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BEWARE FP&L-RELATED PHONE SCAM SEE STORY, PAGE 3

BENEFIT FOR COPELAND DAVIS SEPT. 14 SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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INSIDE Despite Some Doubts, Equestrian Committee OKs Vet Office Change

Volume 34, Number 34 August 23 - August 29, 2013

STUDENTS HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL

Members of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Committee recommended approval last Wednesday of an ordinance that could make veterinary offices a permitted use in certain parts of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area. Page 3

Royal Palm Making Plans To Respond To FEMA Flood Maps

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council is making headway in its plans to respond to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s new flood maps, which place most of the western communities in a flood zone. Page 7

Palm Beach County students headed back to school from summer vacation on Monday, Aug. 19, and the Town-Crier visited several area schools opening day. (Above) Carrington Brown, Pauline Henry and Dana Creel outside Western Pines Middle School in The Acreage. (Inset) Kelsey and Breezy Sterner get ready to start the new year at Binks Forest Elementary School in Wellington. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5

Bull McCabe’s Irish Pub Ready To Open

Costco Donates To Lox Groves Elementary

Costco Wholesale in Royal Palm Beach presented Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School with 400 backpacks on Friday, Aug. 16 at the school. Page 10

OPINION ‘Cancer Cluster’ Return Likely To Divide Acreage

Four years ago, the spotlight was turned on The Acreage through a high-profile investigation into a “cancer cluster.” Much testing was done and no explanation was found. Once again, concerns have been raised, this time by a law firm representing a handful of clients. Though it is important to seek the truth in these allegations, the community must not allow itself to be divided once again. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 10 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 PEOPLE ............................... 13 NEWS BRIEFS..................... 14 COLUMNS .................... 21 - 22 BUSINESS .................... 23 - 25 ENTERTAINMENT ................ 26 CALENDAR ................... 30 - 31 SPORTS ........................ 33 - 35 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 32 - 37 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

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RPB Council Seeks Better Control Of Aquatic Weeds By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week demanded that its aquatic weed contractor do a better job maintaining village canals. At the council’s meeting Thursday, Aug. 15, Councilman Jeff Hmara said the canal conditions are not as bad as last summer, but that the contractor still has a long way to go. “Last year’s deplorable canal conditions by comparison to conditions this year, are still not acceptable,” Hmara said. Many village canals are congested with weeds and floating plant material that do not seem to go away despite efforts by the contractor. Bob Carter of Pepper Tree Crescent, who had complained about the situation at a previous council meeting, said the vegetation in the

M-1 Canal behind his home floats back and forth, getting stuck against the floodgate that opens to the C-51 Canal. “If we have a hurricane, that lock might not work properly,” Carter said. “A year went by, and we have just as much stuff there today as we did then. The contractor didn’t do his job.” Leslie Horowitz of Rivera Avenue, who said she was speaking for a half-dozen of her La Mancha neighbors, complained that the level of the canal behind their houses was way too high. “If we get a hurricane, we’re going to be flooded,” Horowitz said, adding that growth on the edge of the canal is 6 feet high in places and that there have been issues with water rats on her property. Mayor Matty Mattioli said the issue will be addressed by the See AQUATIC WEEDS, page 4

CAFCI TALENT SHOW

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ AND STEPHANIE JOYCE/TOWN-CRIER

ITID Board Narrows List Of District Manager Candidates By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District narrowed its list of district manager candidates to eight Wednesday and set interviews for Sept. 3 and 4 at 4 p.m. The list of finalists was drawn up by taking those applicants who had at least two favorable votes from board members. The list includes Peggy Bertsche, Donald Cooper, William Gotthelf, Robert Halfel, David Harvell, Marjorie Perez, Jamie Titcomb and Special District Services. Supervisor Gary Dunkley said he would like to make the position an employee of the district rather than a contracted position. “I would like to make a motion to make the manager an employee, so we have more control, more flexibility,” Dunkley said. “Like I stated previously, we have had very little luck with contract managers, and I would

like to make it where this employee of the district has a six-month probation.” Human relations attorney Lara Donlon noted that although the district has had managers in the past with contracts, they were still ITID employees. “There is no requirement that you have a contract with a district manager, but they’re still an employee either way,” Donlon said. Dunkley said he does not want the district to sign a contact with the new employee. “I do not want any contracts,” he said. “They are our employees, and we do not have to buy out any contract. We have guidelines, we have policies that the board sets for them to follow, and we do not have to be encumbered by buying them out.” Donlon pointed out that one of the candidates on the list is a corporation, which would likely require a contract.

ITID Vice President Carol Jacobs suggested that the contract could be written differently than it was with former District Administrator Tanya Quickel, who had a separation clause if the board chose to dismiss her without cause. “We could put language in it that would protect the district,” she said. Dunkley agreed. “It was on the side of the employee, and I don’t want that done again,” he said. Jacobs said that the salary of the manager should be less than what previous administrators had made. “Before we even notify the candidates, we need to discuss salary, because some might not even want to come in,” Jacobs said. “We need to discuss what salary we’re going to pay.” Supervisor Michelle Damone said she would rather have Donlon discuss salary with the candiSee ITID MANAGER, page 16

Wellington Asks Residents To Take ‘Budget Challenge’ By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington residents are encouraged to take the village’s budget challenge and have their voices heard on how tax dollars should be spent. The budget challenge kicked off this week and is available online at www.whatsupwellington.org. “We’re hoping to engage as many residents as possible through outlets like social media and our web site,” Wellington Chief Financial Officer Tanya Quickel told the Town-Crier Wednesday.

The budget challenge is a survey that asks residents to rate how they believe Wellington should spend its money, with answers ranging from supporting, remaining neutral and not supporting, as well as an “other” slot with the ability to write in answers. There are also yes or no questions, with options for “neutral” and “other.” Responders remain anonymous, Quickel said. There are about a dozen questions, with room for general comments. The topics vary from raising Acme Improvement District assessments to improve drainage, to

satisfaction with the parks and recreation amenities and with law enforcement. Residents are also asked to rate how safe they feel in the community, and to rank their priorities for spending village funds. Quickel said the information will help Wellington officials finalize the budget. “The answers will be accumulated and presented to council members and staff, who will use it to gauge the community’s feelings,” she said. Last month, council members set See BUDGET, page 16

Caribbean Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) presented its 2013 Youth Talent Showcase Stars of Tomorrow on Saturday, Aug. 17 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Shown here, Majesty Smith sings. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 17 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Groves Council: Legalize Back Access To Plaza By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Although the access road from Tangerine Blvd. to Loxahatchee Groves Plaza is not legal, it appears to be commonly used by local customers. To fix the glitch, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council directed town management Tuesday to negotiate with the plaza’s owner to make the entry legitimate from the plaza to Tangerine Drive and West D Road. The shopping center is located on Southern Blvd., just west of D Road, and is also the location of the town’s offices. Tenants there were cited earlier this year for several code infractions, but in March, the council directed Town Manager Mark Kutney to ease up on code enforcement efforts related to the shopping plaza. “After that direction, the owner came to meet with me, and I advised him that the town council

has asked me to stand down, and we weren’t making any requirements of him,” Kutney said, adding that plaza owner Kan Yee said he wanted to proceed with the requirements. Kutney said Yee had asked him what he needed to do to mitigate code issues, and Kutney said he told him the town’s primary concern from a liability standpoint was with the conditions placed on the plaza when it was approved by Palm Beach County in 1983, including that no access would be permitted onto Tangerine Road or West D Road. “As the owner, he faces liabilities if something happens,” Kutney said. “The town could face liabilities in terms of not enforcing the conditions. I dropped it at that point. Anything Mr. Yee wants to do at this point, he’s doing without any consultation or requests from me.” Kutney said he had received a See PLAZAACCESS, page 4

Municipal Managers Highlight ‘State Of Cities’ Lunch

Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins speaks as Wellington Assistant Village Manager John Bonde looks on at Tuesday’s Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce luncheon. PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Representatives of Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Loxahatchee Groves and the Indian Trail Improvement District were among nine managers and administrators speaking at the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s State of the Cities luncheon Tuesday at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Wellington Assistant Village Manager John Bonde noted that Wellington was the first masterplanned community in the county, and he believes it turned out well. “It has changed, and we think that it’s changing for the better,” he said. “It’s bigger than it used to be,” Bonde said. “We’re now at about 57,000 people. I remem-

ber when it was 1,500 people.” He said the cornerstones for the future of Wellington are to protect its investments, respect the environment, promote sustainable economic development and provide responsive customer service to residents and those who do business with Wellington. Bonde said Wellington has narrowed its service model to “core” services that must be provided that are either statutorily mandated or necessary, such as police protection, and “more” services such as recreation. “We’re not the typical government,” he said. “Sometimes you can use better tools to do the job. In the case of some governments, a bigger approach is not necessarily the best approach. I think you can get a lot more done with less.”

Wellington, like every entity in the county, suffered through a prolonged economic downturn, and as a result, the village changed its model of government to reduce the budget, including reducing the number of employees through attrition. “One of the things we have to realize, and I think that our council has been very good about, is understanding that it’s not just a vision of what you want, but what are people willing to pay for,” Bonde said. He said Wellington has great neighborhoods, great schools and great parks. “We work with the chamber, actually two chambers, and we look to the business community to kind of give us guidance on what See CHAMBER, page 7

Page 2 August 23 - August 29, 2013

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NEWS

Despite Doubts, Equestrian Committee OKs Vet Office Change By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Members of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Committee recommended approval last Wednesday of an ordinance that could make veterinary offices a permitted use in certain parts of the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area. The request was brought by Palm Beach Equine Clinic and would change the master plan to make veterinary clinics a permitted use in the portion of the Equestrian Preserve Area stretching from Lake Worth Road north to Pierson Road and from 120th Avenue South west to Palm Beach Point. The clinic has been at its current location on Pierson Road since 1983. However, Wellington’s current code does not allow veterinary clinics in the area.

Though committee members expressed concerns that the master plan change could open the door for more clinics in what is largely a residential area, they agreed to move the item forward to Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board. Wellington Planner Cory Cramer said village staff had worked with representatives from Palm Beach Equine to set some additional standards and address concerns raised at the committee’s July 31 meeting. “We feel we have addressed your concerns,” she said. Changes included requiring an amendment to the planned-unitdevelopment master plan by the Wellington Village Council to include vet clinics as an approved use in select residential areas, requiring that the clinics comply with

Equestrian Preserve commercial development standards and additional standards for quarantine facilities and landscaping. Attorney Janna Lhota, representing resident Victoria McCullough, called the measure an “expansion of commercial uses” in the area. Though she said her client supports the clinic and its desire to expand, Lhota expressed concerns that the changes would apply to the entire area, opening it up for similar uses. “Our concern is that the village [is] considering a text amendment to the [Equestrian Preserve] regulations, which would affect hundreds of residential [parcels], to correct a legal non-conformity on a 3-acre piece of property,” she said. Committee Chair Cynthia Gard-

ner asked whether a variance for the clinic property had been considered. Lhota said it had, but she noted that the applicant wanted to bring the property in line with Wellington’s code. “They don’t want to run into problems in the future,” she said. Lhota said she proposed using a provision under Wellington’s code that allows for a one-time limited expansion for properties that don’t conform with village code. But Cramer said it was not possible to give a property owner a variance for the use of the property. She noted variances are used typically to green-light structures that do not meet village codes, but are already built. “The issue is not with the structures on the property,” she said. “The issue is that the [veterinarian clinic] is a non-conforming use.”

Growth Management Director Bob Basehart agreed. “If it were the structures that were the issue, that wouldn’t be a problem,” he said. “However, the code strictly prohibits — and I believe state law strictly prohibits — the granting of a use variance.” Gardner asked him for further explanation. “They’re not changing it from being a vet clinic,” she said. But Basehart explained that a vet clinic was currently not allowed in that area. “They would be expanding a use that is not allowed under the code,” he said. Village Attorney Laurie Cohen explained that even if the clinic was given a variance, it would still not be allowed under the code, which could cause future problems. “If there was a fire or something of that nature, [the clinic] would

not be able to rebuild,” she said. “The whole point in trying to get it to a conforming use is to make it allowed under any circumstances.” John Schmidt, representing Palm Beach Equine, said the clinic wants to come into compliance with village code. “If there were any sort of catastrophic issue with the property, we couldn’t rebuild,” he said. “We want to add a vet clinic as a permitted use in a residential district. I would think that would be something this board would promote.” Schmidt said the change would not necessarily lead to a proliferation of vet clinics. “It would require a master plan amendment that would go before your board, the zoning board and the Wellington Village Council,” he said. “If someone wanted to See VET CLINICS, page 16

FP&L ‘Power Usage’ Phone Scam Not The Only One Going Around By Anne Checkosky Town-Crier Staff Report Beware of a Florida Power & Light-related telephone scam that may be targeting customers in the western communities. Laurelle Balog of Loxahatchee’s Deer Run neighborhood received a call on Aug. 12 that just didn’t ring right with her. The woman who called Balog said inspectors would be in her area doing power usage assessments for the state because of a rate increase that FP&L was awarded. “When I asked if it was FP&L, they kept saying I needed to make

an appointment for the inspection. That didn’t sit right,” Balog said. The woman never claimed to work directly for FP&L but intimated her company was working hand-in-hand with the energy company and the state. When she asked about the purpose of the inspections, Balog was told it was to give recommendations on improving energy efficiency. “She said your bills are $250 a month. I asked, ‘Do you have my records in front of you?’” Balog said. The woman didn’t answer her direct question but claimed that customers’ average monthly elec-

tric bills are more than $125 for more than six months of the year. Balog said she pays less than $100 a month for electricity, even though she lives in an 8,000square-foot home, because she keeps her thermostat on 82 and has gas appliances. Finally, Balog asked the woman for a phone number, so she could call FP&L to make sure the inspection was legitimate. The woman hung up. She sounded official, but Balog just knew there was something off about the whole thing. “It was unnerving,” Balog said, “because you don’t know if they

are fishing to find out when you’re not going to be home or they are targeting you to try and sell you something.” Also bothersome, the woman claimed to live in the area but couldn’t pronounce “Loxahatchee,” Balog added. She was right to trust her instincts. “It’s definitely a scam,” said Heather Kirkendall, an FP&L spokeswoman. Unfortunately, it’s not a new scam or even the only one that’s active in the state right now. “There’s always a number of scams throughout the state,” Kirkendall said, including one target-

ing customers in Miami that urges them to pay their bills using a prepaid card. “If you’re in doubt [about a call], hang up and call us to verify,” Kirkendall recommended. She also recommends alerting local law enforcement. Kirkendall said to be on the lookout for other red flags, including phone numbers you don’t recognize. In Balog’s case, the number from the woman who called her showed up as zeroes on her caller ID. Kirkendall suggested customers visit www.fpl.com/protect for more information. All the latest scams

are listed there, including recent or new scams and steps customers can take to protect themselves. Also, remember that FP&L will never come to a home without making arrangements ahead of time, solicit personal information over the phone unless you initiate the contact, send e-mail threatening to close an account if you don’t divulge personal information or send employees to homes offering cash refunds on deposits or electric charges. Balog has one additional piece of advice: “Don’t tell anybody when you’re not going to be home,” she said.

RPB Zoners OK Change At Baptist Church To Allow More Parking By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of a small-scale land-use amendment Monday for 1.53 acres owned by the First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach, located on the north side of Okeechobee Blvd. The change from multifamily high-density residential to commercial use will allow for additional parking at the church. The property, which runs along the north side of the church, was owned by the village and was sold

to the church last August. The village’s entry sign is to the east, a Florida Power & Light easement is to the west and a portion of the La Mancha neighborhood abuts the north property line. Baseball fields and other public property are across Okeechobee Blvd. to the south. The land also is near a well field that hasn’t been in use since the village sold its water utility to Palm Beach County, Site Plan Coordinator Kevin Erwin said. The site will utilize the existing stormwater outfall serving the site toward the west and into an existing pond owned by the village in

the FPL easement, he added. Jan Polson with the planning firm Cotleur & Hearing, representing the church, said one provision of the village’s sale of the land to the church was that it would seek a land-use and zoning change. When the property was sold to the church, it was pointed out that the parcel was landlocked and there was hardly any other potential use for it, Polson said. Erwin pointed out that the village sent notices to property owners immediately north of the site and that the proposal was publicized. The owner of the house

north of the lot attended a meeting, and the church agreed to put up a fence to block access from Bilbao Street, he said. Commissioner Joseph Boyle asked whether any conditions were demanded when the village sold the land, and Polson said a deed restriction limited it to a nonprofit use or public purpose. “You are saying you want to put up a parking lot?” Boyle asked. Village Attorney Brad Biggs said the transaction has both a purchase and sale agreement specifying that they are going to join the two parcels, as well as a quit-

claim deed that said it has to be used as a religious property. “It kind of takes away a lot of the concepts people might have about [commercial] property when they know it’s just going to be joined up with the rest of the church parcel,” Biggs said. Boyle asked whether buildings could be put on the property, and Biggs said he did not think that was anticipated, but that whatever could work on the site plan with setbacks would be considered. “It will be platted, and that 1.53 acres would be platted with the rest of the parcel,” Biggs said.

“Whatever would work inside that box could then operate.” Polson said her client was preparing the site plan, but that the area under discussion is designated for parking. “The current plan does show parking in that area, and I believe it is a grass parking area,” she said. “Most of the buildings that we have been working with the architect on are in similar locations to where the previous approval was, and that is up front, adjacent to the current sanctuary.” Commission Vice Chair Richard Becher made a motion to approve the application, which carried 5-0.

Page 4 August 23 - August 29, 2013

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OUR OPINION

Don’t Let Return Of The ‘Cancer Cluster’ Divide The Acreage More than four years ago, the spotlight was turned on The Acreage through a high-profile investigation into a “cancer cluster.” After years of testing, it was determined that rates of pediatric brain cancer were somewhat higher than would be expected in a community the size of The Acreage. However, there were only a handful of cases considered in the finding, and the finding could have been a statistical anomaly or a coincidence. More testing was done and no explanation was found for the anomaly. The water was declared safe to drink after filtration. But by the time the long fog had lifted, The Acreage found itself bitterly divided on the issue. Some wanted answers, no matter the cost. Others pointed out that the investigation left local property values in tatters. The sad truth, confirmed then and now by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, is that the cause of most “cancer clusters” is never found. Cases where an entire community is poisoned — such as the California case which made Erin Brockovich famous — are rare. (Not coincidentally, Brockovich was a key player in theAcreage investigation four years ago.) Most “cancer clusters” reside in a gray area of uncomfortable non-resolution. Yet once again, concerns about the cancer rates in the community have been raised, this time by a law firm representing nine clients, most of them former Acreage residents with victims of cancer in their families. The lawsuit puts the blame on industrial practices of Pratt & Whitney and Palm Beach Aggregates. (Not coincidentally, two of the largest firms operating in central Palm Beach County.) Though it is important to seek the truth in these new allegations, the community must not

allow itself to be divided once again. The most recent lawsuit, announced this week, reopens the still sore wounds that the community has only just begun to heal. There is still much information to be released on the new allegations from the law firm. Palm Beach County Health Department officials have expressed skepticism about the information, but noted they had not yet received the entire study. More information is expected in the coming weeks, as the law firm seeks class-action status on behalf of the community. It is unfortunate that the issue is being raised again at a time when The Acreage has many other matters to tackle, but the safety of the community is paramount. Health officials have pledged to retrace their steps and look again at the studies done in The Acreage several years ago. Meanwhile, more information released by the law firm could bring new issues to light. Though it is important to be diligent in making sure the community is safe, it is not time to panic. Cooler heads must prevail, though the issue is emotional for many. To those who feel returning to the issue is futile and damaging, take heart in the fact that the outcome will likely be the same. To those who want answers no matter the cost, we understand that desire, but don’t get your hopes up too high. We must not point fingers at victims. Furthermore, we must remember that though our neighbors may have differences of opinion on the matter, we are all in this together. The only way to get past whatever may lie ahead is to rally and support our neighbors and The Acreage community.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Unger Supports Councilman Matt Willhite

In a recent letter to the TownCrier, Steve Haughn made numerous statements that fly in the face of public records. In his attempt to denigrate Councilman Matt Willhite, he accuses our councilman of being the “voice of no and negativity,” yet voting records of the council show Vice Mayor Howard Coates having the most dissenting votes, followed by Councilwoman Anne Gerwig, not Willhite, and that goes back to 2010. Yes, Willhite was against giving away the premier village-owned piece of property (K-Park) for a state university, and history has

proven him correct. The university will be close to Wellington, but Wellington will not be affected by traffic and a requirement for more services. Instead, the property, recently appraised between $9 and $14 million, might be developed for equestrian recreation and other facilities adding to our tax base, and perhaps keeping a bit of open space. Also, Willhite supported having the county’s inspector general and voted to get Wellington out of the lawsuit against this important watchdog. More currently, Willhite has been a strong advocate of not commercializing the Equestrian Preserve and putting an obtrusive hotel in the middle of horse country. This will save our community

from traffic congestion and millions to widen South Shore Blvd. to accommodate the commercialization, which was never considered by the previous council when they approved the commercialization. Furthermore, Willhite believes (as we all should) that all construction should be preceded by proper permitting and timely applications, something that an equestrian developer has neglected to do, which only recently, he once more displayed disdain for proper permitting, having poured 5,000 pounds of concrete for lighting and temporary power, installed without permitting, in violation of village code and safety concerns. Can you imagine if a private homeowner did this, continually,

and then claims the village is picking on him? Although Mr. Haughn would have you believe that this is recent, the truth is that problems existed with violations and lawsuits going back more than a dozen years — Palm Beach Polo and now Wellington Equestrian Partners. This is nothing new. Finally, I would suggest that Mr. Haughn kindly review the election results, where he might find that overwhelmingly, Willhite got more votes than any other person who ran in our last election. That’s positive, in my accounting. That would demonstrably mean that Wellingtonians supported Councilman Willhite, by voting him into office again, and his basic beliefs, bringing up his family here, and devoting his time to us.

Yes, we all can hope for better relations from our elected officials and management, but dissension is nothing new, and we can hope for an accommodation between the equestrian develop-

er and our council that insures no negative impact for the Equestrian Preserve and our village. George Unger Wellington

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

Will The Storied Drive-In Movie Industry Survive Latest Technology? Since our readers are often split between varying time constraints in which to consider monumental problems, here is a relatively easy one to ponder. Will the drive-in movie industry of yore survive the latest technology? The problem? It costs some $70,000 to convert from a traditional film projector to today’s digital projectors. Drive-in theaters will

Aquatic Weeds

Council Is Not Happy

continued from page 1 Public Works Department, but pointed out that the primary purpose of the canals is drainage. “Those canals were built not to water ski, not to boat, not to swim,” Mattioli said. “They were put there for flood control. If you recall, the last rainstorm that we had, the Village of Royal Palm Beach was the only city that I can recall in Palm Beach County that was dry.” Public Works Director Paul Webster said that since the council’s last meeting, canal conditions have improved. “The channels are open and passable,” Webster said. “There are still issues that are being addressed along several areas of the system with grasses along the shoreline.” He said the department is also trying to address algae growth, the green or brown foamy floating vegetation.

Plaza Access

Legalize Alternate Entrance?

continued from page 1 strongly worded e-mail from British Feed Co. owner Tim HartWoods, a tenant of the plaza, alleging that Kutney ordered the access road cut off. “They are talking about not complying with the condition anyway,” Kutney said. “They are talking about just closing off the road at night and still using it. I have no intention of doing anything unless the town council directs me.”

Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin soon only be able to operate on

the new digital projection system. This year is the 80th anniversary since a guy named Richard Hollingshead secured a patent for a “novel construction outdoor theater whereby the transportation facilities to and from the theater are made to constitute an element of the seating.” The first such movie theater opened in New Jersey, and some old-timers might

even remember the outdoor version of movies like Grease. There were 4,063 drive-ins operating in 1958. Today, the estimated total remaining is fewer than 360! It is rather certain that not every drive-in will successfully make the switch to installing the new projectors. Many drive-ins are just too small to turn a decent profit after such a capital investment.

And historically, banks have been reticent in lending to this evershrinking industry, despite the fact that it very often ranks among the top 10 theaters in box office sales for a given movie. Some drive-in operators are trying to build an upscale concession menu, including wine and beer, etc. to jazz up their venue. One entrepreneur is even seeking to stage

live concerts that could be simulcast to other digitally equipped drive-ins. Perhaps old-fashioned American ingenuity will come to the rescue and solve the conundrum. I still remember my good old days in the rumble seat, and even relaxing on top of the car, at night, to watch a movie. Yes, they were fun times!

“We have a lot of brown, foamy stuff floating out there,” Hmara said. “Last year, when it was really bad, we saw some harvesting equipment out there to clean that up. I’m not sure whether that is an approach that ought to be taken. I understand that’s an extreme, manpower-intensive kind of thing, but it’s a pretty dire situation we have again for the second year in a row.” Webster said the floating debris is dead plant material that comes up through the treatment process. “It’s called harvesting, but it is really skimming the floating debris,” he said. “They have been removing the floating debris. It’s just a matter of the treatment system in those areas that were getting bad this year.” Webster said that he believes the situation will get better soon. “We recognize that the system is not where it needs to be, but we believe that the contract, minus the failings that we had this year, is a workable solution,” he said.

NEWS “Those are the issues, and they are all being addressed by the contractor,” Webster said, pointing out that the measures put in place were not working as quickly as some might have wished. Mattioli asked whether anything is being done to remove the floating vegetation, and Webster said one of the changes in the contract last year was to require the company to remove the floating vegetation in canals that the village maintains, pointing out that the M-1 Canal is under Indian Trail Improvement District jurisdiction. When he asked ITID officials about skimming the floating vegetation in the M-1 Canal, they were not cooperative, although they use the same contractor as the village. “Can we annex it?” Mattioli quipped. “That’s not a question for me to answer,” Webster responded. Village Manager Ray Liggins said vegetation in the canals has been an ongoing issue for years. “The contractor that we have

on board now, we have confidence that it has the know-how to get this under control and keep the vegetation growth to a minimum,” he said. “Still, with every contract, it’s good to have some verification processes in there. Last year, when we were dealing with this contractor, we did put some verification methods in there that required a little bit of additional reporting and inspecting.” Liggins pointed out that in March and April, they started noticing heightened growth in some areas that was exceeding acceptable levels. “The fortunate thing is that this year’s contract that was modified last October, we were able to go back and verify what the contractor did or did not do,” Liggins said. “We did have a section that was not treated as aggressively as it should have been earlier in the year, and resulted in more growth than we would like. In the ideal world, we would have caught that immediately.” Liggins said he thought that the

revised contract with improved reporting will go a long way toward improving the village’s aquatic weed control. “The more immediate verification process in place, and the attention that we’ve gotten with the contractor is our best shot going forward for next summer,” he said. “Because of our confidence in the company’s ability, we’ve got to get the operation as good as the ability, and we think we’re a lot closer than we’ve been in dealing with this in the last decade, and we’d like to give that a try for this next year.” Councilman David Swift said that he expected more people at the meeting to complain about canal conditions than the dozen or so who attended. “I’m looking for significant improvement in the management of this contract, or I won’t be voting for it again,” he said. “I really wouldn’t have someone else take it over because you really do have expertise, but this reporting issue has got to get better.”

Swift said he would like to see more regular reporting to the council on the status of canals, and tours of the canals by the contractor on where they feel they are doing a good job, as well as areas they feel are in bad shape. “We have a lot of residents who are not happy at all. I have a degree in aquatic biology. I understand the issues you guys are up against,” Swift said. “You’re up against a very high rainfall period, lots of nutrients coming in from our properties, plus The Acreage’s drainage — a lot of their nutrients come our way, too. It’s not an easy job, and I understand that, but it must get better.” Swift said water quality in the canals is a big deal for the residents. “Many people live on the water, and they bought there for a certain reason, and they’re not happy campers,” he said. Hmara declared that he had difficulty continuing with a contractor when it has shown bad performance for two consecutive years.

Councilman Jim Rockett did not favor granting access. “As far as the condition of use of property that was granted by the county, I think we should have no access to those roads as specified,” Rockett said. “I would be concerned in general about allowing for a commercial center to be allowed to take its traffic out onto a residential street.” Councilman Tom Goltzené was happy the way things were with the road open. “If Mark said he is good with it the way it was, then I think we should leave it the way it is,” Goltzené said. Mayor Dave Browning asked whether any residents have complained. Kutney said one resident

indicated he was going to complain that there was too much wear on the road, but never did. “I’ll be honest with you; I like it,” Browning said. “With the construction on Southern and everything else, it makes it a whole lot easier to get out of that plaza. Personally, I don’t think it’s such a big deal. I know why the county did it. It wanted everything going on and off of Southern.” Goltzené said the county has since reversed its position. “Now the county wants everything to be on Tangerine,” he said. “We have letters requesting that we open Tangerine all the way through town, so they’ve changed their tune since this was done.”

Both Browning and Goltzené acknowledged that they use the back access themselves. “I don’t have a problem with it,” Goltzené said. “I really would love to see the tension and turmoil reduced. I think that that could be diminished, and I think that’s on both sides.” Town Attorney Michael Cirullo pointed out that the council has a resolution that says “no access” and advised that the town should meet with the property owner to see if he wanted to seek relief formally from the council. “In the meantime,” Cirullo said, “I don’t think we need to enforce it, but I think it does need to be properly done at some point.”

Wellington Ballet Theatre To Present ‘Ballet Off Broadway’ Sept. 7

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Tickets are now on sale for Wellington Ballet Theatre’s production of “Ballet Off Broadway” at the Crest Theater in Delray Beach on Saturday, Sept. 7. Show times are 3 and 7:30 p.m. Seating is reserved and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets cost $15 if purchased by phone or in person from the Crest Theater Box Office, which is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. The phone

number for the Crest Theater Box Office is (561) 243-7922, ext. 1. Tickets may also be purchased online by visiting www.delray centerforthearts.org and clicking “Purchase Tickets” at the top of the page. A $4 third party Internet service fee is added to each ticket purchased online. For more information about Wellington Ballet Theatre, call (561) 296-1880 or visit www.wellington ballettheatre.org.

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Anne Checkosky • Chris Felk er • Denise Fleischman

POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414-7458. Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The TownCrier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 334147458.

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ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil

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NEWS

LOCAL STUDENTS SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER RECESS, HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL Palm Beach County students headed back to class fr om summer vacation on Monday, Aug. 19. Pictured here are students, parents, teachers and school staff at Binks Forest and H.L. Johnson elementary schools, Wellington Landings and Western Pines middle PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY, STEPHANIE JOYCE AND LAUREN MIRĂ“/T OWN-CRIER schools, and the newly opened Renaissance Palms West Charter School.

Lucas and Santiago Gonzalez show off their backpacks at Binks Forest Elementary School.

Renaissance Charter School Principal Sharon Brannon with reading coach Jeannette LaFleur and math coach Tracy Krauel.

David Zaniewski with his son, Connor.

Kelsey and Breezy Sterner with their brother, Jake.

Anthony Spence and his son, Koy, head to class at H.L. Johnson.

(Left) School Nurse Laura Penta with her son, Brady, and (right) Kenneth and Kanarvis Boles at Wellington Landings.

Pnina and Jewel Locke outside Western Pines Middle School.

H.L Johnson Principal Dr. Patricia Lucas (left) and Wellington Landings Principal Blake Bennett (right) welcome students.

Adrian and Katia Salazar head to the first day of school at Binks Forest Elementary School in Wellington.

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CRIME NEWS

Front-End Loader Stolen From Road Construction Site By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report AUG. 14 — A construction company employee called the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Wednesday to report a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 and 10 p.m. last Tuesday, someone stole a Caterpillar front-end loader from a road construction site on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. According to the report, the loader was equipped with a GPS locator, which was last geo-located near West Boynton Beach Blvd. and 102nd Place South at 10:15 p.m. last Tuesday night. According to the report, a witness reported two dark-skinned Hispanic males with a green semi-truck and trailer in the area at approximately 8:30 p.m. that day. The stolen loader was valued at approximately $250,000. There was no further information available at the time of the report. AUG. 15 — Two Greenacres women were arrested last Thursday evening for shoplifting from the Walmart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the store after the two women were apprehended. According to the report, a loss prevention officer observed 18-yearold Priscilla Perez, 43-year-old Lidia Mancilla and a third female enter the girls department and select several pieces of merchandise. The women then went to the home department and placed the merchandise into a cloth bag. According to the report, the women continued to the domestics department and concealed several more items.

The loss prevention officer said the women then passed all points of sale and attempted to exit the building, where the officer stopped them. According to the report, $236.49 in stolen items were recovered. Mancilla and Perez were taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where they were charged with theft. AUG. 16 — A resident of Coconut Blvd. contacted the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Friday to report a case of fraud. According to a PBSO report, the victim was checking her bank account online when she discovered charges she had not made. The victim said the charges were made last Wednesday and Thursday in Atlanta, and she had not been there during that time. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. AUG. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 50th Street North last Friday morning regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, the homeowner had been renting out the house and had a dispute with the former tenants and later found the home damaged. According to the report, the victim arrived at the home at approximately 10 a.m. last Friday and found that a brick paver had been thrown through the glass of the rear door. Additionally, one of the plants on the patio was dug up and thrown in the pool, along with other paver bricks and patio furniture. According to the report, damage was also done to the pool filter system and the water system, and the control panel for the pool was smashed, along with a meter See BLOTTER, page 16

Man Wanted For Attempted Robbery Outside WalMart AUG. 8 — An attempted strongarm robbery occurred Thursday, Aug. 8 in the parking lot of the WalMart store in Royal Palm Beach. The suspect was captured on surveillance video following the victim to her car just before the robbery attempt. Anyone who can identify the suspect is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS. (Right) The suspect sought in the Aug. 8 robbery attempt outside WalMart in Royal Palm Beach.

PBSO Seeks Help Finding Armed Robbery Suspect AUG. 15 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying a suspect wanted for armed robbery in Wellington. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 11:30 p.m. last Thursday, an unknown suspect robbed a person in the 2000 block of Greenview Shores Blvd. and then fled on foot. The PBSO has released a sketch of the suspect (shown left). If anyone can identify him, they are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Jessie Catia is a black male, 5’10” tall and weighing 245 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his left arm. His date of birth is 02/ 26/81. Catia is wanted on charges of grand theft. His last known address was Waterway Court in Greenacres. He is wanted as of 08/15/13. • Edwin Taylor is a black male, 5’8” and weighing 170 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has tattoos on both arms. His date of birth is 05/05/ 88. Taylor is wanted on charges of public assistance fraud, organized scheme to defraud and grand theft. His last known addresses were Morning Glory Drive in Wellington and East Breezy Lane in West Palm Beach. He is wanted as of 08/15/13. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopper s pbc.com.

Jessie Catia

Edwin Taylor

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

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NEWS

Royal Palm Beach Making Plans To Respond To FEMA Flood Maps By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council is making headway in its plans to respond to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s new flood maps, which place most of the western communities in a flood zone. At the Aug. 15 council meeting, Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara said he had spent six hours at a recent FEMA meeting in West Palm Beach along with Councilman David Swift, Village Engineer Chris Marsh and about 50 other representatives of various municipalities and local government agencies regarding the federal agency’s new maps. “Initially, it was a matter of exchanging concerns over the quality and accuracy of the preliminary maps that have been put out by FEMA, and the concern was that a lot of the properties that were not considered to be in flood zones are now considered to be in flood zones,” Hmara said. “The primary concern is that the map is based on information that is out of date and may not be accurate, and the models used to produce the maps may also be out of date.” Most officials were asking to delay the process for finalizing the maps until they could produce more accurate, up-to-date information, and the South Florida Water Management District could finish its modeling work, Hmara said. He added that FEMA officials have responded that the agency will extend the opportunity for Palm Beach County and its entities to provide more accurate and current information for them to consider. “Hopefully the end result will be a more accurate representation of the flood zones,” Hmara said, explaining that the impact of the preliminary maps, if not amended, could require flood insurance for homeowners where it was not re-

Chamber

State Of The Cities Luncheon

continued from page 1 they need from us as government,” Bonde said. He noted that total property value, which was at $7.76 billion in 2008, dropped to a low of $5.32 billion in 2011. “The good news is that since 2012, we’ve seen little, incremental steps toward increasing the property value,” Bonde said. “The message to government is it’s going to be a slow, steady recovery. We’re going to walk our steps very carefully as we move forward.” Some of the village’s recent accomplishments include more than $13 million in capital improvements, the biggest chunk for roads and drainage and the second biggest for parks. “That’s pretty significant for a village of our size,” he said. The village also partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County to build a new facility, improved its Village Park recreational facilities and improved its reclaimed-water facility. “Next year, we’re going to do $15 million of work — again, even more money invested,” he said. “For you as business people that’s very important, because we think where we invest, you will invest.” Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins said the biggest recent accomplishment of his village was to establish a strategic planning process with participation by residents to help with the preparation of each year’s budget and come up with a clear vision of

quired before, and higher rates for those who currently have flood insurance. “It’s a particularly important issue for us. We are engaged, and we will stay on that.” Councilman Fred Pinto said there has been a lot of discussion about FEMA’s new approach to flood mapping, as well as issues emerging after the flooding from Tropical Storm Isaac. “There have been many dialogues between multiple agencies and multiple municipalities trying to come up with some solutions to address the problem,” Pinto said, pointing out that County Commissioner Jess Santamaria has formed a task force to look at the issue and work with the SFWMD to reach a reasonable solution, as opposed to individual entities trying to come up with their own solution that could bring harm to neighboring cities. “I am a member of this task force, and what I would like to get is consensus from this council so I can speak for and represent the village.” Pinto also pointed out that other members include two water experts, Palm Beach County Water Resources Manager Ken Todd and Indian Trail Improvement District Engineer Jay Foy, who also sits on the county’s Water Resources Task Force. Pinto asked that Marsh and Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins be involved as well. Pinto said he will continue to update the council. “Right now, the topic of the task force is this FEMA flood mapping issue, but it is advised to look at all the flooding issues,” he said. Pinto added that the Indian Trail Improvement District has filed a formal application with the SFWMD to increase its ability to discharge stormwater in emergencies. “Initially, it appears that their approach is to just run the water through our village,” Pinto said.

“The village manager has already responded to that application that we are not in support of that initial recommendation, and we will be involved in looking at that application as it proceeds. We need to come up with a regional solution. A regional solution means you’re not going to hurt one area to satisfy another. There is no one silver bullet to solve this issue. It will take multiple components to come up with a regional approach.” Marsh said there are some technical issues with the FEMA maps related to the data and age of the models. “We addressed those is-

Royal Palm Beach’s mission and goals. On the economic development front, Liggins was proud that the village had attracted Aldi grocery stores’ new regional distribution center to an undeveloped 70-acre tract west of State Road 7 and south of Okeechobee Blvd., which Liggins pointed out was a joint effort with the Business Development Board, Florida Power & Light, Palm Beach County, the chamber and others. Another accomplishment was the opening of the 160-acre Commons Park, which is now the site for the village’s major events. The village survived the economic downturn with no property tax rate increases. “One of the things the recession made very clear to all of us was that when the business community is doing well, government usually does well,” Liggins said. “When the business community is not prospering, providing basic services becomes quite a challenge. We are in this together.” He said 2014 will be the first year that Royal Palm Beach will spend more on contract services than on staff-provided services. “That’s one way that we kept expenditures down without cutting services,” Liggins explained. The community weathered the downturn without huge corrections in its budget through the establishment of a five-year plan. “We established a five-year financial strategy,” he said. “We looked at expenditures and ways of keeping them to a minimum or reducing them.” The village also eyed potential development of private and public lands. “We realized that we had quite a bit of assets when it comes

to some of our lands that are now on the tax roll that we didn’t see any future public need for,” he said. Future challenges include assuring that Royal Palm Beach continues to be a place that residents want to call home. He pointed out that 90 percent of the village’s residential space is developed, while only 40 percent of its non-residential space remains to be developed. “We know that 75 percent of a business’s decision to locate is based on location, infrastructure and available workforce,” Liggins said. “We know we can’t do this alone. I think we have great partner here in Palm Beach County.” He noted that the village has adopted the countywide expedited approval process initiated by the Business Development Board, and the countywide building permit application. “It is our goal to make this as simple as possible,” Liggins said. Loxahatchee Groves Town Manager Mark Kutney said the town, now in its seventh year of existence, is managed by a private contractor, for whom he works. “We believe this is a trend that is going to continue with rising health costs, pension costs and all the costs across the board that municipalities face, as well as challenges on the revenue side. There will be more outsourcing at the local government level,” Kutney said. Loxahatchee Groves, which has a population of 3,185 over 12.15 square miles, has a “government lite” philosophy. “That was the way they wanted to proceed, no full- or part-time employees,” Kutney said. “That is why we have a management company, only contractual services across the board.”

sues to FEMA,” he said. “They have listened. They have given us the opportunity to get our technical data, and the biggest thing is they are going to accept the C-51 [Canal] study from the South Florida Water Management District, which we think will be favorable for our area.” The deadline is Nov. 30 for reports to be submitted, he said. “I have requested a proposal from [consulting firm] CDM Smith to evaluate the results of that study that we should be getting in the next couple of weeks,” Marsh said. “I’ll be bringing the

proposal to the council at the next meeting, hopefully for your approval so they can get started looking at the technical end of that data.” Marsh explained that CDM Smith had done stormwater control modeling for the village in 2006. “They basically will update the 2006 model and relay that information to FEMA,” he said. “After they get the technical data from the cities and engineers, they’ll evaluate it and redo the preliminary maps and roll those out in a technical meeting sometime in the spring, and sometime after that,

there will be a public open house.” That will kick off a 90-day appeals window. Marsh said it is not known how long it will take to resolve the appeals, but after that, there will be a six-month adoption period. “Best-case scenario, we are looking at May 2015 before we will see new maps,” Marsh said. Swift said he thought that the village is on top of the issue. “It could affect our residents gravely if the maps that they currently have go into effect,” he said. “We are fighting that fight as best we can with all the resources that we have.”

‘Jazz At St. Peter’s’ Will Benefit Pianist Copeland Davis Sept. 14 By Anne Checkosky Town-Crier Staff Report Get ready for a night of cool music as Copeland Davis brings his group to St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington for a performance on Saturday, Sept. 14 beginning at 7 p.m. “Jazz at St. Peter’s” will feature Davis on piano, as well as a drummer, bass player and keyboardist, said Davis’ wife, Mary. It’s a special event for a special cause: Davis has multiple tears in his retina and needs surgery to repair them, Mary said. Since he has no insurance, whatever proceeds are raised from the concert will go toward paying for the surgery. He’s not in any pain and can see to play, he just can’t drive at the moment, Mary explained. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the church, located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., during church services or on the night of the performance. All of the musicians are volun-

teering their time to play this special concert. “It’s going to be exciting,” Mary said. Copeland and Mary Davis are residents of Royal Palm Beach and attend St. Peter’s. A renowned jazz pianist, Copeland Davis has been featured on The Tonight Show and Good Morning America and feted at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. “Pianist Copeland Davis has established a reputation for himself as one of the best symphonic jazz musicians in the business,” The Boston Globe has written. Davis earned degrees from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton and Seminole State College of Florida in Lake Mary. His honors include being named to the International Who’s Who in Music as well as Las Vegas Lounge Act of the Year, and receiving the Carbonell Pop Entertainer of the Year Award and a TV Emmy award nomination for

Copeland Davis at Crystal Tree. Davis has performed at the Stardust Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas; the Burt Reynolds Backstage Restaurant & Club in Jupiter; MGM Resorts International in Reno, Nev.; Holiday International Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas; Harrah’s Marina Hotel & Casino and Bally Park Place Hotel & Casino, both in Atlantic City, N.J.; the Americana Hotel & Casino and the Caribbean Hotel & Casino, both in Aruba; the Boca Raton Hotel & Club in Boca Raton; and the Brique Balloon, La Familia restaurant and The Breakers resort, all in Palm Beach. He has taught master classes at Broward State College and Seminole State College, and a class on jazz history at FAU. In addition, he was an arranger for the Fifth Dimension, arranger and conductor for Barbara McNair, arranger and guest artist with the Florida Sunshine Pops Orchestra, the Space Coast Pops, Indian River Pops and arranger/artist-in-res-

Copeland Davis idence for the Boca Pops Orchestra. Davis’ fascination with music began at age 7, while watching a TV performance of a pianist. He is primarily a jazz pianist, but his talent can take him into the pop, rock or classical ends of the spectrum. For more information about the Sept. 14 benefit, call (561) 793-5712, ext. 13.

The nine municipal managers who spoke at Tuesday’s luncheon. PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Most services are handled on a cost recovery basis, including code enforcement, which is driven by complaints. The town is concerned with keeping its rural character, which includes environmental protection and preservation, lifestyle protection, minimal governmental intervention and control of its own destiny. Achievements this year include moving forward with several public works functions, including a renewed contract with its solid waste haulers, contracts for road repair, emergency callouts, road grading and filling for unpaved roads, removal of vegetation and mowing of town roadways. The town adopted amendments to its comprehensive plan to allow the development of Palm Beach State College’s fifth campus, and recently overcame a referendum effort to overturn the campus approval. Kutney said that effort not only put the college on hold but delayed development of two commercial centers now underway along Southern Blvd.

The town is working with the Florida Department of Transportation to change the location of stormwater ponds along Southern Blvd. that stand to disrupt the development of the town’s planned commercial base. Communications have improved between the town and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District, and the two entities have successfully transferred ownership of recently paved district roads to the town, which has more statutory control, Kutney said. Loxahatchee Groves has joined with other municipalities in the county to challenge recently published Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps that stand to raise property flood insurance rates, and is fighting the downward spiral of property values. “Our town was one of four municipalities that lost property value [this year],” Kutney said. “We believe that this was due to the fact that we haven’t been able to have construction we were look-

ing for in the last year, and the fact that we are doing a lot of agricultural exemptions.” Indian Trail Improvement District Acting Director of Administrative Services Sandra Love-Semande said water control has become the primary function of the district, although it does have other powers. “We have nine parks that we maintain,” Love-Semande said. “Our current focus is drainage. We’re going back to our grass roots. We had terrible flooding. Last year we dealt with Tropical Storm Isaac, and our supervisors have made that our main focus going forward in the district.” She said plans for a recreation center have been put on hold so the district can focus its budget toward drainage repair. Love-Semande added that ITID has kept the budget about the same as the previous year, at under $12 million, with an approximate 1 percent increase. “Our district is above water right now, so we are doing very well,” she said.

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NEWS

BULL MCCABE’S IRISH PUB READY TO OPEN IN THE ORIGINAL WELLINGTON MALL

The Bull McCabe’s Irish Pub & Tap Room held a pre-opening party for family and friends on Saturday, Aug. 17 in the original Wellington Mall. Guests enjoyed food samples and live music. The restaurant will officially open to the public Monday, Aug. 26. It will be open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day. For more info., call (561) 557-1190 or visit www.thebullmccabe.com. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Chef Dennis Thibodeau offers a piece of steak cooked on a lava rock.

Jody Pollard and Victoria Rose Martin enjoy the evening.

The Bull McCabe’s owners Alan and Sheelyn Craig.

Tracy Sands sings with Fire in the Kitchen.

Deanna Pulido, Brittany Hernandez, Ashley Mendes, Caitlin Ford and Katie Vandeven.

Amy Davis and Melissa Wickers with owners Alan and Sheelyn Craig.

COSTCO DONATES BACKPACKS AND SUPPLIES TO LOX GROVES ELEMENTARY Costco Wholesale in Royal Palm Beach presented Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School with 400 backpacks on Friday, Aug. 16 at the school. The backpacks were distributed to all students from kindergarten through fourth grade and included a pencil case, ruler, folder, scissors and an eraser. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Navia Gibson and Rachel Stine look inside their backpacks.

Costco Marketing Representative Staci Di Raimondo shows the students what is included inside their new backpacks.

Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School Principal Rich Myerson with Costco Marketing Representative Staci Di Raimondo.

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You Deserve Quality CARE

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 20 YEARS

SPECIALIZING IN: (BTUSPFOUFSPMPHZ t )FQBUJUJT .BOBHFNFOU 3FTFBSDI &OEPTDPQZ $PMPOPTDPQZ t "CEPNJOBM #MPBUJOH t $PMJUJT $POTUJQBUJPO t $SPIO T %JTFBTF t %JBSSIFB t )FBSUCVSO (&3% )FNPSSIPJET t 3FDUBM #MFFEJOH t 6MDFST ."55)&8 + 4.*5) % 0 '"$0* .*5$)&-- / %"7*4 % 0 '"$0* 45&7&/ 3 4"$,4 % 0 .FEJDBM 1BSL #MWE 4VJUF 8FMMJOHUPO '- 0LFFDIPCFF #MWE 8FTU 1BMN #FBDI '- 7JMMBHF #MWE 4VJUF 8FTU 1BMN #FBDI '-

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SCHOOL NEWS

Berean Hosts New FAU Artists Mentor Boys & Girls Club Teens Student Orientation More than 100 new students, along with their families, were welcomed Thursday, Aug. 8 to Berean Christian School for the annual new student orientation breakfast. Faculty and staff members spent some time mingling with families in an informal atmosphere, getting to know the new students in order to make them feel comfortable and at home. Lead Administrator William Dupere then shared with attendees pertinent information about the school, including new and established programs. Dupere also introduced all of the administrators and teachers from kindergarten through 12th

grade. This gave new students and their parents an opportunity to familiarize themselves with many of the aspects of student life at the school. Student Council and National Honor Society members were on hand to serve in a variety of capacities such as greeting new students, assisting with breakfast, giving tours of the campus and helping new students try out their lockers. Berean Christian School seeks to guide students spiritually, emotionally and academically in order fulfill the goal of serving the community and showing Christ to all. To learn more about the school, visit www.bcsbulldogs.org.

Students and parents learn about Berean Christian School during a new student orientation breakfast.

The Museum Education Program at Florida Atlantic University’s University Galleries has launched an arts-integrated mentoring project titled “ReFOCUS,” in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, the Belle Glade Teen Center and Resource Depot of Riviera Beach. Select FAU visual-art students will work with teenagers from the Belle Glade Teen Center, introducing the high school students to many forms of art and artists whose work is integrally involved with or responding to environmental history and/or contemporary environ-

mental issues. The program will run weekly from Tuesday, Sept. 3 through Tuesday, Nov. 19. “FAU is excited to collaborate with the Boys & Girls Clubs and Resource Depot in a program in which teens and mentors will explore how they can conserve and create art together,” said Rod Faulds, director of FAU’s University Galleries. “We are looking forward to a very successful partnership.” The goals of “ReFOCUS” are to develop an open dialogue between participants through mentoring, explore the use of recycled materi-

A lecture by John Cutrone for members of the Boys & Girls Club Belle Glade Teen Center. als, empower FAU art students For more information, call (561) and make connections between art 297-2661 or visit www.fau.edu/ and the environment. galleries.

Belle Glade’s Gove Elementary Goes Green Hedrick Brothers Construction has completed the School District of Palm Beach County’s $28 million modernization of Gove Elementary School in Belle Glade. The new, 121,000-square-foot, five-building campus will accommodate 924 students. The school includes new classrooms, kitchen and cafeteria, administrative offices, media center, clinic, covered play area, playgrounds, playfield, bus loop, parent dropoff and pickup, and parking. This LEED-registered project is anticipating silver certification under LEED for Schools. The LEED or “green” elements of the school include the use of ice storage to drastically reduce

energy consumption, concrete paving and light-colored roofing to reduce heat absorption, low eglazing on the windows to reduce energy costs, along with indoor sensors to turn lights on and off. The building was built to maximize daylight for classrooms, and all bathrooms conserve water with low-flow toilets, waterless urinals and flow-restriction faucets. More than 75 percent of construction waste from the project has been diverted from landfills and sent to recycling facilities, and the use of natural materials provides a healthy environment for students to learn and play. The architectural team was MPA Architects and Tercilla Courtemanche Architects.

A rendering of the newly modernized Gove Elementary School. For more information about Hedrick Brothers Construction, call

(561) 689-8880 or visit www.hedrick brothers.com.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Wellington Resident Audrey Ballard To Be Featured In Times Square Video Audrey Ballard, a 7-year-old Wellington resident with Down syndrome, was selected from more than 1,000 photo entries submitted from around the United States to appear in a video produced by the National Down Syndrome So-

ciety. The video presentation will be shown Sept. 21 on the “largerthan-life” MTV plasma screen located in the heart of Times Square. The Times Square video presentation kicks off Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.

Audrey Ballard will appear in a video presentation at Times Square.

Kate Ballard commented about her daughter being chosen. “We are super excited and proud to have Audrey’s picture be in Times Square for everyone to see,” she said. “Sometimes there is a negative perception about Down syndrome, so we are happy to be a part of something positive that shows our beautiful daughter is just like any other kid.” To recognize Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization will hold the 19th annual Buddy Walk on Sunday, Oct. 20 at John Prince Park from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event features a fun walk followed by a variety of children’s activities including a petting zoo, rock wall, bounce house, pony rides and more, with a silent auction and raffle for adults. Everyone is welcome to come enjoy a great morning. To register, visit www.goldcoastdownsyndrome. org and click on the Buddy Walk logo, contact Anne at ad.gcdso@ bellsouth.net or call (561) 752-3383. The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is a health, educational resource, support and advocacy organization, which has

been empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families since 1980. The organization supports the inclusion of persons who have Down syndrome in all areas of life as contributing and valued members of society. The group provides current and positive information about Down syndrome to new parents, sponsors social opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, provides parent training and educational advocacy, and strives to ensure that individuals with Down syndrome can grow up to live, learn, work and play in their community. In 2012, the organization opened its first resource center and was also one of the first five national recipients of the Global Down Syndrome Educational Grants awarded for the Exceptional Educators Program, in partnership with the School District of Palm Beach County. In 2010, Gold Coast received the National Down Syndrome Congress prestigious National Parent Group Award. Visit www.goldcoast downsyndrome.org for more information.

Clerk Announces College Scholarship Winners Four students have received $1,000 college scholarships from employees of the Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office. Behzod Hakberdiev of Wellington, Sierra Montuori of Loxahatchee, Kaitlin Sais of Wellington and Amanda Waterman of Gainesville were awarded scholarships based on a 500-word essay, community service and their individual grade point averages. Scholarships are given each year to the dependent children of clerk’s office employees. “We all know how expensive college can be, so I’m happy that these scholarships will help alleviate the financial burden on these students,” said Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock, who awarded the scholarships earlier this month. “I’m proud that our employee donations help these students reach their educational goals.” Hakberdiev, a 2013 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School, plans to attend Florida Atlantic

University and major in business. He hopes to become an entrepreneur and promote tourism and polo in Palm Beach County. He is the son of Gulshoda Mirova-Mamatkhan, a clerk in the Recording Department. Montuori, a 2013 graduate of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, plans to attend Washington College in Chestertown, Md., and major in political science. She hopes to become an attorney. She is the daughter of Susan Montuori, a clerk in the Circuit Civil Division. Sais, a 2013 graduate of Wellington High School, plans to attend Florida Gulf Coast University and major in biology. She plans to be a doctor. She is the daughter of Gene Sais, who works in the Information Technology Department. Waterman, a 2011 graduate of Jupiter Christian School, will be a junior at the University of Florida. She is majoring in accounting. She is the daughter of Maritza Water-

man, an accountant in Financial Reporting. Money for the four students’ scholarships came from the clerk’s Dress Down Friday fundraiser, which raised $40,040 last year for local charities and student scholarships. Employees donate $2

each week to dress casually on Fridays, and choose which groups receive the money at the end of the year. For more information about the clerk’s office, visit www.mypalm beachclerk.com or call (561) 3552996.

(Left to right) Behzod “Beck” Hakberdiev, Kaitlin Sais, PBC Clerk Sharon Bock and Sierra Montuori. Not shown: Amanda Waterman.

August 23 - August 29, 2013 Page 13

Leslie Lilly Joins Arthur Marshall Foundation Board Leslie Lilly has been named to the board of directors of the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades and Florida Environmental Institute. Lilly is the author of a regular column on philanthropy in Florida Weekly. Her professional career spans more than 25 years in the charitable sector, most recently at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, where she served for seven years, the last four as president and chief executive officer. Lilly spent eight years as founding president and CEO of the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, a regional community nonprofit organization serving the poorest rural communities in the state. She also spent four years as executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Foundation for the Mid South, based in Jackson, Miss., and five years as director of community development and human resources for the North Carolina

Leslie Lilly Rural Economic Development Center. A member of Leadership Palm Beach County’s Class of 2009, Lilly also serves as a board member for the Friends of MacArthur Beach State Park and is a former chair of the Florida Philanthropic Network.

Sickle Cell Volunteer Named Woman Of Grace

Patricia Brown-Paytee of West Palm Beach will be recognized as a Woman of Grace at the 14th annual Women of Grace luncheon on Nov. 13 at the Mar-A-Lago Club in Palm Beach. The event honors women volunteers whose service inspires and enriches the community. Brown-Paytee was nominated for her work with the Sickle Cell Foundation, where she has served since 2000. She began as a grantfunded employee; however, when the funds expired in 2005, she continued in a volunteer capacity. Brown-Paytee recruits, trains and assigns other volunteers in the organization. She also initiated the first annual SCF Volunteer Recognition Celebration in 2005. Additionally, she coordinates all health fairs and blood drives, schedules and disseminates monthly support notices, facilitates educational activities with the staff to keep them abreast of the latest sickle cell news and assists with maintaining resource inven-

Patricia Brown-Paytee tory. Under her leadership, volunteer participation has tripled. For information about the Sickle Cell Foundation of Palm Beach County & Treasure Coast, visit www.sicklecellpalmbeach.org or call (561) 833-3113.

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NEWS

WHOLE FOODS MARKET SHOWCASES WORK OF LOCAL ARTIST JUDY EISINGER Whole Foods Market in Wellington hosted a local artist celebration Friday, Aug. 16 featuring the work of Wellington Art Society member Judy Eisinger, whose paintings are now on display at the store. Guests enjoyed a wine tasting with cheese and refreshments. Proceeds will benefit the Wellington Art Society Scholarship Fund. PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE JOYCE/TOWN-CRIER

Donna Donelan with Whole Foods Market Customer Service Representative Alexis Toohey.

Judy Eisinger with her husband, Fred.

Leslie Pfeiffer, Judy Eisinger and Donna Donelan in front of one of Eisinger’s works on display.

Judy and Fred Eisenger with their nephew, Ethan.

Guests enjoy food and wine from Whole Foods Market.

Eddy Balzola provided live music for the reception.

ELLEN ROSENBERG HOSTS GROUNDWORK CLINIC AT NICOLE HORNSTEIN PARK Town-Crier columnist Ellen Rosenberg hosted “Groundwork from the Horse’s Perspective” at Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park in The Acreage on Sunday, Aug. 18. Participants learned how their own mood and body language affects their relationship with their horses, as well as how to better approach them. PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE JOYCE/TOWN-CRIER

Ellen Rosenberg demonstrates her methods on a participant’s horse.

Participants gather in the pavilion at Nicole Hornstein Equestrian Park for the clinic.

Ellen Rosenberg discusses the importance of understanding your horse’s perception when you approach the animal.

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NEWS BRIEFS Village Park Gym Closed Labor Day Weekend

The Wellington Gymnasium at Village Park will be closed all day Friday, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sept. 2 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. As in past years, during this time, annual scheduled maintenance will be performed on the gym floor surfaces. The gym will re-open on Tuesday, Sept. 3 for regular programming. Program registrations can be done online at www.wellingtonfl.gov or at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) during the closure. For further information contact Athletic Programs Manager Ryan Hagopian at (561) 791-4741.

After-School Golf Program Returns

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 3, the Kevin Perkins Golf Academy will again be conducting its popular Junior After-School Fall Golf Program at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. The program is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 17 and will take place on Tuesday

and Thursday afternoons from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.kevinperkinsgolfacademy. com or call (561) 301-3783.

Fundraiser To Honor Sept. 11 Victims, Families

More than a decade after the Sept. 11 attacks, a tribute to the victims and their families in the form of a networking fundraiser will be held Sept. 10 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Selinger Chiropractic & Acupuncture at 7749 Lake Worth Road. The 9/11 Anniversary Event was formed by Craig Selinger, president of Selinger Chiropractic & Acupuncture, in an effort to raise funds and awareness. Proceeds from the event will go to the Families of Freedom scholarship fund for dependents of those killed or injured in the Sept. 11 attacks and rescue efforts. “I recognized the unique occasion to articulate the importance of the decade of remembrance for our fellow citizens disabled or killed on Sept. 11,” Selinger said. “I hope we could all give our country and its victims the attention it

needs on this special day.” Attendees will be able to unite and offer contribution as they enjoy business-to-business networking, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wines, raffle prizes, entertainment and a signature red, white and blue cocktail. Educational dialogue will be offered by healthcare professionals shedding light on fatigue and achieving longevity. All those attending will receive gift bags with great gifts and gift certificates from area businesses. Sponsors of the event include Maxim Life, Page One Graphics, Sofunn.com and Stepping Out Florida. For more information, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Shana Overhulser at (561) 4962244 or visit www.mylakeworth chiropractor.com.

DAR Celebrates U.S. Constitution With Luncheon

Sept. 17 begins the national celebration of Constitution Week. The weeklong commemoration of America’s most important document is one of the country’s least known official observances.

The tradition of celebrating the Constitution was started many years ago by the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 1928, the DAR commissioned John Russell Pope, architect of the Jefferson Memorial, to design the performing arts center, known as DAR Constitutional Hall. This is the only structure erected in tribute to the Constitution of the United States. In 1955, the DAR petitioned Congress to set aside Sept. 17-23 annually to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week. The resolution was later adopted by the U.S. Congress and signed into law on Aug. 2, 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. The DAR has long promoted patriotism through commemorative celebrations, and the local DAR chapter is doing just that with a Constitution Week luncheon. Members of the community are invited to attend Garcilaso de la Vega’s Constitution Week luncheon on Saturday, Sept. 7 at noon at the Atlantis Country Club. The luncheon will feature speaker Tim Morell addressing “The Five Freedoms of the First Amendment” and other brief presentations highlighting people who

honor these freedoms daily. There will also be a silent auction and an Angel Table to fund scholarships and programs. For more information about the event, contact Liz Scholze lizscholze@comcast.net

Macy’s Shop For A Cause Aug. 24

Macy’s invites customers to participate in its eighth annual Shop for a Cause charity event on Aug. 24. Shop for a Cause is a unique, one-day-only shopping event, created to support the fundraising efforts of local charities. In addition to thousands of local charities selling savings passes across the country, Macy’s has designated March of Dimes, the leading nonprofit organization in support of pregnancy and baby health, as its national beneficiary of all proceeds of sales of Shop for a Cause savings passes in Macy’s stores and on macys.com. By purchasing a $5 Shop for a Cause savings pass, customers will be supporting their favorite causes and will receive 25 percent off on regular, sale and clearance merchandise, as well as 10 percent off electrics, electronics, watches, furniture, mattresses and area rugs

in the store all day Saturday, Aug. 24. Customers also are eligible to win a $500 gift card. Each participating nonprofit organization will keep 100 percent of every savings pass it sells. “Over the past eight years, Macy’s annual Shop for a Cause event has raised more than $45 million for local and national charities, providing our associates and customers an opportunity to give back to those organizations that touch their hearts and lives each and every day,” said Martine Reardon, Macy’s chief marketing officer. “We are honored to partner with March of Dimes as our national in-store beneficiary to offer our customers an easy and convenient way to make a positive difference in the lives of others, while enjoying great savings at Macy’s.” New this year, Macy’s is partnering with the March of Dimes mobile-giving partners Mobile Commons and the BBB Mobile Giving Foundation to allow customers to purchase savings passes conveniently using their smart phones. For more information about Macy’s Shop for a Cause, visit www.macys.com/sfac.

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NEWS

KWP Casting Young Actors For Disney’s ‘Beauty and The Beast,’ Audition Workshop Also Planned KWP Productions will hold auditions next month for young actors for the musical Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. Directors Kim Rommel-Enright and Helen Buttery will be casting actors, singers and dancers ages 8 through college for this non-Equity production in September. Meanwhile, a special audition workshop is coming up Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Community Hall at the Borland Center for Performing Arts (4885 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens). The cost is $20 per student. This workshop is designed as a tool to improve the actor’s audition performance. The workshop does not guarantee a role in the show, but helps the actors know what is required of them at the audition and introduces them to what casting agents and directors look for through the audition process. This workshop is not a requirement for those planning to audition. Youngsters will learn

Budget

Take The Challenge

continued from page 1 a preliminary tax rate that would see a small increase in taxes for residents. The council set the preliminary tax rate at 2.5 mills, up slightly from last year’s rate of 2.47 mills. The “truth in millage” or TRIM rate of 2.5 mills means a village property tax of $2.50 for every $1,000 of taxable value. At that rate, the owner of a home assessed at $150,000 after all exemptions would pay $375 in vil-

ITID Manager

Short List Of Candidates

continued from page 1 dates privately than in a public meeting. Donlon agreed that one of the challenges of open government is the ability to negotiate. “Sometimes we have to show our cards before we’d like to,” she said. “What might be helpful, so we don’t have folks coming in where we were before from a budget standpoint with our former administrator, is a general range, so we have a sense.” Jacobs said she thought the position should be in the range of $80,000 to $100,000 with a car and benefits, and Supervisor Ralph

Vet Clinics

Change To Master Plan

continued from page 3 open a vet clinic in [the area], they would have to apply for a master plan amendment with a public hearing process. There are protections in place. This does not open up the possibility for vet clinics to pop up all over the place.” Cohen said staff suggested the applicant apply for a commercial recreation designation, which is allowed under the code, but the applicant did not think he would get support from the council. “They floated it by the council and didn’t feel they had support for it,” she said. But McCullough said she wasn’t sure where that impression came from. “My lawyer had a conversation

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tools to help prepare for auditions in general as well as Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. Buttery and Rommel-Enright will work with the participants on the following: techniques for having a top-notch audition, introduction to choreography for the dance section of the audition, readings from script (feedback on readings) and review of songs for lead characters (to be used in the audition/ callback process). Feedback will be given to all participants to ensure they are prepared to perform their best at auditions. Register online at www.kwpproductions.com. Email questions to auditions@kwp productions.com. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. show auditions will be Friday, Sept. 6 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., also at the Borland Center. Those trying out may attend either Friday or Saturday and are not required to attend both. Candidates should be prepared to stay

for the entire three-hour time slot either day. Rehearsals start Sept. 13 and the show will run Dec. 27 through Jan. 5 at the Borland Center. Those auditioning should bring a headshot and resume, and be prepared to sing a 2 to 3 minute song of their choice and bring CD accompaniment. There will also be a cold reading from a script. KWP will be casting for the following roles: narrators, Prince, Beast, Old Woman/Enchantress, Belle, Gaston, Lefou, Silly Girls (three), Maurice, Cogsworth, Lumiere, Babette, Mrs. Potts, Chip, Madame de la Grande Bouche, servants, villagers and Monsieur D’Arque. Callbacks will be announced if needed and will be the week following the auditions. For additional information, e-mail auditions@ kwpproductions.com. There is never a fee to audition or to participate in a KWP production.

lage property taxes next year. As proposed, the budget is $78.7 million, up about $4.24 million from last year. The budget as proposed is made up of $50.25 million in governmental funds, up $6.62 million from last year, and $19.32 million in enterprise funds, up $27,000. Capital projects are budgeted at $3.3 million, down $1.3 million, and utility capital projects make up $5.3 million of the budget. The council also preliminarily approved a $100 annual increase in residents non-ad valorem assessments for Acme — from $200 to $300 — to finance drainage improvements. The necessity of the

increase is one of the questions on the budget challenge. But the budget will not be finalized until next month, meaning those numbers could change, and residents could make a difference by sharing their opinions in the budget challenge. The Acme assessment will go before the council for final adoption at its meeting Tuesday, Aug. 27. Two public hearings on the budget are scheduled for Sept. 10 and Sept. 24, when the budget will be finalized and adopted. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. For more information about the budget, visit www.wellingtonfl. gov.

Bair put the range at $75,000 to $100,000, depending on experience. Dunkley said he was thinking a similar salary range, but with a car allowance rather than a car. “Having a car is adding another $25,000 to $30,000 to their salary,” he said. “I would rather take that money and give them an allowance. Let them have receipts to verify what they’re doing.” Jacobs said the problem she has with a car allowance is that she wants the manager to spend several days a week driving around the district. That would require a dedicated vehicle that can get to hard-to-reach places. Supervisor Ralph Bair also pointed out that the manager would need to be prepared to respond to emergencies.

Damone added that she thought the car discussion should remain flexible and be discussed in negotiations. ITID President Jennifer Hager said she wanted to reserve the option for the board not to choose any of the candidates, and Donlon said the board always has that option. Donlon suggested that regardless of whether it includes a salary range, the board should send letters of invitation to the selected candidates, where each will sign off and indicate whether they plan to attend. After some discussion of the candidates, the board agreed unanimously to narrow the list to those candidates with favorable votes from at least two board members.

with the Jacobs [family’s] lawyer today, and I think we all agree [a commercial recreation designation] makes the most sense for this property,” she said. “It’s suitable for the community. I believe that the council would see this if we could show support from the surrounding neighborhoods, the Jacobs family and myself.” Schmidt said he made inquiries about the change in designation but did not think it would work. “We would have to limit the uses and the square footage,” he said. “If [McCullough] would like to roll the dice with her money down the road — it costs $75,000 to do this land-use change — we can talk to her about that then. That is not before you tonight.” Cohen said the committee could make recommendations for changes to the proposed amendments, or choose to recommend or not recommend the item as is.

“Unless the applicant withdraws their application, they’re entitled to have it move forward and be reviewed,” she said. “We can’t change tonight what the applicant has requested.” Schmidt requested that the committee move the item forward, whether they would recommend approval or not. “To stand here and debate is not appropriate,” Schmidt said. “We deserve the chance to have this moved forward.” Committee Member Dr. Kristy Lund said she didn’t want to debate the whole issue over again. “I thought the purpose of this meeting was for them to come back with some additional standards. They’ve done that,” she said. Committee members voted unanimously to recommend approval of the item. It will now head to the Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board.

OPEN HOUSE AT NEW HORIZONS

New Horizons Elementary School in Wellington recently welcomed students to the new school year by hosting an open house. Parents and students were greeted by their teachers as they visited their new classrooms. They enjoyed touring the school, perusing the school store, visiting with old friends and making new friends. Pictured here is fourth-grade teacher Jude Valdov visiting with students and parents.

Blotter

continued from page 6 head for the water system. The perpetrator(s) also filled the aerator and salt tank with dirt. The victim said she withheld $200 of the former tenants’ deposit after a walk through last Thursday because the tenants had painted a room and removed several plants. There was no further information available at the time of the report. AUG. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the Village Shoppes plaza on Southern Blvd. last Friday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the victim drove into the parking lot outside Burlington Coat Factory and noticed a beige Chevrolet Malibu stopped in the aisle, partially blocking it. The victim said a woman was behind the wheel. According to the report, the victim saw an open parking spot become available and pulled into it. When the victim exited her vehicle, the driver of the other vehicle yelled something, but the victim said she did not hear it. According to the report, the victim continued into the business. Meanwhile, the victim’s mother arrived in a separate vehicle and observed the female suspect approach the victim’s vehicle and use her keys to scratch the word “hoe” into the paint. According to the report, the suspect then fled, however, the victim’s mother was able to photograph the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect is described as a black female in her early 20s with a skinny build and long curly hair wearing short black pants. There was no further information available at the time of the report. AUG. 17 —A Royal Palm Beach man was arrested last Saturday afternoon on charges of assault after an altercation outside a home on Weybridge Circle. According to a PBSO report, the victim arrived at the apartment complex at approximately 4:46 p.m. and pulled his vehicle into a parking spot marked “guest.” According to the report, when the victim parked, he was approached by 36-year-old Wilfredo Sanchez, who told him to move his car because it was for the house in front of it only. According to the report, the victim ignored Sanchez, who then began to shout obscenities and said he would tow the victim’s car. The victim said Sanchez then ran after him and chest-bumped him, causing the victim to fall back. Accord-

ing to the report, Sanchez threatened to stab the victim and displayed a butcher knife in his right hand. The victim said he feared for his life and moved his vehicle to another spot. According to the report, a neighbor witnessed the altercation and called 911. According to the report, Sanchez was detained and became verbally and physically combative with the deputy. He was arrested and taken to the county jail, where he was charged with assault with intent to commit a felony and assault against a law enforcement officer. AUG. 18 — A resident of Sun Glades Estates called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Sunday morning to report a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5:30 p.m. last Saturday and 9:45 a.m. the following morning, someone used a prying tool to damage approximately 20 window screens at the home. The perpetrator(s) used the unknown tool to bend the screen frames. The damage was estimated at approximately $1,000. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. AUG. 18 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Emerald Forest last Sunday evening regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11 a.m. last Friday morning and 6 p.m. last Sunday evening, someone entered the victim’s home through the rear sliding-glass door and stole several bags of clothing. According to the report, the stolen items were boys designer clothes and valued at approximately $800. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witness-

es at the time of the report. AUG. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched Monday morning to a home on Appaloosa Trail regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11 a.m. last Saturday morning and 7 a.m. Monday, someone entered the victim’s home and stole a 50-inch Toshiba television from the family room. According to the report, there was no forced entry to the home, and the complainant believed the perpetrator(s) used a key to get in. The deputy said entry was likely made through the guest room and the perpetrator(s) exited through the rear sliding-glass door, which was found unlocked. According to the report, the victim was out of the area, and it was unknown if anything else was taken. The stolen television was valued at approximately $500. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. AUG. 20 — A resident of Barrington Woods called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim placed his official Village of Wellington garbage can on the curb sometime Monday morning, which is his usual trash pickup day. When he returned home later that day, he discovered the garbage can missing. The victim said he looked in the immediate area, but could not find the garbage can. According to the report, the victim reported the garbage can missing to the village. The stolen garbage can was valued at approximately $150. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

PBSO Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect In Target Armed Robbery JULY 24 — On July 24, just before 11 p.m., an unknown male entered the Super Target store on Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach and proceeded to rob a clerk at gunpoint. The suspect is described as light-skinned black male, approximately 6’1”, medium build, wearing a green Miami Hurricanes hooded sweater, dark jeans and a black bandana. If anyone can identify the suspect, they are urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1-800-458-TIPS.

A video camera image of the Target robbery suspect.

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NEWS

CAFCI HOSTS YOUTH TALENT SHOWCASE STARS OF TOMORROW IN ROYAL PALM

Caribbean Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) presented its 2013 Youth Talent Showcase Stars of Tomorrow on Saturday, Aug. 17 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Proceeds benefit the CAFCI Student Assistance Program. For more info., visit www. cafcipbc.org or call (561) 790-4002. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The CAFCI Youth Talent Show Committee.

All of the participants in the talent show recieved a cer tificate and a trophy.

Ashley Conner danced (left) and Allison Smith sang (right).

Thalia White and Nadine White-Boyd, who received a thank-you gift from Danielle Nelson.

Thalia White presented Jacynth and Allie Woodside with a thank-you gift for their emcee duties.

Sisters Jade and Demi Master perform together.

Substance Abuse Coalition Launches Family Dinner Initiative Palm Beach County Substance Awareness Coalition (PBCSAC), a nonprofit organization aimed at creating a drug-free environment for the community, is urging all families to plan frequent family dinners as a way to combat substance abuse. Compared to teens who have frequent family dinners (five to seven per week), those who have infrequent family dinners (fewer than three per week) are more than twice as likely to say that they expect to try drugs in the future, according to reports by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University. According to their report, those who have infrequent family dinners are almost twice as likely to

have used alcohol; one and a half times more likely to have used marijuana; more than one and a half times more likely to have friends who drink regularly, use marijuana and abuse prescription drugs; and one and a quarter times more likely to have friends who use illegal drugs such as acid, ecstasy, cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin. In 2001, CASA began a grassroots initiative called Family Day, which has blossomed into a nationwide celebration. Family Day promotes parental engagement as a simple and effective way to reduce children’s risk of smoking, drinking and using illegal drugs. PBCSAC is thrilled to be bringing the movement here. A pilot program was recently launched at Our

Lady Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Royal Palm Beach, where nearly 100 people participated. Sheila Fulkerson, a local mother of eight children, participated in the initial dinner. “I loved the conversation starters,” she said. “It helped me connect with my kids in new ways that I can use at home.” Studies show that teens who have numerous family dinners are more likely to report positive relationships with their parents and share more about what is going on in their day-to-day lives. “The magic of the dinners is not the meal, but the conversations that take place around the meal,” PBCSAC Director Jeff Kadel said. “If you knew that taking the time

PALM BEACH HORSE PARK

LATEST NEWS WE’RE CREATING A DOWNTOWN WELLINGTON!

For years, this wonderful Village of ours has lacked only one major entity...a great downtown! When the Palm Beach Horse Park is complete, the residents and visitors will have a sophisticated and friendly downtown in which to socialize, eat, shop and be entertained. We are presently interviewing fine restaurants, traditional and unique ladies clothing and shoe stores, Western clothing, boots and accessory shops. With the Hotel, Air Conditioned Arena, Banquet Hall and Shops all adjacent to each other, and plentiful and close parking, the Horse Park will be not only an American Quarter Horse Park, but the most fascinating and comfortable place in South Florida to socialize, shop, eat and be entertained. We welcome your input and ideas – this is YOUR community. Please contact us at: 561-333-3100 or Email: palmbeachhorsepark@gmail.com www.PalmBeachHorsePark.com 13860 Wellington Trace, Suite 6 • Wellington, FL 33414

Susan Foley of Innovative Leisure teaches parents and kids games to connect with each other. to sit down to dinner five to seven times a week with your child would more than likely help your child lead a drug-free life, why would you not take the time?” The initiative is generally cele-

brated on the fourth Monday in September, but the concept can be employed anytime during the year. PBCSAC has a toolkit at www. pbcsac.org to describe how any faith-based organization, school or

community can help establish this movement in their social circle. Contact PBCSAC Program Coordinator Alexa Lee at alexalee@ pbcsac.org or call (561) 844-5952 for more information.

Page 18 August 23 - August 29, 2013

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Hay Burners: What Does It Cost To Keep A Horse?

Whether you board a horse or keep one at home, it’s no small expense. Columnist Ellen Rosenberg always tells people that owning a horse is like keeping a car you never pay off. So how much does it cost to keep a horse? That depends. She goes to the experts for answers. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 21

August 23 - August 29, 2013

Page 19

Chris Thomas Excels At Webber International

Chris Thomas was a staple of the Wellington football program from 2008 to 2011, a period when the Wolverines went from 0-10 to district champions. He now plays for Webber International University. As a sophomore, he started five games. This season, he’ll be the team’s starting strong-side linebacker. Page 33

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Business

Wellington Chamber To Host Luncheon With Inspirational Speakers On Aug. 26

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce has put together a program featuring interesting chamber members who have changed careers, realized dreams and overcome obstacles. Guest speakers Carla B. Neumann, Diane E. Frankle, Dale W. Grimm and Dean K. Piper will share their inspiring stories on Monday, Aug. 26 at the Wanderers Club. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon begins at noon. Page 23

Sports

WHS Football Ready For The Fall Campaign

The Wellington High School varsity football squad has been diligently preparing for the new season. The Wolverines graduated several key players last year. While several seniors return on the Wolverines squad, they are a young team with a positive outlook, said Thomas Abel, back for his second season as head coach. Page 33

THIS WEEK’S index COLUMNS & FEATURES.........................21-22 BUSINESS NEWS................................... 23-25 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT........................ 26 COMMUNITY CALENDAR........................30-31 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 33-35 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................32-37

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Hay Burners: What Does It Cost To Keep A Horse?

Hay burners. That’s what Bill called them. He ran Higgs Feed at the corner of Southern Blvd. and Military Trail some 30-odd years ago. Back then, I boarded a horse at the Polo Ground Stables on land currently occupied by a Publix shopping center. I’d stop at Higgs, pick up a bag of feed and a couple of bales of hay, then drive them over to the barn. Both the feed store and barn are long gone, but I’m still buying food for my hay burners. Only now it costs a whole lot more. Whether you board a horse or keep one at home, it’s no small expense. I always tell people that owning a horse is like keeping a car you never pay off. So how much does it cost to keep a horse these days? That depends. Leif Aho owns Free Spirit Friesians in Wellington and offers pasture board. “Our large paddocks are three to 10 acres, some with shelters, some with trees,” Leif explained. “They all have water troughs. If we provide the grain, it costs $300 per month. If the owner provides his own grain, it’s $195 per month. We feed twice a day, and owners can also provide hay. We usually keep anywhere from five to 10 horses in each paddock. We have a dressage arena and access to trails.” Linda Taylor has owned and run Taylor

Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/HorseTalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg Farms on E Road in Loxahatchee Groves for 19 years. Her barn offers a mix of all different riding disciplines. “We don’t offer a traditional full board,” she said. “We have partial board, which means we rent out stalls for $175 to $200 a month, muck out the stall, turn out the horse and throw morning feed. The owner has to supply hay, feed and shavings, and feed in the afternoon.” First-time horse owners don’t realize the responsibility of owning a horse, both in terms of time and money, Taylor said. “A lot can go wrong very quickly, and vet bills are usually expensive,” she said. “This isn’t something you should get into without some thought and research. I’d advise taking lessons, maybe leasing a horse at a barn before actually buying.” Dorian Paxson owns TLP Stables in The Acreage and offers several different choices. “Full board is $625 a month,” Paxson said. “That includes throwing feed and hay twice a day, turning the horse out daily, bedding the stall with clean shavings and mucking it out two or three times each day. We can accom-

Beverly Rys, manager at Gold Coast Feed & Supply in Wellington. modate a horse’s special dietary needs and provide a variety of feeds. Any supplements would have to be provided by the owner.” There are other options for owners who are prepared to take on more responsibility. “We also have dry stalls, where the owner pays $275 a month just to rent the stall. We

can throw the morning feed, but they have to provide the hay, feed and shavings, muck out the stall and feed in the afternoon,” Paxson said. “We offer a lot of other amenities, have a nice ring to ride in and grassy turnout. We have lessons, training and other services. If See ROSENBERG, page 22

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History Chat Taught Me Cool Things About My Parents

Greg, my son-in-law, had an idea — let’s interview and record the great-grandparents for posterity. This was a good idea. In the first place, my parents kind of live “in the moment” without dwelling too much on the past. In the second place, when they do dwell, nobody really listens to them. So, between Greg and I, we came up with some really good questions. And this time I listened. Here’s what I learned about my mother: • She grew up as the seventh of nine (surviving) children on some northern Michigan acreage that had nothing but a shack on it when her father (Lawrence) arrived from Poland. • Tata met her mother (Anna) when Anna left Poland alone (at age 16) because she had heard the streets of America were paved with gold.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER • Lawrence built a small wood frame house, but it didn’t have electricity or indoor plumbing for years. • Lawrence and Anna were madly in love and the children grew up in a happy environment because of it. • Mom moved to Milwaukee because a girlfriend was going. It was there that she met my father. Here’s what I learned about my father: • He grew up as the third of four (surviv-

ing) children in a tiny house with a dirt floor in Milwaukee. • His father (Edwin) worked for the railroad and was physically and mentally abusive to my grandmother (Elsie) but, fortunately, Edwin was 23 years Elsie’s senior and died relatively young. • To help out their mother, the three older boys joined the U.S. Marine Corps and started sending money home. • My father chose my mother as the prettiest girl at the VFW hall during fish fry night, they danced and she told him her phone number, sure that he’d never remember it. • The next week, he tried five times to call her, but it was a shared phone at a girls’ rooming house, and he was not able to get through. He told his buddy he’d give it one more shot, but if this girl was so popular, she wouldn’t have time in her schedule for him anyway. The next call went through.

They went on a little bit about the joys of having me (oh, all right, and my siblings) but, when Greg asked them to relate an especially happy moment, they both said it was watching his son (their great-grandson) toddle around the living room. I have to think that this is part of what makes my parents so happy in general. They came from hardscrabble beginnings but, like their parents before them, they look forward, not back. They worked like maniacs to have a house in the suburbs for their children to grow up in, and they still work like maniacs to make sure we’re all happy and healthy. Now they’re working — alongside their children — to make sure their grandchildren and great-grandchildren get off on the right foot. “The breakdown of the family?” Not here. Not us. All it takes is work — generations of it.

I Never Tire Of Being Treated Like Royalty On Vacation

We just got back from a fabulous vacation at the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort just outside Cancún, Mexico. Some people like to rough it on a vacation; I prefer to be pampered and treated like royalty. And this resort certainly does it, while being all-inclusive. You pay upfront and don’t get pecked to death by extra fees. On the Monday we arrived, we quickly met with Juan Omar, the concierge for our building (number 87, to give you an idea of the size of this resort). He made certain we made the right choices among the seven pillow variations provided (orthopedic to lavender sachet) along with just the right aromatherapy. After that, this pleasant, urbane fellow, who had once taught Spanish in France, made certain that our minibar was stocked with only the beverages we like and started making reservations for us. Tuesday, after a nice day on the beach, we were booked into Momo, a really good Asian fusion restaurant, where we had a great meal before heading over to a Beach Boys concert, where we had comped seats in the 16th row. Mike Love and Bruce Johnston, two of the original members, backed by a five-piece band, did a full 90-minute show. Good vibrations, indeed.

Rosenberg

The Cost Of Keeping A Horse continued from page 21

someone likes, we can have their horse groomed, tacked up and ready to ride when they get here.” High Point Stables in Parkland offers full board for $850 per month. “We throw hay and feed twice daily, and clean stalls two times a day,” owner Jan Magee said. “We have 14-foot-by-14-foot stalls with 18-by-20 walkouts. There are also large grass paddocks. We put on and take off fly masks and fly sheets, and rinse the horse off before bringing it back in. We have hunter rings, lighted arenas, lots of jumps and 50 acres of trails. Our CBS barn is safe during hurricanes.”

Wednesday, I went swimming with dolphins, something I’ve wanted to do for decades, and later we were booked into La Trattoria, a five-star Italian restaurant where the waiters were quite ready to discuss exactly what wines would work with our unbelievably tasty meals. Thursday was set aside for some shopping in Cancún, where Maria was brought to a sister hotel, had a complimentary lunch and did serious shopping. Friday was spa day for her, with a facial and 90-minute massage before we were comped for a really good Cirque Dreams show, ninth row center. We ate most breakfasts at El Caribeño, a great place that does a fantastic ceviche in the evenings. Maria mentioned to Adriana, our hostess, that she wished they did paella there; it is not part of Mexican cooking, but Maria’s

dad is from Barcelona. We were invited to come to the restaurant on Saturday for lunch. Service captain Ricardo brought over the chef, who prepared a great seafood paella for her (as well as for other lucky diners who wanted it). Talk about being pampered. We went to the resort last year and were actually recognized by several of the staff. We managed several more exceptional meals, a couple of romantic walks on the beach, some fun time in the jacuzzi for two included with all rooms and a fabulous infinity pool that bordered on a wildlife preserve, featuring crocodiles on the other side of the concrete. Of course, being South Floridians, we were not impressed since just about every lake in our area has at least one alligator, but the European visitors, of whom there were many, were fascinated. My wife told me to mention the manicure/ pedicure/mini-massage sessions we got. The ladies at the spa work hard and are very sweet, even if they let her take photos of me getting the pedicure that she can use for future extortion. We spent several of our evenings either at some of the small-scale shows that the resort presents (they have a great Mayan traditional show, a fire show and, to keep some things

more current, a Michael Jackson tribute, among others), or at lounges where we heard some good singers as the staff kept refilling our glasses. We actually had a sad moment on Saturday as we met with one of the service people to arrange for our free transportation back to the airport. Knowing we only had a couple of days left was sad. Somehow, I am certain there is a cosmic error that keeps me from living like we did there for every week. How much did we pay? Well, once you pay the fee for actually going, there is not a lot more to pay. The Palace Resorts had a $1,500-a-week credit, which we used for the spa and for my swimming fun. Aside from paying the taxes on the activities (required by Mexican law), the only other expense was paying for professional photos of my dolphin session. My wallet stayed in the safe in my room the whole time. So, go off and camp in the woods. Overcook or undercook your meals over the fire and wonder whether strange wildlife will disturb your sleep. Different strokes for different folks. But as for us, we’re already planning a return visit. I like being treated really well, able to pretend that I could really live such a great lifestyle.

Judy Jenner owns and runs Ravenwood Riding Academy in Wellington. “We only offer full board,” she said. “It runs $1,050 a month and includes everything. We can customize the hay and feed to each horse. We throw feed twice a day and hay three times. The stalls are cleaned twice daily. We can also be on-site to hold the horse for the farrier or vet, if the owner can’t make it out. We turn the horses out, day or night, as the owner prefers, then groom it before putting it back up. We have a really nice farm, lots of grass turnout, high and dry. We offer lessons, for both children and adults, and can also exercise or ride their horses for them, for an extra fee.” Kit Dedominicis manages Lady Jean Ranch in Jupiter Farms. It’s a 50-acre facility with a covered arena, trails, an outside course, a dressage ring, a round pen, air-conditioned lounge and tack room, and 29 grass paddocks.

“We offer a couple of different choices,” Dedominicis said. “There’s annual board, which includes all the usual amenities, for $1,200 per month. There’s also complete care, which also includes grooming six days a week, for $1,500 per month. We grain twice a day and throw hay four times. Our stalls have automatic water systems, and there’s someone on premises 24 hours. We do a night check at 9 p.m. We have ceiling fans in all stalls, and a sprinkler and insect spray system. Owners are welcome to ride whenever they’d like.” So how much will all that hay and feed cost? “It depends on what you feed,” said Beverly Rys, manager of Gold Coast Feed & Supply in Wellington. “Fifty-pound bags of pellets or sweet feed run $14 to $26, and hay ranges from $16 to $35 per bale, by weight and origin. An average horse eats one bag of feed and two to three bales of hay each week, depending on

his job. Is it an athlete or a lawn ornament? Shavings run $5 to $6.50 a bag.” Then there’s all the other stuff: supplements, brushes, tack, lots of fly spray, wormers, shampoo, hoof dressings, helmet and boots for the rider, show clothes if they show, carrots, farrier and vet bills, lessons, trainers — the list is endless, Rys said. Indeed, if you own a horse, there’s never a lack of ways to spend money. But when you love a horse, he’s worth every penny. Many thanks to everyone who helped with this article: TLP Stables: (561) 791-8325 Taylor Farms: (561) 716-5552 Ravenwood Academy: (561) 793-4109 Lady Jean Ranch: (561) 745-1300 High Point Stables: (561) 470-1579 Free Spirit Friesians: (561) 762-9020 Gold Coast Feed: (561) 793-4607

‘I’ On Culture By Leonard Wechsler

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Wellington Chamber To Host Inspirational Speakers On Aug. 26

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce has put together a program featuring interesting chamber members who have changed careers, realized dreams and overcome obstacles. They will share their inspiring stories on Monday, Aug. 26 at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Dr., Wellington). Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and lunch begins at noon. The featured speakers are Carla B. Neumann, Diane E. Frankle, Dale W. Grimm and Dean K. Piper. Neumann is licensed as a marriage and family therapist with a private practice in Wellington since 2001. After a visit to Kenya in 2006, where she met orphaned youth, toured various orphanages and the slums in Kenya, she co-founded Dream Sponsors Inc. The small, grassroots, nonprofit organization provides basic needs and school fees to needy Kenyan orphans in three regions of Kenya. The project model was designed to keep orphan children with an extended relative caregiver to maintain important psychological attachments. Through mentoring from compassionate volunteers, limited medical services and receiving basic needs through the organization, select orphans and vulnerable youth are now able to realize their dreams of meaningful education and a self-sustaining future. Frankle is a registered nurse anesthetist and a member of the National Association of Nurse Anesthetists. She has worked for several of South Florida’s most successful and high-profile plastic surgeons. As a foster parent in Palm Beach County, Frankle adopted her second son from Kids In Distress. She is mother to two boys, Sam and Garrett. An equestrian since 1969, she also is an animal advocate, donating her time and expertise to Children, Hope & Horses, as well as Rottweiler rescue organizations. Frankle will speak on re-inventing yourself, her surprising new career, what brought her to the decision to change her life and how you can do the same. Positive, inspirational and uplifting, her talk is entitled “Nourishing Your Dreams… Recapturing the ‘You’ You Once Knew.”

Grimm, a certified public accountant, has been an accounting professional for more than 39 years. He has been a Wellington resident for 26 years with his wife and three stepsons. He provides tax and consulting services, as well as individual tax preparation for clients in 11 states. He is a member of the American Institute of CPAs, the Florida Institute of CPAs and the Western Communities Business Associates. He is on the executive board of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, as well as on the board of Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County. Grimm will speak on how he realized a dream of pursuing his gift for photography a few short years ago, which has resulted in his photography being displayed in numerous locations, as well as gained him notoriety as one of Palm Beach County’s most unique and diverse nature photographers. A lifetime of experiences is what makes Piper an inspirational speaker who leads by example. Count on relating in some way to all of his stories of persevering through overwhelming odds. Adversity has been second nature to Piper since birth, as with many people. The difference is the techniques, strategies and mindset that have caused people to name him the king of manifestation. This has led to a successfully proven and effective belief system that is transferrable to those he coaches and trains. This event will sell out, so RSVP today by calling (561) 792-6525 or visit www.wellingtonchamber.com. The cost is $20 for members with RSVP, $25 for members with no RSVP and $30 to the general public.

Clutter Buster Kathy Andio To Speak At American Business Women’s Association Meeting

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Sept. 11 at the PGA Embassy Suites Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens. Networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m., with the dinner and program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The September speaker will be de-cluttering organizer Kathy Andio. In 2009, Andio opened Let Clutter Go. She is also a facilitator of a clutter-busting support group, assisting people in removing clutter from their lives.

The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking, support and national recognition. The cost to attend is $20, and guests are welcome. To make reservations, call Dottie Smith at (772) 545-7145 or Sharon Maupin at (561) 329-4485. For more about the Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the ABWA, visit www. abwanpbflorida.org.

Page 23

NO CALL TO0 HOT!

Central Palm Beach County Chamber Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament presented by:

THE 1st PLACE WINNER WILL WIN A $1,000 CASH PRIZE AND A WORLD SERIES OF POKER CIRCUIT SEAT AT THE PALM BEACH KENNEL CLUB VALUED AT $555! Total Prize Value of $1,555!

Sunday, August 25, 2013 • 1:00p.m. Palm Beach Kennel Club - 1111 N. Congress Avenue, West Palm Beach

Individual Seats: $75 • Corporate Table: $750

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August 23 - August 29, 2013

‘Financial Peace University’ Starts Sept. 20 In Wellington

More than 2 million families have positively changed their financial future through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University (FPU). The updated, nine-week course provides families and individuals with practical tools to gain control of their finances and set themselves up for long-term financial success. The course meets once a week, where a different lesson is taught by Ramsey on DVD, followed by a small-group discussion. Lessons include budgeting, relationships and money, getting out of debt, saving for emergencies and investing. FPU will be held in Wellington at Chenoweth Community Class, located at 14161 Greentree Drive. The classes will begin Friday, Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Call Kim Chenoweth at (954) 643-3555 to register. Through common-sense principles and small-group accountability, FPU gives people the tools they need to change their behavior and succeed financially. On average, families who complete FPU pay off $5,300 and save $2,700 in the first 90 days. Following the class, nearly 94 percent of the families budget regularly. “FPU will not only transform the way you handle money, but also your marriage and other areas of

your life,” Ramsey said. “This isn’t a boring financial class. We make learning about money fun and easy to understand, so people in every situation can benefit from the information.” Ramsey knows first-hand the pain that financial stress can cause. After creating a net worth of more than $1 million by age 26, he quickly lost it all. Since then, Ramsey has helped families and individuals across the country learn how to get control of their finances and avoid debt so they don’t have to experience the same pain he did. FPU lessons also include guest speakers Rachel Cruze, speaker and daughter of Dave Ramsey; Jon Acuff, author of Wall Street Journal bestseller Quitter and the popular blog Stuff Christians Like; and Chris Hogan, counselor and speaker for the Dave Ramsey organization. FPU is offered through churches and community centers. After purchasing a membership, each participant receives a workbook, Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money, an envelope system and an audio CD library. Participants also have access to budgeting forms and MP3s of the lessons. For more information, visit www.daveramsey.com.

Business News

Cleveland Clinic Florida Opens Office In Palm Beach Gardens

Cleveland Clinic Florida opened its fifth South Florida location in July. Clinic staff, patients and civic leaders were on hand for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting celebration. The office is located at 4520 Donald Ross Road, Suite 200, in Palm Beach Gardens. “Cleveland Clinic Florida estab-

Schaefer Drugs

A+ rating with Better Business Bureau

lished roots in Palm Beach County six years ago, and since then we have enjoyed significant growth,” said Dr. Bernie Fernandez, president of Cleveland Clinic Florida. “We are committed to providing our patients with Cleveland Clinic’s world-class care, and this new location makes it convenient for residents who live

Celebrating the opening of Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Palm Beach Gardens office are (L-R) Administrative Director of Operations Jill Burges, Staff Neurologist Dr. Michelle Dompenceil, Palm Beach Gardens Mayor Bert Premuroso, Staff Neurologist Dr. Danita Jones, Cleveland Clinic Florida President Dr. Bernie Fernandez, Associate Chief of Staff Dr. Juan Nogueras, Jupiter Medical Center CEO John Couris and Gail McCormack with the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce.

FOR ALL YOU A N D PAT I O N EED S R P OOL

Lic # U-14047

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in the northern part of Palm Beach County.” Occupying 6,000 square feet of space, the office currently has a staff of four neurologists and two family practice physicians. Appointments are available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and can be made by calling (561) 9047200 or online at www.cleveland clinicflorida.org. Cleveland Clinic Florida, located in Weston and West Palm Beach, is a not-for-profit, multi-specialty, academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education. It has 230 physicians with expertise in 35 specialties. The medical campus is fully integrated and includes diagnostic centers, outpatient surgery and a 24hour emergency department located in the state-of-the-art hospital. Cleveland Clinic Florida is an integral part of Cleveland Clinic Ohio, where providing outstanding patient care is based upon the principles of cooperation, compassion and innovation. Physicians at Cleveland Clinic are experts in the treatment of complex conditions that are difficult to diagnose.

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Page 25

Fortunoff Backyard Store Enters Tracy Van Hart Joins Florida Market With Three Stores The IberiaBank Team

Fortunoff Backyard Store, the legendary retail brand well-known for having the largest selection of outdoor furniture and accessories in the Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, is opening three new stores in Florida. Stores are opening in Boca Raton, Stuart and Palm Beach Gardens, bringing the total Fortunoff Backyard Store count to 19. The Florida

locations are the first outside of the Tri-State area. Fortunoff Backyard Store is a onestop shop for consumers seeking to expand their living space outdoors. Customers can choose from more than 100 in-stock, outdoor furniture sets available in an array of frame and cushion options. Customers can also choose from many shapes and sizes of dining and seating groups,

One of the many creations available at Fortunoff Backyard Store.

so that the sets they love can fit perfectly into their sunrooms or outdoor spaces. Sets are available in the popular all-weather wicker and cast-aluminum, as well as other materials. Plus, the new design studio offers customized furniture, fabrics and styles to create a unique and personalized look. Completing the sets, Fortunoff Backyard Store also offer a wide selection of in-stock cushions in designer-picked colors and patterns, as well as an extensive line of umbrellas in varying sizes shapes and colors. All locations are also wellstocked with grills and accessories. “Florida has always been at the top of our list because it’s a great outdoor market and many in the state have roots in the northeast where they’ve grown to love the storied Fortunoff brand,” CEO Bernard Sensale said. Customers can also count on the Fortunoff Backyard Store legendary customer service. Its staff is skilled in helping customers choose the best options that extend their home’s square footage, in their own style and within their budget. For more info., visit www.fortunoffbys.com.

Tracy Van Hart has joined Iberia Bank as senior vice president and senior commercial relationship manager for Palm Beach County. Van Hart has been a southeast Florida commercial banker for more than 26 years, specializing in real estate transactions. “Tracy’s stellar reputation has earned her respect in our industry and in our community,” said Jennifer Brancaccio, market president for Iberia Bank. “Her knowledge of our unique real estate market is unprecedented.” In her prior position, Van Hart served as senior vice president and commercial real estate banker for Wells Fargo Bank. She had been with the same company through several acquisitions dating back to 1987. Van Hart will work throughout Palm Beach County with an office in Jupiter located at 1315 West Indiantown Road. She is a graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in finance. Local accolades include being recognized as the winner of the South Florida Chapter of the National Association of

Tracy Van Hart Industrial and Office Properties (NAIOP) Top Lender/Financier of the Year and winner of the South Florida Business Journal Up and Comers Award. Van Hart has invested countless hours volunteering, previously serving on the board of directors for the United Way of Broward County and the South Florida Chapter of the NAIOP. She has also volunteered with the Florida Bar Grievance Committee, Commercial Real Estate Women professionals group and Junior Achievement. She is a 1997 graduate of Leadership Broward.

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Dining & Entertainment

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Three New Exhibits At The Armory Art Center In WPB

“Red Morgan,” “Mark Cohen” and “Collaboration: African Diaspora” are three new exhibitions at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach. Joint receptions will be held Friday, Sept. 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. “Red Morgan - Witness: Gospel by the Cane Fields” displays the work of Morgan, a recognized freelance photographer with 30 years of professional experience. He has worked with America’s best editorial magazines, corporations and advertising agencies shooting a wide range of stories and projects. Morgan has shot editorial stories for Time, Life, Newsweek, People, Forbes, Esquire, Town & Country and Sports Illustrated. The exhibition will feature recent photographs that represent an intimate look into the religious practices by the New Zion Holiness Church’s bishops, pastors, gospel singers, gospel band and congregation, located on the outskirts of Pahokee. It will run from Sept. 13 to Oct. 26.

“Mark Cohen: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” will celebrate a recent series of large-scale portraits of prominent contemporary and historical figures. Cohen’s painting style is a unique combination of abstract drips and dips. It’s on display from Sept. 13 to Oct. 19. “Collaboration: African Diaspora” is an exhibit by the Armory Art Center in partnership with A.T.B. Fine Artists & Designers LLC. It is hosting a Harlem Renaissance-style art exhibition showcasing 25 visual and nine literary artists of the African Diaspora. The African Diaspora concept is based on the historical background of the artists, not necessarily the subject matter of the work. The artists are: Addonis Parker, Al Burts, Anthony Burks Sr., Barbara Cheives, Carl Craig, David German, Donald McKnight, Franklin Sinanan, Herschel Yelder, Howard T. Cash, James Rush, JaFleu, Kianga

Jinaki, Lee Glaze, Lupe Lawrence, Michael Hall, Mikhaile Solomon, Nzingah Oniwosan, Robert McKnight, Rodney Jackson, Shawn Henderson, Simone De Bernard, T. Elliot Mansa, Tonya Akins and Trina Slade-Burks (a.k.a. Diz-E Image). The Mighty 9 writers are: Angelina Stewart, Ansonia Hixon, Damaa Bell, Jasira Monique, L. Medford, Kimberly Nyesha Smith, Melissa McKnight, Trina Slade-Burks and Yulette Newman. This exhibit will be available from Saturday, Sept. 21 through Saturday, Nov. 9. There are also several events lined up for the fall at the Armory Art Center. An artist’s panel will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 2:30 p.m. The discussion panel is made up of artists, art enthusiasts and those in the art business of African descent, who explain the importance of black art nationally and internationally.

A book signing of the Mighty 9 will be held on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 12 to 3 p.m. Hosted by Trina and Anthony Burks and the Black Village Voice, the Mighty 9 is a collaboration of nine women of African descent sharing words of life, love and achievement to success. The book is available for sale, and some of the artists will be available to recite their words and sign the book. An evening of art, wine and cheese will be held Oct. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Participating artist Barbara Cheives of Converge & Associates Consulting will host a meet-the-artist happy hour on behalf of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc., West Palm Beach chapter. All of the events are free and open to the public. The armory’s mission is to provide high-quality visual art school and art gallery services that stimulate personal self-discovery and

Frankenstein, by Mark Cohen. generate knowledge and awareness of art as part of life. For more information on the Armory Art Center or to sign up for classes, visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776, ext. 33.

Cultural Consortium Honors Artists With Fellowships

Palm Beach County artists Nathaniel Katz and Bonnie Seeman received Visual and Media Artists Fellowship awards by the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County. Katz, an interdisciplinary artist, and Seeman, a ceramic artist, are two of 14 recipients awarded the honor this year by the South Florida Cultural Consortium. Katz, a resident of Jupiter, born in Canada and raised in Israel and the U.S., earned a bachelor’s degree with honors from the Rhode Island School of Design in digital media. While there, he was the recipient of a graduate fellowship and a graduate award of excellence. Katz was awarded the best new media prize at the Boston Young Contemporaries in 2008. In 2009, he participated at the Lugar, a Dudas

Nathaniel Katz artist residency program in Cali, Colombia. “Nathaniel Katz presents his artworks as an exchange,” said Ian Berry, associate director and curator of the Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College. “Katz makes art as a gift, as a component of teaching or as an intimate

collaboration between father and son. It almost doesn’t matter if we are invited in at all.” Katz defines his work as, “provoking the possibility of reverberation beyond the moment of encounter through storytelling, gifts and the dissemination of desire.” Seeman, of Boca Raton, earned a master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami. She has participated in numerous international and national exhibitions including: Art Basel in Switzerland, the World Ceramic Biennale in Korea and Arco Art Fair in Spain. Her works are in many public and private collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Mint Museum of Craft & Design

Bonnie Seeman and the Carnegie Museum of Art. She has received several grants, such as the Louis Comfort Tiffany Biennial award and two Florida individual artist fellowships. She has demonstrated and lectured throughout the U.S., and her work is widely published. Seeman serves on the board of Watershed

Center and has served as a Florida Arts Fellowship panelist. “My work blends the macabre with the beautiful, which acts as a metaphor for the fragility and resiliency of life,” Seeman said. The fellowships are conferred at either the $15,000 or $7,500 level. Katz and Seeman both received $7,500. An exhibition featuring the works of the 14 recipients is on view at the Museum of Art in Fort Lauderdale, One East Las Olas Blvd., through Sept. 1. The South Florida Cultural Consortium Visual and Media Artists Fellowship program is a cooperative project funded in part with the support of the boards of county commissioners of Broward and Miami-Dade counties, and the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County.

Feast Of Little Italy Scheduled For Nov. 1-3 At Abacoa

Crowds enjoy the Feast of Little Italy at Abacoa.

Florida’s largest Italian festival, the Feast of Little Italy presented by Arrigo Fiat of West Palm Beach, returns to Abacoa’s Town Center in Jupiter on Nov. 1-3. The feast, a traditional Italian street festival, is a three-day cultural family celebration known for sharing old traditions and creating new memories. There is something for all generations to enjoy with many favorite feast activities returning this year, such as the Galbani cheese cooking pavilion, bocce, Banfi wine seminars, festival rides and games. This year’s event is one for the

senses. Festival goers will be able to enjoy more than 170 vendors from all over the country showcasing favorite Italian dishes and merchandise. The streets of Jupiter’s Abacoa community will be filled with the aromas, sights, sounds and great food that the Feast of Little Italy has become known for over the past decade. “It’s about passion, passion for family, passion for friends, passion for food, music and all things that represent being Italian. We know how to celebrate, that’s for sure,” Feast President Jerry Somma said.

The Feast of Little Italy is a place where the whole family will be able to enjoy the heritage of the Italian culture. Come out and enjoy an atmosphere filled with music, authentic Italian food, art and tradition. There will be no place better to spend the weekend with the family. And, yes, everyone is Italian that weekend. The Feast of Little Italy is celebrating its 11th year this year. For the latest updates on feast activities visit www.feastoflittleitaly.com or call the feast office at (561) 427-0500.

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Community Calendar

Saturday, Aug. 24 • The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary will host a Certified Boating Safety Class on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) for ages 17 and older. Call (561) 791-4082 to register. • Symons Family Chiropractic (1011 North State Road 7, Suite D, Royal Palm Beach) will host a free back-to-school health fair Saturday, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with vendors, food, speakers, demos, promos and give-aways. Call (561) 333-8353 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Back to School Locker Chalkboards for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Aug. 24 at 11 a.m. Make a magnetic locker chalkboard and enjoy donuts. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The American Singles Golf Association will host an outing Saturday, Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. at Bear Lakes Country Club (1901 Village Blvd., West Palm Beach). The cost is $55. Participants will dine at Duffy’s on Village Blvd. after golf. Call (561) 656-1872 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Move Your Résumé to the Top of the Pile for adults Saturday, Aug. 24 at 2 p.m. Jason Davis will teach best practices for creating a résumé. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Sunday, Aug. 25 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 1 p.m. at the Palm Beach Kennel Club (1111 N. Congress Ave., West Palm Beach). RSVP to Maritza Clark at (561) 578-4817 or maritza@cpbchamber.com. For more info., call (561) 790-6200 or visit www.cpbchamber.com. Monday, Aug. 26 • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon themed “Dreams Have No Age Limit” on Monday, Aug. 26 at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Drive, Wellington). Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and the luncheon begins at noon. Call (561) 792-6525 or visit www. wellingtonchamber.com to RSVP. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Legos for ages 8 and up Monday, Aug. 26 at 4 p.m. Builders create vehicles or buildings out of Lego pieces. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • A 13-week DivorceCare program will

begin Monday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 West Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). Pre-registration is required. Call Rachel Lever at (561) 793-5712, ext. 21, or e-mail rlever@ stpeters-umc.org for more info. Tuesday, Aug. 27 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a workshop meeting Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach). For more info., visit www.pbcgov. com. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Teen Game Night for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo Wii and board games. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Club Pokémon for ages 6 to 12 on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Bring DS or Pokémon cards and get ready to battle, trade and make new friends. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a Gluten-Free Shopping Tour on Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Learn where to find gluten-free products and how to cook gluten-free meals. There is no charge. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach Community Band will perform Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Refreshments will be served during intermission. For more info., call (561) 790-5149. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). For more info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. Wednesday, Aug. 28 • Wellington Regional Medical Center will host a “Healthy Heart Health Fair and Forum” on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. designed to increase awareness about heart disease and encourage people to learn about prevention and treatment. Free blood pressure and cholesterol screenings will be offered. Lunch and learn lectures will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Call (561) 798-9880 to RSVP. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Medicare Savings and See CALENDAR, page 31

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Community Calendar CALENDAR, continued from page 30 Extra Help for adults Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 2 p.m. Join a representative from SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) to learn about low-income Medicaid programs that help pay the costs associated with Medicare. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Buggin’ Out for ages 6 and up Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 3 p.m. Create your own bug and insect clothespin magnets. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Healthy Eating Road Map on Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Learn how to ditch processed foods and get more nutritional bang for your buck at this free program. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. • Register to attend a Free Zumba Class at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane) on Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Pre-register for the class at the recreation center or by calling (561) 790-5124. Zumba classes are ongoing year-round and are offered four nights a week. Classes cost $23 for four classes for RPB residents ($28 for non-residents). Classes are held Monday through Thursday, and each night of the week is a different session. For more info., call (561) 7905124 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com. Thursday, Aug. 29 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Luncheon will take place Thursday, Aug. 29 at noon at Jordan’s Steak Bistro (10140 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 170, Wellington). The featured speaker will be Minx Boren, president of the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches. Call Mariela Castillo at (561) 578-4813 or e-mail mariela@cpb chamber.com for info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Entrepreneurship on the Side for adults Thursday, Aug. 29 at 2 p.m. Brainstorm side businesses that are easy to set-up and a great way to augment income. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Kids’ Club: Chicken Enchiladas for ages 6 to 12 on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 3 p.m. Kids won’t know they’re eating a variety of veggies with baked chicken enchiladas, followed by a banana multigrain bar for dessert.

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There is no charge. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. Friday, Aug. 30 • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Mom’s Morning Escape on Friday, Aug. 30 from 9 to 11 a.m. Moms will receive a free coffee or tea, and muffin. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host an Award-Winning Domestic Artisan Cheese Class on Friday, Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Taste a selection of domestic artisan cheeses from this year’s award-winning producers, paired with a wine or beer. The cost is $5 per person. RSVP at customer service or call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • Cassadee Pope, winner of NBC’s The Voice Season 3, will rock CityPlace with a free performance Friday, Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Summer Country Music Concert Series. Pope, a Wellington native, returns following her national summer tour with Rascal Flatts. For more info., visit www. cityplace.com or call (561) 366-1000. Saturday, Aug. 31 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Campers Have S’more Fun for ages 3 and up Saturday, Aug. 31 at 10:30 a.m. Sing around the “campfire,” tell stories and eat s’mores. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Teen Advisory Posse for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Aug. 31 at 2:30 p.m. Find out what’s coming and share ideas for future teen programs. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Anime Club for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Aug. 31 at 3 p.m. Watch anime, eat Pocky and check out the newest manga titles. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Tuesday, Sept. 3 • The Kevin Perkins Golf Academy will be conducting its popular Junior After-School Fall Golf Program at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington starting Tuesday, Sept. 3. The program is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 17. For info., visit www.kevinperkins golfacademy.com or call (561) 301-3783. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@gotowncrier.com.

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WHS Varsity Football Team Ready For Fall Campaign

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School varsity football squad has been diligently preparing for the new season. The Wolverines graduated eight impact players last year. While several seniors return on the Wolverines squad, they are a young team this season with a positive outlook. The Wolverines continue to have a freshman team but no junior varsity. This helps the younger players gain experience as varsity contributors and develop them into the future leaders on the team. Coach Thomas Abel returns for his second season as head coach. “Last year was a learning experience for us,” he said. Abel seemed to have the young Wellington squad on track in his first year as head coach, winning their first four games. A pivotal game was the Wolverines’ upset victory over John I. Leonard. “The kids were not used to being on top, and we’ve been working on improving their focus this year to handle the pressure better,” Abel said. He emphasized that adjustments were made with the coaching staff this year, and the team will be mentally and physically tough every game. The Wolverines plan to use multi-

ple formations on offense this year. Defensively is where Wellington suffered the biggest hit with graduation, so look for the Wolverines to be mixing it up on defense to see who will end up the leader on that side of the ball. Veteran quarterback Cole Smallridge returns. He is a three-year starter for the Wolverine offense. Look for Smallridge to have more input on the offensive play-calling at the line of scrimmage come game time. The Wolverines plan on throwing the ball more this season as well, and with returning offensive line veterans senior Alex Henry and junior Keegan Sullivan, the Wolverines hope to put more points on the board. The Wolverines have three solid running backs, including returning senior starter Matt Sabatino. Wellington has a few changes in this year’s schedule. Their district (9-8A) remains the same, with Jupiter, Seminole Ridge and Palm Beach Gardens high schools. Added back to the Wolverines schedule are Santaluces and West Boca Raton high schools. New opponents are West Broward and South Fork. One school Wellington will not see on the gridiron this season is cross-town rival Palm Beach Central.

“We’re looking to do a lot of good things out there this year. We’ve given them the tools, and it will be up to the kids to get it done. We have a very positive outlook for the season,” Abel said. The Wolverines travel to Olympic Heights High School on Friday, Aug. 23 for their kickoff classic game. Wellington will open the regular season hosting Santaluces High School on Friday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m.

Returning quarterback Cole Smallridge looks to pass.

Wellington running back Matt Sabatino runs the ball during practice. Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

WHS Grad Chris Thomas Excels At Webber International

By Joshua Hyber Town-Crier Staff Report It was Nov. 5, 2010, and the Wellington High School Wolverines were playing their Senior Night game against the heavily favored Seminole Ridge Hawks. The Wolverines trailed 10-9, and having just scored a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, opted for a two-point conversion to take the lead. All-purpose player Alex DiNardo

took the snap, faked a quarterback sneak and fired a jump-pass-like throw to Chris Thomas, who, while playing tight end, snuck behind blitzing linebackers. Thomas caught DiNardo’s pass, and the Wolverines took an 11-10 lead. Offensive lineman Brynjar Gudmundsson rushed into the end zone and lifted Thomas high into the air. Thomas raised his arms, and the football, above his head.

Chris Thomas (No. 44) listens to Wellington coach Tom Abel. Photo by Joshua Hyber/Town-Crier

Although the Wolverines eventually lost that game to Seminole Ridge 18-11, it was a dramatic improvement from the 40-7, 62-6 and 36-10 losses from the teams’ previous matchups. Thomas was a main staple of the Wellington football program from 2008 to 2011, a period when the Wolverines went from 0-10 to district champions. Thomas now plays for Webber International University, an NAIA school in Babson Park, Fla. As a sophomore last season, he started five games. This season, he’ll be the team’s starting strong-side linebacker from day one. He’ll be ready for the leading role. After all, it’s what he’s been doing for years. “Chris was a great player and great teammate,” Wellington teammate Tyler Vanacore recalled. “He was one of our captains, and everyone looked up to him. He always played 100 percent and gave it his all.” Teammate Lucas Riebe agreed. “Chris was a hard worker and very dedicated,” he said. “He has a lot of heart and always played every snap like it was his last. He played a major role in the legacy that was left by the Class of 2011… At the end of the

day, I knew he always had my back.” While others departed Wellington for greener pastures, Thomas and his classmates took it upon themselves to rebuild the WHS program. “I was born in West Palm and lived in Wellington for 16 years,” Thomas said. “I just had a sense of hometown pride.” In 2011, Thomas’ senior year, Wellington’s district had just three teams: Wellington, West Boca and Spanish River. The Wolverines knew that in order to win the district, West Boca was the team to beat. On Oct. 8, Wellington was 1-4 and West Boca had one loss. “We all just came into that game with so much confidence knowing we were going to win, even though the odds were against us,” Thomas said. The Wellington defense, led by Thomas and Derrick May, was all over the place. Wellington won 20-14 and clinched the district title two weeks later with a 21-0 win against Spanish River. Wellington eventually lost to Boyd Anderson 21-12 in the first round of the state playoffs that year. Thomas had college offers from many Division II and Division I AA schools, and considered walking on

at FAU. But at the end of the day, it was a sense of community and family that brought Thomas to Webber. “My family really wanted to see me play in college, and they didn’t want to travel so much,” Thomas said. “They really support me with everything I do. I appreciate my parents so much for all the love and the support. Without them, I wouldn’t be in a position like this.” Thomas hopes to keep playing for as long as he can, whether that means the CFL, Arena League or a football league in Europe. “He has such a big heart with so much drive to succeed,” friend Jose Marin said. “He takes any opportunity to represent his school and team, showing how proud he always was of not only himself, but his team. Chris is the epitome of the perfect student athlete, making him a great role model for all students.” As for his legacy at Wellington, Thomas said, “With our class, we were all buddies growing up, and we knew that if we stuck together, when we left we would have something to be proud of. It doesn’t matter how hard things get, you have to stick to your goals, stick to your guns and have faith that everything will work out if you truly believe in it.”

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sports & recreation

Great Showing For Cats Girls At AAU Nationals In Orlando The Cats of Wellington gymnastics team competed in the 2013 AAU Age Group National Championships, held recently in Orlando. The team had a fantastic showing, with four all-around national champions in their respective groups: Keelin Coleman, Zoe Kyrkostas, Ruth Lively and Arabella Campbell. In Level 2, Keelin Coleman finished first all-around in her group with a 38.85, including first on bars (9.575), first on floor (9.8), first on beam (9.85) and 9.625 on vault. Sophia Roberts was awarded first on vault (9.6) and scores of 9.35 on bars, 9.5 on beam and 9.575 on floor. Guilbrhea Pacheco earned scores of 9.25 on vault, 9.425 on bars, 9.45 on beam and 9.55 on floor. Allison Franck scored 9.075 on vault, 9.225 on bars, 9.425 on beam and 9.3 on floor. Juliana Stebbins had scores of 9.1 on vault, 9.025 on bars, 9.3 on beam and 9.325 on floor. Ava Delafe earned scores of 9.275 on vault and 9.05 on bars. Natalie Bornel scored 9.3 on vault and 9.75 on beam. In Level 3, Zoe Kyrkostas finished first all-around in her group with a 38.575, including first on vault (10), first on bars (9.675), and scores of 9.55 on beam and 9.35 on

floor. Ruth Anne Lively finished first all-around in her group with a 38.075, including first on bars (9.675), first on floor (9.7), and scores of 9.5 on vault and 9.2 on beam. Kayla Levins earned first place on beam with a score of 9.45 and scores of 9.7 on vault, 9.35 on bars and 9.525 on floor. Angelina Apicella had scores of 9.725 on vault, 9.6 on bars, 9.225 on beam and 9.275 on floor. Sasha Campbell earned 9.55 on vault, 9.65 on bars, 9.25 on beam and 9 on floor. Sophia Rodriguez scored 9.475 on vault, 9.5 on bars, 9.2 on beam and 9.175 on floor. Ashleigh Altfest took 9.2 on vault, 9.6 on bars and 9.55 on floor. Sophia Lacosta scored 9.525 on vault and 9.4 on bars. Hailey Gruber received 9.55 on vault, 9.425 on bars and 9.075 on beam. Nicole Campos earned 9.15 on vault, 9.325 on bars and 9 on beam. Arianna Nettles finished with scores of 9.625 on vault, 9.35 on bars and 9.2 on floor. In Level 4, Alexis Merritt was awarded 9.525 on vault, 9.2 on bars, 9 on beam and 9.55 on floor. Allison Bunchuk earned scores of 9.2 on vault, 9.25 on bars, 9.4 on beam and 9.225 on floor. In Level 5, Arabella Campbell finished first all-around in her group with 36.95, including

first on vault (9), first on bars (9.35) and scores of 9.15 on beam and 9.45 on floor. Samantha Baez earned first place on beam (9.475), and scores of 9.375 on bars and 9 on floor.

Brieanna McCaffrey had 8.775 on vault, 8.625 on bars, 9.2 on floor and 8.575 on beam. Kinsey Cribbs earned 8.7 on vault, 9.3 on bars and 8.9 on floor. In Modified Optionals,

Alexia Moraes earned 8.7 on vault and 9.525 on floor. The girls train with coaches Margarita Martinez, Felipe Restrepo and John Levy.

Dieudonne Signs For College Basketball

Basketball player Williamson Dieudonne — a 6-foot-6-inch, 235-pound forward — signed with West Hills Community College in Coalinga, Calif., on Monday, Aug. 12. Dieudonne never actually played basketball at Wellington High School, but attended classes and worked on improving his grades and received a GED. “Williamson is a guy who didn’t get this opportunity the traditional way, but worked really hard to put himself in a position to obtain his high school diploma and become recruitable,” said Matt Colin, Wellington High School’s basketball coach. “He’s got the size and strength that you want in a college player, and he can play multiple position due to his skill level. He gets a second chance at a playing basketball, going to school and accomplishing one of his dreams.” West Hills plays in the Central Valley Conference, one of the top conferences in California. William-

son will be joining fellow Palm Beach County recruits Stephon

Gordon (WHS) and Lanville Lewis (Summit Christian).

(Front row) Wiliamson Dieudonne and his father William Dieudonne; (back row) Matt Colin, brother Alex Dieudonne and Chris Fratalia.

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ESPN West Palm To Cover Oxbridge County Awarded Largest Academy’s First Football Season Amateur Tennis Tourney The Friday night lights will shine even brighter on Oxbridge Academy this football season. The new, independent high school in West Palm Beach has announced that ESPN 106.3 FM will be the school’s broadcast partner for all home and away games for the next two years. ESPN West Palm’s Jeremy MarksPeltz will announce the play-by-play action for the Friday night radio broadcasts alongside Jimmie Bell, who will provide color commentary. “This is the Thunderwolves’ debut appearance in the varsity high school sports arena, and we’re delighted to have ESPN 106.3 as a partner to broadcast all the action,” said Robert C. Parsons, president and CEO of Oxbridge Academy. “Oxbridge has built a very strong football program in just two years, and we’re ready to give our talented players time in the spotlight.” Oxbridge Academy will play its first varsity schedule in the newly created Gulf Atlantic Football Conference, a 10-team independent league, and plans to enter a Florida High School Athletic Association district in 2015. This season’s first home game will be played on Sept. 6 versus North Broward Prep.

“Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast is a breeding ground for high school football players, and it’s such a compelling topic of conversation both on and off the air,” said Evan Cohen, afternoon drive host on ESPN 106.3. “We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with Oxbridge Academy and share with the community a great local story of the growth of high school football in our backyard.” The partnership with Oxbridge Academy will allow the station an inside look as the school builds a foundation for its football program, noted ESPN West Palm General Manager Steve Politziner. “Our fans have always supported our high school football content, and this partnership will allow us to continue to expand our coverage, particularly of a program that begins the season with big goals ahead of them,” he said. “We’re looking forward to continuing to bring more high school football to the sports fans of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast.” The Oxbridge Thunderwolves’ inaugural season will open in a new, 1,500-seat stadium complete with a regulation-size field covered in the

same synthetic turf used in Ralph Wilson Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills. The stadium is part of a multimillion-dollar effort to enhance and improve the school’s athletic facilities. Other campus renovations included upgrading the weight room equipment, re-claying the softball field, resurfacing the tennis courts and jogging track, enhancing the swimming pool, and installing retractable bleachers and baskets in the gymnasium. The athletic program at Oxbridge Academy complements the school’s overall mission and vision to provide a life-defining educational experience. The school views athletic competition as a microcosm of life in which the challenges and obstacles faced by student-athletes on the playing field help prepare them to succeed and meet the challenges they will encounter in life. The school currently offers 26 athletic teams and clubs ranging from basketball to fencing to sailing. Approximately 85 percent of the student body participates in an athletic program. For more information about the school, call (561) 972-9600 or visit www.oapb.org.

Palm Beach County will be home to the world’s largest amateur tennis tournament. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has announced that it will bring its ITF Senior World Championships to the county from April 21 to May 4, 2014. The United States Tennis Association, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission and Triosports International, a Palm Beach County-based sports production firm, are partnering to host one of the most prestigious international tennis events. In order to accommodate the influx of global tennis players that will compete in Palm Beach County, eight different tennis facilities will be utilized. The ITF Senior World Championships, which includes individual and team championship divisions for men and women, will attract more than 1,600 athletes and more than 3,000 worldwide visitors from 38 different countries. Palm Beach County will be transformed into the center of the tennis universe with approximately 850 tennis matches taking place during the team competition and 1,500 matches during the individual competition. The ITF Senior World Championships will bring

widespread impact to Palm Beach County. The event is expected to generate more than $2.5 million of direct visitor spending and between 4,000 and 5,000 hotel room nights. “We’re delighted that eight outstanding tennis facilities in Palm Beach County have been selected as venues for this 15-day marquee event,” said George Linley, executive director of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. “These elite tennis facilities include Ballen Isles Country Club, serving as the host site in north county, Mirasol Country Club, PGA National Resort, Palm Beach Gardens Tennis Center, Polo Club of Boca Raton, serving as the host site in south county, Boca West Country Club, Boca Grove Country Club and Woodfield Country Club.” Countries nominate teams of up to four players in the ITF Senior World Championships, which, since its inception in 1981, has grown every year. In addition to the significant economic benefits, the ITF Senior World Championships will bring Palm Beach County immense exposure across the global tennis community. For more information, visit www.itftennis.com.

Page 36 August 23 - August 29, 2013

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT WELLINGTON ROOM FOR RENT — Beautiful, furnished. In nice neighborhood, private bath, all utilities included, no smoking, drugs or pets. $650 per month + security. Female only, call 561-632-7024

OFFICE/ WAREHOUSE SPACE 2 Spaces Available Now

3,000 sq. ft. without paint booth Located behind Al Packer West

PAINTING

SECURITY

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

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

CLEANING — Residential & Commercial home & office cleaning. Home organization for closets / bathrooms & more. Since 2005 in Palm Beach County references available.Call Vera 561-598-0311

Call 561-662-0246 or 334-740-3431 For More Information.

VOLUNTEERS

H ello , M y name is Brenda — I have lived and cleaned homes in the Western Communities for over 25 Years. Great references. 561-460-8380

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS OVER 16 YEARS OLD — who want to work at a children’s zoo Sundays 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 561-792-2666

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-2521186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

EMPLOYMENT

HIRING FIRE EXTINGUISHER TECHNICIANS — Needed Full-Time will train. Benefits include paid vacation, holidays, sick days, must be 18 or over. Employee Health Insurance available. Clean Driver’s License. Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 561-683-1333

HOME HEALTH AIDE SENIOR CARING FOR SENIORS — References available upon request. Full-Time or Part-Time . Home Health Aide Available! Please call Janet 561-373-3156

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE

booth. and 2nd space

TEACHER AND TEACHERS ASSISTANT POSTIONS — Needed for Pre-School Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. or 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Please call 561-790-0808

A/C AND REFRIGERATION JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent participating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. “We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks” 561-7983225. Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

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

1 space 3,000 sq. ft. with paint

DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! — Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account. Werner Enterprises: 1-888-567-4854

DRIVEWAY REPAIR

AUTOMOBILES 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD DELUXE — Convertible/hardtop, aqua, 17K miles, mint condition, $21,000. Please call 518-495-1329

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY

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

HANDYMAN THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 8012010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

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

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

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

MASSAGE THERAPY MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPY — Feeling Run Down From Everything Life Throws At You? Look After Your Health & Wellness With Therapeutic Massage Especially For Women” From Full Body Swedish Massage to Targeted Deep Tissue Massage. Mention This ad Save $15. Call Florence 561-255-8470 Lic#MA 54559

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit ourwebsite at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-3838666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

SCREENING JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 7983132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

PLUMBING

SHUTTERS/PANELS

JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

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

PRESSURE CLEANING

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

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 at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

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

PLACE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LISTING HERE CALL 793-3576 ROOFING M I N O R R O O F R E PA I R S D on H artmann R oof ing — Roof painting, Carpent r y. L i c . # U 1 3 6 7 7 9 6 7 - 5 5 8 0 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207

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

TREE SERVICE TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com

WALLPAPERING PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263 YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS FOR AS LOW AS $21 A WEEK*

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