Town-Crier Newspaper June 26, 2026

COUNTY WORKSHOP ON HOMELESSNESS

CAFCI HONORS 18 NEW GRADUATES

Vassalotti: ITID

Needs To Stay On Top Of County Road Plans

Supervisor Richard Vassalotti warned during the Monday, June 22 meeting of the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors that Palm Beach County officials may be planning road widenings and connections that could route vastly larger amounts of traffic through the unincorporated, semi-rural enclave. Page 4

Lox Council Hears

Report On Southern Blvd. Corridor Study

Residents of Loxahatchee Groves say that development across the area has eroded the town’s rural identity, according to a new corridor study. But the creators of the study are recommending ways that town officials can work to restore it.

Page 7

Book Festival Brings

Authors And Readers

Together In Wellington

The fifth annual Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival gathered people of all ages on Saturday, June 20 at the Mall at Wellington Green. The fifthannual festival was organized by author Heidi Hess and celebrated the art of storytelling, creativity, and the community of book lovers and writers from near and far. Page 13

Royal Palm Beach Teen Golfer Reflects On U.S. Open Experience

While it’s well-publicized that Wyndham Clark won the recent 126th U.S. Open golf tournament held June 18-21 at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, another big winner was 17-yearold Royal Palm Beach resident Giuseppe Puebla. Page 17

CAFCI held its 33rd annual Student Assistance Fund Award Ceremony with the theme “Empowering Youth & Investing in Our Future” on Saturday, June 13 at the Portuguese

and a

event also included a keynote address by

are

Zoning Meeting July 2 Next Flashpoint For Project Tango

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

After a seven-month pause, like the July temperatures, things are heating up again over the proposed AI hyperscale data center and warehouse development known as Project Tango.

The Thursday, July 2 meeting of the Palm Beach County Zoning Commission, set for 9 a.m. at Vista Center (2300 N. Jog Road, West Palm Beach), is shaping up as the next major skirmish between owners of the 202-acre site formally known as the Central Park Commerce Center and nearby Arden community residents and others opposing the plan, including the county’s powerful teachers’ union.

“Yes, the meeting is more of a formality,” Arden HOA President Raymond Penuela said this week. “But it could be very important. I

urge everyone who is concerned about this issue to come out to the meeting.”

Ben Brown, spokesman for the Western Palm Beach Community Alliance Inc., a nonprofit formed to oppose the data center, could not be reached for comment.

The proposed data center would be located within 2,000 feet of Saddle View Elementary School, which opened last August off Southern Blvd. near 20-Mile Bend. The school mostly serves children at the 2,400-home Arden community.

Earlier this month, the Palm Beach County School Board joined the Classroom Teachers Association in opposition to approval of the project by the Palm Beach County Commission. That approval could come at a meeting on Wednesday, July 15.

The school board’s letter urges the commissioners to hold off on a vote and to provide any impact studies or technical reports already submitted for Project Tango. In making the request, the school board cites its “fundamental responsibility to provide safe learning environments that promote student achievement.”

Ernie Cox, spokesman for the project, said this week that he appreciates the concern of Arden residents and others, but they are mostly based on bad or outdated information.

For instance, he said, the need for 5 million gallons of water per day to cool a 1.3-million-squarefoot data center such as Project Tango is completely invalid. He said the facility will use approximately 5,000 gallons per day, and

See TANGO, page 12

County Seeks Transportation Plan Public Input At Meetings

Sherry

By Patrick

Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach County leaders, in collaboration with consultant WSP, are seeking the community’s input to help shape future transportation in the county. Officials will be holding a series of public meetings on draft recommendations for the Palm Beach Countywide Transportation Master Plan (CTMP).

The CTMP will establish a shared vision for mobility across modes of travel and guide decisions for short- and mid-term needs for the next few decades. All 39 municipalities in the county will be included in the plan, which will serve as an advisory framework for safe, efficient transportation connections between communities.

The public will be able to share their thoughts on the proposed recommendations at the meetings.

“No amount of data can substitute for lived experience,” said

Murriah Dekle, assistant vice president at WSP. “Public input has already helped shape the plan, and this is another opportunity to influence what comes next. Attendees will hear more about the details and offer feedback that will guide the final recommendations.”

The first CTMP draft recommendations meeting will be specifically for the western parts of the county on Tuesday, June 30, at the Belle Glade Public Library (725 NW 4th Street) from 6 to 8 p.m.

Local officials from the western communities are encouraging their residents to participate in the process because of the importance they have to the county.

“Much of the county’s growth is occurring in our western communities, and residents here experience transportation challenges and opportunities that differ from those in other parts of the county,” Wellington Mayor Michael Napoleone said. “While Palm Beach County

benefits from multiple north-south transportation options… We continue to face significant challenges with east-west connectivity. It is essential that Wellington and neighboring communities have a strong voice in identifying the projects, improvements and transportation solutions that will best serve our residents now and in the future.”

Last year, officials from Palm Beach County and WSP held multiple public meetings to gather input on residents’ experiences and priorities with transportation. A survey was also opened to gather feedback from others who could not attend. The information from these outreach efforts was used to create some of the recommendations that will be presented to the public.

“The future of transportation in Palm Beach County should not be decided solely by planners

RPB Officials Hope That New Owner Gets ‘Main Street’ Back On Track

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

By Fiona Slusarev

Staff Report

men who can no longer work.

For Lucas, fishing was joyful recreation. He grew up fishing with his father and brother in Louisiana and continues to savor the annual fishing trips he and his brother take together as adults. However, his trip to the South Pacific in October 2025 brought to light how common and devastating injuries are in the boating and fishing communities.

“You’re having the time of your life, and in the matter of a split-second, things can change dramatically,” Lucas said.

Lucas and his friends were 60 miles from the coast when a crew

member was yanked overboard as he tried to wrangle a fish. With the severity of his injuries, it was unknown if he would make it to the hospital. With the help of everyone on board, as well as two firefighters who heard the mayday call from another boat, the crew member made it to the hospital. After grueling surgeries and the loss of one leg, the crew member stabilized, but his life was forever changed. Lucas and the men on the boat knew that the crew member would never be able to go back to his job at sea, and that he and his family would face a variety

Hospital Drops Plan To Open Standalone

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Developers have withdrawn an application to build a stand-alone emergency room in The Acreage after neighborhood backlash over the project.

The applicant for the emergency room at Seminole Orange Plaza near the southeast corner of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd. requested to withdraw its application for a development order amendment. The Palm Beach County Commission unanimously voted to allow the withdrawal at a meeting Wednesday, June 17. Officials from Palms West Hospital proposed constructing a 24-hour medical facility near a residential area. In March, the Palm Beach County Zoning Commission recommended approval

of the application. During that meeting, representatives of the applicant told the zoning commission that the project would give residents better access to medical care when they are in need. Those who live near the project site disagreed. They have argued that the emergency room would cause traffic and noise at all hours of the day. Developers proposed building a privacy wall around parts of the property and adding more landscaping, but this did not appease residents.

Brian Terry of Insite Studio, agent for the applicant, sent the county a letter on June 15 to withdraw the project. At the June 17 meeting, commissioners had to decide whether to allow the withdrawal with prejudice, which would bar the applicant from See ACREAGE ER, page 12

Wellington’s Zoning Board Supports Change To Allow Private Tennis Facility

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

A new private tennis campus might soon be coming to Wellington. The village’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board recommended approval of an amendment to change the site’s master plan designation on Wednesday, June 17.

Former professional tennis player Betsy McCormack and coach Rodrigo Nascimento are looking to open the R&B Sports Center on Greenbriar Blvd., just west of Ousley Farms Road near Greenbriar Park, on the site of a former preschool.

The application seeks to amend the approved master plan to replace the existing daycare designation with a membership-based assembly use. If the Wellington

Village Council approves the master plan amendment, the applicant’s site plan will be reviewed by the board at a later date.

“The R&B Sports Center is an inspiring new vision for sports, mentorship and community coming to the Village of Wellington,” explained Jon Schmidt of the planning firm Schmidt Nichols, agent for the applicant. The new master plan designation would permit the site to be used for organized meetings and programs. Before the applicant acquired the property in 2025, it had been in use as a daycare facility since 1986. They plan to demolish the existing structure and build a nearly 26,700-square-foot tennis facility.

As part of the application, they are also requesting to add two ex-

isting access points along Greenbriar to the master plan.

“The campus brings together a range of athletic and wellness offerings, and a dynamic environment where people can train, connect and grow… in a place that the broader community can recharge, find balance and reconnect,” Schmidt said.

The developers plan to build two indoor tennis courts and six outdoor courts, with construction expected to be completed by 2028.

The applicant told the board that access to the campus will be membership-based for about 200 people. The cost of membership has not been decided yet.

PZA Board Member Scott Lee was concerned about potential competition the campus may have

with the village’s own Wellington Tennis Center.

“The Village of Wellington just expanded its tennis facilities to a great degree,” Lee said. “Do you intend to compete with the Village of Wellington, their membership and their facilities?”

Nascimento reassured the board that they do not intend to poach any coaches or compete with Wellington’s existing tennis amenities. Instead, they want to keep access to their facility to a small number of people.

“We’re going to have a very boutique-ish program,” he said.

“It’s not going to be in competition with anyone… We’re not going to take any instructors from anyone because we are going to be very private and very small.”

Staff’s analysis found that the

Groups Fighting Homelessness Update County Commissioners

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

At a workshop session on Tuesday, June 16, officials from Palm Beach County’s homeless response system and major homeless service providers gave the Palm Beach County Commission a detailed look into how their organizations are critical to addressing homelessness in the area. Representatives from the organizations presented the commissioners with an overview of how their collaborative efforts work to prevent and reduce homelessness.

County staff brought forward the workshop item after the board requested to hear directly from major homeless service providers to learn more about their impact.

Palm Beach County’s Homeless and Housing Alliance System of Care partners with 60 nonprofit organizations that are working to end homelessness locally. According to the presentation, Palm Beach County has the lowest homeless population compared to the other large counties in the state. District 6, which includes the western communities, has the third-highest distribution of homelessness in the county. The county last year invested nearly $21 million into its Homeless and Housing Alliance, which undertakes many regional home-

less response efforts. On any given day, more than 700 individuals are served through the county’s transitional and permanent supportive housing program. While being housed, residents can receive healthcare, employment assistance and case management to help them achieve stability and self-sufficiency.

“[These investments] help prevent evictions, move people from the streets into shelters, transition individuals into permanent housing and provide ongoing support for those living in permanent supportive housing,” explained Dr. James Green, director of the Palm Beach County Community Services Department.

During the meeting, the board heard from other homeless support organizations who are a part of the county’s Homeless and Housing Alliance and receive tax revenue. The Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County, Gulfstream Goodwill Industries, Adopt-A-Family of the Palm Beaches, the Lord’s Place and Vita Nova individually detailed what they specifically do for the community.

The Homeless Coalition specifically raises money to support organizations that address homelessness. The coalition is not a shelter or a direct service provider. Instead, it provides other organiza-

tions with resources, partnerships and coordination to help them succeed. Each year, the county invests $150,000 into the organization, with its other revenue coming from grants, fundraisers and donations.

Over the last 10 years, the coalition has raised $18 million for dedicated homelessness solutions.

CEO Alexandria Ayala-Long said their work has resulted in millions of dollars being redirected back into the community and reduced public costs.

“We’re proud to be a collaborative part of the system — making a system stronger and working in a way that puts Palm Beach County ahead of the homeless crisis that we face in this county and in this state,” she explained.

Gulfstream Goodwill Industries provides programs focused on employment training and housing.

From 2021 to 2025, the organization produced $72.7 million in revenue that is used to fund its housing resource centers, affordable housing units, prevention services, the Career Academy of the Palm Beaches, the Capabilities of the Palm Beaches program and its justice services. These programs have assisted thousands of people, and the organization is looking to expand its affordable housing options.

Adopt-A-Family owns and

operates 112 housing units in the Lake Worth area that serve families with children who are at risk of or are homeless. The organization serves 200 families each year and provides a variety of services, with a heavy emphasis on children’s education.

Adopt-A-Family receives funds from the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County through its partnership, which it uses for rehousing efforts.

“Since 2014, we’ve received funds that we have deployed through the Homeless Resource Center, and they are 100 percent direct, specific assistance funds,”

CEO Matthew Constantine said.

“In other words… every dime we [got throughout] these years, what we’ve done is we put it right back out to house a family.”

The Lord’s Place houses 300 people experiencing homelessness every day throughout the county. It is committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing comprehensive services to anyone in the community.

Once someone is housed at the Lord’s Place, county partnerships help those individuals receive the services they need. The Lord’s Place Vice President of Strategic Impact Raymond Morse said that the county’s investment helps support its many efforts to get people

off the street and back on their feet.

“We support individuals exiting incarceration, people living with serious mental illness, families with children, couples and single adults,” Morse said. “Across every program, our mission is to instill hope and to transform lives.”

Vita Nova mainly focuses on young adults who are experiencing homelessness.

“Our mission is pretty simple,” CEO Jeff DeMario said. “It’s really to help young people who are experiencing homelessness reclaim their futures.”

Through safe housing, transformative education and career readiness, the organization helps lead people to self-sufficiency. Vita Nova’s staff takes a comprehensive approach to addressing what young adults need to succeed by partnering with other organizations to provide those services.

Several commissioners praised the work that the organizations do and thanked them for informing the board about how the county assists in their efforts. They pointed out how partnerships are important to all their efforts because they are doing the work and collaborating with each other to address these problems.

“Today’s presentation really makes it clear the interaction that you all have together,” Commis-

sioner Gregg Weiss said. “You’ve helped really define how you all work together, and that is an amazing thing to see all these agencies… collaborate and work together to ensure the success of the people.”

Others said they see the county’s tax revenue contribution to them as an investment in the community.

“This is a $50 million impact here sitting in front of us today,” Commissioner Maria Marino said.

“There are plenty more of these organizations that are smaller that are helping in smaller communities… It’s important to know that there are partnerships. That’s why we brought you here today.”

However, Palm Beach County Mayor Sara Baxter, who recently decided not to attend the Homeless Coalition’s annual Mayor’s Ball, questioned Ayala-Long on the organization’s financials, and if the coalition is really necessary, since they do not directly provide homelessness-related services. Baxter expressed her opinion that the money distribution system that the organization operates is wasteful because other organizations have not received any funding from the coalition this year. Ayala-Long countered with examples that the organization continues to hold workshops,

Vassalotti: ITID Needs To Stay On Top Of County Road Plans

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Supervisor Richard Vassalotti warned during the Monday, June 22 meeting of the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors that Palm Beach County officials may be planning road widenings and connections that could route vastly larger amounts of traffic through the unincorporated, semi-rural enclave.

Vassalotti said his concerns came up in the wake of the Countywide Transportation Master Plan (CTMP) issues forum and his own research.

He said issues forum meetings for elected officials have been repeatedly canceled for lack of information and noted that earlier CTMP presentations listed widening of Coconut, Orange and Royal Palm Beach boulevards alongside Northlake Blvd. and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road under recommendations.

Vassalotti flagged several spe-

cific items he wants clarified in writing, including references to a “Persimmon Boulevard Extension” and mapping that shows a potential corridor north of Northlake, which he said raised fears of a four-lane road.

ITID Engineer Jay Foy cautioned that while county staff members have represented that some of those earlier concepts are off the table, they can “come back at any time.”

The CTMP process has “tended to control the narrative” and that unincorporated areas and special districts such as Indian Trail are not being adequately represented, Foy said — adding that the district needs to be “very specific” about what it wants and doesn’t want.

The three supervisors present — President Elizabeth Accomando, Vice President Patricia Farrell and Vassalotti — directed staff to draft a letter to the county’s CTMP staff requesting written confirmation that certain previously floated

corridors, such as the widening of 40th Street and 140th Avenue North, or new through‑connections between Southern Blvd. and Northlake Blvd., will not be included in the plan.

The letter also was to restate the district’s longstanding position that key local roads should not be designated as county thoroughfares without ITID’s consent.

Vassalotti noted the upcoming CTMP public workshops scheduled for June 30 in Belle Glade, July 1 in Palm Beach Gardens and July 9 in West Palm Beach. He urged ITID residents to attend and make their concerns known. Learn more at www.pbcmoves.com.

In other business:

• The supervisors voted 3-0 to approve the $25,548,601 fiscal year 2027 preliminary budget and Truth in Millage (TRIM) assessment rates.

Under the plan, Units 1, 2, 4, 5, 10 and 12 will see per-acre decreases of more than $100.

Unit 10 gets the largest decrease at $170.36.

Accomando emphasized that once the TRIM rate is submitted, “it can only go down from here,” noting that competitive bids for mowing services and other pending decisions are expected to reduce the final rate that will be set in August.

• ITID Parks Department staff presented a package of policy updates that included formalizing field-use controls for Acreage Community Park South and incorporating the Acreage Athletic League’s use into a new scheduling-permit framework.

Parks Director Kenny Lawrence told supervisors that the south expansion field would move to a no-fee reservation system managed by the district, allowing staff to better manage heavy team and tournament use without violating Florida Communities Trust (FCT) grant restrictions on the park or county regulations.

The Acreage Community Park South property is leased from the county and not owned by the district. FCT funds were used in its creation.

Lawrence said the changes would require organized groups, including AAL teams, to schedule field time through the district, with some areas left unreserved for general public use.

Earlier this month, supervisors voted to extend the AAL’s priority field use agreement for four years. The 5-0 vote came after several long years of controversy and back-and-forth accusations between then-AAL leadership and some ITID board members. Within the last year, the AAL has come under new leadership that has struck a more cooperative tone.

• The board adopted county towing rules for district property, clearing the way to remove vehicles blocking fire lanes and emergency gates at Acreage Community Park.

Supervisors cited chronic problems with vehicles parked in fire lanes during large AAL events. Accomando urged staff to add more “no parking” signage and for the AAL to remind parents and coaches that violators will be towed.

• The board approved a contingency plan to pay for LED lighting at Acreage Community Park North, and basketball and tennis court improvements at Temple Park.

The board authorized temporary use of the reserve fund balance if a sought $3 million bond issue is not validated in time to cover those projects.

Staff reported a total fund balance of about $15 million. District policy requires at least 25 percent — just under $3.8 million — be held in emergency reserve.

• The board canceled its July regular meeting and, therefore, will not meet again until Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Wellington Committee Picks Top Cop, Top Firefighter Honorees

By Patrick Sherry

Town-Crier

Staff Report

Wellington’s Public Safety Committee has decided to recognize a local sheriff’s deputy who specializes in keeping atrisk juveniles off the streets and a firefighter who plays a pivotal role in training teams that provide essential emergency services to the community.

The committee selected Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Jordan Camilleri as this year’s Top Cop, and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Lt. Jason Haythorn as this year’s Top Fire-

fighter at a meeting on Wednesday, June 10.

“This, I think, is one of the hardest agenda items to approve because the safety here in the Village of Wellington is because of Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office,” said Nicole Coates, director of emergency management and public safety for the village. “They are the best of the best.” Camilleri serves as Juvenile Assessment and Monitoring (JAM) deputy for the PBSO in District 8 and was raised in Wellington. He has more than seven years of

experience in law enforcement and has spent the last four years working in Wellington.

As a JAM deputy, Camilleri is responsible for acting as a liaison between the county agency, the courts and at-risk youth. His duties involve checking in on juveniles to ensure that they are abiding by court orders and assisting the agency’s other units with juvenile-related cases.

“A lot of crimes are not being committed because of the work that he does with our juveniles,” Committee Member Emory Payne said. “We know that a lot

of crimes are being committed by our youth… I know what [JAM deputies] do, and [the PBSO] doesn’t talk about how many crimes they prevent just by interacting and being proactive with the juveniles.”

Last year, Camilleri made five arrests for probation violations and 14 juvenile arrests for various offenses across Wellington. That same year, he assisted with more than 80 investigations and helped complete more than 200 supplemental reports, in addition to his other duties.

Haythorn has been serving at

PBCFR Station 30 on Stribling Way near Olympia for six years. He trains and mentors Battalion 2 paramedics, emergency medical technicians, probationary firefighters and future officers.

Haythorn has earned multiple certifications and serves as a drone operator, public information officer during disasters, inspector, aerial operator and rope rescue operator.

PBCFR Capt. Mike Grubba of Station 30, in his nomination letter to the committee, described Haythorn as someone who is committed to excellence in patient care, fire suppression and professional development.

PBCFR District Chief Amanda Vomero spoke highly of Haythorn. “Lt. Haythorn has been at Station 30 for many years, and he does a lot more than what is also included in his nomination,” Vomero said. “He’s a solid lieutenant, and he has been nominated a couple of times in the past but has not been selected.” At a meeting in September, the Wellington Village Council will present Camilleri and Haythorn with plaques to commemorate their service to the community.

Candidate McGovern Lays Out Challenges For Public Schools

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

With four-term Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews retiring, there will be someone new representing District 6.

The three candidates who have qualified for the non partisan race are former Wellington Village Councilman John McGovern; Widline Pierre, a former school counselor with the School District of Palm Beach County who also has worked as a mental health therapist for several agencies; and Wanda Rosario-Schoenfeld, who served as a teacher and principal mostly in the Buffalo, New York, area before moving to Florida.

The school board’s District 6 includes most of the county west of State Road 7. McGovern, who served on the Wellington council from 2015 until March of this year before stepping down due to term limits,

Fishing Helping Injured Fishermen

continued from page 1 of challenges, such as paying his medical bills, replacing his income and making his home accessible for his new disability.

Lucas spoke to his friends Sam Franzosa, Richie White, Patrick McCafferty and Bo Johnson — all of whom were on the water that day — about how they could help. No one could sit idly by after seeing the aftermath of the accident. Originally aiming to help cover expenses out of their own pockets, the group quickly realized they would need more help.

They created Casting for Care with Lucas as the chair, Franzosa as the treasurer, McCafferty as the secretary, and White and Johnson as board members. They built the new nonprofit in record time.

“We came home on a Friday, and by Monday, we had the paperwork,” Lucas recalled. With the help of social media, their message spread quickly. Injuries for offshore fishermen, crews and captains are unfortunately commonplace in the boating world, but because of this, sponsors were well acquainted with the issue and eager to step up and help. Individuals and sponsors have answered CFC’s call. Fishing resorts and well-respected names

said Tuesday that he’s in the race because “public education is the bedrock upon which everything else is built.”

A married father with two daughters who attended the county’s public schools, McGovern said the school district faces four major challenges.

“Number one is parents taking their kids out of our public schools,” he said.

Home schooling and private school enrollment are factors, he said, but it’s also an issue of young families leaving the area as it becomes increasingly unaffordable.

As school population declines, so does state funding, he noted.

“We need to be in direct contact with parents to talk about why and how Palm Beach County schools are the best choice for the vast, vast majority of students,” he said. Number two, McGovern said, is a need to get back to basics in elementary school with less de-

in the industry like Guy Harvey, Skallywags, the Qualified Captain, Bajío Sunglasses and more have all demonstrated their support for the mission.

To date, Casting for Care helped the injured crew member pay medical expenses, receive an appropriate wheelchair, convert his home to an accessible space and obtain a prosthetic leg. They were even able to raise enough money to cover his income for five years, ensuring that the crew member and his family can afford all necessities.

After helping that injured crew member, Lucas and his cohorts knew that many other people who make their living out at sea face similar situations. CFC was designed on a basis that could grow, so they can continue to raise awareness for offshore injuries and help more people.

pendence on technology, saving that for middle school and beyond. The schools also need to provide students with a path to “hands-on jobs,” not push all students toward traditional college, he added.

Number three, McGovern continued, is teacher recruitment and pay, which goes back to the county’s affordability crisis. “I hear about teachers having to work second jobs to make ends meet,” he said. “That’s not sustainable.”

McGovern said the school district should consider some of the excess land it owns for construction of subsidized teacher housing aimed at recruiting and retaining young teachers. Some of the housing could be built directly adjacent to existing schools, he said.

Finally, number four, McGovern said, is improved expense and budgeting transparency to help taxpayers feel comfortable voting to support additional funding for schools.

“There is nothing like this anywhere in the world to help support captains and mates and fishermen — and injuries happen all the time,” Lucas said.

They have already helped a Miami-based offshore worker, and they hope to aid many people around the world. There is an open application on their web site where any injured offshore crew, mate or captain can reach out for assistance.

CFC also recently held its first fishing tournament, June 16 21 in Costa Rica. This inaugural Casting for Care Classic was held at Crocodile Bay Resort, where lovers of the sport could support the cause. Half of the Calcutta cash-pot prize went to the nonprofit, as well as all the proceeds from a silent auction with items from sponsors and more.

An attorney, McGovern is a partner in the Royal Palm Beach law firm McGovern Gerardi.

“I’m the only candidate with significant experience managing multi-million-dollar budgets while running a small business,” he said.

Moreover, McGovern said he is a proud product of public schools at every level — graduating in the first Wellington High School class. He went on to attend the University of Florida as an undergraduate and for law school, serving as student body president. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2000.

Rosario-Schoenfeld did not respond to a Town-Crier invitation to talk about her reasons for seeking the seat. Pierre did not respond in time for this edition.

On Pierre’s web site, she is described as a member of the school district’s Diversity and Equity Committee and the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals

For an organization that hasn’t yet reached one year of operation, CFC has made an enormous impact on not only an individual and his family, but also the larger fishing and boating community.

The team at CFC intends to keep expanding and anticipates multiple fishing classics over the upcoming year. They also plan on creating emergency trauma kits, which go beyond what traditional first aid kits provide, so fishermen can be prepared in the event of a traumatic accident.

“I always say, one day I will retire from my job, but I will never retire from this,” Lucas said.

To learn more about Casting for Care, visit www.casting4care. org. Help the CFC team spread awareness about offshore injuries on major social media platforms at Casting4Care.

for the City of Greenacres.

“Throughout her career, Widline has been a strong advocate for education, equity and inclusion,” according to the web site.

Schools should prepare students to be more than great test takers, according to the site, because that deprives them of “the knowledge, skills and experiences they need for the future.”

Pierre is quoted saying, “The purpose of life is not to be happy — but to matter, to be productive, to be useful, to have it make some difference that you lived at all.”

Rosario-Schoenfeld has a doctorate in educational leadership and policy and a master’s degree in educational administration, both from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She served as principal of several Buffalo area schools.

According to her web site, Rosario-Schoenfeld was an early leader in “merging traditional

school models with workforce skills school systems… Each student should have options to explore, whether college is in their future, or if they want to enter the workforce after graduation in high demand fields ranging from trades to healthcare.”

Her site stresses that Rosario-Schoenfeld is an educator:

“Keeping a career educator on the school board should be a high priority, as Palm Beach County weighs the future of our schools. Having someone who has a deep pedigree in education, and can be an advocate for teachers and administrators, will be key to keeping the board focused on all stakeholders in our community.”

The three candidates will be on the ballot during the Tuesday, Aug. 18 primary election. If no candidate gets more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two will advance to the general election ballot in November.

VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH PUBLIC NOTICE

The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has a vacant Seat on the Education Advisory Board. The Education Advisory Board meets on the second Monday of the month eight months out of the year, with one special meeting in April of each year for scholarship interviews. All meetings are held in the Village Council Chambers. Board Members shall meet the following qualifications at the time of their appointment and throughout the course of their service: they must be a Village resident; have a background in education and experience in the field of education; be a member of a parent teacher organization, parent teacher association, school advisory council or other similar organization associated with or sponsored by the school district or a public or charter school located within the Village; or be a parent/legal guardian of a child currently enrolled in a Village public or charter school. Those ineligible to serve on the Board are: employees of the Palm Beach County School District; employees of an organization funded by the School District (e.g. charter school employee); or employees of a charter management organization or charter education management organization. If you would like to volunteer your service and expertise on this local government Board, visit the Village’s website at www.royalpalmbeachfl.gov and go to COMMISSION/BOARD APPLICATION to submit. Return the completed application to the Village Clerk’s office no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 12, 2026 for Council consideration at its August 20, 2026 meeting. If further information is desired, please call the Village Clerk at (561) 790-5102.

By:

PBSO Report Shows Drop In Royal Palm Beach Crime Index

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Public safety statistics remain strong, with the Royal Palm Beach Village Council attributing these numbers to the excellent service provided by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) and Palm Beach County FireRescue (PBCFR).

Officials from the two county agencies presented their annual reports to the council at a meeting on Thursday, June 18.

PBSO Capt. Ulrich Naujoks’ report showed that District 9 deputies had a total of 149,419 computer-aided dispatch incidents, of which 20,676 were calls for service. The rest were traffic stops and business/residence checks. The calls for service represented

a 1.3 percent decrease, with 276 fewer calls for service than the previous year. The village continues to see a slow increase in population, but the total crime index dropped by 20.6 percent from 649 in 2024 to 515 in 2025. Deputies were able to have a 38.6 percent clearance rate across seven major crime categories.

On traffic, one of the biggest calls for service in Royal Palm Beach, crashes along the village’s major roadways saw decreases. There were 1,380 crashes in 2025, which is 87 fewer than in 2024, or a six percent decrease.

PBSO officials send out service quality surveys to individuals who requested assistance from deputies throughout the year. Of the 480

surveys mailed, 46 were returned, and 93 percent rated the PBSO’s service as excellent.

Looking ahead, Naujoks said that his team is looking to prioritize crime reduction and traffic safety.

“In 2026, District 9 deputies will continue to do what they have done, always will do, and will do under my command, which is make sure that the Village of Royal Palm Beach is a safe place for the people who live here, the people who do business here and the people who come to visit,” Naujoks said.

Council members were happy to see the reduction in crime and how PBSO deputies remain committed to keeping the village safe. “I honestly and sincerely ap-

preciate all that you and the other officers do,” Vice Mayor Sylvia Sharps said.

Turning to PBCFR, District Chief Amanda Vomero’s annual report detailed how the village had 5,092 calls for service — up 158 from the previous year — with an average response time of 6 minutes, 24 seconds — up about 7 seconds from the previous year.

Despite having a slight increase in response times, Royal Palm Beach still has a lower response time than the agency’s target of 7 minutes, 30 seconds. The majority of calls were for medical situations, totaling 3,871.

PBCFR officials similarly send out randomized patient surveys. Of the 98 residents who responded, they gave a 98.7 percent overall

Sara Baxter In Then Out Of House Race; Running For County Commission Again

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach County Mayor

Sara Baxter abruptly pulled out of the District 22 U.S. House race only four days after entering it on Monday, June 8.

Baxter, an Acreage resident, told the Town-Crier as late as Wednesday, June 10 that she would not defend her District 6 seat on the Palm Beach County Commission in the Aug. 18 Republican primary.

However, a call from President Donald J. Trump on Thursday afternoon changed all that, Baxter said Friday, June 12.

“The President called and said he wanted me to stay here because there’s so much important work to be done in the county,” Baxter said. “I was surprised, but when the president, whoever that may be, asks you to do something, you have to respect the office and consider it.”

Baxter added that she is proud to continue serving county residents.

“I love serving the residents of District 6,” she said. “In either position, it’s an honor.”

Well-known businessman Allen Gast of Gast Construction briefly considered running in District 6 after Baxter pulled out but did not qualify for the ballot, leaving Baxter and Indian Trail Improvement District President Elizabeth Accomando to face-off in August.

In an MDW Communications survey done this spring and reported on the Florida Politics web site, only 23 percent of respondents approved of Baxter’s job performance and only 21 percent said she deserved re-election.

MDW is a left-leaning firm, and the April survey predates Baxter’s flip-flop on the congressional race. However, it came after Trump’s January endorsement of her for the commission seat.

Three people have qualified for the August ballot as Democrats: Royal Palm Beach resident Mario Guzman, who has served as director of public works and engineering for the City of Boynton Beach; businessman, educator and U.S. Army veteran Rudolph Tinker; and Katherine Waldron, a former Fortune 50 executive who

served one term in the Florida Legislature from 2022 to 2024 after five years as a Port of Palm Beach commissioner.

In other local races:

• Seven candidates qualified for three seats on the ITID board. Because only two candidates are running for Seat 1 and Seat 5, they advance directly to the November general election.

In Seat 1, Kirk Ljongquist and Jay Sweet have qualified. The seat is being vacated by Accomando in order to run for the county position.

Seat 5 will be contested between two-term incumbent Michael Johnson and former ITID Supervisor Christopher Karch.

In Seat 3, there will be an August primary between incumbent Supervisor Patricia Farrell, former ITID Supervisor Carol Jacobs and Acreage resident Jack Lloyd Bell. If no candidate gets more than 50 percent of the vote, the top two will advance to the November ballot.

• There will not be primary elections for the local legislative races,

but several will be contested on the general election ballot.

In Florida Senate District 26, being vacated by term-limited State Sen. Lori Berman, Republican Rick Roth and Democrat David Silvers, both former state representatives, will face-off for the position. The district includes all of Wellington, as well the Glades and southern Palm Beach County.

In Florida House District 88, incumbent Jervonte Edmonds, a Democrat, faces a challenge from Republican William Joseph of Lake Worth Beach.

In Florida House District 93, Republican incumbent State Rep. Anne Gerwig, a former Wellington mayor, will face Democrat August Mangeney, an attorney who lives in suburban Lake Worth.

In Florida House District 94, Republican incumbent State Rep. Meg Weinberger, a Caloosa resident, will face two challengers in November: Democrat Elizabeth Holmes of Palm Beach Gardens and independent candidate Doug Barrow, also of Palm Beach Gardens.

Lox Groves Council Hears Report On Southern Blvd. Corridor Study

By Patrick Sherry Town-Crier Staff Report

Residents of Loxahatchee

Groves say that development across the area has eroded the town’s rural identity, according to a new corridor study. But the creators of the study are recommending ways that town officials can work to restore it. Representatives from the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) presented the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council with a draft Southern Blvd. Corridor Study at a special meeting on Tuesday, June 16.

The study contains a series of recommendations that the council can use to design future developments along the major roadway to maintain the town’s rural, agricultural character. It is part of a $75,000 Community Planning Technical Assistance Grant from FloridaCommerce that the town acquired.

“In this study, we are not chang-

Main Street Back On Track?

continued from page 1

Hmara said the council approved the project because it aligned with the village’s long-term vision of creating a walkable neighborhood that could serve current and future residents.

“Bringing together housing, restaurants, retail, entertainment, hospitality and a public gathering spot is a real challenge, but it is a unique feature that will become part of Royal Palm Beach,” Hmara told the Town-Crier. “It will fit nicely into the character of Royal Palm Beach as being family-

ing anybody’s zoning or land uses through this process,” said Jessica Seymour, principal program coordinator at the TCRPC. “What the grant did ask us to look at was public input in a particular area. The traffic infrastructure in that area, public safety and drainage, equestrian/pedestrian safety, gateway identity, and then also look at any physical and zoning strategies that would be appropriate for the area.”

In March, the organization held two public workshop meetings to gather input on what residents believe development along Southern Blvd. should look like. Representatives of the organization also opened an online survey to collect more data.

Among the study’s top recommendations were for town officials to follow its comprehensive plan, provide greater consistency within zoning, codify improved architectural and landscape standards, announce the town’s values

oriented, American hometown.” In September 2025, Tuttle’s development company, which controlled the main street commercial district of the site, filed for bankruptcy. In April, Concord Wilshire Capital, a real estate investment and development firm, purchased the 43-acre portion of the development out of bankruptcy for $60 million. The firm plans to rebrand the project under a new name, build 401 multifamily residences, about 426,764 square feet of retail space, a 125-room lifestyle hotel, an 82,875-square-foot office building and a park plaza. In a Facebook post, Tuttle explained that it is rewarding to see components of the project per-

and character at every opportunity, and invest in long-term infrastructure through strategic grant funding.

“What we heard from the community was that the reason why we were here is that development has diluted the town with generic architecture and landscaping, that the infrastructure is aging and facing new challenges, and there’s a general concern about the quality of life in Loxahatchee Groves,” Seymour said.

Seymour pointed out that there is strong support for limiting commercial development, and the town already has two policies that restrict development in some areas that officials should continue to use.

The study recommended landscaping standards to plant different types of vegetation that would provide natural habitats and improve water quality. Town officials can announce the community’s identity through its gateways by

forming well and moving forward.

“While a portion of the remaining land ultimately transitioned through a court-supervised process and closed to a new ownership group, I’m proud of the platform that was created and the work that went into bringing it to that stage,” he said. “I wish the new ownership the best of luck.”

Others on the council are not as happy with the current state of the development. Councilwoman Selena Samios, who has been a critic of the project, hopes that the situation might offer an opportunity to put the site on a stronger path and deliver a destination that residents were promised.

“The bankruptcy filing of Tuttle Royale underscores concerns I’ve

satisfaction rate for the service fire-rescue workers provided.

PBCFR is continuing to introduce new programs to further optimize and improve its services. However, a state property tax amendment on the ballot in November is worrying leaders at the county agency. They face a potential loss of $184 million in property tax revenue, and the village may have $7.5 million less funding for fire-rescue service if the amendment were to be approved by voters. The reduction in tax revenue may cause PBCFR to cut some services.

Mayor Jeff Hmara said it was important that voters know about the consequences of the property tax reforms and thanked firefighters for their service to the community.

“[PBCFR is] always such an integral part of the village, and we greatly appreciate that,” Hmara said.

Vomero thanked the council for its time and said she is happy to continue to have a strong partnership with Royal Palm Beach.

“I really, truly do enjoy being a part of the village,” she said. “It has been three years since I’ve gotten the opportunity to serve the village, and I’ve enjoyed every bit of it.”

In other business, the council unanimously voted to permanently set its monthly regular council meeting in December to the first Thursday of the month. Councilwoman Selena Samios proposed the agenda item to reduce conflicts with holidays or other activities that occur during that time.

NEWS BRIEFS

The Village of Wellington recently launched its Water Meter Replacement Program, a longterm initiative designed to modernize the community’s water utility infrastructure and enhance customer service through advanced metering technology.

Beginning in June, Wellington started replacing existing residential water meters with new wireless smart meters that automatically transmit water usage readings directly to the utility office. The village-wide program is expected to continue over the next 12 to 18 months and will provide residents with more efficient and reliable utility services.

The new metering technology will improve billing accuracy, support enhanced customer service notifications and eliminate the need for weekly drive-by meter readings. By reducing vehicle usage associated with manual meter collection, the program also supports Wellington’s ongoing sustainability and environmental stewardship efforts.

Residents are not required to be home during meter replacements. Prior to installation, customers will receive notification by mail and a pre-installation door hanger.

conducting improvements on certain roads and trails. Moreover, the town’s identity can be further reinforced through signage.

To fund infrastructure investment, the study detailed grants that town officials can pursue. It recommended investments in Collecting Canal, in the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District, and the creation of a business or neighborhood improvement district.

Seymour emphasized that all the recommendations within the study are advisory. The town council can decide to use as much or as little of it at their own discretion.

“I just want to reiterate that this is all information for the town,” Seymour said. “Each piece of this is something that can be acted upon either slowly or not at all.”

The council passed a motion 4-1 to receive and file the study, with Vice Mayor Manish Sood dissenting. It will now be submitted to the state to meet the grant’s requirements.

raised for years,” Samios said.

“Despite some residential areas having been completed, the core retail, hotel and office components have not even broken ground.”

There have been no updates on what the new name of the project will be. The Town-Crier reached out to village staff and Concord Wilshire Capital but was unable to confirm the details.

However, during the council’s meeting on Thursday, June 18, Village Manager Ray Liggins said that the new development team is currently in the process of putting an application together and is looking to stick to a similar plan as the previous developer.

“For them to change the land use and the zoning of that plan could take a couple of years,” he said.

“That’s not within their schedule. They want to get it moving quicker than that.”

Since it first started years ago, the incomplete Tuttle Royale project has allowed other developers to seek opportunities in other areas. This year, Related Ross began construction on a similar walkable, multi-use commercial center, just south along State Road 7 in Wellington. Hopefully, with the new ownership change, Royal Palm Beach residents may finally begin to see the fully completed development.

“We actually see the light at the end of the tunnel,” Hmara said. “We have the majority of this complex developed. Now the piece that brings it all together is what remains, and we’re excited about that.”

Technicians from Envocore, the village’s authorized contractor, will be clearly identifiable through uniforms, marked vehicles and valid photo identification.

During installation, customers may experience a brief water

service interruption lasting approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Following restoration of service, residents are encouraged to run a bathtub faucet or outdoor spigot for two to three minutes to remove any air from the water lines. To help ensure efficient access to meter boxes, residents are asked to remove any vegetation, plants or landscaping that may obstruct the work area before scheduled installation in their neighborhood. Program highlights include:

• Advanced wireless meter technology with automated readings.

• No direct charge to customers for meter replacement.

• Improved utility operations and customer service capabilities.

• Reduced carbon emissions through elimination of drive-by meter reading.

• Deployment over an estimated 12- to 18-month period.

Residents seeking additional information about the Water Meter Replacement Program can visit the Wellington Utilities Department web page or review the program’s Frequently Asked Questions section. The Wellington Utilities Department operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide a reliable supply of superior quality drinking water and dependable and environmentally safe wastewater service to approximately 56,000 residents in the utility’s service area. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ utilities to learn more. Wellington Begins Water

PBSO To Offer Citizens Law Enforcement Academy In Wellington

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 8 in Wellington will host the Citizens Law Enforcement Academy (CLEA) starting next month.

The academy will meet every Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m. for six weeks from July 15 through Aug. 19 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Refreshments and snacks will be provided.

The CLEA program is completely free of charge. However, the capacity is limited to the first 45 participants, and the deadline to register is Wednesday, July 8. Enrollment is limited to Wellington residents first, then others may apply. Background checks will be performed on all applicants. Participants must be 16 years or older. Some of the topics will include: Gang and Homicide Unit; Financial Crimes/Human Trafficking; Common Laws (Traffic); Marine Unit, K9 and Aviation Unit; and the Shoot Don’t Shoot Simulation. To register, or for more information, contact Community Relations Coordinator Rosalind Murray at (561) 485-2432.

Wellington will honor the holiday of Tanabata in the beginning of July. Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, means “evening of the seventh” and originated as a Chinese legend before making its way to Japan and becoming the inspiration behind the Japanese Tanabata Festival.

The festival traces its origins to the legend of two star-crossed lovers, the Cowherd Star (Altair) and Weaver Star (Vega), who are separated by the Milky Way and allowed to meet just once per year — on the seventh day of the seventh month. Tanabata is celebrated by writ-

CAFCI HONORS 18 GRADS AT STUDENT ASSISTANCE FUND AWARD CEREMONY

CAFCI held its 33rd annual Student Assistance Fund Award Ceremony with the theme “Empowering Youth & Investing in Our Future” on Saturday, June 13 at the Portuguese American Club in Loxahatchee Groves. At the ceremony, 18 graduating high school seniors were honored, including Frahima Adrien, Spencer Ahyee, Carlie Antoine, Aniya Barrett, Erieal Beckford, Allyson Bodden, Druann Clark, Joseph Floreal Jr., Gianna Garcia, Londyn Gregory, Brianna Mejias, Anissa Mills, Nevaeh Mossop, Jordan Reid, Daniel Rodriguez, Kyra Scott, Christina Valuntas and Katelyn Wilks. The event also included a keynote address by Dr. Elvis Epps and a special performance by singer Samara Lewis. For additional information about the student assistance awards program or CAFCI, visit www.cafcipbc.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The Wellington Art Society held its annual installation luncheon on Tuesday, June 9 at Wellington Community Center. Outgoing President Hermi Zumbado was thanked for her service. Incoming officers include President Kris Hilles, First Vice President Norma Medina, Second Vice President Susan Mosely, Treasurer Ayesha DeLorenzo, Secretary Kim Bailey, and directors Sue Carlson, Elaine Weber and Astrid Mora. Learn more about the Wellington Art Society at www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington To Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday With Three Days Of Community Events July 2-4

Residents and visitors are invited to join patriotic festivities, live entertainment, family activities and fireworks when the Village of Wellington hosts Wellington Celebrates America 250, a threeday series of patriotic events taking place July 2 through July 4 in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. As communities across the country commemorate this historic milestone, Wellington will participate in America’s Block Party — the largest synchronized Fourth of July celebration in U.S. history — through a weekend of live entertainment, family-friendly activities and patriotic celebration. The festivities begin on Thursday, July 2, with Thursday Nights

in Wellington x America 250 Celebration at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Attendees can enjoy more than 18 food trucks, 35 market vendors and two live tribute performances. The evening features “The Bruce: A Bruce Springsteen Tribute” at 6 p.m., followed by “Homegrown: The Zac Brown Band Experience” at 7:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets for lawn seating. The celebration continues on Friday, July 3, with a Patriotic Pool Party at the Wellington Aquatics Center (3410 120th Avenue South) from 3 to 8 p.m. Families can enjoy DJ music, games, giveaways, a cannonball contest, NinjaCross

timed races and additional poolside fun. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, admission for all attendees during pool party hours will be $2.50. Each guest will receive a complimentary food ticket for the concession stand (one per person, valid for a hot dog or hamburger, chips and a drink). Admission is available on a first-come, first-served basis as capacity allows. The celebration culminates on Saturday, July 4, with Wellington’s annual Fourth of July Celebration at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Beginning at 6 p.m., attendees can enjoy live music, interactive attractions, games, food vendors and activities for all ages. Entertainment includes “Only

in America: Brooks & Dunn Tribute,” followed by “Tribute to the Troops: A Heartfelt Musical Celebration” honoring America’s military members and veterans.

The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display at 9:15 p.m., lighting up the night sky as Wellington joins communities across the nation in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Free shuttle service will be available from the Mall at Wellington Green beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Admission is free to the Thursday Nights in Wellington x America 250 Celebration and Wellington’s annual Fourth of July Celebration. For event details, schedules and updates, visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/america250.

Signal

Is Now Active At Sem Pratt And Northlake

A newly installed traffic signal at Northlake Blvd. and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road in The Acreage became fully active on Wednesday, June 10. The signal had been in flash mode since June 3, and signage is in place advising drivers of this change.

For the past several months, an interim traffic pattern required drivers traveling northbound and southbound on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road to stop before proceeding into the intersection.

Westbound Northlake motorists did not have to stop before turning left or right onto southbound or northbound Seminole Pratt. Likewise, northbound Seminole Pratt drivers turning right onto

Alpert JFS Hosts Local Event To Mark Holocaust Survivor Day

on Thursday, June 4, at Temple Beth Tikvah in Greenacres.

Established in 2021 to recognize and uplift Holocaust survivors with a day of joy, dignity and appreciation, Holocaust Survivor Day is now commemorated around the world. The local event, hosted by Alpert JFS, featured a moving and celebratory program,

including a tribute to the significance of Holocaust Survivor Day, performances of the U.S. and Israeli national anthems, the presentation of proclamations from the State of Florida and Palm Beach County, recognition of the survivors in attendance, as well as

Tango Meetings

Coming Up

continued from page 1 that is only for normal bathroom and breakroom uses, not for cooling computers. He said that the “closed loop” system that this project will employee is like a car radiator. “Once it’s filled, it’s filled,” Cox explained. “The technology has been successfully used in other projects.” Current technology does not rely on massive water use, he stressed.

“Maybe that was necessary in some earlier projects,” he acknowledged. “But that’s not what we’re doing. I’m focused on this project.” In an effort to make it work, Cox said that the PBA Holdings half of the partnership that controls the property has made major changes to the site plan. This includes scaling back the AI data portion from 1.8 million square feet to approximately 1.3 million, moving the five data center buildings farther away from the school and residential community, housing some of the cooling systems in separate structures to decrease

excess sound and locating the warehouse portion of the project between the data centers and the large berm that surrounds Arden to create another buffer.

However, WPB Logistics Owner LLC, which controls some 60 acres of the site, sued PBA Holdings on June 5 in circuit court asking for an emergency injunction to force PBA Holdings to withdraw its Project Tango master plan application before the July votes. As of Wednesday, the court has not ruled on the injunction. Atlanta-based TPA Group, which is the parent company of WPB Logistics, did not return calls from the Town-Crier seeking comment.

Cox said that PBA Holdings plans to move forward with the project, and he is looking forward to sharing at the July 2 meeting the new site plan, along with “factual information” about how the project will operate.

Based on the existing county code, Cox said, “We would hope members of the advisory board will receive the new information and approve it.”

The project was approved by the board on Dec. 4 based on 2016 land use rights granted to PBA Holdings for construction of a data center. However, opponents

of the project say the construction of a data center as it was understood in 2016 is completely different from the AI hyperscale data centers of today. However, county zoning code does not make a distinction.

Twice since December, PBA Holdings has asked for postponements of a decisive vote by the county commissioners.

Penuela conceded that PBA Holdings has made concessions.

“They’ve listened to us,” he said.

However, he remains a “hard no” on the project and is wary of the precedent an approval could set for other areas of the county.

“We could see companies applying to put up these sorts of centers in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens — anywhere,” he said.

“I’m not against AI… [but] I don’t think we should be putting these data centers right next to homes and schools.”

Cox said he understands these concerns, but that in the end, AI is a tide that cannot be stopped.

“It’s critical infrastructure for everything we do today,” he said.

“It’s part of our daily life now, like electricity.”

To learn more, visit the county’s page on Project Tango, which can be accessed at https://discover.pbc. gov/pzb/zoning.

lunch, music, singing and dancing.

More than 150 guests — including survivors, their families, local dignitaries, and Alpert JFS leadership — attended in tribute to the survivors and their enduring legacy.

“Holocaust Survivor Day is an opportunity to celebrate Holocaust survivors’ resilience, their strength and the remarkable lives they have built in the face of unimaginable adversity,” said Eva Weiss, of the Alpert JFS. “The generation gath-

Roads West-Area Meeting

June 30

continued from page 1 and elected officials,” Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara said. “It should be informed by the people who use the system every day. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these public meetings and be part of the conversation.”

Leaders from smaller municipalities like Loxahatchee Groves said that they are hoping that their

Acreage ER Project Withdrawn

continued from page 1 returning with a similar proposal for at least a year.

Acreage resident Lisa Johnson said they had difficulty meeting with the developers, and that the developers were not interested in discussing alternatives to the project.

“I would like this to be done with prejudice, and I don’t want to keep coming back here,” she said.

Another resident agreed and wanted the board to allow the withdrawal with prejudice.

“This is clearly not the right thing for our community,” Procopia Skoran said.

Brian Seymour, attorney for the applicant, said they will not be returning to the county with any similar project proposal unless there is support from the public.

“The point is, instead of continuing and continuing and continuing, we’ll withdraw,” Seymour said. “If there’s something we can work out with our neighbors, we will, and if we can’t, we won’t. But we’ve gotten a clear message,

ered with us today were children — many of them just babies — during the Holocaust. Now, most are in their 80s, and our oldest participant today is 105 years old. If we wait too long, there will come a time when there are no living survivors left to share not only their personal stories, but also the enduring messages of peace, compassion, hope and joy that they carry with them.”

Alpert JFS currently serves more than 200 Holocaust survivors across Palm Beach, Martin,

input will lead to recommendations that will respect the rural and agricultural character of their town. They believe some developments have negatively impacted their community, and they want to ensure the plan addresses some of those concerns.

“The Countywide Transportation Master Plan is important because western communities such as Loxahatchee Groves have needs that are different from more urban areas of Palm Beach County,” Loxahatchee Groves Mayor Lisa El-Ramey said. “Our rural character, agricultural heritage, equestrian community, limited

and that’s why we’re asking for the withdrawal.”

In the end, the project was withdrawn without prejudice.

In other business:

• The commissioners unanimously approved a future land use amendment for the Bulk Candy Store property at the southwest corner of Jog Road and Wallis Road, changing the designation from Industrial to Commercial High with an underlying Industrial designation. The board also unanimously approved a companion development order amendment allowing the site’s previously approved master plan to add a restaurant without a drive-through.

• The commissioners also approved amendments for Wellington Vista Phase II at the southeast corner of Lake Worth Road and Hooks Road, allowing for a higher-density residential development. In companion items, commissioners approved modifications to the site’s Planned Unit Development to add 100 residential units and density bonus units, while also abandoning previous approvals for a daycare center and drive-through restaurant on the property.

Okeechobee, St. Lucie and Indian River counties through its Holocaust Survivors Assistance Program, providing essential services such as in-home care, care coordination, emergency financial aid, mental health counseling, transportation and more. The event was partly made possible thanks to a $5,000 micro-grant award from the Seed the Dream Foundation. To find out more about Holocaust Survivor Day, visit www. holocaustsurvivorday.com.

transit options, local road safety concerns, and increasing traffic pressure on major corridors such as Southern Blvd., Okeechobee Blvd. and connections to State Road 7 all need to be considered in any long-range transportation planning.”

Aside from the June 30 meeting in Belle Glade, other meetings will be held Wednesday, July 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Palm Beach Gardens Public Library; Wednesday, July 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center; and Thursday, July 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Clayton E. Hutcheson Agricultural Services Center in West Palm Beach. Each meeting will specifically address a different part of the county.

To learn more about the upcoming CTMP meetings, visit www. pbcmoves.com.

Those unable to attend can visit the site’s online classroom to review project information and provide feedback from June 30 to July 10.

Homeless County Workshop continued from page 3 forums and helps run other programs. She also explained that the recent Mayor’s Ball shakeup has impacted their ability to raise money and disburse it to other organizations in the county.

“Just because our partners

Book Festival Brings Authors And Readers Together In Wellington

By Alissa Foley Town-Crier Staff Report

The fifth annual Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival gathered people of all ages on Saturday, June 20 at the Mall at Wellington Green. The fifth-annual festival was organized by author Heidi Hess and celebrated the art of storytelling, creativity, and the community of book lovers and writers from near and far.

“I wanted to create a grassroots literary event that celebrated the written word and helped to bring

readers and writers together of all ages, backgrounds and writing abilities,” Hess explained. “I’d like everyone to feel a sense of community. For readers, I’d like them to find their new favorite author. For writers, I’d like them to find new readers but also feel inspired to create more great books.” Hess hopes to see the event expand in the future. “My vision is to grow the festival into a large multi-day, multi-genre, annual event in Palm Beach County that is accessible to everyone,” she said.

“We are at our best when we are learning new things and connecting with each other.”

More than 60 tables of authors and writing organizations filled the mall’s Grand Court and the area near the District at Wellington Green. Guests made their way to each table for the opportunity to meet authors who shared the inspiration and message behind their craft. Authors sold signed copies of their books, promoted their work and posed for photos. While conversing, guests and aspiring

writers received first-hand insight into each author’s writing process.

As guests strolled through the festival, they were met with a diverse range of literary genres. They got to experience their favorite genre of books while also exploring different ones. As guests interacted with authors and skimmed through the books on the table, many found a newfound appreciation for literature.

“There are so many authors out here and writing so many different genres, nonfiction and fiction. Authors love to talk with the readers,” author Nancy Nau Sullivan said. “That’s really why we come. We want to hear what the readers are interested in reading, and it helps our writing, too.”

There were also discussion panels and workshops, where authors took the stage to share their journeys and expertise in writing for their respective genres. The topics discussed included thrill-

er, fiction, fantasy, memoir and autobiography, sports, children’s books, romance, mystery, sci-fi, Christian-based fiction and nonfiction, poetry and horror writing.

Guests also learned about the publishing process and how authors create diverse characters. During the discussions, members of the audience got the chance to ask questions and engage with the speakers.

“I want people to be inspired, strengthened, enthused and encouraged,” faith-based author Denise Harris said. “Writing is my healing process. When I can’t talk about how I’m feeling, I’ll write. I love writing. It gives me joy. It gives me peace.”

Authors also shared that the inspiration behind their books comes from their own personal experiences, especially from challenges they faced. Many expressed that writing is therapeutic, helping them cope during difficult times.

“I want people to smile. I just do. I love to smile. I want other people to smile. There’s so much bad in the world. It’s better to sit down, read a good book and smile,” romance author Sheila Fowler said.

The Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival showcased the creativity and impact of literature as a source of inspiration, education and personal expression. It brought the community together and encouraged guests of all ages and backgrounds to read and write. Authors were able to build relationships with their readers and gained further inspiration for their craft.

The festival was sponsored by Latina Literary Lawyer, Roz Stevens, Evangeline Rentz, the Speak-Easy Podcast with Sheila Fowler and Denise Marsh, Arlene Smith of Absolute Best Insurance, TK Lawyer and Nancy Nau Sullivan. Learn more about the festival at www.heidicreates.net/events.

Arcade Time Expands Footprint In The Mall At Wellington Green

throughout the day and evening. Families can enjoy quality time together, while young adults and adults can experience a dynamic nightlife atmosphere featuring elevated food and beverage offerings, social gaming and entertainment in a vibrant, contemporary setting.

“The success of our existing locations has reinforced our belief that guests are looking for more than just an arcade, they’re looking for innovative entertainment destinations that bring together gaming, great food and social experiences

the ultimate destination for top-tier gaming, dining and social gatherings.

Unlike traditional arcades, Arcade Time has developed a concept that appeals to multiple audiences

Culinary Creations Event At Wycliffe Benefits Quantum House

at the Wycliffe Golf and Country Club on Monday, June 1 to celebrate 25 years of impact during Culinary Creations, Quantum House’s signature annual fundraiser.

Presented by Patriot Growth Insurance Services, the evening brought together renowned chefs, community leaders and philanthropists while raising more than $220,000 to support Palm Beach County’s only pediatric hospitality home, ensuring that families with children receiving specialized medical treatment have a place to stay, connect and find support close to care.

Produced in partnership with the American Culinary Federation’s Palm Beach chapter and chaired by Jeff Simms, executive chef of banquets at the Breakers Palm Beach, Culinary Creations united 70 chefs from some of Palm Beach County’s most respected restaurants, clubs and hospitality organizations for a one-night-only tasting experience.

“What makes Culinary Creations so special is the collaboration behind it,” Simms said.

“Every chef brings something unique to the table, creating an unforgettable experience for guests

while supporting a cause that means so much to all of us. The American Culinary Federation has been an incredible partner, and we’re especially grateful to Chef Keith Gardiner for his continued leadership and support. Together, we’re able to make a meaningful difference for Quantum House families.”

The lineup included chefs from the Banyan Golf Club, the Breakers Palm Beach, the Breakers West Country Club, the Crane Club at Tesoro, Echo Palm Beach, the Delray Dunes Golf & Country Club, the Club at Ibis, the Everglades Club, Devonshire at PGA, Independent Seafoods, Lessing’s Hospitality Group and Bakery, the Old Palm Golf Club, Papa G’s, the Stonebridge Country Club, and the Wycliffe Golf and Country Club. Guests enjoyed a variety of dishes, including fresh sushi, lobster medallions, paella Valenciana, herb-encrusted lamb, seafood specialties and gourmet comfort foods.

The evening concluded with a popular dessert room featuring four sweet stations filled with specialty cakes, handcrafted chocolates, macarons, cookies and other creative confections. Alongside the culinary offerings, guests

participated in a lively auction and heard inspiring stories about the impact that Quantum House has on families facing a child’s medical crisis.

“When I learned about Quantum House, it instantly resonated with me because I experienced life without it,” said Rick Neyman, managing principal of Patriot Growth Insurance Services. “My first child was born with a heart defect, and our family spent years in and out of hospitals. Between

finding a place to sleep, affording hotels and meals, and spending days and nights at the hospital, I understand firsthand how difficult that journey can be. Quantum House is not a mere nicety; it is an essential, critical and life-changing benefit for families facing longterm hospitalizations or chronic medical challenges.”

In addition to the presenting sponsor Patriot Growth Insurance Services, other sponsors included Resnick Wealth Alliance, St.

Mary’s Medical Center, Lessing’s Hospitality Group, Harlan Capital Partners, the Fulmer Family Foundation, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Hand Foundation, the Elaine and Larry Feit Foundation, Jarred Parton Group, FPL, Spina O’Rourke + Partners, Raising Cane’s, the Breakers Palm Beach, Wellington Florist, Tim Burke, Munyon’s Paw-Paw, Styled Ice, WPBF and Palm Beach Illustrated Founded in 2001 on the campus of St. Mary’s Medical Center, Quantum House has welcomed thousands of families from around the globe. As the only pediatric facility of its kind between Orlando and Miami, Quantum House ensures that every family has a place to call home during life’s most challenging moments. For more information about Quantum House, to volunteer or to support the mission, visit www. quantumhouse.org or call (561) 494-0515.

FAMILY FUN & ADOPTION DAY BENEFITS JUSTIN BARTLETT ANIMAL

Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue held a Family Fun & Adoption Day event on Saturday, June 20 at Buena Vista Farms and Brewery in Loxahatchee Groves. The event included a domino competition, as well as vendors, dogs up for adoption, raffles, prizes, activities for children, and food and drinks. Learn more about the nonprofit at www.justinbartlettanimalrescue.org.

BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PHOTOS

On Thursday, June 11, the Village of Wellington and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) District 8, which serves the Wellington community, received four awards from the Safety Council of Palm Beach County at the 40th annual Traffic Safety Awards Luncheon. The awards recognized the education and enforcement efforts associated with “Operation Moto Madness,” an initiative focused on e-bike and e-moto safety and awareness. The program was launched in response to the growing popularity of e-bikes and motorized scooters throughout the

Royal Palm Beach Teen Golfer Reflects On U.S. Open Experience

By Mike May

Town-Crier

Staff Report

While it’s well-publicized that Wyndham Clark won the recent 126th U.S. Open golf tournament held June 18-21 at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, another big winner was 17-year-old Royal Palm Beach resident Giuseppe Puebla.

Puebla qualified for a spot in the field of 156 players based on his comedalist performance at a United States Golf Association sectional qualifier on the East Course of the BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens on Monday, June

8. As talented a golfer as Puebla is, he’s still an amateur who is yet to graduate from high school. But those limitations didn’t stop him from giving his very best effort at the U.S. Open. Even though Puebla was in the field, the chances of him winning were remote, at best. Still, he entered the tournament with a positive mindset and a goal of making the 36-hole cut, which would have given him the full 72-hole U.S. Open experience.

“Just making it into the field for the U.S. Open is a great opportunity,” Puebla said. “I wanted to enjoy the competitive experience and, hopefully, make the cut.”

While the U.S. Open officially began on Thursday, June 18, Puebla’s U.S. Open journey started the previous month. On May 6, he won a U.S. Open local qualifier at the Moorings at Hawk’s Nest in Vero Beach with a six-under-par round of 66. The next chapter of his journey took place on June 8,

when he was a co-medalist at the 36-hole U.S. Open sectional qualifier at BallenIsles. To maximize his chances of success at Shinnecock Hills, Puebla and his father flew to New York on Sunday, June 14. He had a 2 p.m. tee time for a nine-hole practice round with another amateur participant and future University of Florida collegiate golf teammate Jackson Ormond from Rochester, New York. It was the first of four daily practice sessions for Puebla before the tournament started on Thursday, June 18.

Puebla enjoyed his first ninehole practice experience at Shinnecock Hills.

“It was great,” he said. “Shinnecock is in great shape.”

On Monday, June 15, he had a 9:31 a.m. tee time for 18 holes with 2025 U.S. Amateur champion Mason Howell of Thomasville, Georgia; Hamilton Coleman of Augusta, Georgia; and 2021 Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan.

The weather that Monday was windy with temperatures in the mid-60s. By Monday night, Puebla felt the toughest hole and his favorite hole at Shinnecock Hills was the par-three 11th hole, which measures 159 yards — give or take a yard or two each day based on changing pin placements.

“That hole is straight uphill into the wind, and the green is insanely undulated,” Puebla explained.

On Tuesday, June 16, he played another 18-hole practice round with Caleb Surratt of Charlotte, North Carolina; Ryuichi Oiwa of

Japan; and Aaron Rai, the reigning PGA Championship winner from England.

“Today was a great day!” Puebla said. “I got to play with Aaron Rai, the PGA Championship winner. He’s a super nice guy and had lots of great advice.”

On Wednesday, June 17, Puebla played a fourth practice round with Jackson Ormond; Filippo Celli of Italy; and longtime PGA Tour professional J.B. Holmes of College Grove, Tennessee.

One of the perks of playing in the U.S. Open is access to player dining.

“Player dining is great,” Puebla said. “It’s cool to see all the players. My favorite food was probably the pesto pasta.”

Originally, his tee times for the first two days of the U.S. Open were at 2:42 p.m. from the first tee on Thursday, June 18. On Friday, June 19, he was scheduled to start his second round at the 10th tee at 8:47 a.m. His playing companions for those first two days were fellow amateur Marek Fleming of Houston, Texas, and professional T.K. Kim of South Korea.

The tee times on Thursday and Friday were changed because of a two-hour fog delay on Thursday morning. So, Puebla didn’t hit his opening tee shot on Thursday until nearly 5 p.m. Due to a lack of daylight, his group could only play 13 holes on Thursday. They resumed play at 7 a.m. on Friday morning to conclude the first round. Puebla shot a four-over-par round of 74.

Then, after a 30-minute break, his Friday tee time was 9:02 a.m.

Golfer Giuseppe Puebla on site at Shinnecock Hills.

For his second round, he had a three-over-par round of 73. By sunset on Friday at Shinnecock Hills, he had played 23 holes.

Puebla began his second round with a birdie at his opening hole (the 10th) and he concluded his inaugural U.S. Open experience with a birdie on his final hole (the 9th). His 36-hole total was 147 (sevenover-par). However, the 36-hole cut was at 144 (four-over-par).

While Puebla missed the 36hole cut by three shots, he scored better than three former U.S. champions — Brooks Koepka, Graeme McDowell, and the defending U.S. Open champion, J.J. Spaun.

For the tournament, Puebla was not alone. He had family support in the gallery — his parents (Kevin

Wellington’s Toledo Family Has Been Playing Basketball For Two Generations

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

High School under legendary

key volunteer for the Wellington Wolves travel basketball organization. Rudy and Catalina are the proud parents of two talented basketball players — son Nico and daughter Gaby.

Nico Toledo, a 2018 WHS graduate, is a graduate of Eastern Florida State College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing and management. At WHS, Nico played three years of varsity basketball for head coach Matt Colin. In each season, Nico helped lead his fellow Wolverine teammates to a berth in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s final four in Lakeland.

“As parents, my wife and I got used to the boys basketball season ending in Lakeland for three straight years,” Rudy recalled.

Nico was the starting point guard on the WHS team that went undefeated during the 2017-18 season, only to lose to Oak Ridge High School in the state championship game, 71-60. In that game, Nico scored 19 points. That year, which was Nico’s senior season, the Wolverines finished with a record of 31-1, which was and remains the best record in WHS boys basketball history.

“After Trent Frazier graduated in 2017, nobody expected the boys varsity basketball team at WHS to be very good at all,” Nico said. “We surprised everybody by reaching the state finals in 2018, only to lose our only game of the year to Oak Ridge.”

Nico had a college basketball career that started at Webber International University in Babson Park, Florida. He was at Webber for two years, where he was the starting point. Then, he used his final two years of athletic eligibility at the State University of

New York at Plattsburgh, where he was also the school’s starting point guard.

Today, Nico is the head basketball coach of the girls junior varsity basketball team at WHS, serves as an assistant coach on his father’s varsity team, and he’s one of the coaches for the Wellington Wolves’ 10th grade boys team.

According to Rudy, Nico has the ability to see untapped potential as a coach.

“Nico’s strength as a coach is in player development,” Rudy said. “He understands the importance of basic, fundamental skills — dribbling, footwork and passing.”

As for daughter Gaby Toledo, she played four years of varsity basketball at WHS before graduating in 2023. During her high school career, she joined an exclusive club of WHS girls varsity basketball players, scoring more than 1,000 points in her varsity career.

After playing at WHS, Gaby attended Palm Beach State College, where she played for the women’s basketball team. While at PBSC, which plays under the auspices of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), she and her teammates were the Region 8, Division 2 champions in the 2023-24 and the 2024-25 seasons.

After using two years of collegiate athletic eligibility at PBSC, Gabi transferred to Rutgers University-Camden in New Jersey, which is an NCAA Division III institution. At Rutgers-Camden, Gaby is the team’s starting shooting guard and has one more year of college eligibility. At RutgersCamden, she is pursuing a degree in health science with a minor in political science.

and Mina), his sister (Francesca) and his grandmother (Suzanne Scinicariello).

Puebla said that the pressure he felt during the practice rounds didn’t compare to the intensity of the actual tournament. “I was, obviously, very nervous on the first tee of the golf tournament on Thursday,” he said. “I always say, if you don’t feel any nerves, you don’t care. As the round progressed, I felt like I settled in.”

After missing the 36-hole cut at the U.S. Open, Puebla and his family gathered their belongings and headed to the 64th Northeast Amateur golf tournament held June 24-27 at the Wannamoisett Country Club in Rumford, Rhode Island, where he was registered to play.

Even though Gaby is a long way from home, that hasn’t deterred her parents from watching a few games in person last season.

“We took a few airplane trips up there to watch her team play a few games,” Catalina said. “We’ll do the same thing this coming season.”

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FIFA World Cup’s Soccer Frenzy Can Be Felt Across The Region

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report

The results of a recent national survey by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association reveal that 4.9 percent of all Americans plan to attend one of the FIFA World Cup soccer matches in person. In addition, 14.7 percent will be paying attention to the final scores of the games; 14.8 percent plan to talk about the overall event with friends and family; 16.3 percent are committed to reading about the World Cup; 23.2 percent are planning to watch the full matches; and 23.8 percent will be watching highlights and video clips.

The 4.9 percent of Americans who planned to attend matches may appear to be quite small, but it’s actually a significant figure considering the vast number of visitors from all competing nations who have traveled to North America to attend the games in person. Some of the most avid fans this year are from Scotland, Argentina, the Netherlands, Norway, Japan, Portugal and England, to name a few. Among soccer coaches in the western communities, getting a chance to have the World Cup return to the U.S. for the second time in the event’s history — and for the first time since 1994 — is a dream come true.

Chris Carrera, the head coach of the boys varsity soccer team at Wellington High School, had tickets for four of the matches in Miami. They were June 15 for Saudi Arabia versus Uruguay; June 21 for Uruguay versus Cabo Verde; July 3 for a round-of-16 game; and July 18 for the third

place/fourth place match in the overall tournament.

When asked to describe the atmosphere inside the stadium in Miami for the Uruguay versus Saudi Arabia game, he was impressed, to say the least.

“It was amazing,” Carrera said. “Attending the Uruguay versus Saudi Arabia World Cup match was absolutely incredible. The energy, excitement and hospitality were outstanding. It was a oncein-a-lifetime experience that I’ll never forget.”

The match ended in a 1-1 tie.

Since Carrera lived in Ecuador from age six to 19, he has been cheering for Ecuador in the World Cup.

“I was hoping to go watch Germany versus Ecuador in New Jersey, but the tickets were crazy expensive,” Carrera said of a match that took place on Thursday, June 25.

As for the eventual World Cup winner, Carrera thinks the title will go to France or Spain.

Malik Hasan, the longtime head coach of the boys varsity soccer team at Royal Palm Beach High School and the director of coaching for the Royal Palm Beach Strikers, said the World

Cup is living up to its pre-event expectations.

“The games have been very unpredictable, which is why it’s such a beautiful sporting event,” Hasan said.

He’s not planning to attend any games in person, opting instead to watch the games at home.

“I have enjoyed watching every game from the comfort of my sofa,” Hasan said.

The two national teams that Hasan is following are the U.S. and Germany. He would like to see both teams meet at the World Cup’s championship game on July 19.

Hasan enjoys seeing fans from other countries who understand that sportsmanship is important both on the field and in the grandstands.

“I support all of the fan bases that don’t believe and behave as if they are entitled or more knowledgeable than others,” Hasan said. “I admire those that are appreciative that their teams are able to compete in such a great event.”

Of course, one of the legacies of any World Cup tournament being held in any country is the impact it will have on overall soccer participation.

“Ultimately, the excitement and support of these World Cup games have a trickle-down effect that results in increased participants in youth soccer programs,” Hasan said. “For the upcoming season, our Royal Palm Beach Strikers program will have approximately 1,800 players registered, which is an increase of roughly 10 percent.”

Jon Iverson, the head coach of the girls varsity soccer team

at Berean Christian School, has been impressed by the quality of the matches and the presentation of the games on television.

“Overall, I think the games have been very well produced,” Iverson said. “They are some of the best soccer broadcasts I have seen.”

Iverson added that the match officials are doing a fine job, too.

“The refereeing has also been good,” he added. “With VAR [Video Assistant Referee], there haven’t been many major mistakes. After the first game with all the red cards, I thought it might turn into a very controlled tournament, but the referees have allowed players to be physical.”

Of all the games that Iverson has watched, two specific games have stood out for him.

“The first half of Team USA’s first game against Paraguay was unbelievable. The way we played and dominated was impressive,” said Iverson, who also serves as dean of students at Berean. “I also thought Mexico versus [South] Korea was a really good game.”

Iverson has not secured any game tickets yet, but he remains optimistic.

“I am still not planning to attend a game, but if the door opens, I am going to run through it,” Iverson said.

He feels that France, Argentina and England have the best chance of reaching the World Cup final on July 19. He expects France will win the tournament.

Interest among residents of the western communities in the FIFA World Cup has been strong. There have been large gatherings of fans at places such as Rancho Argentino Pizzeria and Grill in Wellington,

the Portuguese American Cultural Society in Loxahatchee Groves, and even at Arturo Fashion Cuts in the original Wellington Mall, where customers have enjoyed the World Cup games being shown while getting their hair cut.

All 104 World Cup games are being broadcast on Fox, FS1, Telemundo and/or Peacock. The tournament will conclude with the

championship game on Sunday, July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. According to figures released by FIFA, more than one million fans — 1,028,429, to be precise — attended the first 16 games of the tournament. Despite the high prices for game tickets, more than 99 percent of the seats were occupied during that time period.

Looking for something cool to do this summer? Get a jump on your holiday shopping and support local art and craft vendors and small businesses.

The highly anticipated Halfway to Christmas Craft Fair returns to the South Florida Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12. Event hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays with decorations and inflatable displays, hourly door prizes and daily visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Watch for occasional artificial snow flurries, and bring a jacket — it can get cold Inside. Shoppers can beat the

Ninja Students Advance

At Genbu-Kai Karate

Genbu-Kai Karate is proud to announce the advancement of two of their Ninja (4- to 6-year-old) students to their fourth rank levels.

Raphael Da Costa and Elliott Ford have been training for the past year and did an excellent job during their recent testing evaluations.

The Ninja program incorporates basic karate skills while focusing on eight life skills — focus, teamwork, control, balance, memory, discipline, fitness and coordination. It is a prep class for the junior karate program.

Genbu-Kai Karate offers classes in Japanese Karate, Okinawan Kobudo (weapons) and Batto-Do (the Japanese art of cutting with the katana).

Genbu-Kai Karate is located at 10200 Fox Trail Road South, Suite C, in Royal Palm Beach.

(L to R) Raphael Da Costa, Sensei Keith Moore and Elliott Ford. For more information on classes, or to schedule a free trial class, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www. floridagenbukai.com.

Welsh Pony Stallion Teddy Has Wellington’s Hyperion Farm Thinking Big

The Winter Equestrian Festival, held annually at Wellington International, is home to a very special area that is endearing to equestrian families and communities everywhere called Pony Island.

While the International Arena hosts Olympic riders and Grand Prix show jumping, Pony Island is where many young riders, junior competitors and developing athletes get their start. Success at Pony Island often becomes the foundation for progression into junior hunters, equitation finals and eventually FEI-level competition.

When it comes to Warmblood horses, Andrea Nason and her husband Al Guden of Hyperion Farm are no strangers to the highest level of competition, and they also understand the importance of young riders getting an early start. Their farm and family home is located just hacking distance from Wellington International and may be best known for the Grand Prix dressage horse, Sagacious HF, who competed in more than 150 FEI Grand Prix events and took many top U.S. riders, and later young riders, to Europe and beyond.

One of those riders was Andrea’s daughter, Caroline Roffman, who has racked up countless FEI dressage wins and represented the U.S. team in Europe. Most recently, Hyperion Farm has gained attention with their upcoming licensed KWPN-NA stallion, Onassis, a homebred stallion that is drawing attention from judges, selectors and breeders alike.

Caroline and her husband, Grand Prix show jumper and trainer Ben Meredith, introduced their own daughters, Mae and Mila, to riding before they were four years old. The young riders

By Going Small

quickly became the inspiration behind their grandmother Andrea’s next equestrian venture, sparking a passion for ponies that would create opportunities for future generations of children to discover the sport she loves.

The journey into pony breeding began by chance. After seeing photos online of Andrea’s granddaughters enjoying their ponies, one of Caroline’s students reached out and invited her to look at a Welsh pony stallion that was for sale. “Put him on a lunge line and let me see him move,” Andrea replied. With her trained eye for selecting champion Warmbloods,

Andrea quickly recognized the extraordinary conformation and movement of the little stallion and immediately fell in love with Brookside Teddy Munchkin, also known as Teddy. Teddy is a 13.1 1/2 hand Section B Welsh pony stallion who is impeccably bred. He is a medium pony sired by Telynau Elgar (2005 USEF Leading Pony Hunter Breeding Sire) out of Brookside Maggie Mae by Telynau Royal Anthem. His royal bloodlines have given him his exceptional kid-friendly personality, beautiful coloring, outstanding conformation and 10-plus jumping style. Andrea soon realized that for Teddy to reach his full potential, he must be entrusted to the best Welsh pony trainer available. It didn’t take long for her to find Cheryl Maye and her husband Paul. They have been running Maye Show Ponies in Fairfield, Virginia, since 2001. With their combined passion for Welsh ponies, they have turned the business into one of the most highly recommended and successful multi-disciplined Welsh pony training barns in the U.S. Cheryl said that she is excited to have Teddy in training at her barn for the 2026 summer show season. She is confident that they will achieve

the goal of making him into the champion he was bred to be.

Most recently, Teddy competed with the team from Maye Show Ponies at the Bel Air Welsh Pony Classic in Maryland, winning the Champion Section B Welsh Pony Stallion title and then went on to win Supreme Champion overall. Andrea said that she will be excited to welcome Teddy back home to Wellington this fall to be ready for the 2027 season, where he is expected to continue showcasing the talent, presence and athleticism that have already made him a sought-after stallion. During his summer competition schedule, frozen semen will be available through WellGrove Equine in Loxahatchee Groves, providing breeders with an opportunity to incorporate Teddy’s exceptional bloodlines into their programs. Renowned for passing on his outstanding temperament, athletic ability and versatility, Teddy consistently produces foals that excel as family-friendly partners for riders of all ages and ambitions. Until Teddy returns to Wellington, pony aficionados are invited to follow his journey and follow the achievements of his growing legacy of offspring at www. brooksideteddymunchkin.com.

RPBHS Grad Goes From Scholarship Recipient To FPL Intern

When Samuel Dorcelus-Cetoute arrived for his first day as an intern at Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) this summer, he was walking into a company that had already helped shape his path. Years before joining FPL as a civil engineering intern, Samuel received a NextEra Energy Schol-

arship for students participating in SECME (science, engineering, communication, mathematics and enrichment) programs.

Today, he is one of more than 200 interns participating in NextEra’s 2026 Summer Internship Program, building on the support he received as a student through

Admirals Cove Foundation Supports Grandma’s Place

Jodie Schmitz, president of the Grandma’s Place Board of Directors, recently announced that the Admiral’s Foundation once again made a generous grant to support the nonprofit’s emergency foster care program.

“This grant will help us fulfil our mission to provide housing, compassionate loving care, educational opportunities and support to the most vulnerable children and families,” Schmitz said.

The proceeds from the grant benefit the emergency foster care program, which provides shelter and loving care to children from birth to the age of 12, who have suffered abuse or neglect and have been removed from their homes.

Based in Royal Palm Beach, Grandma’s Place also provides

respite care for young children with disabilities while offering support to their parents/caregivers to maximize each child’s safety and success.

The Admirals Cove Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Club at Admirals Cove. Its mission reflects a vibrant tradition of philanthropy that mirrors the exceptional quality of life that residents enjoy at Admirals Cove. The foundation exists to improve lives in northern Palm Beach County and to strengthen the community through a shared culture of giving. For more information about Grandma’s Place, e-mail Roxanne Jacobs at roxanne@grandmasplacepb.org, call (561) 376-0488 or visit www.grandmasplacepb. org.

donation from representatives of the Admirals

Foundation.

hands-on experience in the field.

Samuel first learned about the scholarship from a teacher at Royal Palm Beach High School, who encouraged him to apply based on his involvement in STEM programs and FIRST Robotics. At the time, he had never received a scholarship before.

For Samuel, receiving the award was more than financial support — it was validation that his hard work and dedication could open new doors.

“Receiving this scholarship gave me the determination to keep pushing forward and continue applying for new opportunities,”

Samuel said.

The scholarship also helped cover essential expenses while he pursued his education.

“Every time the scholarship helped pay for my rent, food and books, it reminded me that someone believed in me,” Samuel said. “Now, it feels like I have the opportunity to give back to the company that supported me.”

At the University of Florida, Samuel is pursuing a degree in civil engineering and preparing for a career focused on infrastructure sustainability. Growing up in South Florida, where hurricanes can reshape entire communities, he developed a passion for designing resilient infrastructure that can withstand those impacts and serve future generations.

In May, Samuel joined the company as an engineering and operations support services civil fleet intern. The experience has already broadened his understanding of how engineers contribute to the energy industry.

“These programs empower students to chase their dreams and explore paths they may not have realized were there,” he said. “As a living testimony to that mission, I’ve been given newfound hope for my career aspirations and a goal to help serve the community that poured into me.”

Funded by the NextEra En-

ergy Foundation, a corporate foundation of NextEra and FPL, the merit-based SECME scholarship supports high-achieving, college-bound students who have participated in SECME programs and demonstrated financial need.

Each year, 10 graduating high school seniors receive scholarships worth up to $20,000 to support their undergraduate education.

Since 2021, the program has awarded scholarships to 41 students, investing approximately $820,000 in the next generation of STEM leaders. What has stood out most during his internship is the culture, he said. “A lot of companies talk about their values, but what separates FPL from others is the way employees live those values every day,” Samuel explained. As he continues learning alongside employees across the company, Samuel is building on the support he first received as a student. “It’s truly a full-circle moment,” he said. The 2026 recipients of the NextEra Energy Scholarship for Students in SECME will be announced this summer.

Garden Club Celebrates National Garden Week By Giving Away Floral Arrangements

Every year in June, the Wellington Garden Club celebrates National Garden Week. Sponsored by National Garden Clubs Inc., the project is also celebrated by garden clubs throughout the United States.

This year, local club members gathered to create floral topiary arrangements that were presented to multiple locations throughout the Village of Wellington, including Village Hall and other municipal offices, the Wellington library, four Wellington fire-rescue stations and local businesses that supported the club’s recent garden tour.

The week was recognized by the Village of Wellington through a proclamation from the mayor’s office and the acceptance of the floral tribute by Vice Mayor Ma-

The Wellington Garden Club is a nonprofit organization founded in 1981 that is dedicated to the education and appreciation of gar-

dening, floral design, horticulture and protection of the environment. To learn more, visit them online at www.wellingtongardenclub.org.

WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY PARADE HONORS 2026 GRADS

On Monday, May 18, Wellington Elementary School hosted a parade to honor the fifth-grade graduates and the high school seniors who attended Wellington Elementary School. The parade marched through the halls and the campus at WES. The entire school came out to watch, along with the parents of the fifth graders. The school congratulates its fifth-grade students and alumni high school seniors.

Artemis II Rocket Scientist From Wellington Inspires Take Stock In Children Graduates

Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County celebrated 160 graduating seniors on May 11 at the Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds in a triumphant College Decision Day event. All 160 students in the program achieved a 100 percent graduation rate, collectively earning more than $1.6 million in scholarship funding with the support of mentors, donors and community partners.

The celebration, modeled after College Decision Day for athletes, featured graduates walking across the stage and donning hats representing the colleges and trade programs they will attend this fall,

a powerful visual of promise and accomplishment.

Nicole Cummings, a Wellington High School and Florida Atlantic University alumna who serves as program manager at Jupiter’s Aerojet Rocketdyne, delivered the keynote address. Cummings is part of the team that built the engine powering the Artemis II rocket in NASA’s historic mission around the moon. With 20 years in the aerospace industry, she shared her journey from Palm Beach County classrooms to the forefront of space exploration, urging graduates to embrace determination and the power of education.

“I can’t express the joy and gratitude I’ve experienced lately. The doors that have opened have been blessings beyond words. Thank you, Take Stock in Children, for inviting me to be your keynote speaker. It was amazing to watch the smiles on the graduates’ faces as they announced their choices!” Cummings said.

Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County provides college scholarships, mentoring and academic coaching to underserved youth through a multi-year wraparound model that supports students from middle school through postsecondary completion.

“This event is about celebrating not just where our students have been, but where they are going,” Take Stock in Children CEO Nancy Stellway said. “Having someone like Nicole, who walked these same halls and reached the stars, shows our graduates that their dreams are within reach.” The event also featured remarks from Florida Atlantic University First Lady Jillian Hasner and was attended by community members, families and mentors who have supported the students throughout their journey. Visit www.takestockpalmbeach.

PBSC Welding Students Forge Eagle Sculpture To Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary

Eleven welding students from Palm Beach State College transformed 325 pounds of raw steel into a towering symbol of American resilience, creating an eagle sculpture with a six-foot wingspan as part of a statewide competition celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The team spent more than 350 hours over three weeks crafting “Forged Freedom,” which was unveiled in April at Pruitt Plaza on the college’s Lake Worth campus. The sculpture was created for a welding and fabrication competition hosted by the Florida Department of Education to mark America’s 250th birthday on July 4.

Students used plasma cutting and MIG welding techniques to construct the piece, which blends technical skill with layered sym-

In Loving Memory of Richard Kenneth Marshall

Richard Kenneth Marshall, lovingly known as Rick, passed away in Wellington, Florida, on June 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends whose lives he profoundly impacted. He leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, generosity, mentorship, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved.

Born on October 13, 1957, in Superior, Nebraska, Rick was the son of Robert and Marie Marshall. He grew up alongside his sisters, Heidi Ruby and Diana Gass, and graduated from Superior High School with the Class of 1975. The values of hard work, humility, and genuine care for others that were instilled during his Nebraska upbringing remained at the core of who he was throughout his life.

Rick's professional journey began in sales, a career that first took him to Arizona and eventually to Texas in 1981.

Possessing a natural ability to connect with people and recognize potential in others, he co-founded Marshall Career Service with Dana Marshall in 1982. Over the decades, Rick became far more than a career advisor. He became a trusted mentor, coach, confidant, and friend to countless individuals. Whether helping someone navigate a career transition, discover a new path, or simply find confidence in themselves, Rick had an extraordinary gift for helping people see possibilities they did not know existed. What made Rick truly special was his generosity with his time. He never seemed too busy for a conversation, a question, or someone in need of guidance. From executives and business leaders to neighbors, friends, and complete strangers, Rick treated everyone with the same warmth, respect, and attention. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued, while helping them recognize strengths and possibilities they often could not see in themselves. Known for his sharp shoes, impeccable style, and unmistakable presence, Rick brought confidence, warmth, and authenticity into every room he entered.

Above all, Rick was devoted to his family. He welcomed his first son, Brock, in 1977 and his second son, Pryce, in 1984. He built a life centered on family, faith, friendship, and the relationships that mattered most. In 1994, he purchased a farm in Weatherford, Texas, creating a place filled with memories and gatherings. His love for his Nebraska roots remained strong, and in 2006 he fulfilled a dream by purchasing a ranch in the Sand Hills of Nebraska. In 2019, Rick and Jill made Wellington, Florida, their home. He quickly embraced the community, forming meaningful friendships and leaving the same lasting impact there that he had everywhere else throughout his life. Rick is survived by his beloved wife, Jill Townsend; his son Brock Emery and wife Stephanie, and his granddaughters, Madilynn, Myla, and Malayna; his son Pryce Marshall and wife Corinne, and his grandchildren, Ash, Brighton, and Sully; his cherished bonus family Scott Townsend and wife Dyanne, and his grandsons, Ashton and Conrad; Renick Townsend Jacobs and husband Louie Jacobs; his sister, Heidi Ruby and his nephew Ben Ruby and wife Bailee; and his nieces and nephews of his late sister, Diana Gass: Michael, Mark, Shelly, and Sheila.

He is also survived by countless beloved extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, clients, and all those whose lives he touched through his wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in others. Rick’s legacy lives on in the people he encouraged, the relationships he cherished, and the countless lives he changed through his generosity, wisdom, and belief in others. He leaves behind a family, a community, and a network of friends and colleagues who are better because they knew him.

A Memorial Celebration will be held on July 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Stallion Restaurant, 11630 Polo Club Road, Wellington, Florida 33414. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share stories, reminisce, and celebrate the remarkable life of a man whose kindness, wisdom, and generosity touched so many. All who knew Rick are welcome to attend and honor the memories, lessons, laughter, and love he shared throughout his life.

Though Rick’s presence will be deeply missed, his lessons, his laughter, and his unwavering belief in others will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

bolism. The steel eagle, spanning six feet from wingtip to wingtip, stands atop three beams arranged in a tripod — representing the three branches of government and the constitutional promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The sculpture stands seven feet, seven inches tall, including its base. The beams rest on uneven ground, symbolizing the nation’s endurance through war, economic hardship and social upheaval. Steel roses climb the tripod’s legs, their thorns signifying beauty forged through struggle.

“There’s nothing better than our trades community doing work that applies to real-life skills,” said Kimberly Lea, dean of workforce education and development at Palm Beach State College. “But more than that, this is a testament

Flagship Premium Cinemas Opens Renovated Wellington Location

FP Cinemas LLC has announced the grand opening of Flagship Premium Cinemas in Wellington, located at 13881 Wellington Trace in the Wellington Marketplace. Following a complete, top-tobottom renovation of the former theater, the new location delivers a fully modernized entertainment destination designed with both comfort

be a local hub for entertainment and connection.

“We are thrilled to bring Flagship Premium Cinemas to Wellington and join this vibrant community,” said Paul Wenger, president of Flagship Premium Cinemas. “Our goal is simple: to create a welcoming space where movie goers can relax, enjoy premium amenities and share meaningful moments together, all at a price point that makes coming to the movies easy and accessible.” Headquartered in Baltimore,

is National Homeowner Month, and Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Mike Caruso is urging all Palm Beach County property owners to take a minute and ensure that their most valuable assets are protected by the clerk’s free Property Fraud Alert service.

Subscribers to the clerk’s Property Fraud Alert service will in most cases receive an e-mail alert within 24 hours if a document such as a deed or mortgage is recorded with the clerk’s office that matches the information used on their Property Fraud Alert registration. Subscribers can then notify authorities if they suspect something was recorded without their knowledge or permission.

“The clerk’s Property Fraud Alert service is our community’s first line of defense against the growing crime of deed fraud,” Caruso said. “It only takes two minutes to register online for Property Fraud Alert and can help you protect your home for years to come.” Caruso has led the charge in Palm Beach County to sign up more property owners for Property Fraud Alert. Since he was appointed clerk in August 2025, he launched a comprehensive Property Fraud Alert outreach effort that includes presentations to community organizations,

subscriber sign-up events with condominium and homeowners’ associations, and public service announcements on television, radio and social media.

These efforts resulted in a significant increase in Property Fraud Alert subscribers in Palm Beach County. Since Caruso’s campaign for Property Fraud Alert began in December 2025, the clerk’s office increased new registrations for Property Fraud Alert through May 2026 by 281.42 percent over the same six-month period in 2025. Palm Beach County now leads the state in Property Fraud Alert registrations.

“The numbers tell the story.

Once people learn about our free Property Fraud Alert service, they sign up to help protect their homes,” Caruso said. “I won’t stop until every single property owner in Palm Beach County is signed up for this important service.”

Caruso’s office serves as the keeper of Palm Beach County’s official records, including court judgments, deeds, mortgages, liens, marriage licenses, plats and tax deeds. It launched the free Property Fraud Alert service in 2015 and now has nearly 130,000 subscribers.

To learn more about Property Fraud Alert, and to sign up for the free service, visit online at www. mypalmbeachclerk.com/pfa.

BodyBar Pilates, a high energy, reformer-based Pilates studio, will open its newest studio in Royal Palm Beach on Monday, July 13, pending construction timelines.

The studio is located at 11021

Southern Blvd. in Southern Palm Crossing, near HomeGoods and Costco.

Leading up to the grand opening, a limited number of founding memberships are available, offering early members up to 15 percent off their membership for life, along with priority booking, guest passes and a complimentary class before doors open.

In addition, BodyBar Pilates

Royal Palm Beach will host a series of community events designed to introduce locals to the brand’s signature workouts and the studio team.

These include “Pilates by the Pool” on Saturday, June 27 at 10 a.m. This will be a free mat Pilates class by the pool at Cortland Royal Palm Beach. No sign-up is required.

At the grand opening event at BodyBar Pilates Royal Palm

Palm Beach County’s Mind Your Business Youth Entrepreneurship Forum returns on July 7, offering a full day of hands-on learning and innovation for young people across the county. Now in its seventh year, the forum is designed to inspire the

Beach on Monday, July 13, guests can enjoy food, refreshments and shop at the boutique. No sign-up is required.

The Royal Palm Beach location is owned by first-time franchise owner Barbara Benz, supported by her husband, Justin. The couple built their respective careers in travel and real estate before discovering BodyBar Pilates. After the birth of their son, Barbara’s doctor recommended trying Reformer Pilates as a form of pelvic floor therapy. She tried a complimentary beginner class at the Sarasota studio and instantly connected with the workout.

Barbara quickly enrolled as a client, and within a month, became an instructor. Six months later, she knew she wanted to become a franchise owner and open her own studio. Encouraged by her parents, who own their own businesses, Barbara approached entrepreneurship thoughtfully, researching the business model to make sure it aligned with her lifestyle and goals. The couple relocated across the state to bring the concept to

next generation of creators, problem-solvers and emerging business leaders. Open to youth ages 10 to 18, the program features four interactive learning tracks: Trades & Execution, STEM & Innovation, AI & Business Creation, and Media, Podcasting & Influence.

Palm Beach County. She will oversee all client-facing operations, while Justin manages finance and real estate development.

“I’ve always been a fitness enthusiast, but Reformer Pilates has truly changed my life,” Barbara Benz said. “I’ll never forget my first BodyBar class. I sat down at my Reformer and saw the saying ‘get comfortable being uncomfortable’ on the wall. Those words spoke volumes to me. Trying something new can be intimidating, but I believe it’s how we grow, and opening the studio is part of that journey for me. I want it to feel like a sanctuary for our members to feel good, make friends, have fun and establish a community. I’m thrilled to be opening this summer and can’t wait to share BodyBar’s experience soon.”

The Royal Palm Beach studio will span 1,920 square feet, have 12 Reformers and offer BodyBar’s signature athletic Pilates classes. These are led by certified instructors and designed to support strength, balance, mobility and overall well-being for all fitness

The forum will be held at the Riviera Beach Marina Event Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be provided. The event is ideal for individual students, youth groups and summer camps seeking meaningful, skill-building summer programming.

levels, using state-of-the-art Pilates equipment.

“We’re pleased to be expanding our presence in Florida, one of our key development states,” said Kamille McCollum, chief brand officer, president and co-founder of BodyBar Pilates. “Partnering with new franchise owners like Barbara, who embody our values and have a passion for connecting with their communities, makes our debut in Palm Beach County especially meaningful. We look forward to supporting her success.”

BodyBar Pilates continues to grow nationwide, with more than 18,000 members and 81 studios nationwide, with another 60 opening this year. Looking ahead, Barbara and Justin Benz hope to open an additional BodyBar studio in the coming years. For more information about the new studio, membership packages and event registration, call (561) 467-5250, e-mail barbara.benz@ bodybarpilates.com or visit www. bodybarpilates.com/studios/royalpalm-beach.

Registration is now open, and families and camp directors are encouraged to secure space early due to high demand. Register at https://survey. pbcgov.com/s3/7th-Annual-Mind-Your-Business-Youth-Entrepreneurship-Forum.

My Unwanted Adventures In Dog Sitting Did Not Go As Planned

For reasons of unimportance to this story, I was put in charge of two dogs last week.

Anyone who knows me (and that includes you, faithful reader!) knows that I do not have, nor do I want, a pet. It could be that I don’t have time to wash my hands every time I pet something furry; it could be that I don’t want animals on any of my workspaces, including (heaven forbid!) my kitchen counter; or it could be that I once had a pet goldfish, but that interaction resulted in a brief ceremony and a rude flushing that could have scarred me for life. I don’t know. Other people have pets. Other people seem to like them. They cite “unconditional love” as the reason. Meh.

Not only that, but when people travel, they need someone to mind their pets. I, enigma that I am, choose unrestricted travel plans over imposing upon someone else with my animal — yet here we are.

Twice a day last week, I had to drive 45 minutes round trip to feed and walk these

animals. I was greeted at the front door by two frantic, excited dogs that had to jump up to put their paws on my shoulders and lick my face (yuck!) to welcome me. Well, not to welcome me, as much as to welcome my magical ability to open their food container.

Firstly, I would give them each a treat. This was clearly a ruse to get them off my person, but they did not see it as such. They saw it, in their prideless little doggy brains, as “A Treat!” Nothing more.

Secondly, I would attach their leashes. This meant battling them into submission and untangling them from each other two or three times. The walk itself was uneventful for me, but second only to

the possible explosion of a nearby Purina factory to them. Squirrels, birds, other dogs — they loved it. They loved it so much that one of them had to chase off a momma dove, slurp up her baby from its nest and regurgitate its now-lifeless body onto my feet in a splendiferous show of gratitude. Wow. Thanks. Thirdly, the grand finale — dinner. I plopped it into their bowls, refilled their water, thoroughly washed my hands and hastily made my exit while they were eating. But last week when I arrived, the oldest of the dogs could not get up. It lay there in a pool of its own pee, legs splayed in all directions and miserable. I fed it, watered

it, cleaned it up, then loaded both dogs into my car. At home, my aim was to set the sad dog’s bed out on the porch and gently place her into it. But, before I could do this, I had to remove a dead mouse (yes!) that one of the neighborhood cats had left there as yet another splendiferous gift. I am so honored.

Three days at my house and sad dog is fine now, mostly because I spoke with her owner who told me that, oh yeah, she needs daily joint medication and also, would I mind keeping them another week?

Current score: Vacationers - 1. Dogs - 1. Cat - 1. Mouse, bird and myself - 0, unless you count the “unconditional love,” of course.

Steven Spielberg’s Film ‘Disclosure Day’ Is An Amazing Movie

To put it simply, Steven Spielberg still has the power to create really good films.

Disclosure Day is one of the best of his I have seen in recent years, and one of the best I have seen of any recent films. This film and Project Hail Mary make this a better movie year than last year, and we’re not even halfway through. This is one of those films that grabs you and just does not let go.

It begins with Daniel Kellner (Josh O’Conner), a technician at Wardex Corporation, stealing technology and filmed archives of meetings between humans and aliens, information that has been covered up for decades. His boss, Noah Scanlon (Colin Firth), gets the government to brand him a traitor and a chase begins. Scanlon firmly believes that knowing that there is intelligent life from other worlds could create damage to our world, which is presented at close to tipping into World War III. Finally, Daniel and his girlfriend

‘I’ On

CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

Jane (Eve Hewson) take refuge in a convent, where at one time she had lived as a novitiate.

At the same time, in Kansas City, Margaret Fairchild (Emily Blunt) is visited one morning at home by a tiny bird, a cardinal, which sets off psychic powers. She is a weather girl, and during her bit, she begins speaking in languages she never learned: Russian, Korean and a kind of clicking language. She also can suddenly know everything possible about what others are thinking, and she sets off on the run with

her boyfriend Jackson (Wyatt Russell).

Both Daniel and Margaret are inadvertently betrayed by their lovers, and they set off on a really well executed chase. All of this holds you and doesn’t let go until the end.

There are a multitude of fabulous discussions and debates between characters.

Jane and her former abbess, Sister Maura (Elizabeth Marvel) about the validity of the Bible if aliens exist. Scanlon and his major opponent Hugo Wakefield (Colman Domingo), a defector from Wardex, debate the wisdom of allowing humans to know of the existence of aliens. The best thing about these scenes is not only the exceptional acting, but Spielberg allowing intelligent reasonable discussions from all concerned. The last 15 minutes are incredible. I will not reveal what happens, but I can tell you that it seemed no one in the audience watching with me was able to move. Even better, it was realistic, no wild

and crazy bits to do it. Just pure emotion. The acting was superb. Blunt gives the performance of a lifetime. I have seen few performances as nuanced as hers ever. She manages to be vulnerable, interesting, occasionally a bit amusing and incredibly powerful. I will be shocked if she is not nominated for an Academy Award and would applaud her receiving one. O’Connor is very strong in a slightly less flashy but just as pivotal role. Firth gets a chance to really chew up the scenery as the villain, although his henchman Casper played by Henry Lloyd-Hughes might have been even scarier. Domingo gives a brilliant performance as the leader of the resistance to Scanlon. Special mentions should be given to Hewson and Marvel. One of the things Spielberg excels at is creating unforgettable minor characters who can be vitally important for a short time. As expected in a Spielberg film, everything is polished close to perfection. John

Williams, for whom this is the 30th collaboration with Spielberg, gives another superb score, more subtle than usual, but one that heightens most scenes. Janusz Kamiński, the cinematographer, made the film look stunning. As an aside, in a world of artificial intelligence, Blunt was told that AI could enhance her speaking the alien language. She refused and did a brilliant job based on her own talent. The movie is long but is definitely worth seeing. For those taking the notion that this is anti-religion, take it from me, it is not. It does not answer questions, it simply created a great experience. Also, it does not matter whether you believe in extra-terrestrials or not. It is simply a really good movie experience.

Going to movies is expensive. It cost $29 for senior tickets on a weekday afternoon for my wife and myself. This is one of the few movies I have seen that is really worth the money.

BRIGHT! CREATIVE! PERSON NEEDED

Our team is looking for a bright, creative person with a few years of sales experience to help head up a new magazine launch here in Palm Beach County.

Salary, commission, profit share and more for the right person.

e-mail resume to: email.DawnRivera@gmail.com or call (561) 793-7606 for an interview appointment

WE'RE HIRING

We are seeking motivated and talented people to fill a variety of roles, including: front desk, housekeeping and maintenance. Hotel or hospitality experience preferred. If you’re a dedicated, passionate, detail-oriented individual with an interest in the hospitality industry, we encourage you to apply by emailing your resume to info@royalinnhotel.com

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