Tennis-Playing Wellington Twins Launch Road Trip To All 50 States

Story by Mike May  |  Photos by Frank Koester

Tennis-playing twin brothers Aiden and Owen Finocchietti of Wellington are having a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Right now, the boys are traveling to all 50 U.S. states with their maternal grandfather, Barry Mabe.

This national excursion is not simply a trip where the goal is to visit all 50 states. They have the added goal to play in a competitive tennis tournament in each state — while also helping to promote the great game of tennis.

According to Mabe, the lessons that both boys will learn from 12 months of travel and competitive tennis will impact them in a positive and profound way for the rest of their lives.

“Tennis has allowed my grandsons to learn a skill, discipline, work ethic and develop lifelong friendships. It even teaches them disappointment, occasional unfairness and sometimes defeat,” Mabe said. “This will represent a remarkable blend of athletic achievement, youth empowerment and family adventure — all while growing the sport of tennis.”

For the trip, they are mostly traveling from state to state in a recreational vehicle (RV), but they will travel by plane to Alaska and Hawaii.

This unique journey has the backing of their parents, Elisha and Gabe Finocchietti.

“I think it’s going to be an awesome experience for Aiden and Owen,” Elisha said. “They have shown no signs of being homesick, but they do miss their paternal grandparents, Nonno and Nana.”

Because Elisha and Gabe work remotely, they will be able to join in for various parts of the trip. “I joined them for the tournament in Georgia and North Carolina,” Elisha noted.

Since Mabe — affectionately referred to as Pap — has agreed to home school the boys on the road, they are able to take such a long and adventuresome national journey. This fall, they will officially be in the fifth grade. Very few fifth graders will get such a unique educational experience as the two Finocchietti brothers will be getting in the coming months.

Even though most students are enjoying time away from school this summer, the tennis twins have been engaged in their home-school studies with their grandfather since they left Wellington.

“My favorite subject is math,” Aiden said.

“My favorite subject is reading,” Owen added.

The cross-country trip started on May 30. They expect to arrive home in late May 2026, soon after visiting their 50th state, which will be Kansas.

In early June, the boys played their first tennis tournament in St. Johns, Florida. As fate would have it, both Aiden and Owen advanced to the final. It was the 24th time that they played one another in an actual tennis tournament. On this occasion, Aiden prevailed, 6-1, 6-2. After 24 matches, they have each won 12 times.

“I was not playing my best that day,” Owen recalled.

Next, they traveled to South Carolina to play in a Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) tournament, where they faced a number of older, more experienced players. Their next tournament was the Georgia Junior Open in Acworth, Georgia. Then they headed to the Southern Open in Asheville, North Carolina, before getting back in the RV and traveling to Keswick, Virginia, for a junior tournament.

On the court, both boys use Head Speed tennis racquets. While Aiden and Owen are talented singles players, they also form a strong doubles team. As recently as April 6, they combined to win the Seminole Lake “Spring Fever” 12U Doubles Level 6 competition.

As Aiden and Owen have reflected on their first few weeks on the road, they agree that the trip has been “way better” than they thought it would be.

Even though they are traveling around the country in an RV, they tend to stay with local families in each tennis tournament city. For the most part, they spend roughly a week in each state.

In addition to playing in tennis tournaments, the boys will be youth tennis ambassadors. According to Mabe, the boys want to promote participation in youth tennis, play in “Little Mo” regional, national and international tennis tournaments to help bring attention to the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation, participate in school assembly programs and promote Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day.

In between tournaments, the boys go fishing, play golf, go hiking, play basketball, play table tennis, visit museums, ride ATVs, visit water parks, and practice their serves, volleys and ground strokes on the tennis court — when not involved in their school studies, of course.

In early June, while in northern Georgia, they enjoyed a South Atlantic League minor league baseball game between the Rome Emperors and the Greensboro Grasshoppers.

“What we do and where we visit is often dependent on where the tennis tournaments are being played,” Mabe explained. “In early July, the boys will enjoy a visit to the U.S. Capitol and to the Bureau of Engraving. I will be playing with Aiden in a grandfather-grandson tennis tournament in Boston in mid-July.”

This national trip will also include a visit to the Library of Congress, Niagara Falls and a number of national parks.

When it comes to their favorite meals while on the road, both boys enjoy international cuisine.

“I really enjoyed the pasta at the Original Vinnie’s Italian restaurant in Asheville, North Carolina,” Aiden said.

“I thought the butter chicken at an Indian restaurant in Asheville was the best meal that I have enjoyed so far,” Owen added.

While the trip will last 12 months, the boys will fly home for brief visits in November and December.

“In November, Owen will be playing with his mother in the annual mother-son tournament at the Wellington Tennis Center,” Mabe said. “And we will return home for a few days at Christmas.”

Throughout the trip, the boys and their grandfather will be posting images to Facebook and Instagram on a regular basis. Since their journey is also designed to promote tennis at the grassroots level and attract young players to the sport, they are accepting donations to help the cause.

To learn more details about this journey by Aiden and Owen Finocchietti alongside their grandfather, visit www.tenniswiththetwins.com.

Empowering The Next Generation Of Healthcare Professionals

By Shannon Anastasio

The Family Care Training Center is empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals. Located in West Palm Beach, it is a beacon of excellence in healthcare education. Founded on the principles of professionalism, compassion and community service, the facility is committed to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals with the foundation needed to thrive in today’s fast-evolving medical landscape.

The programs are designed for individuals who value not just career advancement, but purposeful work that makes a difference. Whether you are embarking on a new professional journey or enhancing your existing credentials, the Family Care Training Center offers a results-driven path into the healthcare field.

At the core of this approach is a belief that effective healthcare education must blend academic rigor with human values. That’s why the emphasis is on hands-on learning, small class sizes and individualized instruction.

“In the beginning of every semester, we try to identify every individual’s needs,” explained Ms. Opal, one of the lead instructors. “For example, if we have someone who never answers a question, sits in the corner, but shows up every class, you take time to get to know this individual and gain a level of trust, whereby they will feel comfortable in the classroom with the other students. You are not just a student in our classroom. You are an individual with your own needs and wants. This allows us to offer resources to our students so that they can succeed in their studies.”

This student-centered philosophy creates an environment where learning is both challenging and supportive. Licensed instructors with decades of real-world experience provide mentorship that goes beyond the classroom. From mastering vital signs to responding to emergency situations, every student receives personalized attention tailored to their learning style and career goals.

The result is a student experience defined by growth, empowerment and success. Graduates leave with both certifications, and a strong sense of purpose, ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Many alumni go on to serve in hospitals, long-term care facilities, private practices and home health roles.

In addition to core training, the Family Care Training Center offers essential certification programs, including Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certification for adults, children and infants. These courses are available to healthcare professionals and members of the public alike.

“BLS and CPR are essential for every individual to learn,” Ms. Opal said. “It saves lives, and maybe your own. After every class, we express the importance of learning CPR and that everyone in your home should have this basic knowledge. They can either bring them in for a course, or you can go over what you have learned.”

The Family Care Training Center offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate working adults, parents and career changers.

“Healthcare is evolving,” Ms. Opal said. “Family Care is a starting point. We introduce individuals to the healthcare profession. At this level, you make the decision to continue or not. We have students who continued in the healthcare profession and are now nurses, nurse practitioners, physical therapy technicians, radiology technicians and much more. These are just a few of our students who came back to let us know what they have accomplished.”

Classes at the center will help people decide if healthcare is the career path they are looking for. “We welcome young people who have no idea what they want to do after graduation,” Ms. Opal said. “Entering this field is an immediate introduction to the possibilities in the healthcare field.”

The Family Care Training Center was inspired by a desire to bridge the gap between qualified instruction and compassionate care. Looking ahead, the facility aims to expand programs, increase access to training and further strengthen its role as a trusted source of healthcare education.

“Family Care is special because we understand that everyone learns differently,” Ms. Opal said. “The time that we have for each course is an incentive for everyone. We don’t expect everyone to meet this goal. Therefore, we have means for these individuals to complete the course at their own pace. No one is asked to leave who is giving the effort to learn. We have older adults coming back into the workforce, so we make the environment pleasant and comfortable for them.”

She noted that the center provides bilingual instructors to help bilingual students meet their needs.

So, whether you are preparing for your first role in healthcare or seeking to sharpen your clinical capabilities, the Family Care Training Center provides a path defined by integrity, excellence and opportunity.

To learn more about the Family Care Training Center, or to schedule a visit, call them at (561) 686-4552 or visit www.familycaretc.com.

IDA Development And Barnwalkers Lead The Revitalization Of Wellington International’s FEI Barns

This summer will bring a number of significant upgrades to the Wellington International equestrian showgrounds. One major renovation is already underway: the full transformation of the FEI barns. At the helm of this exciting project are IDA Development and Barnwalkers — leaders in equestrian facility design and barn outfitting — who are elevating the stabling experience with modern, safe and stylish accommodations for the FEI horses.

The project began with the complete demolition of the outdated stalls. In their place, 130 sleek, high-quality Professional Series stalls by Barnwalkers will be installed, setting a new benchmark in equine stabling.

“We’re thrilled to continue our strong relationship with this world-renowned facility by providing products we’re truly passionate about — products that enhance the environment and provide unmatched comfort for the horses,” said Bart Kenis, co-owner of Barnwalkers. “These stalls are perfectly suited for safety, longevity, practicality and durability. They are virtually maintenance-free.”

Beyond the stalls, IDA Development will upgrade the aisle ways by installing more than 8,000 square feet of Equitan poured rubber flooring, designed to deliver superior safety and shock absorption for all equine athletes. The renovation also includes upgraded electrical and plumbing systems and fresh paint throughout the barn.

Murray Kessler, CEO of Wellington International, is excited about these improvements.

“At Wellington International, we listen carefully to our athletes and their teams, because their experience matters,” Kessler said. “Based on their input, we will be making numerous major improvements to our facilities this summer. One important improvement will be the renovation of our FEI stabling facility, where we’ve partnered with Barnwalkers to provide best-in-class stabling that reflects the high-quality standard we’re committed to. We’re proud to support the comfort, care and safety of the horses that make this sport what it is.”

IDA Development is also expanding other Equitan rubber pathways on the grounds, with more than 10,000 square feet of Equitan being added from Ring 10 to the permanent barns — another step in prioritizing equine safety and comfort.

“As both a farm owner and a builder, I’m passionate about creating environments where horses can thrive,” said Harry Knopp, owner of IDA Development. “Renovating an older facility like this requires vision, experience and the right materials to deliver modern safety and comfort while respecting the original structure. We are honored to help bring this transformation to life at Wellington International.”

Barnwalkers offers top-tier craftsmanship in European-style stalls, walkers and barn accessories. With exclusive partnerships with national and international manufacturers, Barnwalkers blends innovation with durability, safety and affordability. Their products are crafted using modern, precision-engineered machines that ensure consistent quality. Learn more at https://barnwalkers.com.

With more than 30 years of experience, IDA Development turns visions into reality, whether it’s a custom barn, outdoor arena, covered or mirrored arena, or steel barn or building. IDA guides clients through every step of the planning and building process, tailoring solutions to meet each individual’s needs, timeline and budget. Known for high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional service, IDA lives up to its reputation as a trusted leader in equestrian construction. Learn more at https://idadevelops.com.

Wellington’s Grove Family Has Been Taking Care Of Local Pools For 40 Years

By Mike May

For the last 40 years, pool owners across Wellington and beyond have been buying their pool supplies and utilizing the professional expertise of Horizon Pool & Patio to maintain their pools. During that time, the company has become a cornerstone of the community — and looks forward to serving for decades to come.

Founded in 1985 by husband-and-wife team Chuck and Linda Grove, Horizon has grown from a small pool service route into a local institution. Now, the next two generations of the Grove family are helping lead the business, which is located in the Wellington Plaza at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace.

Now 80, Chuck remains active in the company as president, frequently stopping by to lend his expertise, especially on renovation projects. Linda, 78, is retired but still serves as secretary/treasurer.

Their daughter, Jennifer Grove Kenbeek, 55, is vice president and the chief financial officer. Jennifer’s husband John Kenbeek, also 55, is the company’s sales and retail manager. Jennifer’s son, Jordan Grove, 31, is the company’s service manager, and Jennifer’s nephew, Jesse Ballard, 32, is the company’s operations/project manager.

Jennifer has worked at the store since the 1980s when she was in high school. After college, she worked in the finance industry, but returned to Horizon Pool & Patio on a full-time basis in 2005. She became a part owner in 2015.

Jordan started working in the retail store as a young teenager. He moved to service, and then was promoted to service manager. He became a part owner in 2022.

Jesse also started working in the retail store as a young teenager. He moved to repair and then became repair manager. He also became a part owner in 2022. Jesse is the son of Chuck and Linda’s oldest child, Shannon Ballard.

Another key leader is Chad Gardner, the company’s vice president/general manager. He joined Horizon in December 2003. Since then, Chad has held several roles at Horizon, including store manager for years prior to his current position. He is also known for his expertise in pool stain treatment and IT.

John Kenbeek started at Horizon in June 2012 as a service manager. In July 2018, he moved to retail manager before his current role as sales and retail manager.

While Horizon Pool & Patio is now based in Wellington, its current home is not the longtime business’s original location.

“Chuck started the business in 1985 in the plaza at the northwest corner of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards,” Jennifer recalled. “We opened the Wellington store shortly thereafter.”

According to Chuck, the idea of creating a business that provides pool services was not his original idea. He started a solar heating business, which led to solar pool heating, which led to heat pump pool heating. He then decided to start servicing and maintaining pools, which led him to opening the pool store.

“We’re beyond thrilled to reach this incredible milestone,” Chuck said of the company’s recent anniversary. “For the past 40 years, our mission has been to deliver exceptional service, top-quality products and expert advice — helping our valued customers take pride in and fully enjoy their swimming pools and spas. We are so grateful for the loyal customers who have been with us on this journey, and we look forward to continuing to service the western communities for many years to come.”

His wife Linda is equally proud of the work that Horizon has done for its customers since the mid-1980s.

“Since 1985, Horizon Pool & Patio has been a trusted name in the industry, offering expert pool maintenance, renovation services and a retail store that provides everything customers need to care for their pools and spas,” she said. “We want to express our sincere gratitude to Wellington and the western communities for their support. This celebration is a tribute to the strong partnership we have built with our community over the years, and a heartfelt thank you for choosing us for your pool and spa needs.”

Chuck recalled that his first customers were the late Chuck and Susan Schaefer of Schaefer Drugs in Wellington.

“Horizon still services the pool for their daughter, Lauren Henley and her husband Jay,” Chuck noted.

To express the company’s appreciation to its thousands of clients over the last 40 years, Horizon hosted an open house anniversary celebration at its retail location on Saturday, May 24. At this Memorial Day weekend event, local residents were welcomed for a day of festivities, offering the opportunity to meet the team that has been dedicated to providing outstanding pool services for the past four decades.

During the celebration, there were exclusive discounts and promotions, giveaways and free food, which included hamburgers, hot dogs and an ice cream truck. Two of the giveaways were pool cleaners worth more than $600 each. The ice cream truck was donated by Every Child A Swimmer, a local nonprofit working to put an end to childhood drowning. All proceeds from a raffle were donated to help the cause.

The entire management team from Horizon Pool & Patio was there to meet those in attendance.

“We had a great turnout, far exceeding our expectations. It was great to see customers who we had not seen in person in a long time, as well as customers who are in our store every week. We met new customers as well,” Jennifer said. “We also saw many customers meet old friends at the party and spent time catching up over hamburgers, hot dogs, cake and ice cream underneath the food tent. We also were happy to welcome some local dignitaries from Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, including Royal Palm Beach councilwomen Sylvia Sharps and Jan Rodusky, Wellington Mayor Michael Napoleone and Councilman John McGovern, and State Rep. Anne Gerwig.”

Horizon Pool & Patio is known for providing a full range of pool and spa-related services, which include pool service and maintenance, pool repairs, pool renovations, new equipment installs, a full retail store with free water tests, and complete pool resurfacing and renovations. The store is open seven days a week.

“Our goal is to keep pools in pristine condition all year long,” Jordan said. “We pride ourselves on quality service and lasting relationships.”

On any given day, Horizon will have seven to eight crew members making personal visits to clean and maintain pools for their customers.

Horizon has a dedicated team of 24 employees committed to keeping pools looking their absolute best through expert service, professional repairs and top-tier renovations, all supported by a fully stocked retail store open seven days a week. The team includes nine service technicians, six administrative staff members, six retail specialists and three repair experts.

Horizon’s repair department is staffed with highly experienced technicians. As an authorized warranty repair center for all major pool equipment manufacturers, Horizon provides high-quality repairs backed by industry-leading warranties.

When it comes to pool renovations, Horizon specializes in turning outdated pools into modern, luxurious aquatic retreats. Their expert renovation services team can modernize pools and spas through custom designs and advanced technology. Horizon offers a vast selection of tiles, pool surfaces and an extensive photo gallery highlighting some of the more than 1,400 of its completed projects. The project managers will even take customers out to see pools that showcase work that they have professionally renovated.

In addition to professional pool services and renovations, Horizon operates a fully stocked retail store in Wellington designed to support pool owners. The store provides a wide selection of chemicals and cleaning equipment, pool accessories and replacement parts, and even does free water tests and offers free expert advice — everything needed to keep pools in shape with ease.

“Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or just starting, our retail store is a one-stop shop for all your pool and spa needs,” Chuck said. “We’re here to empower DIYers with the right tools, products and expert guidance they need to keep their pools looking and functioning their best.”

As Horizon Pool & Patio moves into its fifth decade, this three-generation, family-owned and operated business looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence in pool and spa services, renovations, repairs and retail. With a strong focus on delivering outstanding customer experiences and offering the latest innovations in pool care, the company remains committed to helping homeowners enjoy their outdoor spaces for many years to come.

Horizon Pool & Patio is located in the Wellington Plaza at 12785 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite A. Call (561) 790-0665 or visit www.horizonpool.com for more information.

Preparing Together This Hurricane Season

By Jim Barnes, Wellington Village Manager

The Village of Wellington is hoping for the best but preparing for the worst this hurricane season. As we move into the height of the storm season, here are some tips that residents should keep in mind.

Living in our great hometown means enjoying warm weather, lush landscapes and a strong sense of community. But our location also places us in the path of potential hurricanes each year. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, and in 2025, preparation is just as critical as ever.

“Be prepared!” It’s more than a motto, it’s a mindset that every Wellingtonian should adopt. Just a few years ago, Hurricane Nicole reminded us how quickly a storm can escalate, catching even seasoned residents off guard. When disaster strikes, everyday conveniences — cell phones, ATMs, gas pumps — can be rendered useless. That’s why taking the time now to plan ahead is one of the most important things you can do for your family’s safety and well-being.

The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is predicted to be above normal, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasting a 60 percent chance of such an outcome. This means there will likely be more named storms, hurricanes and major hurricanes than average. Specifically, NOAA predicts a range of 13 to 19 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes, and three to five major hurricanes.

Warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic, and the potential for La Niña conditions (which favor hurricane development) are contributing to the above-normal forecast. Looking back, the 2024 season was one of the costliest on record, with five major hurricanes and 18 named storms.

Forecasters and emergency managers emphasize the importance of being prepared for a potentially active hurricane season, as storms can have significant impacts.

Even small steps make a difference: develop a safety plan, restock pet supplies and refill prescriptions early. As emergency managers often remind us, during a crisis, government and community resources may be limited, so individual preparation can reduce pressure on the system and increase your resilience.

As we continue preparations here at the village, here are key tips for residents to help navigate the 2025 hurricane season:

Create a Family Emergency Plan — A well-thought-out emergency plan will help reduce stress and confusion during a storm. Designate a family meeting point and an out-of-town contact. Build a hurricane kit with essentials: non-perishable food, water, medications, batteries, flashlights and first aid supplies. Don’t wait until the last minute! Supplies can quickly run out when a storm is approaching.

Stay Informed Before, During and After the Storm — Timely and accurate information is essential. Monitor your preferred local news station’s weather forecasts. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for local updates and storm alerts. You can sign up for Alert Wellington at www.wellingtonfl.gov/alerts to receive emergency notifications directly. Download the GoWellington app for updates and quick access to local resources. Also, follow the village’s social media channels for ongoing updates and safety guidance.

Secure Your Property Now — Protect your home and reduce storm debris ahead of time. Complete all tree-trimming and yard cleanup well before any storm is forecasted. Clean out garages and storage areas now to make space for securing items later. Inspect roofs and repair any damage. Consider upgrades like impact-resistant windows and review your homeowners’ insurance for adequate hurricane coverage.

Know Your Evacuation Plan — If evacuation orders are issued, don’t delay. Identify evacuation routes and shelters in advance and communicate the plan with your household. Palm Beach County offers a Special Needs Shelter Program for residents with medical needs. This shelter is staffed with medical professionals, powered by generators and built to withstand hurricanes. To register, visit discover.pbcgov.org or call (561) 712-6400. Remember to plan for your pets, too, and make sure that shelters you consider are pet friendly.

Check on Neighbors and Friends — Community support is critical during emergencies. Reach out to check on elderly neighbors, those with disabilities or anyone living alone. In times of crisis, neighbors helping neighbors is one of Wellington’s greatest strengths.

As a final word on preparedness, history shows that the costliest hurricanes often share one thing in common: communities that were unprepared. Wellington has been fortunate to avoid a direct hit from a major storm, but we must not grow complacent. Preparedness is our strongest defense. Let’s all do our part to be ready, because when we prepare together, we weather the storm together.

Junior Rider Eva Paliouras Winning Victories And Changing Lives

By Sydney Masters

It is not unusual to find top junior equestrians in Wellington, the home of the Wellington International showgrounds, where the leading riders from around the world congregate each winter. But even among these elite young competitors, Eva Paliouras stands out. The 17-year-old rider, who immigrated with her family permanently to Wellington in 2021, is combining her talents in the show jumping world with her goal to help others.

Paliouras has big plans for this year, not just for herself, but for those less fortunate. A junior studying at Score Academy in Wellington, the accomplished young equestrian is already shortlisted to represent her native Peru at the Bolivarian Games in Lima this fall, the first hurdle on the road to the Olympics in 2028. If she makes the final cut, she will make history as the youngest equestrian to compete at these games.

“Moving to Wellington was a game changer for me. It made all this possible,” Paliouras explained. “Representing Peru has always been my dream. The Bolivarian Games are part of the Olympic Qualifying Cycle for South America, and since I was born and raised in Peru, I’m eligible to compete for them. Being shortlisted is surreal. The final team won’t be announced until September, so anything can happen. If I do make the team, it’ll be my first International FEI championship, and jumping it in my hometown of Lima would make it even more special. After that, I just want to keep growing and learning in the equestrian world.”

Paliouras is not only an equestrian, but also an entrepreneur and philanthropist. She speaks four languages — English, Spanish, French and Greek — and balances her time between studying, competing, and helping raise funds and awareness for those less fortunate.

Her focus is not just on the show jumping world — she has been helping those living in poverty in Peru. At the age of 13, Paliouras founded Bonnets of Hope by Eva, an initiative for the nonprofit Knitting Hope, by creating products that include purses, pouches, wallets and equestrian bonnets to help raise funds for women living in poverty.

Paliouras, who learned to knit and sew during the pandemic, designed her line of accessories and promotes the items to raise awareness and funds throughout the international equestrian world, from her home base in Wellington and beyond.

“I grew up around the nonprofit Knitting Hope, which is the main foundation behind my Bonnets of Hope,” she explained. “My mom was super involved with the charity, and I spent a lot of time around the women knitters in the Andes. I could see how much a bit of support could change their lives, and I knew I wanted to do something more. I had the idea to combine my passion for horses and women’s empowerment by teaching the women to make bonnets for horses and founded Bonnets of Hope by Eva. It was such a cool way to merge two parts of my life that I care deeply about.”

Being an avid equestrian, she thought custom, hand-made knitted bonnets would be a hit within the show jumping world — and they have been.

“When I started, it was difficult trying to explain to the knitters why horses wear bonnets. It was hilarious,” Paliouras laughed. “I remember showing them photos, and they were just giggling. But once they understood it was about function and style, they got super into it, even though I think they still find it a little funny that these fancy horses wear hats!”

The concept has grown over time.

“In the beginning, I made only custom horse bonnets but decided to make it more approachable and less niche to add bags and pouches with horse-themed designs,” Paliouras said. “Keeping the heart of the project while making it sustainable has been a learning curve.”

The fledgling entrepreneur and philanthropist understands the importance of spreading awareness beyond the equestrian world. In the beginning of the year, Anne Caroline Valtin, the ​executive director of the Great Charity Challenge, got behind Bonnets for Hope by Eva.

“I had reached out to the Great Charity Challenge about what I was doing, and they were quick to respond, wanting to hear more,” Paliouras recalled. “It was such a huge opportunity, and there were so many big-name riders attached. Being invited to be a part of this hugely successful and important annual charity competition in Wellington allowed me to spread the word and get Bonnets of Hope by Eva in front of a group that I’d never imagined.”

Paliouras began riding at the age of seven in Peru. She now trains with Irish show jumping champion David Blake at Pine Hollow Farm in Wellington. Like with her Bonnets of Hope products, she is not limiting herself to one discipline. She competes as a jumper and has been the only Peruvian rider in history to win in the hunter category.

With the support of her parents and the guidance of her instructors, “Evita” — as she is also known — has achieved major victories wearing the colors of Peru in Wellington’s most respected and well-attended competitions.

“My parents are everything, and they completely uprooted their lives to move to Wellington for my riding and are always there for me,” Paliouras said. “All of my current horses have come to me since I’ve been training with David and Amanda. Right now, I’m focusing on my equestrian goals, school, building relationships and expanding the work of Bonnets for Hope to empower even more women in Peru. I also want to partner with local charities to help make a difference here in Wellington as well.”

Learn more about Bonnets of Hope by Eva at www.bonnetsofhope.com.

Official Wellington Derby Party A Resounding Success

On Saturday, May 3, Wellington came together in the spirit of southern sophistication and heartfelt philanthropy during the annual Wellington Derby Party, hosted by the Wellington Community Foundation. Held at beautiful Diamante Farms Dressage, the event delivered an unforgettable evening that brought together equestrian flair, gourmet dining and a shared commitment to support the local community.

Doors opened at 3 p.m., and guests arrived to a champagne welcome in a setting that perfectly blended Wellington’s equestrian charm with the excitement of the legendary Kentucky Derby.

The attendees, dressed in their derby finest, were treated to live coverage of the big race, signature mint juleps, and a unique ambiance that celebrated tradition, community and generosity.

More than just a celebration of horse racing, the Wellington Derby Party was a powerful fundraiser aimed at uplifting some of the most vulnerable members of the local population. With tickets starting at $250, proceeds from the event went directly to the Wellington Community Foundation’s initiatives that benefit Wellington seniors, children and veterans in need. Attendees not only enjoyed a night of elegance, but also contributed to a cause that makes a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors.

“Our official Wellington Derby Party was truly an evening to remember,” said Jim Sackett, chair of the Wellington Community Foundation. “It was wonderful to see the community come together, dressed in their derby best, to celebrate, connect and contribute to something greater than themselves. We’re proud of what we accomplished together.”

Guests were treated to an exceptional culinary experience. Potions in Motion elevated the event to the next level with a sophisticated menu of fine hors d’oeuvres, a top-notch raw bar and gourmet main courses. The food was carefully crafted to complement the refined atmosphere, and it played a key role in setting the tone for the evening. From start to finish, the event offered an indulgent sensory experience that delighted every palate.

In addition to ticket sales, the Wellington Derby Party also featured sponsorship opportunities, allowing businesses and individuals to deepen their support for the foundation’s mission. Sponsors received special recognition throughout the event, aligning their brands with a respected charitable cause and gaining exposure in front of an influential and community-minded audience. This year’s sponsors included Michael & Phyllis Gauger, Wellington Regional Medical Center, Jasmine Velez of Douglas Elliman, Red Clover Farms, Katie Edwards-Walpole P.A., Star Wine & Spirits, Wellington Florist and Drs. Gordon & Linda Johnson, with Diamante Farms Dressage serving as the picturesque host venue.

The setting at Diamante Farms couldn’t have been more perfect. Surrounded by lush greenery, elegant stables and an impeccable facility, guests enjoyed a truly immersive experience that reflected both the prestige of the Kentucky Derby and the warm spirit of Wellington.

As the sun set and the evening carried on, laughter, conversation and celebration filled the air. The sense of community was palpable, as people came together not only to enjoy a spectacular evening, but also to support a foundation whose work has a real and lasting impact.

The success of the 2025 Wellington Derby Party reinforces the power of events that merge entertainment with empathy. By bringing people together in a festive and elegant setting, the Wellington Community Foundation continues to fulfill its mission of serving the local community through generosity, unity and action.

As the foundation looks ahead, excitement is already building for next year’s event. For those who attended, the memories of this year’s party — filled with purpose, style and joy — will last long after the race was run.

To learn more about the Wellington Community Foundation’s work, or to get involved, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

Don’t Forget Dad This Father’s Day!

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 15, and the Mall at Wellington Green has curated the perfect gift guide, featuring six items. With 160-plus stores — including dozens of small businesses offering one-of-a-kind items — the Wellington retail destination offers a variety of options for dad at a wide range of price points.

“The Mall at Wellington Green is the perfect destination for Father’s Day shopping — especially for those who want a gift that feels personal and meaningful,” said Asad Sadiq, general manager of the mall and a proud father of two. “We welcome shoppers to explore our mix of retailers and find just the right way to celebrate the dads in their lives.”

The Mall at Wellington Green is a 1.2-million-square-foot, two-level regional shopping destination featuring more than 160 stores. Retailers include Macy’s, Dillard’s, Apple, Brighton, Chico’s, Forever 21, H&M, Tommy Bahama, City Furniture, the Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, CMX Wellington and more.

MJ’s Jewelry and Watch Glock Watch, GW-27-1-24 $799
Treat dad to something special from one of the Mall at Wellington Green’s newest retailers, MJ’s Jewelry and Watch. MJ’s is the only retailer in Palm Beach County that carries Glock Watches, such as this limited-edition GW-27-1-24. This specific watch is composed of more than 7,500 intricate pieces and features a black titanium case and an interchangeable strap. The watch is powered by a reliable Swiss movement, features a chronograph function and boasts a water-resistance rating of 20 ATM.

Lifetime Kitchen  Cangshan Helena Black 8-Piece Knife Block Set $229.95  For dads that kill it in the kitchen, consider this Cangshan knife set. These state-of-the-art, handcrafted knives come with a lifetime warranty against defects in materials or craftsmanship. Plus, every blade is forged from high-alloy German steel and meticulously heat treated, ensuring a razor-sharp edge with exceptional durability and edge retention.

Palm Beach Autographs Aleksander Barkov Autographed
Florida Panthers (Stanley Cup Celebration) Deluxe Framed Photo  $250
For sports-loving dads, Palm Beach Autographs is the way to go. With memorabilia options from countless teams and players, including those in the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB and more, there is something for everyone. Fans of the Florida Panthers will rejoice in this 11×14, Alexander Barkov autographed photo from the 2024 Stanley Cup. Each photo sold by Palm Beach Autographs is certified by JSA, so you know you’re getting a true piece of hockey history.

Galtsand Harbour Stripe Tee in Blue $85
This trendy yet timeless tee from Galtsand’s latest collection is the perfect summer essential. The Harbour Stripe Tee builds on a classic silhouette with a structured fit, and it is from a high-quality cotton-spandex blend, offering comfort and just enough stretch for everyday wear.

ALT Fragrances Bleau (100 ml / 3.3 oz.) $49
With countless five-star reviews, this men’s scent is one of ALT Fragrance’s best sellers. With a flawless blend of citrus, spice and wood, this scent is a head turner that is still subtle enough for everyday wear. Each of ALT Fragrance’s products are handcrafted in the United States, contained in a recyclable bottle, plus clean, vegan and cruelty free.

ALT Fragrances Bleau (100 ml / 3.3 oz.) $49
With countless five-star reviews, this men’s scent is one of ALT Fragrance’s best sellers. With a flawless blend of citrus, spice and wood, this scent is a head turner that is still subtle enough for everyday wear. Each of ALT Fragrance’s products are handcrafted in the United States, contained in a recyclable bottle, plus clean, vegan and cruelty free.

The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit www.shopwellingtongreen.com.