HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE DEPARTMENTS HELP STUDENTS SHINE ON STAGE
High school drama departments are not only fun for students — both actors and audience — but numerous studies demonstrate a direct connection between drama involvement and academic achievement. Students involved in drama often demonstrate improved reading skills, better attendance and are often more engaged in school.

NATIONALLY RANKED CHESS PROGRAM BRINGS MANY BENEFITS TO ELBRIDGE GALE STUDENTS
Under the tutelage of coach Antonis Loudaros, the members of the Elbridge Gale Elementary School Chess Team have become nationally ranked champions in a game of thought and strategy.

VILLAGE MUSIC WELLINGTON NAMED NATION’S TOP NEW MUSIC DEALER
Bringing the community together to make sweet music, Village Music Wellington has achieved national acclaim for its efforts. Named the nation’s top new music dealer, the shop is reaching more people with its love of music.

MAKING THE GRADE: ASHLEIGH CONROY-ZUGEL EXCELS IN SCHOOL & DOWN THE CENTERLINE
Sixteen-year-old Ashleigh Conroy-Zugel is an A student who is also an ambitious dressage rider. She qualified for the 2013 AGCO/USEF Junior Dressage National Championships, yet dreams of attending college and has her heart set on a small, intimate atmosphere for continuing her studies.

WELLINGTON’S NEXT TOP MODEL: SHANA KIRKSAY
Combining her passion for all things feminine with her athletic frame and a photogenic ease, Shana Kirksay hopes to continue forging her own path through our Wellington’s Next Top Model contest.

WELLINGTON HERO: AUSTIN RUSSELL – WELLINGTON YOUNGSTER PUTS HIS HOBBY TO WORK FOR A LOCAL FAMILY
Austin Russell turned 8 years old on July 27, and he has been running his business start-up for about a year. It began when he saw a bracelet-making loom at a shop and decided to try it out. The bracelets he made attracted attention from classmates, teachers, neighbors and members of his church.

WELLINGTON REGIONAL WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Wellington Regional Medical Center received a distinguished honor in May when Alan B. Miller, founder, chairman and CEO of Universal Health Services Inc., presented the hospital with the 2013 UHS Service Excellence Award.

P.W. HOSPITAL USES TECHNOLOGY TO SERVE PATIENTS
How do emergency rooms evolve in this age of medical advances? The key is exceptional service with an emphasis on cutting-edge technology and patient convenience. This is a key focus of Palms West Hospital as it strives to meet patients’ health needs.