Town-Crier Newspaper April 17, 2026

WELLINGTON EGG HUNT RETURNS

Wellington Welcomes

Councilmen Johnny Meier & Stephen Levin

The Village of Wellington held a swearing-in ceremony Tuesday, April 14 at Wellington Village Hall to welcome newly elected councilmen Johnny Meier and Stephen Levin. A well-attended reception was held in the lobby before a formal ceremony in the council chambers immediately before the first meeting of the new council. Page 5

Court Ruling Could Complicate PBC Plan

For Speed Cameras

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners is interested in installing traffic speed cameras in school zones, but a recent court decision could complicate the program’s implementation.

The commissioners considered an ordinance for a preliminary reading at their meeting on Tuesday, April 14. Page 7

Beach County. It is one of the top 10 programs in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) Class 3A, and also one of the top 20 programs in the state. Under the leadership of head coach Scott Barnwell, the Hawks have had another strong regular season. Page

Christ Fellowship Church handed out breakfast and snacks to participants, who were eagerly searching for eggs with special winning tickets. Shown here, kids race out onto the egg field. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 16

Westlake Council OKs Plan For Walmart Superstore

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The Westlake City Council approved the site plan for a 188,000-square-foot Walmart Superstore on Tuesday, April 7, despite concerns voiced by a number of residents during the nearly four-hour session.

Located on 24 acres, the Westlake Walmart will include a grocery store, a pharmacy, a garden center, an automotive center, a vision center and a liquor store. In a separate 1,618-square-foot structure will be a convenience store with 10 gas pumps. There will be parking for 768 cars and trucks, plus golf cart parking and charging stations for electric vehicles.

Walmart is the second major national retailer landed by the city’s primary developer and landowner, Minto Communities USA, in the last eight months. In August 2025, the site plan was approved for a Lowe’s Home Improvement store that also will serve as the company’s regional headquarters.

However, resident Marge Perry reflected the sentiment of many in attendance when she spoke during public comment.

“Walmart is not why I moved to Westlake,” she said. “I understand that it’s Minto’s decision to rent or sell to whomever they want. But I think as a city and as a council, we haven’t been proactive enough in talking to Minto about what we want here.”

The city’s authority is limited in what it can do in the situation.

“State law is very strict,” Vice Mayor Greg Langowski said this week. “If it meets the proper codes, we can’t stop a business from coming.”

Langowski said Walmart has addressed two major concerns often voiced by residents.

It will not operate 24 hours a day, he said. Hours will be 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and there will be no overnight parking, including for recreational vehicles. Signage will be placed in the parking lots to that effect.

Representing Minto was land planner Donaldson Hearing of Cotleur & Hearing.

“I think people will find that the new Walmart is significantly different from the Walmart of 10 years ago. It’s clean, beautiful. It has a great product line,” Hearing

said. “It even has a sushi department.” The Walmart store will be located directly south of the Lowe’s on the west side of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road near 60th Street North. It will feature extensive landscaping along Seminole Pratt with a water feature and a 1,000foot setback from the road. There also are two outparcels from the main structure that will be available for other businesses.

“It’s going to be a beautiful store with amazing landscaping,” Hearing said. “It’s not your cookiecutter Walmart.”

To the east, the nearest multipurpose Walmart is at the intersection of State Road 7 and Belvedere Road in Royal Palm Beach. Going west, the nearest Walmart is in Clewiston or Okeechobee.

Hearing said he expects the store to draw shoppers from Wellington, Arden and Avenir.

“It’s suited for a relatively highend economic market,” Hearing said, likening it to the store in Jupiter.

Hearing said he believes that Walmart “will create a lot of

New Lox Council Starts Tenure With Change In Town Leadership

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Hot off the heels of the recent municipal election, the newly reorganized Loxahatchee Groves Town Council is aiming to make changes as quickly as possible, including bringing in a new town manager.

The council began its meeting on Tuesday, April 7, by recognizing the service of outgoing council members Marge Herzog and Todd McLendon.

“It has been a pleasure serving the town for all these years,” Herzog said. “I enjoyed working with various people who stepped forward and helped to make this town what it is today.” McLendon went on to thank

By Shannon Anastasio Town-Crier Staff Report

the council for appointing him to the position last year. He also congratulated the two newly elected councilmen.

“I’m here if you ever need any support to try to move this town forward,” McLendon said. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Manish Sood and Joe Stephens were then sworn in, with Sood serving a three-year term and Stephens a one-year term. With the two taking their seats on the dais, the council needed to choose a new mayor and vice mayor. In keeping with town policy, former Mayor Anita Kane stepped down from the position but continues to serve on the council.

Councilman Paul Coleman and Councilwoman Lisa El-Ramey

were both nominated for the role of mayor. After a vote to appoint Coleman failed, El-Ramey secured the position on a 4-1 vote with Kane dissenting. Coleman and Sood were subsequently nominated to become vice mayor, with Sood being chosen on 3-2 vote, with Coleman and Kane dissenting.

The newly organized council went on to add several agenda additions. Top among them was putting Town Manager Francine Ramaglia on administrative leave ahead of her contract expiration in September.

Before the meeting, Ramaglia gave formal notice of her retirement from the position upon the See LOX COUNCIL, page 4

Developer Pitches 620 Apartments At Mall’s Shuttered Nordstrom Site

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

stronger community” through programs that support seniors, children and veterans. He also recognized the foundation’s board of directors for their continued leadership and service. The newly approved funding will directly benefit a range of

programs designed to enhance the quality of life and expand access to essential resources for Wellington residents. These initiatives were selected following a thorough review process, with priority given to projects demonstrating meaningful community impact and alignment with the foundation’s mission.

Funded programs include the Holiday Toy Drive, which brings joy and support to families during the holiday season, and the Boys & Girls Club Summer Camp Sponsorships, providing children with safe, enriching environments and mentorship opportunities. The foundation is also supporting the return of the Back-to-School Event, helping local students pre-

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the suit March 28, “to get ahead of this thing, and make sure we had access during the litigation,” which could last through the 2026 storm season or beyond, said Bernard Lebedeker of the firm Xenick Lebedeker Pepin, the attorney for ITID

Co-Valedictorians Will Lead WHS Class Of 2026 On May 19

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report

In just a few short weeks, Wellington High School’s Class of 2026, with 662 students, will cross the stage at the South Florida Fairgrounds to cap their high school careers. The ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 19, starting at 1 p.m. Principal Cara Gorham described this year’s class “a force of nature.”

“While our faculty and community provide the foundation, it is the students themselves who bring such a positive energy to campus every day,” she said. “Their spirit is unshakable. This is a group that doesn’t just face hardships big and small, they tackle them head-on with a level of maturity and humor that is genuinely inspiring. I look forward to seeing what they accomplish in the future.”

Each school year comes with its own set of hurdles, challenges and stories, but it’s all about collaboration between faculty, staff

and students. “This school year has been an incredible journey because of the dedication of our amazing faculty and staff, along with a community that consistently rallies behind our mission. We’ve created an environment where students feel seen and valued,” Gorham said. “The true stars of campus though are our students... I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together.”

Students, she said, have balanced personal stress, societal pressure and the reality of being teenagers.

“They have also shown great resilience in the face of loss,” she said. “What is special about the Class of 2026 is that they haven’t let these hardships define them. They have lived through them and pushed forward.”

As Gorham looks forward to May 19, she’s excited to see the looks on the faces of parents and guardians.

“Graduation is the culmination of years of hard work, balancing

extracurricular and academic pursuits and persistence,” she said. “There is a specific kind of radiance in a parent’s eyes at graduation, and seeing their dedication mirrored in their child’s success is one of the most rewarding parts of the ceremony.”

As friends and family look to the stage at graduation, they might notice something a bit unusual: the Class of 2026 doesn’t just have a valedictorian and a salutatorian. It has three students at the top of the class. And that was by design. Coming in as co-valedictorians are Olivia Berman and Victoria Sullivan. Natalie Honzik will serve as salutatorian.

“Victoria and I have been best friends since preschool, and by middle school, we had both become very academically driven,” Berman recalled. “We often planned out class schedules together, and we even made the decision to leave the pre-engineering program so we could pursue more advanced coursework. From that

point on, we shared many of the same classes and supported each other in nearly everything, both academically and personally. Rather than competing against each other, we realized early on that we could push each other to be better and succeed together. We’ve always believed that success doesn’t have to be individual, and that mindset has helped us both grow. When our class ranks aligned, we saw it as something we had truly achieved side by side.” They won’t, however, be going to the same schools. Berman will attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, while Sullivan will be going to the University of Florida.

Palm Beach Central To Salute Graduating Broncos On May 15

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Seniors from Palm Beach Central High School will be closing one chapter of their lives and embarking on a new journey when walking across the stage at the South Florida Fairgrounds during their graduation ceremony on Friday, May 15 at 8 a.m.

Valedictorian Jacqueline Birbrayer and salutatorian Jonathan Davis will be sending off the Class of 2026 at the ceremony.

Birbrayer plans to attend the University of Florida and major in health science on a pre-medical track. After being diagnosed with lymphedema, she decided to pursue medical research in the hope of helping to find a cure. At the university, she is looking forward to trying to work in research labs while also experiencing college with some of her high school friends.

Birbrayer said she knew she might become valedictorian because she consistently ranked at the top of her class and was excited when it was made official. She attributes this to persistently taking challenging classes that boosted her GPA and studying consistently.

To ensure that she continued

to be a high achiever, Birbrayer said she stayed heavily organized through diligently planning and creating one-page study guides to help her retain information before exams. But she emphasized to others not to be afraid to ask for help from teachers.

“I would take the hardest classes possible, but also realize that the teachers are there to help you study if needed,” Birbrayer said. “If you simply ask them, they will help you study extra outside of class.”

Outside of class work, Birbrayer is the president of the Math Honor Society and is a member of the National Honor Society and the English Honor Society. Beyond that, she is a part of the swim and water polo teams while also being a tutor to help others with their studies.

After finding out about her achievement, Birbrayer’s parents celebrated immediately by placing a sign in their front yard showing that she ranked at the top of her class.

“My mom finally stopped asking if I was going to be [valedictorian] or not, and she was so excited, and then my dad was also thrilled,” Birbrayer said.

Birbrayer explained that she

sees the achievement of being valedictorian as a reflection of her perseverance.

“I think it just shows how much hard work I put into everything, and it kind of helps complete everything in my mindset,” Birbrayer said. “I’ve taken lots… of classes, including ones online, so to me, it kind of felt like a certificate of completion.”

With only a few months before she heads to college, Birbrayer hopes to spend time celebrating with friends. But with graduation approaching, she plans to center her speech to the Class of 2026 around taking past experiences with you wherever your journey takes you.

Becoming salutatorian was not initially a goal for Davis, but over time, it became more within reach as he continued to do well in his classes. He describes himself as someone determined for achievement once he sets his sights on something.

After finding out he was salutatorian, Davis said he was relieved because he had put in a lot of work to ensure he maintained his rank, and his parents were proud.

“I honestly was pretty excited,” Davis said. “I knew I was in the

running for it… It was stressful. There’s a lot of work, a lot of classes, and I had to make sure everything was good.”

Davis will also be heading to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida and will be majoring in aerospace engineering. His fascination with planes led him to choose to go into that field with the ultimate goal of helping to develop rocket engines or start a drone delivery company.

“The way that planes and aircraft work is just very fascinating to me,” Davis said.

He is a part of the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society and the National Technical Honor Society. Apart from his academics, he has a passion for baseball and coding video games.

Davis emphasized the importance of time management to handle all these extracurricular activities and schoolwork. His biggest advice to other students is to create schedules to stay on top of academics and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

“Planning days out and planning weeks ahead, I feel like it would help instead of feeling like you have to rush or things are piling on top,” Davis said. “I

just feel like a good schedule and time management are very, very important.”

While at college, Davis is looking forward to attending football games and joining aerospace-related clubs on campus. Until then, Davis is hoping to savor every last moment with his friends and family before he heads off.

To his classmates, he praises them for all their support and commitment to excellence.

“I had a lot of good friends to help support me and make it this far, and also, I want to congratu-

late them, too,” Davis said. “They made it through all these years of high school, stuck to it, and a lot of them are going

Wellington Council Approves Rezoning But Doesn’t Remove Conditions Attached To Controversial 50th Street Property

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

A controversial property in southern Wellington handling large quantities of manure drew many unhappy residents to the Wellington Village Council meeting on Tuesday, April 14, as the owner requested land use and zoning changes. Those changes, some residents said, could open the door to more harm in the area.

The council approved a rezoning request that would change the property at 14833 50th Street South from equestrian residential to equestrian recreation but stopped short of removing site-specific conditions on the property through a comprehensive plan amendment.

The property, previously known as the Littlewood Equestrian Center, has become the center of a fierce community backlash as neighbors oppose what they see as increasing industrial usage on the site. Before the meeting, the applicant’s team gained the approval from two Wellington advisory boards to fix incorrect legal descriptions and remove outdated restrictions. They said the old ordinances create inconsistencies between the village’s compre-

hensive plan and what the site is actually zoned for.

“With the… 2007 ordinance, what this did was create an inconsistency between the future land use map and the zoning, and… there is an error in the legal description,” said David Milledge, an attorney who spoke on behalf of the applicant. “So, the proposal tonight will fix that error.”

Two decades ago, a previous council placed site-specific conditions on the property because it was originally intended to be an equestrian showground. Equestrian developer Mark Bellissimo eventually acquired the land. Bellissimo’s son, Matthew, now operates a business called Agricultural Blending Company on the site. The company provides shaving, bedding and manure removal services.

Nearby residents have complained about alleged pollution caused by the manure blending. Rumors have also been circulating about a feed store and biochar operation potentially being added. Robert Volpe, a lawyer representing several of the surrounding properties near the site, told the council not to remove any site conditions because of the problems they have been experiencing.

“It is our position that they had a purpose behind what they did, and the restrictions had meaning,” Volpe said. “They were not a mistake. It was not something that they just did, and now it should be undone. There was a purpose behind it.”

A number of nearby residents gave public comments about how the manure blending operation should not be in the Equestrian Preserve Area.

“This is not good for this equestrian area,” Sherri Maretta said. “We are residential. I have 20 acres, I have a 40-stall barn, and I work horses, so I strongly oppose it, and each one of you should really think hard before they put this through.”

Others believed that granting the applicant’s request could make things in the area worse in the future.

“Expanding the designation to unrestricted commercial equestrian use would open the door to a wide range of commercial activities, far beyond a horse show,” said Sarah Goos, who sits on Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee. “The term equestrian is extremely broad and can be interpreted to include almost any type of use by simply placing the

“To me, changing the zoning doesn’t grant them any additional rights, but taking away the site-specific conditions from the [comprehensive] plan amendment, which gave them the commercial recreation land designation in the first place, would open the door to more things,” Mayor Michael Napoleone explained.

word equestrian in front of it.”

While much of the public comment was in opposition, the applicant’s team reiterated that none of their complaints were within the scope of the application. They explained their request was simply to correct legal errors, and the manure blending operation was already a permitted agricultural use.

“No one spoke to the merits of the actual applications that are before you tonight,” Milledge said. “They refer to the manure blending facility — that’s not before you tonight.”

Village staff confirmed that the council vote would not solve any of the problems that residents are having with the blending facility. However, several council members were still concerned about enabling potential industrial uses being added to the property.

“To me, changing the zoning doesn’t grant them any additional rights, but taking away the site-specific conditions from the [comprehensive] plan amendment, which gave them the commercial

recreation land designation in the first place, would open the door to more things,” Mayor Michael Napoleone said.

The council unanimously passed an amended motion to approve the ordinance correcting the legal description, but denied removing the site-specific conditions on the property. A subsequent motion to approve the rezoning request was approved 3-2, with Vice Mayor Maria Antuña and Councilman Johnny Meier dissenting.

In other business:

• Before the meeting began, newly elected Councilman Johnny Meier and Councilman Stephen Levin were sworn into office. Later, Councilwoman Maria Antuña was unanimously appointed to the position of vice mayor.

• Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Mike Caruso made a presentation to the council. His comments were focused on the growing problem of property fraud, where scammers try to illegally steal titles to property. He urged all residents to sign up for a

Property Fraud Alert, allowing free monitoring of deeds, mortgages and other county records. Learn more at www.mypalmbeachclerk. com/pfa.

• State Sen. Lori Berman and State Rep. Anne Gerwig attended the meeting and updated the council on the recent legislative session in Tallahassee, and also the upcoming special sessions on the state budget and perhaps redistricting.

• Wellington will be hosting multiple events on Saturday, April 25, in celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day. The Wellington Garden Club will be hosting a plant sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that day at the Wellington Amphitheater. Other activities will be available, including a raffle, local vendors and giveaways. There will also be organized cleanup activities throughout the village starting at 9 a.m. Interested volunteers can register by contacting the Community Services Department. Learn more at www.wellingtonfl. gov/earthday.

Lox Council Agrees To Begin New Negotiations With The PBSO

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Officials from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) are walking back their willingness to let the Town of Loxahatchee Groves walk away without paying for their contract. With new opinions on the town’s dais, the council sits at the barrel of providing back pay or entering into a legal battle with the county agency if negotiations fail.

At a meeting Tuesday, April 7, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council discussed recent actions taken by the PBSO regarding what the town previously hoped was a settled contract dispute. The discussion came at the same meeting that new council members Manish Sood and Joe Stephens were sworn in.

Before the meeting, town staff members were informed that agency officials had sent a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet stating that the town had violated its charter.

According to Town Attorney Jeff Kurtz, the letters suggest that municipalities are required to have law enforcement services. “I don’t agree with their opinions with respect to those matters,” Kurtz said.

Back in December, the previous council agreed to stop paying $56,668.92 monthly for enhanced law enforcement services from the PBSO. They believed that the town was being charged too much money for those services and wanted to redirect those funds to much-needed infrastructure projects. Since then, the council

has saved more than $283,000.

In response, the PBSO withdrew certain law enforcement services as of Dec. 17, Kurtz said. This reverted Loxahatchee Groves to only receiving services similar to unincorporated Palm Beach County.

During the last few months, the council stayed firm in their position not to pay their contract with the PBSO. In February, council members compromised to offer the agency to forgo backpay, restart payments and provide a notice of termination for the contract to end in October. That deal was rejected, but officials from the PBSO countered with an agreement to terminate the contract ahead of schedule, which the council accepted.

Now, with the letters sent to

state government officials, the PBSO is looking to re-engage in negotiations if three council members are in favor of doing so. However, some on the council remained unsupportive of paying for the contract that they say costs the town too much money.

“We’ve been acting on the same level of service before the contract and after the contract; the only difference is we have cars with our name on them,” Councilman Paul Coleman said.

Sood and Stephens both ran campaigns to rebuild relations with the county agency. Sood told the council that he believes that they should restart payments and provide back pay.

“My position is we want the PBSO [to be] better, bigger and stronger,” he said. “We broke the

contract, and we have to restore their trust.”

Changing the town’s position on the contract did not come without opposition.

“There are people suffering every single day with infrastructure that has been ignored for 100 years,” said former Councilman Todd McLendon during time for public comment on the issue. “That’s where we need to start putting this money.”

In light of these new actions, council members recognized the need to resume talks with the agency. They appointed Mayor Lisa El-Ramey to meet with PBSO officials and potentially restore their relationship. In other business:

• Lobbying firm Geoffrey B. Sluggett & Associates sent the

council a 30-day notice of termination of its $90,000 contract. The agreement was renewed in March for the company to provide consulting and lobbying services for a year. According to town staff, the letter indicated that the reason behind the termination request was due to increased multiple demands.

• The council approved town staff to proceed with creating an ordinance for an updated recreational vehicle program. The revised program aims to create more specific criteria to address systematic illegal usage of RVs on properties.

Staff plans to present the ordinance to the Loxahatchee Groves Planning & Zoning Board in May, and the council will consider it shortly thereafter.

Opponents: Tango Postponement Shows Project ‘Half-Baked’

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The request by Project Tango developers to pull the item from the Thursday, April 23 agenda of the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners shows how “half-baked” the plan really is, Arden Homeowners’ Association President Raymond Penuela said this week.

“If this project were truly ready to go, there’d be no need for a postponement,” he said of the AI hyperscale data center project near 20-Mile Bend

Arden is a development with more than 6,000 residents just off Southern Blvd., next door to the 202-acre site where developers plan to locate a data center and warehouse complex officially known as the Central Park Commerce Center.

A hearing on plans to expand the project from its original 2016 approval for a data storage center — as such facilities were understood a decade ago — has now been postponed to July 15 at the

Lox Council New Council Wants New Manager

continued from page 1 conclusion of her current contract. El-Ramey introduced a motion that would immediately place Ramaglia under administrative leave while an investigation is conducted into “town manager operational and performance matters.” While on leave, Ramaglia will be relieved of all duties and responsibilities as town manager, will not be permitted to enter town property and will not be allowed to contact any current town officials. The council stopped short of

request of the developers, which are PBA Holdings Inc. plus an Atlanta group.

“It’s basically saying [the developers] don’t have their ducks in a row,” Arden HOA Vice President David Zita said. “There are still a lot of unanswered questions… A lot of people were hoping for closure. Now they have to wait it out another three months. Still, any sort of a delay is a benefit to the community.”

Project Tango representative Ernie Cox said that when completed, the area will look and feel like “an upscale business park,” but to allay fears of Arden residents and others, he wanted to make sure that studies related to traffic, water usage and noise were in order before going back to the county commission.

“Things weren’t getting done with the quality control it needed,” Cox said this week. “It just made sense to push it off.”

Whatever happens July 15, Palm Beach County Mayor Sara Baxter said Wednesday that she will not be part of the vote.

terminating Ramaglia without cause. Doing so would require the town to pay more than $61,000 in severance based on her $160,000 yearly base salary and any unused paid time off.

“I am not sure, especially in light of the pending retirement, that it will be an effective use of the town’s money to engage in this process,” Town Attorney Jeff Kurtz said.

Ramaglia told the council that she intentionally gave proper notice of her retirement, so a new town manager can be found when her contract expires. She reiterated that she is willing to continue to remain in her position until September, but she will work with the town to figure out a way to leave amicably.

“I’m happy to go ahead and

Baxter, who represents District 6, which includes the 20-Mile Bend area, said Palm Beach County Attorney David Ottey asked her to abstain from involvement in the issue. The request came after Baxter said explicitly at a February town hall meeting that she would be a “no” vote.

Under Florida law, elected officials are not allowed to announce their position on an issue that will be heard in a quasi-judicial setting. Baxter will not be allowed to vote, discuss or be in the commission chambers while the issue is decided.

Some have suggested that Baxter intentionally announced her vote so that she would be forced to recuse herself, an accusation she denies.

“I’ve said all along, if residents did not want an AI data center here, I would not support it,” she said.

“My vote was going to be no, so I don’t see how this is a political plus for me… I want to be there to fight for my residents.”

There are seven seats on the

talk to you about an accelerated transition that doesn’t cause you to spend any money, go on any further witch hunts or cause any unnecessary disruption of work at the staff level,” she said. “None of these things will be good for the town.”

McLendon, who gave public comment, did not support removing the town manager.

“Think about what you’re doing here… Get to know [Ramaglia], and find out what the inner workings of the town are before you make some crazy decisions,” he said.

However, others supported suspending the town manager. They explained that they experienced difficulties with town staff and believed that placing Ramaglia on leave is a necessary change.

county commission, which means with or without Baxter, Project Tango needs four votes to approve changes to the 2016 approval, which allows developers 2.2 million square feet for warehouses and other light industrial uses, which includes data centers.

At the time, such things as “AI hyperscale data centers” did not exist and are not differentiated in county code.

Baxter emphasized that the July vote will not be an up or down on whether the commerce park can be built.

“This application is only for an increase in space,” she said.

PBA Holdings is seeking an overall increase to 3.7 million square feet of space. However, Cox said recently that plans are to scale back the AI data center portion of the project from 1.8 million square feet to approximately 1.3 million and use the warehouses as an additional buffer between the data center buildings and Arden, plus nearby Saddle View Elementary School.

“People have wanted change,” resident Cynthia Screnci said. “People are tired of the games, the mistruths and the lies.”

The council passed an amended motion 3-2 to negotiate accepting Ramaglia’s retirement announcement. Meanwhile, she will be on paid leave. They subsequently passed a motion 4-1 to bring three special counsel options to their next meeting to negotiate the accelerated leave. Town Clerk Valerie Oaks will serve as interim manager until a new permanent manager can be hired.

After the meeting, Ramaglia sent a statement to the Town-Crier regarding the council’s decision.

“By announcing my retirement, I sought to be graceful, generous and professional, and to make the transition as easy as possible for

On April 6, Gordan Longhofer, president of the Palm Beach County Classroom Teachers Association, spoke to a gathering of parents, educators, community leaders and citizens just outside Saddle View. The possible impact of low-level sound generated by the data center on children attending the school has been mentioned as a prime concern of those opposing the project.

“This is about protecting our schools, the children who learn in them, and their families and neighborhoods,” said Longhofer, according to a press release.

Penuela said there was a good turnout for the event.

“I was surprised that the teachers’ union got involved,” he said.

“But it shows who stands with the children.”

The project’s developers first came before the county commission in December as part of the consent agenda, which does not require individual votes on items within the agenda. However, with a room full of angry Arden resi-

staff and the community,” Ramaglia said. “I care deeply about the town and see it as the capstone of my more than 30 wonderful years of public service in the western communities, where I grew up… I had the opportunity to consolidate the district and town into a modern, effective and responsive

dents on hand, it was pulled for discussion. Later in the meeting, at the request of the developer, a vote to expand the project was moved to April 23. “It’s absurd that this was going to be passed on the consent agenda,” said Ben Brown, a member of the Arden HOA board and the board of the Western Palm Beach Community Alliance Inc., which was formed to oppose Project Tango. Brown said that the HOA has set aside $50,000 for attorneys’ fees to fight the project. State and national environmental and legal organizations such as 1000 Friends of Florida, the Sierra Club and Earthjustice have shown interest, he added.

Zita said he has had talks with Cox in an effort to understand “his aspirations… his intent, his goals” but nothing the project representative said created a change of mind. Cox still is “positioning to have [an AI] data center there,” Zita said. “As a community, we remain emphatically against it.”

local government — after decades of division and stalled progress — and where a now best-in-class team is well-positioned to continue moving the community forward together. I remain hopeful for a respectful and amicable transition that reflects the very best of this community.”

For The Record

Regarding the article “Kessler Out, Stone Promoted At Wellington International,” published April 3, Murray Kessler’s attorneys provided the following statement on his behalf: “Murray Kessler strongly denies the allegations against him and will vigorously defend his name and reputation. Throughout his leadership, Mr. Kessler has played a significant role in strengthening Wellington International, elevating its profile, supporting its growth, and positioning it as one of the world’s premier equestrian venues. He is proud of the role he played and his contributions to a community he cares deeply about.”

The Village of Wellington held a swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, April 14 at Wellington Village Hall to welcome two newly elected councilmen, Johnny Meier and Stephen Levin. A well-attended reception was held in the lobby before a formal ceremony in the council chambers immediately before the first meeting of the new council. At the meeting, Councilwoman Maria Antuña was chosen as the new vice mayor. PHOTOS BY DENISE

FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Langowski: School Will Add To Westlake’s Sense Of Community

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

The official groundbreaking for the new elementary school to be located in the City of Westlake is set for Thursday, April 30.

“I know everyone is very excited about the new school,” Westlake Vice Mayor Greg Langowski said this week. “It’s going to be in the heart of the city… where parents can walk their children to school or drop them in cars or even golf carts… It brings a real sense of community.”

Technically, there are three other schools located within the 6.5 square miles of Westlake — Seminole Ridge High School on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road,

plus Golden Grove Elementary School and Western Pines Middle School on 140th Avenue North.

However, a lack of road connectivity to 140th Avenue has forced some parents to drive miles out of the way for years to drop students off at those schools. The new school — temporarily designated West Community Elementary — will be located at the intersection of Persimmon Blvd. and Green Lane. It’s scheduled to open in August 2027. “I love the idea of keeping people involved in a local school,” Langowski said. Langowski is among several Westlake and Palm Beach County officials who are expected to at-

tend the 9 a.m. event. They include Westlake Councilman Gary Werner and longtime District 6 School Board Member Marcia Andrews. The public is invited. Andrews, who is not seeking reelection in November, shepherded Saddle View Elementary School near Arden and the planned Westlake school into early construction due to the boom in home sales and population growth in the western communities. The Westlake school will be constructed off the same basic plan as Saddle View, which opened last August just outside the gates of the Arden community. Werner said that while he is happy to see the new school on its way, it won’t be without problems

— mainly increased traffic volumes in an area already congested by vehicles entering and leaving Seminole Ridge twice a day. “It’s nice to have it centrally located… [and] it will be convenient for parents,” he said. “But it’s going to have a significant impact on traffic… Still, that’s part of living in a community. You have to balance those interests.”

Langowski serves as the council’s liaison to Westlake’s Education Advisory Board and said he has been “in constant conversation” with school officials regarding tweaks to the school’s design. He hopes to be the council’s representative on a committee of residents and parents who will be

involved in selecting everything from the school’s name, colors and mascot to interviewing candidates for principal and recommending a name to the Palm Beach County School Board. “I plan to continue to be involved in the process,” Langowski said.

The school is being built to accommodate 970 students in kindergarten through fifth grade, school officials have said. There will be no fifth-grade class in the school’s first year, so as not to disrupt students who have previously attended another school. Langowski said he has been told that approximately 75 percent of the students will be drawn from Westlake households, while

a majority of the remaining 25 percent will come from the Avenir development on Northlake Blvd. The school will be 96,000 square feet in three stories. Kindergarten and grade one will be on the first floor, with grades two and three on the second, and four and five on the third. The design by Miami-based Zyscovich Architects draws inspiration from structures in the community — the tall glass walls of the nearby Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Office, the modern metal canopy of the local Publix supermarket and the Minto Communities USA sales office, according to a presentation shared by the school district at a recent meeting.

Court Ruling Complicates County Plan For School Speed Cameras

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners is interested in installing traffic cameras in school zones, but a recent court decision could complicate the program’s implementation.

The commissioners considered a new ordinance for a preliminary reading at their meeting on Tuesday, April 14, including granting permission to advertise it for a public hearing. The ordinance would authorize the installation of traffic cameras in school zones in the county’s unincorporated areas.

In 2023, a new Florida statute was approved allowing local

Lawsuit

ITID Versus SID Over M-2 Canal

continued from page 1 comando said this week that she could not comment directly on the ligation, but that access to the M-2 Canal is “very critical.”

“It’s the only drainage for the M-2 [Basin],” Accomando said.

The M-2 Canal is a 5.5-milelong drainage channel running north-south through SID’s property and the City of Westlake, from near 60th Street North down to Southern Blvd. and the C-51 Canal. It drains much of ITID’s western side.

The dispute flared up in July 2025. In December 2025, SID sent ITID a letter “demanding the

Free Health & Wellness Resource Fair

In Wellington

Hosted alongside the Lakeside Market and Food Truck & Music Series at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.), Wellington’s Health & Wellness Resource Fair will take place on Thursday, April 30, from 5 to 9 p.m.

Explore programs, services and resources to live a healthier lifestyle by connecting with a variety of local organizations. Take advantage of free screenings and educational information for all ages and abilities. For the most up to date event information, visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/healthfair. Vendors listed are subject to change.

Maintenance Underway At Tiger Shark Cove Court And Field

The basketball court and multipurpose field at Tiger Shark Cove Park (13800 Greenbriar Blvd.) is temporarily closed to the public, undergoing regular maintenance through Wednesday, April 29. The facilities will re-open to the public for regular hours of operation on Thursday, April 30. All other offerings at Tiger Shark Cove Park will be unaffected by this maintenance and will remain open for regular hours of operation.

Wellington’s Severe Weather Expo On May 2

As storm season approaches, preparation can make all the difference. The Village of Wellington invites residents to get informed, get prepared and get storm-ready at its free Hurricane & Severe Weather Expo, taking place Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mall at Wellington Green (10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

This interactive expo brings together local experts, emergency responders and public safety experts to provide practical tools and guidance for hurricane season. At-

governments to enforce school zone speed limits through speed detection systems. To do so, county or municipal governments would first need to pass an ordinance for a camera system to be implemented. Municipalities like Wellington and Loxahatchee Groves have since installed similar traffic cameras near their schools.

However, a Broward County Circuit Court judge in March ruled that the use of such traffic cameras to fine violators is unconstitutional. The reasoning behind that decision was that the burden to prove the case lies with the government and not the vehicle owner.

district do a bunch of work on its outfall structures into the canal. About $3 million worth. Plus, $300,000 a year going forward,” Lebedeker said. ITID has documentation dating back to the mid-1960s giving ITID and others access to the canal and free use of it as long as it was not being used to irrigate orange groves, he said.

The Seminole Water Control District (later renamed) was created June 26, 1970, by the Florida Legislature, according to a search of state records.

The suit “takes into account our historic rights” to use of the canal, Lebedeker said.

“Over the years, ITID has done a lot of work on it… Frankly, it’s hard for me to understand why the issue was raised,” he said. When it first came up in the summer of 2025, Hanson said it

Palm Beach County Attorney David Ottey advised the board to wait to approve the ordinance until litigation on the matter is finished.

“If that appeal is upheld by the courts… then it would render this program void,” Ottey said.

If passed, the county would then be able enter into a contract with vendor RedSpeed to install the cameras at no cost and begin identifying drivers who travel more than 10 miles per hour over the speed limit at certain times in school zones.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will then verify the license plate numbers of speeding vehicles, and a $100 notice

was an attempt to strong-arm ITID over the desire of Minto Communities USA and SID to access ITID roads for use by residents of the City of Westlake. Minto is the city’s primary developer and landowner. Lewis, Longman & Walker also represent Minto’s Westlake interests, and two of the three SID board members have direct ties to Minto.

In May 2024, Circuit Court Judge Richard Oftedal ruled against SID and Minto regarding the road connection, but the decision was appealed. On Feb. 5, 2026, Florida’s Fourth District Court of Appeal affirmed the trial court’s ruling without a written opinion, leaving the May 2024 judgment in place and preserving ITID’s victory.

However, in July 2025, while the issue still was on appeal, Hanson said, “We will not be bullied

NEWS BRIEFS

tendees can learn how to safeguard their homes, build emergency plans, access reliable information during a storm and recover more quickly in its aftermath.

Don’t miss WPBF 25’s Glenn Glazer, a two-time Emmy Awardwinning meteorologist, at noon, as he shares expert insights, realworld advice and the latest information to help you stay stormready. Bring the whole family! Kids can enjoy fun activities, character photo opportunities, and a meetand-greet with Sebastian the Ibis of the Miami Hurricanes.

Attendees can also enter a free raffle for the chance to win a Champion Power Equipment 5300/4250W generator, donated by the Mall at Wellington Green. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ hurricaneexpo to learn more.

Senior Softball Group Seeks

Players

The Okeeheelee Senior Softball Association is looking for players who are interested in playing Slo-Pitch softball. Participants must at least 55 years of age. The group plays Tuesday and Thursday mornings at Okeeheelee Park. Visit www.ossa-softball.com for more information.

Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue Flag-Raising Ceremony

Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue (JBAR) will host a Raising of the Flag Ceremony on Saturday, April 18, at its newest facility, The Meadows, located at 20363 Antoinette Street in Loxahatchee. The public event runs from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and is free and open to all — families, veterans, neighbors and four-legged friends alike. The ceremony marks the formal dedication of The Meadows as an active JBAR rescue property, celebrating the organization’s expanding capacity to save animals in need, while paying tribute to the men and women of the United States military, whose service makes the work of organizations like JBAR possible. The flag-raising is more than a

symbolic act — it represents the values at the heart of JBAR’s mission: freedom, second chances and the unwavering belief that every life matters. JBAR will dedicate The Meadows beneath the flag that represents the freedoms that make its mission possible. Guests are invited to tour The Meadows, meet the rescue animals currently in JBAR’s care and be part of the official dedication of the property. Light refreshments will be provided. Leashed dogs are welcome to attend alongside their owners.

The Meadows represents a significant milestone for JBAR — a dedicated facility that expands the rescue’s ability to shelter, rehabilitate and rehome animals across South Florida. The event underscores the organization’s deep roots in the local community and its commitment to operating with purpose and heart. Learn more about the local nonprofit at www. justinbartlettanimalrescue.org.

Galbani Festa Italiana Returns

The second annual Galbani Festa Italiana of Wellington returns to the Wellington Amphitheater from Friday, April 17 to Sunday, April 19. Presented by Brian Marketing Group, the three-day festival celebrates Italian culture with authentic cuisine, live music, culinary demonstrations and family activities.

Festivalgoers can enjoy classic Italian favorites, including sausage and peppers, pasta, pizza, Italian ice, zeppoles and more.

Live entertainment will take place throughout the weekend on the Beachside Golf Cars Stage, hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies Virginia Sinicki of the KVJ Show on 97.9 WRMF. Friday night features freestyle hits by DJ Anthony Mangini, along with performances by Lucas Prata and “Dreamgirl” Cynthia. Additional performers throughout the weekend include Angelo Venuto, Tony Romeo, Daniela Martino, Vince & Emily Riccardi and Joanne Togati. Saturday night will feature the Atlantic City Boys, a tribute to Frankie Valli, while Sunday’s lineup includes Tony Quaranti, Anthony Nunziata and Franco Corso. A highlight of the festival is the Cucina Galbani Cooking Stage,

of violation will be issued to the registered owner. A violation can be challenged in court, but the vehicle owner will have to pay an additional $250 if it is upheld.

Some commissioners were hesitant to consider the ordinance because of the possibility of the circuit court’s decision being upheld and how long the litigation might take. “I would hate to have a third party make investments throughout the county, and then be told we can’t enforce,” Commissioner Joel Flores said.

Greg Parks, senior vice president of RedSpeed USA, said that there will be other options if the decision is upheld. He also told the

or harassed for protecting all of our infrastructure in an attempt to force a one-sided settlement, so SID and Minto can gain free and uncontrolled connection to our roads.”

Accomando agreed, adding at the time, “It appears to be a retaliatory effort, even though [SID] claims they want to work together as neighbors. This isn’t very neighborly, in my opinion.”

Speaking in 2025, attorney Lebedeker added, “Minto and SID’s decision to perpetuate the dispute they lost in court by threatening to potentially flood our residents is both amoral and illegal.”

Now in 2026, Lebedeker said this week that he hopes a solution can be found without protracted ligation.

“Working this out informally makes the most sense for everyone,” he said.

featuring nationally recognized chefs, including Galbani Celebrity Chef Marco Sciortino, who will present signature dishes highlighting authentic Italian flavors. Additional activities include Voga Wine seminars, a pizza-eating contest hosted by the Sicilian Oven and the Galbani Celebrity Cheese Stacking Competition for Charity. Family-friendly attractions include festival rides, carnival games and children’s activities hosted by Little Smiles, the festival’s official charity partner. Guests can also take photos with Mario and Luigi, sponsored by Charm Pop Party. Admission is free. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets for seating. VIP seating options, including Reserved Stage Pods and VIP Villas, are available through Eventbrite.com and include cocktail service. Free parking and shuttle service will be available at the Mall at Wellington Green. For more information, visit www.wellingtonfestaitaliana.com.

April 21 Housing Rehab Grant Application Seminar

In preparation for the upcoming opening of the Village of Wellington’s housing rehab grant application portal on May 1, the village will host a Grant Application Seminar on Tuesday, April 21, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). This informational seminar is designed to help residents better understand the grant application process. Attendees will learn how to navigate the grant application portal, what documentation is required to submit a complete application and what to expect during the inspection process once an applicant is approved for assistance. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m., with village staff and building officials providing guidance and answering questions from attendees. Residents interested in learning more about the grant programs are encouraged to attend. RSVP to (561) 791-2435 or e-mail grants@wellingtonfl.gov by April 20 at 5 p.m.

board that they would remove the cameras at no expense if needed.

“In our opinion, in the unlikely event that it is upheld… we believe there will be a legislative fix,” Parks said. “If it was found unconstitutional… we would remove our equipment at no expense to the county.”

According to the county’s staff presentation, RedSpeed has found that in places where these cameras are active, only about 10 percent of drivers receive a second notice of violation, and school zones see about a 90 percent reduction in speeding. Of those violators, most pay the notice of violation, and only about one percent are appealed.

For many commissioners, the safety of children in school is a top priority, and they amended their motion so that the process of approving the ordinance would

not begin until a decision on the appeal is made.

“There is nothing initially wrong or in violation of anything by at least starting the process,” Sachs said. “As the courts move through the constitutionality of that, then you all can come back, and we vote on whether we want to enact an ordinance.”

The board passed a motion to begin advertising the ordinance and discuss it again at their meeting on Tuesday, May 5. The proposed ordinance specifically mentions 40 schools in unincorporated areas that could benefit from school zone speed cameras. In the western communities, those schools are primarily in the Acreage/Loxahatchee area, including Acreage Pines, Frontier and Pierce Hammock elementary schools, as well as Osceola Creek Middle School.

As Florida enters “Hot Car Death Prevention Month,” Safe Kids Palm Beach County, a signature program of Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL), joined forces with local emergency and child advocacy leaders to launch a critical safety campaign aimed at ending pediatric vehicular heatstroke.

The event, held Friday, April 3 at Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Headquarters on Pike Road, served as a somber reminder of the stakes involved.

Florida currently ranks second in the nation for child deaths in hot cars, with 112 lives lost since 2001. The awareness month is part of “Ariya’s Act,” a state law named in memory of 10-month-old Ariya Paige, who tragically passed away in 2023.

“Safe Kids Palm Beach County is committed to educating our community and providing the tools necessary to prevent these heartbreaking incidents,” said Kathy Wall, director of Safe Kids Palm Beach County. “This month is about raising awareness and taking action to ensure that no child

suffers from vehicular heatstroke in our county.” The news conference featured a visual demonstration of how quickly a vehicle’s internal temperature can reach deadly levels, even on a mild Florida day. PBCFR also performed a mock rescue, re-enacting the high-stakes emergency response required when a child is discovered alone in a vehicle.

Joining Wall as key speakers at the event were Dr. Lisa WilliamsTaylor, CEO of the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, and Phillip Olavarria, division chief of medical services at PBCFR.

Safe Kids PBC is one of more than 60 programs funded by the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County. As a program of Community Partners of South Florida, Safe Kids PBC works year-round to provide parents and caregivers with practical “look before you lock” strategies and education to prevent tragedies before they occur. For more information, visit www.cpsfl.org/safe-kids.

Road). Join meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn as he pines for love and fortune down on Skid Row. When a mysterious force brings his chance in the form of a carnivorous plant, hilarity and horror ensue. With a cast of colorful characters and tongue-in-cheek musical numbers, the García Theatre Company’s presentation of Little Shop of Horrors is sure to leave audiences wanting more and looking twice at their house plants.

the community, the production will be available in both Spanish and English, with bilingual students providing simultaneous translation.

Presentations will take place in the school’s theater on Friday, April 17 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 19 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at www.gofan.co and at the door.

A Night Of Shared Faith And Community At Interfaith Seder

In a powerful display of unity, faith and mutual respect, community members gathered at Temple Beth Torah in Wellington for a sold-out Interfaith Passover Seder on Thursday, April 2 that brought together Jewish and Christian neighbors in a shared celebration of history, freedom and understanding.

The evening welcomed members of Temple Beth Torah, alongside congregants from St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, creating a meaningful space for dialogue and connection. Clergy from both communities led the seder, blending tradition with inclusivity in a way that resonated with attendees.

Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz and Cantor Rachel Slusky Harris guided participants through the seder, while Senior Pastor Cory Britt offered reflections that bridged faith traditions. Together, they created an atmosphere that was both reverent and welcoming, emphasizing the shared values at the heart of their respective beliefs.

“Passover tells the story of a people’s journey from oppression to freedom, but its message is uni-

versal,” Rosenkranz said. “When we open our doors and our tables to neighbors of other faiths, we deepen that story — reminding ourselves that freedom, dignity and faith are shared human values.”

Britt echoed that sentiment, highlighting the importance of fellowship across traditions. “Opportunities like this allow us to learn from one another in a spirit of respect and humility,” he said. “By coming together, we don’t diminish our differences — we honor them while recognizing the common ground that unites us.”

The event was made possible in part by an interfaith grant from the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, supporting efforts to foster understanding and collaboration among diverse communities.

Throughout the evening, participants engaged in the rituals that define the Passover seder — eating matzah, tasting bitter herbs, dipping symbolic foods and reclining in recognition of freedom. For many in attendance, these traditions took on added meaning when experienced alongside neighbors

learn more about the restaurant, visit www.domenicsandvinniespb.com or call (561) 355-5224.

of different faiths, fostering a deeper appreciation of both the story of Exodus and its universal themes of liberation and hope.

Local leadership was also present, including Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara and members of the Wellington Village Council, underscoring the importance of community-wide engagement in

events that promote unity.

The evening was not only a religious observance but also a celebration of community spirit.

Families, clergy and civic leaders sat side by side, sharing stories, songs and conversation. Children participated alongside adults, ensuring that the lessons of the evening, both historical and con-

Village To Host ‘Flags Of Wellington’ Display

The Village of Wellington and the Rotary Club of Wellington invite the community to participate in the second annual “Flags of Wellington” installation, displayed along Forest Hill Blvd. from May 16 through June 13, adjacent to the Wellington Patriot Memorial (12198 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

Residents, community members, groups, and businesses can purchase a commemorative 3-foot-by-5-foot American flag at www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ flags-of-wellington--2026.

Each flag is $50 and includes a custom tag to share a personal message, honor a hero, remember a loved one, or share achievements, milestones or words of encouragement. At the end of the

display, on June 13, flags may be collected and brought home as a beautiful keepsake. Only 100 flags will be available.

All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Club of Wellington Foundation, a registered nonprofit organization.

The foundation supports a wide range of community initiatives, including education, youth service and leadership programs, at-risk teen support, essentials for children in need, scholarships, assistance for veterans and first responders, resident aid programs, and meals and holiday gifts for homeless families.

For additional information, contact the Rotary Club of Wellington at wellrotary1@gmail.com.

temporary, would carry forward to the next generation. Events like this Interfaith Seder serve as a reminder that while traditions may differ, the values of compassion, freedom and understanding are universal. In a time when division often dominates headlines, gatherings like this offer a hopeful counterpoint: that meaningful connection begins with simply coming to the table together.

As the evening concluded, attendees left not only with a deeper understanding of the Passover holiday, but also with strengthened bonds across faith lines — an enduring testament to the power of shared experience and community.

Garden Club To Hold Earth Day Plant Sale

The Wellington Garden Club will host its annual Earth Day plant sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The sale is in conjunction with the Village of Wellington’s Earth Day & Arbor Day Celebration. Admission is free and open to the public. A wide variety of plants from local nurseries will include annuals, perennials, butterfly plants, Florida native plants, orchids and the ever-popular member-grown plants. Master gardeners will be on hand to answer questions and offer gardening suggestions. In addition, there will be a children’s craft table, plant raffle and food trucks. Proceeds will benefit the Wel-

ROYAL PALM BEACH COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT AT THE CULTURAL CENTER

The Royal Palm Beach Community Band held its Fun & Games Concert on Tuesday, March 31 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The band’s next concert is set for Tuesday, May 12.

WELLINGTON’S OFFIC PARTY

Venue Sponsor

Prepare to experience the excitement, elegance, and pageantry of Derby Day as Wellington’s most anticipated spring celebration returns on Saturday, May 2, 2026, beginning 4 p.m. at the stunning Diamante Farms. This premier Derby gathering invites guests to indulge in an afternoon and evening where equestrian tradition meets refined social celebration.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of one of Wellington’s most spectacular private dressage farms, the event captures the timeless spirit of the Kentucky Derby with a distinctly Wellington flair. Guests are encouraged to arrive in their Derby best — think sophisticated spring fashion, statement hats, and classic Southern style. The grounds will come alive with music, laughter, and the thrill of the races.

As the race approaches, the atmosphere will build with anticipation as guests cheer on their favorite contenders while enjoying the festive traditions that make Derby Day so iconic. From the lively camaraderie to the unmistakable elegance of the setting, every moment is designed to capture the magic of this storied sporting tradition.

Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy an exceptional culinary experience, curated by talented executive chefs, offering a selection of elevated fare designed to delight the palate. Signature cocktails — including the ever-classic mint julep — along with fine wines and refreshing libations will be served as guests mingle, celebrate, and soak in the vibrant Derby Day energy.

More than just an extraordinary social event, the Wellington Derby Celebration is also an opportunity to give back. Proceeds from the evening will benefit the Wellington Community Foundation, supporting meaningful programs and initiatives that strengthen and enrich our local community.

Whether you are a lifelong racing enthusiast or you simply appreciate an elegant evening among friends, the Wellington Derby Party promises a memorable blend of style, hospitality and philanthropy.

So gather your friends, pick your pony, and join us for a spectacular celebration of racing, cuisine and community spirit. With every toast, every cheer and thrilling moment, we come together to support the place we proudly call home: Wellington.

TROOP 111 HOLDS COURT OF HONOR CEREMONY AT RPB CULTURAL CENTER

BSA Troop 111 in Royal Palm Beach held a Court of Honor ceremony honoring Senior Patrol Leader Kirill Montoya on Tuesday, March 31 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Retiring Scoutmaster Ryan McNally was thanked for his 17 years of service, while new Scoutmaster Patrick Kelly was welcomed. Several scouts were thanked for their volunteer service to CAFCI. At the ceremony, Montoya presented gifts thanking volunteers before passing the leadership staff to incoming Senior Patrol Leader Hani Almasoodi. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Nordstrom Apartments At The Mall

continued from page 1

mark a significant shift in attempts to redevelop the regional shopping facility. The Mall at Wellington Green opened in 2001 at the southwest intersection of Forest Hill Blvd. and State Road 7 with Nordstrom being one of the mall’s five original anchors stores, along with 150 smaller tenants.

Two of those anchors, including Nordstrom, have since closed.

In 2004, Lord & Taylor shut its doors and was replaced by City Furniture, with parts of it later converted into a movie theater complex. Nordstrom shut down in 2019, with the space now mainly being used for storage and seasonal pop-up stores.

The Mall at Wellington Green was one of the final major enclosed malls constructed in South Florida. Trends in retail real estate have since shifted more toward outdoor, walkable shopping areas. In 2019, just before the pandemic, mall operators proposed turning the Nordstrom site into a large-

scale outdoor entertainment area. However, those plans never moved forward.

Originally built by shopping center developer Taubman, over the years, the mall has had changes in ownership. Starwood Capital Group purchased the majority of the property in 2014 for $341.1 million. While it continues to draw in consistent customer traffic and has retained most of its core tenant base, the mall’s property value has decreased substantially, in line with nationwide trends. It is now estimated to be worth about $70 million. This decline reflects the continued shift in customer habits that is fueling the growth of e-commerce over traditional brickand-mortar retail centers.

Spinoso Real Estate Group, the mall’s current operator, is planning to reinvest in the property’s external presentation and focus more on lifestyle-oriented re-tenanting. According to the application, developers see these efforts to maintain the long-term viability of the mall and the growing housing market in the state as a significant opportunity to move forward with the redevelopment. They argue that their project is a strategic

eventually lead to interest by major sit-down restaurant chains.

Councilman Gary Werner, a city planner by profession, agreed. “It’s an economy of scale,” he said. “Rooftops are increasing by the day… [and Walmart plus

decision to revitalize underutilized land to meet the needs of the evolving area.

“It adds value to a property that is already developed,” Stillings said. “It transforms dormant land into productive use, such as housing, etc. It maximizes existing infrastructure, boosts tax revenues and brings renewed activity to stagnant areas.”

The application also comes as developers from Related Ross recently received approval to transform 70 acres less than a mile away from the mall into a large-scale community and business center. That project includes a commercial district, residential areas and a new private school.

The proposed project remains in its early stages and will need to go through Wellington’s advisory boards and the Wellington Village Council before construction can begin. The project would require a master plan amendment to allow the multifamily residential usage on the site. Village documents from the developer explain that they believe the development complies with Wellington’s master plan and land development regulations.

Lowe’s] bringing in more people will cause others to look at this area.”

A lack of eat-in dining choices in the 10-year-old community has been an ongoing complaint from residents for years.

$56,000 In Support

continued from page 1 pare for the academic year with supplies, backpacks and uniforms. Additional funding will benefit the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center’s pre-employment and life skills training programs for local high school students, as well as scholarships for the Village Park Summer Camp to ensure broader access for low- to moderate-income families.

The foundation will also continue its support of monthly senior luncheons at the Wellington Community Center, fostering

WHS Grad Graduation Ceremony

May 19

continued from page 3 nouncement would be happening that day, so they scrambled to get flowers and balloons set up.

“I think all of us felt relieved, but I think they’re really happy and proud,” said Berman, who will be majoring in neuroscience and is looking forward to traveling before school starts.

For other students looking for a high rank, balancing a sustainable number of classes is important. Berman suggests refraining from trying to stack classes to boost your GPA. “You should always prioritize your mental and physical health,” she said. “Don’t do anything that is going to push you over what you can actually take.”

And work hard, but don’t lose yourself in the process.

“Even though grades and titles and achievements are fun and exciting, at the same time, your relationships and your health and those experiences that you’ll make is something that you’re going to remember,” Berman said. “So, always prioritize yourself, no matter how far or how much you want to do.”

Sullivan was excited to learn that she and Berman were first in their class, and she was the first to take part in the announcements. It happened so quickly that her other best friend, Eva, texted her mother to let her know that Sullivan was officially a valedictorian. She’ll be studying microbiology and cell science on the pre-dentist-

social connection and emotional well-being among Wellington’s senior population. The Bike Assist Program, in partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, will refurbish and distribute bicycles to children in need, promoting both mobility and safety.

New this year, the foundation is proud to support the Wellington Youth Council, empowering local youth to engage in civic leadership and community-driven initiatives.

“These programs are more than services — they are lifelines,” Sackett said. “They reflect our shared commitment to recognizing and addressing the diverse needs within our community.”

Sackett, on behalf of the foundation, expressed deep gratitude

ry track at UF and will be starting in the summer.

For future high-achieving students, she suggests focusing on consistency and showing up every day. “Put in the effort, even when it’s not easy, and take challenging classes that push you,” Sullivan said. “Also, do not try to do everything alone. Ask for help, build relationships with your teachers, and surround yourself with people who motivate you to do better.”

Community and friendships are important to Sullivan, and a part of her success.

“I just want to remind everyone how important it is to have support,” she said. “No one gets through high school alone, and the people around you make such a difference. Appreciate them and do not be afraid to lean on them.”

And, of course, it’s important to thrive outside of the classroom.

“Something people might not always see is how much I value balance,” Sullivan said. “While academics are really important to me, I also care a lot about building connections, being involved and making an impact in my school community. Playing lacrosse has been a huge part of that for me. It has taught me discipline, teamwork and how to push myself in a different way. Those experiences have shaped me just as much as anything in the classroom.”

Honzik, the salutatorian, was surprised when she received the news. She wasn’t in class because of a chalk art festival and was instead in the courtyard.

“People were saying congratulations to me before I even processed what was going on,” Honzik recalled. “But I was obviously excited and grateful.”

to the council and Wellington’s Community Services Department for their continued partnership and dedication. Together, they remain committed to building a stronger, more connected, supportive and thriving Wellington.

The Wellington Community Foundation is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to serving Wellington’s seniors, children and veterans in need. The collaboration with the Village of Wellington is a small part of a larger segment of initiative programs that the foundation funds each year. For more information, or to learn how you can help make a difference, visit online at www. wellingtoncommunityfoundation. org.

She didn’t even have to tell her parents. The school video with the announcement was popular and spread quickly, and they found out right away and called her to offer congratulations.

Honzik wasn’t sure about her ranking, because in the school system, she showed as third in the class and didn’t focus on the possibility of being the salutatorian. “I had no idea that that was even going to happen,” she said. She always thought it would be great to be one of the highest ranked in her class, but Honzik’s main goal was to challenge herself with classes she enjoyed. “All the classes that I took, I was just interested in,” she said. And if it was a required class that didn’t align with her interests, she still knew there was something important to learn from it. Come the fall, Honzik will be attending Florida State University and studying behavioral neuroscience. Honzik chose behavioral neuroscience because as someone who is indecisive, she wanted to learn about indecisiveness and what goes on in the brain.

She’s looking forward to graduation, enjoying water polo and swimming over the summer, and having the chance to relax and take a break.

For other students, Honzik suggests embracing your interests. “High school is the last time you get to try something, and even if you fail, nothing will happen. You should just challenge yourself,” she said. “Even if it goes badly, you won’t really regret it.” For those not available to attend the May 19 ceremony in person, it can be streamed live at www. youtube.com/sdpbc.

Wellington Rotary Meets Thursdays - 12:15 p.m. The Wanderer’s Club For additional information call Chris Warren, 561-350-7247 Royal Palm Beach Rotary Meets Tuesdays - 7:30 a.m.

Hilary’s For additional information

Andre Blackwood 772-631-1716

ANNUAL WELLINGTON EGG HUNT BRINGS EASTER TRADITION TO VILLAGE PARK

The annual Wellington Egg Hunt was held on Saturday, April 4 at Village Park. Several hundred people attended the family-friendly event celebrating the Easter season. The event featured two Easter Bunnies in attendance, and volunteers from Christ Fellowship Church handed out breakfast and snacks to participants. The egg hunt was divided into four age groups, and children hunted for eggs in hopes of finding the special eggs with winning tickets in them, earning special prizes.

This MonTh’s WellingTon hisTory

Great Dining Spots From Wellington’s History

With all the dining choices now available in and around Wellington, it may be hard to imagine that not too long ago, there were only a few restaurants in the area. Early pioneers had Squire’s Deli; Annamarie’s Cafe, briefly Angelo’s Cafe, where Gabriel’s Café & Grille is now; and Cobblestones, later occupied by La Fogata, and now Rivales Taqueria. Let’s take a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the local restaurants that have come and gone.

In the Courtyard Shops at Wellington Trace and Greenview Shores, in the space Skillets now occupies, were The Sovereign, The Courtyard, for a long period of time Beverly Hills Café (BHC), and later IHOP. Families enjoyed BHC, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, when they served complimentary, warm-from-the-oven chocolate chip cookies. Also in that shopping center were Little Caesars, Quiznos, Steamers (a new location after moving from Wellington Country Plaza) and Michael’s Pasta, which was where Lindburgers is now. Tijuana Flats recently became Rosie’s Pizza and Restaurant.

Across the street in the Wellington Marketplace, where Yano’s Deli has thrived for 26 years, is Jojo’s Raw Bar & Grill, in the space where TooJay’s Deli and Coaches Corner once stood. Other favorites there were La Vecchia Lanterna and Romeo’s. Park Avenue BBQ Grille used to house a video store, and Taco Bell was a KFC. Where Dunkin’ is now was Patti’s Parlor, then Heidi’s Frogen Yozurt (not a typo!), a popular after-school spot. Walgreens is on the site of what was a Burger King, which joined Subway, Papa John’s Pizza and Panda Garden in that center.

Wellington Country Plaza (now the Wellington Plaza) had its share of restaurants in the early days. Wong’s was a staple, as was Mannino’s, which offered $5 cheese pizzas on Tuesday nights. It was located where Agliolio is now. Steamers’ original location was in the space where Backstreets, now Kickback Neighborhood Tavern, was. The nearby Flying Fish offered excellent seafood. Silver Screen Cinema, opened in 1995, can be included because patrons could order food and drinks while viewing a movie. It closed in 2009, and the space is now home to Casa Tequila.

In the original Wellington Mall, you could find several restaurants, including Jalapeño Harry’s downstairs and the Flying Cow Steakhouse upstairs. The upstairs location was also Gypsy’s Horse and the White Elephant, and it is currently the site of Raja Indian Cuisine. The building that houses Chicken Salad Chick was formerly Boston Chicken, then Boston Market.

In addition to the aforementioned Cobblestones, owned by Dennis and Maureen Witkowski, Wellington Town Square offered many dining establishments. Where CVS is now was a building that housed a popular breakfast place, Bageland. Also serving breakfast was Really Rod’s, which had an aviation theme, and in that same space was Short Stacks, which closed last fall. Sal’s Italian Ristorante used to have a location there, too.

The Mall at Wellington Green and its outparcels were home to many well-loved eateries. The Bamboo Club was located inside the mall near the Patio Verde food court — fabulous lettuce wraps! Ford’s Garage offered great burgers (one honoring then-Mayor Anne Gerwig), an onion ring tower served on a funnel and craft beers in a nostalgic atmosphere with a real Model T as the centerpiece. The Canadian favorite, poutine, was available at Beauty & the Beeeef Burger Bar. TooJay’s was in the mall, before it moved to its current location in Wellington Green Commons, as were Rotelli and Earl of Sandwich.

Sushi Yama is where Smokey Bones was, and Kabuki now occupies the space that housed World of Beer. The old Stonewood Grill location is re-opening soon as Lewis Prime Grill, affiliated with the Okeechobee Steakhouse.

Mizner Place at 12300 South Shore Blvd. was the location of Nicole’s Village Tavern, later the Trophy Room, the Grille Fashion Cuisine, Maxwell’s Plum and Gigi’s at Maxwell’s Plum. Also on South Shore, Lutina’s Pizza became Piece of Pizza and is now home to the new Spiro’s Taverna.

On State Road 7, in the Marketplace at Wycliffe, is Emiliano Italian Greatness, in the same spot that Campagnolo and Catania once occupied. Also in that center was TaOne Asian Fusion, which recently closed.

Gary’s Restaurant, a rustic dining spot located on Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves, remained open until the mid-1980s. Meanwhile, who remembers Fuddruckers, Buca di Beppo, Mellow Mushroom, Bonefish Mac’s, Shane’s Rib Shack, Kobosko’s Farm Stand, the Counter, Oak Bistro & Wine Bar or Pirate’s Well?

We certainly have come a long way from Wellington’s early days with limited dining opportunities!

We would love to hear memories of your favorite Wellington restaurants that are no longer around. To share your thoughts, visit our web site at www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org and click on About, then Contact, to leave us a message. Bon appetite!

THE CAPSTONE AT ROYAL PALM SENIOR LIVING FACILITY HOSTS OPEN HOUSE

The Capstone at Royal Palm hosted an open house on Sunday, April

apartment, while also enjoying music and refreshments. Senior Helpers

ees to make a bouquet. The Capstone at Royal Palm is located at 10621 Okeechobee

Palm Beach. Learn more at www.capstoneroyalpalm.com.

Olympia Park Tennis Courts To Receive Grant From USTA

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) recently announced that it has awarded a $47,250 Tennis Venue Services grant to the Village of Wellington’s Olympia Park Tennis Courts Project. The grant will be used on a resurfacing project at the Olympia Park Tennis Courts. The park is located at 9830 Stribling Way.

The USTA’s Tennis Venue Services grant program is designed to enhance existing tennis venues and construct new ones in order to provide increased playing opportunities in communities across the country. The additional grant funding was made possible by the expan-

sion of the grant program in 2025 in order to meet the increasing demand for tennis courts, as tennis participation continues to rise nationwide.

Since 2005, the USTA’s grant program has awarded more than $34 million in Tennis Venue Services grants, including more than $16 million in 2025, which supported nearly 300 projects impacting more than 2,500 courts.

“We are committed to supporting the enhancement and construction of tennis facilities in communities across the country,” said Theodore Loehrke, managing director of section partnerships for the USTA. “Investing in the development of tennis facilities

nationwide helps in support of the USTA’s mission of growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere.”

In order to ensure that communities have access to safe, appealing and functional tennis environments, grant recipients also receive start-to-finish project management assistance from the USTA’s Tennis Venue Services team. This additional support provides industry-leading experience in tennis court and facility design, as well as technical assistance, including construction document review and business development insight to ensure that the facilities can deliver tennis at a high level.

Seminole Ridge Volleyball Boys Eye Another Trip To Final Four

By Mike May

Town-Crier Staff Report

Seminole Ridge High School

remains home to one of the leading boys high school volleyball programs in Palm Beach County. It is one of the top 10 programs in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) Class 3A, and also one of the top 20 programs in the state.

Under the leadership of head coach Scott Barnwell, the Hawks have had another strong regular season and are well positioned to pursue a berth in the Class 3A state volleyball final four, which is scheduled to take place at the Winter Haven Health Center at Polk State College from May 14-16.

If the Hawks reach the final four next month, it will mark their third consecutive trip to Winter Haven, and the fourth time in school history that the Hawks earned their way to the final four. The only Seminole Ridge boys volleyball team to return with a state championship was the 2011 squad, under

the leadership of then head coach Austin Clubb. That year, Seminole Ridge defeated Archbishop McCarthy in five sets in the state championship game. This year, the Hawks concluded their regular season on Wednesday, April 15 at home against William T. Dwyer High School. That result was not available at press time. Going into the game, Seminole Ridge had compiled a regular season record of 18-6 and is favored to defeat Dwyer.

In reviewing Seminole Ridge’s regular season schedule, the only matches that the Hawks have lost this season have been a handful of best two-out-of-three mid-season tournament games. So far this year, in every traditional regular season match, where the winner must win the best three-out-of-five sets, Seminole Ridge has won every single game. That trend bodes well for a strong postseason run.

During the week of April 2024, the Hawks will start their postseason journey by playing in

their local Class 3A, District 10 tournament against Palm Beach Central, Wellington, Palm Beach Lakes and Royal Palm Beach high schools. On paper, Seminole Ridge is a strong favorite to play in the final of the district tournament and prevail.

After districts, Seminole Ridge must then win three regional games on April 30 (regional quarterfinals), May 5 (regional semifinals) and May 8 (regional final) in order to reach the FHSAA’s Class 3A final four in Winter Haven.

According to Barnwell, he’s optimistic about his team’s postseason chances this year because of his squad’s maturity, big-game experience and overall camaraderie.

“We have eight returning players from last year’s team,” said Barnwell, who is also the dean of students at Seminole Ridge. “Overall, my team is a great group of guys.”

Those eight returning players from last year are Jamier Moncur,

Evan Holowecky, Pierce Giebenrath, Justin King, Hayden Vassalotti, Brett Barnwell, Michael Deeds and Kai Trujillo.

Barnwell feels that his squad is playing well at the right time of the year, but there’s always room for improvement.

“Our play has been pretty good up to this point. We are excited for districts and regionals,” Barnwell said. “We need to be more consistent on our serve receive in order for us to make another run to Polk State College.”

One of the many promising signs about Seminole Ridge’s team is the diversity of talent on the squad. There are many statistical leaders this spring.

Deeds, a junior outside hitter, is averaging 3.7 kills per match and has registered 187 kills so far. “Michael Deeds is having a phenomenal year for us in hitting the ball,” Barnwell said.

Moncur, a sophomore middle hitter/middle blocker, has a teambest 43 blocks. Barnwell considers

WHS Girls Flag Football Squad Has State Championship Aspirations

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington High School girls varsity flag football team is focused on earning another trip to Tampa to compete in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) Class 4A state final four, set for May 15-16 at the AdventHealth Training Center in Tampa. The facility also serves as the indoor practice facility for the

NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the opportunity to play there provides some additional incentive for each high school flag football team in Florida.

If the Wolverines qualify for the final four, it will be their third trip to Tampa in as many years. With nine players on this year’s team who played on last year’s squad, Wellington’s experience will definitely help as the team faces strong

opposition in the upcoming district and regional playoff games.

In addition to having a team that is bright, brilliant, aggressive and athletic, Wellington High School flag football head coach Robert Callovi said that every member of his 16-player unit has a tremendous, team-oriented attitude.

“Our team is really talented, and the players have bonded together as a group,” said Callovi, who is also the athletic director at WHS.

“Everybody gets along well with one another and is focused on continuing to get better as a team.”

WHS has an impressive 9-1 record. The only setback was a 6-0 loss to local rival Seminole Ridge High School on March 27.

“That loss to Seminole Ridge was a great learning experience for us,” Callovi said.

In Wellington’s nine victories, its defense has not allowed the opposition to score in eight of them. Much of Wellington’s defensive success can be attributed to the play and leadership of senior safety Avery Schroeder, who also plays wide receiver on offense.

“I think that Avery is one of the best players in the state, regardless of which position she plays, and she doesn’t get enough credit for her defense,” Callovi said.

An excellent example of Schroeder’s defensive prowess was in the game against Western High School on March 1. In that game, Wellington prevailed by just two points, 14-12.

WHS Girls Weightlifting Team Had A Memorable Season

By Mike May

Town-Crier Staff Report

The 2026 season may have been the greatest one in history for Wellington High School’s girls weightlifting program. Back in January, this year’s girls team won its district and regional meets. Several members of the team qualified and competed in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s (FHSAA) state championship, which was held at Lakeland’s RP Funding Center from Feb. 11-13. In Lakeland, nine girls from WHS qualified to compete. Those nine girls were Gabriella Bern-

stein, Amelia Ciriaco, Victoria Dean, Audrey Dellavecchia, Ana Lawler, Danielle Newell, Melissa Peters, Lainsley Stegall and Shyne Westfield.

In Lakeland, the highest finisher for WHS was Ciriaco, who finished second in the Olympic class and fourth in the Traditional division. Newell, meanwhile, was third in Traditional and fifth in the Olympic competition. Others on the team also had strong showings. Bernstein was 16th in Traditional, Dean was 13th in the Olympic class and 15th in the Traditional, Dellavecchia was

10th in the Traditional, Lawler was 18th in the Olympic, Peters was 12th in Traditional and 17th in Olympic, Stegall finished 17th in Traditional, and Westfield was 11th in Traditional and 17th in Olympic. In both the Traditional and Olympic class standings, Wellington finished in eighth place with seven points.

At the conclusion of the season, Ciriaco was named as the SunSentinel Girls Weightlifter of the Year, while Ciriaco and Newell were both nominees for The Palm Beach Post’s Girls Weightlifter of the Year.

“Late in our game against Western, Avery caught an interception against a taller opponent to preserve the victory,” Callovi said. “On offense, Avery is our leading receiver with more than 500 receiving yards and 11 touchdown receptions.”

While Schroeder may be the leader of the defense, sophomore Olivia “Liv” Nagel has established herself as a proven leader and talented quarterback on offense. Her passes are delivered with poise and pinpoint accuracy.

“Last year, Liv was our junior varsity quarterback,” Callovi said. “This year, Liv has made huge strides as the varsity quarterback. She has thrown for 26 touchdowns and more than 2,000 yards.”

Another key player for Wellington has been sophomore Willow Monson, who plays wide receiver on offense and as a safety on defense. “Willow has been an invaluable addition to our team this spring,” Callovi said.

Wellington’s final regular season game was on Wednesday, April 15 at home against the Cougars from Somerset Academy Canyons from Boynton Beach. That result was not available at press time.

During the week of April 20, Wellington will begin play in the Class 4A, District 12 tournament. The statewide regional tournaments will commence during the week of April 27. Time will tell if Wellington High

Moncur and Trujillo probably the best pair of middles in the state.

Holowecky, a sophomore setter, is leading the team in assists with 430. “Evan Holowecky is our setter and is one of the best in the state,” Barnwell said.

Giebenrath, the team’s junior libero, is averaging a team-leading 4.3 digs per match. To date, he has

leader in aces with 35. He also has a teamleading 300 receptions. “Riley Joros is new to us this year and is having a phenomenal season,” Barnwell said.

School can blend its talent, drive, perseverance and positive mental attitude into a series of strong postseason performances that could take the Wolverines back to Tampa for a chance to play in the state final four.

In other high school flag football news:

• The Hawks from Seminole Ridge High School concluded their regular season on a high note. On Tuesday, April 14, Seminole Ridge defeated Palm Beach Gardens High School, 26-7, to finish with a record of 12-2. During the week of April 20, the Hawks will play in the Class 3A, District 7 tournament, which they are a strong favorite to win. Win or lose, the Hawks are a lock to receive a bid into the Class 3A regionals. The Hawks are the defending state

champions in Class 3A.

• The Broncos from Palm Beach Central High School had an impressive regular season, finishing with a record of 11-3. Palm Beach Central concluded the regular season by winning five out of its last six games. Next up is a berth in the Class 4A, District 12 tournament. The chances of Palm Beach Cen

Taylor Twins Headed To TCU To Play Collegiate Beach Volleyball

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

Eighteen-year-old identical twin sisters Britain and Brielle Taylor, who are longtime residents of the western communities, are taking their beach volleyball passion, talent and skills to Texas Christian University (TCU).

Both girls will enroll as freshmen at the Fort Worth, Texas, university this coming August. Both Britain and Brielle will be receiving athletic and academic scholarships, as a reward for their strong volleyball talents and hard work in the classroom. Both girls have impressive high school grade point averages, which are above 4.0.

Britain said that TCU is a perfect fit for her athletic and academic goals.

“I chose TCU because the campus immediately stood out to me. It has an amazing atmosphere and truly feels like home,” Britain said. “What really set it apart, though, is how well they support and treat their athletes. On top of that, I love the coaching staff, which made my decision even easier. I also plan to study business, which makes TCU an even better fit for me. I’ve always wanted the opportunity to compete for a national championship, and I definitely can at TCU.”

Brielle is just as excited as her older sister about going to TCU.

“I chose TCU because it’s a school I can see winning a national championship,” Brielle said. “I love the location of the school because there’s so much to do

around the area — and it truly felt like home. I also really loved the coaching staff and felt valued there. I plan to major in business.”

Their journey to being collegiate beach volleyball players started about 10 years ago and has involved a great deal of travel, some of which was overseas.

According to their mother and longtime coach, Christy Lee Taylor, both Britain and Brielle have been setting, serving, spiking, blocking and digging volleyballs since they were in elementary school.

“They started indoor volleyball at age 7 and beach volleyball at age 8, but played both for many years,” Christy said.

As is the case with many talented and promising athletes these days, they upgraded their commitment by playing for a local travel club. Britain and Brielle played beach volleyball for Sandstorm Beach Volleyball and indoor volleyball for the Palm Beach Juniors and Tribe. Both girls continued playing both forms of volleyball until middle school. After the eighth grade, they focused on being teammates in the two-person game of beach volleyball.

In order to expand their volley-

ball skills, both girls have traveled to many destinations outside of Florida to compete. Their travels have taken them to 17 states, and countries such as Brazil, Costa Rica and Bahrain. Most of their competitive club volleyball tournaments in the United States have taken place in Florida and California.

Their trip to Bahrain took place in October 2024, where they competed in the International School Sport Federation’s championships, where the girls won a gold medal. In February 2025, the sisters were invited to visit Brazil to train at Brazil’s Olympic Training Facility alongside Brazilian athletes.

To enable them to find the time to train, travel and compete at a high level, they have been homeschooled since the beginning of 10th grade.

“Britain and Brielle took most of their classes through Southeastern University and Florida Virtual School, as we were traveling a lot for volleyball,” Christy said.

During the current school year, the Taylor family relocated for one year to the west coast of Florida.

“We moved over to Palm Harbor, near Tampa, just for their senior year, as there were many

over here and great training opportunities, as well as tournaments,”

For the 2025 fall high school girls volleyball season, Britain and Brielle decided to play indoor volleyball once again.

“For their senior year, they decided to play indoor volleyball for the large local public high school near Palm Harbor,” Christy said.

considered other universities, such as the University of California-Berkeley, Florida State University, Loyola Marymount University, Louisiana State

“Britain and Brielle had not played indoor volleyball since eighth grade, but were both able to earn starting positions as outside hitters and several accolades including co-MVP and an

Keelin Coleman Is Back Home, Playing & Coaching Flag Football

immersed in the local collegiate and high school flag football scene.

After graduating from WHS, where she led the Wolverines to a berth in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 2A state final four in Tampa, Coleman packed her bags and headed north to Thomasville, Georgia, to attend college at Thomas University and play on the women’s flag football team.

Coleman was a much-soughtafter high school flag football quarterback. She was named the winner of the local ESPN Radio award for being the top flag football player in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast during the 2024 season. As a freshman quarterback in college, Coleman helped lead Thomas to a berth in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Tournament, which was held in Kansas City, Missouri. Thomas lost in the semifinals, 19-13, to the eventual national champions from Ottawa University in Kansas.

Coleman had a solid statistical season with Thomas, completing 185 of 262 passes (71 percent) for 2,009 yards and 36 touchdowns. She only had nine interceptions.

After a head coaching change at Thomas University and a year away from home, Coleman decided it was best to return to Palm Beach County to continue her collegiate education and promising flag football career at Keiser University, which also plays competitive flag football at the collegiate level under the NAIA banner.

The only downside of transferring back to Keiser, which plays in the same Sun Conference as Thomas University, was that she would have to take the current 2026 season as a “redshirt” year, while still attending classes at Keiser, where her major is integrated marketing communications with a concentration in public relations.

Beginning next spring, Coleman will have her remaining three years of athletic eligibility with Keiser.

As a “redshirt” athlete this spring, she can train with the current team, practice with the team, run wind sprints with the team, enjoy meals with the team and travel with the team, but she is not allowed to play in any games with the team until next spring.

While Coleman is used to playing flag football and not watching the action from the sidelines, she has been very busy as a practice player at Keiser.

“I often play the role of the scout team quarterback and help break down film,” Coleman said.

“I do all the conditioning, running and weightlifting with the team, as well.”

According to Keiser flag football head coach Samantha Harris, having Coleman on the squad as a “redshirt” player has been invaluable.

“Keelin’s presence has been very beneficial to the team,” Harris said. “As an experienced quarterback, it has been great to have another set of eyes on the

team’s current quarterbacks during practices and games. Keelin has been super helpful with our two young quarterbacks and will do whatever the team needs during practices and games. Next year, she will get to compete for the job as our starting quarterback.”

When Coleman is not attending class, doing homework or practicing with Keiser, she attends practices and games with her alma mater, Wellington High School. Back at WHS, Coleman helps coach the junior varsity team and provides guidance to the rushers on the varsity team.

“As a coach, you get a different perspective on the sport,” Coleman said. “And you can still be very involved with the game and the team.”

In the coming weeks, Coleman will be busy with both the WHS girls flag football team and Keiser’s women’s flag football team. Both squads will be focused on winning postseason flag football games and capturing their respec-

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Education Place in Wellington Keep your skills sharp this summer at Education Place in Wellington, which is offering an educational and fun summer. Your elementary scholar will both enforce existing skills and learn new ones while having fun with the arts and science. Combat the summer slide in a safe and nurturing, air-conditioned environment. For more information, call (561) 7536563. Education Place is located in the original Wellington Mall at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 23.

FAU Pine Jog Environmental Education Center’s Summer Day Camp Gift your children a lifetime of fun, adventure and exploration this summer at the FAU Pine Jog Environmental Education Center’s Summer Day Camp. Campers will experience a balance of environmental education, arts, culture, sports and outdoor fun. Camp runs Monday through Friday, June 8 through July 31, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., for campers ages 5 to 12 years. For more information, contact Director Wendy Bautista at (561) 656-5430 or wdiazgra@fau.edu, or visit www.pinejog.fau.edu.

Florida Rowing Center’s Summer Rowing Camp The Florida Rowing Center’s Summer Rowing Camp is now in its seventh year. The program is designed for both boys and girls who want to learn to row, as well as experienced rowers looking to improve their sculling technique and fitness. Come have fun on the water. The program rows on Lake Wellington, a freshwater, protected, 2,000-meter-long lake. Registration is limited to allow individual, personalized coaching and instruction. The summer program is open to students age 12 and up led by head coach Doug Cody. For 35 years, the Florida Rowing Center has attracted and trained elite-level competitors from North America and Europe. Register and learn more at www.floridarowingcenter.com.

Worth The Wait: Pilot Wins USPA Gold Cup After Weather Delay

On Sunday, April 5, after a one-week rain delay, the USPA Gold Cup pitted La Dolfina/Scone (David Paradice, Rufino Merlos, Jesse Bray and Poroto Cambiaso) against Pilot (Curtis Pilot, Mackenzie Weisz, Lorenzo Chavanne and Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola) at the National Polo Center in Wellington.

Played in front of a packed crowd on U.S. Polo Assn. Field

One, the matchup marked the first meeting of the season between two of the sport’s most formidable high-goal teams.

Pilot trailed 5-2 at halftime before turning the game around in the fourth chukker. From there, the maroon-and-white lineup took control, landing a 10-6 victory and $75,000 in prize money.

Chavanne opened the scoring for Pilot, but Cambiaso quickly responded to give La Dolfina/ Scone an early 2-1 edge. Despite

multiple open-goal opportunities on both sides, the first half ultimately hinged on penalties, with La Dolfina/Scone carrying a narrow lead into halftime. Regrouping in the tent, Pilot rebounded in the fourth chukker.

Capitalizing on the chemistry between Weisz and Chavanne, three goals from Pilot tied the match 5-5. Adding three more in the fifth, Castagnola added his name to the scoreboard to put Pilot firmly in the lead, 8-5. Holding La Dolfina/Scone to one just goal in the second half, Chavanne capped off Pilot’s unstoppable momentum with back-to-back goals to seal a resounding win.

Leading Pilot with six goals in the final, Lorenzo Chavanne was named Most Valuable Player, while his mare V8 Tyson, played in the first, fourth and fifth chukkers, took home Best Playing Pony honors.

Sunday’s victory marked Pilot’s third USPA Gold Cup title (2019, 2022, 2026). At the helm since the Gauntlet of Polo’s inception in 2019, team owner Curtis Pilot collected his third personal victory and was presented with the U.S. Polo Assn. Sportsmanship Award for his continued positive attitude, fairness and support of his peers throughout the tournament. Last raising the golden trophy with Pilot in 2022, Mackenzie Weisz earned his second victory, as Lorenzo Chavanne and Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola each claimed their first.

In partnership with USPA Global, both finalists selected a charity of their choice to receive a $2,500 donation, with La Dolfina/Scone contributing to Replay Polo and Pilot for Work to Ride.

The USPA Gold Cup final is available on-demand on the USPA Polo Network at watch.uspolo.

Wellington Bay Athletes Shine At The Liberty Senior Living Games In Raleigh

Residents and staff of luxury senior living community Wellington Bay are celebrating a triumphant return from Raleigh, North Carolina, following the fifth annual Liberty Games.

Held from March 23 to March 27, the multiday Olympic-style competition brought together residents from across the Liberty Senior Living communities for a week of athleticism, camaraderie and spirited competition.

The Wellington Bay delegation arrived in Raleigh on Monday, March 23, and were greeted with the high-energy pageantry of the opening ceremonies at Hayes Barton Place, which featured a live drum line and cheerleaders.

By the time the team returned home on Friday, March 28, they brought back an impressive collection of medals and one of the event’s most prestigious honors.

The highlight of the closing ceremonies was the presentation of the inaugural “Spirit of INSPIRE Award.” Wellington Bay’s own Artie Lynnworth was named the first-ever recipient of this honor.

The award is based on Liberty Senior Living’s core values, represented by the acronym INSPIRE (Inclusive, Nutritional, Spiritual, Physical, Inspirational, Recreational and Engaging).

Lynnworth was recognized for being the epitome of these values, noted for the boundless energy, meaningful contributions, and the genuine love he shares with his fellow residents and staff alike.

Wellington Bay residents displayed remarkable versatility, placing in events ranging from track and field to strategy-based games. The 2026 medalists include:

Artie Lynnworth: first place, Shuffleboard; first place, Water Balloon Toss; second place, Ping Pong; third place, Shot Put; third place, Men’s 1/2 Mile Walk; and third place, Men’s Water Walk.

Terry Golden: first place, Water Balloon Toss; third place, Bridge; and third place, Men’s Seated Bowling.

Mary Louise Perry: second place, Shot Put.

Fred Perry: second place, Men’s Seated Bowling. Arlene Golden: third place, Bridge.

“The 2026 Liberty Senior Living Games are a great reflection of what we value most here at Wellington Bay. This competition is more than just a series of events. It’s a clear reminder that aging doesn’t mean sitting still or slowing down,” Executive Campus Director Jay Mikosch said. “Our residents show us every day that staying active is possible at any stage of life.”

The Liberty Games are held annually to promote physical wellness and social engagement among seniors.

org and across major streaming platforms for Premium Subscribers and USPA Member Free Core Subscribers. Non-subscribers may also access the match via pay-perview.

The U.S. Open Polo Championship is underway, featuring 11 teams vying for the most coveted title in American polo. With $100,000 on the line, South Florida’s apex tournament will conclude Sunday, April 26, on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One at NPC. Visit www.nationalpolocenter. com to learn more.

USPA Polo Network Premium Subscriptions include all games of the U.S. Open Polo Championship, and USPA Member Free Core Subscriptions have access to the mini quarters (Sunday, April 19), semifinals and final. Non-subscribers may also access the semifinals and final via payper-view.

Wycliffe’s Marty Ross Records Yet Another Ace

By Mike May

Town-Crier Staff Report

Just like a fine wine, longtime Wycliffe resident Marty Ross is getting better with age. On the morning of Monday, April 6, Ross, now 85, recorded the fourth hole-

in-one of his life while playing golf at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. The big moment occurred on the fourth hole of the East Course. The distance from the tee box to the hole was 125 yards. He used a

seven iron to record his ace. Ross said it felt great when his seven iron struck his Titleist 2 golf ball. Ross didn’t see the ball disappear into the hole, but his three playing partners did. “I watched it in awe for as long as I could see it, but I’m too old to see that

with their

Ross’s recollections of his

other holes-in-one are vivid. All of them have been done at Wycliffe. “My first hole-in-one was on March 1, 2015, when I aced the ninth hole of the West Course at Wycliffe. I used a six hybrid from 121 yards,” Ross said. “My second hole-in-one was on Dec. 29, 2022, on the 14th hole of the East Course at Wycliffe. I used a six hybrid from 138 yards. And my third ace was last year in September, when I played the 16th hole on the East Course. It was 107 yards, and I used an eight iron.” Ross’s wife, Harriet, also plays golf, and she has had two aces in her life. Harriet has indicated that she intends to record her fourth hole-in-one before her husband gets his fifth ace.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Kravis Center ArtsCamp — Theater kids will find a home for boundless creativity this summer at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. ArtsCamp is an innovative, three-week summer camp that provides young artists ages 9 to 11 with a working knowledge of what it takes to bring a show from an idea to reality. Under the guidance of professional teaching artists, campers will explore acting, dance, technical theater and vocal music, culminating in an ensemble piece produced and performed by the campers. To learn more, or to register, visit www.kravis.org/artscamp or call (561) 651-4251.

Lake Worth Playhouse Arts Academy — Make it a summer of creativity at the Lake Worth Playhouse. Young performers ages 8 to 15 can star in Mary Poppins Jr. during the Summer Show Camp (June 1–26), ending with a public performance on June 27. For ages 6 to 10, the nine-week Summer Theatre Camp (June 1 to July 31) offers exciting weekly themes — from Broadway and Disney to Star Wars and Christmas in July — plus fun Friday showcases. Camps run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Sibling rates are available. Call (561) 586-6410 or visit www.lakeworthplayhouse.org to register.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Junior Marine Biologist Summer Camp — Do you know an aspiring scientist? The Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Junior Marine Biologist Summer Camp gives children ages 6 to 13 the amazing opportunity to explore Florida’s coastal ecosystems, enjoy hands-on science activities and much more. Campers will also learn about fun ways to protect the oceans. Sessions include Sea Turtle Savers, Ocean Adventures and Conservation Heroes. Camps run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Late pickup at 5 p.m. is available for an additional fee. For more information, or and to register, visit www.marinelife. org/camp.

St. David’s Church Welcomes

Matthew Tees As New Rector

St. David’s in the Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington recently welcomed the Rev. Matthew Tees as its new rector.

Tees began his tenure at St. David’s in January. He came to the Wellington church from the bishop’s staff at the Diocese of Long Island, where he has served as executive director of Camp DeWolfe for the past 14 years. He also served as the chair and founding member of EPIC (Episcopalians and Presbyterians in Conversations).

Tees is currently working to complete his doctorate in organizational leadership. He is married to Emma, who is from the United Kingdom, and they have three children, Madison, Joshua and Michael.

“Our search committee was impressed by Father Matt’s calm and caring nature, his experience of overseeing multiple million-dollar projects, and his knowledge of working with young people and children in the church,” said Howard Barrett, senior warden at St. David’s. “He is committed to helping the people of St. David’s stay deeply connected with God and each other, and we believe that his leadership will guide us in our spiritual growth and Rev. Matthew Tees with his wife Emma, children Madison, Joshua and Michael, and the Right Rev. Peter Eaton, the Episcopal Bishop of Southeast Florida. strengthen our community bonds. He shares our vision and mission: welcoming seekers, forming disciples and sending apostles.” Learn more about the church at www.saintdavidsinthepines.com.

Luncheon Benefits The Forza Stefano Charitable Foundation

The Forza Stefano Charitable Foundation recently held a fundraising luncheon at the Golden Lakes Café. The joy of sharing friendships and helping terminally ill teenagers guided this group of ladies to promote the foundation. Thinking that every donation, regardless of the amount, helps to put a smile on the faces of these less fortunate children.

Tamara Roth, president of the organization, explained that she decided, facing the enormous pain of losing her son, to create an organization that could turn pain into love. And so, she motivates anyone who feels the desire to help so many in need, to visit www. forzastefano.org and become part of the foundation.

Hosting the event were Yvonne

Women

JULIE KIME HONORED WITH AWARDS

The Hispanic Human Resources Center hosted a luncheon on Tuesday, March 10, in recognition of International Women’s Day to honor women whose leadership and influence create lasting change in Palm Beach County. The luncheon and silent auction brought together the community to recognize the organization’s inaugural VIDA Award recipient, Julie Kime, who was honored for her legacy of leadership, compassion and impact. In addition, the Palm Beach County Commission presented Kime with a proclamation declaring March 10 at Julie Kime Day.

Miguel Dabu of Troop 13 in West Palm Beach dedicated their time to service, leadership and environmental stewardship.

Juniors at Cardinal Newman High School, the twins successfully completed their Eagle Scout projects on two consecutive Sundays in March at Frenchman’s Forest Natural Area and Juno Dunes Natural Area. The projects were carried out in partnership with Palm Beach County Environmental Resources Management.

Leading teams of volunteers, Luke and Matthew coordinated conservation efforts aimed at improving and protecting these environmentally sensitive areas. Their work included constructing a chain gate to safeguard vulnerable habitat, clearing unwanted vegetations and enhancing trail conditions for public use.

Using a gas-powered auger, volunteers dug holes for installa-

tions, while teams also transported shells to fill low areas of trail near a metal bridge spanning a mangrove ecosystem. In addition, the twins designed and carved, new trail signs and installed more than 60 trail markers, improving navigation, safety and accessibility.

“These projects reflect the importance of preserving our natural spaces while making them accessible for everybody,” the twins said.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community.”

The Eagle Scout rank is the highest achievement in scouting and requires extensive planning, leadership and a commitment to community service. Completing two major conservation projects on consecutive weekends highlights the brothers’ dedication and teamwork.

Luke and Matthew are both members of Mensa International, the National Honor Society and the Science Honor Society. They have also completed the National Youth Leadership Training at Tanah Keeta Scout Reservation in Jupiter, further developing their leadership skills. Outside of academics and scouting, they are both varsity swimmers and band members at their school.

The twins extend their gratitude to their sponsors, volunteers, family, friends and the scouting community, whose support made their Eagle Scout projects meaningful and successful.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Neighborhood Kids Schools Summer Camp — This summer, children ages 0 to 8 are invited to embark on an unforgettable nine-week journey around the world, right from the Neighborhood Kids campus. Each week, campers will explore a new country through hands-on activities, music, art and interactive learning adventures designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Meaningful character les sons and engaging Bible stories are thoughtfully woven into each destination. Neighborhood Kids proudly serves families in Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, Palm Beach Gardens and Delray Beach and sur rounding areas. Space is limited. Visit www.neighborhoodkids.net for more in formation and to secure your child’s spot.

St. David’s Episcopal School Summer Camp — Join St. David’s Episcopal School for summer camp featuring exciting travels around the world — all without leaving camp! Each week, campers will “visit” a new country to learn more about its cul ture, language, food and fun. Including: Week 1 – June 8-12 Canada, Week 2 –June 15-19 Mexico, Week 3 – June 22-26 England, Week 4 – June 29 - July 3 the United States, Week 5 – July 6-10 Australia, Week 6 – July 13-17 Egypt, Week 7 –July 20-24 Japan, and Week 8 – July 27-31 France. The program will also include Bible stories, arts & crafts, free play, games, playground time, movies, water play and more. The cost is $225 per week and runs Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For registration, visit https://stdavidsepiscopalschool.com.

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DADDY DAUGHTER AND MOTHER SON DANCES A SUCCESS AT WELLINGTON EL

Recently, the Wellington Elementary School cafeteria was transformed into a dance floor and filled with fathers, uncles and grandfathers with their girls. Then, a few weeks later, the mothers, aunts and grandmas were there with their boys. The couples got to dance to the tunes of a disc jockey while feasting on special snacks, pizza and cupcakes, and posing for memorable photographs. It was a very special, fun-filled evening for all in attendance. Event organizers Melissa Akladious, Amanda Silvestri and Dana Perez of the PTO, plus many other volunteers, created these events with the goal of making special memories to last a lifetime.

Wildcat Dancers Perform At Busch Gardens

The Wildcat Dancers from Royal Palm Beach High School traveled to Busch Gardens in Tampa to perform their touring show “Let Me Dance For You” on Thursday, April 9. They were joined by Master Choreographer and Dance Director Michele Blecher and their chaperones. The mini show comprised of eight dance routines: “Raining Men” (jazz), “Sign of the Times” (contemporary), “Partition” (jazz), “When We were Young” (contemporary), “Love in the Elevator” (jazz), “Rival” (ballet), “Let Me Dance For You” (musical theater) and “Thunderstruck” (pom). The dancers performed in front

of the Iron Gwazi Pavilion as

parkgoers stopped in droves to watch the dancers during their 25-minute performance. When the performance was completed, the dancers received thunderous applause and cheers. Upon their return, the dancers are now getting ready to start practicing for their final dance

performance, “Let Me Dance For You,” on Wednesday, April 22 at 7 p.m. in Royal Palm Beach High School’s auditorium. This full show comprises 23 dance routines, which include ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, musical theater and pom. If you would like tickets, e-mail michele.blechercramer@ palmbeachschools.org.

The Battle of the Books is a popular reading incentive program and competition designed for students in grades 3 through 12, aiming to encourage independent reading, improve comprehension and foster teamwork through a fun, quiz-bowl-style format. Teams of students read a specified list of books and compete by answering detailed questions about the content. Emerald Cove Middle School’s Library Legends team of Lorenzo, Chole, Sadie and Liam read all 15 of the 2025-26 Sunshine State Youth Readers and participated in the online battle. The school is proud of Library Legends team.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Wellington Conservation Center — For those exotic animal lovers interested in an exciting summer program, the Wellington Conservation Center is now taking reservations for children ages 8 to 14 for the summer months. This camp is an all-access pass to animal fun for the summer. Become a junior zookeeper, learn about conservation or even just focus on some of the animals at the farm. There are four unique programs, with each a week full of hands-on learning experiences sure to excite the interest of kids of all ages. Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with before and after care available. The cost is $300 per week, per child. To register, call Cole at (203) 206-9932. Visit www.wellingtonconservationcenter. org to learn more.

DiVosta Homes Announces New Orchid Isles At Avenir Residential Community

DiVosta Homes, a PulteGroup

brand of resort-style residential communities, has acquired 62 estate-home lots within the Avenir master-planned community in western Palm Beach Gardens for its newest high-end neighborhood, Orchid Isles at Avenir. Prices will start in the low $2 millions.

Located near Northlake and Panther National boulevards, the exclusive gated enclave will provide an elevated living experience in one of the area’s most desirable places to live.

Buyers will have a choice of four floor plans that will be built on 80-foot lots. Home sizes will start from 3,200 square feet under air with three to five bedrooms, 3.5 to 4.5 bathrooms and three-car garages. Most of the home sites offer scenic preserve or lake views.

“Buyers today want more than just a beautiful home — they want a complete lifestyle,” said Brent Baker, PulteGroup’s Southeast Florida division president. “Orchid

Isles brings together spacious, well-designed and appointed homes with a setting that feels both private and connected, all within the larger Avenir community that provides something for everyone.”

The 4,700-acre Avenir community offers residents an exceptional mix of social and recreational amenities centered around the 13-acre, resort-style Great Egret Clubhouse. Residents can stay active in a state-of-the-art fitness center, unwind in a full-service spa with saunas and steam rooms, or gather with friends and neighbors for events and social activities. The Great Egret Clubhouse also offers a sit-down restaurant and bar.

For more active pursuits, the community features a sports complex with pickleball and tennis courts, a basketball court and an open-play field. Additional amenities include a resort-style pool with cabanas, daybeds and hammocks, a dedicated lap pool, a playground and an outdoor event

Physicians, leaders and clinicians at Wellington Regional Medical Center recently announced that the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine has been awarded the prestigious Robert A. Warriner III M.D. Clinical Excellence Award by Healogics.

The facility has scored in the top 10 percent of eligible Healogics Wound Care Centers on the Clinical Excellence measure, which is the Comprehensive Healing Rate weighted by wound mix. The award is named for Dr. Robert A. Warriner III, a pioneer in wound care and the former chief medical officer at Healogics.

“This prestigious award reflects our team’s relentless focus on healing patients and improving quality of life,” said Pam Tahan, CEO of Wellington Regional Medical Center. “We are proud of the specialized care our wound care team provides and grateful to our patients who place their trust in us every day.”

The Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine is part of the Healogics network, which supports nearly 600 hospital outpatient Wound Care Centers nationwide. Through this partnership, the center is managed by Healogics and provides highly

specialized and evidenced-based wound care to patients suffering from diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, infections and other chronic wounds.

Advanced care modalities provided by the wound care experts include cellular tissue products, total contact casting and specialized wound care dressings. The Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine also offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which works by surrounding the patient with 100 percent oxygen to help accelerate wound healing.

“This award reflects the outstanding teamwork and clinical excellence of our wound care specialists,” said Dr. Kyle Eldredge, medical director of the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine. “Through evidence-based care and advanced healing technologies, we remain committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for our patients and community.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center is a 235-bed acute care hospital celebrating 40 years of treating residents in Wellington and the surrounding community. To learn more about the hospital, visit www.wellingtonregional. com.

See Vision Eye Institute Celebrates Opening Of New Surgery Center

See Vision Eye Institute recently announced the opening of its new, state-of-the-art surgery center in suburban Lake Worth, further advancing access to high-quality ophthalmic care for patients throughout Palm Beach County.

See Vision Eye Institute features 14 advanced exam lanes, a full range of advanced diagnostic equipment, a cutting-edge laser suite and an optical department. With the addition of the new surgical center, patients now benefit from the convenience and continuity of receiving comprehensive care, from diagnosis to surgery — all in one location.

This milestone underscores the practice’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class eyecare in a modern, patient-centered environment.

“This practice began as a vision — my dream to create a space where patients could access the most advanced eye surgery in a setting that reflects precision, efficiency and care,” owner and founder Dr. Jason Gorscak said. “With the opening of our new building and the launch of our

surgery center, that dream is now a reality. We’re proud to support the residents of this community with the sophisticated care they deserve. We have many exciting plans in store for our community.”

Gorscak’s training includes undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, medical school at the University of Miami School of Medicine and residency at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey. He established See Vision Eye Institute to provide advanced cataract and refractive surgical solutions with a strong emphasis on personalized patient care.

The new six-bed surgery center is equipped with two operating rooms and a laser suite, designed to provide patients with the latest in ophthalmic technology. It features advanced equipment like image-guided systems and femtosecond laser-assisted techniques, all designed to enhance surgical precision, safety and outcomes.

In addition to cataract surgery, See Vision Eye Institute specializes in Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Implantable Collamer

Lenses (ICLs), providing effective alternatives for patients who may not be candidates for LASIK or who have more complex vision needs.

“Opening our surgery center is more than just growth; it’s the realization of our purpose. From cataract surgery to refractive lens exchange, we deliver solutions that empower people to live their best lives,” CEO Myra Cherchio said.

Easter Was Going Just Fine Until Grandma Lost Her Composure

Well, Easter was a disaster. Not Easter, the religious celebration of renewal — that went fine. I’m talking about Easter, the dinner that had grandma quietly weeping into her mashed potatoes — that was the disaster. Worse yet, I was the grandma. Oh, it’s ridiculous, really. And I’m fine, now having “bucked up,” “looked at the bright side” and otherwise “gotten it together.” (Snurf!)

It’s just that several years ago, I moved to Kansas City to help out with the grandchildren so my career-driven daughter could keep working. The kids weren’t born yet, but they were imminent. Now they’re 13 and 11, and my

career-driven daughter has landed an impossibly fabulous job with the Disney Corporation, a job she has been working toward her entire life, and a job with a title so long it barely fits on her business card. It requires a degree in engineering, decades of design and manufacturing

experience, the skills needed to supervise hordes of employees (excuse me, “cast members”) and a love of international travel. Long story short, the family is up and moving to Orlando. They’ve already found a house. They’re packing up the KC home. Everyone is so excited they are dancing on air. Except me. I am torn between exuberance for my daughter and dread for a grandma left with no reason to go to children’s movies, take children back-toschool clothes shopping or buy children’s toys. The fact that they’re hardly children anymore does not ease my pain.

Sunday was my last Easter with them

in their house (where I also lived for four years so as to be “on call,” day or night).

Staring at my plate, alone in my misery, I thought I was safe, but the perky yet observant grandchild across from me pointed out that it looked like grandma’s eyes were watering. That caused the floodgates to open and the adults at the table to express concern. When both children leapt to their feet to hug me, things only got worse. Pretty soon the entire dinner was ruined as I sat blubbering into my food, muttering incoherently about “Pampers to pimples” and becoming “irrelevant” to modern society.

But, as I mentioned previously, I am fine now. I think of all the money I’ll save on

movies, back-to-school clothes, toys and gas. Shoot, between going to and from their house, to and from their school, and to and from the emergency room, I can take that trip to the Maldives I’ve never been planning. Heck, I don’t even know where the Maldives are.

Maybe I’ll buy a forever-pass for Walt Disney World. (Is there such a thing?)

Maybe I’ll adopt a teenager (or two).

Better yet, maybe I’ll have a baby, get written up in the Guinness Book of World Records and scare my friends. Yeah. I like the sound of that last one. See? “Every cloud has a silver lining.”

‘Best Medicine’ Is A Quirky But Fun New Television Show On Fox

‘I’

On

CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

When I began watching Best Medicine on Fox, I got an immediate feeling of nostalgia. It reminded me, and still does, of the 1990s series Northern Exposure. That is not a bad thing; the earlier show was a favorite of mine. But here we have the same basic plot: A doctor gets tossed into an environment in which he really doesn’t fit and has to deal with an array of cute characters the writers think up. Ironically, the show is actually based on a British show called Doc Martin But the show differs from Northern Exposure thanks to the main character, Dr. Martin Best (Josh Charles). Unlike his counterpart Joel Fleischman in the earlier show, Dr. Best is an emotional mess. He has frozen up in surgery due to buried memories of his sister, killed in an auto accident when he was seven, and he faints at the sight of blood. He is also uptight and emotionally distant. And anyone who watches these kinds of show knows that the residents of the environment, in this case a small, relatively remote village in Maine, will not let him mope alone. The question, of course, is who will awaken feelings in him. Will it be the attractive teacher who is an emotional mess but adorable (Abigail Spencer) or the friendly sheriff (Josh Segarra), who insists he’s a great friend? Or will it be his eccentric aunt (Annie Potts) or the almost too adorable bright little boy Peter (Ben Lewis Doherty), son of a single mother? Or possibly the dog (Wattson) that Best

and the boy name Copernicus, who attaches itself to him.

And, of course, there are the other eccentrics. There is his assistant Elaine (Cree Cicchino), who dreams of being an actress, a couple who run the local restaurant/inn (Stephen Spinella and Jason Veasey). And so many others. Even some of the minor characters are sort of different. There’s a Greek chorus of bored teens (Alexandra Sica, Josh Hoon Lee and Leah Janae Thomas) who are about as cynical as any adults around. I particularly enjoyed their feeble efforts at a protest. The adults tell them to look at internet reports on early protests, and when they try to match the old demonstrations, the same adults have them arrested (although not really punished).

Although usually focusing on medical issues, things do get complicated in almost mythical Port Wenn, Maine. Nothing seems simple, as Dr. Best seems

to stumble on medical crises every week.

But it can becoming addicting. Every time things seem to be resolved (not medically, but emotionally), we get a curveball. And suddenly everything seems different. The main plots are convoluted to say the least. But the characters are so charming that we don’t care. If you think the pretty teacher is perfect for the doctor, well, it seems to start that way, goes off the rails, and then heads in another direction. And the other plots wind around that.

Josh Charles pulls off a really difficult chore as the title character. Yes, he’s an uptight curmudgeon, but somehow he manages to win us over. The first time I watched the show, I wondered how they could base a show on such a character, but he grows on you. He clearly wants to overcome his social problems, although his attempts are generally feeble. Abigail Spencer is a charming foil as the teacher. After meeting cute after her disas-

trous breakup with Segarra, she starts out as a bit of an antagonist, gets won over by Dr. Best’s charm, but winds up frustrated by a variety of things that always seem to be in the way. Segarra is great fun as the sheriff, generally playing the foil to the doctor while working hard to be his friend. The smaller roles are filled with charming performers. Potts is funny; she still knows how to deliver a laugh line, particularly to her best buddy, played by Didi Conn. Spinella and Veasey are great as the inn’s proprietor and chef. A nice touch was having Martin Clunes, who played the lead role in the British series, as

Homeschool Classes

*Stained Glass (age 10+)

*Glass Mosaic

*MiniStands

*Stretch Bracelets

*Decoupage Treasure Box

*Seashell & Mosaic Necklaces

*Earring or Necklace Making

*Wood DIY Kits

*And More

Instructor Terri White 561-308-2374

Instructor Kris Barnett 561-634-6625