Thanks to the influence of Henry Flagler, Palm Beach has over the decades carved for itself a reputation as the place to be during high society's winter season But one high-profile year-round resident has put the island in the center of the spotlight of local national and international news for a second time With his Nov. 5 win, President Donald Trump has brought the eyes of the world back to Palm Beach — with all of the traffic attention and visitors that recognition includes Here's a look at the 2024-2025 season in Palm Beach as Trump occupies the White House for a second term How often has Trump visited Palm Beach this season?Trump lovingly refers to Mar-a-Lago as his Winter White House — and this season he truly made the 17-acre historic property his home away from the White House in Washington kicked off a marathon stay by Trump at Mar-a-Lago 4 ahead of Election Day — his polling place is the Morton and Barbara Mandel Recreation Center where he and First Lady Melania Trump voted on Nov Trump returned to Palm Beach for 10 weekends spending all or part of 35 days at Mar-a-Lago announced that he ordered airstrikes in Somalia and declared new tariffs on items imported from Canada During his visits, Trump has traveled to both of his Palm Beach County golf courses — primarily Trump International Golf Club. He went to Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter the weekend of April 5-6 which is when that club had its senior championship Before Trump's inauguration, people close to him and town officials had said they expected the president to visit Mar-a-Lago more frequently than he did during his first term in office Mar-a-Lago is Trump's primary residence: He and the First Lady filed declaration of domicile forms in Palm Beach County in 2019 to officially mark their move from New York to Florida Accompanying Trump on several of his visits were billionaire Elon Musk and his son Musk has played a key role in the early months of Trump's second term as the tech titan led the budget-slashing team of the new Department of Government Efficiency further complicating an already challenging situation with traffic on the island when Trump and two other people were injured and another person was killed during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania Secret Service directed the indefinite closure of South Ocean Boulevard next to Mar-a-Lago — essentially cutting the island in half by shutting down the road between the Southern Boulevard traffic circle and South County Road Mar-a-Lago and Florida Department of Transportation announced they reached an agreement to reopen South Ocean Boulevard when Trump is not home which kicked off a stay of more than two months Residents returning to Palm Beach for the season from September through November were met with a frustrating traffic quagmire that slowed down nearly everything on the island "It shouldn't take me an hour to get to Royal Palm Way," one South End resident told the Daily News in January "I feel disconnected from the rest of town Police and Fire-Rescue officials have said the implementation of new technology — advanced alerts new radios and traffic-signal controls — before and during the season helped to keep response times the same or lower than before the road closure Town officials were inundated with concerns about traffic and they have worked throughout the season to mitigate the effects of the road closure on a barrier island already trying to deal with the effects of growth Drivers seem to have adapted to the situation throughout the season the island could see more traffic into next season it’ll be an opportunity for us to refresh and remind everyone how to handle traffic in town and to look for even more creative solutions,” he said Kristina Webb is a reporter for Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at kwebb@pbdailynews.com. Subscribe today to support our journalism Royal Palm9 PHOTOSThe former Nordstrom store at The Mall at Wellington Green on December 4 The Sprouts Farmers Market closed its Wellington location in 2023 It's one of the few vacant stores in the western communities that has found a tenant A discount home furnishings store will soon take over the space along State Road 7 The Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts store in Wellington is expected to close in by the end of 2025 as the major retailer closes Florida locations Wellington's Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts along State Road 7 will close by the end of 2025 as the major retailer closes all its Palm Beach County locations Bed Bath & Beyond shut down its Royal Palm Beach store on Coral Plaza in 2023 when the retailer closed all its physical locations The 30,000-square-feet storefront along on State Road 7 store has remained vacant since The Big Lots in Royal Palm Beach closed in 2024 when the major retailer announced it would be shuttering 26 stores in Florida The Big Lots along Royal Palm Beach's State Road 7 corridor closed in 2024 and the 30,000-square-feet-store remains vacant in April 2025 The Party City on Royal Palm Beach's State Road 7 closed in February 2025 as the major retailer closed all its stores The Village of Royal Palm Beach is hosting a Bike Rodeo event on Saturday at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park to promote the use of bicycles as a means to get around the community The Bike Rodeo is a family event free of charge and will feature three bike courses of different lengths Mayor Jeff Hmara signed a proclamation that declared March 2025 as Royal Palm Beach Bicycle Month The proclamation stated that its purpose was to “encourage all residents and visitors to safely explore the convenience and benefits of bicycling as an alternative to motorized vehicle transportation throughout the village.” The proclamation set Royal Palm Beach Bicycle Month to align with Florida Bicycle Month the statewide observance made to bring awareness to bicycles as a way to get around and exercise but may not think of them as a great way to get around,” said Hmara when asked about the importance of the observance “Formally recognizing March as Florida Bicycle Month reminds us of what a great alternative biking is but it is also a great way to get some good exercise while seeing Royal Palm Beach The Bike Rodeo event is not just for grown-ups “Some fun things at the Bike Rodeo may include obstacle courses for children free helmets for children and giveaways,” said Sylvio Pierre-Louis the event and facilities manager at Commons Park when asked about some of the fun things happening at the event Bike Rodeo giveaways will also feature a free T-shirt for the first 75 participants who register and attend Pierre-Louis invited the entire community to visit the park for the event “People should come out to the Bike Rodeo because it’s a great way to spend time with family and friends while participating in a community-focused event,” he said The Bike Rodeo is aimed to entertain the whole family and young children only beginning to bike as well — A Florida bill to rename a portion of Southern Boulevard to "President Donald J The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 987 on Thursday If approved, the measure would designate Southern Boulevard between Kirk Road and South Ocean Boulevard as "President Donald J (CBS12) — From morning to early afternoon South Flagler Drive between Lakeview Avenue and Okeechobee Road in West Palm Beach will be closed due to maintenance work Palm Beach warns that due to the lack of turning at southbound drive motorists may experience westbound delays over the Royal Park middle bridge during that time frame mezcal and more are absolutely wonderful (and probably getting you hungry) any day of the week where they might just taste that much better it's Cinco de Mayo and it's time to celebrate Whether you did or didn't know that the holiday commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla in 1862 And there are multiple outlets across Palm Beach County ready willing and able to help you celebrate with drink and dining specials along with live music All specials and events are on May 5 unless otherwise noted For Cinco de Mayo this popular restaurant with locations in Jupiter and Royal Palm Beach will offer 'Papi Hour' from 11 a.m margaritas and beer along with select dishes at only $3.75 and $6.50 barbacoa and repollito tacos are only $3.75 Details: 1556 US 1, Jupiter; 1005 N. State Road 7, Royal Palm Beach. papichulotacos.com the Cinco de Mayo Chihuahua race will be happening Revelers can witness these diminutive demons of speed redlining their legs as they seek first second and third place (in the money) finishes and win gift cards for their loving owners the first 25 Chihuahuas that sign up will receive a small mariachi sombrero Details: 125 Dockside Circle, Jupiter; 409 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. calaverascantina.com Bodega will offer several drink specials from Friday May 5 for Cinco de Mayo including frozen margaritas for $5 draft Modelo and Mamitas Tequila Seltzers for $6 Devils Reserve and Dobel shots for $7 and Cazadores draft margaritas for $8 Details: 118 S. Clematis St., West Palm Beach. bodegataqueria.com With Palm Beach County locations in West Palm Beach El Camino will once again celebrate the holiday at all three with live mariachi bands and DJs spinning 'salsa nation' favorites The West Palm Beach and Boca Raton locations will take things even further with expanded outdoor bars and much more Boca is planning on having two bars and West Palm Beach one "massive" bar Those outdoor bars will be serving signature handcrafted margaritas like their watermelon/jalapeno passionfruit and pineapple/coconut varieties along with Corona (including non-alcoholic Corona) Details: 600 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach. galleywestpalmbeach.com For Cinco de Mayo this food truck turned fast-casual Mexican eatery will give you the chance to be a hero They will be offering their Party Platter Taco Boxes which include 30 tacos with a choice of any protein including birria Remember the movie "Footloose" and the song "I Need a Hero" this is your chance to show up at the fiesta with a Party Platter Taco Box and be that hero There are Talkin' Taco locations in Wellington and Boynton Beach Details: 10140 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington; 390 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach. talkintacos.net/wellington; talkintacos.net/talkinboynton With Palm Beach County locations in Lantana and Royal Palm Beach this fast casual outlet will get the fiesta started with multiple $5 deals Valid for dine-in only these include the Tijuana trio Details: 3201 S. Jog Road, Lake Worth; 280 S. SR 7, Royal Palm Beach. tijuanaflats.com Rocco's Tacos will celebrating in style with live DJs and more and will have extended hours that may even have the celebration flowing into seis de mayo Details: multiple locations in Palm Beach County and throughout the state. roccostacos.com Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at eritz@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today A project to freshen the look of one of Palm Beach's entry points recently broke ground SMI Landscape Architecture and the town had a ceremony on April 23 to mark the beginning of work on landscaping on the two Royal Poinciana Way medians between Bradley Place and North County Road The project's estimated price tag is $550,000 a cost that will be covered by the Garden Club Town Council and Garden Club members joined Jorge Sanchez and Claudia Visconti of SMI Landscape Architecture to pick up gold shovels and ceremonially hoist the first scoops of dirt from the site The Town Council members were Lew Crampton Bridget Moran and President Bobbie Lindsay The Garden Club members were GCPB Kate Gubelmann Mary Pressly and President Christine Aylward The council unanimously approved the landscaping site plan at the Sept Each median will have a walkway made of a shell stone around the outside There will be five mid-block plantings with native holywood trees at their center Small hedges will be planted around most of each median and the plan also includes beds of mixed perennials The iconic royal palms that line either the north and south sides of the medians will remain The 75 parking spaces on either sides of the medians also will not be affected who has been serving as mayor of Royal Palm Beach since the unexpected passing of former Mayor Fred Pinto last September was elected to the position by village voters Tuesday Hmara garnered 1,496 votes (58.32 percent) while Vice Mayor Selena Samios took 928 votes (36.18 percent) Candidate Justin Plaza got 141 votes (5.5 percent) Hmara claimed a one-year term to fill the unexpired portion of Pinto’s term Sylvia Sharps was narrowly ahead after preliminary results were released Tuesday night leading Steve Avila with 965 votes (39.58 percent) A total of 17 votes separated them with a handful of mail-in votes still to be counted placed third with 491 votes (20.14 percent) while Brian William Zdunowski was second with 70 votes (19.77 percent) and Steven Hoffman was third with 57 votes (16.19 percent) Coleman will replace Councilman Robert Shorr A Loxahatchee Groves ballot question allowing the town to use the Palm Beach County Canvassing Board to serve as the town’s canvassing board for local elections was approved Look for full stories in the Town-Crier issue out Friday a nice round number on which to call it quits Time to slow down and move on to something else that will entertain the masses SunFest has been around since its first festival in 1983 before stopping the music — for now — in 2025 Its stages have hosted acts across many music genres It has offered a combination of live music delicious foods (stuffed tropical pineapple chicken was a yearly favorite) For four decades, SunFest evolved even as the city of West Palm Beach itself transformed and grew up alongside it It welcomed a high-wire act in its first year celebrity sightings and top performing acts like Jimmy Buffett Flo Rida and so many more as time marched forward WHAT DERAILED SUNFEST? SunFest’s big music bet thrilled millions, then drove it out of business SunFest's organizers announced the show would not go on in 2025 Here's a year-by-year look back at how SunFest friends and neighbors joined together for some good ol' Florida fun WILL SUNFEST RETURN? Will SunFest return to West Palm Beach? First, ‘something’s got to change,’ director says 1983: A 10-day festival with no admission in its first yearAdmission was free but the festival drew big numbers — more people than imagined The first SunFest was a 10 day-event for which officials overestimated revenue sources and underestimated expenses SunFest lost about $120,000 that first year People gathered by the rear of the old library to hear some smooth jazz but most of the entertainment came from school choruses and local acts including belly dancers gymnastics teams and Jazzercise demonstrations Carla Wallenda of the famous tightrope-walking family was a featured performer She balanced across a high wire 70 feet above ground "I never know what I'll be able to do until I get up there," she told The Post in 1983 SunFest was cut to three days and half the debt was retired The Juried Sidewalk Art Show and Jazz on the Lake were the highlights of the event The art show took most of the southern section along Flagler Drive and prizes totaling $12,000 were awarded estimated the crowd to be 75,000 to 100,000 Major sponsors were Diner’s Club and CitiCorp along with the Arts Council and Discover Palm Beach County The highlight of the weekend wasn't the music it was the Odd Vessel Challenge Cup raft race which featured watercrafts void of sails or engines The good news: the festival was able to eliminate the other half of its debt SunFest expanded to four nights and for the first time charged admission — $2 which was rapidly drawing bigger crowds each year Another first: The festival earned a significant profit — $350,000 The event got additional publicity from The Goodyear Blimp Spyro GyraSingle-day ticket: $21987: Main stage expands from 12,000 seats to 30,000SunFest received a distinction as Florida’s largest jazz festival and money started to pour in from outside sources The tourist-development council spent $132,000 on the festival from grants from the Arts Council and Discover the Palm Beaches And more than 50 corporations donated $165,000 in cash and $105,000 in services the main stage was expanded from 12,000 seats to 30,000 The first commemorative SunFest art print was available for purchase 1988: A second main stage and two days of non-stop rainA second main stage was added and a Seniors Day was created The 11-member council proposed that the next five SunFests be held along the Intracoastal Waterway The new main stage would be built at the south end under the plan Ticket prices were $5 a day or $10 for a four-day pass Headliner George Benson's easy jazz was a triumph of sorts for organizers who said clearing skies and Benson were the only things that salvaged the 1988 festival after two days of rain Actress Loni Anderson attended with husband and bought a painting called "Andy's Pier" by Bill Johnson The four-day show included a powerboat race With the help of about $500,000 in cash and service contributions from more than 60 corporate sponsors A local group called Pee Wee Lewis and the Hues were among the many groups over the years that played at SunFest got a big break and performed in 1989 and then again in 2011 The massive fireworks display over the intracoastal was moved from its traditional Friday night to Saturday night The weekend featured powerboat races and water-ski and water scooter shows in between some heavy rains Organizers estimated the Saturday crowd size at 130,000 Phoebe Snow wanted to stay home and make commercials but Fantasma Productions' Jon Stoll convinced her to regroup her band and rehearse several days for her Thursday night performance who was SunFest president in 1984 and 1985 The Fireworks show returned to Friday night a popular souvenir pin program began and with clear skies and notable groups highlighted by a Sunday night finale that featured Crosby And Richard Eliot's "When a Man Loves a Woman" brought the crowd to its feet 1992: Expansion to five days brings a record 29 actsMusic-wise SunFest reached perhaps its top season in its 10th year with a record 29 acts including nationally known bands Food choices also expanded with 131 food and beverage vendors 123 artists and 64 crafts booths were rolled out Navy ships docked at the Port of Palm Beach for free public tours and the All-American Skydiving Team rolled out a spectacular show About 310,000 people attended the festival and the festival lost $90,700 because of tough economic conditions and crowds that were too large SunFest had professional security guards at the gates from the West Palm Beach Police Department and Southern Star SunFest reserved 450 seats for those willing to pay extra at a main stage for headlining performances such as B.B SunFest's organizers estimated that more than 320,000 attended the festival "This year's event went so smoothly that it's unbelievable," SunFest President Dennis Grady said Everyone seemed to be happy." But what really made Grady happy The event didn't lose money for a second straight year including a little-known band from Florida called The Backstreet Boys jugglers and mimes entertained people as they ate at the 100 food booths that lined Flagler Drive offering everything from alligator to funnel cakes Costs to book acts big-name acts like Huey Lewis & The News continued to rise and in turn The four-day pass was $25 instead of $20 in 1993 the second straight decline of 20,000 per year when 335,000 people came but many left angry about crowding at the main act We used to think that way but we don't anymore," SunFest Executive Director Sue Twyford told The Post after the festival "We're more interested in the safety and comfort of the people who come to SunFest." Club SunFest also debuted as a private VIP space that included shaded seating private restrooms and special food and beverages A $1.25 million amphitheater replaced a Holiday Inn that was demolished the year before and the area between Datura and Evernia streets offered a sloped grassy park with modern brick paths and palm trees SunFest went extra on spending to boost the attendance and the five-day event turned a nice $118,000 profit for the organizers a floating stage and lounges and a giant video screen for the main stage but food and beverage sales and an attendance of 300,000 helped even the books The total bill was $2.4 million with $2.5 million in revenue The first four days sizzled with fun and sun and was on pace to shatter attendance records before the rains came Sunday So many people attended opening night that food vendors did almost twice as much business as they had expected More than 300,000 attended the five-day event which that weekend competed with the two-day Fort Lauderdale Air & Sea Show Santana was a big hit and the band thrilled the crowd with a lengthy two-hour show A new contract signed with the city assured that SunFest would return to West Palm Beach for at least the next 10 years was growing up and gaining a national following Nickelodeon’s Game Lab hosted two shows at the BellSouth stage Performers picked contestants from the crowd and the kids were awarded Nickelodeon-themed prizes The undisputed star of Saturday morning's show was Jessica Roccos who correctly answered four Nickelodeon trivia questions to ascend the SunFest Steps of Knowledge where A late entry to the musical performances was Vonda Shepard known for her role as the lounge singer on "Ally McBeal," a popular TV show at the time The popular fireworks doubled in size as workers blasted 12,000 fireworks during a spectacular 23-minute show over the water And SunFest expanded east by adding Stella Marine Boardwalk a 150-foot floating walkway over the intracoastal between Evernia and Flagler streets Cuban protesters gathered outside the festival gates to oppose the performance of Cuban orchestra Cubanismo a sugar company owned by anti-Castro exiles removed its sponsorship logo from the festival’s stage Kenny GSingle-day ticket: $152000: Beads become the big-ticket itemThe beads drew the big numbers in 2000 that they had their own volunteer committee — the bead committee one with a SunFest logo and another with flamingos One shop sold 200 of them at $5 each in five hours on opening night volunteers dressed in silly hats and tropical shirts red and turquoise beads as they strolled down Flagler Drive kind of like Mardi Gras," said Coconut Ixia Zamlut as people grabbed for her beads The TemptationsSingle-day ticket: $152001: Celebs Kate Hudson Jimmy Buffett and Dennis Rodman on the sceneThe opening night crowd got a surprise as Jimmy Buffett joined pop duo Evan & Jaron on stage actress Kate Hudson took in a show by The Black Crowes (she later married the lead singer) and Dennis Rodman joined the rock group Live on stage The drizzle continued Friday and high winds delayed the fireworks show an hour 2002: Touchscreens and a near-record crowd of 325,000In its 20th season tickets had risen to $17 for one day and $35 for the entire festival still a bargain for all the great diversity of music attendance rocketed to 325,000 — the largest in a decade rapper Ja Rule roped in the hip-hoppers and the Jimmy Buffett beads sold out where fans could cast votes for their favorite artists It was hot — booths were selling out of ice water tables shaded by umbrellas dotted the waterfront and "chillin' tents," sprayed cooling mist on fans The Beach Boys kicked things off Wednesday night and musical icon Bob Dylan capped it Sunday night With his introspective songwriting and unconventional voice Dylan was arguably one of the festival's all-time top artists Jimmy Buffett again made an onstage appearance this time performing with Johnny Clegg Band Food Network star Rachael Ray did a cooking demonstration onstage and Dan Marino took a seat for Hootie & the Blowfish for the 22nd edition of the festival Following Ray's Saturday afternoon demonstration of an island-style jerk turkey burger at the Meyer Amphitheater five contestants stuffed themselves with jumbo shrimp for the five-minute “Peel and Eat Shrimp Contest.” Chaka Khan Cyndi Lauper and "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard were the big hits onstage Steve WinwoodSingle-day ticket: $172005: An opening-night 'All-Access' VIP party and a third floating bargeFor the first time opening night on Wednesday was limited to 5,000 people for an All-Access VIP party that featured K.C backstage tours and Cirque du Soleil performance art featuring contortionists a third barge was added to Captain Morgan’s Floating Oasis and it marked the first year each had a theme The southernmost barge featured country music the middle barge with pop and the north barge was tiki themed 2006: 'American Idol' winner Carrie Underwood rocks the stageSunFest tried again to increase revenue with a two-day advance discount pass and a VIP gold pass ticket that included backstage passes a limited-admission All-Access party on Wednesday kicked things off with late 70s / early ’80s group Kool & The Gang The big star was "American Idol" winner Carrie Underwood who broke Billboard chart records as the first country music artist to debut at No Take the Wheel." The then 22-year-old performed Thursday night and added a touch of rock with Guns N' Roses numbers Patience and Sweet Child o' Mine As SunFest celebrated its 25th anniversary it increased daily ticket prices from $20 to $23 citing an additional $150,000 spent on securing musical acts starting hours later on Friday and Saturday although rain delayed the festival finale for 30 minutes Kelly Burns began dating Linda Manganaro at SunFest and the two were married at a ceremony Sunday at Club SunFest "It was just lovely." There was another reason to be happy: Linda was a five-year breast cancer survivor "And we'll dance if we want to." Burns' bachelor party was Saturday night at — you guessed it — SunFest SunFest got a bathroom upgrade — the "ViPee" toilet a special bathroom wristband rewarded patrons with clean air-conditioned bathrooms with flushing toilets and no line at the door There were 24 of them on site and offered a bonus to the 250 individual free "porta-potties" (sometimes referred to as the gateway to hell) that were used by SunFest goers Sheryl CrowSingle-day ticket: $292009: David Cook gets a last-second visit from a Southeast Asian princessA couple of hours before headliner David Cook's concert Saturday night event officials received a call from the Fontainbleau Resort in Miami Beach someone claiming to work for Pengiran Anak Naafi'ah Khairul Bulqiah SunFest officials were told the princess suddenly decided she wanted to meet Cook The princess drove up from Miami Beach with her entourage and met Cook before the show made a contribution to SunFest in exchange for the VIP treatment "She made a nice donation but we're not discussing how much," SunFest spokesperson Melissa Sullivan said "She didn't give us permission to discuss that." new waterfront; mayor's son arrested during protest spatMayor Lois Frankel's $30 million dream became a reality a few months ahead of SunFest when the waterfront — a 12.5-acre site with a large pristine events pavilion with native vegetation — made its debut made the bigger headlines that weekend when he was involved in a scuffle where West Palm Beach police officers in a dispute with City Hall were picketing outside the five-day music festival 2011: Gourmet food truck with shrimp tacos and sliders is a big hitNew in 2011 was a 5K run West Palm's gourmet food truck and the Sopranos Dueling Piano Bar on the South barge The race started south of the Royal Palm Bridge into the festival and finished at Evernia Street and Flagler Drive The pianists played everything from Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl" to Jimmy Buffet's "I Don't Know and I Don't Care" as the crowd happily sang along dished out signature shrimp tacos and crabcake sliders that were a huge hit was Sharon Shortt's coconut shrimp and pineapple chicken 2012: Sizzling music and temperatures for 30th anniversaryThe 30th anniversary featured Cinco de Mayo on Saturday and on Sunday a "supermoon," when the moon hits its full phase at the same time it makes its closest approach to Earth fans rocked to A Rocket to the Moon band on Saturday) And it was hot with temperatures rising to the high 80s each day under the glaring sun who was helping manage the first aid tents said he saw 35 to 40 people with heat exhaustion that weekend He said a 15-year-old who did 100 push-ups on the hot concrete ended up with third-degree burns on his hands wind and just miserable conditions the first three days of the festival Thursday alone brought more than 11 inches of rain to some parts of the county and in West Palm billed as the "World's Largest Paint Party." There was one ugly incident Sunday night when Raige Hasko a senior baseball player at Palm Beach Central High School Mary's Medical Center after being stabbed during an early evening Mac Miller rap performance Hasko was later released from the hospital An open field near the intersection of Flagler Drive and Banyan Boulevard was transformed into a fully functional field hospital the first in the waterfront street festival's 32 years Broward and Miami-Dade counties managed machines and medical supplies inside a large tent and more than a dozen cots and beds were prepped bandages and gauze were stocked ahead of the event — the goal was to reduce the number of transports to city hospitals by treating on site officials estimated that 200 people received advanced levels of care and about 50 people went to local hospitals SunFest got some competition the same weekend from Tampa's inaugural Big Guava Music Festival The festival spent more than $3 million on entertainment and staging expenses The festival's total budget was roughly $7 million But the big weekend draw — at least for kids — was the "Meet The Minions" event Hundreds of little ones came through the kid-centric attraction that included a hula hoop station a 20-foot climbing tower and a long slide and an unlimited bounce house area Wednesday was arguably the biggest of the five-day event as Meghan Trainor and Duran Duran opened the festival "Duran Duran and Meghan Trainor were both given offers on different days," SunFest Executive Director Paul Jamieson said because of scheduling they both wound up on Wednesday There were all those years that we couldn't get anyone to do that night." There was some concern about how Trainor would sound after vocal cord surgery halted her North American Tour in 2015 but she delivered a knockout concert and told the crowd “I honestly haven’t performed since I had the surgery The 34th edition spent $30,000 to refresh its longstanding food court rebranded "The Eatery" — a collaboration with the Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival Menus and booths were updated for a friendlier ambiance Local star chef Lindsay Autry was behind some of the new dishes served at the nearly 20 kiosks The ride-sharing company offered free rides (up to $20) to those who had never used the service before 'art district' and Snoop DoggThemed food courts a pop-up lounge and an “art district” were new additions The Diner and the Fueling Station were added The Diner was a 1950s-themed malt shop offering items including ice cream The Fueling Station was a gas-station-themed row of vendors near the Ford stage that sold grab-and-go items The juried art show was replaced by an interactive "art district” that showcased a traveling pottery wheel and an 8-foot electric guitar sculpture A woman accused an Uber driver of sexual assault after he drove the woman to her condominium in Jupiter The man was later acquitted on one of the charges as many as 150 phones were stolen during SunFest One man was arrested on Saturday night and police found 29 cellphones in his backpack Organizers nixed a Wednesday start because of costs According to Executive Director Paul Jamieson at least in part because of the rise of competing festivals nationally and in South Florida During that time admissions prices also rose 32% 305 Worldwide Armando Christian Perez (aka Pitbull) Logic and Grammy and Golden Globe nominated Nick Jonas were all smash hits SunFesters were greeted with about 180 inflatable colorful balls from 18 inches to 9 feet in diameter Brightline's debut was a big assist for Miami and Fort Lauderdale festivalgoers especially after the luxury train service offered 50% discount tickets and extended the hours for its express passenger train schedule leaving West Palm Beach The Brightline train station was about a 10-minute walk from SunFest SunFest Executive Director Paul Jamieson was determined to get a big country music star and he got his wish when country megastar Keith Urban committed to the 2019 festival picked SunFest over the Tortuga Music Festival in Fort Lauderdale The biggest country star we’ve ever had,” Jamieson said the new version of the popular Waterfront Hospitality section The new section featured updated lounge furniture chef-curated food and an upgraded shaded area The experience focused on a chic party atmosphere also included two drinks and unlimited food which were new standing-room only spot in front of stages for individual acts the final fireworks show was rolled out as organizers canceled the light show the next year One RepublicSingle-day ticket: $602020: Coronavirus (remember that?) shuts down the partyThe music festival was canceled Friday March 13 "in the best interest of public health and safety," event organizers announced in response to the coronavirus outbreak Organizers said the decision was made after meetings with West Palm Beach city officials Ron Desantis' request that events attracting large crowds be postponed officials had called off the Sunday fireworks finale a few months before Executive Director Paul Jamieson cited a lack of enthusiasm for the fireworks some of the acts that had committed to the 2020 festival included Adam Lambert organizers ended efforts to host even an altered version of the annual waterfront event in the spring Organizers had tentative plans for a scaled-down spread-out festival from April 29 to May 2 Plans called for two fenced concert stages instead of three with socially distanced seating for audiences in addition to multiple free concerts art shows and other events that would stretch along Clematis and other downtown streets But despite the months-long attempt to devise a pandemic-safe music festival "We have seen a growing uncertainty from artists about putting their fans into a large music festival setting," said Paul Jamieson we have determined that we cannot go forward for 2021." Jamieson did announce that fans who bought a ticket for 2020 would be able to bring one friend for free in 2022 Clematis by Night and SunFest had teamed up to announce four Mini Music Fests at the West Palm Beach waterfront on Thursday nights SunFest came roaring back (with limited attendance) after a three-year hiatus festival goers could buy daily or multi-day tickets and attend any day they liked they had to register the days they wanted to attend for their tickets to be activated The festival also has set maximum capacities for attendance each day It limited Thursday and Friday to 25,000 people per day Past years saw 30,000 patrons Thursday and Friday and 60,000 on the weekend "Even on the days where we had terrible weather the energy at the festival has been amazing I think our fans are just happy to be back with their friends on the waterfront and we are certainly happy to see them!" Executive Director Paul Jamieson said The festival started showing signs of financial trouble as it cut back to three days from four and from two stages to three The bands also catered to a younger audience with The Chainsmokers Flo Rida and A Boogie wit da Hoodie leading the way Organizers cited rising costs in areas such as insurance security and booking acts as contributing to the cutback Multiple VIP packages were offered — The Stand VIP Silver and three-day Super VIP Gold for $3,400 for two that offered admission viewing stage seating among other amenities The 2023 waterfront festival was also the last for Executive Director Paul Jamieson 2024: A 40th edition rolls out new Electronic Barge Sandbar StageAfter cutting back to two stages in 2023 featuring the the new Sandbar Stage dedicated to local performers Organizers also added the SunFest Electronic Barge whose album Rebel Yell coincidentally was released in 1983 rocked the house on opening night while Third Eye Blind closed the doors Sunday night The organization did not announce a new date but promised that it was exploring "new dates fresh venues and formats" to keep the festival alive "We are not saying SunFest is going away," read the statement posted on its website and to its social media accounts "Just taking some time to create something new and fresh." The six candidates seeking seats on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council participated in a forum Monday sharing their vision for the community and answering questions on an array of topics Moderated by retired news anchor Jim Sackett the forum featured candidates running in the upcoming municipal election on Tuesday March 11 for the Mayor’s Seat and Group 3 Seat on the council The forum was hosted by the Town-Crier with support from the Village of Royal Palm Beach the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County The candidates for mayor include the incumbent who was appointed to the post following the unexpected passing of former Mayor Fred Pinto last fall as well as political newcomer Justin Plaza and Vice Mayor Selena Samios the candidates were given a chance for opening statements after the unexpected passing of Mayor Fred Pinto my colleagues entrusted me to step into the role as mayor,” Hmara said I’m running to complete the remaining year of his term I’m honored to share my vision for the village Since being elected to the council back in 2012 I’ve served as vice mayor four times and work tirelessly to build relationships and deliver results for our community.” Drawing on his experience and community ties Hmara aims to strengthen public safety while improving transportation and services for senior residents Plaza voiced his concerns about the community’s ongoing issues while emphasizing that his campaign is not centered on himself “My focus is on the greater good,” Plaza said we can ensure that Royal Palm Beach thrives for years to come I look forward to hearing from each and every one of you I want to emphasize that I come to you with no hidden agenda I pledge to donate my mayoral salary to the town’s recreational sports program and other community voted initiatives.” Samios emphasized her extensive experience in the sports and entertainment fields nonprofits and the political sphere of Royal Palm Beach She stressed that she brings a diverse skill set that Samios believes will benefit the community I have had the honor and privilege of representing the residents of Royal Palm Beach I am the liaison for our senior citizen ad hoc group as well as the liaison for the Recreation Advisory Board,” Samios said “We’ve worked on our senior residents for programs and we have worked on government transparency.” Avila spoke about his roots from his years growing up in Royal Palm Beach and how that gives him an advantage allowing him to connect more with the people and their needs He also advocated for more diversity within the council “I’m running for this seat because we need representation,” Avila said and our families who are moving in are changing and the first person in my family to really graduate from college.” said that she believes her experience from her professional careers can be helpful for the council “My professional career is vast,” Pinto said “I worked at First Federal mortgage company I have been a part of various nonprofit organizations and spearheaded fundraising I’ve been a mentor for several organizations.” “I know I can be an effective council person for the Village of Royal Palm Beach from the beginning of my term I spend most of my free time working with various organizations and my own nonprofit as well as advocating for and helping to relocate domestic violence victims and their children to safety Being committed to a life of service gives me the opportunity to create a legacy that’s comprised of making a difference that can be duplicated in someone else’s life.” The first question focused on the candidates’ goals if elected starting with finding solutions to traffic issues and exploring alternative transportation methods He also aimed to help all village schools achieve “A” ratings and emphasized the importance of supporting seniors and improving parks “If you drive on Southern or Okeechobee in the morning or the evening you find yourself faced with what is considerably problematic right now,” Hmara said “And as somebody once told me the other day ‘How was your commute today?’ The appropriate answer is that it is as good as it’s going to get We have some different approaches in mind.” Plaza responded by expressing his willingness to listen to the residents emphasizing his commitment to addressing any and all concerns He believes in giving everyone a chance to voice their opinions via an online platform he has developed there will be a vote that goes out to all of the residents that they vote on with a certain threshold and criteria Samios proposed revamping and expanding the village’s recreation programs to offer more engaging and innovative activities for everyone She also emphasized supporting local businesses increasing government transparency and finding new ways to address community concerns whether you’re physically in the building or if you would like to do it remotely as well as a wrap-up with a link to the video so you can watch in case you missed anything,” Samios said “We also worked hard to get a public information specialist as a full-time employee of the village we’re pushing out more of the information so it’s easier to find out what’s going on in the village.” Avila focused on government transparency and addressing issues in schools we have some schools that can be doing a little bit better and some of that has to do with brain drain,” Avila said “That’s something I saw firsthand when I was here Everybody wanted to send their kids to Suncoast or Palm Beach Gardens but I want to make sure that our high school is more representative of the residents here in Royal Palm Beach.” Pinto said she wants to focus on the well-being of the seniors as well as addressing issues that concern the mental health status within the younger generation “Mental health assistance is truly needed,” Pinto said “Especially with our new administration’s ordinance and with the immigration population we are looking to have an even more mental health crisis with our younger population the children who will be missing their parents This is something that needs to be looked at We need to know what the plan is after the breadwinner or someone from their family has been removed Sharps also wants to focus on the traffic situation Her other main goal was centered around the idea of implementing more forums so that people can manage to voice their thoughts and opinions leading to a better understanding of all the situations so it really is important to me to allow them to have more input in their decisions and our decision-makings,” Sharps said We’ve got teachers and legislators that we can be speaking to The candidates also answered questions regarding working with the business community the delayed Tuttle Royale project and more There was a portion of the forum that included time for questions from the audience which included one regarding the proposed hotel project at Madison Green “The proposal to develop a hotel in a residential area is something I find to be fundamentally incompatible,” Hmara said “The buildings as they were proposed are three-story buildings which are much taller than any of the other buildings that we have there and they are certainly likely to bring additional traffic.” “I don’t think putting a hotel in the middle of a residential neighborhood is a good idea There’s no reason to have it in the middle there.” “It is very touchy because it is in the middle of a neighborhood Yet the need for a hotel in the village is increasing,” Samios said The feedback we’ve received from the residents is that they do not want it and I’ve not received information from residents who say they are for it.” “I am worried about the effect that it will have but it’s something that could continue to be discussed I’m open to all people of Royal Palm Beach to talk about it,” Avila said “But as a council person sitting at this dais I’m responsible to the residents of this community And if the residents in that neighborhood don’t want that project the candidates made a final pitch to the voters and I think everybody agrees that Royal Palm Beach is a very special place,” Hmara said “It’s a community that actually is rooted in family values and inclusivity which is an important part of its character I’ve worked really hard to maintain that character while embracing the opportunities that change provides.” “My goal here is to come in and I’m going to read through the budget That money is going to go directly back into the town No way we’re going to raise any rates or have any additional taxes I don’t want it to change… The last few meetings I’ve been in here I want to give the town back to the people “I’m proud to have led the way for our seniors local businesses and for government transparency since I’ve been elected,” Samios said “I’m a graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County and Leadership Palms West I have a good understanding of how Palm Beach County works and the role that Royal Palm Beach has in it I will preserve the village’s unique character and charm for the future of Royal Palm Beach by continuing to fight to reduce traffic congestion and manage growth responsibly.” “I really had the opportunity of a lifetime last year to run for office getting the opportunity to meet so many of my fellow Royal Palm Beachers and to continue to do that now,” Avila said “I want to put Royal Palm Beach on the map and I want people to be proud to say that they’re from Royal Palm Beach “My husband and I have prided ourselves on public service the last piece is always the hardest to find,” Sharps said “It’s usually somewhere in the table mixed in with other things on the floor and you can never find it… I believe that I am that last piece for the puzzle that is missing from the council.” The entire forum is available to watch online through Royal Palm Beach’s YouTube page or directly at www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mljBK1kOgM WEST PALM BEACH — Walking down the aisle under fluorescent lights in a sterile hospital room wearing wires to monitor her vitals wasn't what Meghan Fretenborough imagined when she pictured her wedding day But the day she married her high school sweetheart Gerald Garcia weeks before he expects a military deployment turned out to be everything she ever wanted Her bouquet of white and blue roses complemented her white dress covered in a blue floral print and she was surrounded by people she loves “I’ve had a lot of nerves … (but) I am very happy who planned the wedding in all of one week “This turned out to be a whole little service.” Love story: West Palm couple in their 100s closing in on U.S. record for longest marriage Fretenborough’s wedding was forced inside the walls of Room 470 at Good Samaritan when the West Palm Beach hospital admitted her two weeks ago after doctors diagnosed her with aplastic anemia a rare blood disorder that can be life-threatening where the bone marrow cannot produce enough blood cells She hasn’t been allowed to leave the hospital since because she is under close observation a hematologist and oncologist at Good Samaritan said she might be released in a couple of weeks Inspiration: A Jupiter after-school center kept going after its beloved founder died. Thank her nephew. High school sweethearts didn't let blood disorder delay their dayThe diagnosis came as a shock and threw her life into perspective She didn’t let it stop her from marrying Garcia the two scheduled to wed at the Palm Beach County Courthouse on April 28 but moved the location a mile to the northeast They wanted to marry before he gets deployed “I want my family to stick together,” said Garcia I’ve always thought we were always married.” The couple met more than 12 years ago at Boynton Beach High School and have been inseparable ever since who sprinkled blue petals on the floor as the flower girl who ran into his mom’s arms after the service Valentine's Day in Palm Beach County: Newlyweds share their secrets to keeping love alive A team of about 10 nurses helped plan the wedding One baked a two-tiered vanilla and chocolate wedding cake others set up blue-and-white decorations and another posted on a “Wellington Moms” Facebook group asking for people to donate to the wedding wedding photographer and a plate of freshly baked donuts spelling out “MR” and “MRS” 'All in this together': Live Spanish translation the star of this 'High School Musical' performance “This wouldn't have happened without them and they kept me calm for the whole thing,” Fretenborough said to be able to have support from them and see the donations welled up with tears outside of the hospital room as she waited for guests to arrive She envisioned her son getting married somewhere outside with trees and sunshine The sunny view outside the hospital window reminded her of that but I am so happy and excited that they have come to this,” said Burbano Maya Washburn covers northern Palm Beach County for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida-Network. Reach her at mwashburn@pbpost.com. Support local journalism: Subscribe today Hmara garnered 1,498 votes (58.33 percent) while Vice Mayor Selena Samios took 928 votes (36.14 percent) Candidate Justin Plaza got 142 votes (5.53 percent) Hmara claimed a one-year term to fill the unexpired portion of Pinto’s term “I am honored to be able to continue to serve as the mayor,” Hmara said after his election victory but to all of the voters who came out to express their desires and opinions so we can work together for the greater good of Royal Palm Beach.” Sylvia Sharps narrowly claimed victory with 984 votes (40.31 percent) leading Steve Avila with 965 votes (39.53 percent) — a 19-vote margin of victory placed third with 492 votes (20.16 percent) your belief in me and honoring me with your vote I promised that I would be a representative of the people inviting residents to call her if they need anything Hmara and Sharps were set to take the oath of office Thursday March 20 during the village’s annual reorganizational meeting Hmara met with supporters after the polls closed at the Royal Palm Brewing Company He said that it is now time to get to work “We will have a new village council with two brand-new council members and a newly elected mayor and an opportunity to continue those things that are really sound and making changes with fresh eyes and fresh leadership.” Hmara believes that his many years of community service gave him the edge in the election “I think a lot of the voters know me and [my wife] Carolyn because we spend a tremendous amount of time out in the community listening to people,” he said “We put forward a vision that makes sense to most community members and something we can actually achieve.” This will require working with other people and other government entities “It is always about relationships,” Hmara added His first goal is for the new council to “come together around a strategic planning activity and come to a common vision and direction.” “I am excited about having the new members to bring us together in a new way,” Hmara said His priorities remain dealing with the village’s traffic woes through a coherent traffic master plan as a collaborative effort and doing more to support village schools “Our Education Advisory Board has done some great things in bringing together our schools with the village,” Hmara said even if we have limited ability to influence the school district.” He aims to bring more educational initiatives and help all village schools improve their ratings Hmara is also looking forward to the upcoming expansion and refurbishment of the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center “It has been in need of a facelift and makeover for a long time,” he said adding that the expansion will allow for more senior programs Hmara noted that there are also challenges ahead “The penny sales tax will expire soon,” he said “We have done a great job of creating a financially sound foundation for Royal Palm Beach It will be a challenge moving forward without that revenue source but we’ve gotten the majority of our capital improvement needs out of the way.” Hmara is very pleased by the support he found across the community “What pleased me to no end was the visible support,” he said Sharps gathered with her supporters on election night at Duffy’s in the Crestwood Square shopping plaza She was honored to be the top choice of voters in the three-way race and they know and respect my background and what I have done,” Sharps said “They have given me the opportunity to prove what I said I would do which is to be a representative of the people.” Sharps has already met with village officials to begin to get herself up to speed “I have already been given my books to read,” she said I want to get to know my fellow representatives better and find out where their heads are at.” She also wants to “get together with the group studying traffic issues and learn more about the recreation center project to see if it can be accelerated.” Sharps wants to continue meeting with constituents and talk to the village’s volunteer committee members to find out more about what they want She will also be reviewing the village budget to “determine if anything is needed by the residents that is not there or if I have any ideas that may make the budget more effective.” and I will do the best job that I possibly can,” Sharps said much like the lyrics to the 1973 Hall & Oates classic but with any luck the cool weather will linger for a few more weeks get out there and live it up while you can at the Bike Rodeo in Royal Palm Beach a community yard sale in Palm Beach Gardens and more (This story has been updated to correct information about the Pride Parade start time.) This two-day festival at Bryant Park in Lake Worth Beach will showcase the resilience and progress of the LGBTQ+ community and will feature live performances entertainment for all ages along with food and beverage vendors March 30 and will follow Lucerne Avenue west cut over at J Street to Lake Avenue and then proceeds to Bryant Park The event is noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 29 and Sunday, March 30. Bryant Park, South Golfview Avenue and Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach. Presale $10, general admission $12, 18 and younger free. Information: compasslgbtq.com/palmbeachpride Swede Fest: Bad Movies by Good PeopleCelebrating its 10th anniversary and held at the Lake Worth Playhouse this no-budget film festival featuring four-minute remakes of Hollywood hits will kick off the L-Dub Film Festival These laughably bad remakes feature found props great imagination and showcase underground talent Some of this year's entries include: "The Little Mermaid," "Lethal Ghostbuster Weapon," and "Barbie Movie: The Prequel." The event is 6 p.m. Friday, March 28. 713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Information: swedefestpalmbeach.org; facebook.com/swedefestpalmbeach Get ready to drop the hammer and pedal your hearts out in this free an intermediate 4-mile race and a 3-mile race for beginners Free T-shirts for the first 75 participants The event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 29. 11600 Poinciana Blvd., Royal Palm Beach. Free. Information: royalpalmbeachfl.gov 60th Anniversary Celebration-the Downtown Festival at Royal Palm PlaceCelebrate this historic landmark retail center in Boca Raton with an antique & supercar car show a mural painting that attendees can participate in The event is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 29. 201 Plaza Real S., Boca Raton. Free. Information: royalpalmplace.com Taking place at the City Hall Municipal Campus is another man's treasure" as you explore this diverse selection of unique items and hidden treasures at during the sale Bonus: The Symphonia's 20th Anniversary Season: "Concert IV: Neighboring Bach"This show will feature The Symphonia’s principal conductor and artistic advisor This concert will take the audience back to Köthen where the great Johann Sebastian Bach lived in 1723 Willis has guest conducted orchestras around the world including the Chicago Symphony The show is 7 p.m. Saturday, March 29. 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton. $55. Information: thesymphonia.org; 561-376-3848 This celebration will feature cold foods including fresh fruit and carving stations featuring french turkey breast with gravy and beef tenderlion with horseradish cream sauce The event is Sunday, April 20 with seatings at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. 105 Barbados Drive, Jupiter. Adults $65, children $20. RSVP by April 16. Information: farah@abacoagolfclub.com; abacoa.com/AbacoaGolfClub countywide list of restaurants offering Easter and Passover dinner specials and brunches will be posted online in the next few weeks The Village of Royal Palm Beach hosted its annual Daddy Daughter Dance on Saturday March 15 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center with a “Disney Sing-Along” theme Family couples danced the night away and even had a chance to sing on stage Three candidates are seeking the open Group 3 seat on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council in the municipal election set for Tuesday who ran unsuccessfully against late Mayor Fred Pinto last year The winner will serve a two-year council term Also on the ballot is a three-way race for mayor, featuring Mayor Jeff Hmara, Justin Plaza and Vice Mayor Selena Samios (see related story here) Steve Avila — Making his second attempt at village office Avila grew up in the community and graduated at the top of his class at Royal Palm Beach High School in 2007 before attending Dartmouth College The whole point of me running is to give back to the hometown that raised me I am proud to be from Royal Palm Beach,” he said While he did not win his campaign for mayor last year Avila said he learned a great deal from the experience I was very thankful that I had about 40 percent of the people vote for me,” he said “It instilled in me the confidence that there is a need for change and an appetite for change.” Avila believes that he is the best person to fill the open seat on the council “I have relationships with elected officials at different levels of government,” he said “I can leverage those relationships when needed I have been endorsed by many officials at all levels of government and have relationships on both sides of the aisle.” His top priority once elected is to enact term limits “This council has the belief that every election is a referendum on term limits It just entrenches the people who are already on the council I would fight for term limits on the council,” Avila said He also supports more responsible development with a focus on lower density “I am weary of turning Royal Palm Beach into West Palm Beach density is something we should be looking at,” Avila said “I am also concerned about the brain drain at middle schools and high schools I want to enact programs that encourage Royal Palm Beach students to go to Crestwood and Crestwood students to go to Royal Palm Beach High School.” Avila wants to protect Royal Palm Beach’s “Mayberry-esque” nature “That growth must continue to fall in line with our special and unique character.” Regarding traffic concerns in the community Avila said that is more of a county and state issue “A lot of our roads are county and state roads Something like the State Road 7 extension is mostly out of our control,” he said stressing that Royal Palm Beach should not make things worse by “only approving projects that don’t do more damage to the traffic issue while also working with different levels of government.” He is very supportive of the village’s parks and recreation programs “The 23 parks we have are like a jewel for our community,” Avila said “We have done a very good job with parks and recreation.” He gives the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office an A grade for keeping the village safe but they have dramatically improved,” Avila said He periodically gives us updates on the village The top crime we see is people being a little too trusting and leaving their doors unlocked the PBSO does a great job keeping us safe.” He is most proud that Royal Palm Beach is a great place to raise a family with great parks and great schools I would be the first homegrown member of the council I have seen it change since my family moved here in 1997 so I feel I have a personal stake in it,” Avila said “This is more of a personal thing to me than anything I want to give back to the community that has raised me.” He sees a generational and cultural divide between the village’s current population and the council there has never been a Hispanic person on the council they are shocked that someone of my age and my background is even running,” Avila said “We have reached a new milestone where there are people like me who are running You can be from Royal Palm Beach and eventually join the council.” Learn more about Avila at www.avilaforrpb.com Donielle Pinto — Pinto is running to protect and continue her late husband’s 21-year legacy of service to Royal Palm Beach “I have community and political experience especially as it relates to public service,” she said “I partnered with my husband in accomplishing what he did through his tenure The late mayor “wanted the village to remain debt-free and for the surplus to grow,” and he also “wanted the status of Royal Palm Beach as one of the safest communities to continue,” Pinto explained “Strong passion and intelligent good governance are what my husband exemplified He was continually preparing me for a position on the council,” she said “We talked about a lot regarding the village and the best interests of the citizens.” Deciding to run was not a difficult choice for Pinto My husband’s passing fueled resilience in me — and knowing what he wanted to continue in the village I want the village to continue to be vibrant and I want families to continue to thrive.” Pinto wants to follow through with the many projects on the table like the expansion of the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center She also does not support the idea of term limits “It has taken time for the village to accomplish what it has especially under my husband’s leadership,” she explained plan and execute the changes for the better.” She is a supporter of environmental issues and wants to see continual improvement in the village “I also would like to see a community garden It would truly benefit our youth and assist them with taking more ownership in the village assist in keeping their mental health strong,” Pinto said “And it would be fabulous to have a Citizen Appreciation Day.” She would also like to implement additional programs to support small businesses and young people “My vision is to assist with more revenue with our local business perhaps through a business directory,” Pinto said “We need more village activities for our youth to welcome them to get more involved as well as more volunteer activities for our youth I would like to implement a survey for our youth and residents.” Since the village is surrounded by fast-growing areas “we should embrace it and channel it to where it can benefit us It would be nice for that traffic to patronize our businesses,” Pinto said She believes that the village needs more mass transit options but having buses come into the village more regularly would eliminate vehicles,” Pinto said “There is a lot of aggression on the road and having our buses was very helpful We need more PSAs to show people the benefits She also wants to see the village do more outreach to senior citizens “I want to provide more well checks for our seniors who live alone and are physically challenged We can help register them with our 211 service,” Pinto said families and businesses to resources that are already available.” Pinto believes that there needs to be more maintenance and upkeep as well as more youth volunteer opportunities “We can implement a local campaign similar to ‘Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful’ to help with regular upkeep of our parks,” she suggested She fully supports the work of the PBSO in the village It would be great to see PSAs or little safety tips available to help to keep our sheriff’s deputies safe,” Pinto said “We need to help keep them safe by following the rules of the road and being good neighbors.” She is very proud of Royal Palm Beach as a vibrant “I love and care for our citizens and our village,” Pinto said you are open to doing what is needed for the best care and well-being of the community.” To learn more, visit “Donielle Pinto” on Facebook Sylvia Sharps — With experience in county and federal government Sharps has previously run for the Palm Beach County Commission She is proud of her work background as a 30-year grant writer communication skills and the relationships that I have developed over the years with representatives on the county She takes a hands-on approach to her volunteer work “It is easy to say you went to an event to feed the homeless,” Sharps said “It is another thing to actually be the person to cook the food and bring it to the event.” She is a domestic violence survivor who now works to help others “He beat me while I was pregnant with my only child who died several hours after he was born,” Sharps said but you can’t do for other people unless you love yourself Going through that gave me the fortitude to never give up.” Aside from her volunteer and ministry work Sharps said that she brings many years of government service to the table “I have been effective in Palm Beach County The Lake Region Water Treatment Plant was my project that I worked on,” she said Her unsuccessful runs for the county commission changed her outlook on service as an elected official I realized that I am more effective when I work in my own circle and my own neighborhood,” Sharps said “Working one-on-one with residents is much easier I want to be a part of what is happening now and the strategic plan for the future.” “I love being able to work as a unit,” she said “My background in grant management gives me the skills I need to be effective and a problem solver.” Her focus on the council will be on traffic you are going to do something about it,” Sharps said adding that she is glad to see the willingness of the county and municipalities to work together “I know the majority of the school board members We can assist our schools to be A schools.” She wants to work on a strategic plan for the village with a focus on “balanced growth” with a priority on infrastructure “Having a clear vision of what the residents want is key to the decisions that need to be made,” Sharps said She also wants to maintain the village’s debt-free status emphasize quality of life and enhance civic engagement “You have to have a strategic plan to make a vision become a reality You also be honest with the growth and know what you can sustain,” Sharps said She loves the village’s park system and supports the current plan to expand the rec center She also wants to add another pavilion at Commons Park that gives direct access to the stage “We also need to engage senior citizens more,” Sharps said They want to be in charge of committees and help promote business She said that part of responsible growth is having more affordable housing “We need to work with the county and developers and landlords to get more affordable housing options,” Sharps said “I would like them to be more realistic about what residents can afford.” She loves the partnership she sees between the PBSO “I see their responsiveness to our needs,” Sharps said but they put their life on the line all the time She is very proud of the village’s beautiful parks and neighborhoods “I am proud of our council and the projects that they do I am proud that we have a lot to offer our taxpaying residents The many free events matter so much to me,” Sharps said Sharps noted that she has been endorsed by the firefighters/paramedics union and they know what I have done in the county throughout my life,” she said Sharps said that residents should vote for her because she is dedicated to a life of service and will always listen to them They should vote for me because of those things,” Sharps said “I will make sure that I communicate with the residents You have to put them first or you will not be effective.” Learn more about Sharps at www.sylviasharps.com Royal Palm Beach High School has announced it is hiring Sam Curry as its head football coach Curry served as the offensive coordinator for Royal Palm Beach last season helping guide the team to a 7-4 record under head coach Chuck Kenyon "As a long-standing pillar in the Royal Palm community and vice president of the youth football league we are confident that coach Curry's leadership and passion for the game will be an asset for the growth and success of our football program," the school said in a statement posted to social media "Excited to continue seeing the journey this team is on," Kenyon responded to the announcement on X are moving to Winder in north Georgia to take a new role at Apalachee High School where a shooting devastated the community in September While Kenyon will be attempting to make his mark elsewhere he is confident that his Wildcats football program will continue to blossom under its new leadership "Royal Palm is in good hand with Sam Curry as the head coach," Kenyon said Royal Palm Beach held a 12-21 record across Kenyon's three-year tenure which resulted in an at-large regional berth Alex Peterman covers high school sports for The Palm Beach Post He can be reached at apeterman@gannett.com the Palm Beach Post Editorial Board recommended voters choose Steve Avila in the March 11 race to fill the Royal Palm Beach Village Council Group 3 seat on the dais due to a clerical error that delayed the interview of one of the candidates but necessary step of rescinding that earlier endorsement in the Group 3 race in favor of candidate Sylvia L Royal Palm Beach voters should elect Sharps to that seat if they want the best chance of addressing the village's issues with an experienced The change is not the fault of Avila but the Post Editorial Board's Sharps was never afforded the opportunity to participate in our candidate endorsement process Once the editorial board realized that error and heard her views and priorities for Royal Palm Beach we realized that she was the stronger candidate and thus are changing our recommendation in this race has lived in Royal Palm Beach for 10 years and has a wealth of voluntary experience in community organizations and countywide contacts from working with other local governments she is endorsed by Palm Beach County Congresswoman Lois Frankel Sharps also has clear-eyed vision in her approach to the issues facing the village Sharps would prioritize addressing traffic congestion by working with the county and neighboring communities to find alternative methods of transportation and supporting the long-delayed extension of State Road 7 She would also push to address the growing need for more affordable housing for young people and families and help expedite the renovation of the village's beloved recreational center Avila and Doniele Pinto are the other candidates in this race Pinto has name recognition as the widow of the late Mayor Fred Pinto and Avila with more time and experience in village affairs will become a better candidate for the council Sharps is the most knowledgeable candidate and the Post Editorial Board urges Royal Beach voters to choose her The Post Editorial Board recommends voters do just that There are two other candidates seeking the seat the executive director of the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County and the town's vice mayor Post editorial Board endorsements: Palm Beach Post Editorial Board endorsements for March 11 municipal elections now is the time to live it up in South Florida Embrace the wonderful weather and get those spurs a janglin' at West Fest in Royal Palm Beach check out some amazing vehicles at the Muscle on the Beach Car Show in Delray Beach hoist a few pints at the Pop-Up Biergarten in Wellington and more Dust of your boots and kick up your heels for the 2025 version of this classic event Mitch Herrick and the HomeGrown Sinners and more There will be a Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show on Saturday and Sunday Muscle on the Beach car show at Old School SquareHosted by International TV Star Mike Brewer of the Discovery/Motor Trend Hit Series “Wheeler Dealers,” this event will feature 150 cars representing the muscle car age the Wheels From The Heart event where a car will be given away to a deserving single mother and the awards ceremony where judges will present 18 awards to the best of the best show entries “This event has grown to be Florida’s premier American muscle car event,” said George Walden Proceeds will benefit Nam Knights of America Palm Beach PBC Firefighters Pipes and Drums and the PBC Firefighter Benevolent Fund The event is noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 2. 2905 Jog Road, Greenacres. Event free, chili tasting advance $20, at gate $25. Information: 561-642-2090; greenacresfl.gov Pop-Up Biergarten at the Wellington AmphitheaterEnjoy a delicious selection of German beers and other German-themed foods for purchase There will also be keepsake boots and steins for sale with discounted prices for refills There will be live music by Bavarian Bob on Friday and Chet & Carolyn on Saturday Music and stein-hoisting contests will round out the free The event is 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28 and Saturday, March 1. 12100 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. Free. Information: wellingtonfl.gov Put on by Friendship House Boca to support programs for individuals of all ages with special needs in South Florida this event will feature an opening ceremony one-mile walk and entertainment including carnival rides a rock climbing wall and an acrobatic performance by the ChicagoBoyz (made famous from their appearance on America’s Got Talent) The event is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 2. 20405 Amphitheater Circle, Boca Raton. Free. Information: walk4friendshipboca.com Bonus: Pickle & Plunge West Palm BeachHeld at CityPickle West Palm Beach this wellness event hosted by The Cold Collective WPB will feature pickleball and cold plunges as well as spin classes by Soul Cycle The event is 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 2. 545 Hibiscus St., West Palm Beach. Tickets start at $30. Information: eventbrite.com (This story was updated to add new information and because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.) ROYAL PALM BEACH — Six-term council member Jeff Hmara won his first term as Royal Palm Beach mayor Tuesday, according to preliminary results from the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office. Hmara received nearly 60% of the vote in defeating Selena Samios Sylvia Sharps appears to have won the Village Council seat that Samios left to run for mayor receiving 40.28% of the vote to his 39.58% Royal Palm Beach election code only calls for runoff elections when the top two candidates receive the same amount of votes Other communities have them when no candidate receives at least 50% of the ballots cast Elections officials will certify the vote in the coming days It was not known as of noon Thursday whether Sharps' margin of victory was close enough to trigger a recount Army and a village resident for over 20 years is the first person elected mayor in Royal Palm Beach since Fred Pinto won the job more than 12 years ago and the council appointed Hmara to fill the mayor's role Donielle Pinto, the former mayor’s widow, ran for the Village Council seat and got 20% of the vote, according to preliminary results The election comes at a time when Royal Palm Beach is facing growth pressures with new developments like Tuttle Royale and an increase in traffic congestion The village is also in the process of renovating its Recreation Center Council members Richard Valuntas and Jan Rodusky ran unopposed to serve two-year terms who was appointed to the council when Hmara became mayor also was unopposed and will retain his seat until 2026 Westbound Royal Palm Way will be closed overnight Friday into Saturday with both westbound lanes shut down between South County Road and Hibiscus Avenue approved a permit to allow a crane in the right-of-way at 249 Royal Palm Way Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic to follow detour signs Drivers can take a road either north or south of Royal Palm Way to travel west to Cocoanut Row then take Cocoanut to Royal Palm Way to continue westbound travel Former Royal Palm Beach star Triston McKenzie is waiting for a new home The Cleveland Guardians designated McKenzie signaling the end to the pitcher's time on the team's 40-man roster Following an impressive 2022 season in which he appeared primed to become the Guardians' long-term ace an injury-shortened 2023 season led to command issues and a bloated 11.12 ERA and 2.47 WHIP spanning four appearances out of the bullpen at the start of the 2025 season Teams will have seven days to sign McKenzie Cleveland will have the option to release him More: Cleveland Guardians pitcher Triston McKenzie is 'good to go' after injury-riddled 2023 DFS decision a far-cry from Triston McKenzie's 2022 statsDespite starting the season with an unblemished effort against the San Diego Padres three subsequent appearances have ballooned McKenzie's stats to an 11.12 ERA and 2.47 WHIP on the year It's possible the final straw for Cleveland was a poor late-inning outing against the Baltimore Orioles in which McKenzie allowed four earned runs on on three hits that nearly doubles his earned run average on the year The rough start to the 2025 season has been a disappointment for Cleveland who watched their young pitcher's fall from grace after an impressive 2022 campaign McKenzie compiled a 2.96 ERA across 31 games (30 starts) as the team's No McKenzie held the third-best ERA in the American League McKenzie was signed on a $1.95 million contract prior to the start of the 2025 season Despite being on contract for multiple years past this year the new deal was helpful in avoiding arbitration The deal was agreed on by both parties despite McKenzie's struggles in 2024 a season in which he pitched to a 5.11 ERA across 16 starts following an injury-riddled 2023 season that saw the pitcher tally just four starts In conjunction with McKenzie's designation for assignment has compiled a 2.35 ERA and 0.91 ERA across five minor league appearances this year allowing just a .125 batting average across those games with 7.2 innings pitched Kent was previously on the Guardians' major league roster but when he makes his first appearance this year We want to hear about the good things happening where you live and some of the big challenges that we can tackle together at Crestwood Park North in Royal Palm Beach — Voters have voted Jeff Hmara in as their new mayor in Tuesday's Palm Beach County municipal elections Hmara, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and former city councilman, had been acting mayor following former Mayor Fred Pinto's death in September 2024 WPTV spoke with Hmara moments after the win Tuesday evening and Hmara expressed excitement to attack some key issues for Royal Palm Beach residents WATCH: WPTV Reporter Michael Hoffman speaks with newly-elected Royal Palm Beach Mayor Jeff Hmara "I feel like all the hard work has really paid off." acting vice mayor with a background in marketing He was also running against political newcomer and entrepreneur Justin Plaza “Everything worked exactly as I planned,” said Plaza “All the goals I set out to achieve have been accomplished and (Hmara) will be a fantastic mayor.” Samios was unable to be reached for comment Hamra's main goals as mayor include focusing on schools As he looks to the future he acknowledges the past and the shoes that he now has to fill “I don't think it will be hard for me to continue what (Pinto ) has laid out and again to take it to another level,” said Hmara “Building out with (Pinto) I really appreciate what he laid a foundation and he is missed Traffic alert: Royal Palm Way closing set for March 8 set for March 11Palm Beach Daily NewsA number of road closings are on tap in Palm Beach in the coming days according to release from the town on Friday both travel lanes heading eastbound on Royal Palm Way at the Hibiscus intersection will be closed the Florida Department of Transportation has permitted work that allows a crane to be in the right-of-way to replace A/C units at 240 Royal Palm Way and traffic will be directed to follow the detour signage More: South Ocean Blvd. to close March 7 until further notice ahead of Trump visit to Palm Beach the town's Water Resource Division will perform maintenance on the stormwater pumping station at the west end of Clarendon Avenue local traffic will be allowed to connect only from Clarendon Avenue to Via Serena The town is encouraging motorists to use alternative routes during this closure contact Water Resource Manager Jeff Coleman at 561-227-7018 or jcoleman@townofpalmbeach.com the Lake Worth Inlet will be closed to all traffic from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m while the contractor installs a pipe across its mouth Per the schedule for the Lake Worth Inlet maintenance dredging project the contractor will be dredging the inlet for 12 to 14 days starting Tuesday Additional details are posted on the town's coastal management webpage (CBS12) — Crews from Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR) had to respond to a retail business after a car crashed into its reception area the crash happened on Friday at around 1:35 p.m When units arrived at the scene they found one vehicle completely inside the reception area of a retail business See also: Man sentenced to 15 years for bank robbery after high-speed chase in Fort Pierce Responding crews say no one was injured as a result of the crash and no one needed to be taken to a hospital Photos show a gray Lexus sedan in what appears to be a tire store Video shows the car being lifted onto the tow truck Units remained on scene until a Royal Palm Beach inspector arrived to assess the building The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office is investigating the crash The 2025 Royal Palm Beach Seafood Festival returns to Commons Park on Saturday This free and family-friendly annual event brings thousands of visitors to the area and has a little something for everyone Guests will enjoy a great lineup of live music and entertainment and will have the opportunity to shop a grand assortment of vendors featuring everything from clothing and jewelry to unique and nautical-themed merchandise vendors and exhibitors as the Royal Palm Beach Seafood Festival celebrates the love of all things seafood with delicious dishes ranging from fish There will be plenty of landlubber foods to choose from as well and large shade tents and pavilions will be on site for dining comfort Enjoy tropical drinks and ice-cold beer as you spend the day eating Kids can burn off some energy in the free “Little Fins Kids’ Zone” with bounce houses children of all ages will have the opportunity to meet a mermaid and should be on the lookout for pirate characters roaming about Be sure to check out the giant inflatable great white shark exhibit Guests will hear everything from rock to reggae and pop/punk Sunday will feature Gary Roland and the Landsharks Band Visit www.royalpalmbeachseafoodfestival.com for a schedule of performance times Royal Palm Beach Commons Park is located at 11600 Poinciana Blvd The 2025 Royal Palm Beach Seafood Festival is presented and produced by POTTC Events and sponsored in part by the Village of Royal Palm Beach Pirate Radio of the Treasure Coast and Phrenchi a continuation under new leadership — began after Kenyon approached Royal Palm Beach about stepping down to pursue his next calling After spending three years helping the Wildcats emerge from mediocrity the veteran coach received a call from a new head coach in northern Georgia seeking help Under new leadership: Royal Palm Beach football promotes Sam Curry to be new head coach Apalachee High School hired Kevin Saunders to lead the football team a shooting took the lives of four people at the school — two students and two teachers — and injured nine others The defensive coordinator was one of the two teachers killed leading the former head coach to resign amid the emotional and physical turmoil that had struck the team and community Kenyon heard a call for help that he couldn't ignore "He got my number and he called me and gave a sales pitch and it really struck a chord with me," Kenyon said Kenyon and his wife Gina sold their house and bought a 40-foot motor home So when the decision to move to North Georgia was made it took them two hours before they were on the road "Not only is this guy having to rebuild a program I feel like Royal Palm is headed in the right direction We're going with our heads held high to the next chapter of our lives and we're also going up to help this situation." Much like the situation with Royal Palm Beach football Apalachee is in need of its next chapter on and off the field having gone 0-28 in the last three seasons If anyone can help a program find its footing who led Royal Palm from a 1-9 record in the 2021-22 season back into relevancy finishing with a 7-4 record and a berth in the regional tournament last season The music grew bolder, bigger and louder during the course of SunFest's magical 42-year run before coming to a sudden stop this year In many ways, the origins of West Palm Beach's waterfront extravaganza are a reflection of how the city evolved over the past four decades starting out in the spring of 1983 as a small local jazz and arts festival before quickly transforming into a mega-concert series that booked big acts over the course of a four- and five-day span The roots of SunFest can be traced to the Royal Palm Festival a multi-event hodgepodge that was held at various days in August That fall fest ultimately was shelved in favor of an event on the first weekend in May promoting art and jazz and labeled "the festival by the sea." The initial plan for the waterfront festival was hatched by developer Llwyd Ecclestone former Mayor Pat Pepper and developer and arts community leader Bob Armour "It was a series of disorganized activities (throughout) the county They had as a highlight the funniest parade you ever saw: six paper floats; marching bands from high schools half of whom did not have uniforms and had never marched before let alone played together; and a series of pickup trucks carrying girls in cowboy hats with signs glued to the side of the truck," Finley said 'It's the worst thing I ever saw in my whole life.'" music and ethnic foods,” Finley told The Post Finley's ideas were so popular he instantly became of the festival's founders “The board of directors thought the festival would be much better centered in one spot in the spring rather than the summer,” Executive Director Frank Hannah said at the time The name "SunFest" was suggested by board member Judy Goodman to promote cultural educational and non-professional sports activities The festival has traditionally been held in early May positioned in hopes of extending beyond Easter the season and the economic boost tourists bring to the region Founded in 1982 and launched the following spring in 1983 SunFest was a 10-day event with free admission The event drew big crowds but lost about $100,000 Among the performers that weekend were the Flying Wallendas the legendary hire-wire performers that operated without a safety net who performed that weekend and was the last surviving child of the founder of the troupe Other acts included the WKAO Big Band and the Boca Raton Symphonic Pops Orchestra The fact that it lost money prompted organizers to cut SunFest three days in 1984 By the time Sue Twyford was brought in as executive director in November 1985 The phones had only one line and it was impossible to put anyone on hold "The accountants would come in and I'd have a stack of bills and I'd say which ones can we pay?'" Twyford told The Post in a 1990 interview listen to some jazz sort of an event," recalled Twyford's husband Tom Twyford in an interview in 2012 but she was hired to really put the festival on the map knew that some tough decisions had to be made." SunFest's inaugural 10-day festival in Palm Beach CountyHere is the final day schedule of the inaugural 10-day festival: city officials dealt with crowd complaints for the first time Twyford stepped down in 1996 to spend more time with her family but she remained devoted to SunFest until her death in 2003 What started as a free concert open to downtown eventually became a pay-at-the-gate event with hopes admissions would cover some of the rising costs And the days of stretching out on the lawns with chairs overcome by raucous crowds elbowing for standing room during the headliner acts SunFest evolved from a chill jazz-only arts festival to a musical extravaganza that featured concerts for Generations X music overtook art as the reason people came to SunFest Your submission may be used in a future story on West Palm Beach's favorite festival — Ahead of prom season and spring break taking over the last few months of school students got a stark reminder about the dangers of drinking and driving During a horrific crash reenactment Wednesday morning students saw first-hand what could go wrong if they drink and drive WATCH: Palm Beach County Fire Rescue participates in mock car crash The goal of this activity is to let teens know how dangerous it is to drive distracted or under the influence says the goal is to show young people how painful and emotionally exhausting getting into a bad crash like this can be Students at Royal Palm Beach High School acted out being in a horrible crash while Palm Beach County Fire Rescue and deputies from Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office responded Hundreds of students watched the exercise unfold We spoke with Olivia Borges and Tanieyah Mowatt They both pretended to be injured in the crash They told WPTV reporter Victor Jorges that this is something they’ll remember when they get behind the wheel and Borges said she’s already cautious while driving but this will be a big reminder to not make bad decisions when behind the wheel Organizers tell us they want kids to think twice before making decisions behind the wheel “We're hoping that this is the closest they ever come to a horrific car crash,” said Tara Applebaum executive director for Safety 4 Life Foundation “When they see all of these emergency vehicles and right down to the funeral home coming and taking away one of their friends that they will never experience this and that they will think before they do anything dangerous.” The foundation says teens who attend these events are more likely to drive safely The Village of Royal Palm Beach and the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival will present the fifth annual Shakespeare by the Palms production of William Shakespeare’s comedy As You Like It from Thursday Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5 per person The Shakespeare Festival will be presenting Shakespeare’s romantic comedy the resourceful Rosalind and her friends escape to the forest where they are free to explore new identities friendships and love in this delightful romantic comedy Bring a beach chair or blanket and a picnic basket as you take in a professional Shakespearean play under the stars This event is presented by the Village of Royal Palm Beach and sponsored by Gary and Katherine Parr The Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival is a nonprofit professional theater company dedicated to enhancing the accessibility and appreciation for Shakespearean classic and contemporary theater for all ages and socioeconomic levels For more information about the festival, its history or its season, visit www.pbshakespeare.org the Village Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach has been the setting for a young ambitious Nigerian-born golf professional from England whose goal is to make it to the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour She is currently playing on the Epson Tour but during a break in the tournament calendar she and her father/caddie decided to stay with family friends from Royal Palm Beach Oboh spent countless hours working on her driving chipping and bunker play at the Village Golf Club “My father and I were blessed to be hosted by the Johnsons family friends for the past 10 years,” Oboh said and we are very appreciative of their hospitality.” spending time with the Johnson family made sense after the first few events on this year’s calendar leaving over a month in between the Florida events and the West Coast swing,” Oboh explained The Village Golf Club offered her a great deal on club access that she couldn’t refuse “The staff were very gracious in allowing me to play the golf course and use the practice facilities without restriction and then I paid for range balls when I wished to use the driving range,” said Oboh Every practice session was long and detailed every shot was calculated and executed as if she was playing a competitive round in a pro event so I can best replicate that on the golf course allowing my skills to reach the challenges that I will encounter on the golf course,” added Oboh who has been playing golf since the age of six Even though Oboh is a fully exempt player competing this year on the Epson Tour with the goal of earning a LPGA Tour card for next year it has helped that she has played in five LPGA Tour events since 2020 three of which were last year’s Meijer LPGA Classic in Grand Rapids Michigan; and the Portland Classic in Portland Her performance in last summer’s Dow Championship was a highlight of her professional career she and partner Lakareber Abe finished in a tie for eighth place Even though Oboh is enjoying the chance of making a living by playing golf at some first-class golf courses around North America she never forgets her family back home in England She also feels blessed to have a chance to play golf on the Epson Tour so spending time with my siblings is what I miss most,” Oboh said I am just grateful to God for the opportunity to compete and showcase the great gifts God has bestowed on me for the growth of his kingdom.” Her next Epson Tour event is the IOA Championship which will be held April 25-27 at the Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon in Beaumont if Georgia Oboh earns her LPGA Tour card later this year she will always remember the many professional practice courtesies extended to her by the staff at the Village Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach ROYAL PALM BEACH — El Bodegón, a family-owned grocery chain based in Palm Beach County, has unveiled a new store in the village making it the county's first Hispanic supermarket west of Florida's Turnpike located in the former Beall's store space at the Village Shoppes on State Road 7 offers a wide range of Latin American and Caribbean products He said they have seen the Hispanic population boom in the county's western suburbs and are following the trend of more of them moving farther west Six of the company's seven stores are in the county several between West Palm Beach and Greenacres said the family wanted to bring the Latin American supermarket experience to all the residents of the western communities “There are simply more and more Latinos living here,” Ortiz said in Spanish the second generation of Latinos that grow up with both the American culture and their family’s culture 'I am proud of you': How 10 girls had the quinceañera they thought they'd never get to enjoy Andrew Ortiz said their locations in Greenacres and West Palm Beach had built up regular clients from Royal Palm Beach Wellington and Loxahatchee over the last 26 years and opening in the village is an achievement for the family The store has wide aisles stocked with brands from every country in Latin America and the Caribbean such as Colombia The produce section offers tropical fruits and vegetables like passion fruit The meat and poultry department extends through the back of the store with an area for prepackaged meats and a counter with multiple butchers who cut meats Special report: Palm Beach County housing crisis squeezing blue-collar workers out of two Hispanic cities The El Bodegón in Royal Palm Beach also includes the chain’s signature bakery and hot food deli and is also the second store to feature a full-service restaurant where customers can sit and order cafécito appetizers and a meal from an a la carte menu from breakfast through dinner a window to send money and packages abroad and to-go hand-made tortilla stations placed by the cash registers El Bodegón aims to offer a Latin American experienceWith El El Bodegón Carlos Mario Ortiz wanted to bring all the staple Latin and Caribbean products into one outlet and introduce the “bodegon culture” that make them more than just a place to buy groceries El Bodegon aims to offer clients an experience that doesn't rush them out the door but invites them to stay to enjoy the flavors and warmth of Hispanic and Caribbean culture and offers a place to gather with friends and neighbors How the western suburbs are growing: Luxury developments bring 'Palm Beach' to once-rural region Andrew Ortiz said shoppers can enjoy guava-and-cheese pastries while they read the news on their phones They can snack on empanadas while they browse the aisles And they can also sit to have a home-style meal before or after shopping Ortiz said El Bodegón takes pride in bakery and butcher employees offering shoppers personalized services: learning their names preparing custom orders and finding the rarest meats for their asados and sancochos "You won't find that in any other supermarket,” Andrew said “Everything is made to order for the person and those details add up.” The restaurants have also become a gathering place hosting former Palm Beach County Commissioner Michael Barnett’s coffee hour with residents as well as a campaign stop for present Commissioner Joel Flores during last fall's election Publix opens new Wellington store: Pours bar, popcorn counter and more inside the Publix at Courtyard Shops Meet the Colombian family behind the El Bodegón supermarkets in Palm Beach CountyCarlos Ortiz was born in Colombia and moved to Palm Beach County in the 1980s Every time he wanted to buy Latin American meats he would have to drive to Fort Lauderdale or as far as Miami to find it “And without having any idea of how to operate a supermarket he put all his savings and got in debt to start the business we know today.” The first El Bodegón was in a 2,000 square-foot former paint shop in Greenacres at Forest Hill Boulevard and Military Trail It outgrew the space after a couple of years and moved across the street to its first big store “I grew up running through the aisles of the supermarket,” Andrew said “I’m so proud to see how the family has grown the business and now I have the opportunity to continue it.” The American Dream is alive: Hispanic businesses in Greenacres, Palm Springs prove it When people go to El Bodegón for the first time Some find products from their home countries they thought they would never eat again while those who aren’t Hispanic or Caribbean are amazed by the selection of foreign products “It’s beautiful to see people get that nostalgia,” Andrew said “And any person who comes here can buy from a variety of Latin products that you can only find here.” The family also opened a factory in Lake Worth Road where they make some of the pastry items offered in the bakery like pan de bonos and empanadas They employ 750 people between these seven stores and the factory Twelve have been with El Boden since it opened 26 years ago When Andrew Ortiz got his master's degree in business administration he chose to stay with the family business and has helped his father run the stores over the last 10 years “I wanted to capitalize on my family’s efforts to multiply them,” Andrew said “For us to keep serving the community and expand to other communities where El Bodegón hasn't arrived.” Note: This story has been updated with new information If you’re already a fan from its roots in North Carolina’s Outer Banks or are tired of schlepping to Miramar to get your fix from the nearest Florida outfit grand opening celebration because if you get there at the right time the first guest in line scores a dozen free donuts every month for a year The next 50 in line receive a certificate for a “Sprinkling Happiness Package,” comprising 24 donuts and a bucket of coffee especially handy if you have a catering occasion coming up The new shop is owned by childhood best buds/entrepreneurs Kevin Harris and Spencer Carpenter “We are excited to open a small business in this thriving community and look forward to serving warm delicious and made-to-order donuts,” Harris said in a written announcement of the opening What’s new this time?What started as standalone beach resort spots in 2007 in Duck and Kitty Hawk now comprises 150 shops in 26 states and international locations spanning the Bahamas to Pakistan perhaps Boca Raton which closed in May 2024 you already know that made-to-order is part of the chain’s hallmark What's new here is a visual refresh to enhance that specific customer experience which includes watching team members (do not call them ducklings) customize flavors and designs The all-time best-selling donut across 150 locations is maple drizzle with chopped bacon bits It can be cooked as an egg sandwich with ham or even more bacon if you feel indulgent coffee and other frozen beverages are available too “Quack Gives Back” is Duck Donuts' charitable component for all franchisees. Harris and Carpenter selected the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County as its inaugural recipient Website: duckdonuts.com Diana Biederman is the Palm Beach Post's new food and restaurant reporter. Connect via dbiederman@pbpost.com — Two people were taken to the hospital Friday after a workplace shooting near Royal Palm Beach The incident occurred shortly before noon in the 9000 block of Belvedere Road WATCH BELOW: Deputies respond to workplace shooting The sheriff's office did not specify what business the shooting took place at a WPTV news crew spotted crime scene tape and multiple deputies outside Coastal Metal they found one man with a gunshot wound and another man with a graze wound Palm Beach County Fire Rescue said one victim was taken to the hospital by Trauma Hawk helicopter while the other was taken by ambulance The suspected shooter remained at the scene and has been detained according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office The conditions of the victims have not been released Investigators said there is no immediate threat to the public No other details were immediately available This is a breaking news story and will be updated It was “education night” at the Royal Palm Beach Village Council meeting on Thursday during an evening that started with a celebration All five members of the council took the oath of office to officially begin their new council terms including newly elected Councilwoman Sylvia Sharps who took her seat on the dais for the first time The evening continued with presentations from two education experts — Ralph Aiello from Xello a nonprofit that works with high-performing but underserved students “Florida needs to have a plan to meet the talent and workforce needs of our new economy,” Aiello said it would currently be the 15th largest economy in the world “We need to start as early as possible to build a ‘cradle to career pipeline.’” He explained that the Florida Chamber Foundation has created the Florida 2030 plan and among its goals is to get K-12 students more work experience in the real world skills and abilities to enter the workforce,” Aiello said This smooths the transition from high school which requires a middle school career and education planning course high school career fairs and more work-based learning It also requires students to take a financial literacy course to learn real life financial skills the state provided Xello to help with students being able to understand how to manage their money,” Aiello said It is Xello’s first full year being used in school districts all across the state with 830,000 unique users Xello starts in elementary schools with fun computer-based games that teach economic lessons and about different industries Xello turns more to career and education planning helping students match their personalities and interests to possible career choices and how to go about getting started in those careers through higher education opportunities Xello offers a “lifestyle simulator,” which gives students a glimpse of what they might earn in different careers and the lifestyle choices that would give them that they are working toward as they enter high school,” Aiello explained Xello helps students put together a résumé and portfolio that they can send out to employers Aiello asked the village to work with Xello to help find business partners to create profiles on the platform and offer opportunities to students “We always hear that we don’t have enough talent and the talent we do have doesn’t have the skills we need for the jobs,” Aiello said “This is an opportunity for local businesses to discover and grow their own talent.” He asked that village officials help promote awareness of Xello and sign up as guest speakers at schools Councilman Adam Miller was impressed by the program I had something that I could put in and figure out how much I would make if I got a particular job,” he said Learn more at www.xello.world/floridawbl Akkusu then came to the podium to discuss Path to College a local nonprofit based in Palm Beach County leadership and excellence are cultivated in the most overlooked and underestimated students in our community,” Akkusu said The program was founded in 2017 with 10 students at Lake Worth High School and it now serves hundreds of students in its various programs Its focus is on ending generational poverty by getting more students to apply to college and be successful in college Path to College provides academic enrichment opportunities for these students to increase the competitiveness of low-income students in college admissions Each student is also provided with a mentor They also offer a college prep workshop series for students “We are very proud of the impact we have made in the community and we hope to be able to serve more students here in Royal Palm Beach,” Akkusu said Miller asked about how students could get into the fellowship program. Akkusu said the application process opened up online on April 1. Students can apply online and will then be invited to the second phase, which is an interview process. Learn more at www.pathtocollege.org Mayor Jeff Hmara noted that both educational presentations stressed the need for community volunteers “There are plenty of volunteer opportunities,” he said “People are often asking how they can serve and make a difference For us to know about these organizations is a win-win to bring people together.” Councilwoman Jan Rodusky was appointed liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board Sharps was appointed liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission and Hmara will stay as liaison to the Education Advisory Board Sharps was also appointed liaison to the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and Miller was tapped as liaison to the Western Communities Council Rodusky will serve as the primary voting delegate to the Palm Beach County League of Cities ROYAL PALM BEACH — Plans for an $90 million expansion at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital are moving forward Palm Beach County commissioners on Feb. 27 approved a needed zoning change for Nashville-based HCA Health Care the company that owns Palms West at Southern and Crestwood boulevards near Royal Palm Beach 42-bed post-surgical unit to provide customized care for patients who undergo robotic surgery Initially, the new part of the the hospital will be a one-story addition but Palms West is expected eventually to have a tower of up to five stories The one-story building is being built to accommodate future growth The investment will allow the hospital to specialize even further in the emerging technology of robotics surgery which allows for smaller incisions and faster recoveries "We are pleased to obtain the county approval It is now full speed ahead," Kimbrell said we want patients to come from around the country and the world to undergo robotic-assisted surgery here." Palms West already is a leader in robotics surgery in South Florida More than 1,200 of robotic-type procedures are performed every year The hospital employs 22 robotics-assisted surgeons who operate Da Vinci machines a robotics system with four interactive arms and a high-resolution 3D camera The surgeons perform minimally invasive procedures involving less blood less scaring and a reduced risk of infection HCA said the expansion is needed to meet "an increasing need for hospital facilities and beds in the region due to new residential development," according to documents submitted to the county have been built as part of the nearby Arden development and more residential projects are planned for the county's western suburbs/ Palms West has already experienced a significant increase in patient volume expanding Palms West Hospital is not only justified but essential for maintaining a high standard of health care for the community," the hospital said "The demand for health care services has significantly increased driven by population growth and the aging demographic." The expansion will be constructed on 19 acres to the west of the existing main hospital building HCA also says it expects spend an additional $90 million on other projects to improve and expand services offered at Palms West HCA Healthcare will invest in several other projects at the hospital ROYAL PALM BEACH — The village will have the busiest spring election of any of Palm Beach County's western suburbs hoping to take the position long held by Fred Pinto a longtime council member who was appointed mayor after Pinto's death and council member Selena Samios are seeking to win a two-year term in Royal Palm Beach's top office who runs a technology company and is a newcomer to Royal Palm Beach politics Samios will leave her council seat to run for mayor Competing to replace her will be Steve Avila who ran unsuccessfully against Pinto for mayor in March; Donielle Pinto the former mayor's widow who is making her first campaign for office; and Sylvia L a former candidate for the county commission Council members Richard Valuntas and Jan Rodusky will run unopposed for two-year terms also is unopposed and will retain his seat until 2026 'Silver tsunami' heads to South Florida: How will region handle surge in residents age 85 and older? Terms on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council run for two years The mayor and council members all receive annual salaries of $19,926.55 Greenacres and Westlake list no local elections for 2025 longtime Mayor Bev Smith and council members Kimberly Schmitz and Gary M Ready drew no opponents in their bids for new terms Vice Mayor Selena Samios’ bid to become Royal Palm Beach’s top elected official is entering the race’s home stretch with healthy funding and four more notable supporters that want to see her lead the village Samios is also touting stronger organic fundraising than her Democratic incumbent opponent, Jeff Hmara, a longtime Village Council member who was appointed Mayor after the death of Fred Pinto in September He’s reported collecting some $40,000 in campaign cash But half of that is a refundable self-loan Hmara has yet to tap into whereas she has brought in nearly $28,000 from “a broad coalition” of donors “This campaign is about the future of Royal Palm Beach and I am honored to have the trust and support of so many community leaders and advocacy organizations,” Samios said in a statement we are building a campaign focused on smart growth and making sure every voice in our community is heard.” A small business owner in the media and marketing space previously worked for 15 years in the sports and entertainment industry including stints with South Florida professional sports teams and the National Hockey League She grew up on the small island of Antigua in the West Indies and later moved to Miami where she lived with her grandparents while attending middle and high school She and her family have lived in Royal Palm Beach since 2009 She’s running on a platform that reflects her work at Village Hall to help local businesses support senior residents and give parents broader education options for their children Others endorsing her campaign include Indian Trail Improvement District President Elizabeth Accomando Samios, whose LinkedIn page says she’s been on the Village Council since 2016, was alone in voting against appointing Hmara Donielle Pinto and Sylvia Sharps — will also be on Royal Palm Beach’s March 11 ballot Richard Valuntas of Group 2 and Jan Rodusky of Group 4 kept their seats unopposed Jesse Scheckner has covered South Florida with a focus on Miami-Dade County since 2012. His work has been recognized by the Hearst Foundation, Society of Professional Journalists, Florida Society of News Editors, Florida MMA Awards and Miami New Times. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @JesseScheckner This platform and all of its content are owned by Extensive Enterprises Media Publisher: Peter Schorsch @PeterSchorschFL © Copyright by Extensive-Enterprises 2025. All rights reserved. STAFF LOGIN The Royal Palm Beach High School varsity football team under the guidance of head coach Chuck Kenyon is having a stellar season with still more football to be played Lurking on the immediate horizon is an all-important district make-up game on Thursday If Royal Palm Beach can defeat García and West Boca the Wildcats will be in recently unchartered waters — playing in the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 6A state playoffs Royal Palm Beach has been improving during Kenyon’s time as head coach the squad was expected to continue to improve direction and coaching provided by Kenyon and his seven assistant coaches — Brandon Bynes Kebb Mitchell and Samuel Curry — the success of the Wildcats can be attributed to the on-the-field and off-the-field leadership provided five key players sophomore Derrick Patterson and sophomore TJ McCall though he makes occasional appearances as a running back while Calzadilla plays linebacker and special teams Wimer plays defensive end and offensive guard as a nose tackle and as an offensive guard McCall is a talented and energetic defensive back While each player recognizes the value of teamwork each also realizes that he needs to lead by example on the field during practices and in games in order for the team to succeed I step up and make the play,” said Williams he feels that he brings “leadership skills and a strong work ethic” to the team sparks communication and has an active motor on all downs.” knows that he brings “inspiration and guidance” to the team in practice and in games an energetic figure on the team who feels that he is a true leader fills the role of being an enthusiastic and committed cheerleader during games I pump them up and tell them to move to the next play,” McCall said (This story was updated to add new information.) When big-box retailers opened in Palm Beach County's western communities more than 15 years ago Now many of those stores look like haunted houses with boarded-up windows dusty shelves and dark aisles that have remained empty for years So what will become of the Bed Bath & Beyond in Royal Palm Beach the Cinema 8 in Wellington and other empty shells along State Road 7 While no developer has submitted any plans observers of commercial real estate expect something other than retail will fill most of them The large-footprint stores could be retrofitted into entertainment centers a real estate professor at Florida International University in Miami How west county is growing: Luxury developments bring 'Palm Beach' to once-rural region Hollander said the end of the big-box retailer era is a chance to change outdated storefronts and aging strip malls into walkable districts that offer residents services and amusements as well as shopping "The traditional way of retail has changed since the pandemic,” Hollander said "But it gives an opportunity for innovation and adaptive uses." That transformation will take time in an area like the western suburbs Cook expects service-oriented businesses to fill the storefronts educational centers and residences to meet the demands of the area's growing populations "It’s not going to happen overnight," Rebel said State Road 7's future: Imagine it with less traffic, less asphalt, more housing. A consultant shows how. The empty-storefront trend in the western communities dates to at least 2019 when Nordstrom closed at the Mall at Wellington Green 124,000-square-foot structure remains vacant today and the mall's owners have floated the idea of turning it into residences and a hotel 2023 saw several other storefronts go vacant the Sprouts supermarket north of the mall sold its last bags of groceries that year and has remained empty The 30,000-square-foot store will become home to HomeSense a discount home furnishing chain owned by the same company as HomeGoods and TJ Maxx the Bed Bath & Beyond and Buy Buy Baby stores on Coral Sky Plaza totaled 53,000 square feet The past several months have been busy as well A Big Lots inside the Commons at Royal Palm Plaza closed in December The neighboring Party City store of 23,000 square feet closed in February a 1,200-seat movie theater on Wellington Trace closed this year after 12 years in business Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts is also set to close this year in the village Some major restaurant chains that have closed in the western communities include TGI Fridays Wellington High arrests: Two students face criminal charges after police find bullets on campus Almost 15,000 stores are expected to close this year in the U.S., double the 7,325 that closed 2024, according to Coresight Research. Hollander said major retailers are closing brick-and-mortar locations for multiple factors exacerbated by the pandemic: lagging sales the struggle to compete with online shopping and a changing retail landscape “Most of these things you can buy online.” and Latin American cities are places where people can do more than shop She said they feature a mix of businesses that bring in people daily such as grocery stores "Then it activates the community,” Holland said What is Plum Market? All-natural grocery store to open in Palm Beach Gardens next spring Most of the big-box retailers in the western communities are along State Road 7 according to studies by the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council Royal Palm Beach and Wellington hired the council to imagine how it might respond if the big-box stores shut down Cook has seen major retailers close their doors in Palm Beach County and expects the outdated shopping plazas will eventually be torn down and rebuilt into developments where people can live She expects the empty store fronts in strip malls to be filled more service-oriented businesses instead of retailers Tampa General Hospital and the Boston hospital Mass General Brigham will build an oncology facility at Legacy Place in Palm Beach Gardens The mixed-use area at PGA Boulevard and Alternate A1A also sports apartments a gym where people can watch movies while they work out and you have to use the land that's there,” Cook said Hollander said the trend will be to build less in a suburban format where shopping and residential areas are separate and more like one where commercial spaces are integrated into the community and feature many uses in one place Hollander added local officials need to be involved in the transformation of vacant stores because reinvigorating outdated plazas will require new zoning laws and negotiations with businesses and property owners “We encourage mixed-use to reduce dependence on the car and make the city a more active interesting place to live,” Hollander said The Royal Palm Beach Educational Advisory Board heard from students and staff of Royal Palm Beach Elementary School at the board’s meeting on Monday Assistant Principal Cristina Fong and nine student leaders from the school made presentations at the meeting Ghettie said that the Royal Palm Beach Elementary School community thinks of itself as the happiest place on earth The school has maintained its A grade since opening in 2002 The teaching staff is among the most loyal in the school district News and World Report ranks it in the top tenth of all elementary schools in Florida Ghettie exuded pride as she spoke of her staff “Four out of five members of our instructional staff have more than seven years of teaching experience,” she noted pointing out how deep the school’s roots are in the Royal Palm Beach community “An incredible 88 percent of the school’s faculty and staff either have their children enrolled at RPBES or their children have already graduated.” The student body is quite diverse at 29 percent Black About 39 percent qualify for free or reduced lunch Parents seem to appreciate the school and turned out in large numbers to the council chambers for the meeting They provide a wonderful and fostering environment,” parent Freddy Lazo said “It feels like we are leaving them with family.” adding that he wants to be a pro football player when he grows up Student Council President McKayla Zucchini ran on a platform of kindness When asked what she hoped to accomplish during her tenure “I want to work hard and just do everything I can but for their emotional and mental welfare as well.” While sometimes schools presenting at the Education Advisory Board provide musical entertainment this meeting featured nine students standing up at the podium and presenting to the board Each student briefly described a facet of life at the school The presentations were warmly received by the board and the public The following members of Student Council made presentations: McKayla Zucchini The following members of Student Voice made presentations: Joshua Lazo A third grader and member of Student Voice He boldly presented at the podium in a way that belied his years Palm Beach County School Board Vice Chair Marcia Andrews was impressed by the student speakers “Wise words coming from such young members of the Bobcat community,” she said applauding the young presenters and pointed to the leadership of Ghettie and Fong its leadership and of the wonderful job these students did tonight.” The next meeting of the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board is scheduled for Monday 10 and will feature Western Academy Charter School (CBS12) — Palm Beach County Fire Rescue battled what appeared to be a house fire in Royal Palm Beach on Monday When the first engine arrived they observed plumes of black smoke coming from the roofline and nearby windows See also: Port St. Lucie marks MLK Day with music, kids' activities, and charity food drive Firefighters did a quick search of the property and found that there was nobody inside an aggressive fire attack was done in the interior of the structure with a hose line PBCFR says firefighters cut a hole high on the roof line above the fire which allowed for smoke and superheated gases to escape Firefighters are investigating what caused the fire