Town-Crier Newspaper August 21, 2015 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

WATER SKI NATIONALS A BIG SUCCESS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

WELLINGTON TO DRAFT LGBT ORDINANCE SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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Wellington Residents Urged To Provide Input On Capital Improvements

Volume 36, Number 32 August 21 - August 27, 2015

Serving Palms West Since 1980

ANTI-BULLYING KICKOFF AT THE MALL

Wellington residents can post their opinions online at www. wellingtonfl.gov for capital improvements they believe are important for the village. Recommendations will be considered during the council’s capital improvements workshop on Monday, Aug. 24 at 1:30 p.m. in preparation for budget approval. Page 3

RPB Rotary, Armand Services & Interact Partner On Project

The Mall at Wellington Green, Stomp Out Bullying and iHeartRadio held an anti-bullying kickoff party at the mall Saturday, Aug. 15. The event helped kids learn about the impacts of bullying and how to avoid it. Shown here are Rachelle Crain of the Mall at Wellington Green, Stomp Out Bullying Teen Ambassador Brandon Schloss, “Self Esteem Doctor” Simone Alicia and iHeartRadio DJ Carmine Gialanella. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

K-9 Unit Helps Deter Problems And Keep Public Schools Safe

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report On Friday, Aug. 14, the Palm Beach County School District Police Department brought its five canines to Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington for a demonstration to help them prepare for the first day of school.

The department’s five fourlegged officers, and their three human partners, garnered attention as they showed off their special skills, impeccable behavior and warm personalities. Kash, one of the two K-9s partnered with Officer Curtis Riddick, was named through a contest at

Wellington Boys & Girls Club Hosts Talent Show And Fashion Show

On Friday, Aug. 14, the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington celebrated the end of summer with a back-toschool fashion show and talent show. Club members sang, danced, tumbled and strutted their way across the gymnasium floor, entertaining parents and peers alike. Page 19

OPINION

The Height Of Storm Season Has Arrived

The six weeks from the middle of August through the end of September tend to be the most active weeks of the Atlantic hurricane season, and while this year’s season is projected to have below-normal activity, that doesn’t mean we are safe. Quite the contrary. It’ll only take one well-aimed storm to snap our long hurricane-free streak. Tropical Storm Danny is currently meandering its way in our direction. Will it end up here? Hopefully not, but now is the time to get prepared. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS...............................3 - 13 OPINION.................................. 4 CRIME NEWS.......................... 6 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 8 PEOPLE................................. 14 SCHOOLS.............................. 15 COLUMNS...................... 16, 23 BUSINESS......................24 - 25 SPORTS..........................29 - 31 CALENDAR............................ 32 CLASSIFIEDS................ 33 - 36 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

School Police Officer Curtis Riddick with K-9 Kash.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Crosspointe Elementary School in Boynton Beach. His name stands for Kids Are Safe Here, and with Kash (search and rescue) and his other friends, Jake (narcotics), Kobee (narcotics), Tango (narcotics) and Maggie (gun detection), kids truly are safer. These five K-9s are a relatively new unit. The school police department did not have K-9s after the last unit’s dogs retired. The new chief, Lawrence J. Leon, saw the benefits to the program and brought it back, Riddick said. The first dog in the unit, Kash, is a 2-year-old bloodhound who will turn 3 on Dec. 14. Kash was donated by the Jimmy Ryce Center. In 1995, 9-year-old Jimmy Ryce was kidnapped and murdered. The center works to bring media attention to child abductions, increase awareness of predators, counsel and support children and their families, and more. “Mr. Ryce has made it his lifelong mission to provide bloodhounds to any police department that is willing to deploy the dog… if [they] need a bloodhound to See SCHOOL DOGS, page 18

Acreage Residents Muster For AAL Leader Michele Meredith

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Many people in The Acreage and beyond love Michele Meredith, a longtime resident who has supported the Acreage Athletic League for many years. Meredith now needs the support of her friends in her battle with cancer. Those friends have teamed up to coordinate the “Fight Like a Girl” kickball tournament and 5k run at Acreage Community Park on Sunday, Aug. 25 to benefit Meredith. The event is hosted by Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Michelle Damone, Chris Matthews, Keith Shivers, Rob Herron and Sandra Love Semande. Meredith is the wife of ALA President John Meredith. “Michele and John have been an integral part of the Acreage

Athletic League for more than a decade,” Damone said. “John is the president, and Michele has always assisted and done the concession stands, and so a lot of people out in the community know them both very well.” Meredith is battling colon cancer, which has spread to her liver. “She has quite a fight on her hands,” Damone said. The idea of “Fight Like a Girl” came from Damone’s friend, Mike Massimo. “While everyone else was bringing flowers and cookies and things that are very nice, he and I wanted to be different, and we brought Michele a pair of hot pink boxing gloves,” Damone recalled. “He signed the glove ‘Fight Like a Girl.’ It stuck, so for the next three weeks, while Michele was in the

hospital, the boxing gloves hung over her IV stand, and that has been the inspiration behind the entire event.” Supporters also designed a “Fight Like a Girl” logo in hot pink and black. “Since then, John has even gone and gotten himself a tattoo with hot See MEREDITH, page 4

Lox Council Picks Severn Trent As New Management Firm

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report In a 3-2 vote, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council agreed Tuesday to enter contract negotiations with Severn Trent Services as its new management company, although the contract will cost more than the current agreement with Underwood Management Services Group. If negotiations are successful, the council is expected to award the contract on Tuesday, Sept. 1. Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel and councilmen Ryan Liang and Jim Rockett voted July 7 to issue a request for proposals (RFP) for a new management firm. Underwood Management’s contract expires Sept. 30, but contains provisions for an extension. The current management firm chose not to participate in the RFP process. At Tuesday’s meeting, about a dozen residents protested against

hiring a new management firm, asking to retain Underwood Management for at least another year. Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Supervisor John Ryan was the only resident who spoke in favor of hiring a new firm. The town had two responses to its RFP, from Severn Trent Services and area resident Larry Tibbs. Severn Trent is a large multinational company with a local office in Coral Springs. It manages several municipalities and numerous community development districts, including the Seminole Improvement District, which is the special district created by Callery-Judge Grove and now controlled by Minto West/Westlake. Tibbs, the other applicant, is a resident of Royal Ascot Estates, just west of the town. He is currently working with various fire See LOX MANAGER, page 18

SHOES OF HOPE EVENT

Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves held its “Shoes of Hope” event on Saturday, Aug. 15. More than 100 volunteers were on hand to give out new shoes, school supplies and free haircuts to children headed back to school. Shown here are Chris Miskura, Pastor Dale Locke, Jack McCall and event organizer Kasey Heinl. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY MIKE COLAROSSI/TOWN-CRIER

Lox Groves Town Attorney Announces Firm’s Resignation

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Loxahatchee Groves Town Attorney Michael Cirullo this week announced the resignation of his law firm, Goren, Cherof, Doody & Ezrol PA, as legal counsel for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves. Cirullo, who is a shareholder with the firm, did not give specific reasons for his firm’s resignation. The firm has provided legal services to the town since its inception. “You did receive the resignation letter from our law firm,” Cirullo told the council at its meeting Tuesday. “Our retainer does provide for a 30-day notice. We will, of course, honor whatever timeline is necessary for the town to find either an interim or a permanent replacement, and we know our obligations for transition of the work, so there is a smooth transition of information and knowledge to both the new management team, as well as the next attorney.” Cirullo’s announcement came the same evening that the coun-

cil chose Severn Trent Services as the town’s new management company. Cirullo recommended that the current management firm put out a notice seeking a new law firm, pointing out that he would not be involved in the process. He recommended looking at other municipalities to see how they had found new legal representation. “I thank you. It has been an honor, it really has,” Cirullo said. “I don’t know if anybody here is a ‘Star Trek’ fan, but if anybody remembers what the final episode was, it was called ‘All Good Things,’ and I think the timing is right for the firm and for myself, professionally and personally, to go ahead and allow the town to do what it needs to do moving forward. It hasn’t always been easy, but it has been a pleasure and an honor to serve the town.” Cirullo reiterated that his firm would be available for longer than 30 days for the transition, if See ATTORNEY, page 18

County Thanks Weisman By Renaming Street, Building

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report It takes a lot to surprise a man who has run Palm Beach County for a quarter century, managing an approximately $4 billion budget while overseeing more than 6,000 employees. Yet, on Tuesday, Aug. 18, the Palm Beach County Commission did just that. Not only did they announce, during County Administrator Bob Weisman’s last meeting, that they were renaming Process Drive in Royal Palm Beach as Weisman Way, the commissioners also announced that the county government building at 301 N. Olive Ave. in West Palm Beach will be renamed the Robert Weisman Governmental Center. “I was shocked,” said Weisman,

a longtime Wellington resident. “It is really incredible that the commission felt that I deserved that. I’m humbled.” It seems only fitting that the announcements were made during Weisman’s final board meeting, albeit a long meeting covering controversial agenda topics. “I got some very beautiful comments from the commissioners, which I truly appreciate,” he said. “It’s good that it was the last meeting, I think. I’m ready to do something else.” Weisman, a civil engineer by trade, has worked for Palm Beach County quite a long time — 35 years. “That’s a very long time. I’ve been working downtown now, almost 25 years. I’m looking for-

ward to retirement, but I’m going to miss a lot about the job as well,” he said. His fondest memories revolve around those he has met with and worked with over the years. “Mainly working with the people I’ve worked with, the employees and the commissioners,” Weisman said. While county administrator, Weisman has seen roads and buildings named after various individuals who have held pivotal roles in the county’s administration. Naming a street or a building in someone’s honor is not abnormal, he explained. “To have them both done, is kind of different,” he said. “To have the main county building See WEISMAN, page 4

Weisman Way — Vice Mayor Mary Lou Berger, Commissioner Melissa McKinlay, Mayor Shelley Vana, retiring County Administrator Bob Weisman, Commissioner Paulette Burdick, Commissioner Hal Valeche, Commissioner Priscilla Taylor and Commissioner PHOTO COURTESY PALM BEACH COUNTY PUBLIC AFFAIRS Steven Abrams.

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NEWS

High Marks For Local Club In Hosting National Water Ski Event

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Ski Club of the Palm Beaches hosted the 73rd Goode National Water Ski Championships at Okeeheelee Park last week, just about a week after a tornado tore through the park, ripping off a viewing stand roof and destroying a starting dock. John Shealy, president of the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches, was pleased with the event, which brought 600 competitors to the area Aug. 11-15. “I think it went really well this year,” he said. “This is our 14th time doing the national championships, which is more than any other ski site has ever done.” The Ski Club of the Palm Beaches hosted two years of the

nationals before last year’s championship, which was held in Texas. This year was also intended to occur in Texas, but due to last-minute changes, the event was moved to Okeeheelee Park. “All in all, everything went pretty well. The weather cooperated. We had a few good afternoon storms, but for the most part, we finished up everything on schedule and only had to move some late events to the next morning on one of the days,” Shealy said. The only downside to hosting such a large event, he explained, is that it is hard on club volunteers to do so many national tournaments in a row without a break. Throughout the year, there is a core team of 25 club volunteers, controlling and taking care of the

organizational side of the event, Shealy said. Charlotte Melchers, tournament chair for the 2015 National Water Ski Championships, typically heads the organizational team. Judges, drivers, scorers and everyone else making the tournament work are all volunteers, along with those who rebuild things during the winter and organize the tournament. “It takes several hundred people throughout the year to really be able to put on the event,” Shealy said. Shealy received positive feedback for the organization and execution of the event, particularly in light of the tornado. Club member Jeff Kepchia, who placed in his event — slalom

— spoke praises of this year’s tournament, despite the curveball Florida’s weather threw at the event. “The county really came out there and cleaned it up. You’d never know there was a tornado the week before it,” he said. A few weeks ago, Kepchia was injured, so, even though he didn’t score as well as he wished, he was still proud of his accomplishment. “Anytime you can compete in that tournament, it’s pretty much an honor,” he said. “Everything was great, I just fell a little short… I didn’t ski the best I could have skied, but I certainly could have skied worse, too.” Kepchia is already looking forward to next year’s tournament. The social aspect of competing

in a sport you love is a great draw for the tournaments and qualifying events. “Every year, I look forward to skiing in the tournament, supporting my local tournament at Okeeheelee and traveling to some of the regional and national tournaments,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a really great group of people. It’s great getting together with them every year.” Of the 600 competitors, about 30 local skiers collectively made a strong stand for awards. Competitors are divided into different categories based upon their event, and then further divided into age groups. Among those from West Palm Beach, Ashley Stevens placed 16th in her age group for slalom; Shelby Coke tied for 13th place

Skiers Chet Raley (left) and Ben Favret (right) complete in the slalom competition at the 73rd Goode National Water Ski Championships. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

in slalom; Al Sanfanandre took second place in tricks; Steve Krigbaum tied for sixth place in slalom; Mark Bozicevic took 25th place in slalom; Lee Mershon took sixth place in slalom; and Chip Debus took second place in slalom, fourth place in trick, fourth place in jump and fourth place overall for his division. From Wellington, Samantha Dumala took second place for open women slalom; Kepchia took 10th place in slalom; Phil Cutting took 10th place in slalom; Valerie Smith took fourth place in slalom; and Bill Sowers tied for 11th place in slalom. From Greenacres, Patricia Burt took second place in masters women slalom; Laurie Lindsey took fourth place in masters women slalom; Anne Coke took eighth place in slalom; Paul Santangelo tied for 16th place in his division of slalom; and John Shealy tied for 16th place in his slalom division. From Lake Worth, Bruce Yekel took 20th place in his slalom division; Becky Lathrop tied for 14th place in her slalom division; Darin Montgomery took first place in slalom; Ryan Montgomery tied for seventh place in his slalom division; and Ashley Montgomery cleaned up with third place in jump, first in slalom, seventh in tricks and second overall. Palm Beach Gardens skier Lowell Eckstein took 30th place, and Miami resident Joe Luzoro took second place overall. Complete results are available at www.usawaterski.org. To learn more about the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches, visit www.okeeski. com.

Wellington Residents Urged To Provide Input On Capital Improvements

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington residents can post their opinions online at www.wellingtonfl.gov for capital improvements they believe are important for the village. Recommendations will be considered during the council’s capital improvements workshop on Monday, Aug. 24 at 1:30 p.m. in preparation for budget approval. Input on the Wellington Budget Challenge, which includes the capital budget, has been extended from Aug. 24 to Aug. 31. Capital projects currently make up about 12 percent of the 2016

budget, or $6.6 million, which is down $1.1 million from the previous year. Total general government projects of $2.7 million are budgeted for fiscal year 2016, with $9.3 million through 2020, with $800,000 planned in fiscal year 2016 for the Acme Improvement District renewal and replacement program to improve conveyance and drainage through a $30 per unit assessment initiated in 2014, and a total of $3.4 million through 2020. About $250,000 will be spent to upgrade major technology equipment, cables, wireless com-

munications, broadcasting and telephone equipment, with a total of about $1 million through 2020. General facility improvements will include $135,000 to upgrade buildings to extend their usefulness. The neighborhood parks and trails programs have $200,000 in improvements earmarked, with a total of about $1.1 million budgeted through 2020. Parks will see about $140,000 in improvements, with $820,000 budgeted through 2020. About $210,000 will be spent on road and pathway expansion for nonvehicular connections to key destinations.

A roundabout costing $450,000 is budgeted for the intersection of Stribling Way and Pierson Road in lieu of a traffic signal, and streetscaping is planned with the installation of landscaping and pedestrian features on village roadways at a cost of $105,000 for 2016 and $440,000 through 2020. Surface water system work to improve flood control and water quality is planned at a cost of $100,000 for 2016 and $950,000 through 2020. Turn lanes and traffic engineering for reworked drainage are planned for Big Blue Trace at the Barberry Drive and Wiltshire

Village Drive intersections at a cost of $300,000 for 2016, and $750,000 through 2020. Water and wastewater projects total $3.9 million for 2016, with $14.2 million budgeted through 2020. Of that, $360,000 will be spent to repair and replace existing manholes and gravity pipes. Lift station upgrades and rehabilitation are planned at $315,000 for 2016, and more than $3 million through 2020. Water distribution and transmission renewal and replacement is budgeted for almost $1.2 million in 2016, and almost $4.3 million through 2020, as well as

$385,000 in 2016 and $765,000 through 2020 for wastewater treatment facilities. About $1.3 million is budgeted for renovations at the village’s water plant to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain expected levels of service and reliability. The council adopted a truth in millage (TRIM) tax rate of 2.45 mills on July 14 and will hold its first public hearing on the proposed budget, the capital improvements element and Acme budget on Thursday, Sept. 10, with final adoption on Thursday, Sept. 24.

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OUR OPINION

The Height Of Storm Season Has Arrived... Are Your Prepared?

To paraphrase Elton John: Danny is traveling today in the sea; it’s in the Atlantic but making its way from the east. Now, I can see Danny’s a tropical storm, but it looks like Danny might hit the Florida shores. The six weeks from the middle of August through the end of September tend to be the most active weeks of the Atlantic hurricane season, and while this year’s season is projected to have below-normal activity, that doesn’t mean we are safe. Quite the contrary. It’ll only take one well-aimed storm to snap our long hurricane-free streak. Tropical Storm Danny is currently meandering its way in our direction. Will it end up here? Hopefully not, but now is the time to get prepared. Danny is the fourth named Atlantic storm in the 2015 season. Right now it’s still comfortably far out in the Atlantic, expected to possibly approach Puerto Rico by next Tuesday. At least, that’s what the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) projections are currently indicating. It’s still way too early to know if Danny will actually reach our neighbor to the southeast, if it will curl north and leave the Sunshine State alone, or veer in our general direction during the last week of August. But it’s never too early to stock up on hurricane supplies and be prepared should our neck of the woods get hit with its first major hurricane since Wilma in October 2005. According to NOAA, two keys to weather safety are to prepare for the risks and to act on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials. In late May, we discussed hurricane

Kudos For All Paws Team

I am writing to express my appreciation to the staff at All Paws Animal Clinic and the Veterinary Care Foundation. My recently acquired boxer puppy was happy, healthy and smart when I got him and seemed perfect. It was love at first sight for my family and I. Then my puppy started having strange seizures about two months after I got him. After numerous veterinary visits, including specialty offices and neurology consults, we still had no diagnosis. The neurologist was recommending that we run an MRI of the brain, spinal tap with fluid analysis and an EKG. I had exhausted my financial resources with all of the visits and tests already done. My family and I were devastated, as the breeder was refusing to assist with medical expenses. They requested that I return the puppy for them to euthanize. I felt that I had no other option available, until Dr. Patty and Vicki

preparation. Included, of course, is stocking up on essentials, such as bottled water, non-perishable food items, batteries, flashlights, candles, matches and the like. We noted that having a portable propane stove can also come in handy, since in the event of a direct hit, there’s no guarantee when power will be restored. Three months later, this has not changed. Additionally, you should put together a list of emergency numbers well in advance, and have it on you, in a purse, a wallet, in your car, maybe all of the above. Mark important numbers in your cell phone with “ICE” (in case of emergency) designations. And it’s advisable to download important hurricane-related smart phone applications, such as those of the American Red Cross or the Weather Channel. But remember, when power lines are down, it can be difficult to keep cell phones charged, so don’t rely solely on cellular technology. And don’t forget to fill your gas tank up before the storm hits. As past storms have shown, fuel can be in short supply in the aftermath of a hurricane, and the lines at the pumps can be long if you procrastinate. The American Red Cross advises residents to know the difference between a hurricane watch and a hurricane warning. A hurricane watch is when hurricane conditions are a threat within 48 hours. Individuals should review their hurricane plans, be ready to act if a warning is issued, and stay informed. A hurricane warning is when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. Individuals should complete storm preparations and leave the area if directed to do so by authorities. For a complete list of recommended supplies, emergency numbers and more information on hurricane preparedness, visit www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR at All Paws offered to help with payment through their new Pet Care Rewards Program and the Veterinary Care Foundation that the rewards program helps to fund. I was able to have all three tests performed and find out that my pet has no serious health issues. If not for this assistance, I may not have my pet today. Currently he is taking anti-seizure medication and doing well. We are hopeful that he will grow out of the seizures within the next year. I cannot thank All Paws and the Veterinary Care Foundation enough for the lifetime of love I will now share with my puppy! Lena Rubinovich Wellington

Is Lox Groves A Sinking Ship?

Tuesday night’s Loxahatchee Groves Town Council meeting was reminiscent of an episode of “The Twilight Zone.” The most important item was an award to highly respected, if a little

deformed, Loxahatchee Groves’ own Quasi Modo; apparently the “World’s Ugliest Dog.” Go Quasi. In a side issue, the trivial matter of deciding the town’s future, the usual three councilmen scaled even dizzier heights of insanity than usual. Only two applicants were mad, greedy or desperate enough to reach out for the poison chalice of town management. Both, to any intelligent observer and most at the meeting, hopelessly unsuitable. Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel stated categorically that he would never vote for any management company who could not name their town manager, then two hours later did precisely that. Councilman Jim Rockett, still under investigation for alleged election fraud and rambling even more inanely than usual, was so one track on dumping the current town manager that he completely forgot his worthless pledge to the people to get the best bang for our buck and voted for a much-less-effective package, which will cost the town (that’s you and me, folks)

an extra $4,000 a month. Hapless proven crook, “deer in the headlights” and Rockett’s alleged election co-fraudster Councilman Ryan Liang looked desperately from Jim to Ron for a clue as to which way to vote, eventually maneuvering himself into last place by asking both applicants to re-affirm their unsuitability, which they obligingly did, enabling Ryan to mumble a pathetic yes, in line with his puppet masters, who had already voted for disaster. Councilman Tom Goltzené and Mayor Dave Browning were again the voices of reason and sanity. They tried valiantly to move the vote to a rational rejection of both applicants in favor of extending current Town Manager Bill Underwood’s existing contract. The nasty cabal currently in control prevailed in a sadly familiar and predictable 3-2 vote. The clowns are running the circus! More than 30 public comments were brilliant, intelligent, rational and worthy of their own sitcom. Resident after resident spoke in

favor of the status quo; all but two declaring Bill Underwood’s team the best option. Ron, Ryan and Jim, determined to hammer the last few nails into their political coffins, ignored the people, smirked and avoided eye contact, as yet again they trampled roughshod over the opinions of the residents, who also happen to be the voters in the next election. So where does that leave Loxahatchee Groves? Well, in sinisterly concurrent events, we have the resignation of our law firm, the nonrenewal of our code enforcement contract, the departure of the town clerk, the termination of the current town man-

agement contract, three shameful councilmen running the show, and coming soon, a new management company that disqualifies itself from capability on the grounds that it still wants the job! No fit council, no town manager, no lawyer, no code enforcement, no town clerk. The ship is sinking. All we need now is a hurricane. We must all hope and pray that it comes soon in the form of the arrests of Liang and Rockett, the dismantling of the evil in our town, and a march of the people to a correcting election. It can’t come soon enough. Tim Hart-Woods Loxahatchee Groves

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words). Submit letters, with contact name, address and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 7936090; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

NEWS

Wellington Council To Honor Softball Team For National Championship

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council will issue a proclamation on Tuesday, Aug. 25 recognizing the Wellington Wild ’01 for becoming the 14B United States Specialty Sports Association champions at the Road to Orlando World Series during the ESPN Wide World of Sports held July 18-25.

Weisman

Retirement Honors

continued from page 1 named for you downtown, that’s really special.” Last weekend, Weisman celebrated his upcoming retirement with a special dinner party that more than 300 people attended at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. “Four past commissioners came to that dinner. That’s really incred-

The softball team, under the direction of Merles “Matt” Estes and coaches Mikel Foreman and Debbie Foreman, went undefeated during the entire tournament and defeated Team Tampa 5-4 in the championship final. The team’s final record for the season was 32-9. The council is also expected to adopt the budget and assessment rate for the Acme Improvement

District. The 2016 budget for the Acme Improvement District totals about $7.32 million at the non-ad valorem assessment rate of $230 per assessment unit, which is the same as last year’s rate. Also on the agenda is: • Authorization to renew an existing agreement for lobbying services by Coker Consulting in the amount of $60,000.

• Authorization to continue utilizing revenue-generating contracts for cheer and dance, swimming, tumble tots, tae kwon do and soccer. • Authorization to continue utilizing contracts to provide athletic team officiating services with Florida Elite Umpires. • Renewal of an agreement for aquatic vegetation control with

Clarke Aquatic Services at an annual cost of $415,708. • Authorization to enter an agreement with Robertson Recreational Surfaces to supply and install synthetic and poured-inplace surfacing at Scott’s Place Playground at a cost of $158,247. • Award of a sole-source contract for water meters. • Approval of a plat for the 103-

acre Zacara Farm at the intersection of 50th Street South and 130th Avenue South. • Approval of a replat for the 16-acre Village Green Center at the southwest corner of State Road 7 and Stribling Way. • Approval of supplemental agreements with the Department of Transportation for the Flying Cow Road Greenway Project.

ible for that to happen,” he said. As August passes by, Weisman is getting ready for a new chapter in his life. “I’m happy to have served the public for 35 years here,” he said. “I don’t plan on leaving the area — it’s where my kids live and my grandkids live.” Son Matthew, also a civil engineer, is thrilled with the honor bestowed upon his father. “Even though his job has been in management for the past 25 years, ultimately his longevity is because he is an engineer and was

able to think in a certain way,” Matthew said. “It ultimately led to my desire to become an engineer, as well.” Following his father’s path, Matthew spent eight years as Gainesville’s traffic engineer, often seeking out his father’s advice for navigating the local government sector. Daughter Janice Vassalotti works for Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and fondly remembers going to visit her father at the office as a child. “Ever since we were little, we would to go to the office and watch him on Channel 20,” she said. “We’d go to the 11th floor and look out the windows to see the Intracoastal and the ocean.” When she and Matthew were young, they had a ritual. “We’d always watch him on Channel 20 on Tuesdays, and sometimes call him, asking him to do something silly like touch his ear or something,” she said. “We’d watch and see if he would look at us, or do something, to respond. Being a kid, that’s really exciting. We didn’t have texting back then, but we were able to call.” Watching Weisman on Channel 20 has also been exciting for his grandchildren, Axl, 5, and Brooklyn, 3. “My kids love going to the office,” Janice said. One thing that stands out to her about growing up with their father is that despite the stresses that go along with the job, when he was home, he was home. “He never brought his work home with him,” she said. “Once he came home, work was over. He’d come home, and just like any other day, we’d have dinner, do our homework, participate in

sports… It was amazing, because a lot of people cannot separate from work like that.” As an adult, the reality of their father retiring will change some things for Matthew and Janice, but they, too, look forward to what will happen next. “I’m really happy for him, but it’s also very bittersweet,” she said. “We have a lot of great memories there.” Weisman’s last day will be Aug. 31, when Deputy County Administrator Verdenia C. Baker will take over. Baker was the person Weisman recommended for the post. She is excited to be taking over, crediting Weisman for preparing her for the role. “He has been an excellent mentor throughout the entire process,” Baker said. She wasn’t surprised about Process Road being renamed Weisman Way, and found it fitting for his hard work and loyalty to the county. Such a long tenure is not

the norm, she said. Weisman beat the odds. “It is unusual for any county administrator to last in one location for as long as he has been the county administrator for Palm Beach County,” Baker said. “It’s really unheard of. Normally, the life of a county administrator in one location is anywhere from three to seven years. They usually move on, or a new board comes in, and they’re looking in a different direction, or they want to go somewhere different, and they want a change.” Weisman keeping his position for nearly a quarter of a century speaks volumes to how integral he has been to Palm Beach County. “When we were looking at different ways that we could honor him, kind of memorialize his tenure with the organization, there were various ideas that were bantered about,” Assistant County Administrator Brad Merriman

said, explaining that the road and the building were the top two ideas. “Being a county employee for 35 years and being county administrator for almost 24 of those years is a huge, incredible accomplishment. The road, of course, it’s the north boundary of the fairgrounds property, and Bob has always been a huge supporter of the fair. He’s on the board of trustees there at the fair. It seemed like it would be a nice, fitting thing to have that particular road named after him.” Though Baker is excited about her upcoming promotion, September will bring about many changes. “It will be very weird not having him here. For the last 15 years, I’ve walked through my door, and he’s always been to the right, and I’ve been to the left,” she said. “I’m going to definitely miss that. He is a gentleman and a scholar. He has been a wonderful administrator and an awesome mentor. He’s definitely going to be missed.”

event, and it’s a family fun day. It’s an active day. It was most appropriate for it to be at the park, because that’s where John and Michele volunteer a lot of their time. I contacted some folks at the Acreage Athletic League, like Chris Matthews and Ron Herron, and they are coordinating the kickball tournament.” Dave Markle with Shoot-daGator will host a cornhole tournament, and Chris Harris is coordinating the 5k run. “I have also worked with Sandy Semande to coordinate food trucks and bands,” Damone said. “We’re going to have a fun zone, and there will be professional photographers. It truly is a family fun day.”

The 5k begins at 8 a.m., while the kickball tournament begins at 10 a.m. “The kickball will be going on all day, and the bands will be going on all day,” Damone said, explaining that numerous bands have volunteered their time. “Michele and John grew up in Broward, and they have an entourage of friends from high school, and they are coming up,” Damone said. “There’s a lot of people coming from all over to show Michele their love and support.” For more information, or to get involved, search for “Fight Like A Girl benefit for Michele Meredith” on Facebook or e-mail mdamone70@aol.com.

Retiring County Administrator Bob Weisman with daughter Janice Vassalotti and grandchildren Axl, 5, and Brooklyn, 3. THE

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continued from page 1 pink boxing gloves,” Damone said. Meredith is currently back in the hospital for treatment. “I’m not sure if she’ll be out for the event,” Damone said. “John will be there with the kids. Her son John, her son Jordan and her daughter Kayla will each have a kickball team, so the kids will be out there for their mom.” Damone is working hard to make it a fun event. “We decided to coordinate this JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

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NEWS

ARMAND SERVICES, ROTARY AND INTERACT PARTNER ON PROJECT AT RPBHS

The Interact Club of Royal Palm Beach High School joined forces with the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and Armand Professional Services to give a facelift to the school’s courtyard Wednesday, Aug. 12. Plants and labor were donated by Armand Professional Services. Sick plants were replaced with healthy ones, and mulch was replaced in all of the garden beds, getting the school ready for the new school year. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Royal Palm Beach Councilman Jeff Hmara, Interact President Hunter Loomis, Vice President Alex Micciche, Marvin Zeron, Secretary Ammy Henao, Sergeant at Arms Emily Paul, Past President Chris Micciche, Historian Rachida Harper and sponsor Darrell Schwartz.

Hunter Loomis, Marvin Zeron, Councilman Jeff Hmara and Chris Micciche lay mulch.

Pedro Ramos and Marvin Zeron install new plants.

Armand Professional Services workers with owner Scott Armand.

Alex Micciche, Emily Paul, Lynn Balch, Rachida Harper and Ammy Henao spread mulch around a tree.

Rotarians, Interact Club members and Armand Professional Services workers gather at the RPBHS project site.

WELLINGTON COMMUNITY SERVICES HANDS OUT SCHOOL SUPPLIES & SHOES

Wellington’s Community Services Department gave out backpacks filled with school supplies and more than 200 pairs of shoes on Friday, Aug. 14. The giveaway was the result of a partnership between the Community Services Department, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Christopher Aguirre Memorial Foundation, the Lake Worth Scottish Rite Masonic Center, B/E Aerospace and the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

James Poag from Wellington’s Community Services Department gives Austin Stuart a new pair of shoes.

Melanie Ona, Valentina Holland, Memphis Morley, Zoe Lomax, Sana Louispierre, Fernando Jimenez, Michael Palmer and Austin Stuart show off their new shoes and school supplies.

Some of the kids show off their new supplies and shoes.

Page 6

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CRIME NEWS

Home Burglary In Royal Palm Beach

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report AUG. 15 — A deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was called to a home on River Bluff Lane last Saturday afternoon regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m., someone broke the rear window of the victim’s home and entered the property. According to the report, the victim’s neighbor observed someone go into the home around 1:30 p.m. while it was raining. According to the report, an Apple iPad, a silver ring and a Microsoft Xbox One gaming system, together valued at $2,600, were stolen. Many areas of the house appear to have been rummaged through. DNA evidence was collected at the scene. ••• AUG. 11 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home on Las Palmas Street last Tuesday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between July 15 and July 30, someone burglarized the victim’s 2008 Toyota, taking a SunPass unit and a Tom Tom GPS. According to the report, prior to the discovery of the victim’s items in a stolen vehicle as part of another investigation, the victim was unaware that the items were missing. AUG. 12 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the Lowe’s Home Improvement store on State Road 7 last Wednesday afternoon regarding a shoplifting incident. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4:08 and 5:30 p.m. last Wednesday, a loss prevention officer observed two white males enter the store. According to the report, one distracted an employee while another took a Moen replacement sink cartridge, valued at $39.99, from the shelf and placed it in his left pocket, before the two exited the store. The loss prevention officer attempted to apprehend the suspects, briefly stopping one of them, before they fled in a black four-door vehicle. AUG. 12 — Indian Trail Improvement District workers found 60.5 lbs. of marijuana in black trash bags in a canal by 130th Avenue North in The Acreage last Wednesday afternoon. The drugs were turned over to the PBSO. AUG. 12 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to Willows Park on Wildcat Way last Wednesday evening regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO re-

By Lise Hermanson, RN Ultima Fitness and Wellness

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port, someone broke the right side front window of the victim’s 2008 Dodge Charger, causing $400 in damage. The incident happened sometime between 8 and 10 p.m. According to the report, nothing was taken from the vehicle. DNA evidence was gathered from the scene. AUG. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a location on Orange Blvd. in The Acreage last Thursday evening regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between midnight last Tuesday and 11 p.m. last Thursday, someone removed a Yamaha lower unit and propeller, valued at $2,000, from the victim’s boat. AUG. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home on Oak Hammock Way in the Black Diamond community last Friday regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. last Thursday and 11:45 a.m. last Friday, someone shattered the left side window of the victim’s 2002 Acura RSX 6, causing $300 in damage. AUG. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home on Orchid Drive last Friday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., someone attempted to enter the victim’s residence by damaging the door handle, but was likely scared away by the pit bulls located inside. AUG. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Tangerine Blvd. in The Acreage last Saturday morning regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4 and 5 a.m., someone entered the victim’s home, breaking a glass door, causing $100 in damage. DNA evidence was gathered from the home. AUG. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home on Polo Lake Drive East last Saturday morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. last Friday and 8:45 a.m. last Saturday, someone entered the victim’s 2015 Chevy Impala and stole a Callaway golf bag with 12 clubs, valued at $400, and an Apple iPhone 4. Fingerprint evidence was gathered from the vehicle. AUG. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on See BLOTTER, page 18

Suspects Wanted For Theft Of Three Motorcycles

This masked suspect is wanted in connection with motorcycle thefts in Royal Palm Beach.

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JULY 31 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in finding the people responsible for the theft of three motorcycles from a home in Royal Palm Beach. The incident occurred on Friday, July 31 at 5:07 a.m. Review of the homeowner’s surveillance video captured the masked suspect shown here, and others, removing three motorcycles from the carport area. The motorcycles were a 2000 Suzuki dirt bike, a 2003 Yamaha four-wheeler and a 2003 Kawasaki bike. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Joseph Beaton III is a white male, 5’11” tall and weighing 175 lbs., with blond hair, brown eyes and a tattoo on his right leg. His date of birth is 12/21/84. Beaton is wanted on felony charges for dealing in stolen property and false verification of ownership, and on traffic charges for failure to appear in court for operating a vehicle with a suspended, canceled or revoked license. His last known address was 51st Court North in The Acreage. He is wanted as of 08/13/15. • Taylor Mearns is a white female, 5’5” tall and weighing 130 lbs., with brown hair, brown eyes and multiple tattoos. Her date of birth is 09/30/92. Mearns is wanted on felony charges for dealing in stolen property, grand theft and false verification of ownership, and failure to appear in court for grand theft burglary. Her last known address was B Road in Loxahatchee Groves. She is wanted as of 08/13/15. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Joseph Beaton III

Taylor Mearns

THE INFORMATION FOR THIS BOX IS PROVIDED BY CRIME STOPPERS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY. CRIME STOPPERS IS WHOLLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT SHOWN HERE.

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Page 7

NEWS

Wellington To Draft LGBT Ordinance Supporting County Policy

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council directed its attorney last week to draft an ordinance in support of Palm Beach County’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) civil rights ordinance. At the Aug. 11 meeting, Rand Hoch, president of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, explained his request for the council to adopt the county’s civil rights ordinance as it pertains to LGBT people, and the difficulties the village would encounter if it opted out of it. Village Attorney Laurie Cohen had recommended opting out of the ordinance proposed by Hoch out of concern for potential liability to the village. Hoch, whose law practice has centered on workplace issues and civil rights, asked the council to enact an ordinance informing all residents, not just village employees, about their civil rights and directing them to appropriate agencies if they seek redress. In 2010, the Human Rights Council asked the village to include LGBT employees in its nondiscrimination policies, in compliance with the county’s equal employment opportunity ordinance, and Hoch was invited to work with the village attorney

to help draft the LGBT-inclusive non-discrimination policies, which were then adopted unanimously by the Wellington Village Council. At a workshop in July, there was discussion of whether a municipal civil rights ordinance would be of benefit to the village. “Civil rights laws exist to specifically identify people who have been recognized as victims of discrimination, and to specifically provide such individuals with the opportunity to have their claims investigated and adjudicated upon by independent agencies,” Hoch said. “The key word is, ‘independent.’” He pointed out that the village’s human resources director is charged with investigating civil rights violations, but the village has the final say whether discrimination has occurred. “It’s not independent,” Hoch said. “It’s sort of allowing the potential fox to guard the henhouse.” With the current climate in the United States Congress and Florida Legislature, Hoch said it was unlikely that pro-LGBT legislation would be forthcoming at the state and federal levels. Although people who feel that they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Hoch said EEOC findings

Wellington To Host Parade And Recognition Ceremony For Championship Teams

The Village of Wellington invites the community to come out for a celebratory parade and ceremony recognizing the Wellington Little League Intermediate All Stars baseball team and the Wellington Wild ’01 softball team for their national titles. The activities take place on Saturday, Aug. 29 and will kick off with a parade at 7:30 p.m., beginning at Montauk Drive, next

to the Wellington Municipal Complex, and ending at the Wellington Amphitheater. The parade will be followed immediately with a recognition ceremony at the Wellington Amphitheater, after which the Turnstiles Band is set to perform a Billy Joel tribute concert, starting at 8 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

are not binding in court. “The only recourse that the village’s LGBT employees have arises from the county ordinance,” he said. Hoch said that he was upset that Cohen had recommended opting out of the county ordinance. “Those ordinances provide you and your employees the least expensive way to resolve complaints of discrimination,” he said. Vice Mayor John Greene said he understood Cohen’s concern of liability to the village, and that he believes that the village already has an inclusive human rights policy as an employer, but would support the county ordinance. “I think it is important, as we have seen recently from the United States Supreme Court, there are laws changing, and we really want

to eliminate discrimination at any level,” Greene said. “I think this is a step in that direction, and I will support that. I hope that we can come up with language that is acceptable to everybody.” Hoch pointed out that other municipalities, including Delray Beach and Boynton Beach, had adopted supportive policies. Councilman Matt Willhite said he thought it was good that other municipalities had adopted ordinances, and asked what would happen if the village did nothing, or if it modified the language of the county ordinance that Cohen was concerned with. Hoch said he was open, as long as an ordinance included LGBT employees. “We’re not married to the language,” he said.

Councilwoman Anne Gerwig said she had numerous friends and family closely associated with LGBT concerns. “It has nothing to do with that, I just don’t support this as a protected class, because I don’t think someone’s sexuality is something that has anything to do with the workplace,” she said. “I don’t think someone’s sexuality is something that should be discussed in the workplace. I wouldn’t want someone to be treated poorly; I just don’t think it is a discussion that is appropriate for the working situation.” She added that the current policy protects anyone who is being harassed for something that has nothing to do with their work. Hoch said a friend of his had

been in a job interview where he was wearing a wedding band. “The interviewer kept asking about his wife,” he said. “He has been married to his husband for three years. It’s not sex that we’re talking about. Someone who has a picture of their family or someone who is wearing a wedding band, or someone who says, ‘What did you do this weekend?’ and you say, ‘My husband and I went fishing.’ That’s where it comes up.” Greene made a motion, seconded by Councilman John McGovern, directing Cohen to draft language in support of the county’s LGBT ordinance and bring it back to the council by the end of the fiscal year. The motion passed 4-1 with Gerwig dissenting.

Michael Drahos Announces Bid For Wellington Village Council

Attorney Michael Drahos, a member of Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board, has filed to run for Seat 1 on the Wellington Village Council. Seat 1, currently held by Vice Mayor John Greene, is one of four seats up for election on March 15, 2016. “I have spent a majority of my lifetime in Wellington, and my wife and I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to raise our family here,” Drahos said. “I am running for a seat on the village council to restore civility and help bring a unified vision to the council for moving our village forward.” Drahos and his family moved to Wellington in 1986, when Drahos was nine years old. He attended Wellington public schools, including Wellington Elementary School, Wellington Landings Middle School and Wellington High School. Growing up, Drahos participated in Wellington’s baseball,

basketball and soccer leagues, and spent his summers at the Wellington Boys & Girls Club. During high school, he was head coach for two 4/5-year-old t-ball teams, as well as a 7/8-year-old Little League team. Drahos has a bachelor’s degree in English from Florida State University and a law degree with honors from Nova Southeastern University. Drahos and his wife Nathalie have two daughters, eight-yearold Julia and five-year-old Sophia. Active in the community, Drahos served on the Wellington Education Committee from 2008-10 and is currently serving his fifth year on the Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board. As a member of the zoning board, Drahos has advocated for responsible growth of the equestrian industry, while also speaking out against recent development efforts to bring new, large-scale rental apartments to Wellington.

In 2012, Drahos led a task force, in coordination with village staff and local community leaders, that re-wrote outdated regulations in an effort to help businesses within the interior of Wellington remain competitive. Recognizing a leadership void in the community among his demographic, Drahos founded the Young Professionals of Wellington in 2012 and served as the group’s inaugural president. Since 2012, the nonprofit group has raised close to $40,000 for local Wellington charities and hosts public functions aimed at increasing community awareness and promoting the social and economic interests of the town. Drahos is a senior shareholder at the law firm Fowler White Burnett PA. He has been named a “Rising Star” in the 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 editions of Florida Super Lawyers Magazine and has achieved an AV Preeminent peer review rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which is awarded to

Michael Drahos less than five percent of attorneys nationwide. “As your village councilman, I will continue looking for ways to improve our village and be a strong advocate for our community,” Drahos said. “I will be Wellington’s homegrown leader.”

GRAND OPENING AT C. K.’S LOCKSHOP & SECURITY CENTER IN WELLINGTON

C. K.’s Lockshop & Security Center held a grand opening celebration for its new Wellington location on Thursday, Aug. 13 with a ribbon cutting, raffle, giveaways, cake, food from Tijuana Flats and more. The new store is in Wellington’s Courtyard Shops plaza. For more information, call (561) 732-9418 or visit www.cksecurity.com. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Dignitaries take part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Wellington Manager Giulio Dinuzzo with owners Tina Stephens and Chris and Bruce Volpe.

Owners Tina Stephens and Chris Volpe with C.K. Man.

Stuart Hack, Tiffany Rodriguez, Debbie Crompton, Victor Connor and Mark Bozicevic represented the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.

Fred, Carissa and Benjamin Gibbs with Carter Sweet, Tiffany Shatley and Sebastian Sweet.

The C.K.’s Lockshop & Security Center team.

Page 8

August 21 - August 27, 2015

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NEWS BRIEFS

Help Shape School District’s Strategic Plan

Superintendent Dr. Robert Avossa is asking for the community’s help to develop the School District of Palm Beach County’s strategic plan. Parents, students, employees and community members have until Aug. 28 to complete an online survey to share their thoughts about the district’s future. The questions in the survey are based on the most common concerns shared at 10 community meetings, and survey results will be used to pinpoint the most critical issues facing the district. The survey is available at www. palmbeachschools.org. “The community meetings were the first step in shaping the strategic plan that I will present to the school board early next year,” Avossa said. “The survey will help sharpen our focus as we develop that plan to prioritize and address the district’s most critical needs.” Visit the superintendent section of www.palmbeachschools.org to learn more about Avossa, watch

videos of his recent community meetings, and to read his 90-day entry plan for the district. Follow him on Twitter at @Supt_Avossa.

LGLA To Meet On Aug. 27

The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association (LGLA) will meet Thursday, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Palms West Presbyterian Church at 13689 Okeechobee Blvd. The speaker for the evening will be Maisie Ross from the Palm Beach County Extension Service. A certified family life educator, she has been asked to discuss what are the important things to consider when addressing the “Nuts and Bolts of Teamwork.” This is an open meeting where residents will get a chance to discuss issues of concern that they may have related to things that are going on in the town. The meeting is open to the public, but only LGLA members with paid dues can make motions and/or vote. For more information, contact Marge Herzog at (561) 818-9114 or marge@herzog.ms.

Equestrian Master Plan Survey Available

The Village of Wellington is inviting residents to participate in an online survey to gain insight on equestrian topics. The survey will assist village staff in gathering data related to traffic and seasonal fluctuations of horses and people. In an ongoing effort to provide better service for residents, village staff is also seeking input on a range of topics related to the Equestrian Master Plan. All responses to the survey are anonymous. Take a few minutes to complete the survey online at www.wellingtonfl.gov or at https:// epajuly.surveyanalytics.com.

Taste Of Italy Benefit Oct. 17

“A Taste of Italy” will take place at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way, Royal Palm Beach) on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. as a benefit for Your Bosom Buddies II, a breast cancer support group and

Think Pink Kids. There will be music, raffles and fun at the Italian dinner, which includes meatballs, baked ziti, Caesar salad, bread,

drink and cookies. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children six to 10 years old, and free for children five and younger. RSVP by Oct.

10 to Marie at (561) 358-6210. Checks can be made payable to YBBII Inc., 23D Bedford Ct., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411.

American Legion Future Heroes Golf Tournament Set For Sept. 19

The Wellington American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Post 390 will host its fifth annual Future Heroes Golf Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 19 at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Drive, Wellington). The event will kick off with a 1 p.m. shotgun start, followed by dinner, awards, a raffle and a silent auction. Proceeds from the golf tournament will benefit the Future Heroes Scholarship Fund and programs supporting local youth and veterans. The event is sponsored by Edward Jones Investments and Schumacher Buick, which will be donating a new car prize, as well as vacation golf trips and golf clubs as hole-in-one prizes. The entry fee is $100 per player. Sponsorship opportunities are still

available. For more information, call Ed Portman at (561) 6024409, John Isola at (561) 795-2721

or Mike Pancia at (561) 324-5403, or e-mail wellingtonlegion390@ gmail.com.

Schumacher Auto Group President Chuck Schumacher, American Legion Commander Al Ziker, Max Nelson, Ed Portman, James Napuli, Schumacher Marketing Manager Kelly Boudreau, Marc Pivin, Dennis Masch, John Isola and Mike Pancia with a Buick LaCrosse. PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN

A FIVE STAR INDEPENDENT AND ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Life’s just more fun in the sun – whether it’s fishing with the grandkids or a poolside lunch with the gang. There are 12 private acres to explore, and scheduled transportation is available for shopping and outings – including CityPlace and Palm Beach Outlets. Yet, sometimes the best times are spent right here – with fun-loving friends who enjoy life as much as you!

Discover Your Place in the Sun! • Daily chef-prepared meals • Weekly live entertainment • Clubhouse, heated pool, hot tub and gazebo • On-site pharmacy services, groceries and personal shopping • Fitness and aquatic programs • Spacious rental apartments (furnished short-term units available) • Large theatre/auditorium • Weekly housekeeping • On-site healthcare services

Fun in the Sun 111 Executive Center Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561-697-5500 • www.FountainviewRetirement.com

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Page 9

NEWS

ANTI-BULLYING KICKOFF BRINGS CROWDS TO MALL AT WELLINGTON GREEN

The Mall at Wellington Green, Stomp Out Bullying and iHeartRadio held an anti-bullying kickoff party at the mall Saturday, Aug. 15. iHeart Radio DJ Carmine Gialanella, Stomp Out Bullying Teen Ambassador Brandon Schloss, “Self Esteem Doctor” Simone Alicia and many mall representatives helped kids learn about the impacts of bullying. The next event, an anti-bullying block party, will take place Saturday, Aug. 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the mall. Four teens were picked for “Love Your Look” style sessions and will be debuting their new looks Aug. 29. For more information about Stomp Out Bullying, visit www.stompoutbullying.org. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

“Love Your Look” style session winners Marangely Aponte, Alyssa Peters, Ariana Valentin and Kirena BooDoo.

DJ Carmine Gialanella with Thais Martinez.

Alex Pupo-Campos “stomps out bullying” with Wild 95.5.

Regis Salon’s Maritza Lozowski braids the hair of Mia Steinmetz-Webb.

Izabelle Nelson signs a pledge against bullying.

Teen Ambassador Brandon Schloss and DJ Carmine Gialanella with Julia Lane, Cameron Koufos and Christina Lane.

Stomp Out Bullying’s Teen Ambassador Brandon Schloss with Beni Gross and Sarah Brodsky.

Annie Reynoso, Jennifer Dandro and Trudie Storck of Nordstrom.

COMMUNITY OF HOPE CHURCH DISTRIBUTES SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND SHOES

Acela Velasquez gets her hair cut by Colleen Carlton.

Kasey Heinl and Christine Brevik organized the back-to-school event.

The school supply distribution team.

Cathy Copan and Sandy Classen with Logan and Rocio Joseph.

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Gracye Roberts shows off her new sneakers and book bag full of school supplies, joined by her mom Stacey Meredith.

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Local farm zone is apples to Maryland’s oranges

RE-PRINT FROM THE PALM BEACH POST - AUGUST 17, 2015

Palm Beach County’s 22,000-acre zone has similarities to its Maryland cousin, but there, preservation is paramount.

By Wayne Washington Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

They are both called an “agricultural reserve.” Both came into official existence in the early 1980s, when farmers and conservationists across the country began urging local and state governments to preserve farmland. But Palm Beach County’s Agricultural Reserve, a 22,000-acre farming zone west of Boynton Beach and Delray Beach, differs in key ways from an agricultural reserve set up in Montgomery County, Md. Unlike Montgomery County’s reserve, significant chunks of the one here have been developed. Perhaps it’s not unrelated that zoning changes over the years have made development easier in Palm Beach County’s reserve. Even now, Palm Beach County staff members, following a directive from the county commission, are coming up with a plan to expand commercial zoning in the reserve. Meanwhile, development in Montgomery County’s 93,000-acre reserve, which covers a stunning 30 percent of that county’s land area, has been made more and more difficult. In a broad sense, the reserves reflect the political realities of South Florida and suburban Washington, D.C. Both areas are growing steadily. Montgomery County and Palm Beach County each saw their populations increase by about 6 percent from 2010 to 2014. But successive waves of political officials and staff members in Montgomery County have rebuffed development in their reserve. The same has not always been the case in Palm Beach County, despite pleas from preservationists who argue that elected officials and staff members are too willing to change the reserve’s rules in ways that favor development. The debate over Palm Beach County’s reserve is a microcosm of the broader debate about growth in the county. Residents on both sides of the debate have packed meeting rooms and argued passionately for more development oppor-

tunities — or that development is already swallowing up open space and farmland. Montgomery County’s reserve has been held up for comparison, and a review by The Palm Beach Post has found that, while the reserves have the same broad goal of promoting agriculture and preserving open space, they are different places managed in starkly different ways. Palm Beach County’s reserve, located in a high-tourism county not far from the ocean, covers less than 2 percent of the county’s total land area. Property owners can build one unit per five acres in the Ag Reserve. In Montgomery County’s reserve, it’s one unit for every 25 acres. About 29 percent of Palm Beach County’s reserve has been developed for residential or commercial use, according to figures from a recent county presentation. Some 56 percent of the reserve is in conservation or active agricultural use. Canals and right-ofway account for 3 percent of the Ag Reserve, with the rest — just under 2,800 acres — remaining for future use. No similar breakdown is available for Montgomery County’s reserve, but officials there said the vast majority of the reserve is open space or in some form of agriculture or farming. When it was established, developers had no love for the Montgomery County reserve. “Developers consistently complained about the ag reserve,” said Rose Krasnow, deputy director of Montgomery County’s Planning Department. “There was a sense that, ‘Oh, this won’t last. We’ll need that land for development.’ But there has been no headway on that. I don’t hear (complaints) as much from developers any more.” Montgomery County was sued over its agricultural reserve, but the county won the case. Its reserve is warmly embraced by many in the region and serves as a point of pride for environmentalists and preservationists. “The Ag Reserve has unquestionably worked and made a huge difference in the persistence of agriculture and ag land in

Development in Montgomery County’s 93,000-acre reserve has been made more and more difficult. In Palm Beach County, significant chunks of the reserve have been developed as zoning changes over the years made development easier.

the county,” said Pamela Lindstrom, former land use chair of the Montgomery County Sierra Club. “The law establishing the reserve is imperfect, but I have heard it’s the best in the country, and the countryside around the D.C. suburbs is much more rural than any other direction from D.C.” Lindstrom said even those who don’t like the agricultural reserve have come to a grudging acceptance of it. “The zoning law and master plan for the Ag Reserve are strong enough that developers do not try to change them directly,” she said. One major change in the mid-1990s made the climate for development in Palm Beach County’s Ag Reserve much more favorable. Builders had been required to set aside 80 acres for every 20 they develop, but a new “60-40” option was added in the 1990s allowing builders to set aside 60 acres for every 40 they developed as long as they set aside big chunks for preservation. A builder had to have a minimum of 250 total acres to get started , and 150 of those acres would have to be preserved. If a builder didn’t have a 150-acre chunk, it could get smaller pieces, but those pieces had to be next to other parcels in preservation. A county document at the time said the new option was created “to protect farmland and to perpetuate the practice of agriculture within the ag reserve area.” But in the years since that 60-40 option has been available, several development projects have sprung up in the Ag Reserve, and more development could be on the way. On July 30, county commissioners voted to move forward with a plan to drop the requirement that small parcels used for preservation be contiguous to other parcels in preservation. The proposal to eliminate this so-called “contiguity rule” still faces state approval and another vote by the county commission.

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At the same meeting, commissioners directed staff members to come up with a plan to expand commercial zoning in the Ag Reserve. Some farmers and nurserymen had complained that the contiguity rule has unfairly depressed the value of their land, forcing them to continue with unprofitable work and depriving them of opportunities available to the owners of large parcels. Dropping the contiguity requirement would make more land in the reserve eligible for use as preservation parcels, which, in turn, is expected to lead to more development since builders would have an easier time meeting the new conditions for the 60-40 rule. Representatives from GL Homes, a major landowner in the reserve that has expressed interest in purchasing the 586acre Whitworth Farms tract off State Road 7, attended the meeting and spoke on behalf of the proposed change. Commissioners have said that, with population growth a fact of life in Palm Beach County, some changes to accommodate that growth are necessary. They have also said the changes won’t lead to more development than was anticipated in the Ag Reserve’s comprehensive plan. Commissioner Priscilla Taylor, who voted to move forward with the pro-development changes, said the barn door to development in the Agricultural Reserve had been opened long ago. “I think when the other commissioners before our time first allowed changes to be made to ag, it sort of opened it up,” Taylor said. “So what we’re stuck with are the unintended consequences of that decision then. I think it’s going to be incumbent upon us at some point to decide how we are going to handle the bigger picture of this.”

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Local farm zone is apples to Maryland’s oranges

RE-PRINT FROM THE PALM BEACH POST - AUGUST 17, 2015

Palm Beach County’s 22,000-acre zone has similarities to its Maryland cousin, but there, preservation is paramount.

By Wayne Washington Palm Beach Post Staff Writer

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This foundation was created in 2015. However, the Jacobs family has been active in the Wellington community since 1972. They formed and funded the Wellington Equestrian Alliance in 1997 and the Wellington Preservation Coalition in 2012. The foundation is focused on making donations that will have a material positive impact on the Wellington community. The foundation does not set a minimum or maximum on grant requirements, but we are looking to make donations that make a significant difference in the community. We prefer to support programs, rather than ongoing operating expenses. We prefer underwriting programs rather than purchasing tables at, or tickets to, events. Family members often attend events, so please let us know about them. First and foremost, please provide a summary of your organization, your event and/or the program you are seeking a grant for. Let us know how this grant will benefit the Wellington community, and how it fits within our mission. If you are a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, please make sure to check that box. If you are looking to fund a program for multiple years, please let us know that, and include the amount of funding needed for the entire program. The board meets regularly to discuss each application and will allocate resources to programs that both make a significant impact in the community, and are consistent with our mission. We strongly believe in programs that focus on education, athletics, at-risk youth, and preservation in Wellington. Therefore, strong preference will be given to these areas. However, we will review all applications. So if you or your organization have a request that falls outside of these areas, and you believe it helps us achieve our mission, then we encourage you to still apply.

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Page 13

NEWS

WHOLE FOODS MARKET IN WELLINGTON HOSTS BACK TO SCHOOL BONANZA

Whole Foods Market hosted its seventh annual Back to School Bonanza on Saturday, Aug. 15 at the store in Wellington. A face painter and a magician put smiles on kids’ faces, while Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office volunteers made free ID cards, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue brought emergency vehicles and gave out information, and the PBSO brought horses and dogs for the kids to pet and take photos with. Meanwhile, free samples were available around the store. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz, Smokey the Bear and Forest Ranger Thomas Gorton.

Florida Forest Service Ranger Robert Vormittag.

Michael Johnson visits with Sparky.

Lucas Morales meets PBSO Dep. Lennertz and K-9 Bolo.

Magician Edward Francis shows Leilani Mishkin, Madison Martinez and Lillian Whitten a card trick.

Kira Herman on a Kawasaki ATV.

Elijah Gladstone with his grandmother Anita Shultz.

PBSO volunteers Suzie Byrnes and Stan Silverberg.

ROYAL PALM BEACH NURSING HOME RECEIVES NATIONAL QUALITY AWARD

The Royal Palm Beach Health & Rehabilitation Center celebrated receiving the 2015 Silver ANCA/NCAL National Quality Award on Friday, Aug. 14. Administrator Grace Achille thanked employees for their hard work with lunch. The award is for excellent quality of PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER care and services to residents and their families.

Senior staff and department heads with the award.

Derrick Brockman and Dicsan Martinez.

Hope Holden with Julette Browne.

Donna Wilson, Hope Holden and Diane Petraglia-Gardner.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Patrice Fletcher Participating In Her 16th Marathon In Honor Of Husband

Pepper Pettit with RPB Rotary Club President Dr. Bruce Elkind.

Georgia Rotarian Speaks To Royal Palm Rotary Club

The Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club welcomed guest speaker Pepper Pettit during its Thursday, Aug. 13 meeting. Pettit, a Rotarian from Dawsonville, Ga., spoke to the club about “Rotary R&R” to help the club with membership recruitment and retention. Pettit has more than 40 years of executive experience in the insurance industry. He is a senior partner in Abacus, an insurance carrier specializing in employee benefits and re-insurance.

Pettit has received many industry honors, is a member of the international DI Society, and is a frequent speaker nationally on healthcare reform and cost-containment in employee benefits. He is married with two children and lives in Dawson County, Ga. The Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club meets at Oak Bistro & Wine Bar in Royal Palm Beach every Thursday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. For more information, e-mail info@rpbrotary.org.

Wellington Author Offers A Different Take On David And Goliath

Nicholas Novella of Wellington shares a new perspective of the Bible’s David and Goliath story in his latest juvenile fiction, The Shield Bearer, an action-adventure book set for nationwide release this month. The Shield Bearer introduces a young soldier, Sisera, who fights for the Philistine Empire against Abraham’s sons. He trains with the giants and becomes friends with Goliath, who asks him to be his shield bearer. Miracles happen, and Sisera’s world is turned upside down. Being a believer in many gods, he starts to consider the possibility

that there may be only one true God. Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available through bookstores nationwide, from the publisher at www. tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting www.barnesandnoble. com or www.amazon.com. Novella, who works as an electrical engineer and a web developer, has dedicated himself to writing Bible-based stories around characters people seldom think about. Aside from The Shield Bearer, Novella’s other book is My Robot Named Spot.

Local philanthropist Patrice Fletcher will soon be completing her 16th marathon event back-toback within two years with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training program when she takes part in the 2015 Space Coast Marathon on Nov. 29. Meanwhile, she is issuing a challenge to other runners in the Palm Beach area. Fletcher, a participant of Team In Training since 2010, will face the physical challenge of running 13.1 miles on Nov 29 as the final event in her 16-race streak, all with the goal of helping advance cancer treatments and find a cure. Her hope is that by raising the money for these events, it will help LLS in its mission to find a cure for blood cancers and give patients a better quality of life. Today, thanks in part to the research conducted by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, six drugs have been approved for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia. Fletcher had no direct connection to the cause, she just wanted to do something to give back. In

November of 2011, that changed when her husband, Rick, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, just 15 months after she became involved with the cause. “We were blindsided when we initially learned of the seriousness of his cancer,” Fletcher said. Rick’s treatment included an 8-hour surgery to remove a tumor that was growing on his spine, a month of radiation, five months of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, before his oncologist reported that he was in remission. Rick is currently on a chemo maintenance pill, Revlimid, a drug made available through the research done by the LLS. As if her challenge isn’t impressive enough, Fletcher is not your typical athlete. She will be turning 57 this month and will have raised more than $30,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Fletcher is challenging other individuals in the Palm Beach area to meet or beat that number and join her in the fight to help defeat blood cancers. For more information, visit www.teamintraining.org/pb/

Patrice Fletcher with her husband, Rick. patrice and either join her for her 16th event or donate to help her reach her goal. Team In Training (TNT) is designed to train individuals from the novice to the expert athlete to complete endurance sports events, such as marathons, century rides and triathlons, in return for their

fundraising efforts to further the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. For more information, visit www.teamintraining.org or call (800) 399-7312.

Education Foundation Of PBC Names Jordan Paul To Board Of Directors

NAI/Merin Hunter Codman, one of South Florida’s leading commercial real estate services firms, together with the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, recently announced that Jordan C. Paul has been named to the foundation’s board. Paul is the CEO of NAI/Merin Hunter Codman and brings to the Education Foundation a strong and diverse background in business operations, law, finance, investment and asset management, and strategic joint ventures. Paul is a longtime advocate of educational causes in South Florida, and already is helping to direct the education foundation’s inaugural “School-Ready Supplies Store” program, which aims to establish centralized retail/ warehouse facilities in Palm Beach County to provide free school supplies to students and teachers in disadvantaged schools. It is just one of many initiatives undertaken by the Education Foundation to

bridge unmet gaps between public funding and the “learning, literacy and leadership” needs of the county’s students. “Jordan Paul brings to the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County strategic business acumen that will help enable our private investments and business partnerships to maximize learning results,” said Christina Lambert, president and CEO of the Education Foundation. Though Paul will advise on numerous education foundation initiatives, the foundation is particularly looking forward to his guidance with the new free school supply store, since it includes the identification of optimal real estate sites, negotiation of leases, and/or building purchases and ongoing property management. As CEO OF NAI/Merin Hunter Codman, Paul oversees all aspects of strategic acquisitions, leasing and comprehensive property management at the firm, among

other duties. The firm has some of the nation’s most prestigious institutional and private investors as its client base. “NAI/Merin Hunter Codman has had a vested interest in Palm Beach County for over 30 years,” Paul said. “We seek talented employees from the community, raise our children here, and strongly believe that the future growth and success of Palm Beach County is directly correlated to the quality of our public education system.” NAI/Merin Hunter Codman is headquartered in West Palm Beach with regional offices in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington. Programs run by the foundation include a financial literacy program to enrich financial life skills of students, as well as STEM (science, technology engineering and math) programs, arts programs, teacher recognition and classroom grants. The foundation also spon-

Jordan C. Paul sors medical academics for middle school students. The Education Foundation is funded through contributions and grants and provides resources for innovative programs to improve academic achievement. Learn more at www.education foundationpbc.org.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Panther Run Cleanup Effort A Success

On Saturday, Aug. 8, Panther Run Elementary School hosted a campus cleanup and beautification event coordinated by PTA members Amy Roberts, Jessica Moisdon and Sherry Irwin, along with their families. Event volunteers included Panther Run parents, family members, teachers, students, staff, Boy Scout Troop 208, Girl Scout Troop 20150 and former students. For more than six hours, more than 50 people from the community came together to clean up and landscape areas around the school. Volunteers held a dedication in memory of Elaine Mathis, a PTA member who passed away in April. A beautiful bench was donated by her husband’s employer this summer to honor Elaine and the volunteers who make Panther Run the great school that it is.

Local businesses also got involved. All Star Pressure Cleaning of Wellington donated pressure cleaning of sidewalks and curbs, while Goldasich Environmental Services donated the mulch for the project and hauled off of the debris. Neil Logan Nursery provided plant materials at cost and delivered them for free. Walgreens provided all of the bottled water to keep all of the volunteers hydrated. Three Panther Run families donated money toward the project, and the PTA funded the remainder of the cost out of school enhancement funds raised last year. (Right) PTA members Jessica Moisdon and Amy Roberts with the bench, donated in memory of former PTA member Elaine Mathis.

More Than 400 Tech Teachers Attend Training

On Friday, Aug. 7, more than 400 teachers attended a special workshop at Park Vista High School. School district administrators know that there’s a need to increase the student use of technology for learning in the classroom, which is why the Department of Educational Technology hosted

an internal mini-conference to start teachers on the path to change that. Under the leadership of Gary Weidenhamer, director of educational technology, and Mark Howard, chief of performance accountability, the EdTech team hosted the technology mini-conference, which included 12 breakout sessions, as well as internation-

ally acclaimed speaker Rushton Hurley, who began and ended the day with his inspirational, fun and informational keynote speeches. “We know that if used in innovative ways, technology can be the key to making lessons more rigorous and meaningful,” Howard said. “We are at a critical point in education now, where we have

the perfect window of opportunity to put the ownership of learning into the hands of the students. Technology allows us to do this.” The teachers at the mini-conference got a chance to see some innovative, yet simple ways to engage students in the actual learning process using technology, Howard said.

Page 15

OPEN HOUSE AT NEW HORIZONS

New Horizons Elementary School ushered in the new school year with a fun-filled, informative open house. Students and parents met their new teachers and perused their new classrooms. Fathers, grandfathers and uncles committed to stay involved in their children’s education by signing up for the Million Father March taking place on the first day of school. Shown above are students, teachers and their families.

NHES DUAL LANGUAGE PROGRAM CELEBRATION

PBSC Program Receives New Farm Equipment

Farm equipment takes a beating during harvests, and skilled mechanics are needed to keep these large vehicles in working order. Now, thanks to the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida, students in Palm Beach State College’s heavy equipment mechanics program on the Belle Glade campus have an actual harvester and tractor to train on — something no other program in the area offers. The donation of the Cameco brand equipment is valued at $51,000. “We cannot thank the cooperative enough for this generous donation,” said Dr. Holly Bennett, campus provost. “Our students will have the advantage over any other new hires by having mastery of those skills before they graduate.” Though the school had other equipment, the program did not have anything like its new equipment. “We had pieces of vehicles, motors and all kinds of things like

that, but we didn’t have actual vehicles that our students could work on,” said Dr. Gloria McAllister, campus director of corporate/career education and postsecondary adult vocational programs. “Now our students will have experience with a track harvester, as well as with a wheel tractor. That’s unique to our program.” Harvesters are used to cut the sugar cane in the field and take so much abuse that they must be torn down, serviced and rebuilt each harvest season, including the tracks and cutting mechanisms. Tractors are used in all types of agriculture in the Glades. “Having the harvester and tractor as part of our heavy equipment mechanics program will allow us to do an even better job of providing a quality workforce to the region,” McAllister said. The Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida consists of 45 grower-members who bring sugar from cane fields in South Florida to

PBSC’s new Cameco harvester, donated by the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida. dinner tables, restaurants and food ment, we can ‘grow-our-own’ manufacturing facilities through- workforce.” out the U.S. and worldwide. Carl “Trey” Dean, campus “We are pleased to be business groundskeeper and a student in partners with PBSC,” said Barbara the heavy equipment mechanics Miedema, vice president of the program, wasted no time getting a cooperative. “The college is an close look at the harvester and tracintegral part of the Glades com- tor. “It’s great to have real pieces munity that provides continuing of equipment that are used in the educational and skilled training fields,” he said. “Most programs opportunities for local residents. can only show you the equipment. By donating real-life farm equip- We can actually work on it here.”

New Horizons Elementary School fifth graders were recently honored at the annual dual language celebration. Family members and school staff gathered for an evening of memories. Students performed a variety of songs, dances and instrumental selections. Teachers were honored with kind words from the students. A slideshow highlighted the students’ years at New Horizons. Each student received a certificate from the International Spanish Academy. Shown above are dual language students and their family members.

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FEATURES

Three Cheers For Crockett, The Only Pup I Ever Agreed To Like I have never owned a dog, not even as a child. I know, I know. In America, everyone has to have one. Otherwise, why get up in the morning? Certainly not to walk oneself. And yes, I’ve heard of cat people, but I’m not one of those either. As a result, there are no furballs in the corners of my home, no dishes of food on the floor to attract vermin and my black slacks stay black. In short, I am blissfully free of all the conditions of unconditional love. Yet this column is a tribute to Crockett, the coolest dog I’ve ever known, and the

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER closest I’ve ever come to having a dog of my own. My daughter first met Crockett in Gainesville when he was a puppy and she was a student at the University of

Florida. He was at the shelter where Jen volunteered. He was the only dog there, as most students find it easier to sneak cats into pet-restricted dorms and apartments than dogs. Then, as the students graduated and moved on with their lives, too many of these pets got left behind. With only felines as roommates, Crockett developed many catlike behaviors. He liked to sit up high, looking down on things. He sat with his front paws crossed and licked them clean, much as a cat would. But the similarities stopped there because Crockett also realized he was the

man — er, dog — of the house. A sharp bark aimed at those he considered his subordinates kept everyone in line. And, because he was there as the end result of a UF heartworm experiment, he got extra attention from Jen (who, thanks to me, had never had a dog growing up). He was treated like the king he was sure he was. Pretty soon, Jen adopted him and brought him home to meet me. I was less than impressed. He looked like an ordinary dog to me. Crockett had to stay in the garage which, in this day and age, is almost considered animal cruelty. After all, I had seen dogs driving cars and

sipping milkshakes as they barreled down the highway — or so it appeared. Eventually, Crockett wormed his way into my heart and out of the garage. He was friendly and smart, and Jen hinted that she needed someone to watch him while she lived in Turkey for six months. What’s a mother to do? During the six months I dogsat Crockett, I developed an admiration for him. He never got tangled around a stop sign during our walks. He waited patiently for me to catch up. He sang along if anyone was singing “Happy Birthday” (but not See WELKY, page 18

‘Man From U.N.C.L.E.’ An Amusing Summer Action-Adventure

In a world where Hollywood has pretty much given up on true creativity, it falls back on old reliables: shows and movies that have come before. Guy Ritchie does that with his remake of the old TV series Man From U.N.C.L.E. Nevertheless, it turns out that he has created a pretty good film with plenty of action and even a bit of fun. The old series, created during the Kennedy administration, just as James Bond was beginning to dominate action films, began with the clever notion of having not only an American secret agent, but a Russian one, with the duo working together to stop evil. It was fun; it was stylish. Happily, Ritchie has kept the time frame, and, to a large degree, the sensibility of the early 1960s, in a wild adventure film. American super-secret agent Napoleon Solo (Henry Cavill) is first seen in East Berlin (remember when Germany was divided?) trying to convince German mechanic Gaby Teller (Alicia Vikander)

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler to come to the West to locate her father, a nuclear scientist reported missing. They begin the trek, but are chased by Russian super-agent Ilya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer). There is a fun car chase, better done than most I’ve seen recently, as Solo and Teller escape. The next day we discover that Solo was a thief and is being forced to work for the U.S. government with a handler (Jared Harris) who is nastier than most of the bad guys. He takes Solo to a meeting with their Russian counterparts, where they assign Solo and Kuryakin to work together to

recover both the missing scientist and key data that describes how he has been able to easily build a nuclear bomb. As the leaders leave, the entire restaurant clears out (all the customers were their people) in one of the more amusing moments. The two agents fight and seem to hate each other. Then Teller enters the picture, assigned to pretend to be Kuryakin’s fiancée. Interestingly, both agents seem far more expert in creating her wardrobe than any heterosexual male would likely to have been 50 years ago. The two agents are forced to work together despite disagreements, both having been informed that they are to get the key data and kill the other at the end of the mission. They wind up in Italy and meet Teller’s uncle (Sylvester Groth), who it turns out had been one of the Nazis’ top torturers, as well as the beautiful leader (Elizabeth Debicki) of the fascist group that wants to use the weapons to take over the world. As is normal in this type of

film, there is trickery and betrayal before Solo and Kuryakin manage to destroy the bad guys. There is even a nice scene at the end where we see the creation of the new agency U.N.C.L.E. (United Network Command for Law and Enforcement), under the direction of British agent Waverly (Hugh Grant), who seems to have been maneuvering everyone through the whole thing. The only real problem in the film is that Cavill and Hammer have almost no charisma. They are both remarkably handsome and physically fit. But those who remember Robert Vaughn as the original Solo and, particularly, David McCollum as Kuryakin, will find that although their banter is reasonably well-written, there is no chemistry. Changing Kuryakin into a sometimes psychotic character created some good scenes, but also put him at an emotional distance from the audience. Vikander stole

every scene she was in from the two of them. The rest of the cast was uniformly good. Grant was good, no longer playing the casual boy-man role, even if only on screen for a short time. Clearly, he is being established as the leader of the group in sequels. Debicki was both beautiful and elegant as Victoria, mostly interested in world domination although willing to take time off to get romantic with Solo. Groth was appropriately creepy as the horrid uncle. This is a good summer movie. There is a lot of action with no real need for any thinking to get in the way of a good time. Cavill and Hammer were able to handle the action well. Had more personality been allowed to shine through, this would have been a far better film. Still, in the dog days of August, we all could do far worse. If the rains are coming down, and you want a good time, this remake is a good choice.

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 17

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

Lox Manager

Severn Trent

continued from page 1 and police districts in the area. Council members were concerned about Tibbs’ past involvement as finance director with the City of Lauderdale Lakes in Broward County. In that position, he became embroiled in an inspector general investigation involving mismanagement of city funds. Tibbs said, however, that the situation revolved around council members and not himself directly. Council members were also concerned that Tibbs is not a certified manager, which is required by the town’s charter. Town Attorney Michael Cirullo reminded council members they had the option to reject all bids and reconsider an extension with Underwood Management. Cirullo added that state statute provides that the bids are exempt from publication until the time that there is an award. However, the proposers later consented to having the amount of their bids made public that evening in response to requests by residents. Although the services offered by the bidders were not consistent, and arguably less than what Underwood provides, Severn Trent’s bid was $30,875 per month, while Tibbs’ was $26,250 per month, compared with Underwood’s current rate of $27,083 per month. Councilman Tom Goltzené made a motion to reject the bids and let Underwood stay, but it died for lack of a second.

School Dogs

Special Abilities

continued from page 1 search for a missing child or a missing person,” Riddick said. Kash, who joined Riddick when he was only seven weeks old, went through six months of training at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s Bloodhound Training Academy. “Kash, no credit to me, won top dog. He knows what he’s doing,” Riddick said. “He knows what he has to do.” Not only did he win top dog, but Kash is the first and only bloodhound in the United States deployed in a school district setting, Riddick said. “In a school district this size, we’re way ahead of the curve,” he said. While Kash has had a few missions, Riddick credits the teachers and administrators with keeping track of their students and minimizing the need for Kash’s special abilities.

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NEWS “I personally would like to hear their presentations,” said Mayor Dave Browning, who had voted with Goltzené against putting out the RFP. “That’s the professional thing to do.” Bob Koncar, general manager for Severn Trent’s Coral Springs office, said his company pioneered the public/private concept of municipal management in 1978 with the Indian Trace Community Development District. “We provided service for many years, and then we were asked to incorporate them as a city, and it became the City of Weston,” Koncar said. “We provided services for them for many years, and then they changed the contract model and took some of the services back in-house.” The company also provides management services for the cities of Williston and Hillsboro Beach, Fla., and some municipalities in Georgia. “We have four managers on our staff who come from local governments here in Florida, so we have a wide range of municipal experience that we can bring, especially in a public/private partnership,” he said. In addition, the company has provided services to 85 community development districts in Florida since 1982, including the Seminole Improvement District. “That was the original purpose for the company, and that is what we have continued to do throughout the years,” Koncar said, adding that the company has the largest staff in the state for community development districts and municipal governments. “We have nine accountants on

staff; we have five individuals in our accounts payable/accounts receivable division; we have 10 in our recording and records-keeping program in Coral Springs,” he said. “We also have district managers in five different offices throughout the State of Florida. We have the experience and background in not only municipal service, but in special units of local government as well.” Jarriel asked who they had in mind to serve as town manager, and Koncar said the company had several candidates to consider. Although he did not name them, he said he could supply the town with résumés if they were selected as the management company. “Our proposal is to bring several candidates to you and let you pick one for town manager, since it is such a critical position,” Koncar said. Cirullo pointed out that the manager would need to be certified, and a specific name of the manager would need to be provided by the time of the contract approval on Sept. 1. Jarriel asked whether there would be a provision in the contract to replace the manager if it turned out that the council was dissatisfied after a certain amount of time, and Koncar said that there would be. Jarriel also asked if they would provide an experienced town clerk. “I’m interested in who’s going to be serving this community,” he said. Koncar said that his firm had not selected a specific town clerk. “One of the things we are looking for is someone certified as a town clerk,” he said.

Browning said he wanted to be sure Severn Trent would provide adequate staff to run the town. “It takes a lot of manpower to run this town,” he said. “We’re very hands-on. I don’t see how one person, one clerk and one secretary can do the residents of this town justice. For more money, you get 35 hours in this office, which to me is kind of an insult for our community.” Browning added that he believed retaining the same company that provides services to the Seminole Improvement District could be a conflict. “We are neighbors, but to represent both entities with one management team bothers me a little bit,” he said. Severn Trent representatives said that the management team for the town would be separate from the Minto West entity, although some back-office staff might be the same. Goltzené asked how the company would handle community services, such as public records requests and building permits, and representatives said that would be managed out of the Coral Springs office. He also asked where records would be stored, and firm representatives said they would be at the town hall and backed up at the Coral Springs office. Goltzené asked about financial software purchased recently by the town, and Severn Trent representatives said they could use that or their own financial software as well, and could adapt to new software in 30 to 90 days. Rockett said that he thought Severn Trent was being held to

a higher standard, because past management applicants had put together limited liability companies specifically for the town, and specific positions had been filled after they had been hired. “[The applicants] should also know that only three council members authorized going out for

There are many different scenarios where Kash comes in. Sometimes, kids will leave campus, hide out or wander off. “There are all kinds of scenarios,” he said. “What we do on a daily basis is train, train, train, train. I don’t want to have to use him, but he has to be ready… 24 hours a day, he’s with me.” Kash was constantly sniffing at the air, alert and paying attention. Riddick gave Kash a sweaty shirt to smell, as another officer hid, and within seconds, Kash found the hidden officer. A young dog, Kash weighs only 120 lbs. He’s expected to get much bigger — his father is 160 lbs. “Kash is a scent-specific dog,” Riddick said. “Every time I bring him out of the car, it’s the same ritual.” Riddick presents Kash with what they call a “scent article” — something even as simple as a pencil, a desk, a shoe, a sock… almost anything that has been touched by the person they’re looking for — and off Kash goes, following even the most minus-

cule scent trace. “He’s trained to go footstep to footstep,” Riddick said. Contrary to popular belief, rain actually makes the odor more intense, rather than masking odors, Riddick noted. Riddick’s other partner, Kobee, is a year-and-a-half-old Belgian Malinois. Like Kobee, Officer Jose Cuellar’s K-9 Jake is a narcotics dog. Jake, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois, has been working for about eight months. “He’s a friendly dog. He’s really good at what he does,” Cuellar said. “First and foremost, he’s a deterrent. Kids don’t know when we’re coming.” As a narcotics detection dog, Jake is trained to detect illegal substances, including marijuana, cocaine and heroin. Cuellar tends to work on the north end of the county. Officer Christopher Ferland usually works in the southern end of the county. One of the last to join the unit, Cuellar is the only officer with only one K-9… for now. Plans,

and fundraising, are in the works to acquire a gun dog for him. Ferland works with K-9s Tango, a yellow lab, and Maggie, a Dutch shepherd. Maggie makes sure there aren’t weapons in cars, book bags, lockers and more. Whereas an administrator would have to physically check everything, Maggie can go in and check everything within minutes, Ferland explained. The dogs act as a deterrent, as well as a way for the students to learn and become comfortable with the officers. During the school year, the officers bring the K-9s to schools for demonstrations, attend events and make their presence known, even when they are not at the school searching for drugs, guns or missing children. “The kids know we’re here… it breaks barriers,” Riddick said, adding that kids are always asking to see his dogs. “If it was up to me, every police officer would have a dog,” he said. To learn more about the Palm Beach County School District Police Department, visit www.palm beachschools.org/schoolpolice.

continued from page 1 needed. “That’s your prerogative,” he said. “I’d request you through December, but that’s another story,” Councilman Jim Rockett said. During public comment, resident Phillis Maniglia said she did not understand why the attorney would resign with no stated cause. “I don’t believe that an attorney walks away from six-plus years of

School Police Officer Jose Cuellar with K-9 Jake.

Officers Jose Cuellar, Curtis Riddick and Christopher Ferland.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

RFPs, so expect that that’s part of what your reception is tonight,” Rockett said. Rockett made a motion to accept Severn Trent Services as the applicant for management services, which was seconded by Jarriel. It carried 3-2 with Goltzené and Browning opposed.

TOWN COUNCIL HONORS ‘WORLD’S UGLIEST DOG’

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday recognized Quasi Modo, a local dog with shortened vertebra, for winning first place recently in the 2015 “World’s Ugliest Dog” contest held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, Calif. Quasi is shown here with owners Mike Carroll and Dr. Virginia Sayre, and Mayor Dave Browning. Sayre, a veterinarian, rescued and adopted Quasi 10 years ago. PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Attorney

Lox Law Firm Quits

Welky

Crockett’s Story

continued from page 16 any other song) and could even open gift-wrapped presents (whether one needed the help or not). He was fun... he was quirky.. and I liked him. When Jen returned home, their reunion was heart-warming. She ran straight for him, but Crockett looked back at me first, as if to say, “I love her, but you know I

Blotter

continued from page 6 74th Street North in The Acreage last Saturday afternoon regarding a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 p.m. last Friday and 12:48 p.m. last Saturday, someone stole the victim’s 2012 Volkswagen Passat. According to the report, a set of keys were left in the vehicle. AUG. 15 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home under construction on 121st Terrace North in The Acreage last Saturday afternoon regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, several parts of a pool filtration system, including the pump, were stolen. The theft was noticed by the pool construction company installing the home’s new pool. AUG. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Sunday morning to a home on Citrus

a steady paycheck for no issues,” Maniglia said. “I think there are serious issues with this council. I think attacking this management company was one of the worst things you have ever done to us. I feel Underwood Management has stood strong for the people of this town and answered questions. They believe in transparent government. They have been looking over invoices, and that is why you’re getting rid of them.” Cirullo is also the attorney for the City of Lighthouse Point and serves other public clients for the firm. appreciate you, too, right?” When she was done cuddling her sorely missed dog, Jen gave me a hug. After that trip, they were rarely separated. He was there when she met her future husband, there when she said “yes” and there when she said “I do.” He was good and loyal and loving. In short, Crockett gave all he had to give for 16 years, until last month, when he went to that big Playground in the Sky. Don’t be sad. His arrival was almost certainly met with singing and gifts to open. After all, it was his birthday. Grove Blvd. in The Acreage regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 p.m. last Saturday and 7:30 a.m. Sunday, someone stole a 2006 42-inch Husqvarna lawn tractor from the victim’s front yard. AUG. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to Blue Violet Lane in the Nautica Lakes community Sunday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., someone broke a window screen frame, causing $50 in damage. AUG. 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was contacted Monday morning by a resident of Peconic Court regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between midnight and 11 a.m. on Monday, the victim’s state decal was stolen from her 2012 Toyota.

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Page 19

NEWS

WELLINGTON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB HOSTS TALENT SHOW AND FASHION SHOW

On Friday, Aug. 14, the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington celebrated the end of summer with a back-to-school fashion show and talent show. Club members sang, danced, tumbled and strutted their way across the gymnasium floor, entertaining parents and peers alike. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Fashion show participants show off their stylish attire.

Gabriella Lebron, Marthe Macaiedu, Zoe Lomax, Starling Gilbert, Bebiana Montoya, Kendall Jones and Isabella Lebron.

Kyra Plank sings.

Zoe Lomax displays her tumbling skills.

Makaela Garcia and Natalia Amador sing for the crowd.

Fashion show participants Donee Moore, Amaya Beatha, Amber Merkeson, Liana McCreery and Alicia Large.

Kendall Jones shows off her tumbling skills.

Maddison Morley dances.

ARMORY ART CENTER PRESENTS EXHIBITION SHOWING CAMPER PROJECTS

The Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach finished its summer art camp with an exhibition and reception on Friday, Aug. 14. The exhibition was open to the public and included artwork by all of the participants, along with refreshments and music. For more inforPHOTOS BY SERGIO AGUILAR/TOWN-CRIER mation about Armory programs, visit www.armoryart.org.

Sophie Schoenfeld Kahn and Wendy Schoenfeld.

Stacey, Caroline and Chace Piesco with their project, “Day of the Dead Bones.”

Ali, Jacob and Samuel Munley with their project, “Messy Variations of an Idea.”

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The Story Of Hannah, Shira & A Horse Named Rosie

The spring of 2015 was an exciting time in young Hannah Bentz’s life. On May 19, she graduated from high school. That weekend, she had planned to enter her horse, Rosie, in the Palm Beach County Horseman’s Association show. But plans don’t always work out. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

Business

Central Chamber VIPs Tour WRMC’s New Interventional Radiology Suite

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce held a VIP quarterly event at Wellington Regional Medical Center. WRMC CEO Robbin Lee, a chamber board member, and her staff hosted the gathering, which included the chamber’s board of directors, medical board of governors and trustee members. VIPs enjoyed tours of the new, state-of-theart interventional radiology suite. Page 25

Sports PBCHS Football Squad Ready To Make Noise In New District

Palm Beach Central High School’s football team is busy training. The Broncos are the three-time District 10-8A champions. But this year they’ve moved to District 9-8A — one of the toughest in the county, including reigning champ Wellington High School, along with Seminole Ridge, Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter. Page 29

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 23 BUSINESS NEWS....................................24-25 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................29-31 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 32 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 33-36

Page 21

RPBHS Wildcats Aim For Another District Title

The Royal Palm Beach High School football team is back on the gridiron. The Wildcats have been busy orchestrating their goal of repeating as the District 13-7A champs. The team posted an 11-2 finish, won the district title and played in the regional finals last year. Page 29

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Shopping Spree

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

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FEATURES

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 23

The Story Of Hannah, Shira And A Horse Named Rosie The spring of 2015 was an exciting time in young Hannah Bentz’s life; a time of endings and beginnings. On May 19, she graduated from Spanish River High School. That weekend, she was at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, where she had planned to enter her horse, Rosie, in the Palm Beach County Horseman’s Association show. But plans don’t always work out. The 10-year-old Dutch Warmblood mare somehow scratched her cornea Saturday morning while they were warming up. Hannah rode her, and she seemed fine, but by the time she dismounted, Rosie was holding her right eye closed. “I called the vet immediately,” Hannah recalled. “She checked the eye with a strip, and the scratch showed up bright green. It was a pretty big scratch.” The vet prescribed eye drops, and they rigged up a fly mask with a dark patch over that eye to protect it from the sun and everything else. The eye would be fine in a few days. Hannah canceled her plans to show Rosie, but wasn’t overly depressed. She had other things to keep her occupied. “It was been a busy week,” she said. “I just got my driver’s license the day after graduation. Being finished with high school feels great. Now I can focus on preparing for college. I’m looking forward to the future. It’s all very exciting.” Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL.

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg And although Hannah, who turned 18 in July, is now heading off to the College of Charleston in South Carolina, she’ll be leaving Rosie behind. “I’ve had her four years. She’s a little quirky, which I really like. She’s not a push-button horse. You never stop learning on her; she never stops teaching me,” Hannah said. “She’s a talented horse with a great jump, but you have to ride her correctly or she won’t perform.” Hannah is not selling Rosie or leasing her. Instead, she is lending Rosie to her cousin, 13-year-old Shira Hadar. As a matter of fact, it was Shira who was supposed to show Rosie at the PBCHA show that weekend in the 2-foot-6 hunter and equitation classes. Hannah was just there to school and coach her. “I could never afford to bring a horse along to college,” Hannah said. “It’s way too expensive. This way, Shira will be able to learn and progress the way I did. The two make a great pair.” Hannah has been riding for 10 years, five of those with the Wall Street Farm Interscholastic Equestrian Association team.

Hannah Bentz (standing) with Shira Hadar aboard Rosie. “Riding with the team was great,” Hannah know she’ll do a great job taking care of her.” said. “Even though I was fortunate to have Hannah plans to participate in the Intercolmy own horse to practice on, it gave me the legiate Horse Show Association. Her college chance to learn how to ride a lot of different has a very good team. kinds of horses. That’s how you can improve “Last year, they had a Cacchione Cup wina lot, by working with as many different ner, and their team was fifth overall in the horses as you can. That’s how you get to be U.S.,” Hannah noted. “I’ve already met the a truly educated rider. Shira is going to learn coach and some of the riders. They’re all so a lot from Rosie and really grow as a rider. I See ROSENBERG, page 31

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business Coach To Speak At ABWA Dinner On Sept. 9

Jessica Sitomer

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Sept. 9 at the PGA Boulevard Embassy Suites Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens. The September program title is “Burnout to Bliss.” The presenter, Jessica Sitomer, is a longtime expert in business coaching, specializing in networking, branding and marketing. Sitomer’s experience comes from 20 years in the entertainment industry, doing writing, acting,

directing, development and production. Sitomer is an international speaker who has coached thousands of people pursuing careers in entertainment, business and entrepreneurship. She is the author of three books, such as And… Action! Powerful, Proven and Proactive Strategies to Achieve Success in the Entertainment Industry and From Burnout to Bliss. For the September gathering, networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m., with the dinner and

program immediately following. The cost is $22, and guests are welcome to attend. To make reservations, or get more information, call Karen Dooley at (561) 543 5641 or Pat Key at (561) 283-9768. The Embassy Suites Hotel is located at 4350 PGA Blvd. in Palm Beach Gardens. For directions to the hotel, call (561) 622-1000. The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide

Schneider Wins Award From Enrolled Agents Group

The Florida Society of Enrolled Agents (FSEA) recently presented Royal Palm Beach businessman Jeffrey Schneider with the Excellence in Education Award in recognition of his efforts to improve the quality and scope of FSEA education programs. Enrolled agents are federally licensed tax practitioners who can represent clients before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Schneider is a past president of the FSEA, a fellow of the National Tax Practice Institute, a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist and the principal at SFS Tax & Accounting

Services. The winners were announced in June during the annual Convention and Installation Banquet in St. Petersburg. Nominations were based on unique standards for each award. Enrolled agents (EAs) are America’s tax experts. They are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize in taxation and also have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. That means that if you get a letter from the IRS, or worse, are audited or are the target of a collection action, an enrolled agent can speak directly to the IRS on your behalf.

While attorneys and certified public accountants are also licensed, only enrolled agents specialize exclusively in taxes. Enrolled agents are required to complete many hours of continuing education each year to ensure they are up-to-date on the constantly changing tax code and must abide by a code of ethics. Schneider leads the team at SFS Tax & Accounting Services, which has offices in Royal Palm Beach and Port St. Lucie. He can be reached at (772) 337-1040. For more information, visit www. sfstaxacct.com.

Jeffrey Schneider

opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition. For additional information, call Chapter President Rebecca Ott at (772) 828-0915 or visit www. abwanpbflorida.org.

Whole Foods To Host Free Dinner For Teachers On Friday, Aug. 21

Four Whole Foods Market locations — Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach — will each be hosting a spaghetti dinner on Friday, Aug. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. Teachers will receive a free meal by presenting their school ID, and non-teachers can still partake for a $5 donation to the Whole Kids Foundation. To RSVP, or for store-specific questions, visit the events calendar on your store’s web site or speak with your store’s customer service. Whole Foods Market Wellington is located at 2635 State Road 7. For more information, call (561) 904-4000.

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BUSINESS NEWS

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 25

CHAMBER VIPS TOUR WRMC INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY SUITE

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce held a VIP quarterly event at Wellington Regional Medical Center. WRMC CEO Robbin Lee, a chamber board member, and her staff hosted the gathering, which included the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors, medical board of governors and trustee members. VIPs enjoyed tours of the new, state-of-the-art interventional radiology suite, led by Dr. Jamie Toro.

(Above) WRMC CEO Robbin Lee (left) with Chamber CEO Mary Lou Bedford. (Below) Chamber Board Member Mark Eggen with Chamber Chairman Thomas Bean.

Chamber Trustee Barbara Higgins with board member Rob Liebman.

The new interventional radiology equipment at Wellington Regional Medical Center.

(Left to right) Dr. Daxa Patel, Dr. Kishore Dass, Dr. David Soria and Robbin Lee; Mickey Smith and Matthew Chait; and Dr. Jamie Toro with Medical Board of Governors Chair Dr. Daniel Ghiragossian.

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Page 27

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SPORTS & RECREATION

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 29

Wildcats Aim For Another District Crown In Football

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach High School football program is back on the gridiron, practicing for the fall season. The Wildcats have been busy orchestrating their goal of repeating as the District 13-7A champions. The team posted a school best 11-2 finish, won the district title and played in the regional finals last year. However, the stacked team graduated 15 seniors, many of them key

players, with the Class of 2015. Offensive lineman Fredrick Johnson signed with the University of Florida, while running back Charles Perry went to the University of Miami. Shamar Jackson committed to the University of South Dakota, and junior quarterback Toddy Centieo transferred to William T. Dwyer High School. But make no mistake, the Wildcats will be equally as dangerous on the gridiron this season. “There’s continuity here, and the

time in the weight room has been good,” head coach Willie Bueno told the Town-Crier. “The kids know what to expect, and our kids are going to be ready to go.” Pahokee High School transfer quarterback Josh Carr will take charge of the offense this season. The senior brings athleticism to the team. “We’re happy with Josh; we think he’s just as good as what we’ve had in the past,” Bueno said. “He’s probably the best athlete we’ve had as a

Da’von Brown and Telvis Lawler battle for a pass that has been deflected.

Running back Kyle Maschi protects the ball as he runs up the center.

Da’von Brown runs with the ball during a scrimmage.

quarterback since I’ve been here.” Telvis Lawler has experience at the running back position and will lead the ground game for the Wildcats. “We expect him to be really good for us this season,” Bueno said. Kyle Maschi will also see time in the backfield. Senior Da’von Brown, who was an All-County honoree last season, will play on both sides of the ball, giving Carr a solid pair of hands to throw to. He will also lead

the defense in the cornerback spot. Receiver Marlon Eugene is a key return starter for the Wildcats. The senior has offers from Oregon State and the University of Cincinnati. On the defensive side, junior Zion Edmonds and Palm Beach Central High School transfer Adarius Dent will battle for the safety position, but both are likely to contribute to the cause. Dent has the ability to play See WILDCATS, page 31

Royal Palm Beach quarterback Josh Carr avoids a sack and looks for a receiver down field. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Bronco Squad Looking To Make Noise In New District

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach Central High School’s football team is busy training in preparation for the coming fall season. The Broncos are the three-time District 10-8A champions. However, this year they have moved to District 9-8A — arguably one of the toughest in the county, including reigning champion Wellington High

School, along with Seminole Ridge, Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter high schools. “The first step is to compete in our goal for a state championship, and to win the district,” said head coach Tino Ierulli, now in his second year. “We built a schedule to play top-ranked teams, which is going to prepare us for conference play.” The Broncos are excited about playing in the new district, and

Quarterback Jordan Travis gets his pass off before being blocked by a rushing defensive lineman during a scrimmage.

with all the local schools playing each other for the first time in years, Ierulli and his squad look forward to competing for local bragging rights. “When I got here, they all talked about the Wellington Cup, and I never understood why they didn’t keep playing each other,” Ierulli said about having Wellington back on the schedule. “I really wish we had the opportunity to play them last season

if we got past Palm Beach Gardens in the playoffs. That would have been a great matchup with the talent we both had. I know both teams are excited to play a great game.” The Broncos were senior-heavy last year, and lost impact players such as receiver Kemar Downer (Florida Atlantic University), tight end Luis Peguero (University of South Dakota) and receiver Larry Dunnon (Marshall University).

Palm Beach Central running back Marvin Pierre finds running room.

Receiver Tre Jackson makes a leaping catch at the goal line.

Palm Beach Central has an experienced offensive line returning. Center Kevin Hagerty returns to anchor the line. Sophomore quarterback Jordan Travis will battle for playing time with senior Savion Harris. “We’re young in the skilled positions, but we’re experienced,” Ierulli said. “Both kids look real good, and Savion is in a much better position See BRONCOS, page 31

Senior quarterback Savion Harris throws a pass down field. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Page 30

August 21 - August 27, 2015

The Town-Crier

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Kevin Perkins Golf Academy Fall Junior Program Starting Soon At Binks Forest

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 1 and Thursday, Sept. 3, the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy will again be conducting its popular Junior After-School Fall Golf Program at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington.

The junior golf program is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 17 and will take place on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. For more information about the Junior After-School Fall Program

and other programs provided by the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy, visit www.kevinperkinsgolfacademy. com or call (561) 301-3783. The Binks Forest Golf Club is located off Southern Blvd. on Binks Forest Drive in Wellington.

More ShowChic Shop Talk Videos Now Online

(L-R) Cecilia Marin, Donovan Kelley, Jack Silverstein, Samuel Honzik, Benjamin Honzik, Santiago Gollarza and Anthoney Beckford with Sensei Keith Moore (back).

Ninjas Move Forward

Genbu-Kai Karate in Wellington recently tested and promoted seven ninja students to their next belt level belts. All are from the Wellington and Royal Palm Beach areas. The 16-month ninja program is specifically designed for preschool children ages 4 to 6. The youngest one testing this time is 2 years old. Emphasis is placed on improving fine and gross motor skills,

while teaching eight life skills: focus, teamwork, control, balance, memory, discipline, fitness and coordination. Ninjas learn how to set and achieve goals while practicing twice a week and advancing through their nine required rank levels. For more information, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www.floridagenbu kai.com.

The same star-studded horse sense that Wellington equestrians grew to love about ShowChic’s Shop Talk events — informative and engaging discussions with dressage’s top professionals — is now available online at www.showchicdressage.com. ShowChic’s video library just added the video “Achieving Emotional Fitness” featuring clinical sports psychologist Dr. Jenny Susser and horse behavioralist Linda Parelli. “How do we build a language with a horse that doesn’t speak ours?” Parelli asks in the 15-minute video that discusses the “games” used by horses through body language to establish trust, friendship and leadership, and help a handler become an alpha in their equine hierarchy.

Parelli’s “Horseanality” system creates a way to help riders read their horses through body language and behavior, similar to personal development coaching with people. “It’s really about creating language. Human relationships go through many of the same challenges,” Susser said. “The coolest part about emotional fitness is learning to read your horse. Learning that will help you be more successful as a rider, competitor and partner.” The online video series offers advice from a wide variety of equestrians and other professionals. Also available on the web site are videos featuring dressage advice from USEF judges Bill McMullin and Bill Warren, and FEI-level training and competing tips from Canadian Dressage’s four-time

Olympian Ashley Holzer. Coming in September will be a look at “The Power of Positive Riding: Everyone Can Do It With Great Results,” with U.S. Dressage World Cup veteran and USDF-designated U.S. Young Rider clinician Kathy Connelly, and U.S. Dressage World Equestrian Games veteran and author Betsy Steiner. Find the ShowChic Shop Talk video series at www.showchicdressage.com/shop-talk ShowChic, based in Wellington, keeps riders in style with high-fashion brands like Arista, Cavallo, Kentucky, Grand Prix, Samshield, Pikeur, Uvex, Equiline and Eurostar. All of the popular brands from the Wellington showroom go mobile at major shows, and can be found online at www.showchicdressage.com.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Wildcats

RPBHS Football

continued from page 29 quarterback as well. T.J. Willis will

Rosenberg

Hannah And Shira

continued from page 23 nice. I really enjoy being part of a riding team.” Hannah has a lot of experience showing and riding with a team. This past spring, she rode with the Wall Street Farm team in the Interscholastic Equestrian Association finals. She made it to the semifinals in the flat class. Looking ahead, she is both a little sad and a little excited. She is sad to leave all she knows behind, but excited to be away at college. But at least she’ll still be riding. “I’m looking forward to seeing Shira and Rosie grow together,” she said. “She’s a natural, though she won’t say it.” Shira recently started at Wellington High School, where she has signed up for the equine veterinary program. She has been riding for only two years and is also a member of the IEA.

be playing in the other cornerback position. The Wildcats lost kicker Devin Wallace, a Lou Groza finalist, to graduation last year. Wallace was consistent in putting the ball into the back of the end zone last season. “I wasn’t into horses at all,” Shira recalled. “Then I went to a horse show to watch Hannah ride, and it looked like so much fun. That’s when I decided to give it a try. I really enjoy taking lessons.” “She does all the work herself,” Hannah chimed in. “Not just the riding. Mucking stalls, cleaning tack, grooming, bathing — all of it. And she has moved up pretty quickly. She ended up sixth in the novice team over fences class at the IEA Nationals.” “I love jumping,” Shira said. “The highest I’ve gone so far is 3 feet. The hardest thing for me is keeping my heels down and being on the correct diagonal. One day I hope to own my own horse. That’s what I’ve wanted ever since I started riding. And being able to keep Rosie for Hannah… having a cousin willing to share her wonderful horse… ” Shira’s face said as much as her eyes welled up with tears. “Don’t cry,” Hannah said, hugging her. “I’m thankful you’ll be taking such good care of her.”

“We have a couple of players battling for the kicking job, but Devin, in a way, was our biggest loss,” Bueno said. Anchoring the return game for the Wildcats will be Hilton McClain Jr. “He is one of the fastest top return players in the county,” Bueno said. “He is as fast as anybody.” Although the Wildcats are in one of the toughest districts in the county, with Dwyer and West Boca High School, RPBHS looks poised to make another run for the title. With the experience in the returning players, they seem to have the chemistry to challenge for the title. The Wildcats open up with a preseason game Friday, Aug. 21, hosting nationally ranked Miami Central High School at 7 p.m. The regular-season opener is at home against Glades Central High School at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 28.

Broncos

PBCHS Football

continued from page 29 than he was last season. He looks really good right now.” Sophomore running back Marvin Pierre will lead the ground attack for the Broncos. “He’s an explosive back,” Ierulli said.

October 8-25, 2015

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 31

Running back Telvis Lawler finds room up the center of the field.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Pierre will be the workhorse, and at 185 pounds, he will be tough to contain for opposing defenses. Zikk Omoruyi returns on the defensive line. At 6 feet and 250 lbs., he will bind up the trenches to close off the run attack. “Zikk played both ways for us last year,” Ierulli said. The kicking game suffered a blow with Nick Patrone graduating last year. He is now playing at Capital

University in Ohio. “Our center, Kevin Hagerty, did some kicking for us last year, and we may have to use him this year,” Ierulli said. “We’re testing a few others out right now.” The Broncos will travel to American Heritage High School for a preseason game on Friday, Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. The team hosts Park Vista High School for the regular season opener on Friday, Aug. 28 at 7 p.m.

Page 32

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Saturday, Aug. 22 • The Village of Wellington is partnering with Ultima Fitness & Wellness, Wellington The Magazine and Walgreens to host the Wellington Fitness & Wellness Education Day on Saturday, Aug. 22 with education sessions, demonstrations and classes from 8 a.m. to noon at Ultima Fitness (12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza), as well as access to Ultima for the day to attendees who donate classroom supplies. Healthy foods, juices, supplements and chair massages will also be available, while Walgreens will offer flu shots and health screenings. Wellington teachers in attendance are eligible to receive a donation of school supplies for their classroom. • The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will present Tropical Fruit Trees on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 9 a.m. Master Gardener Larry Grosser will discuss the history, propagation and identification of fruit tree varieties. The cost is $20 for members and $30 for nonmembers. Call (561) 233-1757 or visit www. mounts.org for more info. • The Village of Wellington will host a Preserving Homeownership Clinic on Saturday, Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) to educate Wellington residents on programs and options to assist homeowners who may be facing foreclosure, with representatives from the Urban League and the Legal Aid Society. For more info., visit www.ulpbc.org or call (561) 833-1461. • World Taekwondo Center will host a frozen yogurt fundraiser Saturday, Aug. 22 from noon to 4 p.m. to support its tournament sparring team. A portion of the purchases made at Menchie’s in Lantana Square Plaza (6919 S. Jog Road) will be donated to the young martial artists to help with equipment and tournament training costs. For more info., call (561) 434-9700 or visit www. mytaekwondocenter.com. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Fantasy Football: Live Draft Online League” for adults Saturday, Aug. 22 at 1 p.m. Join the NFL Fantasy Football League for fun and camaraderie at this kickoff session. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host an Acoustic Java Jam for adults on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent or bring your acoustic instruments and jam out. Coffee will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Sisterhood of Congregation L’Dor-Va-Dor will continue its Saturday Jewish Film Night series with The Yankles, a comedy about a man looking to get a second chance at life and a Yeshiva baseball team with no chance at all. The event will take place Saturday, Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Congregation L’Dor-Va-Dor (3475 W. Woolbright Road, Suite 19, Boynton Beach). The cost is $8 for members, $10 for guests and $5 for children under 14. Snacks are included. Call (561) 968-0688 for more info.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Sunday, Aug. 23 • Temple B’nai Jacob (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 6) will host its annual open house on Sunday, Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests are invited to learn more about the temple, religious school and youth group. For more info., call (561) 793-4347 or visit www.templebnaijacob. com. Monday, Aug. 24 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Lego Bricks for ages 6 and up Monday, Aug. 24 at 3 p.m. Create vehicles or buildings out of Lego bricks. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Tuesday, Aug. 25 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Achieve Your Educational and Professional Goals Using LearningExpress” for adults Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 2:30 p.m. Learn how the LearningExpress online database can help by providing access to popular computer and educational tutorials. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Chess Club for ages 6 and up on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 3:30 p.m. This is an all-level chess club for adults, teens and children. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach) will host its Eco-Savvy GEMS Club on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 5 p.m. GEMS Club offers the opportunity for girls in grades 3 to 8 to discover the exciting world of math, science, engineering and technology. The $5 fee per child includes dinner and refreshments. This month will feature a discussion by Penni Redford, sustainability manager for the City of West Palm Beach, and a recycled bottle seed planting activity. To register, call (561) 832-2026 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org/gems. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Teen Takeover for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. Enjoy Wii games, board games and more. Bring a friend or make new ones. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. Wednesday, Aug. 26 • The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach) will host Stroller Daze on Wednesday, Aug. 26 from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring little ones to the science center for a fun-filled event just for them, with age-appropriate science crafts, storytelling, a fire truck exploration, a planetarium show, entertainment and more. The cost is $7 for adults and free for children and science center members. For more info., call (561) 832-1988. • The Sisterhood of Temple Beth Tikvah (4550 Jog Road, Greenacres) will host a luncheon and card party Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 11 a.m. with mah jongg, dominoes, canasta, rummy or other games. Lunch will be a chicken salad platter or

vegetable cutlet with salad. The cost is $18 per person. Call Trudy Bromberg at (561) 964-7762 or Ellen Gold at (561) 374-7459 to RSVP. • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon at the Wanderers Club on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 11:30 a.m. The guest speaker will be Michael Stone, president of Equestrian Sport Productions. He will discuss the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center’s 2015-16 season, as well as the summer season at the Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, N.C. Visit www.wellingtonchamber.com to register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Planting and Using Herbs for Health and Wellness” on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 2 p.m. Herbs are a quick way to add flair and nutrition to your favorite meals. Chris Miller and Ada Medina-Solorzano will teach attendees how to grow, prepare, use and store fresh herbs, as well as the nutritional benefits of herbs and spices. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Not Your Grandma’s Bingo for ages 5 to 12 on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 3:30 p.m. Create a card and see if luck is on your side. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Card Gamers Club for all ages on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. If you like collectible card games, this is the place to be. Bring your deck, box or binder and come with a friend or make a new one. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. Thursday, Aug. 27 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “How to Use the Library” for ages 6 to 11 on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 2:30 p.m. Now that school has started, learn how to use the library to make the school year easier and more productive. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Food Truck Invasion and free concert on Thursday, Aug. 27 from 5 to 9:30 p.m., including a concert by the Rough Shot band at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Crafting by the Book for ages 12 and up on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. Create unique jewelry out of paper beads and Shrinky Dinks. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will hold a small business roundtable series learning event on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at the Wanderers Club featuring Juan Ortega, who will speak about how to work smarter and manage time better. Member tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Non-member tickets are $30. For more info., visit www.wellingtonchamber.com. • The Puerto Rican Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the National Sales Network will hold a social event Thursday, Aug. 27 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Mastino Italian Soul Food (25 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach). Admission is $10 for

The Town-Crier non-members and free for members. A complementary drink and hors d’oeuvres are included. For more info., call (561) 889-6527. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Scrabble for Adults on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Join other Scrabble fans for an evening of wordplay. Basic game knowledge is required. Bring your own board if you have one. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Club Pokémon for ages 6 to 12 on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Bring your DS or Pokémon cards to battle, trade and make new friends. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. Friday, Aug. 28 • The 2015 Women in Business: Smart Series Marketing Seminars sponsored by Stellar Marketing & Business Solutions will take place at the Best Western Palm Beach Lakes (1800 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach), beginning on Friday, Aug. 28 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. with “Be LinkedIN or Be Left Behind.” Participants will learn how to maximize their use of the world’s largest online professional networking site. Each seminar costs $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Visit www.stellarmarketingpro.com for info. • The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium (4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach) will host Chemistry Nights at the Museum on Friday, Aug. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. Slip into your lab coat and grab your safety goggles to learn about the science of chemistry. Activities include Mentos geysers, expanding polymer cubes, a fire tornado and a smoke bubbles lab. Admission is free for members, $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for children 3 to 12 and free for children under 3. For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www. sfsciencecenter.org. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington will hold a reception for Oscar Rojas on Friday, Aug. 28 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. with live music, snacks, special vintage wines and door prizes. Rojas is the current Wellington Art Society solo artist on display at the store. The $5 charge at the door will support the Wellington Art Society Scholarship Fund. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. • Royal Palm Beach will host a Movie Night and Food Truck Invasion on Friday, Aug. 28 at 7:45 p.m. at Commons Park featuring Guardians of the Galaxy. Bring seating. Call (561) 790-5149 for more info. Saturday, Aug. 29 • Our Kids World Family Fun Fest, a two-day event designed for children 12 and under, will take place Saturday, Aug. 29 and Sunday, Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center. For more info., visit www.adayforkids.com. • The Mall at Wellington Green will host a Stomp Out Bullying Block Party event Saturday, Aug. 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the mall’s grand court. To learn more, call the mall at (561) 227-6900. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A/C AND REFRIGERATION JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent participating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. “We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks” 561-798-3225. Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your apartment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012-252779

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ROOFING ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207

SECURITY SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

DRIVEWAY REPAIR

SCREENING

D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Li c.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667- 7716

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio re-screening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

ANMAR CO.— James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftsman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC1327426 561-248-8528

LAWN SERVICE YELLOWHAMMER LAWN SERVICE — Serving Loxahatchee, Acreage and Loxahatchee Groves ONLY High quality, affordable yard maintenance. NO CONTRACTS! Locally owned and operated. 561-320-1118

LOCKSMITH C.K.s L O C K & S E C U R I T Y 561-7329418 Full Service Security Since 1960 — Service and installation of locks, safes, camera’s alarms, monitoring, duplication of keys, car remotes and so much more.

NEW FLOORING BUY IT HERE FLOORING — Kitchen and Bath. Now available. Complete one stop shopping. Stop on By! Pike Road - Between Southern and Belvedere. West Palm Beach - Open 7 Days!!! 561-333-2300

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. Residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

PLUMBING JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

PRESSURE CLEANING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

TREE SERVICE TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com

WALLPAPERING PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

WATER SUPPLY & TREATMENT WELL WATER AND CITY WATER — Supply, Service and water treatment. 561-7845210. Loxahatchee Irrigation Supply Inc.

August 21 - August 27, 2015

Page 33

REAL ESTATE

EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT - GREENACRES

TEACHER ASSISTANT NEEDED — Full Time Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. experienced preferred please call 561-790-0808.

Drivers: New Pay! $2,500 Sign-On Bonus! Consistent Freight, Great MIles on This Regional Account, Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488

ROOMMATE TO SHARE — 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment - Purdy & Jog Road. $550 per month. Looking for under 35 years old. 954-296-3748

FOR RENT - WELLINGTON SHEFFIELD WOODS — Ground floor condo 2/2 for rent $1,350 per month. Available September 1st. New Kitchen, maple cabinets, SS appliances, granite countertops, tile living & dining area, Pergo flooring in bedrooms. Call 561-866-1354 for appointment.

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT I H AV E 2 0 + Y E A R S E X P E R I E N C E TAKING CARE OF SENIORS. — If you are in need of compassionate reliable care please call Claudette. 561-247-7385. MATURE, DEPENDABLE, EDUCATED, CHRISTIAN WOMAN — Christian woman seeks employment assisting elderly person in their home with everyday tasks of daily living. This incudes bathing, dressing, exercising, medication reminders, meal provide transportation. Experienced. P T. C o n t a c t C a t h y a t 5 6 1 - 8 5 5 - 6 6 5 8

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

TEACHER NEEDED — Full Time MondayFriday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. experienced preferred please call 561-790-0808. BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours. Please fax resume to 561-791-0952

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

170 TEMP FARMWORKERS NEEDED

hand harvest tomatoes, cantaloupe, and bell pepper Loxahatchee and Sarasota for Red Diamond Enterprises, Inc. 09/05/2015 to 06/30/16. Minimum 3 month verifiable exp. $10.19 hourly. Must commit to work entire period. ¾ wage guarantee. Tools, supplies and equipment provided. Housing provided to workers who cannot reasonably return home at end of each work day. Transportation and subsistence provided upon completion of 50% of contract or earlier to workers recruited outside area of intended employment. Must have documentation to work in US. Apply to Workforce Plant City Center, 2001 E Cherry St, Plant City, FL (813)930-7880 or nearest Workforce Center. Ref #FL10048966. EOE. H-300-15182-358480.

Page 34 August 21 - August 27, 2015

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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Why Choose Charter Schools USA? • Tuition-free public charter schools • Personal Learning Plans • Before and after care • Character education and leadership • Meaningful parental involvement • Certified, dedicated teachers

Now SIX great schools serving Palm Beach! APPLY ONLINE TODAY! Renaissance Charter School at Wellington Renaissance Charter School at Cypress Renaissance Charter School at Central Palm Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Renaissance Charter School at Palms West Renaissance Charter School at Summit

K-7 K-7 K-7 K-8 K-8 K-8

WellingtonCharter.org CypressCharter.org CentralPalmCharter.org WestPalmCharter.org PalmsWestCharter.org RECSummit.org

www.CharterSchoolsUSA.com

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

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August 21 - August 27, 2015

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