Town-Crier Newspaper December 20, 2013 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

LEGISLATORS ADVANCE LOX GROVES BILLS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

RPB ZONERS OK SOUTH UNIVERSITY SIGNS SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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TOWN - CR IER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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INSIDE County Commission Puts Off Decision On Sales Tax Question

Volume 34, Number 51 December 20 - December 26, 1013

A JOURNEY BACK TO BETHLEHEM

The Palm Beach County Commission withdrew consideration of a half-cent local government infrastructure sales tax referendum Tuesday after the School District of Palm Beach County backed out of participating. County Administrator Bob Weisman said his staff had revised the item from the previous week to seek direction from the commission after the school board withdrew. Page 3

Vinceremos Holiday Show Celebrates Progress Of Riders

The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center held its annual Holiday Party & Horse Show on Saturday, Dec. 14 at its facility in Loxahatchee Groves. The event allows family members, friends and the community to come watch the progress all the riders have made for the year. Page 7

Bill’s Bikes Memorial Toy Run Collects Gifts For Needy Children

Palm Beach County Motorcyclists Toys for Tots Inc., in cooperation with the U.S. Marine Corps, presented the 31st annual Bill’s Bikes Memorial Toy Run on Sunday, Dec. 15 starting at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Several thousand motorcyclists participated. Page 9

OPINION Things We Would Like To See In 2014

The Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves presented its annual Back to Bethlehem celebration from Thursday, Dec. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 15. Back to Bethlehem is an interactive telling of the story of the birth of Jesus. Shepherds gather as guests follow the bright star to Bethlehem, where they witness the baby Jesus in a manger. Guests enjoyed free refreshments and a look at what life was like in Bethlehem at the time’s of the birth of Jesus. Shown here are Sherri Bosley, Louise Connolly, John Sizemore and Donna Sayerman. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

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ITID Taps Jacobs As President, Damone As New Treasurer By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Supervisor Carol Jacobs was elected Wednesday as president of the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors, replacing Supervisor Jennifer Hager. Supervisor Michelle Damone nominated Jacobs, seconded by Supervisor Ralph Bair. Hager and Supervisor Gary Dunkley opposed in the 3-2 vote. Damone then nominated Bair as vice president to replace Jacobs, which also carried 3-2. Damone also nominated herself for treasurer to replace Dunkley and was elected on another 3-2 tally. “It sounds like you guys had a plan,” Hager said. “I have one,” Damone said. “I made this very clear last month.” Damone also made a motion for the district’s attorney, Mary Viator, to remain as secretary, which carried 3-2.

Damone nominated Dunkley as assistant secretary, and that also carried 3-2. “I came up with a plan, and I was lucky enough to have a second. That’s why I motioned them all, including myself; whether you find that arrogant or not, I apologize, it’s not meant to be,” Damone said. Damone said her decision stemmed from Dunkley’s appointment of former ITID Supervisor Penny Riccio, a longtime political foe of Damone, to be his assistant. “I have been very honest and direct about it,” Damone said. “I don’t believe that we need a deputy treasurer. I didn’t like the way it happened, so I came in with a plan to nominate myself, hoping to get a second, and I did.” In a 3-2 decision last month, the board had approved a request by Dunkley for an assistant treasurer to help with a financial newsletter. See ITID, page 18

A CARIDAD CHRISTMAS

Wellington Extends Deadline On P.B. Horse Park Proposal By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Members of the Wellington Village Council last week extended its exclusive contract with the organizers behind the Palm Beach Horse Park, an equestrian development proposed for the villageowned K-Park property on State Road 7. Earlier this year, council members agreed not to discuss other proposals while the Palm Beach Horse Park secured funding and drew up plans for the site. The contract was set to expire Monday, but on Dec. 10, council members agreed unanimously to extend the contract — and the exclusivity provision — until the council’s Jan. 14 meeting. Village Attorney Laurie Cohen requested the extension during her attorney’s report. She said she was still reviewing the paperwork

and wanted to give organizers ample time to respond to her comments. “I think it would be fair to give them the opportunity to review the changes I’ve made,” she said. Vice Mayor Howard Coates wanted to clarify that the project wasn’t a done deal just yet. “It is subject to approval by [the] council, right?” he asked. Cohen said that council approval is still required. Coates asked if the council must extend the exclusivity provision of the contract. “By agreeing to extend this, do we have to extend the exclusivity period where we can’t speak with anyone else?” he asked. Cohen recommended that the council extend the exclusivity period. “We did agree to have an exclusive arrangement until the expira-

tion of the contract,” she said. “They did submit the application to me. I have reviewed it. I just haven’t been able to get it back to them. I think the exclusivity should be extended.” But Coates was not convinced. “Can we extend the time period of the contract but say the exclusivity period is over?” he asked. Cohen said it could be possible. “If they are agreeable, I think you can,” she said. “I think it makes sense to just extend it to the first meeting in January so it’s not an issue. They have expended a fair amount of money to get to where they are right now, and they did it in good faith that we aren’t going to be talking with anyone else.” Councilman Matt Willhite pointed out that talking to other proposers didn’t mean Wellington See HORSE PARK, page 7

WELLINGTON’S WINTER WONDERLAND

With 2013 coming to a close, the promise of a new year is upon us once again, offering a clean slate, a fresh start and new opportunity. Some use the new year as a chance to kick into gear on promises long forgotten. As we at the Town-Crier look forward to 2014, there are several things we hope to see. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 12 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 PEOPLE ............................... 13 SCHOOLS .....................14 - 15 COLUMNS .....................16, 23 BUSINESS .................... 24 - 25 CALENDAR .......................... 28 SPORTS ........................ 29 - 31 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 31 - 35

Serving Palms West Since 1980

The Village of Wellington hosted its Winter Wonderland spectacular at the Wellington Amphitheater on Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14. The event featured performances from local talent, including the Wellington Ballet Theatre, the Wellington High School Chamber Chorus and more. There were also food trucks serving tasty food and drinks. Shown here, Layla Chalifoux, Allyson Steinberg, Mikaela Wetter, Amanda Campion, Quinn Van Popering and Madison Brown of Wellington Ballet Theatre dance the Christmas waltz. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 12 PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

The annual Caridad Center Christmas Party was held Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. It was sponsored by the Wellington Equestrian Group. Equestrian Sport Productions donated the venue and Tim Gannon provided lunch from PDQ with help from Cilantro’s Deli. Shown here, Raschel and Yoshandy Fernandez received candy stockings from Santa. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

County OKs 5-Year Plan Without Lyons Through Ranchettes By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission gave final approval to the annual update of its five-year road plan Tuesday, but without plans to pave Lyons Road through Palm Beach Ranchettes. Lyons Road is the county’s designated reliever road for State Road 7 when it is eight lanes and over capacity. However, Lyons Road currently does not go all the way through because a bridge has not been constructed to connect the portions of Lyons Road between Discovery Key Elementary School just north of Lake Worth Road and Stribling Way just south of Wellington’s Olympia neighborhood. The missing stretch is known

as Frontier Avenue in the Palm Beach Ranchettes community. If paved and connected, Lyons Road would bisect the neighborhood. Area residents have been fighting the connection for at least two decades. “You heard this already, but what you have before you today is a recommended change by staff based on a public meeting we had at the Ranchettes community,” County Engineer George Webb told commissioners. Webb said staff had recommended allocating some money in 2016 to pave the shellrock road portion through the Ranchettes. “When we brought that up at the Ranchettes meeting, the residents overwhelmingly said they were See LYONS, page 18

Wellington To Hear Proposals From Lobbying Firms By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council will hear proposals from eight lobbying firms next month as the village seeks to find new representation in Tallahassee. At a meeting Monday, council members discussed what they would like to see from a new lobbying firm and opted to hear proposals from all of the firms before making a decision. “I want to talk about what we want to do,” Gerwig said. “What do we want to put the emphasis on as a council?” Village Manager Paul Schofield said lobbying is needed mostly at the state level. “There is time when we need to have a presence

in Washington, D.C.,” he said. “But the bulk of the time we will need representation in Tallahassee.” Gerwig asked whether council members wanted to “whittle down” the candidates to a smaller list as they had done with the village attorney proposals, or to hear all of them, as they did with the auditor proposals. “The attorney had a lot more applications, and we narrowed it down to five,” she said. Councilman John Greene said he had been hoping to hear presentations that night. “I don’t want to sit here and make a motion to come back,” he said. Gerwig asked if he would be OK with narrowing down a list, and he said he would be.

Vice Mayor Howard Coates said Wellington might need to hire additional lobbyists for representation in Washington. “I think our need for federal lobbying efforts are so remote that when they come up that we should look at a specialized lobbying firm,” he said. “Those issues are so specific, we may need additional help regardless of what our lobbyists do at a state level.” Schofield said the need for lobbying varies, but noted that the Federal Emergency Management Agency maps, the Environmental Protection Agency water control guidelines and State Road 7 extension were issues he expected to need representation for. Coates pointed out that many

of the proposals before the council were joint proposals with several lobbying firms. He also noted that there was a great disparity in cost — from $40,000 to around $150,000 a year. “Have we typically had an arrangement, and has it worked, where we have two firms collaborating?” he asked. “It seems like there is a broad range in terms of what these proposals offer.” Gerwig asked how much Wellington paid for lobbying services in the past and how much they were used. Schofield said Wellington paid about $80,000 a year for its previous lobbying firm. “In some years, it was higher than that, typically when we were

in Washington a lot,” he explained. He said it was not uncommon to have a joint contract. “To find one person who can do everything is more the exception than the rule,” Schofield said. Councilman Matt Willhite noted that lobbying firms often work together to have greater influence. “They know different people,” he said. Willhite wanted to see a lobbyist notify the village about grants and other money-generating measures. He suggested finding a legislative affairs person. “They could work with our senators and representatives, as well as our lobbyists,” he said. Schofield said council members See LOBBYIST, page 4

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NEWS

County Commission Puts Off Decision On Sales Tax Question

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission withdrew consideration of a half-cent local government infrastructure sales tax referendum Tuesday after the School District of Palm Beach County backed out of participating. County Administrator Bob Weisman said his staff had revised the item from the previous week to seek direction from the commission after the school board withdrew. “I had a recommendation for approval of the potential sales surtax with the idea that we might be able to work with the school board and present a comprehensive plan to the public for how the funds would be used,” Weisman said. “The school board withdrew from consideration last week, and we were left with an option of proceeding with our municipalities.” The statute authorizing the tax allows a split of about 60-40 by population between the county and the cities. “The recommendation before you is requesting board direction and reflects the change in situation from last week,” he said. Commissioners heard the proposal a year ago and were lukewarm to the idea, asking staff to

come back this year for consideration on the November 2014 ballot. “The nature of the things we would spend this money on is probably part of the problem,” Weisman said. “We’ve been very successful in the past when we could describe big-picture expenditures to the public. A lot of these things we’re talking about are not of that nature. They’re important, but they involve rehabilitation, small projects and things that we may not have money for.” Another issue is that the municipalities vary greatly in their need for financial help. “This is a multiyear process to even get this approved, and the cities certainly have needs. I’m certain you’re going to hear from Belle Glade today about all their needs, but not all the cities are on board,” Weisman said. Making the issue more complex is that other referendums involving money will be on the November ballot, including the school district’s proposed continuation of its 0.25 mill property tax for cultural arts education. “That’s currently a fee they have now, and they’re probably going to seek renewal of that,” he said. The Children’s Services Council

is also expected to ask to have its tax structure renewed. Weisman noted that many Florida counties have a half-cent or one-cent surtax for specific purposes. “We are one of the few that doesn’t,” he said. “Somewhere down the road, the board is going to have to deal with this, but I’m not prepared to make a recommendation to you today, mainly because of the indecision regarding the school board and the likelihood that there will be other ballot issues in November that will conflict the voters.” Acreage resident Anne Kuhl characterized the proposal as “double taxation” for property owners. “Every time they buy something, you’re going to have to pay a half-cent plus whatever taxes you were paying to begin with,” she said. “The other issue would be that when our property taxes go up, the county collects more revenue.” Daniel Martell, president and CEO of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, agreed with many of Weisman’s comments. “The Economic Council is focused on a return on investments for public policy matters,” he said. “This is precisely one of those situations where we’re going to

want to know what the return on investment is for the taxpayers on an item like this.” Martell pointed out that in 2004, the school district successfully created a targeted campaign to raise money through a sales tax for the construction of new schools. “It was a win-win for everyone in the community,” he said. “This seems to be a little bit of everything, and it is hard to determine what that return on investment could be.” He suggested that the county and community stakeholders discuss a plan that is more precise, such as roads or beaches. John Borland, representing the Palm Beach Civic Association, said the sales tax proposal represents a tax increase of about $110 million annually. “While there is some efficiency in creating a revenue source from tourists and other visitors to Palm Beach County, as well as renters, rather than simply from property owners, there needs to be a corresponding offset to the millage rate so that it doesn’t become a pure tax increase,” Borland said. “We also find the list of projects to be extraordinarily broad, and there is a danger going forward that it becomes a wish list for spending projects.”

Commissioner Jess Santamaria said he opposed the tax proposal because earlier this year, the commission gave up about $69 million in impact fees that was supposed to be set aside for schools, roads and parks. “We cannot give away impact fees because somebody is going to have to make up for it at a later date, and that’s what we’re facing today,” Santamaria said. “That’s why I cannot support the way this thing is proposed.” Commissioner Shelley Vana noted that Florida is a low-tax state. “Our problem with our taxes is that they are inequitable,” she said. “The property owner pays a tremendous amount of property taxes. The businesses pay a tremendous amount of commercial property taxes, so the burden of most of our tax goes to the individual property owners.” Vana said commissioners should work with business leaders to come up with a plan that’s more targeted, pointing out that they recently had balanced the budget in large part by sacrificing road construction. “The thing that really impacts every single person is our roads, and again, it affects the business person and the property owner. My direction would be to get the

business community on board, because I’ve heard from them fairly clearly,” she said, pointing out that it would be a waste to put a question on the ballot and have it fail. Commissioner Steven Abrams agreed, saying that the tax proposal is not an opportunity if voters will not pass it. “Clearly, what has been put before us is too broad,” he said. Commissioner Mary Lou Berger agreed with most of Vana’s comments. “Perhaps we need to refocus our energy to get something done, and I agree that infrastructure is the most important,” she said. Mayor Priscilla Taylor agreed that infrastructure plays a large part in the health of any government and said she would support a proposal based on infrastructure improvements. “When we think about Palm Beach County, what we say we are and who we say we are, I don’t think that a halfpenny or whatever would matter that much into investing in the future,” she said. Vana made a motion to continue working with the business community and develop a more specific plan, which carried 4-3 with Abrams, Vice Mayor Paulette Burdick and Commissioner Hal Valeche opposed.

Legislative Delegation Supports Two Lox Groves Local Bills

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation approved two local bills Wednesday that would transfer control of road and canal easements from the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District to the Town of Loxahatchee Groves. Lobbyist David Ramba, representing both governments, said the first bill is similar to a previous one that transferred newly paved portions of A, C and D roads from the district to the town. “There was some concern at the time with taking of land and those types of issues during the construction of those roads,” he said. “The construction was completed, and none of that happened. This is part of a very thoughtful process in taking a deed that was drawn out in pen in 1919 and turning it over to an established city.” Ramba said that state law would give the town the ability to do

what the district could have done if it had been incorporated and continuously maintaining the roads for seven years. “The city hasn’t been in existence that long,” he said, explaining that it allows surveying of the roads to establish their lanes and gives the town ownership and, with it, maintenance responsibility. “[This is] part of the natural progression of overlaying a city over the water control district and getting these roads fit for use and fit for future maintenance by the town.” Ramba introduced Loxahatchee Groves Town Manager Mark Kutney, Town Attorney Mary Viator, LGWCD Attorney Michael Cirullo and LGWCD Supervisor John Ryan, who were present to answer questions. He noted that both the district and the town had resolutions in the delegation’s package supporting the bill. State Rep. Mark Pafford (D-

District 86) made a motion to approve the bill, which carried 11-0. It will now be introduced as a local bill in Tallahassee with the full approval of the county’s legislative delegation. Ramba said the second bill would allow for the dedication and use of canal maintenance easements for horse trails, noting that the town’s comprehensive plan, when it was created, provided for connections between different locations, and the routes that are taken have been used for years as horse trails. He pointed out that the town’s Recreation, Equestrian Trails & Greenways Committee had applied for a state recreation grant and had been turned down because they didn’t have the correct legal descriptions for the easements in order to complete the trails. “There is a trail system out there that is used every day by that community,” Ramba said.

He said he’d talked about the bill before the meeting with State Sen. Maria Sachs (D-District 34), who was concerned about the area the bill covered. “This is not for Boca Raton,” Ramba said. “They’d be upset if they saw horses walking behind their houses. This is solely for Loxahatchee Groves, and it would allow their use to be expanded on the maintenance of the canals to allow for basically what’s occurring out there now, and the town would be able to receive these grants.” Pafford made a motion for approval of the second bill, which also carried11-0. In other business, the delegation also approved a local bill authorizing the Seminole Improvement District, controlled by CalleryJudge Grove, to allow telecommunications services there. Terry Lewis of Lewis Longman & Walker, representing the dis-

trict, said the 3,800-acre property was an orange grove that has been almost wiped out by citrus greening and canker. “The property is consigned ultimately for future development areas, which would have to be approved by Palm Beach County,” Lewis said. “The infrastructure within that 3,700 acres is provided by Seminole Improvement District. They are the government. This short piece of legislation, when and if development is approved, [would] provide district-wide, high-speed telecommunications infrastructure, not going into the business of providing telecommunications but providing the infrastructure for an investor-owned utility.” Several residents in the area spoke against the bill, opposing development of the land, which was recently purchased by Minto Communities Florida for development.

The tract, off Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, has a future landuse approval for up to 2,996 dwelling units and up to 235,000 square feet of non-residential uses. Minto is requesting up to 6,500 homes and about 1.4 million square feet of workplace and community-serving commercial uses. State Rep. Pat Rooney (RDistrict 85), chairman of the legislative delegation, made a motion to approve the bill, pointing out that as a representative of The Acreage, he is sensitive to their concerns. “We will keep an eye on this thing as it goes forward, and if there is going to be any kind of disruption or perceived disruption in the lifestyle out there, I won’t be able to support it as it goes forward,” he said. “I understand why the folks moved out there and their desire to keep that preserved.” The motion carried 12-0.

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OUR OPINION

Looking Ahead To Changes We Would Like To See In 2014

With 2013 coming to a close, the promise of a new year is upon us once again, offering a clean slate, a fresh start and new opportunity. Some use the new year as a chance to kick into gear on promises long forgotten. Here at the Town-Crier, we look back at the year that was and look forward to what the new year will bring. As we move toward 2014, there are several things we hope to see. Real Estate Relief — This year saw a steady up-tick in real estate prices as the market saw more activity. Homes long vacant have begun to fill. The foreclosure rate has also plummeted, with Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock reporting that November saw foreclosure rates decrease by 47 percent from the previous year. In 2014, we’d like to see that rate drop even lower, and see more of the homes on the market refill with families who will become part of our communities. Less-Divisive Elections — Coming up this year are several municipal elections. Though elections are always controversial, the 2012 election cycle saw a new level of divisiveness in Wellington. Though some of the heat from that election has died down, the community has not completely recovered from the rift that was formed. The election saw far more money spent than years past, and deeply negative campaigns for the first time. We hope never to see an election cycle as bitter as 2012, and with another on the horizon, we hope everyone can remember that candidates run because they want to do what’s best for the community.

Thoughtful Development — This year saw the start of several new development projects. While this is a good indication of economic recovery, we worry that some of them are being pushed through too fast by developers and officials who are dreaming of the boom years. In 2014, we’d like to see an organized plan for residential and commercial development that looks comprehensively at the makeup of each community. Currently, projects are largely being approved on an as-presented basis with no overarching strategy or plan. This has caused derision in the community, and it makes sense instead to work collaboratively with residents for a vision of the future that takes into account all sides, not just developers looking to jump back into construction. No Vacancy Signs — It is also important not to forget amid the new construction and planning that there remain far too many vacant storefronts in our communities. From small retail space to big-box stores, the western communities has plenty of room for businesses looking to expand. Until those spaces are filled, the impact of the economic upturn will not truly be fulfilled and acknowledged. Empty storefronts are a sign of bad times — times that are hopefully behind us — and it’s important that businesses retrofit and move into those spaces before officials rush into more commercial development. No matter what you have on your list for the new year, we at the Town-Crier hope you have a happy one.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Wellington Trumps Royal Palm Again

Reading in both the Town-Crier and the Palm Beach Post, the story is that the Wellington Village Council this past week considered the purchase of a nearby office complex that is adjacent to their village campus. They gave some very good reasons for use, transitional and long term, while noting that the purchase was a good investment for their taxpaying citizens. The uses would range from possibly keeping the current tenants under contract, netting Wellington a profit, and then moving to village use and including some incubator space for up-and-coming new businesses. This is government taking advantage of the market conditions and then looking to the long term — plus the added benefit of negotiating with the owner for a payback donation of $1 million. But north, across the road, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council, in a similar situation, had the chance to purchase the Temple Beth Zion land, located directly on the RPB village campus and the missing piece in completing a full service area. They voted to

not consider such an investment. This was a short-sighted response, having no thought to the advantage of purchasing the property while the price was more than right and knowing that it was a one-time opportunity. Instead, the council continues to be more interested in putting more and more money into parks, even a Taj Mahal for dogs. The RPB council acts as Aesop’s grasshopper in playing and paying for today and not planning for the future. Congratulations to Wellington for getting past their differences and putting their leadership to work for their investors. As for Royal Palm Beach, some real leadership seems to be needed to get them to move forward and to invest in the future of their village and not squander the present. G.L. Curtis Royal Palm Beach

Responding To George Unger

I feel compelled to reply to the outrageous letter (Speaking About Punctuation…, Nov. 29) by George Unger, an obvious socialist! Your sarcasm didn’t go unnoticed. How dare Glenn Waters say anything disparaging against

comrade Obama, our King! You write half truths and misinformation. Let’s start with the Iraq War. The misinformation you speak of came from the Clinton administration and the government intelligence network of the U.S. (you forgot Clinton dropping missiles on an aspirin factory). Or that twice — not once, but twice — Clinton had Osama bin Laden by the CIA, who wanted to lock him up but were told by Clinton to let him go! As for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, it’s so convenient for you libs to never mention 9/11. As for the housing collapse, can anyone say “Barney Frank” and “Chris Dodd?” One year before the collapse, when President Bush said the housing market was going to collapse if mortgages were to keep going to people who couldn’t afford them, Barney Frank went on TV and said Fannie Mae was solid. A lie! But let’s get back to Unger’s criticism of Bush. In 2008, the unemployment ratio was 5.0 in the beginning of the year and went to 7.3 when Bush left office. Obama said when he got in it wouldn’t hit 8.0. Gas prices were under $2 a gallon. Now Obama has had six years, let’s see how things are. Six months after he got in, gas went

to $4 a gallon and has been around $3.50 ever since. So let’s go through the Obama legacy: The stimulus package, a complete bust, paid off unions and friends who helped him get elected. The national debt was $10.626 trillion when Bush left office, Bush ran it up $4.939 trillion. Since Obama took office, it now stands at $17 trillion (thanks, Obama, for putting our grandkids in debt). Then there’s “Fast and Furious,” by Eric Holder, where thousands of Mexicans have died. Or Holder refusing to prosecute blacks for violations at voting locations. Then we have the IRS scandal investigating conservatives. Moving to Benghazi, where four Americans died — what an absolute travesty — and you want to talk hurricanes. What about Sandy? Staten Island is still waiting for aide, and Gov. Chris Christie didn’t get the aide he was promised. And now for Obamacare. Lies, lies, lies. Unions getting exemptions, restaurants in Nancy Pelosi’s district exempt, the Senate is exempt. As a matter of fact, Obama exempted more than 1,200 groups, including members of Congress. So the same people who shoved Obamacare down our throats (the Democrats in the Senate and Congress) are exempt. What un-

mitigated hypocrisy! And let me leave you with this, Mr. Unger, 575 Americans died in Afghanistan in 88 months under Bush and 577 died in 19 months under Obama. He’s had six years. Get us out. Stop blaming Bush already. Even Obama said Afghanistan was a just war. All this information can be found on Google, so don’t take my word for it. I’m sorry, did I mention the $100 million Obama spent on his African vacation in 2013? Even the Queen of England doesn’t spend that. Well, he is the king. Right, Mr. Unger? Thomas J. Euell Wellington

For The Record

The column “Marabet Farm Hosts Oldenburg Registry Inspection” by Ellen Rosenberg printed Nov. 15 incorrectly identified the owner of a mare named D’Amore. The correct owner is Lesley Pollington. The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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) 793-6090; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

OPINION

Follow The Dollar: It’s (Still) A Bonanza For University Presidents! Admit it, you probably have never heard of Chatham University, have no idea where it is located and what areas of education it specializes in. But now you will know the name of its president, Esther L. Barazzone, as well as her salary — $1,812,132. After all, she makes some $160,000 more than

Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin

the president of Yale University, Richard C. Levin ($1,652,543). I have previously reported on what I consider the “gravy train” many of our illustrious college presidents get involved in. For example, Robert J. Zimmer of the University of Chicago, went home with $3,358,723 to lead the group

in 2011. Second was Joseph E. Aoun of Northeastern University, who made due with $3,121,842. Number three was Dennis J. Murray of Marist College, who cashed in at $2,688,148… on a base pay of $431,650! Columbia University’s heralded leader, Lee C. Bollinger, earned take home of $2,327,344,

and Lawrence S. Bacow made due with $2,223,752. Let’s not forget Amy Gutmann of the University of Pennsylvania — her pay envelope wound up with $2,091,764. And Anthony Catanese, who heads the Florida Institute of Technology, sidled home at seventh with a total of $1,184,008.

Thus, the old tale of college graduates doing better financially than non-graduates surely seems a truism with our university leadership. I wonder why America is not at the top of the leader board when it comes to worldwide recognition. Certainly the leaders are at the top of the pay scales.

NEWS Wellington’s Financial Report Wins Big Honor

A certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting has been awarded to the Village of Wellington by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The certificate of achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. The award is given to an in-

Lobbyist

Eight Firms Seek Job

continued from page 1 could choose to hire a lobbyist on retainer or by the hour only when needed, but Mayor Bob Margolis pointed out that legislation moves quickly. “Things can happen very quickly,” Margolis said. “Language can be added to a bill that would affect us. I would like the lobbyist to be available to us on a monthly retainer. You never know when you’ll need a lobbyist.” Coates said he wasn’t entirely comfortable paying for a lobbyist

dividual, department or agency designated by the government as primarily responsible for preparing the report. In this case, the award went to Wellington’s Office of Financial Management and Budget. Wellington’s CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

On Monday, Dec. 9, the King’s Academy Auction Committee held its annual Christmas party at the

beautiful home of TKA parents Ed and Susanne Legere in Lake Worth. Guests were treated to a wonderful luncheon, and the highlight of the afternoon was the traditional white elephant gift exchange. Guests gathered to support the auction by bringing themed gift baskets that will be featured in the silent auction at TKA’s 13th annual Mane Event auction set for March 1 at the National Croquet Center. This year’s Mane Event theme is “A Star-Studded Premiere” and promises to be an exciting night of glitz and glamour. Proceeds benefit TKA’s Annual Fund Campaign, which plays a vital part in the success of carrying out the school’s mission of “graduating Chris-

tian leaders who seek to impact their world for the King of kings through academic excellence and spiritual vitality.” To date, more than $55,000 has been committed in sponsorships. Presenting Sponsors include Regal Paint Centers, Revan Racing and the Maguire Family. Platinum Sponsors include Wells Fargo, Braman Honda and Insurance Express.com, the Graceffo family. Dr. Jorge Acevedo of the Center for Bone & Joint Surgery is a Gold Sponsor. The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. More information is available at www.tka.net.

on retainer if it wasn’t necessary. “There is an added cost when you have them on a retainer basis,” he said. Schofield noted that most of a lobbyist’s work is done before the legislative session, preparing legislation and meeting with representatives. “They have to get in front of the legislative delegation and get bills ready,” he said. “If we don’t have a local bill prepared by the end of the year, it won’t make it into the legislative session in March. In some years we get more than we pay for, in other years we don’t use it as much.” Gerwig said she would rather work closely with lobbyists for better results. “We’ll need to have

a good relationship with them so they can see what is happening and how it will affect us,” she said. Further, she said that the village manager should act as a liaison to the lobbyist and legislators. Schofield said lobbyists are important in Tallahassee to put Wellington’s issues before the right people. “If I go up there, I can get in to see who I need to see, but it’s going to take three, four or five weeks,” he said. “A lobbying firm will get in the door quicker and know which staff members to go to.” Margolis said it is important that council members also spend time in Tallahassee to advocate.

“It weighs heavily [on legislators] when they see that an issue is so important that we’re up there to discuss it,” he said. Schofield agreed. “Nothing resonates like when you tell them you’re a mayor or council member,” he said. “They would rather deal with elected officials.” Coates said he’d like to have updates on what Wellington’s lobbyist is doing once they hire a firm. “I’d like to know what issues they are actively addressing,” Coates said. “The perception right now is that they come in the door and do nothing. If you give us reports on what they are working on, I think that would help.”

TKA’s Auction Party A Success

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TKA Auction Committee members at the Dec. 9 party. Willhite agreed. “We had a lobbyist firm all six years I was here and I don’t think I worked with them at all,” he said. Schofield said it was important council members have a lobbying firm they can trust to represent and guide them in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. “I suggest you talk to each of the firms,” he said. “You need a lobbyist, but you need one you’re comfortable with.” Margolis said he would like to hear all of the presentations. “If they are willing to come and make a presentation, I’m willing to listen,” he said. “I’m hesitant to throw out any of these firms.” Coates agreed. “The type of

service we’re looking at is very individualized and personalized,” he said. “I think it would behoove us to meet with each of the groups and see what they bring to the table.” Greene suggested doing shorter interviews with each firm and then asking any top contenders to come back if needed. “I think it’s important to see them and how they communicate,” he said. “If they can’t convince us on their skills, they might be hard to sell us before legislators.” Greene made a motion to hold 30-minute interviews with all eight firms with 10 minutes for questioning. The motion passed unanimously.

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Back To Bethlehem Event Returns To Community Of Hope Church

The Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves presented its annual Back to Bethlehem celebration from Thursday, Dec. 13 through Sunday, Dec. 15. Back to Bethlehem is an interactive telling of the story of the birth of Jesus. Shepherds gather as guests follow the bright star to Bethlehem, where they witness the baby Jesus in a manger. Guests enjoyed free refreshments and a look at Photos By Denise Fleischman/Town-Crier what life was like in Bethlehem at the time’s of the birth of Jesus.

Sharon Lemons, Steven Lemons and Lacy Taylor make and sell musical instruments in the village.

Psytal, Yentn and Miriam draw water from the well.

Centurion Cornopolis (Mark Milford) detains the “suspicious” Vincent Porpora.

“Roman guards” at the gate, Cameron and Ken Schneider.

The Angels visit Mary, Jesus and Joseph at the manger.

Sherri Bosley and Jessica Krajewski with their chickens.

Edmund James Salon Celebrates Opening Of Wellington Location

A grand opening celebration was held Friday, Dec. 13 for the new Wellington location of Edmund James Salon. Many employees and clients came together to celebrate. Edmund James Salon is a full-service salon and spa that recently opened a second location on photos by Jayme Salerno/town-crier South Shore Blvd. For more info., visit www.edmundjamessalon.net.

Steffani Ott, Armineh Gharakhani and Wendy Madden.

Lisa Cline shows off the salon.

Bruce Black and Ingrid Molina with Kevin James Pace, one of the salon’s owners.

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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CRIME NEWS

PBSO Investigating Shoplifting Incidents

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By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report DEC. 10 — A man and woman were arrested Sunday, Dec. 10 on charges of shoplifting after they were caught stealing from the Walmart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 9 p.m., a deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the store after 23-yearold Jabari Williams of Lake Worth and 25-year-old Ronise Hampton of West Palm Beach entered the store and selected several pieces of merchandise, including a miniature stereo, a kitchen blender and a printer. According to the report, Williams and Hampton then presented the items as their own and attempted to return them for cash. When the refund was denied, they attempted to exit the store with the items. According to the report, a loss prevention officer stopped them and recovered the items, valued at $114.78. Williams and Hampton were arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail where they were charged with retail theft and dealing in stolen property. DEC. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the TJ Maxx store on State Road 7 last Friday afternoon regarding a case of shoplifting. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 12:15 p.m., an unknown black female entered the store and selected two pieces of merchandise, which she then returned for a gift card. According to the report, the suspect then shopped for clothes and selected several items and placed them in her purse. According to the report, the suspect then passed all points of sale and pushed an employee into the door, causing injury. The employee was able to identify a suspect, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. DEC. 13 — A resident of Azalea Drive called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Friday afternoon to report a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., someone forcibly opened the front door of the home to gain entry. Once inside, the perpetrator(s) stole a 47-inch television, a laptop computer and several pieces of jewelry. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. DEC. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was called to a home on Lakeview Drive last Saturday regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10:30 p.m. last Friday and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone slashed the tires on the victim’s 2013 Toyota Camry. According to the report, a neighbor observed an unknown white male near the victim’s vehicle at approximately 11 p.m. The victim reported having issues with several people in the community but was not sure who would have vandalized his vehicle. The damage was estimated at approximately $184. There was no further information at the time of the report. DEC. 15 — A resident of Madison Green called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Sunday morning regarding an attempted burglary. According to a PBSO report, the resident heard someone tampering with the rear sliding-glass door at approximately 1:30 a.m. According to the report, her mother discovered later that the lock cover on the slid-

ing-glass door had been removed. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects at the time of the report. DEC. 16 — A resident of the Black Diamond community contacted the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between noon and 4 p.m. last Sunday, someone stole two Apple iPads with crystal cases from the victim’s nightstand. According to the report, there were no signs of forced entry, but the home has a broken door lock. The stolen items were valued at approximately $2,200. There was no further information available at the time of the report. DEC. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to the Mall at Wellington Green on Monday afternoon after an employee of Victoria’s Secret reported a case of shoplifting. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 4:30 p.m., two unknown black females entered the store and selected several pieces of merchandise. According to the report, the suspects placed the merchandise in an Express bag and then exited the store. The stolen items were valued at approximately $909. The employee said the women have been involved in other incidents. There was no further information available at the time of the report. DEC. 16 — A resident called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday night to report a robbery. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 10:45 p.m., the victim was at a gas station on South Shore Blvd. when a man approached him. According to the report, the victim said as he approached the door of the gas station, he pulled out a $10 bill from his pocket. The suspect took the money out of his hand and said, “Charge it to the game,” and then ran to a vehicle and fled the area. According to the report, there was surveillance video footage of the incident, and the deputy recognized the suspect. There was no further information available at the time of the report. DEC. 17 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called Tuesday to a business on Pierson Road in response to a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. Monday and 7:15 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the business and stole a safe box and a bank bag containing approximately $5,250, two credit cards and a driver’s license. According to the report, an employee discovered the theft Tuesday morning, but said the business was locked and the alarm was on when she arrived. According to the report, many employees have keys and the alarm code. The safe deposit box and bank bag were in a locked drawer in the back office, which was also locked. There was no further information available at the time of the report. DEC. 17 — A resident of the Grand Isles community called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday morning to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. Monday and 7:20 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle parked outside her home and stole a Garmin GPS unit, a Nikon D200 camera and a Nikon 200mm lens. The stolen items were valued at approximately $3,300. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Andres Cruz is a white male, 5’5” tall and weighing 165 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 06/17/91. Cruz is wanted for failure to appear on charges of grand theft and possession of an anti-shoplifting countermeasure device. His last known address was Bryden Court in Wellington. He is wanted as of 12/12/13. • John Moreira is a white male, 5’8” tall and weighing 185 lbs., with black hair and green eyes. His date of birth is 03/29/72. Moreira is wanted on felony charges of lewd or lascivious molestation. His last known address was Timber Pine Trail in Wellington. He is wanted as of 12/12/13. 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.crimestoppers pbc.com.

Andres Cruz

John Moreira

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

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Page 7

NEWS

Pafford Pledges To Support County Commission Needs List

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report State Rep. Mark Pafford (DDistrict 86) visited the Palm Beach County Commission on Tuesday to discuss the upcoming legislative session, which convenes March 4. Pafford told commissioners that he’ll try to get some of the projected additional state revenue for projects the county is working on. These projects include the berm separating the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area from The Acreage, for which he will seek an additional $4 million. Pafford thanked the commission for its plans to come to Tallahassee during Palm Beach County Day in March. “I think that’s very helpful,” he said. “You have the benefit of having people in front of you during each meeting, and

I wish we had more of that in Tallahassee.” Pafford said there will be at least $1 billion more available in next year’s state budget. “I wanted to make you aware of that,” Pafford said, indicating that he intended to continue to stand behind programs such as the Corbett berm and the Sadowski Trust Fund, which has provided affordable housing and jobs to people in the county and statewide. “This county actually does a great job compared to other places in the state,” Pafford said. “I would like to be able to help in that regard in terms of water projects, like the Lake Worth Lagoon. Last year, I think we had over 300 water projects throughout the state. We had committees where we heard each water project, and only a handful really were approved by

the state. There is a tremendous need throughout the state, and a limited amount of dollars.” As former chairman of the county’s delegation, he said he learned that there is a time and place for partisan politics. “I think all of you do a good job limiting that type of nonsense,” Pafford said. “You are able to talk about issues without blending too much of the rhetoric that, unfortunately, we are all used to. If there is a mentor-type body the legislature should take a look at, it’s local government. It is a pleasure to be able to represent you in Tallahassee.” Commissioner Paulette Burdick said the Sadowski Trust Fund is very important to the county. “Whatever we can do to help in that effort, just let us know,” she said.

Commissioner Mary Lou Berger said she plans to be back in Tallahassee in March for Palm Beach County Day. “It’s a lot of walking, but it’s a pleasure to come up there and see everybody and chat about the priorities that are important to us,” Berger said. Commissioner Shelley Vana, a former state representative, said she was happy that Pafford had been named as the chamber’s next minority leader. “We’re very happy that we have you here, and I hope that we can get some good stuff for Palm Beach County,” Vana said. Commissioner Jess Santamaria told Pafford, “Keep on doing what you’re doing. I would say you are one of my good examples of what a public servant should be.” Mayor Priscilla Taylor said it was a pleasure working with Paf-

Park Zoners OK Larger Directional Horse Given One Signs At RPB’s South University Month More

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission approved directional signage for South University at Belvedere Road and State Road 7 on Monday to reroute traffic after the college closed the road between the two existing buildings to create a student courtyard. Site Plan Coordinator Kevin Erwin noted that the site plan was before commissioners in October for approval, but that because the monument directional signs needed a variance from the Royal Palm Beach Village Council, the university was coming back to the commission for review. Vice Chair Richard Becher said he had gone to the college to see the layout. “It was packed, Becher said. “Every parking space was packed. Having these signs is going to make things a lot easier for all the students. Especially since you intend to be building another

building, it’s even more important to have these signs so people will know where they’re going. With as many cars as I saw out there, it makes perfect sense.” Commissioner Joseph Boyle said he thought it was important for the university to have a consistent look. “This was already approved. The shape was fine, and the signs were put up where they should be,” he said. “I hope you’re going to need more signs as you build out. It’s a great thing for the village to have South University.” Jan Polson of the planning firm Cotleur & Hearing, representing the university, said that the council approved 22 square feet per sign so the university could identify multiple locations on each sign. She added that the signs include space to add information when the third building is constructed. “I’m sure they won’t be empty for very long,” Commission Chair Jackie Larson said. Boyle made a motion to approve

the application, which carried 3-0 with commissioners Barbara Powell and Darrell Lange absent. In other business, the commissioners recommended approval of sign changes for the Wendy’s restaurant at Coral Sky Plaza at SR 7 and Fairgrounds Road. Erwin said Wendy’s was seeking a new sign package and exterior renovations for the existing restaurant. Wendy’s is in the process of changing the signs and exteriors on all its restaurants. “This plaza does allow national tenants to use their trademark and logos,” Erwin said. “This ordinarily wouldn’t have to come before the board. However, the Wendy’s portion is trademarked, but color is not claimed as part of it.” He said Wendy’s is changing the script and doing away with some of its traditional colors and lightening the shading. He recommended approval. Becher made a motion to approve the application, which carried 3-0.

continued from page 1 would not choose the Palm Beach Horse Park. “The agreement says we’re not going to be considering any other proposal,” Cohen responded. Coates pointed out the agreement ends on Dec. 16, but Cohen said she felt it would be unfair to rush them. “I can get them the changes tomorrow,” she said. “But I think in fairness, they should be given extra time to review those changes.” During public comment, which occurred prior to the attorney’s report, developer Chuck Mineo asked the council to consider other offers, noting he, too, has a proposal for the site. “There’s no obligation on the part of [the] council to the Palm Beach Horse Park,” Mineo said. “They’ve had up to six months. I don’t see how it prejudices the process or a decision about their proposal if the council were to consider mine.” Mineo said he has a “very real”

ford, from back when she was a state representative up until now. “You were easy to work with and committed,” Taylor said. “Just be mindful of what’s going on here in Palm Beach County so that when we do call, you can represent us.” Other county goals outlined recently by Governmental Affairs Coordinator Todd Bonlarron include economic development, particularly in the Glades, which include water treatment system infrastructure upgrades, transportation projects and workforce needs. The Lake Worth Lagoon initiative was recently included, at the county’s request, in a state proposal dealing with Lake Okeechobee and discharges of polluted water. Protecting the Lake Worth Lagoon includes the reconfiguration of the S-155 control structure, which controls stormwater flow into the

Lake Worth Lagoon. Guns as they relate to mental health and domestic violence are also a key county issue. The mental health community has launched a pilot program in the county to serve some of those with both substance abuse and mental health problems. County staff has also been working to provide additional assistance to victims, particularly those who want to get out of leases in order to move to other places. To address homelessness, the county will work on Taylor’s initiative to develop a dedicated funding source from the state for local homelessness projects. The county will also be supporting local cultural organizations, including the South Florida Science Museum, in their requests for expansion money.

proposal with written agreements from other interested parties. “I view that site [K-Park] as Wellington’s last and best chance to define what Wellington is going to be in the future,” he said. “I think I have a better idea for Wellington’s future and Wellington’s families. I would prefer to see families gathering in that place. We have a lot of amenities that we lack in order to compete with other communities. We can provide those amenities to our residents.” He requested that the council let the exclusivity provision with the Palm Beach Horse Park expire. “I simply want to be permitted to speak with council members,” he said. “It doesn’t mean you don’t continue to consider whatever the Palm Beach Horse Park has to present.” Village Manager Paul Schofield said he would have staff speak with Mineo once the contract had expired. During discussion on extending the contract, Coates asked if choosing to do so would keep Schofield from speaking with Mineo about his proposal. Cohen said it would. “I would recommend he not do that,” she said.

Councilwoman Anne Gerwig said it made sense to extend the entire contract. “I was against exclusivity in the first place,” she said. “I thought it was a fairness issue. But if we are going to extend it, I don’t think it makes sense to separate [the provisions].” Cohen said Wellington is not locked into a decision. “We have to be comfortable that what they’re providing to us is financially feasible and that the business plan is sound,” she said. “We have to make sure it meets the requirements to where it can be self-sustaining and can repay any infrastructure improvements the village floats bonds for.” She said Wellington would be sending the plan out to experts for review. “It will take us at least a few weeks to do that,” she said. “That puts us in January anyway. I think it makes sense to extend the whole thing.” Coates made a motion to extend the contract to the council’s first meeting in January. “I’m fine with that,” he said. “I wasn’t in favor of the exclusivity to begin with, but I agree.” Willhite seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

VINCEREMOS HOLIDAY PARTY & HORSE SHOW CELEBRATES RIDER PROGRESS The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center held its annual Holiday Party & Horse Show on Saturday, Dec. 14 at its facility in Loxahatchee Groves. The event allows family members, friends and the community to come watch the progress all the riders have made for the year. It also motivates the riders who wish to go forward and participate in additional programs like the Special Olympics. For PHOTOS BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER more info., call (561) 792-9900 or visit www.vinceremos.org.

Executive Director Ruth Menor with her daughter, Sarah.

Brendon Paige enters the arena.

Marilyn Schriner, Cal Harris and Chicky Smith.

Hope Chapman gets ready to ride.

Volunteers Mariana Medina and Brandon Guyn prepare horse Tommy for a ride.

Jessica St. Fort shows off her riding skills for the crowd.

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

Zoo Seeking Volunteer Corps Applicants

The Palm Beach Zoo has opened online applications for 20 available spots in the zoo’s Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC). Youth ages 14 to 17 can apply by printing out an online registration form and sending in the application, along with all required material. This is the program’s second year, and more than half of the volunteers from last year are returning again. “We are proud of the progress we have made within this inaugural year,” Volunteer Services Manager Joe Landmichl said. “I was inspired to begin the Youth Volunteer Corps here at Palm Beach Zoo after participating in a similar one when I was 15. The positive impact that young people receive by volunteering at the zoo spills over into their schooling and everyday lives.” Alex Yanes, a high school junior, already has 570 service hours with the zoo. “As a volunteer serving the organization for almost a year now, I have learned more about the role I have in the

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NEWS BRIEFS local community,” he said. “It has been great how I have interacted with various kinds of events and citizens that I haven’t seen before.” Kristen Wentz, a high school senior, also plans to participate again. “My experience at the Palm Beach Zoo has been better than I could ever imagine,” she said. “It is an amazing place to interact with people, make lasting friends and expand your knowledge.” An informational seminar about the program will be held Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Library Main Branch (3650 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach). RSVP to volunteers @palmbeachzoo.org. The deadline to apply for the YVC is Feb. 10, and space is limited to a total of 45 participants, with 25 spots already taken from returning volunteers. For more info., visit www.palmbeachzoo. org/youth-volunteer-corps.

Unified Food Drive A Success

The 2013 Unified Food Drive and Turkey Drive collected more than 12,500 food items this year. The final food count included

FREE MASSAGE with purchase of three $50 gift cards

more than 12,157 food items donated, 556 turkeys donated and four food pantries stocked. The private school winner was Ideal Elementary with 7.31 items per student. The winning public schools were: Jerry Thomas Elementary School in Jupiter with 1.78 items per student, Berkshire Elementary School in West Palm Beach with 1.68 items per student and H.L. Johnson Elementary School in Royal Palm Beach with 1.47 items per student. Organizers thank the students and schools involved, as well as WRMF (Beth, Jennifer, Deena & Joe), Blue Bell Ice Cream, County Ice, Publix Supermarkets, First Baptist of Royal Palm Beach, the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.

new charity is chosen. Traditionally, a yoga instructor picks the next charity. To thank the community for its outpouring of support for the special Saturday classes, charity ideas will be taken from participants, and one charity’s name will be chosen. Yoga instructors Terree Shields, Victoria Limauro, Jennifer Haas and John Grobelny lead dynamic, fun-filled classes for all levels of ability and experience. Moksha Yoga Studio is located at 3340 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 5 in Wellington. For more info., visit www.mokshayoga studio.com.

Special Yoga Class Dec. 28

The Wellington Rotary Club recently completed a community outreach project with the Lord’s Place, a nonprofit organization that helps the homeless. Club members had dinner and an evening of camaraderie Monday, Dec. 9 with the women of the Burckle House in Lake Worth, a homeless shelter for women. The Burckle House not only

On Saturday, Dec. 28, Moksha Yoga Studio in Wellington will host a special donation-only class to benefit Take Stock in Children in place of the studio’s regular 4 p.m. community class. When the $1,000 donation mark for a charity has been reached, a

gives women shelter, but teaches them job skills and helps them get back on their feet. Rotarians “broke bread” with the women and learned about many of their circumstances. After dinner, the club presented holiday gifts to all of the women. On Saturday, Dec. 14, club members had a morning of breakfast and camaraderie with the men of the Enrichment and Recovery Center in Boynton Beach, which is a men’s shelter supported by the

Lord’s Place. After breakfast, the club presented holiday gifts to all of the men. Both visits proved to be rewarding experiences to the club members who attended. Maggie Zeller, community outreach chair, coordinated both events for the club. It is a project the club hopes to continue in future years. For more information about the Wellington Rotary Club, call Bob Salerno at (561) 512-8247.

Wellington Rotary Supports The Lord’s Place

Burckle House residents enjoy dinner with members of the Wellington Rotary Club.

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Page 9

news

Annual Caridad Christmas Party Brings Holiday Cheer For Families

The annual Caridad Center Christmas Party was held Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. It was sponsored by the Wellington Equestrian Group. Equestrian Sport Productions donated the venue and Tim Gannon provided lunch from PDQ with help from Cilantro’s Deli. Caridad client families also enjoyed rides on the carousel, face painting, a Photos By Denise Fleischman/Town-Crier magic show, a DJ and a visit from Santa with presents and other goodies.

Bruce Duchossois, Caroline Moran, B.J. Meeks, Pablo Perez and Nancy Hooker of the Wellington Equestrian Group.

Iseult Broglio with Wellington student volunteers.

Carina, Marledy and Evelyn Morales received bikes and gifts.

Troy Smith, Skye Kalous and Stephanie Escalante ride the carousel.

Chuck Moore, Jim Gessford, Fran Clemmons and Tommaso Sabbatini give out bikes.

Andre Sargento assists magician Gary Midnight with a card trick.

Bill’s Bikes Memorial Toy Run Collects Gifts For Needy Children

Jim and Carol Verrochi decked out their bike.

Madison and Allison Santos with Santa.

Ken Maltman and Laurie Rabyor.

Walgreens collected toys at their stores and filled two trucks. Shown here are representatives with the donations.

Page 10

December 20 - December 26, 2013

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‘Tis The Season For Sharing

100 Glades Families Receive $150 Each For Christmas Shopping At Walmart Photos by Denise Fleischman/Town-Crier

My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust raised $15,000 to sponsor this year’s holiday shopping event for 100 families from the Glades area with the assistance of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, Dec. 12th at the Walmart Supercenter in Royal Palm Beach. Each family received a $150 gift card upon arrival at Walmart to spend on important basic items such as clothes, food and toys for their holiday shopping. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office provided two tour buses to pick up the 100 needy families from the Glades selected by the Palm Beach Sheriff Deputy Captain Michael Wallace, Belle Glade Mayor Steve Wilson and Jess Santamaria’s Glades Assistant Jermaine Webb. This was the seventh year that My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust and Jess Santamaria have worked with the PBSO to sponsor this event. Once again it was very much appreciated and thoroughly enjoyed by both the givers and receivers! To be continued again next year.

The 100 residents from the Glades arrive in two bus loads.

Sheriff’s Deputies’ Ready To Assist Shoppers.

;

Each one gets $150 for family holiday shopping.

My Brothers’/Sisters’ Keeper Board Members - Happy Faces!

Hugs for the special occasion!

“These clothes look great on you.”

“I’m ready to celebrate Christmas!”

“Too many items to choose from!”

Deputy Natasha also help out.

“We are almost done shopping!”

Captain Michael Wallace with happy shopper.

“Did we exceed our $150?”

Jess Santamaria welcomes everyone.

More happy faces!

The busses are full of goodies!

Let the shopping begin!

“My kids will love these presents!”

Pastor Rose offers to assist.

Even the Walmart management cooperates.

Three cartsfull of bikes and lots of goodies!

“We are all tired (and ready to go home)!”

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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Page 12

December 20 - December 26, 2013

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news

local Talent And Holiday Fun At Wellington’s Winter Wonderland

Wellington Ballet Theatre elf Amanda Campion with Julia Smerling.

Wellington Idol Lexi Luca sings for the crowd.

Wellington Ballet Theatre dancers perform The Nutcracker.

Frosty the Snowman, Spongebob Squarepants and Rudolph danced on stage to entertain the audience.

The WHS Chamber Chorus with teacher Bradford Chase.

Wellington Ballet Theatre kicked off its performance with John Costanzo reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Sons Of Italy Donates Toys To Pediatric Unit At Palms West Hospital

Members of the Sons of Italy Michelangelo Lodge in Royal Palm Beach delivered toys and games to the pediatric unit of Palms West Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 12. The toys were donated at a holiday party the Sons of Italy members had the previous evening. photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier

Carl Bosley got a toy truck from Vincent Porpora.

Sam Pittaro gave Delandra Love a doll.

Ethan Doolan got toy cars from Pat DeVivo.

Sam Pittaro, Vincent Porpora and Pat Devivo with Child Life Specialist Vanessa Barquin.

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Palms West People

RPBHS Dancers Shine At Midterm Show

On Thursday, Dec. 12, the Royal Palm Beach High School Dancers and the Wildcat Dancers Dance Team, under the direction of Michele Blecher, performed their annual midterm show, “Green Light.” The 125 dancers performed 24 routines in a variety of styles, including jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, hip-hop and praise. There were many highlights, beginning with the Wildcat Dancers Dance Team performing the opening routine “Green Light”, which was followed by “Don’t Turn Your Back on Me,” a contemporary duet performed by Bianca Labady and Bryce Blecher. The fourth-period RPBHS Dancers performed “When I was Your Man.” The fifth-period dancers took the floor for “It’s Not Over.” The sixth-period dancers performed a jazz/ethnic

dance with a Middle Eastern flair in “Stereo Love” using swords and scarves. The seventh-period dancers did a quick-time rendition of “Stars.” Andres Cazares did the only solo of the night with a lyrical/

Some of the presents collected as part of the toy drive.

Air Force Airman Seth R. Morris recently graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force. Morris is the son of Tyla Morris of Wellington. He is a 2012 graduate of Wellington Christian School.

Page 13

Lauren Jelenkovich Performs With Yanni

Wildcat Dancers Dance Team and RPBHS Dancers. hip-hop “Blue Ocean Floor.” The Wildcat Dancers Dance Team also performed “Never Again,” based on the genocide during World War II, and “I’ll Make a Man Outta You.” All 125 dancers perform togeth-

er in the grand finale, “Let’s Just Dance.” The team had the help of dance team parents Matt Lutz, Adam Causey, Phyllis and William Blackmon and Carey Blecher, who built sets and props.

Smoke Inn Supports The Kids Cancer Foundation

Morris Finishes Air Force Training

December 20 - December 26, 2013

On Saturday, Dec. 7, the Smoke Inn in Boynton Beach held a special event to present the Kids Cancer Foundation with toys collected at their 11 stores in a toy drive. The stores collected enough toys to brighten not only the holidays for young patients and families, but also for birthdays, end of treatment parties or just to give to kids after procedures to just brighten up their day. Kids Cancer Foundation of-

ficials thank Smoke Inn owner Abe Dababneh for doing the toy drive, as well as all the employees at Smoke Inn and everyone who donated a toy. To learn more about the Kids Cancer Foundation, or to make a donation, visit www.kidscancersf. org, or send checks to: Kids Cancer Foundation, 246 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411. For more information, call Michelle O’Boyle at (561) 371-1298.

25 Complete Nine-Day Lake O Hike

The annual Big O Hike around Lake Okeechobee ended Sunday, Dec. 1 with more than 25 hikers completing all nine days of the trek. The weather was ideal with reasonably cool days — except for one 36-degree morning — and a breeze. The hikers came from many parts of the eastern U.S.

Lauren Jelencovich of Wellington, a 2003 graduate of the King’s Academy, performed at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts last week with famed musician Yanni as part of his Florida tour. Jelencovich has already garnered great acclaim for her affecting and sparkling portrayals of opera and musical theater roles throughout the United States and abroad. She is currently on tour with Yanni as his featured soloist, and just recently wrapped up the world tour in the U.S., South America, China, Thailand, Russia and Dubai, among other countries. Additionally, Jelencovich performed at the famed El Morro in Puerto Rico to sold out audiences with Yanni to film and record the live DVD/CD and PBS special “Yanni: Live at El Morro!”

Post 367 Recognizes Pearl Harbor Day

The American Legion Post 367 Royal Palm Beach Honor Guard helped recognize Pearl Harbor Day on Dec. 7 at Commons Park. Shown here with Mayor Matty Mattioli and Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara are Post 367 members Commander Robbie Robinson, Adjutant Terry Stork, Sgt. of Arms Daryl Walcher and Chaplain Jim Hart.

Page 14

December 20 - December 26, 2013

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School News

Eagle Scout Project Ideal And Dream Schools Host Shark Week Ideal Elementary School and students and teachers took advanBenefits H.L. Johnson Dream Middle School hosted tage of the opportunity to explore Shark Week Dec. 2 through Dec. common misconceptions about

Casey Whalen, a 17-year-old member of Boy Scout Troop 111 of Royal Palm Beach, chartered by Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI), completed a service project for H.L. Johnson Elementary School on Nov. 24, as part of his quest to become an Eagle Scout. Whalen led his fellow scouts and adults to build six 8-foot-by-4-foot garden beds, complete with their own irrigation system; two wooden benches capped with wooden flower pots (complete with flowers) on each end with shrubs and trees for future shade; and an 8-foot picnic table for the teachers and students to enjoy on the recess field. Whalen decided to give back to the elementary school that he once attended. He hopes the Eagle Project will be a great addition for the Garden Club and Team Green to enjoy for many years to come. Shown here is Whalen and volunteers with his completed service project.

6 in correlation with the international celebration of this powerful creature of the ocean. Spearheaded by Ideal second-grade teacher Betsy Whitthuhn, a schedule of events encouraged students to embrace shark culture and awareness. The culminating events was a schoolwide presentation from leading shark expert Dr. Steve Kessel. Kessel spent Friday, Dec. 6 at Ideal and Dream educating students about sharks and the importance of marine conservation. He also performed a shark dissection for Dream Middle School teachers and students. Leading up to Kessel’s visit and the shark dissection, students participated in a wonderful week of shark facts and fascination filled with shark-themed lessons, crafting sessions and Multiple Intelligence performances in each grade from kindergarten through grade eight. The excitement surrounding the week’s events was felt daily as

sharks and analyze how and why the fear of sharks has been deeply instilled in society. An Ideal school family graciously donated a shark tank containing sharks and shark egg sacks. The tank was installed in a third-grade classroom for all students to enjoy. When it was time for the shark dissection, the Dream Middle School students were on the edge of their seats, bubbling over with questions for Kessel. The unique opportunity to feed their curiosities after a week of studying sharks was incomparable to video or textbased science instruction. Keeping in line with Shark Week, Ideal and Dream students and families participated in the second “I Can Fun Run” event, where the theme was “A School of Fish.” Everyone wore blue from head to toe and carried school supplies to a drop-off station near Calypso Bay Water Park. The supplies were collected and donated to needy children at an

Dr. Steve Kessel shows off a shark for students. elementary school in the Glades. Kessel participated in the run with Ideal Dream students, staff

and families. The inspiration and joy proved evident throughout the entire week.

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School News

Frontier Students Purchase Wreaths

When Frontier Elementary School Safety Patrol co-sponsors Olga Vidal and Sherrie Dulany saw on the news that the graves of more than 33,000 U.S. service members in Arlington and other national cemeteries across the United States would not receive holiday wreaths this year because of a $500,000 shortage in funds, they knew Frontier students would want to help out. “Every year, Arlington National Cemetery is a key point of our patrol trip to Washington, D.C. I knew our students would want to help out,” Vidal said. Frontier Safety Patrols decided to use some of their D.C. trip fundraising money to purchase a wreath in honor of Frontier’s very own Navy veteran, fifth-grade teacher Jennifer Eddy, who served in Desert Storm. Dulany then e-mailed all patrol members and their families, encouraging them to donate $15

to purchase one wreath. Student Council Sponsor Marisa Hopkins jumped on board and purchased a wreath from the Frontier Student Council. “We fund raise for many activities that enhance the learning of the students at Frontier,” Hopkins said. “But donating money to this cause is something all of our students can truly be proud of.” Fifth grade patrols members Jackson and McKinley Harding purchased a wreath in honor of their grandparents. “My Pop-Pop served in the Air Force and my Papa is a World War II expert. I knew both of them would be proud to help out with this,” Jackson Harding said. “It makes me happy to help honor people who fought for our country,” added McKinley Harding. Wreaths can still be purchased by visiting www.wreathsacross america.org/act-now

Veteran and teacher Jennifer Eddy with Jackson and McKinley Harding and Frontier Student Council Sponsor Marisa Hopkins.

SRHS FACE Club Celebrates The Holidays The Seminole Ridge Facial Anomaly Community Education (FACE) Club held its seventh annual holiday celebration for local families whose children have craniofacial anomalies. Club Sponsor Peggy Larson recalled the event’s beginning. “I was a part-time employee in 2005 when the school opened, but when I came on board full-time the next year, we started our FACE club, and we had our first party — with one guest — in 2006,” Larson said. “Last year we had a record number of 25 families. This year there were only 10, but a fun time was had by all, with lots of food, music and gifts.” SRHS staff members Michelle Buchannan, Erika Goldrich, Kathy Peers and Sue Smith joined the party to assist with setup and clean up. • Cheerleaders Take Division Gold — The SRHS competition cheerleaders placed first in their division at the Universal Cheerleaders Association regional competition Dec. 7-8, qualifying them for national competition in February. “The girls laid their hearts on the floor this weekend like I’ve never seen them do,” cheer coach Tamara Licavoli said. • Debaters Shine in Virginia — The Hawk forensics team had considerable success recently at the George Mason University Na-

tional Invitational Patriot Games Tournament, the largest in the nation. Wayne Selogy placed in the final round of the legislative assembly, ranking again as one of the nation’s top ten speakers. The public forum team of Erika Thompson and Landen Fresch placed among in the top 32 teams nationwide. Also performing well were Andrew Garcia in humorous interpretation and impromptu speaking, and Rachel Collins in original oratory. “Each performed well for a tournament of this magnitude,” coach Mierka Drucker said. “How proud I am of these dedicated and talented students.” • Thespians Earn Numerous Awards — The SRHS thespian troupe competed at the district level recently. “We did great, with 10 superior and 12 excellent awards,” coach Ryan Lee said. A number of the superior-rated solo and group winners now advance to state-level competition in March: Jaqueline Campos (solo musical); Lisa Chandler (monologue); David Madigan and Jessica Quiggle (pantomime); Devyn Higgs, Aletta Kemp and Gigi Spado (small group musical); and Kelsie Brown, Aletta Kemp, Alexis Parada, Rosie Perissien, Jessica Quiggle, Gigi Spado, Antonia Sulpizi and Julie Weber (large group musical). These thespians and groups also

Page 15

RPBHS SADD Club Holds Pledge Drive

The Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club at Royal Palm Beach High School celebrated safe driving and encouraged fellow students to take the pledge for conscious road decisions in October. SADD members grouped together during lunch all week after setting up laptops and games to help spread the word and get everyone excited about Celebrate My Drive. RPBHS came in the top 10 percent out of 3,500 schools. A huge thank you goes out to State Farm Insurance, which sponsored and helped advertise the event, and provided incentives for those voters who helped the local school make it to the top 10 percent. Shown here are Maya Williams, Adecia Harrison, Maureen Witkowski and Thomas Lafontant with Didi Burton from State Farm.

received superior awards: Jaquie education holiday luncheon, and Campos and Maddie Dickson on Dec. 8 the battalion’s saber (duet musical); Maddie Dickson team and color guard, in addition (solo musical); Fallon McCoy to their usual functions, conducted (monologue); Mairead O’Rourke a candle-lighting ceremony as part (solo musical); and Jaquie Cam- of the 82nd Airborne Division Aspos, Maddie Dickson, Claudia sociation’s anniversary dinner. The Gonzalez, Devyn Higgs and Fal- Hawk cadets were presented with lon McCoy (ensemble acting). an 82nd Airborne commemorative Receiving excellent awards coin and a necklace picturing St. were: Gabi Garcia (monologue); Michael, the patron saint of the Devyn Higgs (solo musical); division. Rowan Pelfrey (solo musical; • Hawks Chosen for All-Dismonologue); Kristin Wasko (cos- trict Concert Band — Congrattume design); Courtney Wolfe ulations to Cory Sanchez (junior, (monologue); Katie Abel and flute) and Christopher Martinez Jessica Quiggle (duet acting); (senior, contrabass clarinet), who Kelsie Brown and Rosie Perissien were selected to represent Semi(duet musical); Lisa Chandler and nole Ridge in the 2014 All-District Mairead O’Rourke (duet musical); Concert Band, and to Kaylee FaDavid Madigan, Joe Prieto and gan (sophomore, clarinet), selected Courtney Wolfe (ensemble act- as an alternate for the band. “All ing); and Kelsie Brown, Gabi Gar- three represented our school with cia, Fallon McCoy, Rowan Pelfrey, character and poise as they audiAlexis Parada, Rosie Perissien and tioned with hundreds of students Kyle Schneider (pantomime). from across Palm Beach County,” • Hawk Battalion Joins Com- band director Daniel Harvey said. munity Events — The JROTC • Community Education PrinHawk Battalion has been busy as cipal of the Year — Seminole It was family night at the Book Fair when the 501st Everglades of late. On Dec. 5, the color guard Ridge Principal James Campbell Squad invaded the Emerald Cove Middle School media center in performed at a local naturalization has been voted the 2013 Com- support of reading. The 501st seeks to promote interest in Star ceremony in which 93 candi- munity Education Principal of the Wars through the building and wearing of quality costumes, and dates from 44 different countries Year by the 26 adult and commu- facilitates the use of the costumes for Star Wars-related events, received their citizenship. The nity education schools of Palm as well as contributing to the community through costumed charity cadets enhanced the ceremony by Beach County. “I’m happy that and volunteer work. Many students and their families came to taking pictures with each of the the Seminole Ridge after-school the book fair to purchase books and have their pictures taken newly naturalized citizens. On and evening programs are so active with R2D2, Darth Vader, Boba Fett, Storm Trooper, TIE Pilot and Dec. theCrier guard and have so much support the 1Imperial Gunner. Shown here is Principal Dr. Nancy Lucas with Dani 6, Town ad presented “JUMP” b&wthe •dec 5_Layout 1 13-12-06 9:25 from AM Page colors at the school district’s adult people they serve,” Campbell said. members of the 501st Squad.

Book Fair At Emerald Cove Hosts Star Wars

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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Features

’Twas The Week Before Christmas (And Dad Needs Your Help!)

Can you believe it? Christmas is almost here! To get you in the spirit of the season, I generously offer this holiday rhyme without reason...

Deborah Welky is

“Christmas cookies are baking, And there’s wrapping to do. There’s a tree to be trimmed, I need help! I need you!”

“You can fix them! You must! ’Cuz the clock’s counting down. And soon Santa will fly, Over our little town.”

Dad says what he must To get holiday aid, But he also teaches, “Families aren’t born, they’re made.”

’Twas the week before Christmas, And all through the village, Not a person was snoozing, With stores left to pillage.

The Sonic BOOMER

“We have friends at the airport, They all need a ride! And those fresh-baked warm cookies? They all need to be tried!”

And when he looks over, And sees those lights workin’ And sees the lawn mowed, He’ll know you weren’t shirkin’.

So to you and your Hardworking teenagers, tots, And grandmas and grandpas And relatives (lots)...

Cold weather had held off, ’Til this week it dipped, So those needing cool gusts To shop, needed gifts.

’Cuz nothing says “Christmas” Like five days off work. Plus weekends makes nine, What an end-of-year perk!

Good thing holidaytime seems to Make all chores easy! ’Specially those that are outdoors, When it’s cool and it’s breezy!

He’ll fill up your stocking, With lots of beef jerky, And Mom will give you the Best part of the turkey.

I say, “Merry Christmas! You make this day bright! And Wellington shines Because of your light!”

And Christmas on Wednesday, Most workers just love this; While bosses tear hair out, Staff leaves, thinking, “Shove it!”

’Course there’s still lots to do, And Dad lets his teen know it. “No lying around! See That grass out there? Mow it!”

“So get those lights up! Plug them in. Do they work? They don’t? Well, that’s just One more holiday quirk.”

’Cuz Christmas is something We work on together, And when it’s all done, Our caps get a feather.

So, there you have it. My special holiday gift to you. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of the WelkyMiles clan.

Second Film In ‘Hobbit’ Trilogy A Wild And Fun Adventure Ride

The new Hobbit film, The Desolation of Smaug, is a nice adventure ride, with no pretensions to being a great film. Unlike the first film in the trilogy, this movie spends very little time setting up characters. The action begins only a few minutes in and seldom stops. As befits the middle part of a trilogy, the ending is a real cliffhanger. The audience in the theater was left wanting more. I was one of them; the picture ends just a bit before the expected climax. And the simple fact that we all wanted more after close to three hours speaks volumes about how much the movie held our attention. In the movie, Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) is preparing to lead his group of dwarves, along with “burglar” hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) to Erebor, their ancient home, destroyed gen-

‘I’ On Culture By Leonard Wechsler erations ago by the dragon Smaug. After a wild chase by the evil orcs, they come to a small fortress protected by a “skin changer,” Beorn (Mikael Persbrandt), who sometimes appears as an enormous wild bear. Soon after, they come to an enchanted forest ruled by the elves where Gandalf (Ian McKellen) leaves them on a mission of his own. The forest is not a nice place, with air sodden with moisture and a

race of giant spiders. Bilbo does fairly well against the spiders, rescuing the dwarves, when they are finally taken by elves, led by Legolas (Orlando Bloom, playing the same part he did in The Lord of The Rings trilogy). Possibly upsetting Tolkien purists, there is now also a female elf warrior, Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly), who is attracted to Kili (Aidan Turner), one of the dwarves, despite being the subject of Legolas’ affection. His father, Thranduil (Lee Pace), the elf king, wants nothing to do with the dwarves and imprisons them, although Bilbo, wearing the “magic ring” that makes him invisible, frees them. The elf home is attacked by orcs (and the elves all seem to be great warriors, they go through orcs at a very fast rate), while the dwarves escape by riding barrels down a wild river. This is a fantastic action

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scene. No explosions, but some great action, including the elves using arrows and daggers to kill huge numbers of orcs with the dwarves pitching in. They wind up at the shores of a great lake, and bribe Bard (Luke Evans), a smuggler with an interesting ancestry, and get smuggled into Laketown, a city near the castle. After a few amusing adventures, they go on to the great castle, where they must face Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch) in another wild battle scene. The action almost never stops. One set piece leads into another, and when there is a brief break, it is usually to bring a few new elements in. My personal favorite was watching the political machinations of the humans in Lakeland. The cast is uniformly good. Freeman remains excellent as Bilbo, although he

does have somewhat less to do in this movie. McKellen’s Gandalf is, as expected, excellent, although he seldom interacts with the dwarves or Bilbo after the first 40 minutes. Armitage is excellent as the dwarf king, as are the other actors in those parts, although I particularly like Ken Stott and Aidan Turner. Evangeline Lilly was marvelous in her part, probably the most complex character. She was both fierce and loving. Stephen Fry is wonderfully humorous as Laketown’s master. Tolkien, as always, presents a dichotomy: There are the good people, and there are the greedy ones. The desire for riches is the trap that ruins so many people (not to mention dwarves, hobbits and dragons). This is a great, very long adventure ride. At times, it moves slowly, as director Peter See WECHSLER, page 18

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

Are you reAdy To

Indulge yourself?

Wellington The Magazine Is going to be selecting one lucky reader each month to enjoy a day of luxury at a local spa. Can you use a distraction from your daily grind or know someone who can use some â&#x20AC;&#x153;meâ&#x20AC;? time? If so, enter this ongoing contest today. All you have to do is fill out the form below and mail it to Wellington The Magazine. Please include a photo of yourself or the individual you are nominating along with a short note as to why we should choose you or your nominee.

Wellington The Magazine Indulge Contest Nominee Name: _________________________________ Nominee Contact Number: ________________________ Nominee Email: ____________________________________ Submitted By: ___________________________________ Contact Number: ___________________________________ Mail to: Wellington The Magazine Indulge Yourself Contest, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., #31, Wellington, FL 33414

Would your spa/salon like to become involved with our Indulge yourself contest? Call Publisher, Dawn Rivera (561) 793-7606 today! Contest Rules: You must be 18 years or older to participate. We choose the spa/salon. No one may win the contest more than once in 12 months. The decision of the selection committee is final. Employees of Wellington The Magazine, all affiliated companies and their family members are not eligible to enter. Accepting your Spa Experience package includes the agreement that we may use of your image, take photos of you at the spa and publish information about your Spa Experience in Wellington The Magazine.

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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NEWS

Holiday-Themed Programs At The South Florida Science Center

Although Frosty the Snowman can’t find a home outside in South Florida, that doesn’t mean there isn’t snow to be found. The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium recently announced a holiday activities lineup that is sure to have elves of all ages kicking up their heels. Beginning on Saturday, Dec. 21 and continuing for three full weekends, the South Florida Science Center will offer plenty of winter wonders. “We are continually striving to be a busy hub of informal science education opportunities,” CEO Lew Crampton said. “Aside from bringing in blockbuster traveling exhibits, such as our current exhibit Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, we are constantly wrapping education lessons into themed weekend events. The holidays offer an excellent opportunity to engage young minds about relevant topics, such as how snow is created.” Beginning Saturday, Dec. 21, snow will be in the forecast as the science center will offer guests an opportunity to create their own snow starting at 1:30 p.m. Immediately following the snow demonstration, visitors can watch a liquid nitrogen show at 2:30 p.m.,

followed by a winter gumdrops craft at 3:30 p.m. Similar activities, including grow your own crystals, paper snowflake crafts and marshmallow necklaces, will rotate for a complete winter wonders experience for the next three weekends. If parents need a break from family time to catch up on holiday shopping, the science center will be offering Winter Wonders Workshop mini-camp sessions for children ages 4 to 12. The mini-camp sessions, each having a different theme, are two days per session from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and extended hours of exploration are available from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The cost is $90 per mini-camp for nonmembers and $80 per mini-camp for members. Mini-camp sessions begin Dec. 23-24 with Winter Science Treats, offering children an opportunity to make-and-take holiday sweet treats such as coconut cake-pop snowballs and liquid nitrogen mint ice cream. Mini-camp will resume the following week, on Dec. 30 -31 with Frigid Space, a session designed to explore the depths of space by creating dry ice smoking comets and their own constellation viewer. The last session, Ice and

Crystals, a “cool” exploration into ice and crystals, will be Jan. 2-3. To register for a mini-camp session, e-mail programs@sfsciencecenter.org or call (561) 832-2026. Additionally, the science center will be hosting “Noon Year’s Eve” on Tuesday, Dec. 31. “Noon Year’s Eve” is a special opportunity for young Einsteins to partake in the festive celebration of New Year’s, without straining to keep their eyes open hours past their bedtimes. Special activities begin at 11 a.m. and include an aluminum foil boat competition, Titanic sand art, dry ice apple cider, a liquid nitrogen show and a grow-yourown-crystals lab. Nights at the Museum, an always popular monthly event, will also feature a winter wonders theme. Taking place Friday, Dec. 27, from 6 to 9 p.m., the evening will offer plenty of chilly crafts, including polar bear paws and penguin feet lab, make-and-take snow and a snowflake craft. The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium, formerly known as the South Florida Science Museum, recently completed a $5 million expansion and renovation. The facility features more than 50 hands-on educational exhibits, an

8,000-gallon fresh and salt water aquarium featuring both local and exotic marine life, a digital planetarium, a conservation research station, a Florida exhibit hall and an interactive Everglades exhibit. All permanent exhibits will be open during the Titanic’s special showing. During Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, admission to the science center is $15 for adults, $11.50 for children ages 3 to 12 and $13.50 for seniors over the age of 62. Members can enjoy the exhibit for free. Admission includes Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition as well as general admission to the rest of the science center and the on-going holiday activities. Nights at the Museum is a special event, and admission for members is $6.50 for adults and free for children. Nonmember admission is $13.50 for adults, $12 for seniors over the age of 62 and $10 for children. The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org.

PALMS WEST HOSPITAL WINTER WONDERLAND

More than 300 people came out for the inaugural Palms West Children’s Winter Wonderland held at Palms West Hospital on Saturday, Dec. 14. Guests enjoyed cookie decorating, a hot chocolate bar, arts and crafts, games, face painting, balloon art and, of course, a visit from Santa, delivered by Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Shown here, children, families and friends enjoy the day.

Lyons

Paving Off The Plan

continued from page 1 not interested,” he said. “They liked their shellrock road, and the county should just stay away and leave it alone.” Webb said county staff recommended removing the money that had been allocated for paving Lyons Road. “Also at that meeting, the residents had two other issues with the future Lyons Road,” Webb said. “One of the issues is the right-ofway width that you have specified already in your comprehensive plan that has been there for about 15 years. They questioned if it could be smaller.” Ranchettes residents also questioned the three lanes proposed ultimately for Lyons Road. “Staff has proposed a three-lane section with a two-way left turn in the middle,” Webb said. “You have told us not to do anything as far as right-of-way acquisition until we bring that item back to you. The lanes and the right-of-way width are not part of this board item.” Webb said he planned to bring a separate lane plan back to the commission in the first few months of 2014 for public discussion. “The focus today is on Lyons Road within the Ranchettes,” Webb said. “It was not wellreceived by the community, so staff now is recommending that the board just go back to the status

quo and not show any construction there.” Commissioner Steven Abrams asked whether the money could be moved to the roads of some of his constituents who wanted curbing, but Webb said the money was from impact fees and had to be used for capacity improvements, such as paving what is not currently a paved road or adding lanes. Webb noted that in 1999, the commission adopted a 100-foot right of way for Lyons Road from Lake Worth Road to Southern Blvd. and that it currently has a 100-foot right of way everywhere except the Ranchettes. Ranchettes resident Nick Rotenberger said that instead of three lanes, most of the residents would prefer two, which would take up only 80 feet, instead of 100 feet. He said information passed out to residents two years ago showed only an 80-foot right of way. “The concern is that the residents don’t want the road going through,” he said. “If it’s going to go through at some point in time out of our control, it doesn’t need to be wider than it needs to be. We only need two lanes, and that would take only 15 feet in front of my house. Taking 25 feet is going to be devastating.” Rotenberger said that residents also were concerned that paving the road would make it easier for developers to pay for the bridge construction. Ranchettes resident Dave Elder opposed the Lyons Road extension because he believed it would

destroy the character of the neighborhood. “It’s an equestrian community, and I’m really opposed to the whole Lyons connection,” he said. Elder added that he thought the comprehensive plan failed to consider the Ranchettes and that concerns about SR 7 should be resolved without affecting them. “Everything else on Lyons are gated communities,” he said. “I have six kids and two dogs. I don’t want that type of traffic… Wellington’s doing all the building. Why should we have to pay for it?” Ranchettes property owner Andy Schaller said Lyons Road was never intended to go down Frontier Road, but farther east on Blanchette Trail. “We’d like to keep the road, if it has to go through, to two lanes, and we’d like traffic calming,” Schaller said, pointing out that the original plan called for roundabouts and/or speed bumps. Commissioner Jess Santamaria said he believed it was his responsibility to protect the interests of residents no matter where they live, and compared the issue before the commissioners to action they had taken a few weeks earlier to protect residents of the Westwood neighborhood several miles north by not approving an entrance to Pioneer Road from a planned commercial development. “Once again, we are faced with a similar situation here where Lyons Road would negatively impact the character and quality of life in the Ranchettes,” Santamaria said.

“Therefore, I do oppose any of the still-on-the-books plan for Lyons Road running through the middle of Ranchettes.” Santamaria said he was glad that staff had recommended holding off with paving plans for Lyons Road through the Ranchettes, and hoped that staff could come up with an alternative road plan to relieve SR 7 traffic. Webb said he planned to bring the actual road options to the commission later as a separate item. He also stressed that the comprehensive plan states that they are not to think about connecting Lyons Road through the Ranchettes until SR 7 is eight lanes and over capacity. “It is currently eight lanes, and it is within a few thousand cars of being over capacity,” Webb said. “There is development that is coming on line in that immediate area that will be adding cars in the next year or two on that roadway.” Webb noted that consideration could come as early as 2016, depending on an actual traffic count. Santamaria said that the commission’s recent development approvals, including the Wellington Medical Arts District at State Road 7 and Forest Hill Blvd., which required approval of a constrained roadway at a lower level of service (CRALLS) designation, had only accelerated the time frame to need Lyons Road. Abrams made a motion to approve the road program as amended by staff, which carried 7-0.

ITID

A South Florida Science Center visitor takes part in the dry ice apple cider experiment.

Officers Changed

continued from page 1 But Dunkley’s selection of Riccio for that position drew sharp objections from Damone. Riccio unseated Damone in 2002 and served one four-year term on the ITID board. Damone regained an ITID board seat in 2004 and clashed with Riccio for the next two years. “As treasurer, I‘ll just let you all know that I no longer need an office, maps, typewriters and postage, and I absolutely do not need a deputy treasurer, so as of this evening, there is no need for a deputy treasurer to continue forward,” Damone said. Dunkley said that he had wanted to be a transparent treasurer and provide a report to advise property owners what was being done with their money. “We are entrusted with investing their money in wise ways,” he said. “As of 2006 to this point, this board did not see fit to notify the public of what we were doing with their money.” Dunkley said that he’d prepared a treasurer’s report, which was in the mail. “I am glad to say you will be getting a treasurer’s report, and I hope you will enjoy it,” Dunkley said. “It is not up to Supervisor Damone to report about our money. It should be imperative that you know what is being done with your money.” Jacobs said she did not like the way the treasurer’s report was done. “I was told that this was not going to be going out until the board voted on it, so why is it in the mail?” she said. ITID Manager Jim Shallman said the report was not in the

Wechsler

Second ‘Hobbit’ Movie

continued from page 16 Jackson shows off fancy sets, but although there are many of these, he seldom lingers long. The good actors move things along, and the constant action prevents anyone from noticing the plot holes. There are delicious touches of

mail. “We have sent a check for postage, but we were not actually mailing the newsletter until Dec. 25,” he said. Jacobs said there are important issues that need to be added to the newsletter. “I don’t like the format of it,” she said, adding that she believed that there would be board approval. “Five board members run the district, not one.” Damone noted that when she had asked Dunkley in October who the deputy treasurer would be, he did not answer. “I asked you two months ago who your deputy treasurer was. I already knew who it was,” she said. “You chose not to be transparent, not to disclose that, and that is why I feel as passionate as I do.” Damone said she thought the draft of the treasurer’s report was a newsletter, not a treasurer’s report. “Every single month in this board book, which is available to the public, there is a financial report that has far more teeth to it, far more data to it and it would be far more accurate than what was on there,” she said. Damone said she would have no problem putting out a treasurer’s report, with the help of in-house staff, if that was the direction of the board. Jacobs said that as president, she is for completely open government. “I expect every resident to be able to come up to the podium and say what they want to say, but there will be no abuse to any single board member up here,” she said. “There will be no abuse to our professionals, and there will be no abuse to our staff. If you have a road that hasn’t been graded in 20 years, you are more than welcome to come up and talk about it, but this is district business, and we need to take care of it before it gets to 11 o’clock at night.” humor throughout even the wildest battles, of which there are many. And it serves as a springboard for making people want to see the end of the trilogy. For those who haven’t read the book, they probably are anxious to see what will happen. Having read the book, I do know how it ends, but I will see the next in the series — probably on the first day. This is a good trilogy, not up to The Lord of the Rings, but fun nevertheless.

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The Coalition and the Jacobs Family t ake a quick moment t o reminisce over this past year. As 2013 comes t o an end, we remember all the great things that came along this year. We are gr ateful for all the accomplishments, the numer ous community outreach pr ogr ams that gave us the oppor tunity t o give back and see the smiles on c hildren's f aces either at the par ks or at schools. We are thankful for the new friends made and the suppor t and continuing loyalty of old ones . May we embr ace 2014 with great v igor, health and cheer! We wish you and your families a Merr y Christmas, Happy Holiday s & a ver y Happy New Year!

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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The Perfect Match Polo and Brunch

Experience the energy of world-class polo and brunch at the International Polo Club. Delicious food, champagne, celebrity sightings, music, fashion and, of course, polo. Every Sunday at 3 p.m. through April 20 The Pavilion opens at 2 p.m.

Join us at The Pavilion for the after-party from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For ticket options, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687.

3667 120th Avenue South Wellington, Florida 33414

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Horse Show Judge Lauren Briggs Joins Snaffle Bit Farm

Lifelong equestrian Lauren Briggs has been living in the Wellington area for the past seven years. She’s an “R” rated judge, which means she’s qualified to judge A-rated shows. About four months ago, Briggs became the manager and head instructor at Snaffle Bit Farm, located on D Road in Loxahatchee Groves. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Page 21

TKA’s Paul Schumacher Wins Lou Groza Award

Friday, Dec. 10 was a big night for Paul Schumacher, a senior football player from the King’s Academy. Schumacher was awarded the Lou Groza Award, a prestigious award given to the top kicker in Palm Beach County. Schumacher won the award over Cardinal Newman’s Steven Holmes and Park Vista’s Gabe Montes. Page 29

Shopping Spree A Town-Crier Publication

inside

Business

Foreclosure Stats Show Improvement

The number of new foreclosures in Palm Beach County remains significantly lower than the previous year, according to the latest statistics available from the office of Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock. There were 643 new foreclosures filed in November, a 2.7 percent decrease from 661 foreclosures in October, and a 46.7 percent decrease from 1,207 cases filed in November 2012. Page 25

Sports

Lady Broncos Trounce Palm Beach Gardens With 60-33 Victory

Palm Beach Central High School girls basketball squad hosted Palm Beach Gardens High School on Thursday, Dec. 12 and defeated the Gators 60-33. Palm Beach Central jumped out to an early 5-0 lead seconds after the whistle and never looked back. Samara Auguste led the Lady Broncos with 29 points, and Daijah Brown tallied 18 points. Page 29

THIS WEEK’S index Tails from the Trails............................. 23 BUSINESS NEWS....................................24-25 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 28 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................29-31 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................31-35

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Saturday Night LightS January 11 - March 29, 2014 at the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival

World Class Show Jumping & Entertainment for the whole family. FREE GENERAL ADMISSION For more information, please visit www.equestriansport.com or call 561-793-JUMP (5867) Premier Seating call 561-784-1120 Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 3400 Equestrian Club Drive Wellington, FL 33414 Photographs: Elena Lusenti Poster Design: Suzy Drasnin & Monique Carboni

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

features

Page 23

Horse Show Judge Lauren Briggs Joins Snaffle Bit Farm

I suppose you could say it was inevitable that Lauren Briggs would make horses her life’s work. She grew up riding and showing in Massachusetts, and her father, Ray Briggs, was a blacksmith who tended horses for Olympic riders, among others. “I worked my way up,” Briggs said. “I never had a fancy, fully trained horse handed to me. I bought all my horses green and made them myself. It’s a great way to really learn about horses.” Briggs has been living in the Wellington area for the past seven years. She’s an “R” rated judge, which means she’s qualified to judge A-rated shows. “I’ve judged local hunter and jumper classes, including classes at [the Winter Equestrian Festival]. I also did the Interscholastic Equestrian Association Regional Finals in Massachusetts last year, and will do them for both Massachusetts and South Florida this year in March,” she said. The Interscholastic Equestrian Association allows middle and high school students to ride and show, even if they don’t own their own horses. “It’s a fine way for youngsters to get introduced to the sport,” she said. Briggs started judging when she was 18. She knows firsthand how cutthroat the world of horse shows can be. Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/HorseTalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg “Well, there’s always politics involved in showing,” she said. “But when I judge, I don’t care who their trainer is. I never want to go there. I like being fair and giving everyone a chance. Sometimes a horse will make a mistake in an earlier class, and a judge will remember and take that into consideration the next time she sees him in a later class. I judge each horse and rider only on what they do in each class.” There’s nothing as rewarding as seeing a horse go around and do a good job, Briggs said. “One of my favorite things is speaking with the riders afterward, answering their questions and giving them pointers so they can better themselves,” she said. “One of my pet peeves is unsportsmanlike conduct; someone not being kind to other riders or her horse. That’s very important to me, in both the rider and parents. I think the more fair everyone is — judge, rider, owner, trainer, parent — the better.” Briggs believes that some judges are more partial to a particular look or breed of horse.

“I think Thoroughbreds sometimes get a bad rap in hunter/jumper classes,” she said. “People think they’re more difficult to ride or harder to handle. Everyone wants a Warmblood. I’d like to see more people riding Thoroughbreds, who can be amazing in a lot of different classes. Thoroughbred rescue groups are doing a great job educating people about how versatile these horses can be.” About four months ago, Briggs became the manager and head instructor at Snaffle Bit Farm, located on D Road in Loxahatchee Groves. A friend of hers had been teaching there and had to leave, but recommended her for the job. She met owner Sharon Andersen, and a deal was struck. “I’m very excited to get a whole new program going,” Briggs said. “It’s a wonderful facility. We have 10 acres, 43 stalls, eight school horses in all sizes, abilities and temperaments, and we offer a wide range of programs.” The farm caters to children of all ages and sizes, as well as adults. “We do trail rides and other fun activities. We go to the local shows, everything from Posse to WEF,” Briggs said. “We have a fun, relaxed atmosphere, family-friendly, lots of moms and daughters riding together. We welcome riders of all levels and abilities, from rank beginners to serious competitors, and have both group and individual lessons.” Snaffle Bit Farm is also starting a Pony Club group in January, affiliated with United States Pony Clubs. “There’s no official minimum age for mem-

Zoe Mazer rides Pony Express with help from Danielle McMahon.

Photo courtesy True Colors Photography

bers, and they can stay with the group until they’re 25,” Briggs said. “You don’t have to own a horse or even know how to ride. It’s a great way for kids to meet other horse-crazy kids and learn about horses and the sport. We will be going to local shows and the South See ROSENBERG, page 30

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

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Business News

Taste Of Compassion Turns 10

Quantum House and the American Culinary Federation’s Palm Beach County Chapter will team up for the 10th annual Taste of Compassion, benefiting Quantum House families, at the Norton Museum of Art on Monday, Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. Guests can expect the same extravagant program of tastings from 25 of the top chefs in Palm Beach

Ken Wade and Shannon Ball will co-chair the Taste of Compassion.

Palm Tran Connection Office Relocating Dec. 30

Palm Tran Connection, the paratransit division of Palm Beach County’s public transportation system, is relocating its office on Dec. 30. The new office is located at 50 S. Military Trail, Suite 101, in West Palm Beach. All phone numbers will remain the same. On an average day, more than 300 customers visit the Palm Tran Connection office to register for paratransit services or purchase fixed-route bus passes. The new

location will feature a larger, more service-oriented lobby to better serve these customers. It is designed to withstand hurricane-force winds to assure that Palm Tran Connection can stay operational during emergencies. The new location is easily accessible for the public, directly on Palm Tran’s Route 3 and part of Palm Beach County’s Four Points Center with other county agencies. For more about Palm Tran Connection, call (561) 649-9838.

County, along with a menagerie of wine, in an updated location offering interesting and unexpected surroundings. Guests will be able to bid on silent auction items while listening to live music and mingling under the Chihuly glass ceiling. Ticket prices start at $100 for general admission and $150 for VIP access, which includes early ad-

mission into the event and a private area with a “Friends of 10” bar and exclusive chef. For more info., or to purchase tickets, visit www.quantumhouse. org or call (561) 494-0515. Quantum House is a 10-suite hospital hospitality house serving families whose children are receiving treatment in Palm Beach County.

WPB’s Bass Egg Partners With Palm Beach County Schools

West Palm Beach-based Bass Egg has announced a donation of $30,000 in Bass Egg speakers to the School District of Palm Beach County for use as teaching tools in technology and career education programs. “Music is Science,” an innovative initiative, equips teachers in the career and technical education programs with a Bass Egg. The portable device turns everyday objects into a robust speaker by transferring vibrations into any object. “We are not just giving a one-time donation, but want to be supporters of public education and a constant

presence in our schools and our community,” co-founder Jonathan Bouchlas said. Music brings people from all backgrounds together, Bouchlas added. Bass Egg and the School District of Palm Beach County will partner to bridge the gap between traditional education and a young student populace that thrives on innovation, technology and creativity. Physics, engineering and technology, critical areas to career and technical education, will use the Bass Egg to solidify complex concepts using the science of music as a learning tool.

“The Department of Choice and Career Options is dedicated to preparing students for careers in a global-tech society,” said Jay Boggess, career and technical education administrator for the School District of Palm Beach County. “By partnering with local businesses, we are able to develop partnerships that help both our students and communities to create a Palm Beach County that prepares for the future by focusing on today.” For more information, or to involve your school in “Music is Science,” contact Jay Boggess at jay.boggess@palmbeachshools.org or (561) 357-5942.

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Business News

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Page 25

New Hybrid Taxi Company Serving The Palm Beaches

Taxi Taxi of Palm Beach has launched South Florida’s first hybrid taxicab fleet serving residents and visitors of Palm Beach County. The service serves all of Palm Beach County with the exception of Boca Raton. As the first state-of-the-art green transportation service company in the area, the new taxi service incorporates the latest environmental and technological innovations, bringing another voice to the growing green and sustainability industry.

All Taxi Taxi vehicles, which are brand-new Toyota Prius hybrid sedans and Sienna vans, are equipped with cameras on board and provide rear credit card machines that allow passengers to easily pay and even split the cost of the ride. The result is a convenient, clean, reliable and secure taxi ride. Taxi USA of Palm Beach LLC has more than 50 years of transportation experience and operates 20 brandnew Toyota Prius hybrid sedans and 10 new fuel-efficient Toyota Sienna

vans, including three wheelchair vans. Coupling the latest in PCI compliant credit card technology, video surveillance and GPS dispatch systems, the convenient service allows people to book taxis from a mobile phone, by text or calling, and then charge the ride to a credit card. Taxi Taxi is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year throughout Palm Beach County. To reserve a taxicab, call (561) 222-3333 or visit www.taxitaxiof palmbeach.com.

Taxi Taxi of Palm Beach has launched the area’s first hybrid taxi fleet.

Clerk’s Office: November Foreclosure Stats Show Improvement

2,198 foreclosures in November 2009, the year Palm Beach County foreclosure filings reached a historic high of 31,678. “If current trends hold, Palm Beach County will see approximately one-third fewer foreclosures filed this year than were filed in 2012,” Bock said. “There is a combination of factors driving this change, but I believe the improving real estate market is a key component.” Palm Beach County saw an

increase in the number of deeds recorded in November, compared with the previous year, while the number of mortgages recorded declined. There were 5,310 deeds recorded in Palm Beach County during November, a 22.3 percent increase from the 4,343 deeds recorded in November 2012, but a 16.8 percent decrease from 6,384 deeds recorded in October 2013. There also were 2,484 mortgages recorded in November, a 20.7

decrease from 3,134 mortgages recorded in October, and a 13.3 percent decrease from 2,866 decrease in mortgages recorded in November 2012. There were 793 properties sold during November’s online foreclosure auctions, according to statistics from Grant Street Group, the facilitator of ClerkAuction. Of those, 620 were sold back to the plaintiff — typically a bank or mortgage company — in the foreclosure

proceeding, and 173 were sold to a third party. There were 483 sales canceled in November, out of 1,277 scheduled for sale. The cancellation rate was 37.8 percent, compared with 35.6 percent in October. Bock’s office is the keeper of Palm Beach County’s official records, and records all deeds and mortgages submitted for recording in Palm Beach County. Learn more at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com.

Send business news items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

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December 20 - December 26, 2013

Page 27

Page 28

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Saturday, Dec. 21 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Dec. 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 2835856 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Puzzle and Game Day on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 10 a.m. Bring the family and stop in to play a board game, piece together a puzzle and draw a picture or two. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Symbiotic Relationships for families Saturday, Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. Discover the relationships that different species have with each other. The cost is $3 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Health Starts Here: Mocktails Not Cocktails on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. Learn how to make non-alcoholic cocktails and figure friendly treats for the holidays. There is no charge. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Teen Advisory Posse for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. Have an awesome idea for a teen program? Come share it with the group. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Chess Club for Kids for age 8 and up Saturday, Dec. 21 at 2:30 p.m. Practice your strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Sunday, Dec. 22 • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Dec. 22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com.

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community calendar

• The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Dec. 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). Buy locally grown produce, organic goods and locally made crafts. For more info., visit www. shopgreenmarkets.com or call (561) 929-0237. Monday, Dec. 23 • TumbleKids Holiday Day Camps for children 3 to 6 years old will be offered Mondays and Tuesdays, Dec. 23 and 24 and Dec 30 and 31 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).The cost is $50 for Wellington residents and $63 for non-residents. For more info., call (561) 7580119 or e-mail tumbletotters@aol.com. Tuesday, Dec. 24 • Grace Fellowship Church in The Acreage will host a Christmas Eve service with candles, carols and communion on Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. in the Seminole Ridge High School theater. For more info., call (561) 333-4222, ext. 244 or visit www.gfacreage.org. Friday, Dec. 27 • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Early Bird Walk for ages 13 and up Friday, Dec. 27 at 7 a.m. Enjoy a leisurely and informative stroll through the woods while learning to identify and observe birds and their behavior. The cost is $3 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Mom’s Morning Escape on Friday, Dec. 27 from 9 to 11 a.m. Moms will receive a free coffee or tea and a muffin from the coffee bar. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature Wrap Up the Holidays: Paper Scrap Art for ages 7 to 12 on Friday, Dec. 27 at 2:30 p.m. Make old wrapping paper into beautiful art while enjoying festive music and seasonal stories. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic

Center Way) will host Lego Building Crew for ages 7 to 11 on Friday, Dec. 27 at 3:30 p.m. Play with Legos and make your own creation. Bring a Lego creation to show. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. Sunday, Dec.29 • Hot Shots Paintball (16169 Southern Blvd.) will host Paintball for a Purpose on Sunday, Dec. 29. Come anytime between 8 a.m. and dark and Hot Shots will donate a percentage of the profits from the day’s sales to the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED). For more info., visit www.hotshotsflorida.com. For more information about APFED, visit www.apfed.org. • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Dec. 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com. • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Dec. 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). Buy locally grown produce, organic goods and locally made crafts. For more info., visit www. shopgreenmarkets.com or call (561) 929-0237. Monday, Dec. 30 • Circus Arts and Sports Day Camp for ages 7 to 15 will be held Monday, Dec. 30 through Saturday, Jan. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road, Wellington). Camp will culminate in a live circus performance for family and friends on Jan. 4. The cost is $225 for Wellington residents and $245 for non-residents. For more info., visit www.aerialtrapezeacademy. com or call (561) 345-3217. • Video Game Design Camp for teens will be offered Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 30 and 31 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wellington Community Center (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Students will learn how to design video game environments with a detailed introduction of UDK, the award winning 3D game engine and professional

The Town-Crier toolset used in video game development, 3D rendering and digital films. The cost is $120 for Wellington residents and $150 for non-residents. For more info., call Michelle Carta at (561) 602-4442 or e-mail michi1157@gmail.com. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Kid’s Cooking Experience: Holiday Vacation Camp on Monday, Dec. 30 through Friday, Jan. 3, excluding Wednesday, Jan. 1. The cost is $180 per child. Pre-register at www.cookingexperienceclub.org. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Wii Gaming for ages 7 to 12 on Monday, Dec. 30 at 3 p.m. Enjoy playing Wii games with others. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Pajama Story Time: A Gingerbread Mystery for ages 3 to 6 and siblings Monday, Dec. 30 at 7 p.m. Someone has taken the gingerbread man from the cookie jar. Figure out who did it. Enjoy yummy stories, sing and dance to silly songs, and make a life-size, paper gingerbread man. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Thursday, Jan. 2 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Art Jam on Thursday, Jan. 2 for ages 6 to 16 at 1:30 p.m. Combine odds and ends from past crafts with the library’s art supplies to create new artwork. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. Friday, Jan. 3 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Wii Gaming for ages 7 to 12 on Friday, Jan. 3 at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy playing the Wii and check out new graphic novels. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@ gotowncrier.com.

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Sports & Recreation

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Page 29

Lady Broncos Trounce P.B. Gardens With 60-33 Win

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach Central High School girls basketball squad hosted Palm Beach Gardens High School on Thursday, Dec. 12 and defeated the Gators 60-33. Palm Beach Central jumped out to an early 5-0 lead seconds after the whistle and never looked back. After the first quarter, the Lady Broncos led 29-14. The Lady Broncos forced several

Gator turnovers and dominated in rebounds to maintain control of the game. Palm Beach Central closed out the first half 44-23, holding the Gators to just 9 points in the second quarter. The second half was not much better for Palm Beach Gardens, as they struggled to slow the Lady Bronco momentum. Palm Beach Central (4-7), added 16 points in the fourth quarter and held Palm Beach Gardens to just 10 points, closing

Ronita St. Ferlix tries to get around a P.B. Gardens defender. Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

out the 60-33 win. Samara Auguste led the Lady Broncos with 29 points, and Daijah Brown tallied 18 points. Palm Beach Central will take a break for the holidays and return Tuesday, Jan. 7 when they travel to Wellington High School for a 7:30 p.m. game.

Sierra Strong-Porter battles for the ball.

Daijah Brown finds room and works the ball up court.

TKA Placekicker Paul Schumacher Wins Lou Groza Award

Cardinal Newman’s Steven Holmes and Park Vista’s Gabe Montes. This year for the Lions, Schumacher hit 4 of 7 field goals from longer than 40 yards, including a 50-yarder against Pahokee to set a TKA record for the longest field goal.

TKA placekicker Paul Schumacher with his award.

“The TKA coaching staff and members of our football team are extremely proud of Paul for being named the 2013 Lou Groza High School Placekicker of the Year,” TKA head football coach Heath Nivens said. “He played such a pivotal role in our success as a team this season. It is rare to have the opportunity to coach a young man at the high school level with such a balance of athletic talent, academic promise and outstanding character. Paul has done a fantastic job of representing TKA Lion football over the course of the past three years.” Schumacher is also one of the top players on the district champion boys soccer team and a member of the track and field team. Other local athletes were nominated for awards from the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. Tommy McDonald, running back for Palm Beach Central High School, was nominated for Player of the Year, and the Broncos’ varsity football team was nominated for Team of the Year. Learn more at www.palmbeach sports.com.

Schumacher lines up a kick during a game.

Page 30

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Trump Invitational Returns On Jan. 5

Donald Trump and Mark Bellissimo recently announced that they will host the second annual Trump Invitational on Sunday, Jan. 5 at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach. The $125,000 Trump Invitational Grand Prix, presented by Rolex, will showcase 35 of the world’s top riders in an FEI world ranking competition. The Trump Invitational will benefit the 2014 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments, which has

Rosenberg

Lauren Briggs

continued from page 23 Florida Fair. We’ll meet twice a month, one informational and one riding. It’ll be a lot of fun.” Melissa Mazer of Wellington has known Briggs since they showed ponies together back in Massachusetts. “She has an amazing knack for helping riders and bringing them along,” Mazer said. “The fact that she’s also a judge lets her see her riders through a more professional view. She focuses on equitation and proper form, and she’s always

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sports & recreation

raised more than $4.2 million over the last four years for Palm Beach County charities. It will also serve as the kickoff party for the 2014 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival, the 12-week circuit that runs at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center from Jan. 8 through March 30. “Last year’s Trump Invitational was a spectacular, one-of-a-kind event. In addition to showcasing equestrian sport’s top athletes in a FEI world ranking class, the event was instrumental in achieving our record-breaking fundraising for the FTI GCC,” Bellissimo said.

This year, the event will set a new standard with one-of-a-kind auction items, exciting musical guests, and improved footing. “Donald was extremely generous in providing both a $100,000 FTI Great Charity Challenge donation, as well as donating his time in two golf outing auction items that raised an additional $68,000 toward last year’s record fundraising of $1.5 million,” Bellissimo said. “It is vital during these difficult financial times to support the efforts of the unsung heroes that operate these great charitable organizations within Palm Beach County,” Trump

insistent on doing what’s best for the horse. I’ve seen her work with riders of all ages, from very young children through older adults. She is very kind and always has the best interest of the horse and rider as her goal. She’s a true horsewoman.” Mazer’s daughter, Zoe, who’s just turned 6, will start riding at Snaffle Bit Farm this year. “Zoe’s looking forward to it,” Mazer said. “She’s done lead line, and now she’s excited about moving up. She wants to ride like me. I feel absolutely 100 percent safe having Lauren teach her. I’ve recommended her to a lot of other parents. It’s a fantastic, amazing experience.” Briggs will also be offering a

Christmas Break Horse Camp next weekend with three fun-filled days of horsemanship and riding. It’ll run Friday, Dec. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $50 per day. “Children are welcome to bring snacks or their lunch,” Briggs said. “We’ll have lots of fun. There’ll be a pizza party on Sunday. We’ll be doing pony painting, games on the ponies, a lesson each day and a bunch of activities all centered on horsemanship. It will be a nice break for the parents, and a great deal of fun for the children.” For more information, visit www. snafflebitfarm.com, or call owner Sharon Andersen at (352) 227-0922 or Briggs at (508) 509-7265.

said. “I am honored to be a part of this effort.” Trump’s daughter Ivanka will join Paige Bellissimo and Georgina

Bloomberg as event chairs. For tickets, call Anne Caroline Valtin at (561) 784-1133 or e-mail anne caroline@equestriansport.com.

Wellington Wrestlers Compete In Brandon

The Wellington High School wrestling team traveled to Brandon High School earlier this month to compete with some of the best teams in the state and nation, which included a field of teams from Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Louisiana. Wellington finished in eighth place in the field of 22 teams. Top wrestlers for Wellington were Josiah Cleghorn (285 pounds), who finished in first place, and Nik Bonadies (120 pounds) and Brandon Paz (152 pounds), who both finished in fifth place. Shown above are: (front row) Josue Arce, Mathew Wunderlich, Colton Macfarlane, Andrew Mitchell and Adam Pendleton; and (back row) Josiah Cleghorn, A.J. Lopez, Marcus Morin, Brandon Paz, Briar Macfarlane, Nik Bonadies, Devin Gillotte and Christian Goss.

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sports & recreation

Genbu-Kai Students Take First Step On Long Journey

Four students from Genbu-Kai Karate in Wellington recently tested and advanced to their first 10th kyu (level) ranking. It is the first step on a journey that will take them at least four years, before being potentially invited to test for their first black belt level. Most traditional Japanese martial art schools start ranking at either 10th or 9th kyu and progress to 1st kyu. Time

between ranks slows down as the student advances. This is to make sure the students not only retain and comprehend the physical requirements of their training, but also the mental aspects, including improvement in maturity levels. Today, martial arts schools offer a variety of color belts to denote different rankings. Typically, white, yellow and orange belts denote beginner

New Grads — Bradley Diggs, Angel Garcia, Jezebelle Garcia and Mallory Wheeler with Assistant Instructor Brent Bedwell.

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students; purple and green belts denote intermediates; and blue, brown and red denote advanced students. Usually, stripes are added either within the belt itself, or as tips on the end of the belts for additional ranking. At Genbu-Kai Karate, red belts are reserved for junior black belts (ages 7 to 12). Genbu-Kai Karate teaches traditional Shito-Ryu Karate, and not only emphasizes self defense, but also incorporates methods in preventing bullying either at school or other social encounters. Most importantly, Genbu-Kai Karate teaches valuable life skills, which students learn to incorporate in their school, family and social lives respectfully. Located in the Wellington Marketplace plaza, Genbu-Kai Karate offers the finest in traditional Japanese martial arts. All ages are welcome to come in and try a complimentary week. For more information, call (561) 8041002 or visit www.florida genbukai.com.

December 20 - December 26, 2013

Page 31

WHS Varsity Cheer Team Secures Bid To Nationals

Wellington High School’s varsity competition cheerleading team competed at the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) regional competition in Orlando. The team took second place and qualified, earning a bid to the prestigious National High School Cheerleading Championship (NHSCC), set for Feb. 8 and 9 at Disney’s Wide World of Sports with ESPN TV coverage. The NHSCC is the most prestigious cheerleading championship in the country. The 15 varsity team members are: Captain Kristen Cullen, Captain Scott Meskin, Elena Hadley, Nicole Caballero, Jamie Lowe, Michelle Fitzgibbons, Breann Bricketto, Natalie Lanzi, Tori Powers, Haley Hearns, Kayla Varnes, Bre Clemente, Alicia Lowenstein, Monica Schell and Juliann Vocaturo.

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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

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

DRIVEWAY REPAIR 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. L i c.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

FLOORING BUY IT HERE FLOORING — Tile,wood, porcelain, marble, travertine, ceramic, wall mosaics and more! Free estimate! 561-333-2306. Located 766 Pike Road,West Palm Beach 33411

HANDYMAN THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties. BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

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

HURRICANE SHUTTERS HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

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 ourwebsite 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 TRIPLE QUALITY PAINTING, INC. — The finest materials, service & price. Painting Exterior & Interior, Pressure Cleaning, Roof, & Patios, Roof Cleaning, Wood Repair & Faux Finishes Lic. # U21140 7 5 4 - 2 4 5 - 0 8 5 9 o r 5 6 1 - 5 5 7 - 3 11 3

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December 20 - December 26, 2013 Page 35

REAL ESTATE

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

FOR SALE FINE CHINA & SILVERWARE WITH CHEST — Service for 12. Really beautiful. Best offer 561-790-5653

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 D R I V E W AY C L E A N I N G — S t a r t i n g at$59. $50 Off House Exterior Wash, Free Sidewalk Cleaning (up to 50 Ft.) with roof cleaning.Pressure Pros of Palm Beach, Inc. 561-718-9851 Lic. & Insured.

ROOFING MINOR ROOF REPAIRS Don Hartmann R oofing — R o o f p a i n t ing, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING 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

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

SHUTTERS/PANELS ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS 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

TILE / CERAMICS SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980. Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258

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

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HOUSE FOR SALE - WEST PALM BEACH HOUSE FOR SALE BREAKERS WEST — 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3 car garage. Pool. Gated upscale - Golf Country Club. Available $895,000 by owner. 561-795-0533

COSTA RICA RENTALS ENCHANTMENT OF COSTA RICA — is less than 3 hours away. Home, Villa’s & Condo Rentals in Popular beachside area’s. f o r i n f o v i s i t w w w. b a h i a c u l e b r a . c o m email:info@bahiaculebra.com . Local agent number 561.628.7177

EMPLOYMENT BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours. Please fax resume to 561-791-0952 HUNINGTON LEARNING CENTER IN WELLINGTON — Now hiring certified teachers.$10-$15/hour. Call 561-594-1920 E-mail: MarleneGiraud@hlcwellington.com WELLINGTON TOWNCAR DRIVERS & DISPATCHERS — retirees welcome. Call 561-333-0181. Full-Time Part-Time. DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! — Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account. Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488 F/T HELP NEEDED — 40 Hours plus. Produce Market/Garden Center. Must be physically fit and good with people. 561329-5000

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AUTOMOBILES 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD DELUXE — Aqua, Convertible/Hardtop, 17K miles, Mint Condition, Always Garaged,$20,500. Please call 518-495-1329

Page 36

December 20 - December 26, 2013

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All Equestrian Gear • Leather & Suede • Tailoring & Alterations Comforters & Linens • Wedding Gown Preservation • Draperies • Cocktail & Formal Gowns *

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