WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – August 2026

volume

executive editor

Joshua I. Manning

publisher

Dawn Rivera

creative director

Stephanie Rodriguez

account managers

Betty Buglio

Evie Edwards

Joetta Palumbo

Jennifer Preville

administration

Shanta Daibee

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Frank Koester

Abner Pedraza

contributors

Shannon Anastasio

Jim Barnes

Meredith Burrow

Denise Fleischman

Dean Glorioso

Mike May

Patrick Sherry

Fiona Slusarev

Y.A. Teitelbaum

Julie Unger

WELLINGTON

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33

Wellington, FL 33414

Phone: (561) 793-7606

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

Barry S. Manning

Wellington The Magazine is published monthly in Wellington, Florida. Copyright 2026, all rights reserved by Wellington The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the portion of the advertisement occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

14

SUZANNE REDDOCH WINS PRESTIGIOUS DWYER AWARD

Wellington High School’s Suzanne Reddoch, an AP statistics teacher who exudes warmth and genuine care, was honored at this year’s prestigious William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education. Reddoch won the Senior High Education category at the awards, presented May 4. BY FIONA SLUSAREV

FIGURE SKATERS FUEL

SUCCESS WITH FRIENDSHIP

Olivia Kotel and Rylin Reaves combine high-intensity athleticism with artistry. Their friendship started at the same ice rink, and now the two are chasing the same dream to reach figure skating’s biggest competitions together. BY PATRICK SHERRY

PBC IMAGINATION LIBRARY SUPPORTS YOUNG READERS

For more than 30 years, iconic singer, songwriter and philanthropist Dolly Parton has been making the world a better place, one child and one book at a time through the Imagination Library, now available locally. BY DEAN GLORIOSO

AN EDUCATION AT THE NRI INSTITUTE CHANGES LIVES

The NRI Institute of Health Sciences is dedicated to creating educated and prepared health professionals devoted to caring for their community. BY FIONA SLUSAREV

WELLINGTON PHILANTHROPY

Our Wellington Philanthropy series this month features the work of the nonprofit Place of Hope. BY PATRICK SHERRY

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

WELLINGTON TODAY

This year’s budget for the Village of Wellington was developed much the same way that the village has approached every budget, with a focus on responsible stewardship, long-term planning and fiscal discipline. Those principles have guided Wellington for decades. BY JIM BARNES

WELLINGTON TABLE

Arcade Time at the Mall at Wellington Green is leveling up, giving gamers the chance to stay longer and hit those high scores well after midnight, with high-quality dining available onsite. The company, which runs arcade locations across Florida, recently unveiled an expansion to a 13,000-square-foot space on the first level of the mall. BY PATRICK SHERRY

On our cover this month are Wellington figure skaters Rylin Reaves and Olivia Kotel. They participate in pairs skating, one of the most difficult disciplines in figure skating. They have already taken part in top-level competitions and have their sights set on the very top levels of this demanding sport.

Also in this issue, we profile Wellington High School teacher Suzanne Reddoch, recently honored in the William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education, winning the Senior High Education category. In keeping with our education theme, we speak with Christen and Nicholas Thompson, founders of the Palm Beach County Imagination Library — the local affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The organization provides books each month to young children. Next, we visit the NRI Institute of Health Sciences. NRI provides nursing and sonography students an exemplary education with top-notch academic and career support.

Our Wellington Philanthropy series continues this month with a look at the wonderful nonprofit organization Place of Hope, which runs multiple campuses that provide housing, assistance and care for children suffering from youth trauma and abuse. Place of Hope works to break the cycle of abuse and mend lives. In Wellington Today, Village Manager Jim Barnes explores the budget process that Wellington uses to create its annual spending plan. Finally, Wellington Table visits the newly expanded Arcade Time at the Mall at Wellington Green. It’s more than just fun and games, and now features a full-service restaurant and bar.

We wish all Wellington-area students the best of luck as they head back to school. We will return next month with Wellington The Magazine’s annual Our Wellington edition.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

WELLINGTON ROTARY CLUB CELEBRATES NEW OFFICERS AT ANNUAL BANQUET

The Rotary Club of Wellington held its annual Awards Banquet and Installation of Officers on Saturday, June 27 at the Wanderers Club. Outgoing President Maria Fernanda Cruz was thanked for her service, while incoming President Nikki Stinson was installed by State Rep. Anne Gerwig. A number of awards were given out, including to Don Gross and Chris Warren as Rotarians of the Year. The Frank T. Gladney Community Service Award was presented to Scott Armand. Learn more about the club at www.wellingtonrotary.org.

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Irina Milman, DO, FAAD

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WELLINGTON AMERICAN LEGION POST 390 INSTALLS OFFICERS FOR NEW YEAR

Wellington’s American Legion Post 390 held its annual installation ceremony on Wednesday, July 8 at the Wellington Community Center. During the event, outgoing Commander Lazaro Sed was thanked for his service, and incoming Commander Maxwell Nelson was sworn in, along with the rest of the 2026-27 board. Learn more about Post 390 at www.alpost390.com.

•

• Obstetrics Emergency Department

• Two operating rooms and a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU)

• 27-room postpartum unit

• 25-bed Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with private family waiting areas

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Our goal is to remain patient-focused while providing the most supportive, nurturing environment possible.

WELLINGTON SENIORS ENJOY ‘RED, WHITE & YOU’ INDEPENDENCE DAY LUNCH

Wellington seniors enjoyed a patriotic luncheon themed “Red, White & You!” on Thursday, July 2 at the Wellington Community Center. Entertainment was provided by Jamie Craig and Pouya Pourtahmasbi of the Indigo Dreamers as seniors enjoyed lunch provided by Burger Fi. The event also celebrated the nation’s 250th anniversary.

“It’s one of the most prestigious awards you can receive in my career. To even be nominated by my staff, and to make it to the final four, was unbelievable.”

— Suzanne Reddoch

WELLINGTON’S SUZANNE REDDOCH HONORED WITH PRESTIGIOUS WILLIAM T. DWYER AWARD

BY FIONA SLUSAREV

Wellington High School’s Suzanne Reddoch, an AP statistics teacher who exudes warmth and genuine care, was honored at this year’s prestigious William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education. Reddoch won the Senior High Education category at the awards, presented May 4 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

The Dwyer Awards are an annual program that celebrates the hard work and commitment of accomplished educators in Palm Beach County. Established more than 40 years ago, the program starts with hundreds of nominations, which are narrowed down to 28 finalists from across the county. Then, one winner is selected for each of seven award categories.

The awards, created and run by the Economic Council of Palm Beach

County Foundation, a nonprofit organization that strives to bolster collaboration between private and public sectors in the county, are decided by a panel of judges made up of almost 100 local business leaders.

Reddoch was completely shocked by her win. It was both her first nomination for and first win of a Dwyer Award — an uncommon combination. She described the awards as the teaching equivalent of winning an Oscar or Emmy.

She was nominated by her fellow faculty at WHS and then made it to the final four contenders for Senior High Education after an extensive screening process by the judges.

“It’s one of the most prestigious awards you can receive in my career. To even be nominated by my staff, and to

make it to the final four, was unbelievable,” Reddoch said.

After she was nominated, Reddoch had to write a series of essays and obtain a letter of recommendation from WHS Principal Cara Gorham. She went a step further by including another optional letter of recommendation from the 2025 valedictorian.

Reddoch wrote a total of three essays that explained her personal teaching philosophy, her leadership roles within the school, and her involvement in the community in and out of the classroom.

Then, Reddoch had to be interviewed by the judges’ panel. They were particularly impressed that she records every lesson she teaches and posts the videos online for students to access. For students who are absent or simply

need a rewatch to better understand a topic, these recordings are invaluable.

“I’ll record it. You can see my notes, everything — everything I project, my graphing calculator, how to do certain keystrokes,” Reddoch detailed.

The judges also admired how willing she was to step up and help the school community. From being an extra hand at lunch and chaperoning prom to helping a new basketball coach with behind-the-scenes work, Reddoch continuously goes the extra mile to support the WHS faculty, staff and, of course, the students.

“At the end, one of the judges just thanked me for how much I care about the kids,” Reddoch said. “I don’t remember his exact words because I got a little emotional, but I guess they could tell how much I care about [the students].”

You only need to listen to Reddoch speak about her students for a few minutes to understand why she won the award. From the thank-you notes her graduating seniors leave for her to the stories of the students she is still in contact with 14 years after graduation,

her compassion for and dedication to her students is easy to see.

Before her current 22-year-long career as a math teacher, Reddoch was a seven-year-old who caught the teaching bug from her second-grade teacher. After her seventh-grade math teacher’s suggestion that she help her classmates with their work, Reddoch focused on a goal to teach math.

The relationship with her students is what keeps Reddoch coming back every year. Her classroom walls are lined with photos of each class she has taught since she began in 2004. She makes every student a personalized birthday sign and highlights the highest-scoring students with her Stars of the Week.

“They see how much I care,” Reddoch said of her students. “I get that a lot in notes they’ll write me at the end of the year on how much I truly care about them — and I care about them as a person, not just doing well in the class. I actually care who they are.”

She aims to be a safe adult that students can trust and come to in times of need, not just for academic guidance.

Reddoch has an endless list of stories about how her students not only rely on her but also simply want to share good news with her. She’s heard everything from a student excitedly telling her how they went skydiving for their 18th birthday, to students crediting her for unknowingly convincing them not to drop out.

As much as Reddoch impacts her students, the experiences with her students also stay with her. “It’s always hard saying goodbye,” Reddoch explained. “You create these relationships with these kids, and you’re with them all year long. I’ve always gotten to know them, and they always talk about all different things with me — and the last day you’ve got to say goodbye.”

When Reddoch is not giving her all to her students, this lifelong Wellington resident unwinds by doing some yard work or photography, supporting her eldest son, a student at WHS, in travel baseball, and cheering-on her youngest son in soccer.

To learn more about the Dwyer Awards, visit www.economiccouncilpbc. org/dwyer-awards.

WELLINGTON FIGURE SKATING TEAM FUELS SUCCESS WITH FRIENDSHIP

BY PATRICK SHERRY

On less than an inch of sharp blades and in complete unison, Olivia Kotel, 13, and Rylin Reaves, 14, combine high-intensity athleticism with artistry. Their friendship started at the same ice rink while training under the same coaches, and now the two are chasing the same dream to reach figure skating’s biggest competitions together.

The two Wellington teenagers train nearly every day at Palm Beach Skate Zone off Lake Worth Road. Both began their figure skating journeys as young children and have been diligently training ever since.

Kotel and Reaves were already close friends before they began their partnership two years ago.

The two first teamed up for a performance at Skate Zone’s annual holiday show. Recognizing their friendship and chemistry on the ice, their parents and coaches suggested they become a pairs team.

“We’ve always skated together,” Kotel said. “We have the same coaches, so it was just a decision that we made because we did a show one year.”

Pairs skating is one of the most physically demanding and difficult disciplines in figure skating. In it, a male and female skater perform in unison, showcasing synchronicity and athleticism through the execution of complex elements.

Pairs teams incorporate all elements seen in singles skating, like jumps, footwork and spins. Its main differentiator is the inclusion of side-by-side jumps, overhead lifts and throw jumps, in which the male assists the female into the air, allowing her to complete and land a jump.

Before partnering, Reaves admitted that he was initially jealous of Kotel’s skating abilities. While he is hesitant to say whether he has surpassed her yet, they both acknowledge that they have strengths that complement each other. Their combined skills push them to grow and learn together.

“I used to be jealous of her because she was a lot better than me,” Reaves said. “When she was younger, she had a lot higher jumps than me, and I remember there was a good couple-

month period where I was jealous of her… But then we became really close. One thing led to another, and we started skating together.”

To transition from singles to pairs skating, they had to learn new elements and how to coordinate their movements, all while being in tune with music.

Kotel and Reaves said the biggest adjustment was learning how to synchronize their skating, especially during side-by-side jumps. Yet, they acclimated quickly to the changes, which they attribute to the similar techniques learned from the same coaches.

Moving as one is now even second nature to them. They’ve developed a natural sense of each other’s movements by relying on visual or audio cues to match timing and complete elements seamlessly.

“When we started, we were very slow and hesitant, and we really didn’t match crossovers or side-by-side moves,” Kotel said. “This year, we have more power in the little in-between things, and we’re more connected. I

feel like that makes us stand out compared to other teams.”

Kotel and Reaves participate in multiple individual and pairs competitions across the country each year. As a pairs team, they currently compete as juveniles on the figure skating championship track. During the season, the two participate in U.S. Figure Skating’s National Qualifying Series (NQS), which brings together nearly 1,500 skaters from around the country to compete at multiple qualifying events. The NQS allows skaters to develop their rankings within the sport and serves as one of the pipelines to qualify for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

Last year, the team made it to the NQS U.S. Pairs Final. This earned them spots at National Development Camp and on the National Development Team. The camp was a multi-day training program for top-performing skaters in the NQS. It took place around the same time as the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, so young competitive skaters could watch the competition live and train with high-level coaches in a group environment.

The pair explain that becoming a part of the National Development Team is one of the highlights of their competitive careers so far. They added it was a privilege to watch elite figure skaters in competition and learn from world-class coaches.

“It was definitely challenging, learning different views coaches have on certain elements and connecting what our coaches have taught us with what they were saying,” Reaves explained. “It

was challenging, but I feel like we got a lot out of it, and it was very fun.”

Kotel and Reaves recently kicked off the NQS competitive season with other skaters from Palm Beach Skate Zone. This year, they will be performing to the song “Hallelujah” that they reworked from last year’s holiday show. They usually perform to upbeat music, but they are excited to take on the challenge because it was a crowd favorite.

This year, they have their sights on reaching the National Development Team Championship competition. As they continue to develop as skaters, they are learning and incorporating more difficult elements while focusing on improving artistry. To help them achieve all this are their parents and coaches, who are supporting them along the way. They describe their coaches almost as second parents because of how much time they spend together.

Jennifer Kane, one of their coaches, believes that their close bond makes Kotel and Reaves a great team.

“Rylin and Olivia are both very strong skaters independently. As a pairs team, they have a very common ground in their skating skills,” Kane said. “They have this natural capability to match each other in their movements and skating style, and their speed and power are equivalent. When they started skating together two years ago, it just seemed so natural.”

The two bring that connection to every competition. Reaves said their friendship motivates them to improve

and continue to show their best every time they are on the ice. While figure skating can be full of falls and missteps, this strong relationship makes every competition enjoyable.

“It’s definitely easier doing a competition with somebody else — doing pairs instead of singles,” Kotel said.

Like most young elite athletes, Kotel and Reaves want to reach their sport’s biggest stages. They hope to qualify for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in the future and eventually compete at the Winter Olympics. To get there, they are going to work hard while maintaining a positive mindset. If they can accomplish these goals, they said they would be proud to represent their hometown and the rink where they train.

“Since this is my first [figure skating] club, and it’s my hometown, if in the future we go really far, it would feel great to represent where I came from,” Reaves said.

Built on friendship and a commitment to growing together, the partnership that Kotel and Reaves have is turning their bond into their competitive advantage. They skate, fall and get up together, and hope they can achieve their dreams side-by-side.

“Don’t let anything that anybody says or any negative results that you see get in your head — and definitely make sure you have good chemistry with your partner,” Reaves said.

To learn more about Olivia Kotel and Rylin Reaves and their exciting figure skating journey, follow them on Instagram @team_rylivia.

PALM BEACH COUNTY’S IMAGINATION LIBRARY SUPPORTS YOUNG READERS

BY DEAN GLORIOSO

For more than 30 years, iconic American singer, songwriter and philanthropist Dolly Parton has been making the world a better place, one child and one book at a time.

Launching the Imagination Library in 1995, Dolly Parton and The Dollywood Foundation have been delivering books to children from birth to age five. Receiving one book per month, each child is treated to 60 stories that spark creativity and curiosity with adventurous tales, exciting characters and a few good lessons for their young lives.

Initially benefiting children in Parton’s home county in East Tennessee, the Imagination Library is now found across the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, serv-

ing children and communities through the gift of reading.

Since 2020, the Palm Beach County community has had a local Imagination Library program partner, thanks to the vision of Christen Thompson.

“I’m always excited for people to learn about the Imagination Library, a wonderful program that truly starts a lifelong love of reading for kids and families,” Christen said. “All they have to do is register, and the books arrive in the mail addressed to the children, which they find so exciting.”

The daughter of a reading teacher, Christen, along with her husband Nicholas, who serves as chair, formed a nonprofit to partner with the Imagination Library and the Dollywood Foun-

dation, which provides resources and guidance for parents.

“We can’t do it alone. An important goal is to make the Imagination Library better known throughout the community, expand its reach, and connect with business and community leaders,” Christen said.

Sponsorships, partnerships and fundraising efforts are helping to support the program, especially through its annual signature event, the Run for Reading 5K at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, which returns this year on Saturday, Nov. 7. A fun family event that serves a great purpose, the 5K welcomes individuals, teams and sponsors, with all proceeds going to the Palm Beach County Imagination Library.

“What Dolly Parton has created is incredible. It’s a special, lasting impact on children and families with each book. The last one comes

with a certificate of completion

and a

Christen’s goal is to expand the Imagination Library and reach more families, encouraging them to join a program that provides books now and brings benefits for life.

The event raises crucial money for the local nonprofit and helps grow its membership.

“Our cost is $2.60 for each book we send — a small price to pay for the love of reading,” Christen said. “And, since we started, we’re thrilled to have distributed more than 35,000 books to more than 2,000 local families.”

Those 35,000 books may be doing more good than most people imagine. The Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County reports that 22 percent of community adults lack basic literacy skills. Furthermore, data from Palm Beach County schools indicates that 46 percent of students from grades three to 10 are performing below grade level.

A research study conducted by the Imagination Library shows that children enrolled in the program, when compared to those not enrolled, are four times more likely to demonstrate stronger literary skills, nine times more likely to listen to storytelling at home and 15 times more likely to participate in reading activities.

There is an expression in K-12 education that up until third grade, kids learn to read. After third grade, they read to learn. The Imagination Library’s efforts in this vital area of childhood development are helping to ensure learning and literacy.

“Putting books in kids’ hands not only instills a love for reading but also strengthens literacy, which can lead

video message from

Dolly herself.”

— Christen Thompson

to greater success in school and even higher graduation rates,” Christen said. “Ultimately, it’s a path to post-secondary education and careers that contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the community.”

That path is paved with the Imagination Library’s generosity, initially supplying books for all newborns at the hospital where Dolly Parton was born. Today, families still receive that same first book, The Little Engine That Could, a tradition that Christen admires.

“What Dolly Parton has created is incredible,” she said. “It’s a special, lasting impact on children and families with each book. The last one comes with a certificate of completion and a video message from Dolly herself.”

“We are a county of diverse communities,” she said. “The Imagination Library may be a catalyst for enhancing the lives of kids and adults and an entire culture.”

Christen and Nicholas Thompson continually seek sponsorships and partnerships to help sustain the Imagination Library. Avid readers and parents of two boys, they both attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, inspired to serve in a meaningful way that gives back and pays forward for the future.

Driven by a passion for education, they are investing in the next generation, empowering young people through the wonder and joy of storytelling.

“To create a dream, you have to start somewhere, and this one begins by reading with imagination,” Christen said.

Local families are invited to sign up for the Imagination Library. Only certain areas can use the online form. All others should download, print and send in the registration form or send an e-mail.

To learn more about the Palm Beach County Imagination Library, e-mail info@ palmbeachcountyimaginationlibrary. com, call (561) 975-5526 or visit www. palmbeachcountyimaginationlibrary. com.

ASN: OPEN HOUSE 3rd THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH* RESERVE YOUR OPEN HOUSE VISIT

• Associate Of Science In Nursing (RN)

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DMS: OPEN HOUSE 1ST THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH*

• Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography *CALL TO RESERVE

AN EDUCATION AT THE NRI INSTITUTE CHANGES LIVES

BY FIONA SLUSAREV

The NRI Institute of Health Sciences is dedicated to creating educated and prepared health professionals devoted to caring for their community. Since 2015, the school has been providing nursing and sonography students an exemplary education with top-notch academic and career support. The school has campuses in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach.

Daniel Splain, NRI’s chief administration officer, has a lifetime of experience working in healthcare administration and insurance. His wife, Elizabeth Stolkowski, the president and director of the nursing education program, has

had an impressively varied and lengthy career in nursing, as well as healthcare administration. Through NRI, they aim to give back to the healthcare community they have long been a part of and to bring more young people into the profession.

The United States is in the midst of a nurse shortage, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. Nursing and sonography careers alike have become stable and high-paying choices. The degrees, clinical experience, support and guidance given at NRI set up healthcare students to succeed in their careers.

“Once they have that nursing license, with the constant shortage of nurses that we have in this country today, they are set for life. They will always have a job if they want it,” Splain explained.

NRI offers an associate’s degree of applied science in diagnostic medical sonography and an associate’s degree of science in nursing, with a new cardiac sonography diploma now offered. The institute is licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, and accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.

Graduates of the sonography program are eligible for jobs in hospitals, doctor’s offices, radiology centers and independent diagnostic imaging centers. Nursing graduates are prepared for and qualified to apply for the NCLEX-RN Exam to become registered nurses. Both programs take between 18 to 24 months to complete.

There are two nursing tracks: the concept-based program of study and the advanced placement licensed practical nurse track. The former teaches concepts on a critical thinking basis and focuses on students’ ability to diagnose, readying graduates for realworld situations. The advanced placement track is for students who have already passed the NCLEX-PN and are licensed practical nurses.

Students get access to an academic library, designated study areas and laboratory facilities. The dedicated instructors take extra time to hold tutoring sessions, one-on-one career counseling and placement services. An extensive amount of time is devoted to preparing nursing students to sit for the NCLEX exam and is built into the curriculum.

“One of our specialties is preparing students for the NCLEX exam,” Splain said.

Students come to the NRI Institute for its flexible and unique approach to education. They are able to structure classes around their schedules either during the day or at night and on the weekends. Students who work or have family obligations can tailor their education to their lives.

“Our student base is largely nontraditional,” Splain explained. “It’s not people, for the most part, coming immediately from high school to higher education. Many have been out in the workforce. Many have families. And

“Nursing, and sonography as well, are two of the very few professions where a person can graduate and within the first year of employment actually make more money than their education costs them.”

— Daniel Splain

many of our students are first-time higher education graduates in their family.”

Academics are further personalized because the program is intentionally kept small. Class sizes are small, with an average of 10 to 20 students per instructor. With class sizes like this, students can foster close relationships with instructors, and learning is individualized. Splain noted that for some students, English is a second language. Teachers understand this challenge and work with students to help them achieve their goals.

According to Splain, what sets NRI apart from other institutions is “the level of personalized care that we give to each student. We assess what their needs are.”

With this approach to education, it’s not hard to understand why among NRI students, there is a 100 percent employment rate for sonography graduates and an impressive 83 percent passing rate for the NCLEX exam — higher than the average passing rate for colleges in Florida.

Additionally, education is made affordable through scholarships. Since

the school is an accredited institute, students can apply for Title IV Federal Financial Aid Funding. NRI also accepts Florida Bright Futures Grants, Florida Student Assistance Grants, veteran benefits and other independent scholarships. The average student is assisted with 82 percent of the tuition cost.

“Nursing, and sonography as well, are two of the very few professions where a person can graduate and within the first year of employment actually make more money than their education costs them,” Splain said.

According to Splain, the biggest accomplishment that the NRI Institute has achieved is giving students a lifechanging education that they can then use to change the lives of so many others. The majority of graduates stay and work in Palm Beach County, providing a vital service for residents and helping people when they need it most.

“We say the world is their oyster, and this education gives them a chance to crack open that shell,” Splain said.

For more information about the NRI Institute of Health Sciences, visit www. nriinstitute.edu.

PLACE OF HOPE WORKS TO BREAK THE CYCLE OF ABUSE AND MEND LIVES

BY PATRICK SHERRY

Going through the case files, reading about unimaginable youth trauma and abuse, is never easy for the staff at Place of Hope. Yet their commitment to breaking the cycle of abuse through love and compassion is what drives this local nonprofit to help people reclaim their futures.

Throughout Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast, Place of Hope runs multiple campuses that provide housing, transitional assistance and care. Over the years, the organization has served more than 450,000 children, youth and families. Its comprehensive, family-based approach to welfare is intended to offer long-lasting healing so those under their care can lead lives of success and dignity.

“If we can shift them out of that survival mode and put them in a place of safety and stability, where they can focus on being a child and focus on their education, we see great success,” said Jamie Bond Ciancio, vice president and chief of staff of advancement at Place of Hope.

Originally, Place of Hope focused on providing residential foster care for

children who experience abuse, neglect or abandonment. Over the years, the organization has expanded its efforts to support a wide array of initiatives, including maternity care, youth aging out of foster care, homeless youth, human trafficking prevention and recovery, education, health and wellness, and outreach for at-risk communities. This broad focus on welfare is part of the organization’s mission to break vicious cycles of abuse and instability through family-style care and long-term healing.

“We know that we are shattering later statistics with regard to re-abuse rates or children falling into foster care,” said Charles Bender, founding CEO of Place of Hope. “If we disrupt a homeless family’s scenario… that always has better outcomes for children.

Pastors Tom and Donna Mullins were inspired to create a faith-based, family-driven foster care model after traveling to Romania and Russia in the early 1990s. Seeing the vast difference in care between state-run institutions and church-run homes led them to want to create a place where

children and families in their community could be cared for in a stable, loving environment. They established Place of Hope as a nonprofit and began developing their family-style foster care model.

Around the same time, Bender recognized a growing child welfare crisis in Florida. Several high-profile abuse cases during the late 1990s led to policy changes that meant an influx of children were being placed in the foster care system. Bender joined Place of Hope in 1999 to help bring the organization’s mission to life.

With the support of Christ Fellowship Church, Place of Hope opened the organization’s first Family Foster Cottage in Palm Beach Gardens in 2001. Now, the organization operates five campuses that are a haven for children and families who have nowhere else to go.

“We felt that there was a need for us to step in and do the best that we could do, partner with others, and provide a truly holistic environment for young people to live in,” Bender said.

The Sam & Connie Frankino Kid-

Sanctuary Campus just east of Wellington serves many in the western communities. Philanthropist Connie Frankino partnered with Place of Hope to fund and build the campus, with the organization operating it. The campus is a neighborhood-style foster care campus, which specializes in providing housing for large sibling groups and children with special needs who are considered hard to place. Those who stay on the site receive structured, family-based care for as long as they need.

Since it opened in 2012, the campus has housed children in its cot-

“We felt that there was a need for us to step in and do the best that we could do, partner with others, and provide a truly holistic environment for young people to live in.”

— Charles Bender

tages. Ten years later, in 2022, Place of Hope gained full ownership of the Sam & Connie Frankino KidSanctuary Campus as a planned gift. The same year, the organization opened the Angel Crossing Enrichment Center on the site, which offers education and therapeutic programs to help support children’s growth and healing journeys. The campus continued to expand with the opening of a neighborhood-style village for families in need of transitional housing.

“It’s frustrating, and it’s very hard to see things that we’re seeing… with these kids,” Ciancio said. “But if we’re not the ones doing it, who’s going to do it? These kids deserve people who are going to forge their lives and believe in them.”

Every day, children across the five campuses operated by Place of Hope are given a chance to live and experience love and compassion. Regardless of anyone’s history or hardship, the organization’s dedicated staff members are committed to leading those they serve toward a brighter future.

“We can’t reach every child on the planet, that’s for sure,” Bender said. “But for those entrusted to our care… knowing that we’ve got something that can surround them with true care and love and compassion, show them a structured way to get ahead, to make it in life and then to watch it happen — that’s enough to keep me going.”

Bender and Ciancio explained that

“If we can shift them out of that survival mode and put them in a place of safety and stability, where they can focus on being a child and focus on their education, we see great success.”

— Jamie Bond Ciancio

working with these children can be emotionally difficult. Some under their care have been through traumatic or exploitative situations that are hard to fathom. Many never had any of the simple, foundational experiences most people have as children, like celebrating a birthday or going on a family trip. However, once they come to Place of Hope, children can experience these activities that help them heal from trauma.

Ciancio added that many of the youth they have worked with over the years have returned to work with new children at Place of Hope who may have had similar experiences as them.

“You cannot put into words what it’s like to see these young adults succeed,” she said. “It just brings tears to your eyes. It really is the lifeblood of what we do.”

Place of Hope’s extensive work has garnered national recognition. The organization also maintains a high rating on Charity Navigator. The staff members attribute their accolades to strong financial stewardship, transparency and excellent service. But they believe their work is entirely for the children and families they help, as they are the motivation behind it.

“I came here thinking that I would rescue these kids when they really have rescued us,” Ciancio said.

For more than two decades, Place of Hope has given countless children a chance to rebuild their lives and reach a

better future. Bender emphasized that to help those they serve break out of cycles of abuse and poverty, the nonprofit needs help from the community. He added that life is too short not to do something that can make a difference. He encouraged the community to get involved in any way that they can, and any contribution, no matter how small, can help improve the lives of the people they serve.

“In whatever you do, I just believe finding purpose in it, making it matter, and helping and lifting other people in need is a great way to spend life,” Bender said.

To learn more about Place of Hope, or to find out about volunteer or donation opportunities, visit www.placeofhope. com.

2ND

3RD

FRIDAYS

WEEKLY EVENTS

HAPPY HOUR

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

This year’s budget for the Village of Wellington was developed much the same way that the village has approached every budget, with a focus on responsible stewardship, long-term planning and fiscal discipline. Those principles have guided Wellington for decades.

PLANNING FOR TOMORROW, INVESTING IN TODAY

Each summer, one of the village’s most important responsibilities takes center stage as your Wellington Village Council begins reviewing Wellington’s proposed budget for the coming fiscal year. While budgets are often viewed as spreadsheets and numbers, they are really about people. They represent our community’s priorities and reflect the investments we make every day in the quality of life that makes Wellington such a special place to call home.

At the June 30 council meeting, village team members presented the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27 to the council, beginning a transparent public process that will continue through budget workshops and public hearings before the final budget is adopted. We want to sincerely thank the many residents who have already participated in this process. Whether

attending meetings, watching online, submitting comments or simply taking the time to learn more about the village’s finances, your engagement helps make Wellington a stronger community. Thoughtful public participation has always been one of Wellington’s greatest strengths, and it is an important part of good local government.

This year’s budget was developed much the same way we have approached every budget, with a focus on responsible stewardship, long-term planning and fiscal discipline. Those principles have guided Wellington for decades. Rather than chasing shortterm solutions, the village has consistently invested in maintaining our infrastructure, protecting financial reserves, planning years in advance for major capital improvements and carefully managing taxpayer dollars. That

“Your engagement helps make Wellington a stronger community. Thoughtful public participation has always been one of Wellington’s greatest strengths, and it is an important part of good local government.”

— Village Manager Jim Barnes

philosophy has allowed Wellington to remain financially strong while continuing to provide the exceptional services that residents have come to expect.

This year, however, the budget is being developed against the backdrop of an important statewide conversation. During a special legislative session earlier this year, the Florida Legislature approved a proposed constitutional amendment that will appear before voters this November as Amendment 3. If approved by at least 60 percent of Florida voters, the amendment would make significant changes to Florida’s property tax system, including expanding the homestead exemption and making other substantial revisions to local government property taxation. The proposal is currently the subject of pending legal challenges that question the sufficiency and neutrality of the ballot language, but unless the courts determine otherwise, Florida voters will ultimately decide its future this November.

As residents, many of us understand why this conversation is occurring. Families throughout Florida continue to experience rising costs for housing, insurance, utilities and other everyday expenses. Affordability is an issue that affects communities across our state, and conversations about tax policy are both understandable and important. Regardless of the outcome of Amendment 3, one responsibility will not change.

Communities will continue to rely on essential local services. Parks will still need to be maintained. Roads and sidewalks will require upkeep. Stormwater systems must continue protecting neighborhoods during heavy rains. Drinking water infrastructure must be maintained and modernized. Recreation programs will continue serving thousands of residents each year. Public safety will remain a core expectation of every community.

That is why responsible financial planning matters. One of the strengths

of Wellington’s financial approach has always been preparing for uncertainty before uncertainty arrives. Conservative budgeting, healthy reserves, longrange capital planning and responsible debt management have positioned our village to adapt thoughtfully to changing circumstances rather than react to them.

As your village manager, I often think that budgets are about far more than balancing revenues and expenditures. They are about preserving the quality of life our residents value today while ensuring that future generations inherit an equally strong community tomorrow. Behind every budget line is something tangible — a neighborhood park where children play, a community center serving families and seniors, a road improvement that enhances safety, a drainage project that protects homes or reliable utilities that residents count on every single day. Those investments define Wellington far more than any spreadsheet ever could.

No one can predict exactly what the coming months may bring. The state budget conversation will continue. Amendment 3 will ultimately be decided by Florida’s voters, subject to the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings. As those discussions unfold, your council and staff will continue evaluating what they may mean for Wellington and for the services our residents expect. What will not change is our commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility and thoughtful planning.

Wellington has earned a reputation as one of Florida’s premier communities not by reacting to challenges, but by planning for them. The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27 continues that tradition. It reflects our commitment to investing wisely today, preparing responsibly for tomorrow and ensuring that Wellington remains a community we are all proud to call home.

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ARCADE TIME EXPANDS AT WELLINGTON GREEN, ADDING FULL RESTAURANT AND BAR

Arcade Time at the Mall at Wellington Green is leveling up, giving gamers the chance to stay longer and hit those high scores well after midnight, with high-quality dining available onsite.

The company, which runs arcade locations across Florida, recently unveiled an expansion to a 13,000-square-foot space on the first level of the mall. Arcade Time relocated from its second-floor location to introduce a larger selection of games and a full-service kitchen and bar. The venue now has an exterior entrance

adjacent to the food court, so it can stay open until 3 a.m. every night.

The owners of Arcade Time have developed a brand they believe has something that can appeal to everyone — from modern games for kids, a large selection of gaming experiences for hardcore gamers and retro games for those looking to relive childhood memories.

With a full bar serving drinks for adults accompanying the full-service kitchen, the venue is the perfect all-inone experience.

“We thought that the Wellington market was primed for some more family-friendly and adult-friendly entertainment options,” explained Doug Mandell, director of marketing at Arcade Time Entertainment. “We thought that our concept that we pioneered… would fit nicely with the Mall at Wellington Green.”

The multi-month expansion finished in June. The new Arcade Time expanded its collection of games in its modern game room and retro arcade, elevating the premium entertainment

experience it gives customers. At the Wellington location, visitors can even find the newest and latest games that cannot be found anywhere else. From pinball to virtual reality experiences, Arcade Time is a must-see destination for social gatherings of any kind.

Arcade Time’s new food offerings go far beyond the traditional arcade menu of pizza and burgers. Chefs offer a wide range of dishes meant to cater to all different palates. Among the most popular so far are its Power Pellet Sliders on brightly colored buns, Hawaiian

BBQ Chicken served inside a pineapple shell, sirloin steak and ribs. Outside of these are options that range from casual to upscale, including filet mignon and Antarctic salmon.

“Parents don’t need to compromise their own enjoyment at our facility if they’re coming for the benefit of their kids,” Mandell explained. “Kids can go and have fun. Parents can go and enjoy a drink at the bar, watch a game on our TVs, or go ahead and play some games of their own… and feel exactly in their element.”

All of the venue’s offerings encourage visitors to fully experience everything there is without overspending.

Arcade Time runs promotions, including a $10 unlimited two-hour game pass and its “Even Happier Hours,” where appetizers are half off and drinks are under $5.

Mandell added that affordability is central to the Arcade Time brand because it encourages repeat visits and attracts more people.

“We’ve really built, not only an entertainment complex that meets the

“What we’ve established in Wellington is something that is going to inform how we construct our arcades moving forward. I really am excited for the people of Wellington to come out and experience it because we are just so incredibly proud of what we built.”

— Doug Mandell of Arcade Time

needs of so many people, but also a center for people to go ahead and socialize with one another in an affordable and accessible way,” he said.

Arcade Time Wellington is one of five locations across Florida, with its Orlando location being named the No.1 arcade in the United States at the 41st Bowling Center Architecture and Design Awards.

This model of combining dining with game-based entertainment has proven to be so popular that the company is looking to open more locations in other states. Each venue is tailored to its individual community, but the Arcade Time in Wellington will be used as a blueprint on how to establish successful locations elsewhere.

“What we’ve established in Wellington is something that is going to inform how we construct our arcades moving forward,” Mandell added. “I really am excited for the people of Wellington to come out and experience it because

we are just so incredibly proud of what we built.”

Mandell said that the response from Wellington residents has been overwhelmingly positive. He explained that Arcade Time is ready to deliver experiences to visitors and is always looking for ways to expand its game offerings.

“We look forward to welcoming in every single guest, and we also look forward to growing with this location,” he said. “This is just the start of what we imagine for Wellington.

Arcade Time is open daily from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. Happy hour specials are available from 8 p.m. until 3 a.m. Special incentives for parties, field trips and corporate events are also available.

Arcade Time Wellington It is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 122, in the Mall at Wellington Green. To learn more about Arcade Time and its offerings, call (561) 247-8463 or visit www. arcadetimeusa.com or follow them on Instagram @arcadetimeusa.

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