WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE – September 2025

MACY’S | DILLARD’S | TOMMY BAHAMA | PANDORA | BRIGHTON

ELLA BELLA | GALTSAND | EYES OF WELLINGTON

volume 22, number 9

executive editor

Joshua I. Manning

publisher

Dawn Rivera

senior graphic designer

Stephanie Rodriguez

graphic designer

Yolanda Cernicky

account managers

Betty Buglio

Evie Edwards

Joetta Palumbo

administration

Shanta Daibee

Jill Kaskel

Carol Lieberman

photography

Frank Koester

Abner Pedraza

contributors

Shannon Anastasio

Jim Barnes

Erin Davisson

Denis Eirikis

Jaime Joshi Elder

Denise Fleischman

Margaret Hunt

Mike May

Fiona Slusarev

Y.A. Teitelbaum

Deborah Welky

WELLINGTON

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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 2025, 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.

PRESENTING THE 2025 OUR WELLINGTON AWARDS

Featured this month, Wellington The Magazine presents the fourth annual Our Wellington Awards, which recognize our neighbors who go above and beyond in service to others. These awards shine a spotlight on local heroes who give generously of their time, energy and talents to uplift and inspire. BY SHANNON ANASTASIO, MIKE MAY AND DEBORAH WELKY

WELLINGTON’S OLDEST PARK GETS A MAKEOVER

Originally built in the 1980s by the Acme Improvement District, a decade before the incorporation of Wellington, what was once Wellington Community Park has recently been renovated into the new South Shore Park. BY MIKE MAY

NEW DOCTOR AT PLASTIC SURGERY OF PALM BEACH

Plastic Surgery of Palm Beach recently announced that Dr. Michael PhilippeAuguste has joined the practice.

JOANA DONOVAN ON THE SECRET OF GETTING HIRED

Joana Donovan of Propel Résumé and Career Services breathes humanity back into the hiring process. From recent college grads to those making a career pivot, she shows clients how to tell their own story. BY FIONA SLUSAREV

MEET THE FAMILY BEHIND WELLINGTON’S AGLIOLIO

Not all Italian restaurants are created equal. In fact, some are truly a cut above the rest, such as Agliolio, a family-run group of restaurants with two locations in Wellington and one in Boynton Beach. BY MIKE MAY

WELLINGTON SOCIAL SCENE

This month, we are proud to present the 2025 Our Wellington Awards, honoring six people who go above and beyond in service to others. This year’s honorees are Marcella Montesinos, who helps students both at the Boys & Girls Club and Palm Beach State College; Walter Imperatore, who has quickly become a key leader in the Rotary Club of Wellington; Sue Bierer, who works to preserve the history of Wellington; Jackie Ducci, featured on our cover, who founded a nonprofit focused on the power of the human-animal connection; Dwayne Brown, who makes a difference on the streets of Wellington every day; and Marty Ross, who engages and uplifts his community with a passion for sports and philanthropy.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look at the recent makeover at Wellington’s oldest park, now known by a new name, South Shore Park. We also chat with Wellington resident Joana Donovan, CEO and founder of Propel Résumé and Career Services, to learn the secret to getting hired in today’s challenging job market. Our Wellington Family series continues with a look at the family behind the popular Agliolio restaurants. In Wellington Today, Village Manager Jim Barnes introduces us to Little Blue, a cute otter who serves as Wellington’s new AI-powered web assistant. Finally, Wellington Table profiles Executive Chef Joshua Crane of luxury senior living community Wellington Bay, who brings a world-class education at Le Cordon Bleu and time at Michelin-starred restaurants to his role. We will return next month with our annual Palm Beach Brides edition, looking at all that will be stylish and popular on the wedding scene in 2026.

Dawn Rivera

Dawn Rivera, Publisher

WELLINGTON TODAY

Wellington honors the past while embracing the future with Little Blue, a cute and cheerful otter powered by artificial intelligence. Using AI, Little Blue helps residents interact with the village through a single click. BY JIM BARNES

WELLINGTON TABLE

From a world-class education at Le Cordon Bleu to working in Michelin-starred restaurants, Chef Joshua Crane of luxury senior living community Wellington Bay is one of Wellington’s best kept secrets. BY JAIME JOSHI ELDER

WCF SUPPORTS MORE THAN 450 STUDENTS AT 2025 BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH

Councilwoman Maria Antuña, Rotarian David Berns, WCF Executive Director Dawn Rivera, Marilyn Berns, WCF Director J.P. Varvarigos, Councilman John McGovern, Wellington Rotary Club President Maria Fernanda Cruz and Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind.

The Wellington Community Foundation hosted its successful Back-to-School Bash on Saturday, July 26 at the Wellington Community Center. The event provided essential school supplies to Wellington students and their families. With a turnout of more than 450 students, this year’s event was a success, delivering backpacks, supplies, uniforms, sneakers, socks, food and entertainment. The event brought together local organizations, businesses and volunteers to ensure that every student was equipped with the tools needed for a successful academic year. The event also featured an array of fun entertainment options, ensuring that the day was as much about community bonding as it was about giving. The Kona Ice truck was on hand to provide refreshing frozen treats, while Chik-fil-A offered a variety of sandwiches and gift cards. Key support was provided by the village’s Community Services Department and the Rotary Club of Wellington. With continued community support, the Wellington Community Foundation aims to ensure that every child in need has the tools to thrive academically. To learn more about the foundation and get involved in upcoming events, visit them at www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

Beautiful, Healthy You!

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH and Associates

Brad P. Glick, DO, MPH, FAAD

Irina Milman, DO, FAAD

Paloma Reiter, DO, FAAD

Justin Rubin, DO, FAAD

Sheril Campbell, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

Brianna Victoria, LA, MA

(Licensed Aesthetician)

MURDER MYSTERY EVENT BRINGS INTRIGUE TO MALL AT WELLINGTON GREEN

The Village of Wellington collaborated with the Mall at Wellington Green on Saturday, July 19 for a summertime murder mystery dinner event. Standing Room Only Productions kept the crowd in suspense with their performance of “Murder at the Masquerade.” The interactive murder mystery gave guests the chance to be a part of the performance and dress in their best masquerade-themed attire. The sold-out performance held at the Mall at Wellington Green included drinks, dancing, dinner, a costume contest, and, of course, murder.

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

• Private luxury suites with queen size beds

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birthing classes

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

EVENT AT MALL CELEBRATES MORE THAN 150 WELLINGTON-AREA EDUCATORS

The Mall at Wellington Green, in partnership with the Wellington Community Foundation and the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, hosted its second annual teacher appreciation event “A Toast to Teachers” on Friday, Aug. 1, celebrating local educators with a back-to-school celebration. More than 150 public school teachers gathered for the event, which featured a fashion show, brunch bites and mimosas provided by SandyJames Catering, several raffles from mall retailers, a DJ and more. Retailers featured in the fashion show included Torrid, Tommy Bahama, Zales, Dillard’s, Chico’s and Francesca’s. The fashion show showcased the latest back-to-school styles — modeled by the teachers themselves.

Discover the Future of Healing at Wellington Orthopedic Institute

Pioneering Regenerative Medicine Institute with Dr. Mikolajczak

Accelerate Your Recovery Naturally – No

In the world of orthopedic medicine, innovative treatments are revolutionizing how we address injuries and degenerative conditions. Dr. Mikolajczak a distinguished orthopedic surgeon, is at the forefront of this movement, integrating cutting-edge regenerative medicine techniques to help patients heal naturally, without the need for invasive surgeries.

At Wellington Orthopedic Institute, we believe in the body’s innate ability to heal itself.

Through advanced techniques like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M), and Exosomes, Dr. Mikolajczak helps patients heal faster, reduce pain, and regain mobility— without invasive surgery.

At Wellington Orthopedic Institute we believe in the body’s innate ability to recover. By optimizing this natural healing process, we provide non-invasive treatments that allow you to return to a pain-free, active life sooner. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or recovering from an injury, our regenerative therapies help restore balance and function.

THESE THERAPIES HELP YOU AVOID SURGERY, REDUCE RECOVERY TIME, AND GET YOU BACK TO LIVING YOUR LIFE WITH MINIMAL DOWNTIME.

Surgery Needed!

Benefits of Our Regenerative Treatments:

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and promotes tissue repair—effective for tendon injuries, arthritis, and ligament sprains.

A2M (Alpha-2-Macroglobulin): Protects cartilage, reduces inflammation, and slows degeneration in osteoarthritis, helping to preserve joint function.

• Exosomes: Stimulate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation, enhancing recovery from soft tissue injuries and improving cartilage repair.

Ready to Restore Your Health Naturally?

Contact us today at Wellington Orthopedic Institute to schedule your consultation with Dr. Mikolajczak. Let’s take the next step toward your recovery!

Dr. Mikolajczak and his team at Wellington Orthopedic Institute are ready to help you unlock the full potential of your body’s healing capabilities. With regenerative medicine, you can experience faster recovery, improved mobility, and reduced pain—all while avoiding invasive procedures.

Why Choose Dr. Mikolajczak and Wellington Orthopedic Institute?

Cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments tailored to your unique needs. Proven success in helping patients accelerate healing and reduce pain.

• A commitment to your long-term health and well-being.

Leah Saporito, PA-C

Crash Zone: Why This Intersection Is Raising Red Flags

By: Michael Pike, Managing Partner

As Wellington continues to grow, traffic safety is becoming a serious concern. In 2023 alone, Palm Beach County reported 67 fatalities and over 320 serious injuries from intersection crashes, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. These numbers emphasize the very real risks drivers face every day on our roads.

One of the most dangerous intersections is the corner of State Road 7 (US 441) and Forest Hill Boulevard. This location consistently ranks near the top of crash statistics due to heavy traffic volumes, according to Palm Beach County transportation studies. The nearby shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues add to the congestion, making this intersection a frequent site of accidents. When you factor in distracted driving, speeding, and running red lights, it becomes a hazardous area for both motorists and pedestrians.

your injury claim. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we guide accident victims through the legal process, helping them understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Despite ongoing efforts to improve road safety, accidents still happen. If you’re involved in a crash, it’s crucial to stay calm and follow the right steps: document the scene, collect witness information, and seek medical care promptly. Be cautious about what you say or post on social media — discussing fault or sharing accident details online can hurt

If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident in Wellington or anywhere else in Palm Beach County, don’t wait. Contact Pike & Lustig, LLP today for a free consultation and trusted guidance every step of the way.

WELLINGTON PARTY IN THE PARK BRIGHTENS FINAL WEEK OF SUMMER BREAK

On Friday, Aug. 1, the Village of Wellington held its fourth annual Back to School Party in the Park at the Wellington Amphitheater with a wide variety of activities for children, such as bounce houses, dance parties, and games like bean bag tossing and giant Jenga. Food trucks and more were available for hungry families, and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue were on hand with vehicles to visit. The event was sponsored by the Christopher Aguirre Memorial Foundation. To learn more, visit www. christophermemorial.org.

Honoring The People Who Make This Community Our Wellington!

Once again this year, we are thrilled to unveil the outstanding individuals chosen to be honored in the Our Wellington Awards 2025, our annual celebration of compassion, commitment and community spirit.

Featured in this month’s issue of Wellington The Magazine, we mark our fourth annual presentation of the Our Wellington Awards to recognize our neighbors who go above and beyond in service to others. These awards shine a spotlight on local heroes who give generously of their time, energy and talents to uplift and inspire. Each honoree this year reflects the very best of what it means to have a deeply rooted desire to make a difference in the Wellington community.

After careful consideration of many inspiring submissions, our editorial team is proud to present this year’s honorees: Marcella Montesinos, who helps students both at the Boys & Girls Club and Palm Beach State College; “serial volunteer” Walter Imperatore, who has quickly become a key leader in the Rotary Club of Wellington; retired teacher Sue Bierer, works to preserve the history of Wellington; equestrian Jackie Ducci, who founded a nonprofit focused on the power of the human-animal connection; “top cop” Dwayne Brown, who makes a difference on the streets of Wellington every day; and Marty Ross, who engages and uplifts his community with a passion for sports and philanthropy.

All of these everyday citizens saw and answered the call — not for recognition, but out of genuine care for their community. Their stories, featured in this special section, highlight what makes Wellington not just a beautiful place to live, but a vibrant and giving hometown full of heart.

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who took the time to nominate an extraordinary Wellington neighbor. Your nominations sparked awareness, encouraged hope and celebrated selfless service across our community. Congratulations to this year’s honorees! Your impact is real, and your legacy will continue to inspire.

Congratulations To Our 2025 Recipients

MARCELLA MONTESINOS HELPS STUDENTS, BOTH AT THE LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUB AND PALM BEACH STATE COLLEGE MARCELLA MONTESINOS

During the day, Marcella Montesinos serves as the director of the Dr. Floyd F. Koch Honors College at Palm Beach State College. After hours, she spends much of her volunteer time serving on the board of directors of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington.

That is in addition, of course, to her role as mother to daughters Emily, Gabby and Olivia, and wife to Dr. Tyson Tabora, a local podiatrist.

At home, her oldest daughter, Emily, is a senior at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, while her two younger daughters, Gabby and Olivia, are enrolled at Wellington Landings Middle School.

According to Montesinos, one of the highlights of being a mother has been her involvement with the local Girl Scouts.

“I was able to be a troop leader for a few years for Troop 24217 with my daughters in Wellington. That was fun,” Montesinos said. “I would have loved to have been a Girl Scout, but my parents didn’t know much about these things when they immigrated to the U.S. in the 1970s.”

Montesinos, a native of Palm Beach County, has had roots in Wellington since 1987. While at Wellington High School, she met her future husband during their senior year. Both graduated from WHS in 1997 and later wed in 2005.

Montesinos graduated from the University of Central Florida, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational communication. After college, work opportunities took her to Washington, D.C., where she worked at the Washington Workshops Foundation, which focused on educating young students through experiential learning and empowering them to be impactful citizens.

In the early 2000s, she returned to South Florida, earning a master’s degree in management with a focus on leadership from Nova Southeastern University in 2005.

Montesinos has worked at Palm Beach State College since 2003, and she has served as director of the Dr. Floyd F. Koch Honors College for last 15 years. It’s a job which she has referred to as “a privilege to oversee.”

“The Honors College has given me far more than a professional role. It has given me a true sense of community,” said Montesinos, who is also a graduate of Palm Beach State College. “As the director of the college-wide program, it is a privilege to guide students who dare to ‘dream big’ and to support their development into thoughtful, compassionate future leaders. It is deeply meaningful to be part of their journey as an alumnus.”

The Honors College is a program that focuses on its commitment to academic excellence and service learning. It serves more than 380 students and provides nearly $200,000 in scholarships for students who are studying at Palm Beach State College.

The Boys & Girls Club also has special meaning to Montesinos.

“My brother, Marcelo, was part of the Boys Club of Palm Beach County in the 1980s, and the club was a true anchor for our family while my parents worked so many hours,” Montesinos said. “Seeing the impact of the club first-hand, it inspired me to give back to an organization that provided so much for us, to help create the same kind of support and opportunity for other families.”

As a result, Montesinos has been a member of the board of directors of the Boys & Girls Club in Wellington since 2018. She served as the chair from 2022 to 2024.

In addition to serving on the board, Montesinos has carved out her own niche at the local club.

“A couple years ago, I created the birthday club at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club to celebrate our kids monthly,” Montesinos said. “Nothing makes me smile more than to see their smiles and get excited about their birthday month. I have become the ‘birthday lady,’ which I am very proud of!”

When she gets a break from her duties at home and at work, Montesinos enjoys unwinding with a good movie or book. “I appreciate the simple moments that bring balance to a busy life,” Montesinos said. “I try my best to slow down but truly enjoy being part of my community in any way I can to serve.”

The Vision

Care You Trust You Want,

WALTER IMPERATORE

‘SERIAL VOLUNTEER’ WALTER IMPERATORE HAS QUICKLY BECOME A KEY LEADER IN THE ROTARY CLUB OF WELLINGTON

Walter Imperatore was born on the day, month and year that Disneyland opened, although he insists that he was not named after that other famous Walt. This Walter spent his youth in Whitestone and Port Washington, N.Y., and earned a degree in public relations and advertising from Syracuse University.

He put those communication skills to use in the real estate field, managing a diverse private real estate portfolio, serving as global director of real estate for a Fortune 100 company, and providing commercial brokerage, consulting and development planning.

Imperatore has been involved with Rotary International all his adult life, currently serving as immediate past president of the Wellington Rotary Club. Before relocating to Wellington five years ago, he was president of the Rotary Club of Oyster Bay, vice president and treasurer of the Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce, and held several leadership roles in the Coast Guard Auxiliary. He moved to Wellington in April 2020, just at the start of the pandemic.

“Our kids were in their early 20s then, and when [wife] Joan and I told them we were moving to Florida, they came back to us and said they would come down here, too,” Imperatore recalled. “My son Jake [now 30] and daughter Katie [now 28] both moved to within a mile of our new Florida home.”

It was not Imperatore’s years of real estate experience nor months of scouting South Florida locales that brought him to Wellington. “Wellington didn’t pop up on any radar,” he said. “I was lucky, and I’ve always said I’d rather be lucky than smart.”

In 2021, Imperatore transferred his Rotary membership to Wellington, and got involved helping people struggling during the pandemic.

“We did weekly food distribution out of the Mall at Wellington Green,” said Imperatore, who described himself as a “serial volunteer.” “We were all masked-up and wore gloves. It was very restrictive and uncomfortable, but a worthwhile effort.”

As the pandemic receded, Imperatore became more immersed than ever in Rotary activities and soon found him-

self on the board. Earlier this year, he worked with the village to develop the Flags of Wellington program, honoring not only military personnel but also civilian achievements.

“In Wellington, the flags aren’t strictly dedicated to memorials, but are also about spirit and community, so the message is broader,” Imperatore explained. “They range from people who have been in the service to congratulating a family member.”

Imperatore said both the village and local scouts helped with the effort. “The scouts were phenomenal,” he said. “When we were putting the flags up, they were a huge part of that.”

Rotary and the village work together on many projects, something that adds immeasurably to the community feel of the town.

“It’s a win-win,” Imperatore said. “When the tornado went through Wellington in 2024, the village had a plan and resources, but they reached out to Rotary to help. We created a tornado relief fund, partnering with other organizations, and were able to help our residents with everything from debris removal to gift cards to help for first responders. It was a pretty broad program, considering the frenetic pace at which it was created. In some cases, we merely served as a portal for people who didn’t know that village resources were available.”

Imperatore recalled the story of a son pulling his father into their safe room just as a tornado breached the house and tried to suck them out. “The general theme was that people felt like a freight train was going right past,” Imperatore said. “Someone who had served in the military said it felt like explosions going off around him… Myself, I watched the tornado from my home on Lake Wellington. It was like watching The Wizard of Oz. It was really formidable.”

He is also involved in Rotary’s exchange program. “We have a youth exchange program where we send 8,000 students from one country to another for either a short summer program or the entire school year,” Imperatore said. “Watching the looks on those kids’ faces as they participate in this thing, it is so rewarding — it’s an impact point in their lives.”

Learn more about the Rotary Club of Wellington at www. wellingtonrotary.org.

A 46-YEAR RESIDENT, RETIRED TEACHER SUE BIERER WORKS TO PRESERVE THE HISTORY OF WELLINGTON SUE BIERER

Sue Bierer has been serving as the president of the Wellington Historical Society since 2023, which is apropos, since she herself is a perfect example of how Wellington began.

Bierer graduated from Maine South High School in Illinois and was working as a teacher when she agreed to meet some friends for dinner at a restaurant in the Gould Inc. building where they worked.

“I very unexpectedly met Bill Ylvisaker and his No. 2 man, George Millington, who were both in the restaurant at the time,” Bierer recalled. “I started talking to George, and told him I was a teacher, but that I was trying to get a job in Florida because I had been reading Chronicle of the Horse, and there was a tiny little article about a superb new facility opening in the Palm Beaches called Palm Beach Polo & Country Club in a town called Wellington.”

As an equestrian, this fascinated her. “I had been riding all my life, as well as showing hunters and jumpers around the Midwest, and I told him I’d love to move there and bring my horse, but I didn’t have any contacts,” Bierer continued. “That’s when he said, ‘We own it.’ He set me up for interviews at Palm Beach Polo.”

It was a dream come true! She and her horse moved to Wellington in the fall of 1979 and started working in the PR department at the old Palm Beach Polo stadium building. (“It broke my heart when they tore it down,” she said.) Her fiancé, Leonard, followed a few months later. They married and have one daughter, Kendall.

Back then, while Bierer’s horse stayed in the show barn, she was busy coordinating visiting VIP groups and celebrities.

“Merv Griffin had a unit there, Zsa Zsa Gabor had a unit there, and others just came to enjoy the social atmosphere and be ‘seen’ — Joan Collins, Jane Seymour, Sonny Bono... Prince Charles came to play polo, and later he brought Lady Di,” she continued.

Eventually, Bierer realized that she missed teaching and went back to it, teaching at Wellington Elementary School from 1985 until she retired in 2012, 27 years in all.

Then, in 2018, avid reader Bierer saw another small item that piqued her interest.

“There was an announcement in the Town-Crier, asking people who were interested in preserving the history of Wellington to a meeting,” Bierer said. “Len and I went, since we’d watched Wellington grow since 1979. There were a lot of people there. Later that month, I got a call from Maureen Budjinski, who asked me to be on the all-volunteer board of the Wellington Historical Society. We held our first board retreat on March 24, 2018. Laurie Cohen was the president for years and is still very involved but, when she stepped down, I took over in 2023.”

Bierer said that getting the history of Wellington included in the local fourth-grade social studies curriculum as one of the nonprofit’s greatest accomplishments.

“Together, with other teachers from Wellington schools, we worked for years to put together a PowerPoint presentation to present to the Palm Beach County School Board. It covered Wellington’s origins from the Seminole Indians to the present day. They suggested changes, it was reformatted and, finally, it was approved and implemented in all fourth-grade classes,” Bierer said. “We picked fourth grade because they do a unit on Florida Studies. It has been very well received. Teachers enjoy teaching it, and the kids love it. No other schools in Palm Beach County teach the history of their community, although the school board has told us that they wish they would.”

Another important initiative launched by the Wellington Historical Society is its Oral Histories archive. “This highlights many of Wellington’s pioneers who were instrumental in our early formative years and is available for viewing through www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org,” Bierer said. “There’s a plethora of wonderful interviews there.”

The Wellington Historical Society also hosts “Lunch and Learn” talks and several mixers each year. “And every group needs volunteers,” she said. “It’s only $35 to become a member, and we need to raise awareness that we even exist.”

Learn more about the Wellington Historical Society at www. wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

160+ programs of study, including associate and bachelor’s degrees, and professional certificate programs.

40,000 students attend PBSC, the largest higher education institution in the county, with online options and five campus locations.

500 industry partners focused on fields such as artificial intelligence, engineering technology, cybersecurity, and nursing.

$1.4 billion impact on the county’s economy, which is the equivalent of supporting more than 18,100 jobs.

JACKIE DUCCI RUNS A NONPROFIT THAT FOCUSES ON THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF THE HUMAN-ANIMAL CONNECTION JACKIE DUCCI

Jackie Ducci’s life embodies purposeful leadership and meaningful service. As the founder of the Human-Animal Alliance, she aims to redefine how modern nonprofits operate — merging business expertise with philanthropy to share the transformative power of the human-animal connection.

“In many ways, my entire life has been connected to this cause,” Ducci explained. “Animals have been my primary source of comfort and strength since childhood. I founded the HumanAnimal Alliance in 2022 to help others experience the same life-changing connections. I am very proud of what the organization does, but the animals are the true stars.”

Ducci awards grants to high impact, often overlooked organizations nationwide. These funds support two key areas: programs that offer animal-assisted therapy and initiatives that help keep pets with the people who love them.

“Through our grantmaking, we reach thousands of peo ple and animals each year,” Ducci said. “Since our founding, we have awarded 21 grants totaling nearly $350,000, with an additional $100,000 expected before the end of 2025. These funds have supported a wide range of animal-assisted therapy programs for grieving children, women in crisis, first responders, at-risk youth, survivors of human trafficking and more. Our grants have also funded pet retention services from families at risk of losing their animals due to financial hardship, military service, domestic violence situations and natural disasters. Every dollar we contribute to these remarkable programs directly touches human and animal lives.”

Ducci grew up on a farm in northwest Connecticut, where her passion for animals developed at a young age.

“My entire family is from that area, and it was a wonderful place to call home during childhood,” she said. “Since then, I have lived in various cities on the East Coast, including New York and Washington, D.C., where I earned my bachelor’s degree from the Catholic University of America.”

Today, she is settled year-round in Wellington with her horses Westley and Teddy, and her bulldogs Ralphie and Sadie. She has been a full-time Wellington resident for the past five years. Aside from her philanthropic work, she is a United

States Dressage Federation gold medalist. “I compete in FEI-level dressage, and also dabble in some low-level show jumping,” Ducci said. “I wouldn’t trade living here for the world. It is a remarkable community that blends the excitement of the global equestrian scene with a small-town spirit and wonderful, animal-loving people. My only regret is not moving here sooner.”

Through the alliance, Ducci helps animals, uplifts trauma survivors and strengthens families in crisis. But it’s not just what she does, but how she does it. Ducci personally funds all the overhead, so every dollar donated by the public directly supports programming and impacts human and animal lives. She applies a rigorous vetting process to ensure that funding reaches exceptional grassroots partners.

Ducci’s personal connection to horses goes back to her childhood. “As a child, I was naturally very quiet and struggled with social anxiety. Horses were my safe place,” she said. “They accepted me without judgment and taught me that my value had nothing to do with how much I spoke, and everything to do with who I was at my core. That tremendous life lesson salvaged my self-esteem during my early years and ultimately shaped me into the person I am today. The HumanAnimal Alliance was born from a desire to enable others to experience similar transformative connections and uncondi-

Ducci’s career history is equally dynamic: from entrepreneur, talent acquisition expert, author and podcast host to nonprofit leader and advocate, she has built a platform for change that is both strategic and meaningful, proving that philanthropy can be precise, powerful and personal.

Her favorite way to unwind is enjoying downtime with her bulldogs, ideally with a Netflix show on TV and a glass of wine in her hand. “I also love my friends and prioritize quality time with the people I love most, including my fiancé, Mark,” Ducci said, adding that she also loves a good escape room. “I am an escape room enthusiast and have completed nearly 100 rooms! I enjoy the challenge of solving puzzles under pressure and the teamwork it inspires.”

Learn more about Ducci’s nonprofit at www.h-aa.org.

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‘TOP COP’ DWAYNE BROWN MAKES A DIFFERENCE ON THE STREETS OF WELLINGTON EVERY DAY DWAYNE BROWN

FLEISCHMAN

Every law enforcement agency needs a Dwayne Brown. Fortunately for Wellington, Brown works for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and he’s often seen patrolling Wellington. The daily physical presence of Brown helps keep Wellington such a great place to live, work and play.

Brown’s affiliation with the PBSO started in July 1998 as a drill instructor with the Eagle Academy in Belle Glade.

“I worked with at-risk youth. We worked on getting their lives going in the right direction,” said Brown, now 61. “We used exercise, physical training and various drills to get their attention. It worked. Nowadays, many of those individuals see me, and they thank me for helping them.”

In 2003, Brown became a sworn deputy. For more than 20 years, he has served the residents of Palm Beach County with distinction. In addition to patrolling Wellington, he is a frequent volunteer at many community events and is involved with the Wellington Rotary. His years of service just recently got him recognized as Wellington’s “Top Cop” for 2025.

In addition to his patrols, he makes appearances at schools.

“At the elementary and middle schools, the kids love to meet the cops,” said Brown, who feels he makes the biggest difference in his job with children. “Kids like coming up to me to tell me what they are doing. All kids need guidance and love.”

Brown truly feels his presence in Wellington is important. “I want to make a positive difference in the lives of kids and their families. I like to bring peace to a crisis,” said Brown, who once worked as a SWAT negotiator.

The foundation of Brown’s success can be traced to his six years in the U.S. Marine Corps. After boot camp, he traveled the world to protect American freedoms at home. “I was in Europe six times, in Africa six times and based on three different naval ships,” said Brown, who served from 1982 to 1988.

He rose to the rank of corporal, and Brown’s military experience was filled with positive memories. “I enjoyed my time as a U.S. Marine,” he said.

Brown’s transition to the PBSO would never have happened had it not been for a job he took. “Pratt & Whitney was advertising for somebody to work on its jet engine program who had a military background. I felt that I was qualified,” Brown recalled. “I applied for the job.”

That brought him to Palm Beach County, and he worked on a variety of military jet engines. Unfortunately, after a few years, those military contracts were not renewed, which meant it was time for Brown to find a new professional opportunity. “I had a wife and children at home, plus a mortgage,” Brown said. “I needed a new job.”

He initially did some substitute teaching, before he saw an ad for a PBSO position. As they say, the rest is history.

“In my job, every day is different,” said Brown, who has drawn his gun on many occasions, but only pulled the trigger once.

When he’s not on patrol, Brown is busy helping his family run a foundation focused on sarcoma cancer awareness in memory of his late wife, Juliet, who died of sarcoma cancer.

“In 2021, we started the Julie B. Foundation,” Brown said. “Over the last four years, with the support of generous donors, we have been able to award scholarships to individuals who have been impacted by cancer, in addition to providing care packages to hospitalized cancer patients during the holidays.”

Brown’s 27-year-old daughter Jaelyn leads the foundation. Learn more at www.thejuliebfoundation.org.

In his spare time, Brown likes to exercise and work on his vehicles. “I have a 2017 convertible Corvette. It’s a dark charcoal color with a red interior. I also have a 1987 silver champagne-like coupe Corvette and a Harley-Davidson Ultra Glide motorcycle,” Brown said. “I drive them on sunny weekend days. They are a stress reliever.”

Brown is also a fan of opera, and he plays the saxophone. While Brown has been living in Palm Beach County since the 1980s, he grew up in Sarasota.

“In high school, I played in the band in the fall, played basketball in the winter and I was a designated hitter on the baseball team in the spring,” Brown said.

MARTY ROSS ENGAGES AND UPLIFTS HIS COMMUNITY WITH A PASSION FOR SPORTS AND PHILANTHROPY MARTY ROSS

Marty Ross, a fixture at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club, is passionate about maintaining a positive mental attitude and contributing to the active lifestyle in his community.

“My two favorite expressions are ‘great-fantastic’ and ‘positive-posi tive-positive,’ which I use every day,” Ross said. “Those are my guideline words for life.”

Ross is passionate about the power of positivity, and he firmly believes that the primary purpose of playing sports is not to see who wins or loses. Instead, it allows you to positively im pact and connect with people, often for a good cause.

“Sports have always come easy to me, and I was an above-average ath lete,” said Ross, now 84. “For me, play ing sports was a big part of growing up in New York. I grew up in The Bronx. I was a big fan of the Yankees, the Knicks and the Giants football team. Joe DiMaggio was my idol. I was the captain of my high school tennis team at DeWitt Clinton High School.”

These days, there is very little that takes place at Wycliffe that doesn’t involve Ross and his positive mental attitude. He keeps busy connecting Wycliffe residents with one an other by organizing, promoting and participating in many athletic activities.

As a participant, he plays golf, tennis, pickleball, bocce and stickball throughout the year. For many of his daily ac tivities and initiatives, Ross has the assistance and support of his wife, Harriet, whom he married more than 60 years ago.

“I couldn’t have done all that I have done without the support of my wife,” Ross said. “She’s been a great partner and teammate in life.”

They raised their two daughters, Leslie and Alison, in Westchester County, N.Y. Marty worked for 36 years as a professional sales consultant in the wholesale distribution of paper products. They moved to Wycliffe on Aug. 31, 2000.

Ross’ first big initiative was starting the Wycliffe Stiffs Stickball League in the fall of 2002, which earned him his nickname, “The Commish.” Every year, the Wycliffe Stiffs

play from November to April on Tuesday afternoons in a corner of Wellington’s Village Park, nicknamed Stickball Boulevard South. It’s an extension of Ross’ childhood, where he played stickball on the streets and school yards of New York. Similar to baseball, stickball uses a long, thin stick and a small, soft rubber ball. In stickball, players don’t run the bases. Instead, there are lines on the playing surface to indicate whether a hit is a single, double, triple or a home run.

“Our stickball league creates goodwill, happiness, fun and competition,” Ross said. “Stickball is now being played at Stickball Boulevard South, which is 1,221 miles from Brooklyn. This league was my vision.”

Ross gives thanks to the Wellington Parks & Recreation Department for supporting the league, which will open its 24th season in

“When I had this vision, I was lucky to get in touch with Wellington Parks & Recreation to get their help,” he said.

One of Ross’s biggest fans is State Rep. Anne Gerwig, the

“Marty actually introduced me to stickball,” Gerwig said. “It was amazing to watch the happiest retired men reliving their youth with the added life’s experience along the way. He didn’t know me, and he was a little worried that the new mayor would not be interested in continuing this sport’s inclusion at Village Park. I couldn’t have enjoyed it more… Getting to know him and Harriet has made life so much better.”

In tennis, Ross founded the annual Wycliffe Generations Tennis Tournament, held in December. He also started an early-bird tennis program on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Wycliffe for anybody who wants to improve. “In sports, I love the interaction and socializing with people,” Ross said.

In addition, Ross has strong philanthropic goals. Two causes that Marty and Harriet enjoy supporting are the Wycliffe Charities Foundation and the Israel Tennis & Education Centers.

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MARTY ROSS

MARTY ROSS ENGAGES AND UPLIFTS HIS COMMUNITY WITH A PASSION FOR SPORTS AND PHILANTHROPY

This year, the Wycliffe Charities Foundation distributed approximately $325,000 to 33 different nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach County.

ITEC provides a safe haven for at-risk children in Israel. For the last eight years, an ITEC delegation of tennis players has visited Wycliffe every March for a major fundraiser, thanks to the work of Marty and Harriet, along with fellow Wycliffe residents Steve and Ellen Wechsler.

At the 24 ITEC centers scattered around Israel, tennis is used to successfully bridge gaps between children of different backgrounds, while promoting diversity, enhancing life skills and transforming lives.

“At ITEC, we feel honored and fortunate to have Marty Ross as our ambassador for the last eight years in his beautiful community of Wycliffe,” explained Yoni Yair, vice president of development for ITEC. “Marty and his wife

Harriet play a vital role in leading our campaigns there, and I’m continually inspired by their extraordinary commitment, passion and dedication to our meaningful work. Marty’s efforts in sharing our story and engaging the Wycliffe community are truly remarkable. The number of people he’s able to recruit and inspire to engage with our mission is absolutely exceptional and unique. Through his leadership, we’ve raised a significant amount of meaningful funds that directly benefit the children of Israel and support our mission.”

There’s no doubt that next March’s ITEC event at Wycliffe, and other charitable endeavors there, will continue to be successful, thanks to leadership, passion and positive mental attitude of Marty Ross.

“We’re always on call to help local causes,” Ross said. “We’re always willing to pitch in to help.”

South Shore Park: Wellington’s Oldest Park Gets A Much-Needed Upgrade

STORY BY MIKE MAY | PHOTOS COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

Wellington Community Park has experienced a major physical transformation and a name change. It is now called South Shore Park. Located at 3401 South Shore Blvd., the property’s life as a park dates back to 1986. Developed by the Acme Improvement District and Palm Beach County a decade before incorporation, it was the first facility to offer organized recreational programs to young residents of the fledgling Wellington community.

For years, the park served as the original home of the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, as well as one of the main venues for organized youth baseball practices and games in Wellington. For many years, the property was the recreational epicenter of life in Wellington for young families and their athletically inclined children.

In 2013, the Boys & Girls Club moved to a new location on Wellington Trace. As for all those evening baseball practices and games, they have moved to other locations in the Village of Wellington, such as the fields at Wellington’s Village Park, Tiger Shark Cove Park and Olympia Park.

While there were still fields at the old Community Park, they were not in

the best of shape and sorely in need of an upgrade.

In recent years, the newly formed Wellington Sports Academy was slated to be built at Community Park, but plans changed, and it’s now nearing completion near the southern entrance to Wellington’s Village Park, off 120th Avenue South.

Instead, Wellington decided to give the fields a much-needed upgrade, and in June, the village celebrated the grand re-opening of South Shore Park. On that day, there were many recreational activities available for children to do and enjoy that showcased the variety of events and activities that can and will be staged at South Shore Park in the near future.

According to Wellington Parks & Recreation Director Eric Juckett, the grand re-opening was popular, funfilled and well-attended.

“We had our entire summer camp attend, along with various other Wellington staff, the Wellington Village Council and other dignitaries,” Juckett said. “I would say about 300 people attended.”

The new South Shore Park — which has two entrances and exits off South

Shore Blvd. — has more than seven acres of open-play multipurpose fields, two practice baseball fields, two lighted basketball courts, a new restroom building and plenty of open green space, which is perfect for family fun. At the moment, both baseball fields have two batting practice cages situated around their respective home plates.

The parking lot has also been up-

graded and resurfaced to make the park more accessible to visitors and their vehicles. The parking lot has four spaces for handicapped drivers and two slots for golf carts, which is fitting for Wellington.

South Shore Park is currently open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to sunset, though the two full-court basketball courts have lights and are open

from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.

The athletic fields and basketball courts are currently open for use, but there are no organized teams playing on the grass fields on a regular basis.

“We have no organized teams playing here,” Juckett said. “This is an openplay facility.”

From a safety perspective, it’s nice to know that Palm Beach County FireRescue Station Number 27 is located immediately adjacent to the park, just in case there’s an emergency on-site.

The newly renovated South Shore Park is a great example of Wellington’s ongoing commitment to creating safe and family-friendly venues for its residents to enjoy and be physically active.

Just as the original Wellington Community Park was the backdrop for great memories for young families in the early days, the newly named and renovated South Shore Park will serve the same purpose for Wellington’s current and future families and their children.

Learn more about Wellington park facilities at www.wellingtonfl.gov/parks.

Plastic Surgery Of Palm Beach Welcomes Dr. Michael Philippe-Auguste

Plastic Surgery of Palm Beach recently announced that Dr. Michael PhilippeAuguste has joined the practice, bringing advanced training and comprehensive expertise in both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.

Philippe-Auguste is board certified in general surgery and board eligible in plastic surgery. He completed his plastic surgery residency and fellowship at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, a nationally recognized training program. He completed his general surgery training at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. He earned his bachelor’s degree in biology with honors from the University of Miami and received his medical degree from the Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C.

Philippe-Auguste holds memberships in the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Association. He has also completed advanced training with Allergan Aesthetics for injectable treatments.

He will maintain hospital privileges at Wellington Regional Medical Center, JFK Medical Center, Jupiter Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center and St. Mary’s Medical Cen-

ter, providing both cosmetic and reconstructive surgical care to patients across Palm Beach County.

Philippe-Auguste has participated in medical mission trips providing surgical procedure services to underserved communities in Haiti. He also has participated in providing free advocacy, education and lifestyle modification services to improve the quality of life of patients.

Beyond his medical career, PhilippeAuguste has played the violin for more than 20 years, enjoys cooking and is an avid basketball enthusiast. He speaks fluent French and Creole.

Philippe-Auguste is excited to reunite with family, friends, colleagues and patients in Palm Beach County, where he grew up. He will be seeing patients at both Plastic Surgery of Palm Beach office locations in Wellington and West Palm Beach.

Clients are welcome to come in and meet Dr. Michael Philippe-Auguste. Cosmetic consultations are free to learn more about cosmetic fillers, lasers and cosmetic surgical or non-surgical options. Insurance consultations are also welcome.

To learn more, call (561) 968-7111 or visit www.plasticsurgerypb.com. Follow Plastic Surgery of Palm Beach on Instagram @plasticsurgeryofpb or Facebook @plasticsurgerypalmbeach.

Don’t Go It Alone: Joana Donovan On The Secret Of Getting Hired In Today’s Market

BY FIONA SLUSAREV

It’s said that it takes a village to raise a child, but how many people does it take to get one person hired? In a time where online job boards seem to have never-ending position listings, each seemingly already inundated with hundreds of applications, it is easy to feel lost when looking for work.

Wellington’s own Joana Donovan, CEO and founder of Propel Résumé and Career Services, breathes humanity back into the hiring process. From recent college graduates to those making a career pivot in later life, Donovan shows her clients how to tell their own story through résumés, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles.

Growing up in New York as the daughter of immigrants from Brazil and Tunisia, Donovan’s life-long passion for learning was ignited as she learned

English watching Sesame Street with her family. She credits her upbringing for making her “resilient and scrappy,” both necessary traits for her careers in real estate and finance.

Returning to school, she earned her bachelor’s degree in English in 2022 from the University of Central Florida. In that same year, Propel was launched. From her previous gift basket business based in Wellington, Donovan knew the community would embrace Propel with open arms. She believes the small-town feel of Wellington to be integral to the success of her business.

“I think that Wellington has deep roots, and people value those deep roots,” Donovan said. “And that’s the foundation of how they bring in newcomers, like myself. They continue to grow that foundation.”

Donovan believes that Wellington’s community connection is unique; it is not something she experienced living in New York or New Jersey.

“There is a protective barrier around the town that enriches other people who live [here],” she explained. “They give back to people who live in town. They’re super supportive. No matter who you meet — whether you’re part of an organization or you’re not, I think it’s like a small-town feel, even though we are growing.”

It is this sense of interconnectedness that translates into Donovan’s mission at Propel. She is a strong advocate for networking whenever possible. Simple, everyday conversations might introduce you to a new opportunity you had never thought of.

“Sometimes those discussions, the

conversations that you have with people, lead to opportunities, and that networking piece, to me, is the most valuable,” Donovan explained.

While artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to sort résumés, and large numbers of candidates vie for a single position, human interaction stands out. Donovan noted that, “You have to speak to people. You can’t just submit and hope that it sticks. You have to go the extra mile.”

Also, there must be something about you individually that makes you a unique asset. That is, you must have a personal brand. Creating this narrative for employers can be daunting. Donovan is able to meet each client where they are. She shows them how to create their own professional story.

“If you don’t know who you are, and you don’t know what your brand is, neither will the reader,” she said.

At Propel, Donovan shows her clients how to see themselves in a new light. Seemingly mundane tasks are reframed as evidence for personal brands. She reflects on an administration worker’s self-described day: “I came in. I answered the phone. I left.” Donovan works to help the client parse through what they actually do. “They never take a step back and look down at themselves to identify what do they actually bring to the table,” she said.

Organic conversation between Donovan and her clients forms the

backbone of Propel. She is invested in discovering what makes each individual tick and what motivates them to get out of bed in the morning. For her, simply rewriting a résumé isn’t enough; she is telling her client’s story.

However, clients have to put in the work. They need to critically engage with the moving pieces of their identity and professional history. Donovan is here to show them how, and to prompt them to reimagine who they are. “They help me, help them, find their brand and their voice,” she explained.

It is this connection to her clients that uniquely positions Donovan as a professional storyteller and advocate. She is able to market job applicants in a more holistic way. They are not just a summary of skills; they are a complete person. Her clients aren’t trying to match their applications word for word to the job description.

“They talk about themselves and are different,” she said. “They give the person who is ultimately going to read the document a better sense of who they are on a team.”

Often, Donovan finds that clients are searching more for a proponent and partner, than pure résumé guidance. With experience across multiple careers, she understands the emotions and challenges that job hunters face.

“They’re looking for that camaraderie, that advocacy, that partnership, that someone is on their side. And that

“I think, having that connection with people, is really the joy. It’s not even the writing anymore, it’s really the joy of being able to tell someone’s story and be a support person.”

— Joana Donovan, CEO of Propel Résumé and Career Services

is what makes me different from the next person,” she said.

Donovan provides a refuge in an otherwise isolating process. Everything is intentional in the application process, but she is happy to remind people that “no road is a straight line.” A specific role or responsibility at a job may lead you to a niche that you never knew existed, but nonetheless, suits you perfectly. No time is wasted. Experience becomes evidence for a client’s personal brand.

This ability to appreciate each nuance and become an advocate for her clients is integral to Donovan’s method. It is also what she finds most rewarding.

“I think, having that connection with people, is really the joy,” she said. “It’s not even the writing anymore, it’s really the joy of being able to tell someone’s story and be a support person.”

The interpersonal approach to the hiring process harkens back to the warm reception Donovan received when moving to and starting a career in Wellington. The importance of connection echoes throughout her work, and she intends to further strengthen the community by creating a local educational seminar on writing, coaching and LinkedIn this upcoming January.

For more information about Propel Résumé and Career Services, call (561) 291-8832 or visit www.propelresume. com.

Meet The Family Behind Wellington’s Popular Italian Dining Spot Agliolio

STORY BY MIKE MAY | PHOTOS BY FRANK KOESTER

Not all Italian restaurants are created equal. In fact, some are truly a cut above the rest, such as Agliolio, a family-run group of restaurants with two locations in Wellington and one in Boynton Beach.

Billed as “a fresh take on Italian,” Agliolio’s original location is in the Wellington Plaza, with others on State Road 7 near Trader Joe’s and on North Congress Avenue in Boynton Beach. This Italian eatery aims to make every guest’s experience an outstanding one, which is why customers continue to return on a regular basis.

The husband-and-wife team of Jeff and Donna Duelfer started Agliolio in October 2009. Sadly, Donna passed away in 2022, but Jeff — whose professional background included more than 30 years in the restaurant industry prior to opening Agliolio — remains involved as the CEO. Daily operations are in the capable hands of daughter Stefani Eberhart, who serves as the company’s president, and her husband Nick, who serves as CFO.

Agliolio remains a true family restaurant because of the influence of the late Donna Duelfer, known as “Momma Donna.” She was once quoted as saying, “We want people to enter as guests and leave as friends.” That philosophy remains in place.

“My mom loved to cook and entertain. To this day, we are using my mom’s recipes, and our restaurants are her legacy,” said Stefani, who has worked at the restaurant since the day it opened.

Stefani was the restaurant’s first server and first bartender. At first, she had a day job running a pre-school in Royal Palm Beach and would show up at the restaurant at night. Now, she’s primarily focused on the three restaurants, her three children, her husband and the sizable staff that keeps everything operating efficiently.

“Each employee at Agliolio is truly like a member of our family,” Stefani said.

She knows that the reputation of the three restaurants is on the line with every salad, appetizer, side dish, entrée, drink or dessert that is served, as it was when her parents were in charge.

“We maintain a strict focus on each guest, every visit,” Stefani said. “We try to embody my mom’s presence in the restaurant. She mingled with the guests and got to know them. And we train our team to do the same.”

Clearly, Momma Donna’s presence is still felt at Agliolio, which continues to thrive in South Florida’s challenging and highly competitive restaurant business. It took time and effort to get to

where the restaurant is today.

“In the early days, we pounded the pavement through nearby communities, introducing ourselves and handing out takeout menus, inviting guests to visit,” Stefani recalled. “We rose early on Saturdays and Sundays to set up booths at local green markets, then cleaned up and rushed back to the restaurant, hoping to see familiar faces for dinner. Somehow, it worked.”

Today, the Agliolio family takes pride in being an active contributor to the communities they serve, acting as a business partner to many local schools and donating thousands of dollars of food and gift cards to schools and community organizations each year.

The restaurant’s name — Agliolio — is a blend of the Italian words “aglio,” which means garlic, and “olio,” which means oil. Stefani noted that nearly everything on the menu at Agliolio, with the exception of desserts, is made with garlic and olive oil.

Since it first opened in 2009, Agliolio has successfully catered to the wants, needs, desires and appetites of the customers who have walked in the door in search of a classic, tasty, affordable and memorable Italian dining experience.

Keeping with the times, Agliolio offers guests convenient options of dine-

in, take-out and delivery. They also have a busy catering division, so if you want a memorable Italian meal for your special event, Agliolio can make it happen. And if you want to buy an Agliolio dining experience for a friend, then gift card purchases are also available.

At Agliolio, the staff, from the employees preparing the food in the kitchen to the servers interacting with guests, truly work together as a team to create a memorable dining experience for every customer.

“We train our employees from the

back door to the front door,” Stefani said. “Our team understands that the dishwasher is one of the most important positions in the restaurant.”

One of the most frequently used adjectives on the menu is “fresh.” At Agliolio, the mozzarella is fresh; the vegetables are fresh and locally grown, when possible; the calamari, Scottish salmon and Littleneck clams are freshly caught; the beef and Dutch veal are fresh; the garlic bread is fresh; the chicken is fresh, all-natural, and antibiotic- and hormone-free; and it’s all

prepared using California-grown, fresh, non-GMO heirloom garlic and first cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil.

And as for the pasta, it doesn’t arrive in a box. “We make fresh pasta every day,” Stefani said.

It’s made by hand using 100 percent semolina, and sautéed to order with scratch-made sauces. At Agliolio, there are 10 types of pasta to choose from: angel hair, spaghetti, penne, cheese ravioli, linguini, fettuccini, fusilli, spinach linguini, whole wheat fusilli and conchiglie.

For those who want a gluten-free alternative, there’s chickpea pasta, fresh potato gnocchi and a vegetable medley. The highly customizable menu also caters to individuals who are vegans, vegetarians and gluten sensitive.

Meanwhile, there are 20 hand-crafted sauces that you can choose to accompany your pasta, such as marinara, pomodoro, pesto and Agliolio. Two of the newer ones are creamy scampi and creamy fra diavolo.

As you would expect, the thin-crust pizza is second-to-none. There are three types of 10-inch pizzas — original, caprese and white. And to make each pizza personal and special, you can top it off with any combination of 14 toppings.

To accompany your meal, the wine list is hand-selected, the cocktails are hand-crafted with premium liquors, and even the complimentary water service is special, as it’s pure, crisp, chilled and has been filtered five times.

To end your meal, Agliolio offers a selection of award-winning, handcrafted desserts, which includes zeppole, cannoli chips, chocolate lasagna and tiramisu. Enjoy them with one of eight Lavazza coffee and after-dinner drinks.

Overall, you can probably visit the restaurant every day for a month and not have the same meal twice. When they talk about having endless “pasta-bilities,” they mean it! The menu at

Agliolio has depth and diversity, and everything is delicious and delectable.

In keeping with being a true family restaurant, Stefani and Nick try to maintain a family tradition of dinner every Sunday night at the original Wellington Plaza restaurant location with their three children — Bella (13), Blake (9) and Bria (7).

After all, Agliolio’s reputation was built on family dinners, with Momma Donna’s vision of entertaining patrons as though they were guests in her own home. And when you dine at Agliolio,

you’ll feel Momma Donna’s presence in their consistent focus on “each guest, every visit.”

Agliolio is open for lunch and dinner every day of the year with the exception of Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The restaurant opens daily at 11:30 a.m. and closes around 10 p.m.

The Agliolio locations in Wellington are at 12793 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza (561-798-7770), and at 2803 South State Road 7 (561-6195544). To learn more, visit www.agliolio. com.

WEEKLY EVENTS

MONDAYS 6:30 PM Trivia Night with Freshly Baked Pizza!

1ST THURSDAY 7 PM Open Mic

2ND THURSDAY 7 PM Jazz Night

3RD THURSDAY 7 PM Cugini Wine Pairing Dinner

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 8 PM

LIVE MUSIC with some of the best performers from Florida and across the country

BY JIM BARNES, WELLINGTON VILLAGE MANAGER

Wellington honors the past while embracing the future with Little Blue, a cute and cheerful otter powered by artificial intelligence.

Using AI, Little Blue helps residents interact with the village through a single click on Wellington’s web site at www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Meet Little Blue: Wellington’s New AI-Powered Web Assistant

Before Wellington was of ficially incorporated in 1995, the Acme Im provement District oversaw the area, and at the heart of its public outreach stood a cheerful, water-saving otter named Little Blue. With the catchy slogan, “You otter save water,” this beloved mas cot reminded residents of the importance of conservation and community.

Now, 30 years later, Little Blue is

making a high-tech comeback. This time, not as a furry mascot, but as the name of Wellington’s newest digital team member: an AI-powered assistant designed to make it easier than ever to connect with village services.

Little Blue is now live on our official web site, www.wellingtonfl.gov, offering around-the-clock support to anyone looking for information, services or assistance. Whether it’s finding your nearest park, reporting a

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pothole or contacting a village department, Little Blue is ready to help — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Developed in partnership with Citibot and powered by artificial intelligence, Little Blue delivers real-time responses using verified content from our web site. Online visitors will find Little Blue’s chat icon at the bottomright corner of every page. With a single click, users can begin interacting with this smart virtual assistant.

Key features of Little Blue include:

• Direct navigation to specific Wellington web pages based on user questions.

• Guidance for submitting service requests.

• Multilingual support in more than 70 languages.

• Seamless escalation to the appropriate village departments for more complex concerns.

You can also communicate with Little Blue by texting HELLO to (888) 609-9355, making it a convenient and flexible tool for community interaction.

This new tool reflects our commitment to transparency, innovation and improving the resident experience. By

streamlining access to information and services, Little Blue enhances how we serve our community in the digital age, while also honoring a charming and meaningful part of our local history.

Wellington has always been a place where tradition meets progress. Little Blue is a perfect example of how the Village of Wellington continues to evolve, using smart technology to better connect with the residents, businesses and visitors who make our village such a special place to call home.

I encourage you to visit our web site at www.wellingtonfl.gov and try out Little Blue for yourself. As we approach our 30th anniversary of incorporation, we’re excited about this next chapter in our journey — and we’re just getting started.

Chef Joshua Crane Serves Up Culinary Success At Wellington Bay

BY JAIME JOSHI ELDER

From a world-class education at Le Cordon Bleu to working in Michelin-starred restaurants, Chef Joshua Crane of luxury senior living community Wellington Bay is one of Wellington’s best kept secrets, and this month, he will be showcasing his talents at the Liberty Senior Living Top Chef grand finale in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Five top chefs will compete for the $5,000 grand prize and the Top Chef Trophy on Sept. 30, and the winning dishes will be added to independent living menus at 22 Liberty Senior Living communities across the southern United States.

Before arriving in South Florida, Crane honed his craft at some of the country’s most acclaimed dining establishments, from Delicias in Rancho Santa

Fe, California, to a number of high-profile restaurants in New York City, including a stint serving as an executive chef for renowned French American chef Daniel Boulud’s Dinex Group and overseeing the commissary kitchen of Épicerie Boulud.

Crane also served as the corporate executive chef for iconic Manhattan venues like Gotham Hall and the Ziegfeld Ballroom, where he managed events for up to 1,300 guests.

“My foundation is based on classic cuisines from around the world, but with a modern approach,” Crane explained. “The secret for events such as this is being very organized, building a great team and staying calm under pressure.”

Armed with ice water in his veins, a meticulous mise-en-place and a calm,

cool and collected demeanor, Crane headed into the Wellington Bay round of the Top Chef competition against chefs from the Carlisle Palm Beach in Lantana.

“The sense of community it creates across residents, staff and chefs is one of the most rewarding aspects of the event,” said Bobby Senter, regional culinary director for Liberty Senior Living. “Chef Joshua Crane wowed everyone with his exceptional flavors and stunning plate presentation.”

For his three-course menu, Crane crafted dishes that emphasized classic comfort, elevated with modern flair and deft technique.

The meal began with a duo of misobraised short rib and edamame pot stickers, followed by a lobster-stuffed sole roulade with asparagus risotto.

“My foundation is based on classic cuisines from around the world, but with a modern approach.”

— Chef Joshua Crane

He finished with a white chocolate panna cotta, garnished with honey caviar and passion fruit gelée — a dish that incorporated fresh, local Florida ingredients into a classic Italian dessert.

“His culinary talent is matched by his leadership. He is deeply committed to mentoring his team and helping them reach their full potential,” said Jay Mikosch, campus executive director at Wellington Bay. “Our residents take great pride in hosting private events, eager to share the exceptional dining experience that Chef Joshua Crane and his team consistently deliver.”

As Crane prepares for the grand finale, his strategy remains simple: focus on technique and stay true to his style.

“I do plan to incorporate and bring local flavors and culture from Florida with

me,” he said. “I’ll showcase them in my own approach. I plan to make it fun!”

While he may be a well-kept secret to some, Chef Joshua Crane’s upcoming appearance on the national stage promises to put this culinary maestro — and Wellington’s vibrant food scene — in the national spotlight.

Learn more about Wellington Bay at www.wellingtonbayfl.com.

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