DELAYED RPB PARK ALSO OVERBUDGET SEE STORY, PAGE 3
CHRISTMAS FUN AT YESTERYEAR VILLAGE SEE PHOTOS, PAGE 9
THE
TOWN - CR IER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE
Your Community Newspaper
INSIDE ArtFest On The Green Jan. 5-6 In Wellington
Volume 33, Number 52 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
SNOWFLAKES FOR SANDY HOOK
ArtFest on the Green, the Wellington Art Society’s seventh annual fine art and fine craft show, will take place Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 5 and 6 at the Wellington Amphitheater. The show, previously called Fall Fling, has expanded over the years and now includes artists from all over the state. Page 3
RPB Will Review Rules Regulating Yard Sales
The Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week agreed to look into the possibility of allowing residents four yard sales per year, rather than the two per year currently allowed. Page 7
Wellington Landings Middle School students made snowflakes for the students of Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday, Dec. 21. They will be used as part of a winter wonderland that Sandy Hook will organize for the students’ first day back to school. Shown here is civics teacher Janet Winkelman with her students. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Games, Gifts & Fun At Boys & Girls Club Party
The Wellington Boys & Girls Club held its annual holiday party Wednesday, Dec. 19. Ninety toys were donated by Wellington businesses. Food was donated by Longhorn Steakhouse, which also donated some toys. Page 9
Royal Palm Seniors Celebrate The Season
The Royal Palm Beach Seniors Activities Group held a holiday party on Friday, Dec. 21 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Local musician Rick Nelson performed Christmas tunes. Refreshments were served, and there was a gift exchange as well as a raffle. Page 13
OPINION Let’s Make 2013 A Year Of Progress
2012 was a year of change here in the western communities, but it was also a year that many issues went unresolved. There remain big issues still facing us, and with 2013 beginning Tuesday, the Town-Crier presents our annual list of things we would like to see happen over the next year. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 SCHOOLS ............................ 14 PEOPLE ................................ 17 COLUMNS .................... 25 - 26 BUSINESS .................... 27 - 29 ENTERTAINMENT .................31 SPORTS ........................ 35 - 37 CALENDAR ...................38 - 39 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 40 - 45 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
2012 IN REVIEW: WELLINGTON
Hard-Fought Election Brings A New Council, Equestrian Drama By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report For Wellington, 2012 was a year of controversy, divisiveness and change that threatened to split the community at its seams. Wellington was thrust into the spotlight with a high-profile election and recount that changed the makeup of the Wellington Village Council. The village was also subjected to an audit by the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General that called into question some purchasing methods. On a related note, the newly installed council backed Wellington out of the ongoing lawsuit against the inspector general. Council members also dismissed the village’s attorney, leaving Wellington facing mounting lawsuits without its longtime legal voice. Equestrian venues continued to be the hot-button issue, from the divisive Equestrian Village property to the council’s decision to revisit year-old approvals for the Palm Beach International Eques-
trian Center. Wellington was picked as one of the contenders for the 2018 World Equestrian Games but ultimately withdrew from the running. In August, Tropical Storm Isaac flooded the area and brought to light drainage issues across the community. But even amid controversy, several projects did move forward. Wellington Regional Medical Center opened its expanded facility, and construction began on the new Wellington Boys & Girls Club. Wellington also renovated a beloved playground and launched its first Senior Advisory Committee. Disputed Election Wellington’s municipal election marked a turning point for the village, with a new council majority ultimately chosen. But there was controversy from the start. For the first time in Wellington’s history, political action committee money helped fuel candidates, leading to attack ads and mailers.
On March 6, the results came in and named Mayor Bob Margolis, former Councilman Al Paglia and local activist Shauna Hostetler winners. But during an audit of the votes, a tabulation error was discovered. Florida law prevented a recount without a court order, leading to several weeks of meetings regarding the issue before a judge ordered a recount. On March 31, the community watched as a six-hour recount took place. Nearly a month after the vote, it was official: Margolis defeated former Mayor Darell Bowen, Matt Willhite retained his seat and John Greene defeated Hostetler. The new council was seated April 10. Equestrian Village The most contentious issue of the year involved the yet-unresolved Equestrian Village plans. Originally proposed as a worldclass dressage venue with a covered arena, hotel and retail space, the project divided the communiSee WELLINGTON, page 7
2012 IN REVIEW: ROYAL PALM BEACH
Serving Palms West Since 1980
2012 IN REVIEW: THE ACREAGE
Isaac’s Water Tops Acreage Headlines
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Residents of the Acreage experienced twists and turns last year, taking the good with the bad. On one hand, several long-awaited projects moved forward, but on the other, the community was set back by massive flooding. Tropical Storm Isaac crippled the area for nearly two weeks, leaving many residents trapped in their homes by flooded roadways. The storm brought to light critical drainage issues in the area. But projects such as the extension of State Road 7 moved ahead, with its extension to 60th Street North gaining county approval, and its ultimate connection to Northlake getting approval from the Florida Department of Transportation. The Acreage Reels From Isaac After Tropical Storm Isaac dumped 15 to 18 inches of rain on The Acreage in late August causing widespread flooding, local agencies started meeting to figure out how to avoid future flooding disasters. The most recent gathering was
on Dec. 19 when several agencies held a joint meeting to address how and why Tropical Storm Isaac caused widespread flooding in The Acreage and how to remedy the problems. Key projects discussed were improving drainage capacity for The Acreage and reinforcing the dike separating the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area from the northern reaches of The Acreage. The possibility of a breach in the dike separating The Acreage and Corbett was a primary concern during the flooding, and South Florida Water Management District officials confirmed that the agency is designing a secondary isolation berm for Corbett to provide improved stability and increase its ability to serve as a water storage area without compromising the welfare of Acreage residents. Meeting participants also discussed discharge for ITID to the south into the C-51 Basin as well as some type of agreement for discharge to the Mecca Farms property off Northlake Blvd., which one SeeACREAGE, page 18
TOYS CHEER PATIENTS
Representatives from Wellington, along with Wellington personnel from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, visited Palms West Hospital on Friday, Dec. 21 to deliver donated toys to pediatric patients. Shown here, PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz and Capt. Jay Hart give a skateboard to Ethan Otterson. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 20 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
2012 IN REVIEW: LOX GROVES
Park Delays The Big Story In RPB PBSC Campus Plans Turn Controversial By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach played the waiting game in 2012 as plans that had been fueled in prior years continued to take shape. With only one change on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council after the March 2012 election, officials looked to push along planned recreation projects — the largest being Royal Palm Commons Park, which lagged more than six months behind schedule. Complications also led to postponing the opening of the Renaissance Charter School on Southern Blvd. Meanwhile, plans for Aldi’s regional distribution center and a nearby grocery store in the village began to take shape, and a nursing school with plans to open in early 2013 was approved in the Royal Plaza shopping center. Council members also agreed to provide additional funds to help
the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General as the courts debate a lawsuit brought against the office by several municipalities. But the year wasn’t without controversy. Discussion over the reappointment of several members of the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission led to a heated debate, and residents with concerns about water quality in lakes and canals also came to the village for help. Hmara, Mattioli Win Election The Royal Palm Beach municipal election returned familiar faces to the council along with one new one. In the March vote, Mayor Matty Mattioli defeated challenger Felicia Matula, while Jeff Hmara won election to a vacant seat, defeating Selena Smith. Councilman Richard Valuntas was unopposed in his bid for re-election.
In October, plans for the 2013 election got off to an early start when former Councilman David Swift announced that he would challenge Councilwoman Martha Webster for her seat. Vice Mayor Fred Pinto will also stand for reelection on March 12.
Commons Park Delays Plans to celebrate the opening of the much-anticipated Royal Palm Commons Park were pushed back again and again throughout the year as construction dragged. First, the village was forced to move its Fourth of July celebration but promised a fall opening, and later plans for the annual Fall Festival were kept at Veterans Park, to the frustration of council members. When the park was not completed by Oct. 31, the contractor began accruing a $1,000 per day fine. See ROYAL PALM, page 18
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report For Loxahatchee Groves, 2012 brought resolution to several controversial issues as well as new and continued debate over others. The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District’s first qualifiedelector vote ended with no change on the board, which later decided to part ways with longtime Administrator Clete Saunier. Ryan Liang was re-elected to a second term on the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council, while both the council and the LGWCD board worked to better define their respective governmental roles. But issues of development along Okeechobee Blvd., Palm Beach State College’s new campus and speed humps continued to be hotly debated.
Future Development Along Okeechobee On April 6, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council denied approval of a commercial development at the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Folsom Road. The action drew a lawsuit from the applicant and led to a review of the town’s newly adopted comprehensive plan and Uniform Land Development Code, and much discussion with residents over future development on Okeechobee Blvd. The issue also involves how the road is developed. Some residents say they need it widened so they can get in and out of their property safely. Some want a traffic light installed to create gaps in the traffic. Others say they want See LOX GROVES, page 18
2012 IN REVIEW: PALM BEACH COUNTY
Elections In 2012 Tended To Favor County Incumbents By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report In 2012, Palm Beach County saw the return of several familiar faces to office in hard-fought contests during its August and November elections. Residents also garnered support from the Palm Beach County Commission on concerns about keeping livestock under county codes, which were amended to be more explicit. But controversy continued around the Office of the Inspector General, with the county continuing to be embroiled in a lawsuit
and having to find other methods of funding. State Legislators Re-Elected Election Day in November was a winner for incumbents in local State Senate and State House races when voters chose to retain their representatives in Tallahassee. Democratic State Rep. Joseph Abruzzo will get a title change as the first state senator from the newly redrawn District 25 after he defeated Republican challenger Melanie Peterson. Meanwhile, State Rep. Pat
Rooney (R-District 85) and State Rep. Mark Pafford (D-District 86) were chosen by voters to retain their redrawn seats. Newcomer Murphy Edges Rep. West One of the most controversial political races in November was U.S. Congressman-Elect Patrick Murphy’s narrow victory over incumbent Allen West for Florida’s newly drawn 18th Congressional District. Murphy and his supporters declared victory the day after the election, although West filed law-
suits that were eventually unsuccessful. In other local races, Democratic Congressman Alcee Hastings easily won the newly drawn District 20, while fellow Democratic Congressman Ted Deutch was also successful in his re-election bid for the newly drawn District 21 seat. Constitutional Incumbents Easily Return To Office In August, five incumbent constitutional officers in Palm Beach County were re-elected to their positions by large margins. Sheriff Ric Bradshaw easily de-
feated two challengers, Joseph Talley and Cleamond Lee Walker. While operating the election, Supervisor of Elections Susan Bucher also won a second term in office, receiving just under 68 percent of the vote in a three-way race against Delray Beach Mayor Nelson “Woodie” McDuffie and former elections office employee Caneste Succe. Palm Beach County Clerk Sharon Bock received 76.3 percent of the vote in a race against mortgage fraud activist Lisa Epstein. After 20 years on the job, PropSee COUNTY, page 18
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NEWS
Wellington Art Society’s ArtFest On The Green Set For Jan. 5-6 By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report ArtFest on the Green, the Wellington Art Society’s seventh annual fine art and fine craft show, will take place Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 5 and 6 at the Wellington Amphitheater. The show, previously called Fall Fling, has expanded over the years and now includes artists from all over the state. This year’s cochairs are Leslie Pfeiffer, Sandy Axelrod, Ilene Adams and Adrianne Hetherington. This year’s event will be a juried show, with locally known art professionals Jamnea Finlayson and Ted Matz serving as judges. There will be $1,500 in prize money awarded to winners. “We have close to 50 artists from all over the state participating in the show, which is almost doubled from last year,” Hetherington said. There will also be a student art competition judged by Adams and Mag Frye. “We will have three categories for the student art: elementary, middle and high school,” Hetherington said. “We will also have a children’s activity space, where they will be given a commemorative ArtFest calendar for them to paint.” All artists who enter in the show are part of the competition. On
Saturday morning, the judges will go around to each of the artists’ tents to determine the winners. “They will be judged on presentation, the setup itself and the work they are displaying,” Hetherington said. Checks and ribbons will be awarded to the fine artist winners in the categories of best in show, $600; first place, $400; second place, $300; and third place, $200. “We will also be giving honorable mention ribbons,” Hetherington said. “The children will be receiving ribbons as well.” The show is a major opportunity for artists to gain more recognition. In order to be accepted into
the show, artists previously had to submit photos of their work. “If chosen, we then sent them letters of acceptance,” Hetherington said. “Now they get to be judged by prominent artists in Palm Beach County.” The show is popular because of the variety of artwork available for viewing and purchase. “We will have everything from oil paintings, watercolors, fantastic sculptures, photography, lovely stained glass and fiber art to beautifully handcrafted jewelry,” Hetherington said. The event will also include live music and food vendors, and the Wellington Green Market will be
taking place at the same time on Saturday morning. “It’s our biggest event of the year,” Hetherington said. “It’s an event for all members of the family, where people can come out and spend the day and view wonderful art that they would not see otherwise.” Proceeds from the event will go toward the Wellington Art Society scholarship fund. “We give
out scholarships every year to high school students majoring in art and design,” Hetherington said. “We give them out at the end of the year in May.” Event sponsors are the Children’s Hospital at Palms West, Whole Foods Market of Wellington, TD Bank and Jerry’s Artarama. “We also want people to learn
about the Wellington Art Society,” Hetherington said. “We will have a tent set up for people to know more about us and what we do.” ArtFest on the Green is free and open to the public. The event hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit wellingtonartsociety.blogspot. com.
ArtFest On The Green — While adults view available art such as paintings, sculpture, photography, stained glass and handcrafted jewelry, there will be activities for children to get creative as well.
Overbudget, Delayed Commons Park Now Set For Jan. 23 Finish By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council heard a report last week on the long-delayed Royal Palm Commons Park, now slated for completion by Jan. 23. Village Engineer Chris Marsh reported that despite the original estimate of $15.3 million, the project’s cost has hit $15.9 million — 3.8 percent over budget. Since the previous completion date of Oct. 31 passed, the contractor has been paying $1,000 per day in liquidated damages. As of the meeting Dec. 20, the village had accrued a $50,000 credit. Marsh said that about $1.5 million in work remained to be completed as of the end of November, which primarily consisted of landscaping, asphalt and the interactive fountain. “Things have changed since then,” he said. “For instance, the
landscaping of $240,000, probably half that has been installed. They have sodded the entire great lawn. That will shrink quickly, and from the contract projections, their completion date is Jan. 23.” Marsh said that the contractor is averaging 40 employees on site daily Monday through Friday. The work effort has been consistent, he added. Councilman Jeff Hmara, who had requested the report, asked Marsh whether there was any particular aspect of the project he was concerned about that might cause a significant delay, and Marsh said there is none, except a possible winter rain storm. “A big hurdle we got accomplished today was the sign-off from the health department, and Palm Beach County should be setting water meters out there. That was one of the biggest obstacles we had to overcome, and we’re pret-
ty excited about that,” Marsh said. Village Manager Ray Liggins said the biggest threat to the project would be unexpected labor costs and some of the material costs related to paving. “Of that $1.5 million in remaining project cost, at least half of that needs to be done, and the biggest cost has been the labor,” Liggins said, explaining that when the village was in dispute with the contractor over a delay claim, the labor shut down in parts of June, July and August. “When we settled that, entered into the change order and gave them the completion date of Oct. 31, we’ve had a pretty steady work effort since then.” Liggins said a significant portion of the remaining cost, at least $500,000, will come when the paving is done. “We are not getting any indication that there is any cash flow problem that will prevent
this labor from continuing the way that it is,” he said. “If we did get signals of that, we would let you know.” In other business, the council approved a setback variance for a pool house built 25 years ago by Richard Briant of Martin Circle in the Willows. Briant, who has lived there 30 years and built the structure himself, said that none of his neighbors had complained about the structure and submitted nine letters from them indicating they did not object to the structure. Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien said the pool house was 4.5 feet from the rear property line, where a 20-foot setback is required, and 6.5 feet from the side property line, where 10 feet is required. Staff recommended denial of the variance because it did not meet standards required by village code. The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Com-
mission recommended denial after agonizing over the request. Briant said the building had drawn a code violation when a neighbor sold her house. “The county appraiser’s office did a snapshot of the area and notified the village,” Briant said, explaining that the structure is permanent and cannot be moved. Mayor Matty Mattioli said that if the neighbors did not object, he did not see a reason to make Briant remove it. “If it’s not impacting or destroying anything in the neighborhood, if it’s been there for 25 years with no problem, I don’t see what the problem is for another 25 years,” Mattioli said. Councilman Richard Valuntas said he did not object to the building remaining, although it did not meet technical requirements for a variance. “It is a nice structure,” Valuntas said. “You did a great job. It lasted through all the hurricanes
and didn’t get blown down.” Village Attorney Brad Biggs said the council could make a decision independently from technical requirements of the code. Councilwoman Martha Webster made a motion to approve the variance, which carried unanimously. The council also approved improvements to the Royal Inn, including a new paint job on the buildings and modifications to vacant land west of the inn. The changes included buffer reductions along Southern Blvd. matching the existing buffer between the inn and the road, and parking spaces for seven trucks. Landscape architect Richard Bartlett said there would be sufficient landscaping on the reduced buffer to screen the trucks from view from Southern Blvd. Webster made a motion to approve the applications, which carried 4-0 with Councilman Fred Pinto not voting.
Page 4 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
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OUR OPINION
Make 2013 A Year Of Progress By Solving Lingering Problems 2012 was a year of change that also saw many issues in the western communities go unresolved. The March municipal elections resulted in a dramatic restructuring of the Wellington Village Council, with Bob Margolis unseating incumbent Mayor Darell Bowen, and John Greene replacing term-limited Dr. Carmine Priore. In Royal Palm Beach, Jeff Hmara became the new face on that village’s council. The November elections brought two new faces to the Palm Beach County Commission — Hal Valeche and Mary Lou Berger — replacing longtime incumbents Karen Marcus and Burt Aaronson. And in The Acreage, a shift on the board saw Jennifer Hager become Indian Trail Improvement District president, replacing longtime ITID President Michelle Damone, who remains on the board but without an officer position. Yet new faces do not always lead to solutions. So with 2013 beginning Tuesday, the Town-Crier presents our annual list of things we would like to see happen over the next year: • Fix Drainage Problems In The Acreage — We’ve been demanding solutions to drainage woes in The Acreage for decades, and we’re glad to see that action is finally being taken. It’s too bad that it took a natural disaster to get things moving. Tropical Storm Isaac brought more than a foot of rain to the area, causing extensive flooding that remained long after other communities returned to normal life. The main problem is that The Acreage is allowed only a quarter-inch per day of external water drainage, despite the fact that regional authorities have known for decades this is insufficient. The Indian Trail Improvement District doesn’t have the power to increase the amount of outflow; rather, ITID is reliant on other agencies any time it needs more drainage. The drainage problem needs to be solved so the district is not reliant on the charity of other agencies for flood relief, which is clearly not enough. Now that we’ve seen the results of inaction, we hope this decades-long problem will find its solution in 2013. • Settle Wellington’s Civil War — Plans for Wellington’s controversial Equestrian Village project have been up against the wall since the new council began operating this spring. Right now there are dueling lawsuits and a civil war that has divided the equestrian community and the Wellington community, and there is no sign that either side is backing down from entrench-
ment. Unfortunately, when it comes to the plaintiffs on both sides, it’s personal. What we’ve got is a community caught in a time warp that is unable to move forward with solutions. What Wellington really needs is an end to this civil war and peaceful coexistence, some sort of moving forward that is acceptable to all sides — something that doesn’t make the dressage people feel threatened, that allows fair use of the Equestrian Village property without the excesses the voters rejected, and protection for the neighbors. All of this is doable, but no one seems willing and able to do it. But in 2013, we’d rather not see a repeat of 2012. • Properly Fund the Inspector General — One of the first things Wellington’s new council did was remove the village from the lawsuit against the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General, filed by a group of municipalities that argued they were being overcharged. While we applaud Wellington’s decision, the lawsuit continues to be a burden. Inspector General Sheryl Steckler has been working with her hands tied behind her back for the past year because of it. There’s money being held in escrow by County Clerk Sharon Bock, the municipalities still object to the funding, the county is not properly picking up the funding slack, and all the while there’s a public official who is not being allowed to do the job the voters empowered her to do. • Get The New PBSC Campus Started — The dream of bringing a Palm Beach State College campus to the western communities took several steps closer to reality in 2012 when officials from Loxahatchee Groves and Palm Beach State College sealed the deal on plans for the campus. However, a petition to reverse the approval of the campus was initiated, worrying town officials that it could have a negative impact on their relations with the college. If the petition were to succeed, the college would be left with a $4.5 million parcel of land it can’t build on. We’ve waited far too long for a college campus in the western communities, and it’s unfortunate that those behind the petition couldn’t have addressed their concerns at one of the public hearings held before the agreement was reached. We hope the community can quickly get over this “bump in the road” and progress will resume.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Heartwarming Gesture Means A Great Deal My wife fought the crowds in the Mall on Wellington Green on Christmas Eve, and when she returned to the car, she found a few daisies on the windshield with this anonymous note: “Hello! This random act of kindness is in memory of a child who lost a life in Newtown, Conn. Pay it forward and pass on love and kindness to honor their memory. Overcome evil with love.” That heartwarming gesture is more precious than what you can find in the mall, more memorable a gift than anything that can be purchased because it shows the good side of human nature that is often obscured in the hustle and bustle of the days leading up to Christmas. Dr. Alec Pridgeon Wellington
Horse ‘Overpass’ Is A Bad Idea I’m writing this as a Wellington resident for over 22 years. I was present while the equestrian area was developed, and I remember the refrain, “we don’t want commercialism, and we don’t want to widen South Shore and divide the horse community.” At that time I lived in Paddock Park 2 and had horses. Now we are visited by a developer who wants to add a hotel and a large commercial segment, and has Councilwoman Anne Gerwig (who has never seen a commercial plan for our equestrian preserve that she would vote down) agreeing with everything he puts in front of her. Their ideas could well necessitate widening our roads. Recently she asked about an overpass going over South Shore and Pierson Road, for which there
had been a couple of years of studies and discussion already. 1) The cost is probably close to $2 million. 2) In order to make the incline gradual, properties would be needed on both sides of said overpass. 3) Most important, would horses want to go over the overpass while a tractor-trailer is passing underneath? Might not this present safety issues? 4) A traffic gate operated by riders might be a thought, with signage (blinking lights, etc.) before and after the intersection to slow down. I put my faith in the Equestrian Committee because from what I have been reading, they seem to understand the detriment of commercial development in this pristine preserve, and I would hope their vision is to keep our treasure as we envisioned it years ago. Common sense over greed — a simple concept! George Unger Wellington
Need For Gun Reform After Terrible Tragedy The tragedy that occurred in Connecticut, the terrible loss of life, and the ensuing pain will not heal so soon. The debate over gun control will hopefully yield some answers and point us in a direction that will prevent the recurrence. I believe in the Second Amendment and that guns should be permitted for hunting and home protection. That being said, there is no valid excuse for military-type weapons and large-capacity magazines to be readily available — their only use is to kill. It’s unreasonable to assume that if these assault-type weapons are outlawed they’ll be out of circulation, but I would like to offer another option. Use the same tactic
that was used on cigarettes to reduce smoking. Add a tax on ammunition. A 9mm bullet costs about 12 cents. Add a dollar tax per bullet. The added tax would go a long way to reduce largequantity ammunition purchases, and the added income would certainly help municipalities with their budgets and financial deficits. The NRA suggested that there be more armed guards at all schools. Of course, this would introduce more guns into the school environ, but if this were to take place then perhaps we could hire combat veterans as guards. They are “pre-trained” and would help with their unemployment issues as they return home. I don’t think that anyone has promoted the idea of total gun prohibition, but having a database of those who own should not be an issue to law-abiding citizens. New York City has mandatory jail time for possession of an unlicensed handgun with a very low gun killing rate... Sooner than later, we’ll have to come up with a viable solution so there are no more senseless mass killings. Alan Weinstein Wellington
Local Dressage Is Alive And Well Not only is dressage alive and well in the Wellington area, it is thriving. Throughout 2012, the sport of dressage brought more than 2,600 horse/rider entries, along with their support staff, to Palm Beach County and the Wellington area, not to mention the thousands of spectators, and national and international vendors to the area. Our 2013 show season looks even better. The 2012 World Dressage Masters Palm Beach competition, presented by Wellington Classic Dressage, was estimated to have
attracted over 12,000 spectators, and these spectators all spent money in our area business, hotels and restaurants. A new event for us this year is our Global Dressage Forum North America — the first-ever educational forum of its kind, to be hosted at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center following the World Dressage Masters. Wellington’s global prominence in dressage events was evidenced when three out of our four members of the U.S. Olympic Dressage Team qualified at events held in our area. And we can’t forget the international riders who qualified for their respective country’s Olympic teams here as well. I am proud to say that I have been involved in dressage for more than 18 years and have overseen and managed dressage shows in the Wellington area for more than 15 years on behalf of three different organizations: Gold Coast Dressage Association Inc., Wellington Classic Dressage Inc. and International Horse Sport Palm Beach LLC. Collectively, I oversee and manage more than 24 weeks of national and international dressage competitions year-round at Jim Brandon and the nearby IHS Horse Park. In the early days, Gold Coast Dressage, Vinceremos, the Palm Beach Horseman’s Association and Stadium Jumping hosted dressage shows in Wellington, at what is now the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Then, around 2006, the 150-acre show grounds were reduced to about 85 acres by the sale of property for private use. The reduction in acreage and other factors resulted in lack of stabling, show ring availability and other features, which prompted Gold Coast Dressage to move its shows to the newly constructed Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. There were also other established dressage shows
at that time as well, at the White Fences and Palm Beach Equestrian Estates. Since 2006, the successful GCDA and WCD dressage shows continued to grow in size and caliber of competition to our present season of year-round shows and events that continue to support our community. Additionally, we have also hosted special classes of competition for the Para Equestrian Olympic Selection Trials in 2012. The Gold Coast Dressage Association, a not-for-profit organization and local riding club domiciled in the Village of Wellington, is the local group member organization of the United States Dressage Federation and has been providing schooling shows, nationally sanctioned shows and international high-level competition shows year round in the Wellington area for the past 31 years. Our members include junior/young riders, adult amateurs and FEI-level riders. Wellington Classic Dressage’s partnership with Palm Beach County to host dressage shows is going into its seventh season, and the enterprise is strong. WCD hosts more than 10 weeks of national and international dressage shows, including the Palm Beach leg of the World Dressage Masters CDI5*. There are only four WDM competitions worldwide, with ours being the only one ever held on U.S. soil. During its 201112 season, WCD awarded more than $200,000 in total prize money and prizes at 10 national and three international competitions. International Horse Sport was
formed in 2009 to oversee and manage its series of national and international dressage competitions in nearby Equestrian Estates. The International Horse Sport Series includes the Palm Beach Dressage Derby, which has ranked among the most prestigious and long-standing international dressage shows in the U.S. The derby will celebrate its 30-year anniversary in 2013 and was one of the first shows in the U.S. to offer top prize money and bring top European judges. Through all our endeavors, we are committed to continue to provide an exceptional show experience to our amateur and professional dressage riders and spectators through our variety of offerings. We attract top national and international competitors to the area, and we are continually striving to make our shows more attractive to a wide variety of show-goers. We believe that not only is dressage alive and well in the Wellington area; it is thriving, and we invite you to join us this season to be part of our shows! For further information, including our season schedule, please visit our web sites at www. wellingtonclassicdressage.com, www.ihspb.com and www.gcdafl. org. Noreen O’Sullivan Wellington Editor’s note: Ms. O’Sullivan is show manager and managing partner of Wellington Classic Dressage and International Horse Sport Palm Beach, and president of the Gold Coast Dressage Association.
The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please k eep 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
So, You Thought Congressional Earmarks Were Dead? Think Again! So you believe the “fiscal cliff” is the only thing Congressional cost-cutters are battling about? Wrong! At this very moment, a joint Senate/House Conference Committee is fighting over the S.S. Badger, a 60-year-old coalfired ferry that operates between Manatowoc, Wis., and Ludeston, Mich. It seems that buried in a Coast
Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin Guard authorization bill for the vessel, which dumps some 500 tons of raw coal ash annually
into Lake Michigan, is special wording (call it an earmark if you will) that will allow the ship to operate as is, into perpetuity, as a national historic landmark. The two sponsors of the language happen to be local Congressman, Rep. Tom Petri (R-Wis.) and Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.). Congressman Huizenga told the New York Times the curious
wording is not an earmark “because there is no transfer of anything of value.” But according to U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), “If it walks and talks like an earmark, it is an earmark.” Another earmark specialist, Steve Ellis, told the Times he believes the bill was drafted by lawmakers to benefit interests in their districts, and that it is be-
ing done as a favor for special interests and would be better left in the hands of professionals whose job is to make such decisions. The 410-foot Badger is the only coal-fired steamship remaining in the United States. Sen. Durbin has previously requested the owner, Robert Manglitz, convert the ship to a different
fuel such as diesel without success. Now, Durbin told the Times, “This owner of this vessel has had a more than reasonable time to show respect for that lake you live next to and refused. There comes a time when we have to apply the law.” P.S. The House of Representatives has passed legislation that “outlawed earmarks.”
is available to a resident of Royal Palm Beach. The licensed practical nurse program at the Royal Palm Beach campus of Nursing Resources International begins in February. Applications for the scholarship are available at the village clerk’s office at Village Hall (1050 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). It can be downloaded from the village web site at www.royalpalmbeach.com. The scholarship will cover the
entire cost of the ten-and-a-halfmonth training program offered by NRI. The completed application must be at the clerk’s office no later than Jan. 25 at 5 p.m. The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board will make the final determination of the winner, and all applicants may be required to do an interview with the board at a date to be determined. For more information, call the Village Clerk at (561) 790-5102.
NEWS BRIEFS AAL Girls Softball Travel Tryouts The Acreage Athletic League Hawks girls 8-U and 10-U travel softball teams are looking for players to join the program. The team will host tryouts Saturdays, Dec. 29 and Jan. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Acreage Community Park. For more information, call Andrew Erwin at (561) 601-1735 or e-mail myhome561@aol.com.
Wellington Garden Club To Meet Jan. 7 The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, Jan. 7 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.), with a business meeting at 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. and at a 12:30 p.m. program titled “Sugarland Wind: AWind Project,” pre-
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sented by Robin Saiz of Wind Capital Group. This unique and informative presentation will discuss results of a two-year environmental impact study on birds and bats, and how wind as a renewable, nonpolluting energy source can coexist with growing crops. Guests are welcome. There is no admission fee, but seating is limited. To reserve a seat, RSVP to Jayne
at (561) 791-0273. For more information, visit www.wellington gardenclub.org.
RPB Nursing Scholarship Available The Royal Palm Beach Village Council and the NRI Institute of Health Sciences have announced that a scholarship award of $15,000
BARRY S. MANNING Publisher
JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor
JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher
DAWN RIVERA General Manager
JASON BUD JINSKI Community Editor
RON BUKLEY Managing Editor
EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah W elky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 5
NEWS
WELLINGTON LANDINGS TAKES PART IN ‘SNOWFLAKE’ PROJECT FOR SANDY HOOK Wellington Landings Middle School students made snowflakes for the students of Sandy Hook Elementary School on Friday, Dec. 21. WLMS decided to participate in the plea that Sandy Hook sent out to schools everywhere. The plea is to help make snowflakes for a winter wonderland that Sandy Hook will organize for the students’ first day back to school. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Skylar Hagan puts away her completed snowflake.
Civics teacher Jennifer Tomk o with Jeremy Lawrence.
Maeve Herbert colors in her snowflake.
Madison Aguilar puts glue on her snowflake.
Civics teachers Janet Winkelman and Jennifer Tomko.
Brandon Packer puts glitter on his snowflake.
THE LITTLE PLACE TOO CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS WITH INTERNATIONAL THEME
The Little Place Too in Wellington held an international holiday event Wednesday, Dec. 19. The theme was “The Polar Express,” and children were given passports to go around the world and learn how the holidays are celebrated in each country. Each classroom was decorated as a country, and children dressed to represent the countries they were assigned. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Teacher Joanna Merkle, parent Meg Schroeder and assistant Toni Flores with students representing Puerto Rico.
The Little Place Too employees with Director Ana Villoldo (right).
Director Ana Villoldo as the conductor with teacher’s assistant Shiela Xu and teacher Lynn Wellington representing China.
Page 6 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
The Town-Crier
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CRIME NEWS
Apple Devices Are Very Popular With Wellington Thieves By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report DEC. 23 — A Wellington man was arrested last Sunday afternoon on charges of theft after he was caught stealing a cellular phone from a business. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, an employee of a tanning salon on Forest Hill Blvd. left her iPhone 4G on the front desk and 44-year-old Michael Foster removed the phone. According to the report, Foster placed the phone in his pocket and left the store. The incident was caught on security video cameras. According to the report, the victim called Foster and asked him to return the phone, but he refused. The deputy met with Foster and was able to recover the phone. However, it was damaged, and the victim’s SIM card had been destroyed. Foster was taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where he was charged with grand theft. DEC. 23 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a restaurant on State Road 7 last Sunday evening regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim and his wife arrived at the restaurant at approximately 3:45 p.m. The victim said that while waiting for a table, he placed his iPhone 5 on the bench outside the restaurant and forgot it. The victim said it wasn’t until he was getting ready to leave at approximately 5 p.m. that he realized his phone was missing. According to the report, the victim asked the manager if anyone had turned in a phone, but no one had. The stolen iPhone was valued at approximately $300. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. DEC. 24 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Palm Beach Point on Monday regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. and midnight last Sunday, someone slashed the tires on the victim’s vehicle and entered his boarding room, where they removed the victim’s car key, an Apple iPod and three necklaces with pendants. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) would have had to know the key code to enter the property, as well as gone passed security at the main gate. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,650. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. DEC. 26 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called Wednesday morning to a home in Olympia regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his home at approximately noon on Tuesday and returned at approximately 9 a.m. the following morning to discover that someone had entered her home and stolen a Sony television, a Dell laptop computer and an Apple iPad. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) climbed the victim’s balcony and entered through an unlocked sliding glass door on the second story and exited through the rear door. The victim’s neighbor reported seeing three men in a dark Toyota Corolla parked next to the victim’s home early in the morning. The victim’s television was discovered at a vacant home next door. The
stolen items were valued at approximately $2,800. There was no further information available at the time of the report. ••• DEC. 20 — An Acreage man was arrested last Thursday morning on charges of drunken driving following a traffic stop on Sparrow Drive in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 7:50 a.m., a deputy observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed westbound on Okeechobee Blvd. A second deputy initiated a traffic stop on Sparrow Drive and made contact with the driver, 21-year-old Michael Paniccia. According to the report, the deputy could smell alcohol coming from the vehicle and observed that Paniccia had glassy eyes and slurred speech. After failing roadside tasks, Paniccia was arrested and taken to the county jail, where he refused to submit to a breath test. DEC. 20 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to Royal Palm Commons Park last Thursday morning regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2 p.m. last Wednesday and 10 a.m. the following morning, someone stole approximately 510 feet of wire from the construction site. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) pulled the wire from underground pipes leading to the boathouse. The stolen wire was valued at approximately $150. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. DEC. 21 — Two juveniles were arrested early last Friday morning on drug and shoplifting charges after they were caught stealing 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 by a loss prevention officer who stopped a male juvenile. According to the report, the juvenile had placed CDs and video games in his black cargo pants pocket and attempted to exit the store. The deputy also recovered a clear plastic bag containing approximately 1 gram of marijuana. Soon after, a female juvenile was also detained and discovered to be the boy’s sister. According to the report, the female juvenile had placed several video games in her purse before attempting to exit the store. The loss prevention officer recovered $126.76 in stolen merchandise. Both juveniles were taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center and charged with theft; the male juvenile was also charged with drug possession. DEC. 23 — A resident of Olympia called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Sunday night to report an attempted burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left her home at approximately 2:30 p.m. last Saturday and returned at 11 p.m. the following night to discover that someone had attempted to enter her home. The victim observed that the screens on her kitchen and a second-story bedroom had been removed, and that the screen to another second-story bedroom had been bent. According to the report, the deputy believed that the See BLOTTER, page 18
Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • David Elsworth is a white male, 5’5” tall and weighing 172 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. He has multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 01/25/79. Elsworth is wanted for violation of probation on charges of burglary while armed and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. His occupation is unknown. His last known addresses were Valencia Blvd. in The Acreage and Chippewa Street in Jupiter. Elsworth is wanted as of 12/20/12. • Daniel Oberti is a white male, 6’0” tall and weighing 225 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 09/01/54. Oberti is wanted for fraudulent use of personal identification information. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Milpond Court in Greenacres. Oberti is wanted as of 12/20/12. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8 477) or visit www.crimest opper s pbc.com.
David Elsworth
Daniel Oberti
THE INFORMATION FOR THIS BOX IS PROVIDED BY CRIME STOPPERS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY. CRIMESTOPPERS IS WHOLLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT SHOWN HERE.
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 7
NEWS
After Request, RPB Will Review Rules Regulating Yard Sales By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week agreed to look into the possibility of allowing residents four yard sales per year, rather than the two per year currently allowed. Longtime Royal Palm Beach resident Candice Cavaleri said that she has been a classroom teacher for nine years and enjoys getting inexpensive school supplies from yard sales, and passing on her own surplus supplies through yard sales as well. “I have a couple of proposals,” Cavaleri said, explaining that she spoke to Community Development Director Rob Hill, who told her that her suggestions would require a code change. Cavaleri said she checked with different communities in the area and that many do not restrict the
number of yard sales that residents are allowed in a year. “I’m not looking for yard sales every weekend or free rein, but we have two right now, and two is a little difficult to clear out, speaking as a teacher and as a seasonal decorator,” she said. “My question is if it is possible to have four a year that would allow for that seasonal clean-out.” Cavaleri suggested 60 days between the sales. “I understand that the sales are limited so that somebody doesn’t just have a flea market happening in their front yard every weekend,” she said. Further, she added that Royal Palm Beach is the only community with a fee except for Palm Springs, which has a $5 fee. “We have a $10 fee, but if we doubled the number of yard sales, that would double the income,” she said. “I have come to be OK with
that. At first I was a little offended by it 15 years ago, but I appreciate all the things we have here in Royal Palm. We have beautiful parks. It’s a fabulous place. We’ve been very happy here with our two children.” Cavaleri also asked whether there was something she could get for her $10 fee in addition to two paper signs, such as a link on the village web page. “We’ve got a beautiful web site,” she said. “After you get your permit, it could list that information on the web page.” Cavaleri also asked that exceptions be given to the two-sign rule for people such as herself — she lives on a double cul-de-sac in the middle of La Mancha Avenue. “I have people constantly saying to me, ‘It’s hard to find you,’ and one time that I saved some signs from a previous sale, I put
four signs up so you could find my street, they were removed, and I only assume it was by code enforcement. If there were four signs allowed, you could save your old signs, or charge another dollar or two for additional signs,” Cavaleri said. Cavaleri felt there should be a fine for signs left remaining 24 hours after the sale ends. “There should be enforcement,” she said. “I don’t see a lot of sales now that don’t have a legal sign. I enjoy yard sales, and I take a ride on Saturday mornings just for being outside.” While some people flout the law, Cavaleri stressed that she does not. However, she wants the rules to be enforced equally for everyone. “My biggest wish is that whatever codes we have are either enforced, changed or dropped,” she
said. “I’m a person who follows the rules, and I’m willing to face the consequences if I don’t.” Mayor Matty Mattioli said he agreed with most of the things that Cavaleri suggested. “We do have, unfortunately, people who violate the rules,” Mattioli said. “It seems to me that you are in an unusual residential area... but it sounds to me like you almost run a business over there, so people should know who you are there by now. To change an ordinance takes a lot of doing.” Mattioli suggested they refer her suggestions to the village manager and staff for consideration. “We have to look at it and make sure we’re doing the right thing and not open the door for a mass entrance or exodus,” he said. Councilman Richard Valuntas agreed. “I think we should send it for
a proposed revision to the ordinance,” Valuntas said. “I think the four a year seems reasonable. I think the 60-day interval also seems reasonable. I don’t think I’m all for the [four] signs, but that’s something that is possible.” Councilwoman Martha Webster told Cavaleri she made a good presentation. “I think you had some great ideas, and I’m glad you brought them forward,” Webster said. “I think they’re worth reviewing, and maybe it’s time for a few changes.” Councilman Jeff Hmara asked Village Manager Ray Liggins and his staff to research it. “I think we definitely should consider it,” Hmara said. Mattioli said the issue could return for discussion and possible action at the council’s Jan. 17 meeting.
The Lord’s Place Helps RPB Woman With Christmas ‘Miracle Baby’ Staff members at the Lord’s Place are privileged to witness “small miracles” often as they work with their clients to end their homelessness and find hope in renewed lives. Kendra Green feels like her life has been full of miracles since last Christmas. Chief among them is her “miracle baby,” as she calls her son, Damari, who was born early last month, when the odds were against him, or his mother, surviving childbirth. Green, 31, grew up in Palm Beach County, graduated from Royal Palm Beach High School and entered Palm Beach Community College (now Palm Beach State College) to pursue a career in nursing. She earned her certified nursing assistant credentials and put off pursuing her certification as a registered nurse because she had a son to care for, Damarcus, now 6. Life was pretty good until 2010, when Green suffered a brain aneurysm and was hospitalized for eight months. A stent was placed in her aorta to facilitate better blood flow as she had started to
Wellington
2012 In Review
continued from page 1 ty. The former council gave initial approval for the plans, but the election caused new controversy. In May, property owners eliminated most of the commercial plans for the site, hoping to come to an agreement with village officials. But later that month, approvals for the project were taken back after a missed deadline led council members to revoke previous OKs. Then, in July, a divided council revoked the site’s final approval, which would have allowed a yearround, commercial dressage facility. The move prompted equestri-
develop blood clots that were slowly moving from her legs to her heart — a life-threatening condition. As she slowly regained her health, she lost everything else because she had to take a leave of absence from her job, and with no health insurance, she had no way to pay her rent, medical bills or her car payment. “After getting out of the hospital, I had to start over again as a single mom,” Green said. She has worked for a national retail store for the past three years but has never been able to get fulltime status. The 25 hours of work a week at just above minimum wage wasn’t enough to pay all of the bills. Then, she learned she was pregnant with her second child — a life-threatening condition for someone with her history of a brain aneurysm. “Once the doctors found out my history, they didn’t want me to have this baby because of all the pressure pregnancy would place on my body,” Green said. “They wanted me to have the stent removed to continue the pregnan-
cy, but I didn’t have money for the operation. I had to make a life or death decision; I could die, or the baby might die, or both of us could die. I put it in the Lord’s hands... I just asked God to get us through.” But things started to get even worse. Four months into her highrisk pregnancy, Green and her son were about to be put out on the street. The landlord had started eviction proceedings, and they would be on the street in just two days. Green turned to a cousin for help, and he suggested the Lord’s Place. Green made the call and was able to be placed in an apartment at the Lord’s Place Family Campus in West Palm Beach. With the Lord’s Place providing a roof over their head and assistance with food, day care and after care for her son while Green continued to work, her outlook improved. “They are very resourceful at the Lord’s Place,” Green said. “They helped us out with everything from getting to doctors appointments, providing my son with daycare and aftercare to helping him to go to summer camp so I
could work. The Lord’s Place has provided me with the security of having a safe place to call home, knowing that my kids and I have somewhere to lay our heads every night and to take a shower and be a family.” All during her pregnancy, Green had to endure shots to keep from going into early labor as she had with her first son. The baby was also positioned over the stent in her abdomen, causing nearly constant pain. And then, at 38 weeks via Caesarian section to lessen the chances of another aneurysm, Damari was born Nov. 3. Now Green and her young family are planning for a brighter future. She enjoys the camaraderie with the other families at the Lord’s Place, but hopes to save enough money to soon rent her own apartment. Her short-term goals are to find stable housing, reliable transportation and a job that will provide full-time work and benefits. One of her long-term goals is to return to school to become a registered nurse. “What it all boils
ans to petition the council to approve a 2013 dressage season. At the council’s Aug. 17 meeting, members agreed to allow for dressage competition if property owners agreed to certain conditions. But debate over the property continued for the rest of the year. With several lawsuits in court, the Wellington Village Council hoped to reach a settlement agreement; however, a settlement had not yet been reached going into the New Year.
Beach International Equestrian Center, seeking to uncover any wrongdoing. The amendment made several changes to site plans, including the controversial realignment of Equestrian Club Drive and platting of other roads, and dubbed it a commercial equestrian arena. At the core of the issue was whether the applicants had deliberately left out a crucial part of the site’s history in the application — a 2001 suspension of development on the site. Also in contention was whether the suspension had been automatically lifted by approval of previous master plan amendments. Ultimately, council members agreed that the omitted information should have been included but did not find that it deliberately was left out. Council members decided not to have a full rehearing of the approvals.
bers said they were puzzled by the withdrawal because they’d only been seeking more information before giving their support.
Show Grounds Special Hearing Wellington also made history this year when it conducted a special hearing July 17 to look into the year-old approval of a master plan amendment for the Palm
Newly elected Mayor Bob Margolis is sworn in April 10 by his son Josh while his wife Linda looks on. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER
2018 World Equestrian Games In June, Wellington was named one of five host candidates for the prestigious 2018 World Equestrian Games, the world championships of international equestrian disciplines. However, in July, after council members revoked approvals for Equestrian Village and began reexamining the PBIEC master plan, show promoters withdrew their bid from consideration for the games. Citing council members’ decisions, promoters said that Wellington, by balking, was endangering local equestrian venues. For their part, council mem-
Attorney Fired Council members made another controversial move when they decided in a 3-2 vote to fire longtime Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz in November. Despite several pending lawsuits, council members opted to end their contract with Kurtz and instead look into options for an in-house attorney. Council members paved the road to that decision when they voted to have a consulting firm evaluate the benefits of contracted vs. an in-house attorney. But rather than wait for advice from the firm, Margolis, Willhite and Greene opted to fire Kurtz. In December, council members decided to stick with Kurtz’s firm, with attorney Glen Torcivia at the helm, while they search for new legal representation. Tropical Storm Isaac Tropical Storm Isaac dropped an unprecedented 17 inches of rain on the western communities in late August, and Wellington was among the communities with flooding woes. The waters caused more than $1 million worth of damage to village property alone. Roads were flooded for days afterward. Areas to the south — those in the Equestrian Preserve Area — were hit hardest, especially Palm
The Lord’s Place CEO Diana Stanley with Kendra Green and her son Damari. down to,” Green said, “is we’re all here for one reason: to help each other. Everyone here at the Lord’s Place has gone out of their way to help me.” Christmas this year looks a lot different for Green. “Last Christmas I didn’t know if I could pro-
vide for my oldest son, and I would soon have another one on the way,” she said. “Christmas is so much better this year thanks to the Lord’s Place. Not having to worry about an eviction notice is the best Christmas gift for me. That, and my miracle baby.”
Beach Point. Wellington pumped water around the clock and even got approval to drain into the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. As the floodwaters subsided, Wellington officials hoped to learn from the experience and bring into focus the importance of proper drainage and stormwater maintenance.
bers rejected a county request to pay money directly to the inspector general’s office while the lawsuit is ongoing. Council members worried they would not be repaid the money and instead drafted a resolution urging Palm Beach County Clerk Sharon Bock to release the inspector general funds she is holding.
Inspector General Audit In April, the inspector general’s office released an audit of Wellington employees’ use of debit cards and found that some of the spending was not in taxpayers’ best interest. The audit looked at 763 charges on Wellington purchasing cards (called p-cards) during the first 10 months of 2011. About $28,000 of $175,000 was called into question, with meals purchased for staff training, birthday lunches for staff and retirement or holiday parties being chief among the concerns. Other concerns included the village purchasing coffee and snacks for staff and sending gifts of bereavement.
New Projects 2012 also saw development and even completion of some muchanticipated projects. In early October, Wellington Regional Medical Center opened its Alan B. Miller Pavilion. The 103,000-squarefoot, three-story addition adds 80 all-private acute-care suites. On May 5, after a community rebuild, Wellington reopened Tiger Shark Cove Park. Wellington sought help in the design from elementary school children and once again asked parents and residents to come out and build the park. And construction began on the much-anticipated new location of the Wellington Boys & Girls Club in May when club officials broke ground on the facility, located on Wellington Trace.
Inspector General Lawsuit The first act of Wellington’s newly elected council in April was voting unanimously to withdraw from the lawsuit challenging the financing of the inspector general’s office. Citing both the cost of litigation and community outcry against the decision to sue in the first place, council members decided to drop out of the suit. But in October, council mem-
Seniors Committee After older residents had been asking for years for a voice in village matters, council members approved a new Senior Advisory Committee. The committee met for the first time in December and will represent seniors in village business.
Page 8 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
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NEWS BRIEFS CAFCI New Year’s Eve Gala In RPB On Dec. 31 Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) will host its 23rd annual New Year’s Eve Gala on Monday, Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). A buffet will be served at 9 p.m., and there will be a midnight champagne toast. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Markie Mark. Dress is semiformal, and the event is BYOB. For more info., or to RSVP, call Dennis Wright at (561) 653-1586, Junette Powell at (561) 346-2353, Jerome Wright at (561) 649-8254, Lawrence Logan at (561) 791-0162, Sean H. Adams at (561) 290-1422, or call the CAFCI main line at (561) 790-4002.
Students Invited To Register For Vans Contest High School students from the western communities have a chance to win big money for their school, as Vans Custom Culture
kicks off registration at high schools throughout Florida on Wednesday, Jan. 2. The Vans Custom Culture competition inspires high school students across the nation to embrace their creativity. In light of decreased educational funding, Vans created this project to help ignite creativity and raise funds and awareness for the importance of art in high schools all over the U.S. Since 2010, Vans has hosted a nationwide event called Custom Culture, in which high school students “design their own Vans.” The project has opened the doors to thousands of students across the United States to compete and create masterpieces of art from a pair of traditional Vans shoes. The winner is awarded $50,000 toward their high school art program. Registration will take place in Florida from Jan. 2 through Feb. 11. How it works is that high school art programs can register for the 2013 competition on the Vans Custom Culture web site. After registration, each school will be tasked with customizing four favorite Vans styles: the Old Skool, 106 Vulcanized, Sk8-Hi and Classic Slip-On. Students are charged with designing each pair
of shoes to fit within one of three themes representing the Vans lifestyle — action sports, art and music — and then also a fourth “local flavor” theme reflecting regional inspiration. After an internal Vans team narrows down the selection, the public will have the opportunity to vote through the Vans Custom Culture web site from April 22 to May 13. The top five schools will be invited to New York City to showcase their designs for the crowd and celebrity judges at a special event in June 2013, where the grand prize winner will be announced. In March, the designs created by 2012 Vans Custom Culture winners Rio Rancho High School (Rio Ranch, N.M.) will go on sale at Vans and Journeys stores as well as the Vans online shop. Rio Rancho claimed the $50,000 prize last year as well as Journeys’ “Local Attitude” award when their designs were recognized amongst the nearly 900 participants. By providing information about registration, you will be helping to spread the word about the initiative and potentially influencing art programs who would otherwise not know about the project get
involved. Entering its fourth year, Vans Custom Culture continues to draw attention to the importance of art as an integral part of our school’s focus in the face of shrinking budgets. For more information, both students and teachers alike can visit www.vans.com/customculture. The web site is the central hub for the contest, providing registration information, contest rules, an exciting kick-off video and program updates.
Dreyfoos SOA ‘Goes Old School’ Jan. 16 In Delray Join friends and supporters of the School of the Arts Foundation at Dreyfoos Goes Old School on Wednesday, Jan. 16. The gala event at the Old School Square Cultural Arts Center and Crest Theatre in Delray Beach will feature performances and art exhibitions by the very talented high school students of the Dreyfoos School of the Arts. The event will be held in multiple locations on the Old School Square campus at the intersection of Atlantic and Swinton avenues
Dreyfoos Goes Old School — (Front row, L-R) Debbie Block, Kelly Kupi and Lisa Morgan; (back row) Stefani Kochanski, Arnold L. Cohen, Brian Ross, Kris Lidinsky, Kimberly Sciarretta and Richard H. Schuller. Not shown: Sheila Aucamp, Barbara D. Cohen, Jane Grandusky and David Scherff. from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Patrons should plan to arrive on time as the evening flows from one venue to the next. Enjoy dinner by the bite with delicious food courtesy of Dada restaurant from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. while listening to the Dreyfoos jazz combo and viewing student work from the visual art, digital media, communication and film departments. Bid on silent auction items of student art and performances. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Crest Theatre, guests will be en-
tertained by the Dreyfoos dance, theatre and music departments. To complete the evening, dine on decadent desserts while enjoying performances from the Dreyfoos music department. Wine for the event is being provided courtesy of Boston’s on the Beach and 50 Ocean. Tickets cost $75 and include complimentary valet parking. To purchase tickets, or for more information, call the School of the Arts Foundation at (561) 805-6298 or visit www.soafi.org.
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 9
NEWS
GAMES, GIFTS AND FUN AT WELLINGTON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB’S HOLIDAY PARTY
The Wellington Boys & Girls Club held its annual holiday party Wednesday, Dec. 19. Ninety toys were donated by Wellington businesses. Food was donated by Longhorn Steakhouse, which also donated some toys. Children enjoyed games and activities, and received gifts from Santa. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Santa asks who was good all year.
Wellington PBSO Deputy Jeff Denney talks to the kids.
Kids get served lunch by PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz, Deputy Jeff Denney, Cpl. Alex Nunes, Longhorn Manager Stacey Kelly, Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Mary O’Connor and Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig.
Jeramy Gordon, Justin Morraro and Stephan Allen compete in a sack race.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County President & CEO Mary O’Connor and Santa’s helper Joel with Ali and Janna Zaidspiner.
PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz, Longhorn Steakhouse Manager Stacey Kelly and Cpl. Alex Nunes.
AN OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS AT THE FAIRGROUNDS’ YESTERYEAR VILLAGE Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds celebrated an old-fashioned “Christmas in the Village” over two weekends this month. The historic buildings were decorated with sparkling lights and garland. Costumed volunteers greeted visitors, there was a cookie contest and a gingerbread house contest, and guests enjoyed free hot chocolate and cookies. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Children try out the ice skating rink.
Santa with Trinity Santos.
The Seminole Ridge High School chamber choir, led by Wes Rainer.
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NEWS
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ROYAL PALM BEACH SENIORS CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH A HOLIDAY PARTY The Royal Palm Beach Seniors Activities Group held a holiday par ty on Friday, Dec. 21 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Local musician Rick Nelson performed Christmas tunes and other popular songs. Refreshments were served, and there was a gift exchange as well as a raffle for a cruise. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Norma Vivanco, Amy Palachio, Lola Ullfig and Vilma Ortega.
Joe Schelorke, cruise winner Sara McKenzie and Rick Nelson.
Victoria Caldwell looks on as Doris Mendez-Weeks gets a gift from Beth Kaplan.
Joan Corum, Marge Herzog, Ruth Hamlyn and Virginia Caldwell.
Richard Carchia wishes Ruth Hamlyn a happy holiday.
Attis Solomon and Kathleen Lannaman.
AMERICAN LEGION POST 390 MEMBERS MEET AT WELLINGTON PBCFR STATION
American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Post 390 met Thursday, Dec. 20 at Palm Beach Fire-Rescue Station 30 in Wellington. Past Commander Tom Wenham received a certificate of appreciation for his service in the Korean War, and the group enjoyed food and refreshments. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Commander Mike Pancia presents Past Commander Tom Wenham with his certificat e of appreciation.
Lauren Castillo sets up the food table, while Bob Dugre fills his plate.
Sergeant-at-Arms John Isola prepares the MIA ceremony as Adjutant Mary Castillo and Commander Mike Pancia look on.
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SCHOOL NEWS
Seminole Ridge’s Hawk Battalion Joins ‘Wreaths Across America’ Communities across Palm Beach County came together Dec. 15 to honor the memory of veterans in the “Wreaths Across America” ceremony at the South Florida National Cemetery. Seminole Ridge High School’s JROTC Hawk Battalion performed the saber arch and served as ushers at the ceremony, carrying wreaths from each of the service branches — Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine — as well as a wreath representing American POWs and MIAs. The cadets were accompanied by representatives of each branch, with the cadet carrying the POW wreath joined by a survivor of a Vietnamese POW camp. Upon reaching the wreath stands, cadets handed their wreaths to their escorts, who placed them in the proper fashion with a salute. Special volunteers were recognized, stories were shared, the national anthem was sung, and the crowd was given the opportunity to reflect on a speech from Congressman Allen West (R-District 22). In other JROTC news, the Hawk
Battalion, let by cadet lieutenant colonel John Christian, has announced a promotion in ranks for many of its cadets. The following were promoted to private: Tyler Alexis, Jean Berdecia, Austin Bowling, David Bunting, Michael Christian, Thomas Cerrone, Myriah Dixon, Joseph Fioramonti, Justin Fitts, Aaron Kirk, Alyssa Laux, Jorge Morales, Tyler Parks, Orlando Plain, Andrew Sands, Matthew Stevens and Travis Westbrook. Kamarley Campbell, Rebecca Gonzalez, Alexander Harre, Benjamin Hoffman, Destiny Wilder, Myles Wilkerson and Rebecca Wise were promoted to private, first class. Elaine Batres, Shaina Gallagher, Elaine Reyes, Samantha Sieber and Alec Wasko were promoted to corporal. Shane Campbell, Nathan Core, John DiCampli, Mckenzie Fuentes, Brooke Gaster, Boston Hunt, Dylan Reinhardt, Jose Ruiz, Shelby Shackelford and Durhan Williams were promoted to sergeant. Devon Breen, Corbett Pervenecki, Alexandria Thornton, and Morgan Wilson were promoted to staff sergeant. Alexandra Bonilla, James
WILSON ACADEMY GIVES BACK FOR THE HOLIDAYS
The Wilson Academy in Royal Palm Beach shared its holiday spirit Tuesday, Dec. 17. The elementary and middle schools visited the Arbor Oaks Retirement Center and sang their hearts out with Christmas carols. The high school visited Palms West Hospital and delivered gifts to the children’s ward. The students had a great time sharing their experience. They all agreed that gift giving is the best feeling and the best part of the season. The Wilson Academy is also working on snowflakes to send to Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., via the Connecticut PTSA. Shown above, Wilson Academy students get into the holiday spirit.
Bukowski, Geoffrey Christian, Hunter Grabbe and Charlie Green were promoted to first lieutenant, and Christopher Mitton was promoted to captain. Hawk Battalion cadets Devon Breen and James Bukowski contributed to this story. • Hawk Mathletes Score High — Hawk freshman Amanda Vargo and senior Alec Gilbert earned the highest school scores (5 points out of a possible 7) on the American Scholastic Mathematics Association Contest No. 3 last week. “Particularly noteworthy is Amanda’s score as a freshman,” Mathematics Department Chair Martha Schanel said. Other notable scores (4 out of 7) were earned by Gianna Cannestro, Kyle Maglietta, Ryan Meingasner, Megan O’Hara, Jarrett Rimel, Cameron Schneider and Mitchell Vasquez. This is Seminole Ridge’s first season entering math competitions, and students are off to a good start. The ASMA has six contests per year; the eight highest scores for each contest are reported to the association, and ac-
cumulated scores are published throughout the world to all participating schools. The ASMA contests are not subject-specific, but test competitors’ thinking skills as applied to numbers. • FACE Party Delivers Holiday Cheer — The Seminole Ridge FACE Club recently held its annual holiday party for area craniofacial families. “They’re one of the primary reasons for the club’s existence,” said sponsor and speech pathologist Peggy Larson. The club also raises funds to donate to Operation Smile and, for the 2012-13 school year, a new organization called Operation Yuhum. “However,” Larson said, “the holiday party is the most fun!” Larson said this has been a record-breaking year for the club, with more than 80 members currently on the roll this year, and about 60 contributing food, gifts and decorations to the event. Invitations to the party were sent out to area families by the West Palm Beach craniofacial children’s medical services clinic and the Joe DiMaggio Craniofacial Center, and
Center Of Holocaust Studies Coming To RPBHS Jan. 28 Royal Palm Beach High School is in the process of establishing a Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, the first of its kind in the Palm Beach County School District. The dedication of the center is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. in the media center. The center is being organized and set up by Darrell Schwartz, an instructor in the Global Business Academy at RPBHS. Schwartz is also the instructor of the Holocaust Studies class at the school. He plans to set up the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies in the media center. “This center will become a center piece for our teachers, faculty, students, community members and district personnel to use for research, studying, lectures, movies and discussions on the horrors of the Holocaust and genocide and how we can be educated to stop this from happening in the future,” Schwartz said. “We are in
the process of networking with Yad Vashem in Israel, the Jewish Federation, Facing History and Ourselves Teaching Tolerance, the School District of Palm Beach County, Florida Atlantic University Holocaust Center and Foundations to acquire materials and books for our collection.” Schwartz said that donations of any materials or books on the Holocaust or genocide are welcome. Books can be dropped off at the main office or the media center. Donations can be mailed to Royal Palm Beach High School. Checks should be made out to Royal Palm Beach High School with Holocaust Center in the memo section. They can be mailed or dropped off at the school, care of Schwartz. For more info., contact Schwartz at (561) 753-4000 or darrell.schwartz @palmbeachschools.org, or Academies Coordinator Nikki Lanier at (561) 792-8659 or zikki.lanier@ palmbeachschools.org.
FACE Club members Danielle Lagos, Sydney Shivers and others at a party table. more than two dozen families attended, the most ever for the club. The attending children with the facial “difference” received gifts specifically chosen, purchased and donated by FACE club members. They, their siblings, and their family members were treated to games, crafts, music, dancing, karaoke and tables laden with food and desserts, and a good time was had by all. “With 60 club members
donating to the event, there were gifts left over, and the club is donating those to the school district for its list of needy families this holiday season,” Larson said. The FACE Club would like to thank Paul Haley, who donated $1,000 to the event, and Pasquale’s Restaurant in The Acreage and Tree’s Wings & Ribs in Royal Palm Beach for their funding and material support.
ACTS OF KINDNESS AT NEW HORIZONS
During the holiday season, students at New Horizons Elementary School learned that acts of kindness involve the act of giving just because it’s the nice thing to do, and the act of receiving with a thank-you. Students participated in donating new toys and clothing through the student council–sponsored Toys for Needy Families toy drive and the guidance-sponsored “Kindness Tree.” A total of 450 toys and books, along with 75 sweatshirts, were distributed to needy area families. Pictured here are student council sponsor Pat Klammer and President Jesse Blecher with some of the toys collected.
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PALMS WEST PEOPLE
Young Singers Toast To 10th Anniversary Holiday Performance
Young Singers of the Palm Beaches perform during Winter Tapestry 2012 at the Kravis Center.
A champagne reception honored VIPs and sponsors of “Winter Tapestry 2012” just before the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches took the main stage of the Kravis Center for its 10th anniversary holiday extravaganza. Featuring professional lighting, choreography, sound, staging and more, the holiday concert was a sell-out success. Six different Young Singers of the Palm Beaches choirs met weekly throughout the school year to prepare for their
(Left) Tom, Clare and Beth Johnston. (Right) Melanee Blankstein and Mary Swinford. PHOTOS BY KATHY SCHMIDT
NATIVITY SCENE ON DISPLAY AT ST. DAVID’S
separate and full group performances. “Ten short years ago, 65 kids gathered in the Sunday school classrooms at United Methodist Church, and the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches was born,” Young Singers of the Palm Beaches Chairman Hank Gonzalez said. “Two thousand young people have since graced us with their presence over these past 10 inspiring years. I want to thank my fellow board members, our foundation, our incomparable staff, our families, our volunteers, our sponsors, our donors and especially Beth Clark, executive director, and Shawn Berry, artistic director.” Winter Tapestry sponsors included Gold Coast Federal Credit Union, RH Trust, Kelly’s Angels Elder Care, Sabadell Bank, Lesser, Lesser, Landy and Smith, the Honda Classic, Palm Beach County and Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hanley. The community-based children’s choir has evolved into a world-class, award-winning troupe of youth singers who have not only performed at concerts all over Palm Beach County, but also
at Lincoln Center in New York City, with Native Americans in New Mexico, and at international music festivals in Salzburg and Vienna. The 10th anniversary celebration will continue with an annual spring concert, “Ubuntu,” on May 19. Also to be held at the Kravis Center, tickets will start at $10. At a time when even neighbors might be strangers, “Ubuntu” is a South African concept illustrating the connectivity of humanity. The performance will be highlighted by an original song of the same name with its world premiere at the concert. A multiracial, multicultural arts education organization based centrally in Palm Beach County, Young Singers of the Palm Beaches’ enrollment for the 2012-13 choir season is composed of singers in grades 3 to 12 from all parts of the county’s diverse racial, ethnic, geographic and socio-economic communities. For performance and audition information, call the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches at (561) 659-2332 or visit www. yspb.org.
SANTA GRANTS CHRISTMAS WISHES IN MADISON GREEN
Tim Benitz, Scott Velozo, Sarah Benitz and Keith Williams.
Big Turnout For Festival Of Trees At Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens St. David’s in the Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington is currently displaying its Nativity scene. The display features live sheep and a goat. It was given to the church by Sunday school children and church volunteers. The community is invited to come by and check it out. St. David’s is located at 465 W. Forest Hill Blvd., at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. For more information, call (561) 793-1976 or visit www.saintdavidsinthepines.org.
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens were alive with the sound of music on Friday, Nov. 29 as the sixth annual Festival of Trees, presented by Pop Physique, took a lyrical note with a “Musical Masterpiece.” Featuring 33 magnificently decorated trees, a dazzling lightshow, performances by local musicians,
and dancers and actors dressed as holiday characters, the familyfriendly Festival of Trees has become one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season, drawing more than 500 to its opening night. For more information on the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, visit www.ansg.org.
The Madison Green community in Royal Palm Beach recently held a holiday party at the Madison Green Clubhouse. Residents came out to greet Santa, and all the children had an opportunity to get their Christmas wishes to Santa in time for the holiday. Madison Green would like to thank personnel from the Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue station in Royal Palm Beach for getting Santa to the community safely. Shown here, Santa arrives to greet the residents.
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NEWS The Acreage
Water Woes
continued from page 1 day could serve as an added water retention area. Palm Beach County is negotiating to sell the land to the SFWMD. Election Changes Makeup Of ITID Board Two Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors seats were up for election in 2012, and while ITID President Michelle Damone weathered a challenge from Ken Hendrick, Supervisor Carlos Enriquez was unseated by Gary Dunkley. Dunkley took his seat on Dec. 12, changing the political makeup of the board. Supervisor Jennifer Hager was elected ITID’s new president, replacing Damone, who remains on the board but without an officer position. Supervisor Carol Jacobs was named vice president, while Dunkley was chosen as treasurer. ITID Administrator Offers Resignation Indian Trail Improvement District Administrator Tanya Quickel offered her resignation at the Dec. 12 board meeting after calls from Jacobs to reorganize ITID’s leadership to bring the director of op-
Lox Groves
Future Of Okeechobee
continued from page 1 to keep the road two lanes but allow some development to give Okeechobee, which runs roughly through the center of town, more of a “main street” feel. At the last public input workshop, on Dec. 19, opinions still varied widely. Another workshop is scheduled for February or March 2013 to get input on future development of Southern Blvd. Ryan Liang Re-Elected On March 13, Loxahatchee Groves Councilman Ryan Liang defeated attorney Byrnes Guillaume to claim a second three-year term. Councilman Ron Jarriel returned to the dais unopposed. During the campaign, Liang had said he thought the town had improved in many ways, especially in bettering its formerly strained relationship with the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District. Over the next three years, Liang said he wants to move forward with capital improvements under discussion by the council, which recently earmarked $1 million of its reserves for capital projects, including a traffic light on Okeechobee Blvd., an equestrian trail network and improved road maintenance.
Royal Palm
Park Delays
continued from page 1 In early December, much of the park was complete with sodding and work on the main clubhouse remaining. Village Manager Ray Liggins anticipated completion of the park in mid-January. Residents also approached the council in August to ask for a dog park to be included in plans, a move supported by Webster. Other Park Projects Despite slow progress on Commons Park, Royal Palm Beach saw some projects completed. Chief among them was the renovation of the playscape at Todd Robiner Park in La Mancha, which got a facelift for the 10-year-old equipment. Plans were also drafted for a skate park after a group of young skateboarders asked the council for a place to call their own. Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio suggested converting an underused hockey rink near the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center for that use.
County
Good Year For County Incumbents
continued from page 1 erty Appraiser Gary Nikolits took 70.1 percent of the vote against attorney Robert Weinroth. In the Democratic primary for Palm Beach County Tax Collector, incumbent Anne Gannon easily defeated former Tax Collector Peter Carney, receiving 87.1 percent. Gannon formally gained a new term in November when she faced only write-in competition. County Weighs In On Residents’ Right To Keep Livestock In a 4-3 decision on Aug. 23, the Palm Beach County Commission approved a change to the Uniform Land Development Code that will allow livestock to be kept on prop-
erations directly under board supervision. Former Director of Operations Anthony Las Casas left the district in December after sharp public accusations, first that canal levels were being kept too low, then that the district had not properly handled the flooding from Tropical Storm Isaac. Jacobs said she wanted not only to bring the director of operations and maintenance directly under the board’s supervision, but also wanted to reduce the administrator’s responsibilities, changing that position to district manager. Jacobs made a motion to terminate Quickel effective immediately, but it died for lack of a second. Quickel, who has a contract, then requested to have her resignation negotiated with legal staff. Whether Quickel stays or goes will likely be a key story in 2013.
The approval, however, was without a center turn lane currently in the county’s plans after some residents complained that the ultimate purpose of the road was to give a connection to eventual development to the west. The third lane was intended to allow residents along the road to get into their homes safely, according to county staff. The road will have connections at Mango Blvd. and 110th Avenue North, and a roundabout that will connect the road to the planned SR 7 extension and a future connection to Northlake Blvd. SR 7 has been bid out and will be constructed up to the 60th Street roundabout from Persimmon Blvd. To the west of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., 60th Street will taper back to a dirt road with a traffic light at the intersection.
60th Street Connection OK On Nov. 14, ITID issued a special drainage permit to Palm Beach County to connect 60th Street North to the planned extension of State Road 7. The connection will provide an additional outlet for the SR 7 extension, providing relief to residents on Orange Grove and Persimmon boulevards who have suffered the brunt of the traffic coming off the extension.
ITID Postpones Plans For Community Center In September, the ITID board put plans for building a community center on hold after hearing a barrage of complaints from residents angry about flooding in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Isaac. Flooding across the community kept residents of The Acreage stranded in their homes until the waters finally receded enough for streets to be passable again. Some
LGWCD Parts With 15-Year Administrator At year’s end, the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors found itself searching for a new administrator after failing to come to terms with 15-year District Administrator Clete Saunier on a contract extension agreeable to both sides. Saunier’s 2003 contract was for $80,000 a year with an automatic 3 percent annual increase each October, plus benefits. Nine years later, that had made his base salary about $122,800, which rose as high as $176,000 when benefits were included, according to various district sources. The board decided Saunier’s compensation was too generous, and reached a consensus to offer a range of $70,000 to $95,000 a year, with benefits the same as other district employees. Saunier did not accept the new terms and left in November. On Nov. 27, the board offered him a separation package worth more than $80,000, which he later accepted. Loxahatchee Governing Bodies Define Roles In a joint meeting Oct. 16, the two governing bodies of Loxahatchee Groves took steps to refine their relationship, with the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District agreeing to turn over recently paved roads to the town. Both entities agreed that the LGWCD should remain indepenThe village did, however, push back plans to improve Lindsay Ewing Park to use the funds for other more pressing projects throughout the village. Charter School Delayed Concerns over traffic surrounding a charter school near the intersection of Crestwood and Southern boulevards prompted discussion from village officials in 2012. Charter Schools USA planned a K-8 school in the old Albertsons grocery store site, named the Renaissance Charter School at Palms West. Originally plans were to open the school for the 2012-13 school year, but in April, the school informed parents that the planned opening would not occur. Though the traffic patterns on the site, which shares parking space with other outparcels, concerned RPB zoning commissioners, council members were unanimously in favor of the project. But complications with the sale and lease of the building threw the project off track to the disappointment of many interested parents. erty in The Acreage and Jupiter Farms. The change would protect residents on lots smaller than 2 acres in the agricultural and exurban tiers who are guaranteed the right to keep livestock in the comprehensive plan but previously had no supporting language in the land development code. However, the commissioners postponed adoption of other rules that would provide further regulation on items such as accessory structures, setbacks and sale of goods. Due to the many public opinions expressed on the proposed ordinance, Former County Commissioner Karen Marcus suggested that the commissioners change only the acreage size and postpone the remainder of the proposed ordinance until they receive further review and public input. County Holds Tax Rate Steady In September, the county com-
dent, focusing its responsibilities on drainage issues and canal maintenance. Bill Underwood, CEO of the Town of Loxahatchee Groves’ management firm, noted that he has seen municipal governments and special districts function together autonomously with each having well-defined roles. The LGWCD will continue with grading and mowing along roads, including town roads, under an interlocal agreement to be drawn up soon. The town will have the option to make agreements with other maintenance firms in the event that the LGWCD is not able to perform the work when needed, or if specialized equipment is required. Governments Cooperate To Minimize Isaac Damage During the record rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Isaac, community leaders agreed that the Town of Loxahatchee Groves and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District worked together to avoid what could have been a much more serious situation. Saunier congratulated people who worked through the storm to keep culverts clear and water draining. More than 12 inches of rain fell in Loxahatchee Groves within 18 hours, which amounted to about 2 billion gallons of water that the LGWCD discharged through its gate structures. In October, the LGWCD applied
residents said that ITID should put its community center plans on hold and take care of drainage improvements first. ITID Lowers Assessments In June, the ITID board approved a budget with assessments 2.5 percent lower on average than the 2012 budget. However, the 2013 budget of $11.9 million is higher than the $11.6 million budget of the current year. That differential was achieved by tapping ITID’s reserves, according to district staff members, who pointed out that the reserves are still within 25 percent of the annual budget. Almost $1 million would be taken from the reserves, with most of it going to capital road improvements. The overall 2013 budget marked the fifth consecutive year of decreased assessments, with an average assessment of $419 a year, compared with $526 in 2007. Big Box OK For Sluggett Land In a 4-3 decision, the Palm Beach County Commission in July approved a comprehensive plan amendment that would eliminate a 65,000-square-foot single-tenant cap on the Sluggett property at the intersection of Southern Blvd. and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. The property had previously for almost $844,000 in assistance to repair culverts and berms that failed during the storm. About half the amount includes raising the perimeter berm along the border with the Royal Palm Beach Pines Natural Area, where stormwater spilled into the district and hampered its ability to drain effectively. Palm Beach State Closes On Future Campus Land Palm Beach State College officially closed Oct. 29 on the purchase of the 75-acre Simon property in Loxahatchee Groves, where it will erect a new campus to serve residents of the western communities. The college purchased the site at the intersection of Southern Blvd. and B Road from the Simon Family Trust for $4.5 million. PBSC committed to buy the land in February, and the town gave final land use approval in August. Building is projected to start as early as next summer, and the first classes are expected to begin by January 2015. Although a petition is being circulated for the council to reverse its approval, the town council unanimously reaffirmed its support for the campus in November. Speed Humps A Continuing Controversy Speed humps became a Loxahatchee Groves controversy in 2012 after they were installed by
Aldi Project Moves Forward With plans to open a Royal Palm Beach distribution center for the growing Aldi grocery store chain already underway in 2011, last year saw a few necessary measures pass to make the much-anticipated project a reality. At its June 28 meeting, council members passed an ordinance allowing a warehouse of more than 400,000 square feet. The planned 822,000-square-foot facility will be located on a 73-acre site off State Road 7, adjacent to the Regal Cinemas property and Royal Palm Beach High School. Then, in August, council members approved a site plan and plat approval so long as Aldi leaves a buffer of Australian pine trees intact to shield neighbors from construction and other noise while the grocery chain’s landscape grows in. Already, Aldi has plans to open a store in the village. The chain plans to take over the recently closed Toys ’R’ Us location on SR 7 and turn it into a new grocery store, having gained approval in July for a sign variance.
Nursing School To Open In RPB Also planning to open its doors is a nursing school on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in the former CVS Pharmacy location in the Royal Plaza shopping center. In June, council members approved a special exception for the site to allow the school, which will offer vocational training for nurses, home health aides and nursing assistants. In December, school officials announced that it would begin offering its practical nursing program in February. The school will also be offering scholarships to local students.
mission gave final approval to a $3.4 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2012-13, which started Oct. 1. The commissioners set the county’s general fund tax rate at 4.7815 mills, the same rate as last year. At that rate, the county will take in just under $600 million in ad valorem property taxes, up slightly from the previous year. Commissioner Paulette Burdick said she was cautiously optimistic about the future revenue picture. Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, which is part of the county budget but an independent taxing unit, took a small decrease in its millage rate from 3.4634 in 2012, which generated $177.2 million, to 3.4581 in 2013, which will generate $177.0 million. The decrease is depleting firerescue’s reserve, but the county is banking on optimism that the economy will continue to recover before the reserve is completely
depleted years down the road.
Inspector General Funding Issues With funding for the inspector general tied up in court, members of the RPB council agreed to pay $26,000 to the office through an interlocal agreement. The village had previously sent its portion to the county, but Palm Beach County Clerk Sharon Bock is holding the money in escrow until the lawsuit brought forth by several municipalities is resolved.
Lawsuit Continues Over IG Controversy continued to swirl around funding for the Office of Inspector General in 2012. According to the ordinance that created the office, it is to be funded with a .25 percent charge included in vendor contracts, but officials in many cities alleged that would be too burdensome. In March, the county commission rejected a settlement proposal from 15 cities involved in a lawsuit challenging the method of payment for the IG’s office, saying that it offered too many exceptions for certain businesses. Wellington later pulled out of the lawsuit, reducing the number of cities in the lawsuit to 14. The commission conducted a referendum in November 2010 asking if the municipalities should come under the jurisdiction of the inspector general, which passed with a 72 percent margin.
been approved for up to 280,000 square feet of low-density commercial property on the 64-acre tract with the 65,000-square-foot cap, but the applicant requested authorization to allow a larger store such as a Home Depot or Walmart on the property. New Acreage Library Opens On March 31, the long-planned Acreage branch of the Palm Beach County Library System opened. The 30,000-square-foot library at 15801 Orange Blvd. was finally built after prolonged land-swap negotiations with the Indian Trail Improvement District. The building has been honored with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. The Acreage library is the first LEED-certified county building. Some of the features that qualified the branch for this designation are parking spaces for alternative-energy vehicles; hitching posts and bicycle spaces; water-efficient landscaping; plumbing systems that use less water; reduced construction waste; use of recycled materials in the construction; and use of low-emitting paint, carpeting, adhesives and composite wood. The new facility has solar-powered chandeliers depicting oranges in the entranceway and more the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District during the paving projects on A, C and D roads. Councilman Jim Rockett said the speed humps in The Acreage seem to work better for utility vehicles such as pickup trucks and dualwheel vehicles, which he said are characteristic of the vehicles in Loxahatchee Groves The district’s humps were installed for safety and to protect it and the town from liability; canals run alongside each road. Snowball Returns To LGWCD Dais In Landmark Election On June 25, Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Supervisor Robert Snowball won the district’s first qualified-elector vote, defeating challenger Roy Parks 116-82. Qualified electors are registered voters who also own property (or his or her spouse). One of the five LGWCD supervisors is now elected under this method, in place of the traditional one-acre, one vote method. Snowball, a 12-year board veteran, had said initially that he didn’t intend to run again because he thought the board eventually would be absorbed by the town. The turnout of 198 people cost the town about $35 per vote, considering the estimated cost of $7,000 to conduct the election. Snowball said he considered the added expense of the separate qualified electorate process for
than 100,000 materials for checkout or reference. It has 74 word processing and Internet computers available to the public. SR7 Gets FDOTApproval More than 1,000 residents attended the final Florida Department of Transportation public hearing in March on the completion of State Road 7 to Northlake Blvd., with advocates outnumbering opponents about two to one. The connection would finish the roadway between Okeechobee Blvd. and Northlake Blvd. to meet the growing travel needs of central Palm Beach County residents. The selected corridor would complete the connection ending at Persimmon Blvd. now, and continue north to 60th Street North, turn east along 60th Street, and head north again along the original SR 7 corridor designated by the FDOT in 1940, part of which has been built from Northlake Blvd. south to the Ibis east entrance. The project proposes to widen SR 7 from two to four lanes from Okeechobee Blvd. to 60th Street and construct a new four-lane divided highway from 60th Street to Northlake. The estimated cost for the fully-funded project is about $70 million for construction and about $16.5 million for mitigation. one board member, approved in a referendum by qualified electors last summer, to have been a “total waste of money.” Ad Valorem Tax Unchanged On Sept. 18, the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council gave final approval to the budget for fiscal 2012-13, setting the town’s property tax rate at 1.2 mills, the same rate as last year. The budget of $1,426,748 was down from the previous year’s budget of $2,147,763. The budget included $150,000 for the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District, which enabled that board to enact a budget with no assessment increase. PW Hospital Tops Out Fourth Floor On April 17, Palms West Hospital celebrated the topping out of its fourth-floor east wing addition. Newly appointed CEO Eric Goldman, who replaced Bland Eng in April, welcomed attendees at the celebration, including former CEO Mike Pugh, who had the forethought to build a hospital decades ago with an infrastructure that would support a fourth floor. The $16 million project will take the hospital from 175 beds in 225,000 square feet to 204 beds with an additional 29,000 square feet. The project should be completed in the first half of 2013.
The agreement allowed the county to circumvent the clerk’s office. Though council members were initially concerned, they directed staff to include a provision that would provide for a return or credit of granted money in the event the county does not prevail in the lawsuit. In June, the council unanimously agreed to fund the office, which will be paid in multiple installments.
speak over each other, Webster’s proposal was struck down in favor of a compromise. However, one of the nominated commissioners was concerned with the discussion at the meeting and withdrew from consideration. In May, after Webster attempted again to replace the sitting members of the commission, council members removed her from her post as liaison. Instead, Pinto was given the position.
Council Battles Over Zoning Commission Council members clashed last year when Webster attempted to appoint new members to the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission. In March, she asked to be appointed liaison to the board. When the terms of longtime Commissioner Jackie Larson and Commission Alternate Janet Ellis expired and Commissioner Genevieve Lambiase resigned, Webster asked that completely new board members be assigned their seats. Webster alleged that several commissioners had issues with staff and applicants in the past, and that an effort should be made to make the board more professional and business friendly. At a tense April 19 meeting that saw council members battling to
Lake Problems Huntington Woods residents petitioned the council last summer to do something about the state of canals and lakes in their part of the village. In June, some residents said efforts to control aquatic plants left local canals littered with dead vegetation, while others blamed stormwater discharge for the damaged condition of a community lake. Though village staff said they would have a look at the problem, Huntington Woods residents returned in September to plead with council members to fix what they said was pollution running off Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and into their neighborhood lake. Liggins asked the homeowners to work with him to decide on a method of treatment and return to the village with a plan.
Blotter continued from page 6 perpetrator(s) used a tool to pry the screens from the windows in an attempt to enter the house. The damaged screens were valued at approximately $150. There were no suspects at the time of the report. DEC. 26 — A resident of Sugar Pond Manor contacted the PBSO substation in Wellington on Wednesday to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10:30 p.m. Tuesday and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone used a coat hanger to open the driver’s-side door of the victim’s car and removed a Pioneer speaker valued at approximately $300, as well as $68 cash from several wallets. The victim found the wallets scattered
across the street in the bushes. The deputy was able to take several fingerprints, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. DEC. 26 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched Wednesday to the Indian Trail Improvement District shop compound on 140th Ave. North regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5:30 p.m. last Sunday and 7 a.m. Wednesday, someone stole a tailgate from an F-250 pickup truck in the compound. The stolen tailgate was valued at approximately $1,000. According to the report, there was video surveillance in the area, but it was not available at the time of the report.
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 19
NEWS
DUFFY’S SPORTS GRILL HOSTS TOY DRIVE FOR ST. MARY’S CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Duffy’s Sports Grill in Royal Palm Beach held a toy drive Wednesday, Dec. 19 to benefit the Children’s Hospital at St. Mary’s. The restaurant is supporting local firefighters and had the drop box available for people to drop off donated toys. The event included pictures with Santa, arts and crafts, and cookies. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Jaime Taylor and Kenneth Smith put t oys in the drop box.
Kai Blanton gets a gift bag from Duffy’s employee Crystal Byrne.
Duffy’s staff gathers with Santa for a photo.
Veronica, Juan Jr. and Juan Almazan make a snowman.
Erin Rodriguez drops off toys donated by her office.
Ozzlyn and Sierra Boyce sit on Santa’s lap.
LOCAL VENDORS PLY THEIR WARES AT HOLIDAY STOP & SHOP IN ROYAL PALM Shoppers were able to get their last-minute shopping done at the Holiday Stop & Shop on Thursday, Dec. 20 at the Royal P alm Beach Cultural Center. An abundance of items were available for purchase, ranging from candles and clothing to candy. Attendees also brought donations for Toys for Tots. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Julie Bryant shows Tupperware to Donna Nelson.
Customers Aleida Bermudez and Maria Espinosa look at oil burners.
Claudette Rifenberg sells Kirsten Daniels a candy cane martini glass candleholder.
Page 20 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
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PEDIATRIC PATIENTS AT PALMS WEST HOSPITAL RECEIVE SOME HOLIDAY CHEER
Representatives from Wellington, along with Wellington personnel from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, visited Palms West Hospital on Friday, Dec. 21 to deliver donated toys to the pediatric ward. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
PBSO and PBCFR personnel and Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig with the gifts to be given to the children.
Cody Kelley is given a present by PBCFR Chief Mike Arena.
Wellington PBSO Capt. Jay Hart gives a toy to Joeliano West.
PBCFR’s Amanda Vomero with Aaliyah Solomon.
Ashley and Jennifer Reichert get gifts from Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig.
Roman Artero gets a holiday gift from Wellington’s Meridith Tuckwood as grandparents Daniel and Sara Artero look on.
PBSO Cpl. Alex Nunes, Capt. Jay Hart, PBCFR Chief Mike Arena and Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig.
Emil Cabrera, PBCFR’s Ryan Gornall, PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz, PBCFR Chief Sam Eaton and PBCFR Lt. Amanda Vomero.
A PBSO truck full of toys is unloaded.
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 21
LILA PHOTO
LILA PHOTO
ALEX PACHECO
The Perfect Match – Polo and Brunch
Enjoy fabulous cuisine, entertainment, fashion and, of course, world-class polo every Sunday, January 6 through April 21. Entrance at 2 p.m. | Polo match at 3 p.m.
Ticket Prices
Champagne Brunch
January-April
January-February: $100 March-April: $120
m (FOFSBM "ENJTTJPO #MFBDIFS 4FBUJOH m /PSUI BOE 4PVUI 4UBEJVN -BXO 4FBUJOH m $FOUFS 4UBEJVN -BXO 4FBUJOH m #PY 4FBUT MJNJUFE BWBJMBCJMJUZ
The Pavilion Reception Pass January-February: $55 March-April: $65 r 1SF NBUDI DIBNQBHOF UPBTU r 1BTTFE MJHIU IPST E PFVWSFT r 5XP DPNQMJNFOUBSZ ESJOL UPLFOT
r 1BWJMJPO SFDFQUJPO r -BWJTI HPVSNFU CSVODI r 7FSBOEB TFBUJOH r 5XP DPNQMJNFOUBSZ ESJOL UPLFOT
Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch (for two) January-February: $300 March-April: $330 r $PNQMJNFOUBSZ WBMFU QBSLJOH r 1BWJMJPO SFDFQUJPO r -BWJTI HPVSNFU CSVODI r " DPNQMJNFOUBSZ CPUUMF PG 7FVWF $MJDRVPU
For tickets, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687. Polo HOTLINE 561.282.5290 3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington, Florida 33414 *Tax inclusive. Parking additional, unless otherwise noted.
Page 22 December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013
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Equestrian Education Program Begins Next Month
Starwyn Farm’s Danielle Goldstein knows about the difficulties of running an equine-related business. Next month, she’s launching her International Equestrian Education program, the first of two identical five-week courses held during the Winter Equestrian Festival. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25
December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 23
Wildcat Basketball Boys Top P.B. Central 68-51
The Royal Palm Beach boys varsity basketball team hosted crosstown rival Palm Beach Central on Friday, Dec. 21 in a non-district match-up, defeating the Broncos 68-51. The first half of play was a dog fight as both teams scrapped to gain the advantage before Royal Palm Beach began to pull ahead. Page 35
Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION
INSIDE
Business Sam Jon’s Salon Offers A Variety Of Beauty Services Tailored To Each Client
With experienced stylists and 32 years in the business, Sam Jon’s Salon is a leader in the salon industry. It has locations in the Courtyard Shops in Wellington and in Palm Beach Gardens. Sam Jon’s prides itself on its impeccable customer service. The Wellington location caters to its clients’ all-around beauty needs. In addition to the hair salon space, the salon also offers day spa services such as nail care and massages. Page 27
Sports Wellington Basketball Boys Dominate Palm Beach Gardens 67-34
Wellington High School’s boys varsity basketball team defeated Palm Beach Gardens High School 67-34 on Frida y, Dec. 21 in Wellington. The Wolverines got out to an early lead and continued to dominate Palm Beach Gardens, holding them to half the number of baskets by the end. Page 35
THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ........................25-26 BUSINESS NEWS.................................. 27-29 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 31 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 35-37 COMMUNITY CALENDAR ......................38-39 CLASSIFIEDS ........................................40-45
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December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 25
FEATURES
New Equestrian Education Program Begins Next Month Although it can be fun and rewarding, working in the horse industry isn’t an easy way to make a living. Many young men and women who are passionate about horses choose equine-related business for their career path, and some do quite well, but for many, it’s a long, hard haul. Danielle Goldstein knows something about this. She grew up in New York City and showed in the tri-state area for many years before migrating down to Wellington, first as a teenager to show on the circuit for a few weeks, then gradually for longer and longer time periods. Finally, in 2000, her family built Starwyn Farm in Grand Prix Village, and now she’s here seven months each year. Next month, she’s launching her International Equestrian Education program, the first of two identical five-week courses that run during the Winter Equestrian Festival. “My partner, David Krum, and I have been working on getting this up and running for some time,” Goldstein explained. “It’s a course that will teach someone a lot of practical knowledge and really prepare them to work in the horse industry. Although there’s no riding involved, it will cover a lot of other aspects and help someone become well-rounded. It’s geared toward people who want to find employment in the performance end of the inGet 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 dustry. The goal is to prepare people to be able to work in or run a show barn.” Goldstein envisions her clients as people who hope to work specifically in the hunter/ jumper or dressage disciplines, either high school or college students, trainers or other young professionals. Her motivation for starting the course grew from her own experience. “When I moved up to the professional level, after being a junior rider, I found there was a huge gap in my education,” Goldstein said. “There were a lot of things others had done for me, and now I was supposed to know how to do all of it myself, and I didn’t. It was an eye-opener. I don’t want others to have to go through the same thing.” Goldstein will cover a wide range of topics, everything from knowing the ins and outs of properly grooming a show horse, to safely handling difficult horses and caring for their every need. Students will learn a lot of practical skills, such as how to bandage legs correctly, without bowing a tendon, and how to give shots, along with other basic horse healthcare.
Danielle Goldstein with one of her horses. Students will become familiar with using equine exercise machines such as a hot-walker and a treadmill. The course will also cover management skills; dealing with difficult owners and trainers; how to run a barn, including ordering feed and hay; organizing tasks and
completing paperwork; dealing with legal issues — in other words, all the various aspects of the business. But it’s not just for people who want to make their living with horses. Goldstein exSee ROSENBERG, page 26
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FEATURES
Mayan Apocalypse? Fiscal Cliff? Oh Please, I’m Bored! Monday night is New Year’s Eve, and you know what that means — we all fall off the fiscal cliff. I’d be terrified except I’m so happy we survived the apocalypse Dec. 21. Of course, every day since Y2K has been a gift. Yawn. I am so bored with the end of the world. I’m also a little cranky. New Year’s parties on the eve of the millennium were a bust because people opted to sit home watching their computer monitors for signs of trouble. The whole “time zone” thing never occurred to them. But that’s OK — they’ll get a second chance on Dec. 31, 2999. And last Friday, to be quite frank, the apocalypse kept slipping my mind. I was out Christmas shopping, and I think I had lunch at TooJay’s. Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day! Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer or stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page on Facebook.
Deborah Welky is
The Sonic BOOMER Actually, I was probably pretty safe as I can’t see the Four Horses storming the Mall at Wellington Green and charging up the escalator to get at me. Of course, this is the exact type of thinking that makes for a perfect end-of-the-world scenario. Even if he was right, any Doomsday predictor showing up now would just be laughed at. A guy showing up in sackcloth holding a “Repent” sign in front of TooJay’s would mean nothing more than a call to mall security. It would be the whole boy-who-cried-wolf thing all over again.
Doomsday Predictor: Repent! Me: Excuse me, I’m trying to get into this restaurant. DP: The world is going to end! Me: Oh, really. Do I have time for a dill chicken sandwich first? DP: I’m serious, lady. I have it on the Best Authority. Me: Aren’t you the same guy who was selling those “Beware Y2K” T-shirts down at the beach a couple of years ago? DP: (faltering) Well… Me: And yet here we are in Y2012. DP: (mumbling) Those T-shirts are valuable collectibles now. Me: Not if the world ends, you idiot! DP: Look, this is the real deal. There will be no Y2013. I have insider knowledge. Me: Well, you should’ve thought about that 12 years ago when you got us all riled up over nothing. Don’t you think that if something was going to happen at midnight on New Year’s Eve it would’ve happened in Europe first? And that maybe our TV stations
would’ve been all over it? At the very least, a “Breaking News” banner along the bottom of the screen? DP: I’m just trying to save your soul before it’s too late. I think you should repent. Me: And how do you know I haven’t? I repent every day. In case you haven’t noticed, the world is a mess. People are human. We make mistakes. Then we’re sorry for them. It happens. DP: I’m glad to hear that. Me: And sometimes we like to feel better so we have a dill chicken sandwich here at TooJay’s… say, can I buy you one? I think it would cheer you up. DP: Wow, that would be nice. No one’s ever… Then, BAM! A ball of fire roars across the food court and down the hall, turning the Doomsday Predictor and me into little piles of ash with not even time for a “Told you so.” In my estimation, that’s how the world will end. Until then, Happy New Year!
Cruise’s ‘Jack Reacher’ A Surprisingly Good Action Movie I found Jack Reacher , a new film starring Tom Cruise, to be a really pleasant surprise. It moves quickly, and there are enough twists and turns for any lover of mysteries, plus a lot of tough, gritty action to satisfy any sane person. It is also unfortunate in its timing, coming out right after everyone has been shocked and saddened by the action of a real-life killer. And that is how the film begins. A sniper kills five people from a distance, using six shots to do it. The lead police officer, Emerson (David Oyelowo) finds enough evidence to convince Pittsburgh District Attorney Alex Rodin (Richard Jenkins) that he has a just about perfect case. But the accused, James Barr (Joseph Sikora), demands they get Jack Reacher. The authorities quickly learn that Reacher (Tom Cruise) was a very successful army criminal investigator who had become a drifter. Right after news of the arrest breaks nationally, Reacher shows up. He disappoints Helen, the pretty defense attorney (Rosamund Pike), who is also Rodin’s daughter, by telling her he came to make certain Barr is finished off. While investigating the case for her, however, in going about getting the information he wants as a way of ensuring Barr’s pun-
Rosenberg
Equestrian Education Course
continued from page 25 plained that even backyard horse owners would find it useful and informative, whether they show or just ride for pleasure. She said the information will be helpful for anyone involved with horses at any level. The first semester runs from Jan. 8 through Feb. 8, and the second semester runs from Feb. 19 through March 29. The classes are given twice each week, Tues-
ishment (Barr got away with shooting and killing several people wrongly in Iraq), Reacher discovers a far more complex plot than he expected. Of course, there is a lot of fighting, a great car chase scene and the distinct odor of government corruption through all of this. The film reminds me a lot of the really good crime movies of the 1970s, where there was a grittiness to drama. In recent years, most of our successful films are violent; the most successful movies so far this year are The Avengers, The Dark Knight Rises, The Hunger Games, The Twilight Saga, The Amazing Spider Man, Skyfall and Brave. And we have Les Misérables and Django still to come. Even The Hobbit is filled with violence.And all of them have plenty of violence, but most of it is
so over the top that reality is lost. That is not the case in this film. Those who have read the very successful Reacher series of books by Lee Child know that Cruise is a strange choice to play Reacher, who is described as being 6-foot-5 and close to 250 pounds. Cruise missed that by 10 inches and about 75 pounds. He is also far more charming as well as noticeably betterlooking. But he carries off the role really well, handling the fight scenes admirably. And, for a change, the hero actually gets hurt. These scenes lack the fun of the comic-book style fighting we’ve become used to. Reacher is an expert in hand-to-hand combat, able to defend himself well, but he does get hurt… just like a real person. The final confrontational group of scenes just before the end is set up particularly well, as Reacher and an old Army guy, a real character named Cash (Robert Duvall) go up against the really bad guys. Writer/Director Christopher McQuarrie manages to use both comedy and tension to create an exceptionally effective battle scene. The cast is very good. Cruise manages to capture a lot of the book’s character while adding enough of himself to keep everything
believable. Pike is good as the defense attorney, and Jenkins, one of the best character actors in Hollywood, is very strong as her father, the district attorney, who may be a bad guy. Duvall has a great time playing the old veteran; he gets a lot of good laughs and provides a couple of the key moments. The great German director Werner Herzog is mostly wasted as the behind-the-scenes villain. Oyelowo is good as the detective, and there are a lot of people in small roles that are far better defined as characters than is normally the case is films like this. I particularly liked the ending, where not only were a lot of the pieces all tied together, but the originally accused sniper was shown to be clearly repentant of his past, while the good guys were able to recognize that he was innocent. Too often, characters in lesser roles wind up forgotten while the director focuses on the stars. In a season of big movies, ones deliberately designed to find huge audiences, Jack Reacher is a small, very well-done, action drama. No one wears tights, the villains are real people, and the characters interesting. It is a nice break from the unreality of our current movies.
day and Friday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The topics covered start with grooming and establishing a basic grooming routine; tacking up a horse and caring for tack; lunging; basic nutritional requirements; equine dentistry, hoof care, basic first aid and veterinary; course design and proper footing; schooling area safety and etiquette; breeding overview; different types of business entities and contracts; stable management; travel safety; and organizing and dealing with all sorts of paperwork. The course is priced reasonably at $500, and successful participants will receive a Starwyn Certificate for Equine Education. The top five participants, based on test scores, will be offered a month-long internship with some of
the top pros in the area to gain further handson experience. The last day of class will also offer a career fair to help students decide what they’d like to do and make some industry introductions. “The classes will be held right here at the farm in Wellington,” Goldstein said. “Students should wear comfortable clothes and bring along something so they can take notes. We can also tailor classes to include any specific areas they want to cover, if we don’t already. Basically, I want this to be an enjoyable, informative experience. Nothing long and boring; more cut to the chase and learn the really useful stuff.” Goldstein is also offering 10 scholarships, five for each semester. The scholarships are
open to any applicant 15 or older, through a 1,500-word essay describing their passion for horses and the importance of equine education. Deadlines for the entries are Jan. 1, and slightly later for the second semester. “There’s nothing else like this available in the area,” Goldstein said. “The goal is for our students to feel comfortable and safe while working in any aspect of the horse business or in starting up their own establishment. This course will offer anyone a good solid base from which to break into the industry, enhance the knowledge they already have, and move up the ladder.” For more information, call (917) 544-3349, or e-mail Goldstein at dani.goldstein@ gmail.com.
‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler
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BUSINESS NEWS
Sam Jon’s Salon owner Sam Pedalino with his wife JoAnn, his sister and stylist Francesca D’Agostino, and niece and stylist Stephanie Carey. PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Sam Jon’s Salon Offers A Variety Of Beauty Services Tailored To Each Client By Jessica Gregoire Each facet of the salon is in a separate area Town-Crier Staff Report and done by professionals in each field. The With experienced stylists and 32 years in hair salon area offers straightening, colors, the business, Sam Jon’s Salon is a leader in perms, body waves, adult and kids cuts, and the salon industry. highlights. The family owned and operated salon has “We do pretty much everything, but we do two locations in Palm Beach County: one at stay away from anything that may be damagthe Courtyard Shops in Wellington and one ing to our clients, and that we have tested,” in Downtown at the Gardens in Palm Beach Pedalino said. Gardens. The most important part of what Sam Jon’s Owner and founder Sam Pedalino opened stylists do, according to Pedalino, is commuhis first salon in 1982 in New York. He moved nication and understanding. “We firmly beto Florida in the late 1980s and relocated his lieve in communication because it’s the key to salon to Wellington, where he has operated understanding what the client really wants,” for the past 23 years. Pedalino said. Pedalino’s son, Nicholas, has continued Sam Jon’s stylists have full consultations that legacy by opening the second and new- with their clients before they work on their est location in Palm Beach Gardens. hair to fully determine what their needs and “My son and I co-own that location, and wants are. my daughter works out of that salon. She’s “The stylists listen to the clients, and then one of our top stylists,” Pedalino said. “It’s they say it back to them because what you like a family at our salons, and that is our en- hear and your perspective may be totally diftire atmosphere here at Sam Jon’s.” ferent from what the client is saying,” PedaliMany of the stylists have been working at no said. “Then they show the client exactly the salon for more than two decades. “People what they’re talking about by demonstrating feel comfortable here,” Pedalino said. “They what the client wants, and explain to them don’t want to leave because we treat every- how they will create the look.” one like family.” In the day spa area, the salon offers five Sam Jon’s prides itself on its impeccable rooms for massages, facials, waxing and mancustomer service. “We have over 250 set tes- icure and pedicures. timonials about our business on our web site, “We have a certified massage therapist and www.samjons.com,” Pedalino said. “Every- nail technician who has been with us for 22 thing — from the way we greet customers at years,” Pedalino said. “She does all types of the door by offering them something to drink massages and nail designs.” to the way our stylists shampoo their hair — Sam Jon’s constantly keeps up with all the our clients feel very, very comfortable.” latest techniques available. “Even though I’ve Sam Jon’s Wellington location caters to its been in the business for 37 years, I learn someclients’ all-around beauty needs. In addition thing new every day,” Pedalino said. to the 1,600 square feet of hair salon space, Sam Jon’s Salon is located at 13860 Wellthe salon also offers 1,400 square feet of day ington Trace in Wellington (561-795-8622) and spa services such as nail care and massages. 11701 Lake Victoria GardensAve. in Palm Beach “We were the first kind of day spa to open up Gardens (561-626-7318). For more information, here in Wellington,” Pedalino said. visit www.samjons.com. SEE VIDEO FROM SAN JON’S SALON AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 27
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BUSINESS NEWS
LED Source Opens Efficient New Headquarters In Wellington Wellington-based LED lighting solutions provider LED Source opened its new corporate headquarters at 3281 Fairlane Farms Road on Dec. 13, commemorating the event with a grand opening celebration and open house co-hosted by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. More than 200 people attended the event, including Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis, who was the guest of honor. The 13,000-square-foot commercial building is the first of its kind to use all-LED lighting throughout the structure. According to Dean Ernst, director of marketing for LED Source, the new lights reduce total energy usage by 40,488 kWh, saving the company more than $7,933 in annual energy, maintenance and air conditioning costs. The new lights cut the building’s energy consumption by a whopping 69 percent, with more than triple the lifespan of traditional fluorescent bulbs. Ernst said the return on investment, or time it will take to make up the cost of installing the new fixtures, is expected to be just over three years. “LED technology is the future of commercial lighting because it is effective, efficient and environmentally friendly,” said Marcel Fairbairn, president and CEO of LED Source.
Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis (center) with LED Source President and CEO Marcel Fairbairn and Vice President Gavin Cooper. “We hope our building will influence other local business owners and property managers to make the switch.” Fairbairn added that LED technology has numerous benefits over traditional incandescent, halogen and fluorescent light sources that make it a viable alternative for companies looking to save money and reduce their environmental footprint. “In today’s economy, where ev-
ery dollar counts, switching to LED means extra money for other business expenses,” Fairbairn said. “LED lighting offers greater design flexibility, lower costs, longer life spans and no hazardous materials compared to fluorescents.” The new LED Source headquarters primarily utilizes Cree CR24 and CR22 LED troffers in addition to Lighting Science LED lamps, as well as Philips ExceLine BayLyter fixtures
The LED Source team and Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis take part in the official ribbon cutting. in the warehouse. Founded in 2005, LED Source is North America’s first and only franchiser of LED lighting. The company supplies LED products to commercial, entertainment and residential spaces including major buildings, office spaces, restaurants, schools and theaters. Recently, the company retrofitted and redesigned the iconic external lights on the Miami Tower in Miami.
LED Source launched its franchising program in 2009, and currently has 13 active franchisees with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. Starting in 2013, LED Source plans to develop new territories in states along the Eastern Seaboard and expects to have a network of 150 franchise offices within the next three years. For more information, visit www. ledsource.com.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Elite Networking Pros Donates Gifts To Back To Basics In the quest to support a local charity during the holiday season, Elite Networking Pros chose to get involved with Back To Basics’Angel Program, which provides underwear, socks and sneakers to underprivileged children. The program was founded by Beverly and Don Perham 28 years ago. Because of Beverly’s dedication, thousands of youngsters will get holiday gifts this year. Thanks to Elite Networking Pros’ business members, more than 30 children were adopted and
provided personal packages to open for Christmas. Over and beyond the support from its members, Elite as an organization provided Back To Basics with socks and underwear to be distributed throughout the coming year and adopted an additional nine children who reside in Palm Beach County. “I have belonged to many networking groups over the last 10 years, but not one has supported an organization such as Back to Basics in such a big way,” said
RAPB Honors Darell Bowen Of Bodis Realty The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches recognized several members and organizations during its 2012 member appreciation party held recently at the Embassy Suites in West Palm Beach. One of the recipients was Darell Bowen, broker of Bodis Realty Inc., who was recognized as the mid-sized office Broker of the Year. “While I am honored to receive the award, the true credit goes to our staff and agents who have all
worked so hard this year to make us the best Realtors we can be,” Bowen said. “We are committed to not only serving our clients, but also serving the communities that we work in.” Bodis Realty Inc. was founded by Darell and Sherry Bowen in late 2011 and it has offices in Wellington and West Palm Beach. For further information about Bodis Realty, call Darell Bowen at (561) 346-3622.
Maggie Zeller, president of Travel Around the Clock. “I know that we have made a difference in many children’s lives this holiday season. Thank you, everyone, for your generosity!” Elite Networking Pros brings together a group of Palm Beach County business owners and professionals who are truly best-inclass in their respective industries. Elite members bond together to help each other succeed in business. Belonging to Elite Networking Pros is like having a team of salespeople working for you. Every member interacts with friends, clients and business associates who could use your products or services. Elite Networking Pros members will refer you with confidence because of the trust that builds as a result of being a part of Elite Networking Pros. Elite Networking Pros meets every Friday morning for breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. in Royal Palm Beach. For additional information about the club, or to attend one of its weekly meetings, visit the Elite Networking Pros web site at www. elitenetworkingpros.com.
These gifts donated by Elite Networking Pros’ business members went to more than 30 needy children in time for Christmas.
Send business news items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper,12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.
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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT
Cuban-American Exhibit Opens Jan. 19 At Armory Center As the signature exhibition celebrating its 25th anniversary season, the Armory Art Center presents “Cuban Connection: Contemporary Cuban-American Art from Florida.” The exhibition of work by seven Cuban-American artists opens with a reception Friday, Jan. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. and continues through March 16. “The influence of Cuban culture has had such an impact in South Florida that it seemed only appropriate to focus on this rich part of our local culture as the signature exhibition of our 25th season,” Armory Art Center CEO Sandra Coombs said. The exhibition will feature and celebrate Cuban-American artists
Something About Fashion by Fabian Peña.
currently working in diverse media, including painting and video. Programming will celebrate the music, poetry and cuisine of the vibrant culture of this island nation, only 90 miles from the tip of Florida. The “Cuban Connection” exhibition was organized by the Armory Art Center with support provided by the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation. Armory Art Center exhibitions are free and open to the public. Participating artists are Luis Gómez, Dayron González, Maria Martinez-Cañas, Fabian Peña, Omar Rodriguez, Arturo Infante Vieiro and Laimir Fano Villaescusa. Gómez is chairman of the NewMedia Lab of the ISA in Havana. His work has been exhibited at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Havana; the 49 Esposizione Internazionale D´ARTE in Venice Biennale, Italy; in the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art in New York; the Ludwig Forum fur Internationale Kunst in Aachen, Germany; the Barbican Center in London, England; in Art Bassel and Maastricht in Germany; and the Havana Biennial event organized by the Center for Contemporary Art Wifredo Lam. González has received numerous awards, including Premio Luz y Oficios, Salón Anual de Arte Contemporáneo in Boyeros in Havana (2006), first place given by the curator’s office at the Salón de Arte Contemporáneo en Boyeros (2006), and third place at the Salón Annual “13
de Marzo” (2004). He currently lives and works in Miami and is represented exclusively by Cernuda Arte. Peña reconstructs fragments of cockroach wings, crushed houseflies, hand-scripted text and other materials rooted in animalia to inform manmade objects and environments. Peña’s synthesis of nature and popular culture endows the contemporaneity of a baseball, graffiti or allusions to modern sculpture with a cellular level of timelessness. Peña harkens to the Shakespearean interpretation of a corporeal “pound of flesh,” acknowledging the somatic price for locating beauty in the grotesque. Peña was born in Havana. He lives and works in Miami. Martinez-Cañas was born in 1960 in Havana. Because of the Cuban revolution, her family moved to Puerto Rico when she was an infant. Martinez-Cañas brings a sense of her own history and past, as well as a fresh and experimental attitude, to all of her work. Her medium can best be described loosely as “photobased” in that during the past 30 years she has used virtually every photographic medium to realize her ideas. Rodriguez was born in Santa Clara, Cuba. His work features a mix of artistic and technical productions, including: hand drawings, paintings, sculptures with a heavy use of computer drafting software, printed 3D computer models, digital photo manipulations, photography and com-
Around by Cuban Luis Gómez. puter animations. He does not work at defining a personal style. Studying human behaviors and editing are his main sources of inspiration. Vieiro was born in Santiago de Cuba and lives and works in Havana. “Utopia” is a criticism of the uncritical promotion of mass culture, which appeals to elements of absurdity while contrasting reality with desire. The silence at movie theaters during screenings was like a knife cutting the air, evidence that the new productions have placed their fingers squarely on the wound. Villaescusa was born in Havana, and lives and works in Miami. His
film Ode to Pineapples received a Tribeca Festival award during the festival in New York City. Villaescusa declared his desire to film in the U.S. in a new project that will continue describing all Hershey towns across America, founded by Milton S. Hershey. Model Town describes the Hershey town in Matanzas, Cuba. It describes, through testimonies, the spirit of progress and wealth of Hershey Town in Matanzas in contrast with its present of isolation. For more about the Armory Art Center and other events surrounding its 25th season, visit www. armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776.
FAU Galleries To Kick Off ‘Papercuts’ Exhibition Jan. 18 Florida Atlantic University’s University Galleries in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters present “Papercuts,” an exhibition featuring seven international artists, from Friday, Jan. 18 through Saturday, March 2. The exhibition will be presented in the Ritter Art Gallery at the school’s Boca Raton campus (777 Glades Road). To kick off the exhibition, there will be a gallery talk with participating artist Reni Gower on Friday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. The exhibition, gallery talk and other related public programs are free and open to the public. Born in Australia, France, the Czech Republic, Canada and the United States, the artists in “Papercuts” — Jaq Belcher, Béatrice Coron, Michelle Forsyth, Reni Gower, Lenka Konopasek, Lauren Scanlon and Daniella Woolf — bring a broad range of contemporary perspectives to the art of paper cutting. The artists manipulate, bend and cut paper, creating unique works ranging from visual narratives to complex sculptural abstractions. Their works, some bold and some subtle, celebrate nuance, handmade craft and a process that traces its origins back to sixth century China. Light, shadow and color play key roles, transforming this ancient technique into a dynamism filled with delicate illusions. Each artist contributes a unique sensibility
within a complex (often installation based) construct that has hand cut paper at its core. Whether manifested as silhouettes, romanticized fictions, enigmatic reenactments, cryptic scripts or poetic abstractions, the artists address historical, cultural and personal identity. By encrypting their content through arduous and obsessive processes — cutting, rolling, punching, folding, pinning — these meditative works are charged with narrative, metaphor and beauty. “The works in the exhibition are poetic interplays of light and shadow laboriously cut by hand,” said Reni Gower, curator of the exhibition. In association with both “Papercuts” and a concurrent exhibition titled “Pour” in FAU’s Schmidt Center Gallery, the University Galleries will present a Family Day event on Saturday, Feb. 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. The event will consist of brief interactive exhibition tours and follow-up, hands-on activities for children as well as a “community pour,” a huge painting to be made by event attendees simultaneously pouring paint. The University Galleries are open Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. Visitors must obtain a $2 parking pass or employ the limited metered parking before visiting the galleries. More exten-
sive parking directions are available online at www.fau.edu/galleries. The galleries operate an active Museum Education Program that is approved as a Field Experience Provider by the School District of Palm Beach County. Class and other group tours can be arranged both during and at times other than the galleries’ public hours. The “Papercuts” exhibition was organized as a traveling exhibition by Reni Gower, associate professor of art at Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to its presentation at FAU, the exhibition was presented at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Ga.; Columbus State University in Georgia; Herron School of Art and Design in Indianapolis, Ind.; and will be presented later at Hollins University in Roanoke, Va.; and University of Akron in Akron, Ohio. University Galleries programs are made possible in part by the Cultural Council of Palm Beach County, the R.A. Ritter Foundation and Beatrice Cummings Mayer. The exhibition is also sponsored in part by the School of the Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University. Museum Education Programs are made possible in part by the Kaye Integrative Arts Endowment. For more information on the exhibition, visit www.fau.edu/galleries.
Lenka Konopasek’s Indoor Tornado.
Send entertainment news 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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SPORTS & RECREATION
Wildcat Boys Basketball Squad Tops P.B. Central 68-51 By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach boys varsity basketball team hosted crosstown rival Palm Beach Central on Friday, Dec. 21 in a non-district
match-up, defeating the Broncos 6851. The first half of play was a dog fight as both teams scrapped to gain the advantage, but the first period closed with a 15-15 deadlock. The
Wildcat Johnathon Horsford looks for an opening.
RPB’s Michael Surles takes the ball up court.
Broncos managed solid, consistent play and closed out the half with a 32-31 lead. During the second half, the Wildcats were un-caged as they mounted an assault, outscoring Palm Beach Central 14-4 in the third period. Key battles for possession by the Wildcat defense came up big to help push the Royal Palm Beach lead. The Broncos came to within 9 points, managing to close the gap slightly, but the Wildcats were able to continue to block shots, win rebounds and score an additional 23 points in the fourth period to give them the 68-51 victory. Top performers were Royal Palm Beach’s Travis Weatherington with four 3-pointers, JoJo Williams with 13 points, and Ivan Rosier scored 11 points. Javiene Betts and Kemar Downer each had 14 points for the Broncos. Royal Palm Beach will host Santaluces Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m. Also Jan. 8, Palm Beach Central will host Jupiter at 7:30 p.m.
John St. Paul of the Broncos tries to avoid a block by JoJo Williams. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER
Wellington Basketball Boys Dominate P.B. Gardens 67-34 By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington High School’s boys varsity basketball team defeated Palm Beach Gardens High School 6734 on Friday, Dec. 21 in Wellington. The Wolverines got out to an early lead and continued to dominate Palm Beach Gardens, holding them to half the number of baskets. Alan Fabius kicked off the game with a basket to put the Wolverines on the board. The Gators responded with a basket of their own, but Dondre Duffus raced across the court to put in a lay-up, making the score 4-2 early in the first period.
The Wolverines extended their lead with another basket by Fabius, followed by a 3-point basket nailed by Duffus. Palm Beach Gardens put in another 2 points, and with 2:52 left in the first period, the Wolverines edged away 9-4. The two teams traded baskets several times, and both sent players to the foul line, though neither was able to capitalize on the opportunity. But then, Alex Peavler nailed a free throw to make the score 12-6 with just over a minute left in the period. Both teams struggled for the remainder of the period to sink bas-
kets, and the quarter ended with Wellington in the lead 12-6. The Wolverines kicked up things a notch in the second quarter, scoring 22 points alone, while holding Palm Beach Gardens to only 14 points. Their tough defense continued for the remainder of the game as they doubled the Gators in points. Duffus led the Wolverines in points, putting in 23, while Stephon Gordon added 14 points. The Wolverines return Friday, Jan. 4 after the holiday break, when they travel to Martin County High School for a 6 p.m. game. Wolverine Alex Peavler looks to pass.
Wellington’s Dondre Duffus makes his way to the basket.
Wolverine Stephon Gordon lines up a foul shot.
Wolverine Alan Fabius looks for an out. PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER
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SPORTS & RECREATION
WELLINGTON LITTLE LEAGUE ENDS PERFECT BASEBALL SEASON
The Wellington Little League Senior Division baseball team completed an undefeated 20-0 season after defeating the Delray Little League team in the district championships. Pictured here are (front row, L-R) Jach Krance, Alex Viscusi, Mikey Viscusi and Dmitri Margolis; (middle row) Thomas Corzo, Brett Fiore, John Stirp and Eric Scott; (back row) coach Rick Silver, Matt Brewster, Jake Silver, coach Lee Margolis, Mike Scott, Jake Garrell and manager Tony Viscusi.
Karate Students Advance To 10th Kyu Six students from Genbu-Kai Karate recently tested and advanced to their first 10th kyu (level) ranking — a journey that will take them at least four years, before being potentially invited to test for their first black belt level. Most traditional Japanese martial art dojo (schools) start ranking at either 10th or ninth kyu and progress through to first kyu. Time between ranks slows down as the student advances. This is to make sure the students not only retain and comprehend the physical requirements of their training, but also the mental aspects, including improvement in maturity levels. Today, martial arts schools offer a variety of color belts to denote different rankings. Typically, white, yellow and orange belts denote beginner students; purple and green belts denote intermediates; and blue, brown and red denote advanced students. Usually, stripes are added either within the belt itself, or as tips on the end of the belts for additional kyu ranking. In Genbu-Kai schools, red belts are reserved for junior black belts (7 to 12) because these students typically do not achieve the required maturity levels, as required for adult students. Genbu-Kai Karate teaches tradi-
Tenth Kyu Students — (Front row, L-R) Lucas de Guardiola, Weston Clark and Vanessa Tavera; (middle row) instruct or Brent Bedwell, Chief Instructor Sensei Keith Moore and instructor Catherine Mazzella; (back row) Oscar Carranza, Mike Taplin and Charles Vlahos. tional Shito-Ryu Karate, and not only emphasizes self defense, but also incorporates methods in preventing bullying either at school or other social encounters. Most important, Genbu-Kai Karate teaches valuable life skills that students learn to incorporate into their school, family and social lives.
Genbu-Kai is a traditional Japanese martial arts school located at 13889 Wellington Trace, Suite A-21, in the Wellington Marketplace. All ages are welcome to come in and try one complimentary week. For more information, call (561) 804-1002 or visit the Genbu-Kai web site at www. floridagenbukai.com.
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SPORTS & RECREATION
Audi, Piaget Among Key Team For IPC’s 20-Goal Season Audi and Piaget are among an impressive field of 15 teams for the 20-goal season that opens Jan. 3 with the Herbie Pennell Cup Tournament at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. IPC, polo’s winter capital of the world, will celebrate its 10th anniversary when the winter polo season opens with the first of four 20goal tournaments. The two-day Herbie Pennell Cup features four teams including defending champion Coca-Cola led by Gillian Johnston; Lechuza Caracas; Villa del Lago; and La Herradura, led by Hall of Famer and former 10-goaler Memo Gracida returning to IPC after a two-year absence and his brother Carlos, also a Hall of Famer and nine-time U.S. Open winner. Two semifinal games are set for Jan. 3 with La Herradura playing Villa del Lago, led by 2012 British Open MVP Polito Pieres and Coca-Cola playing Lechuza Caracas at 1 p.m., returning to 20-goal polo after a year’s absence, at 3 p.m. The championship final takes place Sunday, Jan. 6 at 3 p.m. Herbie Pennell, one of the nation’s top indoor polo players rated at 8 goals, and 6-goal outdoor rated player, was inducted posthumously last year into the Na-
tional Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame. The remaining three 20-goal tournaments are the Jan. 8-27 Joe Barry Memorial Cup; Jan. 29 through Feb. 24 Ylvisaker Cup, won last year by Melissa Ganzi’s underdog Piaget team in an upset over husband Marc’s Audi team; and Feb. 20 through March 3, the Iglehart Cup. “This is where you come to play if you want to get serious,” said Jimmy Newman, IPC’s director of polo operations. “The 20-goal has become the heart of all of this.” There are three 26-goal tournaments, the C.V. Whitney (Feb. 20 through March 3), USPA Piaget Gold Cup (March 5-24) and prestigious 109th U.S. Open (March 26 through April 21) which has a new title sponsor with Maserati signing on. Maserati heads an impressive list of sponsors for the 2013 season that includes Piaget, Veuve Clicquot, Belvedere Vodka, Four Seasons Resort, Bethesda Health, Iberia Bank and Metier. Nestled in the heart of South Florida’s hallowed horse country, IPC is a world-class facility designed to showcase the sport’s top players and horses. Audi and Piaget are among top teams expected to challenge for ti-
tles throughout the season. Audi, led by player-patron Marc Ganzi, will announce its lineup in January. Ganzi is ranked among the top amateur polo players in the world according to the World Polo Tour. Audi, 2009 U.S. Open champion, will compete in both the 20- and 26goal tournaments for the second consecutive year. Audi has the momentum coming into the 2013 season after sweeping the fall 20-goal fall season at Grand Champions Polo Club winning both the USPA National 20-Goal and USPA North America Cup tournaments. Piaget, led by player-patron Melissa Ganzi, will be joined by 10-goaler Miguel Astrada and 5-goaler Juan Bollini. The team’s fourth player will also be announced in January. After a three-year hiatus, Piaget competed in the 20-goal tournaments last year winning the Ylvisaker Cup. Piaget will also compete in the 26-goal tournaments with 10goalers Miguel Astrada and Sapo Caset. The IPC season has attracted all eight of the world’s top-ranked players rated at 10 goals in the U.S. including Adolfo Cambiaso, Miguel Astrada, Sapo Caset, Pelon Stirling, Juan Martin Nero, Pablo McDon-
Marc and Melissa Ganzi. PHOTO BY SHARON ROBB
ough, Facundo Pieres and Gonzalito Pieres. The Pieres brothers joined brother Nico and brother-in-law and MVP Mariano Aguerre for their first Argentine Open victory, a 12-10 upset of six-time defending champion La Dolfina. Among other season highlights are the Feb. 15 Polo Hall of Fame inductions at the National Museum
of Polo in Lake Worth and the Outback 40-Goal Challenge on Saturday, Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. to benefit the Polo Players Support Group Inc. The International Polo Club is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. To purchase tickets or get schedule information, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, Dec. 29 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Dec. 29 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 283-5856 or visit www.wellington fl.gov for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host the Acreage Avengers for ages 10 to 14 on Saturday, Dec. 29 at 2 p.m. Share your ideas to make the library a better place for all teens. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. Monday, Dec. 31 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Craft Crazy” for ages 2 to 6 on Monday, Dec. 31 at 3:30 p.m. Go crazy with an assortment of crafts from throughout the year. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at Cirque-A-Licious, a big-top dinner show at the Meyer Amphitheater (105 Evernia St., West Palm Beach) on Monday, Dec. 31. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and seating for the Cirque Big Top will start at 7:30. All tables have an excellent view. The eight-piece Cirque band will play for dancing and to accompany stars of Cirque De Soleil performing. A three-course dinner will be served by Café L’Europe. Visit www.bigtopdinnershow.com for details. Wednesday, Jan. 2 • The sixth annual Flags for the Cure flag football tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society will take place Wednesday through Sunday, Jan. 2-6 at Acreage Community Park. The tournament includes women’s and men’s divisions, and boys and girls divisions in age brackets. The cost is $45 per player. For more info., contact Keith Shivers at (561) 358-1933 or flagsfor thecure @hotmail.com. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Drop-In Winter Story Time beginning Wednesday, Jan. 2. The library offers “Baby Story Time” for babies under 23 months, “Explore and Learn Activity Time” for ages 2 to 4 and “Classic Story Time” for ages 4 to 6. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) seeks teens in grades 6 to 12 to volunteer for “Be a Reading Buddy” beginning Wednesday, Jan. 2 at 10 a.m. Teens will meet on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. to read with children and earn volunteer hours. Pick up an application. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Crafternoon” for age
2 and up on Wednesday, Jan. 2; Friday, Jan. 4; and Monday, Jan. 7 at 3:30 p.m. Drop in and make a simple craft during your library visit. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. Thursday, Jan. 3 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a zoning meeting Thursday, Jan. 3 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. • Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Jan. 3 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults Thursday, Jan. 3 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve your fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere led by Caryn DeVincenti of the Florida Writers’ Association, Palm Beach County. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister. Friday, Jan. 4 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Wii Gaming for ages 6 to 9 on Friday, Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Saturday, Jan. 5 • The Wellington Art Society will present ArtFest on the Green, a two-day event with artists and vendors from throughout the county, on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 5 and 6 at the Wellington Amphitheater. More information is available at www.wellingtonartsociety. blogspot.com. • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Jan. 5 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 283-5856 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Teen Gaming for ages 10 to 15 on Saturday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m. Enjoy snacks while you play Wii games. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Sunday, Jan. 6 • The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will begin its 10th Anniversary Season on Sunday, Jan. 6 with the Herbie Pennell Cup. For tickets, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687. • Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Militar y Trail, West Palm Beach) will host “The Art of Close-Up Photography” on Sundays, See CALENDAR, page 39
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 38 Jan. 6, 13 and 20 in the Garden Conference Room. Join noted nature photographer John J. Lopinot for a three-day close-up photography workshop to teach participants how to shoot close-up photos in the garden. The cost is $100 for members and $125 for nonmembers. For more info., call (561) 2331757 or visit www.mounts.org. Monday, Jan. 7 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Happy New Year!” for ages 4 to 6 on Monday, Jan. 7 at 3:30 p.m. Celebrate the New Year by decorating your personal calendar and listening to songs and stories about the months in a year. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Crochet Club for ages 9 to 14 on Mondays, Jan. 7, 14 and 28 at 5 p.m. Learn basic stitches and socialize while you work on projects. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. Tuesday, Jan. 8 • The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans will host “The Fiscal Cliff: Myths, Truths and Options”Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. at the Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive). Speakers include economist Dr. Richard Hattwick and representatives from the offices of Sen. Marco Rubio and Rep. Ted Deutch. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Games for Tweens” for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 4 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Crochet Club for adults and age 9 and up on Tuesdays, Jan. 8, 15 and 29 at 5 p.m. Learn introductory stitches or bring current projects and socialize. Yarn will be available for new participants. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Home School Open House” for all ages Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. Join library staff for a tour and a presentation about all the resources the library can offer homeschooling families. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 Forest W. Hill Blvd.). For more info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. Wednesday, Jan. 9 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Between the Covers: Adult Book
Discussion Series” on Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 4 p.m. Staff will discuss Friendship Bread by Darien Gee. Sign up and check out the book. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “American Girls: Kaya” for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 4 p.m. Celebrate Kaya, the first American girl, with games and crafts related to Native-American culture. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Reading Buddies” for children in kindergarten through fifth grade beginning Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 4:30 p.m. Children work once a week with a teen to read together and play literacy games. The winter session meets Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. through Feb. 27. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Wellington Village Council will host a Community Center Workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 5 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). For more info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. • Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches (3151 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host open houses Wednesday, Jan. 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon. To register in advance, call Chris Marino at (561) 972-9617, e-mail admissions@oapb.org or visit www. oapb.org. Thursday, Jan. 10 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Meet the Author: Donna Gruber Adair” for adults Thursday, Jan. 10 at 2:30 p.m. In An American Odyssey, Gruber crafts a riveting tale of her family’s pioneer travels through the early American frontier. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Jan. 10 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. • The Palm Beach County Citizen’s Justice Academy will present a free 10-week course beginning Thursday, Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. The course provides residents with an opportunity to learn about the local, state and federal criminal justice systems. For more info., call the Criminal Justice Commission at (561) 355-4943. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. Email: news@gotowncrier.com.
December 28, 2012 - January 3, 2013 Page 39
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Page 40 December 28, 2012 - Januar y 3, 2013
HORTICULTURAL TECHNICIAN — Excellent opportunity for highly motivated individuals. Seeking career minded individuals for commission based income in the green industry. Experience a must. In this position the harder you work, the more money you make - Everyone shares in the profits . Background check required. Must have a clean, valid, FLDL. Email resume: aaronsenviro1@bellsouth.net. FAX RESUME: (561) 740-1210 HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in W ellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINATOR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays. Also needed: EXAM PREP TUT ORS Now Hiring SAT/ACT Preparation Tutors. Must have a 4 year degree preferably in Mathmetics or English. Be available to tutor on Saturdays. Please e-mail resume tomarlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com DRIVERS: Home Daily and Weekly Openings! - No-Touch, Great Pay and Miles! Dedicated Miami Account. Werner Enterprises: 1-888-567-4854 TEACHING ASSISTANT FOR PRESCHOOL — Experienced preferred. 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. - Fri. 561-793-5860 TEACHER— 3 Year Old Class. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. CDA Required. 561-790-0808 PART-TIME KENNEL HELP/ GROOMING ASSISTANT— to work Saturday, Sunday and Monday, possibly more. Call 561-791-1234 to set up interview FULL TIME PERMANENT POSITION — Available immediately. Female wanted for local produce market. Must have knowledge of fruits & vegetables. 561-329-5000 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576 T O PLACE YOUR AD HERE WELLINGTON CAB/TOWNCAR Talented assistant. Duties include phone, dispatching. Must be computer literate, and proficient in Excel Spreadsheet. Must be able to pass background check. 561-3330181
T OYOTA YARIS 2010 — 36,500 miles. Very good condition. 10K. call 561-784-5122 or 561-252-7783 for appointment.
FURNISHED HOUSE FOR RENT/ SHORT OR LONG TERM — situated in a cul-de-sac and 5 minutes away from S pruce Meadows, this 2000 sf. 2 story newer house in Shawnessy has hardwood floor throughout and 2.5 bathrooms. Leather furniture, 48” TV and a Piano in main floor. Master bedroom has Jacuzzi. 2 large size bedrooms and bonus room. Wireless Internet, double att ached garage, fenced backyard with BBQ. W eekly housekeeping, linen service and lawn cutting plus all utilities included. For more details call (403) 808-7254 OR (403) 700-2065 REAL EST ATE FOR RENT WELLINGTON — Wellington
Place Mediterranean S tyle, quiet & pretty. Steps away from community pool. No Pets, or Smokers. 1 to 2 bedroom/2.5 bath: Email: calife@gmx.de
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JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent particip ating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. "We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks" 561-798-3225. Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted
WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your ap artment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012252779
MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/Sof tware setup, support & troubleshooting w w w . m o b i l e t e c . n e t . 561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jef f 561-3331923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. W e accept major credit cards.
DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716
THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Rep airs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties. BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood rep air, door inst allation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215 HANDYMAN AND CLEANING SERVICES — Caza Services for all your handyman and cleaning needs. 18 years experience. No job is too small. Call us today. Insured 561802-8300 or 754-242-3459
ANMAR CO .—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528
HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references. Shopping available. 561-572-1782 HOUSECLEANING — affordable cleaning services, Royal Palm Maids. 561-666-7738 “For all your cleaning needs”
HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACT ORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, sof fits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561791-9777
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
JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576 T O PLACE YOUR AD HERE
RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102
ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777
J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at
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
www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com
JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./ Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident
STOP SCRATCHING AND GNAWING — Promote healing & hair growth. Stamp out ITCHAMCALLITS! Shampoo with HAPPY JACK® itch No More. Apply Skin Balm add Tonekote to diet. Goldcoast Feed. 793-4607 www.happyjackinc.com JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458
J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior p ainting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576
MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207
SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600
SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980. Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258
TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com
PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Inst allation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman's touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263
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