STATE BILLS WORRY CONSERVATIONISTS SEE STORY, PAGE 7
AUDI WINS USPA GOLD CUP IN OVERTIME SEE STORY, PAGE 17
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RPB Council Wants More Public Input On Charter High School
Volume 36, Number 13 March 27 - April 2, 2015
Serving Palms West Since 1980
AUCTION SUPPORTS THE RPB RELAY
While a full discussion and decision is not expected until next month, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week briefly discussed the status of a proposal to build a charter high school on 10 acres of villageowned land right across the street from Royal Palm Beach High School. Page 3
FAU President Lays Out Vision For A New Educational Model
Florida Atlantic University President Dr. John Kelly was the featured speaker Wednesday at an economic forum luncheon presented by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce at the Breakers West County Club. Page 7 A Quarter Auction to benefit the Royal Palm Beach Relay for Life was held Wednesday, March 18 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. A large crowd was on hand to try their luck at getting their numbers picked to win merchandise. Various vendors such as jewelry, home decor and food were on offer. Shown here is the RPB Relay for Life Breakfast Club team. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 20
PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Sheriff’s Foundation Presents Scholarships
On March 22, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation held a celebration to honor the recipients of its inaugural youth scholarship program. Recipients included David Bannister Jr. of Royal Palm Beach High School and Anisa Kornegay of Seminole Ridge High School. Page 9
Quarterly Acreage Community Music Fest Brings Crowds To Park
The quarterly Acreage Community Music Fest was held Saturday, March 21 at Acreage Community Park featuring live bands, a car cruise-in, food trucks, kick ball, vendors, a kids zone and more. Page 20
OPINION
Get Involved In Local Relay For Life Events
This time of year is relay time here in the western communities, and as we have done often in the past, we urge all members of the community to get involved in this worthy cause. In April, there will be three American Cancer Society Relay for Life events here in the western communities. Page 4
DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS................................. 3 - 9 OPINION.................................. 4 CRIME NEWS.......................... 6 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 8 PEOPLE................................. 13 SCHOOLS.......................14 - 15 COLUMNS...................... 16, 25 BUSINESS......................26 - 27 SPORTS......................... 33 - 35 CALENDAR............................ 38 CLASSIFIEDS................ 40 - 43 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
RPB Zoners Review Expansion Plans For Al Packer Ford West
By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Al Packer Ford West, located at 10601 Southern Blvd., is planning a number of upgrades to its facility, and the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission discussed several items related to the project at a meeting Tuesday, March 24. While the commissioners were generally supportive of the overall project, they did not agree with all of the requested variances. The dealership presented a multi-part application requesting variances to the parking code, to only have to provide parking for enclosed and covered areas in the dealership and not for the outdoor service area; to include more than 10 percent of the total parking in the rear of the facility; and to not have a sidewalk connecting the rear parking area to the front, public entrance of the building. Chairman Richard Becher decided that the commission should address each section individually. Based on current code, Development Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin explained, the outdoor service storage area requires 21 parking spaces. The applicant did not want to provide those
spaces for the outdoor service storage area, which is counted the same as enclosed and covered areas of the dealership under the village’s code. “We are requesting not to provide it in that area because we feel, at the end of the day, that area does not generate additional parking demand,” said land planner Michael Sanchez, representing the dealership. “We’re already providing parking for the enclosed space, and there’s nothing taking place in that outside storage area that’s going to bring more cars and require more parking at the site.” Commissioner Felicia Matula made a motion to approve the variance request, which passed, 4-1, with Commissioner Jackie Larson dissenting. Village staff supported the next part of the request, allowing more than 10 percent of the parking in the rear due to the location of the building and the nature of the business. Sanchez said that there would be 65 percent of the parking in the rear, which allows for 41 parking spaces in the front of the building. Commissioner Michael Axelberd made a motion to accept that variance, which was approved 5-0. Village staff recommended
denial of the third variance, regarding a sidewalk connecting the rear parking to the front of the building. The village, from a health and safety standpoint, did not recommend approval on that variance, explained Village Attorney Jennifer Ashton, noting that though the variances are separated, they are related. The layout of the parking requires that employees would park in the rear, walk through a building, and then enter the main building on the property. “They’re asking to allow the provision of parking in the rear of the building without providing the rear required 6-foot-wide sidewalk leading to the front of the building,” Erwin said. The applicant contends that only employees will be entering and using the rear, Erwin said. However, village code does not differentiate between parking for employees and customers. “We see this as a pretty straightforward request,” Sanchez said. “We don’t have any customer parking in the rear. We have 41 parking spaces in the front for customers; that’s double what we have in there today. We’re only See RPB ZONING, page 7
Wellington Drops Adult Day Care Outdoor Space Rules
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a zoning amendment to remove requirements for outdoor activity areas, aimed at enabling the development of an Alzheimer’s daycare center at St. Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church. Planning & Development Services Director Tim Stillings said that village staff recommended the amendment because the village’s requirement dates back to a county
code that the county eliminated in 2003. “We initiated this amendment after a recent conditional use application for adult daycare here at St. Michael, where they indicated that our current rules were a little bit more stringent than what the county and even the Agency for Healthcare Administration required,” Stillings said. “We found that for this particular instance, not for children, but for adults only, that the amount of outdoor space would be best determined by the facility and by the marketplace.”
He said the current code requires 100 square feet of outdoor space per person, or a minimum of 1,500 square feet, whichever is larger. “We found that in talking not only with the current provider coming into Wellington, but also county staff, that adults don’t need the same amount of space as children because they’re not going out all at once,” Stillings said, explaining that the space could be better determined by the facility’s particular needs. “The fact that it’s adult daycare suggests they have See DAY CARE, page 19
Big Dog Shares Plans For Lox Groves Facility
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Big Dog Ranch Rescue led an informational meeting for Loxahatchee Groves residents and community leaders on Tuesday at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce building, outlining plans to build a new facility for the nonprofit organization at Okeechobee Blvd. and D Road. Big Dog officials explained that the current facility in Acme Ranches is a former wildlife sanctuary and not well suited for use as a dog shelter. “Unfortunately, where we are right now, we moved into a wildlife preserve,” Big Dog President Lauree Simmons said. “Fifty percent of the kennels have roofs on them, but they’re open-air chainlink. When you have a dog caged and you walk by that dog when it’s caged, it’s going to bark.” She explained that Palm Beach County would not allow Big Dog
to rebuild the facility to suit its needs. “We are an accessory use to the wildlife,” Simmons said. “We can only use four acres of the 28 acres that we have. We’re stuck with what was there. Our new place is not like that at all.” She explained that the new facility would have cottage-like buildings to house the dogs, with fenced enclosures where the dogs are let out and supervised by attendants during the day. Although the site is 34 acres, the buildings would be on only 4 acres, mostly surrounded by thick vegetation. Special Events & Marketing Manager Lauren Ellis said the new facility will be modeled after the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue facility, which is enclosed. “This is the same kind of building that we are planning,” Ellis said. Director of Operations Jeff Jacob said the dogs tend to bark See BIG DOG, page 4
NEW WELLINGTON CHAMBER PRESIDENT
The Wellington Chamber of Commerce swore in its 2015-16 executive board members and directors during a luncheon at the Wanderers Club on Wednesday, welcoming Johnny Meier of My Community Pharmacy (above) as the chamber’s new president. SEE STORY, PAGE 3
PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
Flavors Returns To PBIEC On April 9
By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report It is almost time for the 12th annual Flavors of Wellington Food & Wine Festival, which will return to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Thursday, April 9 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Produced by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, the event allows the best chamber restaurants, catering venues, wholesale markets, gourmet markets and country clubs to showcase their menus, products, businesses and staff. Wellington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green has a few tricks up her sleeve to make this year’s event bigger and better than Flavors of the past.
“We’ve added an illusionist who has performed in front of Celine Dion, Regis Philbin and Chevy Chase, and he’s going to be roaming the venue, reading people’s minds, performing illusions and street magic,” she said. Returning to the popular event is Music Masters International, the 20-piece big band that has delighted guests for the last 11 years, Perillo-Green added. “I’m most excited about showcasing our local restaurants, catering facilities and chefs. I’m excited about our live 20-piece big band. I’m excited about the venue, for sure. It’s a lot of different pieces that come into a beautiful evening,” she said. As April 9 nears, excitement is building for the juried food festiSee FLAVORS, page 4
Up-And-Coming Singer Has Big Plans For The Future By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report At just 14 years old, local singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, model and photographer Adrianna Siena is getting attention and recognition for her talents. “When I was younger, my mom wanted me to try everything just to see what I like, and I enjoy doing everything else, but singing kind of stuck with me,” Adrianna said. While she has been singing since age 2, the turning point for Adrianna was a few years ago, when she used to sing with her mother, Lani, and her older sister, Annelisse. Annelisse decided she was no longer interested in singing and chose to pursue golf. Adrianna almost changed her focus to golf but chose a different direction. She only dithered “because I
used to do everything my sister did,” but decided she liked singing more and didn’t want to stop. “I like singing more than I like anything else because it allows me to express my emotions in not so many words… it just feels like a big weight lifted off of me. I just feel free when I sing,” Adrianna explained. Her parents, Lani and John Siena, are thrilled with her decision to stay in the performing arts. “One of the joys of being a parent is having the opportunity to see that your child has been blessed with a tremendous amount of talent,” Lani said. “We are very proud of Adrianna and her commitment to her art. Adrianna has been performing since she was a baby.” While improving her singing and acting, Adrianna would also like to accompany herself by add-
ing different instruments such as piano and guitar. Her grandmother, Kathy Siena, also has a talent in the performing arts, and has been helping Adrianna. “I think she’s a very good performer. She knows how to perform when she gets onstage,” Kathy said. “She’s confident and amazing, has an incredible memory, and she can get up on the stage and perform even if she’s sick.” Kathy, a performer too, has been Adrianna’s piano teacher and is focusing on teaching her chording. “I’m a singer, too, and that was very helpful to be able to coach her a little bit on some things,” she said. Kathy moved to Florida almost seven years ago, within weeks of when Adrianna moved here. Previously, Adrianna had lived
in London and Chicago, and was born in Hong Kong. For the last two years, she has been working with voice coach, manager and producer Mike Soper of Mike Soper Music, honing her skills, practicing and competing. “I look at Adrianna as someone who has the full package,” Soper said. “She has the talent, her voice, she has a range that soars, and she can also hit the low notes that a lot of female vocalists are unable to do. She is a music theater major at her school. What I love about Adrianna is her drive and passion to become the best. I think her future is limitless.” The Voice and American Idol auditions are in her future, Soper said. “We’re preparing her for that and taking the right steps for when she is old enough to be able See SIENA, page 19
Adrianna Siena recently won the Starz of the Future competition at the South Florida Fair.
PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
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NEWS
RPB Council Wants More Public Input On Charter High School
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report While a full discussion and decision is not expected until next month, the Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week briefly discussed the status of a proposal to build a charter high school on 10 acres of village-owned land right across the street from Royal Palm Beach High School. At the March 19 meeting, Councilman Jeff Hmara reported on the recent Education Advisory Board presentations and following workshop where board members heard from representatives of a charter school company that would like to purchase property from the village. The board also heard from Palm Beach County School District representatives and RPBHS Principal Jesus Armas, who were not fond of the idea of a charter high school so close to a public high school. A full report from the advisory board is scheduled to be presented to the council on April 16, and Hmara said it is still important to hear opinions from the public.
He added that he thought the discussion had drawn attention from the school district, which recently announced that it would be creating an International Baccalaureate program at RPBHS that it had turned down earlier, as well as a junior ROTC program, and fulfilling an earlier commitment to power-wash and paint the school, which has been needed for several years. Councilman David Swift said he attended both of the advisory board meetings and noted that school district and charter school representatives spoke, but that residents did not provide much input. Swift said he would like to have some sort of survey to allow residents more opportunity to weigh in on the question. “It appeared that there was a lack of interest on the residents’ parts, and the question I have, is that really true?” Swift said. “Just because they didn’t show up doesn’t mean they weren’t interested.” Swift said the advisory board meetings might not have offered
the average person a sufficient avenue for input. “I would like to hear a simple yes or no question. It would be something like, ‘Should the Village of Royal Palm Beach consider selling a piece of public land located on Okeechobee Blvd. to a charter high school? Yes or no,” he said. “I would like to know what the residents think. No people showing up tells me we’re doing something wrong.” Village Manager Ray Liggins said they could put a survey on the web site. “We did it for a couple of other things,” Liggins said. “We could put a survey like that together.” Hmara said he would support any activity that would give the council a more complete, balanced picture. Mayor Matty Mattioli said he thought the Education Advisory Board had done a good job gathering information and that it would be a waste of time and money to do a survey. “We’ve sold land in this village many, many times without asking
anybody but this council,” Mattioli said. Councilman Fred Pinto said that the council should follow the recommendation of the Education Advisory Board not to have a charter high school at that location. “All of the other underlying reasons are really immaterial in light of the fact that that was their final recommendation,” Pinto said. Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas said he would not object to a survey, although he recalled that several families favoring the charter school had spoken at the council meeting where the sale of the village land to the charter school had been discussed initially. Valuntas pointed out that an appraisal was due back, and the point may be moot if the figure was not agreeable to both parties. Liggins agreed, saying the item might be dropped if the charter school representatives did not want to pay the price. Liggins told the Town-Crier on Wednesday that the average of two appraisals was $3 million, but he had not heard back from
the real estate company that was brokering the deal, and would not post a survey until he knew the charter school company was still interested. In other business: • During swearing-in ceremonies, incumbents David Swift and Fred Pinto returned to their seats after they were sworn in by Village Clerk Diane DiSanto for new two-year terms. Pinto was unchallenged, and Swift defeated former Councilwoman Martha Webster and former Planning & Zoning Commissioner Darrell Lange in a three-way race earlier this month. • During the council’s reorganization meeting, Hmara was chosen to return to his position as liaison to the Education Advisory Board. Pinto was tapped as liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission, replacing Swift. Valuntas will return as liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board. Hmara was chosen to return as liaison to the Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce, as well as to serve as the primary delegate to the Palm Beach County League of Cities.
• The council approved a special exception for a 2,137-square-foot Taco Bell restaurant with a drivethrough to be located in the old Checkers restaurant building on a .9-acre outparcel in the Crossroads Shopping Center at 1318 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Village staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission both recommended approval of the application. Valuntas made a motion to approve the application, which carried 5-0. • The council also gave preliminary plat approval for the 35.9-acre Cypress Key mixed-use development at the northwest corner of Southern Blvd. and Cypress Head Avenue. The plan calls for 23 single-family lots and 124 townhouses, as well as several open-space lots and commercial tracts. Valuntas made a motion to approve the application, which carried unanimously. • The council also gave preliminary plat approval for the Royal Office Park planned commercial development on a 12.7-acre site on the east side of State Road 7 about 0.8 miles south of Southern Blvd.
Wellington Chamber Welcomes Johnny Meier As New President By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Chamber of Commerce swore in its 2015-16 executive board members and directors during a luncheon at the Wanderers Club on Wednesday, welcoming Johnny Meier of My Community Pharmacy as the chamber’s new president.
Councilwoman Anne Gerwig swore in the incoming board members. “You guys do have a great responsibility, and I know that you understand your obligations,” she said. “I’m very proud to be a member and a part of this organization.” Executive board members include Meier as president; attorney
Alec Domb as chairman; Dr. Randy Laurich of the Wellness Experience as immediate past president; Bill Tavernise of Realty Elite of the Palm Beaches as vice president; and Dale Grimm, CPA, as treasurer. Other chamber directors include Victor Connor of Raymond James/ Connor Financial Group, Deborah
Wellington Chamber of Commerce board members include Dale Grimm, Alec Domb, Bill Tavernise, Tiffany Rodriquez, Blanca Greenstein, Deborah Crompton, Dr. Randy Laurich and Johnny Meier.
PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
Crompton of Superior Environmental Management, Blanca Greenstein of the Law Offices of Greenstein & Associates, Tiffany Rodriquez of Prescriptions Plus and Michael Stone of Equestrian Sport Productions. “It has been a thrill to be the president of this chamber,” Laurich said. “We represent each and every one of you. Part of the commitment of the chamber is to help [members] to build your business and to prosper and to grow together.” Laurich noted that many of the goals he set for the chamber have been met. There are more committees, and the committees have been expanded. There is a stronger real estate presence in the chamber, and there are more medical professionals. He was also proud of the wonderful turnout last year for Flavors of Wellington and Winterfest, both held at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. “I’m so glad that I had the opportunity to represent each and every one of you. I’m glad that I still get to make the commitment as a member of the board of directors, and I’m so thrilled
that I get to hand the torch over today to Johnny Meier of My Community Pharmacy,” Laurich said. “He’s a great friend of mine, a very respected individual in the business community, and I value his opinion greatly.” Meier thanked the board of directors for electing him to carry on the chamber’s goals. “I can’t thank you enough for the confidence you have in me to do that,” he said. “I want to increase the chamber membership, obviously. With the increase in chamber membership, it increases our power. With increasing our power, we have more say-so in what happens in our community.” Surveys are being conducted, Meier explained, to determine what members want from the chamber. “I want to see nonmembers coming to our luncheons, to our events, to our committees,” he said, explaining the benefits of attending various functions and making community connections. “The chamber is going to give you what you put in, and then some.” Wellington Economic and Business Political Action Committee
(WEB PAC) Chairman Mike Nelson explained the goals of the PAC. “There are two facets to being active in politics. One is to make sure that if there are people in office now that are supportive of businesses, they stay in office. If they’re not supportive of business in Wellington, they need to be gone, and that’s what the big push is going to be with the PAC,” he said. Nelson said that the PAC will be active in local politics. “If there are people in office who are not supportive of the business community, of the equestrians, of betterment of K-Park, of the medical arts district — they don’t need to be there,” Nelson said. “Those are the lifeblood of this community, and we need to protect that. The other part of it is for the PAC to fight against the policies and procedures that might not be beneficial to the business community.” After the swearing-in ceremony, Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green introduced guest speakers Steven Pliskow, Melissa See CHAMBER, page 19
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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OUR OPINION
Make Plans To Get Involved In Your Local Relay For Life Event This time of year is relay time here in the western communities, and as we have done often in the past, we urge all members of the community to get involved in this worthy cause. In April, there will be three American Cancer Society Relay for Life events here in the western communities: • The Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life will take place on Friday, April 10 from 6 p.m. until Saturday, April 11 at 6 a.m., at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave North). • The Wellington Relay for Life will take place on Saturday, April 25 starting at noon and continuing until midnight on Sunday, April 26 at Palm Beach Central High School (8499 Forest Hill Blvd.). • The Royal Palm Beach Relay for Life will take place on Saturday, April 25 starting at 4 p.m. and continuing until Sunday, April 26 at 6 a.m. at Royal Palm Beach High School (10600 Okeechobee Blvd.). The Relay for Life is generally an overnight community fundraising walk that celebrates survivors, honors those lost and inspires hope, all while raising money for cancer research and support. The event began in the mid-1980s in Tacoma, Wash., when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours and 83 miles around Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound. Friends
donated $25 to run or walk for 30 minutes with him, raising a total $27,000 for the local American Cancer Society office. The experience sparked a passion in Klatt, and he organized the first team relay event, then called the City of Destiny Classic 24-hour Run Against Cancer. Today, thousands of relays are held across the United States, raising billions of dollars across three decades. The event brings out teams who raise money and then walk the track, with one person from each team walking or running around the clock. The family-friendly event typically passes time with music and festivities, but also pays homage to those who live with cancer every day — from survivors to caregivers. It’s a special event that brings the community together, and the funds raised go to help fund research, to help cancer patients afford accommodations while in treatment, to fund programs to get patients to and from their doctors, and other services. Fighting cancer is a noble cause, and the Relay for Life is an inspiring way to tackle such a somber issue. We encourage the community to go out and support these important local events. Even if you can’t join a team, stop by and have some food, play some games and support the teams’ efforts. For more information, or to sign up, visit www.relayforlife.org and search for your local event.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Seniors Club Thanks Bellissimo
For the past several years, Mark Bellissimo, CEO of Equestrian Sport Productions, has offered the members of the Wellington Seniors Club many delightful afternoons to enjoy horse jumping accompanied by delicious lunch buffets. On behalf of ourselves and speaking for many members of the club, we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all he has done, for which we are very appreciative. His generosity goes beyond words for the kindness he has shown the members of the Wellington Seniors Club. The opportunity to enlighten ourselves to this beautiful equestrian sport and experience the wonderful exhibits that Equestrian Sport Productions provides has been amazing and delightful. We would like to commend Mr. Bellissimo and Equestrian Sport Productions for all the good they do for the charities in our area through the Great Charity Challenge, for giving our members the opportunity to be educated on and be part of this great equestrian sport, and all the other wonderful things they do to make this a village to be envied.
We wish him the best in all of his future endeavors, which hopefully will include future invitations to the wonderful times we enjoy so much. Mary & Tony Alfalla Social/Publicity Chairs Wellington Seniors Club
Loxahatchee Groves Needs Horse Trails
Editor’s note: The following letter was sent to members of the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council. A copy was sent to the Town-Crier for publication. I am sending this to the council members I recognize. Just want to let the three sworn-in members receiving this e-mail about the phone call I just got. The question, which is brought to me constantly from individuals and Realtors is, “Does Loxahatchee Groves have an equestrian trail?” This is an important question not only for possible future residents, but your friends and neighbors who are selling their properties. This council and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District are preventing the residents who need or want to sell their homes from getting the most and best price for their land. We live in an equestrian community (look on
the property appraiser’s definition of agricultural-residential, it says “equestrian” on most). This council and the LGWCD have made it clear the fight for a safe place for the children and adults of this community to ride their horses is not a priority. Potential buyers that would purchase in Loxahatchee Groves are buying in Fox Trail, Deer Run and White Fences. Most of these buyers want to be in Loxahatchee Groves; we have unique and beautiful properties. When the question comes up regarding the “trail system,” the only honest answer is F Road on the west side of the canal is the only open trail in Loxahatchee Groves. The fence that was put up by the LGWCD with Palm Beach County funds in 1999 makes the trail narrow and unsafe; people who live on the south side of Okeechobee Blvd. must brave traffic and ride quite a distance to get to the preserve. In closing, you are doing nothing but hurting your friends, neighbors and possibly yourselves (you never know when life is going to change). Get the trails open! Please stop all private personal pet projects for which you have been spending the tax money belonging to the residents of this town. This council should cease and desist all activities of spending other than normal operations until this
unsavory scandal is resolved. I am embarrassed by the arrogance of this council. Just my opinion, as a resident, to the deaf ears of our council. In the future, stop using the trail system as a voting platform — you are looking like liars. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important matter. Phillis Maniglia Loxahatchee Groves
Kudos To Judge Brunson
Thank you Palm Beach County Circuit Judge Catherine Brunson for ordering the cities and towns to respect the will of the people. In 2010, we voted overwhelmingly 72 percent for a fully funded Office of the Inspector General. I now urge the cities and towns not to waste taxpayer money and time with any futile appeals; the judge has ruled in our favor, the watchdog fight is now over. I told my dad once that, “I was always right, except when I was wrong.” His response was, “Son, you have a right to be wrong.” The lawsuit by the cities led by West Palm Beach was wrong, very wrong, and now is a good time to accept the judge’s ruling and throw in the towel. The great Mexican fighter Ro-
berto Duran once said in a fight with Sugar Ray Leonard, “No mas.” (No more.) The great Joe Frazier versus Ali in the “Thrilla in Manila” — considered by many to be the greatest heavyweight fight in the history of boxing — threw in the towel when he realized he could not win. With those two legendary fights in mind, I urge the municipalities to do likewise; stop the fighting and start the funding of the OIG. Statistics prove that funding the OIG gives us, the taxpayers, a great return on our investment. I am positive that a fully funded OIG will not only help to eliminate waste, but would also be a deterrent to unscrupulous officials and others. Whenever we are driving on I-95 or any road and see a blue flashing light, our immediate response/reaction is to slow down, even if we are within the speed
limit. A fully funded OIG would have the same impact on our municipalities. The abuses by public officials led to Palm Beach County being stigmatized with the title “Corruption County.” Who could forget Mary McCarty, Jim Exline, Tony Masilotti and Warren Newell? They were elected to lead but were consumed by greed. To the municipalities, I say do the right thing, obey Judge Catherine Brunson’s order and stop the watchdog fight. In your hearts, you know it’s wrong and you cannot be wrong and strong. Kudos to ex-County Commissioner Jess Santamaria for his strong, relentless support for the OIG, and also to the Town-Crier and all the citizens and municipalities who voted and supported the full funding of the OIG from day one. Karl Witter The Acreage
SEND IN YOUR LETTERS The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words). Submit letters, with contact name, address, and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.
OPINION
The Fascinating Story Behind The Song ‘God Bless America’ Yes, it took two iconic American music masters, Kate Smith and Irving Berlin to produce America’s number one patriotic song, “God Bless America.” Smith, the nation’s No. 1 songstress in 1940, dreamed about finding a highly patriotic song
Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin
in the days before the country’s entry into World War II. Finally, she contacted Irving Berlin and asked him to write such a song. He replied: “I have one,” and pulled the 22-year-old, unpublished “God Bless America” from his files.
Smith loved it and immediately sang it everywhere, as it became a hit. “God Bless America” remains a standard occasion priority 75 years later. Smith, because of her “plus size” might not have been a huge star in today’s television-oriented
world. But in 1940, when radio was king, she dominated the airways. According to Frank Sinatra, Smith was “the best singer of her time,” and she was patriotic to the core. Smith and Berlin agreed not
to take any profits from “God Bless America.” Instead, they channeled the profits to the Boy Scouts, and later the Girl Scouts. It is estimated that the two youth organizations have received several million dollars in royalties from the song.
The planned entrance is on Okeechobee Blvd., but Councilman Ron Jarriel said a safer entrance would be on D Road. “I look at what you could put back in our community,” Jarriel said, explaining that he would like the Big Dog Ranch Foundation to pave D Road with open-graded emulsified mix (OGEM) from Okeechobee Blvd. to their property, which is about 1,100 feet. He also pointed out that there have been numerous accidents at Okeechobee and D Road. “When you break ground, how fast is this going to move?” Jarriel asked. “First of all, we need to have a traffic light in to make it safer for you and everybody else who lives in Loxahatchee Groves.”
He also asked about allowance for equestrian uses along Okeechobee Blvd. and D Road. Simmons said her caveat to that would be the possibility of having to cut trees along there. “We want to add to that established, existing landscape,” she said. “We want it to be solid, as far as keeping it quiet for you.” In 2013, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council approved an ordinance that would allow Big Dog Ranch Rescue to locate on a site in the community, offering veterinarian services and dog boarding as accessory uses. Big Dog applied initially for a site on Folsom Road but withdrew the application under pressure from neighbors concerned about noise.
NEWS
Big Dog
Lox Groves Facility
continued from page 1 only when they are stimulated by someone walking by, and when they are in small groups. “When they are in groups of 30 or more, they tend not to bark,” Jacob said. “You can come out to the ranch, and I’ll show you.” Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Supervisor John Ryan said noise should be the primary consideration for the approval. “They would almost have to agree that if they put it in, then they would measure it every month for some period of time,
and if it started getting too close to the boundary limits of our noise nuisance code, they’d agree to put in some additional noise-absorbing barriers,” Ryan said. “The good thing about the location is they don’t really have any residential people adjoining them.” The neighbor to the east is Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, while to the south is a nursery, and the property to the west and north is vacant. During a recorded presentation, Jacob said that at the new facility, the dogs will live in air-conditioned “puppy pods.” “They remain in the pods about 90 percent of the time,” he said. Jim Lilli, director of operations at Peggy Adams Animal Rescue, said they operate on Military Trail
in West Palm Beach, where they have good relations with their neighbors and have had no complaints about barking. Jacob pointed out that the proposed Big Dog site is filled with and surrounded by lush vegetation and thousands of trees. “It’s the perfect natural sound barrier,” he said, adding that the buildings at the new facility will be designed so that sound does not bleed out, including double doors to prevent noise from escaping when people are entering or leaving the building. Simmons said the play yard will be at least 200 feet from the edge of the facility to the north and west, and a 20-foot landscape buffer will run completely around the property.
“Another thing we’ve done, because we heard some of you were concerned about noise, we had already consulted with a noise specialist when we were designing it, we went even further with the acoustic company,” she said. “Now we have, instead of chainlink fence around our play yards, we put the solid vinyl fencing up to 5 feet, and above that is going to be the lattice fencing… With that and with the shrubbery around those, and we’re so far away, you’re not going to hear anything.” As for traffic, Simmons noted that Big Dog’s traffic pattern is scattered throughout the day. “It’s not like your churches where you have everybody piling in all at one time and everybody leaving at one time,” she said.
“Because we heard some of you were concerned about noise, we had already consulted with a noise specialist when we were designing it, we went even further with the acoustic company,” Big Dog President Lauree Simmons said. “Now we have, instead of chain-link fence around our play yards, we put the solid vinyl fencing up to 5 feet, and above that is going to be the lattice fencing... With that and with the shrubbery around those, and we’re so far away, you’re not going to hear anything.”
Flavors
April 9 At PBIEC
continued from page 1 val. The judges will include event chairman Michael Ferreira of Chukker TV; Michael Stone, president of Equestrian Sport Productions; Stephanie Mitrione, area manager of external affairs for Florida Power & Light; WPTV NewsChannel 5’s Roxanne Stein;
Wellington Chamber President Johnny Meier; Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig; and Jose Costa, president of Maaco, who was recently featured on the television show Undercover Boss. Event founders John and Saundra Mercer will serve as lead judges. Perillo-Green enjoys seeing this signature chamber event come together each year. The chamber coordinates more than 30 vendors, which include restaurants, wine venues, chefs, catering facilities
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and more. One of the reasons the chamber puts together Flavors, she explained, is to remind residents that even though it will soon be the off-season, there are plenty of great eateries around town. “We want people to be constantly reminded that we have all these great places in Wellington to eat, and caterers they can book, and chefs they can book,” Perillo-Green said. “We want them to know that we’re still thriving here in the off season, and it’s a good
BARRY S. MANNING Publisher JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher
place to come for entertainment.” There will be plenty for attendees to enjoy at Flavors, where people tend to come in everything from jeans to semi-formal attire, she said, calling the event “cocktail casual.” “It’s a very unique experience,” Perillo-Green said. “You valet park your car. A golf cart takes you up to the main venue, with the backdrop of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.” Only 1,000 tickets will be sold
JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor
DAWN RIVERA General Manager
RON BUKLEY Managing Editor
EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman • Julie Unger CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Jacqueline Corrado • Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil
for this year’s Flavors event, so be sure to make reservations quickly. Flavors provides the perfect opportunity to explore the worldclass equestrian venue, sample the best food the area has to offer and enjoy a great night out. “If you’ve never been to the venue, it’s a great way to see it,” Perillo-Green said. Flavors 2015 sponsors include venue/host sponsor the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, presenting sponsor Grand
Champions Polo Club, presenting sponsor FPL, celebrity judges table and beverage sponsors My Community Pharmacy, the Wellness Experience, valet sponsor Maaco, beverage sponsor Associated Estates, and media sponsors Talk4Media and Chukker TV. Visit www.wellingtonchamber. com to purchase tickets. VIP tables for 10 with private seating are available but selling out quickly. For more information, call (561) 792-6525.
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The Town-Crier
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
Page 5
NEWS
WELLINGTON IDOL SEMIFINALS & FINALS THIS WEEKEND AT AMPHITHEATER
Wellington Idol kicked off its audition round Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21 with an abundance of talented contestants. Semifinals will take place Friday, March 27 at 7:30 p.m. with finals on Saturday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. For more information, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
Judges Rocky Duvall, Julie Schrager and Jason Fisher.
Kailia Williams sings “Put Your Records On.”
Kimora Wojaechowski sings “Safe & Sound.”
Julia DiGaetano sings “Turning Tables.”
Jamie DiGaetano sings “Say Something.”
Corey McPherson sings “Make You Feel My Love.”
Adrianna Siena sings “Blown Away.”
Announcer Mike Soper of Mike Soper Music.
Gabriella Silvestri sings “One & Only.”
Savannah Almeida sings “Someone Like You.”
SOUTH FLORIDA PET EXPO RETURNS TO THE FAIRGROUNDS EXPO CENTER
The South Florida Pet Expo was held Saturday, March 21 at the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center. More than 150 vendors and organizations came together to educate and provide everything a pet owner needs to raise a happy and healthy pet. There were pet costume and talent contests. Reduced fee vaccinations and microchipping were available. Rescue organizations had dogs and cats PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER for adoption.
John Horchak and Benita Siciliano with Sassy Sallie.
Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue volunteer Jessica Jerchower with kittens for adoption.
Kaylyn Beasley with Sadie who got a treat from Angelina Wilson of Kibblez of Love.
Shorty Rossi with Nicola.
Page 6
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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CRIME NEWS
PBSO Investigating Several Vehicle Burglaries In RPB By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report MARCH 19 — Deputies from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach are investigating multiple vehicle burglaries in the Archstone community that occurred last Thursday between midnight and 8 a.m. According to the first PBSO report, there was a vehicle burglary on Sweetwater Bend between 1 and 4 a.m. Another report indicates that a vehicle on Cranes Roost was broken into between 3 and 5 a.m. In that incident, someone pried open the driver’s door and the front passenger door and removed a wallet, multiple bank cards and Nike Shock tennis shoes from the victim’s 2012 Chevrolet truck. According to a third PBSO report, also on Cranes Roost, sometime between 11 p.m. last Wednesday and 7:48 a.m. last Thursday, someone broke the front passenger side window of the victim’s 2000 Toyota 4Runner and removed multiple hand tools. DNA and fingerprint evidence were gathered from the vehicles. ••• MARCH 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was contacted by an Acreage resident last Tuesday regarding a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s TD Bank card had been duplicated and used for multiple purchases in West Palm Beach. According to the report, his card was used at the Lowe’s Home Improvement store on Okeechobee Blvd. for a $510.58 transaction, at a Burger King for $14.70, at a Bed Bath & Beyond store for $300, and another at Lowe’s for $300. MARCH 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Green Grove Court last Tuesday afternoon regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, an unknown Hispanic male, approximately 5’10’’ and 140 lbs. wearing a gray shirt, black board shorts and sunglasses was caught breaking into the victim’s home. According to the report, the victim, who was home at the time, followed the intruder, who is then suspected of stealing a vehicle a few streets away, ramming a gate and fleeing the scene. MARCH 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Eagles Way Court last Tuesday afternoon regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 3 and 4 p.m., someone entered the victim’s home by smashing in a back window. According to the report, the suspect ransacked the residence, unplugging the television, stealing multiple equine medications and a Lenovo laptop computer. MARCH 17 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to home in Royal Ascot Estates last Tuesday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., someone ran a vehicle into a retaining wall on the victim’s property causing approximately $800 in damages. MARCH 18 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to the parking lot of Palms West Hospital on Southern Blvd. last Wednes-
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day morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, someone broke the driver’s side window of the victim’s 2010 Nissan Maxima, causing $200 in damage. According to the report, nothing was taken from the vehicle. MARCH 18 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Flamingo Drive in Loxahatchee Groves regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 a.m. and 4:10 p.m. last Wednesday, someone broke open the victim’s garage door and stole a 2006 Yamaha ATV. MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to Stallion Drive in Fox Trail last Friday regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, at around 4:15 a.m. last Friday, the victim heard her horses outside the barn. She took her horses back inside of the barn and discovered that her red mountain bicycle, valued at $400, was missing. According to the report, the victim noticed that other items were rifled through, but nothing else appeared to be stolen. MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home on Hyacinth Place last Friday morning regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 p.m. last Thursday and 6 a.m. last Friday, several vehicle tires were punctured in the immediate area. One vehicle, a 2009 Dodge Avenger, had the right rear tire, valued at $75, punctured. MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to the Old Navy store on State Road 7 last Friday afternoon regarding a shoplifting incident. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 6:30 p.m. last Friday, an employee noticed two women enter the store with empty bags and leave the store with items in the bags, including a blue shirt that one of the women was carrying, valued at $20. According to the report, video surveillance did not show the women adding items to their bags, however, it showed the bags were empty upon entering and not empty when they left. According to the report, the store employee captured the license plate of the vehicle the women left in, which is registered to a Belle Glade resident. MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home on Folkestone Circle last Friday evening regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m., someone entered the victim’s unlocked Ford vehicle and ransacked the interior, removing $300 from the glove compartment. MARCH 22 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called Sunday morning to a paintball store on Belvedere Road regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the owner of the store, the victim, arrived at 9 a.m. to open the store and backed his vehicle up to the rear door. According to the report, after the victim deactivated the alarm and returned to his vehicle, he discovered that his $200 gear bag containing a paintball See BLOTTER, page 19
Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Michael Cox, alias Marcus Brown, Jerry Gibson, Andre Foley and Gary Moore, is a black male, 5’3” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with black hair, brown eyes and multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 08/01/74. Cox is wanted on felony charges for the attempted burglary of a dwelling. His last known addresses were Goldenrod Road in Wellington and Island Shores Drive in Greenacres. He is wanted as of 03/19/15. • Derrick Jackson is a white male, 5’10” tall and weighing 185 lbs., with blond hair and blue eyes. His date of birth is 06/30/65. Jackson is wanted for failure to appear on charges of a felony D.U.I. causing injury to a person/property, refusal to submit to a chemical test, an unregistered motor vehicle and driving with a suspended, canceled or revoked license. His last known address was Appaloosa Trail in Wellington. His occupation is as a horse trainer. He is wanted as of 03/19/15. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.
Michael Cox
Derrick Jackson
THE INFORMATION FOR THIS BOX IS PROVIDED BY CRIME STOPPERS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY. CRIMESTOPPERS IS WHOLLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT SHOWN HERE.
The Town-Crier
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
Page 7
NEWS
FAU President Lays Out Vision For A New Educational Model
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Florida Atlantic University President Dr. John Kelly was the featured speaker Wednesday at an economic forum luncheon presented by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce at the Breakers West County Club. Kelly, who has been FAU president for 13 months, came from Clemson University, where he served in the administration there for 28 years. The focus of his talk was FAU’s plans to educate bright students locally and keep them in the area. Kelly noted that FAU had approved a strategic plan the day before, which he had promised when he was hired for the job. “I’ve always been involved heavily in strategic planning, and that’s how Clemson moved from 70th to 20th,” he said. “It was not an accident. It was a day-by-day strategy that would lead us to that position.” Kelly said he has taken a handson approach to running FAU, and he and the provost personally visited each department for no less than two hours to assess the condition of the school. “We wanted to find exactly what was wrong with the institution,
what needed to be fixed at the institution, what were the aspirations of the faculty and what were the opportunities for this institution to move faster than any other university in the country,” Kelly said. “I would say the two of us have more knowledge in the last six months about the university than anybody does because we have all this firsthand knowledge.” He said the strategic plan is for FAU in the next 10 years to become the fastest-improved university in the country. “It’s not a strategy for the weak at heart,” Kelly said. “It’s going to be very aggressive. The teams are being put in place to make this one of the country’s great universities.” FAU did not do well in the Florida Board of Governors metrics last year. “Our graduation rates were not where they were supposed to be,” Kelly said. “For the first time, the Board of Governors had the authority to penalize an institution or reward an institution based on how you did on the performance metrics.” Last year, FAU had 24 points. “This year, we had 37 points, so that was over a 50 percent improvement over the past year, and
we are now in the middle of the pack,” Kelly said. He noted that FAU’s Jupiter campus has an opportunity to do something no other university in the world can do. “We have a campus where Florida Atlantic University is located, Scripps is located, and Max Planck is located,” he said, referring to two of the world’s leading biotech institutions. “There’s no place in the world like it.” He speculated what could happen if the three institutions worked together on a common cause. “In the scientific world, Max Planck is as good as it gets,” Kelly said. “The brand is so hot, 18 Nobel Prize winners. It’s just an incredible organization, and the only place Max Planck exists outside of Germany is Jupiter. If you look at Scripps, Scripps is way up here, too. Scripps is a wonderful research organization, and the only place outside of La Jolla, Calif., that exists is here in Jupiter.” FAU does not have the same high standing, which Kelly said is unacceptable. However, he noted that Scripps and FAU have started an initiative at the Jupiter campus to build the world’s greatest honors college. “This is something that is re-
ally going to change education in Florida, not in Florida alone, but across the country,” Kelly said. “It’s a focused strategy on doing some things that brings the very best and brightest minds in the world to Palm Beach County. We have a chance to build something together that is unique.” He said education has a way of doing things systematically. “It’s time to be disruptive, and disruptive in a positive way, and create something that is not a cookie-cutter type of experiment moving through the paces, but really redefining what education can be,” Kelly said. He pointed out that during FAU’s commencement, he shook the hands of five people who were graduating from both high school and college under age 18. “Last year, a young man named James Martin graduated from high school and FAU at age 17 and was accepted straight into the Ph.D. program at Princeton University,” he said. “James will graduate with a Ph.D. by age 21. If we want to move people through life only by age, which is what we do with the K through 12 system, we could be holding you back.” Kelly said he recently asked Palm Beach County School Dis-
trict Superintendent Wayne Gent for a snapshot of the best and brightest students in Palm Beach County who have SAT verbal and math scores of 1400 to 1600. “He said there are 500 kids in Palm Beach County with SAT verbal and math scores of 1400 and above,” Kelly said. “He said you’ll be surprised where they go to school. Almost all of them leave the state.” That is a terrible loss for Florida, Kelly said. “If they stayed, we would have all that intellectual talent, it would probably end up here in the business community,” he said. “When they leave, they are gone. Some will come back at some point in time. Some will come visit parents, but for the most part, they’re gone. So, if you want to keep that intellectual talent that’s one thing, but what if you were also in the mode of acquiring talent from elsewhere to come here and do the same kind of education… We’re going to allow you to excel at your full-speed potential.” As an example, he used a mother in California with a brilliant child, and the child could be guaranteed that if he came to the campus in Jupiter, he could graduate from college by age 20 and then go
Florida Atlantic University President Dr. John Kelly to Germany to work in a Nobel Prize winner’s lab as part of his education. “You could immediately be accepted into a Ph.D. program or, if you get certain performance criteria, even directly accepted into med school,” Kelly said. “You would be fully scholarshipped, and you could also do a rotation with Scripps… At the end of the day, what if your diploma said Florida Atlantic University, Scripps and Max Planck?”
Environmentalists Keeping A Sharp Eye On Bills In Tallahassee
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Charles Pattison, former president and now policy maker for 1000 Friends of Florida, discussed bills going through the state legislative session at a community forum meeting hosted by former County Commissioner Jess Santamaria earlier this month. Pattison said that he is among 1,686 registered lobbyists vying for the attention of 120 state representatives and 40 state senators during the 60-day session currently underway. “I can assure you that the conservation and citizen group is in the minority,” he said, adding that 1000 Friends of Florida has a web site that does weekly updates on the legislature when it is in session. He pointed out that the recently passed Amendment 1, which will allot at least $760 million a year for land acquisition, land management and water quality improvements, will be highly contentious. He noted that Amendment 1, which passed with 75 percent of the vote statewide, had the highest percentage in Palm Beach County, with almost 90 percent. “As you might imagine, too, that kind of money in front of the legislature creates all kinds of challenges,” Pattison said. “Some people have very different ideas about how that money should be used… As of today, there’s no uni-
RPB Zoning
Al Packer Ford Project
continued from page 1 increasing the facility by 6,700 square feet.” Sanchez explained that many changes have been made to accommodate village requirements, and that when Al Packer Ford West went to expand the building and renovate, there wasn’t an expectation that things such as landscaping and parking were not up to the current code. As a result, with a great deal of assistance from the village, they have worked to meet the current code. Matula asked about the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations. “They don’t show any handicapped-accessible spaces in the
fied idea as to how best to spend that money.” Conservation groups are promoting the idea that the money was meant to extend the Florida Forever program. “That’s what it should be used for,” he said. 1000 Friends is fighting several bills the group believes are adverse to conversation interests. “I’ll mention Senate Bill 1244,” he said. “Anybody concerned with the Minto West project and what’s going on in western Palm Beach County should very much pay attention to this.” It introduces a new term called “constrained agricultural parcels” less than 6,400 acres, of which
75 percent has to be in continuous agriculture. It has to have a minimum one-mile border of existing industrial, commercial or residential uses and a minimum of a mile of its boundary adjacent to areas that would prohibit those kinds of uses. “I don’t think there are too many parcels in the state that would qualify other than the one here in Palm Beach County, probably the only one,” Pattison said. It would also prevent a local government from having a comprehensive plan that would restrict the use of those parcels, he said. “We’ve met with the sponsor of the bill, or at least his staff, and expressed some concern,” he said. “I think they’re starting to hear that people are not very enamored with this approach, and we’re hopeful the bill is going to be rewritten, but there’s not a certainty yet.” The original version of another bill, Senate Bill 484, would have eliminated all regional planning councils in Florida and their functions. “We objected to that with the realization that most of the issues that many of us face today are regional in nature,” Pattison said. They’re bigger than a single community’s ability to deal with it, and we think having regional planning councils is an important part of our growth and development process.” An amendment has been pre-
sented by the senator who sponsored the bill that would protect the regional planning councils. “We are hopefully going to be able to support that good change, and we’ll see if that can be maintained going forward,” Pattison said. Senate Bill 562 would eliminate the state’s “developments of regional impact” (DRI) program, which requires careful scrutiny of developments with 1,000 dwelling units or more. “This bill would actually eliminate that program and make it part of the newer growth management state-coordinated review process,” Pattison said. “We’re working to see if we can get some additions to that statute as it’s being proposed.” Senate Bill 832, addressing sector plans larger than 15,000 acres, would limit the kind of information local governments can request when looking at those plans. “It would eliminate the ability for a local government to ask about transportation and public infrastructure costs, the timing, the phasing, the location of those,” Pattison said. “We’ve argued that’s the kind of information local government needs to make an informed decision, not restrict it.” Another bill, Senate Bill 1216, creates a new process called connected-city corridors. “It’s meant to encourage hightech highway type development
in communities around the state,” Pattison said. “It’s sort of like a sector planning process without some of the details. We’re concerned that it’s a little vague in a lot of areas and can have some unintended consequences for Florida communities statewide.” Senate Bill 1094 deals with coastal management and would require local governments to take notice of sea level rise and changes in sea level and come up with strategies to minimize the loss and damage from flooding or hurricanes. “We think it is something that is long overdue and are looking to support that,” Pattison said. Water issues are important for both houses, but their approaches are different, Pattison said. Senate Bill 918 focuses on springs and springshed protection and would create a water policy advisory council that would evaluate projects to improve water quality, while House Bill 7003 has no deadline for creating or establishing minimum flows. HB 7003 also delays the Lake Okeechobee cleanup, deletes an existing deadline for meeting water quality standards, and sets aside an existing rule that allows state agencies to require that discharges meet water quality standards. Senate Bill 648 would repeal the ban currently in existence for spreading septic tank effluent onto land. “Most of the conservation
groups are speaking out against that because of the water quality implications of that practice,” he said. A committee substitute for House Bill 383 would amend the Bert Harris Act to give more authority to a citizen to argue that unconstitutional exactions have been applied to their property through comp plan or zoning restrictions. “There have been cases where someone would be issued a permit, an adjacent neighbor would have damages, say flooding or something to that effect,” Pattison said. “They try to use the Bert Harris Act to claim damages, and this bill would eliminate that.” House Bill 551 and Senate Bill 1424 would require local governments to adopt a private property rights element into their comp plan. “It would spell out the importance of private property and minimize the takings possibilities from a local government,” he said. Senate Bill 1312 is an “antiSLAPP suit bill that would prevent a developer from filing a frivolous lawsuit against citizens who challenge the developer at a cost of thousands of dollars to the citizens.” SLAPP stands for Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation. “This bill would actually prohibit that practice,” Pattison said. “It has not been heard yet, but it’s one that we’re very hopeful for.”
rear, and they may have to do this as well,” Erwin said. Sanchez said that according to ADA rules, ADA spaces need to be in close proximity to the building. “We’ve gone to great lengths to make sure that we are ADAcompliant on this project. We wouldn’t get a building permit if not,” he said. The ADA requirements are met for the front building, Sanchez said, explaining that those parking spaces are not needed for the rear. The code doesn’t differentiate between parking for the public and employees, Larson said, noting that she sympathized with the plight of the applicant, but saw it as being in direct conflict with the code. Vice Chair Joseph Boyle agreed. “I looked at this, and I looked at the code, and I understand where you’re coming from, but what it
really is, is the code is requiring access to the front, and not to the front of this building, but to the front of the entire location,” Boyle said. “Cutting through another building being the access method, to me, doesn’t seem to be what the intent was to the ordinance that we have.” While he sympathized with the dealership, he did not support the variance. “Even though 99 percent of the people may be employees, taking the sidewalk through the first one, the code doesn’t differentiate, and I don’t think we can differentiate, either,” he said. Boyle made a motion to deny that variance, which carried 5-0. In another item, Al Packer Ford West asked for a variance of a reduced side setback of 28.8 feet from the code requirement of 50 feet. The building in question,
Erwin explained, is an existing building. “The building in question is the body shop,” he said. “It is an existing building. It was existing on the site in 1987 when the village annexed this section of property. The applicant intends to keep the building as it is. It currently enjoys a legal nonconforming status based on the fact that it is an existing building. Village code requires 50 feet. You can’t modify a legal nonconforming building, so if he ever wanted to do a small addition or anything, he would not be permitted to do so as it stands today, so he is seeking a variance to rectify that so it becomes a legal conforming building with the granting of the variance.” Boyle made a motion to approve that variance, which passed 5-0. The final application by Al Packer Ford West was for the
overall project, requesting major site plan modifications, a special exception use and architectural approval for the expansion of the facility. “The application includes an increase to the existing building square footage, the construction of a new building, architectural changes to the existing building and various other site and landscape changes,” Erwin said. “The applicant is also requesting a special exception use approval for an automobile or watercraft repair and/or service use, which is listed as special exception use within the general commercial zoning district. The applicant is also seeking architectural approval for the building elevations, colors and materials, as well as the landscape plan.” Larson expressed concerns regarding hazardous waste and
hazardous material storage and disposal. “Our job is to protect the stormwater integrity of the village,” she said, explaining the importance of a trench drain. Becher offered well wishes to the applicant. “Personally, I think this is going to look real nice, and I have to go along with the other commissioners. It has been obviously a long time coming. I hope things are done well for your dealership, and it will be nice seeing it on Southern,” he said. Larson made a motion to approve the application, with the conditions of approval as outlined, with an additional condition of approval for the applicant to install hazardous material storage and hazardous waste storage and disposal facilities in Building G in compliance with state regulations. The application passed unanimously.
Charles Pattison
NEWS BRIEFS Eggstravaganza At P.W. Hospital
Palms West Hospital, located at 13001 Southern Blvd., will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will be an Easter egg hunt, balloon art, snacks, live music, arts and crafts, photos with the Easter Bunny, health and wellness stops and more. Call (561) 345-7009 to RSVP. For more information, visit www. palmswesthospital.com.
Rock & Rib Fest April 11
The 10th annual Uncle Gary’s Rock & Rib Fest will take place Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the German American Club, located at 5111 Lantana Road in Lake Worth. The festival, including live music, baby back ribs, raffles, a kids fun zone, Home Depot crafts, bounce houses, face painting, ice cream and NFL player J.C. Jones,
will benefit the Kids Cancer Foundation, headquartered in Royal Palm Beach. Admission is $8, and admission for children 10 and under is free. For more information, visit www. unclegarysrockandribfest.com.
Deadline For CAFCI Scholarships
The deadline is Saturday, March 28 for graduating seniors applying for financial assistance from the Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI). This year’s graduating seniors who wish to apply for financial assistance must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and must complete an application. Proof of acceptance from their prospective institution of higher learning must accompany the application. Applications are available on the CAFCI web site, www.cafcipbc.org, and from the CAFCI office. Applicants must be a resident of Palm Beach County, currently
attend high school in Palm Beach County, demonstrate an interest in Caribbean-American affairs, provide a completed application postmarked no later than March 28, provide an acceptance letter from a college/university and be available for an interview on April 18. Applicants must also be able to attend a presentation ceremony, if selected, on May 16 at 7 p.m. at Village Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Applications and accompanying documents must be sent to 1030 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Box 11, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411, Attention: Student Assistance. For more information, call Dr. Elaine Ealy at (561) 790-4002 or e-mail cafci@bellsouth.net.
Scale Replica Of Vietnam Memorial Visiting PBC
Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 25 in West Palm Beach,
and its foundation, Friends of Veterans, in conjunction with the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center and the Palm Beach County Veterans Committee have organized a special event next month. A three-fifths scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be arriving in Palm Beach County on Wednesday, April 8 and will be open to the public from Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, April 12. The campus of Florida Atlantic University in Jupiter will be the host of the memorial, which will be erected in the Abacoa Town Center. At 10 a.m. on April 11, there will be an opening ceremony, and the closing ceremony will take place at noon on April 12. The wall will still be in place after the closing ceremony. The wall will be open for visitors from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. A computer system will be available to locate names on the wall, and there will be individuals available to assist in wall rubbings.
For more information, call Jerry Klein at (561) 602-8414 or Tom Corey at (561) 351-0736.
Lemonade For Leukemia Stand March 28
Elbridge Gale Elementary School student McKenna Wickers will set up her “Lemonade for Leukemia” in Brampton Cove Park (13446 Northumberland Circle) in Wellington’s Greenveiw Shores 1 community Saturday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. She will be selling lemonade and taking donations. All proceeds go to Pennies for Patients. Her school also gave her some pencils and awareness bands for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. McKenna collects money each year because her uncle, George Wickers, has chronic leukemia. Elbridge Gale is working toward its goal of raising $15,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Although McKenna has
McKenna Wickers been given an extension beyond the official Friday, March 27 end date for collecting donations, visit http://pbf.sy.llsevent.org/ng/index.cfm/13849/regPages/pledge/ ElbridgeGaleElementarySchool by Friday, March 27 and include “McKenna Wickers” as the student who will be credited and “Hamilton” as the teacher to make a donation to this worthy cause.
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Wellington Egg Hunt April 4
Get your baskets ready for Wellington’s Egg Hunt. The event begins promptly at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 4 on the softball fields at Village Park, located at 11700 Pierson Road. The Egg Hunt will be divided into four age groups: ages 2 and under, ages 3 to 4, ages 5 to 7 and ages 8 to 10. At each egg hunt, two eggs will have a pink bunny ticket inside, indicating a special prize. Families are encouraged to arrive early to avoid traffic. The event is sponsored by the Wellington Preservation Coalition. For more information, visit www. wellingtonfl.gov.
Art Society To Award Scholarships
The Wellington Art Society will meet on Wednesday, April 8 at Bootz Culture Camp (420 State Road 7, Suite 120). A meet and greet will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the presentation of
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NEWS BRIEFS scholarship awards to local high school seniors who will go on to study art in college. All parents and teachers are invited to attend the presentation. A brief meeting and the election of new officers and directors for 2015-16 will follow the awards. All members are invited to share their latest artwork during the member spotlight. The meeting will conclude with the monthly raffle. The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization in its 35th year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their art work in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through art. For more info., visit www.wellingtonart society.org.
Equestrian Town Hall Meeting
Wellington will host an Equestrian Town Hall meeting on Monday, April 6 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. The goal of the meeting is
to increase public participation to obtain a broad spectrum of public opinion regarding the Equestrian Master Plan. The meeting is open to all who wish to participate. The meeting will begin with an open house at 6 p.m. to review maps, data and interact with staff regarding topics highlighted in the master plan. At 7 p.m., attendees will participate in a polling session on various elements of the master plan. The meeting will conclude with a question and answer session. For more information, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.
tion Foundation. She schedules volunteers and outreach projects, and also manages the foundation’s internships and communications. The coral reef restoration and conservation effort is one that has been embraced by the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs. The evening will include an informative presentation on how to plant and grow coral. Learn how you can help. Guests are welcome, but seating is limited. RSVP to Carol Coleman at (561) 792-2290. For more info., visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org.
Wellington Garden Club To Meet April 6
FLARA Forum Set For April 6
The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, April 6 at Wellington Village Park, located at 11700 Pierson Road. A business meeting will start at 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m., and a program at 12:15 p.m. on coral reef restoration efforts, presented by Ashley Hill. Hill, who resides in Key Largo, is the education and volunteer coordinator at the Coral Restora-
The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans will present a public forum on “End of Life: What Are Your Rights & Options?” on Monday, April 6, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Wellington library, located at 1951 Royal Fern Drive. The discussion will be led by Dr. Richard Palermo, an expert on the subject with perspectives from the legal, clergy and medical professions. For more info., call Nancy at (561) 793-9677.
Meet The Easter Bunny In RPB
On Saturday, April 4, from 9 a.m. to noon, children of all ages are invited to stop by the Dunkin’ Donuts location at 1301 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. to have their picture taken with the Easter Bunny. The event is sponsored by the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club.
Elbridge Gale Round-Up April 7
Elbridge Gale Elementary School will host its Kindergarten Round-up from 8 to 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7 in the school’s media center. The school will be handing out kindergarten registration packets at that time. There will be a presentation beginning promptly at 8 a.m. by Principal Gail Pasterczyk and Assistant Principal Chad Phillips. Pasterczyk will introduce the kindergarten teachers and staff. The teachers will discuss some of the exciting things the school will be doing next school year. Additional information regarding the Spanish enrichment program and the
full-time gifted program will be available, as will information on the aftercare program. For more information, call Elbridge Gale Elementary School at (561) 422-9300.
‘Health Happy Hour’ At Ultima
Ultima Fitness will host its first-ever Healthy Happy Hour on Tuesday, March 31 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The evening will provide an opportunity for attendees to meet like-minded professionals and get to know others in the community. The networking event is meant to build community support in a healthy and happy environment. On-staff Registered Dietitian Amanda Haar will give a mini lecture on “Debunking Diet Myths,” and healthy snacks and refreshments will be provided. The cost is $10 for Ultima members and $15 for non-members. Bringing business cards, colleagues and friends is encouraged. Call (561) 795-2823 or e-mail lynette@ultimafitness.com to register.
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Page 9
NEWS
PBC SHERIFF’S FOUNDATION PRESENTS YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS AT IPC EVENT
On Sunday, March 22, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Foundation held a celebration to honor the recipients of its inaugural youth scholarship program at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Each student received a $1,000 scholarship for their first year of college, renewable for up to four years. Recipients included David Bannister Jr. of Royal Palm Beach High School and Anisa Kornegay PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER of Seminole Ridge High School. For more information, visit www.pbcsf.org.
Foundation board members John Flanagan, Matt Liebman, Chairman Rick Seymour and Michael Passeroff.
Tom and Regis Wenham with IPC’s John Wash.
John Flanagan, Sgt. Willie Morris, RPBHS student David Bannister Jr., SRHS student Anisa Kornegay, Lt. Darlyn Morris and Rick Seymour at the scholarship presentation.
PBSO Deputy Luis Ledbetter and K9 Bandit with J.J. Grodensky.
Tom and Regis Wenham, State Attorney Dave Aronberg and Lynn Lewis with Cookie.
PBSO Foundation Programs Coordinator Steve Moss and news anchor Roxanne Stein.
PBSO Chief Deputy Mike Gauger with Deputy Kenneth Torrence.
BLUEGRASS SPRING MUSIC JAM BRINGS CROWDS TO YESTERYEAR VILLAGE
The Bluegrass Spring Music Jam was held March 20 through March 23 at Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Top bluegrass music and country dancers performed, and there were cornhole and horseshoe tournaments, wing eating and BBQ sauce PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER competitions and cakewalks.
Rhonda Vincent performs on stage.
Kelly Bozeman enjoys an old-fashioned lollipop.
Ron Davis entertains festival attendees.
!
The band Drymill Road plays bluegrass music.
Seminole Ridge Community High School
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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WE ARE ALL BROTHERS AND SISTERS
Board members for My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper: Randy Pfeiffer, Brian Hanley, Maggie Zeller, Mike Rose, Carolyn Hmara, Eric Gordon, Ron Tomchin, Jess and Chris Santamaria, Rhonda Davis and Brian Jacobsen.
More Than 300 Enjoy The Lord’s Place Picnic Organized My Brothers’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation.
“We are all Brothers and Sisters” is how Jess Santamaria (founder of my Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation) started his talk to the approximately 300 clients and staff of The Lords Place, and community volunteers, enjoying the picnic at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park held Saturday, March 21.
Diana Stanley. This year, they decided to do an outdoor picnic at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. There was lots of food, cold drinks, games, dancing and music enjoyed by all — including Boy Scout and Young Singers volunteers — that they decided a repeat of this outdoor picnic in a park setting again next year.
During the past six years, My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation board members have organized annual Christmas season dinners for some 300 homeless clients (adults and children) of The Lord’s Place agency, headed by CEO
In conclusion, imagine if we all treated each other like caring brothers and sisters, and occasionally enjoyed picnics in the park like this — what a wonderful world we would have!
The Santamarias
The super caring staff of the Lord’s Place with Diana and Jess.
Jess and Diana, two CEOs
Boy Scouts & Young Singers
Bridge over the water and under the blue sky.
The chow line with lots of volunteer servers.
Lots and lots of food for everyone.
Time to dance to the music of DJ Tony the Tiger, then play some games!
The kids also got gifts.
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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WE ARE ALL BROTHERS AND SISTERS
Board members for My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper: Randy Pfeiffer, Brian Hanley, Maggie Zeller, Mike Rose, Carolyn Hmara, Eric Gordon, Ron Tomchin, Jess and Chris Santamaria, Rhonda Davis and Brian Jacobsen.
More Than 300 Enjoy The Lord’s Place Picnic Organized My Brothers’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation.
“We are all Brothers and Sisters” is how Jess Santamaria (founder of my Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation) started his talk to the approximately 300 clients and staff of The Lords Place, and community volunteers, enjoying the picnic at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park held Saturday, March 21.
Diana Stanley. This year, they decided to do an outdoor picnic at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. There was lots of food, cold drinks, games, dancing and music enjoyed by all — including Boy Scout and Young Singers volunteers — that they decided a repeat of this outdoor picnic in a park setting again next year.
During the past six years, My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Foundation board members have organized annual Christmas season dinners for some 300 homeless clients (adults and children) of The Lord’s Place agency, headed by CEO
In conclusion, imagine if we all treated each other like caring brothers and sisters, and occasionally enjoyed picnics in the park like this — what a wonderful world we would have!
The Santamarias
The super caring staff of the Lord’s Place with Diana and Jess.
Jess and Diana, two CEOs
Boy Scouts & Young Singers
Bridge over the water and under the blue sky.
The chow line with lots of volunteer servers.
Lots and lots of food for everyone.
Time to dance to the music of DJ Tony the Tiger, then play some games!
The kids also got gifts.
Page 12
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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PALMS WEST PEOPLE
Erin Holtz Serving With U.S. Navy Strike Fighter Squadron 122
Airman Erin Holtz in front of an F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft.
A 2011 Seminole Ridge High School graduate and Loxahatchee native is currently serving with the U.S. Navy’s Strike Fighter Squadron 122, also known as the “Flying Eagles,” stationed at Naval Air Station Lemoore. Airman Erin Holtz is an aviation electrician’s mate with the squadron, which the Navy designates as VFA-122, and works with the Navy’s most lethal and versatile strike fighter aircraft, the F/A18E/F Super Hornet. “My job is to make sure that the electrical components of the jets are functioning properly,” Holtz said. Operating from the sea aboard aircraft carriers, the Super Hornet gives the Navy the power to protect America’s interests anywhere, at any time.
“VFA-122 is the biggest squadron in the Navy,” Holtz said. “So in this squadron, I was afforded the opportunity to perfect the skills of my trade without having to perform a lot of collateral duties.” The Flying Eagles are the Navy’s West Coast Fleet replacement squadron for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. They train aircrew and maintainers to go to the fleet and join the squadrons that fly the Super Hornet. VFA-122 trained aircrews have flown combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. “The Navy has allowed me to travel, given me a trade, and the opportunities for higher education,” Holtz said.
Wellington Garden Club Celebrates Garden Week With Many Events Each spring the Wellington Garden Club celebrates Wellington Garden Week, and 2015 was no exception. This year’s celebration began when Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis delivered a proclamation to the club’s membership declaring March 8-14 as Wellington Garden Week. The week began with “Gardening Makes a World of Difference Day” at the Wellington Amphitheater, which included free seminars, a plant sale and raffle, and other educational exhibits. The walkways were adorned with beautiful plants for sale, and the free seminars were a big attraction. Noted landscape architect Pamela Crawford offered five-minute landscape makeovers to seminar attendees. Master gardeners and master naturalists Inger Jones and Mona Johnston presented an overview of Florida Friendly Landscaping principles. In addition, beekeeper Al Salopek provided information on honeybees, the Palm Beach Central High School Earth Club exhibited photos of planting projects and Wellington Garden Club Environmental Chair Diane Rice explained the dangers posed by hydraulic
fracturing to extract oil from Florida’s land and oceans. “We are so grateful to our generous raffle donors, especially Austin Outdoor Landscaping Services, GardenScapes of the Palm Beaches, the Home Depot, Pamela Crawford and Quinntessence Nursery,” Raffle Chair Jan Seagrave said. “The proceeds from our raffle and plant sale will help fund our club’s civic beautification and scholarship programs.” The celebration continued throughout the week. On Monday, several of the club’s members spent a fun day creating floral designs for Wellington municipal offices, the library and businesses that supported last year’s Secret Gardens tour. The following day, the club hosted more than 20 Florida Federation of Garden Clubs flower show judges who meet regularly to hone their floral design and judging skills and review upcoming flower show events. Later that day, club members and Girl Scout Troop 22222 met to discuss plans for a butterfly garden to be installed and maintained by the scouts near the Wellington Dog Park. On Thursday, Wellington Garden Club First Vice President Kathy Siena gave a presentation on
March 27 - April 2, 2015
Page 13
GERWIG ATTENDS ‘DIRTY HARRIET’ BOOK SIGNING
Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig attended a book signing at the Wellington Barnes & Noble store on Feb. 20 with Miriam Auerbach, author of the Dirty Harriet satirical mystery series set in South Florida.
RPB ROTARY CLEANS ALONG OKEECHOBEE
Members of the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club and the Royal Palm Beach High School Interact Club gathered on Saturday, March 14 to clean up both sides of Okeechobee Blvd. from Wildcat Way west to Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Wellington Garden Club members created and delivered floral arrangements to local businesses. the dangers of plastic pollution at the Wellington library to students from Elbridge Gale Elementary School. “Wellington Garden Week certainly was a busy one for our club. We were delighted to share our gardening knowledge with the public and demonstrate that, as our club motto says: Gardening Makes a World of Difference,”
Wellington Garden Club President Twig Morris said. The Wellington Garden Club, a nonprofit organization with more than 170 members, has been an active part of the local community, the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs and National Garden Clubs Inc. since its founding in 1982. For more information, visit www. wellingtongardenclub.org.
Anthony Loshelder Completes U.S. Army Basic Training Army Pvt. Anthony R. Loshelder has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training,
drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises. Loshelder is the son of Renee L. Stangelo of Wellington. He is a 2014 graduate of Wellington High School.
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
PIERCE HAMMOCK SECME CLUB EXCELS
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SCHOOL NEWS
Emerald Cove Teacher Wins B&N Contest Barnes & Noble, the nation’s largest retail bookseller and a leading retailer of content, digital media and educational products, recently announced that Sharon Newman from Emerald Cove Middle School has been named the local winner of the Barnes & Noble My Favorite Teacher Contest. Newman was chosen from the Barnes & Noble store in Wellington. She was nominated by student Kaitlin Mackenzie. Students were invited to nominate their favorite teacher by writing essays, poems or thank-you let-
ters that explain how their teacher has influenced their life and reveal why they appreciate and admire him or her. Entries were judged on the compelling nature of the teacher’s qualities, the sincerity of the student’s appreciation, and the quality of expression and writing. Newman will be recognized at an event at the Wellington Barnes & Noble. Mackenzie, who wrote the winning essay, will receive a certificate of recognition and will be honored at the Wellington store during the ceremony for the winning teacher.
Newman will now be entered into the regional competition, where five winners will be chosen. Each regional winner will receive a $500 Barnes & Noble gift card. From the pool of five regional winners, Barnes & Noble will name one teacher as the Barnes & Noble National Teacher of the Year. The winning teacher will receive $5,000 and the title of Teacher of the Year. The winner will be recognized at a special community celebration at a local Barnes & Noble store. The win-
ning teacher’s school will receive $5,000 as well. The Barnes & Noble My Favorite Teacher Contest provides students with the opportunity to tell their communities how much they appreciate their teachers. Students enrolled in middle or high schools in the United States are eligible to participate; and only educators employed by private or public elementary, middle or high schools are eligible to be nominated. More details on the contest rules can be found at www. bn.com/myfavoriteteacher.
Cardinal Newman Students Study Space Pierce Hammock Elementary School’s Science, Engineering, Communications & Math Enrichment Club (SECME) attended an all-day competition for the SECME Olympiad at Santaluces High School on Saturday, Feb. 28. The team competed in mousetrap car races, a bridge building competition, a poem and banner contest and the Brain Bowl. Pierce Hammock’s team won second place for “Best Banner” District Olympiad. Shown above are students Joesph Rudnick, James Ewing, Maxwell Evans and Danielle Lake.
LINDBURGERS AND WES PARTNER FOR SUCCESS
On Wednesday, Feb. 25, a total of 24 students from Cardinal Newman High School’s honors physics class and the robotics club went on an adventure to the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville. After taking some photographs and passing by the Rocket Garden, the group headed to the Space Shuttle Atlantis and Shuttle Launch Experience. The sight of the orbiter, with burn marks from re-entry, and its robotic arm extended, was inspiring. It is housed with countless interactive exhibits and simulators the students enjoyed. The space center bus tour allowed views of the massive Vehicle Assembly Building, a Mobile Launcher Platform and two launch pads. The tour took the students to the Apollo/Saturn V Center where the Apollo launch is recreated in
the Firing Room Theater and a 363-foot Saturn V moon rocket is suspended from the ceiling. They ended their day with a breathtaking IMAX showing of the movie Hubble 3D. Cardinal Newman future scientists and engineers found the day both fun and inspirational. Science Sizzles at Cardinal Newman — Through a grant from the West Palm Beach Office of Sustainability, the South Florida Science Center brought the Discovery Dome to Cardinal Newman on Feb. 25. In what is essentially a portable theater, students in select science classes watched the film The Earth and Me to gain a better understanding of how everyday choices influence the environment. Participating science classes included: AP environmental science, regular
Honors physics and robotics club students from Cardinal Newman High School at the Kennedy Space Center. environmental and IB biology. Students who participated enjoyed the dome and thanked the West
Palm Beach Office of Sustainability and the South Florida Science Museum for visiting.
Oxbridge Student Headed To State Science Fair Next Week In Lakeland
On Tuesday, Feb. 3, Lindburgers and Wellington Elementary School held a PTO fundraiser. The restaurant donated a percentage of its profits to the school. Students, friends and families came out to show school spirit and support the school. It was a great time for families to have fun and get together for a delicious meal. Wellington Elementary School appreciates Lindburgers and all of the families that came out that night. Shown here is Kitty Kolakowski (pre-k) and her daughter and grandchildren (WES students) enjoying their meal at Lindburgers.
Oxbridge Academy junior Maria Elena Grimmett will be recognized as one of the top budding scientists in the state later this month. The Jupiter resident was chosen to compete in the 60th annual State Science & Engineering Fair, scheduled March 31 through April 2 in Lakeland, where she is the three-time defending state champion in environmental science. She won Best-in-Fair for the third year and Best-in-Category for the sixth consecutive year at the regional science fair in December and will now advance to the state
competition with 40 other talented students from Palm Beach County. Grimmett has been studying water pollution and how to remove organic contaminants from ground water since the age of 10 and has been making science fair projects since the third grade. At the age of 14, Grimmett became the youngest person ever to publish original research in the Journal of Environmental Quality. Now 16 years old, she holds a top 10 international ranking for pre-college environmental science research for both 2013 and 2014.
Grimmett and all of the other top students from the regional science fair were honored March 25 at a reception held at Palm Beach State College’s Palm Beach Gardens campus hosted by Junior Achievement of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast, the Palm Beach County School District, Palm Beach State College and the Stiles-Nicholson Foundation. Oxbridge Academy is located at 3151 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL, 33409. For more information, visit www.oapb.org or call (561) 972-9600.
Maria Elena Grimmett
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inspirational words of support before the upcoming FSA testing. All the grade levels put on exciting performances for the children. The grade levels chose popular songs and put their own words to it pertaining to the FSA. They sang and danced to the hit songs, and the crowd went wild. It was truly a day to remember at Cholee Elementary School. (Right) Third grade dual language teacher Samantha Hack and her class with the Chickfil-A mascot.
Rosarian Academy Students To Attend National Young Leaders State Conference
Rosarian Academy eight-graders Gina Landrum and Ryan Monroe will each attend an NYLSC Conference.
Ryan Monroe and Gina Landrum from the Rosarian Academy will take part in the National Young Leaders State Conference (NYLSC). The conference helps young scholars build leadership skills and strategies that are critical for success in the 21st century. Four-day conference sessions will be held this spring, gathering students in more than 30 cities and regions across the United States. Most students who attend the conference are nominated by teachers and guidance counselors based on their academic performance and leadership potential. Students who attend the conference are provided with an introspective and highly personalized experience. Each student’s leadership skills and abilities are assessed
and scholars are then challenged to develop the confidence and skills they need to achieve their full leadership potential. NYLSC is part of the Envision family of programs (www.envisionexperience.com), which enable students of all ages to explore their interests beyond the classroom. Monroe and Landrum are eighth grade students at the Rosarian Academy. Monroe will be attending high school in the fall at the Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches, and Landrum hopes to attend Suncoast High School’s computer science program. The Rosarian Academy educates students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. For more information, visit www.rosarian.org.
Berean Freshmen Travel To Los Angeles The Berean Christian School freshmen class traveled to Los Angeles from Feb. 26 through March 6 for their annual “mini-mester” mission trip. The trip is the highlight of the students’ ninth grade year, as it is a time to bond together as a class, get to know the faculty and staff who travel with them, and serve the community and less fortunate in an unfamiliar setting. Through established connections, the chaperones secured mission opportunities at facilities such as the Dream Center, a church mission outreach, and the ARC or-
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SCHOOL NEWS
FSA Pep Rally A Hit At Cholee Lake On Friday, March 6, Cholee Lake Elementary School held a FSA Pep Rally in the school cafeteria. Kindergarten, first and second graders, displaying banners of encouragement and support, lined the hallways cheering as the third, fourth and fifth graders and their teachers marched by. The Chickfil-A Cow was there to greet the students. Principal Dr. Marline Campbell spoke to the third, fourth and fifth graders, complimenting them for all of their hard work and gave
March 27 - April 2, 2015
ganization that serves the mentally challenged. They also enjoyed planning and serving a meal to a Celebrate Recovery group. The most memorable part of the trip is working with the “consumers” at the ARC organization. Students were able to spend time learning the day to day operation of the company’s warehouse. Some students ventured to local businesses and establishments with the consumers to see their regular routine. Through this interaction, students were able to grow their compassion for others who are different than themselves.
Berean Christian students working in L.A.
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Berean Christian School students in Costa Rica.
Berean Seniors Enjoy Mission In Costa Rica A group of 32 seniors and four chaperones traveled from Berean Christian School in West Palm Beach to Costa Rica in order to serve others in a culture that is different from their own. This student senior trip included memorable times of bonding together as a class. They had the opportunity to experience zip lining, white water rafting and hiking to a beautiful Costa Rican waterfall. Seniors from the Class of 2015 at Berean agree that the highlight
SIBLINGS EXCEL AT ACADEMIC GAMES
Wellington siblings Mitch and Katie Gulkis competed at the state level Academic Games on March 7. Mitch, who attends Wellington High School, took fourth place in high school division in social studies. Katie, who attends Wellington Landings Middle School, achieved seventh place in linguistics in the middle school division.
of the trip was the days they were able to spend working side by side to serve people outside of themselves. Students participated in several days of mission work, which included construction work, playing with children and helping with the needs of others. This year, students were able to build a house in three days for a single mother and her two children. The recipient family was grateful for the helping hands and giving hearts of the Berean Christian School students.
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FEATURES
It’s Time To Celebrate My Parents’ 65th Wedding Anniversary
All us kids — and by “kids,” I mean “my parents’ offspring,” nothing age-related — are trooping up to Wisconsin this summer for, get this, Mom and Dad’s 65th wedding anniversary. They have been happily married for 65 years. Some people are divorced by the 65th day. As the eldest “kid,” I felt I had the right to demand something of my siblings (no change there). I have demanded that they each make a little speech about what it’s like having these two for parents. I’m sure we will all wax nostalgic with funny stories about our childhood but, the truth is, we could tell just as many funny stories about last week. Or last month. Or last year. That is the beautiful, beautiful thing
Deborah Welky is
The Sonic BOOMER about being my age and still having both your parents. There is a blissful feeling of still being their kid, of belonging to your family just like you always did, of having a rock to stand on, a tree to lean on, a shoulder to cry on. There is still that loving support. Of course, sometimes that loving
support will say, “What were you thinking?” or “I can’t believe you did that!” or “You’ve ruined it!” — but even those comments just make me smile, because those are the kinds of things that parents say. Parents have real opinions, and they are going to share them with you. These aren’t pictures on the wall, smiling down at me benevolently, or old photographs that I can infuse with forever-approval. My parents are honest-to-goodness parents, and they will love and guide me until the day they die. It’s what they do. Whenever I hear about someone losing a parent — no matter the “kid’s” age — I feel sorry. It’s not exactly like being an orphan, but it’s close. To whom do you turn when the world seems against you?
Who can you count on to listen, listen, listen and to listen some more — even when you know you know you’ve gone beyond complaining and are now simply babbling and blubbering. Who else is willing to put up with that? I hope they have the best anniversary ever. The owners of the restaurant where mom reserved the party room gave her a 50 percent discount on the rate because they had never hosted a 65th anniversary party before. I guess they’re hoping word spreads and they become the go-to place for octogenarian party animals like my folks. It won’t be a huge party. Mom and dad have outlived half their siblings and a lot
of their friends. Plus, they don’t want a big crowd there. They want to make sure they see and hear everything that’s going on. In the meantime, we “kids” are busy hunting around online to see what the symbol for the 65th is — diamonds, rubies, gold? It ought to be emerald-encrusted platinum set with the world’s largest sapphire. I’ve heard about “painite,” and the word seems appropriate because we kids have certainly been a pain sometimes. There are less than 25 known specimens of this gem in the world, and it was discovered in the 1950s, when mom and dad got married. Perfect. I’ll get them one of those. But then what do I get them next year?
‘Insurgent’ Is A Sequel That Doesn’t Manage To Go Anywhere
The main problem with Insurgent is not just that it is a sequel, but that it is a muddled, unfocused, boring one. Some sequels are pretty much as good as the first (the first and second Hunger Games come to mind) and a few might even surpass (Godfather II over Godfather, maybe; The Empire Strikes Back over Star Wars surely, although both are brilliant) but this movie goes nowhere. It does do it fast in the sense that things keep happening and there’s plenty of computer-generated imaging to keep you from dozing. Unfortunately, the plot basically disappears. The whole story (a trilogy in book form, although they’re going to squeeze four movies out of it) takes place in a post-apocalyptic Chicago. For some reason we are not allowed to know or appreciate, people are divided into five groups
‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler based on their major attributes: Erudite (the smart ones), Amity (the charitable ones), Dauntless (the brave ones) and so forth. The two films stressed the notion that people would be focused on that one attribute so that those in Dauntless were insanely brave (with a high casualty rate) and those in Erudite had no morals at all. The main characters, Tris (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James), are Divergent; they don’t fit easily in any
category, and thus are considered enemies by the powers that be. In this film, not much really happens in terms of plot, and it runs a minute short of two hours. The characters don’t really develop and change, and the actual events barely seem real. The key element, finally revealed after (counting the first film) about three hours of maneuvers is that there is a special box that can be opened only by a Divergent. Someone strong in all would presumably be able to get in. The evil meanie, former dictator and Erudite head Jeanine (Kate Winslet), who has the box and believes that opening it will prove her murderous tactics when she ran the whole place were correct, captures Tris, the only Divergent with a “100 percent Divergence” rating. Once that happens, there is a long, drawn-out testing element, a form of video game/
virtual reality in which she “tests” and abuses Tris. The whole sequence could have been cut down sharply, and it would have improved the film greatly. Of course, there are other plots. There were a whole group of Divergents who escaped Chicago at the end of the first movie, and they are trying to forge alliances with other groups as a way of overthrowing Jeanine’s followers. To help confuse the issue, Four’s thought-to-bedead mother, Evelyn (Naomi Watts) gets in the mix. And several of the key characters betray her and her forces. To top it off, because it is a sequel with two more coming, there is no real ending. The largest problem is that the screenplay does not let Tris develop as a person. There is just about no chemistry anymore between her and Four. Even worse, her part seems to retreat somewhat. Instead
of being in the center of the film, she becomes a support player without a real star in sight. The supporting players who probably took the hapless parts because they could use the cash (there were very few really good scenes in the entire film) were fine, but hardly stood out. Miles Teller as the obnoxious traitor Peter stole almost every scene he was in. He seemed to actually care. Woodley is a good actress and comes across nicely, but the part seemed to slipslide away. Jennifer Lawrence’s Katniss in Hunger Games became more important and seemed gradually more larger than life every time she was on screen. Woodley’s Tris is sort of tossed aside. The computer images were great, and some of the set scenes were visually superb. But if someone has not read the See WECHSLER, page 19
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Page 17
POLO & EQUESTRIAN
Audi Wins Piaget USPA Gold Cup In Thrilling Overtime Match
The final match of the USPA Piaget Gold Cup kept the sold-out crowd of spectators on the edge of their seats on Sunday, March 22 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Orchard Hill had just come off a sensational C.V. Whitney Cup victory and was predicted to dominate the match, but Audi proved to be no pushover. Audi started strong, scoring two
goals in the first few minutes, and kept the pressure on with an 8-6 lead at halftime. At the end of regulation time, the score was 15-15, and the match went into overtime. An Orchard Hill foul gave Audi a penalty shot, and Gonzalito Pieres scored the winning goal, giving the prestigious cup victory to the Audi team of Marc Ganzi, Rodrigo Andrade, Grant Ganzi, Gon-
zalito Pieres and Freddie Mannix. Heather Kobus proved to be a fashion standout in spring 2015’s hottest new style trend as Veuve Clicquot Fashion on the Field Winner. The Lucy Paris strapless cotton romper was a cool choice in large florals of pink, orange and purple on a crisp, white background. Nude wedges, perfect for divot stomping, completed her look, along with a few silver and
Marc Ganzi, Rodrigo Andrade, Grant Ganzi, Gonzalito Pieres and Freddie Mannix claim the Piaget USPA Gold Cup.
gold bangle bracelets with semiprecious stones. The 16-week winter polo season will culminate with the U.S. Open Polo Championship being played on consecutive Sundays through April 19. Be sure and get your polo fix before the season ends. Join in the festivities and high-goal competition by purchasing tickets at www.international poloclub.com.
Helga Piaget with Dante Colussy and Sally and Dick Robinson.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO
Fashion on the Field winner Heather Kobus.
Paige Johnson & Dakota Win $127,000 Engel & Völkers Grand Prix American Paige Johnson and Dakota were the big winners in the $127,000 Engel & Völkers Grand Prix CSI 4* last Saturday night at the 2015 Winter Equestrian Festival. Competing in the International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, Johnson won a four-horse
jump-off, defeating her trainer Kent Farrington with Gazelle in second place. Ramiro Quintana and Whitney placed third, while Lisa Goldman and Centurion B were fourth. Forty-three horse and rider combinations showed over Saturday night’s course, set by Olaf
Paige Johnson rides Dakota for the win.
PHOTO BY SPORTFOT
Petersen Jr. of Germany. Four made it through to the jump-off, where Johnson and Farrington were the only two to clear the second round course. Goldman was first to jump-off with Mary Goldman’s Centurion B with one rail in 49.06 seconds. Quintana returned next aboard St. Bride’s Farm’s Whitney and also brought down one rail in a faster time of 45.41 seconds. Johnson and Salamander Farm’s Dakota followed with the winning clear round in 47.47 seconds. Last to go, Farrington and Robin Parksy’s Gazelle were clear, just shy of Johnson’s time in 47.95 seconds. Johnson and Dakota began their 2015 season with great results, including a win in the $34,000 Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup in week six of the circuit. That win was in a speed class in daylight, but the pair stepped up to the plate showing in a major grand prix under the lights as well. Competing in a night class with an arena full of cheering fans, Johnson and the 12-year-old
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Belgian Warmblood mare thrived. “I came into this circuit hoping to win a WEF [Challenge Cup], and I did that week six. My next goal was to win a grand prix. I had no idea it would happen in the same season,” Johnson said. “You can imagine that I am super excited and happy. Kent is my trainer, so it feels like the hard work and the team and everything around us is really paying off, and that is a great feeling.” Johnson did not expect to come out on top. “I was not as fast as Ramiro. I thought I would go what speed I was comfortable,” she said. “For me, it was not all out, but I did not want to be too slow because if I had a late rail, I would be third or fourth. I thought I needed to go fast enough to have Kent try to chase me. No, I did not think I was probably fast enough to beat him, but I knew he had a young horse, so that played in my favor tonight.” Farrington was aboard a young, less experienced horse in his
mount Gazelle and was proud of the way the mare performed on the bigger stage as well. “She is a young horse, so my plan for the circuit was to build her up here. I started in the 1.45m, and I was hoping by the end of the season to have another grand prix horse, and I think I have done that,” Farrington said. “I thought she jumped fantastic tonight. I watched Paige go, and I wanted to give the horse a nice experience and try to compete at the same time without taking any huge risk. I knew it would be close, and I was hoping it would be enough, but it was just a little off the mark.” Farrington was also proud to see his student get an exciting win. Johnson has trained with him for almost three years. “This is a huge moment,” Farrington smiled. “I am really excited for her tonight. She and a lot of my students have all had a great season. To see Paige have the biggest win of her career tonight was huge. We started a couple years ago and set out on some goals,
and we are slowly checking them off one at a time. This was a big one tonight.” Quintana, the third-place finisher, has ridden his horse for three years and knows the mare well. The pair had consistent results throughout the circuit and earned one of their top placings Saturday night. Despite a case of pneumonia that set the rider back for two weeks, Quintana returned rested, and Whitney was ready to go. “She is a seasoned mare, and she knows the ring really well,” Quintana said. “Unfortunately, I have been sick, but I am really happy to be back in the show ring feeling 100 percent.” Sponsors Amy Carr and Carol Sollak of Engel & Völkers were on hand for the class and were thrilled with the competition and the exciting evening. “Our main office is here in Wellington. The majority of our clientele are equestrians, and we certainly love the sport,” Carr said. “We like to give back to the sport See WEF, page 19
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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HEALTH & FITNESS SPOTLIGHT
Why Be Mindful? Training Your Brain Brings Health Benefits By Gus Castellanos, MD, Wellness Center Specialist With Foreword By Lynette Laufenberg, Wellness Center Director So you can honestly say that you have developed a habit of working out, you have placed high importance on your nutritional plan, but have you added the element of mindfulness and meditation to your overall wellness program? According to Parade magazine, this component is the No. 1 health-booster in 2015. Our in-house “mindfulness” expert, Gus Castellanos, M.D., who has been clinically trained in neurology and sleep medicine, studied at U Mass’s Medical School Center for Mindfulness in the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. He brings his expertise to the Wellness Center at Ultima and has most recently been offering a four-week course based on the MBSR program. Here, Gus shares his thoughts on the importance of mindfulness. WHY BE MINDFUL? Mindfulness has become popular because of the benefits that
are directly experienced by those that practice it. For more than 30 years, mindfulness programs have been taught in hundreds of medical centers worldwide because of their effectiveness in a wide array of physical and psychological disorders and for stress reduction. In addition, most large companies, including most Fortune 500 companies, are offering mindfulness programs for their leaders and employees. Because of mindfulness’ effectiveness in a variety of skills and competencies that include focused attention and reduced distractibility, working memory, emotional regulation, empathy and compassion, critical thinking and problem-solving, programs have been adapted to specific populations such as the U.S. military, police departments, correctional facilities, public school systems and colleges, government agencies and sports teams (including the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Knicks and the Boston Red Sox). Mindfulness can be defined in many ways, loosely as the awareness of the present moment as it unfolds with an open and nonjudgmental attitude. A more
specific definition comes from Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts, considered the premier program for mindfulness training in the west. He defines mindfulness as “the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally to the unfolding of experience moment by moment.” Inherent in any definition of mindfulness is the ability to see clearly what is happening on a moment-to-moment basis, including one’s thoughts, judgments, storylines, actions and reactions. With this clear seeing of what is arising, we can see the effects of our habitual and reactive patterns and correlate them to our actions and their results in our lives. Mindfulness can bring us from a reactive, autopilot mode, to a more aware and responsive mode, so that we can make wiser, healthier choices in any given situation, especially the stressful, emotional or chaotic ones. Because of this, individuals regularly practicing mindfulness experience enhanced self-awareness and improved mood regulation,
leading to reduced depression, anxiety and insomnia, and stress reduction, with improvement in the immune system and a wide range of physical disorders. There is also increased clarity and creative thinking, improved problem-solving and decision-making, which contributes to well-being and resiliency. And because mindfulness enhances empathy and compassion, beginning with self-compassion, mindful people report better personal and professional relationships. Neuroscience is revealing how mindfulness works — by changing the brain through neuroplasticity. By practicing mindfulness regularly, we change our brain and experience a variety of healthy effects on our mental and physical health, as well as in improving and enhancing one’s personal and professional relationships. These beneficial skills become traits that are readily accessible at all times. The parts of the brain concerned with self and emotional regulation, improving attention, working memory, empathy, and reducing distractibility and negative emotions are more active and promi-
nent in mindfulness practitioners. And although these brain changes are seen with just a few hours of brief practices, their sustainability and enhancement are correlated to the amount of practice — that is, the more one practices, the more the brain changes take hold by creating more stable neural pathways. As such, mindfulness can be thought of as a brain training — brain fitness program, helping build the circuits in the brain just as weight training/lifting builds muscle. It should be part of any
comprehensive wellness program to improve well-being, longevity and the quality of life. Mindfulness — using the mind to change the brain, to change the mind, for the benefit of oneself and others. It’s a real know-brainer! For more information, or to learn about upcoming sessions, e-mail lynette@ultimafitness. com. Ultima Fitness is located at 12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 795-2823 or visit www. ultimafitness.com.
Lynette Laufenberg
Gus Castellanos
NEWS
Wellington Girl Part Of The Cast Of ‘Les Misérables’ At Maltz
The epic Broadway blockbuster Les Misérables has transformed the stage at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre into 19th century France. Based on the beloved novel by Victor Hugo, Les Misérables is set against the backdrop of a France still roiling from the effects of the French Revolution, where escaped convict Jean Valjean spends decades on the run from relentless policeman Javert. The smash hit musical features unforgettable songs, including “I
Siena
A Future Star?
continued from page 1 to be booked at events more frequently. She’s coming into that age right now where she’ll be headlining.” At 14, Adrianna is young for the
Adrianna Siena performs last weekend at the Wellington Amphitheater.
PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
Chamber
‘Ask The Doctor’
continued from page 3 Singer and James Goad, all Palms West Hospital physicians, who conducted an “Ask the Doctor” forum. Goad practices all aspects of general surgery, and, he explained that the field has been revolutionized with advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgeries. Audience members were curious about robotic surgeries, and Goad was able to explain that he can perform a gall bladder surgery in 17 to 28 minutes, which shows just how efficient the surgery can be when utilizing newer technology. “We’re the first generation to be raised on video games. Studies have shown that we’re the ones who are already mentally and dextrally prepared for this,” Goad said, explaining that using the robotics is extremely similar and helps decrease recovery time. Singer specializes in pediatric hematology oncology. “I care for
Dreamed a Dream,” “One Day More” and “On My Own.” The show opened on March 10 and runs until April 5. Among those taking part in the show is 10-year-old Wellington resident Isabella Bockman-Pedersen, who has served as the understudy for the roles of Young Cosette and Eponine. “I’ve enjoyed the amazing kindness that everyone has shown me,” she said. “The entire cast has made me feel like a special part of the group.”
A fourth-grade homeschooled student, she is excited to return to Maltz Jupiter Theatre after performing in Through the Looking Glass. Performing seems to come naturally to Bockman-Pedersen; she has also performed with Christian Musical Theater as Michael in Peter Pan Jr., Fluff the Duckling in Honk Jr. and as a Candy Kid/ Oompa Looma in Willy Wonka Jr. Les Misérables has been translated into 21 languages since opening on London’s West End in
1985, where it remains onstage to this day. Currently on Broadway in New York City, theatergoers in five other countries (England, Australia, Japan, Korea, Spain) currently have the opportunity to experience this sweeping story of revolution and redemption. “Les Misérables is undisputedly one of greatest musicals of all time, and the Maltz Jupiter Theatre’s production is not to be missed,” said Andrew Kato, the theatre’s producing artistic director. “This
is your chance to see this largescale worldwide phenomenon up close and personal in our 617-seat theater. This stunning professional production will remind you of the simplest of truths: the redemptive power of unconditional, selfless love.” The Maltz Jupiter Theatre is located at 1001 E. Indiantown Rd. in Jupiter. Visit www.jupitertheatre. org for show times. Tickets start at $54. For additional information, call (561) 575-2223.
Isabella Bockman-Pedersen
music industry, but she is using the time to her advantage. Adrianna has performed in numerous shows with various theaters in Palm Beach County and beyond. She was young Cosette in Les Misérables, the Queen of Hearts in Wonderland, Flounder in the Little Mermaid, Sandy in Grease, Glick in Snow White, Little Red in Into The Woods, Annie in Annie, Viola in Adventures of a Comic Book Artist, Tracy in Hairspray and an understudy in The King and I. In addition to acting, Adrianna has performed in many singing competitions in the past few years. In 2013, she was a runner-up in Starz of the Future, won first place for her age group and first runner-up overall in Wellington Idol, and was part of the Critics Choice Trio with the International Thespian Society. In 2014, she sang at the AT&T Young Stars Showcase and performed at Carnegie Hall in the American Protégé International Competition, winning first place for performance. So far this year,
Adrianna has performed at West Fest at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, was the grand prize winner for Starz of the Future at the South Florida Fair, was the first runner-up of Future Stars by the Boca Rotary Club and is currently competing in 2015’s Wellington Idol. “That was the first time I ever performed in front of a lot of people,” Adrianna said of her first competition at Starz of the Future in 2013. West Fest was the first time she sang country music. “West Fest was fun,” she said. “I was the first performer that day and had to sing for 30 minutes, which was tiring, but it was fun.” In addition to singing and acting, Adrianna has a multitude of special skills that are helping to prepare her to take the entertainment industry by storm. She can cry on cue; speak Korean; perform acrobatics, stage combat and contortions; knows tae kwon do, video editing and cinematography; is a photographer; and has an equestrian background.
Adrianna would like to follow in the footsteps of teen star Selena Gomez. “I want to be on a TV show, or in a movie — it would be really fun — then after that, progress into being a singer like Selena Gomez did,” she explained. Now in ninth grade, Adrianna is attending the Dreyfoos School of the Arts as a theater major, advancing quickly in her craft.
Shortly, Adrianna will be releasing a single, Set Me Free, which was co-written by Soper and showcases her pop country side by featuring Nashville guitar and bass. “It’s about a girl who likes a guy,” she said, “but he’s not really liking her back, so she wants him to set her free from that feeling, if that’s possible.” Pop and R&B are the genres
Adrianna gravitates to, which will be apparent in some of her other songs that she is working on. Adrianna has already advanced to the semifinal round of Wellington Idol. Semifinals and finals take place Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. To see clips of Adrianna singing, visit www.youtube.com/user/adriannasiena/videos.
children from birth to about age 21 with any kind of blood disorder, whether it is sickle cell anemias, clotting disorders, bleeding disorders and then children who have cancer,” she said. Addressing a common local concern, Singer discussed the so-called cancer cluster in The Acreage, explaining that studies have shown there is no such thing. “There were no widespread contamination or other potential environmental risk factors found,” she said, explaining that one study looked at 13 cancer patients and 13 people who didn’t have it, and looked at 171 variables. Only seven variables were of statistical significance. “Really, they couldn’t gather anything, and at this time, we found nothing to be relevant, or the Department of Health found nothing to be relevant as far as is there a cancer cluster in this area,” she said, explaining that South Florida, in general, has a high instance of childhood cancer, but that is most likely due to the size of the general population. “The proper studies were done, and everything was
undertaken to really make sure that there was nothing out in The Acreage.” Pliskow, an obstetrician, has been in the community for 26 years. Aside from his normal practice, he is also one of only 83 forensic obstetrician gynecologists in the country. Pliskow presented several rare cases that have come through South Florida, and explained that awareness and quick action are incredibly important. One such example was an extremely rare reaction to Motrin, where the skin shows a blister as an allergic reaction that quickly escalates. “We petitioned the FDA… about six or seven years ago to change the labeling of these medications because they don’t really give enough of a warning,” he said, noting that the petition went through and the FDA has made changes. With the rash, fever, pain and other reactions, parents often give more Motrin, which makes the patient worse. Once you stop it, it goes away, Pliskow said, so being educated about the side effects of medications is imperative.
pate and have their own free will while they’re at this facility.” Willhite added that Wellington in many cases maintains higher standards than other communities. “To say that we’re different than someone else isn’t always a bad thing,” he said. “I have concern about taking this out. I don’t feel there’s a real need to change this.” Councilman John McGovern asked Stillings to clarify that the requirement is something that carried over from county code that was later removed, and that no previous council had taken any action to modify the code since then. He also asked for clarification that minimum space requirements are regulated by the Florida Department of Health and the AHCA. Stillings explained that the approval for St. Michael would eliminate their need for an additional 2,000 square feet of outdoor space. “Right now, they’re providing 2,500 square feet,” Stillings said. “I believe it is their intent to provide that space regardless of the change to this code today, or the potential for this change.” Councilwoman Anne Gerwig asked if adult daycare is a conditional approval, and Stillings said it is for any facility with more than 20 clients. “So we could look at each one on a case-by-case basis and decide what works best,” Gerwig said. “I think I understand the councilman’s concern about letting the marketplace decide, but
conditional uses come before the council each time.” Gerwig said she also agreed that a patient who needs full-time care does not require as much room, and reiterated that the facility was approved with 2,500 square feet of outdoor space. “I think that we need to understand that we are talking about an important part of our community,” Gerwig said. “There’s a great need. There’s a lot of families that have had to look for this solution for their loved ones, and this is to me an absolute no-brainer. This is something we should be completely on board for and support.” Kevin Wrenne, a member of the board of directors of Alzheimer’s Community Care, spoke in favor of staff’s recommendation. “It is our intention to keep the approved outdoor area of approximately 2,500 square feet,” he said. “We do ask that you support the zoning change.” Vice Mayor John Greene asked how many Wellington residents would be served by the facility, and Wrenne said they already have 26 applicants for a maximum capacity of 35, and all of them are from the Wellington area. “We’re probably about three months out from licensure, so we fully expect that we could be at capacity when we open,” he said. Greene said he had expressed early in the approval that the facility be for the benefit of Wellington residents. “To help sort of motivate me to make an ordinance change, I want to make sure that it’s being done in a way that benefits the residents of Wellington,” he said. “That was our intention from the very beginning,” Wrenne said. “We know the need is out here.” Gerwig made a motion to approve the ordinance, which carried 4-1 with Willhite opposed.
Day Care
Outdoor Space Rule
continued from page 1 other issues that would preclude them from enjoying that outdoor space.” Wellington’s Senior Advisory Committee and Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board both unanimously recommended approval of the change. Councilman Matt Willhite disputed comments that Alzheimer’s patients don’t go outside. “I believe that’s completely inappropriate,” Willhite said. “There are Alzheimer’s patients who are incapacitated, there are Alzheimer’s patients who are productive parts of the community, there are Alzheimer’s patients who are in facilities who are still doing things. They just don’t do it all the time. I think it’s still a beneficial thing for their life to go outside.” Willhite recalled that the applicant said that one of the activities they want clients to participate in is gardening. “Well, gardening is usually outside, so if they’re doing these things, they’re still outside,” he said. “Even if they’re in a wheelchair or walker, they can still go outside. I don’t want it to be thought that this is a facility that they’re locking up people inside and not allowing them to move around and do things and partici-
Wechsler
‘Insurgent’
continued from page 16 books recently, they will quickly lose track of what is going on. Mid-point sequels are tricky. The story cannot end, but there has to be some progress. It has to build on the world created in the first film and bring the audience somewhere new. Unfortunately, Insurgent goes nowhere. The film
WEF
Grand Prix Action
Dr. James Goad, Dr. Melissa Singer and Dr. Steven Pliskow took questions in “Ask the Doctor.”
PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
continued from page 17 because we enjoy it, and it means a lot. It is a really fun thing to be able to sponsor this.” “We are very excited to be a sponsor of this class and be a part of the whole horse show,” Sollak added. “To have this group that won tonight that are our friends is great for us. We look forward to a great season next year, too.”
cost a lot of money, over a hundred million dollars. But it seems far more was spent on special effects than on producing a script that created the basic structure of the film. Sometimes with movies, hearing that there’ll be sequel makes your day. In this case, the prospect of sitting through two more of these ruined mine. Perhaps they can actually create a real script in the next one. Two special awards were also presented during Saturday night’s competition. For her success throughout the week, Johnson was named Leading Lady Grand Prix Rider, an award presented by Martha Jolicoeur in memory of Dale Lawler. Meanwhile, the Potcreek Meadow Farm Junior Sportsmanship Trophy was presented to Lucy Deslauriers in memory of Candida C. Forsmann. For more information, and a full schedule of events, visit www. equestriansport.com.
Blotter
continued from page 6 gun, rotor, kit, swab, batteries and a gun bag, totaling approximately $460, had been removed from the unlocked vehicle. MARCH 23 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was contacted by a resident of The Acreage last Friday regarding a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, when the victim tried to file his taxes with Turbo Tax, he received a notification that his Social Security number had already been used to file taxes. According to the report, the victim does not know who filed the claim or how they got his personal information.
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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NEWS
QUARTERLY ACREAGE COMMUNITY MUSIC FEST BRINGS CROWDS TO PARK
The quarterly Acreage Community Music Fest was held Saturday, March 21 at Acreage Community Park featuring live bands, a car cruise-in, food trucks, kick ball, vendors, a kids zone and more. For more information, visit www.acreagelandowners.com.
PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER
Members of the Acreage Landowners’ Association.
Kevin, Logan and Melanie Walstrom with Icee and Jax.
Kristlain Magil has fun at the playground.
Isabelle Kirk makes a new friend in pup Zane.
Astraphobia performs on stage.
Logan Weis holds Zane.
Emily O’Neill cruises around next to a 1957 Chevrolet.
Tammy and Wayne Kullman, Naomi Trevino and Luke, Sheila Vucci, and Michelle and Rodney Martin of the Acreage Relay for Life.
ROYAL PALM QUARTER AUCTION RAISES MONEY FOR THE RELAY FOR LIFE
A Quarter Auction to benefit the Royal Palm Beach Relay for Life was held Wednesday, March 18 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. A large crowd was on hand to try their luck at getting their numbers picked to win merchandise. Various vendors such as PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER jewelry, home decor and food were on offer.
RPB Relay for Life Event Chair Steve Whalen and Survivor Chair Kim Whalen (standing) with Julia Jackson and Iris Neil (seated).
Wellington Relay for Life members Lisa Hafer, Marisa Pence and Holly Cosentino with RPB Relay for Life member Cheryl Dunn-Bychek.
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Event organizer Julie Bryant gives Lois Lee a bag of jewelry from Premier.
Felicia Matula gives Amy Selke a Cookies in Bloom basket.
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flavors 201
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oodie e f t s e g ig b e | th
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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vent yet
The Event you Crave Deliciously familiar.
April 9, 2015
RESTAURANTS I WINE TASTINGS I COCKTAILS I A BIG BAND I EQUESTRIAN VENUE $35.00 in advance $ 55.00 per couple MORE AT THE DOOR $ 400 reserved VIP table of 10 Tickets at www.wellingtonchamber.com/events/event/flavors-2015/ or call 561.792.6525
presented by
“Join us! We’d love you to be a part of our family.”
Photography by LILA PHOTO
– Justin Thompson, General Manager, The Wanderers Club, with his family.
Dues-Only Membership – No Initiation Fee Required Full Golf Memberships Available* Traditional golf with no tee times, tennis, and fitness • Casual dining at The Duke’s Bar, Veranda, and poolside Fine dining at Stables Restaurant • A junior Olympic-size pool, kiddie pool, and play area • Year-round social calendar and child-friendly programs The Wanderers Club is Wellington’s family-friendly, private country club. For membership information, call Anna Grzebien at 561.795.3501, ext. 225. membership@wanderersclubwellington.com • wanderersclubwellington.com 1900 Aero Club Drive • Wellington, FL 33414 *Waiting list for Social Memberships. Dues-Only Membership may be recalled once the Club Membership reaches its full complement, beginning with the last in, unless the then established membership deposit is paid. All memberships are prorated as of initiation date.
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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SATURDAY MARCH 28
PRIZE MONEY
2 0 1 5
RIDERS
HORSES
All together in one grand prix, head-to-head, to take home this season’s biggest title. Gates Open at 6:00 pm • Free General Admission • $20/car parking
Main Grounds at PBIEC │ 3400 Equestrian Club Drive │ Wellington, FL 33414 www.pbiec.com │ 561-793-JUMP
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Need A Break? Time For Shopping Therapy!
There’s a lot more to do in Wellington during the Winter Equestrian Festival than participating in and/or watching shows. The somewhat chilly weekend of Feb. 20-22 featured a couple of special sale events. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25
Business
New Golf Pro Invites Community To Visit Polo West Golf Club In Wellington
The Polo West Golf Club, located just off South Shore Blvd. in Wellington, recently reopened under the direction of PGA professional Bob Glickman. Polo West offers a family-friendly 9-hole layout that golfers of all abilities can enjoy at reasonable 9-hole or 18-hole rates. Significant discounts are offered for junior golfers and twilight play. Polo West also features a driving range and practice green. Page 27
Sports Area Athletics Honored At County Hall Of Fame Event
On Sunday, March 22, local high school athletic programs were honored at the 39th annual Palm Beach County Hall of Fame Banquet, presented by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. The event honors professional and amateur athletes and coaches from Palm Beach County. Page 33
THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 25 BUSINESS NEWS....................................26-27 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 33-35 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 38 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 40-43
Page 23
Wolverine Lacrosse Squad Falls To West Boca
The Wellington High School boys lacrosse team played West Boca High School on Thursday, March 19 and fell to the Bulls 15-13. The Wolverines outscored the Bulls 7-3 in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough to overcome the early deficit that haunted them in the second half. Page 33
A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION
INSIDE
March 27 - April 2, 2015
Shopping Spree
Page 24
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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welcome to tHe winter equestrian festival held at the Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center January 7 - March 29, 2015 Join Us Every Wednesday through Sunday to Experience Equestrian Sport at Its Best! Shopping Around the Show Grounds
Watch The Equestrian Action Visit WEF during the day from Wednesday through Sunday, take in the exciting scene of several thousand horses and riders competing in 12 arenas. Stroll the grounds at your leisure, grab a bite to eat and shop till you drop at our unique boutiques, art galleries, jewelers, high-end fashion and so much more.
You are invited to shop in a variety of locations throughout the PBIEC, including the Vendor Village, Hunter Hill, and The Bridge Deck, the outdoor courtyard oasis filled with exquisite shops and boutiques offering fashion, jewelry, home design, fine art, photography, horseware and more. Visit a new Vendor area each week! HUNTER HILL C Jones - Silver Housewares
Grab a Bite to Eat A variety of Food Vendors are located throughout the property, including: Coliano’s Pizza Tito’s Tacos: Margaritas, Tacos, Burritos, Chips, Salsa Tiki Hut: Grilled Chicken, Variety Burgers, Grilled Fish, Salads Oli’s Fashion Cuisine: in the Vendor Village
Equisafe LLC Fabulous Finds – Fashion & Accessories Just FUR Fun – Goodies for Dogs Natures Well – Skin Care
Take a Lunch & Tour
Olive & Bette’s – Fashion
See the world-renowned equestrian competition, vendors, stables and various venues that Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has to offer, followed by a catered lunch with your group. Your tour will allow you to explore twelve of the competition rings, the stabling area where horses prepare for competition, and a stroll through Vendor Village. The tour will be both exciting and informative, and there is a good chance you will see some Olympic riders gearing up for competition! Equestrian Lunch & Tours are available by appointment Wednesday through Sunday during the WEF season. Main Grounds at PBIEC 3400 Equestrian Club Drive, Wellington, FL 33414 561.793.JUMP (5867)
Cytowave
Pinell Custom Leather Inc. Pony Pals – Toys
INTERNaTIoNaL SHoppES Ariat Equiline Equestrian Fashion Engel & Völkers Realty Evy Jewlery Eyes of Wellington Forré Fine Art Gallery Ghurka Fine Leather Goods Hermès Hunt LTD Karina Brez Jewelry La Mundial Boots Lugano Diamonds Michelle Farmer Fashion Troy Campbell Studio
Un Pueblo Zadeh NY Jewelry BRIDGE DECKS KingsLand Equestrian Fashion BIBA of NY B+ B Positive Jewlery WEF Boutique RING 9 & 10 Antarès Custom Saddlery Click Heat Inc. Devoucoux Custom Saddlery McGuinn Tack Trunks Sportfot Photography
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FEATURES
March 27 - April 2, 2015
Page 25
Need A Break From WEF? Time For Shopping Therapy! There’s a lot more to do in Wellington during the Winter Equestrian Festival than participating in and/or watching shows. The somewhat chilly weekend of Feb. 20-22 featured a couple of special sale events. The Tackeria had its 40th Anniversary Sale. They’ve been at their current location, at the corner of Pierson Road and South Shore Blvd., for a few years. I could recall each of their previous three locations: in two different stores in the Publix shopping center at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and South Shore, and then at the large store in the Wellington Marketplace plaza at the corner of Wellington Trace and Greenview Shores. “We’re happy to have been in business here in Wellington for 40 years,” store manager Lou Cuthbertson said. “We’d like to do other sales during the season, but it’s too busy, so we decided to do this. Even though we didn’t have a lot of advance publicity, people are coming in to get some great deals. It’s not as crazy as Black Friday, but definitely more busy than usual.” There were deals to be had on a variety of products, as well as occasional giveaways. Peggy Murray, Pessoa brand manager, was on hand showing off luscious saddles and the new Monaco LX tall boot. “I’m amazed at the volume of business Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”
Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg Tackeria has,” Peggy said. “There are a lot of foreign customers, as well as locals and people from all over the U.S. We’ve brought along saddles of every size. Because of the different seat and flap sizes, there are over 2,000 permutations. We can virtually fit any rider and customize the panels to fit any horse. And, for this sale, we’re giving away a free Pessoa bridle and saddle pad with each saddle. We’re thrilled to be part of the Tackeria’s anniversary sale. This shop is a real institution.” I sat in one of the lovely saddles, which fit my seat if not my budget, and browsed through show shirts. In the end, I walked out with some hoof dressing, nicely discounted. Over at WEF, the usual classes were in progress, ring after ring of impossibly beautiful horses. Browsing the shops is always a treat, even if it’s mostly window shopping for me. I love sitting in all those comfy saddles. And there are a few nice touches, like the shop which, instead of a bowl of free mints, had two buckets: one with carrots and one with apples. Then there’s the crossing guard on Equestrian
Lou Cuthbertson and Peggy Murray with a Pessoa saddle at the Tackeria. Club Drive, sitting on a chair with his handheld stop sign, ready to halt traffic: not for school children, but for horses. That weekend also featured the 2015 Equine Innovations Expo, hosted by Equine Solutions Inc. It opened Friday evening at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival during the CDI Grand Prix Freestyle, then
continued at the Wellington Club at WEF on Saturday and Sunday. I browsed the booths Friday evening. Fenwick Equigear had items made with a therapeutic fabric infused with liquid titanium. There were horse sheets, head and neck covers, dog covers and hoof boots. The See ROSENBERG, page 35
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BUSINESS NEWS
Page 27
New Golf Pro Invites Community To Visit Polo West
The Polo West Golf Club, located just off South Shore Blvd. in Wellington, recently reopened under the direction of PGA professional Bob Glickman. Polo West offers a family-friendly 9-hole layout that golfers of all abilities can enjoy at reasonable 9-hole or 18-hole rates. Significant discounts are offered for junior golfers and twilight play. Polo West also features a driving range and practice green and is affiliated with the First Tee of the Palm Beaches. Custom group outings, clinics and golf schools are available
as well. For tee times, and more information, call the Polo West Golf Club Pro Shop at (561) 328-3800. Glickman brings more than 30 years of experience as a golf pro to Wellington and sees Polo West as the perfect venue to expand the opportunities for families, especially junior golfers, to learn and enjoy the game of golf. “I’d love to see parents and children playing golf together here at Polo West,” he said. “That’s how I learned to play, with my mom and dad. I’d like to see everyone enjoy it here.”
Polo West Golf Club’s affiliation with the First Tee of the Palm Beaches helps it teach nine core values and nine healthy habits to young people through the game of golf. “It’s not just teaching golf,” Glickman explained. “It’s really neat the way the kids get involved. The First Tee is a really cool thing.” Glickman is looking forward to expanding the reach of the First Tee to the Wellington area at Polo West Golf Club. (Right) The fifth green at the Polo West Golf Club in Wellington.
Angel Flight Southeast Fundraiser Honors Volunteer Pilots
A golf tournament fundraiser and awards dinner will take place April 10-11 at the Madison Green Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach for Angel Flight Southeast, a charity whose volunteer pilots fly medical patients with chronic conditions to doctor appointments and treatments. “Angel Flight Southeast relies on a network of more than 650 private pilots who volunteer their time and aircraft to help get a patient to his or her needed medical appointment,” said Steve Purello, CEO of Angel Flight Southeast. “Led by our team of ‘care traffic controllers,’ we are
able to arrange for approximately 3,000 flights each year.” A foundation created by the family of the late Dr. Franklin Gray Norris, who dedicated himself to saving lives and shared a love of flying, makes the event possible. A former Air Force combat pilot, Dr. Norris became a noted thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon in Orlando. Upon his passing, the Norris family created the foundation that now supports Angel Flight Southeast as the title sponsor of the Dr. Norris Memorial Pilot Awards Gala & Golf Classic.
The gala features a cocktail hour, sit-down dinner and awards presentations from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, April 10. The golf tournament begins with registration at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 11 with play expected to run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Angel Flight Southeast helps people such as Carole Thompson of Key West. When she has to go to her doctor’s appointments, it’s an ordeal. Thompson, who was diagnosed with a chronic pain condition that stemmed from a 2011 injury, must travel to Tampa for specialized treatment.
2015
SUMMER
An hours-long car ride is not feasible, however, neither is the cost and discomfort associated with flying commercial. Thompson relies on Angel Flight Southeast and its pilots, who use their own airplanes, pay for the fuel and give up their time to help people like her get to and from appointments. More than two dozen volunteer pilots from across the Southeast will be honored for their dedication to the organization. The nominees for the Pilot of the Year awards are vying for the top award. Additional awards will be given to select pilots,
CAMP
including a “Rookie Pilot Award” for pilots who recently joined the organization, a “Transplant Award” for the pilot in the region who has flown the most number of transplant-related flights and “Above and Beyond” for pilots who contribute to fundraising efforts for the nonprofit Angel Flight Southeast. For information about the event, or to learn more about Angel Flight Southeast, call (352) 326-0761 or visit www.angelflightse.org/events. Angel Flight Southeast has won the seal of approval from Independent Charities of America.
GUIDE
Calling all campers for a summer of fun. Sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids will find something for everyone at Breakers West Country Club. Daily Golf, Tennis & Swimming Instruction Arts & Crafts | Magic Shows | Science Projects Wildlife Demonstrations | Family Cookouts Family Activity Center & More
Ages 5-14 June 8 – August 21, 2015 (Excluding June 29 – July 3) Monday – Friday | 8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. After-care also available To register for Summer Camp at Breakers West, please call 561-422-4915.
1550 Flagler Parkway | West Palm Beach, FL 33411 breakerswestclub.com
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
Forgotten Soldiers Outreach Has New Home For Furniture/Thrift Store Forgotten Soldiers Outreach is excited to announce that because of the community’s outstanding response, the FSO Furniture & Thrift Store has moved to a larger storefront of 5,800 square feet in the Market Place Shopping Center in Lake Worth. The store features furniture, home décor, art, accessories, antiques and vintage pieces, along with other collectibles, clothing, costume jewelry, knickknacks, vinyl albums, CDs, DVDs and other treasures. Since the store first opened in May 2013, and with the expanded FSO mission of supporting needy local veterans, the store has provided more than 200 veterans and their families free furniture and household items valued at more than $80,000. “It is so hard to believe that FSO is now in its 12th year of sending monthly ‘We Care’ packages to our troops overseas,” founder Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar said. “Our mission continues strong as more recipients and units are being registered. It just truly tugs at my heart to know that we have benefited more than
350,000 of our military to date, covering all world theaters and all branches of the military; and now, through our store, we are helping our veterans on the home front.” Zelnar thanked the community for its support in donations and in making purchases. “We have established a reputation already of having quality merchandise with great prices,” she said. “The expansion was a no-brainer as we continued to outgrow our previous space in such a short time. We are so happy to say that ‘Veterans Day is every day for our Veterans’ with 50 percent off.” The FSO store is located at 7400 Lake Worth Road, at the southwest corner of the Market Place Shopping Center. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. The local FSO store also offers free pickup of donated items. Forgotten Soldiers Outreach Inc. is a tax-exempt nonprofit corporation. For more info., call (561) 3692933, visit www.forgottensoldiers. org, or call the local store at (561) 969-2222.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Hanley Foundation Golf Classic Tees Off Monday At Old Marsh
The annual Hanley Center Foundation Golf Classic will return next week to the prestigious Old Marsh Golf Club in Palm Beach Gardens. Taking place Monday, March 30, the day’s events will include an 18-hole tournament, an awards ceremony, a luncheon and a silent auction — all to benefit the Hanley Center Foundation’s Lifesaver Patient Aid Fund. The Hanley Center Foundation provides scholarships for patients who could not otherwise afford addiction treatment. In addition, the foundation supports substance abuse prevention and education programs for parents, caregivers and school-age children. Proceeds from the 16th annual golf classic benefit scholarships for patients. “Many people hesitate to get the help that they so desperately need due to financial insecurity,” Hanley Center Foundation CEO Dr. Rachel Docekal said. “Because of our important fundraising efforts, people receive treatment thanks to this special fund. Participation in the golf classic helps to bring hope into patients’ lives and the lives of their families.”
Led by chairmen Gary Harris, Suzanne Holmes and Maria Marino, along with junior chairman Ryan Bridger, the 2015 Golf Classic committee members are Jack Barrett, Turner Benoit, Graham Davidson, Linda and Mike Hanley, Sandra and Ron Kaplan, Michele Poole, Jillian Percella, Rick Reikenis, Jason Schweriner, Hannah Sosa and Karen Vaughn. The day begins with registration and breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and continues with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start. Course contests include prizes for closest to the pin, straightest drive and hole-in-one. Golfers will then enjoy a 1 p.m. awards luncheon, featuring special recognition for the top foursomes. In addition, the luncheon also serves as a networking opportunity for those who did not hit the links, as community leaders are also invited. Event sponsors include Bloomingdale’s Palm Beach Gardens, Braman Motorcars, FordHarrison LLP, the Hanley Family Foundation, the Harris Land Company, Hedrick Brothers Construction and PNC Wealth Management. Media sponsors are Legends Radio 100.3FM and Palm
(L-R) Suzanne Holmes, Gary Harris, Maria Marino and junior chairman Ryan Bridger. PHOTOGRAHY BY LILA PHOTO
Beach Illustrated. Participation in the event is $1,000 per golfer, $4,000 per foursome and $500 for juniors (age 40 and under). For more information, or to RSVP, call (561) 841-1162, e-mail events@ hanleycenterfoundation.org or visit www.hanleycenterfoundation.org/ golfclassic.
Page 28 March 27 - April 2, 2015
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#1 Education Place Creative Kids Camp is an enriching and exciting camp so fun that campers will forget they are learning. The program is designed to provide lasting memories, imaginative play and exposure to lifelong leisure activities that encourage campers to develop to their full potential. Plenty of activities and crafts will be provided throughout the weekly sessions, some of them include: reading relaxation station, music station, science experiments and explorations, in-house field trips and guest speakers, crafts and journaling. The age range for campers is 5 to 12 years of age. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with early bird care from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and late bird care from 4 to 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (561) 201-4531. #1 Education Place is located at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 23, in Wellington. The Armory Art Center’s Art Camp brings weekly sessions to children ages 4.5 to 17. Experienced instructors have developed projects relating to weekly themes and teach the children to work with drawing, painting, sculpture, jewelry, fiber arts, ceramics and printmaking. Activities are age-appropriate and focus on a child’s artistic and creative development. Activities include immersion in various creative techniques, field trips to local venues, and art show exhibitions in July and August. The Armory Art Center looks forward to providing a safe, enriching and fun summer for children. Fees are $225 to $275 per week. Visit www.armoryart.org/youthartcamps for more information. Breakers West Summer Sports Camp is calling all campers for a summer of fun. Sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids ages 5 to 14 will find fun at Breakers West Country Club. Enjoy daily golf, tennis and swimming instruction; wildlife demonstrations; magic shows; arts & crafts; cookouts; Family Activity Center fun and more. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 8 through Aug. 21 (excluding June 29 to July 3). Lunch is included, and all campers receive a special keepsake camp essentials bag. After-care is also available. To register for camp, call (561) 422-4915. Camp Cambridge in Wellington offers programs for children from two years old through second grade, with an experienced and mature staff, bilingual programs, in-house weekly field trips, specialty camp sessions, an on-site swimming pool supervised by Red Cross-trained staff, flexible schedules, weekly sessions, and private and group swimming. Nine weeks of camp is offered at Cambridge Schools, located at 1920 Royal Fern Drive in Wellington. For more information, visit www.cambridgepreschools. com or call (561) 791-0013.
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Camp Varsity Summer Sports Camp is a full-day sports camp during the summer located at Wellington Landings Middle School (1100 Aero Club Dr., Wellington). The camp is action-packed, combining a mix of team sports with fishing and fun recreational games for ages 5 to 13. No matter the theme or week, campers will have the opportunity to participate in many different sports and recreational games. Most camp activities are indoors with 2 to 3 hours max daily for outdoor activities. Sports included every week are basketball, soccer, baseball, football, kickball, fishing, recreational games and more. There are also specialty camps such as dance and cheerleading, volleyball and itty-bitty camps. Camp dates are June 8 through Aug. 7 and are held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with before and after care available. For more info., call (561) 601-5248 or visit www.buildingupsportsacademy.com. Casperey Stables Horse Camp is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages 7 to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts and crafts, and outdoor games, campers find little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures that each child receives individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks and during the summer. Each two-week session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days. Casperey Stables has a weekly swim party and ends each session with a horse show and family barbecue. To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 792-4990 or visit www.caspereystables.com. Drama Learning of Florida is a theater-based summer camp designed to nurture children’s talent and love of the theater. Campers will participate in a variety of theater-based activities and games. Camp will be held at Polo Park Middle School on Lake Worth Road in Wellington from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Before and after care is available. The program is for children entering grades 1 through 8. All students will be cast in each session’s main show. This year’s performances include: Fractured Fairy Tales, Aladdin, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and The Wizard of Oz. Camp dates/performances run from June 8 through Aug. 7. For the complete list of camp session/performance dates, or for more information, visit www.dramalearningfl.com or call (561) 692-6228.
DDARD SCHO GO O HE CRAYON
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Horsey & Artsy Camp at the Good Earth Farm Children’s Zoo & Animal Sanctuary teaches children to be independent. They learn to take care of their tack, along with animal grooming. The camp offers horseback riding, hunt seat, dressage, trail and vaulting lessons. All kids will have supervision at all times, with no more than 10 campers at a time. After riding, campers may swim in the crystal-clear pool or clean lake with filters and floats, then start on weekly art projects with qualified art instructors. Good Earth Farm is located at 2141 B Road in Loxahatchee Groves. For more information, visit www.goodearthfarm.info or call (561) 792-2666.
N CRAYO
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CRA YO
The Goddard School’s Summer Camp offers a broad range of programs and mini camps crafted to pique the interest and curiosity of every child; there is something for everybody! Call today to enroll!
POWERED BY STEAM. FUELED BY FUN!
JUNE 8 - AUGUST 13 • 1 YEAR - 7 YEARS
ENROLL TODAY! WELLINGTON • 561-333-2020 GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2015
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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For more than 26 years, The Goddard School has been a trusted name among parents and families. Its classrooms are safe, nurturing environments for children, offering age-appropriate opportunities to explore and discover. The Goddard School’s summer camp curriculum incorporates its F.L.EX. Learning Program (Fun, Learning Experience) and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) learning into exciting, one-of-a-kind and fun experiences for your child every day. This summer at The Goddard School in Wellington, children can take part in summer camp themes that include That’s a Wrap, Kitchen Chemists, the Great Outdoors, Epic Explorers and Mega Mathletes. The camp runs from June 8 through Aug. 13 and is for children one year old to six years old. For more information, visit www.goddardschool.com or call (561) 333-2020. The Goddard School is located at 2665 State Road 7 in Wellington. The Lake Worth Playhouse will offer a summer camp teaching children acting, voice, dance and stage movement through daily activities and rehearsals, culminating in fullscale productions of popular musicals. The students will produce Once Upon a Crime: The Trial of Goldilocks March 16-21, Shrek June 8-27 and Narnia July 6 - Aug. 1. They will be engaged in studio-style rehearsals for music, dance and production. Campers 12 or older also will have the opportunity to participate in behind-the-scenes roles and other theater-related educational opportunities. Prices range from $200 to $600. To sign up, call (561) 586-6410 or visit www.lakeworthplayhouse.org. Mathnasium of Wellington will offer a summer program this year. According to Johns Hopkins University, children lose up to 2.5 months of their math skill knowledge from the previous grade level if they do not work on any math skills during the summer break. Mathnasium refers to this as the “Summer Slide.” Mathnasium has a summer program that re-teaches students the math skills they have trouble with, while at the same time prepare them for the upcoming grade level. Let Mathnasium help prevent the “Summer Slide” in your child’s summer. Call (561) 320-1225 or visit www.mathnasium.com/wellington for more information. NJOY Tennis recently announced that at Palm Beach Polo Golf & Country Club, the tennis center in under new management. It is one of the finest outdoor facilities and an international training destination. NJOY Tennis offers a higher degree of excellence in tennis training and service. The company welcomes everyone to take part in the following social and competitive events offered for adults and juniors: private lessons, clinics, after-school programs, high-performance programs, holidays and summer camps, leagues, and USTA tournaments. Getting started is easy. Call now for a free evaluation at (561) 557-1487 or e-mail info@njoytennis.com. Learn more at www. NJOYTennis.com.
PALM BEACH COUNTY’S LEADING ART CENTER
June 8thAugust 14th
summer art camp
Monday-Friday 9 am – 4:30 pm Ages 4 1/2 - 17 $225-$275 per week • drawing • painting • sculpture • jewelry • fiber arts • printmaking
View our brochure: armoryart.org/youthartcamp
Register today!
561.832.1776
armoryart.org | 1700 Parker Avenue | West Palm Beach, FL 33401
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Sacred Heart Summer Sports Camp 2015 is for campers entering first through sixth grade. A select number of students in seventh and eighth grade will be chosen as “counselors in training” at a reduced rate. Space is limited, so register as soon as possible. Camp registration includes a $35 non-refundable free, with a camp fee of $150 per week, per child. Session 1 runs June 15-19; Session 2 runs June 22-27; and Session 3 runs June 29 - July 3. Camp meets Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sacred Heart School, 410 North M Street, Lake Worth. For more information, call (561) 582-2242 or visit www.sacredheartschoollakeworth.com. Have your children ever dreamed of calling a last-second, game-winning shot on radio or TV? Now is their chance. The award-winning Sports Broadcasting Camp returns to South Florida this summer. Boys and girls age 10 to 18 can learn from the pros while meeting sports celebrities. Make play-by-play tapes of the Super Bowl, World Series and NBA playoffs. Host your own sports talk radio shows. Make sports anchor videos and ESPN PTI style videos. Participate in the program’s famous camp sports trivia contest, “stump the schwa” contest and much more. Day and overnight options are available. The program runs June 8-12. Call (800) 319-0884 or visit www.playbyplaycamps.com for more information.
March 27 - April 2, 2015
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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Area Athletics Honored At County Hall Of Fame Event
By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report On Sunday, March 22, local high school athletic programs were honored at the 39th annual Palm Beach County Hall of Fame Banquet, presented by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. The event honors professional and amateur athletes and coaches from Palm Beach County. 2014 Seminole Ridge High School graduate Morgan Lauer was among the nominees for the Female High School Athlete of the Year. Lauer played flag football for the two-time state champions and now attends Florida Gulf Coast University as a communications major. “This is my second nomination in a row,” she said. “It’s an honor to be here and be nominated for this award.” Lauer plays flag football for her club team at Florida Gulf Coast as quarterback and receiver. She is one of the most decorated players in the history of flag football in Florida. She racked up 290 passes in 390 attempts for 2,886 yards, a 74 percent completion average. She also threw for 53 touchdowns. Lauer led the Hawks to a 17-1 record and the state finals her senior year. She completed her high school flag football career with 212 touchdowns, two state titles and a third finals appearance. Wellington High School quarterback Shannon Patrick was nominated for Male High School Athlete of the Year. “It’s great to be here with so many great athletes from around the county,” Patrick said. “It’s an
honor to be a part of something great like this.” After compiling 3,438 yards in the air, with 52 touchdowns during the Wolverines’ 2014 season, he committed to the University of Pikeville. Patrick’s ability to throw, along with his leadership, was a big part of the Wolverines’ success, propelling them from a previous 4-6 record to a school best 12-2 final record and the District 9-8A crown. Patrick threw at least two touchdowns in every game in the regular season, and an impressive seven TDs with 406 total yards against Cardinal Newman High School. Patrick also compiled more than 300 yards passing in the district title game against rival Palm Beach Gardens High School, scoring the final touchdown himself. Wellington High School football coach Tom Abel won the Andrews-Ceravolo High School Coach of the Year award. He faced tough competition in Seminole Ridge flag football coach Austin Bowe. Bowe has led the SRHS program to an overall 136-13 record and four state titles. In 2014, the Hawks had an 18-1 record and a state finals appearance. In 2014, Bowe was inducted into the United States Flag & Touch Football League Hall of Fame. He also received the Florida Flag Football Coach of the Year Award two years in a row from the National Federation of State High School Associations. “I’m honored to be here, but it’s more about the players than me,” Bowe said. “This is humbling to be nominated.”
(Left) Wellington head football coach Tom Abel with his award. (Right) Female High School Athlete of the Year nominee Morgan Lauer with Seminole Ridge High School flag football coach Austin Bowe. Winner Tom Abel had back-toback 4-6 seasons as the Wolverines head coach in his first two years. In 2014, he led Wellington to a 12-2 final record, the District 9-8A title and a regional appearance. Abel directed Wellington’s potent aerial attack, tallying more than 2,600 passing yards and averaging over 40 points a game. Defensively, Abel orchestrated a squad that had two shutouts and four times held teams to less than a touchdown. He led the Wolverines to a pivotal 42-15 victory over district foe Seminole Ridge. The win was the first time Abel defeated the Hawks in his eight years with WHS. “It humbles you to be a part of something like this,” he said. “I couldn’t have done this without the help from my staff and the volunteers.”
Wellington head coach Tom Abel with Male High School Athlete of the Year nominee, WHS quarterback Shannon Patrick. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER
Wolverine Lacrosse Squad Falls 15-13 To West Boca
By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School boys lacrosse team played West Boca High School on Thursday, March 19
and fell to the Bulls 15-13. The Wolverines had a brief 2-1 lead just before the end of the first period, but the Bulls tied it at the whistle.
Wellington midfielder Hunter Baron tries to get around a defender.
In the second quarter, Wellington struggled on both sides of the ball, and the Bulls went on a five-goal run to end the first half 7-3. The Wolverines found themselves
down 12-6 by the end of the third period, but found new life and rallied back in the fourth. Wellington’s defense tightened up play, and the offense scored five unanswered
Wellington’s Tyler Etten battles to get by a West Boca defender.
goals on the Bulls to chip away at the West Boca lead, cutting it to 12-8. The Wolverines closed the gap with a pair of goals from Ryan See LACROSSE, page 35
Wellington attacker Ryan Blum shoots on the West Boca goal.
PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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SPORTS & RECREATION
Former Kevin Perkins Golf Academy Student Runner-Up At Honda Classic
Brent Bedwell, Sensei Keith Moore and Ron Martin.
New Genbu-Kai Black Belts
Genbu-Kai Karate is proud to announce the advancement of two adult students to the rank of black belt. Brent Bedwell and Ron Martin were presented their rank of Batto-Do Shodan (first degree black belt). Batto-Do is the Japanese art of cutting with the katana. Bedwell also advanced to the rank of Karate Shodan Ho (preliminary first degree black belt). This initial level recognizes a student’s achievement and they are presented with a plain black belt, with no writing. Six months to a year later,
students are awarded with their full black belt advancement, which includes a black belt with their name on one end, and the organization’s names embroidered on the other end, both in Japanese Kanji. This level also includes their menjo (certificate). Both have been practicing the art for the past five years. Genbu-Kai Karate is located in the Wellington Marketplace shopping plaza. For more information on classes, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www.floridagenbukai.com.
PGA Tour rookie Daniel Berger, 21, is off to a great start, earning more than $1.2 million so far in his first year. His recent runner-up finish at this year’s Honda Classic was a thrill for his fans, friends and family — and for Kevin Perkins, the PGA master professional who took Berger under his wing when he was just 10 years old. “I had the privilege and blessing of getting Danny started in this great game,” said Perkins, who runs the nationally known Kevin Perkins Golf Academy at Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. “Danny’s dad, Jay Berger, brought Danny to me at my golf academy on Key Biscayne in the spring of 2003. Jay said to me, and I remember it very clearly, that
Danny had tried tennis like his dad, and most recently soccer, and that Danny had not fallen in love with either. Jay, who loves golf, wanted to see if golf would be a good fit for Danny. Jay was hoping that Danny would really like golf.” And he did. During that first lesson, Perkins also learned that Jay Berger was a former tennis pro who rose as high as seventh in world rankings. “So, naturally, my immediate thoughts were that Danny, coming from a world-class athletic dad, and someone who understood the developmental process of high achievement and all that it takes, might have a great chance to become a professional golfer. As you could imagine, I was very thrilled to have
the chance to work with Danny,” Perkins said. So, Perkins worked with the younger Berger at least once a week for the next three years. “Jay, along with Danny’s mom Nadia, were amazing parents over that three-year period,” Perkins said. “They always attended his lessons, dropped him daily for his three-hour practice sessions. They were super in helping Danny and really supporting his desire to become a great player. I am so proud of Danny and feel very blessed to have played a role in his current success.” For more information about the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy, visit www.kevinperkinsgolfacademy. com or call (561) 301-3783.
Donors Support Give A Buck For Special Equestrians
Give a Buck for Special Equestrians — a Miami-based nonprofit that supports therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted programs throughout Florida and North Carolina — raised more than $20,000 at the second annual Jump for the Children Pony Derby Classic & Gala held March 6 at the Winter Equestrian Festival at the Palm Beach International Eques-
trian Center in Wellington. Proceeds raised benefit Give a Buck for Special Equestrians and its partner stables in Florida and North Carolina including: the Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center (North Carolina), the Good Hope Equestrian Training Center (Miami), Special Equestrians of the Treasure Coast (Vero Beach), Stable Place (Davie), Naples Equestrian Challenge, the
Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (Loxahatchee Groves) and Whispering Manes (Miami). More than 50 young riders, attired in traditional shadbelly tail coats and breeches, took to the ring to compete in three $5,000 Pony Derby Classics. For more information about Give a Buck, call (305) 608-5350 or visit www.giveabuckeq.org.
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Time For Shopping Therapy!
continued from page 25 salesperson assured me that the items assisted in improving blood flow to promote health naturally,
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SPORTS & RECREATION the head cover had a calming effect and the hoof boots could help blow out abscesses. For humans there were gloves, headbands, hats and wrist wraps. Even if you missed the expo, Dover Saddlery carries their complete line of products. There were Bite Lite fly traps and Riders Sleeves made of cooling fabric: put them on your arms, wet them down, and they have a cooling
effect during any outdoor activity, not just riding. Muck Off all-natural body scrubs, butters and lotions, and Bug Off, a natural insect repellent for people, pets and horses, also were on sale. There were horse gym treadmills, something called Liquid Gold which was said to have a calming effect,
March 27 - April 2, 2015
Golden Gro feed supplements, and Saddle Lockers: portable, rolling stainless steel containers to keep your tack safe at a show. Sportz-Vibe showed off a massage therapy rug for horses with pockets for inserting vibrating strips over the shoulders, back and hind quarters. There was a separate neck
Page 35
piece available. You could even buy just the strips and use them on yourself. I briefly considered getting a couple of strips to help ease my occasionally troublesome back, but the temperature was rapidly dropping. Instead, I wandered off to watch the freestyle, in search of a cup of hot chocolate.
Lacrosse
WHS Falls To West Boca
Wilhemina McEwan shows off a Fenwick Equigear head cover.
continued from page 33 Blum and Logan Rogers to bring the score to 12-10. The teams continued battling, exchanging possession and combining for six more goals late in the fourth quarter, with Blum scoring for Wellington at the final whistle to make the final 15-13. The Wolverines outscored the Bulls 7-3 in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough to overcome the early deficit that haunted them in the second half. Blum tallied an impressive six goals. Rogers is credited with a hat trick and one assist. Attacker Patrick Oporto recorded two goals and an assist. Felipe Caro and Hunter Baron each had a goal. Nester Abad is credited with an assist. Wellington is 3-10 on the season
Attacker Felipe Caro scores a goal for Wellington. and played games against Vero Beach and South Fork this week,
PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER
but results were not available at press time.
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
Saturday, March 28 • Frontier Elementary School will host a Community Spring Bazaar on Saturday, March 28 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with food trucks, local produce, a rummage sale, arts and crafts, and baked goods. Admission is free. Call Tina Malsbury at (561) 904-9900 for more info. • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 283-5856 for more info. • The Palm Beach Chapter of the Rare Fruit Council International will host its bi-annual Tropical Fruit Tree & Plant Sale on Saturday, March 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Agriplex Building at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The sale will offer numerous fruit trees, herbs, spices and more. Admission and parking are free. For more info., visit www.pbrarefruitcouncil.org. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Nature Walk for all ages Saturday, March 28 at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a guided nature walk and learn about local plants and animals. There is no charge, and no reservations are required. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Space Adventure for ages 2 to 6 on Saturday, March 28 at 11 a.m. Explore outer space with stories, songs and crafts. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • Barnes & Noble (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host Duck & Goose Story Time on Saturday, March 28 at 11 a.m. with an activity and snack. Guest hosts will be Big Dog Ranch Rescue with a canine helper. Call (561) 7921292 for more info. • The Palm Beach County Chapter of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers (FAWL) will host a free legal fair on Saturday, March 28 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Belle Glade Civic Center (725 NW 4th St.). Attorneys will be available for a free consultation. E-mail pbcfawl@gmail.com for more info. • The Mall at Wellington Green will celebrate National Red Cross Month on Saturday, March 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. to recognize volunteers who support the Red Cross. For more info., visit www. shopwellingtongreen.com. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Lego Master Builders Club for ages 6 to 12 on Saturday, March 28 at 2:30 p.m. Work on your own projects or join in a game that will test your building skills with fun and funny results. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Anime Club for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, March 28 at 3 p.m. Meet other teens who enjoy watching and talking about anime and share your knowledge about manga. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • A free Tribute to Santana will be held at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center on Palm Beach State College’s Belle Glade Campus at (1977 College Drive) on Saturday, March 28 at 7 p.m. Local vendors will be selling barbecue dinners
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and other items beginning at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket. No alcohol or coolers are permitted. For more info., call (561) 993-1160 or visit www.dollyhand.org. Sunday, March 29 • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a sunrise photo bird walk at the Boynton Beach Inlet (6990 N. Ocean Blvd.) on Sunday, March 29 at 6:45 a.m. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info. • Wellington High School Project Graduation 2015 will host its annual charity golf tournament Sunday, March 29 at the Madison Green Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Registration starts at 7 a.m. with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start. The cost is $100 per golfer or $400 per foursome. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more info., e-mail wellingtonhighpg@gmail.com. • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, March 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket. com or call (561) 792-9260. • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, March 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.acreagegreenmarket. com or call (561) 723-3898. • The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will continue the 2015 polo season on Sunday, March 29 with the 26-goal U.S. Open Polo Championship. For more info., visit www.internationalpoloclub. com or call (561) 204-5687. • The fifth annual “Tyler’s Team” Charity Poker Classic will be held Sunday, March 29 at 1 p.m. at the Palm Beach Kennel Club to benefit the Tyler McLellan Foundation, which helps young athletes in financially stressed families. For more info., call Kevin McLellan at (561) 215-3717 or visit www.tylermclellanfoundation.org. • The sixth annual Friends of Greyhounds Fundraiser hosted by the Horses & Hounds Charitable Foundation will take place Sunday, March 29 from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at Hounds & Horses Farm (11399 Piping Plover Road, Homeland) with a Medieval horse show, professional dog portrait photography, food, beverages and a silent auction. Well-behaved dogs are invited to be part of the doggie show. Call Jeri Caprio at (954) 673-0706 for more info. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Golden Dragon Acrobats in Cirque Ziva on Sunday, March 29 at 6 p.m. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org. Monday, March 30 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Pajamarama Story Time: Who Likes Pizza?” for ages 3 to 6 plus siblings Monday, March 30 at 6:30 p.m. Join in for a delicious story time filled with yummy stories and songs about pizza. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts
(701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Michael Feinstein Conducts the Kravis Center Pops Orchestra on Monday, March 30 at 8 p.m. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org. Tuesday, March 31 • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host “Science for Seniors: Marine Ecology” for ages 50 and up Tuesday, March 31 at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $5 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 to RSVP. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Card Gamers Club for all ages Tuesday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m. Play Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokémon, Magic and other collectible card games. Bring your deck, box or binder, and come with a friend or make a new one. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host a Family Movie Night under the stars on Tuesday, March 31 at 7 p.m. in the store’s parking lot. Admission is free and open to the public. Food and drinks will be for sale with proceeds benefiting the Whole Planet Foundation. For more info., call (561) 904-4000. • Wellington’s Charter Review Task Force will conduct a public forum on Tuesday, March 31 at 7 p.m. in the Wellington Village Council Chambers (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). For more info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present The Australian Bee Gees Show, a multimedia theatrical concert experience, on Tuesday, March 31 at 8 p.m. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org. Wednesday, April 1 • The Gardens Conservancy at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens (2051 South Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach) will host Beyond the Garden Gates, an exhibition of Ann Norton’s charcoal and pastel studies for her iconic gateway structures, Wednesday through Saturday, April 1-4. Visit www.ansg.org or call (561) 832-5328 for info. • American Legion Auxiliary Unit #367 of Royal Palm Beach will meet Wednesday, April 1 at 10 a.m. at the Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves). For more info., call Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Frank Ferrante in “An Afternoon With Groucho” on Wednesday, April 1 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. as part of the Adults at Leisure series. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www. kravis.org. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host American Girl: Grace Thomas for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, April 1 at 4 p.m. Work with others to make and decorate sugar cookies or peanut butter cookies. Learn about Grace’s family business and how she is making a difference in people’s lives. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.
The Town-Crier • GFour Productions will present Menopause the Musical in 24 performances April 1-19 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Visit www. kravis.org for more info. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present “Cesar Millan Live!” on Wednesday, April 1 at 8 p.m. Millan will reveal the secrets of happier, healthier relationships between humans and their canine companions in his live show, joined by his famous four-legged companion, Junior. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will hold registration for RPB’s Crazy 8s Math Club for Grades K-2 on Wednesday, April 1 at 10 a.m. Once a week, children, with their parents or guardians, will be introduced to mathematical concepts in fun and innovative ways. The club meets for eight weeks on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. starting April 30. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Thursday, April 2 • The Okeeheelee Nature Center will present Story Time for ages 2 to 5 on Thursday, April 2 at 10 a.m. The cost is $2 per child. Class activities may include live animals, games, nature walks and/or crafts designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Call (561) 233-1400 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host AARP Tax Help on Thursdays, April 2 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. AARP volunteers will provide individualized help to taxpayers with low and moderate incomes, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Bring current tax documents and last year’s tax return. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Food Truck Invasion on Thursday, April 2 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Winter is Coming: A Game of Thrones Crafting Adventure” for ages 12 and up Thursday, April 2 at 6 p.m. Get ready for the next season of Game of Thrones by crafting a personalized character Cubeecraft and house sigil popcorn container. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers Critique Workshop on Thursday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve your fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere led by Caryn DeVincenti, regional director of the Florida Writers’ Association. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Friday, April 3 • Chabad of Royal Palm Beach will host Pesach Seders for the community on Friday, April 3 and Saturday, April 4 at 8 p.m. Call (561) 2251766, e-mail info@jewishroyalpalm.com or visit www.jewishroyalpalm.com for more info. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
A/C AND REFRIGERATION
ROOFING
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
ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.
CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your apartment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012-252779
SCREENING
HOUSE CLEANING
HOME IMPROVEMENTS 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
NEW FLOORING
TREE SERVICE TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com
WALLPAPERING
WATER SUPPLY & TREATMENT
PLUMBING JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458
PRESSURE CLEANING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com
TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY
TENNESSEE LAND FOR SALE TENNESSEE LAND — 12 Acres for sale in Equestrian neighborhood with 3 miles of riding trails. Call Dixon Te a m K e l l e r W i l l i a m s 4 2 3 - 8 8 3 - 0 6 5 6
FOR SALE BELLINI BABY FURNITURE — Two Baby Cribs with Mattresses $225 each. One Rocker/Recliner $150. All used one year. Call 229-220-5293. Wellington.
TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS— Located behind Al Packer West off Southern Blvd. Tires for autos, trucks and commercial vehicles. 561-790-7228. 587 105 Ave. N. Unit 28, Royal Palm Beach.
PAINTING
COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. Residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident
FOR RENT - GREENACRES ROOMMATE TO SHARE — 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment - Purdy & Jog Road. $550 per month. Looking for under 35 years old. 954-296-3748
AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990
BUY IT HERE FLOORING — Kitchen and Bath. Now available. Complete one stop shopping. Stop on By! Pike Road - Between Southern and Belvedere. West Palm Beach - Open 7 Days!!! 561-333-2300
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
REAL ESTATE
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263
J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com
LOOKING TO RENT IN WELLINGTON/ R O YA L PA L M B E A C H 3 / 2 U N D E R $1,600 — with pets, 2 adults. Please call 561-714-8984. Needed by May 1st.
SECURITY
JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio re-screening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com
RELIABLE HOME CLEANING — Experienced, local references, pet sitting, house sitting available. 561-572-1782.
LOOKING TO RENT
SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600
COMPUTER REPAIR
DRIVEWAY REPAIR
EMPLOYMENT
ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207
D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.
D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. L i c.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716
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WELL WATER AND CITY WATER — Supply, Service and water treatment. 561-7845210. Loxahatchee Irrigation Supply Inc.
FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE Legal Notice No. 588 Notice Under Fictitious Name Florida Statute 865.09 Public notice is hereby given that the undersigned desires to engage in business under the fictitious name of:
Tammy Mager DBA Best Services
TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606 BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours. Please fax resume to 561-791-0952
Drivers: New Pay! $2,500 Sign-On Bonus! Consistent Freight, Great MIles on This Regional Account, Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488 CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL SHELL SUPERINTENDENT — Experience required. Good pay/Good Benefits. Call 954-444-4664. EXPERIENCED PIANO ACCOMPANIST NEEDED FOR MONDAY REHEARSALS 7 P.M. 9 P.M. — The Palmer Singers at Wellington. Call Edward Palmer Conductor for details regarding fee, type of music and location. 561-659-3641.
Located at:
PRE-SCHOOL ASSISTANT NEEDED PARTTIME 1:00 to 6:00 p.m Monday - Friday — Experience preferred. Please call 561-790-0808
County of Palm Beach, Florida and intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations State of Florida,forthwith
T U TO R I N G — S o c i a l M e d i a Tu t o r Needed to help tutor adult with; LinkedIn, Tw i t t e r, I n s t a g r a m , P i n t e r e s t , e t c . $15.00 per hour. Call Leslie. 215-4724
3637 Daphne Ave. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Jason Hall Publish :Town-Crier Newspapers Date: 3-27-15
PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 561-793-7606
HIRING DOGWALKERS!! — We’re a Growing company and have clients waiting in Loxahatchee, Wellington and the surrounding areas. Pay starts at $8 per 15 minutes (Awesome!!) We only work with adults who LOVE animals. Please see our website Dogsgowalking.com and click the left hand link “Join Our Team” for an application. Best of Luck, were excited to hear from you. WANTED PART-TIME OFFICE ASSISTANT/ SECRETARY — Looking for motivated part-timer (15-20 hours/week ) for a small 2 person business in Wellington, FL $15/ hour. Involves clerical, phone answering and minor bookkeeping (Invoicing). Please email resume to dale@floridagreenpestcontrol.com Bilingual (Spanish/English) helpful
PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S
WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE
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March 27 - April 2, 2015 Page 41
HERE’S MY CARD
Lic & Insured CFC057392, CAC1817688
SEPTIC & DRAINFIELD SPECIALISTS
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H E R E ’ S M Y CA R D
CGC023814
Niagara Contracting Service Home Repairs Remodelng to Rebuild Minor Repairs
Tile • Drywall • Painting • Window • Door • Installation
Lic. Ins.
561-329-9086
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PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
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March 27 - April 2, 2015
SIX great schools educating students in Palm Beach!
Why Choose Charter Schools USA? • Tuition-free public charter schools • Personal Learning Plans • Before and after care • Character education and leadership • Meaningful parental involvement • Certified, dedicated teachers
APPLY ONLINE TODAY!
Renaissance Charter School at Wellington Renaissance Charter School at Cypress Renaissance Charter School at Central Palm Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Renaissance Charter School at Palms West Renaissance Charter School at Summit
K-7 K-7 K-7 K-8 K-8 K-8
www.CharterSchoolsUSA.com
WellingtonCharter.org CypressCharter.org CentralPalmCharter.org WestPalmCharter.org PalmsWestCharter.org RECSSummit.org
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