Traditions and Trends

In the world of weddings, the balance between enduring traditions and modern innovations creates memorable celebrations. One time-honored custom that remains is the exchange of vows, a profound expression of commitment. In 2025, couples are enhancing their ceremonies with unique, personalized elements that truly reflect their stories.

One notable trend is the blending of cultural backgrounds, as couples celebrate their diverse heritages within their ceremonies. These inclusive events honor a rich mix of traditions, showcasing shared values and individual identities in a beautiful way.

Design-wise, there is a shift toward minimalist sophistication. Soft, muted color schemes accented with gentle pastels convey elegance and warmth. Customized details, such as handcrafted stationery and thoughtful favors, add a distinctive flair to each celebration.

Sustainability continues to be a core principle for many couples. From sourcing local, organic foods to choosing eco-friendly décor, these choices reflect a commitment to the environment. This mindful approach not only resonates with modern sensibilities but also fosters a celebration that is gentle on the Earth.

Ultimately, the combination of cherished customs and fresh ideas allows couples to create weddings that are uniquely reflective of their journey together, filled with personal meaning and beauty.

Over the next several pages, Wellington The Magazine explores some of the most inspiring traditions and trends for your special day — perhaps you’ll find the perfect elements to incorporate into your own celebration!

Destination Micro-Weddings  With a focus on intimate gatherings, destination micro-weddings are gaining popularity in 2025. Couples are opting for small, exclusive ceremonies in picturesque locations, such as famous landmarks, secluded beaches, vineyards or mountaintop retreats. This trend allows couples to prioritize quality time with loved ones in a stunning setting, creating cherished memories in an intimate and meaningful way.

Cultural Fusion Celebrations In a celebration of global diversity, weddings in 2025 will often embrace cultural fusion by blending traditions and customs from different cultures. Couples are incorporating elements such as rituals, music and cuisine from their respective cultural backgrounds, creating a rich tapestry of traditions. Dresses and attire may feature intricate patterns and fabrics inspired by diverse cultural heritages, reflecting a harmonious union of traditions and identities.

Retro And Vintage Revivals  Nostalgia for past eras continues to influence wedding trends in 2025, with couples drawing inspiration from retro styles and vintage aesthetics. From 1920s Art Deco glamour to 1970s Bohemian Chic, weddings may feature nostalgic elements like antique lace dresses, classic cars for transportation and old-fashioned cocktails at the reception. This trend celebrates timeless elegance and adds a touch of romance to modern celebrations.

Wellness And Mindfulness Integration Reflecting a focus on well-being and mindfulness, weddings in 2025 may integrate wellness experiences into the celebration. Couples are offering activities such as yoga sessions, meditation breaks or spa treatments for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Healthy, organic catering options further promote a holistic approach to wedding planning, emphasizing the importance of balance and self-care during the festivities.

Gender-Neutral And Fluid Fashion Reflecting a growing acceptance of gender diversity, many weddings in 2025 will feature gender-neutral and fluid fashion choices. Couples are redefining traditional gender roles in attire, with brides and grooms opting for outfits that defy conventional norms. Styles may include tailored suits paired with flowing skirts, or dresses designed with androgynous silhouettes. Celebrating individual expression, couples can express their identities authentically on their special day.

Eco-Friendly Weddings As environmental consciousness continues to grow, eco-friendly weddings are becoming increasingly popular. Couples are opting for sustainable practices, such as locally sourced catering, biodegradable decorations and minimizing waste. The color palette often reflects natural elements, like earth tones, leafy greens and soft blues. Dresses might feature organic fabrics, like hemp or bamboo silk, and couples may choose outdoor venues to emphasize their commitment to nature.

Interactive And Collaborative Weddings Weddings in 2025 are becoming more collaborative and interactive, involving guests in various aspects of the celebration. Couples are inviting guests to participate in creating art installations, capturing extra photography, crafting personalized wedding favors or even contributing to the ceremony script. This trend fosters a sense of community and connection, making guests feel valued and engaged throughout the wedding experience.

Multisensory Experiences Weddings in 2025 are increasingly focused on creating immersive multisensory experiences for guests. Couples are incorporating elements like scent stations with personalized fragrances, interactive food stations that engage taste and touch, and ambient soundscapes to enhance the atmosphere. This trend elevates the wedding celebration into a sensorial journey, ensuring that guests have a memorable and engaging experience beyond just visual aesthetics.

Virtual And Augmented Reality Experiences Advancements in technology are revolutionizing weddings in 2025, with couples incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences into their celebrations. Guests may participate in virtual tours of the wedding venue, engage in AR-enhanced interactive elements during the ceremony or even share VR experiences of the couple’s journey together. This trend adds futuristic and immersive dimensions to weddings, enhancing guest experience and creating unforgettable moments.

DIY And Handcrafted Weddings In a return to craftsmanship and personalization, weddings in 2025 may feature do-it-yourself and handcrafted elements. Couples are creating handmade decorations, crafting their own wedding attire or accessories, and even brewing their own specialty drinks for the reception. This trend emphasizes creativity, individuality and a personal touch, allowing couples to showcase their talents and create a truly unique wedding celebration that reflects their personalities and passions.

Minimalist And Modern Aesthetics In 2025, weddings may embrace minimalist and modern aesthetics characterized by clean lines, simple décor and sleek attire. Brides might opt for minimalist dresses with architectural silhouettes or avant-garde designs, while grooms choose tailored suits in monochromatic tones. Color palettes for these weddings often feature muted shades, such as blush, ivory and dove gray, creating a sophisticated and understated atmosphere.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Palm Beach Brides 2024 Q&A
Look Your Best For Your Wedding With Help From Wellington Rejuvenation Center 

As you embark on the journey to your wedding day, Dr. Kelly DiStefano and her experienced team at the Wellington Rejuvenation Center are dedicated to making you look and feel your absolute best. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for personalized care, the Wellington Rejuvenation Center offers a range of advanced aesthetic treatments tailored to brides, grooms and the entire bridal party. To help you navigate the world of beauty enhancements and discover how to achieve a radiant glow for your special day, we’ve asked Dr. DiStefano about the many services she offers at her conveniently located facility on Southern Blvd. Dive into this exclusive Q&A to learn how the Wellington Rejuvenation Center can transform your pre-wedding preparations into a luxurious and unforgettable experience

Q: Do you offer packages or discounts for bridal parties? What services are included?

A: We offer many bridal packages, ranging from facials, all the way through Botox and dermal fillers. We also offer discounts depending on the size of the bridal party. Our goal is to make you look your best for your important day.

Q: How far in advance should treatments be scheduled to ensure optimal results and to allow for any necessary follow-up sessions?
A: Timing really depends on the treatment. For example, you can get a facial a day or two before the wedding, whereas with Botox and fillers, I would recommend four to six weeks to allow for any follow-ups appointments needed. Any carbon peel or microneedling, I would recommend four weeks before.

Q: Are there specific treatments that can help with skin rejuvenation and reduce signs of stress or fatigue leading up to the wedding?
A: I would recommend a HydraFacial. It will exfoliate the dead skin and infuse hyaluronic acid. You will leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and relaxed.

Q: Can you provide guidance on the best treatments for addressing specific concerns before the wedding, like fine lines, uneven skin tone or stubborn fat pockets?
 A: Absolutely. Fine lines or wrinkles can be addressed by using a toxin such as Botox, Dysport or Daxxify. I would recommend this four to six weeks before the event. This gives us enough time to address any follow-ups needed. Uneven skin tones can be addressed multiple ways by using our LaseMD lasers, which uses laser technology to address this issue. We also offer a homecare option, in which we sell brightening pads that contain Hydroquinone. This helps with uneven skin tones, especially in darker skin types. Lastly, stubborn fat pockets can be destroyed by freezing fat cells with our CoolSculpting Elite system. CoolSculpting freezes fat pockets, thus destroying those cells. Think of CoolSculpting as getting rid of the speed bumps in the road. I would recommend two rounds of treatments and to prepare four to six months before the wedding.

Q: What are the recommended treatments for men who want to look their best on their wedding day? Are there any special packages for grooms?
A: Men can enjoy the same treatments as brides — facials, Botox, CoolSculpting, as well as a technology called CoolTone. These are aesthetic treatments that can be performed before the big day. We do offer packages and can customize treatments and pricing for the wedding party.

Q: Are there any treatments of services that you would advise against close to the wedding date due to potential side effects and recovery time?

A: Yes, all treatments. I mentioned before, a bride or groom can get a facial a day or two before the wedding. However, I would also recommend having a facial done a couple of weeks before to see how your skin responds. I would never recommend any other service that is close to the wedding date, just in case. That should be a universal response from all providers.

Q:  Do you offer any services or treatments that are particularly effective for enhancing photo readiness on the wedding day?

 A: We do. There are a wide range of services that we can offer to help enhance photo readiness. The most common will be facial-type services, such as our HydraFacial, chemical peels, carbon peels and others. The key to all aesthetic services provided before the wedding date is proper planning on timing, with your aesthetic provider.

Q:  What are the most popular treatments for brides-to-be, and what kind of results can you expect from each?
 A: The most popular treatments performed by our aestheticians are skin care treatments known as facials and chemical peels. These services will make your skin look bright, tight and dewy. The second most common service would be performed by our medical staff, and that would be toxins. Those services would include Botox, Dysport, Daxxify and dermal fillers. Toxins will iron out any wrinkles that may have formed, and fillers are mostly used for brides who want fuller lips.

Q: What should people do to prepare for treatments to ensure the best results?
A: I think the right answer to this question is make sure you leave yourself enough time before the wedding date. Set up an appointment for consultation with your provider, and plan accordingly. I would also avoid using any new products right before the wedding date because you don’t know how your skin will react. Stick with the products you know and trust.

Q: Do you have any unique offers or packages that combine multiple treatments, such as skin care and body contouring, for a comprehensive wedding prep plan?

A: What we do, and we do this well, is customize treatment packages on all services that we offer at an advantageous price point.

Q: What is the typical recovery time for treatments like laser procedures or microneedling. How can people minimize downtime?

A: With microneedling, we ask that you take it easy for a day or two. We ask that you don’t work out or shower for one day because we want to keep those channels that were created clean. Laser treatments can vary depending on the type of laser. LaseMD has very little downtime, maybe a day or two at most.

Q: Walk us through the step-by-step process of a typical treatment, such as neurotoxins or dermal fillers.

A: I recommend making an appointment with one of my medical staff members to go over any concerns. In the complimentary consultation, we will develop a treatment plan for a client’s concerns. Typically, with neurotoxins, the main areas of concern are the forehead, crow’s feet (side of the eyes) and the elevens (which are between your eyes). Dermal fillers can be used on most facial features and give a fuller appearance or lifting. The jawline has more definition with this method as well. Like neurotoxins, I recommend a consultation, and we can do treatment on the same day if needed.

Q: Are there any specific preparations required before undergoing treatments like Kybella injections or CoolSculpting?

A: Both treatments involve removing fat. There are no specific preparations for either treatment. I would recommend wearing a sports bra and shorts for CoolSculpting because the applicators go directly on the skin, and there is a gel pad that is used. Kybella removes fat, and the most common area for injection is the neck region. Clients will have tenderness for a few days after the procedure. As with all our injectable treatments, we will numb the treatment area to limit pain from the injections.

Q: Can you offer any suggestions for maintaining results and keeping skin looking its best in the weeks and months following the wedding?

A: I would recommend setting up a daily skin care plan and quarterly visits. Our aestheticians can create customized treatment plans designed specifically for each client. This would include home skincare regimens, treatments and procedures to correct and maintain the results achieved.

 

Choosing the right aesthetic treatments leading up to your big day should be an exciting and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. The staff at the Wellington Rejuvenation Center believes that preparing for your special day is not just about enhancing your appearance, but also about creating memorable moments and boosting confidence. The dedicated team ensures that every treatment is personalized to bring out the best in each individual, all while making the process as delightful and stress-free as possible. Embrace the journey of looking and feeling fabulous and let your pre-wedding preparations be as joyful and radiant as the celebration itself.

The Wellington Rejuvenation Center is located at 11917 Southern Blvd., Suite 200. For more info., call (561) 878-1282 or visit www.wellingtonrejuvenationcenter.com.
Meet Dr. Kelly DiStefano
Dr. Kelly DiStefano, M.D., is the founder of Montclair Rejuvenation Center, MRC West Medspa and now the Wellington Rejuvenation Center in Royal Palm Beach. With a deep-rooted passion for aesthetics influenced by her father, Dr. Kenneth DiStefano, a celebrated plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Kelly DiStefano has dedicated her career to enhancing both physical appearance and emotional well-being.

Her approach is grounded in the belief that aesthetics significantly boost self-confidence, as she emphasizes, “Aesthetics is a cognitive booster.” At the Wellington Rejuvenation Center, Dr. DiStefano and her expert team provide cutting-edge cosmetic services for men and women, focusing on personalized care and advanced treatments.

From the initial in-depth consultation to selecting the most effective products and procedures, the Wellington Rejuvenation Center ensures that safety and individual needs are prioritized. With a commitment to excellence and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Dr. DiStefano and her team look forward to helping each patient achieve their unique beauty goals.

 

 

Quality Care Close To Home 
HCA Florida Palms West Hospital Trustees Work To Improve Healthcare For Everyone In The Community

By Shannon Anastasio

At HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, a board of trustees made up of community leaders, physicians and hospital officials meet regularly to provide oversight of the hospital and advice to its board of managers.

Recently, attorney and Wellington civic leader Michael “Mickey” Smith joined the board. He hopes to use his experience and connections to help improve healthcare for everyone in the community.

“I served on the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club Advisory Board with Palms West Hospital CEO Jason Kimbrell,” Smith explained. “He asked me if I was interested. When I saw how excited Jason was about everything happening at the hospital, it got me excited, too.”

Smith has been practicing law for more than 40 years and has been a shareholder in the personal injury law firm Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith PLLC since 2004. A graduate of the Duke University School of Law, he has been involved with many local nonprofits. Aside from the Boys & Girls Club, he is a leader with the Rotary Club of Wellington and serves on the board of directors of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce.

However, his new role at the hospital is different than the other volunteer work he has done.

“It interested me, as it was something new. It was not like other boards I had been involved with in the past. There has been a learning curve for me, but I have found it both challenging and fun,” Smith said.

Aside from the oversight work, he sees this new role as being a top cheerleader for Palms West Hospital in the community and beyond.

“Many people probably do not know that it employes over 1,000 people,” he said. “More importantly, it is providing world-class care right here in our own backyard.”

A Wellington resident for decades, Smith believes that his service will be beneficial for the hospital.

“I believe just living in the community for 33 years is quite helpful, as it provides a perspective on how much things have changed in the western communities, both in healthcare and otherwise,” he said. “Being a lawyer is helpful in analyzing the hard data. I have been extremely impressed by how well the hospital consistently does, as measured by objective metrics.”

In his time as a Floridian, Smith has seen a dramatic upgrade in the quality of hospital services across the region.

“This area has become a mecca for healthcare, with so many providers from New York and elsewhere recently opening outposts here,” he said. “That said, I am proud to say that Palms West Hospital is leading the way in providing world-class healthcare. It has deep roots right here in the community and has the backing and resources of HCA, the largest operator of hospitals in the country. Now, instead of people flying out of Palm Beach County for care, many are flying here to come to HCA Florida Palms West Hospital.”

As an example, he noted the hospital’s major focus on cutting-edge robotic surgery.

“The hospital has invested heavily in its Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence and has some of the most experienced robotic surgeons in the country, and the investment continues,” Smith noted. “An $80 million patient tower is scheduled to break ground later this year. The new tower will be home to the Surgical Suites at Palms West Hospital. This 36-bed, post-surgical unit will provide customized care for patients who undergo robotic surgery by the expert surgeons on the hospital’s staff. Palms West is a leader in robotic surgery, and this investment demonstrates its commitment to stay there.”

As a board member, he was thrilled by the opportunity to shadow Dr. James Goad during two robotic surgeries.

“It was fascinating. Dr. Goad has performed more than 3,200 procedures on the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System,” Smith said. “The fact that a surgeon of his reputation and ability chose HCA Florida Palms West Hospital speaks volumes about the hospital’s reputation and quality.”

Smith added that engagement and outreach play a huge role in the health and success of the entire community.

“The physicians at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital frequently provide free programs to educate the public and help keep us healthy,” he said. “They do it because it is the right thing to do. I would like to be a part in spreading the word about these available resources.”

While he is proud to serve on the board, Smith noted that his goal is to support the real heroes of the community. “The hospital’s staff is second to none and saves lives daily,” he said. “They are heroes and have every reason to be proud of what they do. Without question, this hospital is the crown jewel of our community, and we are so very fortunate to have it.”

Also joining Smith as a new appointee to the Palms West Hospital Board of Trustees this year is Dr. Deborah Loney, a head and neck surgeon who has treated patients at the hospital since 2010. She received her medical degree from the Stanford University School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Iowa College of Medicine.

“HCA Florida Palms West Hospital is strategically located in a growing community where a variety of health services are crucial. There is thus both immense need and immense potential. I have witnessed the steady growth and improvements over the last 14 years and consider it a privilege to be asked to serve as a member of the board of trustees,” Loney said at the time of her appointment earlier this year.

Also serving on the board is CEO Jason L. Kimbrell; HCA East Florida Division President Charles Gressle; physician members Dr. Richard Giroux and Dr. Roger Duncan; and community members Tara Gallagher, School Board Member Marcia Andrews, Joey Wolffer and Wellington Councilwoman Tanya Siskind.

“This talented and committed group of professionals that make up our board of trustees is exactly what HCA Florida Palms West Hospital needs to continue to grow to meet the demands of our growing community,” Kimbrell said. “I am confident that through our collaborative leadership, Palms West will continue to be the number one hospital of choice for quality healthcare in our area.”

Serving central Palm Beach County for nearly 40 years, HCA Florida Palms West Hospital is a 206-bed full-service acute care hospital accredited by the Joint Commission. The hospital is home to the only Women’s and Children’s Center in the western communities, featuring a dedicated pediatric emergency department, pediatric services, pediatric intensive care, maternity, Level III neonatal services and a breast center. It is the first hospital in Palm Beach County to be named a Robotic Surgery Center of Excellence and provides award-winning, high-quality patient care.

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital is located at 13001 Southern Blvd. Learn more at www.palmswesthospital.com.

An Exceptional Year Here In Wellington 
Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Continues Efforts To Keep Wellington A ‘Great Hometown’

Wellington’s commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability is reflected in the village’s spending plan for fiscal year 2025, which began Oct. 1, 2024. The budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels while maintaining its core infrastructure. It also funds many programs that will continue to enhance the community.

What makes Wellington an exceptional community? First and foremost, it is the people. From our visionary Wellington Village Council and dedicated team members to our engaged residents, hardworking businesses and community partners, and generous volunteers; each individual plays a vital role in making Wellington a community of choice and the best place to call home.

As we reflect on the last fiscal year and start the new fiscal year, I am proud to share that our village is in outstanding shape. We are enthusiastic about accomplishments this past year and look forward to opportunities in the coming year.

The fiscal year 2025 budget continues Wellington’s commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability. The adopted 2025 budget is $148-plus million as compared to the fiscal year 2024 budget of $137.7 million, including interfund transfers. The $10 million increase is primarily due to two major utility capital projects — the Meter Replacement Project and the Membrane Plant Expansion Project.

The 2025 budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels and maintaining its core infrastructure. It addresses capital projects while still maintaining the same millage rate. Specifically, the budget has no increase in the millage — the rate remains 2.47, which is the same rate as the past five fiscal years. In fact, the rate of 2.47 is also the average millage rate for the past 16 years.

Wellington remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing our community as a safe, family-oriented environment with exceptional parks, schools and a vibrant equestrian culture. As we continue to evolve, we aim to solidify our position as the model for the western communities and the county, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike through strategic projects and initiatives.

One such initiative is the Wellington Sport Academy, a public-private partnership with Wellington Athletics, an entity founded by Jon Bostic, a Palm beach Central High School and University of Florida graduate, and retired NFL linebacker. The official groundbreaking for this state-of-the-art sports complex took place on Sept. 7. The facility, located at Village Park, will feature amenities and spaces designed for athletes of all ages and skill levels, from youth to professionals. The academy will foster local talent and create new pathways for success. It will also serve as a hub for families, offering a place where they can come together, support each other, and celebrate their shared passion for sports and fitness.

The facility will join our new Wellington Aquatics Complex, also located at Village Park. This project aligns with our objective of providing a modern and inclusive aquatic center to benefit Wellington residents of all ages. It is slated to open in late 2025.

Other capital projects continue our focus on maintaining our critical infrastructure. We have completed major renovations of both our utility water and wastewater plants and will embark on replacing water meters throughout the village in the coming year. We will also continue our water treatment plant improvements, transitioning completely to membrane treatment in order to provide the highest quality water supply to our utility customers.

The coming year and corresponding budget will see us continue our focus on youth engagement, as well as continued investment in education. Our commitment to youth engagement and empowerment remains a top priority for our community. The SWAG (Students Working to Achieve Greatness) Program is a remarkable initiative that offers young students mentoring and workplace opportunities. Since 2019, 100 percent of our high school graduates who participated in the SWAG summer internship program have gone on to college, the trades or the military.

The HYPE program provides academic assistance to our elementary school students in need, while the Tom Atkins Civics 101 program encourages civic engagement and interaction between local elected officials and high school students. We plan to expand these engagement opportunities with a youth council, empowering young leaders to engage in community initiatives. Rounding out our dedication to education, the Keely Spinelli Education Grant remains a key element of our budget, providing our 11 public schools more than $400,000 in funding. Over the life of the program, we have provided in excess of $4.6 million in grant funding to schools.

Sustainability across all of our operations is critical to our success. The village recently advanced a significant expansion to the Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat, demonstrating our continued commitment to sustainability and resiliency. We have been awarded a $1.7 million grant for resiliency infrastructure as part of the Resilient Florida Grant Program administered through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, as well as more than $700,000 for tree planting as part of the project. We are in the design and permitting phase of the project with construction scheduled to begin later this year for this multi-year project.

As a result of our unwavering focus on strategic planning, we are confident in our foundation for a prosperous future for our great hometown. None of these achievements, however, would be possible without the village’s remarkable staff — our all-star team — who are driven by excellence, better together and dedicated to service. With these shared beliefs as our foundation, Team Wellington is unified in our promise to serve this exceptional community. I am privileged to collaborate with this talented team and inspired by their diligence, expertise and outstanding achievements.

 

 

The Fight For Wellington’s Incorporation 
The Narrowly Decided 1995 Referendum That Created The Village Capped A Six-Year Effort

Story by Joshua Manning  |  Photos courtesy the Wellington Historical Society

What if the Village of Wellington was never created? It almost happened! It took six years, three votes by residents and an unexpected victory in Tallahassee to make incorporation a reality. This month, we chat with incorporation activist Mark Miles and others on a battle that divided the community but set Wellington residents up to control their own destiny.

It’s not easy to create a new municipality out of a mostly residential area already home to more than 20,000 people. The creation of the Village of Wellington took six years, three votes by the residents, a legislative tussle in Tallahassee and a final campaign that divided the community.

Looking back nearly 30 years later, it’s almost impossible to imagine what Wellington might be like today if it had never seized its own destiny. However, the vote that finally created the village passed by a slim margin.

When all the votes were counted late into the night on Nov. 7, 1995, a total of 3,851 Wellington residents voted in favor of creating a new municipality, while 3,713 opposed the measure — a margin of 138 votes that made all the difference as far as Wellington’s future was concerned.

On that day, Wellington — the huge development approved by Palm Beach County 23 years earlier — moved in a new direction. It was in control of its own future.

The fight for incorporation began as Wellington grew from a developer-controlled patchwork of subdivisions to a living, breathing community. While strong voices could be heard calling for incorporation as far back as the early 1980s — Town-Crier founder Bob Markey Sr. for one — it wasn’t until 1989 that the first mechanism was in place to get a plan into action. That was when the Acme Improvement District, Wellington’s pre-incorporation government, voted unanimously to support the idea.

When Acme’s bylaws were changed in 1990, wording was added that specifically allowed for the district to lead an incorporation effort. That effort led to an initial charter prepared by Acme attorney Charlie Schoech, among others, that went to the voters on Nov. 6, 1990. It failed by a slim margin — a failure that many attributed to the fact that the impetus for incorporation came from Acme, rather than from Wellington residents.

That was the opinion of the late Michael McDonough, an attorney who later served on both the Acme board and the inaugural Wellington Village Council. He sent a personalized letter to residents days before the vote, criticizing Acme’s role in the effort and a tax cap he felt was too high. Many on the pro-incorporation side cited McDonough’s letter when 53 percent of voters rejected that first referendum.

While Acme remained in support of the incorporation goal, they took a back seat to resident involvement in the future attempts to incorporate. That residential input came from groups such as WISE and POWER.

WISE — “Wellington Incorporation Study and Education” — was founded in 1992. Its leader was Mark Miles, a local business leader and later a member of the Wellington Village Council. The group’s stated goal was to revive the incorporation question and put it to a vote in 1994.

Miles ran a series of well-attended meetings to discuss the idea. His goal was to provide a public discussion where residents could determine what was best for the future.

“[County Commissioner] Ken Adams asked me to lunch one day. He sat me down and explained what it would be if we were incorporated. He asked me to take on the project, and I agreed to it,” Miles recalled. “I took out an ad in the Town-Crier asking people to join me for a community meeting to discuss the possibility of incorporating.”

For Miles the crucial issue was the millions in state money that Wellington was losing each year by not being incorporated.

“People were overpaying property taxes, and Palm Beach County was keeping all of it and returning nothing to us,” Miles said. “We had to prove to people that, in fact, it would be in the best interest of the community and that it would save them money.”

By 1993, WISE representatives were running from community events to civic group meetings, pitching the benefits of incorporation. WISE even went so far as to commission an accounting firm to study the financial impact of incorporation. That report bolstered the claims that incorporation would bring a financial windfall to the new village.

“The most important thing was that we were not receiving our property taxes back, and it simply was unfair that our tax money was going to other communities and improving their parks and facilities and infrastructure. I thought it should be coming back to us,” Miles said.

WISE used the slogan, “Vote facts, not fear.”

“Debbie, my wife, came up with that slogan to use,” Miles said. “We had the facts that we would literally get tens of millions of dollars back that we were losing to other communities. People were frightened of change.”

In 1994, another group stepped in to help push the incorporation plan as well. It was led by Linda Bolton, a community activist who also later sat on the Wellington Village Council.

Bolton had just been one of the leaders opposing the controversial “Town of Wellington” project west of Flying Cow Road. She had been successful in rallying her neighbors against that project. Her new goal would have to rally a whole community in favor of incorporation. The group she led was called POWER, which stood for “People of Wellington for Educated Residents.” Like WISE had done, POWER conducted town hall meetings, which drew a strong response from residents.

The combined attempts led to a non-binding “straw poll” on Nov. 8, 1994. For the first time, a vote showed that a majority of residents (57 percent) supported Wellington’s incorporation.

That successful straw poll allowed the incorporation supporters to draft a charter and try to get it approved by the state legislature. After comparing dozens of different charters, from communities as diverse as Boca Raton, Key Biscayne and Daytona Beach, the pro-incorporation forces drafted a document that was unique to Wellington. Protecting equestrian interests was a crucial factor, as was eliminating points that residents said would make them oppose incorporation. There was a much lower tax cap included, and the government was set up with a council-manager form of government with what was initially an appointed mayor. Term limits for council members were also added.

“It took many meetings to write, rewrite and study it,” said Miles on the proposed charter. “In the end, I think we put together one of the best charters in the whole state.”

The charter was also careful in designing the boundaries for the new village. Pro-incorporation supporters poured over the results of the 1994 straw poll and noted areas that voted strongly against the idea, the Wycliffe neighborhood for one. Although part of the Acme Improvement District, Wycliffe was left out of the boundaries of the new village after its residents voted 2-1 against incorporation during the straw poll.

With a plan for incorporation in place, the proponents took their cause to the legislature in Tallahassee, sponsored by State Rep. Rick Minton, who wrote the bill. But when the plan went to the legislature, it almost didn’t make it. The village’s incorporation did not get to the floor during the lawmakers’ regular session. Many people thought the entire effort had failed, and those opposed to the idea celebrated. But their relief was short-lived. A special session was called, and Wellington’s incorporation was one of the few items on the agenda.

Pro-incorporation supporters travelled to Tallahassee to lobby legislators, including Acme Improvement District Supervisor Dr. Carmine Priore, who later served on the Wellington Village Council. “I lobbied the legislators,” he recalled when interviewed in 2001. “I walked the halls in an attempt to get the legislators to support incorporation. It was one of the few items on the agenda. When we were able to get it approved, we were thrilled.”

The late Ken Adams, whose political career took him from the Acme board to the Palm Beach County Commission, was another key supporter. He had a large hand in writing the charter approved by the legislature in 1995. “We got a unanimous vote of the Florida Legislature,” Adams recalled when interviewed 20 years later in 2015. “That doesn’t happen very often, and I’m awfully proud of that, not just for me, but for all the people who participated.”

The Village of Wellington’s charter was approved by the legislature as House Bill 1439 on May 11, 1995. But the fight for incorporation was not over. The supporters still had to convince the residents to accept the charter and make incorporation official.

Groups such as “Safeguard” and “Citizens Against Incorporation” spent months disputing the benefits of incorporation, notably the financial benefits, which opponents said were likely to be offset by the extra services that the village would require. Some remained suspicious of the motives behind incorporation.

In the end, the voters — by a very slim margin — chose to become Palm Beach County’s first new municipality in more than 30 years.

“I stood up on top of a table at Cobblestones restaurant and held up the returns that night from the vote and said, ‘Finally, finally, finally.’ I had been working on the project for more than four years,” Miles recalled.

After the vote on Nov. 7, 1995, the village came into existence on Dec. 31, 1995. That set off a mad scramble with 27 candidates seeking the five seats on the inaugural Wellington Village Council, which met for the first time on March 28, 1996.

Miles is proud of his work, along with many others, to make the Village of Wellington a reality.

“It is certainly my legacy for the community,” he said. “I built more than 300 homes in Wellington during my career, and built many friendships, but it doesn’t compare to the net result for the community as my participating in the incorporation effort.”

What would Wellington be like today if the effort was not successful?

“It would not be as beautiful as it truly is,” Miles said. “When I drive through Wellington today, the mirror still shines. If anything, it shines even brighter. The quality of life in Wellington is far superior today than it would have been without incorporation.”

Diane Gutman Organizes A Team Of Volunteers To Help Local Seniors

By Mike May

If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity where you will get more in return than you give, call Diane Gutman today. She is the director of operations for the nonprofit Our Community Cares, formerly Wellington Cares. Gutman oversees a group of volunteers who provide free help to senior citizens in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach.

Gutman’s corps of volunteers provide free transportation to medical and non-medical appointments; give rides to the library, church and common destinations; and assist with grocery shopping and prescription pick-up for an expanding list of seniors who are not as mobile as they had been. But the volunteers do much more than that.

“If our seniors need an air conditioning filter replaced or a new battery in their smoke detector, our light home maintenance team of volunteers provide that service,” Gutman said. “If a senior needs somebody to speak with or requests a social visit, our volunteers provide those services. Some of our home-bound seniors do not have interactions with others for an extended time. These personal phone calls and social visits make a big difference in their lives. On one occasion, a volunteer arriving to pick up a senior for an appointment found that she had fallen and couldn’t get up. That volunteer probably saved the person’s life by being there at the right time and calling emergency responders.”

Our Community Cares also provides paper products like plates, napkins, paper towels and toilet paper, also at no charge, thanks to community residents and organizations such as Women of the Western Communities, who donate to the cause.

“The average age of our participants who receive assistance is 84 years old, and the average age of our volunteers is 67,” Gutman explained. “In many respects, it’s seniors helping seniors.”

In 2023, these volunteers provided more than $140,000 in goods and services to local seniors while driving more than 15,800 miles around the community.

Our Community Cares welcomes families who want to volunteer together, and Gutman’s own family is a perfect example. “Back in 2013, my husband and I, and our two sons, got involved as volunteers because the boys needed volunteer hours to graduate from Wellington High School, so we started volunteering with this group,” Gutman recalled. “I started as a volunteer, and since 2014, I have evolved into being the director of the group.”

Gutman encourages all residents of the western communities to become volunteers. It’s a win-win for everyone.

“All of our volunteers are truly receiving more than they are giving,” Gutman said. “Being a volunteer generates great joy for both the volunteer and the participant receiving services… You also develop great friendships with seniors and fellow volunteers. Volunteering with Our Community Cares is fulfilling, purposeful and you get more in return than you give.”

In addition to catering to the needs of seniors, the volunteers almost become family members. “Our volunteers become the eyes and ears for family members who live outside Palm Beach County,” Gutman said. “In many cases, our volunteers will call a family member if there’s a need for somebody to come visit them or take care of a pressing medical issue.”

While Our Community Cares currently focuses on Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, the nonprofit would love to replicate its services elsewhere. “However, for us to grow and expand, we need monetary donations and sponsorship,” Gutman noted.

Our Community Cares is grateful for the annual support received from a number of sponsors, such as the Quantum Foundation, the Palm Health Foundation, Comfort Care Homecare, the Wellington Community Foundation and Think Big Healthcare Solutions. Other key supporters include the Town-Crier, the villages of Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office

and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. Our Community Cares also has an affiliation with Grace Chapel, which provides perishable foods such as meats, fruit, vegetables, bread and desserts, which are personally delivered to the homes of participants in need.

While Gutman runs the day-to-day operations, she’s guided and assisted by a nine-member board, which includes the organization’s founder, Kathy Foster, as well as Chair Cheryl Anders, Vice Chair Bill Maher, Treasurer Marion Frank, Secretary Marge Sullivan, and board members Leonard Baer, Allison Negri, Petra Pitkonen and Shelley Swartz.

When Gutman is not guiding Our Community Cares, she enjoys traveling with her husband Ken, visiting her children, volunteering at church and spending time with friends. She is also one of the latest residents to start playing pickleball. “I just started a few weeks ago. I only play doubles, and it’s a lot of fun,” said Gutman, who graduated from York College in Pennsylvania with a degree in recreational therapy.

To get involved with Our Community Cares, as a volunteer or a participant, call Gutman at (561) 568-8818. Learn more at www.ourcommunitycaresfl.org, where there is also information about providing donations.

Julie Kime
Has Supported The Local Boys & Girls Club Since The 1980s

Because of effort, energy and enthusiasm from people like Julie Kime, Wellington has become and remains a special place to live, work, play and raise a family. Kime, supported by her husband John, has been strongly connected to the Wellington community for decades. For Kime, it’s a bond that remains as strong and vibrant as it has ever been.

The roots of Kime’s affiliation and support for Wellington can be traced back to 1982 when she opened her Allstate insurance agency, which she operated in the community for more than 30 years. Kime, who is of Cuban heritage, was the first Hispanic female in Palm Beach County to operate an Allstate agency.

Decades ago, Kime realized that Wellington is a special place.

“Wellington is a great community, especially for families with kids because of the schools. I love Wellington and its sense of community,” Kime explained. “I enjoy the people here and especially the children.”

When it came to making a charitable contribution to Wellington, Kime was laser-focused with her support. “I felt I would make the greatest impact by choosing one charity and staying with it,” Kime noted.

She chose the fledgling Wellington’s Boys & Girls Club as the recipient of her time, money and energy. Her decision to support the club was a case of love at first sight.

“In 1987, when the little Boys & Girls Club opened for approximately 100 kids, I was invited to the grand opening,” Kime recalled. “I was really moved by the kids, the needs they have, and food insecurity.”

As a result, she joined the club’s local board of directors. That was 36 years ago, and she’s still on the board today.

“I received a national award last year for 35 years of service,” Kime said. “I’ve stayed because these are Wellington kids who need us. Neil S. Hirsch helped us 11 years ago to build the new, larger club at which we are now serving at least 218 kids. It is a safe place for kids after they get out of school. They get a snack and a hot meal before they go home.”

Over the past three decades, Kime has been one of the strongest supporters of what is now the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. She is such a strong supporter that when you walk into the current facility on Wellington Trace, you will enter the John and Julie Kime Welcome Center. Kime’s support has now expanded to include support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, where she also serves on the corporate board of directors.

Kime’s ties have continued with her involvement in the Wellington Dinner Dance, which is one of the largest annual fundraisers for the local Boys & Girls Club. She and John have yet to miss a Wellington Dinner Dance event. In addition to attending, she has served on the event’s committee and has been a tireless solicitor of auction items. Other special events on the local Boys & Girls Club calendar that she supports include its Cinco de Mayo celebration, summer bash, Thanksgiving meal, holiday party and more.

For Kime, her giving nature has resulted in her being the recipient of many accolades, such as the Central Palm Beach County Chamber’s Business of the Year Award, the Palms West Community Foundation’s Women of the Year Stiletto Award, the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches’ Leadership Award, the Women of Worth Award, an award as a Hispanic Woman of Distinction and the Portrait of a Woman Award.

Despite these honors from other groups, Kime’s heart, soul and time remain with the Boys & Girls Club in Wellington, where she can invest in an organization that mentors at-risk students and emphasizes the importance of working hard in school, being honest and the value of lifelong friendships.

Bella Eberhart Young Wellington Resident Bella Eberhart  Enjoys Giving Back To The Community

By Mike May

To say that 12-year-old Wellington resident Bella Eberhart is food-motivated is an understatement — and the lives of many residents of Wellington and Palm Beach County are better for it. While Eberhart understands the importance of a good meal, she is more interested in making sure that others are well fed and well looked after, too.

For someone so young, Eberhart acts far older than her years. “Community service has always been a big priority to me, especially food charities,” she said.

As a result of her charitable mindset, Eberhart has been recognized by Hormel Foods for one of its 10 Under 20 Food Heroes Awards. On May 29, Eberhart was informed that she was being honored by Hormel for her work supporting food charities and for her outstanding contributions to her community and beyond.

Last month, Eberhart and the nine other award recipients visited Hormel Foods’ global headquarters in Austin, Minnesota, where the food giant celebrated those 10 changemakers by connecting them with industry leaders in order for them to share their stories. As a further form of encouragement, Hormel provided each of them with a financial grant of $2,500 to further support their initiatives back at home. Eberhart plans to give her grant money to the Quantum House in West Palm Beach, a caring and supportive home that lessens the burden for families whose children are receiving treatment for a serious medical condition.

For the first 12 years of her life, Eberhart’s charitable work has come in many forms. One of her first unselfish endeavors has been to use her birthday to put the spotlight on others in need. All her life, Eberhart and her parents, Stefani and Nicholas, have used Bella’s birthday to help other organizations in need of assistance. She has been giving back since her first birthday through these “Parties with a Purpose.”

Ever since she was old enough, Eberhart has always picked a charity and asked her friends to support it in her name rather than buy a birthday gift. Eberhart often provided a list of charities that have been and remain important to her. The list includes Quantum House, Chasing a Dream Foundation, the Lord’s Place and Pet Haven Rescue, among others.

Her charitable giving took a different direction in 2023 when she coordinated the first student-run community service club at her middle school, the Greene School in West Palm Beach. There, she organized a series of successful “serve-together” opportunities for her and fellow students. She led various initiatives, which included a school-based food drive, sorting non-perishable items at the Palm Beach County Food Bank, gleaning fresh produce at a local farm with CROS Ministries, cooking for Quantum House families and implementing a food distribution day with Restoration Bridge International.

Right now, Eberhart is in the process of founding “Be3 Powerful,” a nonprofit group that will connect individuals and families of “all ages, stages and abilities” with service opportunities in their communities.

In addition to her charitable endeavors, Eberhart is busy at school as co-president of the Junior National Honor Society and president of her school’s speech and debate team. Outside school, she’s a member of an aerospace club called Wolfpack.

When she has a spare moment, Eberhart enjoys playing tennis, volleyball and running track & field.

As for her appreciation of a good meal, one of her favorite places to go for dinner is Agliolio, an Italian restaurant in Wellington that happens to be owned and operated by her parents. “My favorite dish is chicken parmigiana,” she said.

Eberhart has already amassed more than 300 community service hours since she started logging them in middle school. As she continues to lead by example with her charitable endeavors, the lives of many area residents will be better for it.

Reginald Myers Principal Reginald Myers Is Positively Impacting Lives Through Education 

Reginald Myers is making a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of students, teachers and the entire staff at Palm Beach Central High School. As principal, he’s doing a job that he thought he would never do again, after retiring as principal at Park Vista High School in 2021.

His retirement concluded a tenure of 42 years with the School District of Palm Beach County. But sometimes, life takes us along a different path than we expected. Myers was two years into his well-deserved retirement when he received a surprise phone call. In the summer of 2023, the district asked him to come out of retirement, and step back into the realm of educational leadership.

Palm Beach Central was a school that suddenly found itself in desperate need of a strong, experienced leader just days before the new school year began. He embraced the challenge and joined the Bronco family. Since taking over the reins at Palm Beach Central, Myers has brought stability to the campus. As he reflects on his last 12 months in charge, he feels that his leadership has helped the school continue its mission of “Every Student Counts, Every Moment Matters.”

“My biggest contribution was demonstrating my shared passion for education and ensuring that teachers and staff had the support, resources and materials needed to help our students succeed,” Myers said. “When I arrived last year, I focused on building trust and establishing positive relationships with students and staff. This foundation allowed us to concentrate on our primary goals: increasing student achievement, preparing students for post-secondary paths and ensuring that every student has the tools they need for success after high school.”

His years of experience served him well. “Being a high school principal is a way of life that requires full commitment in order to be successful,” Myers explained.

Now that year one is in the books, he has some specific goals for this new school year. “Our focus will be on continuing to raise student achievement, increasing our graduation rate, maintaining a safe learning environment and expanding opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities,” he said.

His commitment means being present during the day for classes, as well as on nights and weekends to support the school’s athletic teams, clubs and other organizations. “Over the past year, I’ve attended numerous junior varsity and varsity games for most of our athletic teams,” Myers said.

He is a passionate supporter of academics but also a huge fan of the Bronco football team, which is why he is conspicuously present at all home games. “Typically, I am near the sidelines during varsity football games,” Myers said. “However, at various times throughout the event, I am mobile, working with our security team to monitor and supervise both the inside and outside of the stadium. It is important for me to connect with the students, the fans and the community.”

Looking back, Myers never would have guessed that his life would take him to back the halls and classrooms, but this unexpected professional experience has been a blessing in disguise.

“The Palm Beach Central High School ‘family’ consists of some of the most passionate and dedicated faculty and staff that I have had the opportunity to work with,” Myers said. “They arrive at work each day prepared to give their very best to our students and their families… The student body is very spirited with students who are eager to take on leadership roles that benefit not just the school, but the larger community, as well.”

Rather than thinking about his delayed retirement, Myers stressed that his current focus is on the education, health and welfare of his students.

“My focus is on making sure that each student walking through the doors of Palm Beach Central has every opportunity to succeed and ultimately graduate,” he said. “My commitment to each student is to give them the opportunity to experience positive outcomes daily, while also acquiring the skills necessary to pursue their dreams beyond high school.”

Honoring Amazing Changemakers Who Help Our Community Thrive

Step into a world where greatness knows no bounds and join us in celebrating the changemakers who help our community thrive! For the third year in a row, Wellington The Magazine is presenting our annual Our Wellington Awards, honoring remarkable individuals who have given of themselves and helped to shape our beloved village into one of the top places to live in the country. In this issue, we shine the spotlight on our 2024 award recipients. You will get to know some remarkable individuals, discovering the motivations behind their journeys, and learning more about the organizations they champion.

This year’s Our Wellington Award honorees include four amazing people who are helping to make Wellington a great place to live, work and play. We have Bella Eberhart, a middle school student who has been raising money for nonprofit organizations all of her life. She recently won a national award for her work with food-related charities. Next is Julie Kime, a fixture in the Wellington community since the 1980s. She attended the grand opening of Wellington’s first Boys & Girls Club in 1987 and has been a consistent volunteer and supporter of this vital nonprofit ever since. Also honored is Palm Beach Central High School Principal Reginald Myers, who came out of retirement to take over a school in crisis last summer and has since steadied the ship, allowing his students to soar. Finally, we honor Diane Gutman, director of operations for the nonprofit Our Community Cares. In this role, she marshals an army of volunteers to help local senior citizens in need stay in their homes and thrive.

The selfless acts of these unique changemakers are sure to inspire us all! Together, let us continue to build a community that thrives on compassion, generosity and the spirit of making a difference. Hopefully, the stories of this year’s Our Wellington Award honorees will spur others to get involved, embrace a worthy cause and be a catalyst for positive change. Together, we can then transform lives and create a brighter future for Wellington.