Town-Crier Newspaper December 7, 2012

DINE OUT TO HELP WELLINGTON TOY DRIVE CHURCH BRINGS OLD BETHLEHEM TO LIFE SEE STORY, PAGE 3 SEE STORY, PAGE 16 THE

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Volume 33, Number 49 December 7 - December 13, 2012

B&G CLUB CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

Nonprofits Chosen For 2013 Charity Challenge

Twenty-eight charities were randomly selected from a pool of applicants for the 2013 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge at a ceremony held Saturday, Dec. 1. Page 3

WinterFest A Night Of Fun And Entertainment

The third annual Wellington WinterFest was held Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The event included a show jumping competition, vendors, bounce houses, Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas and live performances, including headliner Vanilla Ice. Page 5

Visions Salon Hosts Re-launching Event With Stylist Nick Arrojo

Visions Salon in Wellington held a re-launch celebration Thursday, Nov. 29 with celebrity stylist Nick Arrojo as the evening’s special guest. The salon unveiled its new look as an Arrojo Ambassador Salon, featuring a modern and upscale décor. The event also included a presentation of the Revision Collection, during which salon stylists showed off their hair modeled creations. Page 9

OPINION Holiday Toy Drive Offers Lessons For The Season

The holiday season is about giving and receiving, and that includes passing along that tradition to the younger generation.

Wellington’s Hometown Holiday Toy Drive is a good, practical way for parents to teach their children about the spirit of giving, as well as a way to show them that there are others who aren’t as fortunate. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 11 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 SCHOOLS .....................12 - 13 PEOPLE ............................... 14 NEWS BRIEFS...................... 17 COLUMNS .................... 21 - 22 BUSINESS .................... 23 - 25 ENTERTAINMENT .................27 SPORTS ........................ 31 - 33 CALENDAR ...................34 - 35 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 36 - 40 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Wellington Boys & Girls Club celebrated 25 years in the community at its annual dinner dance gala Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. The theme was “Dreams Come True” and awards were given to those who have helped the club reach this milestone. Shown here are event chairs Dr. Edward and Maria Becker with Charlene and Dr. Jeffery Bishop. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 8 PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Patrick Murphy Has Big Plans As He Awaits New Congress

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report After a narrow victory over incumbent Congressman Allen West, Congressman-Elect Patrick Murphy (D-District 18) told the Town-Crier this week that he is ready to get to work, emphasizing bipartisan efforts to improve the small business environment and the economy.

Murphy recently attended two weeks of orientation in Washington, D.C. He learned rules and regulations, received committee assignments and got his office location. He will formally take office Jan. 3. The district he will soon represent encompasses all of Martin and St. Lucie counties along with northern areas of Palm Beach County, including most of The Acreage and parts of Royal Palm Beach.

At a small temporary office in Palm Beach Gardens, a handful of staff members work from laptops and sit at folding tables. However, plans are underway for Murphy to open district offices in each county.

“As far as long-term goals go, and short-term goals, it’s still the same as it was in the campaign, and that’s still bipartisanship,” Murphy said Monday. “I had the opportunity to sit down with several Republicans in Congress. Bipartisanship is still No. 1... because I think whatever the problem is, there is a bipartisan solution. That includes the ‘fiscal cliff’ and everything going on with that.”

Murphy explained that the “fiscal cliff” is a combination of many things happening at once. “You have the expiration of the Bush tax cuts, you have some new healthcare taxes coming into effect, and then you have this sequestration that was set up a year or so ago by Congress to assure that we would reach a compromise,” he said.

“The thinking was it was so bad they’d have to compromise. Well, lo and behold, they didn’t compromise. They’ve waited until the very end, so now we’ve got 25 days left before this all happens at once.”

Murphy said the consequences of all those things happening

could deeply affect the economy.

“First, I think it’s an embarrassment that we put ourselves in this situation,” he said. “Second, we haven’t been sitting down for the last six months or so compromising, coming up with what the deal should be, where the increases in revenue need to come from and where some of the potential savings need to come from. To me, that is a shame.”

Murphy said he has his fingers crossed that it will be resolved before he gets there. If not, he is particularly worried about how an economic downturn, even a small one, might affect the world economy.

“The bigger picture is what’s happening in the world — with Asia and India slowing down, Europe still in recession, Brazil, South America not doing as well as they were,” he said. “America has the opportunity to lead all these countries out of this recession. If we go off this so-called cliff, I think that will really hinder our position in the world as a leader, and enable a See MURPHY, page 16

Loxahatchee Groves To Consider Council Member Compensation

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council directed its staff Tuesday to prepare a report on whether council members should receive some form of compensation for their time and effort.

Councilman Tom Goltzené, who supplied a list of other county municipalities that give council members some sort of stipend, said he favored compensation, considering the amount of work council members do.

“The reason I’m bringing this up is that most everybody is probably aware right now there is no compensation whatsoever for the position of council member, vice mayor or mayor, and that is out of line with most other municipalities in Palm Beach County,” Goltzené

said, explaining that he believes the lack of compensation detracts from the pool of people who might be willing to serve.

Councilman Ron Jarriel agreed.

“I’m going to want somebody to take my place one of these days, and I feel like if they had some incentive for being on here, it would be good because there’s going to be a lot of abuse from the people of Loxahatchee Groves,” Jarriel said. “Everybody else in Palm Beach County gets paid, and I think we can afford to pay the council members.”

Jarriel wanted to find out how to start the process. “The guy or woman who takes my place, I feel that they deserve something for sitting on this council,” he said.

Councilman Ryan Liang said that such a change will need fur-

ther discussion, including taking input from residents.

Goltzené pointed out that the town charter provides that council members are entitled to reimbursement for travel and/or per diem expenses in the performance of their duties. However, no changes to compensation can take effect until the current terms of sitting council members end. Therefore, Goltzené said he would like any changes in compensation to be in place before the March election.

Mayor Dave Browning said that he could not visualize anyone serving on the council for the money, which would probably be minimal. “I do not see that we could go for the same amount of money that these other towns pay,” he See LOX COUNCIL, page 16

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Wellington Zoners Want To Keep Rules On Business Hours

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Citing concerns about residents’ safety and sanity, members of Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board asked village staff Wednesday to place stricter conditions on proposed changes in the rules governing hours of operation for some Wellington businesses.

The proposed ordinance would have removed limits on the hours of operation for businesses within 300 feet of homes, as long as activity on the site was contained entirely indoors.

But at Wednesday’s meeting, board members asked that the changes be reconsidered.

“I believe that hours of operation need to be strictly controlled,” Board Member Paul Adams said.

“We don’t want to encourage anyone who wants to come in and be open until 5 a.m.”

Discussion regarding the hours of operation for businesses began about two years ago when Dunkin’ Donuts asked for extended hours at its new location on Forest Hill Blvd., Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz said.

The village code currently allows businesses within 300 feet of homes to operate only between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m., he explained.

“At that time, there was no relief mechanism,” he said. “There was a staff acknowledgment that there are businesses that exist, and have existed throughout the history of Wellington, that have hours of operation beyond those time frames and are within 300 feet of a residence.”

Wellington Principal Planner Bill Nemser explained that the ordinance would even the playing field for businesses throughout Wellington.

“If they’re in excess of 300 feet [from homes], they are not currently required to comply with the hours of operation,” he said. “So we looked at what the purpose of having a 300-foot requirement was.”

He noted that many gyms are now 24-hour operations, and that occasionally movie theaters show midnight premieres of movies — all of which are prohibited within 300 feet of homes under the old code.

Nemser said that although there had been no complaints, hours were limited because of concerns about noise, light and other disruptive activity.

Nemser added that the staff’s review took into account different scenarios, such as issues caused See BIZ HOURS, page 16

RPB HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

Royal Palm Beach held its Holiday Festival of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 1 at Veterans Park. Santa arrived on a fire-rescue truck and posed for photos while taking Christmas wishes.

Area students sang holiday songs and performed dance routines, while guests enjoyed free hot chocolate and cookies.

Shown here are twins Uzziel and Angel Vazquez with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 11 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Judge Rules For Residents In Palm Beach Polo Case

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report After three years of litigation on the issue, a judge ruled last month that developers must turn over control of the Palm Beach Polo Property Owners Association to residents of the community.

Palm Beach County Circuit Court Judge Timothy McCarthy ruled Wednesday, Nov. 21 that control of the association should have been turned over to homeowners by developer Palm Beach Polo Holdings Inc. as of Jan. 1, 2005, based on the number of homes platted for construction.

“The Master POA should have been turned over to the homeowners at the next annual election, which would have taken place in March 2005,” McCarthy wrote.

The lawsuit is one of two filed by residents against Palm Beach Polo Holdings, which is owned by developer Glenn Straub.

“It’s a huge decision,” said attorney Howard Coates, who represented the residents. “It takes a large community that has been under developer control for in excess of 30 years and puts control of the property owners associaSee POLO LAWSUIT, page 16

Coach Arranges Yankee Surprise For Recovering Player Patrick Cerasuolo with his coach Scott LeFante.

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report It was a typical day for 8-yearold Patrick Cerasuolo. He came home from Binks Forest Elementary School and found a package at the front door. He immediately brought it in to his mother, Rose.

After all, he’s a kid — he never gets packages.

As he walked away, his mother told him that the package was addressed to him. Surprised, he opened it and dug through the bubble wrap, finding blue-andwhite New York Yankees memorabilia.

The Yankees are his favorite Major League Baseball team. The package even contained an autographed baseball from his favorite player on the team, Curtis

Granderson. “When I opened it up, I literally just fainted,” Patrick said. “There was a binder with a list of when all of the games are, a notepad, a yearbook, a Snoopy bobble head and a Yankees hat.”

After the shock wore off, Patrick began to think about why he’d received a package of souvenirs from the New York Yankees. The only person who came to mind was his Little League coach, Scott LeFante.

“He knew I was in the hospital and knew that I like Curtis Granderson, so I knew it had to be him,” Patrick said.

His mother, of course, knew it was LeFante because he’d told her about the possibility of receiving a package from the Yankees. It was something that LeFante had in

mind after visiting Patrick in the hospital after his recent kidney surgery.

“All his teammates and I went to visit him at the hospital,” the coach recalled. “We brought him a Yankees jersey with his number on it, and everyone signed a card for him.”

LeFante remembered two months ago, when he first noticed that Patrick was not himself. “After the second game of this season, he wasn’t feeling well,” he said. “I spoke to his mother about it, and that’s when I found out he was having problems with a kidney and had to have it removed.”

This greatly disturbed LeFante.

“He’s such a good kid, and you would never know what he was See YANKEES, page 16

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 3

NEWS

Agenda Review Session Previews Upcoming Indian Trail Meeting

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Board of Supervisors conducted an agenda review meeting Monday in preparation for the board’s regular monthly meeting Wednesday, Dec. 12.

District Administrator Tanya Quickel, who usually meets individually with board members to comply with Florida’s Sunshine

Law, called the board together for a group meeting because she was scheduled to be out of town for the rest of the week attending a conference.

There were no questions asked by board members in order to comply with the Sunshine Law. However, Quickel said that if the board wants to continue to have agenda review meetings, she could advertise them so that supervisors could

provide input in the future.

“This is just a factual distribution package,” Quickel said. “I’m going to go through each item briefly and tell you about it. If you need to go over it in detail, I will be happy to do that.”

The first item on Dec. 12, requiring a public hearing with a separate agenda, is to receive public comment and consider a resolution implementing a uniform meth-

od of collecting the district assessments.

Leading the regular meeting will be the swearing-in of newly elected Supervisor Gary Dunkley and re-elected Supervisor Michelle Damone, followed by the election of officers, appointments to outside organizations, and a resolution of appreciation to be presented to outgoing Supervisor Carlos Enriquez.

Under disbursements is consideration of a request by Supervisor Jennifer Hager for additional clay for the main ring at Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park at a cost of about $13,440 for eight loads, and a request for $16,884 to rebuild one of the pumps at Pump Station 2, which is a budgeted item, Quickel said, explaining that the second pump will also be rebuilt after the first one is done.

The board will also consider the purchase of a new grader. “One of our graders is down,” Quickel said. “The repair estimate is over $30,000. The budget includes replacement of one grader this year.”

In 2005, ITID purchased six graders. Quickel’s goal is to stagger the replacement of those graders to avoid having to buy them See ITID, page 16

Help Wellington Toy Drive By Dining Out At Select Restaurants Dec. 12

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Giving back to the community this holiday season, several restaurants in Wellington’s Courtyard Shops will be donating a portion of their profits Wednesday, Dec. 12 to help put smiles on the faces of Wellington children.

“Ten percent of their profits will be donated to Wellington to buy kids toys,” said Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Scott Poritz, who put the event togeth-

er. “The more people who go out and eat, the more they will donate and the more toys we can buy this year.”

The event will support Wellington’s Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, which is accepting new, unwrapped toys through Dec. 20.

It is being held in partnership with the PBSO. “I came up with the idea as a way to help out,” Poritz said.

“The toys go to children in our community, as well as those in

the pediatric ward at the hospital.”

Poritz said it is important that the donated toys stay in the community. He noted that other toy drives benefit children regionally, not locally. “The toys may be donated in Wellington, but they don’t necessarily go to Wellington children,” he said.

This event will benefit twofold: the toys will stay in Wellington, and it will also boost local businesses.

Participating restaurants are TCBY Wellington, which will donate 10 percent of profits all day long; Tijuana Flats, which will participate during lunch and dinner; and Kontiki Wine & Raw Bar, which will donate a portion of its proceeds from 7 to 10 p.m.

TCBY will also have a box to collect toys for the drive.

“By going out and eating, you’re contributing,” Poritz said.

“There’s something for everyone. Kontiki is a little more up-

scale of a restaurant with great food and drink. Tijuana Flats is a great family place, and TCBY is something everyone can enjoy.

It really gives people a great opportunity to give back by just going out to eat.”

The goal is to raise more than $1,000, Poritz said. Already, Kontiki has donated $500 to kick things off.

“We’re already halfway there,” Poritz said. “But we really hope people will come out and support

the cause so we can buy even more toys.”

Poritz hopes to continue the event annually and bring in even more businesses next year.

“We really hope to put this in the community’s hands and get everyone out to support this,” he said.

Toys for the drive can be dropped off at any Wellington office until Thursday, Dec. 20. For more information about the drive, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Nonprofits Chosen For FTI Great Charity Challenge At PBIEC Ceremony The 2013 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, will take place Saturday, Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. under the lights of the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

The GCC is an exhilarating event where amateurs are paired with world-class riders and randomly assigned with charities to compete for prize money raised by equestrian families and corporate donors.

In its first three years, the event raised more than $2.7 million for over 50 Palm Beach County charities. The goal this year is to raise $1.3 million with all the proceeds donated to 32 local charities.

Twenty-eight charities were randomly selected from a pool of applicants at the annual Wellington WinterFest, held at the PBIEC on Saturday, Dec. 1.

Two charities won pre-selection, while two more will be chosen at upcoming events — the $100,000

Dennis Shaughnessy, chairman of FTI Consulting, drew the first charity’s name out of the hopper. Representatives from team sponsor families were also on hand to help draw names.

Trump Invitational on Jan. 6, and the day of the GCC on Jan. 26. The winning charity will be awarded $150,000 and every participating team will receive a share of the money raised.

The list of charities chosen thus far are as follows: Pre-selected charities – Wellington PTO/PTA and the Caridad Center (winners of the Ticket Contest at last year’s challenge); charities drawn Dec. 1 – Achievement Centers for Children and Families (Delray Beach), Arc of the Glades (Belle Glade),

Alzheimer’s Community Care (West Palm Beach), American Red Cross-Treasure Coast (West Palm Beach), Children, Hope & Horses (Boca Raton), College for Kids/ Take Stock in Children (West Palm Beach), Community Caring Center of Greater Boynton Beach (Boynton Beach), First Care Family Resources (West Palm Beach), the Hanley Center Foundation (West Palm Beach), JDRF (West Palm Beach), Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast (West Palm Beach), Light-

Team sponsor Kim Van K ampen Boyer draws a charity name for the Great Charity Challenge with Anne Caroline Valtin and Mark Bellissimo of Equestrian Sport Productions looking on.

house for the Blind of the Palm Beaches (West Palm Beach), Palm Beach County Motorcyclists Toys for Tots (West Palm Beach), Palm Beach Island Cats (Palm Beach), Paws for Liberty (Lake Worth), South Florida Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure (West Palm Beach), South Florida Science Museum (West Palm Beach), Spirit of Giving Network (Boca Raton), Urban Youth Impact (West Palm Beach), Voices for Children (West Palm Beach) and YWCA of Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach);

Wellington-based charities – Blooming with Autism, Danny and Ron’s Rescue, the Kids Cancer Foundation, the Polo Players Support Group, Wellington Cares, Wellington Colts Travel Baseball and the Western Communities Football League.

More on the event, including sponsor and charity information, can be found at www.ftigreat charitychallenge.com, on Facebook at FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge and at www. equestriansport.com.

A group of charity representatives were on hand to see who was chosen.

IMAGES COURTESY MANCINIPHOTOS

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OUR OPINION

Wellington Toy Drive Offers Important Lessons For The Season Following last month’s Hometown Holiday Food Drive, which enabled more than 90 Wellington families to share a holiday meal this year, the village continues in that same spirit with its annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, which is currently underway and accepting donations.

Now in its fourth year, the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive will give hundreds of needy children a chance to enjoy the holiday season in a manner similar to those more fortunate.

In addition to providing gifts for children, the drive also lends support to a number of crucial services and organizations, including the Kids Cancer Foundation, Home Safe and the Children’s Home Society, as well as benefiting children at Palms West Hospital. Thankfully, Wellington is not alone in this effort, receiving support from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Mall at Wellington Green, and local civic organizations and businesses. Though all of their efforts will result in bringing smiles to many young faces, there’s always more that can be done.

The holiday season puts a focus on giving and receiving, and that includes passing along that tradition to the younger generation. The toy drive is a good, practical way for parents to teach their children about the spirit of giving, as well as a way to show them that there are others who aren’t as fortunate. Besides, who would know the right children’s gifts to choose better than a child?

Parents who participate in the toy drive with their children have the opportunity to actually show them how it is better to give than receive, showing that there’s just as much pleasure in seeing someone else enjoy the holidays and knowing they helped make it possible. Even if your child understands this in principle, it’s much more effective when they can learn it through experience. It’s also a good way to show why they should be thankful for what they do have, even if they didn’t receive all the presents on their wish list.

Of course, you’re never too old to learn and be inspired by those who give selflessly during the holidays. And it’s a lesson that lasts all year long. This year, we ask that you lead by example. If you’re interested in donating to the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, you can drop off unwrapped toys or contributions by Thursday, Dec. 20 at any of the following locations: the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.), the Safe Neighborhoods Office (1100 Wellington Trace), the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and Wellington Parks & Recreation (11700 Pierson Road). Call the Safe Neighborhoods Office at (561) 791-4796 for more information.

And if you want to help out the toy drive in a different way, several restaurants in the Courtyard Shops plaza are donating a portion of their proceeds on Wednesday, Dec. 12 to this worthy endeavor. See the story on page 3 of this issue for more information.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Why Was Jess Passed Over For Position?

Why was County Commissioner Jess Santamaria bypassed for the post of vice chairman? Lord, what fools these mortals (county commissioners) be. The despicable act of bypassing Commissioner Santamaria has left many observers shocked, to say the very least.

Actions such as these should not be tolerated or forgotten by the citizens of Palm Beach County. The commissioners broke with a 27-year tradition, bypassing Santamaria in favor of Commissioner Priscilla Taylor. One wonders why.

Their actions were vindictive, shocking and outrageous, to put it mildly. I don’t know about you, but I smell a rat. Not only is Santamaria a man of impeccable integrity, he is indefatigable, has vast experience as a developer, he is an entrepreneur and the senior commissioner on the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners.

We are lucky to have him. He is the only commissioner who has not wavered in his strong support for the Office of the Inspector General. He is never afraid to stand up to developers and special interests.

He is their worst nightmare. He has done more for the citizens of Palm Beach County than all the other commissioners combined. He wears his heart on his sleeve and is a “people” person. I think that these attributes make him a shoein for the post of vice chairman.

So, why was he bypassed?

Commissioners, please explain.

Could his ethnicity, not to mention his success, be the cause of his rejection? I sincerely hope not.

Talk about a slap in the face for Commissioner Santamaria. Shame on you, county commissioners.

You are all well aware that you are all under the microscope and have not yet shed the title of “Corruption County.” It does appear that there is a board of county commissioners within the board of county commissioners, judging from the voting practice, and I think that an investigation is needed.

Hopefully, Commissioner Santamaria will not let the deplorable actions and votes of certain commissioners deter him or curtail his stalwart efforts. Stand tall, Jess —

we, the citizens of the western communities are behind you 100 percent.

Welcome, to the two new commissioners, Mary Lou Berger and Hal Veleche. You did not get off to a good start; you are not clones of your predecessors and better is expected of you. We, the people, demand a better performance from the board.

To Commissioner Paulette Burdick, I say: Keep up the good work.

To the “Fickle Five,” I say: “This, above all, to thine own self be true, and it must follow as night follows day, you cannot be false to any man.”

To Commissioner Santamaria, I say: “Let your tongue tell the anger of your heart, or else your heart concealing it will break.” Please, for the good of the western communities and Palm Beach County as a whole, continue to fight the good fight with all your might.

Karl Witter The Acreage

Thomas Euell Responds Editor ’s note: The following letter is in response to Richard Nielsen’s letter “Nielsen Replies To Thomas Euell” and Shirley Bass’ letter “Middle-Class Tax Cuts Now,” both published Nov. 16.

My previous letter was written before the election and was meant to be included in the paper prior to the election. As for your facts presented on the oil situation, I would bet my last dollar that you, along with your liberal friends, blame President George W. Bush and Dick Cheney when gas rose to $4 during his administration.

Now, as for your carbon footprint, you should hook up with Al Gore and the millions he has been making on that rhetoric. You are obviously fine with $4, $5 or maybe $6 a gallon for gas. When Obama gets rid of the coal industry, you will have no problem paying thousands more a year for electric. Obama never mentions increasing oil production, and he cut oil production by 50 percent on federal land. Yet he had no problem dropping $535 million on Solyndra, which went bankrupt.

As for Romneycare in Massachusetts, you included a lot of facts, but you left out a very important one. Romney did not pay for it with taxpayers’ money. You

think I am sarcastic and condescending. Instead, I could tell by the juvenile remark “Romnesia,” you were ridiculing Mr. Romney.

This is a label constructed by Obama and his ilk because that is what liberals do. Obama could not run on his record of $6 trillion more debt, 8 percent unemployment, gas prices around $4 as well as the Libyan cover-up and fiasco, so he resorts to character assassination.

Romney did a good job as governor of Massachusetts, with the lowering of taxes and bringing in revenue. I would like to ask you and your cohorts to find in the Constitution where the successful and wealthy people of the United States are responsible for the incompetent spending of a government out of control. That is the equivalent of one living next door to a neighbor who runs up all his credit cards and you, because you are well to do, have to bear the burden of his excess. Remember, the government does not have one dime. Everything its spends is our money, and Obama is spending the taxpayers’ money like a drunken sailor. He has put my grandchildren and everyone else’s into debt with his $6 trillion boondoggle.

I would like to respond to the other liberal writer, Shirley Bass, that yes, Clinton gave us the largest surplus ever by raising taxes.

As a result, in the midterm election, every single Democrat running for office and every single incumbent running for re-election lost with the exception of one, Bill Bradley of New Jersey. Clinton was also elected in his first term by 43 percent of the people thanks to Ross Perot. The Congress became Republican, Clinton did a complete reversal and accepted the Republican “Contract With America” by Newt Gingrich. You expect me to put aside my rancor and move on because Obama won. I guess you mean the same as you and your liberal friends did when Bush won.

Oddly, Medicare and Social Security we have been paying into all of our lives has somehow been given the label of “entitlement” and is now in deep financial trouble. Can you imagine what will happen under Obamacare, with an increase of 18 million people becoming insured and no increase in physicians? An unbelievable financial mess is looming. This country has become the greatest

nation in the world in 200 years through capitalism, not socialism.

The liberals have attempted to make “capitalism” a corrupt term.

For you and your 60 million takers, “Greece is calling.”

Thomas Euell Wellington

WinterFest 2012 A Smashing Success The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce another smashing success! WinterFest 2012 with Vanilla Ice drew record-breaking crowds of over 4,500 people and thrilled the audience with the best of performers, emcees and many surprises.

Presented by the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, Equestrian Sport Productions and the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, the Wellness Experience and LED Source, the event provided a lineup of holiday performances, phenomenal food vendors, holiday shopping, chamber businesses expo, a visit from Santa and snow!

Local celebrity musical sensation, philanthropist and DIY Network television star Vanilla Ice performed his iconic “Ice Ice Baby,” “Play that Funky Music,” as well as a new recorded hit to an overflowing crowd. Our very own presenting sponsor John Wash was a hit on stage, providing the audience with many laughs and holiday cheer. Local dignitaries, including Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis, Councilwoman Anne Gerwig, former Mayor Darell Bowen and Chamber President Alec Domb kicked off this time-honored event.

Chaired by Dr. Randy Laurich of the Wellness Experience, this event is the most anticipated holiday event of the season. The exceptional hard work and dedication of sponsors, vendors and the professionals at PBIEC allow us to celebrate the success of this event. Bringing a “hometown” element to WinterFest is what makes it so successful. Family-friendly events such as a reading of the ’Twas the Night Before Christmas

by Mayor Margolis; a visit from Santa; a children’s area including carriage rides, reindeer and bounce houses; and a salute to the troops

allow participation from the children and the families, and make everyone an integral part of the festivities.

The chamber wishes to thank our sponsors, without whom we could not host such a spectacular event. John Wash and the International Polo Club Palm Beach, presenting sponsor; Equestrian Sport Productions and the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center; the Wellness Experience; LED Source; FPL; Hedrick Brothers Construction; Prescriptions Plus Inc.; Diabetic Support; Red Carpet Valet; and W4CY the Intertainment Network. A very special thank you to Mark Bellissimo, Michael Stone, Vaneli Bojkova and Paul Regal as well as Marcella Mirande-Ketcham, Rona Klein and Coca-Liza Mayor.

Our WinterFest vendors were BIBA NY, Blooming with Autism, Boresha International, Chappy’s Food Cart, Kangoo Club Palm Beach by Cheeky Fitness, Cold Stone Creamery, Costco Wholesale, Dr. Steven Miller, Equestrian Sport Productions, FPL, Glamorous Nail Spa, International Polo Club, Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Florida Inc., LED Source, Lively Lights, Luv My Puppies, Melody Creates, Paradise Kettle Corn, Perfect Smile Dentistry, Prescriptions Plus, Psychological Wellness Center, Rejuvia Med Spa, Smoke Inn International, Superfit Gym, Synaptiq Life, the Wellness Experience, Three J’s Cigar, TKC Future Fitness Isagenix, Tropical Laser, Ultima Fitness, Vanilla Ice, Village Music Center, W4CY, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington Christian School.

This year we hosted a brandnew food and wine festival boasting the exceptional establishments of IPC and the Wanderers Club,

Stonewood Grill, Taco Vida and Solo Cantina, PRP Wines, Polo West Cantina, Christy’s Bakery and Starbucks, as well as a red carpet photo booth courtesy of LED Source and the Wellness Experience.

Our performers could not have been more phenomenal! The talents of our local superstars are amazing. If you have not heard or seen of the following, please make it a point to check them out. They are exquisite each in their own.

Thank you to Emily Brooke, Lexi Luca, Taylor Renee, Meghan Ritmiller, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard, Wellington Ballet Theatre, Donna Tucci’s School of Dance, the Wellington High School dance team, the Kids Cancer Foundation and Low Bud. Our local superstar Vanilla Ice astounds us each year. His spirit of giving and dedication to our community is outstanding. His efforts and those of his team (Frank, Wes and Chuck) make this event possible. Each is to be commended and thanked for their generosity and for giving back to Wellington. The chamber is grateful to have the privilege of working with them!

The chamber salutes all the exhibitors, sponsors, the International Polo Club Palm Beach and our gracious venue host Equestrian Sport Productions for making their contribution to Wellington’s unique lifestyle, its economy and this spectacular event!

And to each of you for attending — for being part of this event and for being a part of our community. We look forward to seeing you all next year! Happy holidays!

Michela Perillo-Green Executive Director Wellington Chamber

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OPINION

Holiday Parade Brings Businesses And Entire Community Together Twenty-nine years ago, when our communities were much younger and our chamber was in its early years, an enterprising group of business leaders launched our Holiday Parade.

Not only was the parade a way to bring the community together to celebrate the holidays, but it served as a showcase for local businesses to be featured and publicly thank the community for its support.

Even in its earliest days, it was a time when you could stroll down Forest Hill Blvd. and visit with everyone.

Today, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber’s Wellington Holiday Parade is a fantastic celebration of everything we are — our school marching bands play music, community groups build floats, our youth display their talent in twirling, gymnastics and dancing. Each year, our local leaders take part, riding for the third year in a row in convertibles from Presenting Sponsor Schumacher Automotive Group, our exclusive automotive sponsor. And often our military is present as honorees.

POINT OF VIEW

By Jaene Miranda

Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce

As always, through its participation, sponsorships and in-kind donations, our business community says thank you for supporting it not only during the holidays but all year long.

This year, thanks to efforts of the Wellington Preservation Coalition and the Jacobs family, we’re fortunate that the 29th Wellington Holiday Parade will have an even grander presence from our equestrian industry. We are very pleased as it has always been our objective to have the parade represent the kickoff of not only the holiday season but of the annual

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equestrian season. Our hope is to showcase what the industry has to offer and what it means economically to the western communities to the thousands of local spectators lining the streets on parade day. It’s unique to the area served by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber, and we’re proud to have Olympic riders Margie Engle and Todd Minikus serving as grand marshals.

In addition, we’ll have hunter/jumper, polo and dressage equestrian and human athletes showcasing some of the equestrian disciplines within the industry.

The Wellington Preservation Coalition as presenting sponsor, along with Waste Management, has made it possible for the chamber to also host the annual Wellington tree lighting following the parade. The Wellington Amphitheater becomes the Holiday Fun Park. Extend your day to share old-fashioned joy with family-oriented activities such as a carousel, a skating rink, bounce houses, food and exhibit booths, and a live concert immediately

following the parade with a Billy Joel tribute band. As always, the Village of Wellington, our collaborator in this major event, helps to make everything happen flawlessly through the dedication of its wonderful staff. We would also like to thank the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office for its continued support of this true community event.

The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s business climate is a far cry from three decades ago, as our service area now is home not just to businesses but entire industries. We’re home to agriculture and agribusiness, including everything from traditional growers to flower nurseries serving markets nationwide, and even polo fields and sod farms. Still the largest industry in Palm Beach County, it makes a $2 billion annual impact.

We’ve been the epicenter of the housing boom, together with construction, construction trades, real estate and other outgrowth businesses. We boast a thriv-

BARRY S. MANNING Publisher

JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

JASON BUD JINSKI Community Editor

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah W elky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil

ing medical industry, anchored by Wellington Regional Medical Center and Palms West Hospital. Recognizing the need to reach patients across the state, physicians and specialty clinics see patients from as much as a 100-mile radius in the central western communities.

And we’re home to the equestrian industry, a unique niche in South Florida that comprises riders from the backyard horseman all the way to the Olympic athlete. Once a small fraction and seasonal influence, the equestrian industry has grown into a year-round presence with a $500 million annual impact.

We look forward to seeing everyone lining Forest Hill Blvd. this Sunday for the 29th Wellington Holiday Parade. Enjoy the sights and sounds of our theme, “Holiday in Paradise,” and then join us at the Holiday Fun Park.

On behalf of the businesses and industries of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber, thank you for supporting us all year round.

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 5

NEWS

WINTERFEST BRINGS A NIGHT OF HOLIDAY FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT TO PBIEC

The third annual Wellington WinterFest was held Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Presented by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, One Wellington and the International Polo Club Palm Beach, this year’s event included a show jumping competition, various vendors, bounce houses for children, Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas and live performances, including headliner Vanilla Ice. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Vanilla Ice sings his hits to an excited crowd of fans.

Singers Lexi Luca (left) and Taylor Renee (right) perform.

Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis reads ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, while his wife Linda holds the microphone.

Master of Ceremonies John Wash of IPC with his wife Toy.

Cheryl, Cameron and Caitlyn Klimek enjoy Christmas cookies.

Wellington High School students Sabrina Stirp, Nora Shirey, Mireya Barria, Mika Rabor and Samantha Leveille with Santa.

The band Low Bud performs a song with Kids Cancer Foundation children on stage.

BOY SCOUTS HOLDING ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE SALE AT ST. PETER’S CHURCH

Wellington Boy Scout Troop 125 is holding its annual Christmas tree sale at St. Peter’s U nited Methodist Church in Wellington. The scouts assist customers with their tree selections by trimming, baling and carrying trees to their cars. Proceeds from the sale benefit Boy Scouts programs. The trees will be available until they are sold out. St. Peter’s is located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more info., visit www.troop125.net.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Jenny Wood and Tiffany Matthew get help with their 6-foot tree from Brandon Hayes.

Marietta Diaz, Riley and Kyle Kotalik with their 6-foot Christmas tree.

Esteban Valentin cleans up the Christmas tree tent.

Warren Hayes loads a Christmas tree into a customer’s car.

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Page 6 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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CRIME NEWS

Vandals, Thieves Target Holiday Yard Displays

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report NOV. 28 — A resident of La Mancha called the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach twice over the past week to report an act of vandalism and a theft regarding his holiday decorations. The first call was last Wednesday evening regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his home at approximately 4:30 p.m. and returned three hours later to find that his inflatable Frosty the Snowman decoration had been removed from his front lawn, smashed up and left on the curb several feet away from his home. The perpetrator(s) caused approximately $40 in damage. On Monday, the resident called again to report a theft. According to a second PBSO report, sometime between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. last Sunday, someone removed a wooden Frosty the Snowman lawn ornament from the victim’s property.

The ornament, valued at approximately $40, depicted the snowman and reindeer in front of a red stop sign. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of either report.

DEC. 1 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home on Meadow Wood Drive last Saturday morning regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11 p.m. last Friday and 5:30 a.m. the following morning, someone removed a plastic baby Jesus from the victim’s Christmas display and knocked down and removed other holiday decorations in the victim’s yard. The perpetrator(s) stole the plastic baby Jesus, valued at approximately $50, and caused $100 in damage to the other decorations. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. ••• NOV. 22 — A resident of 77th Place North contacted the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation Thursday, Nov. 22 to report a theft.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 21 and 2 p.m. the following afternoon, someone stole the victim’s mailbox and stand from his property. The victim said he did not know anyone who might have done it. The stolen mailbox was valued at approximately $70.

There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

NOV. 26 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home in Royal Ascot Estates last Monday morning regarding stolen vehicles. According to a PBSO report, the victim last saw his three Harley-Davidson motorcycles in his driveway at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 25. When he went outside at approximately 5:25 a.m. the following morning, he noticed that two of the motorcycles were missing and another one had been stripped. The victim said he owns all three motorcycles and that they had alarms installed on them. The motorcycles were parked in his driveway and obscured from view by two large vehicles. According to the report, one of the stolen motorcycles is a 2002 Harley-Davidson soft-tail deuce

with a custom paint job. The other is a custom-built 2005 HarleyDavidson Fat Boy tricycle. The stolen motorcycles were valued at more than $36,000. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

NOV. 30 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Sturbridge Village last Friday evening regarding an act of vandalism.

According to a PBSO report, the victim arrived home last Thursday and noticed a clay pot and lamp on his porch that had not been there previously. The victim said the lamp had been plugged into an outlet and switched on. According to the report, the victim switched off the lamp and secured the screen door. But last Friday, the victim returned home at approximately 6 p.m. to find that someone had cut a hole in the screen door in order to gain access to the porch, and again turned the lamp on. According to the report, the victim rents the property and was unsure if it was his landlord or someone else who damaged the screen and put the items on the patio. The perpetrator(s) caused approximately $50 in damage. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 1 — A resident of Versailles contacted the PBSO substation in Wellington last Saturday to report a residential burglary.

According to a PBSO report, the victim removed some cash from a secured cash box in her master bedroom at approximately 5:30 p.m. last Friday and then left her home.

She returned approximately two hours later and noticed the box was missing when she went to bed at approximately 11:45 p.m. According to the report, there was no sign of forced entry, and the deputy believes the perpetrator(s) entered the home from the garage door. The victim said there was approximately $53,000 in cash in the box. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 2 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to the Mall at Wellington Green last Sunday afternoon regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim was eating lunch at the mall at approximately 3:38 p.m. and left her LG Optimus phone on the table.

When she returned, the phone was missing. According to the report, the deputy was able to trace the phone’s GPS to a home, but was unable to make contact with anyone there. The phone is valued at approximately $179. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

DEC. 2 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to the Royal Inn on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. last Sunday morning regarding a theft.

According to the report, the victim has been staying at the hotel while working in the area, and sometime between 8 p.m. last Saturday and 10 a.m. the following morning, someone siphoned approximately $200 worth of diesel fuel from his work truck. The victim said the same thing happened in November. There were no suspects at the time of the report.

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Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Jorge Alamo, a.k.a. Ivan Alamo, Jorge Diaz-Alamo and Felix Rodriguez, is a white male, 5’9� tall and weighing 200 lbs., with gray hair and brown eyes. He has a scar on his left arm. His date of birth is 01/01/57. Alamo is wanted for issuing a worthless check. His occupation is food distributor. His last known addresses were Pike Road in West Palm Beach and Fox Court in Wellington.

Alamo is wanted as of 11/29/12. • Hugo Balbuena is a white male, 6’0� tall and weighing 155 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his chest. His date of birth is 04/16/75.

Balbuena is wanted for failure to appear on a charge of sale of oxycodone. His occupation is cook. His last known address was Harborside Circle in Wellington. Balbuena is wanted as of 11/29/12.

Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8 477) or visit www.crimest opper s pbc.com.

Jorge Alamo

Hugo Balbuena

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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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 7

NEWS

ASPCA Honors Big Dog Ranch Rescue With A $15,000 Reward

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Local nonprofit Big Dog Ranch Rescue received a surprise Friday, Nov. 30 when the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals presented the shelter with a $15,000 check.

The money was a reward for

being the rescue agency with “most improved adoptions” in the entire Southeast region. Big Dog increased its number of adoptions from last year by 234 percent and placed third in its division.

This is a great achievement for the organization, and Vice President Meg Weinberger is enthusi-

Big Dog Ranch Rescue staff members gather with the check.

astic about how the money will help strengthen Big Dog. “The $15,000 will go right back into the ranch,” she said. “Imagine all those animals saved and medical bills paid. It will help a lot.”

Big Dog was one of 50 shelters chosen nationwide to participate, from August to October, in the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. The rescue’s goal, in the span of three months, was to get 467 dogs adopted into homes.

Through intense community advocacy and involvement, Big Dog and its cadre of volunteers diligently worked to exceed that goal, and 524 dogs were adopted by the end of the challenge.

Agency officials didn’t know they had won something or even that the ASPCA was coming. They were told by e-mail to put together a volunteer rally celebrating the end of the challenge.

“They don’t tell us anything.

They just show up and surprise you,” Weinberger said. “We were all getting ready for our gala that we were having on Saturday, and a woman from the ASPCA just showed up with the check.”

This was a great surprise because Big Dog officials did not expect to win anything since they were competing against many large rescues operations, such as county shelters. “We’re competing against shelters who waive their adoption fees,” Weinberger said. “That’s something that we don’t do.”

Big Dog’s leadership believes that people place more value in their animals when they pay even a nominal fee for them. “People take a little more ownership when they pay for something,” Weinberger said.

For her, the challenge was more

of a learning process than anything else.

“They had all the 50 charities go to a seminar in St. Petersburg, and we had a big roundtable discussion sharing information on what we did,” Weinberger said.

“Learning from all those charities was priceless. We learned how to be better at what we do.”

In order to get many of the dogs adopted, the rescue staged events throughout the community. “We were taking the dogs to people who did not even know we were in Wellington,” Weinberger said.

Big Dog partnered with local businesses such as Pet Supplies Plus and the Wellington Green Market. “At these events, we never give the animal to the people that same day,” Weinberger said.

“We still do our home visits before we let people adopt a dog.”

Unique promotions were also

created for the challenge period.

“We had a ‘Back in Black’ promotion where we did half off black dogs for one month,” Weinberger said, explaining that Big Dog borrowed the idea from another rescue group, Best Friends Animal Society in Utah. “They openly share their marketing and promotional material with all other rescues. It’s a 40,000-acre facility, and they started out like us, doing adoption events at grocery stores.”

Now that the challenge is over, Big Dog Ranch Rescue will be focusing on its holiday adoption promotions. “Our ‘Home for the Holidays’ promotion is starting,” Weinberger said.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue is located at 10948 Acme Road. For more information, visit www.bdrr.org or call (561) 791-6465 or (561) 3093311.

Central PBC Chamber Celebrates The End Of A Successful 2012

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce CEO Jaene Miranda reviewed the successes of the past year during a luncheon Monday at the Breakers West Country Club.

A major focus of the discussion was the recent merger of the Palms West and Greater Lake Worth chambers of commerce, which formed the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce.

“I think we would all agree that the biggest thing that has happened this year is our merger,” Miranda said. “This is an initiative that began in 2011, and we made the announcement on Feb. 27. It was a very exciting thing for our organization because it really gave us the opportunity to create a strong regional voice for our businesses. It gave us the opportunity to join two organizations and improve their operational efficiencies. It expanded our businesses’ networking from 800 to 1,200, and overall it gave us an opportunity to make things happen.”

The merger expanded the chamber’s territory from the Glades to the coast, and from Northlake Blvd. south to Lantana, representing 15 municipalities altogether.

Miranda said many volunteers worked long hours to enable the merger. “We appreciate everything that everyone did, including rebranding and marketing,” she said.

“We had to do everything from stationery to our web site, to rede-

signing and expanding our newsletter. We now have over 60,000 distribution for our newsletter. We get the word out every month about our activities and our members.”

In addition to the merger, the chamber has been growing its groups and committees, including the Young Professionals led by chamber staff member Jessica Clasby and the Medical Committee led

by Dr. David Soria, both of which have monthly, socially oriented meetings. The Equestrian Committee, led by staff member Mary Lou Bedford, launched last year under the guidance of Mason Phelps Jr. of Phelps Media Group, who helped develop the committee’s initiatives.

The chamber now produces 13 signature events. “With the merger, we gained four additional events that we do on an annual basis,” Miranda said.

The Lake Worth Street Painting Festival is one of them. “For those of you who have not been to this event, it is phenomenal,” she said, inviting the community to the 2013 event Feb. 23-24 along Lake and Lucerne avenues in downtown Lake Worth.

The Royal Palm Art & Music Festival in Royal Palm Beach will return in March for its fourth year.

This event includes street painting like the Lake Worth event, with added activities. “We have rides, we have kayaking, we have a lot of competitions,” Miranda said.

“This event keeps growing every year, and it’s the only festival in

the western communities that actually closes down the street for more than a few hours. We close Royal Palm Beach Blvd. down for three days.”

Reggae Fest, which takes place in April, is another of the Lake Worth events. “It actually got rated the No. 1 South Florida music festival by New Times,” Miranda said. “We beat out SunFest.”

In May, the chamber hosts the Florida Green, Energy & Climate Conference/Expo at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach. “We have speakers from all over the country come and speak on sustainability issues, all different industries where there is transportation, clean energy and more,” she said. “We invite 100 municipal leaders from throughout Florida to join us during this conference. Through our foundation, we provide a grant to these individuals to come down.

We pay for their hotel stay and their registration at the conference.”

Summer events include Taste in the West, promoting the restaurant and food service industries, and a poker tournament at the Palm Beach Kennel Club. Wellington engineer Mike Sexton won last summer ’s tournament, which offered a $1,000 purse and a seat at the World Series of Poker tournament to be held at the Kennel Club.

The Tropical Triathlon in September is one of several athletic events sponsored by the chamber. “This one is the most extreme of what we have in our offerings,”

Miranda said. “They get to jump in the Atlantic Ocean and swim three-quarters of a mile, and then come out and bike another mile and then run 5 kilometers. This is a great event. Although Lake Worth has been doing this event for many years, this is the first year we have managed it.”

October brings Blues, Brews & BBQ in Lake Worth and the Fall Festival in Wellington. Co-hosted by the village, more than 4,000 people attended this year’s fall festival, Miranda said. The Farm City luncheon last month and three upcoming sold-out bus tours recognize the importance of agriculture to the county’s economy. “It’s important to support partners out in the west,” Miranda said. “We have a luncheon and the three tours, where we take community leaders out there to actually see what happens out in the western agriculture areas.”

SalsaFest in November celebrates the county’s fastest-growing ethnic group. “We have 30 percent Hispanics in our central Palm Beach County market area,” she said. “This is our way of giving our businesses the opportunity to market to this important segment of our population. The crowds are tremendous; the music is phenomenal; the involvement from the businesses is great.”

The Holiday Parade, Holiday Mile and Holiday Park Tree Lighting this Sunday in Wellington continues to grow each year. “We welcome you all to come out again this Sunday and be part of this

Central Palm Beach County Chamber CEO Jaene Miranda addresses chamber members at Monday’s luncheon.

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

activity,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun for everyone.”

The chamber also staged 57 networking events in 2012, including after-hours mixers, monthly luncheons and 10 breakfasts. It also sponsors five educational programs, including a leadership class and business planning academy. The chamber also awarded 10 $1,000 scholarships to local graduating seniors.

According to Miranda, the chamber generated $523,000 worth of economic impact in the local economy. “Those are the dollars

we put back into the community, whether it be purchasing, printing, T-shirts or stage equipment,” she said. “This is stuff we’re giving back to the community. Last year, it was $419,000, so we had a 25 percent increase. If you add that to operations, which would cover everything from electric, lighting for both buildings, everything that would run our offices, salaries, etc., we had almost $1.4 million in impact to the community.”

Learn more about the Central Palm Beach County Chamber at www.cpbchamber.com.

County Commission Passes A Resolution To Fight Wage Theft

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wage theft is a rampant problem, notably in the migrant worker community, with unscrupulous employers cheating vulnerable workers out of their compensation.

Spurred on by activist groups, such as the faith-based People Engaged in Active Community Efforts (PEACE), the Palm Beach County Commission has been looking into the issue for several years.

The commissioners approved a wage theft resolution Tuesday, but not a more aggressive ordinance activists pushing the issue wanted. However, county staff said the proposal would be more effective than the ordinance favored by the advocates.

Assistant County Administrator Brad Merriman said the county has been considering the wage theft issue for several years, starting with a draft ordinance modeled

after a similar regulation in MiamiDade County.

Several issues caused delays, including the possibility of state legislative preemption and the fact that the Legal Aid Society had initiated a pilot project to combat the problem, Merriman said.

Once those issues were resolved, county staff was directed to work with the concerned parties, particularly PEACE, which originally raised the issue, as well as business interests and Legal Aid to work out a process that was mutually acceptable.

“We weren’t able to accomplish that, and we know that Legal Aid has been working on this project since February 2011. They’ve been able to demonstrate some successes without any financial support from the county,” he said.

Merriman added that staff was recommending approval of a resolution condemning the denial of lawfully earned wages to employ-

ees and entering into a contract with Legal Aid for the continuation of a wage recovery program.

He said county staff believes that is the best solution because the Legal Aid program has proven successful, advocating at no cost to clients, which would not be the case with a county ordinance.

Further, Merriman added that the resolution would not be subject to preemption by the Florida Legislature, adding that the county had received a letter from Circuit Court Chief Judge Peter Blanc indicating that he is willing to help in any way he can, including presuit mediation and the possibility of a dedicated docket for wage theft cases.

According to Merriman, the resolution accomplished the original goal of providing a mechanism so that any person who believes he or she was denied wages, regardless at what level, has an outlet to pursue compensation.

Assistant County Attorney David Ottey said he had been in contact with Miami-Dade legal staff, who told him that complainants had recovered only nominal lost wages in the past two and a half years under that county’s wage theft ordinance because of lags in the process.

The Rev. Kevin Jones, co-president of PEACE, whose multi-denominational members filled the commission chambers and lobby, reminded county officials how the issue came to the forefront.

“Three years ago, in 2009, our members shared story, after story, after story of wage theft, and thus the wage theft campaign was born,” Jones said.

PEACE brought an ordinance to the county in February 2011, which was passed unanimously on preliminary reading. However, final reading was postponed after the proposed ordinance encountered strong opposition among

businesses and the Florida Retail Association at the state level. The Legal Aid Society was then asked to work out a solution.

“We are here today to remind the commission that wage theft is a serious problem affecting workers, families and scrupulous businesses,” he said. “There is a solution to this practice — a wage theft ordinance.”

Matthew Snyder, contract administrator for the Florida Public Services Union, said a resolution is not enough.

“An ordinance, which has the force of law, is essential to upholding the rights of those individuals I represent on a daily basis,” he said.

Commissioner Patricia Taylor said she would have a problem approving an ordinance modeled after the Miami-Dade ordinance after hearing that only nominal lost wages had been recovered.

Commissioner Shelley Vana said

she had worked on the issue for several years and thought both sides had given something. “Everyone in this room wants a solution that will have people paid,” she said. “Our attorneys have told us that [the ordinance] is not working in Miami-Dade.”

Vana made a motion to support the resolution with the provision that they revisit it in a year. “I believe this is a good alternative,” she said.

However, Commissioners Jess Santamaria and Paulette Burdick favored the ordinance approach supported by the advocates.

Commissioner Hal Valeche and Commissioner Mary Lou Berger and Commission Chair Steven Abrams said they would support the resolution because it would be the fastest way for aggrieved workers to recover wages.

The motion carried 5-2, with Santamaria and Burdick opposed.

Page 8 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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NEWS

WELLINGTON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB HOSTS 25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA AT WYCLIFFE The Wellington Boys & Girls Club celebrated its 25 years in the community at its annual dinner dance gala Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. The theme for the night was “Dreams Come True.” Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour with a silent auction, dinner and dancing, as well as awards celebrating those who have helped the club reach this milestone. For more info., visit www. bgcpbc.org.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite, Sara Gehrke, Neil Hirsch and Alexis Willhite.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Mary O’Connor with her husband, Tim.

Debbie and Mark Plaxen.

Bruce and Marie White with Wanda and Jeff Knight.

Bo ys & Girls Club members gree t guests at the door.

John and Julie Kime during the silent auction.

Jaene Miranda with Dr. Juan Ortega.

Dr. Carmine and Marie Priore enjoy dinner.

Krystal Freeborn, Dana Desser and Tif fany McAleer.

Kim Lukat and Damien Joy.

Amy Bergman and Dr. La wrence Bergman.

Dana and Wellington Councilman John Greene with Kim and Charles Jacobs.

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 9

NEWS

WELLINGTON’S VISIONS SALON HOSTS RE-LAUNCHING EVENT WITH NICK ARROJO Visions Salon: The Color Group in Wellington held a re-launch celebration Thursday, Nov. 29 with celebrity stylist Nick Arrojo as the evening’s special guest. The salon un veiled its new look as an Arrojo Ambassador Salon, with a modern and upscale décor, from new stylist stations to a gallery presentation of models’ portraits specifically shot for the salon. The event also included a presentation of the Revision Collection, during which salon stylists showed off their hair modeled creations. The salon is located at 12793 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza. For more info., visit www.vhsalon.com or call (561) 790-1696.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Visions Marketing Director Sherri Giles, Michaela Paige, Salon Manager Clarissa Cornelius, owners Tom and Linda Monticello, Nick Arrojo and Mary Lou Bedford of the Central PBC Chamber.

Visions owner Tom Monticello with NBC’s The Voice contestant Michaela Paige and special guest Nick Arrojo.

Apprentice stylist Ashley Smith, Shereen Aziz and Jenna Herrick.

Stylist Liliana Uribe with model Karen Capote.

Stylist Tara Weldon with model Hilda Palenzuela.

Model Junior Gazquez, stylist Gabriela Pugliese and model Abiezer de Quesada.

Bella Hoyos, Brittany Hutcherson, Jennifer Casella and Amanda Bethea.

WHS PROJECT GRADUATION HOLDS BENEFIT GOLF TOURNEY AT WANDERERS CLUB Wellington High School Project Graduation held its annual golf tournament Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Wanderers Club. The tournament began with a shotgun start scramble format and ended with an awards ceremony. Proceeds support Project Graduation, a lock-in event alternative to celebrating the end of high school for seniors. For more info., e-mail wellingtonprojectgrad2013@gmail.com.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington High School Project Graduation committee members.

Ginny Orthwein and Sandy Hearns.

Ron Gilman practices before the tournament starts.

Golfers John Gerboc, Scott Frost, Bill Bramhall and Rip Studwell.

Page 10 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 11

NEWS

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS KICKS OFF THE SEASON IN ROYAL PALM BEACH Royal Palm Beach held its annual Holiday Festival of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 1 at Veterans Park. Santa arrived on a fire-rescue truck and posed for photos while taking Christmas wishes. Area students sang holiday songs and performed dance routines, and there was food for sale, face painting, arts and crafts, and free hot chocolate and cookies.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Ana and Mark Koester (holding Grecia) with Chari, Fernando (holding Lola) and Xiomaira Roman.

Volunteers Beth Kaplan and Joe Schelorke decorate bags.

Jade Master sings “O Holy Night.”

Alex Shaw plays guitar.

Rebecca, Tracy, Madeline, Benjamin and Bryan Gaugler.

Dolly Hughes, Isabella and Nicole Talerico with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Members of a capella group Third Row Center.

QUARTERS AUCTION IN ROYAL PALM BEACH TO BENEFIT SHORT CIRCUIT KIDS A Quarters Auction was held Wednesday, Nov. 28 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center to benefit Shor t Circuit Kids. The gr oup’s mission is to bring awareness and hope for children suffering from neurological disorders. A 50/50 raffle was held, with proceeds going to the organization.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Bidder s Randy Quinto-Dombier, Amanda King, Marie Phillips and Pat Linton.

Leila Smith and Cindy Nelms display a T-Bag they made.

Candy Lobec, the high bidder on this hair ribbon, with Short Circuit Kids founder and CEO Maryann St. Clair.

Lola Rohrbach tries on a Stella & Dot bracelet, assisted by Joan Barber.

Ana Wiggins won a welcome warmer from Bernadette Laudermilt of Scentsy.

Page 12 December 7 - December 13, 2012

THANKSGIVING AT NEW HORIZONS

The second-grade dual language classes at New Horizons Elementary School held their annual Thanksgiving feast. Students all brought in food to share, dressed as Native American Indians, and performed a Readers Theater Indian play. Pictured here are student enjoying their Thanksgiving feast.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Ideal, Dream Schools Support Food Drive The Ideal and Dream Schools in Royal Palm Beach participated in the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office 2012 Thanksgiving food drive by collecting 1,629 cans of food for donation.

Each class from kindergarten through eighth grade was challenged to collect as many cans as possible and to form those cans into a sculpture. Each class was assigned a parking space in the school parking lot to set up their creation. Once completed, the students and parents voted to determine the winner of the contest.

The voting was close, with several very creative food sculptures, including those by kindergarteners, who designed a football stadium in honor of a favorite Thanksgiving pastime, while firstgraders turned a red wagon into a bird’s nest full of baby cardinals, and second-graders reconstructed the Eiffel Tower. The middle school students were not to be out done, and their formations includ-

ed a castle, a giant piece of pumpkin pie and a One Direction concert.

Michelle Hogan’s fifth-grade class constructed a fire-rescue station in honor of the school’s ongoing spring canned food drive program “I Can,” for which students, parents and teachers jog (or walk) the 3-mile round trip to the local fire-rescue station in Royal Palm Beach, holding in their hands two cans of food to donate.

Danielle Derion’s fourth-grade students converted their food cans into a spectacular Hollywood red carpet premiere event.

When the votes were tallied, Michelle Carter’s third-grade class came out on top, utilizing over 400 cans to create a giant octopus sea monster. At the end of the day the formations were broken down, and the 1,629 cans of food were donated to the PBSO. This donation was the third-largest received by the PBSO — quite an accomplishment, considering they were com-

Michelle Carter’s third-grade students with their winning food sculpture, Sea Monster. peting against schools with up to 10 times the student population.

The Ideal Preschool, Elementary and Dream Middle School is a private school in Royal Palm

Beach for students who excel in academics, art and character.

For more information, visit the schools’ web site at www.dream ideal.com.

Huntington Center Suggests Learning Activities For Winter Break It’s almost holiday break, and if you are in need of a few ideas to help keep your child entertained and learning these next few weeks, Huntington Learning Center of Wellington has several suggestions.

“Your child deserves a reprieve from school work, but there are many things you can do as a family that will keep your student engaged,” said Mary Fisher of the

Wellington Huntington Learning Center.

Fisher offers the following winter break learning activities for inspiration: • Get scientific — Safe and fun science experiments are a great way to pass the long days of holiday break and encourage your student’s scientific thinking.

Check out the University of Michigan’s BioKIDS web site for an

animal tracks and sign guide and send your child out to explore your local habitat for signs of animals.

Browse the Steve Spangler Science or Weird Science Kids web sites for educational experiments that your child will enjoy.

• Develop a menu — Have your child help you from start to finish with your holiday menu or even weeknight meals during his or her break. Set up your child with a

cookbook or send him or her to a recipe web site to come up with meal ideas, make a list of ingredients and even create a paper menu for dinner guests.

• Make a holiday scrapbook — Bring out your child’s inner crafter by having him or her work on a family scrapbook for the year or just the holiday season. Have your child collect photos and mementos (such as plane ticket

stubs) from any vacations or other special outings and share his or her finished product on New Year’s Eve. • Write a family history book — Work together on a family tree.

Your child could take the project further and interview grandparents, aunts and uncles to learn more about different family member’s experiences growing up.

Your child may be surprised at how

different life as a kid was for a grandparent. Try a book on favorite family holiday memories in which your child can record his or her own reflections as well as those of members of the extended family.

For information about Huntington Learning Center of Wellington, contact Fisher at (561) 5941900 or fisherm@hlcmail.com or visit www.huntingtonhelps.com.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Wellington High School Students Visit Kennedy Space Center On Wednesday, Nov. 28, many of Wellington High School’s top science and math students experienced what could be a life-changing experience, participating in a behind-the-scenes education of the Kennedy Space Center and an introduction to life in aerospace engineering.

The trip was made possible by the Jacobs family of Wellington, whose Delaware North Companies is the operator of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

“Our family has a long-standing commitment to education at all levels and has supported many academic initiatives focused on research,” Lou Jacobs said.

“Knowing the tremendous asset we have in Kennedy Space Center, we’re pleased to offer this opportunity to students in Wellington.”

Two charter buses left WHS at 6 a.m. with 100 top-tier students and their teachers for the once-ina-lifetime experience. Upon arrival

at Kennedy, they were greeted by Capt. John McBride, one of the Space Shuttle program’s astronauts, who shared stories of life as an astronaut.

The day featured customized interactive educational activities designed to teach the science behind rocket launches and an understanding of how humans survive in the vacuum of space. Students experienced motion-based simulators modeled after actual training simulators that astronauts use. And they were exposed to the rich history that is NASA’s by touring the Astronaut Hall of Fame Museum, including highlights from the Mercury, Gemini,Apollo and Shuttle programs.

One highlight was a visit with Chief of Flight Systems Jeff Angermeier, who mapped out the vision for NASA and the next chapter of space exploration, including a focus on reaching Mars.

“This trip fits right in with the goal of having more kids pursue

NASA instructor Marty Diaz demonstrates the properties of polymer to absorb moisture at 800 times its weight. education and careers in the STEM areas of science, technology, engineering and math,” said Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite, who helped organize the trip.

The same experience awaits 100

students from Palm Beach Central High School, who will make the trip on Monday, Dec. 10.

The educators said they hoped their students pursue education and careers linked to the aero-

WHS students in front of the full-size space shuttle replica with NASA Capt. John McBride. space industry, they said.

“We offered this wonderful opportunity to our most advanced students, and they jumped at the chance to attend,” advanced chemistry teacher Brian Nelson

said. “This is exactly the program we were looking for; every student is excited and engaged. Who knows — maybe there could be a future rocket scientist among the group!”

FRONTIER HOLDS SUPPLY RPBHS Academies Support Local Charities Royal Palm Beach High School’s The Medical Academy’s HOSA DRIVE FOR VICTIMS OF Choice Academy students have (Health Occupations Students of been working diligently to provide America) chapter raised more than HURRICANE SANDY assistance to local charities and $800 for the Leukemia & Lymphofamilies in need during this holi- ma Society’s Light the Night Walk.

As part of Frontier Elementary School’s safety patrol service projects, teachers and students brought in supplies such as clothing, cleaning supplies, baby food, formula and diapers, blankets, pet food and supplies, and nonperishable food to be sent to the victims of Hurricane Sandy. This collection was so successful that the donated materials took up an entire work van. Safety patrol coordinators Sherrie Dulany and Olga Vidal are extremely proud of Frontier’s commitment to help others. The items were being taken to the New Jersey and New York areas to be distributed to families there. Pictured above is Sherrie Dulany with safety patrols Alejandra Rodriguez, Drake Millhausen, Riley Sullivan, Meagan Vargo and Amanda Simpson.

day season.

The Global Business Academy’s Interact Club, led by Darrell Schwartz in cooperation with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Village of Royal Palm Beach, raised more than 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food items to help provide Thanksgiving food packages to families in need in Palm Beach County.

Students and teachers throughout the school generously donated items to help reach this goal and ensure that needy families in the community will be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner.

“Our school came in first place in the county food drive with the PBSO raising over 2,000 pounds of food,” Principal Jesus Armas said.

More than 80 students participated in the event, either as volunteers or walkers. This event brings help and hope to thousands of people battling blood cancers.

Funds raised by teams and individual walkers provide lifesaving blood cancer research; free educational materials and events for patients and their families; local programs such as Family Support Groups and First Connection, a peer-to-peer counseling program; and comprehensive, personalized assistance through the Information Resource Center.

In addition, the Medical Academy students, led by Janet Fabra and Michelle Ugalde, have adopted a family with eight children for Christmas. Students will provide needed items along with items

Royal Palm Beach High School students at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Walk. from the family’s wish list. The with these items they are trying to children range in age from 13 years fulfill the wish list of toys and to six months. Some of the needed books. items the students are supplying Armas said he is proud of the are shoes, clothes, school sup- work the school has done. “Our plies, along with non-perishable students and staff are great examfood items, gift cards to local gro- ples of how Royal Palm Beach High cery stores so the family can pur- School is the beacon of the comchase eggs, milk, meats, etc. Along munity,” he said.

Wellington Elementary School Is Giving Back Students and staff at Wellington Elementary School know the importance of helping others.

Through the school’s “Dollar for Denim Days,” students and staff paid $1 to wear jeans.

The proceeds have benefited local charities. Wellington Elementary School donated $397 to the Autism Speaks Foundation in October and $386 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy

victims in November.

Students also participated in the WPTV Food for Families Drive and collected 2,378 non-perishable goods for families in need.

The school has worked hard

to instill those core character values, with kindness being a priority, and the students have shown true kindness through their participation in these worthwhile benefits.

Page 14 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Area Teens Lead Hygiene Drive For Lord’s Place Shelter Café Joshua ADA, the group of western communities teens comprising Alex Ng, Devin Wallace and Andre Ferreira, ran a hygiene drive last month for Café Joshua, the Lord’s Place shelter on Australian Avenue.

The Lord’s Place is a nonprofit agency dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness by providing innovative, compassionate and effective services to men, women and children. It has two housing campuses (one for individual men and one for families), where it provides transitional and permanent supportive housing.

In addition, the Lord’s Place recently purchased a new home where it will be providing housing for single women — the first of its kind in Palm Beach County. It also has an extensive job training and placement program that provides clients with training on all of the hard and soft skills for employment.

The Lord’s Place also has five apprenticeships in which clients are able to participate — clerical, culinary, maintenance, peer advocacy and retail. Finally, the Lord’s Place serves as a navigation site and provide initial screenings of individuals and families to refer them to the new Lewis Homeless Resource Center.

Because most clients of the Lord’s Place arrive there with the bare necessities, it has pantries at each of its facilities so they can have assistance with basic needs such as soap, shampoo, tooth brushes, toothpaste and any other personal-care items.

“When the boys held their drive for personal-care items and delivered them to us, I was overwhelmed by the donations we received,” Jan Phillips of the Lord’s Place said. “The donations will provide many, many clients with the items most of us take for granted. Thank you so very much for all you have done for our clients!”

With the help of family, friends and the staff at the DoubleTree by Hilton West Palm Beach Airport, ADA was able to collect more than 2,000 hygiene items.

“It’s always nice to see everyone bonding together as part of one community, especially students, to give back to those that are less fortunate,” Hilton sales coordinator Jessica Uremovic said. “I, as well as my fellow staff, are always more than willing to lend a helping hand. Times have proven not to be the easiest these past few years. I am grateful that

HAYNES, WENDLER WED IN NEW MEXICO

(Above) Devin Wallace with Kristina Violal and Jessica Uremovic.

(Right) Andre Ferreira, Devin Wallace, Jan Phillips of the Lord’s Place and Alex Ng. we can share with others to make something not so easy become just a little bit easier. As Paul Shane Spear has said, ‘As one person I cannot change the world, but I can change the world of one person.’”

“There are so many luxuries that all of us take for granted each day,” said Kristina Violal, director of sales. “I enjoy seeing people so

young helping out those who cannot enjoy the same things we can.

I applaud these boys for choosing to take the time and to make the effort in giving back to the community. Little by little, we can make a difference in the world. I am so incredibly happy that we could be part of something that is so special.”

Vickens Graduates Marine Training Marine Corps Pvt. Tyler Vickens, son of Lori and Robert Vickens of Wellington, earned the title United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in Parris Island, S.C. For 13 weeks, Vickens and other recruits stayed committed during some of the world’s most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilians to Marines, and instilled with a sense of pride, discipline and the core values of honor, courage and

commitment. Training subjects included close-order drill, marksmanship with an M-16A4 rifle, physical fitness, martial arts, swimming, military history, customs and courtesies.

One week prior to graduation, Vickens endured the Crucible, a 54-hour final test of recruits’ minds and bodies.

Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time.

Vickens is a 2012 graduate of Wellington High School.

BANK OF AMERICA CONCLUDES FSO DRIVE

Matthey Finishes Army Basic Training

Tara Haynes and John Wendler were united in marriage on Sept.

23 at the Bishops Lodge in Santa Fe, N.M. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Haynes of Wellington. The groom is the son of Mrs. John Wendler of Wellington. The happy couple honeymooned in New Mexico and Arizona, and will reside in Wellington.

Army Pfc. Daniel Matthey has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, Matthey studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and cere-

mony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, the military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field-training exercises.

Matthey is the son of Mary Fitch of Paradise, Calif. He is an alumnus of Wellington High School, having graduated in 2000.

A group of 50 Bank of America employees arrived at the Forgotten Soldiers Outreach national operation center in Lake Worth on Nov. 8 with more than $3,000 worth of collected “we-care” package items to sort. The employees then prepared hundreds of packages for troops overseas. Several months ago, Bank of America of Palm Beach County kicked off a major collection drive for FSO. Hundreds of items were collected at the 50-plus participating Bank of America banking centers, where their customers and employees had the opportunity to donate such items. For more info., visit www.forgottensoldiers.org. Shown above are Bank of America employees at the FSO facility.

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 15

NEWS

THE PLAYERS CLUB IN WELLINGTON HOSTS HOLIDAY SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA

The Holiday Shopping Extravaganza took place Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Players Club in Wellington. Aside fr om shopping, attendees brought new, unwrapped toys to be given to Wellington’s Safe Neighborhoods Office. Santa was on hand to listen to Christmas wishes.

A $5 barbecue lunch was offered on the patio, and there were raffles.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Karen Lucca and Julie Tannehill of Buddy & Friends Dog Accessories.

Annette Baine gets her raffle prize from Maureen Gross.

Tiffany and Sabrina Nelms visit Santa.

Dior and Angel Garcia try on scarves and a hat crocheted

by Carol Bartlebaugh.

Julie Kilker looks over a changing pad with help from Laeticia Reino.

Elizabeth Moisi, Mason Phelps and Debie Schiff.

Wendy Ballard, WPTV NewsChannel 5 anchor Roxanne Stein and Sandy Sullivan.

BACK TO BASICS COLLECTS OVER 5,700 GIFT PACKAGES FOR STUDENTS IN NEED Volunteers gathered Wednesday, Nov. 28 to assemble gift packages of shoes, socks and underwear to be given to Palm Beach County schools through the Back to Basics program. A total of 5,750 students will receive the gift packages. It takes most of the year to get monetary donations and shoes, socks and underwear organized.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Kim Alter wraps gifts.

Carroll Shaw and Back to Basics founder Beverly Perham of Wellington check bags.

Jeff Fleischman and Sirena Vorster tape bags.

Page 16 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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NEWS

‘Back To Bethlehem’ In Lox Groves Brings Christmas Story To Life

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves will transport guests back to biblical times during its annual Back to Bethlehem celebration this weekend. Guests can experience the tale of the birth of Jesus Christ as it happened more than 2,000 years ago with a fun and interactive tour of the “city of Bethlehem.”

The free, family-friendly event runs Friday through Sunday, Dec. 7 through 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. nightly on the church’s property at Okeechobee Blvd. and E Road (14101 Okeechobee Blvd.).

“It’s a live, interactive walkthrough experience where you can walk into Bethlehem as it would have been 2,000 years ago,” project manager Trish Zenczak said. “It’s the origination of Christmas, and our way of giving back to the community.”

The event started in 2006 and

Murphy

Big Plans

continued from page 1 lot of these other countries to take the lead from us.”

Murphy’s longer-term goals are job creation and getting people back to work. “What we need to do is provide stability for business owners,” he said. “That above all is what I think is lacking in our country — any sort of vision or predictability.”

Businesses hire based on demand for their product or their service, and if taxes go 2 or 3 points higher, they will still make money and there will still be a demand for their product, he said.

“It’s creating stability in the marketplace that businesses know what to invest in, and right now

has grown by leaps and bounds with outpourings of community support.

“It started on a much smaller scale,” Zenczak said. “We wanted to reach out to people who have never heard the story of Christ, to engage them and hopefully have them come away wanting a relationship with him.”

Guests enter the walled city, built by volunteers, and are thrust into the seemingly authentic world, replete with street vendors, live animals and all the hustle and bustle of the biblical city. In a tour that lasts approximately 45 minutes, the birth of Christ is foretold for guests, then they are guided through the city and are able to browse shops and other staples of old Bethlehem. The tour culminates as guests witness a live baby Jesus and the Holy Family.

The event is popular, often drawing a crowd of more than 8,000. Zenczak attributed the suc-

cess to the desire of many families to embrace the true meaning of Christmas. “People want to be a part of Christmas,” she said.

“They want to experience something that is authentic and be in touch with the holiday’s true meaning.”

All of the experience is made possible through volunteers young and old, Zenczak said.

“We have at least 250 people participating across the board, and more that show up to help,” she said. “There are 130 actors, all of them volunteers, and about 25 to 30 of them have scripted parts that they have to memorize. We bond so much through the experience and see it as a way to show Christ’s love.”

Volunteer Alice Wallace, 56, has been volunteering with the event for six years, both as an actor and in hospitality. “I actually played inside the birthing area,” she said.

“It’s really breathtaking to see the

reactions of the people. Other times, I was on the hospitality side of things, which is also amazing.”

Wallace said the experience has been a joy for all those who choose to participate, whether it’s through volunteering or simply attending.

“It makes you realize the true meaning of Christmas,” she said.

“I’m so happy to be a part of it. It’s such a good feeling, like being in Disney. But then you think back and realize that all of this really did happen 2,000 years ago.”

Don Gay, who heads the church’s self-proclaimed “Second Half Seniors” ministry, said the event is an opportunity for people to see biblical times spring to life. “It’s something we do to give back and tell our community how much we enjoy them,” he said.

“We do it from the love in our hearts.”

For more about the event, or about the church, call (561) 7538883 or visit www.gocoh.com.

Back to Bethlehem features costumed townspeople, complete with Roman soldiers.

PHOTO COURTESY COMMUNITY OF HOPE CHURCH

people don’t know what is going to happen in the country,” Murphy said. “When you look at Fortune 500 companies sitting on $2.5 trillion in cash, they’re not spending it, that’s 80 percent above their average amount of cash.”

Murphy said now is the time to lay out a plan so everyone in the nation can see the vision for the next 10 years. “Then you’re going to see that money start flowing and businesses start investing that money,” he said. “They’re going to buy factories, they’re going to buy cars and trucks and new buildings, and they’re going to start investing and get the work force back to work.”

Murphy said he anticipates the tax structure will change. “As a CPA, in a perfect world I would rewrite the tax code from scratch,

er here and our advances to build the best windmills, the best solar panels, the best biotech robots, and then export those things.”

That philosophy is couched firmly in education, he said. “As economies evolve, it’s going to come back to having smarter people, qualified to do higher-level jobs,” Murphy said. “If you start cutting education, you’re not going to make it long-term.”

Murphy said the exporting of jobs from America to foreign countries reflects a greed by CEOs that harms the nation. “I think in the last 50 years or so, we have become a very selfish society,” he said. “It’s been, ‘How do I get ahead despite everybody else.’ I

think we used to always want to put a hand out and help someone out, and pay them more, and we’re all in it together, but that’s not the mentality nowadays.”

He said there is room for adjustment on both sides, adding that he supports labor union calls for fair pay, fair benefits, good working conditions and training for employees. “There are some bad apples who have ruined it and made certain perceptions for unions, but for the most part, the union members I’ve met with are hardworking people,” Murphy said. “They want training, they want good benefits, they want to be able to retire, so that’s not asking too much.”

He said there is a better atmosphere for cooperation in the next Congress. “The Republicans and Democrats elected in this Congress, the ones I have spoken to, were elected on a message of bipartisanship,” Murphy said. “This is a big freshman class. I think there’s 80-something new members… That’s a powerful group. If we can relay a message to leadership on both sides that says, ‘Hey, we’re here to compromise. We want to get something done,’ then I think the voters will respect it and we will actually be able to do it.”

To learn more about Murphy, visit www.patrickmurphy2012.com or call his temporary office at (561) 847-4105.

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

start over, completely simplify it to five pages if I could,” he said.

“That’s not going to happen, especially with this short window that we have right now. So what I think should be done is eliminate the Bush tax cuts but ensure it’s there for the middle class. I consider myself more fiscally conservative than the president. I drew the line at $1 million. He has it at $250,000. I think that is a good starting point.”

Local issues he is concerned about include the Everglades and the environment in general, which he said is also tied to the economy. “If we invest in our environment, that attracts tourism, which is a big part of our economy,” Murphy said. “Real estate values are based on beaches and clean air and clean water. If all of a sudden our beaches are gone, or we’re drilling for oil in the Everglades, or the dike breaks and everything is washed away, our economy is going to take a huge hit. A little bit of investment in our environment will lead to a big return for our people, our quality of life and our economy. I’m going to focus on our environment, not only because I like it and want clean air for my kids and grandkids, but because I think it will help our economy.”

With nations such as China focusing on quantity of manufacturing under working conditions that are poor and wages that are a fraction of those here, Murphy said he thinks the U.S. should focus on quality. “As economies develop, things change, and we can’t actually be the world’s largest manufacturer, but we can produce the best,” he said. “We can use our intellectuality and brain pow-

In other business: • The council also approved a resolution setting the parameters of the upcoming election for Seat 2 (occupied by Rockett) and Seat 4 (occupied by Browning), to be held March 12. The filing period opens noon Tuesday, Jan. 29, and closes noon Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Cirullo also pointed out that in the past, the council had designated the supervisor of elections as its representative for the canvassing board on election night, but that the supervisor has since determined that the town’s canvassing board will have to be at the elections office on election night to review the results. “Every city that has an election that evening, their canvassing board will be there,” Cirullo said.

Liang made a motion to approve the resolution, which carried 5-0.

• The council also approved a resolution supporting Palm Beach State College’s plans to build its fifth campus in Loxahatchee Groves, after some residents initiated a petition to stop the project.

Goltzené made a motion to simplify what he felt was an overly lengthy ordinance, to say simply that the council reaffirmed its vote

to approve the college, but his motion died for lack of a second.

Rockett made a motion to approve the resolution as written.

Goltzené pointed out that he had voted for the college. “I’m happy with that and apparently there are people who aren’t, but I really don’t want to attribute to other people motives or actions that I’m not aware of,” he said.

Six people spoke regarding the resolution, including petition initiators Todd McLendon and Gonzalez, who oppose the campus project. Residents Ken Johnson, Chiu, Ryan, Howard Voren and Philomena Liang spoke in favor of the resolution. The motion carried 4-1 with Goltzené opposed.

• The council also approved preliminary reading of an ordinance regulating the sale of hay from residential property. Kutney said the ordinance was the result of a code enforcement complaint.

Goltzené made a motion to continue the ordinance to Jan. 15 due to its complexity, but it failed for lack of a second. Rockett said they could make minor changes between first and second reading, and he made a motion to approve the ordinance. It carried 4-1, with Goltzené opposed.

“We’re representing 19 homeowners’ associations in Palm Beach Polo, which is about 700 property owners,” he said. “We’re long past the point where they can say that this is about a handful of disgruntled residents.”

Coates said this lawsuit came about as a result of another suit, filed by residents in 2007, which is still being tried.

“They sued the developer for breach of contract,” he said. “During the discovery phase, it was uncovered that turnover should have occurred in 2005. They [the residents] had asked about turnover for years and were told it had not been met. When attorneys got involved, they concluded that it had been met.”

But the two sides disagreed about whether the development threshold had been met to necessitate turning over the association.

Community bylaws set a 95 percent threshold for turnover, but residents said it was 95 percent of lots owned, while Palm Beach Polo Holdings said it was 95 percent of lots available for construction.

“Our position was when you calculate the 95 percent, you only

count platted lots,” Coates said.

“They were claiming that you have to look at the total lots.”

McCarthy wrote that public records showed 96.5 percent of the units had been sold as of Jan. 1, 2005.

“There were 1,177 platted lots… of which 1,136 had been purchased by owners from [Palm Beach Polo Holdings], leaving Holdings with 41 platted units,” McCarthy wrote. “This equates to 96.5 percent of the residential units having been sold… at which time the turnover threshold had been reached.”

But Straub disagreed with the findings. “We weren’t done developing [in 2005],” he said. “We calculated it to be about 85 percent.

Since then, we’ve developed more streets and more properties.”

Straub reiterated that his representatives plan to take this to the appellate court.

“We’ll follow the directions handed down from the court,” Straub said. “But we plan to take this to the appellate court. In the meantime, we’ll play with the cards that we’ve got. Sometimes that is good enough.”

sively indoors,” he said.

Outdoor activities, however, would continue to be restricted, with hours from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

But board members expressed concerns that residents might be disturbed by businesses being open late.

Board Member Mike Drahos said he believed there should be regulations depending on the type of business.

“I would like to be able to get gas at 1 a.m. or see a movie at midnight,” he said, “but I don’t want a convenience store open 24 hours that is within 300 feet of someone’s home.”

Board Chair Craig Bachove agreed. “If you don’t isolate the types of businesses and the hours they can operate, you’re making more work for staff like code enforcement,” he said. “If you set rules, it will keep those things from occurring down the road, rather than leaving it open and dealing with things when they happen.”

Several members said they didn’t want many businesses open 24 hours. “It’s too much like Las Vegas,” Board Member Marcia Radosevich said.

Adams agreed, noting that Wellington once allowed bars and other establishments to stay open late.

“We were finding naked women in the bushes,” he said. “We had teenagers with broken jaws. We had a real problem, and the council passed restrictions on bars and restaurants.”

Drahos asked whether village staff would consider regulating hours by the type of business. “I think we need to make designations and think this out,” he said.

Radosevich agreed. “I wonder if we could do a better job if we went back to the drawing board,” she said. “If we’re reacting this way, how do you think the people of Wellington will react if they find out there are no restrictions? I think we’d be lynched, and I’m not sure I would blame them.”

unexpected call back. “I told them about what Patrick was going through, and asked them if they could send a little care package to brighten up his day,” he said. “And they came through, which is amazing.”

LeFante was thrilled the idea worked out. “I wasn’t sure what to expect because they are a large organization and they probably get thousands of phone calls in a week,” he said.

Rose called LeFante and sent him a picture to let him know that the Yankees actually did send a package.

“He couldn’t stop smiling,” LeFante said. “He was completely surprised and had no idea I was going to do this.”

After a month and a half of healing, Patrick came back to play his favorite sport alongside his teammates. “This is his third game back, and he made it just in time for the playoffs,” LeFante said. “He loves the sport so much he couldn’t wait to play.”

Patrick and his team won the championship game this season.

“We let him play because the season is almost over, but we are cautious with him and monitor him while he plays,” LeFante said. “All the other coaches and players are also supportive.”

LeFante began coaching the team as a way to participate in the sport he enjoys with his 7-yearold son, who is also on the team.

He also likes the Yankees and named the team in their honor. “I’m originally from New Jersey, and I’ve been following the Yankees since the 1980s,” he said. “So when it was time to pick a name for our team, I picked the Yankees because it was available on the list of names.”

LeFante’s advice to people who may be discouraged from contacting a major organization for something is to never give up. “It doesn’t hurt to make a phone call or two,” he said. “Most people think nothing will happen, but you won’t know unless you try.”

a steering wheel, which they found harder to use for day-to-day road maintenance.

Volvo has also quoted $215,592 for a grader, but cannot be compared directly with the other brands because of differences in the equipment features, she said.

Quickel said all the district’s graders are exceeding their scheduled hours of use. She said the focus of the decision next week will be whether to move forward with the purchase of a new grader or repair the old one, emphasizing that there are five other 8-year-old graders with similar hours on them that will need to be considered for replacement over the next several years.

Also on the agenda is a request to purchase two new F-250 Ford trucks. One of the trucks to consider for replacement needs a $5,300 repair.

Additionally, a proposal for a revised water utility policy will be presented, which had been requested by supervisors at the last

board meeting to cover only quarter-mile increments. There had also been discussion whether to change the criterion for approval from a simple majority to a super majority.

The board will also consider a special permit for the 40-acre Vila & Sons property at 87th Court North for agricultural drainage.

Quickel said her staff is awaiting a soil sample report that had been required by the board at their last meeting as a condition for approval, which should be ready in time for next week’s meeting.

The board will also consider bids for an electronic fuel dispensing system to improve fuel monitoring and consumption, which will include two fuel pumps and four tanks with electronic keypad entry and other monitoring equipment. Delta Petroleum and Industrial is the low bidder at $26,000.

Quickel also informed the board that Director of Operations Anthony Las Casas has resigned and will leave by the end of the year.

Congressman-Elect Patrick Murphy in his temporary office.

Lox Council

Money For The Council?

continued from page 1 said. “But at the same time, a reasonable compensation is worthy of consideration.”

Councilman Jim Rockett said that while he favored some sort of compensation, the town’s population is far less than most other municipalities, which would limit the amount of the remuneration.

“I’m here on the board to serve, and that’s why I’m here, but I recognize the issue,” he said.

Town Manager Mark Kutney said that he would look into how to structure such compensation, whether it be compensation per meeting, for travel, per diem expenses or recurring expenses such as cell phone usage.

Town Attorney Michael Cirullo said he would have a report ready in time for the council meeting on Jan. 15.

Three members of the public, Loxahatchee Groves Supervisor John Ryan, Finance Advisory & Audit Committee Member Lung Chiu and Thais Gonzalez, spoke in favor of compensation.

Yankees

Surprise For Ailing Player

continued from page 1 going through, because he would show up to all the games and practices,” he said.

LeFante realized he wanted to do something special for Patrick.

“No kid should have to go through what he went through,” he said. “I did what I had to do, which was something nice that would put a smile on his face.”

Since LeFante knew that Patrick’s favorite team was the Yankees and that Granderson his favorite player, he thought of getting them involved. LeFante took on a mission to contact the Yankees by any means possible. “I called the Yankees and left a message for the public relations department,” he said. “I also called the agent of his favorite player and left a message.”

Four days later, LeFante got an

Polo Lawsuit

Straub To Appeal

continued from page 1 tion into homeowners’ hands.”

Coates, who also sits on the Wellington Village Council, said that Palm Beach Polo Holdings had been able to appoint five members to the POA board but that the ruling means it will be able to appoint only one.

“That means residents are going to have much more control over the operations of the community and the payments of its expenses,” Coates said.

Straub said that he plans to appeal the decision but believes the lawsuit came about because residents were unhappy when his management company began assessing for maintenance.

“We provided these services for years and didn’t charge a penny for it,” Straub told the Town-Crier last week. “We have two full-time people who pick up trash, clean up the lakes and trim trees.”

Coates disagreed with that assertion.

Biz Hours

Zoners Are Concerned

continued from page 1 by drive-through windows, and found that the concerns would be governed by present village code.

“Each of those issues is covered by other existing codes,” he said. “Any nuisance is already covered. It would become a code issue. I couldn’t put my finger on what we’re trying to restrict with some of these regulations.”

Even alcohol sales are governed by state statutes, Nemser said.

He said staff members thought the hours of operation were unnecessary in light of other rules that would control issues that might concern residents.

“We thought it would make more sense to remove the restrictions on the hours of operation for businesses that are located exclu-

ITID

Agenda Review

continued from page 3 all at once. “Replacement of equipment is one of the biggest items that you have to consider,” she said, explaining that the budget includes $200,000 to replace a grader this year.

The most the district would be offered for the grader in operable condition would be $50,000 to $60,000, she said. Caterpillar, the brand the district uses currently, would be willing to offer a $20,000 trade-in for the inoperable grader, she said. John Deere offered a $27,000 trade-in. John Deere wants $186,667 for a new grader, about $2,000 more than Caterpillar at $184,855.

Quickel said ITID’s staff had tested both new brands and preferred the John Deere because the new Caterpillar comes with a “joystick” steering system instead of

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 17

NEWS BRIEFS Support Wellington’s Holiday Toy Drive December is a time for giving, and Wellington residents and businesses are already helping those less fortunate by supporting the fourth annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive.

Each year, Wellington has been able to provide holiday wishes to more than 250 local children, in addition to supporting the Kids Cancer Foundation, Home Safe, the Children’s Home Society and pediatric patients at Palms West Hospital.

Wellington hopes to bring a smile to every child in need this year with support from the Mall at Wellington Green, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, local civic organizations and local businesses.

Residents may drop off unwrapped toys or make a contribution by Thursday, Dec. 20 at any of the following locations: the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.), the Safe Neighborhoods Office (1100 Wellington Trace), the Wellington

Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and Wellington Parks & Recreation (11700 Pierson Road).

“The holidays are about giving and helping those in need,” Mayor Bob Margolis said. “Our residents have always been generous in assisting those less fortunate. Your participation again this year is greatly appreciated as we celebrate this holiday season.”

For more information on how to contribute to the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, call the Safe Neighborhoods Office at (561) 791-4796.

Holiday Shopping Event Dec. 20 In Royal Palm “Holiday Stop & Shop” will take place Thursday, Dec. 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Royal Palm Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way).

There will be many different things to purchase, from house wares to ornaments to homemade jellies and more. It will be a good opportunity to shop for lastminute gifts. Attendees are en-

couraged to bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots.

For more information, call Julie Bryant at (561) 797-1501.

Wellington Ballet Theatre Presents ‘The Nutcracker’ The Wellington Ballet Theatre will present a free night of dance arts performance to the Belle Glade community Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center.

With artistic direction by 2012 Wellington Idol judge Rocky Duvall, the company will showcase performances from the classical ballet The Nutcracker, featuring a classical pas de deux performed by professional dancers Tomas Mazuch and Emily Ricca, with additional classic selections performed by Wellington Ballet Theatre Dance Company and its young apprentice dancers.

The Nutcracker is a two-act ballet with a score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and a libretto adapted from E.T.A. Hoffman’s story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King.

The ballet originally premiered in 1892 at the Mariinsky Theatre in

St. Petersburg, Russia.

The Wellington Ballet Theatre production features choreography

by Melissa Waters and is perfect holiday entertainment for the whole family. The experience will be magical, and young children are both invited and encouraged to attend. The Wellington Ballet Theatre is grateful to its sponsors for supporting the concert: the Village of Wellington, the Dance Arts Conservatory, Arrigo Fiat of West Palm and Sawgrass, Seasons Women’s Care, the Pediatric Center Inc. and Symons Family Chiropractic.

An additional performance of The Nutcracker will be held Friday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and is also free to the public. Seating is limited so come early and bring seating.

Wellington Ballet Theatre’s spring production will be a mix of classical ballet and contemporary dance set to the music of George Winston. Auditions will be held Saturday, Dec. 15 at 5 p.m. at 11260 Fortune Circle, Suite J-1, in Wellington. Call Company Manager Randy Ballen at (561) 296-1880 or e-mail info@wellingtonballet theatre.org with further questions

or to register for the audition.

Wellington Ballet Theatre is a performing company and school of ballet registered as a not-forprofit charitable organization, dedicated to promoting and preserving the dance arts in the community. The auditions, workshops, master classes and dance demonstrations are open to all members of the dance community, providing an outlet for all students of artistic merit to express themselves and learn more about classical dance as a form of art.

For more on upcoming performances, ballet classes or bookings, visit www.wellingtonballet theatre.org, e-mail founder Rocky Duvall at info@wellingtonballet theatre.org or call (561) 296-1880.

Nominees Sought For The 2013 Nursing Awards The Palm Healthcare Foundation is accepting nominations for the 11th annual Nursing Distinction Awards. The awards recognize nurses on the basis of dedication to excellence, commitment to the profession of nursing and a sense of community. Registered

nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nursing assistants and nursing students working in Palm Beach County healthcare settings are eligible for nomination.

Award categories are Registered Nurse of the Year, Licensed Practical Nurse of the Year, Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year, Nursing Student of the Year, Leadership Award, Educator of the Year, the Hands & Heart Award (recognizes a nurse whose compassion and caring has made a profound impact on a patient’s life) and the Extra Mile Award (recognizes a nurse who fosters professional growth in others and/or serves the community as a mentor or volunteer). The foundation has added two new awards this year: Mentor of the Year and the Rising Star Award (recognizes an RN in his or her first two to five years of clinical practice).

Nominations for nurses working in Palm Beach County may be completed at www.palmhealth care.org. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 28. Award recipients will be announced at the 2013 Palm Healthcare Foundation Nursing Distinction Awards on May 3 at the Breakers Palm Beach. Visit www.palmhealthcare.org for info.

Page 18 December 7 - December 13, 2012

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TLP Stables A Laid-Back Facility In The Acreage

Dorian Paxson loves spending time at her home and place of business. Happily, that’s fairly easy, as they’re one and the same.

She and her husband, Todd, own and run TLP Stables on 87th Court North in The Acreage.

Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 21

December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 19

Wellington Lacrosse Classic Tourney A Success

Dozens of travel lacrosse clubs from throughout Florida convened last weekend at Wellington Village Park for the inaugural Wellington Lacrosse Classic and competed in seven divisions, including a high school girls division. Forty-seven teams from Tampa to South Miami participated. Page 31

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business South University Offering Additional Programs At Expanded RPB Campus

South University is expanding its campus in Royal Palm Beach to include an additional 30,000 square feet of labs, classrooms and office space. With this expansion, the campus will now offer additional programs in demand for the future. Some of the new programs that will be introduced due to the expansion are an associate’s degree and doctorate in occupational therapy, a specialty that is in high demand.

Page 23

Sports Hawk Football Ends Season With 31-14 Loss To Cypress Bay

The Seminole Ridge High School varsity football team saw its state championship dreams dashed Friday, Nov. 30 when the Hawks fell 31-14 to Cypress Bay at Callery-Judge Grove Stadium. Though the Hawks dominated the first half, the Lightning came together in the second half. Page 31

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ........................ 21-22 BUSINESS NEWS..................................23-25 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 27 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 31-33 COMMUNITY CALENDAR ......................34-35 CLASSIFIEDS ........................................36-40

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The Town-Crier

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 21

FEATURES

TLP Stables A Laid-Back Horse Facility In The Acreage Dorian Paxson loves spending time at her home and place of business. Happily, that’s fairly easy, as they’re one and the same. She and her husband, Todd, own and run TLP Stables at 14270 87th Court North in The Acreage.

“I’m originally from Centereach, New York,” Dorian said. “We moved to South Florida in 1987 and bought TLP in 1997. Back then, it had only the one wooden barn. We added the second CBS barn and generally improved the property.”

The property, all 8 acres, includes 18 stalls with fans and lights, grassy turnout paddocks, an air-conditioned tack room, two round pens, a hot walker, a wash rack with both hot and cold running water, jumps, barrels and a really, really large sandy arena.

They offer full and partial board and are conveniently located a short walk from the Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park.

“The best thing about our place is how laid-back it is,” Dorian said. “This is a real family barn with a relaxed atmosphere.

Adults and kids feel welcome. And, since we live here, it’s also safe for both people and horses. Someone’s always around to check up on things.”

Dorian has 10 boarders and keeps two horses of her own: her husband’s old Quarter 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 Horse gelding, and her daughter’s pony. Sometimes the barn has more empty stalls, sometimes more occupied ones.

“We go from full to empty,” Dorian laughed.

“It doesn’t bother me. I’m used to it. That’s the way things are with horses. A lot depends on the economy and what people can afford.

Sometimes things will get slow, then they get really, really busy again. I don’t worry about it.”

TLP also offers lessons. Linda Rainbolt is the barn trainer. She keeps two of her horses there and uses them for lessons, and she also instructs people who trailer in or ride over on their own mounts.

“Right now I’m mostly teaching English Pleasure and Western Pleasure,” Linda said.

“I started teaching there a few months ago.

One of my students moved her horse from a barn in Jupiter to TLP, and so I was out there often, giving her lessons. Then I basically started teaching the whole barn.”

Western Pleasure is a very controlled discipline, she said. “The rider has to learn to control the horse with their body,” Linda explained.

Dorian Paxson of TLP Stables with one of her boarder’s horses.

“The horse moves naturally off the rider’s legs attire, is in the horse’s way of going. Although and shifting weight, not off the reins. Watch- horses should be collected in both disciplines, ing someone figure out how to collect a horse Western tends to be nice and slow, while Enthat way, from the body instead of from the glish moves out more and is more like a hunthands on the reins, is definitely a thrill.” er-type flat class.

The difference between Western Pleasure “I like teaching; I like the thrill of it when and English Pleasure, besides the tack and See ROSENBERG, page 22

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FEATURES

Day Out With Baby Was Great Until The ‘Bottle Incident’ As everyone knows — or at least everyone who was within earshot of my shouting it from the rooftops — my daughter Jennifer had a bouncing baby boy three months ago. I have affectionately named this child Skippy despite the fact that he has a real name, and over Thanksgiving, my husband Mark and I had a whole day with Skippy all to ourselves.

We had one errand to run and, sans baby, this errand would’ve taken, oh, about an hour.

But with Skippy in tow, it took four. You parents know what I’m talking about.

First, we had to get him dressed. This is like trying to put a Slinky into a sausage casing.

He twists; he turns; he stretches. But society frowns on naked babies being brought into the post office, so I persevered.

Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day!

Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer. On Facebook, stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page and click the “Like” button.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER Second, we had to get him into his car seat.

It’s a good thing the next generation of parents is a generation of rocket scientists because car seats now have the complexity of, minimally, the Saturn V space capsule.

So rather than extricate him again, Mark said he’d stay outside with Skippy while I ran in. Yet by the time I returned, Skippy was out of the car seat and Mark was juggling the baby, a blanket, a pacifier and a giraffe toy all while trying to fill a bottle.

There ought to be an award for anyone who can get this done. It would be in the Stand-

Up Comedy category, of course.

By the time we got ol’ Skipper back into that monstrosity of a car seat and were back on the road, the bottle had become of paramount importance. I was as happy to give it to him as he was to get it.

But then tragedy struck.

With every suck Skippy took, milk would gush into his mouth and pour down his neck.

He would cough and choke, and visions of my daughter excommunicating me would flash before my eyes. I tightened the bottle up and tried again. Cough, choke, burble. And again.

Same result. Now Skippy and I were both wailing, and Mark was driving erratically in response. We were quite a sight on the highway.

Finally, despite the frantic kicking and screaming, I took everything apart, and that was when I discovered a gash in the nipple that had severed it almost in two.

“Now how did that happen?” I asked. “Skippy doesn’t even have any teeth!”

Mark remembered finding the bottle in the dog’s bed the night before. He’d put it into the dishwasher, but he certainly hadn’t checked for bite marks.

Needless to say, we sped home, but it was a long way off in Hungry Baby time. So I came up with a great plan whereby I would give Skippy a quick suck on the bottle and rapidly pull it out before he could choke. Then I’d stick in the pacifier while the milk was still in his mouth. And repeat. At one point, the poor confused kid had two nipples in his mouth at once and squinted up at me as if to say, “This just is not right.”

By the time we were able to give Skippy an honest-to-gosh bottle, I wasn’t speaking to that dog. If the he came over wagging, trying to be friends, I’d holler, Don’t you even…!”

That’ll teach him.

As for me, I will be checking the working order of every bottle, car seat, pacifier and giraffe before ever leaving the house. It’s simple self-preservation.

The Lack Of A Cohesive Story Ruins ‘Killing Them Softly’ The real problem with Killing Them Softly is that it tries to be too many things. TV ads portray it as a gangster film, but the gangsterism is not as important as the assorted messages director Andrew Dominik tries to get through. He tried to create people as interesting as those in Get Shorty and Pulp Fiction, but the dialogue is not nearly as funny or powerful as in those other pictures. Even more to the point: Much of the movie seems to be pushing hard on a message that the U.S. is soulless, and organized crime is just another part of American life. Messages like that work best when they are subtle. Dominik is anything but.

The basic story line of the movie is that two real grungy losers rob a mob-protected poker game. The two robbers, Frankie (Scoot McNairy) and Russell (Ben Mendelsohn) have been told by Johnny Amato (Vincent Curatola), an old-timer with the gangs, that since the man in charge, Markie (Ray Liotta), once got away with robbing one of the games, they stood a chance that he would get the blame.

They mess up the entire job, although they get away with a lot of money. The middle management of the mob, led by the always reliable

Rosenberg

TLP Stables In The Acreage

continued from page 21 someone learns something they’ve been working on. I enjoy helping everyday people improve their riding and horsemanship,” Linda said. “My biggest thrill is starting complete novices. I’m very good at bringing along someone who knows nothing about horses or riding, and getting them to where they want to be.”

Linda gives private and group lessons, and loves getting kids involved with horses. “Kids learn fast and listen good,” she said.

Linda likes spending time at TLP Stables.

“They keep grass in the paddocks and have a huge arena and a whole course of jumps. It’s

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler actor Richard Jenkins (who does not even seem to have a name given) decide that the punks have to be punished and send two hit men to do the job to send a clear message to anybody else thinking about stepping over the line.

Jackie Cogan (Brad Pitt) and New York Mickey (James Gandolfini) are the killers, and they are the ones expected to carry the humor for the plot. Cogan actually states the film’s message: “America is not a country, it’s a business.” Combined with the choice of 2008 as its location in time (the book was actually written by George V. Higgins in 1974 as Cogan’s Trade) along with constant radio reminders of the recession that year with nasty comments about then-President George W. Bush and clean and comfortable, and the owners are really nice. I absolutely recommend it for anyone.”

Kristine Morley is a snowbird who boards her horse at TLP Stables during the winter months.

“I bring J.R., my Arab, down every year,” she said. “He’s old, like me. We’ve been boarding here for nine or 10 years. I like that J.R. is happy here and well cared for. Dorian is very understanding and knowledgeable about horses. It’s safe, and I like her flexibility. I can use my own farrier and vet, and I can visit and ride whenever I like. J.R. and I are both happy being at TLP.” For more information about TLP Stables, call (561) 791-8325.

(Right) Dorian Paxson’s daughter Riley with her pony, Gidget.

sort of hopeful ones about candidate Barack Obama, Dominik does not slip his message in quietly. The mob just runs a business, and killing people is nothing more than a minor cost — and America works the same way. He actually highlights it to an incredible degree, ruining any sense of fun. Instead of a stylish caper movie, we get a commentary on the country.

Ironically, Higgins’ writing was the inspiration for those earlier, more impressive films.

His use of dialogue, the running by-play between the lowlifes, is very witty. Dominik uses that, but the story line is far too weak to really carry the picture.

As a result, it becomes more of a star vehicle for Pitt. He is, of course, one of our premier movie stars and an excellent actor. He uses his looks, his style, to convey the message that he is a craftsman, one who specializes in handling really difficult situations. He sparkles, which contrasts well with the rest of the cast, all of whom seem to be bumblers. Gandolfini plays Cogan’s long-ago mentor, a killer well over the hill. He enjoys the drinking and hanging out but is soul-dead. He lacks even the panache of his famous alter-ego, Tony

Soprano. He has seen too much, done too much. Jenkins is a perfect middle manager; rules are rules and must be followed, even when dealing with life and death. Liotta, once thought of as a leading man, has become the almost perfect villain. He comes across as a stone-cold killer. McNairy is very good as the clumsy, not very bright leader of the pair of robbers.

There are many excellent scenes. Dominik actually uses a lot of the book’s dialogue. But the movie is more a progression of scenes than a fully told story. It feels like he set up a witty scene followed by some graphic violence followed by another witty scene and so forth. Pulp Fiction did the same thing but somehow managed to tie things together well.

Even more to the point, there was a sort of nihilistic joy about that film. There is no joy in Killing. There are laughs; there is sparkling dialogue at times. But it was hard to care about any of the characters.

It is not a bad film at all. But for all that, it is a short one, only a bit over an hour and a half, although it felt longer. There is a lot to admire in the film; I wish I had really enjoyed it.

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BUSINESS NEWS

South University’s expanded campus in Royal Palm Beach.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

South University Offering More Programs At Its Expanded RPB Campus

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report South University is expanding its campus in Royal Palm Beach to include an additional 30,000 square feet of labs, classrooms and office space. With this expansion, the campus will now offer additional programs in demand for the future.

South University operates nine campuses in seven states. It has had a campus in Palm Beach County since 1983. It also offers distance learning classes online.

The campus was previously located on Congress Avenue in West Palm Beach, but relocated to a newly built campus at the corner of Belvedere Road and State Road 7 two years ago.

Some of the new programs that will be introduced due to the expansion are an associate’s degree and doctorate in occupational therapy, a specialty that is in high demand.

The South University campus in Royal Palm Beach has big plans for this new building, Campus President David McGuire said.

McGuire anticipates that the new programs and amenities will put the campus on the forefront of higher education. He specifically pointed out a planned physicians assistant program. “That will be in another two years from now because of the programmatic procedures required,” he said.

The campus will continue to offer the health degree programs it’s known for, such as its nursing programs. With the new building, the university will be expanding existing programs as well. “We will be offering various master ’s level programs in nursing, and our family nurse practitioner programs, including a psychiatric nurse practitioner degree on the drawing board,” McGuire said.

Although South University is best known for its nursing programs, it also offers numerous programs in a variety of other fields, from criminal justice to business. “We offer advanced academic careers that many people in

the community are unaware of, like master’s degrees in business and information technology,” McGuire said.

The new two-story building is the second of three buildings planned for the Royal Palm Beach campus. South University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the same group that accredits Florida Atlantic University and Palm Beach State College. “We are held at the same standards, and we certainly feel as though we exceed those standards as a regionally accredited university,” McGuire said.

There are 1,100 students enrolled at the Royal Palm Beach campus. “We have a 16-to1 student-to-faculty ratio,” McGuire said. “We employ 25 full-time faculty members and 52 adjuncts each quarter.”

According to South University’s demographics, its typical student is a 26- to 28year-old female. “Eighty percent of our students are females,” McGuire said. “They tend to come to us with previous college experience and are managing a family or work life aside from their education.”

South University caters to non-traditional students, many of whom are continuing their education and obtaining advanced degrees.

“Non-traditional students are typically older, beyond normal college age, employed full time, with a family or have other commitments outside of school,” McGuire said. “Our students are a little more focused than students who go to college for the first time.”

The admissions process is made to run smoothly with help from an admissions counselor, who informs students about the programs and the proper requirements for enrollment.

South University expects to hold a grand opening ceremony for the new building sometime in February. The campus is located at 9801 Belvedere Road in Royal Palm Beach.

For more information, visit www.south university.edu or call (561) 273-6500.

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Elite Networking Pros Welcomes Lawyer Ron Herman As A Member Elite Networking Pros has announced Ron Herman as its newest member.

Herman earned his law degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2000 and began his legal career as an assistant state attorney in Fort Lauderdale. He has been practicing since 2000 with a concentration in criminal law, both in state and federal courts.

During Herman’s time as an assistant state attorney, he served in a specialized crime against children unit specializing in complex cases involving sex crimes and abuse. Herman has also been a division lead in the DUI unit and Domestic Violence unit. He concentrates his practice in the areas of criminal law, DUI, personal injury and landlord/tenant issues.

Elite Networking Pros brings to-

gether a group of Palm Beach County business owners and professionals who are truly best-in-class in their respective industries. Its members bond together to help each other succeed in business.

Belonging to Elite Networking Pros is like having a team of salespeople working for you. Every member interacts with friends, clients and business associates who could use your products or services.

Elite Networking Pros members will refer you with confidence because of the trust that builds as a result of being a part of Elite Networking Pros.

Elite Networking Pros meets every Friday morning for breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. in Royal Palm Beach. For additional information about the club, visit www.elite networkingpros.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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BUSINESS NEWS

ITID Completes $925,000 Worth Of Road Improvements

The Indian Trail Improvement District recently completed constructing several roadway and shoulder upgrades worth $925,000 as a result of utility installations in various locations throughout the district.

These utility improvements included installation of water and force mains by Palm Beach County to serve the Mecca Farms/Scripps project back in 2005. The district and the county negotiated a repair cost after installation of these mains caused some settlement in the shoulder and edge of pavement areas. These funds were set aside and used to return the roadways and shoulders back to their pre-installation condition.

Engenuity Group, as the district engineer, assessed the damaged areas and prepared repair plans and specifications that were put out to competitive bids in January. JW Cheatham Inc. was awarded the contract for these repairs and began work in April with a 120-day schedule. Engenuity Group, along with district staff, monitored construction progress, coordinated quality control testing, evaluated field condi-

One of the several Acreage roadway and shoulder upgrades recently completed by the Indian Trail Improvement District. tions and changes in the work scope, reviewed and approved pay requests and insured the work was completed properly and within budget.

The project was successfully completed due to a cooperative effort between Indian Trail, Engenuity Group and JW Cheatham. Several sections of roadway, including 40th Street, 140th Avenue North,

Grapeview Blvd. and Hamlin Blvd., all received new stabilized shoulders, milling and asphalt overlay and pavement striping. Some of the challenges included a moving-maintenance of traffic operation, replacement of baserock material at the edge of pavement, inclement weather during the spring and summer months and daily return to normal traffic patterns/cleanup.

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December 7 - December 13, 2012 Page 25

BUSINESS NEWS

Wellington Chamber Ribbon Cutting For SuperFit Gym The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed SuperFit Gym as a new member. The gym is located at 8233 Gator Lane, Suite 14, in West Palm Beach.

The business is owned and operated by Julian and Yvonne GibsonSerrette. Both are retired, professional bodybuilders who have won many medals and titles on the state, national and international levels, several being first place.

SuperFit Gym trainers have more than 25 years of personal experience and knowledge in the area of bodybuilding, as well as certifications in many specialty areas for optimal fitness and health. These trainers will most likely have you voluntarily sweating, breathing deeply, biting the bullet and eating more green plants at home as they bring you to your physical goals.

Julian was born in Trinidad and

ABWA Holiday Event Dec. 12 In Gardens The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Dec. 12 at the PGA Doubletree Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens.

There will be no formal speaker.

The December meeting will be a holiday celebration and gift bag assembly for donation to local vets. All are welcome as the group prepares gift tags and fills bags with assorted toiletries, clothing, trinkets and activities. Donations will be made to the VA Medical Center at a later date in December. Mary C. Phillips, chief of voluntary/recreation thera-

py service, has noted that the need is overwhelming. Chapter member Tina Ravel, an independent Stampin’ Up demonstrator, has donated the items necessary to prepare the personalized gift tags and will coordinate assembly.

Networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m., with the dinner and program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30, and guests are welcome. To make reservations, call Dottie Smith at (772) 545-7145 or Sharon Maupin at (561) 329-4485. For more information, call (561) 908-4798 or visit www. abwanpbflorida.org.

Tobago and started getting involved in bodybuilding at the age of 19. In 1983, he moved to Miami, where he continued to compete and train others. “When you live on the islands, it’s a very physical type of upbringing, especially 50 years ago,” Julian said about how he got involved in working out and being fit. “We pretty much walked everywhere. Everyone was active. You swam; you biked; you walked. So it was pretty much ingrained in you to be active.”

Yvonne was born and raised in Miami. She was always active and enjoyed going to the gym. One day Yvonne met a bodybuilder who encouraged her to compete in an upcoming competition. She did so and won, and her career path unfolded from there.

Yvonne met Julian in 1987. Julian became her coach in nutrition and choreography (presentation) at her first nationals. “She came in second place,” Julian said. “It was unheard of for a newcomer to come in and place that high.”

After that, Julian became Yvonne’s full-time nutrition coach.

Julian explained that their SuperFit Gym’s 50- to 60-minute classes are all designed by their trainers, who have are experienced and knowledgeable in the field of proper

Ribbon Cutting — Joanne T. Dee, Evelyn Perez, Mark “Boz” Bozicevic, SuperFit Gym’s Yvonne and Julian Gibson-Serrette, Becca Hargreades, Dr. Randy Laurich, Carmine Marino and Bob Salerno. nutrition. The gym’s classes include functional, high-intensity movements (such as rowing, running, biking and jumping) and basic strength lifts. They incorporate multidirectional and isolation exercises in order to strengthen all muscles and muscle groups.

SuperFit Gym is stocked with all types of equipment, including TRX, Bosu balls, all types of free weights, climbing ropes and jump ropes. For better flexibility, the gym offers active isolated stretching

sessions with a certified stretch practitioner.

Within the community, SuperFit Gym supports a variety of animal welfare organizations and organizes several fundraisers throughout the year.

For more information about SuperFit Gym contact Julian or Yvonne at (954) 258-6840 or superfitvegan @aol.com, or visit www.superfit vegan.com. For more about the Wellington Chamber, visit www. wellingtonchamber.com.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Tickets For ‘Mary Poppins’ At Kravis Center On Sale Dec. 8 The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, along with producers Thomas Schumacher of Disney Theatrical Productions and Cameron Mackintosh, have announced that tickets for the Kravis Center premiere of the long-awaited production of Mary Poppins will go on sale to the public Saturday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m.

West Palm Beach’s eagerly awaited stage production will begin performances at the Kravis Center on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. for a limited engagement of one week through Sunday, Feb. 3.

With six productions currently running on three continents, Mary Poppins is one of the biggest stage musical successes to emerge from London or New York in recent years.

Worldwide to date, the show has grossed over $731 million and welcomed 10 million guests.

The musical is the winner of 44 major theater awards around the globe, including Tony, Olivier, Helpmann and Evening Standard awards.

The entire original creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences around North America. The Mary Poppins North American Tour began performanc-

es in 2009 and has played to two and a half million delighted theatergoers in 60 cities to date.

Mary Poppins is a co-production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh. Based on P.L. Travers’ cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins the stage play features the Academy Award–winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award–winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award–winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.

Olivier Award–winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne. Mary Poppins features set and costume design by Tony Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick. The

tour’s creative team includes Tour Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett and Music Director Daniel Bowling.

Mary Poppins received its worldwide premiere at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End in December 2004. Following its successful three-year London run, the production launched an acclaimed U.K. tour.

The Broadway production of Mary Poppins officially opened at the New Amsterdam Theatre on Nov. 16, 2006, recouping its initial Broadway investment within 52 weeks of its premiere. Mary Poppins is the only show from the 2006-07 theatrical season still in performance.

The Mary Poppins North American tour has garnered continuous critical praise and achieved box office success since its launch.

Mary Poppins can also be seen Sydney, Australia (at the Capitol Theatre) and Mexico City, Mexico.

Productions of Mary Poppins have also been mounted in Finland, Denmark and the Czech Republic.

In West Palm Beach, productions of Mary Poppins will run Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m.; Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Thursday, Jan. 31 at 8 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 1 at 8

A scene from Mary Poppins, opening Jan. 29 at the Kravis Center. p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 3 at 2 p.m.

Ticket prices start at $25. Beginning Saturday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m., tickets will be available at the Kravis Center box office located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach; by calling the box office at (561) 8327469; online at www.kravis.org/mary poppins, and at all Ticketmaster outlets. Orders for groups of 10 or more

may be placed by calling (561) 6514438 or (561) 651-4304.

The West Palm Beach engagement of Mary Poppins is presented by arrangement with the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts and is a subscription offering of the Kravis On Broadway Series.

For more information about the production, visit the Mary Poppins web site at www.marypoppins.com.

African-American Art Exhibit Opens Dec. 27 At Norton Museum

Victorian Couple by Yinka Shonibare.

The Norton Museum of Art has announced the opening of “Say it Loud: Art by African and AfricanAmerican Artists in the Collection” Thursday, Dec. 27 at 5 p.m., during Art After Dark.

The exhibition, which runs through March 3, includes dozens of paintings, sculptures, photographs and works on paper spanning much of the past 100 years.

“This exhibition celebrates the diversity of the museum’s collection, and features more than 20 artists working in a variety of media and representing an array of styles, ideas, and issues inspired by personal and artistic concerns,” Norton Executive Director Hope Alswang said.

Among the works in the exhibition will be rarely seen photographs

by James Van Der Zee and Gordon Parks, sculpture by Augusta Savage, paintings by Jacob Lawrence and Charles Henry Alston, and contemporary works by Nick Cave, Al Loving, Faith Ringgold, Yinka Shonabare, Mary Sibande, Kara Walker and others. (Ringgold is scheduled to discuss her life’s work as artist, activist, author and teacher Sunday, Jan. 20 at 4 p.m. at the museum.)

The Dec. 27 edition of Art After Dark, the Norton’s Thursday night series “where culture and entertainment meet,” will have a distinctly “Say it Loud” theme. Greg Jackson

and the Mojo Band will rekindle the Motown sound as well as the songs of James Brown, Otis Redding and other soulful and funky classics from the 1960s and 1970s. Multi-instrumentalist Dave Harris will deliver exhilarating blues licks on guitar, harmonica and keyboards. The evening also will include tours of “Say it Loud” and other exhibitions, art activities for all ages, and a menu from Café 1451.

The Norton Museum of Art is a major cultural attraction in Florida, and internationally known for its distinguished permanent collection featuring American art, Chinese art, contemporary art, European art and photography.

The museum is located at 1451 S. Olive Ave. in West Palm Beach, and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays.

General admission is $12 for adults, $5 for students with a valid ID, and free for members and children age 12 and under. Special group rates are available. Palm Beach County residents receive free admission the first Saturday of each month with proof of residency.

For additional information about the exhibit “Say it Loud,” call the museum at (561) 832-5196 or visit www.norton.org.

Soundsuit, a mixed-media piece by Nick Cave.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Hawk Football Ends Season With 31-14 Loss To Cypress Bay

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School varsity football team saw its state championship dreams dashed Friday, Nov. 30 when the Hawks fell 31-14 to Cypress Bay High School at Callery-Judge Grove Stadium.

Though the Hawks dominated the first half of the game, the Lightning came together in the second half to score four touchdowns, effectively

stopping the Hawks cold and taking the Class 8A regional championship.

The Hawks jumped out to an early lead when, midway through the first quarter, a long pass from Zach DeCosta found Silas Spearman, who ran into the end zone. An extra-point kick made the score 7-0 with six minutes left in the quarter.

Spearman kept up the momentum on the Hawks’ next possession, run-

Hawk Zach DeCosta hangs on to the ball to run in a first down.

ning 10 yards for a touchdown. An extra-point kick made the score 14-0 with several minutes left in the first quarter. But it was the last points Seminole Ridge would put on the board for the remainder of the game.

The Hawks held the Lightning to only 3 points in the first half, a 26yard field goal in the second quarter. Though Cypress Bay neared the end zone late in the second quarter, a pass interception by Hawk safety Jalen Young shut down the play before the Lightning could put in a touchdown.

Going into halftime, Seminole Ridge was leading 14-3. But the momentum changed in the second half, and the Lightning were able to slip past the Hawks’ defensive line to score four touchdowns.

Though Seminole Ridge nearly stopped Cypress Bay several times, penalties and dropped balls hurt the team, causing the Hawks to lose yardage and miss opportunities.

But the Lightning pushed hard throughout the second half, effectively shutting out Seminole Ridge to finish the game 31-14.

SRHS quarterback Zach DeCosta hands off the ball to Silas Spearman.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Inaugural Wellington Lacrosse Classic Tourney A Success

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report Dozens of travel lacrosse clubs from throughout Florida convened last weekend at Wellington Village Park for the inaugural Wellington Lacrosse Classic and competed in seven divisions, including a high school girls division. Forty-seven teams from Tampa to South Miami gathered in Wellington for the tournament.

“We’ve exceeded our first year’s

expectations. We have teams from U-11 to high school participating here,” Tournament Director Joe Calby said.

Calby also coaches the Wellington Warpigs and is the head coach of the varsity lacrosse team at Wellington High School. The Warpigs represented two divisions at the tournament: a U-19 A and B team.

The A team played in the championship match against Florida Elite White, falling 4-3. The Warpigs team

Warpigs midfielder Hunter Deitz battles for the ball against a Laxafarians player.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

is made up of mostly Wellington and Palm Beach Central high school lacrosse players.

Calby explained where the name “Warpigs” came from. “The kids joined America Supporting Americans, which is a group that coordinated student athletes to correspond with the troops overseas,” he said. “The name Warpigs is the nickname of a special military group, the 49th EOD, and so we just adopted the name to honor that group.”

Plans are already being discussed for next year’s tournament, and the bar has been set high with the success this year. The tournament also contributed as a fundraiser for the WHS lacrosse program.

Calby mentioned that lacrosse does not receive supplemental funds from the Palm Beach County School District, so it is a self-supporting unit. High school lacrosse begins in February, and many of the players prepare by participating in tournaments, as well as showcasing their skills to college coaches. It also helps those who aspire to play at the next level.

Calby credited the local parents and future lacrosse players at the school for volunteering their time to help make the event a huge success.

“We’ve achieved our first goal — providing a good experience for the kids — and made it affordable for the parents,” he said. “Next year it will definitely be bigger.”

To follow the Warpigs, visit www. warpiglax.com.

Warpigs defender Ryan Smolchek dives for the ball.

Warpigs midfielder Thomas Oporto wins a face-off.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

TKA Ball Player Signs Wildcats Finish Second In Region With Tennessee Tech The King’s Academy Athletics Department has announced that senior varsity baseball player Johnny Carpenter signed a national letter of intent and scholarship offer Wednesday, Nov. 21 to play baseball at Tennessee Tech beginning in fall 2013.

Carpenter, center fielder for the Lions, was selected as a Palm Beach Post Honorable Mention selection in 2010 and 2011. Carpenter has been the TKA Varsity Baseball Captain for two years and has been hitting approximately .350 since joining the varsity team as a seventh-grader.

“Players like Johnny Carpenter are few and far between,” TKA varsity baseball coach Doug Magaw said.

“He has been a starter for the past five years and a team captain for his junior and his upcoming senior year.

His understanding of the fundamentals of the game is beyond his years in the game. Johnny is nothing short of a sponge when it comes to his desire to learn about the game on a daily basis. Tennessee Tech is truly receiving a top-notch player and a first-class individual as well.

Johnny’s family should be congratulated on a job well done regarding

Johnny Carpenter Johnny’s strong desire to be successful both on and off the field in the classroom.”

Tennessee Tech University is an NCAA Division 1 school in Cookeville, Tenn., and part of the Ohio Valley Conference. The Tennessee Tech mascot is the Golden Eagles, and the team coached by Matt Braga.

The Royal Palm Beach High School girls volleyball team had a successful season in 2011, having won a district title — the fourth one in the school’s history and the first in a new district.

The Lady Wildcats went on to defeat Olympic Heights in the quarterfinals and then were stopped by Atlantic in the semifinals.

The Wildcats graduated three seniors and knew that they had a good core coming back: libero Gabby Marionakis, setter/right sides Bayley and Brianne Cook, middle Chambre Brown and middle/outside Kiersten Abdell. Adding to that mix off the bench were Jshanna Perry and Victoria Bailey.

Sixth-year coach Sal Ciano was hoping to pick up a few new players and thought that maybe this year would be a rebuilding year.

Enter freshmen Bailey Williams, Crichanni Watson and Leila Belakbir to complete the roster.

This past year has been a rebuilding year, which saw the Wildcats’ fifth district championship, a quarterfinal win over West Boca and a revenge win against Atlantic in the semifinals. Royal Palm Beach was one game away from heading to Kissimmee for the state

The Royal Palm Beach High School celebrates their victory. championships for the second time in four years. St. Thomas Aquinas had a different plan for the Wildcats that day.

While losing is never the outcome any team is expecting, Ciano couldn’t have been any happier with his team.

“They [St. Thomas] were bigger than us,” he said. “Are we disappointed? Of course. Being one win away from states is hard, but our girls fought hard and worked hard all year. Regional finalist? We’ll take it. I couldn’t be any prouder of this team.”

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SPORTS & RECREATION

2013 Dressage Summit Scheduled For Feb. 9-11 At PBIEC For dressage enthusiasts, winter in Wellington is the best way to usher in the new year. Each year, familiar faces and new ideas, steeped in longstanding traditions, are a big part of the equestrian community celebrations. And 2013 will be no exception, especially with the debut of the Dressage Summit, a three-day unprecedented event bringing together the best of classical dressage, competitive dressage training and natural horsemanship methods presented by five of the top names in the business.

Scheduled for Feb. 9-11 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center and featuring Klaus Balkenhol, Walter Zettl, Christoph Hess, and Linda and Pat Parelli, the Dressage Summit will focus on working together to build stronger horse/ human partnerships in classical dressage. These renowned presenters will demonstrate how to apply the fundamental principles of classical dressage to every level of the sport while respecting the dignity of both horse and human. This groundbreaking collaboration between dressage masters and top horsemen provides an exciting new perspective where dressage and natural horsemanship converge to enhance the training of the dressage athlete.

“Dressage is not only about the fancy piaffe,” Hess said. “It is about the art of the simple essentials like transitions, good riding and the careful training and development of the equine athlete.”

Hess is an FEI “I” judge in both dressage and eventing, and is currently the head of instruction and head of the Personal Members Department at the DOKR, or German National Federation, which is the German equivalent to the United States Equestrian Federation. He is actively involved in the education of judges and instructors in Germany and worldwide. Hess will be presenting a tremendous amount of information gained over his years of experience.

Balkenhol will also share his insight during the Dressage Summit.

Balkenhol is a German dressage trainer and rider with multiple Olympic medals to his name. He won Team Gold and Individual Bronze at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and Team Gold at the 1998 Atlanta Olympics.

Linda and Pat Parelli will also be contributing their vast experience with equine behavior, psychology and training. In recent years, Linda Parelli has devoted herself to the study of classical dressage with Zettl. Through this collaboration,

and using her extensive knowledge of equine psychology, she has developed a systematic way to teach contact with the horse.

Pat Parelli is known worldwide as the founder of Parelli Natural Horsemanship, and his ability to transform extremely challenging horses in any discipline into willing partners has kept him constant demand. During the summit, the Parellis will focus on the mental and emotional aspects of training horses, and how to use this knowledge to train successful, willing athletes at any level of competition.

Zettl has a lifetime of valuable experience that he will be sharing at the summit, including his belief in the importance of cross training for the horse, patience for the rider, and the development of trust between them. His long list of global accomplishments includes numerous awards and medals.

Topics for the Dressage Summit range from developing the basics in any horse, overcoming training issues, developing a confident, willing horse, practical application of the dressage training scale for any horse, developing a physically and emotionally fit athlete to for competition, and applying psychology for the horse (and rider)

Christoph Hess and Linda Parelli school Emily Wagner aboard the 6-year-old AWR stallion WakeUp. PHOTO COURTESY PARELLI NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP

to improve the partnership.

Dressage Summit sponsors Premier Equestrian, Dressage Today and the United States Dressage Federation will also be onsite to ensure attendees are treated to three days of elegant, exciting education.

Three-day tickets for the 2013 Dressage Summit are available for $195,

and one-day tickets cost $95. Limited VIP tickets are available for $395 and include catered food, complementary beer and wine, as well as the chance to mingle with Dressage Summit presenters. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.dressagesummit.com or call (855) 727-3554.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturday, Dec. 8 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Dec. 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 283-5856 or visit www.wellingtonfl. gov for more info.

• Wellington Children’s Authors Kimberly Joy and Thomas Ward will host a reception Saturday, Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at DiSalvo’s Trattoria (1760 N. Jog Road, Suite 180, West Palm Beach). Children will get to meet Santa for free, and kids 10 and under can enjoy a free bruch with a paid adult brunch for $9.90. RSVP to (561) 594-6983.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to benefit Brianna’s Foundation. For more info., call (561) 628-4663 or e-mail holidaymagicbook@yahoo.com.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “The Unwanted Horse” on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 1:30 p.m. for adults. Dana Bell of Epona’s Path will discuss what happens to unwanted horses and how it can be prevented. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Teen Advisory Posse for ages 12 to 17 Saturday, Dec. 8 at 2:30 p.m. Share your ideas for future teen programs. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Teen Writing Club” for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. Share your writing with others to improve your skills. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature Anime Club for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Marshall Foundation’s River of Grass Gala will be held Saturday, Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Colony Hotel Palm Beach. Tickets cost $350. For more info., call (561) 2339004 or visit www.artmarshall.org.

• The Symphonic Band of the Palm Beaches will hold holiday concerts Saturday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens and Saturday, Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Duncan Theatre in Lake Worth. For more info., visit www. symbandpb.com. Tickets cost $15 and can be purchased by calling (561) 832-3115.

• Showtime Performing Arts Theatre (503 SE Mizner Blvd., Suite 73, Boca Raton) will continue its production of [Title of Show] Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 8 and 9. The show will conclude Dec. 15-16. Performance times are Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2

p.m. Purchase tickets by calling (561) 3942626 or online at www.showtimeboca.com.

Sunday, Dec. 9 • The 29th annual Wellington Holiday Parade will take place Sunday, Dec. 9. The parade will begin at 1 p.m. preceded by the Holiday Mile Run at 12:45 a.m. After the parade, enjoy the Winter Wonderland festivities at the Wellington Amphitheater. For more on the parade, visit www.cpbchamber. com or call (561) 790-6200. For more about Winter Wonderland, visit www.wellingtonfl. gov or call (561) 753-2484.

Monday, Dec. 10 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Teen Game Night for ages 12 to 17 on Monday, Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo Wii and board games. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors will meet Monday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. at the district office (101 West D Road). Call (561) 7930884 or visit www.lgwcd.org for more info.

• The Mid-County Democratic Club will hold its holiday party Monday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. at Tree’s Wings & Ribs in Royal Palm Beach. Bring unwrapped toys for charity. Email stevemiddems@gmail.com for info.

Tuesday, Dec. 11 • Na’amat USA, Sharon Chapter of Royal Palm Beach will host a Chanukah celebration Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 11:30 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). A prepaid lunch will be served, followed by a short business meeting and entertainment. For more info., call Cecile Millman at (561) 795-5811.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host its Between The Covers Adult Book Discussion on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. Barbara Harnick will discuss The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. Sign up and check out the book. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Holiday Pop-Up Cards” for ages 9 to 12 on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 4 p.m. Create unique greeting cards. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Chess Club for Adults on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 Forest W. Hill See CALENDAR, page 35

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 34 Blvd.). For info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Hooked on Crochet” for adults on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. Jessica Shultz will guide you through basic techniques. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Royal Palm Beach Community Band’s fall concert series will conclude Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Refreshments will be served during the intermission.

For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

Wednesday, Dec. 12 • The Palm Beach County Commission, sitting as the Solid Waste Authority, will meet Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. at the Solid Waste Authority’s auditorium (7501 N. Jog Road). For more info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• The South Florida Science Museum will host its monthly Silver Science Days for seniors Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. featuring a lecture by Dr. James B. Wood. For info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Between the Covers Adult Book Discussion Series” for adults Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 4 p.m. featuring The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Sign up and check out the book. Call (561) 681-4100 for info.

• The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors will meet Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the district office (13476 61st St. North). Call (561) 793-0874 or visit www.indiantrail.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Hooked on Crochet” for adults on Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

Thursday, Dec. 13 • Moscow Classical Ballet will perform the holiday classic The Nutcracker Dec. 13-15 at the Kravis Center. Visit www.kravis.org or call (561) 833-8300 for tickets.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Baby Story Time for ages 6 to 18 months Thursday, Dec. 13, 11 a.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Growing and Using Herbs” on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Ada Medina-Solorzano of the Palm Beach County Extension Service will display a variety of herbs. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Dec. 13 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W.

Forest Hill Blvd.). Between 15 and 20 food trucks participate in this event every Thursday. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Pajama Tales” for ages 2 to 6 on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy bear and wind down for the evening with bedtime stories.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Equestrian Trails Elementary School will hold its Holiday Performance on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. Bring your own seating to this free event. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host “Gluten-Free Cooking and Eating for the Holidays” on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.

• The Wellington High School chorus and band programs will present their annual Winter Concert on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. in the WHS theater. The free program will include traditional choral and band music along with holiday favorites. The entire community is invited to attend the dessert reception in the cafeteria following the concert.

For more info., call (561) 795-4900.

Friday, Dec. 14 • Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Militar y Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “Stories in the Garden: Trees” on Friday, Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. in the Mounts Pavilion. This free program is targeted for ages 2 to 6 and includes interactive stories and songs followed by an activity in the garden. RSVP to (561) 233-1757. For more info., visit www.mounts. org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Jingle Babies” on Friday, Dec. 14 at 10:15 a.m. for babies under 12 months and 11:15 a.m. for ages 13 to 23 months. Jingle along with rhymes and songs.

Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach Indoor Holiday Flea Market will take place Friday, Dec. 14 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Local vendors will be selling holiday items and more. Admission is free. For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

• Royal Palm Beach Movie Night will begin on Friday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Veterans Park Amphitheater featuring the family fun movie Polar Express. Bring your own seating. For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

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Legal Notice No. 564 Notice Under Fictitious Name Florida Statute 865.09 Public notice is hereby given that the undersigned desires to engage in business under the fictitious name of:

BROWNS REAL PIT BBQ Located at: 1581 Kudza Rd. West Palm Beach, FL 33415 County of Palm Beach, Fl orida and intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations State of Florida,forthwith

Thomas Brown Publish :Town-Crier Newspapers Date: 12-07-12

ROOM FOR RENT — with private bath, $600/month Private. 561-9854910 ROOM T O RENT - Utilities included, furnished, pool, LaMancha Community. $600 per month. Call 561-667-3475

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576 FURNISHED HOUSE FOR RENT/ SHORT OR LONG TERM — situated in a cul-de-sac and 5 minutes away from S pruce Meadows, this 2000 sf. 2 story newer house in Shawnessy has hardwood floor throughout and 2.5 bathrooms.

Leather furniture, 48” TV and a Piano in main floor. Master bedroom has Jacuzzi. 2 large size bedrooms and bonus room. Wireless Internet, double att ached garage, fenced backyard with BBQ. W eekly housekeeping, linen service and lawn cutting plus all utilities included. For more details call (403) 808-7254 OR (403) 700-2065

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in W ellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINATOR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays. Also needed: EXAM PREP TUT ORS Now Hiring SAT/ACT Preparation Tutors. Must have a 4 year degree preferably in Mathmetics or English. Be available to tutor on Saturdays. Please e-mail resume tomarlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com

TEACHING ASSISTANT FOR PRESCHOOL — Experienced preferred. 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. - Fri. 561-793-5860 TEACHER— 3 Year Old Class.

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. CDA Required. 561-790-0808 GREAT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY FOR THE RIGHT CANDIDATE — F/T pre-school assistant Teacher CDA required. Experience a plus. Call Sheryl 561-792-6909 E.O.E.

FRONT DESK — Loxahatchee/ Boynton Beach. Busy Dermatology practices, full-time, experience preferred, must be available for flexible hours, evenings and weekends.

Fax resume to 561-790-7568 MEDICAL ASSISTANT NEEDED IN LOXAHATCHEE/BOYNTON BEACH — Busy Dermatology practice, full-time, experience preferred, must be available for flexible hours, evenings and weekends. Fax resume to 561-790-7568 DRIVERS — DEDICATED ACCOUNT! TOP PAY! $2,000 sign on bonus. Benefit s, miles, great hometime and more. 1-888-5674854 Werner Enterprises.

PART -TIME KENNEL HELP/ GROOMING ASSISTANT— to work Saturday, Sunday and Monday, possibly more. Call 561-7911234 to set up interview DRIVERS: $2000.00 SIGN-ON BONUS! -Top Pay, Benefits, Miles.

Great Home-Time & More! Werner Enterprises: 1-888-567-4854 PART-TIME LEARN TO SWIM INSTRUCTOR FOR KIDS: — Year round, indoor heated pool, weekday morning classes, plus room to grow. Must have lifeguard certification, we will train. 561-855-7043

DRIVER'S WANTED —Full-Time/ Part-Time Retirees welcome. Night Dispatcher for Wellington Town-Car. Call for details. 561-333-0181

TOWN-CRIER NEWSPAPER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE

JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent particip ating 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

BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE — Auto •Home • Life• Renters •Motorcycle •RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh

WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your ap artment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012252779

RELIANT ADJUSTERS GROUP INC. — Do you have a property damage claim? Don’t call your insurance company. Call us 24/7 561-929-9826 We Make 100% Sure Your Insurance Company Pays You Every Penny You Deserve. Licensed and Bonded by the State of Florida #P002881 www.publicinsuranceadjusterflorida.net

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/Sof tware setup, support & troubleshooting w w w . m o b i l e t e c . n e t .

561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jef f 561-3331923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. W e accept major credit cards.

DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Rep airs & 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 rep air, door inst allation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215 HANDYMAN AND CLEANING SERVICES — Caza Services for all your handyman and cleaning needs.

18 years experience. No job is too small. Call us today. Insured 561802-8300 or 754-242-3459

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 CRC 1327426 561-248-8528

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references.

Shopping available. 561-572-1782 HOUSECLEANING — affordable cleaning services, Royal Palm Maids. 561-666-7738 “For all your cleaning needs”

HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACT ORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, sof fits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561791-9777

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./ Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est.

Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured.

CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior p ainting.

Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, 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 RC0067207

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

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

561-577-9176 We answer our phones!

Build all type ENCLOSURES, repair, reinforcements & RESCREENING, slabs/footers/fascias.

If u don’t like sloppy jobs Call us! Recession rates AAA Pro Screeninglic # U-21289/ins

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777

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

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576

SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980.

Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258

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

HIST ORY/SOCIAL STUDIES TUT OR, — Accredited teacher 4 subject s, available in your home. All subject s come alive, you will not forget when tested! Middle/High School $25/hr. 561-702-0891

PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Inst allation,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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