Wellington Table - Signature Dish

Healthy Food Options Served Up Fast At 3Natives

Healthy Food Options Served Up Fast At 3Natives

By Matthew Auerbach

3Natives Acai and Juicery, which opened last year in Wellington’s Town Square shopping plaza, specializes in smoothies and acai bowls, but also offers coffee products and a wide array of salads, wraps, toasts, cold-pressed juices and more.

Everyone is looking to eat “healthy.” The definition of the word differs slightly from person to person, depending on particular tastes and favorite foods, but generally speaking, folks want to consume dishes and drinks that are fresh, clean and made from reliable sources. And if you can get them what they’ve ordered in a short amount of time, that would be even better.

That’s where 3Natives Acai and Juicery comes in.

“3Natives is a Florida-born healthy restaurant chain that strives to make healthy food, fast and more convenient to enjoy,” explained Darren Jacob, franchise owner of the Wellington location, which opened in 2023. “Each member of the Wellington 3Natives team is dedicated to being knowledge about different supplements and ingredients, while serving and providing a positive environment to all customers.”

Jacob knows that these days, people are busier than ever. Whether they’re coming in for a sit-down meal or picking up something to bring back home or to the office, the quality and the timing has to be spot-on.

“More and more customers are determined to ‘go healthy’ these days, even when they grab and go,” Jacob said. “At 3Natives, we work with local suppliers to ensure that we are only using the freshest fruit and vegetables available, and our recipes are created to showcase the flavors of these sourced items. We work hard so our customers can reap the benefits.”

The menu is ample, and includes smoothies, salads, wraps, toasts, cold-pressed juices and, in his own opinion, “the best acai bowls around.”

“Our most popular items are some of our classics,” Jacob said. “From our acai bowls, there’s the Chronic Bowl (acai, granola, banana, strawberry, kiwi, pineapple, coconut shavings and honey) and the Local Bowl (acai, granola, banana, strawberry, blueberry and honey). Out of our dozen smoothies, the Chuck Norris (strawberry, banana, peanut butter, chocolate protein and almond milk) is a good pre- or post-workout out smoothie to fuel you up or help you recover, and our All Hopped Up (coffee, banana, almond butter and chocolate protein) features an in-house cold brew.”

If you’re looking for something to seriously chew, 3Natives also has you covered.

“Our Chicken Caesar Wrap (chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, croutons, pico de gallo, Parmesan cheese, sprouts and Caesar dressing) or Thai Chicken Wrap (chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, carrot, pineapple, sprout and ginger dressing) is guaranteed to satisfy,” Jacob said.

From the salads, he recommends the Cobb with chicken breast, romaine, cabbage, cucumber, pico de gallo, hard-boiled egg, avocado, red onion, feta cheese, sprouts and balsamic vinaigrette.

“Everyone loves our Protein Toast, which is an elevated Avocado Toast,” Jacob said. “For breakfast, I would recommend the Breakfast Burrito, hot and pressed with chicken breast, hard-boiled egg, pico, corn salsa, Kerry Gold cheese, cayenne pepper and avocado ranch dressing.”

The diverse menu is basically consistent at the various 3Natives locations across South Florida, but the Wellington location does offer a few items that aren’t available in most other stores.

“The Wellington location is one of the few stores that also offers espresso-based beverages, such as lattes and cappuccinos, using locally roasted coffee, and we also are one of the only stores that offers fresh-pressed wheatgrass,” Jacob said.

3Natives knows that many local residents are already into living a healthier existence and are aware of the kinds of foods they’re looking for. They’re also committed to helping those who are new to the lifestyle.

“We only use fresh fruits and vegetables, our chicken is raised without antibiotics, and we try to make everything in-house whenever possible,” Jacob said. “Our smoothies and acai bowls are perfect options for parents looking to introduce more healthy food options to their children.”

The name 3Natives refers to the three native Floridians who started the organization, which has since expanded to dozens of locations, mostly in Florida, but also in four other states.

“They were high school friends who were born and raised in Tequesta around the sun and the surf,” Jacob said of the founders. “The menu was inspired by their healthy and active lifestyle. It was fresh juices to start their day, followed by simple and fresh food options.”

He has wanted to bring the 3Natives concept to Wellington for years.

“After opening my first location in West Palm Beach back in 2020, I knew my next location must be in Wellington,” Jacob said. “There is a different vibe and energy in Wellington. You have a beautiful mix of people: locals, equestrians, students, tourists and industry leaders.”

3Natives in Wellington is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. It is located in Wellington’s Town Square shopping plaza at 11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 8. For more info., call (561) 360-2385 or visit www.3natives.com.

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Feature Stories, Wellington Education

Gap Year To College Freshman

Gap Year To College Freshman
Heading Back To School With Help From Palm Beach State College

By Christina Charles

As I walked off the graduation stage in May 2023, I couldn’t shake this feeling of internal dread about the future. Despite my peers’ happy faces and their families’ enthusiasm about their upcoming move-in days, the rest of my year would include months of sheets with my punch-in and punch-out times. I smiled for the cameras, went home and got ready for work the next day.

I had pondered my entire senior year about what I wanted to do for “the rest of my life,” and by graduation, I still didn’t have an answer. I decided to take a gap year. I imagined my old schoolmates graduating together and going on to become lawyers, doctors and other useful members of society, while I’d be stuck finishing whatever degree I decided to do.

Yet as stressful as my situation was, it ended up being a year devoted to not only saving toward college, but gaining life skills that I knew would pay off once I got enrolled. As my gap year was ending, I was beaming with excitement at the thought of all the knowledge I would earn going back to school. I have gained a positive work ethic, a solid schedule and a clear headspace, and all that was left was my education.

Picking which school I was enrolling in was a no-brainer — Palm Beach State College at the Loxahatchee Groves campus was it. It was so simple to schedule a tour online and could hardly contain myself as my tour date approached. Finding the Loxahatchee Groves campus was extremely easy, and the directional signs made it a breeze to meet the campus recruiter.

What seemed like one the scariest times in my life turned out to be one of the most welcoming experiences I have ever faced. As I opened the door to the clean and air-conditioned building and walked up to the student assistant, who helped check me into the office, I was greeted with hellos and warm smiles from the friendly office associates, both the students and the staff. It wasn’t too long after I had checked in that Stankeisha Burchell-Webb, outreach program specialist for Palm Beach State College, appeared. She introduced herself and told me to have a seat while she prepared for the tour.

After sitting, I nervously picked up every pamphlet I saw to get an idea of what I had to look forward to. It was all I could do to contain myself as my leg shook furiously from excitement. I looked at all the majors that were presented before me. PBSC offers 130-plus programs of study, including business, arts and communication, industry manufacturing, construction and transportation, public safety, STEM programs and more. My head started spinning at the thought of me getting my associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree and perhaps even a master’s degree in any of these fields. There are also options of getting certificates in a trade that can help me get into the workforce faster. Could I really do that at this point?

Before I thought too hard, my name was called, and I sprang to my feet. Ms. Burchell-Webb shook my hand and looked as if she was more excited than I was. We walked out of the front office as she showed me where I’d be taking summer classes, along with the other classrooms up ahead. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with the sunlight beaming into the modernly designed lounge areas. It contrasted with the image I had in my head of a stressful and fast-paced environment. I was in awe of the wide-open space. The campus had several seating areas that allowed students to have both down time and/or study sessions. There were computers and books that you could borrow or work on.

I was in awe of everything I saw. Looking into this institution, I envisioned myself working on assignments that would push me further to graduation and couldn’t help but be thrilled at the thought. I imagined all the connections and internships I’d do to build my portfolio. This is where I would find myself! Not only do they have a wide variety of classes to enroll in, but they have celebratory events, clubs and performing art shows that enhance the college experience through making friends and connections in personal interests. I had already found myself being interested in clubs such as the Black Student Union, the Anime Club and the Math Club.

Toward the end of the tour, we stopped at the Student Learning Center, where students and supervisors worked together to explain the areas of studies where tutoring was offered for free. They offered a plethora of subjects, such as accounting, writing, math and even technology/programming. You have the option of scheduling an in-person or online tutoring session. This demonstrates the accommodations that PBSC makes for students. They explained the proficiency in optional tutoring, even if you felt confident in the subject area; the extra help to master the content that would push you ahead in your classes. I recognized the staff’s desire to help students succeed, and it gave me a sense of comfort knowing that my academic needs would be met for my learning style.

Returning to the main office, I met with Armando Carrasco, the student development advisor, who went over in-depth all the classes I would need to get my associate’s degree. He presented Palm Beach State College’s transfer program to move to another university after completing your associate’s degree. He explained the optional part-time or full-time classes, and the option to learn on campus or remotely. There were so many positive options on where I could take my education that it was overwhelming.

Nearing the end of my visit, I sat with the financial aid advisor, Effie Scott-Jackson, to sort out my financial circumstances. In a typically vulnerable space, she greeted me into her office and empathically allowed me to explain my situation. She asked me about my ambitions and interests. My mind was spinning again, but this time with excitement to give my answers. She took her time to describe the best possible route to financially take care of my class requirements.

Tuition at Palm Beach State College is surprisingly affordable. Ms. Scott-Jackson explained all the resources I could exhaust to pay for my classes. This included scholarships, grants and loans that could give me the extra leverage to afford my education. She emphasized to reach out again if I’m in need of anything, that the administrators were there to make sure I was successful. This made choosing classes a less stressful process.

After a hectic and confusing gap year, it was pleasant to come to an institution that allowed me to move at my own pace and ensure my prosperity. A few months after my tour of the campus, I am now a freshman at Palm Beach State College studying for my associate’s degree and looking forward to pursuing a degree in cybersecurity and technological advancement. I look forward to my future at PBSC, and I am confident in my ability to do well at school and create a strong foundation to excel in the workforce.

Palm Beach State College’s Loxahatchee Groves campus is located at 15845 Southern Blvd. Learn more about programs at www.palmbeachstate.edu.

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Three Decades Of Memories

Three Decades Of Memories
30-Year Reunion Brings Together
Wellington High School’s Class Of 1994

In the sixth grade, Jennifer (Sardone) Shiner and her cousin Melissa (Lauria) Schmidt — both members of Wellington High School’s Class of 1994 — moved from Staten Island, New York, to Wellington, Florida. Why Wellington? Jennifer’s family, who lived in Boca Raton, recommended the fast-growing community as an up-and-coming place to raise a family.

While attending Wellington Landings Middle School, Jennifer became friends with Alina (Farinas) Hoge and Amit Patel. Together with Melissa, they recalled learning in portable classrooms. Jennifer was a soccer player, and she, Alina and Amit sang and performed throughout Palm Beach County in the chorus under the direction of Mr. A (Richard Andreacchio).

As they looked forward to high school, they knew that the School District of Palm Beach County was building a new school, Wellington High School. As first-year students when the school opened in 1990, they were the first class to attend all four years. Alina worked in journalism on the yearbook, while Jennifer played varsity soccer and continued singing with the chorus, and Amit excelled in playing tennis and was on the debate team. Both Alina and Amit were named the “most talkative” of the class.

In high school, the students filled the halls and, with every step, created memorable moments. New friendships were established, lasting until graduation and beyond. As the four years passed, and everyone grew up, the memories of homecoming, football games, parties, sleepovers and their high school graduation lasted a lifetime.

In 1994, the class had more than 600 graduates, and the graduation ceremony was held at the former West Palm Beach Auditorium. After graduation, students went on to college, married, started working and began the next chapter of their lives.

Since graduation, Alina and Jennifer, with the help of others, have coordinated and planned reunions through the years. These events created new memories and brought back fond memories of those early years at WHS.

Some of the memories they reminisced about living in “Welly World” back then were the times going to Squire’s Deli for fireballs, going to the original Wellington Mall (then known as the Commons Mall), getting their first jobs, going to the Wellington pool and attending the popular Huck Finn Day celebration.

Alina and Jennifer manage the class’s Facebook page, and as the time rolled around again, they surveyed the class for the dates for their 30th reunion. The reunion weekend was set for June 21-22, 2024. Once again, Alina and Jennifer started planning, and recruited Amit to help. A committee was formed. Their idea was to bring the class back to Wellington for this milestone 30th reunion, since many other reunions were outside Wellington.

After months of planning and more than 1,000 texts, Alina, Jennifer and Amit were excited that the weekend finally arrived. Friday was themed Flashback Friday to 1994, and the class was asked to wear clothes from the 1990s, or anything from Wellington High School. It could be a football jersey or a powder puff jersey, from a sport to a club.

Friday night was held at Kontiki restaurant, and more than 100 people attended. Every face was familiar, just a little older, but time stood still on that night. It was as if they were once again in the hallways of the high school. Everyone was anxious to catch up with old friends, meet spouses, and learn about their families and jobs. As adults now approaching 50, cliques no longer existed, and everyone was just friends. Lots of photos were taken, drinks were had, sushi and appetizers were served, and there was a DJ with plenty of dancing.

Saturday was scheduled to be a pool day at the Wellington National Golf Club, but the weather was questionable. Guys scheduled golf in the morning. Lunch brought many together at the club for social time.

Soon, it was time for the big dinner event, held at the Wellington National Golf Club — a night the organizers and their former classmates had all waited for. The committee made sure everything was perfect. As guests entered, former high school teachers assisted with signing in. Cocktail hour was a good time to say hi to everyone and to reconnect with each other. There was a photo booth with props, a bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, a shrimp display, and tons of laughs and smiles.

Next, it was time to enter the ballroom, adorned with classic royal blue and white, representing the high school colors. The centerpieces were glittery 30s with 1994 and confetti. The dance floor had an oversized “WHS 94.” Alina created a memorabilia table filled with yearbooks, the high school newspaper The Wave and photos of old newspaper clippings from their four years in high school. The walls had programs, invitations and the traditional high school cap and gown. The photo booth had groups of people dancing with hats, props and boas.

Jennifer, Alina and Amit hosted their tables filled with friends. Following dinner, and after looking around the room, seeing everyone having a great time made all the efforts worth every second. DJ Marcus played hit songs from the 1990s, and everyone hit the dance floor as if they were 16 again. For dessert, there was a 30-cupcake display and coffee.

During the evening, attendees took a moment to remember the five members of the Class of 1994 lost through the years — students they had known but gone too soon. There was a memorial table with their photos and candles. Guests were invited to sign the photos for each student, which would be given to their families as a gift.

Soon, it was time to end the evening. Some went home and returned to their normal lives, and some went to JoJo’s for a nightcap.

The reunion committee thanks Megan (Baran) Vodar and Rob Saake for their help with the reunion. Special thanks as well to classmate Kelly O’Brien of Coastal Click Photography, who captured the photos. Finally, thanks to all the classmates who traveled from near and far to attend and help to make the 30th reunion weekend one to be remembered forever.

The committee dedicates this story to the classmates who have passed on and who will always be remembered: Melanie Miller, Scott Zurko, Carlos and Rafael Aruzza, and Bryan Wiles.

Today, 30 years after graduation, Alina lives with her husband Brian Hoge and their triplet sons in Wellington, which has remained a great place to raise a family. Amit graduated as a civil engineer and currently resides in Wellington. Jennifer lives in Stuart with her husband Scott Shiner (Class of 1993), and her cousin Melissa lives in Palm Beach Gardens with her husband Joe Schmidt (Class of 1991) and both sons are in college.

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A Gift Of Art From The Heart

A Gift Of Art From The Heart
High School Artist Andrea Gonzalez Uses Her Talents To Paint Murals At Local School

By Mike May

Andrea Gonzalez, a 17-year-old Wellington resident and a rising senior at Suncoast High School, is driven by the philosophy of giving back, expressing thanks and showing appreciation. She doesn’t always express her appreciation with handwritten notes or her voice. Instead, she often uses her artwork to give back and pay homage to those individuals, especially teachers, who have helped her progress in life.

“I’ve been drawing and painting for as long as I can remember,” Gonzalez recalled.

This past spring, and the previous spring as well, Gonzalez created murals for Teacher Appreciation Week at her elementary school alma mater, Wellington’s Binks Forest Elementary School. She is also planning to paint another mural for Teacher Appreciation Week at Binks Forest next spring.

Her murals in 2023 and 2024 have been quite large, and each took nearly five weeks to complete. According to Gonzalez, the murals were roughly 12 feet long and seven feet tall.

The title of the mural in 2023 was “Pyramids and Mountains,” while the name of this year’s mural was “The Clock.” Each mural followed a theme that was agreed upon by the leadership of the school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA).

“In 2023, the PTA’s theme for Teacher Appreciation Week was the Seven Wonders of the World, and this year’s theme was Toys,” Gonzalez said. “So, last year, my mural focused on the pyramids of Egypt and Mount Everest, which is why it was called Pyramids and Mountains. This year, since the theme was Toys, my mural design was the famous clock at the FAO Schwarz store in New York.”

The FAO Schwarz clock is unique since the face of the clock has two eyes and a smile. Believe it or not, Gonzalez was able to paint “The Clock” by using only five colors.

“My primary colors this year were red, gold, black and white, along with a little bit of blue,” Gonzalez explained.

According to Veronica Zavaleta, Andrea Gonzalez’s mother, her daughter would like to motivate the next generation of young students by expressing love and gratitude through art, which is why a young artist named Claire Russell — a rising fourth grader at Binks Forest — helped Gonzalez by making her own artistic creation this past spring to complement Gonzalez’s mural.

While Gonzalez said that she has always had an interest in art, she has benefited by learning and listening to her art teachers in school, including her current art teacher at Suncoast High School. That’s one of the many things that motivated Gonzalez to pursue the mural projects.

“My art teacher at Suncoast is Mr. [Anthony] Kopp, who genuinely gives me a solid and honest critique when I ask for it,” said Gonzalez, who plans to keep drawing and painting for the rest of her life.

In addition to her two murals, Gonzalez has already compiled a treasure chest of artistic creations.

“I have 10 art pieces in frames, and I have many more projects that I have started in my sketch book,” she said.

Gonzalez has been impressed and influenced by the work of other great artists.

“I love the work of Monet, and I love Impressionism,” Gonzalez said. “I also like the art of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. My favorite color is black, using the style Tenebrism. I also like portrait work and drawing faces of people, including my own.”

While Gonzalez is passionate about art, she’s also a great student and a member of Suncoast’s girls varsity weightlifting team.

“I’m enrolled in the school’s International Baccalaureate program, and I hope to be a co-captain of the girls weightlifting team next year,” she said. “I want to win a state championship next spring.”

At 154 pounds, her best clean-and-jerk effort is 174 pounds. She can also bench press 155 pounds, and her best lift in the snatch is 126 pounds.

After graduating from Suncoast next spring, she plans to continue her collegiate education in Orlando. “I hope to enroll at the University of Central Florida,” Gonzalez said.

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Wellington Education

Empowering Students To Become Their Best Selves

Empowering Students To Become Their Best Selves
The Wellington Collegiate Academy Is A Faith-Based Private School Celebrated For Academic Excellence

Story and photos by Christina Charles

Nestled in the heart of Wellington, the Wellington Collegiate Academy (WCA) is a beacon of education, dedicated to molding hardworking, respectable and self-reliant students.

This K-8, faith-based private school is celebrated for its academic excellence and its dedication to instilling the enduring philosophy of Stoicism, highlighting four cardinal virtues: justice, wisdom, temperance and courage. These timeless values permeate throughout the school community and are seamlessly woven into the fabric of everyday school life.

Each day at WCA begins with a tradition that sets the tone for the students. The morning prayer, a moment of reflection and gratitude, instills peace and purpose. This is followed by a mini assembly that reinforces accountability, fostering transparency and mutual respect within the school community. Leading this assembly are owners Horatio and Yaa McFarlane, a dynamic duo whose words transcend mere motivation.

Drawing from decades of educational experience, they provide wisdom and practical advice rooted in their professional backgrounds and personal journeys.

“At Wellington Collegiate Academy, Stoic values are not just theoretical concepts, but are actively embraced by the students,” Horatio McFarlane said. “Virtues such as temperance, wisdom, justice and courage are interwoven into daily school activities, shaping the character and responsibility of each student. The emphasis on hard work and self-reliance extends beyond academics to extracurricular activities.”

WCA students understand that their efforts directly impact their success, both in and out of the classroom. The McFarlanes envision a holistic education that nurtures the body, mind and soul. Physical health is prioritized through daily fitness programs, teaching teamwork and perseverance. Mental and emotional well-being receive equal attention. Psychology classes explore brain function and human behavior, while art classes provide therapeutic outlets for creative expression. The school employs the faith-based Abeka curriculum, emphasizing love and kindness.

“This year, new curriculum enhancements include Ukrainian language classes alongside Spanish, with French introduced last year,” Yaa McFarlane said. “These courses foster cultural awareness and enhance cognitive skills, helping students recognize their true potential.”

One of the most distinguishing features of Wellington Collegiate Academy is its commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment. The school’s dedicated teachers are not just educators but mentors who give the necessary attention to each individual child. Their genuine care and personalized approach ensure that every student feels valued and supported.

WCA offers students and their families a strong sense of community. Students, teachers and parents work together in harmony, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the school gates. This collaborative spirit is instrumental in fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Central to its educational philosophy and embedded in the school crest are the four cardinal virtues, which serve as the moral compass guiding students on their journey toward becoming responsible, principled and resilient individuals. By embracing and embodying these virtues, students not only excel academically but also develop into compassionate and morally grounded individuals prepared to navigate life’s complexities with integrity.

“At Wellington Collegiate Academy, we believe that every child possesses a unique constellation of gifts, graciously bestowed upon them by God,” Yaa McFarlane said. “We strive to create an environment where these gifts are discovered, nurtured and celebrated as they shine brightly.”

At WCA, the teaching approach is tailored to each child’s learning style. Visual learners benefit from lessons projected in each classroom, while kinesthetic learners engage with hands-on activities and physical experiences. Auditory learners thrive through lectures, discussions and audio materials.

Under the leadership of the McFarlanes, who took over at the long-established school last year, the academy continues to innovate and excel, nurturing the body, mind and spirit of each student. To the McFarlanes, Wellington Collegiate Academy is more than just a school; it is a nurturing environment where students are empowered to become their best selves.

Through their core guiding principles, innovative curriculum enhancements and a dedicated teaching staff, the academy provides a holistic education that prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow. Discover the difference a value-driven education can make in shaping your child’s future.

The Wellington Collegiate Academy is located in the original Wellington Mall at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 14B. To explore how your child can become a part of this unique community, contact the school via e-mail at info@gowca.org or call (561) 784-1776. Visit www.gowca.org to learn more.

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16 Years Of Artistic Excellence

16 Years Of Artistic Excellence
Dance Theatre At Wellington Marks Milestone With Convenient New Location

Located in the heart of the community, Dance Theatre at Wellington stands as a testament to dedication, passion and the transformative power of dance.

Founded in 1993 by Michelle and Randy Gerlick, this beloved institution started in Davie and has been nurturing the love of dance in students of all ages for more than 31 years. From its inception, Dance Theatre has been more than just a studio, it has been a family. In August 2008, the legacy continued when Dance Theatre arrived in Wellington. Since that time, it has become a home for thousands of dance families.

Bryanna Fallen — known as Ms. Bry — began her journey with Dance Theatre at Wellington in 2008 as the front desk administrative assistant, a role that allowed her to immerse herself in the vibrant atmosphere of the studio. Working closely with the children, as well as her two daughters, who enjoyed dancing as part of the growing Dance Theatre community, she quickly developed a deep affection for the environment, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of dance on young lives.

“From my first moments in the studio, I fell in love. You could instantly feel the energy that surrounded you from the students and families,” Bryanna recalled. “There was an excitement in the air. Dancing was always a big part of my life growing up, and I knew that this was where I belonged. It soon became a second home to me. Both of my daughters danced at the studio, and it was such a blessing to be able to share that time with them.”

Bryanna’s passion grew each day as she supported the students and staff, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This connection to the studio’s mission ignited a dream within her to one day own and lead Dance Theatre at Wellington.

After 15 years, a significant milestone was reached when the studio’s previous owner decided to pursue a new career path.

This presented an incredible opportunity for Bryanna and her husband, Howie Fallen, whose dreams of owning the studio finally came to fruition. Her transition from manager to owner was seamless, thanks to her deep-rooted connection to the studio and its community.

On Nov. 15, 2023, after a challenging and eventful build-out at their new location in the Shoppes at Wellington Green near Panera Bread, the Fallens opened the doors as the new owners at Dance Theatre at Wellington. Their commitment to preserving the studio’s legacy while infusing it with fresh energy has been nothing short of remarkable.

“We have something for everyone,” Bryanna said. “Whether you are looking for recreational classes or looking for a competitive edge with our DTX competition team, we offer classes for students ages 2.5 to 18 years old. We offer acro, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip hop, poms, musical theater, tap, salsa, TikTok classes, conditioning and contemporary/hip hop. For our little ones, we offer combination classes, such as ballet and tap.”

At Dance Theatre at Wellington, Bryanna and Howie Fallen have cultivated an environment that is warm and inviting to anyone who enters. They welcome all families into the studio, treating every student as if they were their own. Their mission is to create a space where students not only learn to dance but also feel a profound sense of belonging and comfort from the moment they walk through the doors.

“Dance Theatre is proud to be a family-run business,” Bryanna said. “When you walk through the doors, you will instantly feel like you are part of that family. Nothing warms my heart more than when I hear a child call me ‘Mama Bry.’ Under the guidance of our experienced and dedicated staff, children learn proper dance techniques, build confidence and develop a deep love for dance.”

She added that the studio’s programs not only focus on technical skills, but also on fostering creativity, working as a team, being resilient and becoming self-disciplined. “We want to help raise students who are kind, compassionate and support one another,” Bryanna said. “The dance world is tough, and you need that support from your fellow dancers. We are committed to nurturing each child’s potential and helping them thrive both on the dance floor and in the world.”

One of the cornerstones of Dance Theatre’s success is its staff, many of whom have been with the studio for years. These dedicated professionals are not just teachers; they are mentors who are deeply invested in the growth and development of their students. Their goal is to instill proper technique, challenge students to reach new goals, build confidence and foster an enduring love for dance.

“There are so many life lessons from taking dance classes,” Bryanna said. “Whether dancers are performing or mastering dance skills in the classroom, this is building their confidence and self-esteem, which will then in turn help them have a positive self-image. Every skill that is mastered builds their confidence and self-esteem. Dancers have to be resilient and persevere during difficult times. They are challenged constantly when mastering a difficult routine or overcoming the fear of being on stage.”

She added that dancers also learn the importance of time management.

“Balancing dance classes with school and other activities help children develop strong organizational and time management skills,” Bryanna said. “Dance encourages creative thinking and personal expression, allowing children to explore and convey their emotions through movement. Most importantly, they learn respect and how to work together as a team. Dancers learn how to follow instructions, respect teachers and peers, and maintain a positive attitude, which helps children understand and practice good manners and respect for others. Dance teaches discipline and commitment. Coming to class on a regular basis teaches children the importance of dedication and hard work.”

Dance Theatre at Wellington is located at 10550 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Shoppes of Wellington Green. For more information about classes and programs, call (561) 270-5678 or e-mail wellington@dancetheatre.net. Learn more at www.dancetheatre.net/wellington.

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Feature Stories, Wellington Education

Higher Education For All

Higher Education For All
PBSC’s Ava Parker On Educating The Workforce Of Tomorrow

By Joshua Manning

Palm Beach State College President Ava L. Parker leads the largest institution of higher education in Palm Beach County. Under her leadership, the college has hit record enrollment levels and opened a fifth location, the fast-growing Loxahatchee Groves campus just across Southern Blvd. from Wellington.

“I am truly honored to serve as the fifth president of the college,” Parker said. “I chose Palm Beach State because of the difference that it has historically made in the lives of our students, their families and our community. We are a partnership institution and a critical part of the economic infrastructure.”

A Wellington resident, Parker holds a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from the University of Florida. She came to PBSC nine years ago from Florida Polytechnic University in Lakeland, where she served as executive vice president and chief operating officer.

“PBSC has the distinction of being the state’s first public community college, a legacy that underscores our commitment to providing an accessible, affordable, high-quality education that opens pathways to careers right here in Palm Beach County,” Parker said.

She is proud of the sense of community she sees in how the school’s faculty and staff work together to support more than 36,000 students.

“Our focus on innovation, coupled with our wide range of programs and resources, empowers students to achieve their career and life goals and make a meaningful impact in the communities of Palm Beach County,” Parker explained.

Looking for a centrally located home with easy access to PBSC’s five campuses — Boca Raton, Belle Glade, Lake Worth, Loxahatchee Groves and Palm Beach Gardens — Parker quickly settled on Wellington as her home base.

“I was looking for a family environment with good schools and friendly people and a place that was central to our college campuses,” Parker recalled, adding that people she spoke to often mentioned Wellington. “My husband Joe Gibbons and I were sold after our first visit. We rented here first just to be sure, and we eventually bought our home here in Wellington. It has been a great choice for us. My son Parker and daughter Bailey have enjoyed participating in recreational sports.”

Wellington also provides her family with a rich variety of family-oriented activities.

“The Wellington area is horse country, and one of the things I enjoy most is attending polo matches at the National Polo Center,” Parker said. “I also enjoy the parks and participating in holiday activities with my family. The Wellington Environmental Preserve offers a beautiful respite with its nature trails and scenes of wildlife, and the Mall at Wellington Green is always a go-to destination for shopping.”

A key focus of Parker’s tenure has been the opening and growth of the Loxahatchee Groves campus, designed to serve the central western part of Palm Beach County.

“The rapid growth of this area is reflected in the numbers of students enrolling on our Loxahatchee Groves campus,” Parker said. “We first opened the campus in 2017 with some 700 students. This year, more than 6,000 enrolled on this campus alone, making Loxahatchee Groves the fastest growing of PBSC’s five campuses.”

A key reason for that success is the strong relationships that the college has built with the local community.

“We work directly with the four major high schools in the area: Wellington, Palm Beach Central, Royal Palm Beach and Seminole Ridge,” Parker said. “Beginning this fall, we will have advisors from PBSC embedded in all these high schools who help serve students and increase enrollment. We’re also meeting students much earlier in their academic careers, introducing students as young as sixth grade to the college experience through our dual-enrollment programs.”

PBSC also works closely with major employers in the area.

“We have partnerships with businesses such as Wellington Regional Medical Center, HCA Florida Palms West Hospital and Gast Construction Group, as well as with major employers such as Florida Power and Light,” Parker added. “Many of these partners hold educational events for our students and provide internships, as well as paid jobs.”

Parker and her team also make it a point to be active in the community.

“We regularly meet with the mayors of Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Westlake and Loxahatchee Groves, as well as their council members and chambers of commerce,” she said. “We also have a 230-seat lecture hall at our Loxahatchee Groves campus, which has become a popular venue for hosting community educational programs, events and meetings.”

The college has made health science a primary focus in Loxahatchee Groves.

“In 2020, we established the Frank DiMino Center for Medical Innovation, enabling PBSC to expand our training programs in high-demand healthcare fields,” Parker said. “Our bachelor of science in nursing program is housed at the Loxahatchee Groves campus, and by fall 2025, we will also offer programs such as surgical technology, physical therapy and dental hygiene. We also offer computing and cybersecurity, and business and accounting programs at our Loxahatchee Groves campus.”

Currently under construction there is the $50 million, 83,500-square-foot Dental & Medical Services Technology Building. “It will feature a fully equipped dental clinic, a surgical technology suite, and science labs that incorporate cutting-edge equipment and technology for students pursuing careers as dental hygienists, dental assistants, surgical technologists and other healthcare occupations,” Parker said. “This new facility will offer virtual reality learning technology and a highly advanced 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection system for anatomy and physiology education.”

The building is set to be completed by February 2025, and classes will begin in the fall of 2025. The new building will benefit the local community as well by providing low-cost preventative dental care, Parker added.

Other initiatives include the creation of the Construction Trades Center for Workforce Innovation on the Lake Worth campus, which expands skilled trades programming with $5 million in federal funding plus $1 million from the Lowe’s Foundation. Both the Belle Glade and Loxahatchee Groves campuses have been tapped to expand training for first responders, and the Palm Beach Gardens campus will be key to a partnership with TMRW Sports. In cooperation with the PGA Tour, TMRW has selected PBSC as the exclusive home for TGL, its new professional indoor golf league that fuses advanced technology with live action for TV audiences.

“We see our mission as educating the future workforce of Palm Beach County,” Parker said. “Thanks to the strong partnerships we have with all the constituents in our community from local schools and the school district to industry, we are ensuring that our curriculum is relevant to the needs of our county. Our students power the engine of Palm Beach County’s economic growth in sectors ranging from healthcare to information technology to construction and engineering.”

Learn more about Palm Beach State College at www.palmbeachstate.edu.

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Feature Stories, Wellington Education

Public Schools Arrive In Wellington

Public Schools Arrive In Wellington
Wellington Elementary School Opened In 1980 As A Collection Of Portable Classrooms Under The Leadership Of The Legendary Buz Spooner

By Joshua Manning

Children in the fledgling community of Wellington were first bused east to attend school. However, after years of petitions, the School District of Palm Beach County opened Wellington Elementary School in 1980, led by the iconic Buz Spooner, the school’s founding principal.

Marketed as the perfect community for families, Wellington’s early days lacked one crucial element — schools.

Young kids were bused to Melaleuca Elementary School on Gun Club Road, while older kids made the long hike east to Forest Hill High School.

But all that began to change in 1980, when the School District of Palm Beach County opened Wellington’s first elementary school after years of petitions from area residents.

The school district owned a site at the corner of Big Blue Trace and Paddock Drive, but no building. So, when Wellington Elementary School opened in 1980, it consisted of 16 portables, with no kitchen and no cafeteria. The first PTA meeting was held at the old Wellington Country Club.

“The portables worked well, unless it was raining,” recalled the late Buz Spooner, the school’s founding principal, during a 2001 interview.

When it opened, the school had children from grades three, four and five, as well as one class for grade six. Kindergarten and grades one and two were first held at Greenacres Elementary School. Spooner had been the principal there before being assigned to become Wellington Elementary’s first principal.

“On my first visit to the school, I got lost,” Spooner recalled. “I was looking for a school, but I found a big sandy pasture.”

Spooner took over as principal during the 1979-80 school year. “It was a challenge,” he recalled. “There were a lot of glitches you wouldn’t expect. Each day, we had to look under the steps, because small animals nested there. We had raccoons and armadillos, but thankfully, nobody ever got bitten.”

During the 1982-83 school year, the students and staff of the fledgling school began moving into a permanent facility built at the site. “The kids got to attend the groundbreaking ceremony,” Spooner noted.

Spooner remained the principal of Wellington Elementary School until 1999, when he retired. He had been a part of the school system in Palm Beach County for 43 years, starting as a teacher at Greenacres Elementary School. But his fondest memories were of his two decades of service in Wellington. “I was able to help more children as a principal,” Spooner said. “By hiring the teachers, you can shape the kind of school you want to have.”

Spooner grew Wellington Elementary School from that cluster of portables to a full-fledged school that once taught up to 1,500 students per year as the school district raced to keep up with the area’s explosive growth.

Outside Wellington, Spooner was best known for his many years as president of the Palm Beach County Safety Patrol. It was in that role that he touched the lives of fifth graders countywide, working tirelessly to organize a massive movement of students from Palm Beach County to Washington, D.C., each year.

Spooner passed away in 2019, but he is still fondly remembered by many in Wellington.

Elaine Cittadino was Spooner’s executive assistant from the time the school opened for 16 years, before she moved to the after-school program. She recalled how Spooner often said he never wanted to do anything but work with elementary school students. “Right from the very beginning, Mr. Spooner created his school. He interviewed and hand selected everyone at that school,” she said.

Cittadino also recalled how he was very supportive of his teachers and used to say, “I always hired people who were smarter than me and let them do their jobs.” She added that one of his favorite sayings was, “They may forget what you taught them, but they will never forget how you treated them.”

Cathy West, who has been a teacher at the school since 1982 and currently serves as the media specialist, agreed that he was a “teachers first” principal. “Each year, he would meet with the grade level teachers and make sure they were all on the same page,” he said. “He always had an open-door policy.”

Sue Bierer was a fifth-grade teacher at the school from 1985 until her retirement in 2012.

“Any time a teacher or a class had a special program, he was always really supportive of that,” said Bierer, who is excited that her granddaughter will be attending Wellington Elementary School as a kindergartener.

Cittadino has vivid memories of the school’s early years.

“We had 13 portables with grades three through five. Sixth grade also came in for a year,” she recalled about the school’s opening year. “We really spawned all the other schools in Wellington and beyond. H.L. Johnson started on our campus. There was lots of wildlife out there — foxes, snakes, armadillos. We were always very conscious of the environment and had many school cleanups.”

West recalled her first year working in a portable classroom that was also the school’s library, the speech teacher’s office and teacher’s lounge. There was a black indigo snake that lived under the portable. “Every so often, you would hear a scream because it startled someone,” she said.

Bierer added that the original campus often got waterlogged. “We would have to trudge through the water to get to where we were going,” she said.

Nevertheless, the fond memories outweigh the problems of the early years. “I remember all the fun we had,” Bierer said.

The three teachers are proud of how Wellington Elementary has matured through the years into the school it is today.

“We have a wonderful administration right now that tries to keep up with the traditions of the school,” West said, adding that the current administration building is dedicated to Spooner.

Cittadino is proud of the strong fine arts program at the school, and Bierer likes the new buildings on the campus, which she said are “very conducive to learning.” Bierer also loves the enthusiasm of the young teachers on the current campus.

Wellington would not get its next school until 1987, when Wellington Landings Middle School opened. Wellington High School and New Horizons Elementary School both opened in 1990, finally allowing all Wellington students to stay in the community for their entire public-school experience.

Since then, Wellington has been joined by another high school, two more middle schools and four more elementary schools — Panther Run Elementary School (1991), Binks Forest Elementary School (1999), Polo Park Middle School (2000), Palm Beach Central High School (2003), Equestrian Trails Elementary School (2003), Elbridge Gale Elementary School (2006) and Emerald Cove Middle School (2007).

 

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Wellington Table - Signature Dish

Enjoy Your Breakfast And Lunch At Skillets

Enjoy Your Breakfast And Lunch At Skillets

Get a wide variety of delicious and nutritious breakfast and lunch items at Skillets, which opened last month in Wellington’s Courtyard Shops. Try out the fast-growing chain’s signature skillets, or one of the many other tasty menu items.

Rise and shine Wellington… an iconic breakfast experience is now being served! Skillets has officially opened its 16th location in Florida, right in the heart of Wellington in the Courtyard Shops at 13860 Wellington Trace.

This is Skillets Restaurants’ third location on the east coast of Florida, joining its Boca Raton and Delray Beach restaurants. This brand-new location features Skillets’ signature homemade and nutritious breakfast and lunch items. The 4,500-square-foot restaurant seats 195 guests and has 25 dedicated employees.

“As we expand in Palm Beach County, the Wellington area is an ideal fit,” Skillets CEO Joe DiGangi said. “This equestrian and family-centric area has many early risers looking for a quality breakfast experience. Wellington will fall in love with our great breakfast and lunch food choices and seasonal menu. Skillets Restaurants become a gathering space where flavors come alive, and memories are made. We look forward to serving our guests with passion and dedication. We want to thank Wellington for graciously welcoming Skillets into the community.”

In 1995, Ross and Noreen Edlund started their first Skillets in Naples. Now, they have five locations in Naples alone and have expanded across Florida. Their mission from the beginning has been to prepare homemade, delicious and nutritious breakfasts and lunches from scratch with top-notch, friendly and efficient service in inviting and comfortable surroundings.

“We have had great success on the west coast, with Skillets being a common household name, and we could not be more excited about the early success of our restaurants in Boca and Delray,” Skillets founder Ross Edlund said. “Wellington is a great addition to our Palm Beach expansion. We hope to become a staple in the Wellington community and look forward to feeding generations of families there.”

Skillets’ truly unique offerings make it stand out from the rest when it comes to breakfast. It is naturally most famous for its homemade, extensive choice of skillets, offering a variety of ingredients and sides crafted for the ultimate flavor experience. Guests will also find breakfast classics elevated by thoughtful sourcing and best-in-class cooking techniques on the menu, including international favorites like crepes and Skillets’ famous scones. Skillets even offers gluten-free waffles, pancakes and other health-forward options that align with Blue Zones criteria for a better and longer life.

Leading off the menu are the restaurant’s signature skillets, in several variations, layered with Skillets Potatoes oven-baked to a golden brown, topped with two eggs and a choice of toast, scone or biscuit. Also popular are the pancakes, available in buttermilk, stone-ground whole-grain or gluten-free, or the tasty potato pancakes, made from scratch and always light, lacy and crispy brown.

There are also a number of vegetarian options, such as Noreen’s Breakfast with steamed spinach, grilled tomato slices, topped with sliced avocado and chopped chives, served with a poached egg, toast and fruit. Other popular choices are the omelets, frittatas, eggs benedict, French toast, waffles, crepes and blintzes. Lunch offerings include an array of sandwiches, paninis, wraps and salads.

Skillets Wellington has created a charity partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs in Wellington. “This organization is not only beloved in the community but known for its outstanding work with children, and we are so excited to be able to support their club in Wellington, the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club,” Skillets founder Noreen Edlund said.

The club was the beneficiary of Skillets’ grand opening held Tuesday, July 9, which also kicked off their Kids Eat Free program, available at all Skillets locations every Tuesday. Skillets Restaurants also supports the Child Advocacy Agency at all locations year-round.

Since 1995, Skillets has provided guests with delicious food and friendly service in a clean, inviting, pine-accented environment. Envisioned by Ross and Noreen Edlund, the goal was to create a restaurant that offered the local community higher quality comfort food and personal service than diners and restaurant chains. Using only premium ingredients, Skillets serves breakfast and lunch from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 16 locations in Florida, including Naples, Fort Myers, Bradenton, South Sarasota, Venice, Bonita Springs, Lely, Wellington, Delray Beach, Boca Raton and Port Charlotte.

Skillets of Wellington is located in the Courtyard Shops at 13860 Wellington Trace. For more information, call (561) 660-8304 or visit www.skilletsrestaurants.com.

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Feature Stories

Horsing Around

HORSING AROUND 
A Galloping Success Benefiting The Equestrian Aid Foundation

By Shannon Anastasio

The Jennifer Balcos Gallery in Palm Beach recently played host to a magnificent event — “Horsing Around,” a showcase of equestrian-inspired artwork that left attendees spellbound. The gallery served as the perfect backdrop for a gathering that was not only a celebration of artistic talent but also a heartfelt fundraiser for the Wellington-based Equestrian Aid Foundation (EAF).

During the opening night of Horsing Around on May 9, guests were treated to a visual feast as they roamed through the gallery, marveling at the stunning pieces on display.

From paintings capturing the adrenaline-fueled excitement of show jumping to serene depictions of the bond between horse and rider, every work of art was a testament to the beauty and grace of these majestic creatures.

Among the standout pieces was a mesmerizing portrayal by Kyle Lucks Fine Art featuring show jumper Nayel Nassar in action. The dynamic energy and harmony between horse and rider were palpable, leaving viewers in awe of the skillful artistry. Weatherly Stroh’s works also left a lasting impression, capturing the tranquil essence and natural elegance of horses with remarkable precision.

Beyond the visual delights, the event also served as a fundraiser for the EAF. By attending Horsing Around, guests not only fed their love for art and equestrianism but also contributed to a worthy cause, supporting individuals within the equestrian community in their times of need.

Adding to the ambiance were the mint juleps and Polo Girl Cabaret, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and conviviality. With 17 talented artists showcasing their work, including several local Palm Beachers, Horsing Around provided a platform for creativity to flourish while fostering a sense of community spirit.

The event’s success goes beyond the accolades of artistic achievement. It exemplifies the power of collaboration and generosity, bringing together art enthusiasts, equestrians and philanthropists alike in support of a wonderful cause. This legacy of inspiration and compassion will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who attended.

The EAF provides emergency financial grants to members of the equestrian community throughout the United States who are struggling to overcome catastrophic illness, injury or another unforeseen crisis.

For more information about the Equestrian Aid Foundation, or how you can become involved in helping, visit www.equestrianaidfoundation.org.

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