth Cassel, who manages both the municipal government and the special district.

Phase 1 will cost $5 to $6 million, SID President Scott Massey said.

“SID can more easily float a bond, but the bond payments end up coming out of our residents,” O’Connor said. “The more grants and other funding sources we can find, the better off we are.”

Cassel agreed. “We want to look around and see how we can get the biggest bang for our buck,” he said.

Already in place are three linear, north-south lakes that provide a barrier between the 50-acre site and the busy roadway. The entrance and exit from the park will be tucked between those lakes, which will feature four aerators/ fountains.

Once underway, that stormwater work should take approximately 60 days, Cassel said.

The park will include a berm

that runs along the west side, shielding it from properties on the other side of the M-2 Canal. It also will be part of the landscaping to obscure two massive retention tanks for irrigation water used by the district.

The berm will provide a niche for a concert stage that would look out on a wide, flat, uncluttered space where concertgoers can congregate to enjoy music and the city’s annual FourthFest Independence Day celebration with fireworks launched from the park’s northwest corner.

O’Connor has said he hopes that the park will be far enough along to be used on July 4, 2024.

Massey suggested the area also could be used for large touring concerts.

“The area could accommodate 5,000 to 10,000 people,” he said. “There’s no other venue like that in the western communities.”

Six soccer/sports fields — four in Phase 1 — will be added to the

See PARK, page 4

Lox Spending Plan Approved After Last-Minute Changes

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council approved a spending plan for the next fiscal year on Tuesday, Sept. 19, leaving the tax rate unchanged at 3.0 mills, although some last-minute changes were necessary to get the unanimous vote needed.

Finance Director Chris Wallace of Munilytics noted the changes made based on the council’s discussion at its Sept. 5 meeting. These included $100,000 for legal expenses for the council, paid for by cuts from other areas; eliminating the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for staff member wages and salaries; removing money

for a generator for Loxahatchee Groves Town Hall; and clarifying that money in the budget is for the rental of a roller as needed, not the purchase of a roller.

Savings went into the general fund, as well as the roads and drainage fund.

“Those were the major changes to the budget at the first reading,” Wallace said. “We heard back that the $100,000 for legal was not what was intended. Rather than adjust that before the meeting, we decided to wait for the final decision of the council for that.”

Vice Mayor Robert Shorr put forward a list of items he would like cut from the budget. Among them were the costs of road rock.

“To have $140,000 in the budget is way over budget. Looking at $50,000 a mile, $100,000 should be enough to do the entire two miles,” he said.

The council went over that and other items that Shorr wanted removed.

“The reason I did this is because I get the phone calls about why we are raising taxes,” he said. “We do not need to spend every dime that we’ve got, and we should give some back to the residents.”

He made a pitch to cut enough out of the budget to lower the tax rate to 2.5 mills.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia said that the town should not be

See LOX BUDGET, page 7

“The school district’s mission and vision have to do with, obviously, having security and safety on all of our school campuses and facilities,” Mooney said. “We are committed to community engagement, so we like to get out and about, not only in the schools, but out into the community when they have school-sponsored events. We like to take the approach that school safety is everyone’s responsibility.”

She went on to describe some of the structures in place throughout the county, including having an armed security person on every campus. Currently, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is providing assistance since staffing levels cannot cover every site yet, but the intent is to have a school district police officer at every campus by the end of this school year.

“A security measure in Alyssa’s Law is that emergency alert button. We go with Centegix, which is basically this emergency key card that everyone in the district has. A staff member could hit that button three times, and it will alert certain responders on the campus to let them know that there is something

going on that they could use an extra set of eyes or extra set of hands to come help deal with a problem,” Mooney said.

There were some growing pains with false alarms when the cards were first implemented last year, but that has been improving.

The school police have added 60 new marked vehicles to its fleet and began a metal detector pilot program at Palm Beach Gardens High School, Seminole Ridge High School, Palm Beach Lakes High School and John I. Leonard High School. Because schools are set up with a single point of entry on all campuses, the detectors were placed at these four schools upon entry.

“This was something brought to us by our constituents, and the board wanted us to do a project to see whether or not it would be feasible. We had the opportunity over the summer to learn how the equipment works and learn what we think would be the best practices so that we could start on the first day of school,” Mooney said. “As expected, there were delays on the first days of schools, but the kids have gotten trained up on what the expectation is and how you walk in and what things are going to set them off.”

Mooney made it clear that the detectors are not as sensitive as a Transportation Security Agency line at the airport, but that items such as laptops must be handed over to staff before students can pass through without setting off the system. When asked about where these detectors would be installed, she was very straightforward.

“They do have the funding in place to expand to all the high schools throughout the county,”

See DETECTORS, page 14

SENIOR SOCIAL SOIRÉE

A Senior Social Soirée was held Saturday, Sept. 9 at the Wellington National Golf Club. The event was created to help local senior citizens meet other individuals with common interests in the hopes of encouraging new connections and friendships. Tables were arranged by interests, so attendees could meet people who enjoyed similar pursuits. Shown above are Kathy Schneider, Ilene Weinstein and Melissa Satterlee.

10 Years In: Tile-Setter’s Son

Is Building Westlake To Last

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

When a teenaged John Carter was working alongside his tilesetter father in the early 1980s, Seminole Pratt Whitney Road was still a narrow, two-lane road to nowhere. Just south of the M Canal, Callery-Judge Grove spread out on either side over thousands of acres, orange trees as far as the eye could see.

It was then that the North Shore High School student learned from the ground up about construction, about building things, making them sturdy and cohesive, about making them last.

Today, North Shore High is the Bak Middle School of the Arts and the Riviera Beach neighborhood Carter grew up in is the spring

training home of the Houston Astros and the Washington Nationals. Seminole Pratt Whitney Road is two or four or more paved lanes and growing as it passes through the Seminole Improvement District (SID) and the City of Westlake, which Carter has created with astonishing speed from the ruins of Callery-Judge’s blighted groves.

This month marks the 10th anniversary of Minto Communities USA finalizing the purchase of some 4,000 acres from CalleryJudge for $51 million. Carter, who by then was a University of Florida graduate with some 25 years of construction experience and a Minto vice president, led that effort. He also led the subsequent 2016 push to use SID’s unusual

powers to vote a municipality into being with only five residents.

“As far as I know, this is the only city developed like this in Florida,” Carter said. “I doubt it will ever be done again in our lifetimes.”

Of course, not everyone was happy about a large homebuilder finagling a city into existence in the middle of what had been a very rural area, surrounded as it was by the 37 square miles of the Indian Trail Improvement District.

“The attitude by ITID was to heck with you. We don’t need to deal with you,” recalled Carter as he saw it. “We’re just going to kill your project.”

Carter said he engaged in public outreach “at an unheard scale” in an effort to gain acceptance from

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 18

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The Village of Wellington held a remembrance ceremony on Monday, Sept. 11, to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ceremony was held at the Wellington Patriot Memorial. During the ceremony, village leaders shared their thoughts and laid a memorial wreath. Representatives from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the New York Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3100 were in attendance. The guest speaker was retired NYPD official Reymundo Mundo. Shown above are (front row) Philip Cerbini, Paul Pontrelli, Bill Petraglia, Paul Read and guest speaker Reymundo Mundo; and (back row) Arnie Dansky, Stanley Kriegsman, Joe Mottle, Harvey Feit and Guy Van Noy. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Minto Senior Vice President John Carter looks over plans for the company’s huge Westlake development.

City Of Westlake Finalizes Budget With Tax Rate At 5.0 Mills

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The Westlake City Council gave final passage to its budget for fiscal year 2024 on Wednesday, Sept. 20 after needing a re-vote to ensure that residents got their promised millage rate reduction.

Council members voted 3-0 at their second budget hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 12 to approve the rate reduction from 5.1 mills

to 5.0 mills, which will save the average Westlake homeowner approximately $40 to $60.

They also approved the city’s $8,981,500 budget for the next year.

However, council members were later advised that the full council needed to be physically present for the vote to be valid.

Councilman Julian Martinez and Councilwoman Pilar Valle Ron

RPB Zoners Support Brewery Request And New Childcare Center

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report

At the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on Monday, Sept. 18, the commissioners supported a follow-up request from Royal Palm Brewing Company regarding its plan for outdoor seating and granted the approvals necessary for a new childcare center on Okeechobee Blvd. known as Kingswood Academy.

Royal Palm Brewing Company owner George Shetka addressed the commission with a request for a variance and special exception approval to expand his business and allow permanent outdoor seating of his facility.

Last month, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a change to village ordinances allowing the brewing company to request the changes.

During COVID-19, the pub had temporary approval to use the space for customers, and also hosted community events such as Oktoberfest in the outdoor space. But village staff was not in support of the request based strictly on the code.

“We’ve had zero instances of reported complaints from the residents of Bella Terra,” said Senior Planner Josue Leger, referring to the neighborhood adjacent to the business. “The PBSO was never contacted during the temporary outdoor seating.”

Shetka was prepared with a fresh letter from his Bella Terra neighbors, who had provided written support for their business previously.

“I have an updated letter from Sept. 11, 2023, that says, ‘To

whom it may concern, the board of directors met and discussed the proposed outdoor dining accommodation that you intend to provide for your patrons. They do not feel the outdoor dining experience would disturb the owners of the Bella Terra community and wish you the best in your business enhancements,” said Shetka, who provided the letter from Bella Terra’s board to the commissioners. “Our hangup on this whole thing is that we feel that it is this rule, and this code, is directed directly at us and no one else. There are no other breweries in town.”

Shetka went on to say he did not foresee any new breweries coming to Royal Palm Beach, and that if they simply sold beer and did not produce it in-house, the rule would not apply. He also expressed frustration at being in front of the commissioners for the third time.

“I’d like to say that I appreciate you going to your neighbors and asking for that letter,” Commission Chair Adam Miller said.

Shetka also found support from another applicant unrelated to his request. “I don’t have a dog in this race, but if nobody had a problem during COVID-19, and he has a letter from the community around it, I wouldn’t see why it would be a problem now,” Brad Moore said.

The commissioners were pleased to see the support and voted to approve the request unanimously.

A second request by Royal Palm Brewing Company, which was contingent upon the approval of the first, was supported by both

See RPB ZONERS, page 7

attended the Sept. 12 meeting remotely and thus could not vote.

When all members convened Wednesday night for a brief meeting, they made it official with a 5-0 vote.

The average Westlake homeowner with an assessed value of $450,000 and a $50,000 homestead exemption will pay approximately $2,000 in city property tax.

The reduction marks the second

year in a row that Westlake has cut its tax rate. For the 2023 budget, council members voted to lower the rate from 5.125 mills, where it had been since the city’s inception in 2016, to 5.1 mills.

“I did challenge staff to find the funds to lower the millage rate, and they were able to do so. And in a significant way at that,” Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor said. “I’m very, very pleased. “I’m going to

challenge staff now to get the millage rate under five for next year.

Let’s continue the trend.”

The city’s final 2024 budget represents a 13.1 percent or $1,032,500 increase over its 2023 budget funded by a 49.8 percent or $1,666,333 increase in property tax revenues — for a total of $5,011,896 — as Westlake continues to be one of Florida’s fastest-growing municipalities.

Since 2016, when Westlake incorporated, Minto Communities USA, the area’s largest landowner and developer, has supplied millions of dollars to prop up city government services, including a $776,000 “lifeline” in the 2023 budget. However, the city did not have to tap into the Minto funds, City Manager Kenneth Cassel said. For 2024, there is no lifeline

Jayden Hendricks Celebrates Getting His Black Belt From The Code Ninjas Program

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report

A milestone was met Saturday, Sept. 16 at Wellington’s Code Ninjas location — a ceremony was held for newly minted Black Belt Jayden Hendricks. The ceremony involved a wrist band, moving his name tag up the totem pole, presenting his video game, hitting a gong and snacks.

Franchise owner Rick Engelbart, who also owns the Code Ninjas franchises in Boca Raton and Coral Springs, has been working with Hendricks for years.

“This was the first center I opened, and one of our first ninjas, and I saw a lot of the struggles, and I saw him overcome,” Engelbart said. “This is what it’s about. I hadn’t been able to experience this yet before, and I’m really happy.”

Hendricks’ grandfather, Chris Thatcher, shared that at one point, Hendricks questioned whether he wanted to continue learning to do computer coding.

“He came back to it with a renewed sense of purpose,” Thatcher said. And now, Hendricks has

reached the Code Ninjas level of Black Belt.

Black Belt level includes a capstone project where students build their own three-dimensional video game that meets a set of requirements. They learn the skills needed to build their games through the nine-belt, self-paced curriculum after school and on weekends.

Within the different levels, they learn the fundamentals of computer programming through programming robots and building video games.

Hendricks made his game, Christmas Clicker, a clicker game, where Santa is out of commission because he ate too many cookies.

The game was fun to program, Hendricks said, because he was able to do whatever he thought was funniest at the time. Anyone can play Christmas Clicker by visiting https://jaydenrocks101. itch.io/christmas-clicker.

“He has been working on this since we opened in January 2019,” Engelbart said, “and he persevered.” Hendricks, 15, attended classes at Code Ninjas when it opened in

2019, as well as online during the pandemic, and has continued his coding education, which started when he was seven years old.

Hendricks has thrived in coding, said his grandparents, Chris and Danielle Thatcher.

One thing that stood out about the Black Belt project, his grandfather added, was that it teaches the students the process of building software in real life, from the

design document and testing, to the alpha release, revisions, beta release, more revisions, and eventually, the final project. “They do things the same way a developer would in the real world,” he said. Other Black Belt student games can be found at https://forms. codeninjas.com/blackbeltninjas. For more information about the Code Ninjas program, visit www. codeninjas.com/fl-wellington.

A New Approach to Treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

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

BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. There are a variety of treatments — from medication to major surgery — but, until recently, the choices lacked a less-invasive option.

Now there is the UroLift® device, which is inserted through the urethra and holds the enlarged prostate tissue out of the way, so it no longer blocks urine flow. Patients typically can return home the same day without a catheter, and experience rapid symptom relief and recovery with low complication rates.

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

Rick Engelbart, John Cedeno, James Skiba, Christina Pappachan and Adam Satar join Jayden Hendricks in celebrating his accomplishment.

(Above) Jayden Hendricks with his grandparents, Chris and Danielle Thatcher. (Below) Jayden Hendricks bangs the gong, held by Rick Engelbart. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Education Committee Seeing Fewer Traffic Woes Near Schools

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

Going back to school has generated fewer complaints about traffic than members of Wellington’s Education Committee said they could recall in years, though one official cautioned that village school populations are only growing larger, and enforcement resources will not prove limitless after a focused opening effort.

“It’s always a giant issue for the first month, although I will say I think I have heard less about school traffic than I have ever heard before,” Committee Chair John Webber said at the Tuesday,

Sept. 19 meeting. He added, “I’ve heard a little bit,” but not the level of “outrage and complaints” that other recent years have seen.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Office’s Sgt. Matt DeJoy said that was the result of several planned and even some improvised moves to ease traffic flow, aided by cooperation between schools, parents and his agency. But he reminded committee members that he must rotate what amounts to six full-time traffic units, some of which specialize in commercial trucking regulations much of the time, in a village with 11 public schools alone, as the

school year settles into a routine. For example, he took control of a traffic light at Wellington High School and mashed the button to keep vehicles moving.

“I keep that signal going and clear that school out,” DeJoy said. But once schedules transition from an initial surge to shifting among different schools and hot spots, “I can’t maintain that,” he said.

Neither the committee nor PBSO officials provided specific data on complaints, crashes, traffic counts or wait times at the meeting, though they discussed anecdotal examples.

Some ideas to reduce snarls — such as staggering pick-up and drop-off times — can bog down in the face of school-employee contracts that limit work hours, DeJoy said.

Yet the building out of neighborhoods in or near Wellington, such as the Arden community to its northwest, means the pipeline of new students keeps flowing, he said.

DeJoy praised village moves such as signs and delineators to discourage U-turns in some crowded school zones, as well as, for instance, prominent notices not to block the firehouse near

Wellington Landings Middle School.

There are attempts to accommodate golf carts, even as new regulations take effect on their use.

Still, the traffic pressure is not going anywhere. There are times when deputies permit parents awaiting school pickup to move temporarily to the grass in places where traffic can easily back up. That is not normally allowed.

“We’ve started off on a great note,” Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews said at the meeting. She did note, however, that “overcrowding” will

continue to be a concern.

In no small part, that is due to the popularity of Wellington schools with village parents.

For example, both of Wellington’s high schools are projected to operate above 100 percent of their planned capacity for the next five years. That is largely because parents lobbied the school board not to move village students to the new Dr. Joaquin Garcia High School southeast of Wellington in western Lake Worth.

Another planned western high school could provide some relief in half a decade or so.

Equestrian Panel Wants Trail Improvements To Focus On Safety

By Charles Elmore Town-Crier Staff Report

Over three years, Wellington could spend at least $2.8 million on 11 projects to improve its horse trails under a draft plan, though early feedback pushes for a faster gait on adopting more safety signs and fences.

Equestrian Preserve Committee

Member Haakon Gangnes asked at the committee’s Wednesday, Sept. 6 meeting with village staff if it might be wise to prioritize safety moves over other goals, such as expanding trails or linking them together.

Gangnes suggested that an initiative to put more signs along key stretches of equestrian paths, for example, should be moved up from the proposed second year of the three-year plan.

“It almost seems like signage would be a cheaper option, easier to implement than re-doing the trails, which is construction and takes time,” Gangnes said.

“That’s a reason we’re meeting today,” said Village Planner Christian Santa-Gonzalez, emphasizing that the point of the hearing was to gather such input. “Maybe that’s something that could be moved to the first year.”

Such discussions reflect the prominent role of equestrian activities in Wellington, where horses loom large in the village’s identity and drive a signature industry.

But as both trails and the village population grow, horses interact on many paths and road crossings with increasing numbers of Wellington’s more than 60,000 residents, creating a busy whir

of vehicles, golf carts, bicycles and more.

Committee Member Dr. Kristy Lund said that in many places along the village’s Green Trail, for instance, it can be tough for motorists and others to recognize it is a riding trail at all.

“We’re right next to the road,” she said. “We don’t really have trails. We have grass next to the road.”

That’s the sort of place where signs, and in some cases fencing or hedges, might play a greater role.

The responses signal likely changes to the plan in the next two months. The idea is to hammer out recommendations for the committee to approve at a November meeting and pass along to the Wellington Village Council, which holds final authority.

Mock-up examples of possible signs were displayed at the meeting. One shows an icon for a horse and rider and tries to convey a recommended six feet of lateral distance from other trail users. Others caution motorists to slow down where riding trails come near roadways.

Discussion included possibly putting the signs on wooden posts, or attaching them on existing landscape features, rather than erecting placards with sharp edges on rigid metal poles that could pose hazards of their own.

Since 2016, the village has focused on improvements along six bridle trails, including an updated crosswalk at Greenbriar Blvd. and Ousley Farms Road, better canal crossings and enhanced multi-modal pathways.

The proposed capital plan lays out projects from 2024 to 2027, spread across parts of the village where equestrians are most active.

These include $350,000 for improvements to the village’s Brown Trail, $300,000 for the Flying Cow Road multi-use pathway and $300,000 for installation of fencing along the Pink Trail.

In addition, there would be $150,000 for White Trail improvements, $350,000 for Dark Green Trail enhancements and $250,000 for work on the culvert crossing over the C-8 canal at Rustic Ranches.

Also listed in the draft was $700,000 for a new trail in what is known as Section 34 near the village’s southern end. Committee members questioned whether initial mapping for that project

properly navigates around private property, and staff pledged to review that.

Other money would be set aside for water and shelter locations and gathering data on trail traffic. Exact funding for trail and roadway signage remained “to be determined” in a presentation by village staff.

In a slight departure from what is normally a routine procedure, the committee voted not to approve the minutes for its June 7 and June 8 meetings in order to seek a more comprehensive summary of events. In the course of those heavily attended meetings, the board voted 7-0 to recommend that the village reject plans by Wellington Lifestyle Partners to build hundreds of luxury residences, partly on land now in the Equestrian Preserve Area.

GL Homes, AAL And $3.1M In Parks Contracts Top ITID Agenda

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Several hot-button issues were scheduled for the Wednesday, Sept. 20 meeting of the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors. Those issues include:

• Hearing from representatives of GL Homes regarding a so-called “agreement for water operations” that is part of a major land/rights swap deal.

Under the deal involving the 4,871-acre Indian Trails Grove property in the northwest portion of the district, GL would cut the size of its planned residential and commercial development by approximately one-third. Lands ded-

Carter Building A City From Scratch

continued from page 1 neighbors in The Acreage and ITID more broadly. It was successful with some, not with others. At present, there’s an ongoing lawsuit between SID, Minto and ITID over whether Westlake can connect to ITID roads.

Although Minto filed the suit in 2020, Carter said the company’s hand was forced.

Blocking access to 140th Avenue North “is an attempt to re-litigate the [earlier] land-use approvals,” he said. “People involved in litigating the approvals back then… are driving the litigation you see today. Unfortunately, the cost is being borne unnecessarily by ITID residents.”

ITID officials would not comment on the suit that currently is awaiting a judge’s ruling. Carter said he expects a decision by late November.

Sara Baxter, a longtime Acreage resident, recalled that she did not want Westlake built, but now as District 6 Palm Beach County commissioner, said she is “focused on what’s happening today… I’m of the mindset that a rising tide raises all boats.”

And Westlake’s tidal surge of home sales continues seven years after its inception. The city has some 4,500 residents and is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Florida, with residential build-out of the area’s 4,600-plus lots expected within the next three years — half the time originally projected.

Carter, who had run major projects in Dallas, Seattle and elsewhere for other developers, said with Minto, he saw the chance

icated for agricultural and water resources would be increased by 980 acres, and publicly dedicated land would increase from 640 acres to more than 1,600 acres. A 740-acre water storage area featuring three pump stations would be constructed by GL Homes. In return, GL would get the right to build a 1,000-unit adult community on 477 acres of the 681-acre Hyder West property in the agricultural reserve area west of Delray Beach. At the same time, the company would build 277 workforce housing units on 104 acres of the property.

• A discussion of whether the board should continue to support the GL Homes swap after a deal

in 2010 to return home both physically and philosophically, leaving behind the world of publicly traded corporations for a privately held company with “high integrity, high accountability… [and] a very strong Judeo-Christian work ethic.”

The cornerstone of Westlake’s creation was a change he championed in Minto’s “strategic focus,”

Carter explained. “A shift in strategy from nibbling up small parcels to let’s do fewer projects but bigger. That led me to look at the landscape in Palm Beach County. There were only a few reasonable targets, including Callery-Judge.”

Once the permitting was completed in less than half the five years Minto anticipated, the size of the project began to settle onto Carter.

“It weighs on me heavily,” he said. “Every tree, paver, bush has to be paid for… From my company’s perspective, the capital investment here is significant.”

That includes upward of $400 million in infrastructure creation alone, he said, while noting that it is the very size of the project that makes it work in terms of keeping most home sales in the $400,000 to $600,000 range — moderately priced by South Florida standards.

“You’re talking about miles and miles and miles of pipe, asphalt and concrete structures,” Carter said. “The scale we’re doing that at begins to look different [in terms of construction costs] from someone who wants to do a 100-unit development.”

The focus from day one has been on affordability, Carter said, pointing to Minto’s Welcome Heroes program that discounts homes to working teachers, police officers, firefighters, members of the military, healthcare and government workers. “These are well-appointed homes,” he said. “At a price point unheard

with District 6 Palm Beach County Commissioner Sara Baxter to build a 200-acre off-highway vehicle (OHV) park and campground in Indian Trails Grove was added just ahead of the critical May vote of the Palm Beach County Commission.

ITID Vice President Betty Argue has said that building such a park in a residential area would be a step toward commercializing the entire district and add more traffic to the already stressed road network. GL should go ahead and build out the promised water storage facilities instead, she has said. The deal is scheduled for a final county commission vote in October.

of anywhere else in Palm Beach County.”

Layered on top of that is a “light touch” with homeowners’ association fees, no community development district fees, and outstanding community amenities and programming. Those amenities include the master HOA’s Adventure Park community center and pool.

“It’s like walking onto the pool deck at a Ritz-Carlton,” Carter said proudly.

Minto also provided millions to get the city government up and running. Westlake will be operating without a Minto safety net for the first time in fiscal year 2024, which begins Oct. 1. The developer was prepared to kick in more than $700,000 during the current fiscal year but it was unneeded, said Kenneth Cassel, who manages Westlake and SID. He is not a Minto employee.

“We have a good working relationship,” Cassel said of Carter. “I’m not afraid to call him out on stuff and vice versa. We have a shared vision of how to build a city.”

A major part of that vision is a permitting process that is consistent and moves in a timely manner so that Minto and Westlake’s other developers know where they stand and what to expect, Carter and Cassel agreed.

Despite Minto being by far the city’s major landowner and developer, Carter insists “no hall passes are being given out in terms of permitting” by either Cassel’s management team or the city council.

“I’m probably mindful to a fault of making sure there is that arm’s length between me, this company and the city government,” Carter said.

Westlake Vice Mayor Greg Langowski said Carter comes to most council meetings and provides a good view of what’s coming in

The ITID discussion comes just ahead of a town hall meeting scheduled by Baxter to discuss the OHV (or all-terrain vehicle/ATV) park and possible future racetrack construction on county-owned land at 20-Mile Bend off State Road 80. Baxter recently said she has reached out to the Federal Aviation Administration about using part of the Palm Beach County Glades Airport in Pahokee as a temporary dragstrip. The town hall is set for Monday, Oct. 16 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center beginning at 6:30 p.m.

• A discussion of whether the service provider agreement (SPA) with the Acreage Athletic League

the future but does not attempt to impose his wishes on the council.

Langowski described Carter as “very personable and approachable” when seen around town, including at Christ Fellowship, a non-denominational church with multiple locations, including one in Westlake that opened in March.

“My faith was my strength to

(AAL) should be renewed. The AAL has provided the structure for youth sports in the district for some three decades but has come under fire recently for alleged unfair practices among its leadership.

“We have a responsibility to make sure [the AAL] is following through on its SPA,” Supervisor Patricia Farrell said during a board meeting earlier this year.

Argue, who has worked closely with AAL for years, has said there is no reason to shift away from the all-volunteer organization made up mostly of parents.

Some 600 youngsters participate in AAL sports that include girls and co-ed 7-on-7 flag football, tackle football, soccer, base-

navigate the headwinds we faced [during the early stages of the project] … and to continue to have love for those who were literally spitting on me,” Carter said. “It has been central to my personal and professional development.”

Today, Carter’s title is senior vice president. He’s not required to live in the city he is creating, but

ball, basketball and softball, said league President Wendy Tirado during an April interview.

“We’re doing our best,” she said. “There are ups and downs… [but] there’s an opportunity for the league to continue growing. That’s our goal.”

• A decision on whether to enter into what would be at least a $2.7 million, three-year contract with Juniper Landscaping of Florida LLC for maintenance of the district’s 12 parks with a particular focus on Acreage Community Park.

• A decision on whether to enter into a $476,850 contract with Hartley Construction for repairs and improvements to the Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park.

he does with Krys, his wife of 31 years, and their children Kayla, a college sophomore, and Kyle, an eighth grader. And what does that say about Westlake? “That I feel that good about this community that I would raise my kids here,” Carter said. “I believe in it that much personally and professionally.”

Park

Will Be Built In Phases

continued from page 1 large central space, along with the infrastructure to later install field lighting.

A six-foot-wide asphalt path will frame the entire area.

On the east side of the park, part

of Phase 1 will be installing paved parking for at least 45 cars, 90 golf carts and more than a dozen food trucks with utility hook-ups. Eventually, parking is planned for 275 cars and 190 golf carts.

Restrooms also will be constructed during Phase 1.

In time, plans call for a shaded tot-lot; basketball, pickle ball, tennis, racquetball and beach volleyball courts; a smaller concert

area for more intimate shows; and — in a last-minute addition thanks to Vice Mayor Greg Langowski — a dog park.

A community/multi-purpose/ possible government center of at least 7,000 square feet also is anticipated in a later phase. “This is a much, much needed park,” O’Connor said. “Let’s hit the ground running and get this done.”

Minto Senior Vice President John Carter has been working on the Westlake project for 10 years.

WELLINGTON HOSTS 9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY AT PATRIOT MEMORIAL

The Village of Wellington held a remembrance ceremony on Monday, Sept. 11, to honor the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The ceremony was held at the Wellington Patriot Memorial. During the ceremony, village leaders shared their thoughts and laid a memorial wreath. Representatives from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the New York Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3100 were in attendance. The guest speaker was retired NYPD official Reymundo Mundo.

Councilman Michael Drahos, Mayor Anne Gerwig, PBCFR Battalion Chief Tom Parker, Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone, Councilman John McGovern, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, PBSO Capt. Nichole Addazio and PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero.

Retired NYPD officer Ernie Zimmerman at the ceremony. Sue and Jeff Weinstein.

PBSO volunteers Gary Dernlan, Capt. Ken Finkleman, Sgt. Victor Kruger and Major Paul Wegner.

Cub Scout Pack 125 led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Steven Saymon with BJ, Christopher Roman, Michael Roman and Stanley Kriegsman.

Wellington Village Council members lay a wreath at the Patriot Memorial.

PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero and PBSO Deputy Jennifer Baker.

PBCFR’s Frank Schiola, Battalion Chief Tom Parker, EMS Capt. Darwin Zelaya, Capt. Juan Baptista, Lt. Randy Giovanetti, George Lorenzo, Jean Cancel, Chris Recht, Ryan Reddoch and Ryan DeVore.

Father Mario Castaneda of St. Rita Catholic Church gives the invocation.

The guest speaker was retired NYPD official Reymundo Mundo.

PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero and Battalion Chief Tom Parker.

Julia Falcao, who sang the national anthem, with Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Councilman John McGovern, guest speaker Reymundo Mundo and Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Vice Mayor Michael Napoleone looks over the Patriot Memorial plaque with his son Luca.

Event At Village Music Celebrates Faith-Based Movie ‘God Will Listen’

The Wellington-based Polo Girl clothing brand took part in a fundraiser party to celebrate a movie coming out called God Will Listen, featuring well-known “Superman” actor Dean Cain. The event was held Sunday, Sept. 10 at Village Music in Wellington.

The sold-out event supported the faith-based movie that focuses on the subject of teenage mental health. It is produced by JCFilms of Palm Beach, owned by Jason Campbell. Dominic Giannetti is the writer and director. Included in the movie is Wel-

lington entrepreneur and equestrian Felicity Biggans, an actress and designer who is the owner of the Polo Girl, Equestrian Girl and High Goal Polo clothing brands, which are featured in the film.

Biggans and Cain are in scenes where they are equestrian trainers, and 12 of the equestrian girls are wearing the Equestrian Girl clothing brand, while Cain is wearing the High Goal Polo clothing brand. Scenes from the movie are shot in Wellington.

Learn more about the movie at www.jcfilms.org/southflorida.

Actor Dean Cain and entrepreneur Felicity Biggans on the movie set. Cain is wearing Biggins’ High Goal Polo brand for men, while women on the set wore her Equestrian Girl brand.

Lox Budget Cuts Will Fund Work On Canal Banks

continued from page 1 lowering the tax rate when Loxahatchee Groves still needs all the money it can get to do years’ worth of incomplete projects.

“We have people throughout

RPB Zoners Brewery, Childcare

continued from page 3 the village staff and the commissioners to allow for the brewery to expand their square footage by use of the outdoor seating.

“It’s nice to see a business expanding,” Vice Chair David Leland said. “Good for you.”

Also at the meeting, Kingswood Academy is looking to reconfigure the vacant CVS Pharmacy building at 10245 Okeechobee Blvd. to serve as a daycare center for up to 240 children.

The conversion includes changing the drive-through circulation to a 16,000-square-foot outdoor play area with a tot lot, splash pad,

World Peace Day Ceremony On Sept. 24

The Wellington Village Council has declared Sunday, Sept. 24 as the United Nations Day of Peace within the Village of Wellington.

During the month of September, International Peace Day is celebrated across the world. The Village of Wellington and the Wellington Rotary Club will hold the International World Peace Day Ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. at the Rotary Peace Park, located at the intersection of Royal Fern Drive and Birkdale Drive.

The ceremony commemorates and strengthens the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples. The event includes awards presentations for local poetry, essay and drawing contests with the Wellington Rotary Club, and readings of the word “peace” in different languages.

For more information about the ceremony, or to sponsor the Rotary Peace Park, contact Donald Gross with the Wellington Rotary Club at (561) 723-8461.

Next WWC Meeting Oct. 5

The Women of the Western Communities will meet Thursday, Oct. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellington National Golf Club. The featured speaker will be State Attorney Dave Aronberg.

For the monthly donation, the group will be collecting donations of paper products (paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, cups and bowls, napkins, food storage bags, flushable wipes, kitchen and large garbage bags, etc.) for Grandma’s Place. There will be a cash bar available for drinks. RSVP to Mair Armand at mair. armand1@gmail.com no later than Oct. 1. The guest fee, which

the town waiting for their paved roads,” she said.

Councilwoman Marge Herzog noted that the town’s Finance Advisory & Audit Committee recommended strongly toward keeping the current tax rate.

“We pick these representatives, and we need to take their advice,” she said. “I would like to make a motion to keep the millage at 3.0, just like they recommended.”

Ramaglia noted that the idea that taxes are going up dramatically is misleading, because increases

jungle gym, little tyke car track and watch stations for staff. The facility will have a maximum of 24 staff on site at one time.

Village staff provided conditions of approval, such as landscaping treatments. Jon Schmidt, agent for the applicant, confirmed that they were in agreement with the conditions of approval. The request was approved unanimously.

In other business:

• Milestone Motors, located at 530 Business Parkway, in Bays 2 and 3, received support from both village staff and the commissioners to allow for automobile repair and service. Leger said that there were the special conditions required for approval, specifically that the business will service automobiles only.

• Several businesses are getting

to all homesteaded properties are capped at three percent. Increases are further mitigated by the large number of agricultural exemptions in the town, she said, and nonhomesteaded property is capped at 10 percent.

The 18 percent increase in the required state notice is mainly for people who buy and develop property in the community, which then sets the taxable value higher.

“For most people, it really will not be that much,” Wallace agreed. Ramaglia also dispelled the

a fresh look. Signage with new logos were approved for the Christ Fellowship Church located at 9905 Southern Blvd. The request to update three signs was approved unanimously. The Marathon gas station at 590 N. State Road 7 will get a fresh coat of paint with white walls and a blue roof to match the brand image, which was also approved.

• Meeting as the Local Planning Agency, the board approved an amendment to Tuttle Royale’s Pod 3 to accommodate two additional units. Lentzy Jean-Louis, a planner with Urban Design Studios, explained the request.

“It’s an amendment to a developer’s agreement that was approved in 2019. It was triggered by a site plan amendment that is currently in process with village staff

NEWS BRIEFS

includes dinner and the program, is $40 per person. The dress code is business casual. For questions, call Armand at (561) 635-0011.

Wellington To Host Scam Prevention Seminar

October is Crime Prevention Month in the Village of Wellington. This year’s Neighborhood Watch village-wide meeting will be held Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). This event is free to attend. During the meeting, attendees will hear from representatives of the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Office on scam prevention, especially within the elder community, as well as a presentation on ID theft within the technology context by representatives from the Palm Beach County Library System.

Wellington’s neighborhood watch program, in partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, serves a variety of functions within the community. Participation in this program provides residents with tools that support the safety of the community.

To learn more about Wellington’s Neighborhood Watch program, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ neighborhoodwatch.

Espressivo Concert At St. Michael

St. Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 1925 Birkdale Drive in Wellington, will host the first concert of the season for the Espressivo choral group. This local choral group is comprised mainly of music teachers in Palm Beach County.

The fall concert will be held on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 3 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $15 general admission and $8 for students. Proceeds from the concert go toward music scholarships for local students.

The Christmas concert has already been scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 16. Put the date on your calendar so that you won’t miss out on a fabulous musical presentation.

For more information, contact the church at (561) 793-4999 or stmelc@bellsouth.net

Lunch & Learn At PWH Sept. 27

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital will host a lunch and learn event on “Uterine Artery Embolization” as an alternative treatment to hysterectomy and myomectomy.

Interventional radiologist Dr. Igor Genov will lead the discussion on Wednesday, Sept. 27 from noon to 1 p.m. at 13001 Southern Blvd. Seating is limited. Register at www.palmswesthospital.com and click on “Classes and Events.”

Staimford Park Playground Closed For Improvements

Wellington’s Staimford Park playground, located at 13599 Staimford Drive in Greenview Shores 2, closed to the public beginning Monday, Sept. 18 to allow crews to replace the existing playground structure and make other improvements.

Construction is expected to be completed and the park re-opened in early November, weather permitting. The Staimford Park improvement project is partially funded by a Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program grant of $50,000.

notion that the town has a higher staff base today than years ago. She noted that at the time of the merger between the town and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District in 2018, there were 20 employees between the two entities, and there are 18 today.

Other money coming in, such as the county sales surtax money, may be going away. The only other way the town has been getting money for capital projects is through savings.

“If we drop back from our 3.0

where we had 318 units approved, but there was an issue in the site data where the building types were not corrected,” Jean-Louis said. “So, the site plan is not changing at all. We are actually 320 units.”

• Paint Lux is moving forward with a request to rezone a 0.235acre parcel of land recently purchased from the village at 6846 Seminole Palms Drive.

“The property is currently vacant. The applicant has indicated in the justification statement that the ultimate goal is to develop the property for the purpose of enlarging the existing parking lot,” said Leger, who also shared staff’s recommendation of approval.

“Finally, that area is getting developed,” Commission Chair Adam Miller said.

The approval was unanimous.

For additional information on Wellington parks and facilities, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/parks.

Shredding Event At OLQA Church

Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Council of Catholic Women will host a shredding event on Saturday, Oct. 7 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the OLQA church parking lot, located at 100 Crestwood Blvd. South in Royal Palm Beach. Avoid identity theft by bringing your documents to be shredded. This is an opportunity to clean your files and dispose of them safely. Bring all papers containing sensitive information. Don’t waste time pulling staples or removing paper clips or binder clips from your documents. They are easily shredded by the state-of-the-art shredding truck provided by Total Shredding LLC. You can watch your documents being crossshredded.

A $5 per box donation (cash or check) is requested for each box of 13 by 12 by 10 inches. Those attending the event should stay in their car. Boxes will be unloaded for you.

Flamenco Performance At Acreage Library

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, discover the rhythm of flamenco in a lively dance performance by Sandra Samore on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 2 p.m. at the Acreage branch library, located at 15801 Orange Blvd. Aside from the dancing, Samore will discuss her new book, Freed by Flamenco Learn more about the event at https://pbclibrary.bibliocommons. com/events/64da8ea7fa7afd290 025b998. Find out more about Samore’s book at www.freedbyflamenco. com.

mills we have today, we will be limited in how we grow back up,” Ramaglia said, explaining that Florida law allows the millage rate to grow by only 10 percent a year.

Instead of dropping the rate, she suggested cutting whatever they want out of the budget and putting the money in a separate savings account. Shorr said that it can be raised quicker with a supermajority vote. “This is a small consolation to the taxpayers,” he said. “That is who I represent.”

An initial vote to keep the millage rate at 3.0 was 4-0 with Shorr dissenting. However, due to the increase in property values, and the fact that the budget is 18 percent above the rollback rate, a unanimous supermajority is required.

A motion by Shorr to lower

the rate to 2.5 mills failed for the lack of a second. That led the council into a negotiating session on what changes could be made to the budget to get the necessary approval. Wallace noted that a 4-1 vote would work for a rate of 2.8687 mills.

Through discussion, Shorr agreed to support the 3.0 mills if money was found elsewhere in the budget to fund a much-needed canal bank restoration project. In total, $320,000, including the $100,000 from the council legal fund, was moved into that project from other parts of the budget to make it happen.

Once that was done, the tax rate of 3.0 mills passed unanimously, as did the overall budget with the changes made, as well as the update to the capital improvement plan.

FNBCC Will Host Lunch And Learn Event On Oct. 2

On Monday, Oct. 2, First National Bank Coastal Community in Wellington will host a complimentary “Lunch and Learn” event discussing wills, trusts and other current topics. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. A light lunch, beverages, dessert and coffee will be served. The event is open to the first 25 guests who respond. An estate planning consultation fee of $250 is waived for attendees. A question-and-answer session will immediately follow the discussion. Attendees can enter to win a raffle gift basket. Bring a friend or spouse.

The guest speaker will be attorney Benjamin P. Shenkman, who is board certified in wills, trusts and estates. Shenkman is a partner at Gonzalez, Shenkman

and Buckstein PL in Wellington. This event is hosted by Darlene Curti, senior vice president/business development officer for FNBCC Wellington. Curti has more than 25 years’ experience in the banking and financial industry. An active member of the community, she is a President’s Circle member of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, in addition to serving as a chamber ambassador and is part of the chamber’s Small Business Committee.

To RSVP, call or e-mail Curti at (561) 231-5444 or darlene.curti@ fnbccfl.com.

The event will be held at the FNBCC Wellington branch at 12140 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For more information about FNBCC, visit www. fnbccfl.com.

Garden Club To Feature Talk On Permaculture

The Wellington Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, Oct. 2 at the Wellington Community Center, located at 12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd. The meeting will feature a presentation on permaculture at 10 a.m. by George Soria, a healthcare advocate and entrepreneur who is chairman and founder of the South Florida Permaculture Resource Center.

Soria has an extensive professional career in healthcare and believes that permaculture, an agricultural method that seeks to integrate human activity with natural surroundings, holds the key to restoring harmony with nature, establishing a self-sustaining world and fostering holistic wellbeing. With a strong emphasis on education, the Permaculture Resource

Center, a division of the nonprofit organization 47 Million Reasons Healthcare Movement Inc., addresses all crucial aspects of life, meeting the fundamental needs for a healthier body, mind and soul.

The community is invited to join the club for coffee and a plant raffle beginning at 9:30 a.m. Visitors are asked to check in at the guest table. To reserve a spot, contact Carol Ralph at caroltaylorralph@ gmail.com.

The Wellington Garden Club, founded in 1981, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating its members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, floral design and landscape design; and to promoting conservation of natural resources, civic beautification and youth education. For more information, visit www. wellingtongardenclub.org.

Local entrepreneur Felicity Biggans, actor Dean Cain and Jason Campbell, president of JCFilms of Palm Beach, at the Village Music event.

Actor Dean Cain, Jason Campbell of JCFilms and writer/director Dominic Giannetti address the gathering.

Attendees mingle at Village Music.

Benjamin P. Shenkman

Darlene Curti

NEW CULVER’S RESTAURANT NOW OPEN ON SOUTHERN BLVD. IN LOX GROVES

Culver’s Restaurant has arrived in the western communities. On Saturday, Sept. 9, Culver’s held a grand opening ribbon cutting for the new location at 15339 Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. The local community was invited out for the day-long celebration to sample the Culver’s menu. Town officials attended the special event to help welcome the new business. The Wisconsin-based fastfood chain has several locations throughout Florida. The Loxahatchee Groves location is owned by Kase Bethel. PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

WOMEN OF THE WESTERN COMMUNITIES GATHER AT WELLINGTON NATIONAL

The

Marilyn Berns, Maria Cruz, Amy Burr and Peggy McClelland.

Diane Gutman, Magdalena Maxwell and Faye Ford.

Haines and Roxanne Jacobs.

The Culver’s team gathers for a group photo. Culver’s owner Kase Bethel inside the new store.

(L-R) Jennifer Bethel, Chase Bethel, Piper Coleman and Kase Bethel.

Owner Kase Bethel thanks people for coming to the grand opening.

Four myths about COPD

Breathing comes to us naturally and (usually) pretty easily. However, if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, better known as COPD, you have trouble doing what connects us to life – you can’t easily breathe.

The disease can affect your airways, air sacs or both. According to the American Lung Association, it’s the third leading cause of death in the United States, affecting more than 11 million Americans and another estimated 24 million who go undiagnosed.

If you were recently diagnosed with COPD, your mind may be spinning with questions. Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital sheds light on four common myths about COPD and why it’s often misunderstood:

Myth 1: Only smokers get COPD

Fact: While COPD is often associated with smoking, and rightly so, many people with this condition have never smoked. According to the National Institutes of Health, 42% of COPD sufferers are former smokers, 34% are current smokers and the rest – which make up 24% – never lit a cigarette.

Myth 2: There’s no treatment for COPD

Fact: There is a lot that can be done for COPD patients. COPD is treatable, and if you have symptoms, there are many options to help you feel better.

It’s important to quit smoking, eat a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise and keep up on your influenza and pneumonia vaccines to prevent serious illness. Taking care of yourself in these ways, plus taking your medications, can sometimes help offset the complications of COPD.

Your doctor will help tailor medications to your needs. Medications include inhalers that open your airways or reduce airway inflammation, supplemental oxygen, and alpha-1antitrypsin (A1AT) infusions if you have an inherited deficiency. PDE4 enzyme inhibitors can reduce inflammation in some patients, too.

Myth 3: If you have COPD, it’s too late to quit smoking

Fact: It’s never too late to quit smoking because it will slow the progression of the disease. Unfortunately, the lung damage that characterizes COPD is cumulative, which means that it doesn’t go away just because you kicked the habit, but there’s still a lot of benefit to quitting. However, if you quit smoking early enough, near-normal lung function may return.

Myth 4: Exercise is too hard if you have COPD

Fact: If you find that shortness of breath makes it too difficult to be physically active, there are further steps you can take. Ask your doctor about pulmonary rehabilitation, where specialized respiratory therapists teach breathing techniques, exercises and proper nutrition to make living with COPD easier.

Moderate exercise will not hurt your lungs. In fact, it can lessen COPD symptoms, strengthen your heart and reduce stress.To get your body moving, build up to 20 to 30 minutes of exercise three to four times a week. Combine a safe cardiovascular activity you enjoy with stretching and strengthening exercises. While you’re getting your workout in, be sure to breathe out slowly through pursed lips, taking twice as long to exhale as to inhale. Rest before and after exercise, and wait an hour and a half after meals to work out.

Tips to manage your COPD

If you have COPD, there are steps you can take so that living with it is more manageable. Managing it well will allow you to stay active and involved with family and friends. Besides quitting smoking, taking prescribed medications and exercising, the following can also help:

• Conserve your energy. Try to get plenty of sleep at night and plan for one rest period per day. Elevate your head at night and your feet during the day when your ankles swell. Also, rest before and after activities and make realistic plans for chores, and avoid extreme exertion, such as lifting and raking. It’s best to avoid working long days.

• Prevent respiratory infections . Wash your hands carefully, especially after being outside. Get a flu shot six weeks before the start of flu season each year, and get the pneumococcal vaccine every five years to help prevent pneumonia. See your doctor if you think you’re getting sick, and ask if antibiotics could help prevent a chest infection.

• Eat right and maintain a healthy weight . If you’re too heavy, your heart and lungs have to work harder. If you’re too thin, you’re more easily fatigued and at higher risk of chest infections. Drink six to eight glasses of caffeinefree liquid every day to thin mucus in the airways and eat fiber to keep your digestion moving. It’s important to limit salt to avoid water retention and bloating and to avoid overeating. If you get full too fast, consider five to six small meals a day, take small bites, and save liquids for the end of the meal. If you have an oxygen cannula, wear it while eating.

Not sure if you might have COPD?

Be aware of any symptoms. The first signs of COPD may include a hacking cough with phlegm, shortness of breath, wheezing when you breathe or tightness in your chest.

If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor for a spirometry test, a simple outpatient procedure that assesses your lung function by measuring how much air you’re able to breathe in and out.

BORN2DRESS HOSTS A POP-UP FASHION SHOW FEATURING LOCAL WOMEN

Born2Dress hosted a pop-up fashion show event for local women on Friday, Sept. 15. Born2Dress specializes in trendy and comfortable clothing for all women. Local business owners Dannielle Judd, Doreen Scheinpflug, Allison Valley and Ashley Layson modeled the fashions. Born2Dress is located at 10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 130, in Wellington Green Square. For more info., visit www. born2dress.com. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

CRESTWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL CELEBRATES AWARD WINNER CAITLIN PANSE

Crestwood Middle School student Caitlyn Panse recently won first place statewide in the Hanley Foundation Drug and Alcohol Prevention Poster Contest in the middle school category. Hanley Foundation representatives visited the Royal Palm Beach school on Friday, Sept. 8 to honor Panse and present her with her $500 award.

Welcome

Little Dinos

At Little Dinos Academy, our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children that feels like home. We believe that every child deserves exceptional care and attention during their early years, and we are committed to fostering their holistic development through play-based learning, love and respect.

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first full-time, full service dental practice.

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Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M. ALLERGIES IN DOGS AND CATS

Like humans, cats and dogs can experience adverse reactions to various environmental and dietary triggers that result in allergies. Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, and certain cleaning products can lead to skin irritation, itching, and respiratory issues in pets. Food allergies, often caused by proteins like beef, chicken, wheat, and dairy, can manifest as gastrointestinal problems or skin reactions. Recognizing the signs of pet allergies, which may include excessive scratching, licking, sneezing, ear infections, or gastrointestinal disturbances, is necessary for prompt intervention. Veterinary guidance is essential to accurately diagnose allergies through elimination diets, blood tests, or skin tests. Managing allergies often involves dietary adjustments, allergen avoidance, medications like antihistamines or steroids, and soothing topical treatments.

It’s difficult to see your pets suffering with allergies, and we hope you’ll keep COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH in mind when it’s time for professional veterinary care. If you would like more information about your pet’s allergy symptoms and how to make your pet comfortable while enduring them, please call us at 798-5508. We provide knowledgeable, compassionate health care services for each and every pet that comes to us. We are conveniently located at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

allergies have other allergies, such as a flea allergy.

Sales associate Alejandra Cerone, model Abby Bryan, owner Sophia Bornschein, assistant manager Giulianna Tiravanti, and sales associates Victoria Holtz and Leah Amores.

Maria Marker, Nichole Gillis, Meg Palumbo, Allison Valley, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Amanda Crocker and Jennifer Valentine.

Principal Stephanie Nance, Ihesha O’Neal of Hanley, student Caitlyn Panse, Ryan Wertepny of Hanley, School Board Member Marcia Andrews and art teacher Trish Duebber.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Hanley Foundation Prevention Coordinator Ihesha O’Neal, student Caitlyn Panse and Director of Program Initiatives Ryan Wertepny.

Event consultant Meghan Buser with Born2Dress owner Sophia Bornschein.

Students made a banner to congratulate Caitlyn Panse.

Mayor Anne Gerwig tried on this dress.

Caitlyn Panse with her award-winning artwork.

Models Allison Valley, Ashley Layson, Dannielle Judd and Doreen Scheinpflug in their first set of outfits.

Allison Valley and Briana D’Andrea.

DJ Lexey plays the electric violin.

Alex Ludkin and Diana De Franco from Fred Astaire Dance Studios dance the salsa.

Models Allison Valley, Dannielle Judd, Doreen Scheinpflug and Ashley Layson in their second set of outfits.

September Is Library Card Sign-Up Month

September is Library Card Signup Month, a time when the Palm Beach County Library System joins the American Library Association and libraries nationwide to remind everyone about the valuable resources available with a library card. From borrowing books, e-books and audiobooks to getting homework help, to learning new skills, a library card helps everyone do more of what they enjoy — all

Detectors Coming To County High Schools

continued from page 1 Mooney said. “It’s just a matter of working through the logistics, but the goal is to go district wide at least in the high schools, and then expand from there. It’s an almost by the end of the year goal. It’s a matter of supply chain and how quickly we can get the equipment here.”

Mooney also said that she would be presenting the test results to the school board soon, and installation does require the board’s final approval first.

Another important program to support students comes on the mental health side. School District Chief of Equity and Wellness Keith Oswald provided details on how the school district’s referendum supported the creation of a whole new department to address mental health concerns.

“Mentally healthy students are going to do better in school and be ready academically. School shootings, and then with the pandemic, the increase of mental health referrals has gone up dramatically here in Palm Beach County,” Oswald said. “Prior to 2018, what you typically had on a school campus was your school counselors and your school psychologist. Well, that’s changed. We have a lot more resources.”

Some of those programs include mental health and behavioral health professionals at each campus, a crisis assessment team and more targeted professional development, in addition to school psychologists and counselors.

“Youth mental health first aid is a training for employees and community members that really train them as someone who is not

without stretching your budget.

Interested in trying a new hobby? The library can help. Thinking about starting or growing a small business? The Palm Beach County Library System offers individual consultations, group tours, as well as an extensive collection of business and consumer magazines.

There’s something for everyone at the Palm Beach County Library System, and signing up for a library card is the first step on the

a mental health professional on the signs and symptoms, and how to get someone the help that may need it,” Oswald said. “Last year, we had 91 percent of our staff and school-based employees trained in this.”

There are now 170 new school behavioral health professionals, one in each school, along with 10 agencies at 115 schools providing direct support. Students now receive up to 12 free counseling sessions on site.

Also at the meeting, Western Academy Charter School staff members were present to share updates on the A-rated school, which recently received a 15-year renewal on their charter contract. Principal Tsiri Miller is in her 13th year at the school, which is in its 21st year.

“We have been A-rated since 2006. We serve kindergarten through eighth grade. Right now, we have 645 students enrolled. We are a free public school, and we are top-rated in RPB,” she said. “In the latest district report, 100 percent

Westlake Budget Finalized

continued from page 3 since Minto’s support agreement with the city has run out.

In other business:

• The council voted 3-0 to declare October Hunger Awareness Month. The proclamation reads in part: “Since 1981, Feeding South Florida has worked to end hunger… Hunger does not discriminate. It knows no race, religion or age. In South Florida, approximately one million individuals face hunger… Westlake is, therefore, committed to supporting Feeding South Florida, so that together we can achieve a hunger-free South Florida.”

• The council also voted 3-0 to

path to academic achievement and lifelong learning for students. It’s elemental, really — everyone should have one.

The Palm Beach County Library System, along with libraries everywhere, continues to adapt and expand services to meet the evolving needs of the community. To sign up for a library card, or to learn more about the library’s resources and programs, visit www. pbclibrary.org/librarycard.

of our students who graduated, whether in fifth grade or eighth grade, went on to graduate from high school.”

The school moved to a larger facility and is looking to expand enrollment to 785 by the 2025-26 school year. Miller also provided a snapshot of recent test scores compared to the rest of the district and state, all of which were above average for both elementary and middle school.

Western Academy staff credited this success to their innovative class model, which uses clusters, looping and stations. In elementary school, clusters of students are looped with the same teacher for three years and have breakout stations three times a week dedicated to different subjects. The middle school has both a regular and STEAM academy program available for students.

Enrollment is available by entering the lottery system on the Western Academy web site at www. westernacademycharter.com.

proclaim Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Westlake in conjunction with National Hispanic Heritage Month. The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.

The proclamation reads in part: “Hispanic Americans have played an integral role in Florida’s history, before the early pioneer days of our current legacy of leaders in international trade; technology; education; and aerospace… Hispanic Americans share a rich, cultural and linguistic heritage and are a vital part of our economy… (and) have enriched our social, intellectual and artistic life in the United States.”

Westlake Vice Mayor Greg Langowski sponsored both proclamations.

South Florida Wellness Brand Pura Vida Opens Location On SR 7

South Florida wellness and lifestyle brand Pura Vida Miami opened its third eatery in Palm Beach County, located at 440 S. State Road 7, Suite 200, on Friday Sept. 15.

Originally founded in Miami Beach in 2012 as a side passion project by Omer Horev, the brand has since established itself as a popular South Florida destination for healthy and wholesome eats with an extensive menu that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Pura

Wellington

The Wellington Art Society will feature Lori Charnow, who will lead a hands-on demonstration of reverse painting on acrylic, on Wednesday, Oct. 11.

The meeting and demonstration will take place at the Wellington Community Center, located at 12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd., on the second floor. The meeting will open with a meet and greet at 5:30 p.m., followed by the member spotlight and a brief meeting. The event will conclude with the demonstration by Charnow. For more information, contact Heather Bergstrom at presidentofwas@ gmail.com.

Charnow is originally from Brooklyn, New York. About 10 years ago, she pursued her art professionally and began creat-

Vida fills the void for delectable and equally healthy foods in the area, and promises to establish itself as a neighborhood spot where friends, family and neighbors are eager to return to time and again.

“We are thrilled to be bringing our slice of tropical paradise to Wellington,” Horev said. “It’s the perfect place to continue expanding our footprint in Palm Beach County and also gives us the opportunity to serve and connect with the neighboring communities

of Royal Palm Beach, Greenacres and Loxahatchee Groves, among others.”

Pura Vida’s extensive menu draws inspiration from family recipes and the travels of Horev and his wife Jennifer. Customers can anticipate the brand’s acclaimed quality-driven menu, which includes Pura Vida’s famed All-Day Breakfast offerings showcasing a range of avocado toasts, pasture-raised egg sandwiches, fresh bagels and raw organic açaí bowls;

clean, chef-driven salads that are customizable with the protein of your choice; wraps, sandwiches and bowls featuring a variety of bases and proteins; as well as a wide array of gluten-free and vegan sweet treats and a simple kids’ menu. Additionally, Pura Vida’s menu includes a series of cold-pressed juices and shots, superfood smoothies, kombucha, and artisanal coffees and teas. For more information, visit www.puravidamiami.com.

FRANKKOESTER/TOWN-CRIER

ing functional art pieces. This body of work, known as Living Art by Leah, is based on Judaic customs and principles, but the sentiments incorporated are universal. Inspired by Judaism and nature, Charnow paints in reverse behind clear glass, blending color and abstract design with elements from the world and calligraphy to celebrate and convey universal concepts and themes.

Exploring reverse painting has been a challenging and rewarding process for Charnow. The pieces are created using multi-surface acrylic on the reverse side of interesting, functional glass pieces. With the use of calligraphy, the written message is done in steps. Charnow usually paints sketches of her designs on paper first and

then deconstructs them to re-paint layers in reverse on the backside of the glass, so that the images in the foreground remain in the foreground when looking at the front of the piece.

This year, Charnow launched a new line of workshops to share reverse painting techniques while participants create their own piece of functional art. These classes may be paired with a showing of her work to raise funds for not-for-profit organizations or charitable projects. For additional information, and to see her work, visit www.livingartbyleah.com.

The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization in its 41st year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and

Wellington Historical Society Autumn Mixer Oct. 4 At Village Music

The Wellington Historical Society invites the community to attend its Autumn Mixer on Wednesday, Oct. 4, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. This casual evening of music, drinks and light bites will be held at Village Music Café, located at 10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington.

and archives. Notable initiatives include its Oral History project, in which founding and longtime residents share their memories in videos, and its document and photo archives, which contain pictures of some of Wellington’s earliest activities.

Lori Charnow

regional artists to display their artwork in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art. For more information, visit www. wellingtonartsociety.org.

As each of us gets older, what we need for our healthcare changes— sometimes more than once. That’s why Humana has providers like Healthy Partners in our network that specialize in geriatric care. We connect you with doctors who take time to get to know you, offering care that evolves alongside you and a dedicated team who prioritizes your whole health.

Come meet members, friends and neighbors involved in the Wellington Historical Society, a notfor-profit charitable organization dedicated to gathering, preserving and sharing Wellington’s past for the benefit of generations to come.

The organization is working to capture and preserve Wellington’s history through stories

Sponsors of the Autumn Mixer event include Florida Litigators LLC and Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith PLLC.

Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for non-members and include two drink tickets and light hors d’oeuvres. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www. wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Find a Healthy Partners location near you

Other Providers are available in our network. Provider may also contract with other plan sponsors. Important! At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-855360-4575 (TTY: 711) Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingü.stica. Llame al 1-800-706-6167 (TTY: 711)

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PHOTOS BY

AND COURTESY WORLD RED EYE

A Wellington Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting welcomes Pura Vida to the community.

Owners Omer and Jennifer Horev at the new location.

(Left) Pura Vida offers fresh bakery items, such a vegan orange poppy mini cake, pain au chocolat and a gluten-free pumpkin spice muffin. (Right) Pura Vida’s Perfect Egg Sandwich with a hot latte.

The new location of Pura Vida Miami is located on the east side of State Road 7, south of Southern Blvd.

Pura Vida features comfortable seating with tables and couches.

All Pura Vida locations have a community table area.

Art Society To Present Lori Charnow Oct. 11

Magic Show Fundraiser Held At Palm Beach Central High School

By Erin Davisson Town-Crier Staff Report

On Saturday, Sept. 9, a special fundraiser dedicated to the late Eli Paine — Eli the Brave’s Birthday Benefit — was held in the auditorium at Palm Beach Central High School.

Eli Paine loved to dance, play jokes and have fun with his parents and two sisters. When he was five years old, he was diagnosed with DIPG, a brain tumor that forms in the brainstem of young children.

After battling for two years, he passed away last year at age seven.

Eli’s parents, Rachel and Christopher Paine, held the benefit on what would have been his eighth

birthday to raise money for DIPG research. Eli’s older sister June made shirts with beautiful rainbows in his memory. The event was also held during September, which is Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month.

The day featured a magic show by Peter Boie, a childhood friend of Eli’s father, who gave a fantastic performance. Multiple audience members had the opportunity to participate in the show, both adults and children. When the show ended, raffle prizes were given to those who had the winning tickets.

After the show, a dance party was held outside the auditorium for the children in attendance.

PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON/TOWN-CRIER

THE WELLINGTON FAMILY AUTOFEST BRINGS CAR LOVERS TO TOWN CENTER

Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 6:30 pm

Wellington National Golf Club.

Our featured speaker will be Dave Aronberg. For our monthly donation, we will be collecting donations of paper products (paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, cups and bowls, napkins, food storage bags, flushable wipes, kitchen and large garbage bags, etc) for Grandma’s Place. There will also be a cash bar available for drinks.

RSVP

Please RSVP for this meeting to Mair Armand at mair.armand1@gmail.com no later than October 1, 2023.

The guest fee for this meeting, which includes dinner and our program, is $40 per person. Dress code: business casual.

For any questions or concerns, please contact Mair Armand at 561-635-0011.

A banner honors the late Eli Paine.

Kamber Hall, Jake Imperatore, Natalie Jurado, George Kinoshita, WHS Interact President Andrea Bustillo and Joan Imperatore.

The Wellington Rotary Club’s Wellington Family AutoFest was held Sunday, Sept. 10 at its new location at Wellington Town Center. The monthly show is open to all vehicles — cars, motorcycles, trucks and more. The next show date is Sunday, Oct. 1. Learn more at

Magician Peter Boie performed at the event.

Rick Salvadore of Friends of Fisher House presents the Best in Show award to Sarah Ferguson for her Dodge D2 Touring Sedan.

Peter Boie gets help from the audience during the magic show.

Attendees enjoyed a dance party after the magic show.

Attendees got a chance to win great raffle prizes.

Eli’s family, Christopher, Rachel, June and Lucy Paine.

Volunteer Katherine Eures in the shirt designed by Eli’s sister.

DIPG patient Cali Franklin with Kierra Hollis.

The Women of the Western Communities will be meeting on

Event organizers

Stern and attorney Ryan Tarnow.

Donna Gropper and Kevin Foster.

Karla Cunningham, Randy Pfeiffer, and Melissa and Vinnie Borriello.

(Front row) Joan Manning, Ines Mora and Jennie Husted; (back row) Mary Lalla, Dorie Johansson and Barbara Nola.

Faye Ford with her flowers.

Barbara Staffirn and Barbara Jackson with raffle prizes.

David and Sandra Samore on the dance floor.

Mark and Kim Elie of K&E Travel.

Brena Zimmerman and daughter Cindy Burgard.

Annie and Charles Melillo

with

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Palm Beach Central, Seminole Ridge Rack Up Gridiron Victories

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

After four weeks of play, the varsity football teams from Palm Beach Central High School and Seminole Ridge High School remained undefeated on the season — Palm Beach Central with a 3-0 record, and Seminole Ridge at 4-0.

The strength of the Palm Beach Central Broncos is its offense.

After the first three games, the Bronco offense, led by sophomore quarterback Caleb Butler, has averaged nearly 42 points a game. The defense has been a “bend, but not break” defense, which has allowed an average of 33 points a game.

The most recent thriller was a 33-30 overtime victory on Thursday, Sept. 14 on the road against Pahokee High School. Palm Beach

Central’s Nedrick Boldin scored the game-tying touchdown on an eight-yard scamper with just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter, and then he scored the game-winning touchdown on a one-yard run in Palm Beach Central’s third offensive play in overtime.

On Thursday, Sept. 21, Palm Beach Central pursued its fourth win in a row when the Broncos hosted Park Vista High School in a game which was originally meant to be played on Sept. 8, but was

postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak on the Park Vista team.

On Sept. 29, the Broncos will hit the road again when they travel to Greenacres to play John I. Leonard High School.

Seminole Ridge is off to another great start. The Hawks’ defense has been stellar. After four games, the defense has recorded three shutouts: 27-0 against Royal Palm Beach High School on Aug. 31, 24-0 against Forest Hill High School on Sept. 7 and 34-0 against Palm Beach Lakes High School on Sept. 14. The only points which Seminole Ridge has given up were nine points in a 20-9 victory against Glades Central High School in the first game of the season.

Seminole Ridge head coach Chad Chieffalo’s team is idle until the end of September. On Sept. 29, the Hawks will pursue their fifth win in as many games when they host John Carroll Catholic School from Fort Pierce. That will be the homecoming game for Seminole Ridge.

Wellington vs. Royal Palm Beach — The Wildcats from Royal Palm Beach High School and the Wolverines from Wellington High School have had very similar starts to the season. After four games, both teams have identical 1-3 records.

Royal Palm Beach opened its season with a pair of defeats. In week three, the Wildcats defeated the Chargers from Suncoast High School 21-7 on Sept. 7 to get their first win of the season. On the other hand, Wellington, under first-year head coach Ross Pryor, started 0-3.

In week four of the season, the Wildcats and Wolverines played one another on Thursday, Sept. 14 in Wellington. Royal Palm Beach, under second-year head coach Chuck Kenyon, was looking for two wins in a row, while Pryor’s team was focused on getting its first win of the season.

In the game, Royal Palm Beach led 7-6 after the first quarter, courtesy of a 64-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by freshman Demetrice Rolle. But Wellington responded with a 10-point second quarter to take a 16-7 halftime lead. After the Wolverines kept the Wildcats scoreless in the third quarter, Wellington could sense a victory, but it was far from a done deal.

Earlier in the fourth quarter, Royal Palm Beach scored a touchdown, and successfully scored a two-point conversion to narrow the score to one point, 16-15. In the game’s waning minutes, Royal Palm Beach quarterback Landon Earl led his team on what would have been a go-ahead and, most

likely, game-winning drive. The Wildcats reached the Wellington 23-yard line and simply ran out of time, giving Wellington its first win of the season, 16-15. It was also the first win for Pryor as a head coach, who was thrilled that his team was victorious.

“After the game, I told them that it is great to win and to remember and embrace this feeling, but also that we should have won by plenty more than we did,” Pryor said. “We had a ton of penalties that continued to hurt us.”

Despite the 1-3 start to the sea-

son, Pryor said that there is time for his players to rally and play postseason football this fall. “Every goal that we want to achieve is still there for us,” he said.

After a bye week on Sept. 22, Wellington will look to add to its win total on Sept. 29 when the Wolverines host Forest Hill High School. Wellington will use the bye week to reassess its depth chart.

“This week, we are going to look within and see what each position group needs to improve on and what each player needs to improve,” Pryor said. “We are going to change the depth chart and have some guys in front of others and see who responds the right way.”

The Wildcats return to the gridiron on Sept. 22 at Santaluces High School, and then host Jupiter High School on Sept. 29.

Big Wins for TKA — The King’s Academy Lions have rebounded and responded like champions after opening the season with The King’s Academy varsity football team is off to a 3-1 start on the season.

See FOOTBALL, page 23

Crestwood Track Team Honored For 2023 County Championship

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

Back in May, the team from Royal Palm Beach’s Crestwood Middle School won the Palm Beach County Middle School Boys Track & Field Championship. It was the sixth Palm Beach County title in school history, all under the direction of track & field head coach Marque Drummond. It was a memorable day for Drummond and his squad of 19 runners, jumpers, throwers and sprinters.

While the Crestwood squad won its county championship title on May 22, the official celebration of

the victory didn’t take place until Saturday, Sept. 9 in the Crestwood Middle School media center. On that day, Drummond, Principal Dr. Stephanie Nance, and 17 out of the 19 members of the championship team assembled for a formal celebration featuring remarks from Nance and Drummond, plus food, beverages, cake and a championship letterman’s jacket for each member of the team.

Seeing his track & field team back together rekindled a great memory of his team’s championship performance at Park Vista High School. The county champi-

onship track & field meet started in a perfect way for Drummond’s squad.

“That day, Alphonzo Carter and Nazier Watkins finished first and second in the 110-meter hurdles, which was the opening race of the meet,” Drummond recalled. “We picked up 18 points, which set the tone for the meet and excited the entire team. For the rest of the meet, we kept putting points in the bucket, eventually finishing first.”

At the end of the meet, Crestwood had earned 65 points to top Howell Watkins Middle School from Palm Beach Gardens, which

finished second with 58 points.

One of the younger members of last spring’s team was sixth-grader Brandon Pendergrass II. He’s now in the seventh grade, and he’s committed to leading by example next

spring. He feels that his school has a chance to successfully defend its title during the upcoming spring 2024 track season.

“I am dedicating my time to the track team and to working harder

than last year,” Pendergrass said. Last spring, Pendergrass ran two individual events at the county championship meet, and he was a member of two relays. His indi-

See CRESTWOOD, page 23

The Crestwood Middle School track & field team in their new letterman jackets. (Front row) Blake Girard, Jayden Espino, Alphonzo Carter, Jaleel Stitt, Daniel Civil and Caleb Fulbright; and (back row) Rajon Fleurima, Jamarian Kelly, Mateo Hubbard, Christopher Jones, David Alexis, Joshua Destefano, Ja’Quan Johnson, Xavier Police, Treven Tipton, Michael Chambers, Brandon Pendergrass II and coach Marque Drummond. Not shown: Nazier Watkins and K’Mari Dixon.

Seminole Ridge’s Roberto Venero runs in the game against Palm Beach Lakes.

Seminole Ridge senior wide receiver Manny Fernandez runs following a catch in the game against Palm Beach Lakes.

PHOTO BY RICHARD AREYZAGA JR.

Coach Marque Drummond presents jackets to Jayden Espino (left) and Caleb Fulbright (right).

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TKA Girls Volleyball Is Playing Well And Continues To Improve

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

In sports, athletes and the teams they represent often learn more about themselves following a loss rather than a victory. That is a lesson that the girls varsity volleyball team from the King’s Academy learned earlier this season.

Right now, the TKA girls varsity volleyball team (12-5) is riding a six-game winning streak. The most recent victory was a convincing 25-14, 25-20, 26-24 victory against Cardinal Newman High School on Tuesday, Sept. 19.

According to head coach Ashlei Furtado, the turning point of the season for TKA was its participation in the Nike Tournament of Champions over Labor Day weekend at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus near Tampa. During that tournament, TKA played six

Crestwood Track Team Honored

continued from page 21

vidual races were the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. The two relays were the 4x100-meter relay and the 800-meter medley relay. Both relays picked up big points for Crestwood’s team total. Crestwood’s 4x100-meter relay team finished in fourth place, while the 800-meter medley relay team came in first.

As he reflects back, Drummond had a gut feeling that his team would fare well last spring at the county meet. And his gut instincts were correct.

“I knew that we would be competitive, but we only had 13 scoring opportunities in the meet, whereas some schools had as many as 19 or 20 scoring chances,” said Drummond, who has completed his 23rd season as the track & field coach at Crestwood Middle School.

Crestwood’s 2023 championship track & field roster included the following student-athletes: David Alexis, Alphonzo Carter, Michael Chambers, Daniel Civil, Joshua Destefano, K’Mari Dixon, Jayden Espino, Rajon Fleurima, Caleb Fulbright, Blake Girard, Mateo Hubbard, Ja’Quan Johnson, Christopher Jones, Jamarian Kelly, Brandon Pendergrass II, Xavier Police, Jaleel Stitt, Treven Tipton and Nazier Watkins.

matches in two days against teams from Florida, Virginia, California and Nebraska. On Friday, Sept. 1, TKA lost all three matches, but on Saturday, Sept. 2, TKA rallied and won two out of its three matches.

By playing in this event, Furtado learned a great deal about her players, and the players bonded as one.

“The benefits of competing in that tournament included seeing where our team really stacked up against great competition and exposed some weaknesses that we must continue to work on,”

Furtado said. “The coaching staff learned that the girls have the ability to play together, play with grit and determination, and compete together. We were able to do some team bonding activities in the hotel both nights, which helped with bringing more unity to the team.”

Of TKA’s 14 varsity players,

there are four seniors, five juniors, three sophomores, one freshman and one seventh grader. The seventh grader is Mikayla Matuszko, who is 6-foot-2 and is playing a big role on the team.

“Mikayla is a starter for us,” Furtado said. “We are moving her around the front line from middle blocker to right side [hitter], as well. She is very versatile and has been an incredible addition to our team.”

This year’s three team captains are a trio of seniors: Sofia Aguilera, Katie Shelhamer and Devereaux Hoxsie. Each captain plays a different position and leads by example in both practice and games.

Aguilera is a setter, Shelhamer is a libero and Hoxsie is an outside hitter.

“Devereaux is our captain in charge of the spiritual life of the

team and program, Kate is in charge of communication, and Sofia is the court captain during games,” Furtado explained.

The three senior captains are being asked to lead by example in the locker room, during practices, on road trips and in games. At TKA, being a team captain on the girls volleyball team comes with responsibility.

“We have tasked them with bringing unity to the team and ensuring that everyone is a part. They are the go-between for the players and coaches,” Furtado said. “We are teaching them about Biblical servant-leadership. In many ways, when you get to be the seniors and leaders, everyone does everything for you. But we are teaching them a Biblical approach where they lead by example. The first shall be last and the last shall be first. In the locker room, they are leading by being the first there and the last to leave.”

For away games, there’s a greater burden on the shoulders of the senior captains. “On road trips, they are making sure the players have everything they need, have a place to sit and are generally taken care of,” Furtado said. In many respects, practices and games are a reflection of a team’s true potential.

“In practice, they are to set the standard of what is expected,” Furtado said. “They must keep everyone focused and working hard. In games, they are the ones we expect to step up and lead the team, put the team on their backs by encouraging the players around them, staying positive, striving to be the best they can be and to provide an atmosphere where everyone knows their role on the team and buys into it.”

At TKA, every member of the team has a role to play during the season, whether starters, a key reserve off the bench or unable to play due to injury. While injured players are not playing, they remain with the team.

Football TKA Off To A 3-1 Start

continued from page 21 a disappointing 55-54 loss on the road in Boca Raton against the St. Andrew’s School Scots on Aug. 25. Since then, the Lions have

Coach Marque Drummond presents a jacket to Alphonzo Carter.

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“Sidney Saltalamacchia, a junior pin hitter, went down with an ankle injury, which put her out for the season during the tournament outside Tampa. However, she continues to be a leader from the bench and has really been a huge part of the team’s success from her position there,” Furtado said. “Senior Amie Molina and junior Valeria Diaz stepped up to set recently when two of the starting seniors were out due to injury and sickness. They stepped up and helped the team to win two five-set wins against West Boca Raton High School and William T. Dwyer High School.”

One of the strengths of this year’s TKA girls volleyball team is its all-around depth. It has many players with a statistically strong season. For instance, Hoxsie is fourth in the state for kills with 199; junior Kelly Kinney is 20th in the state for kills with 153. Sophomore Isabella Pons leads the team in blocks with 43, which is 11th best in Florida. In digs, Shelhamer has the 10th most in the state with 213. Freshman Miranda Knoll averages 2.7 kills per set. As for service aces, the top three players for TKA this season are Kinney (16), Hoxsie (14) and sophomore Hunter Saltalamacchia (12).

The current regular season comes to a close on Thursday,

won three in a row to improve their record to 3-1. Their most recent win was a 39-13 win against John Carroll on Sept. 15. The Lions will look for two more victories in the coming weeks when they host Gulliver Prep from Miami on Sept. 22 and Pope John Paul II Academy from Boca Raton on Oct. 6. TKA has a bye week on Friday, Sept. 29.

Oct. 12 when TKA hosts the Pine Crest School from Fort Lauderdale. After that, it’s time for the postseason, which begins with the district tournament.

The ultimate goal is to advance to the Florida High School Athletic Association Class 3A title game. That game is scheduled for Nov. 9 at 4 p.m. on the campus of Polk State College in Winter Haven. If TKA truly learns more from its losses than its victories, don’t be surprised if the girls volleyball team comes home victorious.

Tough Time for Berean — The Berean Christian School Bulldogs remain scoreless and winless after three games. The Bulldogs (0-3) will look to reverse their football fortunes when they host a pair of home games on Sept. 22 against Lake Highland Prep from Orlando and Sept. 29 against Miami Country Day.

The King’s Academy girls varsity volleyball team.

TKA’s Katie Shelhamer celebrates a point with her teammates.

Dr. Randy Shults

All-Access Bracelets On Sale Now For Wellington’s Annual Fall Festival Oct. 21

Wellington’s annual Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, Oct. 21, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Extended hours provide families with younger children an opportunity to enjoy plenty of fun and activities earlier in the day, while still getting their little ghouls and goblins home in time for bed.

Enter the Haunted Hallways (opening at 5 p.m.) if you dare, or enjoy one of the many spooktacular attractions, including bounce houses, hay rides, laser tag, a petting zoo, a pie-eating contest, trick-or-treating in the vendor area and more. Approximately 20 food trucks will be on site with sweet and savory food and beverage items for purchase.

Attendees can also enjoy live performances on the sound stage, or participate in costume contests for prizes, with awards for each

of the following age groups: under 3; ages 4 to 6; ages 7 to 10; ages 11 to 14; and 15 and older. Costume contests will be held at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Unlimited all-access bracelets are required for activities. Bracelets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and Village Park (11700 Pierson Road).

Existing CivicRec account holders can opt to purchase tickets online to reserve their all-access bracelets. Tickets (one ticket = one all-access bracelet) can then be redeemed in advance at the Wellington Community Center or Village Park, or on the day of the event at the “will call” tent.

Bracelets purchased by Oct. 20 are $7 for children and $5 for adults. On the day of the event, bracelets are $10 for children and $5 for adults. Children ages 2 and under are free. Adult bracelets are only needed if the adult will accompany the child on the hay ride, play laser tag or go through the haunted hallways. Bracelet purchases are non-refundable.

Free shuttle service, sponsored

by Wellington Regional Medical Center, will be available from the Palm Tran bus stop located near Macy’s, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

The village thanks the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center, the Fall Festival’s featured sponsor. Other sponsors include Kidz Vil Pediatric Dentistry (hay rides), Next LVL Mobile Infusion (bounce houses) and Wellington Bay (costume contests).

Some attraction start and end times will vary from the event time frame. Visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/fallfestival for more information, or call (561) 791-4005.

For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, contact Michelle Garvey at (561) 791-4082 or mgarvey@wellingtonfl.gov.

Popular Lakeside Market And German-Style Pop-Up Biergarten Returning To Wellington Town Center

Wellington invites the community to attend the opening day of the new season at the Lakeside Market at Wellington Town Center. The market opens on Friday, Sept. 22 and is hosted on the promenade along the scenic Lake Wellington waterfront, directly behind the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Lakeside Market Opening Day, Sept. 22, 6 to 9 p.m. — Wellington’s Lakeside Market provides a casual, laid-back environment for the community to connect and enjoy an early start to the weekend. Looking for an affordable date night? A fun family night out? A beautiful evening outdoors with

stunning Florida sunsets? You can find it at the Lakeside Market.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, opening day will feature the Sugar Music Latin Band. Enjoy popular Latin tunes and rhythms while you sip, shop and stroll. Lighting along the promenade, in vendor booths and over the market provides a charming natural ambiance to complement breathtaking sunset views.

Each week, more than 45 vendors will be in attendance offering a variety of goods for sale. Items at the market include: artisan and gourmet foods; artists and crafters; fresh baked goods, breads and pastries; health and beauty items; jewelry and clothing; pet goods

and products; plant-based and vegetarian products; and more.

Other amenities of the market include the nearby Wellington Community Center and amphitheater, lush green spaces, restrooms, benches, pontoon and boat parking for Lake Wellington residents, and a playground and shade structure along the promenade.

The market is pet friendly. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit www. wellingtonlakesidemarket.com.

Sponsors for the 2023-24 season include Wellington Regional Medical Center, Next LVL Mobile Infusion and Humana.

Pop-Up Biergarten, Oct. 5-7 — October will mark the return of

Successful Blood Drive At Seacoast Bank In Wellington

To honor those lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Seacoast Bank held multiple blood drives at 16 strategic locations across the State of Florida.

A blood drive was held at the Wellington branch of Seacoast Bank on Monday, Sept. 11 through OneBlood, which had one of its mobile units on site.

“In Wellington, it was our first time being involved in this event, and it was very successful,” James

Seder of the Wellington branch said. “We had 17 blood donations, and 23 people registered for future events.”

According to OneBlood representatives, the need for blood has increased significantly in recent years. In addition, with the rise of more work from home and remote work locations, company blood drives have decreased significantly. Visit www.oneblood.org to learn how you can help.

the popular German-style Pop-Up Biergarten. On Friday, Oct. 6, the Biergarten will accompany the Lakeside Market and is located in the green space and pavilion adjacent to the promenade. Featuring Hofbrauhas Bier from Munchen, the event will include a selection of German beers, U.S. craft beers and ciders, along with sausage, pretzels and other German-themed foods for purchase. Traditional music and Stein-hoisting contests will round out the free, family-friendly experience.

The Pop-Up Biergarten runs from Thursday, Oct. 5 through Saturday, Oct. 7, from 4 to 9 p.m. daily. For more information, visit https://fb.me/e/7UUfQ1fIj.

Tickets On Sale For Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Wellington’s popular Murder

Mystery Dinner Theater is back, and this time, it’s all hands on deck for swashbuckling adventure, treasure and treachery.

The “Murder on the High Seas” Murder Mystery Dinner for ages 21 and up will take place on Saturday, Nov. 4 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Boulevard), from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

The evening begins with a social hour and dinner before steering into deadly waters, as a shipload of professional actors portrays a “murder on the high seas” scenario.

Audience members will then be asked to solve the crime and identify the murd-arrr-arrr. All wenches and scallywags are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite pirate-themed attire

(optional) and will have the opportunity to participate in costume contests for prizes.

Tickets cost $60 per person and are on sale now at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) and at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). A table of eight can also be reserved for the discounted price of $420. The ticket price includes appetizers, dinner, beer and wine.

Samantha Silverberg New CFO At HCA Florida Palms West Hospital

Samantha Silverberg has been named the new chief financial officer (CFO) at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, where she will oversee internal financial reports, develop annual budgets and maintain SOX compliance.

Silverberg joins Palms West Hospital after serving as CFO at HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital for the past year and a half.

“Samantha brings a solid understanding of HCA Healthcare and finance to Palms West,” CEO Jason Kimbrell said. “She will be a great addition to our leadership team.”

Because this is an adult-themed event, Wellington will provide free on-site child care for children ages 5 to 12 only, including pizza and plenty of fun activities. The childcare room will be separate from the event. This event is expected to sell out, so be sure to reserve seats today. For more info., visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/murdermystery.

Before her time at Raulerson, Silverberg spent two years at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital where she was the assistant chief financial officer. She also has experience with Tenet Healthcare, including serving as the controller at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Silverberg earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting and business administration from the College of Charleston, and a master’s degree

Samantha Silverberg in healthcare administration from Florida Atlantic University. “I’m so excited to join the Palms West team,” Silverberg said. “I can’t wait to get started.” Silverberg’s first day will be Oct. 1.

James Seder and Theresa White of Seacoast Bank.

Royal Palm Councilman Jeff Hmara Appointed To FLC Legislative Policy Committee

The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, recently announced that Royal Palm Beach Councilman Jeff Hmara has been appointed to serve on the Florida League of Cities 2023-24 Transportation and Intergovernmental Relations Committee, one of the league’s five Legislative Policy Committees.

Legislative Policy Committee chairs, vice chairs and members were appointed by Florida League of Cities President Greg Ross, mayor of Cooper City.

As a Legislative Policy Committee member, Hmara will help develop the league’s legislative platform, which details priority issues that are most likely to affect daily municipal governance and local decision-making during

the upcoming legislative session, as well as help league staff understand the real-world implications of proposed legislation. Committee members are also asked to serve as advocates for local decision-making throughout the legislative process.

“Through the FLC legislative advocacy process, in which these Legislative Policy Committees play a key role, local elected officials are empowered and equipped to effectively influence the Florida state legislative process in the best interest of our cities and our residents — local voices making local choices,” Hmara said.

Hmara has served in many local government leadership positions, including past president of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, past chair of the Treasure Coast

PBC Official Michael Gauger

Recognized For Master Code Professional Certification

Palm Beach County recently announced that Michael Gauger, building division coordinator and interim assistant deputy of inspections, recently earned a Master Code Professional (MCP) certification. Only one percent of certified individuals reach the status of Master Code Professional.

Gauger joins an elite group of less than 1,000 people worldwide who have attained this prestigious designation, which is the highest level of certification offered by the International Code Council (ICC).

Master Code Professionals are responsible for all technical and management aspects of code compliance, including the supervision of plans examiners and inspectors. These professionals play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across the world.

“We are proud of this and the many other valuable accreditations [Gauger] has acquired since joining the Planning, Zoning & Building Department and recognize the importance of obtaining such credentials,” said Whitney

Carroll, interim executive director of the Planning, Zoning & Building Department.

Building Official Doug Wise said that Gauger’s commitment to excellence is an invaluable asset to the Building Division and Palm Beach County.

“I commend him for his hard work and dedication to the build-

Wellington El VPK Enjoys Nature Trail

Cathy Eckstein’s VPK class at Wellington Elementary School was excited to take a nature walk last week.

Wellington Elementary has 20 acres of land to explore. The class was learning all about nature and things that you find in nature. The

children broke up in groups to cover different areas of the campus and collected their findings. They were excited to find acorns, all different colored leaves, sticks, pinecones, pine needles, shells and more. Their bags were full, and they got to take them home

and discuss their findings with their families. They also saw different footprints and guessed what animals they could be, along with seeing some different types of birds and some squirrels. It was a fun learning experience for the class.

WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY PRE-K FAMILIES ENJOY DONATED BOOKS

The Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County recently donated one book per pre-K student at Wellington Elementary School. The books were given for parent engagement with their children. Teacher Cathy Eckstein’s VPK students got to spend time reading with their families. The school thanks the Children’s Services Council for the donation.

ing safety industry,” Wise said. The Palm Beach County Building Division is committed to ensuring life and property safety within the community in the built environment through efficient and effective administration of the enacted building codes, and by taking a leadership role in code development and education.

Michael Gauger with his certification award.

Jeff Hmara

Early childhood professional Daien Mata, VPK/ESE teacher Cathy Eckstein and physical/behavioral needs assistant Karla Martin with the VPK class.

Lauren DeSantis reading to her daughter Avery.

Kindergarten teacher Danielle Tuchinsky reads to her son, Austin.

Orion Endres, on the lap of his father Josh, reads the new book with his brothers.

Ava Campagnuolo-Butler finds a pinecone.

Regional Planning Council and Transportation Planning Agency alternate member, among others.

Residents Focus On Seven Dimensions Of Well-Being At Wellington Bay

Look for Fred Perry or his wife, Mary Louise, and you will often find them on the go — participating in chair yoga, tai chi or other exercise classes six mornings weekly, attending lectures in the evening to enrich their minds, or listening to the strains of music at a concert to lift their souls.

The Perrys participate in these activities and many more, all within easy access to them at Wellington Bay, a luxury rental senior living community in Wellington, where they have lived for nearly a year.

Before moving into a spacious independent living apartment home at Wellington Bay, the Perrys considered other retirement living options. However, they wanted one that would provide them with a vibrant lifestyle and help them focus on the various facets of their overall health and well-being.

Wellington Bay has established the LiveWELL program to provide residents with opportunities, support and encouragement to focus on seven dimensions of wellness: physical, nutritional, social, spiritual, intellectual, emotional and environmental.

The activities that nurture these aspects of health and well-being are available right onsite for the Perrys and other residents.

“We prioritize wellness at Wellington Bay,” said Melissa Clark, the community’s wellness director. “We want to make sure that wellness and living well are made easy for our residents. The healthy choice should be the easy choice for our residents.”

LiveWELL reflects the objectives and opportunities which comprise Liberty Senior Living’s INSPIRE Program. INSPIRE emphasizes six key elements for leading a healthy, happy life. They are I for inclusivity, N for nutrition, S for spiritual, P for physical, I for intellectual, R for recreational and E for engaging.

A quick glance at the community’s activities calendar shows many programs and classes available to residents any day of the week. For example, on just one day in September, the residents could participate in a cardio workout, chair fit dance, groove and lift, mindful meditation, transportation to Trader Joe’s, open card play, a showing of the movie BlackBerry and an engaging history presentation.

“The classes and events are fun and interesting,” Clark said. “We make this a place where residents want to be engaged, and where everyone looks forward to the next day’s events.”

The community’s upscale amenities are geared to helping residents lead full and active lives. They include an art studio, indoor pool with hot tub, zero entry outdoor pool, yoga and exercise room, and a fitness center with professional-quality state-of-theart pneumatic equipment.

Residents’ fitness levels are assessed annually to understand how they have improved, and to set goals for the future.

Fred Perry said his physical condition has progressed significantly since participating in a regular exercise routine.

“My balance has improved dramatically,” he said. “I’ve seen other people who came here using walkers, and they aren’t using them anymore.”

Nutrition is vital to good health, and Wellington Bay takes that into account. The community’s LiveWELL dining program focuses on providing clean eating options with healthy, farm-to-table meals.

Many of the programs and activities offered at Wellington Bay involve a social aspect. There’s a wine club that meets for a monthly tasting, a poker club and games of Rummikub, to name just a few. Many of the activities and clubs are suggested and run by residents.

“There’s nothing that we’ve suggested that we haven’t been able to implement,” Fred Perry said.

For example, in the dimensions of socialization, emotional and spiritual well-being, Mary

Louise Perry is spearheading a new activity called Caring and Encouragement. This will involve residents of independent living at Wellington Bay regularly visiting with residents of the Lisbet Health Center, which is on campus and provides memory care and assisted living.

“We want to show them and encourage them that someone is close by and thinking of them,” she said.

To provide for the environmental aspect of well-being, Wellington Bay offers expansive grounds with trails, fountains and scenic lakes. “It’s a peaceful, serene setting where residents can enjoy

The colorful and engaging courtyard at Wellington Bay.

the outdoors,” Clark said.

A key to the LiveWELL program is helping residents decide what they want to do and set goals if they desire.

“As part of our LiveWELL coaching program, residents are encouraged to take account of all the dimensions of their own wellness. They then set goals for themselves, and create action plans, with the accountability to follow through, in order to live their very best lives,” Clark said.

The Perrys, who worked on cruise ships for a dozen years

teaching technology classes, say that living at Wellington Bay is comparable to being on a cruise ship because dining, activities and events are available at their fingertips.

“We looked hard for a community that would have everything we wanted, and we found it here,” Fred Perry said. “This is not a facility. It is a community.” Wellington Bay is a rental retirement community featuring luxury apartments on a palm tree-shaded campus. To learn more, visit www. wellingtonbayfl.com.

First Homesites Released For The Pines Of Westlake Neighborhood

Minto Communities USA, the master developer and leading homebuilder in the Westlake community, recently announced its newest single-family neighborhood, the Pines of Westlake. Minto released the first homesites for sale on Sept. 11, and based on early interest, buyer demand is expected to be strong.

Conveniently located off Town Center Parkway adjacent to Golden Grove Elementary School, the Pines is planned for 446 homesites, many with water views.

The first phase of the gated neighborhood will consist of 214 homesites. Home prices start from the high $400s. Minto will offer homes from its popular Cypress

and Indigo collections.

The Cypress Collection is composed of 17 one- and two-story floorplans ranging from two to five bedrooms, and from 1,644 to 4,008 square feet under air. This collection will be built on 50-foot homesites.

The Indigo Collection offers 11 floorplans with one- and two- story homes ranging from two to six bedrooms and from 2,410 to 4,314 square feet under air. They will be built on 65-foot homesites.

The Pines is Minto’s seventh new single-family home neighborhood since opening Westlake in 2017.

“We are pleased to introduce our newest neighborhood in Westlake,” said Steve Svopa, southeast division president for Minto Communities USA. “The Pines will feature our most popular floorplans that have been a big hit with buyers in our other sold-out neighborhoods.”

Westlake is approved for 4,500 homes and more than two million square feet of commercial development. The community offers a mix of single-family homes,

estate homes and townhomes for sale starting in the $400s. Nurses, paramedics, teachers and other public servants can take advantage of the Welcome Heroes program, which gives a three percent discount off the base price of a new Minto home.

“What continues to drive our success at Westlake is value, quality and a lifestyle that is second to none in central Palm Beach County,” Svopa said.

Residents have access to a $22 million amenity center known as the Westlake Adventure Park. The centerpiece is a resort-style lagoon pool with a tower slide, splash pad and poolside concessions.

Other amenities include the Lodge, a multipurpose building with adjoining event lawn, a covered concert pavilion, food truck court, picnic areas, BMX pump park, bocce ball courts, playground, dog park, adult lap pool, and full-length, lighted basketball courts.

Residents also have access to shopping and commercial services around the corner from their homes. Publix recently opened

Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air Fighting Breast Cancer This October

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air will be launching a campaign in Palm Beach County called “Beep to Fight Breast Cancer!”

Hi-Tech Plumbing will be rolling out their trucks and teams on various intersections in Palm Beach County on Oct. 16 between 4 and 6 p.m. to bring awareness to breast cancer.

In recognition of their female owner, Jathynia Garcia, who is a 10-year breast cancer survivor, the team will be wearing pink shirts and holding out signs to raise money for the cause. Garcia takes pride to support and help bring awareness to this disease, as she “wants to be a voice

that helps others understand that staying positive and having strong faith can help win this battle.” They will be donating $10 to breast cancer awareness in the month of October for every person that beeps when passing by. Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air is an elite plumbing, electrical and air conditioning company owned and managed with a woman’s perspective. Serving Palm Beach County for more than 23 years, they offer expert solutions and peace of mind service, along with a commitment to giving back to the local community.

To learn more, call (561) 7906966, e-mail service@hi-techplumbingandair.com or visit www. hi-techplumbingandair.com.

An aerial view of the new Pines of Westlake neighborhood.

Andrews, Siskind And Wölffer Join Board Of Trustees At PWH

School Board Member Marcia Andrews, Wellington Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and entrepreneur Joey Wölffer have been appointed to the HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Board of Trustees. As members of the board, they will further the role and purpose of the hospital by providing oversight and advice to the partnership and the board of managers. Andrews has served as a school board member since 2010. In addition to her work on the hospital’s board, she also serves on educational advisory boards in the community, the Council of Great City Schools, and numerous community, social and civic organizations. Andrews has been an educator for 48 years and has lived in the western communities for 38 years.

“I am very excited to serve on the HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Board of Trustees. I want to thank Mr. [Jason] Kimbrell, [Palms West Hospital CEO], for this wonderful opportunity and look forward to working with him and the board to serve our community,” Andrews said. Siskind joined the Wellington council in 2016 after serving in leadership roles with community organizations and has served as vice mayor for the village. She is a Realtor with Keller Williams Wellington and also serves on the board of directors for the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. She has lived in Wellington for 22 years.

“I’m honored to join the board of trustees to help further the overall mission and strategies of HCA Florida Palms West Hospital

by contributing my government, nonprofit and private sector experience,” Siskind said.

Wölffer is the chief brand officer and co-owner of Wölffer Estate Vineyards, based in the Hamptons.

In addition to the vineyard, she and her brother Marc took over the Tasting Room, Wine Stand and Wölffer Estate Stables, where she oversees the stable facility.

Wölffer also has a luxe jewelry, clothing and accessories boutique. She is also involved with the Bridgehampton Center, Southampton Hospital and Every Mother Counts. As a champion equestrian, Wölffer calls the Wellington community home during the equestrian season.

“I am thrilled to be joining the board at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital. Healthcare is an incredibly important and dynamic

field that directly impacts people’s lives,” Wölffer said. “I am looking forward to helping with effective marketing strategies that can help the hospital reach an even greater audience as well as stay competi-

tive in these ever-changing times in the healthcare world.”

These new board members join Dr. Seth Herbst, physician member and board chair, Kimbrell, HCA East Florida Division

President Charles Gressle, Chief of Staff Dr. Arul Chidambaram, community member Tara Gallagher and physician member Dr. Roger Duncan on the board of trustees.

New Trauma Hawk Helicopter Arrives In Palm Beach County

The Health Care District of Palm Beach County is celebrating the recent arrival of the first of two Leonardo AW169 helicopters. The AW169 helicopters were selected for Trauma Hawk following more than a decade of planning. It’s anticipated that the second helicopter will also be delivered this month.

“This marks a new era in the district’s commitment to delivering safe, high-quality trauma services to our community,” said Darcy J. Davis, CEO of the Health Care District. “These state-of-theart helicopters will provide swift and efficient air transportation to enhance patient access to critical medical services and improved healthcare outcomes.”

The Leonardo AW169 heli

medical director for Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. “These new, technologically advanced aircraft will play a key role in EMS response by providing critically ill and injured patients access to safe and rapid air transport in a county with a land area larger than the state of Rhode Island.”

One of the new standout features of the AW169 is its longitudinal roll-on stretcher system. This technology minimizes patient movement during loading and unloading, providing a safe and efficient means of transport direct-

ly to a specialized medical center, like one of the county’s two Level 1 trauma centers. As a result, the Trauma Hawk medical team will no longer need to transfer patients onto hospital stretchers at the helipad, saving crucial minutes during lifesaving missions.

“These new aircraft are a leap forward in technology for both the pilots and the medical crews,” said Jay Mazzone, the Health Care District’s director of aeromedical transportation. “With advanced avionics, larger and brighter displays, and the added capability

of night vision goggles, we are moving into the next generation of aircraft that will help us maintain and enhance our relentless focus on safety.”

The air medical team aboard the Health Care District’s FAA-certified air ambulances includes at least one Health Care District commercial instrument-rated pilot along with PBCFR medical personnel. In addition to the pilots, the district employs a team of aviation technicians and program support staff. Learn more at www. hcdpbc.org.

Swank Specialty Produce Announces New Event Season

Swank Specialty Produce has announced the schedule for its Club Rum, and an amuse-bouche to stimulate the palate. Attendees

years, he brings experience on and off the farm at establishments such

In celebration of Florida’s rich agricultural tapestry, Swank

Joey Wölffer

Marcia Andrews Tanya Siskind

The unique Swank Table dinners take place in the rustic pole barn at Swank Specialty Produce.

The AW169 helicopters will replace the existing Trauma Hawk craft in use since 1999.

Top Of The Food Chain? Humans Can Learn Much From Animals

Sometimes I wax philosophical. Lots of people do this. They wonder about the universe and the meaning of it all. Why is there life? Why are we here? What does it all mean?

But I already have the answers for all the big questions, so I choose to ponder the smaller things — things like, just who do we think we are? (And how it should really be “whom” but nobody says that.)

I mean, all my life I have heard that human beings are at the top of the food chain supposedly because we can kill and eat anything we want to. Big whoop. Since when did being a successful marauder make you No. 1? Is the ability to triumph

Being dragged off to the movies for films you intended to miss can sometimes be pretty good or even better than that. Family dragged me to two films in the last couple of weeks, and I enjoyed both despite the fact that I never would have gone on my own. My wife convinced me to see My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3, a second sequel to a hit movie about the life of Toula Portokalos (Nia Vardalos) that switches from the U.S. to Greece, particularly the island of Corfu. Now, instead of a comedy about the issues of non-Greek Ian Miller (John Corbett) marrying into a fun but nutsy immigrant family, we see the whole family trying to adjust to leaving Chicago to visit the “homeland.” The McGuffin: bring her late father’s diary to his three boyhood friends who would understand the “journey of his life.” The real story: almost no one is around and has to be hunted down.

in war, win at sporting contests and head up large corporations really all that it takes to define success? We may think so, but only because we are compelled to see the world through the eyes of a human.

Do you know what the lowly ant

thinks about world domination, Olympic champions and CEOs? Not much. In fact, nothing. All that matters to the lowly ant is getting a gigantic grain of sand from one place to another. In the ant’s world, moving that sand is the most important thing. Can a human hoist up a rock 100 times its weight? No, it cannot. Can it move that rock, upside down, across a span 20 times longer than its own length? No, it cannot. Does it even know enough to hang onto others of its species to form a raft that will allow it to survive the fiercest hurricane? No, it does not. So, from the ant’s point of view, human beings are fairly stupid, useless creatures who ignorantly take out

whole communities with a single footstep. Hardly worth bragging about. Not only that, but there are only about 8 billion people on earth, as opposed to a quadrillion ants. So, who’s dominant now?

And what about the honeybee, an insect that never sleeps? In its world, any gigantic, plodding creature who needs to sleep, can’t fly and needs a computer to create a mathematically perfect honeycomb isn’t even worth discussing.

Worried about air quality? A scorpion can hold its breath for a week.

Feeling chilly? Frogs and lobsters can freeze without dying.

Gas prices got you down? A butterfly

can migrate 3,000 miles without a fill-up. Got an itch? The stripes of a zebra repel bugs.

Hungry? A tarantula can live two years without food.

Steak too tough? A grizzly bear can bite a bowling ball in half.

And cats only bother meowing when trying to communicate with humans.

But I don’t want you feeling inadequate. Like I said, I’ve already figured out the answer to the big questions (Why is there life? Why are we here? What does it all mean?) and here they are — “because,” “because” and “not much.”

Kinds of puts things in perspective.

Who Knew? ‘Greek Wedding 3’ And ‘Blue Beetle’ Were Good ‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

The old friends are not immediately available, but the crazy family, particularly Aunt Voula (Andrea Martin) fill in admirably. With the Portokalos family, they all go. Well, almost. Mama (Lainie Kazan) is home with the beginning of Alzheimer’s. But the focus is on the fun. There are many views of Corfu, which is a beautiful place, and a lot of Greek food and joy to admire. Yes, a sophisticated nine-year-old might figure out the plot in advance, but it still is fun. And a 12-yearold might find a few of the jokes stale but,

hey, it is a nice Greek vacation/travelogue. Oh, and a chance to enjoy every possible positive Greek stereotype. Vardalos has done a nice job as director as well as star. Corbett’s role is less central, but he is a good balance wheel for Vardalos. Martin steals every scene she is in. Her character could be the center of a film. The whole cast, most of whom are actually Greek, are great fun and make you care about them. And, of course, they do find a way to have a nice wedding. It is a pleasant time, although not much more than a good B film. But those are nice, too. Tuesdays at the Regal, where prices are lower, would be a good time to see the movie.

I was also taken to Blue Beetle by my two grandsons (happy birthday, Jake). I was not particularly interested; too many superhero movies. But I really enjoyed this one. It was far more fun than most similar films. Yes, it’s sort of similar: young hero

gets outer space item that turns him into a super hero. Actually, it’s sort of Venom But in this case, hero Jaime Reyes (Xolo Maridueña) has a really supportive family. And the crazy family is with him all the way through the fighting. And they’re great fun. With both films, it’s nice to have families again. The Kord family, led by villainess Victoria (Susan Sarandon) has plans for a super weapon system that actually grows inside the body. Her niece Jenny Kord (Bruna Marquezine), who sees the work as trying for world domination, steals a weird blue beetle and hands it off to Jaime so he can get it out of the building. He discovers that the beetle takes him over, and he winds up in a battle with the evil villain. At that point, his family joins in. Nana, the grandmother, (Adriana Barraza), who has been a very religious woman, turns out to be expert with a machine gun, yelling “vive la revolución” as she mows

down bad guys. And Uncle Rudy (George Lopez) proves very handy. The story really works because it is about family and love instead of simply wiping out bad guys. The cast is what really makes the film. Maridueña is fine as the rather ambivalent hero. He doesn’t really want to fight, and certainly does not want to kill. Barraza is terrific. Lopez is very funny. And Belissa Escobedo as Jaime’s sister Milagro is exceptional as his “wingman.” Sarandon is over the top as the villain, but that is what is called for.

Summing up: I had a great time at a movie that almost completely disappeared in the wake of Barbie and Oppenheimer, but which was actually more fun than a lot of films that did better. If things are quiet and you want a film, and this is still playing, enjoy.

So maybe things are not as desperate with the movies as people think. Only time will tell.

St. Jude’s Novena

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St.Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us.

St. Jude, help of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day by the 8th day, your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you, St Jude for granting my petition.