Town-Crier Newspaper January 29, 2021 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

VILLAGE THANKS COMMUNITY PARTNERS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

WHS FOOTBALL COACH STEPS DOWN SEE STORY, PAGE 23

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TOWN-CRIER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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INSIDE Without Challengers, Two RPB Incumbents Keep Council Seats

Volume 42, Number 3 January 29 - February 11, 2021

Serving Palms West Since 1980

FUN TIMES AT THE MINI FAIR

Royal Palm Beach Village Council members Jan Rodusky and Richard Valuntas secured additional two-year terms earlier this month without opposition when the election qualifying period closed without challengers coming forward. Page 3

Wellington’s Catherine Chen Creates New Children’s Book

Wellington native Catherine Chen, a recent college graduate, spent her extra time during the lockdown completing her first book, Smores: My Fat Guinea Pig, which debuted on Dec. 30 of last year on Amazon. com. Page 4

RPBHS Instructor Dr. J.P. Linstroth Wins Award For Second Book Of Poetry

Royal Palm Beach High School instructor Dr. J.P. Linstroth’s newly released, second book of poetry, Epochal Reckonings was recently named as co-winner of the prestigious Proverse Prize for Literature. Page 7

The South Florida Mini Fair, a slimmed-down version of the South Florida Fair, opened Friday, Jan. 15 and continues through Sunday, Jan. 31 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. While adult rides, indoor expos and major concerts are not included, many of the other popular fair activities are available to enjoy. Shown above, Seth Lubas has fun in the waterball. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 18 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

County Commissioners Troubled By Vaccine Distribution Plan

By Ron Bukley Town-Council Staff Report Several members of the Palm Beach County Commission expressed outrage Tuesday, Jan. 26 at the state’s method of distribution for the COVID-19 vaccine, which favors private corporations over public health agencies. The state, acting under orders from Gov. Ron DeSantis, has opened distribution to Publix, Walgreens, CVS, certain churches and private senior communities, along with public health agencies, which commissioners claim has resulted in a lack of equity of distribution to poorer and non-white communities. The virus vaccine has been in very short supply, and state and federal agencies have been unable to keep up with demand, leading to heavy contention over who

should receive the vaccine first. The Florida Department of Health-Palm Beach County has reserved much of its available vaccine to give second doses to those who have received their first shot, according to Dr. Alina Alonso, the department’s director. County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay said the state giving authority to private corporations has resulted in a shortage to many communities in the county, with the white population receiving the vast majority of the available vaccine. “I am absolutely disgusted that the governor of this state has 100 percent taken the ability to vaccinate our residents in Palm Beach County out of the hands of public officials and medical officials and given that authority to a corporate entity,” McKinlay said, adding

that she did not understand how Publix staff could be equipped with enough technical staff to administer that many vaccines. She pointed out that west of the Publix store in Loxahatchee Groves, there is not another for 186 miles on State Road 80. “That’s in Lee County,” McKinlay said, adding that the health department in rural Glades and Hendry counties, which is a combined department, stated on its web site that it no longer has COVID-19 vaccine available at this time and is not scheduling more appointments. Commissioner Robert Weinroth agreed that there is a disparity in the county’s vaccine distribution. “I think one of the concerns of all of us up here is the lack of equity within our county,” Weinroth See VACCINE, page 16

Wellington Council Reviews More Comp Plan Elements

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By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report At a meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 26, the Wellington Village Council reviewed several elements of a revised comprehensive plan for community. Planning, Zoning & Building Director Tim Stillings explained that the comp plan, first adopted in 1999 and updated several times since, is required by state law for every municipality. The plan is currently going through a major rewrite, with several parts of it coming to the council for review each meeting. The previous plan had 11 elements, and the new plan will have 10, with some information combined and moved. Stillings said that the comp plan is aspirational in nature. “It is designed to lead us into the next 10 to 20 years,” he said, explaining that the purpose is to update all the elements in the goals, objectives and policies to reaffirm and revise them for the future.

The plan will address the changes in the community and shift the focus from development to preserving and protecting. It will also address changes to Florida Statues. “We are bringing several elements to the council at a time to try not to inundate you with the whole thing at once,” Stillings said. The plan has been before the appropriate advisory committees, boards and the public for input. After the council approves the first reading, it goes to the state for review, then it returns to the council a second time for more public input and final approval. The current comp plan will then be repealed, and the new plan put entirely in place of it. Stillings presented the Land Use and Community Design Element, which establishes land use throughout the village and describes the objectives and establishes some reinvestment and redevelopment potential of certain properties. It is generally focused on the State Road 7 corridor, the

area around the Mall at Wellington Green, older multi-family areas and the neighborhood commercial areas. “Staff started working on this in the spring of last year, and the first elements went before the committees in November,” Stillings explained. “Each section will have a short introduction, and there is a new introduction to the entire comprehensive plan, which explains the purpose and how the plan works, but these elements will not be part of the ordinance. They are informational and will be in the final document.” Councilman John McGovern commended Stillings and his staff for their hard work. “You’ve collected important things that this council has been focusing on, and with this rewrite, they are exact statements of what this council wants to see,” he said. McGovern questioned that breweries were specifically mentioned as an aspiration for the types See COMP PLAN, page 4

Victim’s Services, Human Trafficking Hot Topics At Public Safety Committee

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Public Safety Committee heard presentations Wednesday, Jan. 27 about the Palm Beach County Victim Services Department, efforts to find and protect human trafficking victims, and the impending village golf cart ordinance. Carol Messam-Gordon of Palm Beach County Victims Service spoke about the free assistance and support offered to victims of violent crime, such as domestic violence, DUI fatalities, serious bodily injury, human trafficking, sexual assault, stalking and survivors of attempted homicide. Messam-Gordon said the services are provided at five county offices. “We have advocates throughout

the county available to provide support,” she said. The department operates Butterfly House, a specialized site for forensic sexual assault examinations adjacent to Wellington Regional Medical Center. It is available at any time in response to a call. “It is a warm facility, and it is better than having to go to the hospital,” Messam-Gordon explained. “There’s a room for the victim to have some comfort there. They can have the examination by the forensic nurse, then get a shower and get a change of clothing.” Victims or the police call 211, where calls are answered and provided with an immediate handoff to the helpline, or victims may call direct at (561) 833-RAPE (7273). “The service is available every See SAFETY, page 16

CAFCI HONORS DR. KING

On Monday, Jan. 18, CAFCI, in collaboration with the Village of Royal Palm Beach, presented its 19th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. The event was livestreamed from the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center and viewed from CAFCI’s Facebook page by a large audience. Shown above, Copeland Davis performs on the piano. SEE STORY & PHOTOS, PAGE 8

RPB Zoners Refuse Auto Repair Shop Request After Neighbors Complain

By Ron Bukley Town-Council Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission on Tuesday, Jan. 26 voted to recommend denial of a special exception request from an auto repair shop to locate on Business Parkway after representatives from nearby businesses complained that some of the shop’s customers have been racing modified cars on the road. Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien said applicant ProTek is seeking a special exception use to allow a 2,721-squarefoot automobile service facility at 300 Business Parkway, Suite A-2, located in the village’s industrial general zoning district. O’Brien said the application conforms with the compatibility standards of the village code.

“Staff has determined that the proposed exception comports with the village’s standards. Therefore, it is requesting approval to be sent to the Royal Palm Beach Village Council regarding this application,” he said. “There are many uses of this type within the business park.” During public comment, Margaret Rice with a water-softening business at 240 Business Parkway objected to the application due to heavy traffic on the roadway, as well as the location of a funeral home nearby and the shop’s nature of business, which she said is car modification, including the use of nitrous oxide fuel. “It’s a wonderful area for business, but with the noise and the fastness of cars, I think it’s very See ZONERS, page 16

RPB Native Kucharski New Principal At H.L. Johnson Elementary School

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach native Crystal Amado Kucharski, previously an assistant principal at Royal Palm Beach High School, has been named the new principal at H.L. Johnson Elementary School — the same school she attended as a child. Kucharski, who also attended Crestwood Middle School, began her career at Royal Palm Beach High School in 2006 as a teacher. She taught all levels of science from English as a Second Lan-

guage (ESOL) to Advanced Placement in biology, environmental science and earth/space science. She also became the ESOL coordinator and coached women’s soccer at RPBHS. Coming back to H.L. Johnson feels to Kucharski like she has come home. “It feels like I belong here,” she said. “It’s surreal, and it’s an exciting feeling. I’m going to bring my son here next year.” Kucharski and her husband Nick have a son who will turn 4 in June. She earned her master’s

degree in educational leadership in 2011. Kucharski’s appointment was approved by the Palm Beach County School Board on Jan. 13, but she has been at H.L. Johnson since Jan. 7 after working at RPBHS for 14 years. “I was a science teacher,” she said. “I was also a department head for science, and then I was an ESOL coordinator before becoming an assistant principal.” Kucharski said her experience sets her up perfectly to guide elementary students toward a

successful secondary school experience. “I’m really lucky because I grew up here, so I know how Royal Palm Beach is,” she said. “I’ve worked in this village. They try to do a K through 12 continuum, so I’ve been really lucky as an assistant principal to be able to work with the other schools.” She noted that all the area schools have done events together. “With a high school background, it’s almost like I’m backward mapping. I’ve seen the end See KUCHARSKI, page 16

Crystal Amado Kucharski

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NEWS

Wellington Village Council Recognizes Community Partners

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report The Tuesday, Jan. 26 meeting of the Wellington Village Council was an evening filled with gestures of appreciation for those making a difference in the community.

During the meeting, the council recognized its community partners who are helping residents, particularly over the past year of the pandemic, and also awarded the annual Keely Spinelli grants to area schools.

Senior Services Manager Jenifer Brito said that the organizations recognized that evening have been instrumental in supporting village programs and events. She explained the importance of the groups’ support and said that the

(Above and below) Representatives of the Wellington community partners receiving awards lined both sides of the Wellington Council Village Council chambers. PHOTOS COURTESY VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

village couldn’t accomplish all that it does without their help. Brito then announced each organization and thanked them individually. For those present, which were many, she invited them up to receive their award. “Without all of you here, we wouldn’t be the great place that we are,” Mayor Anne Gerwig said, explaining that the organizations being honored are those that provide both monetary contributions and commitments of resources. The list of sponsors honored during the meeting include: Baptist Health South Florida, ComForCare, Conviva, the Crowned Pearls of Wellington, Dedicated Senior Medical Center, the Gehring Group, HarborChase, Healthy Partners, Humana, Premier Family Health, Priority Towing, Prominence Health Plan, the Wellington Community Foundation and Wellington Regional Medical Center. “We wouldn’t have been able to fund a lot of the things that we

did without you,” Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind said. “It makes our village a great hometown. We look forward to your continued support when we can do things again safely.” Councilman John McGovern said that the list of community partners helps sustain the village. “So many of the companies and partners and community leaders are friends that have sustained the village, sustained its government, sustained this community and sustained our people on every level,” he said. “Thank you is not enough acknowledgment tonight, and a small token of our appreciation is not enough. Wellington has remained what it is for all these many months [of the pandemic] because of these businesses and our staff doing great things every day.” Councilman Michael Drahos said that the community partners are needed to get things done. “It can’t be just government. We need multi layers to accomplish

[these projects]. With your help, we’ve been able to provide the lifestyle for our community, and in many cases, they didn’t even notice the challenges that were being faced,” Drahos said. Councilman Michael Napoleone also thanked the plethora of supporters. “So many of you have done more than just write checks,” he said. “You have supported all our many activities. You sponsored those events, and we thank you for it. You’ve made an investment and commitment to the community.” Gerwig particularly thanked groups involved in healthcare and village staff for helping bring it all together. “It’s about more than just money, it’s the sweat equity in the community,” she said. At the meeting, the annual Keely Spinelli grants were also distributed to principals and representatives of 11 area schools. See GRANTS, page 16

School representatives gathered in the council chambers to receive the Keely Spinelli grants.

Without Challengers, Two RPB Incumbents Keep Council Seats

By Ron Bukley Town-Council Staff Report Royal Palm Beach Village Council members Jan Rodusky and Richard Valuntas secured additional two-year terms earlier this month without opposition when the election qualifying period closed without challengers coming forward. Group 2 incumbent Valuntas and Group 4 incumbent Rodusky qualified for the ballot with no challengers as of Wednesday, Jan. 12, according to the office of Village Clerk Diane DiSanto.

With no other items on the ballot, the Tuesday, March 9 municipal election has now been canceled. Rodusky was appointed to the Group 4 seat in 2016 to fill a vacancy and was elected to her first full two-year term in 2017, defeating education activist Renatta Adan-Espinoza. Valuntas served in the Group 3 seat from 2010 through 2016 before being unseated by Councilwoman Selena Samios. He was then returned to the council in 2017, narrowly defeating longtime

Councilman David Swift for the Group 2 seat. With Rodusky and Valuntas returning to their seats without opposition, it’s a repeat of 2019, when they were also both re-elected with no opposition. In fact, this year’s cancellation is the third year in a row that the village’s municipal election has been canceled due to a lack of challengers. In 2020, Mayor Fred Pinto, Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and Samios were returned without opposition. The last village election was

held in 2018, when Pinto was re-elected by defeating former Councilwoman Martha Webster and Samios was re-elected by defeating businessman Sam Roman. According to Pinto, the continued lack of challengers is due to an apparent satisfaction with current council members’ performance on the dais. Pinto told the Town-Crier that he feels the lack of contention indicates that the voters are happy with the current council. “Royal Palm Beach is an interesting place,” he said. “A citizen

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will come into our council meetings and let us know if there is something that they are concerned about or something going on, but my experience has been very positive.” He rarely hears complaints when he’s out and about. “When I go to the store or supermarket, people come up to me and assure me how pleased they are about things in the village,” Pinto said. “They like the fact that it’s clean. They like the fact that it’s safe. They like the fact that we try to keep our eye on how

we spend their taxpayer dollars.” Pinto added that he feels residents like the level of services that the village provides, there are no major problems in the village and the council has been consistent from an operational perspective. “I always get excellent feedback, and when I hear that, it’s not just me. I look at that as the village council on a collective level that is able to provide that kind of alignment for our village,” he said. “I’m not at all surprised that Jan and Richard went unopposed.”

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

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NEWS

Wellington’s Catherine Chen Creates New Children’s Book

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington native Catherine Chen, a recent college graduate, spent her extra time during the lockdown completing her first book, Smores: My Fat Guinea Pig, which debuted on Dec. 30 of last year on Amazon.com. “This is a children’s book about my sister’s pet guinea pig,” Chen explained. “The drawings are in black and white, so it’s a story and a coloring book. It’s intended for kids from 3 or 4 years old through 8 to 10 years old.” The whimsical drawings are not what one might expect of coloring book illustrations. They are much more detailed than typical coloring books in the delightful tales of Smores’ adventures with two friends, Cupid and Teddy. “The children who have seen it so far seem to really like it, and I’m

pretty excited,” Chen said. “The paperback is just $5.99, and the Kindle version is $2.99.” A recent graduate from the University of Southern California in the creation of animation and digital arts, Chen wants to work in the animation industry. “I want to draw and make stories that are a mix of writing and drawing,” she explained. Chen, 23, grew up in Wellington. “I’ve spent my whole life here. I went to Binks Forest Elementary School, Bak Middle School of the Arts and Dreyfoos School of the Arts,” she said. Chen completed the book, which she plans on being the first in a series, during the last few days of 2020. “I always wanted to create children’s content and picture books,” she said. The budding author had a special audience in mind when she

was working on the book. “I have a 10-year-old little sister named Rosalyn, and I created it for her,” Chen said. “The story is about how much we love the guinea pig and her personality.” Chen noted the family’s affection toward the pet, despite Smores seeming indifference for the family itself. “She doesn’t care much about anything except food,” Chen admitted. But in the book, Smores has a big personality. “It’s supposed to be funny,” Chen said. “There are a lot of funny images for children to laugh at.” There are images of Smores doing a big stretch or curled up relaxing. “It is intended for kids to enjoy,” she said. Find Smores: My Fat Guinea Pig by Catherine Chen at Amazon. com.

(Left) Author Catherine Chen. (Right) Chen’s book, Smores: My Fat Guinea Pig.

Royal Palm Beach Easing Standards For Tree Replacement

By Ron Bukley Town-Council Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved the first reading of an updated landscaping and vegetation management ordinance on Thursday, Jan. 21, modifying the minimum number of trees and shrubs required per lot in single-family homes and duplexes. In accordance with state statutes, the ordinance is intended to minimize the replacement and mitigation requirements on homeowners. The proposed ordinance would exempt single-family residences

from the tree replacement requirements of the village code but clarify that the minimum landscape requirements remain applicable. It also revises the village code to reduce the required number of shrubs per lot from 10 to six per 2,000 square feet of lot area. It also reduces the required tree and palm tree heights from 14 feet to 10 feet at the time of planting, and it reduces the shrub height and spread requirements from two feet to 18 inches, except when used for screening. “In our tree preservation ordinance, there is a pretty hefty

replacement schedule for taking out a specimen tree,” Village Manager Ray Liggins said. “If you have a 20-inch oak tree, you may have to put back four twoinch oak trees. A lot of properties didn’t have enough room for them. In that event, you would have to pay our tree account the value of those trees.” He said that the state has determined that if there is a tree that is a threat to property or diseased, and an arborist has verified that, it can be taken out at no cost with no permit. “That kind of put our staff in an

awkward position,” Liggins said, explaining that the tree ordinance is difficult to enforce. “If someone took it out, we really wouldn’t know.” The next time it would come for review would be when the owner applied for a permit. “The best we could ask them was if their lot did not have landscaping, they meet the minimum standards,” he said. Liggins added that meeting those minimum landscaping standards is in the property owner’s best interest. “With any permit that they get in the future for the house, we will check for minimum

standards. If they do it sooner, we think that is better,” he said. Liggins explained that the minimum standard is one tree for every 2,000 square feet of pervious area. Three palm trees equals one tree. Councilwoman Selena Samios asked if the ordinance would give landowners leeway to start making large changes to their property. “This not giving a free-for-all for people to start tearing up their yard, correct?” Samios asked. “It’s still maintaining quality? We want to preserve as many trees as we can.” Liggins said that Samios was

correct, adding that when someone applies for a permit, the village has the arborist come out and look at the property. “What they will do is complete the permit for what they suggest for the piece of property in writing,” Liggins said. “It’s a no-cost permit. Our arborist will look at the property, and they will do that calculation on the minimum landscaping requirements and advise on the permit what they can do.” Councilman Richard Valuntas made a motion to approve the first reading of the ordinance, which carried 5-0.

Groves Council Interviews Contractors For Building Services

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council directed staff to submit comparisons of two potential companies that provide certified building services. Both companies appeared at the council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Nova and SAFEbuilt made presentations at the meeting. Town Manager Jamie Titcomb said both companies are publicly vetted from neighboring communities and would offer an array of services, including building officials, permitting, inspections,

code enforcement and other services to run a building department for the town. “The model that will pay for this is reinvesting the permit fees of the town that currently go out to the county, to use that available revenue that our building activities and code activities and permitting activities create in the town, and reinvest that money in taking control of the operation in the town,” Titcomb said. He noted that both of the presenting companies have very similar business models. Councilman Robert Shorr

asked why the town would agree to a piggyback contract rather than submit a competitive bid for services, and John Stone with SAFEbuilt said the biggest advantage is to get something in place more quickly. “The [request for proposals] process is a lot more cumbersome, and it does take a lot more effort and time to actually accomplish an RFP,” Stone said. “It certainly is an option. It’s not one that we’re afraid of. We respond to RFPs all the time.” He said the advantage of a piggyback is more for the town. “That

is to solve this problem sooner rather than later,” Stone said. Mayor Lisa El-Ramey asked for a council consensus for staff to produce a comparison list of the services offered by each company, along with the costs. Shorr said he felt contracting with either company would not solve the town’s problem of getting building approvals expeditiously. The town currently interfaces with the county in getting building permits. “What I am hearing from contractors and personal experience is getting it out of town hall,” he said.

Titcomb said approving a contractor would take the county out of the approval process eventually and direct building approval revenue that now goes to the county back into the town. He added that the town process has been streamlined significantly with added technology. “The timeline in processing through the town has drastically reduced, versus what has gone on in the past,” he said. “That’s because of our portals and our tools. What we want to bring in is our professional help, in terms of the building official side of this.

That will close that loop so that the entire process is both controlled by the town and more efficient.” Titcomb added that the town currently gives most of its building permit money to the county. “Instead, the Florida Building Code allows us to reinvest that money in enterprise-type services to not only take control of these aspects of this code, but invest in growing that program to the town’s criteria,” he said. The council agreed to have staff come back with a comparison chart for both companies at its Tuesday, Feb. 16 meeting.

RPB Council Approves New Ordinance Regulating Food Trucks

By Ron Bukley Town-Council Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved the preliminary reading of an ordinance Thursday, Jan. 21 that will require food truck vendors to have a business tax receipt from the village. Village Manager Ray Liggins said the ordinance was in response to a recently approved state law stating that municipalities did not have authority to prevent food

trucks from operating within their boundaries. “They did give us some flexibility in regulating them,” Liggins said, explaining that the ordinance would require food truck vendors to show their licenses from the state, as well as require food truck vendors to obtain a business tax receipt (BTR) from the village, although a BTR is not interpreted to be a license, registration or permit. The village is not permitted

to require food truck vendors to register with the village or obtain any other license or permit from the village in order to operate within the community, other than the Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) license. The village cannot require a separate fee beyond those established by the DBPR in order to operate within the village or prohibit food trucks from operating within the village.

“Where this ordinance came from is other areas that have had problems [with food trucks] setting up on a piece of property and almost becoming a permanent fixture on that piece of property,” Liggins said, explaining that such operations can sometimes become a nuisance to nearby restaurants or food stores. “What we did is draft an ordinance that regulates that,” he said. “As long as a food truck is on a

piece of property more than 200 feet away from a restaurant, we have no problem with that. The food truck does have to have all the licenses on them to show to our code enforcement if they ask them for it.” If two or more food trucks operate on a piece of property, it must be a special event, he added. If someone wants to have a food truck at their home, it is permitted as long as the operator has a con-

tract with the homeowner. “What we aren’t allowing is food trucks to set up on public rights of way without a special event permit,” Liggins said. “They still have the right to operate throughout the village, they just can’t set up shop for a long time, and they can’t sit in a park for a long time.” Councilman Richard Valuntas made a motion to approve the ordinance, which carried 5-0.

DeMarois Agrees To Negotiated Settlement With Ethics Panel

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Former Loxahatchee Groves Councilman David DeMarois reached a negotiated settlement agreement to a charge of misuse of his position at a hearing with the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Attorney Ron Lantz spoke on behalf of DeMarois, whose settlement stemmed from an alleged attempt by him to coerce staff to rehire a former Loxahatchee Groves

Comp Plan

Different Elements

continued from page 1 of businesses the village might like to see. Village Manager Jim Barnes explained that because such businesses are industrial as well as retail, such craft brewery pubs are a specific case that Wellington is uniquely positioned to take advantage of, because in many communities, breweries had to be

Water Control District employee who left when the district became dependent to the town. “Mr. DeMarois believes it is in his best interest to avoid expense, time and litigation in this manner, and desires to resolve this issue, and he stipulates to the issues contained in the advocate’s probable cause recommendation,” Lantz said. Pursuant to the negotiated settlement, DeMarois agreed to accept a letter of reprimand and pay a fine

of $100. He also agreed that his actions were intentional. DeMarois, a longtime former LGWCD supervisor, told the Town-Crier that he had supported former LGWCD employee Mike Walker getting his job back after he and other employees left when the district became dependent. “He came over to the town, but he only lasted a week,” DeMarois said. “He and several others quit. We had five come over and four left. About four or five months

after he left, he had talked to [former Councilman] Ron Jarriel, and Jarriel talked him into coming back. Jarriel had come before the council and told the council that Mike Walker was interested in coming back.” After that, DeMarois, who was vice mayor at the time, said he met with Town Manager Jamie Titcomb, pointing out that Walker had a good record and had worked for the district for 25 years. Titcomb agreed to set up a meeting between

Walker and Public Works Director Larry Peters. “Larry Peters set up a date, and I went with him to that, and the meeting lasted about two hours,” he said. “I thought he would get hired from his record alone.” DeMarois said he was not aware that he was making any ethics violations at the time, but the ethics commission determined that he had, based on depositions taken from Peters, Titcomb and Walker. “They offered me a settlement,”

he said. “They wanted $500… but I countered with $100. My attorney went in with $100, and I admitted that I had made an ethics violation. I did it, and I’m not apologizing for it. If I had it to do all over again, I’d probably do it the same way. I had nothing to gain from it. I was trying to help the people of Loxahatchee Groves.” DeMarois is running in the March election, seeking a return to the council. He is challenging Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia.

in the industrial area, and the retail aspect of the business suffered because it was not located near other restaurants. Other sections of the plan stated that many types of businesses could potentially be located in Wellington. “I think we’re in good shape here on first reading,” Mayor Anne Gerwig said. After some discussion on minor points, clarifications and simple wording revisions, the measure passed unanimously. The Community Partnerships Element of the comprehensive

plan — previously called the Intergovernmental Coordination Element — was then reviewed. Its objective is to foster partnerships with governmental agencies and community partners to leverage all public and private agencies and organizations to improve the quality of life for Wellington residents. “I really do love the name on this one,” Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind said. “It really says what the community is looking to do.” That portion of the plan also passed unanimously. Finally, the council also re-

pealed and replaced the Capital Improvements Element of the plan. Public input was offered for each section, but no members of the public gave input at the meeting. In other business: • Gerwig objected to the outside legal fees and costs to Kula & Associates P.A. The fees totaled some $30,000, and staff cannot approve items in excess of $25,000. The agenda item approved the use of outside professional legal services to assist in matters related

to Palm Beach Polo code enforcement cases, where 130 violations currently amount to some $5 million in fines. The case involves the appeal and cross appeal related to the fine reduction order entered by the Wellington Special Magistrate in the case. “I disagree with the intent of this,” Gerwig said. She would have preferred that the matter have been handled by in-house Village Attorney Laurie Cohen. “But I agree that we should pay our bills,” Gerwig said, adding

that she wanted her comments on the record. Several council members who are attorneys commented that the matter is very complex, specialized and involved a formidable amount of money. The motion to approve the outside legal fees passed unanimously. • During council comments, McGovern pointed out that everyone on the council and all of the village staff are doing everything they can to get a vaccine distribution point in the western communities.

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Great Charity Challenge Joins Forces With Local United Way

Scheduled to take place on Saturday, Feb. 6 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC), the 2021 Great Charity Challenge (GCC), presented by Fidelity Investments, plans to distribute an additional $1 million to local nonprofit organizations. The GCC, founded during the financial crisis in 2008 by the father/daughter team of Mark and Paige Bellissimo, was created to support emerging needs in neighboring communities by increasing funding to local nonprofit organizations. To date, the exciting show jumping competition that blends equestrian sport and philanthropy has raised and distributed $14.8 million to 256 charities. While the GCC has been blessed by the generous support of the equestrian community, the current settings surrounding COVID-19 warrant the event to extend its reach and partner with local change agents in the hopes of creating a broader impact during these challenging times. With a shared vision that “change is almost impossible without industry-wide collaboration, cooperation and consensus,” the Great Charity Challenge is joining forces with a champion in the community — the United Way of Palm Beach County. “The United Way of Palm Beach County’s response to COVID-19 was nothing short of spectacular. Their ability to mobilize the community in such a short amount of time while supporting partnered agencies made us realize that our efforts could be complementary,” GCC Executive Director Anne Caroline Valtin said. Recognized as the county’s official partner to collect donations

The Great Charity Challenge has a long history of supporting local nonprofits, both through the show jumping competition and through other initiatives, such as the Ziegler Family Foundation awards PHOTO BY LOIS SPATZ shown above. for impacted communities during COVID-19, the United Way of Palm Beach County’s response fund has supported 85 partner agencies since the onset of the pandemic. Its mission is to ensure that everyone in Palm Beach County has access to the basics: a quality education, a place to live, financial stability, good medical care and enough to eat. “Local nonprofits continue to be the safety net for our community during this time. We are thrilled to partner with the Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, to support nonprofits that are providing critical services to people in Palm Beach County,”

said Dr. Laurie George, president and CEO of the United Way of Palm Beach County. This new partnership with the United Way will enable the event to accept online donations for the first time, in the hopes of raising additional funds to support local charities. “Experts in all fields agree that the lasting effects of COVID-19 will be felt for months and years to come,” GCC co-founder Mark Bellissimo said. “We are in a unique and privileged position to be able to host the Winter Equestrian Festival safely here in Wellington this winter. We are very grateful that the United Way

is joining forces and responding to the GCC’s approach of focusing on COVID-19 relief and recovery.” The organizers of the Great Charity Challenge invite you to join this community effort, a true tribute that we are #StrongerTogether, by making a donation at www.unitedwaypbc.org/gcc or texting Give2GCC to 41444. Organizations that have been pre-selected will virtually meet their paired equestrian teams and sponsors to receive a share of the $1,000,000-plus purse. To follow CDC guidelines and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, event updates will be shared via the event

The exciting show jumping competition features costumed riders jumping relay-style in teams. PHOTO BY EQUESTRIAN SPORT PRODUCTIONS

web site www.greatcharitychallenge.com, as well as social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

The event will be livestreamed, starting at 6:40 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6 at www.pbiec.com.

South Florida Garlic Fest Coming To Wellington Green Park March 6-7

“The Best ‘Stinkin’ Party in South Florida” is not letting COVID-19 ruin its annual community celebration of garlicky food, art and entertainment. South Florida Garlic Fest organizers are moving forward with a move to Wellington. “People are eager for live entertainment and something that feels normal,” Executive Director Nancy Stewart-Franczak said. “It’s a lot of work to reschedule and plan a socially distanced event, but we’ve always been ready and willing to make neces-

sary changes to keep our attendees safe throughout the years.” The international award-winning two-day festival will take place Saturday, March 6 and Sunday, March 7 at Wellington Green Park (2175 Wellington Green Drive) for its 22nd annual celebration. The festival will showcase its world-renowned Gourmet Alley, full beer and liquor bars, children’s amusement rides, live music and more than 180 exhibitors selling art, products and homemade goods. Extensive plans have been

put in place to adhere to CDC and social distancing guidelines, including, but not limited to: mandatory mask enforcement while inside festival premises, limiting the number of attendees inside the festival at one time, 10by-10 “pods” drawn on the lawn at the main stage with six-foot aisles, allowing everyone to easily maintain social distancing with 4 to 6 guests permitted per pod, increased sanitation procedures at all touch points, temperature checks and multiple handwashing stations.

Of course, what would Garlic Fest be without mouth-watering garlicky goodies. Attendees can get their garlic fill at Gourmet Alley featuring more than 100 garlic-infused menu items. Give your taste buds a shock from garlic ice cream to the signature dish, flaming garlic shrimp scampi. In addition to great food, Garlic Fest has brought national and international performers to grace the festival stages for the past 21 years. This year, Garlic Fest will showcase local bands and musicians who have been scrounging

for gigs since the pandemic began, in addition to the national tribute acts booked. On Saturday, attendees can listen to the reggae, ska and punk rock sounds of Badfish, a tribute to Sublime, and sing along with rock and alternative classics by Red NOT Chili Peppers, a Red-Hot Chili Peppers tribute band. In addition to these great acts, local artists from all over Florida will perform both days of the festival. The full entertainment lineup can be found at www.garlicfestfl.com.

Originally founded by a group of local folks looking to establish a fundraising source for local nonprofit organizations, the 22-year-old event continues to employ volunteer organizations to staff the event, raising more than $670,000 to date for many local causes. Garlic heads, get ready to regale, rejoice, refresh and renew (six feet apart) at the 22nd annual South Florida Garlic Fest, being held this year in Wellington. For tickets and more information, visit www.garlicfestfl.com.

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RPBHS Instructor Dr. J.P. Linstroth Wins Award For Second Book Of Poetry

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach High School instructor Dr. J.P. Linstroth’s newly released, second book of poetry, Epochal Reckonings was recently named as co-winner of the prestigious Proverse Prize for Literature. The book launched in November by Proverse Publishers HK. Linstroth has been teaching, mostly in higher education, for 24 years but came to Royal Palm Beach High School four years ago. He is a social sciences teacher at the school and currently teaches honors world history. Linstroth is also an adjunct professor at Barry University and an affiliate faculty member at Catholic University of New Spain in Miami. With a doctorate from the Uni-

versity of Oxford in the United Kingdom, Linstroth has earned a president’s Lifetime Achievement Award and served a Fulbright scholarship in Brazil. While most of Linstroth’s work is academic nonfiction, this is his second book of poetry. The first was The Forgotten Shore. He said it took him just over a year to write the second book. The book describes and responds to some of the world crises and human suffering over the past century. “I would summarize the book itself as compassion for human suffering,” said Linstroth, explaining that it focuses on different subject areas, such as starvation, racism, 9/11, genocide against indigenous people in Brazil, the Great Migration Crisis, the Yemeni civil war,

Abu Ghraib, Hurricane Katrina, the earthquake in Haiti, the deaths of African American youth, and more. “Being somebody who is aware of the news, I have felt the need to write about events — natural and man-made disasters,” Linstroth said. Much of Linstroth’s work has a fairly somber tone, but often hopeful. He is also working on a nonfiction project, writing about a Tibetan monk. “I talk about heavy subjects, such as nationalism and genocide, but at the end of the book, I talk about love and compassion — compassion for the environment and the indigenous notions of ‘being.’” In the book of poetry, he saw no need for such an ending. Linstroth pointed out his aim in

the book is, as he puts it, “To cause concern, discussion and surprise, as well as to evoke emotions of anger, empathy and sadness surrounding major events. RPBHS Vice Principal Renee Houck said that the school is proud to have Linstroth on the faculty. “I feel, and the administration as a whole feels, blessed to have him on campus. This is a great honor that we wanted to share with a wider audience,” Houck said. “Because he is able to share all the things that he has done with our students, we are fortunate to have him. He is amazing.” Epochal Reckonings by Dr. J.P. Linstroth is available on Amazon. com and at Barnes & Noble. It is listed in the British Library, and the Library of Congress is picking it up as well, he noted.

RPBHS teacher and author Dr. J.P. Linstroth.

Wellington Education Committee Approves Grants For Schools

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Education Committee approved the village’s annual Keely Spinelli grants to local schools on Thursday, Jan. 14. “This is always the meeting I look forward to every year,” Committee Chair John Webber said as he welcomed and thanked all the local principals who attended virtually at a meeting that was split between live attendance and attendance via video. Created in 2013, the Keely Spinelli grants are intended to provide financial assistance to Wellington schools to help with reading and math. Some of the principals knew and worked with the late Keely Spinelli, who served as principal at Binks Forest Elementary School, and devoted some of their brief comments to reminiscing about her character and the endeavors of this accomplished woman.

This year’s grants are $32,363 per school, up some $5,000 over the previous year. Wellington is unusual in providing direct assistance to local public schools. The schools are required to make a presentation about what they will do with the money. “I think all the schools were able to find a good use for the money,” Webber said. “It is not hard to explain to the Wellington Village Council why we need these grants, because it is easy to see the positive effects of it.” In many of the schools, teachers are tutoring students on their own time to help them keep up-todate, and schools are subscribing to many educational programs and buying equipment that would not otherwise be funded. The program is focused on lower-performing students with the aim of raising reading and math scores. Despite the challenges of this past year, Wellington High

School had a graduation rate of 95 percent, and Palm Beach Central had a graduation rate of 98 percent. “The money that the Village of Wellington gives to our schools means so much,” School Board Member Marcia Andrews said. “It’s all about making a difference.” Webber said that he hopes that the village continues the program long into the future. “It is amazing to live in a place that values education as much as Wellington does,” he said. Next up was Planning, Zoning & Building Director Tim Stillings, who introduced the proposed education element for the village’s comprehensive plan update to the committee for them to review individually and provide input and comments later. Stillings explained that the pieces relative to each of the committees are brought in bite-size

pieces for their input and will then be combined and sent to the council for review. The report notes that Wellington continues to have communityfocused schools with state-ofthe-art materials, technology and facilities. The plan calls for Wellington working with the school district to monitor school activities, support education legislation, school planning, development coordination and joint use of school community facilities. Stillings explained that new concepts include lifelong learning, working with local businesses to bridge their needs for education, entrepreneurship, leadership opportunities and inter-generational programming. There were no comments during the meeting, but Stillings told committee members they could respond in February before the document is passed along to Wellington’s Planning Zoning &

Adjustment Board in March. Assistant Planning, Zoning & Building Director Michael O’Dell next presented the village’s draft ordinance regarding the use of golf carts and answered questions. Village staff has been making the rounds to advisory boards to gather input on the draft ordinance that plans to make operation of golf carts legal in the village on village-owned 12-foot pathways. State law makes it legal to use golf carts only on local streets that have a posted speed limit of less than 25 mph, within HOAs, on a golf course or private property. The new ordinance recommends a maximum speed of 15 mph on pathways, and it requires drivers to be licensed and at least 16 years old. “The village is trying to provide connections to schools and an area for parking golf carts,” O’Dell said, noting that the ve-

hicles are not allowed on school property. The committee, with principals still present, were supportive and praised the program, explaining that the key issues for them have been after school with reckless driving, underage operation and overloading carts. Several principals praised golf carts being used for dropping off and picking up students, adding that using golf carts has been beneficial because it reduces the automobile traffic to the school. The community’s public safety report noted that the past nine months have been a very busy time for public safety officers in schools despite many students learning remotely. The department has been proactive with any online issues, is monitoring reports regarding online chatter, and is continuing to work to keep the children of Wellington schools safe.

Salvation Army Salutes Local Volunteers For Valentine’s Day

The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County has designated February as “We Love Our Volunteers” month, expressing love and appreciation for the many volunteers who help serve the community. In addition to several other media strategies, the organization will publish “Love Heart Appreciation

Messages” in two-page sections of an upcoming issue of Palm Beach Society Magazine and the Jan. 29 issue of the Town-Crier newspaper. Due to COVID-19, 2020 was a challenging year for local nonprofit organizations. Thanks to generous supporters, however, the Salvation Army of Palm Beach

County was able to appropriately help those most effected by the pandemic in the community. Apart from financial support, the nonprofit’s programs, ministries and services would not have been possible without the organization’s lifeblood — its dedicated volunteers. “We invite every resident to

show their love and appreciation to a Palm Beach County volunteer, and/or volunteer group of their choice during the month of February,” Area Commanders Majors James and Leisa Hall said. “Without volunteers, nonprofit organizations such as the Salvation Army could never maintain a high level of philanthropic service

to our community. So, we decided to show them how much we love them!” Individuals, as well as other nonprofit organizations, who would like to express appreciation to their respective volunteers can purchase a Love Heart Message by calling the Salvation Army administrative office at (561) 686-3530

and/or using the web site’s online purchase system. For more information, call Director of Development and Communications Frank Marangos at (561) 702-4698 and/or visit www. salvationarmypalmbeachcounty. org. Facebook information can be found @salarmypbco.

Barky Pines To Host Second Annual Puppy Love 5K Feb. 13 In RPB

Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary is excited to announce its second annual Puppy Love 5K Run/Walk event, which will take place Saturday, Feb. 13 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. The chip-timed race will begin at 7:30 a.m. Participants wishing to do the “fun run” and/or walk with their pets will begin at 8:30 a.m. The cost to participate in the 5K is $35 if registered on or before Jan. 31. Beginning Feb. 1, the cost will increase to $45 per person. There are also virtual and group registration options. All registrations include a shirt and

participation medal. To register, visit http://bit.ly/barkypinespuppylove5k. Day-of registration will begin at 6:30 a.m. at Commons Park. Packet pickup locations will be posted closer to race time for those registered in advance. All participants are asked to follow current CDC guidance, to include, but not be limited to, socially distancing as much as possible and wearing masks up until race start, as well as after the race upon cool down. The event’s grand marshal, Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Selena Samios, will kick

off the 5K at 7:30 a.m. Guests can also look forward to pet adoptions, a variety of exhibitors, DJ Rizz and more. In conjunction with the event, Barky Pines will be conducting a supply drive. For each supply donated, guests will be entered to win raffle prizes. Supplies needed by Barky Pines include small breed dog food, pee pads, cleaning supplies, large dog bowls, small dog beds, small dog harnesses and leashes, and farm animal feed. Sponsors for the 2021 event include Storm Roofing, Bornheimer Farms, Heather Smith Illustrated Properties, Bark Bar Granola,

Zola Chow Organic Pet Food, Nomad Mobile Fitness, Aqua Soft Kinetico, DJ Mike Rizz, Leonard Bryant Photography, Hendricks Signs, Napa Performance Auto, Best Western Palm Beach, BeneBone, FPL, MRC PA, Jennifer Batchelor Thirty-One Consultant and Suzy’s Scents to the Rescue. Benefits for sponsors include the opportunity to showcase their company’s name and/or logo in print and digitally, verbal recognition at the event, complimentary registrations, complimentary exhibit space and more. Select sponsorship levels are limited, so act quickly. To

support this second annual event, view sponsorship opportunities at www.barkypinesanimalrescue. com/2nd-annual-puppy-love-5k, call (561) 402-1451 or e-mail barkypines@gmail.com. For general information, follow the event on Facebook @ BarkyPinesAnimalRescueSanctuary. “We remain honored and humbled by the turnout of support for our inaugural race,” Barky Pines Director Elizabeth Accomando said. “We had more than 300 participants both in-person and virtual, and dozens more who showed up with a friend, family

member or participant to be supportive. We remain appreciative of the many sponsors we had and the outpouring of support where people learned of our mission. We look forward to an even better race for 2021, even with social distancing requirements in place.” Barky Pines is an animal rescue and sanctuary located in Loxahatchee with a mission to save those animals that would otherwise be euthanized and to unite furry friends with their forever homes. Barky Pines is the second largest rescuer of animals from Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control.

ing submissions, Willhite decided to support a bill by Ethan Douglas from Wellington High School. “I recognize that young people are the future of our country. When I was provided this seventh bill slot, I thought it would be a great way to engage young adults and help start building the bridge to our next generation of leaders,” Willhite said. “This bill idea came from a student in my district. HB437 will require a minor operating or riding on a motorized vehicle to wear certain footwear.” Willhite hopes the bill will lead to fewer preventable injuries. “As a first responder, I’ve seen the awful injuries that can happen even in a low-speed accident in something like a golf cart or motorcycle,” he said. “If this bill becomes law, it will help protect young people from lifelong scars or disability due to improper footwear.”

(the first three numbers of a 7-digit local phone number), customers will need to start using an area code for all calls to ensure that local calls to phone numbers beginning with 988 are not routed to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline by mistake. Affected area codes include Palm Beach County’s 561, along with several others in Florida. “We’re in a two-year transition to solve the challenges of implementing this nationwide suicide prevention effort,” PSC Chairman Gary Clark said. “This includes the need for widespread programming changes and provides time for people and businesses to prepare.” The Federal Communications Commission designated the 988 three-digit abbreviated dialing code for individuals to quickly access the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. FCC rules require all phone service providers to direct all 988 calls to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by July 16, 2022. The lifeline will also continue to use its current number, (800) 273-8255. Beginning April 24, 2021, permissive dialing starts so that consumers and businesses can begin the process of reprogramming equipment (if needed) and get accustomed to dialing 10 digits. The end of the permissive dialing period is Oct. 24, 2021. For more information, visit www.floridapsc.com.

NEWS BRIEFS Garden Club To Feature Teresa Watkins Feb. 1

The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, Feb 1 at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom. The meeting will include a presentation by Teresa Watkins, a well-known garden author, landscape designer, horticulturist and environmental consultant. Featured on Houzz.com, Watkins designed the landscape for the first certified “green home” in Florida in 2001. She hosts her own podcast gardening show “In Your Backyard.” In the last 20 years, more than 37,000 homeowners have attended her landscaping talks and programs and learned about Florida-friendly landscaping practices. Watkins is a fellow and alumna with the University of Florida’s Natural Research Institute and is a 23-year University of Florida Master Gardener. Through her consulting business, Watkins provides leadership and design solutions to help clients in creating themed landscapes, restoring habitats and ecosystems, and installing one-of-a-kind custom sustainable landscapes for residential and commercial properties. For details, visit www.she-consulting.com. To join the Zoom meeting as a guest, RSVP to President Jan Seagrave at (561) 793-1697. The

Wellington Garden Club is a nonprofit organization that has been serving the Wellington area since 1982. For more information, visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org.

Free Native Plants Feb. 6

Your February opportunity to get a voucher for two free native trees or shrubs is almost here. The Native Canopy Education Program is offering Palm Beach County residents another opportunity for an online voucher for two free native trees or shrubs in three-gallon containers. If you missed earlier online voucher distributions, or hadn’t heard about them, here’s your chance to get a voucher. You’ll be able to choose any two plants from a list of 23 different native species, subject to availability. Vouchers can be redeemed at any of five participating nurseries. The link to the application form will be live on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 12 noon until supplies are exhausted. Palm Beach County residents can go to: https://discover.pbcgov.org/coextension/horticulture/ Pages/Native-Canopy.aspx or search for “PBC Cooperative Extension Horticulture” and click on the “Native Canopy Program” tab. You will then watch the short educational video and complete the application form. A voucher

and supporting materials will be e-mailed to qualified applicants. To qualify for a voucher, you must be a Palm Beach County resident whose household has not received a voucher from the group within the past 12 months.

‘Outside The Box’ Exhibition At Dolly Hand

The “Outside the Box” exhibition at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center features original artworks inspired by contemporary and historical attributes of the Glades’ natural and human-made environments, communities, recreational activities, education, arts, culture and industry. Featured artworks are made of diverse materials, from oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings to mixed media works with beads and found objects. Palm Beach County Art in Public Places commissioned 12 artists based in the Palm Beaches to create original two-dimensional artworks that were then translated onto adhesive vinyl wraps to transform traffic signal boxes into three-dimensional sculptures and pedestrian-scale murals all rolled into one. Traffic signal boxes are ideal “canvases” to enhance streetscapes, humanize the built environment and foster a unique sense of place for residents

and visitors to Belle Glade and Pahokee. The exhibition runs through Feb. 23. Featured original artworks are for sale. This exhibition includes nine of the original 12 artworks created for the first phase of the “Outside the Box” community art project. Currently, there is a call to artists open for artists to apply to the second phase of the project. The application deadline is Feb. 26. For more information, visit the Palm Beach County Art in Public Places web site or e-mail Elayna Toby Singer at esinger@ pbcgov.org. The Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center is located on the Belle Glade Campus of Palm Beach State College at 1977 College Drive. To make an appointment to view the exhibit, call the box office at (561) 993-1160.

Willhite Files Legislative Idea From High School Student

This year, the Florida House of Representatives agreed to a rule change that expands the number of bills that a state representative is permitted to file from six to seven. With this extra bill slot, State Rep. Matt Willhite (D- District 86) decided to give this bill slot to a local high school student. After collect-

10-Digit Dialing Coming Soon To 561 Area Code

With the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline getting its own three-digit dialing number — 988 — the Florida Public Service Commission announced recently that areas where that number is already in use will be required to transition to 10-digit dialing. Where 988 is an existing prefix

Page 8

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NEWS

CAFCI Livestreams Dr. King Celebration From RPB Cultural Center

On Monday, Jan. 18, the Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI), in collaboration with the Village of Royal Palm Beach and supported by a grant from the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, presented its 19th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. The event was livestreamed from the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center and viewed from CAFCI’s Facebook page by a large audience. The program was a mixture of prerecorded and live performances with a small, socially distanced audience. The event began with the flag ceremony by BSA Troop 111

of Royal Palm Beach, followed by Steve Higgins’ beautiful rendition of the national anthem. Cultural Committee Chair Elet Cyris welcomed the audience and introduced Master of Ceremonies Mark Shim, noting that the event is a little unusual this year due to the pandemic. Canon Winston Joseph offered the invocation. CAFCI President Dennis Wright described CAFCI’s mission, placing emphasis on the Student Assistance Program and the organization’s involvement in the community. Royal Palm Beach Mayor Fred Pinto gave greetings from the village and welcomed the attending elected

Keynote speaker State Sen. Bobby Powell Jr.

Elet Cyris, chair of the CAFCI Cultural Committee.

officials, which included Vice Mayor Jeff and Caroline Hmara, Councilwoman Salena Samios, Councilwoman Jan Rodusky and Councilman Richard Valuntas. Pinto also recognized Port Commissioner Joseph Anderson, Port Commissioner Jean Enright and State Sen. Bobby Powell Jr. Following several entertaining performances, Anderson introduced Powell, the keynote speaker, who delivered a powerful, onpoint message about the works and life of Dr. Martin Luthor King Jr. and how pertinent his message is in today’s political environment. The program emphasized this year’s theme, “A Time for Hope,

Peace, Joy & Love.” The program included performances of dances, singing, poetry and instrumentals from Copeland Davis, Katie Gilmore, Steve Higgins, Miles Hoyt and Benjamin Collin, Jordaine Randon, Rachel and Ryan Rose, Morgan Shim, Soul Movement, Hildreth Stoddard-Brown, Matt Stone, Quincy Wilson and Rochelle Wright. CAFCI thanks its Cultural Committee with Chair Elet Cyris, Marjorie Aiken, Paul Baker, Henworth Ferguson, Winsom Genus-Martin, Shirley Morrison, Genieve White and Percival Wood, as well as the technical support crew of Richard Jackson and Radcliffe Brown.

(Front row) Radcliffe Brown, State Sen. Bobby Powell Jr., Rhonda Ferrin-Davis, Henworth Ferguson, Genieve White, Lillian McGann and Elet Cyris; and (back row) Dennis Wright, Paul Baker, Kilon Rhoden and Lauriston Simms.

The Soul Movement group entertains.

Copeland Davis performs on the piano.

SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR PRESENTS 2021 SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS TO STUDENTS

The South Florida Fair Scholarship Awards were given out on Sunday, Jan. 17 on the Coca-Cola stage. More than 20 students from across Palm Beach County were presented with a total of $49,500 in scholarship money. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLESICHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Scholarship Committee Chair Becky Isiminger speaks as Sarah Hoadley, Dan Lewis, Mabel Datena, Aquannette Thomas, Donna Winterson, Annis Manning and Robi Jurney look on.

Bella Farrell, James Farrell, scholarship winner Jonathan Farrell of Suncoast High School, Shannon Farrell, Jack Smith and Ruth Smith.

Scholarship winner Maya Suchy of Loxahatchee Groves with her father.

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON HEART

Don’t let A-Fib hold you back

Embrace Life’s Heart Moments As the most common heart rhythm disorder, Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib) occurs when a person endures heart palpitations, chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and confusion. With a higher chance of blood clots, individuals are more likely to experience a stroke than a person with normal risk factors. This is why at Delray Medical Center and Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, we combine physician expertise and our highly experienced staff to offer you some of the latest, minimally invasive treatment options available for A-Fib. • Minimally invasive treatment options • Convergent approach and Watchman™ procedure • Premier cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists • Cutting-edge electrophysiology labs 844.610.7031 • pbgmc.com

833.918.1211 • delraymedicalctr.com

• Nationally recognized programs for outcomes and quality

The Town-Crier

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

The

PRIME OFFICE/RETAIL SPACE

ON MAJOR HIGH VISIBILITY ROADS FOREST HILL BOULEVARD “FRONTAGE” SOUTHEAST CORNER OF WELLINGTON TRACE

FLEXIBLE TERMS

LEASING INFORMATION CHRIS SANTAMARIA (561) 793-4500

Page 9

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER

Page 10 January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

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Serving Gourmet Breakfast, Lunch & Overstuffed Deli Sandwiches

Hilary’s restaurant In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

The Town-Crier

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WINNERS

January 29 - February 11, 2021 Page 11

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

in the

Annual National Buffalo Wings Competition

LUNCH 11 - 3 PM | DINNER 4 - 1O PM DINE IN | TAKE OUT | FREE DELIVERY

in Buffalo, NY.

FOR YOUR SAFETY WE FOLLOW ALL CDC GUIDELINES

Online Ordering Available

EXCITING NEW ITEMS!

Order Online

OPEN FOR

BREAKFAST & LUNCH DINE-IN & TAKE-OUT

CURBSIDE TAKE-OUT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

We Practice CDC Safety Guidelines and Sanitation Procedures.

BEST OVERSTUFFED CORNED BEEF OR PASTRAMI SANDWICH IN THE WEST!

HOURS: 7:00 A.M. - 3 P.M. | 7 DAYS A WEEK

561-790-7301

Located in the ROYAL PLAZA

Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM

Tree’s Wings & Ribs

OR CALL 561-249-7168

Daily Specials

603 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Royal Palm Beach, FL. 33411

Free V.I.P. Program

561-791-1535

Spin the PRIZE WHEEL at every visit!

Home of the BEST Wings & Ribs. EVER

Come In and Join Us 50% capacity inside dining room with social distancing Outside seating allowed with social distancing

INDIA GRILL CASH

Employees wear face mask or covering and abide by social distancing rules while working.

Valid towards dinner and dine in orders only. Not valid for holidays & special events. Clip coupon and present to your server. Expires 2/28/21

Hand sanitzing stations. Sealed silverware.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Dine-In Take-Out Delivery

LUNCH 11 AM - 3 PM | DINNER 4 PM - 10 PM

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS 4 - 6 PM

INDIA GRILL & BAR | 650 ROYAL PALM BEACH BLVD | ROYAL PALM BEACH

(561) 249-7168 | WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM

www.TreesWingsAndRibs.com

Order Online WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM or Find Us On:

In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

NOW OPEN!

We are COVID-19 conscious business. We do require face-mask, have proper distancing and disinfect all surfaces.

Authentic Indian Kitchen Bar menu . kids' menu . A la carte menu . Party menu

Tuesday – Sunday

Located in the “ORIGINAL” Wellington Mall Ramp at the end of the parking lot

DINE-IN | PATIO BAR & LOUNGE Full Service

In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

SERVING THE BEST PARRILLA ARGENTINA IN PALM BEACH COUNTY SINCE 2007

LUNCH | DINNER

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, QUICK BITES & DESSERTS

CATERING • TAKE OUT • SPECIALTY CAKES • GROCERY

OPENING HOURS:

11am-3pm | 5pm-10pm

Monday – Thursday 6:30 am – 8:00 pm  Friday – Saturday 6:30 am – 9:00 pm  Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

**RAJA FREE DELIVERY** CALL 561.371.6560

TAKE-OUT

RAJA FOOD DELIVERED

561-318-6307

ALL CDC SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE FOLLOWED. PRIVATE ROOM . PARTY ROOM . CONFERENCE ROOM . OUTDOOR PARTY LOUNGE

CALL 561.371.6560

Catering Available

ALL CDC SAFTEY MEASURES ARE USED TO PROTECT OUR DINERS

Authentic Philipino foods including appetizers, soups and entrees with favorites such as Sinigang, Tinolang, Nilaga na, Crispy Pata, Leston Kawali, Binagoongan, Empanadas, Smoked Fried Bangus, Pompano, and more... Specialty cakes made to order

In the Original Wellington Mall Next to Nut N’ Fits, & your Local Post Office

Catering party packages available - call for details. Open Tues. - Sat. 10am-7pm, Sun. 11am - 4pm 12 7 9 4 F o r e s t H i l l B l v d | S u i t e 2 0 | W e l l i n g t o n | F l o r i d a 3 3 414 www.rajawellingtonfl.com | 561.371.6560 | rajawellingtonfl@gmail.com

601 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL (561) 530-3700 www.alpanpanbakery.com

561-904-6826

251 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 www.kabayanfl.com IN THE ROYAL PLAZA

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., 5B, Wellington We Also Cater Events HOURS:

Mon-Fri: 8:00 am To 6:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am To 3:00 pm • Sun: Closed

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER

Page 10 January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

Serving Gourmet Breakfast, Lunch & Overstuffed Deli Sandwiches

Hilary’s restaurant In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

WINNERS

January 29 - February 11, 2021 Page 11

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

in the

Annual National Buffalo Wings Competition

LUNCH 11 - 3 PM | DINNER 4 - 1O PM DINE IN | TAKE OUT | FREE DELIVERY

in Buffalo, NY.

FOR YOUR SAFETY WE FOLLOW ALL CDC GUIDELINES

Online Ordering Available

EXCITING NEW ITEMS!

Order Online

OPEN FOR

BREAKFAST & LUNCH DINE-IN & TAKE-OUT

CURBSIDE TAKE-OUT AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

We Practice CDC Safety Guidelines and Sanitation Procedures.

BEST OVERSTUFFED CORNED BEEF OR PASTRAMI SANDWICH IN THE WEST!

HOURS: 7:00 A.M. - 3 P.M. | 7 DAYS A WEEK

561-790-7301

Located in the ROYAL PLAZA

Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM

Tree’s Wings & Ribs

OR CALL 561-249-7168

Daily Specials

603 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Royal Palm Beach, FL. 33411

Free V.I.P. Program

561-791-1535

Spin the PRIZE WHEEL at every visit!

Home of the BEST Wings & Ribs. EVER

Come In and Join Us 50% capacity inside dining room with social distancing Outside seating allowed with social distancing

INDIA GRILL CASH

Employees wear face mask or covering and abide by social distancing rules while working.

Valid towards dinner and dine in orders only. Not valid for holidays & special events. Clip coupon and present to your server. Expires 2/28/21

Hand sanitzing stations. Sealed silverware.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Dine-In Take-Out Delivery

LUNCH 11 AM - 3 PM | DINNER 4 PM - 10 PM

HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS 4 - 6 PM

INDIA GRILL & BAR | 650 ROYAL PALM BEACH BLVD | ROYAL PALM BEACH

(561) 249-7168 | WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM

www.TreesWingsAndRibs.com

Order Online WWW.INDIAGRILLANDBAR.COM or Find Us On:

In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

NOW OPEN!

We are COVID-19 conscious business. We do require face-mask, have proper distancing and disinfect all surfaces.

Authentic Indian Kitchen Bar menu . kids' menu . A la carte menu . Party menu

Tuesday – Sunday

Located in the “ORIGINAL” Wellington Mall Ramp at the end of the parking lot

DINE-IN | PATIO BAR & LOUNGE Full Service

In the Royal Plaza at Corner of Southern & Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

SERVING THE BEST PARRILLA ARGENTINA IN PALM BEACH COUNTY SINCE 2007

LUNCH | DINNER

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, QUICK BITES & DESSERTS

CATERING • TAKE OUT • SPECIALTY CAKES • GROCERY

OPENING HOURS:

11am-3pm | 5pm-10pm

Monday – Thursday 6:30 am – 8:00 pm  Friday – Saturday 6:30 am – 9:00 pm  Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

**RAJA FREE DELIVERY** CALL 561.371.6560

TAKE-OUT

RAJA FOOD DELIVERED

561-318-6307

ALL CDC SAFETY GUIDELINES ARE FOLLOWED. PRIVATE ROOM . PARTY ROOM . CONFERENCE ROOM . OUTDOOR PARTY LOUNGE

CALL 561.371.6560

Catering Available

ALL CDC SAFTEY MEASURES ARE USED TO PROTECT OUR DINERS

In the Original Wellington Mall Next to Nut N’ Fits, & your Local Post Office

601 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL (561) 530-3700 www.alpanpanbakery.com

561-904-6826

251 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 www.kabayanfl.com IN THE ROYAL PLAZA

12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., 5B, Wellington We Also Cater Events HOURS:

Mon-Fri: 8:00 am To 6:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am To 3:00 pm • Sun: Closed

Page 12

January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

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THANK HANK YOU T YOUFOR FOR YOUR 2020 2020 SSUPPORT UPPORT! ! YOUR

2 g e p c

SOCIAL SERVICES SERVICES SOCIAL

ǣ ǣ

112,000 Meals; Meals; 34,000 34,000 Nights Nights of Lodging; Lodging; 20,000 Hand Hand Sanitizer Sanitizer Tubes; Tubes; SOCIAL SERVICES 112,000 of 20,000 16,50934,000 AngelNights Tree Christmas Christmas Toys, Bikes and Gifts; Tubes; 16,509 Angel Tree Toys, Bikes and Gifts; 112,000 Meals; of Lodging; 20,000 Hand Sanitizer 13,752 Case Case Management Management Support; Support; 1,477 1,477 Grocery Orders; 13,752 Orders; 16,509 Angel Tree Christmas Toys, BikesGrocery and Gifts; 1,065 Personal Personal Comfort Comfort Kits; Kits; 579 579 Clothing Clothing Orders; Orders; 1,065 13,752 CaseOrders; Management Support; 1,477 Grocery&Orders; 106 Energy Assistance 71 Gift Cards; 69 Furniture Housing Assistance Assistance 106 Energy Assistance Orders; 71 Gift Cards; 69 Furniture & Housing 1,065 Personal Comfort Kits; 579 Clothing Orders;

106 Energy Assistance EDUCATIONAL Orders; 71 Gift Cards;SERVICES 69 Furniture & Housing Assistance EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 18,900 Snacks; Snacks; 7,200 7,200 Breakfast Breakfast Meals; Meals; 7,200 7,200 Lunch Lunch Meals; Meals; 18,900 208 Hours Hours of of Tutoring/Homework Tutoring/Homework Assistance; 104 Hours Hours of of Cultural Cultural Arts; Arts; EDUCATIONAL SERVICES 208 Assistance; 104 104 Hours Hours of Character Character Education, Leadership & Spiritual Spiritual Development; 18,900 Snacks; 7,200 Breakfast Meals; 7,200 Lunch Meals; 104 of Education, Leadership & Development; 65 After After School School Program Program Participants; Participants; 65 208 Hours of Tutoring/Homework Assistance; 104 Hours of Cultural Arts; 100% Graduating Seniors Accepted Into College College Graduating Seniors Accepted 104 Hours 100% of Character Education, Leadership & Into Spiritual Development;

65 After School Program Participants; YOUTH GROUP GROUP PROGRAMS PROGRAMS 100%YOUTH Graduating Seniors Accepted Into College

3,400 Comfort Comfort Kits; Kits; 262 262 Institutional Institutional Visits; Visits; 268 268 Sunbeam Sunbeam Participants; Participants; 3,400 231 Youth Youth Group Group Activity Activity Participants; Participants; 260 260 Hours Hours of of Fitness Fitness & & Recreation; Recreation; 231 GROUP 90 PROGRAMS 181 Adventure Adventure YOUTH Corps Participants; Participants; 90 Summer Summer Camp Camp Participants; Participants; 181 Corps 70 Girl Girl Guard Guard Participants; 26Visits; Nursing Home Visitations 3,400 Comfort Kits; 262 Institutional 268Home Sunbeam Participants; 70 Participants; 26 Nursing Visitations

231 Youth Group Activity Participants; 260 Hours of Fitness & Recreation; VOLUNTEERS 181 Adventure Corps Participants; 90 Summer Camp Participants; VOLUNTEERS 5,300 Volunteers; 22,300 Volunteer Hours Given 70 Girl Volunteers; Guard Participants; 26Volunteer Nursing Home Visitations 5,300 22,300 Hours Given HE S SALVATION ALVATIONVOLUNTEERS ARMY RMY O OFF PPALM ALM B BEACH EACH C COUNTY OUNTY THE A T

2100 Palm Palm Beach Beach Lakes Lakes Blvd., Blvd., West West Palm Palm Beach, Beach, FL FL 33409 33409 561.686.3530 561.686.3530 2100 5,300 Volunteers; 22,300 Volunteer Hours Given

THE SALVATION ARMY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY

2100 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33409 561.686.3530

F a w o o

A a p w

P a

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 13

Dear Friend of Palm Beach County, “Volunteers are Love in motion.” – Author Unknown

2020 was a challenging year for Nonprofit Organizations. Thanks to the faithful 2020 wasofa challenging year for Nonprofit Organizations. Thanks to the faithful generosity supporters, however, we were able to appropriately help those most generosity of supporters, we were able to appropriately those effected by the pandemic however, in our community. Apart from financialhelp support, most effected by the pandemic in our community. financial support, programs, ministries, and services would not haveApart beenfrom possible without our programs,life-blood ministries, anddedicated services would not have been possible without our community – our volunteers! “Volunteers are Love in motion.” – Author Unknown community life-blood – our dedicated volunteers! February has, therefore, been designated as “We Love Our Volunteers” month. In The Salvation Army of Palm County addition to several media strategies, February has, other therefore, been designated as “We Love OurBeach Volunteers” 2020 wasIn a challenging yearseveral for Nonprofit Organizations. Thanks tospread theSalvation faithful will publish Love Heart Appreciation Messages in the two-page center section month. addition to other media strategies, The th issue of however, generosity of supporters, wewill were able toMagazine appropriately thoseedition most ofArmy the February 26 Palm Beach Society ahelp February of Palm BeachtheCounty publish Love and Heart Appreciation the Newspaper. pandemic in our community. Apart from financial support, ofeffected the TownbyCrier Messages in the two-page center spread section of the February 26th issue programs, ministries, and services would not have been possible without our Beach Society Magazine andyour a February of the Asof wethe startPalm thelife-blood New Year,– Iour would invite you to show appreciationedition to a volunteer, community dedicated volunteers! Town-Crier Newspaper. and/or volunteer group of your choice that has helped maintain a high level of February has, therefore, been designatedPlease as “We Our Volunteers” In philanthropic service to our community. useLove the QR Code below to month. link to our Palmappreciation Beach Countyto addition to several other media strategies, website’s purchase system. You canThe alsoSalvation call As we online start the New Year, I would invite you561-686-3530. toArmy showofyour publish Love Heart Appreciation Messages inchoice the two-page center spreadmaintain section awill volunteer, and/or volunteer group of your that has helped th appreciation Please help us show to Palm Beach volunteers. As the quote of the February 26 of the Palm Beach Society and a February edition a high level of issue philanthropic service to community ourMagazine community. Please use the above “Volunteers are Love in motion!” of therightly Townasserts: Crier Newspaper. QR Code below to link to our website’s online purchase system. You can also call 561-686-3530. Thank As weYou startfor theyour Newsupport, Year, I would invite you to show your appreciation to a volunteer,

Dear Friend of Palm Beach County,

and/or volunteer group of your choice that has helped maintain a high level of philanthropic service our community. PleaseBeach use thecommunity QR Code below to link As to our Majors Chip Leisa Hall, Area Commanders Please helpand us showto appreciation to Palm volunteers. the website’s online purchase system. You can also 561-686-3530. quote above rightly asserts: “Volunteers arecall Love in motion!” Please help us show appreciation to Palm Beach community volunteers. As the quote “ W E L O V E O U R V O L U N T E E R S ” Thank You for your support, above rightly asserts: “Volunteers are Love in motion!”

Love Messages

to tell your special volunteer ThankWant You for your support, much appreciate them? Majorshow Chip andyou Leisa Hall, Area Commanders Majors Chip and Leisa Hall, Area Commanders

Love Messages

SCAN ME Want to tell your special volunteer how much you appreciate them?

$50

Sizes will be larger than $100 “WE LOVE OUR VOLUNTthey EERappear S” here. $250 $50 $100

SCAN ME

www.salvationarmypalmbeachcounty.org $250

www.salvationarmypalmbeachcounty.org

Sizes will be larger than they appear here.

Page 14

January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

NEWS

WELLINGTON GARDEN CLUB HOSTS DOCUMENT SHREDDING FUNDRAISER

The Wellington Garden Club held a document shredding fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 16 at the Wellington Municipal Complex with support from Total Shredding. 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. Learn more at www.wellingtongardenclub.org. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Stormi Bivin with her grandson Anthony Caragol.

Victoria and Brian Matuszka brought papers to be shredded.

Twig Morris hands Paul Chamberlain of Total Shredding papers to be shredded.

JoAnn Akins hands money to Jan Seagrave.

Joyce Smith, Alison Albury, Jan Seagrave, Maria Wolfe, Bobbi Ziegler, Barbara Zenker and Danese Sloan Kendall.

Bobbi Ziegler, Ann Finch and Lisa Ferrano.

Barbara Zenker collects money from Dolly Rose.

Regis and Tom Wenham support the event.

Virtual Event Raises More Than $150,000 For Wellington B&G Club Separated by six feet or more, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s 33rd annual Wellington Dinner Dance “No Fuss Celebration” encompassed support from all over the nation. The virtual event raised more than $150,000 for Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. “This year’s Wellington Dinner Dance was different but instrumental in the growth of the club and our reach of youth in the western communities in Palm Beach County,” said Jaene Miranda, president & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. “We are grateful for the chairmen and committee members’ time and dedication to help the next generation, even during this challenging time.” The dance, which is general-

ly the Wellington club’s largest fundraiser, took place on Jan 8 via Facebook Live, celebrating the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. Topics included the organization’s pivots to meet needs during the pandemic, an update regarding future plans and a challenge to the community to get involved. The “farm-to-table” theme encompassed the immediate life-sustaining needs addressed during the onset of COVID-19, food insecurities, health and wellness, and community sustainability. For the virtual event, local farm-fresh ingredients were sourced to create a delectable meal delivered to local supporters’ homes and offices to ensure proper social distancing and safety measures. “It seems that in the most trying times, creativity can thrive and

communities choose to come together for a greater good,” said Angie Payne, event chair for the Wellington Dinner Dance. “Thank you, Wellington friends, for being so receptive to the virtual fundraising format and for continuing to support such a great cause, even if it looked different this year.” Coming together as co-chairs were Georgina Bloomberg, Daniel & Angie Payne, Dr. Luis & Rebecca Peña, and Dr. Carlos & Nelly Sanchez. Honorary chairs included Dr. Edward & Maria Becker, Josh & Consuelo DeTillio, Dr. Richard & Julia Giroux, John & Julie Kime, and Chris & Charlene Ramos. Committee members included Maria Becker, Jennifer Black, Consuelo DeTillio, Susan Ferraro, Julie Giroux, Nicolette Goldfarb, Dr. Colette Brown-Graham, Heidi Harland, Julie Khanna,

Lillian Khanna, Julie Kime, Dr. Daxa Patel, Angie Payne, Tracy Priske and Charlene Ramos. Sponsors included Georgina Bloomberg; the Evelyn V. McPherson Foundation; the Neil S. Hirsch Family Foundation; the Garrison Family Foundation; Nicolette Goldfarb; Julie & John Kime; Lizz & Mickey Smith; Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Disorders Institute of South Florida; Adams Coogler P.A.; Aegis Components Inc.; Complete Healthcare for Women Wellington; Dr. William Stechschulte; Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital; Marley Goodman Overman; Morgan Stanley; and Palm Beach Urology Associates. For more information about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, visit www.bgcpbc.org or call (561) 683-3287.

Dr. Daxa Patel and Dr. Colette Brown-Graham

• Certified Orthodontic Specialist • Specialized/Individual Treatment Plans • Most Insurance Accepted • Flexible Finance Options • Free Initial Records & Consultation

Established in 1993 Designed specifically To Provide Exceptional Orthodontic Patient Care

VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH EDUCATION ADVISORY BOARD SCHOLARSHIP PRESS RELEASE

Our goal at Shults Orthodontics is to help our patients achieve more attractive and healthier smiles with minimal discomfort and inconvenience. We are committed to serving you and your children efficiently in our comfortable family-centered practice in Wellington, Florida.

Dr. Randy Shults DDS, MA, PhD

CALL NOW

561-793-9888 12180 South Shore Blvd., Suite 101, Wellington www.ShultsOrthodontics.com

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. If you have questions, please call 790-5101.

Il Pomodoro PIZZA AND RESTAURANT

TUESDASYPECIAL CARRY-OUT Large Cheese Pizza

Located in Loxahatchee Florida, Il Pomodoro serves New York style pizza and delicious interpretations of classic Italian dishes. FREE TRIVIA TUESDAYS

561-223-3932

7 P.M.

Join Us for

We offer coverage for: Homes, Rental Homes, Farms, Barns, Equine Liability, Commercial, Flood and Auto.

Special Menu Items FREE GLASS of Champagne

OFF

15 % OFF

ORDER OF $30 OR MORE

ENTIRE ORDER OVER $30

Not to be combined with any other offer. Must Present Coupon Expires February 28, 2021

LARGE 1-TOPPING PIZZA WITH 10 CHICKEN WINGS

2 LARGE 1-TOPPING PIZZAS AND 2-Ltr Soda

Not to be combined with any other offer. Must Present Coupon Expires February 28, 2021

2395

3095

Delivery Available Starting at 11 a.m. on orders $25 or more Hours: Tue.Wed.Thurs. Sun 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Fri. Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. • Closed Mondays

5030 Seminole Pratt Whitney Rd., Unit 8, Westlake, FL 33470 | www.il-pomodoro.letseat.at

Does your agent discuss coverage options or just tell you what a great rate you have? Let’s discuss your options before it’s too late. Quality of service of matters. Contact me to insure your peace of mind.

Bill Thomas Agency Owner, Wellington Resident 561-331-6652 BrightwayBillThomas.com

The Town-Crier

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 15

NRI INSTITUTE OF

The new management team at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in the Palm Beaches is pleased to introduce our beautiful Garden Mausoleums.

HEALTH SCIENCES

Available Options for all your Cemetery Needs:

ENROLL NOW!!!

In Ground Burial • Mausoleum Crypt • Cremations Options* * Cremated remains are the body in a different form thus, deserving a respectful final resting place on sacred ground.

Call 561-688-5112

Contact us to learn more about Pre-Arrangement Options. We have a Family Service Advisor Team who can speak to you in English, Spanish and Polish.

 ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN NURSING (RN)  LPN to ASN

P: 561.793.0711 • 561.793-0182 www.ourqueen.org

 OCCUPATIONAL ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY (ULTRASOUND)

10941 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411

Day and Evening Classes Small Class Size

Family Owned & Operated Since 1996

SPECIALIZING IN TROUBLESHOOTING & REPAIR • Service & Repair • New Equipment • Sell All Brands

Financial Aid Available For Students Who Qualify 503 Royal Palm Beach Boulevard | Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 Located In the Royal Plaza At The Intersection of Southern Boulevard and Royal Palm Beach Boulevard

561-688-5112

Visit us on the web at www.NRIINSTITUTE.EDU Lic.#CAC057272 • Ins.

Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, License No. 1768 Accredited By The Council On Occupational Education

www.johnchuntonac.com

PRIMARY CARE

Annual Physicals Pre-Op Evaluations Chronic Disease Management Well Woman Care

DIAGNOSTICS SERVICES Laboratory Testing Echocardiography Digital X-ray Bone Densitometry Ultrasound Holter Monitor Testing 24-hour Blood Pressure Nerve Conduction Study Resting Metabolic Rate Body Composition Analysis Allergy Testing Home Sleep Study

URGENT CARE

Same Day Care School/Sports Physicals Immunizations Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Accident Worker’s Comp Urine Drug Testing Occupational Medicine Immigration Physicals DOT Exams STD Testing

Dr. Vincent Apicella & Dr. Mariaclara Bago, founding owners of PREMIER FAMILY HEALTH, are excited to announce the promotions of:

WELLNESS SERVICES Hormone Replacement Weight Loss IV Therapies Aesthetics/Laser Anti-Aging Skincare Sexual Health Medical Cannabis

J. Anthony (Tony) Nelson President

Elizabeth Lofaso, APRN Vice President/Chief Medical Officer

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Welcoming New Patients 1037 State Road 7 - Wellington, FL 33414 - 561-798-3030

- premierfamilyhealth.com

January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 16

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

NEWS Kucharski

New HLJ Principal

continued from page 1 result. Now I get to be on the front end of that. H.L. Johnson does a great job already of preparing students, but now I really get to see that piece of it and ensure that our students are doing all the things that they should be doing. I couldn’t be happier. I feel like I

won a jackpot. It’s just amazing.” Kucharski noted that when she applied for the principal’s job, she knew that the former principal, Jennifer Makowski, was retiring. Kucharski included a picture of herself and her mother at her first day at school at H.L. Johnson. “I was looking at pictures of when I was younger, and I had my first day at school picture with my mom outside H.L. Johnson, so I sent that,” she said. “I was hoping that I got H.L. Johnson, and I did.”

Safety

Human Trafficking

continued from page 1 day, 24/7,” Messam-Gordon said. “We encourage victims to get a forensic sexual examination [if they are the victim of sexual assault], and then they have up to four years to decide if they want to proceed with a legal case.” With January being Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Maurice Smith of the Human Trafficking Task Force explained that his team supports a comprehensive response to the complex needs of human trafficking victims in Palm Beach County. It also increases identification of victims and provides referral services. “Human trafficking is right in front of you,” he said. “You just have to know what to look for.” Describing it as the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex through the use of violence, manipulation or false promises of well-paying jobs or romantic relationships, Smith said it is all to lure victims into trafficking situations. “Florida is ranked number three in the nation, and Palm Beach

Zoners Young Crystal with her mother on her first day of school at H.L. Johnson Elementary. She returned this month as the school’s new principal.

Grants

Money For Schools

continued from page 3 Totaling $400,000 this year, the individual grants were more than $36,000 per school, earmarked to help students struggling in reading and math. “I want to thank the council for thinking out of the box and thinking of our students over the years,” School Board Member Marcia Andrews said. She said that Wellington’s efforts help make sure that small successes happen every day. McGovern noted that it is better for property values and for the community to have better schools, and that this grant program is a hallmark of the residents putting their money where their mouth is when they say they want excellent schools.

“We are the envy of other communities,” Siskind added. Drahos said that despite recent challenges, local schools are putting forth a great product. “This is really a statement about the 60,000 residents in Wellington who support education,” he said. Napoleone agreed. “It is remarkable what you’ve been asked to do, and you’ve done it,” he said. “I am embarrassed that other municipalities don’t do this. It is an investment in the community and the children.” Gerwig said that she is very proud that the grants have Spinelli’s name on them. The longtime teacher and principal in the community died in 2008. “She held everybody to a very high standard. She loved the higher achievers and wanted to challenge them to do more,” Gerwig said, adding that she also really loved those who need a bit of extra help.

Concerns Over Auto Repair Shop

continued from page 1 dangerous,” Rice said. Gary Hedrick, owner of the Doll Factory, said his shop is next door and sold the property to the current owner, who said he intended to put a pharmaceutical supply facility there. “Instead, he put in a race car shop,” Hedrick said. “There are cars, many of them with no license plates, that fly through the Westland Center PLA, which I formed… The renter here ignores all rules of the association and all rules of Royal Palm Beach. He has been operating for more than six months without an occupational license.” PLA President Kevin Gillum, who owns Buckeye Plumbing at 310 Business Parkway, said his main concern is cars speeding up and down the road, as well as the noise. “It’s just a matter of time before

County is number three in the state for cases of human trafficking,” Smith said. “Traffickers are looking to fill vulnerabilities of victims.” Smith noted that between July and December 2020, there were 55 verified cases of human trafficking in Palm Beach County. In other business: • Village staff has been making the rounds of advisory committees seeking input on the draft of its new golf cart ordinance that plans to make operation of golf carts legal on village-owned pathways. Assistant Planning, Zoning & Building Director Michael O’Dell visited the meeting to present the draft ordinance, answer questions and collect input. Currently, state law makes it legal to use golf carts only on local streets that have a posted speed limit of less than 25 mph, within HOAs, on a golf course or private property. The new ordinance recommends a maximum speed of 15 mph on pathways, requires drivers to be licensed and at least 16 years old. O’Dell said that the ordinance provides occupancy limitations, requires a Wellington registration sticker, safety equipment and the signature of the golf cart’s owner someone is hit,” Gillum said. “It’s extremely dangerous.” Commissioner Adam Miller asked how the business owner has been operating for six months without a business license. “How can he be operating prior to approval?” he asked. O’Brien said that is a code enforcement issue, and he had not been aware of any issues. Staff also pointed out that the applicant was there for a special exception approval, and that the failure to get a business license, as well as PLA compliance, were separate issues. ProTek proprietor Amar Patel said his business is a performance shop, but it is engaged in true automotive repair. “Nitrous was mentioned,” Patel said. “If we do one car per year that gets trailered in because it is a true, off-the-street performance car, yes that is true, but I feel that nitrous is being thrown around as a fear. We’re not here to modify cars and drive them up and down the street.” Commissioner Ray Nazareth made a motion to recommend denial of the application, which carried 5-0.

to acknowledge that the owner understands the rules. After the Wellington Village Council enacts the ordinance, local Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies will begin education and enforcement efforts. Older village pathways are eight feet wide, while the new pathways are 12 feet wide, with some of the eight-footers now being expanded to the 12-foot size. “We are using grants where [the village] can, but ultimately, some money from the general fund will be used to widen the pathways,” O’Dell said. With only a few questions, there was consensus among the committee that the age for operating golf carts should be no less than 16. Committee Member Jacqueline Hutman suggested that golf carts have a driver’s side mirror and that the rules include a reminder not to text and drive or consume alcohol before or during operation. O’Dell

Vaccine

Officials Not Happy With State Plan

continued from page 1 said. “I think one of the things that is glaring in the presentation is the 3 percent and 4 percent for black and Hispanic residents… We need to do more.” He pointed out that the county’s minority areas are probably the worst in percentages of receiving the vaccine. “People down in Boca are finding a way to get the vaccine, people in Delray, people in our more affluent neighborhoods

noted all the recommendations. • Wellington Director of Emergency Management & Public Safety Nicole Coates reported that the number of cases of COVID-19 reported over the past week showed a slight decrease. “It looks like there has been a peak in Florida around Jan. 2 with slight decreases since then,” Coates said. • The PBSO’s Harold Harper reported that recent crime statistics showed a slight decrease just due to the fact that people have been home more often. “The criminal element had been between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. when people were away at work, and now that they’re working at home, it has diminished the crime element somewhat,” he said. • The Public Safety Committee plans to host another essay contest this year with local schools. Logistics are still being worked out. Last year, there were 45 participants. are finding their way in,” Weinroth said. “We can’t lose sight of the fact that we have a whole underserved population.” Alonso said the health department’s phone system is operating to take appointments after it had a brief crash, although the demand for vaccines far outstrips the availability. “If the supply of the vaccine continues the way it is now, we’re going to wind up with another wait list,” she said. “We are asking them to try to go to Publix, and some of them are getting through. I don’t know if it’s hit or miss, or some people are getting up really early, and they get on that web site right away.”

County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay expresses her displeasure with the vaccine distribution plan.

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NEWS

Ben Maher And Tic Tac Victorious In The $137,000 Restylane Grand Prix CSI3*

It was a thrilling finish for the final day of the second week of FEI competition at the 2021 Winter Equestrian Festival, as Olympic team gold medalist Ben Maher of Great Britain and the 18-year-old stallion Tic Tac, owned by Jane Forbes Clark, edged the competition by just one one-hundredth of a second to take top honors in the $137,000 Restylane Grand Prix CSI3* on Sunday, Jan. 24. On the derby field at Equestrian Village, a total of 45 entries entered the ring to tackle the course designed by Oscar Soberon, with 12 qualifying to return for the jump-off. Maher executed the track flawlessly aboard the SBS stallion, leaving all eight obstacles in their cups to secure the win in a blistering time of 43.56 seconds, just one one-hundredth of a second ahead of Canada’s Eric Lamaze. “It was my lucky day, and sometimes it just happens like that,” he said. “Eric is one of the fastest riders in the world, and he was on a great horse, so I think I had the

luck of the draw. I was also on an experienced horse. Tic Tac is 18 and doesn’t come out very often, but he gives me great confidence, and he did everything right for me today.” It certainly came down to the wire with some of the world’s best riders giving the shortened course their best shot. Olympic gold medalist Lamaze also had a veteran partner for the test, finishing a close second aboard 18-year-old Fine Lady 5 for Artisan Farms and Little Creek Investments, in a time of 43.57 seconds. “Fine Lady is naturally very fast,” Lamaze said. “I’ve had a few classes where we went too fast and paid for it, and I asked myself, ‘Why did I go so fast?’ I was trying to keep a good rhythm. I knew who was coming behind me. Ben is one of the best riders in the world. I knew I rode a fast course.” Rounding out the top three was another rider known to be quite speedy, Conor Swail of Ireland, with 13-year-old Holsteiner mare

GK Coco Chanel for Vanessa Mannix. The pair gave it a solid try, keeping all the jumps up in a time of 44.04 seconds to slide into third place. “I thought the track was good today,” Swail said. “It was a little different from some of the other competitions we’ve been jumping in, less numbers down the lines, but it was creative, and we got a very good result. It wasn’t huge, but it was challenging, so I have to give the course builder credit for that.” Like many of the riders competing last week, Maher spoke highly of the opportunity to jump on the stunning derby field, noting the change of scenery from the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center as a great way to keep the horses fresh through a lengthy competition schedule. “For me, the grass arena here is one of the best grass arenas there is in the world,” Maher said. “That’s why I picked this week to bring a

horse of Tic Tac’s age over here. They’re great conditions. I thought it was a great course, and it was nice to see some new jumps out here this year.” Having already had some success at WEF this winter, including a win in $6,000 Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1.45m Jumpers during WEF 1, Lamaze echoed Maher’s praise of the turf track. “I think they should have as many competitions out here as they can,” he said. “It is the best footing in the world, the horses love jumping here, and for me, that’s real show jumping out there. We appreciate all of the effort that is made to keep us safe from COVID-19. These are difficult times, so we should all be grateful for that.” Competition continues at the Winter Equestrian Festival through April 4 as part of 13 weeks of show jumping. Spectators can watch all the featured classes for free on the livestream. Visit www.pbiec.com to learn more.

Ben Maher and Tic Tac edge out a win in the $137,000 Restylane Grand Prix CSI3* at WEF. PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

Santa Clara Claims Joe Barry Title With Victory Over Beverly Polo

Santa Clara finished with an undefeated record to claim the Joe Barry Memorial Cup title.

PHOTO BY ALEX PACHECO

The 2021 Joe Barry Memorial Cup tournament concluded Sunday, Jan. 17 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach with Santa Clara emerging victorious over Beverly Polo. In a memorable final for Santa Clara, the two father-son duos of Escobars and Magrinis remained undefeated, capturing the 10-7 victory. Santa Clara displayed a balanced team effort on both offense and defense to defeat Beverly Polo for the second time in the tournament. Aiming to overcome a 11-10 overtime loss to Santa Clara a week earlier, Beverly Polo struggled from the field, converting just two of 15 attempts. Tolito Ocampo managed to keep Beverly Polo in the match, shooting a perfect 3-for-3 from the penalty line, but Santa Clara proved to be the better team, shooting 43 percent on 16 shots. Keko Magrini led all players with four goals, including crucial back-to-back goals in the sixth chukker, securing the tournament victory. In the early stages of the game, Santa Clara quickly erased a onegoal deficit on handicap, holding

Beverly Polo scoreless in the first chukker while receiving one goal each from Keko Magrini and Luis Escobar. An early fall from Lucas Diaz Alberdi forced him from the game due to injury, replaced by Peke Gonzalez, as Beverly Polo searched for an offensive spark. Goals were difficult to come by in a defensive second chukker with a Penalty 4 conversion for Tolito Ocampo the only goal in the chukker, tying the score at 2-2. Lucas and Luis Escobar helped Santa Clara retake the lead in the first few minutes of the third chukker, scoring two consecutive goals, but Beverly Polo’s Peke Gonzalez made an impact with his first goal, along with one field goal from Hilario Figueras, to end the first half with the teams deadlocked at 4-4. The hard-fought physical game carried into the second half with just one shot between the two teams in the fourth chukker. Receiving two penalty opportunities, Santa Clara’s Lucas Escobar converted both, giving Santa Clara control of the game at 6-4. The duo of Keko Magrini and Lucas Escobar was a consistent factor

for Santa Clara throughout the tournament, driving the attack forward, and it carried into the final two chukkers. A second yellow card awarded to Ocampo left Beverly Polo a man short for two minutes as Santa Clara extended their lead to three on goals from Keko Magrini and Luis Escobar in the fifth chukker, leaving Beverly Polo facing a difficult task with one chukker remaining. Despite scoring two goals from the penalty line in the sixth chukker, Beverly Polo’s inability to convert from the field, scoring zero field goals in the second half, allowed Santa Clara to secure the victory. Keko Magrini managed to score two back-to-back goals in the final minutes, completing the impressive performance in Santa Clara’s 10-7 victory. Keko Magrini was awarded Most Valuable Player, while Yatay Shazam, played by Tolito Ocampo, received Best Playing Pony honors. Currently underway at IPC is the Ylvisaker Cup, which concludes Feb 7. Learn more at www. internationalpoloclub.com.

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NEWS

SOUTH FLORIDA MINI FAIR CONTINUES AT THE FAIRGROUNDS UNTIL JAN. 31

The South Florida Mini Fair, a slimmed-down version of the South Florida Fair, opened Friday, Jan. 15 and continues through Sunday, Jan. 31 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. While adult rides, indoor expos and major concerts are not included, many of the other popular fair activities are available to enjoy. Visit www.southfloridafair.com to learn more. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Youngsters enjoy the carousel.

Lillian Lange and Christiana Cadiz pet Scooter.

Kathy Clark, Ron Davis and Deanna Boehner-Gregory.

Young Charles Arnett with Walter “Dutchee” Arnett.

Natasha Mintor rides the mechanical bull.

Sand sculpture creator Dean Arscott at work.

Dr. Rutledge Ellis-Behnke sells everything needed to make whiskey in a week.

Jim “Fiddlin’ Jim” Waldeck makes some music.

Michael Broad grills marinated shish kebabs. Project 425’s Wayne Jackson with Jazmine, Rick Hauge, Major Gen. Wayne Jackson, Mike Carroll, Bill Arcuri, Curt Rich and Dave Pietrafese.

Christine Burtch and Oscar Robles bought fresh vegetables.

John Miller and Jennifer Tafuro with Zoey, owners of Creations Plus Leather & More.

Tommy and Ann Holt with Cindy Griffin, selling fresh vegetables from local farms.

A just born heifer calf gets cleaned up by her mother.

Brian Rosencrantz of the Palm Beach County Woodturners.

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

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SPORTS NEWS, PAGES 21-23 • PEOPLE & SCHOOLS, PAGES 24-25 • BUSINESS NEWS, PAGE 27 • COLUMNS, PAGE 28 • CLASSIFIEDS, PAGES 29-30

SPORTS & RECREATION

Local High Schools Compete In Cheerleading State Finals

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report They came from far and near last weekend to determine Florida’s best in competitive cheerleading. The 2021 Class 1A and Class 2A Florida High School Athletic Association’s Competitive Cheer State Championships were held Friday, Jan. 22 and Saturday, Jan. 23 at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. While the competitive cheer teams came from as far south as Key West, as far west as Fort Walton Beach and everywhere in between, there were five local teams competing — The King’s Academy, Palm Beach Central High School, Wellington High School, Seminole Ridge High School and Park Vista High School. “Qualifying for the state finals is an impressive achievement for any squad in competitive cheer,” said Samantha Smith, an analyst for the NFHS Network’s broadcast of the FHSAA state competitive cheer finals. During the Class 1A championships on Jan. 22, TKA competed in the Large Non-Tumbling division. The Lions, looking to improve upon their third-place finish from 2020, competed against five other teams in the finals, including defending state champion Baldwin, Tampa Catholic, Lake Highland Prep, Robinson High School from Tampa and University Christian School from Jacksonville. TKA won the division in 2019. This year, despite a solid performance, the best the Lions could do was register a score of 84.3, which was good enough for another thirdplace finish. Baldwin successfully defended its title with a score of 86.3. Tampa Catholic took second with a score of 85.7. Despite the third-place finish, head coach Jenn Allen was proud of her team’s performance in Lakeland. “We give all the glory to God for the chance to even compete this year,” said Allen, who has coached competitive cheerleading at TKA 14 years. “Our theme this year was to be consciously grateful. In Lakeland, we put together a strong performance. Everything went well. I was jumping up and down at the end of the routine. We had huge energy. You practice for perfection, and you perform the way you practice. That’s what I tell our team. I always tell them to recover well during routines, and they did.” During the Class 2A championships on Jan. 23, Palm Beach Central was one of eight semifinalists seeking to qualify for two

slots in the finals in the Large Non-Tumbling division. With strong morning performances in the semifinals, Palm Beach Central and Cooper City High School earned those two spots in the finals, joining Lake Gibson High School from Lakeland, Coral Glades High School from Coral Springs and Lake Brantley High School from Altamonte Springs. Palm Beach Central’s strong score in the semifinals was the result of focusing on fundamentals in the weeks leading up to the competition. “We drilled the basics and really worked on the little things,” head coach Capella Flaherty said. “In the end, those little things gave us the big score we needed to be one of the top two teams to advance.” Flaherty’s team was looking to improve upon its second-place performance in this category in 2020. However, the Broncos earned a score of 80.0, good enough for a fourth-place finish. Lake Brantley won the division with a score of 86.0. “Once we found out that we had beat out six other teams to earn our finalist position, we were more focused than before,” Flaherty said. “They had the drive and the want to put it all out there and give the best performance they could. Yes, we placed fourth, but I have always taught my athletes to be grateful. The girls were extra grateful and appreciative that they were given the opportunity to participate at all, even if it was a much shorter season.” Wellington competed in the Class 2A Medium Non-Tumbling division. The Wolverines were one

of five finalists in this category, along with Celebration High School, Lake Howell High School from Winter Park, St. Cloud High School and Lakeland High School. Leading up the actual competition, Wellington head coach Heather Brodnicki focused on her team’s entire body of work throughout the season. “All season, we have been concentrating on hitting all stunts,” Brodnicki said. “We even had a ‘nail-it’ board. When we hit all our skills during the routine, we hit a nail in the board. So, before they took the mat at the state finals, I reminded them about our nail-it board. I always tell them that I love them, and they make me proud.” Lakeland put together a powerful and convincing performance that showcased its athleticism, strength, coordination and teamwork. No other team could match Lakeland’s score of 87.1, which also won the state title in the Extra Large Non-Tumbling division in 2020. Wellington finished in fourth place with a score of 77.7. “When they came off the floor after the state competition, the team was disappointed,” Brodnicki said. “I hugged them and told them there is a great deal of risk in competitive cheer. It’s a high-risk, high-reward sport. I also told them I was so proud of the progress they had made in three months. There were a lot of great elements that they hit. They are a great team, and I am honored to be their coach.” Two of the three teams in the Medium Co-Ed division were Palm Beach County squads — the Park Vista Cobras and the Semi-

nole Ridge Hawks. The Cobras, coached by Acreage resident and Wellington Cougars competitive cheer coach Patty Gailey, were the defending state champions in the Medium Co-Ed division. Seminole Ridge won the 2019 state title in the Medium NonTumbling division. The third team in Medium Co-Ed was North Port High School. In the end, Park Vista emerged as the back-to-back state champion with a score of 70.9. North Port was second with 68.3, and Seminole Ridge was third with 61.5. Despite seeing some early errors during her squad’s performance in Lakeland, Gailey remained upbeat during her team’s time on the mat. “I knew we could win,” Gailey said. “I told them to believe in themselves and visualize their routines. The talent to win was there. This was my proudest moment as a coach.” Despite graduating seven seniors, Gailey is cautiously optimistic that Park Vista’s winning ways will continue in 2022. “We have a huge group of juniors and some younger talent, too,” Gailey said. In the days leading up to the state finals, Seminole Ridge head coach Tamara Licavoli was cautiously optimistic about her team’s chances in Lakeland. “We knew they could perform under pressure,” Licavoli said. “In cheer, anything can happen in a given performance. I believe the team was ready, but the lack of opportunity to compete in larger settings was a big deterrence. States was a large venue that only a few of our athletes were accustomed to. I know that if they had more

(Left) The Palm Beach Central High School cheerleaders getting ready to perform in Lakeland. (Right) Bronco cheerleaders Addison Fiorillo and Skyler O’Hare. PHOTOS COURTESY PALM BEACH CENTRAL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Park Vista Cheerleading Team — (Front row) Miranda Ojea, Alexis Hurley, Alyssa Yohe, Sami Arrieta, Jenna Ebert and Sofia Varon; (middle row) Isabella Keen, Hanna Kip, Ashley Delahunty, Sophia Geary, Ashley Pecoraro, Jaida Scudder, Victoria Rudd, Kaitlyn Smith, Alyssa Adler and Marianna Orlovsky; and (back row) Hayley Edelstein, Amelia Morawski, Evan Kirshner, Marco Farfan, Krish Patel, Jake Kirshner, Olivia Stevenson and Richelle Gorgoll. Not pictured: Sonia Salandy, Hallie Chasser and Chelsea McDaniel. PHOTO COURTESY PARK VISTA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Wellington High School Cheerleading Team — (Front row) Kailey Madden, Naomi van Es Maury, Ashlyn Carter, Heather Parrish, Olivia Grinage and Amber Bachmann; (middle row) Calista Palfenier, Lexi O’Halloran, Emily Singer, Bailey Ball, Emalee Owens, Shelby Buckstein and Grace Thomas; and (back row) Dania Kanhai, Hannah Teebagy, Hannah Dalton, Emilia McGovern, Brittney Bolton, Kyleigh Gardner and Emily Oswald. PHOTO COURTESY WELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

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Four other Palm Beach County teams also participated in Lakeland. They were William T. Dwyer, Boca Raton, Jupiter and Suncoast high schools. In the Class 2A Small Non-Tumbling division, Dwyer did not emerge from the semifinals, while Boca Raton finished seventh in the finals. Jupiter was the defending champion in the Class 2A Medium Varsity division. The Warriors finished second to Winter Park High School this year. In the Class 1A Small NonTumbling division, Suncoast was one of 11 squads competing for three spots in the finals, and the Chargers did not advance, just missing the cutoff.

The King’s Academy cheerleaders in action in Lakeland.

PHOTO COURTESY THE KING’S ACADEMY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

The King’s Academy Cheerleading Team — (Front Row) Alana Marchese, Glory Reback, Madison Skinner, Grace Mattessich, Kinsley Smith and Ashley Villaverde; (middle row) Sophia Sanchez, Naomi DelTergo, Isabella Caliendo, Ali Van Reeth, Bre Prieschl, Gianna Caliendo and Kaiya Parent; and (back row) Mason Shipman, Kinsley Kahlert, Kate Goode, Gigi Cannon, coach Kyler Harley, Oppel Storm, Macy Croteau, coach Jenn Allen, Emma Goode, Nina Toral, Isabella Torres and Devin Lucas. PHOTO COURTESY THE KING’S ACADEMY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Seminole Ridge Cheerleading Team — (Front row) Heather Durand, Brie Poe and Allissa Schwab; (middle row) Aneya Goodwin, Rylee Jones, Jaleene Schubert and Victoria Amaya; (back row, below) Donnell Lewis, Kyle Cutler and Elijah Lindsey; and (back row, above) Riley Driscoll, Starlynn Gilbert and Katelyn Hare. PHOTO COURTESY SEMINOLE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

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opportunities to perform prior to that, it would have played out differently. This team can very easily rise to the challenge. It was an honor and a pleasure to coach them, and I cannot express to them enough how proud we are of them.” Prior to making the trip to Lakeland, Licavoli put the state competition in its proper perspective. “It will come down to who hits their routine the cleanest with the least amount of mistakes,” Licavoli said. “Regardless of what place is taken, it is nice to know that we are competing against the best, and it will be a hard-fought battle.”

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

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January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 23

SPORTS & RECREATION

Tom Abel Steps Down As Wellington High School Football Coach

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Tom Abel’s football and weightlifting coaching career is coming to an end. Abel, the head football coach and weightlifting coach at Wellington High School, is stepping down from his leadership role with both programs. The news was announced on Monday, Jan. 25. In all, Abel has coached football for 22 years, of which 14 years were spent at Wellington High School, with the last nine as the head coach. Abel’s achievements on the gridiron extend beyond his overall winning record of 51-36 as head coach. During his nine-year run at the helm of the program, the Wolverines qualified for the post season during five of the years. In all, Abel’s squads won two district championships and were the district runner-up on two other occasions. He has coached three high school All-Americans and three Lou Groza Award winners. More importantly, 57 of his players in the last nine years have been awarded college scholarships. Abel was philosophical about his decision to move in a different direction with his coaching talents. “It was time to move on,” Abel said. “We made great progress

in establishing a new culture at Wellington, and I am proud of what we did with the Wolverine football program. I want to thank the school, the community, my players, their parents and fellow coaches for their years of support. I also want to thank my number one fan and supporter, my wife India.” In addition to long hours on the practice field and in the weight room, Abel has been a tireless proponent and advocate for the Wellington High School football program. He has secured local corporate support for the purchase of uniforms, a scoreboard and play clocks. Abel has also been instrumental in doing a number of little things that send a big message to students, parents, players and fellow coaches. For instance, the football team now joins together to sing the alma mater at Wellington after every home game, and he has also found a place for special needs students to be a part of the football program. “I have included students with special needs in my program, all the time,” Abel said. “I have made them honorary captains, ball and equipment managers.” In 2014 and 2016, Abel was

named the Palm Beach Post coach of the year. In his time in charge of the weightlifting team at Wellington High School, Abel has had a strong and positive impact. In addition to coaching the weightlifting program, he has been the chief fundraiser and carpenter, too. His fundraising efforts have enabled the team to buy uniforms, new weightlifting equipment, dry erase boards, televisions and a projector for the weight room. Abel also put his handyman skills to good use as he built the platforms in the weight room and painted the space. The immediate beneficiaries of Abel’s retirement from coaching will be his wife and children, who will get to spend more time with him at home. “This is a big change for him, and it’s the end of an era,” said India Abel, Tom’s wife, who teaches at Pierce Hammock Elementary School in The Acreage. “We are looking forward to having more time with him at home. I will be staying in touch with many friends we have made over the years through Wellington High School.” Abel will continue working at Wellington High School as a physical education teacher.

Tom Abel on the sidelines as Wellington High School football coach.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

WHS WRESTLERS HEAD TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

TKA Basketball Coach Murray Smith Earns 700th Win

The King’s Academy boys basketball team ran their record to 11-1 recently with a defeat of SLAM Academy of Boca Raton. The win was coach Murray Smith’s 28th in his first 39 games as the head coach at TKA, marking a fast turn-around for the Lions in only a season and a half. However, the win was far more significant for the history of high

school basketball in Palm Beach County. It may have only been Smith’s 28th win at TKA, but it was his 700th win as a varsity basketball coach in Palm Beach County. “It’s a humbling thing to think about all of the games and all of the players over the years. As much I want to impact my players, I think that over the years they have had a

bigger impact on me,” Smith said. A Palm Beach Atlantic University alum, Smith has won an average of 22 games per year during his 32 years coaching high school basketball in Palm Beach County. During that span, he has coached for Lake Worth Christian School, Cardinal Newman High School, Summit Christian (now Atlantic Christian Academy),

Coach Murray Smith with the TKA Lions boys basketball team.

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The Wellington High School wrestling team recently qualified for the FHSAA Dual State Championships with a 78-3 win over Douglas, followed by a 36-31 win over Olympic Heights, which came down to the very last seconds. The team has qualified for the state championships in each of the last four years.

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Page 24

January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Equestrians Unite To Support Hospital And Community Make Wellington Boys & Girls Club A Young Girl’s Wish Come True

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County’s World Championship Equestrian Triathlon is set to take place at 2 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 15 at EyeCandyLand in Wellington. With specific COVID-19 safety guidelines, world-renowned athletes will be able to deliver thrilling equestrian competition to benefit the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. Due to CDC guidelines, this year’s triathlon will be a hybrid event, allowing guests to participate in-person at a limited capacity and virtually. The event will be livestreamed from Ford’s Garage in the Mall at Wellington Green and online. “The Equestrian Triathlon continues to bring the community together despite unprecedented times,” Event Chair Kathleen Gannon-Ledsome said. “So many local children need our support, and we are determined to make a difference. While we are all set to compete out on the field, our focus is all the same, to build great futures for our Wellington children.” Serving as co-chairs and leading the charge are Neil S. Hirsch and Kathleen Gannon-Ledsome. The teams competing are team EyeCandy, making their debut, Ford’s Garage and returning champions, Sebilion.

Polo player Nacho Figueras with event co-chair Neil S. Hirsch. The family-friendly competition will begin with each team made up of one polo player, one hunter-jumper and one dressage rider. The exciting competition includes a major twist, since athletes do not compete in their field of expertise. This year’s participants are Kerstie Allen, Bebe Davis, Nacho Figueras, Pamela Flanagan, Martin Fuchs, Eugenio Garza, Carlos Gracida, Juan Matute Guimon, Ellesse Jordan Gundersen, Paul O’Shea, Chris Von Martels, Paula

Matute, Brian Moggre, Brandon Phillips, Schuyler Riley, PJ Rizvi, Nic Roldan and Suzanne Wepplo. Sponsors include Bacardi, Black Watch Farm, Dressage Store, EyeCandy, Fleur De Lis International Realty, Ford’s Garage, Glenbeigh Farm, Greenberg Traurig, PNC, Polo Gear, Publix Supermarket Charities and Sebilion. To learn more about how to become involved, or to become a sponsor, contact Christine Martin at (561) 683-3287 or e-mail cmartin@bgcpbc.org.

Chad Walker Receives A Scholarship From The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation

Chad Walker, a resident of Loxahatchee, is among four freshmen at Nova Southeastern University receiving the inaugural Legacy Scholarship, four-year Florida University Plan scholarships offered by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation (GHOF) and the Florida Prepaid College Foundation (FPCF) to graduating high school seniors who reside in Florida and plan to attend Nova Southeastern University. Walker is majoring in public health science. The other honorees are Diana Phillips of Largo, Amar Singh of Plantation and Nicole Castro of Miami. “The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation is a beacon for educating our youth about their role in protecting our marine resources. We are thrilled to partner with GHOF to provide match funding for these

four scholarships,” said Cindy O’Connell, director of the FPCF. Each scholarship applicant submitted a 250-word essay explaining why they have a passion for marine science and conservation and what major threats to the oceans they plan to work on during their future career in ocean conservation. They will each write an annual review of their experience during college. “All of the entries received by the GHOF were inspirational,” said Dr. Guy Harvey, a world-renowned artist, conservationist, scientist and chairman/founder of the GHOF. “I wish we could have given scholarships to everyone. However, these four students are well deserving of these scholarship funds, and I look forward to seeing how they will help the marine ecosystem.”

Chad Walker GHOF conducts scientific research and hosts educational programs aimed at conserving the marine environment and funds affiliated researchers working to better understand our ocean ecosystem. For more information, visit www.ghof.org.

Memphis Hamman’s wish for a mermaid day at the beach was granted thanks to a compassionate group of frontline staff at Palms West Hospital and support from members of Journey Church. Pediatric staff decorated 7-yearold Memphis’ room with donated items, which included a mermaid outfit — complete with a sparkly tail. Paralyzed from the neck down because of a severe car crash last summer, since the accident, Memphis has been a patient at the Children’s Hospital at Palms West several times. During her last visit, while undergoing imaging studies, her mother formed a special bond with Megan Morley, manager of imaging services, who also has a child that age. Even after Memphis was discharged, she kept in touch. On Jan. 8, Memphis was admitted again with pneumonia. Unfortunately, her mother could not visit because she was diagnosed with COVID-19. She sent pictures and messages for Megan to share with Memphis. Noticing that Memphis had been downhearted because her mother could not visit, Megan mobilized to create a day at the beach, Memphis’ favorite place, and what she misses most since being paralyzed. “Lately, Memphis’ spirits are just not where they normally

are,” Megan said. “Despite all the challenges she has endured over the past few months, Memphis has maintained a bubbly, joyful personality. It melted my heart to see her so sad.” Megan leaned on her Palms West Hospital family and her spiritual family to help uplift Memphis’s spirits. Since forming the friendship, Megan has been praying for Memphis and her family and asked her mother’s approval to start a prayer chain. Members of Journey Church, were Megan worships, were familiar with the accident and were eager to help. They surprised Memphis with balloons, gifts, offering cards of well wishes, and gathered for prayer in the hospital’s parking lot.

Megan Morley with Memphis Hamman.

Members of the Journey Church Serving Team.

Dr. Randy Laurich Launches LLS Campaign

Dr. Randy Laurich of the Wellness Experience has been nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man of the Year Campaign by Brandon Phillips, an extraordinary father, husband, polo player and co-founder of Polo for Life. Phillips understands this disease firsthand, as he is a survivor himself. Nearing 14 years of age, he noticed severe swelling in his right leg and was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after doctors discovered a grapefruit-sized tumor. The doctor’s prognosis was grim, but with a strong desire to beat this disease, Phillips was miraculously cancer free after five months of intensive chemotherapy. Laurich did much research on this disease and one statistic ignited his support for LLS. What he found was that in the early years

of life, 40 percent of childhood cancer is leukemia and lymphoma. Laurich believes that this must be remedied. “I have known parents over the years who were faced with this diagnosis in one of their children, and I can’t even begin to imagine the pain, the heartache and the strength required in the long battle to follow,” he said. “My grandfather, aunt and one of my wife’s best friends had to endure this journey as well.” Laurich seeks to raise money to support LLS in its work to battle blood cancers. “My wife Lorraine and I are blessed to be parents of two beautiful, healthy teenagers, Sophia, 16, and Hudson, 13,” he said. “It is our goal to bring awareness, funding and resources to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through this campaign so that those fighting

leukemia and lymphoma may have a chance to resume healthy, happy, prosperous lives and achieve their goals post cancer, just like Brandon Phillips did.” Laurich encourages the community to get involved through their support. “I am asking for the most valuable thing you can donate in support of this cause, your time. It is my hope to assemble a small and passionate team to support a massive goal in 2021,” he said. “If you know me, this is the hardest thing for me to say. I need your help. We’ll learn together, laugh together, probably cry together and, most importantly, we’ll make a difference together.” Laurich invited interested community members to contact him through his office at (561) 3335351 to learn more about his campaign to support LLS.

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Grant From Carrier Supports HVAC-R Academy At RPBHS

The Education Foundation of Palm Beach County and the Palm Beach County School District Department of Choice & Career Options recently announced that Carrier has awarded a one-year grant in support of Royal Palm Beach High School’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) Academy. The academy is a four-year sequence of high school courses combining core academics with specialized training required for journeyman-level employment in the HVAC-R industry. The program prepares students for post-secondary success through hands-on training, credentialing programs and apprenticeships. “Today, more than ever before, we need to provide opportunities for young people for high-paying career pathways that don’t always require a college degree,” said James S. Gavrilos, president and CEO of the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. “Clearly, HVAC is a career with a future in South Florida, and the support of Carrier will make sure that the students in Palm Beach County have state-of-the-art equipment on which to train. Carrier’s commitment to public education and our community goes far beyond their financial support and contributions of equipment.” He specifically thanked Mark Thompson, vice president, secretary and deputy legal officer at Carrier, for his support on the Education Foundation’s Board of Directors. Serving more than 60 students, Royal Palm Beach High School’s HVAC-R Academy offers an integrated learning environment designed to provide students an opportunity to begin a pathway to prepare for post-secondary education and careers in the HVAC-R industry. Funding will be used to support upgrading the academy’s equipment and securing program supplies integral to student success. Additionally, Carrier generously donated state-of-the-art HVAC units for students to gain hands-on practical experience in preparation for their industry certification exams and is establish-

ing a mentoring program for the students. The program will focus on creating pathways to apprenticeships and career opportunities for graduating students. “We are beyond grateful for this newly formed partnership between Carrier and Royal Palm Beach High School,” Principal Dr. Jesus Armas said. “Carrier is generously providing our HVAC students with the tools necessary to master the HVAC curriculum and afford them an opportunity for future success in the heating and cooling industry. None of this would be possible without the support of the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. The Education Foundation’s unwavering and tireless work for the students of our school district is invaluable and, certainly, much appreciated.” Thompson is proud of Carrier’s support of this program. “At Carrier, we understand the importance of developing the next generation of technicians in the HVAC industry, and we’re proud to support Royal Palm Beach High School’s HVAC-R Academy,” he said. “This program is creating pathways for students in the industry right here in Palm Beach County, home of Carrier’s world headquarters.”

SCHOOL NEWS

EMERALD COVE NJHS SUPPORTS FEEDING SOUTH FLORIDA

Last month, the National Junior Honor Society at Emerald Cove Middle School partnered with Feeding South Florida. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, NJHS members were not able to host their annual food drive, but their diligent work and determination resulted in raising $470 for the organization through a pasta fundraiser. All of the proceeds were donated to Feeding South Florida. Shown above are NJHS President Samantha Roseff with Cory Berkowitz, one of the organization’s co-sponsors.

January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 25

BIG HONOR FOR LGES STUDENT ARTIST

Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School fourth grader Mhyze Pena recently had her artwork “Starry Night” chosen to be displayed in State Rep. Matt Wilhite’s office. He had seen the school district’s Art Dazzle virtual exhibit and really liked her work. Her drawing has been framed and will decorate his office for the remainder of this school year. Shown above is art teacher Paul Brandofino and young artist Mhyze Pena with her drawing.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Kicks Off 2021 Students Of The Year Campaign

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Palm Beach-Treasure Coast Market has announced its annual Students of the Year competition, an innovative and fierce seven-week fundraising competition, during which the 26 candidates who have signed up will appeal to family and friends to raise critical funds, which LLS deploys to advance breakthrough treatments and support the more than 1.3 million blood cancer patients in the U.S. The candidate team that raises the most money at the end of the competition earns the title Student(s) of the Year. Students of the Year is a philanthropic leadership develop-

ment program for exemplary high school students. During the campaign, participants foster professional skills such as entrepreneurship, marketing and project management in order to raise funds for LLS. Top local fundraisers become eligible to win the national title. The students raise money in honor of a local patient hero who is currently battling or is in remission from a blood cancer. “It’s inspiring to watch these young men and women work so hard to fundraise and help us find cancer cures,” said DeAnn Hazey, South Florida Region executive director. “For these incredible students, it’s not

just about winning a title, it’s about the impact they are making in their communities and the generations ahead of them. They will help us advance the development of new childhood cancer treatments for the first time in 40 years with the LLS Children’s Initiative, leading the way in treating cancer and caring for patients.” For motivated high school students, Students of the Year ensures they stand out among their peers when engaging with colleges and future employers. Through guidance and mentoring from experienced professionals at LLS, they will make a real impact in the fight against blood cancers.

Pets Are Family, Too! By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M.

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When it comes to pain and discomfort, cats are experts at hiding how they’re feeling, making it difficult for owners to see that their pets need medical care. Ear mites are a common problem with cats, and they can cause severe itching and even bleeding when left untreated, so noticing the signs quickly is key to a happy cat. One of the first is that your cat will start scratching its ears and shaking its head more than usual. After a while the inside of its ears will begin to look dirty with crusty brown or black build up that can clog the ear canal. Your vet can clean your cat’s ears and apply medication to stop the infestation. When your pet exhibits signs that indicate ear difficulties, don’t wait to see if the problem will resolve itself because you can’t be sure it will. Instead, call your veterinarian. The faster a diagnosis is made and treatment begun, the better the chances are of a speedy, successful recovery. You are in the best position to tell if your pet is not acting normally, while we’re the ones to see for an accurate assessment and treatment. For healthcare of the highest quality, please call us at COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH. We are conveniently located 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd. Please call 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

Cell 561.307.2622 Keith@jordanogroup.com www.Jordanogroup.com

P.S.Ear mites are extremely contagious, so if you have one pet with signs, it’s a good idea to bring other cats you have to the vet as well.

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To learn more about the Students of the Year program and how it might work for you or someone you know, visit www.studentsoftheyear.org. This year, the local chapter has 16 candidate teams made up of 26 candidates and more than 140 team members competing for the title while raising funds and awareness for the LLS mission. The 2021 Students of the Year campaign runs from Jan. 13 through March 5. The winning team will be announced at the Virtual Grand Finale Celebration on Friday, March 5. Visit https:// events.lls.org/pb/pbsoy21 for tickets and sponsorship opportunities.

Candidate Cade Crook poses with his Celebration Box filled with goodies before the kickoff event.

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Page 26

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Page 27

BUSINESS NEWS

William Mikus To Chair The Salvation Army’s Advisory Board

The Salvation Army of Palm Beach County, among the largest global nonprofit providers of social services to people living in impoverished communities around the world, recently announced the appointment of William Mikus as chair of its advisory board. Author and family therapist Kristin MacDermott was also inducted as board member. Mikus, who joined the board in 2016, succeeds David Ackerman, who has served as chair since 2019. “Words are inadequate to ex-

press how much David Ackerman has meant to the Salvation Army over the past two years,” Area Commander Major James Hall said. “His leadership has been instrumental in helping us successfully navigate the most challenging crisis we have ever faced. He is not only a man of unquestionable integrity but modeled what it meant to be courageous in the face of adversity.” Ackerman said that it has been an honor to serve in the position. “Our advisory board is in a

great place with Bill Mikus as chair,” he said. “He brings his superior business experience and acumen, along with his engaging and charismatic leadership style, to this role. The Salvation Army takes on the most pressing needs of our community, helping children, teens, the elderly, victims of human trafficking and those hurt by COVID-19’s devastating health and economic impacts.” Mikus is a managing partner at Dakota Wealth Management in Palm Beach with more than

four decades of experience in the financial markets. “I am deeply honored to have been appointed as the chair of the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County’s advisory board,” Mikus said. “During this historically challenging time, it is a privilege to contribute to the Salvation Army’s 156-year efforts to help ‘the least, the last and the lost.’ It is my goal to continue the momentum started by Budge Jamison (chair 201719) and David Ackerman (chair 2019-21.”

Grocery Chain Aldi Opens New Store On Southern Blvd. In Loxahatchee Groves

Aldi, a leader in the grocery industry, opened its new store in Loxahatchee Groves this week as part of its national expansion plan to become the third-largest U.S. grocery retailer by store count by the end of 2022. Aldi has set the standard for quality and affordability. Now, Loxahatchee Groves residents can join the millions of shoppers who come to Aldi for premium food at great prices now that the new store at 15439 Southern Blvd. opened on Thursday, Jan. 28. The Loxahatchee Groves store will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“We are dedicated to providing the communities we serve the best groceries at the lowest-possible prices, and we look forward to introducing Loxahatchee Groves to their new neighborhood grocery store,” said Chris Hewitt, Royal Palm Beach division vice president for Aldi. “We are focused on continuing to expand and open new stores across the country because we want to do our part. We know now, more than ever, easy access to fresh food and household essentials is invaluable.” Aldi stores have always been

purposefully designed for simplicity and efficiency, and this year, Aldi has seamlessly integrated several new safety features in all its stores across the country. The health and safety of customers and employees are the company’s top priorities, and Aldi optimizes its stores to provide the cleanest and safest shopping environment possible. The retailer has also remained focused on ensuring that stores are stocked with the food and household essentials that customers want and need. Aldi pioneered private-label

goods, and for the past four decades has remained focused on saving people money on the food and products they want most. Additionally, for those who prefer to buy their groceries online, Aldi continues to grow its e-commerce services. Known for offering market-leading wages and benefits, Aldi is one of the fastest-growing retailers in the U.S., creating new opportunities for people locally and nationwide. To learn more about working at Aldi and search job openings, visit https://careers. aldi.us.

Dr. Ravi Pandey Returns To Private Practice

After practicing internal medicine locally for almost 20 years before working exclusively as a hospitalist, Dr. Ravi Pandey is back in brick-and-mortar offices, treating patients with the personalized, accessible care and attention they deserve, and follow them to the hospital if they are admitted. The board-certified internal medicine physician is also thrilled that he will now be able to offer extended and weekend hours to better serve his patients. “The days of evaluating and then personally following patients throughout their entire plan of care are nearly over for primary care physicians,” Pandey said. “My practice is better than many because I am able to care for my patients in the office setting, as well as in the hospital, so patients are not being treated by someone they only meet for the first time at hospitalization.” Pandey’s bedside manner makes

his patients comfortable because he can explain their conditions and treatment plans in simple, non-medical terms. “Since I’ve also been involved in hospital medicine, I have a very good grasp of multiple medical conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, heart failure and pulmonary conditions, most of which I am adept at taking care of myself while utilizing the best specialists whenever the need arises,” he said. His practice now accepts Prominence Health Plan, in addition to most other major health plans, and offers preventive care, annual wellness visits, physicals and immunizations, including those just in time for flu season. He also offers tips to manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, along with smoking cessation and weight loss tips. Relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pandey acknowledges that effective treatment strategies are

present and that more are coming, but that everyone must help in preventing further propagation of the virus. “Maintaining social distancing measures, wearing masks, and continuing practices like hand hygiene and sanitizing high-touch surfaces is essential,” he said. Pandey said that right now, patients should be thinking about improving their physical health through preventive and screening measures. “It’s also critical to give your mental health equal importance in these stressful times. Do whatever things work for you, whether it is relaxation techniques, meditation or prayer,” he said. Pandey has practiced in South Florida since 1997. He is on staff at Palms West Hospital, JFK Medical Center, Select Specialty Hospital and Wellington Regional Medical Center. Fluent in both English and Hindi, he completed his education at Grant Medical College of the University of Bombay and

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New Board Member Kristin MacDermott is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a decade of research in resilience. MacDermott is the author of the book It Takes Two Minutes to Shift Your Mindset and Build Resilience. “Until recently, I had no idea how many lives the Salvation Army touches,” MacDermott said. “I knew they supported people at Christmastime, but I was blown away to learn about the vast array of programs and services they

provide to thousands of families in Palm Beach County all year long. I am honored to be part of an organization that has the capacity to help so many people when they need it most.” For additional information about the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County, or to make a financial contribution to the organization, call Frank Marangos, director of development and communications, at (561) 686-3530 or visit www.salvationarmypalmbeachcounty.org.

PWH MEDICAL STAFF GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Demonstrating great leadership and to promote community health and wellness, the Palms West Hospital medical staff recently awarded $40,000 to eight community organizations to preserve and expand local access to much-needed services. Members of the Medical Executive Committee presented a donation of $5,000 to each of the following charities: Jack the Bike Man, Meals on Wheels, Little Smiles, the Lord’s Place, the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, Paws 4 Liberty, Feeding the Hungry Pantry of Palm Beach, and Mommy and Me (Drug Abuse Foundation of Palm Beach County). Shown above are: David Rogers of the Lord’s Place, Stephanie Thompson of the Drug Abuse Foundation, Pam Calzadilla of Meals on Wheels, Dan Shorter of Feed the Hungry, Jack Hairston of Jack the Bike Man, Heidi Spirazza of Paws 4 Liberty, Chip Donohue of Little Smiles and Chief of Staff Dr. David Miller holding the check.

ABWA To Meet On Feb. 10

Dr. Ravi Pandey performed his residency and fellowship at Jersey Shore Medical Center. Call (561) 867-0000 to schedule a visit at either of his new offices in Wellington, West Palm Beach or Palm Beach Gardens.

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 6 p.m. The meeting typically takes place at the Embassy Suites Hotel (4350 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens) with networking from 6 to 6:30 p.m. The cost is typically $25 through Sunday, Feb. 7 and $30 after Sunday and at the door. If the meeting occurs at the hotel, utilize the link www.paypal.me/ abwanorthernpalmbch to pay or

pay at the door. Due to the pandemic, the meeting will likely take place via Zoom. If so, upon registration, login details will be shared, and there will be no cost to participate. The February speaker is Vismaya Rubin on “Living in Gratitude Today; How to Become More Grateful.” To make reservations, or for more information, contact Professional Development Chair Loretta Remy at (561) 317-3227 or loretta.spalady@gmail.com.

Page 28

January 29 - February 11, 2021

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FEATURES

My Amateur Take: This Year’s Super Bowl Will Be Quite A Game!

So, my beloved Green Bay Packers from my home state of Wisconsin will not be going to the Super Bowl. That’s the bad news. The good news is that the Kansas City Chiefs, from my part-time home state of Missouri, will. For a while there, I was worried that it would be the Packers against the Chiefs in football’s biggest game, but thanks to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ quarterback Tom Brady, that will not be the case. I will not have to hide out in my Missouri bedroom with the TV and a big bag of chips after all. I don’t completely understand all the

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER nuances of the game, but I do like the Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes (don’t call him Pat — his mother will get ya). He’s helping to bridge the racial divide. His enthusiasm is contagious. He throws the ball like it’s a bullet. And, as

much as I like quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ happy smile, I really loved Mahomes’ fierce yell when he knew they’d won last Sunday’s championship game. Another thing I like about Mahomes is that last year, when he got his first Super Bowl ring, he chose that day to propose to his longtime high school girlfriend. She said, “He took a day that was all about him and made it about me, too.” I thought that was a class act. Plus, the kid is smart enough to pull in money wherever he can. He does endorsements and commercials, and he does them well. His face is plastered all over Kansas City — buses, billboards, TV. “Strike

while the iron is hot,” my father always says and, right now, Mahomes is hot. My grandson, whose hair is blonder than blonde and straight as an arrow, wants a Mahomes haircut, just like every other little boy in the Kansas City area. Mahomes himself goes to the same grand-daddy barber he has always gone to. As he becomes a legend, he’s making legends of others. Next year, when everyone has been vaccinated and the stadiums re-open, the roar of the crowd noise is only going to propel him further. And, barring a scary injury, it looks like he has a long career ahead of him.

If I was Tom Brady, I would be just a little bit nervous about facing him. Mark your calendars for Sunday, Feb. 7 because Mahomes is the heir apparent — that is, if Brady is ready to give up the crown. At 43, Brady has 18 years on Mahomes, and there is David Mamet’s quote, “Old age and treachery will always beat youth and exuberance.” Since I’m more than 18 years older than Brady, there is a small part of me that would like to see the old dog beat the young pup. Either way, it’s going to be a match-up worth watching. And (cha-ching!) there’s no doubt that it’s going to be good for the two states I live in.

Peacock’s Show ‘AP Bio’ Is Unfair As It Pokes Fun At Teachers

Right at a time when our schools are in deep crisis, what do we need but media playing off the “teachers are uncaring idiots” theme. Since my community recently got the so-called Peacock service, basically a group of streaming NBC shows and assorted movies, I had a chance to watch possibly the most vile show ever done about American education. The show is called AP Bio, and when I saw the name, I had high hopes. I so seldom ever watch NBC, I assumed I had missed it. But Advanced Placement Biology is a class for bright students, and I really love shows that focus on kids who want to learn, unlike Welcome Back Kotter and Saved by the Bell. I loved the old Room 222 and Head of the Class sitcoms. I hoped the new show would reflect this. The opening scene of the pilot, however, dashed all my hopes. Jack (Glenn Howerton), a Harvard grad who did not get a tenured teaching position, walks into a classroom declaring that he was not

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler going to be teaching the students biology; what the group would be doing was finding ways to destroy his arch-enemy, the man who got the job he wanted. Over the course of several seasons, he has managed to completely avoid teaching any biology. It should be noted that it is constantly emphasized that he was a philosophy major, but they had him teaching the most advanced class in a scientific subject. The people sent in at the beginning as replacements were a gym teacher who had kids doing pushups, a secretary who used photos to describe the problems of her

reproductive system and, finally, someone who seemed to really care. The writers got rid of that guy in seconds. Principal Dan (Patton Oswalt) is a moron who seems not able to get anything done. The head of the teacher’s union (Lyric Lewis) hates the boss because he headed up the school’s glee club instead of her a quarter of a century earlier. The one teacher at the start we get to see anything of seems brilliant and charming, until we learn his nickname is Terry the Tickler and that he was pushed out of actually teaching after he “started dating the CPR dummy.” I spent half my life working in schools. I have seen a few fools and some incompetents, but never anything close to what this show presents. I have taught AP classes, granted they were in American history and economics, but I had the same type of students who should have been in this class. The kids were eager to learn, and the classes were not only run on a college level but on a high college level. The kids were

anxious to learn. Yes, some had problems, but nothing like the extreme level shown on this show. Most students do want to learn, and almost all teachers want to teach. The biggest reason for teachers dropping out of the field is frustration when they can’t get through to students. I taught and was an administrator for years at high schools in The Bronx, a place that those who favor stereotypes probably imagine is a horror story for students. But both Adlai Stevenson High School, where I taught, and DeWitt Clinton High School, where I was an administrator, sent students to Ivy League schools. While I was at those schools in the last decades of the past century, the vast majority of seniors graduated, many of them going to state universities, as well as good private colleges. The students themselves, certainly the brighter ones, actually wanted more work. One teacher who transferred to Clinton in order to have a nice restful couple of years

at the end of a long career (the school has a long tradition of excellence) found that after a week, his students went to his supervisor to protest that he was not giving homework. Most teachers want to succeed, and that means their students have to succeed. With the current pandemic, things are getting crazy and far more difficult. My daughter told me that she suffered greatly teaching students through technology the past fall semester because there was just no feeling of commonality; that the coming together as a learning group was just not there. School districts are having trouble finding and retaining new teachers. The people behind AP Bio, who are also behind Saturday Night Live, might consider that the more they knock down teachers, the poorer our society will be. Instead of literate workers, we might have folks who find ways to collect money while sitting at home watching TV all day. Or is that what those people really want?

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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.

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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.

A/C Refrigeration Services 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

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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

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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

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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

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

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

January 29 - February 11, 2021

Page 31

Do you or a loved one suffer from… ANXIETY? DEPRESSION? ADDICTION? INSOMNIA? BIPOLAR? ALCOHOLISM?

Gemini Counseling The office of Dr. David T. Hu, MD Specializing in General Psychiatry Addiction Medicine, Dual Diagnosis and Medication Management

NOW OFFERING TELEMEDICINE See your psychiatrist from the comfort and safety of your home. Practice limited to the State of Florida.

Dr. David T. Hu, MD CALL OR E-MAIL TODAY FOR YOUR CONFIDENTIAL APPOINTMENT

(561) 469-2110

office@geminibehavioralhealth.com Gemini Behavioral Health LLC is conveniently located in the Wellington Plaza

12765 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 1309, Wellington

Board Certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine

Dr. David Hu was born and raised in New York. He attended New York University, where he earned his bachelor of arts and medical degrees. Dr. Hu completed his residency training and served as Chief Resident in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Hu has been practicing psychiatry and addiction medicine in a variety of settings for nearly 20 years and is now excited to establish a private practice based in Wellington to serve the western communities of Palm Beach County.

www.geminibehavioralhealth.com

COMING SOON! The Grand Opening of Pope Taekwondo Academy UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF GRANDMASTER 8th Degree Owner/Director

Gustavo Pope-Guerriero

Formerly Xtreme Taekwondo At Ultima Fitness

“Where Champions Begin” www.popetaekwondo.com I 561-685-3648

Page 32

January 29 - February 11, 2021

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

COVID-19 and Heart Inflammation: What You Should Know Myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle, is a rare disease that has taken on new prominence as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a growing body of research, many coronavirus survivors experience some form of heart damage. While nearly a quarter of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 have cardiovascular complications, individuals with mild to moderate symptoms are also at risk of cardiac injury from the virus. Myocarditis is most often the result of an infectious process, like influenza or COVID-19. Inflammation can enlarge and weaken the heart and create scar tissue in later stages. This forces the heart to work harder to circulate blood and oxygen throughout the body. “What’s particularly worrisome is that a rise in myocarditis cases may lead to more patients experiencing heart failure and heart rhythm problems,” explains Jaime Hernandez-Montfort, MD, an advanced heart disease and transplant cardiologist with Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute in Weston. Who’s at Risk? Myocarditis can affect anyone, no matter their age. However, individuals who are young, healthy, and athletic are most often affected. That’s why interscholastic, intercollegiate, and professional athletic programs are required to adhere to strict protocols before allowing an athlete to return to play after a coronavirus infection. But recreational athletes and exercise enthusiasts are also at risk for complications and should take note.

Warning Flags Those recovering from COVID-19 should watch for potential signs of a weakened heart: • Shortness of breath • Heart palpitations • Chest pain • Dizziness • Lightheadedness • Loss of consciousness

benefit from temporary heart support devices with a rare few requiring heart transplant or a durable heart pump.

“Later stage signs of heart damage include swelling of the legs and ankles, difficulty sleeping at a flat angle, and difficulty breathing when tying your shoes,” says Dr. Hernandez-Montfort.

Get Help Jaime Hernandez-Montfort, MD Make sure to schedule a heart health checkup with a cardiovascular specialist before starting or resuming an exercise routine Marcelo Helguera, MD following a coronavirus infection. In addition to identifying risk factors for cardiovascular disease, it will provide the ability to screen for myocarditis and other heart and vascular illnesses associated with COVID-19.

Diagnosis & Treatment Diagnosing myocarditis usually entails a series of tests: • Electrocardiogram (EKG) • Chest x-ray • Echocardiogram • Blood testing for heart injury biomarkers • C-MRI • Endomyocardial biopsy “A multimodality approach may be needed to rule out other causes of heart disease,” adds Marcelo Helguera, MD, a cardiovascular medicine specialist who sees patients at Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Wellington and Palm Beach locations. “In severe cases, the gold standard is a biopsy of the heart muscle.” Myocarditis is typically treated with medications to help recover heart function. Antiviral and anti-inflammatory therapies may be used, as well as immunosuppression therapy, in certain patients. Patients with the most severe cardiac damage may

To make an appointment with a Cleveland Clinic cardiovascular specialist, please call 877.463.2010 or visit www.clevelandclinicflorida.org/heart.

The top choice for heart care. From routine cardiac care to complex transplants, trust South Florida’s #1 hospital. Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties U.S. News & World Report 2020-21

877.463.2010 ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Heart