Town-Crier Newspaper January 15, 2021

GAUNTLET OF POLO RETURNING TO IPC SEE STORY, PAGE 3

WATCH OUT FOR VACCINE SCAMMERS SEE STORY, PAGE 4

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INSIDE PBC Legislators Support Bill Banning Fireworks In Equestrian Areas

Volume 42, Number 2 January 15 - January 28, 2021

Serving Palms West Since 1980

LOX GROVES TRAIL RIDE POKER RUN

The Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation approved without objection a proposed bill prohibiting the use of fireworks in Wellington’s Equestrian Overlay Zoning District on Thursday, Jan. 7 during a hearing on local bills held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

Page 3 PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

McLain Ward Soars To Victory In $75,000 Bainbridge Grand Prix

McLain Ward capped off the first week of competition at the 2021 Winter Equestrian Festival with top honors on Sunday, Jan. 10 in the $75,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix. Ward and Catoki topped four speedy entries with the only double clear effort of the day to claim the title. Page 15

RPBHS Girls Basketball Focused On Getting Better Every Day

Royal Palm Beach High School varsity girls basketball coach Ivana Soberal has high expectations for her team this year. She understands that the key to the annual success of her program is rooted in her players’ ability to grasp and eventually master basketball’s fundamental skills. Page 21

PBCHS Basketball Girls Chasing Hardwood Dreams

Teamwork will make the dream work. It may be a cliché, but that’s what is necessary for the Palm Beach Central High School varsity girls basketball team to achieve its dream of finishing the regular season on a high note and then making a deep run in the state playoffs.

Page 21 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS...............................3 - 18 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 7 PEOPLE.............................. 8 - 9 SCHOOLS.............................. 10 COLUMNS............................. 16 BUSINESS............................. 19 SPORTS................................. 21 CLASSIFIEDS.................23 - 24 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The second annual Loxahatchee Groves Scholarship Trail Ride & Poker Run was held Sunday, Jan. 10. A total of 49 riders helped raise $2,000 for scholarships through the 5.6-mile trail ride.

Shown above, Karen Rayside on Echo takes a card from Brad Rae of sponsor Southern Palms Bed & Breakfast. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington’s Equestrian Committee Offers Input On Proposed Golf Cart Rules

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee gave input Wednesday, Jan. 6 on the village’s plans for a new golf cart ordinance.

Assistant Planning, Zoning & Building Director Michael O’Dell has been making the rounds of local public forums, boards and advisory committees as he seeks input on the proposed regulations.

A presentation on the public input is expected to head to the Wellington Village Council in the spring.

Last week’s presentation was much the same as the one offered at previous forums on the topic.

Now that pathways of more than 12 feet wide are being completed, and others are being widened from their current eight-foot width, it is expected that golf cart use will grow. The proposed rules would apply to use not only on the pathways, but elsewhere in the village.

O’Dell’s slides explain that state law makes it legal to use golf carts on local streets that have a posted speed limit of less than 25 mph, within HOAs, on a golf course or private property.

If a golf cart is street legal, it is a different type of vehicle in the eyes of the law. It will have a vehicle identification number, a license plate and must meet other motor vehicle requirements and follow the same regulations as a car. Such vehicles can be driven on any roadway with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. They must be driven by a licensed driver. Such vehicles are actually considered a slow-moving car and, therefore, are not permitted on the pathways.

Wellington is currently accepting input to develop regulations to allow traditional golf carts to be legally used on its pathways.

This is of particular interest to the equestrian community. Golf carts have been a source of internal

transportation for local equestrians for years.

The draft ordinance recommends a maximum speed of 15 mph on pathways, and requires drivers to be licensed and at least 16 years old. “The council is trying to help the village by adopting something that works for the community in Wellington,” O’Dell said.

Further, the ordinance also provides occupancy limitations, requires a Wellington registration sticker, certain safety equipment and the signature of the golf cart’s owner to acknowledge that the owner understands the rules.

Committee members had a wide-ranging number of questions: Where does the money from the fee go? (To the village to fund the registration program.)

How do you prove you have insurance? (You do so when you get the sticker from the village.) Can you See GOLF CARTS, page 7

Health Director: County Working To Solve Vaccine Supply Shortages

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Florida Department of HealthPalm Beach County Director Dr. Alina Alonso told the Palm Beach County Commission on Tuesday, Jan. 12 that her staff is looking into shortages of COVID-19 vaccines coming in from state and federal sources, as well as problems getting appointments.

“What I really want to concentrate on is talking about the vaccine and let you know how we’re proceeding,” Alonso said. “This is an ever-changing and moving situation.”

She said many hospitals are in trouble nationwide as the number of cases soar.

“We continue to be number one in the world in terms of cases with 22 million cases,” she said. “Next

closest to us is India, followed

by Brazil. In terms of the states with the highest numbers, there is California and Texas, and Florida is number three.”

Florida surpassed its previous high peak in December with a new spike on Jan. 2, bringing the number of cases to more than 302,000.

“We had the feeling that the curve was coming down,” she said. “But we’re not sure this curve is coming down yet.”

Vaccinations, per the governor’s order, are only for residents and staff of long-term care facilities, people age 65 years and over, and healthcare personnel, she said.

“The issue here is that a lot of people want to get vaccinated because they have co-morbidities,” See VACCINES, page 18

OPENING DAY AT IPC

Opening day of the 2021 season arrived at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Sunday, Jan. 3, beginning with the Bobby Barry Cup final, in which Palm Beach Equine defeated Beverly Equestrian 13-11. Shown above, Palm Beach Equine’s Gringo Colombres was named Most Valuable Player.

SEE STORY, PAGE 15 PHOTO BY ALEX PACHECO

Attorneys Update Westlake On Lox Council Eyes Road Connection Litigation Chip Seal Paving To Fix OGEM Roads

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Seminole Improvement District Attorney Robert Diffenderfer addressed the Westlake City Council on Monday, Jan. 11 regarding litigation that SID has filed against the Indian Trail Improvement District, which is trying to block road access from Westlake.

“That litigation was filed jointly with Minto to Indian Trail, which intends to block roadways to the east,” Diffenderfer said. “There is an issue, which has been around for a long time, about the legal entitlements to accessing the roads. It has been a live issue for Indian Trail.”

He said that a mediation date has been set for Wednesday, Feb. 3 between ITID, Minto and SID that he feels positive about.

“I tend to be optimistic by nature, so I’m optimistic about this one,” Diffenderfer said. “It will be

an opportunity which we haven’t had, to let both sides sit down and both sides talk. For various reasons, we haven’t been able to do that in the past.”

He said SID’s position is that it has had a mutual right of way agreement for access with ITID since 1966, when Callery-Judge Grove bought the land that is now the City of Westlake. No significant development had occurred at that time in the area.

“The parties wanted to make sure they at least had access to their respective properties, so they got into this mutual property agreement that allows for a mutual, non-exclusive right of way to get in and out,” Diffenderfer said.

“Basically, they bought a piece of property that was otherwise landlocked.”

The area that was described was a 100-foot strip along the northern edge that is now 60th Street

North. “They dedicated all of that for those purposes in favor of the general public,” he said.

Diffenderfer said Palm Beach County has designated 60th Street and Persimmon Blvd. as thoroughfare roads.

“The issue of access is probably not popular in a lot of people’s minds out here,” he said. “But the issue has been around forever.”

Diffenderfer believes that it is important for the Seminole Improvement District to maintain a strong position to retain access if ITID chooses to deny the road connections. However, he does not yet know exactly what ITID wants.

“We have not had a sit-down,” Diffenderfer said. “The position they have taken in their pleadings is that a mutual right of way agreement does not mean that those properties to the east are not See ROAD SUIT, page 4

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Loxahatchee Groves Public Works Director Larry Peters made a presentation Tuesday, Jan. 5 to the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council regarding a proposed new method to repair OGEM roads using a chip seal process.

Peters said he has been working with several contractors to come up with a means to improve degraded roads that were paved with open-graded emulsified mix (OGEM) years ago and found a contractor who could repair the roads using chip seal process.

“I’ve walked the roads with this gentleman, and he’s given us a proposal,” Peters said. “He has a contract with Lee County to provide these exact same items, and he’s here to give a presentation.”

Peters explained that the company had offered to do all 12 miles of OGEM roads at once or in fourmile segments over three years.

Kris Shane with Asphalt Paving Systems said his company does all types of paving and believes that he and Peters had come up with a permanent solution to fix the town’s OGEM roads.

Shane said the process is in two steps, beginning with a six-inch to eight-inch soil and cement subsurface, over which the chip seal surface is applied. The soil and cement base is solid and resistant to damage caused from standing water.

“Chip seal is one of the oldest forms of paving,” he said. “It has been around since the 1890s. It’s still widely used all over the UnitSee CHIP SEAL, page 4

Delegation Supports ITID Incorporation Study Bill

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Without objections, the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation accepted the Indian Trail Improvement District’s local bill to allow the study of incorporation on Thursday, Jan. 7 at a hearing held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

State Rep. Rick Roth (R-District 85), who sponsored the bill, noted that it was the second year that the bill has been submitted. “It was approved unanimously by our delegation last year,” Roth said.

The bill died in committee last year and never made it to the floor for a vote.

“This is an incorporation bill, and we did make a change in order to require 10 percent of residents to sign a petition in order to be able to have a referendum to incorporate,” Roth said. “This is a good bill, and I believe an appropriate way to move forward for the Indian Trail Improvement District.”

ITID President Betty Argue said her board had approved resubmission of the bill. She pointed out that ITID has grown since it was created in 1957 for water management purposes. “Indian Trail now maintains not only 162.4 miles of canals, but also nine rural and equestrian parks and more than 458 miles of roads,” she said.

ITID was created for the purpose of reclaiming the lands within its boundaries for water control and water supply, as well as protecting the boundaries from the effects of water by using construction and maintenance of canals, ditches, levees and dykes, pumping plants and other works and improvements, Argue explained.

The legislative boundaries include about 17,000 lots encompassing 110-plus square miles, along with citrus groves and sugar cane production. As a special district, ITID provides drainage, road grading, road improvements, and parks and recreation programming.

“We are the local government

for the taxpayers in The Acreage.

We have approximately 45,000 residents,” Argue said, explaining that ITID is filing the bill to make necessary boundary revisions to remove, not add, certain lands from the boundaries.

The district also wants to propose a procedure to study the feasibility of an elector-initiated conversion of the district to a municipality, subject to the execution of interlocal agreements with the Village of Royal Palm Beach and the City of Palm Beach Gardens.

She added that over the past several years, there have been attempts by neighborhood groups or individuals to create a munici-

pality. But there has never been a referendum conducted on incorporation.

“After careful consideration, our board felt that the district is the appropriate entity to study the feasibility of the conversion, to review the feasibility study and develop a draft charter with an incorporation committee that includes members of our public, and then to conduct a referendum based on facts and community input,” Argue said.

“The referendum could not be done without a 10 percent petition of the registered voters.”

A motion was made to support the bill, which carried without opposition.

Page 2

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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January 15 - January 28, 2021

Page 3

NEWS

Excitement Building For 2021 Gauntlet Of Polo Series At IPC

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report After an abrupt end to the 2020 polo season last March due to the pandemic, high-goal action returned to Wellington this month.

Underway currently at the International Polo Club Palm Beach is the 18-goal Joe Barry Memorial Cup, to be followed by the 18-goal Ylvisaker Cup. Then, all eyes return to the Gauntlet of Polo — the triumvirate of prestigious highgoal tournaments that mark the highlight of the season.

The 2021 Gauntlet of Polo season will kick off right where it left off last year with the concluding rounds of the 2020 USPA Gold Cup. The four teams remaining in that tournament will continue play, leading up to the final, set for Sunday, Feb. 14.

After that, the third season of the Gauntlet of Polo gets underway with nine teams on the marquee.

With limited availability at the stadium due to the pandemic, an emphasis has been made to show the action-packed games live through Global Polo TV over the internet.

“We are definitely remaining flexible and staying incredibly safe,” USPA Global Licensing Assistant Vice President of Marketing Shannon Stilson told the Town-Crier. “We have lots of protocols in place for the facility and for the players and the grooms.

There will be limited availabilities for a Sunday brunch, which is by reservation only, and there will be no general admission permitted in the stadium this year.”

But Stilson stressed that fans can still get a close-up, live view of all the action, as it happens, on

Global Polo TV (GPTV). Recently introduced, this internet-based service offers “the highest clarity on any device whether it is your cell phone, TV, tablet or computer,” she said.

“Polo is, of course, a global sport,” said Stilson, who explained that Global Polo TV brings the action as it is happening with multiple cameras and expert announcers.

“The Gauntlet of Polo is the pinnacle of American high-goal competition. It offers the largest prize purse in all of polo with $1 million total on the line for the winners,” said Stilson, pointing out that it features the most skilled athletes in the world and the finest horses on the planet.

Hosted by the United States Polo Association, USPA Global Licensing and the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the third Gauntlet of Polo season begins on Feb. 17, and the finals of each tournament will be played on the official U.S. Polo Assn. Field 1 at IPC. A virtual media event was held with speakers from a variety of exotic locations on the morning of Wednesday, Jan. 6. It provided updates on the upcoming season, its safety restrictions for on-site participants, the competing teams and an explanation of the three viewing plans to see the tournaments on Global Polo TV. The 2021 season begins with the C.V. Whitney Cup from Feb. 17 through March 7. Next up is the USPA Gold Cup, running from March 10 through March 28. The final tournament of the Gauntlet of Polo is the illustrious U.S. Open Polo Championship, which will

be held from March 31 through April 18.

The reigning champion Pilot team from season one will be competing among nine teams for the trophy and prize money in this year’s battle, which has been revised. It still provides the guaranteed total of $1 million in prize money, but now the runners-up in each tournament get in on the winnings. $100,000 will be awarded to each winning team in the C.V. Whitney Cup and the USPA Gold Cup, with $25,000 to each team that is runner-up. Further, the winner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship will receive $200,000 prize money, and $50,000 will be awarded to the runner-up. The element that makes the purse so valuable is that any team winning all three tournaments consecutively earns a $500,000 bonus and will be crowned as the Gauntlet Champion.

This year offers another change in that a donation will be made

by USPA Global Licensing to the charity chosen by the final two teams.

“The Gauntlet of Polo season will jump start from where it left off last year with four teams competing,” said the USPA’s Carlucho Arellano.

Those four teams remaining in the 2020 USPA Gold Cup are Daily Racing Form, Las Monjitas, La Indiana and Pilot.

Arellano said that the nine teams competing in the 2021 tournaments are some of the best teams in the world.

The rosters include: Aspen/ Dutta Corp with Stewart Armstrong, Timmy Dutta, Lucas Diaz Alberdi and Gringo Colombres;

Coca-Cola with Gillian Johnston, Julian de Lusarreta, Nico Pieres and Mackenzie Weisz; Cessna with Chip Campbell, Mariano Obregon Jr., Ezequiel “Gallego” Martinez Ferrario and Jared Zenni; La Indiana with Michael Bickford, Jeff Hall, Polito Pieres and Nico Escobar; Pilot with Curtis Pilot, Gonzalito Pieres, Facundo Pieres and Kristos “Keko” Magrini; Park Place with Andrey Borodin, Hilario Ulloa, Juan Britos and Matt Coppola; Santa Clara with Will Johnston, Miguel Novillo Astrada, Felipe Vercellino and Luis Escobar; Scone with David Paradice, Adolfo Cambiaso, Adolfo “Poroto” Cambiaso Jr. and Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez Jr.; and Tonkawa with Jeff Hildebrand, Sapo Caset, Francisco Elizalde and Cody Ellis.

J. Michael Prince, president and CEO of USPA Global Licensing, called the lineup “nine amazing teams for 2021.” He noted that USPA events are where spectators “find the best players, the best horses and the best fields.”

“We are really excited,” USPA Chairman Stewart Armstrong added. “The teams are really organized. There are great players on the teams. The Gauntlet of Polo is an especially competitive series this year with well-prepared teams.

It will be a great spectator event.”

Accessible on any device, anytime, GPTV provides a safe and convenient portal of content for fans and members of the polo community. For more information, find GPTV at www.globalpolo. com and on major app services, including iOS, Android, Roku and Amazon Fire. For specific Gauntlet of Polo information, visit www.uspolo.org/gauntlet-of-polo.

The prestigious USPA Gold Cup will be awarded twice this season — once to the winner of the 2020 tournament to be completed in February, and again to the 2021 winner in March.

FILE PHOTO BY MIKE MAY/TOWN-CRIER

PBC Legislators Support Bill Banning Fireworks In Equestrian Areas

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation approved without objection a proposed bill prohibiting the use of fireworks in Wellington’s Equestrian Overlay Zoning District on Thursday, Jan. 7 during a hearing on local bills held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

State Rep. Matt Willhite (DDistrict 86) said he did not support a bill that passed last year allowing fireworks on holidays due to injuries sustained by people using

fireworks, as well as their effects on animals.

“As a firefighter for the past 28 years, I’ve seen the injuries that come from fireworks, and the other is the unintended consequences,” Willhite said. “Wellington is one of the single largest economic drivers, if not the largest, in Palm Beach County dealing with the equestrian season.”

He pointed out that the highly valued horses are spooked by fireworks. Two years ago, a horse in Wellington sold for over $5 million, he noted.

“We’re talking about horses that are at the top of their game, whether it’s competing nationally or worldwide in the Olympics, and these horses are affected by these fireworks,” Willhite said.

The bill asks that fireworks be prohibited only in Wellington’s equestrian areas.

“It’s not the entire community, it’s one specific area that’s already identified in that geographical boundary. Fireworks can be banned in that area so that we can protect these equestrians.”

Wellington Village Attorney

Laurie Cohen said the bill would prohibit the use of fireworks on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and Independence Day, which had been permitted in the bill passed last year.

“Wellington is known as the ‘Winter Equestrian Capital of the World,’” Cohen said. “Many thousands come to Wellington during the winter months to participate in and enjoy the events and enjoy equestrian sports.”

The winter residents and tourists directly generate about $196 million in the sale of goods and

services in Wellington and the county, and $110 million in tourism, she said.

“Wellington houses approximately 13,000 horses during the equestrian season, most of which are highly valued,” she said. “It’s well established that these horses are startled by loud noises and sudden flashing lights, and they are very frightened by fireworks.”

Cohen pointed out that many of the horses are in stalls and injure themselves trying to get out when fireworks are going on.

“Wellington’s residents are very

concerned about the safety of their highly valued horses and for themselves when these fireworks occur,” she said. “Our Equestrian Preserve Committee, which represents the equestrian community and the various equestrian disciplines within Wellington, has submitted a letter of support for this bill.”

Cohen said Florida Statutes prohibit the use of fireworks except to frighten birds on agricultural lands, but last year the legislature created an exception to the statute See FIREWORKS, page 7

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Page 4

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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NEWS

Concerned Over Word Choices, Wellington’s Equestrian Committee Refuses To Approve Changes To Comp Plan

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee has spent months going through an in-depth review of the village’s updated comprehensive plan. This has involved hours and hours of discussion. So, some might be surprised that after several more hours of discussion on Wednesday, Jan. 6, committee members in the end refused to pass a vote approving their own work.

Assistant Planning, Zoning & Building Director Michael O’Dell explained that the purpose of the meeting was to review previous input to ensure that the committee’s recommendations were exactly what it wanted them to be. The recommendations will next be submitted to the Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board, which will review it and add its own recommendations and changes.

After that, a report will go to the Wellington Village Council, which will review all the recommendations, as well as those from village staff, before making its own final decision.

Several committee members,

however, were not happy with the process and felt that their views should be presented as more than just advice to the council and other boards.

Village staff had made all the requested changes approved at previous meetings. O’Dell said that the committee’s recommendations would be dutifully passed along.

Staff’s recommendation, however, was that two of the changes recommended by the committee not be made. This would be reported to the PZA Board and the council, stating the Equestrian Preserve Committee’s recommendations, alongside staff recommendations.

Staff recommended the use of the word “exurban” to describe the Wellington Equestrian Preserve in the introduction of the plan and also to include comment on the commercial possibilities of property that has long been zoned commercial. This did not sit well with committee members, who wanted O’Dell to join their consensus against those two items.

While O’Dell began the meeting

asking members to speak only one at a time to facilitate using the recordings to develop a transcript for the minutes, that was not often the case. The meeting frequently operated more like a casual chat rather than using parliamentary proceedings. Committee members explored wide-ranging queries and “what ifs” while moving from topic to topic, often touching on past grievances.

Moving through the meeting, however, the recurring theme that the committee members know more about horses than others in Wellington, and their opinions should, therefore, be given more weight when it comes to the comp plan.

Committee Member Haakon Gangnes wondered aloud why they didn’t make the comp plan state that the village would pay to solve the manure situation, since water quality is everyone’s issue.

Committee Chair Jane Cleveland commented that such an idea is not likely to happen, since many consider horse waste a horse community issue. Gangnes felt that such a facility should be added to

the capital improvements budget.

The committee was adamant that the word “exurban” not be used in the comp plan. Several said they had never heard it before.

After a discussion, it was determined that it referred to property beyond a suburban area that is typically affluent. They especially didn’t approve of the meaning of the word if it seemed to denote affluence. Dr. Kristy Lund said that she knew many people who had horses and didn’t consider themselves affluent.

Gangnes continued to press O’Dell regarding the use of the word. When Committee Member Glen Fleischer tried to play the voice of reason, Ganges asked him if he trusted the village. Taken aback, Fleischer said that of course he did. “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be sitting here,” he said.

Also at issue was the word “commercial.” The committee wanted something more like “consumer,” even though that is not a zoning designation. A range of wording was worked on, some enumerating the actual uses they would support. Village

staff warned against including anything that could be construed as a “taking” of someone’s legal property rights, which is likely to stir up litigation.

The committee discussed that some of them should go to the PZA Board and council meetings to lobby for not using the word “exurban” and do something about limiting “commercial.”

Lund remarked that while she may trust the current council, the equestrians needed a safety net for possible future councils. She added that she would not approve their own changes because she was hoping that someone would ask why she didn’t approve it.

Then she could tell them it is because she doesn’t like the word “exurban.”

“I think it puts a red flag [on the report] by dissenting,” Lund said.

During public comment, local equestrian Cynthia Gardner, a former chair of the committee, said that she works in real estate and hears the word “exurban” almost every day referring to places like The Acreage or Jupiter Farms. “There is nothing elegant

about it,” Gardner explained.

Gardner recalled that there had been uproars when Publix tried to build in the Equestrian Preserve Area and complained that staff had previously supported a wide range of inappropriate retail uses in the Equestrian Preserve Area as well.

Gardner said that the most damaging thing that could happen to the preserve would be to four-lane collector roads. It would invite cut-through traffic, she said.

The committee discussed this and decided not to ask for some of the collector roads to be four-laned as they had originally recommended.

In the end, Cleveland said that she felt their comments would be swept under the rug by the council, and this seemed to be the consensus. She next ensured that O’Dell would pass along all their recommendations in the staff’s report to the PZA Board and the council. Finally, the committee made the decision of attempting to attract attention to its concerns by refusing to approve their own recommendations. A motion to approve the changes died for the lack of a second.

State Attorney: Watch Out For COVID-19 Vaccine Scammers

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report During a press conference at the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center on Thursday, Jan. 7, Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg said that there have been reports of scammers trying to sell fake COVID-19 vaccines.

The Federal Trade Commission has created a web page dedicated to the reporting of suspected COVID-19 fraud at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov. Aronberg said people should also report a suspected scam to local law enforcement.

“Vaccines are free, and the only thing you’re allowed to charge is a $15 administrative fee,” Aronberg said. “If anyone tries to charge any more than that, they are violating the law, and you should report them to a local law enforcement agency.”

He stressed that there are many people using scams and trying to take advantage of the situation.

“As long as there is a buck to be made, there will be people to try to take advantage of that,” Aronberg said.

People should make sure vaccines are coming from a reputable source, which would be a government source, Aronberg said.

“Don’t rely on some advertisement you see, or some Facebook ad,” he said. “Make sure it’s from a reliable source.”

Aronberg said there is a process in place for distributing the vaccine, although it has not been as fast as people would like.

“I know that the federal government has promised millions more doses that they have not delivered yet to the states, so they are behind on the federal end, and I hope that the state will have a better dis-

tribution process than they have now, but I can tell you that county officials are doing what they can with their resources,” he said.

Aronberg added that there have been no cases of COVID-19 scams reported locally.

“But that does not mean that they don’t exist,” he said. “We have heard that there are some fraudsters out there… so be vigilant.” ​Vaccinations have begun in Palm Beach County, pursuant to the governor’s executive order, for long-term care facility staff, persons 65 years of age and older, and healthcare personnel with direct patient contact.

At this time, appointments through the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County should only be requested by sending an e-mail to the address chd50feedback@flhealth.gov.

Appointment seekers should include their name, phone number and date of birth. All e-mails are being received and will be contacted in order with further instructions as appointment slots and options become available.

Vaccination appointments are based on dosage availability.

According to Florida Department of Health-Palm Beach County Director Dr. Alina Alonso, responses may be as long as several weeks or a month based on availability of the vaccine.

No vaccines will be given without an appointment, and the public is asked not to show up at any of the Florida Department of Health locations for a vaccine or to request an appointment. This should be done by e-mail only at this time.

Additional updates on local vaccine distribution will be commu-

Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg speaks at the Thursday, Jan. 7 press conference. nicated through http://palmbeach. floridahealth.gov and local media.

Vaccination candidates should

ask their primary care provider any questions they have about the vaccine before they receive it.

Lox Council OKs Resolution Authorizing Piggyback Process

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday, Jan. 5 approved a resolution in a 3-2 decision authorizing the use of existing contracts from other government entities, rather than requiring requests for proposals, to perform certain services.

Town Manager Jamie Titcomb said the resolution authorizes the town to enter into agreements with vendors for goods and services utilizing other government agency contracts, with approval by the town manager or town attorney,

Chip Seal

Fixing The Roads

continued from page 1 ed States and the State of Florida.

It’s a cheaper alternative to paving, and it still gives you the rural feel.

It’s not a paved road, and it’s also not a dirt road.”

Shane pointed out that a chip seal road keeps dust down and does not require grading.

The chip seal surface treatment consists of a thick layer of polymer asphalt emulsion that is immediately covered with a granite aggregate, he said, adding that the procedure can be done with minimal traffic closures.

“We repeat that step twice… and the total thickness is about one-half inch thick,” Shane said.

“This creates a tightly knit riding surface that lasts anywhere from 10 to 12 years.”

At the end of the life expectancy, the road can be either re-chip sealed or paved with asphalt.

“It really sets the town up for being able to do a lot of different options,” Shane said, adding that chip seal is 50 to 60 percent less costly than asphalt paving.

Mayor Lise El-Ramey asked if speed bumps would be replaced

if the amount is under $25,000.

Contracts over $25,000 using that method could be approved with council authorization.

“You’ve heard us refer to it in the past as piggyback agreements, but this is the official term,” Titcomb said, explaining that he had included several lists of service agreements from Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach and Wellington as samples of what the town could draw from. “These are to give you an example, an idea of what is out there already, properly and publicly vetted and bid, and available to us without

going through RFPs and various extended processes.”

Mayor Lisa El-Ramey confirmed with Titcomb that the resolution does not allow staff to go above the $25,000 threshold for contract approval.

“You still have to go through all the purchasing policies of the town, and anything over the normal thresholds have to come to the council for ratification,” Titcomb said, adding that the process had been initiated about two years ago.

“We started doing what we called ‘shelf contracts,’ which are ready to go, out of the box contracts that

during the process, and Shane said they could leave existing speed bumps in place or replace them at a cost of about $6,000 each.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia asked how the surfaces were for a shoed horse, and El-Ramey said she had seen chip seal and thought it would be “grippier” than asphalt.

Councilman Robert Shorr said he had also seen chip seal roads and felt they would be great for rural roads.

“Unfortunately, we are right in the middle of a bunch of cities with a lot of traffic coming through, and I don’t think it would last in most of our areas,” Shorr said.

Shane said the cement and soil base would hold up “forever,” but the surface would need to be redone after time.

The total cost estimate for the entire 12 miles of OGEM roads with chip seal submitted by Asphalt Paving Systems was almost $1.5 million.

El-Ramey said the chip seal method might be appropriate for some segments of the town.

“I still think we need to move forward with a scope of work sooner rather than later,” she said.

“Perhaps some of these cooperative agreements can get us there faster… at a price that is a considerable savings for the town.”

Road Suit

Update From Attorneys

continued from page 1 subject to it… I think they think that they can impose virtually any conditions they want.”

SID’s position will be that it has the ability to connect to the roadways.

Minto Attorney Tara W. Duhy said Westlake’s development order with the county includes

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connections to 60th Street and Persimmon Blvd.

“Persimmon is the real issue,” Duhy said. “Indian Trail requested that it not be connected any sooner than somewhere like 3,000 building permits, or far, far down the pike… I would think the people in that area would appreciate the opportunity to bring their children from the high school and to some of the amenities that are in development that they are currently unable to do with the current road network.”

define the scope of work, the cost and the services.”

Titcomb explained that the process bypasses costly and time-consuming RFPs, and it allows the town to pick and choose projects that fit the scope of work desired.

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog said she favored a procedure that would speed up the process, but Councilman Robert Shorr disagreed with a resolution that would give the town manager and mayor blanket authority to approve piggyback contracts.

“I believe they should come to council with a reason why we want

El-Ramey agreed with Shorr to some extent, but felt there are adequate controls over the process, which would provide quick access to some solutions for the town.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia said she favored approval of the resolution, saying it would allow the town to fix things more quickly.

“I think this is very important to move forward,” Maniglia said, who made a motion to approve the resolution, which carried 3-2 with Shorr and Councilwoman Laura Danowski dissenting.

WELLINGTON MARKS ANNIVERSARY

Palm Beach County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay visited the Wellington Village Council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 12 to present a proclamation commemorating Wellington’s 25th anniversary. Wellington’s incorporation became officials on Dec. 31, 1995. The village celebrated the anniversary with fireworks on New Year’s Day.

BARRY S. MANNING DAWN RIVERA JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor Publisher General Manager RON BUKLEY Senior Editor

to piggyback,” Shorr said. “I do not agree to bypass the RFP system when you have a larger project, because our town is unique. Our contractors need to come out and look at our town and look at the conditions.”

Shorr also said the resolution could be a backdoor process to replace public works.

“I do support the shelf contracts,” he said. “We did them last year because they were items that applied to our town, things that we needed. Nine times out of 10, I believe you’ll get a better cost when you’ve got competition.”

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NEWS

TRAIL RIDE AND POKER RUN SUPPORTS LOX GROVES SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The second annual Loxahatchee Groves Scholarship Trail Ride & Poker Run was held Sunday, Jan. 10. A total of 49 riders helped raise $2,000 for scholarships through the 5.6-mile trail ride. Sponsors British Feed & Supplies, Southern Palms Bed & Breakfast, Everglades Equipment and Red Barn gave goody bag donations. Councilman Robert Shorr helped organize the event and offered thanks to Bill Ford for the awesome barbecue and Tom Blake for great music, as well as Paul Coleman and Judge Nelson and Carol Bailey for setting up stops at their homes. Darcy Dean Murray and Linda Rainbolt were also instrumental in its success.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Joe Fiorello on River, Randi Reaber on Blue, Ari Gutierrez on Fortunate Zoom, Emilio Vincente on Tito, Denise Molina on mule Buckwheat and Kayla Reaber on Pearl from Golden Gate Riding Stables.

Robert Shorr with event sponsors (above) Brad Rae of Southern Palms Bed & Breakfast and (below) Vieri Bracco of British Feed.

Judge Nelson Bailey hosted one of the stops.

Deputy Alex Concepcion holds traffic for the trail riders.

The group rides along a canal.

Tara McLeod on Phoenix, Lisa Creese on Willie and Meredith Vorrath on Sammy of Sunflower Stables in Loxahatchee Groves.

Geoff Sluggett with Reno and Terry Gould with Damien.

Kristi Coleman on Leo waits for riders at the first stop.

Tom Blake performs.

Chris Stone (seated) with Cheree Tolley, Linda Rainbolt, Kelley Reynolds and Keith Rainbolt.

Loxahatchee Groves Councilman Robert Shorr goes over the trail route.

Denise Molina on mule Buckwheat.

Cindy Stein, Karen Rayside, Candy New and Kathy Brown.

Anna Skinner on Sunny.

Sponsor British Feed & Supplies manager Holly Morrell, Viktoria Lahusky, Hailey Lichter with Domino and Annabel Westfall at the second stop.

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Page 7

NEWS

Health Director: Virus Vaccines Slow In Coming To The Public

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report During a COVID-19 vaccine update at the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center on Thursday, Jan. 7, Palm Beach County Mayor Dave Kerner said that county staff is trying to speed up the process of getting enough vaccines to the county but face problems with state and federal agencies.

“It’s important that we recognize that there is anxiety out there and that we hear the fear and concern about the vaccine process,” Kerner said. “Let me be very candid and honest with

you about the frustrations that are occurring both in our community and throughout the state with the vaccine. I can tell you there is room to do better. I will do better to the best of my ability.”

Kerner said the county has received 24,000 vaccines that have been allocated to the Florida Department of Health-Palm Beach County, which has focused on Phase 1 vaccinations for people age 65 and older.

“In this county, that’s 400,000 people,” he said. “I am aware of the frustrations with the phone system and the rollout and the inability of the federal government

to be an effective partner at this point to a certain degree. We hope that those improve. The governor is aware of the supply chain issues.

We are aware of it, but that doesn’t mean we can’t communicate more effectively, and I will continue to honor that commitment.”

Kerner said the county is prepared to potentially give the two required vaccinations to the 1.5 million residents of the county as soon as the vaccines are available.

“We have a very robust plan in place, [but] given the supply chain issues, we cannot actually do that,” he said. “But we anticipate, and the governor just reiterated, that

there is an expectation that in due time, the supply chains will open up dramatically.”

Florida Department of HealthPalm Beach County Director Dr. Alina Alonso acknowledged that there have been glitches in the vaccine distribution process, but they are trying to make things better.

“I really want to concentrate on the allocations and the vaccines that we haven’t had so we can go forward,” Alonso said. “The governor directed the allocation of vaccines to Kings Point in Delray Beach when we started on Dec. 30.

The operation was started by the Florida Department of Health. Our

nurses went in. We had 24 hours to get ready, and we set everything up with the help of the administrative staff at Kings Point. We showed that to the governor, and he felt that was a model that should be kept up.”

She said that agency staff was able to deliver about 500 immunizations per day at Kings Point, and the governor later extended vaccinations to Century Village locations in Palm Beach and Broward counties.

“We are vaccinating both healthcare personnel and persons 65 and older,” Alonso said, explaining that anyone wanting a vaccination

must have an appointment and that callbacks to confirm may not occur for weeks or months. “At 4,500 vaccinations per day, I cannot vaccinate 400,000 people. We need to manage that expectation.”

Alonso added that the state does not have enough vaccines to supply local agencies what they are requesting, and that enough vaccinations to give to the public would not be complete until the spring or early summer.

Appointments for vaccinations can be requested by sending an email to chd50feedback@flhealth. gov. Learn more at http://palmbeach.floridahealth.gov.

Westlake Council Discusses Upcoming Legislative Priorities

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Westlake City Council discussed its legislative priorities for the upcoming session in Tallahassee that could include home rule issues, affordable housing and water reuse as it relates to COVID-19 at its meeting on Monday, Jan. 11.

“As the legislature is starting to come up, there are a number of issues,” City Manager Kenneth Cassel said. “As always, there is home rule, making sure that the state does not supersede local

government’s ability to control planning and zoning.”

Cassel mentioned several items listed on the Florida League of Cities legislative agenda, including the reuse of water in municipal systems.

“Water continues to be a touchy subject,” he said, explaining that he sought input from the council on what they felt were important subjects to pursue at the state level.

Vice Mayor Katrina LongRobinson said she would want to support affordable housing for future Westlake residents.

“As we’re going back, we can direct staff to look at some of those programs,” Long-Robinson said.

She added that short-term rentals are an issue, explaining that the issue came up last year at Palm Beach County Days of people who buy homes but do not live in them.

“That affects the neighborhoods,” she said.

Long-Robinson said there is also concern about COVID-19 as it relates to reusable water and the potential for spreading the virus, although reports from several water reuse organizations have found

no evidence that reused water can spread the virus.

Cassel said that Miami-Dade and Broward counties are tracking the possible spread of the virus in water systems. “Wastewater is treated and becomes reused water, so there are some concerns, I’m sure,” he said, adding that there would be closer examination of the water reuse process to be sure the virus is not spread in irrigation systems that employ reused water.

Cassel said that reused water is treated at a higher level than potable water.

“It has gone through the digestion process where it is neutralized. What they then do is treat it higher,” he said. “In most cases, it is treated with chlorine and other products. In a lot of cases, that reused water is cleaner than the water they started with. It cannot be reintroduced to the drinking side of the equation, but it is clean enough and certified for use in irrigation purposes.”

He explained that reused water pipes are colored purple to avoid confusion, and that utility companies are continuing to study reused

water for possible contamination.

He said he would reach out to the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department, where the city gets its reused water, to see what specific samples they are collecting for study.

Cassel added that the Seminole Improvement District has the ability to add surface water from the M-2 Canal to the reused water it gets from the county during times that the reused water is not available. The surface water is also treated before introducing it to the irrigation system.

State Attorney Warns That Any Local Rioters Will Be Prosecuted

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg warned that anyone in Palm Beach County who disrupts the government in the manner that occurred in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Capitol Building on Wednesday, Jan. 6 would meet severe consequences locally.

Rioters overtook the U.S. Capitol briefly on Wednesday and disrupted the reading of the Electoral College count until U.S. Capitol police, along with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, restored order.

Aronberg made his statement at the Palm Beach County Emergency Operations Center on

Thursday, Jan. 7. “We obviously are aware that the president will be moving to Palm Beach, or at least attempting to move to Palm Beach, after he leaves office,” Aronberg said. “I just want to let the individuals who are not patriots, they are traitors who tried to overthrow the lawful government of the United States, that they are

VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON SALUTES YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS

not welcome here. If they try to come here and do what they did in Washington, D.C., we will not tolerate that kind of violence.

They are not protestors. They are rioters, they’re a mob, and law enforcement is prepared.”

He said that the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and municipal law enforcement will be

Washington, D.C., with the intent to commit federal crimes such as conspiracy to commit sedition, that they can also be prosecuted in Florida as well as in Washington, D.C. “I hope those who committed the horrific events of yesterday will be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” he said.

Wellington Parks And Facilities Announce MLK Day Holiday Hours

Wellington’s Village Park gym, the Wellington Aquatics Complex and the Wellington Community Center will be closed on Monday, Jan. 18 in observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

The Wellington Tennis Center will be open for normal hours, from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. For in-

Golf Carts

Committee Gives Input

Wellington Youth Council members from Palm Beach Central High School and Wellington High School were recognized at the Tuesday, Jan. 12 meeting of the Wellington Village Council for receiving several recent awards, including the 2020 Florida League of Cities Photography Competition and the Municipal Youth Council Community Service Contest.

ready for any such disruptions.

“They are not the U.S. Capitol police, and individuals who attempt to act like that will be met with a strong law enforcement response backed up by our local prosecutors,” Aronberg said.

He urged federal prosecutors in Florida to look at the fact that if someone left Florida to go to

continued from page 1 legally use golf carts on the swale if it is private property or the property of a neighbor? (Yes, but it is trespassing if you don’t have their permission.) How does this relate to scooters? (They are not legally allowed on the paths.)

Other questions with less easy answers included, is it legal to talk on a cell phone while operating a golf cart and what if the council wants to raise the price?

O’Dell noted that allowing the use of golf carts on the pathways would be of great benefit to the equestrian community. It would

formation on the tennis facility or programs, visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/tennis.

The following parks will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Tiger Shark Cove (playground and ballfields); Scott’s Place; the Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas

also establish rules and eliminate the current quasi-legal nature of golf cart use.

The committee was generally open to the effort, suggesting that operating the carts at night would be nice for departing equestrian events without having to sit in a traffic jam. They pointed out that the 16-year-old age requirement and the provision requiring a license could be a problem for outof-towners where the law is 14 in their state. Finally, the committee felt that some sort of test should be required in order to get a golf cart license.

These suggestions will be included in a report from all the input sessions throughout the village and presented to the council for discussion and a final decision.

Everglades Habitat (Section 24); Olympia Park; Community Park; Village Park (walking path and playground); and Wellington Green Park.

For additional information on Wellington parks and facilities, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ parks.

Fireworks

Wellington Local Bill

continued from page 3 that permits the use of fireworks on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and Independence Day. As a result, Wellington has seen a dramatic increase in the use of fireworks on those days. The bill under consideration would prohibit the use of fireworks only in the equestrian overlay.

A motion was made to approve the bill, which carried with no objections. Approval by the local delegation moves the bill forward to being introduced in Tallahassee during the upcoming legislative session.

NEWS BRIEFS No Municipal Election This Year In RPB

With no challengers coming forward by the deadline to file, there will be no municipal election this year in Royal Palm Beach.

At the close of qualifying, which was Tuesday, Jan. 12 at 5 p.m., only Group 2 incumbent Councilman Richard Valuntas and Group 4 incumbent Councilwoman Jan Rodusky had qualified for election to those seats on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

Since the Village of Royal Palm Beach does not have any other items to be placed on the ballot, and there are no opposing candidates for the two seats up for election, the village will not conduct an election on Tuesday, March 9.

Valuntas and Rodusky will return to the council for additional twoyear terms.

Garden Club Shredding Event Set For Jan. 16

The Wellington Garden Club will hold a document shredding fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Wellington Municipal Complex at 12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.

For a donation of $5, a letter-sized box/container will be shredded. For a $10 donation, a legal-sized box/container will be shredded. Confidential materials

will be shredded right in front of you. Only cash or checks will be accepted. There will be volunteers on hand to assist with unloading boxes.

All proceeds will support the club’s charitable contributions for high school, college and camp scholarships for environmental studies, Habitat for Humanity, community beautification projects and Junior Garden Club programs.

The Wellington Garden Club is a nonprofit organization. For more information, call Jan Seagrave at (561) 301-9184.

Apply Now For Wellington Art Society Scholarships

The Wellington Art Society is now accepting applications for its 2021 scholarship program.

In 2001, the Wellington Art Society Scholarship Program was established to provide scholarships to talented young artists living and attending school in Palm Beach County for art-related expenses and college tuition costs. In 2018, the scholarship program added the opportunity for Florida Atlantic University students to apply for a scholarship in their sophomore or junior years. Since 2001, the society has awarded more than $100,000 to students.

Applications for multiple awards of $1,500 scholarships in the 2021 year opened on Jan. 12

and closes on March 19. Winners will be notified by April 6 with presentations (in person or virtually) taking place May 12.

For consideration, students must apply via www.callforentry.org and register online. There is no charge to register.

Once registered, applicants should search for the Wellington Art Society Scholarship and complete the online application. Up to six images of the student’s 2D or 3D work may be uploaded in JPG format only, with each image no smaller than 1920 pixels on the longest side. The resolution for each image must be 72 ppi/dpi (standard web resolution) and each file size must not exceed 5 MB. In addition, applicants must upload their unofficial high school transcript in a Microsoft Word or PDF file format.

For additional information, contact Scholarship Chair Lynn Doyal at lynnmdoyal@gmail.com.

Wellington Plans Neighborhood Watch Meetings

Wellington will host a series of virtual Neighborhood Watch meetings for communities throughout the village starting this month.

Participation in these meetings provides watch members with tools that support the safety of their community, as well as open communication with village staff and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

Meetings will take place via the Zoom platform. Registration is required. Visit Wellington’s Neighborhood Watch page at www.wellingtonfl.gov/neighborhoodwatch to find the complete meeting schedule and to register for upcoming meetings.

Yoga Program In Royal Palm

Start off the new year with yoga at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Classes are led by certified instructors. No experience is necessary, and modifications are offered. Social distancing will be incorporated into the program, which is offered Mondays at 9:30 a.m. or 6 p.m., Wednesdays outside at the beautiful Veterans Park from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m., and Wednesdays at 9:45 a.m. Classes start the week of Jan. 18. Sixweek sessions cost $48 for RPB residents and $58 for nonresidents.

Reserve your space by calling (561) 790-5124.

Community Forum Jan. 27 On Policing In The Glades

Join the Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission’s Community Engagement Task Force on Wednesday, Jan. 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Belle Glade Library (725 NW Fourth Street, Belle Glade) for its fourth

Community Forum on Policing in Palm Beach County. The forum will be an insightful open dialogue of questions and answers with Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office command staff for the Glades area, which includes Belle Glade, Pahokee and South Bay. The event will be held in person with a maximum of 30 attendees and will be broadcast live on Channel 20. All others may participate virtually via Webex, where participants may ask questions. Preregistration is required.

For more information, visit www. eventbrite.com/e/forum-on-policing-in-palm-beach-countyregistration-135711361335.

Cirque Italia In WPB Jan. 21-24

Cirque Italia has pulled out all the stops this year to take you on a magical dream adventure. The show returns to West Palm Beach from Thursday, Jan. 21 through Sunday, Jan. 24.

Have you ever wished you could turn back time? To go back to a simpler, happy time filled with sock hops, drive-in theaters, muscle cars and thick sideburns?

Well get out your poodle skirts and leather jackets!

Cirque Italia’s Gold Unit performers can’t wait to take you back to a time when soda fountains were abundant, Elvis Presley dominated the airwaves, greased hair was all the rage and street racing was a parent’s greatest concern. Come along for the ride when a 1950s-

obsessed adolescent falls asleep and dreams of living in this revolutionary era. This high-octane show is guaranteed to captivate and engage.

The show will take place at 1111 N. Congress Ave. in West Palm Beach, across the street from the Palm Beach Kennel Club under a stunning white and blue big top tent. Shows will be 7:30 p.m. each evening with 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday.

Cirque Italia is enforcing all recommendations set forth by the CDC and local municipalities.

These adjustments and accommodations include restricting attendance to a fraction of typical show attendance. Purchase your tickets in advance either via the web site, call center or in person at the ticket office. All employees and all attendees ages 3 and older are required to wear face masks inside the tent. There will also be additional hand sanitizer and hand washing stations in and around the tent. Commons areas are being disinfected prior to, during and after every show.

For more information, visit www.cirqueitalia.com and make sure to check Cirque Italia social media accounts. Tickets can be purchased now and range from $10 to $50, depending on availability.

Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3. This offer can’t be combined with other offers, discounts or deals. Call (941) 704-8572 to get the promo code for your location.

Page 8

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Local Scout Troop 125 Holding A Fundraiser With Earl’s BBQ

Scouts Evan and Aaron Owens with their faither, Earl Glen Owens of Earl’s Slow & Low BBQ.

Scouts BSA Boys Troop 125 of Wellington is having a fundraiser in support of its outdoor scouting program. The troop will pre-sell one pound of premium pulled pork prepared by Earl’s Slow & Low BBQ for $15. Pickup will be Saturday, Feb. 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd in Wellington.

Troop 125 is partnering with Earl Glen Owens, proprietor of award-winning Earl’s Slow & Low BBQ, for this fundraiser.

Owens is a volunteer assistant scoutmaster for Troop 125 and was a scout growing up in Oxford, Mississippi. His sons, Evan and Aaron, are scouts in Troop 125. He started Earl’s Slow & Low BBQ in

2013, and you can enjoy his BBQ at the Wellington and Royal Palm Beach green markets.

Troop 125 has been chartered by the St. Peter’s United Methodist Church Men’s Fellowship for more than 30 years. The Men’s Fellowship also charters Scouts

BSA Girls Troop 4125 and Cub Scout Pack 125.

Support Troop 125 and order some premium pulled pork from Earl’s Slow & Low BBQ just in time for Super Bowl LV. Place your order at https://bbq.troop125. live or e-mail bbq@troop125.net.

FIRST BABY OF 2021 BORN AT WRMC JUST AFTER NEW YEAR

Elias Valdez First 2021 Baby Born At Palms West Hospital

Palms West Hospital welcomed the first baby of 2021 on the afternoon of Friday, Jan. 1. Elias Valdez was born at 4:05 p.m. to Evelyn Ortiz. He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces.

“I found out that I was pregnant, right as the pandemic was unfolding,” Ortiz said. “It was pretty scary at the beginning, but I took a lot of precaution to make sure that I was protecting myself.

Our entire family was being very careful around me. Although I was nervous, things went a lot better

than expected, and I felt pretty safe at Palms West Hospital.”

Ortiz said she was impressed by the birthing center staff and for a smooth birthing experience. Although she has two other children and considers herself a veteran, the nursing staff made her feel as if this was her first, explaining things and providing tips to make her feel at ease. “My nurse was super helpful and comforting throughout the entire labor,” Ortiz said. “She was kind, patient and checked on me continually.”

Aviyah Scarbrough was the first baby born in 2021 at Wellington Regional Medical Center. Aviyah was born at 1:20 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 1, weighing 5 pounds, 5 ounces and 19 inches long. She is Raquel Wellington’s first child.

Baby Elias Valdez with mother Evelyn Ortiz.

St. Peter’s Methodist Church Continues Community Service Outreach St Peter’s United Methodist Church parishioners were recently challenged by Pastor Cory Britt in small study groups to explore the following three questions: Who is God calling me to be? Where

is God calling me to go? What is God calling me to give? It was an in-depth look at how to be good stewards.

After several weeks of study, Britt’s final challenge to each

group was to come up with a project they could do to serve the community.

Some of the things that the small groups did was provide Thanksgiving dinners, donate money to

purchase food cards for those in need and partner with a charitable organization to provide Christmas gifts for children.

One of the groups decided to recognize the local Palm Beach

County Fire-Rescue firefighters at Wellington stations 30, 27, 25 and 20.

The small group leader, John Siena and his wife Kathy, visited each fire station and presented

the firefighters with certificates of appreciation, home-baked cookies and a Bible for their station library.

The firefighters were told how much they are appreciated for the work they do.

John and Kathy Siena of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington visited the four fire stations in Wellington with certificates of appreciation and gifts.

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VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH EDUCATION ADVISORY BOARD SCHOLARSHIP PRESS RELEASE The Village Council of the Village of Royal Palm Beach is proud to announce they are awarding ten (10) $1,000.00 scholarships to high school seniors residing in the Village of Royal Palm Beach. Seniors, graduating in May, application can be downloaded from the Village website at www.royalpalmbeach.com. The completed application must be postmarked no later than Friday, February 12, 2021 or may be hand-delivered to the Clerk’s Office at Village Hall located at 1050 Royal Palm Beach Boulevard in Royal Palm Beach by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 12, 2021.

Finalists must be available for interviews on Saturday, April 3, 2021. The scholarship committee of the Education Advisory Board will make the final determination. Winners will be announced in May and the scholarships will be awarded at the Village Council meeting on Thursday, May 20, 2021.

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Page 9

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

New Year Brings New Promotions At Premier Family Health

Dr. Vincent Apicella and Dr. Mariaclara Bago, the founders of Premier Family Health, recently announced the promotions of two leaders of Premier’s executive team, J. Anthony “Tony” Nelson, newly appointed as president, and Elizabeth “Liz” Lofaso, APRN, as vice president.

Nelson joined Premier in 2016 as chief operating officer and risk officer. His background includes more than 37 years of senior leadership experience, including five years of international executive experience responsible for bottom line profitability. His areas of expertise include international business and budget development, product marketing, expense and risk management controls, and compliance with state audits and government affairs.

Nelson’s prior positions include work as a senior level corporate executive for Allstate Insurance Company, Assurant Group and the

Breakers Palm Beach. He is the founder of Nelson Risk Services, currently known as Premier Risk Services.

Nelson and his wife Evelyn moved to Wellington in 1987. He has been an active member of the community, serving in several leadership positions, including board president of the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, vice president of the Western Communities Football League and executive director of the Dorsainvil Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has provided medical services to Haiti since 1998. It is his belief that corporate leaders must be actively involved and serve their local communities.

“Consistent with the growth initiatives that have been outlined for Premier over the next few years, a primary focus for us will also be to expand Premier’s presence in the community and provide continued support for community-based

initiatives,” Nelson said.

Lofaso’s career with Premier Family Health began in 2005.

Over the years, she has held several leadership positions at Premier, including director of clinical operations and director of quality care and governmental outcomes, all-the-while providing comprehensive medical care to a large patient population.

In 2018, Lofaso was chosen as Premier’s chief medical officer, providing clinical guidance to the entire medical team, initiating policy changes and quality improvement efforts, while implementing cost-effective, efficient medical interventions. “I believe that patients deserve a healthcare experience that prioritizes their well-being and advocates for the best possible outcomes,” she said.

In her new role, Lofaso will be involved in Premier’s long-term strategic planning, as well as providing daily senior manage-

ment oversight of both Premier’s clinical and operational divisions.

Founded in 2004, Premier Family Health is a primary care practice conveniently located on State Road 7 in Wellington.

Owners Apicella and Bago, CEO and CFO respectively, are board certified osteopathic physicians with fellowship training in functional medicine. This dynamic husband-and-wife team has spent 17 years as practicing physicians, business owners and entrepreneurs in Wellington.

“Dr. Bago and I believe that development of our team leaders is critical to our success. Over the years, both Tony Nelson and Liz Lofaso have demonstrated their leadership abilities and commitment to the principles upon which Premier was built. It is gratifying for us to see them progress in their careers, and it is with great confidence that we entrust them in their new roles,” Apicella said.

Abruzzo Sworn In As New PBC Clerk & Comptroller

Joseph Abruzzo was officially sworn in Tuesday, Jan. 5 as Palm Beach County’s new clerk of the circuit court and comptroller, thanking everyone who has supported him during his time in the Florida Legislature and in his new role as clerk and comptroller, and pledging to build stronger relationships with his fellow constitutional officers and justice partners.

Abruzzo also spoke directly to his team of nearly 700 employees, committing to a new course for the office — including the creation of an ombudsman position who will report directly to Abruzzo, and serve as a direct advocate for employees.

“To the employees who are watching: You are the foundation of this office. Everything that occurs positive, happens from you,” Abruzzo said. “I enter this office with you in mind. We are going to set a new philosophical course of our office.”

Abruzzo’s priorities for employees will include reviewing the office’s safety standards, offering improved child care options for working parents and expanding the office’s award-winning wellness programs.

He also announced that he has requested that the state’s auditor general conduct a full review of the office’s practices and policies

to ensure they are in compliance with state law.

“This is not a mark on the great work that everyone has been doing. We are going to get a clean bill of health,” Abruzzo said.

He also promised to not accept campaign contributions from any vendors affiliated with the office and would not accept campaign contributions from employees when he runs for re-election. “This office will be completely free of political influence, based on political contributions,” Abruzzo said.

Abruzzo’s oath of office was broadcast virtually due to COVID-19, with a small group of clerk’s office leaders, as well as close friends and family, on hand. Abruzzo’s son, Joseph II, held the Bible for his father while he was sworn in by Chief Judge Krista Marx.

The full video of the ceremony can be found on the office’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/ clerkpbc.

State Attorney Dave Aronberg welcomed the socially distanced audience in attendance for the swearing in for his friend and former colleague in the Florida Legislature, sharing his thoughts on the critical role that the clerk’s office plays in Palm Beach County’s government.

“If you think about it, the clerk’s

office is the most important office in our county, that few people outside the courthouse know about,” Aronberg said. “They deal with all the paperwork, they deal with the financial oversight, they keep the court system running.”

Rabbi Amy Rader led the invocation at the ceremony, praising Abruzzo’s leadership and his service to the community. “If anyone can protect our public records and our public funds with integrity and honesty and responsibility, Joe Abruzzo, you are the one to do that,” Rader said.

Elizabeth Lofaso

Tony Nelson

Apicella and Bago are currently executive producers of a feature film documenting the journey of five patients battling various chronic diseases. With their guidance, they have helped transform these patients’ lives through lifestyle modification

programs. Both physicians also plan to release their first book in early 2021.

For more information about Premier Family Health, the largest integrative medical practice in Palm Beach County, visit www. premierfamilyhealth.com.

AMERICAN LEGION PROVIDES HONOR GUARD FOR KEN ADAMS

PBC Clerk & Comptroller Joseph Abruzzo speaks after being sworn into office.

Wellington Garden Club Offering College Scholarship Opportunity

Founded in 1981, the Wellington Garden Club is proud of its efforts to instill in local youth the love of gardening and the respect and protection of the environment.

To that end, the Wellington Garden Club Scholarship Committee has announced the opening of the application process for students studying environmental sciences, horticulture and other related areas of study.

For more info., visit www. wellingtongardenclub.org. The

application and instructions can be found under the “Civic Projects” tab.

The Wellington Garden Club is a nonprofit organization committed to educating members and the public in the fields of gardening, horticulture, botany, floral design, landscape design and environmental awareness through the conservation of natural resources, civic beautification and nature studies.

For more information, call Maria Wolfe at (561) 386-4903.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Oxbridge Academy To Welcome Middle Schoolers In August 2021

The Oxbridge Academy announced this week that it is expanding its academic offerings to include a middle school program serving seventh-grade and eighthgrade students, beginning in August 2021.

“Adding a middle school expands our commitment to offering a world-class education and gives younger students the opportunity to experience and benefit from our enriching culture that nurtures and instills

Oxbridge values within a diverse and inclusive community,” said Ralph Maurer, head of school at Oxbridge, which attracts students from across Palm Beach and Martin counties to its 54-acre campus in West Palm Beach.

The vision of adding a middle school has been planned for several years, with a concentrated focus this past year as part of the celebration of the school’s 10th anniversary.

“Entering our second decade,

a middle school was a big part of the conversation as we identified ways to build on our strong foundation and offer an exceptional private school education to a broader constituency of students,” Maurer said. “Expanding to middle school means preparing students at a younger age to be critical thinkers, world citizens and future leaders who are caring, confident, compassionate and unafraid to tackle and solve 21st-century problems.”

Oxbridge Middle School students will receive the same high-caliber academic experience provided to students in grades 9 through 12 and will also have the opportunity to try out for the school’s award-winning athletic program that features 22 sports.

In addition, middle school students will be encouraged to create clubs and participate in community outreach efforts, becoming fully integrated into the school’s culture of kindness.

They will also enjoy access to the academy’s gourmet dining services and state-of-the-art health and wellness programs.

The Oxbridge Academy is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community of families that place a high value on investing in a private school education for their children. Middle school students also will be eligible for financial aid.

For additional information about Oxbridge Academy Mid-

dle School, visit www.oapb.org/ oxbridgemiddle.

A virtual information session will be held for prospective middle school students and their parents on Thursday, Jan. 28 from 6-7 p.m. To register for the event, visit www.oapb.org/oxbridgemiddle/ admission-events-form.

To apply or for more information about the Oxbridge Academy Middle School, contact the admissions office at admission@oapb. org or (561) 972-9826.

PBC School District’s Graduation Rate Climbs To 94.4 Percent

The graduation rate for the Class of 2020 in Palm Beach County School District-operated schools climbed to 94.4 percent, according to the Florida Department of Education. This rate represents a sharp increase from the 91.6 percent graduation rate in 2019.

The district’s graduation rate, which was released Jan. 7, continues to outpace the state’s average

of 90 percent. Twenty-two of the district’s high schools have a graduation rate of 90 percent or higher.

Lake Worth High School earned a 12.3 percent increase to 91.1 percent, Palm Beach Gardens High School achieved a 6.3 percent gain to 96.7 percent and Palm Beach Lakes High School showed a 4.7 percent increase to 87.8 percent.

The Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr.

School of the Arts had a 100 percent graduation rate. Village Academy had the largest single-year increase of 18.7 percent to achieve a 100 percent graduation rate.

The district also continues closing the achievement gap. The number of Black student graduates jumped by 5 percent, Hispanic students by 2.7 percent and White students by 1.3 percent.

EMERALD COVE ANNOUNCES DWYER AWARD NOMINEES

Also notable is the 23.5 percent increase in the graduation rate among English language learners (ELLs) and students with disabilities (SWD), which increased by 16.3 percent.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our students, teachers and school administrators,” Superintendent Donald Fennoy said. “Our challenge now, in this time of COVID-19, is maintaining this level of success. As a district, we will continue to work in the best interest of our students and make up for any lost ground to elevate

our future graduating classes.”

The 94.4 percent district graduation rate does not include charter schools operated in Palm Beach County. The graduation rate for all schools, inclusive of charter schools, increased to 90.2 percent, from 87.1 percent last year.

Across the state, the overall 2020 graduation rate of 90 percent showed a 9.3 percent increase over the last five years, according to the Florida Department of Education.

The rate includes standard diplomas but excludes special diplomas and general education diplo-

mas (GEDs). When comparing the 2019-20 graduation rate to prior years, it is important to note that pursuant to Florida Department of Education Emergency Order No. 2020-EO-1, students in the graduating class were exempt from statewide, standardized assessment requirements.

The school district’s goal is to hold in-person graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2021 if it is safe to do so. In 2020, nearly 160,000 people in 30 countries watched the virtual graduations of the Class of 2020.

PBC Drug Prevention Contest Now Offering Community Service Hours

Emerald Cove Middle School in Wellington recently announced its nominees for this year’s William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education. The nominees are: Shannon Caruso in the Student Advancement/Career Education category, Ashley Felsen in the Special/Support Programs category and Amy Yuzenas in the Middle School Education category. The school congratulates the nominees and wishes them luck in the 2021 competition.

Calling all creators! The Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition is once again sponsoring the 11th annual School Bus Drug Prevention Media Contest.

The contest has expanded to include vaping prevention, along with underage drinking prevention, to target the top two drugs abused by youth today. Students can compete to win up to $3,300 in cash prizes and scholarships. Also new this year, every entry receives community service hours.

Students can enter the poster, video or music challenge, or all three. This contest is open to all Palm Beach County residents in grades K-12. Students can use their creativity to design a poster and/or a PSA video.

This educational campaign is totally unique because it encourages youth to educate youth in creative ways with the goal of helping young people make healthy choices and avoid substance use disorders.

“Since the project’s inception, the number of alcohol-free youth has increased by 15 percent,” said Alexa Lee, director of programs at Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition.

Co-sponsored by the Hanley Center Foundation, the Judy Carreras Foundation, the Michael Joseph Brink Foundation, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the South Florida Fair, the School District of Palm Beach County, Rx Factor and PBCBHC. More than 100 volunteers place the winning artwork on the Palm Beach County School District yellow buses for 60,000 students to view daily.

The rules and entry forms can be found at www.pbcbusposter. org, and entries are due by Sunday, Jan. 31.

New this year, students can earn community services hours.

All poster entries will earn two hours of community service with a maximum of 10 hours. All video

entries will earn 5 hours of community service with a maximum of 10 hours. Up to 20 hours of community service can be earned per student this year.

Prizes include the following: Poster Winners — $1,000 scholarships from the Hanley Foundation, a $1,000 scholarship from the Judy Carreras Foundation and six $100 gift cards (two each for elementary, middle and high School.

Video PSA Winners — $500 scholarships offered by the Michael Joseph Brink Foundation.

Music Competition — A $100 cash prize will be offered by Rx Factor.

All entries received are eligible to win $50 gift cards. Two names will be chosen at random.

For more information about the contest, or to learn about volunteering for this project, contact Alexa Lee at (561) 374-7627 or alexalee@pbcbhc.org, or visit www.pbcbusposter.org.

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Dr. Adam Walters, DMD is a Board Certified Dentist and a member of the American Dental Association, the Florida Dental Association and the Atlantic Coast District Association.

EVENING HOURS BY APPOINTMENT The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide ask for free written information about my qualifications and experience.

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January 15 - January 28, 2021

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Page 13

Ken Adams: Our Neighbor, Our Friend

Palm Beach County Commission Chairman Ken Adams.

The Fox Hunt.

Ken and Arle with Jess and Victoria.

Ken with six girlfriends.

Michelle and Ken.

President Ronald Reagan chats with Ken Adams.

Vice President Dan Quayle with Ken Adams.

Ken and Arle lead the Fox Hunt.

A chamber ribbon cutting.

Ken with Village Manager Paul Schofield.

Honoring the veterans.

Wellington honors Ken with his own road.

The Wellington Community Foundation’s Board of Directors

Ken on his fast scooter.

President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush with Ken Adams.

Ken and Michelle scooter racing at Target.

Ken at Carlos Arellano’s stable.

Ken Adams’ polo team.

The Wellington Village Council names “Ken Adams Way.”

Celebrating Christmas with friends.

Enjoying lunch at Gabriel’s Cafe.

Ken with two special ladies, Jill and Michelle.

Michelle, Piper and Ken.

Ken and Arle Adams.

Ken with Bobby and B.J. Ewing.

Ken with favorite aide Jill and her son Alex.

Air Force Major Ken Adams.

Friends forever.

“I can still swing a mallet!”

Ken salutes 10-year-old Alex.

Frequent bodyguards Michelle and Great Dane Piper.

Riding in the annual Wellington Holiday Parade.

“Thank you, Michelle for all you do for me.”

Ken walking his two dogs.

Ken with Ben and Joanna Boynton.

The Santamarias with Ken Adams.

Page 12

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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The Town-Crier

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January 15 - January 28, 2021

Page 13

Ken Adams: Our Neighbor, Our Friend

Palm Beach County Commission Chairman Ken Adams.

The Fox Hunt.

Ken and Arle with Jess and Victoria.

Ken with six girlfriends.

Michelle and Ken.

President Ronald Reagan chats with Ken Adams.

Vice President Dan Quayle with Ken Adams.

Ken and Arle lead the Fox Hunt.

A chamber ribbon cutting.

Ken with Village Manager Paul Schofield.

Honoring the veterans.

Wellington honors Ken with his own road.

The Wellington Community Foundation’s Board of Directors

Ken on his fast scooter.

President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush with Ken Adams.

Ken and Michelle scooter racing at Target.

Ken at Carlos Arellano’s stable.

Ken Adams’ polo team.

The Wellington Village Council names “Ken Adams Way.”

Celebrating Christmas with friends.

Enjoying lunch at Gabriel’s Cafe.

Ken with two special ladies, Jill and Michelle.

Michelle, Piper and Ken.

Ken and Arle Adams.

Ken with Bobby and B.J. Ewing.

Ken with favorite aide Jill and her son Alex.

Air Force Major Ken Adams.

Friends forever.

“I can still swing a mallet!”

Ken salutes 10-year-old Alex.

Frequent bodyguards Michelle and Great Dane Piper.

Riding in the annual Wellington Holiday Parade.

“Thank you, Michelle for all you do for me.”

Ken walking his two dogs.

Ken with Ben and Joanna Boynton.

The Santamarias with Ken Adams.

Page 14

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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Page 15

POLO & EQUESTRIAN

McLain Ward Soars To Victory In $75,000 Bainbridge Grand Prix

McLain Ward capped off the first week of competition at the 2021 Winter Equestrian Festival with top honors on Sunday, Jan. 10 in the $75,000 Bainbridge Companies Grand Prix. Ward and Catoki topped four speedy entries with the only double clear effort of the day to claim the title.

The feature class marked the conclusion of the WEF Premiere week at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

Ward and the 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding owned by Marilla van Beuren, Bob Russell and Ward challenged a field of 30 entries, putting forth a clear effort over the technical track set by Eric Hasbrouck to ensure a jump-off. He and Catoki moved swiftly across the shortened course to set the tone for the remaining entries with a fault-free time of 36.846 seconds.

Last to go in the jump-off was Canada’s Erynn Ballard, with two big wins under her belt over the previous week. A rail at the second to last jump on course proved to be the difference this time around, landing her in the runner up position in 36.994 seconds with Ilan Ferder’s 10-year-old mare Kamilla D.

It was 16-year-old Grace Debney who produced the first clear effort of the day with Temple Equestrian’s 10-year-old mare Zarina de Vidau, in just her third career Grand Prix. The youngster was the first to return in the jumpoff as well, finishing with just one knockdown in 37.126 seconds to round out the top three.

The remaining competitor in the jump-off was Nick Dello Joio on Gelvera, a 10-year-old KWPN mare owned by Hi Hopes Farm.

They had four faults in the jumpoff, and with a time of 37.652 seconds, finished fourth.

For Ward, the victory with Catoki was a positive step after a difficult outing in the Adequan WEF Challenge Cup Premiere Round.

“You just try to slow him down sometimes,” Ward said. “He goes every time to win. Sometimes when you always go to win the class, it can blow up a little bit.

He’s been a great campaign winner for us and so competitive. I felt like if I rode well, he would perform well today.”

In most cases, Ward sticks to his own game plan, but after a fiery start to the week by Ballard, her success crossed his mind.

“I’ve actually come behind her

in both jump-offs, and I think tried a little too hard to beat her,” he said. “I thought about that a little bit last night, actually. Catoki, he’s either going to win or be close, particularly at this 1.50m level.

He’s a real tiger.”

Ballard, also a regular competitor on WEF’s international stage, felt the pressure coming into the week’s finale.

“I felt so nervous today, more nervous than any other day this week because I felt like everyone was watching and I had to be good,” she said. “My room for error was very small, but she made the first round so easy for me. In the jump-off, when you’re following McLain, you have to try.”

While Ballard has experienced a great deal of success throughout her career, her early WEF results sit near the top of her long list of accomplishments.

“I had a good week two years ago, at Longines Masters in New York. I won the speed challenge and was third in the Grand Prix, but you never forget weeks like this,” she said. “You know that you’re not going to have them every time. You certainly can’t take them for granted.”

For Debney, it was also a week

filled with success, including a win in Sunday morning’s $10,000 Show Jumping Hall of Fame High Junior Jumper Classic, presented

by Griffis Residential, followed by her third-place finish in the Grand Prix. Her goal for WEF 2021 is to continue to be consistent, and she’s certainly off to a rapid start.

“It definitely has built up my confidence,” Debney said.

For Ward, it’s exciting to be surrounded by up-and-coming United States show jumping talent. When asked about the bright future of many of the young American riders competing at WEF, he beamed with pride.

“It’s phenomenal,” he said.

“It’s phenomenal for the future of the sport. It’s very rewarding for myself. I’m actually a little bit involved with Grace’s situation.

Lillie [Keenan], Adrienne [Sternlicht], Lucy Deslauriers; I have a pretty incredible group of young ladies around our operation that I hope are learning, benefiting and flourishing with our support. I always tell them, as much as they get out if it, I also find energy from working with them and seeing their ambition and young view of the sport. It keeps you hungry.”

The Bainbridge Companies

McLain Ward rides Catoki to victory. PHOTO BY SPORTFOT has been a sponsor at the Win- with the Wellington Regional ter Equestrian Festival for 21 Medical Center CSI3* show. The years. Chairman and CEO Richard first week of international jumper Schechter congratulated all of the competition features Saturday riders on a fantastic performance. night under the lights with the Earlier in the day, Selcuk Kok- $137,000 Wellington Regional salan of Wellington captured Medical Center Grand Prix CSI3*. the win in the $10,000 Medium Don’t miss a minute of the action Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic by tuning into the free livestream aboard Carla. of feature classes. Learn more at WEF continued Jan. 13-17 www.pbiec.com.

Palm Beach Equine Captures Big Win On Opening Day At IPC

Opening day of the 2021 season arrived at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Sunday, Jan. 3, beginning with the Bobby Barry

Cup final between Palm Beach Equine and Beverly Equestrian.

Played under a different environment without the usual packed

grandstand, Palm Beach Equine emerged victorious, defeating Beverly Equestrian 13-11 and capturing the Bobby Barry Cup title.

Palm Beach Equine defeated Beverly Equestrian to win the Bobby Barry Cup. PHOTO BY ALEX PACHECO

Conceding two goals on handicap to Beverly Equestrian, Palm Beach Equine received an impressive performance from Gringo Colombres, leading all players with six goals as part of an efficient attack alongside Robi Bilbao and Costi Caset. Scott Swerdlin was effective in the back position for the Palm Beach Equine defense, which prevented any significant runs from their opponent.

The momentum of the game changed at the beginning of the second half, as Palm Beach Equine scored six of the first eight goals to build a large enough lead and withstand a late push from Beverly Equestrian to complete the two-goal victory.

Building on their two-goal advantage, 16-goal Beverly Equestrian extended their lead to three at the end of the first chukker after two goals from Tolito Ocampo, pressuring Palm Beach Equine in the early stages of the match.

A tightly marked defensive game was seen for the remainder of the

first half with little space given to each team, resulting in a few fouls that favored Palm Beach Equine.

Unable to capitalize on the extra possessions from three Beverly Equestrian fouls in the second chukker, Palm Beach Equine stayed three behind on the scoreboard after Hilario Figueras and Bilbao traded goals for their respective teams. Finding their pace in the final chukker of the half, Palm Beach Equine kept Beverly Equestrian in their own half, converting a Penalty 2 as well as receiving a Penalty 1 to reduce the deficit to one and trail 6-5 at halftime.

Breaking through in the opening moments of the second half, Palm Beach Equine took its first lead of the game on Colombres’ third goal, which ignited dominant fourth and fifth chukkers. After being held scoreless in the first half, Caset made an immediate impact, scoring two goals for Palm Beach Equine, extending the team’s lead to 9-7. A back-andforth fifth chukker saw Beverly

Equestrian battle to reclaim the lead on goals from Figueras and Lucas Diaz Alberdi, but Palm Beach Equine’s offense continued to produce thanks to the efforts of Colombres.

Adding two goals to his total, Colombres left Palm Beach Equine holding a four-goal advantage with just one chukker between them and the victory.

Another Colombres goal pushed the lead to four, leaving Beverly Equestrian with a difficult task with time running out. Despite conceding field goals to Ocampo and Figueras, Palm Beach Equine completed the strong opening day performance, capturing the exciting 13-11 win.

Leading scorer Gringo Colombres was awarded Most Valuable Player while his pony Dolfina Niniera received Best Playing Pony Honors.

High goal polo action continued with the Joe Barry Memorial Cup, which concludes Sunday, Jan. 17 at IPC. For more info., visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

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FEATURES

Electronics Taking Over Your Life? Could Be Good, Could Be Bad Briiiiiiiing! It starts with the annoying brassy ring of an alarm clock. Unless, of course, you use Alexa. Then it’s music... or the news.

You shuffle into the kitchen to get the coffee going or, if you’ve preprogrammed the maker, a blinking light may tell you it’s ready. While you’re pouring, you may glance over at your refrigerator, with a steady blue light that will not go away until you’ve replaced its $49 filter — a filter which you swear you just replaced not too long ago.

Ding! The microwave tells you your cinnamon roll is warm and ready to go, but first there’s a little sound from your phone — a friend is playing Golf Clash

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER without you. You sit down at the breakfast table to play golf (because why not sit while you golf?) but the phone rings. It could be any one of a number of pleasant little melodies but, if you’re over 60, it’s probably the telephone-y ring that sounds just like the big black phone that used to

be at your parents’ house.

You answer the phone, but then dingdong — someone’s at the front door, probably FedEx with those noise-canceling headphones you ordered.

Is anyone else tired of this? Of having the movements of our everyday lives dictated by a bunch of electronics? Whatever happened to waking up because a rooster crowed or the sunlight streaming through your window signaled it was morning?

Whatever happened to a neighbor running excitedly up to your porch to tell you Sonny was back from the war?

Whatever happened to water from the well, so clear it didn’t need to be filtered?

Or a cinnamon roll that was warm and hot

because it had just come from grandma’s oven? Or a game of horseshoes in the front yard with friends you could laugh with — and slap on the back?

I’ll tell you what happened — we didn’t want any of those things.

If I hear the crow of a rooster at daybreak, I’m going to try to hit that thing with a shoe. If the sun hits my face too early, I’m getting new room-darkening shades.

And I don’t want random neighbors running up to my porch to tell me anything. They’re probably only using it as an excuse to look in my windows anyway.

No, I did not do last night’s dishes yet... happy?

And as for well water... could be good, could have accidentally been poisoned when a rabid squirrel fell down there.

Not risking it.

As for neighbors playing horseshoes in the yard — who are these people with time to drop everything and play a game together all at the same time? Don’t they have jobs?

And grandma’s home cooking — well, that was the first thing to go. Name one grandmother you know who is up at dawn stoking the coals of a cast iron fire pit.

More likely, she’s in line at Starbucks, waiting for her own muffin to be heated up.

No, people, times have changed. And I, for one, say thank goodness.

Watching The Movie ‘Dave’ Makes Me Long For Better Leaders

I was watching a wonderful old move, Dave, a classic of the early 1990s, and although I enjoyed it, I wound up feeling sad. In the film, Dave (Kevin Kline) is a regular guy who runs an employment agency in Georgetown with a side job impersonating the president of the United States (not difficult because Kline played both roles). When the president has a stroke during an illicit rendezvous, his treacherous assistants (Frank Langella, Kevin Dunn) get Dave to take over.

The problem for them is that Dave is a regular guy, one of us. He actually believes that the role of government is to help the people. He has spent his adult life helping people find jobs. That, of course, puts him at odds with his government-based supposed subordinates, who simply go behind his back.

After he discovers that funding for daycare shelters has been cut from the budget, shelters that the first lady (Sigourney

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler Weaver) supports, he takes action. In one of the best scenes from any political movie ever, using knowledge gained from his brilliant accountant Murray Blum (Charles Grodin), he holds a televised cabinet meeting where he quizzes officials about ways to cut other programs to save the shelters. Watching him ask the secretary of commerce, “Is it really worth that many millions of dollars to pay for a program to help people who have already bought used cars feel better about their purchases rather than help these children?” and seeing the

official, with TV cameras watching, forced to agree, is precious.

Of course in the end, the bad guys set him up to be destroyed, forgetting that he is not really the president. So he fakes a stroke, the real president is brought forward, the vice president takes over and he goes back to finding jobs.

What I found most striking is the idea that people in government should care about us. Is there anyone around who really believes they do? Look at the situation with the COVID-19 vaccine. Officials in many states condemned the federal government for not getting the doses out fast enough even though it was revealed that in many states, doses were waiting on shelves because the states have not set up effective programs. In some cases, the waiting caused the vaccines to be spoiled.

Even worse, the politicians at first said that the first recipients would be medical professionals “on the front lines” and

then senior citizens. Then it was quietly decided that government officials, even those who were so young that they were extraordinarily unlikely to die from the disease, counted as more important than seniors so they were jumped to the front of the line to get their shots.

Following that bit of news, came a few stories about shots being given to the even younger staff members of those politicians. All this while seniors wait. There were even some stories that some politicians were quietly pushing the idea that the government officials needed their families protected by shots before they could get down to the business of protecting others.

In New York, Gov. Cuomo is now talking about taking care of seniors who are over 75 while having those between 65 and 75 wait until the vaccines go out to municipal unions to distribute to their members of all ages. I am certain, and know you will agree, that it is just a coin-

cidence that those unions are the backbone of his support. Grandma, well, she might die but at least you won’t have to watch her go because you’ll be forbidden to see her near the end.

Now these are just current problems. We face so many of them and yet our public officials barely take notice. Oh, they are quick to condemn those of whichever party is not theirs for a whole variety of slights.

Blaming others is the name of the game.

The people who really count with the pols are those who can provide votes and funding to keep them in office. All politicians claim to be great humanitarians; most only care about themselves. Why wasn’t government ready to distribute vaccines?

We knew they were being worked on for months. But wasn’t there anyone interested enough in the welfare of the people to set up the framework for fast distribution before we had the current mess?

Frankly, we need more like Dave.

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Page 17

NEWS

HOPCo, Center For Bone & Joint Surgery Announce Partnership

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo), the national leader in musculoskeletal practice management and value-based care solutions, and the Center for Bone & Joint Surgery of the Palm Beaches (CBJ) have partnered to create an innovative musculoskeletal care platform established to develop unique clinically integrated partnerships with musculoskeletal practices and other physicians, health systems and payors throughout the Palm Beach market, with the intent to expand the platform in other markets in southeast Florida.

Utilizing HOPCo’s proprietary care management platform, software tools and analytics, this new partnership will provide value-based healthcare solutions

to improve care outcomes and patient satisfaction. HOPCo and CBJ have already begun working with additional musculoskeletal practices and other care partners to develop a clinically integrated platform for population health, bundled payment and other unique value-based care arrangements, and they are in discussions with health systems, payors and practices to expand its care network throughout South Florida.

“The Center for Bone & Joint Surgery has an over 25-year track record of providing outstanding care to patients in the Palm Beach area,” said Dr. Wael Barsoum, HOPCo’s president and chief transformation officer. “Their leadership team embraces the shift

MICKEY SMITH RECEIVES ROTARY’S GLADNEY AWARD

Rotarian and attorney Mickey Smith has been presented with the 2020 Frank T. Gladney Community Service Award by the Wellington Rotary Club. Due to the pandemic, the club delayed the presentation of the 2020 award from June 2020 to January 2021. Smith was presented the award based on his longtime community service to groups such as the Boys & Girls Club, the Wellington Community Foundation and the Wellington Rotary Club. The annual award dates back to the 1980s and honors early Wellington Rotarian Frank Gladney, who embodied the epitome of civic involvement. The award is given to an individual who has tirelessly continued to donate time, money or individual effort through civic activities to promote Wellington and help continue to make Wellington a great community in which to live and work.

to value-based care, which makes them an ideal partner for us. We are excited to help them build the first of its kind musculoskeletal care platform in partnership with other leading musculoskeletal providers in the region.”

The Center for Bone & Joint Surgery is a multi-location practice devoted to diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal injuries and diseases. CBJ utilizes the expertise of 27 providers and offers leading-edge treatments in orthopedics, sports medicine, joint replacement surgery, trauma and fracture repair, as well as spinal conditions.

“We have always made it our mission to provide personalized care to our patients,” said Michael Morgan, CEO of the Center for

Bone & Joint Surgery. “The addition of HOPCo’s evidence-based care pathways and outcomes tracking analytics will allow us to provide more cost-effective care to our patients while still maintaining our personalized care approach.

We see this partnership with HOPCo as a major step into the future of healthcare, which is creating more value and better outcomes for more patients.”

This partnership further expands HOPCo’s unique service offerings throughout Florida. In 2019, HOPCo partnered with Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to create a musculoskeletal clinical care platform for northeast Florida and the Gulf Coast.

Earlier this year, HOPCo also announced a joint venture with

Ascension Florida, one of the nation’s leading hospital systems, that included the development of the first musculoskeletal-focused CIN in the state and the first orthopedic specialty hospital located in the Jacksonville area.

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) is the leading provider of musculoskeletal value-based health outcomes management, service line management and practice management.

This includes comprehensive management and optimization of specialties, such as orthopedics, spine, hand, pain management, rehabilitation and neurology. HOPCo’s integrated care and analytics platform has proven to increase the quality of patient care and program revenue while reliably reducing

the total cost of care across the care continuum for practices, health systems and payors alike.

For more information, visit www. hopco.com.

Established in 1992, the Center for Bone & Joint Surgery of the Palm Beaches has grown to seven locations, including Royal Palm Beach and offices in Wellington, Belle Glade, Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter and Port Saint Lucie. CBJ offers a team approach to care and provides a variety of services right on campus designed for convenience and ensuring an outstanding continuum of care. These include on-site X-ray, on-site MRI, on-site physical therapy and aquatic therapy.

For more information, visit www. boneandjoint.org.

Wellington Art Society To Feature Artist Barbara Powell At Feb. 10 Meeting The Wellington Art Society will feature a demonstration by local artist Barbara Powell at its Wednesday, Feb. 10 meeting.

The meeting and presentation will take place through the Wellington Art Society’s virtual Zoom link, which is distributed via e-mail to all members. A meet-and-greet will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the member spotlight and a brief meeting. The event will conclude with a demonstration by Barbara Powell of saggar-fired ceramics.

The public is invited. RSVP by e-mail to presidentofwas@gmail. com.

Originally from western Massachusetts, Powell’s professional career focused on environmental protections. She is now centered on clay and enjoying the local South Florida art scene.

Powell gets her inspiration from “nature and the ancient forces of water and time on the varied geology.”

“I mostly wheel-throw my pottery, and depending on the surface of the clay and firing methods, I can create either brilliant dimensions of color or subtle earthly palettes. I love working between these two extremes,” Powell explained.

She muses that even after working in this medium for many years and developing an in-depth knowledge of the materials, the final outcome always remains largely

unforeseen, as the fire itself has the final signature.

Powell is a previous director for the Wellington Art Society and Women in the Visual Arts.

Currently, she is a member of the Ceramic League of the Palm Beaches, the Lighthouse ArtCenter in Tequesta and the Partners for Art and Design in Miami.

In addition to working at her home studio, Powell teaches wheel-throwing classes at the City of Palm Beach Gardens, hand-building classes at Wycliffe

and workshops at the Lighthouse ArtCenter.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most of Powell’s classes are temporarily on hold. However, she is offering several fun Fire Friday events at the Lighthouse ArtCenter. Most of the work is done in an open-air environment, since a kiln is used. For more information about Fire Friday and other fun opportunities, visit www.lighthousearts.org/select-fridays.html.

Enjoy Powell’s art on her web site at www.powellceramicart.

com, or follow her on Facebook @ bpowellceramicart and Instagram @bpowellceramicart. Contact Powell directly at (561) 685-7325 or powellceramicart@gmail.com.

The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization in its 40th year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their art work in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Two ceramic pots created by artist Barbara Powell.

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Page 18

January 15 - January 28, 2021

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NEWS

B&G Club Golf Classic Returns Jan. 29 At Wellington National

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington will hold its 39th annual Wellington Golf Classic on Friday, Jan. 29.

Traditionally hosted in November, the event was postponed due to COVID-19.

The event kicks off with registration at 11:30 a.m., followed by a noon shotgun start with an auction and awards celebration to follow at the Wellington National Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington).

Past participants will notice slight changes to the popular annual event to allow for COVID-19 safeguards. However, the 39th year of this important fundraising event will still provide plenty of excitement with a tournament, cart-side lunch, on-course con-

tests, a live auction and an awards reception.

“This year’s tournament is more important than ever to the club. The need is greater than normal, while the ability to get people together for fundraising has obviously decreased because of COVID-19. The golf tournament is a nice, safe way to both have fun and support the club’s important mission — even if you are a duffer, like me,” Board Member Michael “Mickey” Smith said.

Proceeds from the Wellington Golf Classic support the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington, one of 13 Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. This year, the clubs provided services during regular school hours for distance learning, non-

school hours and summer camp opportunities to more than 9,400 boys and girls from ages 6 to 18.

In a positive and safe environment, the clubs emphasize educational, vocational, social, recreational, health, leadership and character-building.

Wellington Golf Classic committee members include Todd Barron, Elliot Bonner, Michael Ferraro, John Hornberger, Ray Mooney, Mickey Smith, Max Westerman and Meghan Whitten.

Sponsorships and foursomes are available.

For more information, contact Christine Martin at (561) 6833287 or cmartin@bgcpbc.org. To learn more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, visit www.bgcpbc.org.

Habitat For Humanity Of Palm Beach County Receives A $320,000 Grant

Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County recently announced that the Fredrick A. DeLuca Foundation has awarded the nonprofit a $320,000 grant to expand and support Habitat’s Aging in Place program. The grant will fund two new staff positions and increase the number of seniors HFHPBC serves.

In 2015, to complement its new construction program, Habitat created a Home Preservation Program under its Neighborhood Revitalization department. Using Home

Preservation funding, Habitat for Humanity makes cosmetic exterior and critical interior/exterior improvements to homes owned and occupied by lower-income homeowners. The repairs range in cost from $2,000 to $10,000 per home. Aging-in-place repairs have been a consistent aspect of the program and are repeatedly requested by residents, as most seniors want to stay in their homes for as long as possible.

“Thanks to this generous grant by the Frederick A. DeLuca Foun-

dation, we will continue to expand its reach to those in our community in need of this service that allows homeowners to ‘age in place’ more safely and affordably,” said Bernie Godek, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County.

The Fredrick A. DeLuca Foundation is a private foundation that was founded in 1997 by the late Fred DeLuca, co-founder of the global Subway restaurant chain.

The foundation supports charitable programs that empower people to lead healthy and productive lives.

Not Enough Supply

is simply not flowing to Florida.”

Despite that, Palm Beach County is number three behind Broward and Miami-Dade counties in receiving vaccines with 42,000 doses, she said.

“It’s very important to make sure that everybody who goes for a vaccine has an appointment,” Alonso said. “Please, the public, do not show up at a site without an appointment. You will not be seen.”

She said a big problem is that the statewide telephone answering system taking appointments was not able to handle the high demand.

“What we’ve done here in Palm Beach County is we’ve added additional lines to our local phone system, and we’re using volunteers to augment the present

staff,” Alonso said, explaining that her department has run out of money from the state designated for COVID-19 relief.

“We know how important the telephone is and not everybody is able to go online and switch to the web-based system that we have right now,” she said.

Due to complications with creating a web-based appointment system, the health department is relying on an e-mail box at chd50feedback@flhealth.gov to take information from those wanting vaccinations.

That e-mail site is also on the health department’s web site at http://palmbeach.floridahealth. gov, where there is also additional COVID-19 information and instructions how to fill out the appointment request.

Vaccine

continued from page 1 Alonso said. “We cannot do that based on the executive order. It only says 65 and older.”

She said administration of the COVID-19 vaccine is no different than any other new vaccine, and it would probably be several months before the general population would be able to receive vaccinations.

“The general population will get vaccinated sometime in the spring to early summer,” Alonso said.

“The difficulty is trying to get that 400,000 population of 65 and older vaccinated at a time when we have very limited vaccine. The vaccine

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Page 19

BUSINESS NEWS

Gastro Group Of The Palm Beaches Merges With Tampa General Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches is now the Tampa General Hospital Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches, providing patients in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast with the worldclass care and complex services of a major, academic medical center right in their own backyard.

Tampa General Hospital Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches is staffed by five of Palm Beach County’s top gastrointestinal specialists. These physicians — Dr. Steven Krumholz, Dr. Jeffrey H. Garelick, Dr. Robert S. Raymond, Dr. Glenn H. Englander and Dr. Sherman M. Chamberlain — trained at some of the world’s most respected institutions and have a broad spectrum of experience in the field.

“After nearly 40 years of providing next-level service to our patients, we are thrilled to take this important step in joining forces

with Tampa General Hospital and advancing treatment for patients,” Krumholz said. “We look forward to continuing to provide our patients with the highest quality care in the region.”

Gastro Group of the Palm Beaches’ two locations are now part of the Tampa General Hospital brand, making it the second TGH medical group on Florida’s East Coast. In addition to the state-ofthe-art West Palm Beach location, patients will continue to visit the Palm Beach Gardens facility.

Tampa General gastroenterology surgeons and specialists will work in collaboration with Gastro Group physicians to provide the most comprehensive treatment options in a seamless, coordinated manner. Patients who need complex, specialized surgeries will benefit from a convenient, streamlined process to have surgeries in Tampa with pre- and post-surgery

care performed in Palm Beach County.

“We are very pleased to take this important step in adding gastroenterology to our list of East Coast comprehensive treatment options,” said John Couris, Tampa General Hospital’s president and CEO. “We look forward to providing the world-class care that TGH is known for to residents in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast.”

Tampa General’s gastroenterology and GI surgery program is the highest ranked in Florida and No. 24 in the United States

by U.S. News & World Report for 2020-21. Tampa General also was named “high performing” for colon cancer surgery by U.S. News.

Clinicians use the most advanced technology available to diagnose and treat a variety of GI conditions, including those affecting the esophagus, stomach, liver and

Promotion For Heather Landstrom At Guardians Credit Union

Guardians Credit Union, a full-service financial institution, recently promoted Heather Landstrom to business relationship manager. This newly created position comes as a result of the credit union recognizing the need to further assist the small business community. The firm has recently added a full suite of business products and services, including low-rate credit cards, vehicle loans and refinances, real estate loans and more.

“Heather has been a key part of our involvement with the community, and we are excited to promote her to this key position,” said Shannon Duran, president of Guardians Credit Union.

Landstrom joined the credit

union in 2017 as the community development manager and quickly made a positive impact by demonstrating extensive knowledge and competence, leading numerous financial seminars throughout Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties. More recently, she has taken her seminars virtual, as a means to continue to increase financial literacy. Furthermore, she was instrumental in the quick rollout of the credit union’s Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program earlier this year.

Through her community development and volunteer activities, she brings attention and distinction to Guardians Credit Union.

Guardians Credit Union is a full-service financial institution

Heather Landstrom headquartered in West Palm Beach. For more info., visit www. guardianscu.coop.

pancreas, as well as intestinal and colorectal conditions. Surgeons perform a wide array of laparoscopic and robotic GI surgeries, as well as complex open GI surgeries.

TGH’s pancreatic, hepatic and biliary cancer programs, and the esophageal disorders program, have also received disease-specific certification from the Joint Commission.

Tampa General’s expansion plans across the state will continue as the institute builds relationships with additional local physicians in Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast, aggregating more specialists into the Tampa General network to provide comprehensive treatment options across multiple specialties.

Tampa General Hospital, a 1,006-bed, nonprofit, academic medical center, is one of the largest hospitals in America. For more info., visit www.tgh.org.

Tampa General Hospital President & CEO John Couris

Bill Thomas Moves Brightway Agency To A New Location In Wellington

Customers of Brightway, the Bill Thomas Agency can expect the same great local, expert counsel and the broadest possible choice in insurance brands now at a new location.

The agency has moved to 12161 Ken Adams Way, Suite 170, in the Lake Wellington Professional Centre.

“We continue to provide the level of attention and service that consumers have grown to expect from Brightway at our new location on Ken Adams Way,” Thomas said. “We offer the most choice of insurance brands, so we can do the shopping for you and are available to assist consumers in person at our new location.”

Brightway, the Bill Thomas

Agency opened two years ago.

The agency offers customized home, flood, auto, condo, renters, personal articles, RV, motorcycle, boat, umbrella, life and business insurance policies from numerous insurance brands, including American Integrity, Bankers, Burns and Wilcox, Edison, Foremost, Johnson and Johnson, Mercury, Nationwide, Olympus, Progressive, Safeco, Tower Hill, Travelers and more.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday by appointment.

For more info., visit www. brightwaybillthomas.com, call (561) 331-6652 or e-mail at bill. thomas@brightway.com.

Bill Thomas

New Collection Of Homes By Lennar Now Available At Arden

Arden, a Palm Beach County agrihood master-planned by Freehold Communities, recently unveiled the Stanton collection, a new collection of single-family homes by national homebuilder Lennar.

Two fully furnished model homes from the Stanton collection are now available for showings to interested homebuyers at Arden.

Built on spacious 70-foot homesites, the collection offers four distinct floor plans — Acacia, Holly, Lyonia and Cocoplum.

Featuring both single-level and double-level options ranging from 2,631 to 3,360 square feet, each of the designs offers an open-concept living space and a stunning owner’s suite. Prices start from the high $400,000s.

“We’re excited about Lennar’s

latest offering of premium single-family homes at Arden,” said Andrew Smith, division president of Freehold Communities. “We believe that prospective homebuyers will truly be impressed with the exceptional craftsmanship and the unique benefits of these Lennar homes, as well as amenities and lifestyle that Arden offers as an award-winning agrihood community.”

The Stanton is Lennar’s third home collection at Arden. In recent months, the agrihood community has experienced a 50 percent surge in sales as homebuyers increasingly value access to nature and the ability to lead a healthy lifestyle.

With its ideal location in South Florida, its resort-style amenities, and an on-site five-acre farm, Arden has become a prime option

for those seeking fresh air, fresh food and a fresh way of life.

Alongside the Stanton Collection, Arden has the following collections of homes available by renowned national builders: the Paired Villa Collection by D.R. Horton, the Arcadia Collection

by Lennar, the Providence Collection by Lennar and the Estate Collection by Kenco Communities.

Given the growing demand at Arden, interested homebuyers are encouraged to not delay their visit and schedule an appointment to learn more about the award-winning community and what the agrihood lifestyle has to offer.

Interested homebuyers can schedule an appointment by filling out the form at https://ardenfl. com/tour-arden or by calling (561) 461-5501.

Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M.

YOUR FIRST VET VISIT

On your first visit to the veterinarian, there are important things to discuss and information you need to share. Start by writing the topics, questions, and information down at home. You’ll be calmer and better able to listen because you won’t be worried about forgetting anything. You can also jot down answers and notes on the same paper. Provide the vet with information on the foods, brands, and amounts you give at feedings. Be open to possible suggestions the vet may give you. Also present a list of medications and dosages.

Find out the office capabilities (such as on-site X-rays or lab work).

Finally, how does the practice handle emergencies, or who do they recommend should an emergency arise?

If you are a first-time pet owner, or new to the Royal Palm Beach area and haven’t found a veterinarian yet, please stop by COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH and get acquainted with our practice, our health care philosophies, our dedicated staff, and state-of-the-art facilities. And please don’t be shy about calling us when you have any questions about your pet’s health. We believe education and prevention are just as important as treating injury and illness. Please call 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies pertaining to your pet’s health. We are conveniently located at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. P.S. Your new vet can be an excellent source of information relating to dog walkers, groomers, pet sitting, safe dog parks, pet stores, or even dog-friendly walking trails.

A Naturally Occurring Retirement Community

Volunteers Needed!

We are looking for volunteers in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach!

Please call 561-568-8818 or visit www.WellingtonCaresorg.com for more information Wellington Cares volunteers to help meet the needs of our growing senior residents. Volunteering is based on your schedule.

Wellington Cares, is a 50 I ( c) 3 community based not-for-profit organization committed to coordinating volunteers of all ages serving in a time exchange format to enable persons age 65 or older who require assistance to remain in their home with the support of the Wellington community residents and local organizations.

Page 20

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SPORTS & RECREATION

RPBHS Girls Basketball Focused On Getting Better Every Day

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach High School varsity girls basketball coach Ivana Soberal has high expectations for her team this year. She understands that the key to the annual success of her program is rooted in her players’ ability to grasp and eventually master basketball’s fundamental skills, starting with conditioning, how to rebound the ball, and developing skills such as dribbling, passing and catching.

The overall fitness of the team is improving on a daily basis, Soberal said. The team’s inability to get in proper shape by the beginning of the season was the result of COVID-19 restrictions on team sports.

“I have high expectations every year, and I’m always teaching my players how to improve,” said Soberal, now in her second year as the head coach for the Wildcats.

“Everything we do in practice is done with movement. It’s either

‘catch and move’ or ‘catch, move and shoot.’ These are all game-like skills.”

Soberal — who graduated from Atlantic (then, Summit) Christian Academy in West Palm Beach and played collegiately at Warner University, an NAIA school in Lake Wales, Florida — is still young and fit enough to practice what she preaches, as is her assistant coach Willie Richardson.

“That’s what I like about being a basketball coach, because I can demonstrate everything that I want my players to do,” said Soberal, who also teaches health, personal fitness and team sports at Royal Palm Beach High School.

Soberal has strong words of praise for the work that Richardson is doing as her right-hand man.

“I could not have found a better coach to assist in building the girls’ basic fundamentals,” Soberal said. “He has taken girls who have never touched a ball and taught them skills to be able

to play and compete in a game.

His job as the head junior varsity coach is what will truly set up our varsity program and give us more depth. With the varsity program, he complements me well. We have the same mentality of pushing the girls and expecting more from them, and we have different ways of making that happen.”

The Wildcats won five of their first eight regular season games and are looking to continue their winning ways in the last few weeks of the regular season.

Then, it will be a case of “win or go home” in the local Class 7A, Region 3, District 10 postseason tournament, which starts in early February. If the Wildcats can reach the district tournament final, they will advance into the postseason.

So, between now and the postseason, Soberal will be looking for each player to lend a helping hand to the overall success of the team.

It all starts with senior Kamia Harrell, who has been the starting point guard since she was a sophomore.

“Kamia has great court vision as our point guard,” Soberal said.

“She prefers to pass rather than take a shot. She’s very coachable and is a leader on the court. There

Briana Civil prepares to inbound the ball during the Senior Night game versus Boynton Beach on Jan. 11.

are times when I want her to not be so unselfish and actually look to score.”

Senior guard Anaia Banks has a scorer’s mentality.

“Anaia is a great shooter and is always looking for ways to score,” Soberal said. “She is a natural athlete and makes lots of steals.”

Samantha Saint-Jean, another senior guard, brings the team to life with her mental approach to the game. She also knows the importance of rebounding the basketball.

“Samantha is our most energetic and talkative player,” Soberal said.

“She is our top defensive player and knows how to box out in order to get rebounds.”

Re’mya Flowers, a junior forward, leads by example.

“Re’mya is our hardest worker in practice and in games,” Soberal said. “She is also a great free throw shooter and rebounder.”

Senior forward Lily Lanier is a volleyball player who Soberal was able to convince to try basketball as well. Her story is bittersweet.

Lanier joined the team as a junior, but an injury is keeping her off the court right now.

“In the last 12 months, Lily is our most improved player, but

Royal Palm Beach High School head basketball coach Ivana Soberal provides a pep talk during a timeout.

RPBHS girls basketball squad team members: (front row) Briana Civil, Taryin Carter, Lily Lanier and Kamia Harrell; and (back row) head coach Ivana Soberal, Samantha Saint-Jean, Re’mya Flowers, Tori Carter, Mariyah Mathieu, Anaia Banks and assistant coach Willie Richardson. Not shown: Juaensha Theodore and Amariyah Edwards. she is sidelined for the rest of the season because of a torn ACL,” Soberal said. “Despite the injury, she attends every practice and every game.”

As a way to honor Lanier’s commitment to the team, Soberal made sure Lily dressed for the senior night game against Boynton Beach High School on Monday, Jan. 11, which the team won. Lanier was in the starting lineup but was substituted out of the game immediately after the opening tip-off to avoid further injury.

Juaensha Theodore goes by the nickname “Jo Jo.” “Juaensha is a sophomore who is new to the varsity squad,” Soberal said. “She is growing as a player and is learning the basics of basketball.”

Amariyah Edwards is the only freshman on the squad. She has a bright basketball future.

“Amariyah is quick. She has a great attitude, and she is really coachable,” Soberal said. “She’s a great addition to the team.”

Junior guard Taryin Carter is on the varsity squad for the first time this year.

“Taryin is a true team player and is learning what it takes to play varsity basketball,” Soberal said.

“She’s developing into a good shooter.”

Sophomore guard Briana Civil may well be next year’s starting point guard.

“Briana is a good ball handler and has great court vision,” Soberal said. “She’s getting better every day.”

Sophomore forward Mariyah Mathieu is on the varsity squad for the second straight year. She’s a solid all-around player who stands 5-foot-8.

“Mariyah can shoot, rebound and dribble,” Soberal said. “She’s a lefty, which gives us a different look. She’s not an easy player to guard.”

At 5-foot-11, Tori Carter is one of the tallest players on the team — and uses her height to her advantage.

“Tori is a strong rebounder who is good at put-backs for points,” Soberal said. “She is also getting better about making shots from the short corner.”

If the RPBHS varsity girls basketball squad can get themselves in top shape by season’s end, they have a chance of meeting or exceeding their coach’s high expectations with a deep run in the postseason.

PBCHS Girls Basketball Squad Chasing Hardwood Dreams

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Teamwork will make the dream work. It may be a cliché, but that’s what is necessary for the Palm Beach Central High School varsity girls basketball team to achieve its dream of finishing the regular season on a high note and then making a deep run in the state playoffs.

According to Palm Beach Central head coach Bruce Gaffney, his team did not have a dreamlike start to the season. The Broncos struggled to a 4-4 record after the first eight games. But there’s time for Gaffney and his assistant coach Charles Howell to get their players better at scoring, passing, rebound-

ing, stealing and playing defense.

There are just a few weeks remaining in the regular season before the squad begins play in the Class 7A, Region 3, District 10 postseason district tournament.

Gaffney’s district tournament goal is for his team to reach the championship game, thereby guaranteeing a spot in the Class 7A state tournament, which will begin with regional play on Feb. 16.

Gaffney, now in his 15th year as the head coach at Palm Beach Central, has 10 players on his roster, and each player has something positive to add to the success of the team.

The Broncos’ top player is

E’Zaria Adams, in the triple threat position, is guarded by teammate Deborah Jean during practice.

sophomore point guard E’Zaria Adams, who is one of four cocaptains on the team.

“E’Zaria has a strong work ethic and has a high basketball IQ,” Gaffney said. “She is our leading scorer and has had games where she has scored 26, 21, 19 and 17 points.”

Guard Melanie Grabarsky, a transfer from Trinity Christian in Lake Worth, is a senior co-captain.

This is her first year with the Broncos. Gaffney likes the passion that she brings to the game.

“Melanie is a high-energy player who gets lots of steals,” Gaffney said. “She is often the first player down the court on the fast break.”

Freshman guard Gracie Powell is one of the team’s better perimeter scorers.

“Gracie is one of our top threepoint shooters,” Gaffney said.

“She is also great at pressing on defense.”

Senior co-captain Gabrielle Powell, Gracie’s older sister, is a four-year player for the Broncos.

The 5-foot-4 guard has special qualities that you can’t teach, according to Gaffney.

“Gabrielle brings leadership to the team,” Gaffney said. “She also has great energy — in games, during practice, in the locker room and on the bench.”

Sophomore Deborah Jean is the fourth co-captain. She is the team’s top power forward. Her biggest

basketball attribute is her strength.

“Deborah is a strong rebounder and runs the floor very well,” Gaffney said.

Freshman Tamia Coleman uses her 6-foot-2 frame to dominate the area around the basket.

“Tamia rebounds, blocks shots and has a strong presence down low near the backboard,” Gaffney said. “She is a hard worker with big potential. She also has a nice shot.”

Sophomore Brianna Jeanniton is new to the Bronco basketball program. She transferred this year from Santaluces High School in Lantana.

“Brianna can jump well, which makes her a good rebounder and shot blocker,” Gaffney said.

Senior Kyss Benoit has two qualities which you cannot coach — she is tall and athletic.

“Kyss is fast and quick,” Gaffney said. “It’s great to have a 6-foot-2 player as a key reserve off the bench.”

Senior Chastity Lockhart also provides much-needed depth for the team. “Chastity is excellent at ball handling,” Gaffney said. “She is a physically tough player.”

Junior guard Anna Luengas is new to the varsity team this year.

She played on the junior varsity team last year as a sophomore.

“Anna worked hard on her game in the off-season,” Gaffney said.

“She has a great attitude.”

Palm Beach Central girls basketball co-captains (L-R) Melanie Grabarsky, Gabrielle Powell, Deborah Jean and E’Zaria Adams.

The key to the team’s success will be the ability to play a variety of defenses and keep physically moving on offense.

“On defense, we like to play a matchup zone, which keeps our taller players in the paint and our quick guards on the perimeter,” Gaffney said. “When we talk and move well on defense, our defense is strong. We also like to play a 2-2-1 and a 1-2-1-1 zone defense.”

On offense, it’s important that the Broncos emphasize body movement and ball movement, especially in the half-court offense.

“In our half-court offense, we

try to keep it simple by emphasizing smart passing and cutting to the basket, with an emphasis on ball-side and face-side cuts,” Gaffney said. “Of course, we try to get out on the fast break as often as we can.”

Gaffney, who led the team to the Florida state high school final four in Lakeland in 2012, is rather philosophical about the game.

“Basically, basketball is a game where we need stops on defense and buckets on offense,” he said.

That’s teamwork. And when you achieve teamwork, the dream will work.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Oxbridge Equestrian Team Places In Two Competitions With Strong Start To Season

RPB REGULATORS PLANNING TRIP TO COOPERSTOWN

The Royal Palm Beach Regulators travel baseball team will be going to Dreams Park Cooperstown from Aug. 28 through Sept. 3, 2021 to represent Royal Palm Beach. The squad is excited about the experience and is looking for local sponsors to help them with their travel next summer. To help out, e-mail coachjoeregulators@ gmail.com or call (561) 308-9040.

KARATE STUDENTS PRACTICE KANGEIKO

The Oxbridge Academy Equestrian Team has started its season well by placing third overall in both the first and second interscholastic equestrian competitions this season. Both competitions were held at the Sunshine Meadows Equestrian Center in Delray Beach on Dec. 5 and Dec. 6, respectively.

Team members competing included seniors Samantha Adamczyk of Loxahatchee, Ivy Ankerson of West Palm Beach and Jade Johnson of Palm Beach Gardens; juniors Ava Tarone of West Palm Beach and Mackenzie Hannan of Wellington; and freshman Sophia Derrin of Palm Beach Gardens.

The team is coached by Heidi and Steve Lengyel of Wall Street Farm in Wellington.

“The Oxbridge Academy Equestrian Team has evolved into a strong, well-rounded competi-

tive team in South Florida,” coach Steve Lengyel said. “With a strong third place finish in our first two competitions, I foresee the team advancing to regional playoffs in 2021.”

The Oxbridge Equestrian Team is a member of the Interscholastic Equestrian Association, a nonprofit organization pursuing its mission of introducing students in private and public middle and secondary schools to equestrian sport.

No rider needs to own a horse to participate, and IEA provides a mount and tack to each student at every event, eliminating obstacles and allowing more students to participate.

Oxbridge is a private college preparatory high school in West Palm Beach serving grades 9-12.

For more info., visit www.oapb. org or call (561) 972-9600.

Oxbridge Academy Equestrian Team members (L-R) Samantha Adamczyk, Ivy Ankerson and Ava Tarone.

WHS WRESTLERS CAPTURE DISTRICT DUAL TITLE

The Wellington High School wrestling team captured a Class 3A, District 11 dual team title recently. First-place winner Wellington and second-place winner Palm Beach Central will advance to the regional round at Olympic Heights with the champion advancing to the dual state championships on Jan. 22-23. Team scores were Wellington 72, Seminole Ridge 0; Wellington 71, Royal Palm Beach 6; and Wellington 66, Palm Beach Central 9.

Students from the Genbu-Kai Karate School in Wellington arrived at R.G. Kreusler Park in Palm Beach early one morning to participate in the annual Kangeiko. Kangeiko, loosely translated, means “winter training,” and this type of training is a special test of endurance, which forges character development within the participants. It’s also an excellent way for the students to form new friendships. In Japan, Kangeiko is practiced outside, in the snow, during the winter. After Kangeiko, all gathered at Benny’s on the Beach for breakfast. For more information on classes, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www.floridagenbukai.com. Shown above (L-R) are: (front row) Zachary Sauls, Andres Armadillo, Sensei Keith Moore, Zachary Carpentier and Faith Moreno; and (back row) Brian Virgo, Gordon Webber, Taiga Ramsey, Kota Ramsey, James Ricci, Alasdair Webber, Eugene Ryzhikov, Suzanne Riddle, Mike Riddle and Philip Harris.

LIVE AN ADVENTURE EVERYDAY

CLASSICALLY MODERN LIVING. There’s a place in the heart of Palm Beach County where affordable Minto homes open the door to friendly neighborhood traditions. It’s a place where the conveniences of tomorrow meet life’s timeless simple pleasures. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, looking to move up, or downsizing, it’s a place where you can enjoy life at your own pace. From the bustling Westlake Adventure Park to the quiet of your own backyard, experience the best of both worlds in Westlake.

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(561) 623-3529 | WestlakeFL.com | 16610 Town Center Parkway North | City of Westlake, FL 33470

For location, hours of operation and further details about our award-winning communities, visit MintoUSA.com. ©Minto Communities, LLC 2021. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Westlake and the Westlake logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. 2021.

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7431 West Atlantic Avenue. Suite 49 Delray Beach, FL 33446

www.Signatureflorida.com

CLASSIFIEDS • • • WELLINGTON ROYAL PALM BEACH LOXAHATCHEE THE ACREAGE

Employment Opportunities

Professional Services

LANDSCAPE SERVICE TECH — Maintain plants throughout Palm Beach County, indoors, our van, your drivers license, will train self tarter, PT/FT Call 561-784-5040 HURRICANE SHUTTER INSTALLER WANTED

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

Shop Work • Screen Fabricator and Installer.

Salary Open. Acreage and RPB Area.

Call P&M 791-9777

Real Estate For Sale Royal Palm Beach UPDATED 3/2 VILLA LOCATED IN INDIAN TRAILS (RPB) — Located across from Village Golf Club.Home features include tile floors, SS appliances, screened patio, community pool. Perfect for 1st time homebuyers, investors or retirees looking to downsize. Asking $225k Call Tamara Celeste - Sweet Life Realty Group 772-475-88789

Town-Crier Classifieds Call 561-793-7606

Fictitious Name Notice Legal Notice No. 694

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:

Mazie Moxie Located at:

10299 Southern Blvd. Unit 212982 Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 County of Palm Beach, Florida and intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations the of Florida, forthwith

Teresa Enos

Publish:Town-Crier Newspaper

Date: 1-15-21

A/C Refrigeration Services

Cleaning - Home/Office CLEANING LADY — I can help get your house cleaner than ever! Try me once and you will not be disappointed! 561-657-0420

Electrical Contractor SINGER ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING, INC. — Electrical work you can trust at an affordable price, Fully Licensed and Insured. EC#13007941 561-425-5409

Home Improvement ANMAR CO.— James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftsman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC1327426 561-248-8528 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS 561-793-7606

Insurance ALL COUNTY INSURANCE — 561-4710513 If you need Commercial and General liability; Rental and Vacant property; Business/ Work Vehicles Auto Insurance Payroll/Work Comp AnthonyA@allcountyinsurance.com

Painting J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, Chemical Roof Cleaning, 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

Plumbing POO-MAN — Pumping, plumbing, & drain cleaning. For all your septic & plumbing needs!

Let the Poo Crew come to you. 561-318-8416

Professional Services Roofing ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

R O O F I N G R E PA I R S R E - R O O F I N G A L L TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207 NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated. Residential/ Commercial. Wood Replacement, Roof Coatings, Solar Vents, Skylights & Roof Ventilation. 561-6564945 Lic. & Insured CCC1330208.Free Estimates

Screening J O H N ’ S S C R E E N R E PA I R S E R V I C E — Pool & patio re-screening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call u s 7 9 8 - 3 1 3 2 . w w w. p o o l s c r e e n r e p a i r. c o m

Septic Service DANNY’S SEPTIC SERVICE — 561-689-1555 Commercial/Residential Septic Tank and Grease Trap Pumping *Drain Fields *Lift Stations *Drain Cleaning w w w. D a n n y s - S e p t i c . c o m L i c # S R O 111 6 9 6

Sprinkler Systems AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael Office: 561-964-6004 Cell: 561236-8595 Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

Window Cleaning WE DO WINDOWS — Window Cleaning, Licensed and Insured. Residential and Commercial.

E s t a b l i s h e d 1 9 8 8 . K e e p Yo u r W i n d o w s , Frames and Screens Clean. 561-313-7098

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

Town-Crier Classifieds Call 561-793-7606

St. Jude’s Novena May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St.Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, help of the hopeless, pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 times a day by the 8th day, your prayer will be answered.

It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you, St Jude for granting my

H.A. etition.

Town-Crier Classifieds Call 561-793-7606

Seeking Employment HOME HEALTH AIDE AVAILABLE — Experienced Home Health Aide seeks new position. Flexible hours, full time, day or night. I am a Licensed CNA who has worked as a home health aide and also as a nanny. I have many years of experience taking care of the elderly at home. Price negotiable, references provided upon request. Call Pat at (561) 294-1423.

Page 24 January 15 - January 28, 2021

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

Call Today! 561-689-1555 Proudly Serving Greater Palm Beach County!

$10 OFF Coupon

Commercial/Residential •Septic Tank & Grease Trap Pumping

All Types of Pressure Cleaning, Chemical Roof Cleaning, Houses, Driveways, Patios, etc. and Interior/Exterior Painting

• Drain Fields • Lift Stations • Drain Cleaning

www.Dannys-Septic.com Customer@Dannys-Septic.com

HURRICANE IMPACT ACCORDION SHUTTERS

WHITE

ALUMINUM STORM PANELS

GLOVES

Miami-Dade Hurricane approved

cleaning service

P&M

“Let the Poo Crew come to you”

Patrycja Jaskolski (561) 657-0420

www.poo-man.com

References, Experience, Professional Service

For all your Septic and Plumbing needs!

CONTRACTORS Local Contractors

poomanpumping247@gmail.com 561-318-8416 561-540-5929

561-791-9777 U-17189 Licensed & Insured

Be Your Own Boss!

INSURANCE

Salon, Spa Suite Services

Homes | Apartments | Offices

Be Your Own Boss!

Jewelry Exchange 



Looking for

Looking for Hairdressers,

Fine Gold, Silver

Barbers, Nail Techs,

& Diamond Jewelers,

Massage Therapist, Estheticians, Tattoo & Permanent Make Up Artist For information call

561-499-9935 x 0

children • community • seniors The Wellington Community Foundation, Inc. is a charitable organization committed to benefiting the residents of Wellington by supporting and improving their quality of life.

Learn More About Becoming Involved By Visiting Our Website Today!

www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org

Gemologist,

• Commercial & General Liability • Rental & Vacant Property • Business / Work Vehicles • Auto Insurance

Watch Makers & Certified

700 S. Military Trail • West Palm Beach, FL 33415

For information call

Ph:561-471-0513

Swiss Watch Repairs

561-499-9935 x 0WC

WC

561-333-9843

piwanska@yahoo.com

Place Your Business Directory Ad Here Call 561-793-7606

Singer Electrical Contracting, Inc. is a family owned business fully licensed and insured with over 20 years of electrical experience.

Residential • Lighting • Commercial Certified Electrical Contractor (EC#13007941)

561-425-5409 www.singerelectricalcontracting.com

Complete Home Remodeling Quality Repairs at Competitive Prices FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 25 + YEARS

e Se e m r Co Ou room ow Sh

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Additions • Patios Attention Equestrian/Snowbirds!

Reserve your kitchen and/or bathroom remodels today and let us transform your home during the off season. (ask for details)

All Work Warranteed

561.798.5722 Lic#CBC057941 • Insured & Bonded

All One Call Repairs It

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

January 15 - January 28, 2021

Page 25

A New Concept with Old Florida Charm

Explore inspired living at Wellington Bay a luxurious senior living community in an enviable location, Wellington Bay offers you the opportunity to enjoy your retirement years to their fullest. You’ll live in a spacious, upscale apartment, revel in a host of resort-like amenities, and engage in stimulating whole-person wellness programs for your body and mind.

You’ll also appreciate the coveted financial freedom of our flexible rental model.

Call 561.335.5405 to learn more about the inspiring lifestyle of Wellington Bay.

Join Our Priority Partner Program Today

2 5 9 0 W E L L I N G T O N B AY D R

| WELLINGTON, FL 33414

|

561.335.5405

Retirement living choices from the Liberty Senior Living family.

120035 wellington bay summer ad-town crier.indd 1

| W E L L I N G T O N B AY F L . C O M

© 2020 Wellington Bay

5/21/20 10:57 AM

January 15 - January 28, 2021

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

E N J OY

Sundays

AT T H E PAV I L I O N One of the only places to watch live, in-person equestrian action this season!

Experience World-Class

Polo & Hospitality!

Brunch begins at 2:00 p.m. every Sunday Match begins at 3:00 p.m.

Purchase tickets at

internationalpoloclub.com

COVID-19 protocols will be implemented for the 2021 season.

3667 120th AVENUE SOUTH • WELLINGTON, FL 33414 • internationalpoloclub.com

1 NIGHT - 1 COMMUNITY $1+ MILLION TO NON-PROFITS Through the support of the equestrian industry and the local community, the Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments® has acted as a catalyst for charitable giving over the last 11 years.

Impact to date: $14.9 million distributed to 256 Palm Beach County non-profit organizations.

T PRODUCTIO OR N SP

S

EQUESTR IAN

Page 26

Saturday, February 6, 2021 ~ COVID-19 RELIEF & RECOVERY EDITION ~ Based on a community needs assessment with the county, in partnership with local agencies and in direct response to the unique setting surrounding COVID-19, the event’s 12th edition is committed to shifting a majority of its funding priorities towards local non-profits who are directly supporting and assisting the most vulnerable and affected populations in Palm Beach County.

Celebrating #HEROES at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center For event, sponsorship and VIP ticketing options, please contact Anne Caroline Valtin at (727) 678-8677 or acv@greatcharitychallenge.com

To view a list of benefiting non-profit organizations and for additional information, please visit: GreatCharityChallenge.com