Town-Crier Newspaper January 17, 2014

LOX COUNCIL: FAST TRACK ROAD WORK SEE STORY, PAGE 3

WOMEN WIN WEF ‘BATTLE OF THE SEXES’ SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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Western Communities Council Updating 1989 Articles Of Incorporation

Volume 35, Number 3 January 17 - January 23, 2014

JUMP FOR HOME SAFE BENEFIT GALA

The Western Communities Council is preparing to review its articles of incorporation, which have not been updated since they were written in 1989. The articles currently include such provisions that homeowners’ associations and the City of West Palm Beach can become members. Page 3

County Will Continue Wage Recovery Program

The Palm Beach County Commission extended its wage recovery program for another year Tuesday after a successful first year. Page 7

Jump for HomeSafe was held Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center’s Wellington Club. The fundraiser supported HomeSafe, a nonprofit organization that helps victims of child abuse and domestic violence. Shown here are event chairs Lauren and McLain Ward with junior chair Hannah Patten (center). MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 11

Speaker Explains ‘Art Synergy’ At Wellington Art Society Meeting

The Wellington Art Society held its monthly meeting Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the Wellington Community Cent er. Speaker Rolando Chang Barrero discussed Art Synergy and conducted a 25 second bird-drawing experiment. Page 11

Your Bosom Buddies II Meeting Focuses On Healthy Eating Habits

Your Bosom Buddies II held its monthly breast cancer support group meeting Thursday, Jan. 9 at Wellington Regional Medical Center. Dr. Matt Symons of Maximized Living Health Centers discussed how healthy eating lowers the risk of cancer. Cancer survivor Jathy Garcia of HiTech Plumbing also presented a check to YBBII. Page 20

OPINION Recalling Dr. Martin Luther King’s Legacy

On Monday, Jan. 20, the nation will come together in solidarity as we honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his message of peace and equality — there are plenty of ways to mark the occasion. It’s important we all take time to reflect on Dr. King’s teachings. It’s the perfect opportunity for a little introspection, especially in a time with such divisive politics. Page 4

PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Challengers Come Forward For Two Wellington Council Seats

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Community Center Rebuild Bids Come In Far Over Budget By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council voted Tuesday to negotiate with the village’s top-choice contractor to rebuild the Wellington Community Center and build a new Wellington Tennis Center. In a 3-1 vote, council members directed staff to negotiate with Pirtle Construction. Vice Mayor Howard Coates dissented, while Councilwoman Anne Gerwig did not vote. Coates said the proposed $13.8 million price tag for the project was too high. “The original budget was $10.5 million for this project,” he said. “The lowest bid is $3.3 million more than our budget — that’s about 33 percent more.” But Councilman Matt Willhite noted that the vote was to enter into negotiations with the company, meaning the price could come down.

“The vote tonight is for us to direct staff to negotiate the price and see if we can come closer to [the budget],” he said. Last year, council members voted to move the Wellington Tennis Center from its longtime home at the current Wellington Community Center to a vacant, villageowned parcel on Lyons Road near the Village Walk community. Willhite said building a new community center would save Wellington in the long run. “I think [the building] is at the end of its life,” he said. “The savings is in bringing it up to today’s standards and today’s codes. The facility doesn’t meet ADA requirements. There is a cost savings associated with rebuilding it. We could put this off for another day, but I think we need to invest now. We’ve put it off for too long.” Mayor Bob Margolis asked if See OVER BUDGET, page 4

CAFCI INSTALLATION

Seat 2: Sharon Lascola To Challenge Gerwig By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report A challenger has emerged to compete for Seat 2 on the Wellington Village Council. Sharon Lascola announced last week that she would run for the seat, currently held by Councilwoman Anne Gerwig. Gerwig is seeking a second term on the council. Candidates have until mid-February to qualify for the Tuesday, March 11 ballot. Seat 3, held by Vice Mayor Howard Coates, is also up for grabs. Coates faces a challenge from Matt Kurit. Lascola, 66, is a 26-year resident of Wellington. She told the TownCrier this week that she chose to run for office to be a voice of compromise and an advocate for senior citizens. “I was watching the politics going on, and there were things I just didn’t agree with,” Lascola said. “I want to be a voice for seniors and stick up for seniors and families.” A New York native, Lascola bought a home in Wellington in 1980 with her late husband, Au-

gust. She ran a hair salon for 13 years in Amherst, N.Y., and also worked in marketing. When her husband was diagnosed with cancer, Lascola sold the business so they could move to Florida. “My husband’s cousins lived here, and we just loved it,” she said. “We joined the Wellington Club when it was first initiated. This was our Utopia.” Lascola’s husband died in 1993, and in 2005, she moved to Central Florida, where she did promotional work. In 2012, she retired and returned to Wellington to care for her mother. Lascola now lives in the Mayfair community. Since then, she has been involved with the Wellington Seniors Club and the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans. Lascola said she saw bickering among council members, which prompted her to file to run against Gerwig. “They don’t get along,” she said of council members. “She [Gerwig] can’t work with them. I’m a pragmatic person. I know how to compromise. I can communicate, yet be a strong voice.”

Sharon Lascola If elected, Lascola said she would push for more senior services, noting that the redevelopment of the Wellington Community Center, which could provide needed space for seniors, has lagged. “There has been no development,” she said. “This is something that has been discussed for See LASCOLA, page 18

Seat 3: Matt Kurit Will Run Against Coates By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington resident Matt Kurit announced last week that he will run for Seat 3 on the Wellington Village Council, challenging incumbent Vice Mayor Howard Coates in the March 11 municipal election.

DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 11 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 PEOPLE ............................... 13 SCHOOLS ............................ 15 COLUMNS .....................16, 25 BUSINESS .................... 26 - 27 CALENDAR .......................... 30 SPORTS ........................ 31 - 33 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 33 - 37 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM Matt Kurit

Seat 2, currently held by Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig, is also up for election. She faces a challenge from Sharon Lascola. Candidates have until mid-February to qualify for the ballot. Kurit is an Ohio native who moved to South Florida when he was 7 years old. He moved to Wellington in 2004 with his wife, Kathy, and their two daughters, who attend Emerald Cove Middle School. Kurit and his family live in the Olympia neighborhood. “We love the parks and recreation facilities and the schools,” he said. “Wellington’s schools were a major selling point. The kids love it here. The wife loves it here. I love it here. It’s a beautiful place to raise kids.” Kurit works as an executive sales representative for Johnson & Johnson, a company he has been with for more than 16 years. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and a mas-

ter’s degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic University. Kurit was appointed to Wellington’s Education Advisory Board in 2008 and served for four years. He said he filed to run because he wants to continue his service to the community. “I want to step up and serve my community,” he said. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to help maintain the village’s quality of life and make sure we’re doing everything we can to assist with schools. The small-town quality of life and the great schools are the main reasons I moved my family here.” He said he chose to run against Coates because the incumbent did not have a challenger, not because he has any specific issues with him. “I have a lot of respect for him,” Kurit said. “I have nothing against him personally. I wanted to serve my community, so I decided to run See KURIT, page 18

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) held a board swearing in and general membership meeting on Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Har vin Center in Royal Palm Beach. CAFCI members, friends and guests attended the swearing in ceremony of the 2014 board of directors. Shown here are CAFCI board members Jeff Webb, Shirley Morris, Sean Adams, Millie Hampton, Dennis Wright, Genieve White and Jannette SharpePaul. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 20 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Passes Ordinance Banning ‘Puppy Mill’ Sales By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Members of the Wellington Village Council took a step this week to end the sale of “puppy mill” pets in the village. On Tuesday, the council unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance that would ban the direct sale of dogs or cats in pet stores in Wellington. Under the ordinance, pet stores would be able to display and adopt out dogs and cats from verified rescue groups. But Vice Mayor Howard Coates worried the ordinance didn’t go far enough. A measure that allows for the sale of dogs and cats on property owned by the seller is a loophole “big enough to drive a truck through,” Coates said. “I think this statute may not go far enough to eliminate the ability of ‘puppy mills’ to operate in Wellington,” Coates said, asking that Village Attorney Laurie Cohen look for more ironclad language before final adoption of the ordinance. The ordinance was spurred by resident Lorrie Browne, who started the campaign after she adopted a sick dog who had been used

for breeding at a “puppy mill” — large, commercial breeders that often breed sick animals for profit. “I took a dog who had been bred for six years straight,” Browne said during public comment. “If we hadn’t taken her, she would have been euthanized. She came with a broken spirit.” Don Anthony, communication director for the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida, noted that these puppies and kittens often come from horrendous conditions. “The animals are often overcrowded, neglected, starved and diseased,” he said. “They breed them until they are spent and killed.” Passing the ordinance would help curb such practices, he said. He noted that Lake Worth was the first community in Florida with such a ban. “Stores selling pet food and pet products are fine,” he said. Cohen said that because no pet stores are currently open in Wellington selling dogs or cats, the ordinance would not affect any existing businesses. Councilwoman Anne Gerwig See PETS, page 18

RPBHS Seeks To Reduce Number Of Homeless Students By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Garrett Johnson, Royal Palm Beach High School’s student appointee to the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board, gave a report on homeless students at the committee’s meeting Monday. Johnson is working on a project called Helping Hands for the Florida Association of Student Councils (FASC), coordinating with the Florida Coalition for the Homeless. “It focuses mainly on helping the homeless in any way possible,” Johnson explained. “Royal Palm Beach High School chose this

project because we didn’t want to just focus on one organization or one specific task. We wanted to focus on something that we would have many different ways to help.” Johnson said that more than 640,000 people in the United States are homeless. Of those, there are roughly 240,000 family members and 400,000 individuals. Almost 16 percent are considered chronically homeless — those who experience long-term or repeated occasions of homelessness. “About 13 percent of homeless adults — that’s 63,000 people — are veterans,” Johnson said.

“They are people who went to war and risked their lives for our country. They should be the last ones who are homeless. Some kid who students had never thought of talking to, who they pass in the hallway every day, could be homeless. They are also most likely struggling in school.” Johnson noted that high school staff has identified 13 homeless students, but there are probably more, because most rarely speak to teachers about it. He said the best way to help homeless students is to donate money.

“Donations to nonprofit organizations serving the homeless can go a long way,” Johnson said. “The homeless are always in need of clothes. Something as easy as a sock drive can go a long way.” Children living in homeless shelters have very few possessions, if any, including toys, Johnson said. “Most families with homeless children — that’s entire families — have very little to no money to spend on essentials such as food and clothes, so you really can’t expect them to spend money on toys to keep children happy and occupied,” he said. “Collecting

these items is just as important as donating them.” Chairman Lynn Balch asked School Board Member Marcia Andrews whether she could comment on the report, and she agreed that there are far too many homeless students in Palm Beach County, although she did not have the exact number. “We have a homeless coalition team for every area of Palm Beach County,” Andrews said. “What this team does is work closely with schools so that they can identify students who need help, to work See HOMELESS, page 7

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NEWS

Lox Council Majority Seeks To Push Ahead With Road Work

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council directed town staff Tuesday to move ahead on resurfacing Bryan and Compton roads and Marcella Blvd., after some council members expressed consternation that Town Manager Mark Kutney had called for an engineer to inspect the roads first. At a December meeting, the council voted 3-2 to approve resurfacing of the roads with open graded emulsified mix (OGEM) on a piggyback contract, despite objections by some council members that the project should be advertised for bids. At the time, the council also discussed the possible replacement of a deteriorated culvert on Compton Road. All three roads had been surfaced years ago with county financing before the town incorporated. Kutney had recommended going through a bidding process rather than piggybacking the project. Kutney said that on Dec. 23, he joined town engineers Randy Wertepny and Maziar Keshavarz of Keshavarz & Associates and Public Works Director Frank Schiola to inspect the three roads. Councilman Tom Goltzené, who was driving by, also took part in the inspection. Keshavarz provided a four-page

report about the condition of the roads. “I believe it’s an excellent report, not only for its brevity,” Kutney said. “It’s very succinct, yet they get right to the heart of the matter as it relates to the issues relative to the culvert, the roadways and the OGEM.” Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel questioned why Kutney had called in the engineers when he did not recall the council directing him to do so, pointing out that a majority of the council — he and councilmen Jim Rockett and Ryan Liang — had voted for the piggyback contract because of reduced cost, speed and the necessity to resurface the roads. Jarriel pointed out that Jeff King of North Florida Emulsions, who will be doing the project when the contract is drawn up, had said that no engineer would be required for resurfacing, only for culvert repair or replacement. “North Florida Emulsions gave every council member a packet,” Jarriel said. “They serve all of Florida. That packet was almost a half-inch thick of different towns, different counties and they’re coming into Palm Beach County now. They’re coming in strong because people know that it’s economical and it serves the purpose. We all knew that they had a good reputation.” Jarriel told Kutney that none of

his recommendations mentioned calling in an engineer to survey the roads. “We have our own designs that tell us how that culvert should be installed and what size that we put in,” Jarriel said. “Long story short is this council did not direct you to survey these three roads and inspect this culvert.” Kutney agreed that the council did not direct him to involve the engineers, but he said that Jarriel had indicated they could get George Perez, a local contractor experienced in culvert installation, to replace the culverts. “At that point, I indicated that was probably not appropriate,” he said. “What we needed to do was get three quotes. I indicated to the council that I was going to have the engineers come out and look at the culvert. None of you said, ‘Don’t do that.’ I took that as my approval to go ahead and do it, and while they were out there, I had them go ahead and look at the other road surfaces. I like Mr. King, he’s a great guy, but I disagree with him when he makes a comment to you that you don’t need engineering. I think if you look at that report, you’re going to see that, yes, we do need engineering to take a review of this.” Wertepny said the Compton Road culvert is in bad condition at the F Road outfall. “The most

apparent cause is through maintenance activity,” he said. “Trying to maintain the canal or the ditch does cause damage.” Wertepny pointed out that the culvert is not exposed at all on the ditch side, pointing to a detail provided by the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District. “This is a great detail and will provide almost all the specifications you would need for a normal situation,” he said. “However, keep in mind this protects the road surface for a non-paved, non-OGEM surface road, and it protects the canal side. There is no protection for the residents’ side, which is the sole purpose for why you replace the culvert.” Wertepny said his firm’s report included details that would protect the culvert from future damage, including a mitered end section on the ditch side, and specifications for the OGEM surfacing. “While we were present at the site, we drove around and looked at Compton Road, Bryan Road and Marcella, and on those three roads, there was one common theme in areas of poor drainage — where the road was deteriorating the most,” he said, explaining that the roads need to be graded and crowned so they will drain properly before resurfacing can take place. Goltzené and Jarriel got into an

extended debate over whether an engineer was needed or not, until Mayor Dave Browning suggested they move on. “We’ve got a manager who hired an engineer, which we approved a contract for, obviously because we do need him,” Browning said. “I was under the assumption that we were going to have an engineer look at these roads only because I don’t want to spend the money to pave a road, and then have it fall apart a year later. I don’t want to look at the nickels and dimes and then lose out big time. I want the roads done, but at the same time we’ve got to make sure we don’t make mistakes while we’re doing them.” Kutney said the management company is obligated to see that the procurement process is done properly and that the town is spending its money wisely. “It’s very clear that if we just went and slapped OGEM down, that’s not the way to go considering the issues that are out there,” he said. “They’ve identified a number of problems on all three roadways. This council agrees you want to go ahead and get the work done for the residents, but we want to do it the right way. To sit here and listen that I shouldn’t have brought a professional out there to do what is necessary, I’m sorry, I have a problem with that.”

Jarriel said the council had asked for three bids on the culvert construction and that the LGWCD, which issues the permit, has specifications for installing culverts. He said he believed the town engineer’s obligation was simply to do a final inspection after the work is done. Kutney also pointed out that in order to get bids for the culvert, there was also a lot of vegetation on the residents’ side that had to be removed in order to restore proper drainage. Goltzené said flooding that residents have complained about is at least partially due to clogged private culverts and ditches obstructed by vegetation. “It’s more than just replacing the culvert,” he said. “It’s removing all the vegetation, it’s digging out under some of these driveways and replacing some of those culverts.” Goltzené added that the town doesn’t have a policy for road and culvert maintenance. “We’re flying by the seat of our pants, and it’s really not working,” he said. Rockett said the council had directed staff to get three bids to replace three culverts, which had not been done. “We still need to have that done,” Rockett said. “We have specs to follow. Three members voted to do it, who I think still stand by that vote, so let’s get it done.”

Western Communities Council Updating Articles Of Incorporation

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Western Communities Council is preparing to review its articles of incorporation, which have not been updated since they were written in 1989. The articles currently include provisions such that homeowners’ associations and the City of West Palm Beach can become members. At its meeting in December, retiring Secretary John Bonde pointed out some of the idiosyncrasies of the document. Bonde is being replaced by Wellington Chief Financial Officer Tanya Quickel, whose Western Communities Council title has been changed to administrator. “John only asked for two changes,” Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Michelle Damone said. “We decided to go ahead and do the whole thing. We ended up

massaging the entire document instead of just a few of the items that Mr. Bonde had brought up. It’s just strengthening the organization as we move forward.” Damone has previously served as chair of the Western Communities Council. Wellington Councilman Howard Coates took over as chair last year. Damone said one of the items that will be deleted is likely to be the provision that homeowners’ associations can be members. Although a relevant idea in 1989, it is an anachronism today. “You’ve got to remember, Wellington was unincorporated when those articles of incorporation were formed,” she said. “The western communities were not what they are today. They were made up of small neighborhood organizations, like homeowners’ associations, representing their

communities or their interests. Now it’s 25 years later and Wellington has grown tremendously. The population has grown, so the representation is at the elected or administrative level of each of the respective communities.” She noted that back then, the Acreage Landowners’Association was also a much stronger organization than it is today. “We used to have 11 board members, and when you had elections, there were 25 or 30 people trying to seek one of those seats, all the time, every year. It was a very well-organized, professional organization.” Damone said ALA membership was once around 1,000 homeowners. “Back in those days, you paid $20 for a newsletter,” she said, explaining that many people who owned lots as investments lived in other areas and read the newsletters to keep informed. “You didn’t

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have that as freely as you have now with social media. It was a way to communicate, completely different than where we’re at today.” She also pointed out that the Indian Trail Improvement District at the time was still controlled by proxy votes of large landowners. “The Acreage Landowners’Association was really formed for the small landowners, and then eventually the small landowners took over the Indian Trail Improvement District,” Damone said. “You have to understand the history to understand where we’ve gotten. The ALA has moved in a different direction. It still gets information out and works with the community, but just in a different role.” She said the Western Communities Council and its administrators, such as attorney Charlie Schoech and Bonde, who was once ITID administrator, had lot to do with

the growing strength of ITID and the area in general. She pointed out that the western communities were well organized to support State Road 7 at the final public Florida Department of Transportation hearing, which saw organized opposition from the City of West Palm Beach. “Through us working together, that’s how we’ve changed some legislators’ opinions on the worthiness of the road,” Damone said. Damone strongly opposes the current Western Communities Council articles of incorporation, which allow including West Palm Beach as a member community. “I don’t believe the City of West Palm Beach represents the same characteristics that we do out in the western communities. The City of West Palm Beach does not have the western communities’ best interests in mind,” she said,

adding that West Palm Beach has reneged on agreements it made to improve roads when Ibis and other developments were approved. The most recent accomplishment of the Western Communities Council is bringing together most of its members to contribute for a federal lobbyist to make the final push for the completion of SR 7, which is still being fought by West Palm Beach. Damone said the Western Communities Council enables the sharing of expertise to accomplish certain goals. She and Wellington Village Manager Paul Schofield have been working on the scope of work to hire the lobbyist. “It goes to show that teamwork, instead of each of the respective communities hiring their own individual lobbyist for State Road 7, you see how we can pool together See WCC, page 18

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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OUR OPINION

Take Time To Reflect On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Message

Next week, the nation will come together in solidarity to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his message of non-violence, peace and equality. On Monday, Jan. 20, the world will observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and there are plenty of ways to mark the occasion. Known for his message of peace in the face of extreme inequality, King’s message has been carried across the globe and lives on in his memory. On Monday, it’s important we all take time to reflect on his teachings. It’s the perfect opportunity for a little introspection, especially in a time of such divisive politics. The civil rights movement propelled the idea of peaceful resistance into the mainstream — of disagreement without violence. Unfortunately, this message seems too often to be forgotten as we see more and more people resort to violence to settle arguments. This is not the way to disagree. The beauty of King’s method was that he stood unwavering in the face of bigotry, threats of violence and arrest without resorting to threats of his own. It certainly was not easy, but this message of peace gave the civil rights movement more weight and became the model for many similar movements across the globe. Though passions still run hot in politics, we can all take a page from King’s book and

meet our challengers with respect, putting the focus on the issues at hand and not on the actions of the person you disagree with. Several community organizations will mark the day with observances, and we encourage you to get out and join your friends and neighbors to mark the occasion. Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and the Village of Royal Palm Beach will present the 12th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday, Jan. 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). A continental breakfast will be served from 8:45 to 9:30 a.m. The program will start at 10 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. Wellington Regional Medical Center will host its second annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program on Monday, Jan. 20 at 11:30 a.m. After the ceremony, there will be a reception with refreshments. No matter what you choose to do on Monday, take a moment to pause and reflect on the lessons learned over the past 40 years and how King’s message still resonates today. We can all learn a lesson in meeting our challenges head-on with quiet determination, peaceful but strong. It’s a message that still resonates today, and one that is so important to pass on.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Parent Pleads For WCS Support

My daughter, Lauren, is currently in the seventh grade at Wellington Christian School. She has attended the school since PK-3. The teachers and staff have become like a family to her over the years. They all know her on a personal, spiritual and academic level. I know she is the grounded, well-rounded person she is today because of the caring teachers and staff. As a parent, I knew right from the beginning that Lauren would graduate from WCS, and it was quite a devastating blow to hear that the high school may close due to finances. Another major concern is the amazing teachers who have poured their heart and soul not only into seeing Lauren succeed, but all the other students as well. If the high school closes, they will lose their jobs. This is especially hard because over the years, they have not only become my friends, but also partners in my daughter’s education. As I close this letter, I plead with our community and ask if anyone can help us financially to save our school, please consider doing so. Like so many countless families and their children, I depend on this wonderful, private school in the Wellington area. Dustine Traver Royal Palm Beach

WCS Helped Make Me A Success

My name is Courtney Allen-Perrault, and I am currently a sophomore at the University of Central Florida. I graduated from Wellington Christian School as a part of the Class of 2012. The school not only offered leadership opportunities, Advanced

Placement classes, sports and the arts, but was also a safe community where everyone had an equal chance to better themselves not only for college, but as people in general. I played basketball from middle school to my senior year, and the bonds I made with my fellow teammates and coaches are the types of long-lasting bonds that I know will carry me throughout my life. I was also the treasurer for the National Honor Society, which sponsored children who lived in poverty all over the world. NHS students also volunteered in other various actions to better the community. NHS showed other schools and the West Palm Beach area that although our school was small, every effort counted and was appreciated. I was also the vice president of the Student Government Association, which voiced the concerns of students and volunteered in canned food drives, distribution of food on Thanksgiving, Christmas parades and more. WCS offered so many volunteer opportunities to help others in various ways. Academically, WCS was very strong. I personally took many honors and AP courses that were small in numbers in the classroom, which I enjoyed because it meant that I could receive the attention I needed that large public schools are unable to offer. All of the teachers are dedicated to the their jobs, and it is quite obvious that they all love what they do. In particular, Dr. Nicol, Madame Brazeau, Mr. Gray and Mr. Dulin helped me through a lot, inside and outside of the classroom. Mr. Gray, my Bible teacher, had always been a great teacher and just a jolly guy. We always bonded over the Red Sox and the Patriots because we both used to live in New England. Mr. Gray was also a supervisor for the foreign exchange trip that I took in my ninth-grade year. We traveled

to France and Spain, and some of my friends and I joked around with Mr. Gray and called him “father duck” because he always led us around Europe and looked after us as if we were his own. Another teacher that was a supervisor of the France and Spain trip was Madame Brazeau, who undeniably is one of my favorite (if not my top favorite) teacher of Wellington Christian School. I took French for 5 years, from 7th to 11th grade not only because I developed a love for learning the French language and French culture, but because I wanted a reason to have Madame Brazeau as a teacher. Another extremely dedicated teacher is Dr. Nicol, a science teacher at WCS. He is one of the sternest teachers at WCS, but is also one of the kindest, knowledgeable, down-to-earth people I have ever met in my entire life. I would not be where I am today without the building blocks WCS gave me. The friends I made, both in students and teachers, are people I will cherish for the rest of my life. It would be absolutely heartbreaking for WCS to have to close down the high school. Courtney Allen-Perrault Royal Palm Beach

Did We Wake Up Too Late?

I attended a meeting hosted recently by Vice Mayor Paulette Burdick regarding the proposed Minto West development, formerly known as Callery-Judge Grove. The proposal is to create 6,500 cramped living quarters, 1.4 million square feet of commercial space for minimum wage workers; and for transients, a 159-room hotel, a college campus and a baseball stadium. Minto West is an unmitigated disaster for residents who chose a bucolic lifestyle. According to some estimates,

Minto West will generate 150,000 more vehicles using the surrounding roads and 80 percent of the cost for infrastructure upgrades will be carried on the shoulders of the already overtaxed residents of Palm Beach County. The hearing room was overflowing. Grassroots opposition from residents whose quality of life is about to be destroyed filled half the room, and the other half was Astroturf support. Community organizers who favor “sustainable development” filled their half the room by importing bodies from other counties wearing paper stickers on their shirts that simply read “yes.” But this opinion is not as much about overdevelopment and destroying a rural lifestyle, as it is about focusing on the starting point. The real question is why we allowed a tiny flying insect called a psyllid to destroy more than half of Florida’s orange production and put Callery-Judge Grove out of business. Unfortunately, most people lack the foresight to see the unintended consequences of what seems like a good thing at the moment. While the tiny psyllid was destroying Florida’s citrus industry, our attention was focused on the dangers of insecticides that may have been able to eradicate the tiny psyllid. Now virtually 100 percent of citrus trees in Florida are infected by the saliva of the tiny psyllid. Since the Minto land is no longer good for growing oranges, it will be developed, and the tiny psyllid that traveled here from the Far East and Middle East can move safely on to other fertile soil. The lesson that the tiny psyllid should teach us is to question with boldness what seems like a good thing at the time, because very often there are unintended consequences that will surprise us when we finally wake up. Frank J. Morelli Wellington

WCS An Asset To The Community

My name is Jason Weldgen, and I started at Wellington Christian School in 1999 as a pre-K 3 student. I am a senior this year and will be graduating from WCS in May 2014. The teachers and curriculum in the high school keep you challenged. I have been taking honors classes since 8th grade and Advanced Placement classes the last two years. Although I have not always enjoyed every project or report/thesis that was assigned during my high school years, I have to say that the education that I have received at WCS has more than prepared me to start college next fall. I have applied to seven universities, and so far I have been accepted to six of them, with one university yet to announce decisions. I have been involved in various activities throughout the last four years, including: high school band/jazz band, the National Honor Society, SWAP (Students With A Purpose) and I was captain of the varsity baseball team. My hope is that WCS will receive the needed donations to keep the high school open for years to come. WCS feels like home, and

I would love to be able to go back to visit my old teachers and also be able to go to future homecoming games as an alum. Another reason why I would like to see the high school stay open is because I would like to see all the kids in the school get to graduate from WCS. This would include my brother, who is a sophomore. He has also been at the school since he was in pre-K 3, and I would hate for him to have to start over someplace else. Please help us save our high school. Thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion. Jason Weldgen West Palm Beach

For The Record

The article “WCS Community Working To Save High School,” published last week, incorrectly attributed a drop in school enrollment to a change in church leadership. The statement should have read “a change in school leadership.” The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words). Submit letters, with contact name, address, and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090; or you can e-mail letters@ goTownCrier.com.

OPINION

A Better Condom Is Coming… Thanks To Bill And Melinda Gates! The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation underwrites a bushel basket of wonderful projects worldwide. One which recently came to the fore centers around a contest to create an improved condom. Believe it or not, there were 812 ideas submitted, and 11 were chosen as winners of $100,000

Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin

each. After the winners develop their ideas, the eventual winner could receive $1 million! The goal of the research, said foundation officials, is to decrease unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases with a “next generation” condom that significantly preserves and enhances pleasure. Among the

contestants were a longtime condom manufacturer from India and American chemical engineers plus British design consultants. Ideas included possible new materials such as ultra-sensitive, reconstituted collagen condoms — a product designed to feel like skin. The collagen fibers will come from the Achilles

tendons of cows, or perhaps fish skin. Meanwhile, the “wrapping condom,” proposed by the California Family Health Council, is scheduled to be made of polyethylene plastic that clings like Saran Wrap. Another interesting submission was named Rapidom. It would feature pull tabs to keep the

user from being confused about which way to put it on. Among the general problems included in the preliminary investigations were, “improving the lubrication, internal friction, external friction and heat transfer.” One thing about Bill and Melinda Gates, they don’t mind spending their money for our pleasure!

needs the space occupied by the tennis center to expand the community center. “By relocating the tennis center, we open up the space for the community center to allow for more activities,” he said. “If we don’t move the tennis center, we’re stuck with the footprint we have now.” Willhite said that tennis players come from all parts of the village, including in the Village Walk and Olympia communities. “I don’t think we’re going to lose players,” he said. “What I have heard from players is that they are here not only for the great facility, but for the person running it. They tell me again and again, they are here for Tommy Cheatham and if he goes, they go. When we were renegotiating his contract, this room was full of sup-

porters saying they would follow Mr. Cheatham wherever he goes.” Willhite made a motion to direct staff to negotiate with the company, which passed 3-1 with Coates opposed. Gerwig recused herself due to a possible conflict of interest, since the company she works for has done business in the past with one of the firms involved in the project. Schofield said his staff would bring the council a contract that will show the source of any extra funding. “At the point we bring a contract back to you, that recommendation will show how it is to be funded and what impact it will have on the budget,” he said. “We can’t recommend to you a project for construction if we don’t have the money on hand to do it.”

NEWS

Over Budget

Village To Negotiate With Bidder

continued from page 1 negotiating is common for projects like this. Village Manager Paul Schofield said it is. “It’s more common than not that we would negotiate,” he said. Margolis noted that many people — including himself — were critical when Wellington built Village Hall. “I didn’t know if we should spend the money,” Margolis said. “I eat my words. I was wrong on that decision. I think if we can work out negotiations, we should do that. I think the naysayers will come back and say that this

council made a good decision.” Coates asked how the difference in cost would be funded if negotiations did not lower the contract price. Schofield said there is money in the capital budget, but said he believed Wellington could negotiate successfully. “The contractor is here today, and I am sure he realizes that the council is not happy with the $13.8 million price,” Schofield said. “I think we will be able to get a better price than that. There are some things in the capital budget that can be moved. There’s not $3.3 million sitting there to throw at this. We would have to re-prioritize.” Schofield said that Wellington first got estimates for the cost of construction several years ago. “We were at the tail end of the recession,” he said. “The prices

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have risen since then.” Coates said he was worried that Wellington would commit to a contract that would run over budget. “Do we need to revisit whether this project makes economic and financial sense for the village?” he asked. “This is much higher than originally contemplated.” During public comment, several residents were opposed to the project — mostly because it involves relocating the tennis center. Resident Judy Rosner said the change was inconvenient. “You approved a change for the tennis center that inconveniences just about every user of the facility and impinges on quiet residential communities,” she said. “How can you justify a new $15 million expenditure for such extravagant purchases?”

Mike Nelson said the tennis center has been at the heart of Wellington, making it accessible for the entire community. “One of the reasons you’re moving the tennis property is because you need parking,” he said, noting that Wellington’s purchase of the Lake Wellington Professional Centre provides plenty of parking. “That parking lot is clear by 5 p.m. You’re going to spend $13 million to move a tennis center that you don’t need to move.” Willhite said that although the tennis center is widely used, its location on Lake Wellington doesn’t make sense. “The tennis players don’t care about the view,” he said. “It’s in a great location, but it has no bearing on how they play tennis.” Further, he said that Wellington

BARRY S. MANNING Publisher

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news

Madison Green Hosts Wounded Warriors Of South Florida Classic

The Wounded Warriors of South Florida’s second annual golf classic, sponsored by the Palm Beach-Martin Counties Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America, was held Monday, Jan. 13 at the Madison Green Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Guests photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier enjoyed a helicopter ball drop, a buffet lunch and prizes. For more info., visit www.wwofsf.org.

Bill Arcuri, Mike Carroll, Commander Sgt. Major Bob Patterson, Army Lt. General Robert Chelberg, Curt Rich, MOAA Past President Paul Loschiavo and MOAA President Marc Oliveri.

Jeff and Shelby Jackson with JoAnn and Barry Coughlin.

Overall first-place winners Anthony Billisi and Mike Gine with Marc Oliveri.

Dr. George and Sandra Kinoshita with Barbara Johnson and Carl Bergener.

Retired Army Lt. General Robert Chelberg with closest to the pin winner Donna Conway.

Madison Green General Manager Mike Brady with helicopter ball drop winner Rich Edwards.

Wellington Businessman Kicks Off Kravis Corporate Partners Series

Amin J. Khoury, founder, chairman and CEO of B/E Aerospace, and a member of the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts’ Board of Directors, received an impressive round of applause recently when he provided an overview and a lively question-and-answer session on his Wellington-based manufacturing firm at the season’s first Kravis Center Corporate Partners Business and Breakfast Series, held in the Khoury Family Dance Rehearsal Hall. With more than 10,000 employees and revenues last year topping $3.1 billion, B/E Aerospace manufactures aircraft cabin seating, lighting systems, oxygen systems, food and beverage preparation and storage equipment, galley systems and modular lavatory systems, and distributes aerospace fasteners and consumables globally. “To experience growth and sustained

profitability in all global markets, we must invest in advanced education,” Khoury said. “In particular, if the United States is to continue to set the standard for excellence, we must provide education for future engineers, chemists and physicists.” Kravis Center CEO Judith Mitchell introduced the series and welcomed nearly 100 guests, recognizing founding chair Alexander Dreyfoos, immediate past chair William Meyer and new chair Jane Mitchell. Kravis Center Corporate Partner members are corporate and professional leaders in Palm Beach County whose mission is to support and enable the Kravis Center to continue its extensive educational and community outreach programs. Corporate Partner membership offers leaders the opportunity to act as an integral part of the Kravis Center, building awareness of the center within the business community.

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Page 6

January 17 - January 23, 2014

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CRIME NEWS

Vehicle Burglary Reported At RPB Nursing Home

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By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report JAN. 12 — A deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the Royal Manor nursing home last Sunday morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10:30 and 11:45 a.m., someone smashed the right front window of the victim’s vehicle and stole a black bag containing a white iPod, some clothing and a wallet with five credit cards. According to the report, the victim contacted his credit card companies and discovered that two had already been used. The stolen items were valued at approximately $500. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. ••• JAN. 1 — A resident of Counterpoint Estates called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Wednesday, Jan. 1 regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 12:30 and 7:30 p.m., someone stole a Honda pressure washer from the victim’s utility trailer. The victim said the trailer was parked on the south side of his home and was unsecured. It is visible from the street and easily accessible from the roadway. The stolen pressure washer was valued at approximately $750. There were no suspects or witnesses available at the time of the report. JAN. 11 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded last Saturday evening to the Wellington Marketplace shopping plaza regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., someone stole the metal hitch from the victim’s Ford F-150 and caused approximately $2,000 in damage to the exterior of the truck while it was parked outside a hardware store. According to the report, the victim believed a disgruntled employee caused the damage. The stolen hitch was valued at approximately $100. There was no further information available at the time of the report. JAN. 11 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called to a restaurant on South Shore Blvd. last Saturday night regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 9:15 p.m., a witness observed a man enter the bar area of the restaurant and take multiple bottles of liquor. The suspect then exited and fled the area in a vehicle. According to the report, the man stole six bottles of Grey Goose vodka, two bottles of Patron tequila and 12 bottles of Ezaguirre wine. The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,080. The witness was able to identify a suspect, but no arrests had been made at the time of the report. JAN. 12 — A Wellington man was arrested last Sunday afternoon on charges of theft after he was caught shoplifting from Spencer’s Gifts in the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Wellington substation was dispatched to the mall after 29-year-old Jonathan Biffer was caught attempting to steal a Laser Galaxy Projector valued at $149.99. A loss prevention officer stopped Biffer and recovered the item. According to the report, Biffer was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County

Jail, where he was charged with petty theft. JAN. 12 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to the Village Royale shopping plaza last Sunday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 1 and 1:30 p.m., someone reached into the open passenger-side window of the victim’s vehicle and stole two Galaxy tablets valued at approximately $830. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JAN. 12 — A Riviera Beach woman was arrested last Sunday on charges of theft after she was caught shoplifting from the Walmart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the store at approximately 2 p.m. after a loss prevention officer observed 27-year-old Betsy Vega Del Llano enter the infant section and select several items. According to the report, Vega Del Llano removed the hangers from the clothes and began placing them in Walmart bags, which she brought into the store with her. The loss prevention officer also observed her place several dog toys in the bags. According to the report, Vega Del Llano then placed the bags in her shopping cart and pulled a receipt from her bag. She then exited the store, passing all points of sale without attempting to pay for the items. The loss prevention officer stopped her and recovered the items, valued at $280.57. Vega Del Llano was arrested and issued a notice to appear in court. JAN. 12 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called to a home in the Pinewood community last Sunday evening regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30 and 7 p.m. last Sunday, someone stole two pieces of jewelry from the victim’s den. The stolen jewelry items were a gold necklace with a ruby stone valued at approximately $3,500 and a gold and black onyx necklace valued at approximately $1,500. There was no further information available at the time of the report. JAN. 12 — A man was arrested late last Sunday night on drug charges following an incident at Bru’s Room restaurant. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the restaurant regarding a suspicious incident. During the investigation, the deputy made contact with 24-year-old Brian Casey and found him to be in possession of cocaine. He was arrested and taken to the county jail where he was charged with possession of cocaine. JAN. 13 — A resident of Greenbriar Circle called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday morning to report a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his home at approximately 9:45 a.m. and later received a call from his alarm company, prompting him to return home. The victim advised the company not to call the police, but returned to find that his home had been ransacked. According to the report, someone smashed the rear sliding-glass door to See BLOTTER, page 18

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Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Arnim Garcia is a white male, 6’ tall and weighing 230 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 02/07/86. Garcia is wanted on charges of grand theft. His last known addresses were West Blue Heron Blvd. in Riviera Beach and Via Toscana in Wellington. He is wanted as of 1/14/14. • Joshua Walsh is a white male, 5’7” and weighing 160 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his right arm. His date of birth is 06/22/87. Walsh is wanted for failure to appear on charges of burglary and burglary with battery. His last known address was 58th Place North in The Acreage. He is wanted as of 01/14/14. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc. com.

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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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Page 7

NEWS

History Group A Hit At Royal Palm Beach Elementary School

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board heard reports from Royal Palm Beach Elementary School’s Student Council and History Society on Monday. The History Society is new to the school this year. Principal Suzanne Watson explained that the club was formed after the safety patrol’s trip to Washington, D.C., last year. “Several of our chaperones noticed that many of our kids don’t know a lot about our history,” Watson said. “They have the little bits that come through the social studies curriculum, but there is so much more that they need to know in order to become solid citizens here in the United States. So, our group decided to start an historical society. It is probably one of the largest groups that we have, well over 30 kids.”

Sherry Barker, a first-grade teacher and Dwyer Award winner, leads the history program. She agreed that there is a void in history education. “It’s just not high on the curriculum standard list of things for us to do in our classrooms, but I am a huge American history fanatic,” Barker said. “My class is all red, white and blue.” The History Society allows Barker to expand on the history she teaches her first-graders. “I do a lot of work with the first-graders, and I teach them tons of history,” she said. “I have kids who leave the classroom, instead of begging to go to Disney World, the parents are complaining they want to go to Boston.” Barker said she believes it’s good for the students to have a foundation of where our country came from, to understand what their country has been through and to learn respect for it. She is im-

pressed by the number of members who show enthusiasm for the club, noting that many of the members are her former students now in higher grades. The club has only met twice so far, and she prepares them for the meetings by giving them reading assignments to help them understand the topic. Recently, the group visited with Gina Sauber of Loxahatchee Groves, who gave a hands-on presentation about early Florida life. “She was more than happy to come and spend as much time as we wanted with the children, and they had tons of questions,” Barker said. At the end of this month, the group will visit the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County Museum at the old courthouse in West Palm Beach, and a trip to the Jupiter Lighthouse is also in the works.

“Our big field trip at the end of the school year is going to the Edison Museum in Fort Myers,” she said. Royal Palm Beach Elementary School also has an active Student Council. This year’s Student Council sponsors are third-grade teacher Katie DeBrizzi and fourth-grade teacher Jonathan Crownover, who had members give presentations on the club. Member Anna Estrada said the Student Council holds Spirit Days, when they ask students for a 50cent donation to dress up in certain themes. “All of our proceeds go to an organization or charity we are working with at the time,” Estrada explained. “We recently had Pajama Day, which was a great hit.” Student Council President Gracie Dillon said that in November, they partnered with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, local churches, businesses, residents

and the Village of Royal Palm Beach for a food drive. “At Royal Palm Beach Elementary, we were able to collect nearly 1,000 food items,” she said. “Together, our local community was able to feed hundreds of families.” Also in November, the Student Council sold Thanksgiving Candygrams. “We thought this would be a great way for students and staff to express how thankful they are for the people in their life,” she said. “Each Candygram had a bag of M&Ms attached. The Student Council worked hard putting these Candygrams together and delivering them to students and staff.” Tanisha Hearing said they were able to use the Candygram profits to sponsor a stocking project in December, partnering with the Kids Cancer Foundation to fill 50 stockings with items donated by students at the school.

“Each grade wrote individualized cards to go with the stockings,” she said. “We also received a generous donation from Jared, the Galleria of Jewelry, which donated 50 beautiful stuffed animals. During a visit from Santa, the stockings were passed out to all of the children who are currently receiving cancer treatments. This project was a huge success, and it meant a lot to all of us.” Student Council Treasurer Tatiana Halleran said they are now planning a visit to Royal Palm Beach High School to see its student council in action. “This will be a great motivation for us to see how a high school meeting is done,” Halleran said. The Student Council also plans to work with a local animal shelter and will participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

County Commission Continues Wage Recovery Program Funding

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission extended its wage recovery program for another year Tuesday after a successful first year that saw the recovery of more than $200,000 in wages that employers had tried to withhold unfairly from workers. Assistant County Administrator Brad Merriman said staff’s recommendation extends the Wage Recovery Program contract with the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County another year. “This was an initiative that was offered through the PEACE [People Engaged in Active Com-

munity Efforts] organization many years ago, and the initial discussions were the possibility of having an ordinance. The program that we ultimately resulted in with Legal Aid, I’m happy to report to you is working very well,” Merriman said, pointing out that the county received a letter from PEACE recommending continuation, even through the group had originally asked the county to enact an ordinance similar to the one in Miami-Dade County. The commission had originally financed up to $100,000 for the program and agreed to spend another $104,000 for the next year.

Attorney Christine Hanley with labor law firm Ford Harrison, representing the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, where she is on the board of trustees and serves as general counsel, said county staff had effectively administered the program, and that the Legal Aid Society had run the program well. “The success of this project speaks for itself,” Hanley said. “The business community on whose behalf I appear today is thrilled to recommend continued support to the funding of the wage dispute project.” Carol Bowen, vice president of government affairs for As-

sociated Builders and Contractors (ABC), also supported the program. “It’s a wonderful example of how a long-term discussion of bringing all interested parties to the table can create something that does appear to be working for everybody,” Bowen said, pointing out that ABC opposed the ordinance originally. “It was never about opposing help. It was about trying to find a solution that did fit, and I cannot say enough positive things about the good work that county staff has done in reaching this effort, and the work that Legal Aid has done and continues to do. I can’t

see any reason that we wouldn’t want to continue what was once a pilot program into something more permanent.” Commissioner Shelley Vana gave kudos to staff. “It was not easy to come to this, but to get a letter from PEACE saying it’s working is amazingly wonderful, and also to Legal Aid, which has really done the brunt of the work in terms of representing the people,” she said. Vice Mayor Paulette Burdick said the program is a great example of how people with divergent views and opinions can come together to find common ground and create a workable solution.

“It gives us hope in the belief for future items that come before us, many times with divergent opinions, that we can come together and end up with a good result for the people,” Burdick said. Legal Aid Society Executive Director Bob Bertisch said the program puts the county on the cutting-edge of wage recovery. “The program is doing well,” Bertisch said. “The business community’s support was unbelievable. We’re glad PEACE came to the table and appreciated what we’re doing, and saw how we’re all working together for the same folks.”

The Women Can’t Be Beat In Nespresso Battle Of The Sexes

The crowds were out in full force at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 11 to watch the women’s team earn their sixth consecutive victory in the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival’s $75,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes. PBIEC also hosted a full schedule of competition during the day, with a win for Lauren Hough and Böckmanns Lazio in the afternoon’s $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic. Eric Hasbrouck was the course designer in the International Arena for the first week of WEF competition and set the tracks for Saturday’s classes. In the highlight $75,000 Nespresso Battle of the Sexes, a three-phase contest included speed rounds, match races and a six-bar competition. The women’s team was captained by Candice King and also included riders Pippa Allen, Nicole Bellissimo, Danielle Goldstein, Brianne Goutal, Lauren Hough, Maggie Jayne, Laura Kraut, Catherine Pasmore and Debbie Stephens.

Homeless

Help From The District

continued from page 1 with their parents and make sure that there are no additional barriers because they’re homeless.” She said the district has made a great effort to provide assistance to homeless parents. “We put everything in place to make sure the schools, the parents, the community come together to make sure these students are successful,” Andrews said. She added that the district also

Charlie Jayne led the men’s team, which included riders Stefano Barcho, Mark Bluman, Lorenzo de Luca, Todd Minikus, Richie Moloney, Samuel Parot, Nick Skelton, Shane Sweetnam and Hardin Towell. The first round of competition was the speed round, with a 6 to 4 win for the men. The match races followed, with the men and women competing side by side over identical courses. The men and women tied in that round, each winning five races, to bring the total up to 11 points for the men and nine for the women. The final six-bar competition was the deciding factor of the evening, with the men leading by two points going in. Four men and four women returned from each team with the opportunity to earn two points per clear round. The competition started at 1.60m (5’3”) in height and moved up to 1.70m (5’7”) through two rounds. Minikus was the only man to jump a clear six-bar round and earned two points for the men, bringing their total up to 13 points, but he then had a rail down in the

second round. Maggie Jayne and Pasmore each cleared round one to bring the women’s total up to 13 to tie the teams. The women moved on to round two, but Jayne had rails down in her second attempt. It was all left to Pasmore, and she and Bibi Sijgje were the only pair to clear the six-bar in round two to clinch the win for the women. King was very excited to captain

the winning team this year. She has been on the women’s Nespresso Battle of the Sexes team every year since the class began and loves the camaraderie between the riders. She also thanked Nespresso for their support of the event. “I had a lot of pressure on me tonight because we have yet to not win, and I am just glad we pulled it off. Thank God for Catherine at

the end,” King said. “It is a great event, and the crowd loves it. The boys against the girls is great because we don’t usually have that. It is fun because it is an individual sport, so we don’t get to do a lot of team competition.” Michelle McFaul, vice president of community affairs and special events for Nespresso USA, was happy with another exciting Battle

of the Sexes. She praised the riders for the great effort they put into it, noting that in addition to the winners, the men’s team would also receive Nespresso machines. The Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of world-class competition through March 30, awarding close to $8 million in prize money. For more info., visit www.equestriansport.com.

follows through to see that formerly homeless students who are now back in homes, remain in a home. “That help is there until there is no need,” Andrews said. “We want to make sure they have their lunches, their breakfast, their homework, their school supplies, their clothing.” The program is monitored by staff to see that it’s sufficient to help the student and family recover. “We have our support team identified just for that,” she said. “We have a director, we have people for this area, right here in District 6. We don’t stop until there

is no need to do anything else. And we want you to tell others that if they know of a student who is in need, not to hesitate to call the school district.” Andrews said most principals are aware of the programs, but that they need families to make a connection. “If you know someone in need of help, we want to know it. We don’t worry about homework if someone can’t eat,” she said. “We don’t worry about an ‘F’ when someone doesn’t have a place to stay. We come together as a district to embrace the student and the family, to get to a point where they

can actually focus on academics. That’s our main goal, but you can’t focus on anything if you don’t have a place to live.” Andrews said the district coordinates with social services and housing agencies to help families find the services they need. “We have people ready to navigate the parents and the students,” she said. “That’s why we’ve actually put together a team of employees, as well as social agencies, to help the parents navigate. It takes a while. It’s an ongoing process to make sure that the student is not impacted to the point where he or she cannot be successful.”

Andrews said the FASC project is needed and that she would follow up with Johnson to coordinate with him and his other representatives. “As a district, I think we’re doing well, but we never know how well we’re doing until it goes out to others,” she said, adding that she could invite school district officials involved in homeless programs to a future committee meeting to give a more extensive report. Board Member Renata Espinoza said many homeless students can be identified through school district data but that the students don’t want to talk about their

situation. School district data, if accessible, might reveal possible homeless students. Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara, the committee’s council liaison, said having the committee pursue student homelessness as an issue might be worthwhile. “I think it’s surprising and not very well known or very well understood how much of an impact the homelessness situation has on students, and how extensive it is,” Hmara said. More information about the Florida Coalition for the Homeless can be found at www.fchonline. org.

The winning women’s team with Nespresso’s Michelle McFaul, ringmaster Gustavo Murcia and the Bellissimo family.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

WRMC MLK Program Jan. 20

Wellington Regional Medical Center will host its second annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program on Monday, Jan. 20 at 11:30 a.m. The public is invited to join the hospital and its employees for a celebration of the life, legacy and teachings of the late Dr. King. The ceremony will include opening remarks by CEO Robbin Lee, an invocation by Ervin Owens of Christ Fellowship Church, a video on the Life of Dr. King, a choir featuring WRMC employees, a recital of the “I Have a Dream” speech by children from the community, a keynote address by CFO Joseph Paul and a dove and balloon release symbolizing the freedom for which Dr. King stood. After the ceremony there will be a reception with refreshments. “This is an opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of a great American hero and to honor the sacrifices of men and women from generations before us who stood for inclusion and equality,” Paul said. “Wellington Regional Medical Center has long recognized the need to uphold and support

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news Briefs the diversity of our workforce, as we are reflective of the diversity of our patients and the surrounding communities we serve. It is our firm belief that our diverse campus enriches us all. The observance of Martin Luther King Day provides us with the opportunity to recognize and to celebrate that fact.” For more info., call the hospital at (561) 798-8500.

Everglades Day Set For Feb. 8

“Everglades Then & Now” is the theme for the 15th annual Everglades Day Festival at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, which will take place Saturday, Feb. 8 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Speakers, workshops and guided activities will highlight the 2014 theme, including Reinaldo Becerra, a representative from the Seminole Nation, and James Currie from Birding Adventures on the Discovery Channel. Participants are invited to join in this free family event and outdoor education festival. The food truck center, with tables and tents, is the day’s only cost. Learn about the Everglades

during guided nature walks where you can observe wading birds and more. Enjoy wildlife presentations, nature walks, live music, guest speakers, more than 30 exhibitors, canoeing, kids fishing, walking tours and Animal Olympics. Edward Mercer and Liz Barraco will show live pythons, Rolf Olson will conduct archery workshops for children, Butch Wilson will attend from the Clewiston Museum, Clive Pinnock of “Raptor Chapter” will be showing live birds, Howard Bernstein will provide a historical perspective of marsh wildflowers, and there will be live animal presentations from the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, the Palm Beach Zoo and the Treasure Coast Animal Hospital. Music will be provided by Roadside Revue. Spanish and Creole speaking translators will be available, as well as a free handicapped accessible van. The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach off State Road 7) is located two miles south of Boynton Beach Blvd. Parking is available at Monte’s Packaging a half mile south of the entrance with a shuttle to the

refuge. For more info., contact the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge at (561) 734-8303.

Vinceremos To Host Buck Off, Poker Tourneys

The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center is holding its fourth annual “Buck Off” Tournament and the inaugural Texas Hold ’Em Poker Tournament at White Horse Fashion Cuisine (3401 Equestrian Club Dr., Wellington). The events began Jan. 16 and will continue for three consecutive Thursdays. Teams made up of four riders will compete each week for a spot in the mechanical bull riding “championships” that will be held at the Vinceremos Annual Dinner & Auction on Feb. 7. “Buck Off” participants will be scored by four celebrity judges based on each rider’s style and skill. Individual scores are accumulated for a team total. The team with the highest score each week will earn a spot in the championships. The entry fee for each team is a $100 donation to Vinceremos. This year, a Texas Hold ’Em Poker Tournament has been added

for those competitors who prefer to “buy in” rather than “buck off.” Each evening will include three poker tables with ten seats available, the cost to buy in is $50 per player. The winning player each Thursday will advance to the final table on Feb. 7. Each additional player will be given points based on their remaining chips and can add this score to any other points earned by playing the following week. The three winning players from each Thursday and the six players with the highest points accrued over the three nights will advance to the finals, to be held in conjunction with the “Buck Off” championships. Sharpen your spurs and bring your poker face. Warm-ups are at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. start. For more info., call (561) 227-1537 or visit www.vinceremos.org.

Tie The Knot For Free Feb. 14

Palm Beach County Clerk Sharon Bock, the National Croquet Center and local business partners will give 40 couples a Valentine’s Day wedding to remember — for free. Registration is now open for the

fourth annual group wedding ceremony, set for 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 14 at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach. Bock will preside over the ceremony, and the Croquet Center is once again donating its facility. “In the last three years, I’ve married nearly 100 happy couples on Valentine’s Day,” Bock said. The Croquet Center has enlisted other businesses to donate their services for the wedding. “It’s so nice to be able to give back to the community like this every year,” said Sandy Coto, director of events at the National Croquet Center. This year, the following businesses will volunteer their services: Creations by Blanca, Desiree Dawn Events, Kim Fontaine Photography, Mix It Up DJ, Palm Beach Parking and Valet Service, Regency Party Rental and SandyJames Fine Foods. Couples can register for the 2014 wedding by calling (561) 355-2468 or by sending an e-mail to ccpbc@mypalmbeachclerk. com. Registration for the ceremony will continue through Feb. 11, or until all 40 spaces are filled. More information about is available at www.mypalmbeachclerk. com/valentinesday.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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Food / Live Music / Artist Demonstrations / Youth Art Area Wellington Green Market on Saturday Morning. For more information, contact Adrianne Hetherington at tilemaker@aol.com or Leslie Pfeiffer at mysticway1@bellsouth.net Visit WellingtonArtSociety.blogspot.com or www.WellingtonArtSociety.org

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news

Jump For Home Safe Benefit Gala At PBIEC Raises Money For Children

Jump for HomeSafe was held Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center’s Wellington Club. The fundraiser supported HomeSafe, a nonprofit organization that helps victims of child abuse and domestic violence. Guests enjoyed dinner, a silent auction and watching the Nespresso Battle of the Sexes. For more info., visit www.helphomesafe.org. photos by Lauren Miró/town-crier

HomeSafe CEO Matthew Ladika with his wife, Wendi.

Camille Fiorenzi and Kayla Roderman check out the auction.

Dr. Helen Abdal (center) with Geraldo Garcia and Alyssa Treccioli.

Steven and McKenna Dickinson enjoy the Battle of the Sexes.

David Alexanian and Sabra Kirkpatrick.

Bruce Duchossois and Michael Bomber.

Speaker Explains ‘Art Synergy’ At Wellington Art Society Meeting

The Wellington Art Society held its monthly meeting Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the Wellington Community Center. Guest speaker Rolando Chang Barrero of ActivistArtistA Gallery spoke about Art Synergy and conducted a 25 second bird-drawing experiment. For more info., e-mail Barrero at activistartista@gmail.com or visit www.artsynergypbc.com. photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier

Guest speaker Rolando Chang Barrero (rear center) challenged attendees to draw a bird in 25 seconds.

Rolando Chang Barrero with his artwork.

Maria Lentine shows artwork she donated to the raffle.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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The Perfect Match Polo and Brunch

Experience the energy of world-class polo and brunch at the International Polo Club. Delicious food, champagne, celebrity sightings, music, fashion and, of course, polo. Every Sunday at 3 p.m. through April 20 The Pavilion opens at 2 p.m.

Join us at The Pavilion for the after-party from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For ticket options, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687.

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Palms West People

Marie Bedner And Chris Facka Join The Kewley Graduates Marshall Foundation Board Of Directors Army National Guard Training

The Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades recently announced that Marie Bedner, co-owner of Bedner Farm and Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market, and Chris Facka, senior director of BNY Mellon Wealth Management, have been appointed to the organization’s board of directors. Bedner, a Florida native, has been involved in agriculture in Palm Beach County for 28 years. Bedner’s Farm is South Florida’s first and largest family owned and operated indoor green market producing fresh products from their 80 acres near the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. Bedner and her husband, Steve, are Wellington residents and have been actively involved with the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for several years. She currently serves on the board of the Florida Fruits & Vegetable Association, the advisory board for Gulfstream Business Bank and the board of trustees at Bethesda Hospital. Facka began his career as a financial advisor, market development manager and branch manager with Wells Fargo Advisors’ Private Client Group. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Harvard

University and an MBA from DePaul University, as well as a Certified Financial Planner designation. As senior director of BNY Mellon Wealth Management in Palm Beach, Facka is responsible for new business development in the Southeast region. He works with individuals, families, foundations and endowments with investable assets over $5 million. Chris has served various organizations, utilizing his expertise in fundraising support, board development and financial management. He resides with his family in Jupiter. “As a family, we enjoy camping near Flamingo in the Everglades National Park, kayaking the Randall River and Wilderness Trail, and taking regular swamp walks through the Big Cypress Preserve,” Facka said. Two new members were also named to the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation’s Advisory Board. They are Bonnie Lazar, a Realtor at Keller Williams Realty Services, and Michelle Poole, owner and CFO of North Ridge Electric Inc. and a noted advocate for Shaken Baby Syndrome. Lazar, a West Palm Beach resident, began her real estate career in New York and has been affiliated

Chris Facka with the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches since 2001, first as a member and then rising through the leadership ranks to president. She has extensive experience in sales and management and is recognized as a leader in the real estate industry. Lazar currently serves as past president of the Regional Multiple Listing Service and vice president of the West Palm Beach Lions Club. Poole served her industry on a local, statewide and national basis, including working with Secretary

Marie Bedner of Labor Elizabeth Dole, in setting standards for women in jobs traditionally held by men. She was also recognized as the 2012 Advocate of the Year for the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome. She resides in Lake Worth. Founded in 1998, the Marshall Foundation for the Everglades promotes the restoration and preservation of the greater Everglades ecosystem through science-based education and outreach programs. For more info., call (561) 2339004 or visit www.artmarshall.org.

‘South Florida Legal Guide’ Honors Broad And Cassel’s Talina Bidwell

The statewide law firm Broad and Cassel was recently named a “Top Law Firm” in the South Florida Legal Guide. In addition to the firm’s recognition, several attorneys in the West Palm Beach office of the firm have been recognized by their peers for their legal expertise. Broad and Cassel’s 2014 “Top Lawyers” in West Palm Beach include Partner Steven Ellison, Managing Partner Patricia Lebow and

Senior Counsel Daniel A. Miller. Additionally, Wellington resident Talina Bidwell, senior counsel in the West Palm Beach office, was named to the South Florida Legal Guide’s 2014 “Top Up and Comers” list. The South Florida Legal Guide continues to be recognized as an invaluable source of information for both the business and legal communities in South Florida. Selection to its top listings is entirely

based on peer nominations. The nominations are then reviewed by the editorial department, which makes the final selections. The publication’s up and comers list highlights attorneys considered future South Florida leaders in the profession. Broad and Cassel’s West Palm Beach office was founded in 1983. The office has 22 attorneys. For more information, visit www. broadandcassel.com.

Talina Bidwell

Felipe Bomeny (violin), Laura Bomeny (piano), Jackie Chen (piano), Tiffany Hart (piano), Hely Lin (piano), Alexandra Monte (voice), Ethan Nguyen (piano), Emily Shecter (voice), Alvin Xue (piano), Ali Zaidspiner (voice), Catherine Zeng (piano)

and Lylybell Zhou (piano). The Kretzer Kids are a group of middle and high school music students that perform for nursing homes, assisted living facilities and prominent venues throughout Palm Beach and Martin counties.

The concert will take place at the Harriet Himmel Theater at CityPlace (700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach). Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets may be purchased at the door or by calling Kretzer Piano at (561) 748-0036.

Patrick A. Kewley construct field firing aids for infantry weapons; and perform infantry combat exercises and dismounted battle drills, which includes survival procedures in a nuclear, biological or chemical contaminated area. Kewley is the son of Kevin and Theresa Kewley of Royal Palm Beach. He is a 2007 graduate of Royal Palm Beach High School.

James Loriol Competes Navy Nuclear School

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class James M. Loriol has graduated from the U.S. Navy’s Enlisted Nuclear Power School at Naval Nuclear Power Training Command in Goose Creek, S.C. Nuclear Power School is a rigorous six-month course that trains officer and enlisted students in the science and engineering fundamental to the design, operation, and maintenance of naval nuclear

Kretzer Piano Music Foundation Presents Kretzer Kids In Concert Jan. 21

Kretzer Piano will present a concert Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. as part of the ongoing Music for the Mind concert series to benefit music education and children’s charities. The January concert will feature talented young musicians

Army National Guard Pfc. Patrick A. Kewley has graduated from the Infantryman One Station Unit Training at Fort Benning in Columbus, Ga. The training consists of Basic Infantry Training and Advanced Individual Training. During the nine weeks of basic combat training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons employment, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid skills, and Army history, core values and traditions. Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experienced use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman. The Advanced Individual Training course is designed to train infantry soldiers to perform reconnaissance operations; employ, fire and recover anti-personnel and anti-tank mines; locate and neutralize land mines and operate target and sight equipment; operate and maintain communications equipment and radio networks;

propulsion plants. Graduates next undergo additional instruction at a prototype training unit before serving as an electronics technician, machinist’s mate or electrician’s mate aboard a nuclear-powered submarine or surface warfare ship. Loriol is the son of Christina Waggoner of Lake Worth. He is a 2010 graduate of Park Vista High School.

Wellington Seniors Club Elects New Officers

The executive board of the Wellington Seniors Club recently elected new officers. The 2014 officers are: President Howard Trager, Vice President Jerry Springer, Treasurer George Kuhnel, Recording Secretary Barbara Powers, Corresponding Secretary Mae Loglisci, Social Chair

Mary Alfalla, Assistant Social Chair Eileen Kuhnel, Entertainment Chair Sunny Meyer, Membership Chair Sally Schwartz, Publicity Chair Tony Alfalla and Director Luke Howlett. The new officers assumed their duties Jan. 1 and will serve through Dec. 31.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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Page 15

School News

Career Day At Cypress Trails Elementary New Horizons Green

Cypress Trails Elementary School celebrated another informative and fun Career Day on Thursday, Dec. 19. The entire school participated in the event and learned valuable information from presenters. With eyes wide open, students were entranced with the mounted deputies and their magnificent horses from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. The PBSO also provided SWAT and K-9 units. The Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue team was also on board.

Club Plants Gardens

Many parents and community partners offered their expertise. Presentations included a lawyer, marine biologist, graphic designer, Publix truck driver, FBI agents and Olive Garden Restaurant Manager Chris Blake, who is a former Cypress Trails student. Cypress Trails would like to thank all the parents and community partners who participated in Career Day 2013. (Right) PBSO Deputy Luis Ledbetter talks to children on Career Day.

Frontier Students Sweep Poster Contest Four Frontier Elementary School students swept first through fourth place in the 2014 Conservation Poster Contest, sponsored by the Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District and the South Florida Fair. Vanessa Ramirez and Prycilla Oscar, both from Molly Harding’s fifth-grade science class, placed first and second respectively. From Lisa Caprio’s fifth-grade

(Left) Fourth-place winner Falyn Bell, third-place winner Benjamin McGaw and firstplace winner Vanessa Ramirez with teachers Lisa Caprio and Molly Harding. (Not pictured: second-place winner Prycilla Oscar).

science class, Benjamin McGaw and Falyn Bell earned third and fourth place. More than 100 students from Palm Beach County competed in the contest this year. Each of the four winners will receive free admission into the South Florida Fair, ribbons and cash vouchers to be used at the fair. The four posters will also be on display at the Sundy Feed Store in the Agriplex area of the fair. Poster contest winner Vanessa Ramirez will now compete in the state poster contest, which is held in August. State winners compete at the national level through the National Association of Conservation Districts National Poster Contest.

New Horizons Elementary School art teacher Katie Graham and her Green Club members planted 25 beautiful flower gardens recently. All supplies used in the project were donated by Lowe’s of Royal Palm Beach. Each garden was “adopted” by teachers and displayed outside their classrooms to beautify the campus. Green Club members are a group of students in first through third grade who have been working on recycling, reusing and earth-friendly projects. The goal is to create a “greener” and more attractive school. Shown here are members of the club working on the flower gardens.

WCS SWAP Team Helps Collect Toys For Belle Glade Children

School Food Service Unveils New Web Site

The School District of Palm Beach County’s Food Service Department has unveiled its new web site. The site is designed to provide parents and students with important information about the school meals program. As part of the redesign, the School Food Service Department is excited to announce a new partnership with Nutrislice. Through Nutrislice, the district’s menus will be published online, allowing

users to receive menu information, as well as have access to specific information about each item that is being offered, including photos, descriptions and nutritional/ allergen information. In addition, parents and students will have the opportunity to view the menus specific to their schools. Translated menus and printable pdf menus will also be available. The School Food Service Department encourages users to

access the new online menus page by visiting www.palmbeachschools.org/sfs. From there, click on “District Menus” and then “View Menus.” This will take the user directly into Nutrislice, where they will select their school and type of menu to view. In addition to the web site, a free iPhone and Android school menus app (School Lunch by Nutrislice) is available, which can be downloaded in the Apple App Store or

the Android Market Place. Parents and students now have multiple ways to view and get important information regarding the district’s menus. So, whether parents prefer to print the menu or get information on-the-go, the information is at your fingertips. For more information, contact Jamie McCarthy (561) 383-2059 or Denise Cargill (561) 383-2009 with School Food Service Department.

St. Clare School To Host Open House Feb. 4

St. Clare Catholic School will host an open house on Tuesday, Feb. 4 from 9 to 11 a.m. All parents with children entering pre-kindergarten through eighth grades are welcome. St. Clare Catholic School is

located at 821 Prosperity Farms Road in North Palm Beach. The school has been educating and enriching children’s lives for 50 years. Approximately 400 students are enrolled in pre-kindergarten

through eighth grade. St. Clare is a faith-driven school that does not just teach the Catholic faith, but does its best to live it. Modeling of Christian values is woven into the entire fabric of the school, from the teachers, staff

and parents to older students who mentor younger students. The entire school community strives to think of and serve others. For more information, call (561) 622-7171 or visit www.stclare school.com.

The Wellington Christian School Students With A Purpose (SWAP) Team visited young friends in the after-school program at the First Haitian Baptist Church of Belle Glade on Friday, Dec. 20. Middle and high school students collected toys and Publix donated bakery goods to the special outreach Christmas event. Each year, the SWAP Team votes on what they want to collect at the school, then selects a delivery date that allows for an afternoon of interactive play with the children. According to the church’s leader, Pastor Morales St. Hillaire, the regular visits from the SWAP Team are extremely appreciated and highly anticipated. Making the children happy is an incredible way for WCS students and faculty to make a positive difference in a needy community. Shown here are members of the SWAP Team with the children.

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Features

I’m Fully Expecting 2014 To Be An Extremely Lucky Year For Me

When I was young, I liked all numbers, letters and colors equally, but when you’re a child, people ask you inane questions like, “What’s your favorite color?” Not realizing you don’t need to have one, you come up with an answer — orange. Orange was never my favorite color, but everyone in kindergarten was saying red or blue, and I felt kind of sorry for ol’ orange. I was 22 before I knuckled under and admitted that I, too, prefer red to orange. Another brain teaser is, “What’s your lucky number?” Um, 12 million... dollars, that is. Otherwise, I don’t know. I chose 5, hoping it would become lucky for me out of gratefulness. Here’s what I learned — 5 is an ungrateful number. Four and one, however, seem to like me. All the best addresses I’ve lived at have had at least one 4 and one 1 in them. That ought to count for something.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER Therefore, I’m looking forward to 2014 as my lucky year. And it will be because of how I define “luck.” My father once told me, “You’re always happy because your expectations are so low” and I figure, with that as my benchmark, I ought to be lucky, too. So far, 2014 is going very well. For example: • Have not been involved in an automobile, train or airplane accident — lucky!

• Have not lost car keys, house keys or anyone else’s keys — lucky! • No checks bouncing — lucky! • Roof over head, food in tummy — lucky! • Nothing I own destroyed by fire, vandalism or flood — lucky! • Family still speaking to me despite holiday revelry — lucky! • I have my health, sort of — lucky! I had to qualify that last one because I already had one cold this year, but it was only a 24-hour bug that knocked me flat with nausea, fever and vomiting — lucky! Wait a minute. Maybe that’s what my dad was talking about. Maybe I should raise my expectations beyond the brevity of illnesses. Maybe if I did, I’d get happier and luckier. OK, OK. Let me think. In the same way that I initially chose orange as my favorite

color, I am now having trouble defining my new perception of “lucky” as mere money, diamonds, vacation homes and boats. I have to be creative with it. All right, what about this? In 2014, I will consider myself lucky if I continue to have everything listed above plus money, diamonds, vacation homes, boats and my own magazine. You laugh, but I’ve been thinking about this. It’s a get-rich-quick scheme if I ever had one. You’ve heard about The Knot magazine with wedding and honeymoon suggestions for engaged couples? Well, what about all these aging baby boomers with their IRAs and stocks and inheritances just sitting around unused? I am going to market to them via my new magazine, The Plot. It will tell them everything they need to know to plan their own funeral — where to find the best

cemeteries, florists and officiants; what to wear; guest list dos and don’ts, etc. There are scores of interesting articles to be brought to light, in addition to boring, rudimentary essays on wills and trusts. I’ve heard you can have your ashes sent skyward with fireworks or compressed into a piece of carbon jewelry. You want to be tossed into a river? Which one? We’d give you vital information on currents so you’re not accidentally washed ashore at a Girl Scout camp. And what about those loved ones left behind? We’d show you how to use your will to reward your friends while effectively cutting off Uncle Henry once and for all. My magazine would be chock full of useful tips like that. Yeah, I’d say getting The Plot published in 2014 would be lucky. And one heck of a long shot. On second thought, good health would be just fine.

New Movie ‘Lone Survivor’ A Unique, Morality-Based War Story

Lone Survivor is not only an excellent war film but a fine example of morality within the context of war. In some ways, it is reminiscent of Saving Private Ryan, although on a much smaller scale. I have noted that other critics seem divided on the film, often based largely on whether they approve of our fighting in Afghanistan, rather than on the movie’s quality. The story, based on the book of the same name by Marcus Luttrell, who is the title character, focuses on a mission of Navy SEALs to the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. The four SEALs, Luttrell (Mark Wahlberg), Michael Murphy (Taylor Kitsch), Danny Dietz (Emile Hirsch) and Matthew “Axe” Axelson (Ben Foster), go into the mountains in 2005 with the

‘I’ On Culture By Leonard Wechsler goal of killing a Taliban leader, Ahmad Shah, who has plagued them. They know he is visiting a village and hope to ambush him. Unfortunately, they discover that he has far more soldiers than they had been told would be there — and that is only the first of the many blunders made on the mission, known as Operation Red Wings.

A central scene in the film is when some goatherds stumble on the soldiers. The herders are unarmed, do not work for the Taliban and one is a boy. If they kill them, they would bear the guilt. But if they let them go, the herders will undoubtedly let the Taliban know they are there. The scene is haunting; their decision in favor of mercy will come back to plague them. As expected, the herders report them to the Taliban, who come after them in droves. After that, the movie is essentially a portrayal of their struggle to survive. They are stuck in place, surrounded on top of a mountain and reinforcements seem a world away. Their cooperation, their struggle for survival, while also demonstrating their underlying belief that they

are the best fighters in the world and are invincible, provides a lot of the movie’s spark. They are, indeed, better fighters one on one than the people they are battling, and even more potent as a team. But the odds against them are far too high. During the battle, the four outnumbered warriors behave as expected. Earlier, we have seen their training, how grueling and daunting it is, how they are accepted into their fraternity. Here the men behave like superheroes, but when hurt, they do bleed and they face real damage. The damage done is compounded when the reinforcement helicopter is shot down and eight more men die. There are problems in the movie. The men are a bit too alike to have much char-

acter differentiation. Essentially, you’ve got four dirty, bearded men wearing the same uniform, all of them fighting to stay alive. In old-time war movies, the writers made certain to find ways to have a variety of “types” to let people identify more easily with the group. But Peter Berg’s script, following the facts, is not fictional; the soldiers involved were part of our warrior elite, and thus were more like each other than would normally be the case. The agonizing over whether to kill the goatherds was one thing that really set the film apart. Would the Taliban have agonized for even a second to kill innocents? They have never worried about that in the past. But Americans are different. Even the See WECHSLER, page 18

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

Page 17

Have A Howlin’ Good Time At The Howlin’ Hoedown On Jan. 25

The Howlin’ Hoedown 2014 is a little more than a week away, and tickets to the event are selling quickly. Reserve your spot at the event today to enjoy a howlin’ good time. The Howlin’ Hoedown, an event that raises awareness and money for homeless animals, has grown every year since its inception three years ago. The Howlin’ Hoedown 2014 will take place at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $125 per person. Enjoying the relaxed, country atmosphere of the Howlin’ Hoedown, guests will arrive wearing their jeans, boots and best cowboy hat, ready kick up their heels and support the animals. Guests will enjoy a fun-filled, casual evening that will include a silent auction, live auction, line dancing, a DJ provided by Kenny Mondo spinning a variety of coun-

try and Southern rock favorites, an Asado dinner catered by Aaron’s Catering and more. The Howlin’ Hoedown was the brainchild of Hope Barron, a local CPA. She wanted to help the homeless animals in the community, but since she already owned two dogs of her own, she decided to raise money for local animal rescues. Barron persuaded a number of her friends to join her, and the Howlin’ Hoedown was born. Many of these friends have continued to serve on the event’s planning committee every year, and their consistent support has contributed to the continued growth and success of the event. Members of this year’s committee are: Hope Barron (chair), Lorrie Browne, Kerri Burke, Victoria Calebrese, Betty DeLaRua, Dorothy DeMartino, Maureen Gross, Sylvia Harmon, Cynthia Jackson, Krista Martinelli, Carol O’Neil, Lori Planco, Tanya Reed, Allyson

Samiljan, Julie Tannehill, Sachi Yanaccone and Maggie Zeller. The beneficiary of this year’s Howlin’ Hoedown is A Second Chance Puppies & Kittens Rescue, the largest foster-based animal rescue group in Palm Beach County. Composed of an all-volunteer workforce, the group operates via a home fostering network with the volunteers providing a home and care for dogs and cats until they are adopted. Now in its sixth year, the organization has been able to rescue and place over 5,000 dogs and cats in Palm Beach County. Although the event sold out last year, it’s not too late to get your tickets to the Howlin’ Hoedown 2014 and help this local no-kill animal rescue. There are also a few remaining sponsorships opportunities available. Full table sponsorships are available for $2,000. This sponsorship includes 10 reserved tickets to the Howlin’ Hoedown

Howlin’ Hoedown committee members (L-R) Lorrie Browne, Lori Planco, Betty DeLaRua, Hope Barron, Allyson Samiljan, Maggie Zeller, Victoria Calebrese and Maureen Gross. 2014 and a company name/logo on the reserved table sign. Or if a half table sponsorship is more your style, consider a sponsorship for $1,250, which includes six reserved tickets. The Howlin’ Hoedown 2014

looks to be even bigger and better this year, and with the community’s help, the committee will be able to raise much-needed money to help even more four-legged friends. Buy your tickets today by visit-

ing www.asecondchancerescue. org/hoedown2014. For more information about tickets and sponsorship options, call Maureen Gross at (561) 7140887 or e-mail maureenbgross@ gmail.com.

Wellington Equestrian Gallery And Mall Opens With Style

On Thursday, Jan. 9, the Wellington Equestrian Gallery and Mall held its official grand opening reception amid an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. As the guests arrived, they heard the welcoming sounds of one of Wellington’s favorite singers, Larry Brendler. The evening had a jovial atmosphere as Brendler sang some of the crowd’s favorite tunes and bantered with the guests. The crowd quickly grew in size, as many new, curious guests and returning clientele arrived to explore the new facility and the fantastic, newly arrived vendors’ merchandise and artists’ work

from around the world. As the crowd grew, many stopped to socialize with friends and chat with the vendors. There were plenty of appetizers stations scattered throughout the space, so that the crowd could continue to snack and sip some wine as they meandered their way to visit all of the artists and vendors. To make the evening extra special for the guests, each vendor donated one item from their booth to be raffled off. All of the items were beautifully displayed on a large table at the front door, and as the guests entered, they were invited to pick which items they would like

to win. Then, they were instructed to wind their way through the gallery to find the vendor’s booth that had donated the item, where they would be able to enter a ticket into the drawing to win it. As 8 p.m. neared, the music and socializing quieted down. Everyone anxiously gathered around the raffle table and waited as Brendler picked the winning tickets for more than 15 individual raffle items, including gift certificates, jewelry, pieces of art and other merchandise. The event was a great success. “We have been working for weeks to create a unique mall that fea-

tures an eclectic mix of various artists’ work and vendors’ merchandise — all with an equestrian focus from around the world,” Gallery Manager Robin Carr said. “By relocating this year, we were able to double our size and increase the number of vendors that we can showcase. Judging by the crowd at tonight’s grand opening, I think we are off to a terrific start to this season. There were people who have visited us before, and there were new faces, also. I think that we truly have something for everyone.” The Wellington Equestrian Gallery and Mall is located at 13889

Wellington Trace in the Wellington Marketplace. It is located in the storefront formerly occupied by the Tackeria, next door to Welling-

ton Florist. For information about the gallery, call (561) 793-4427 or visit www.wellingtonequestrian mall.com.

Robin Carr awards a gift certificate to Lisa Neuman, as Larry Bendler and Elizabeth Rohloff look on.

Elizabeth Rohloff presents raffle winner Patrick Cendez with an orginal painting by Judith Widener.

Marie Richards, Bonnie Maxon and Jane Springer.

Susie Clark, Holly Thompson, Kathleen Stallone, Gina Volandre and Elizabeth Walkinshaw.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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NEWS

Meals On Wheels Of The Palm Beaches Receives Four Grants Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches, which provides nutritious meals to homebound seniors, recently received grants totaling more than $70,000 from four local foundations. The money will be used to help expand the three-year-old program in 2014 — both geographically and in the number of seniors it serves. Following extensive reviews, (Left) Meals on Wheels Executive Director Charlie Ring receives a grant award from Quantum Foundation trustees Donna Mulholland (left) and Ethel Isaacs Williams (right).

Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches received a $20,000 grant from the Quantum Foundation, a $20,000 grant from the Edward T. Bedford Foundation, a $15,000 grant from the Walter and Adi Blum Foundation and a $15,000 grant from the Mary Alice Fortin Foundation. “These grants are extremely important to the success of our program, and we’re grateful to all these foundations,” said Charles Ring, executive director of Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches. “Because we choose not to receive any government funding, we rely heavily on the community for support. These organizations

have been leaders in helping us provide meals to older residents in need.” In addition, Extraordinary Charities — a local nonprofit organization that promotes charitable giving — recently selected Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches for inclusion in its 2014 Directory for Charitable Giving. Currently serving about 14,000 meals a year in the West Palm Beach area, Meals on Wheels plans to increase that number to 20,000 meals in 2014, as it expands to provide meals for Lake Worth and Riviera Beach residents “We will also be needing additional volunteers as we continue

to grow,” Ring said. “By next year, we’ll have 100 to 110 trained volunteers preparing meals or making deliveries.” Meals on Wheels of the Palm Beaches is a nonprofit organization dedicated to nourishing and enriching the lives of the homebound. An affiliate of the Meals on Wheels Association of America, the organization provides nutritious midday meals to those who are unable prepare their own. To find out more about how you can volunteer for Meals on Wheels, or how you can make a financial contribution, visit www. mealsonwheelspalmbeaches.org or call (561) 802-6979.

Hanley Center Committee Members Gather To Plan Family Picnic Committee members organizing the Hanley Center’s 19th annual Family Picnic gathered recently to finalize plans for the upcoming family-friendly event. Scheduled for Sunday, March 9 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, the benefit raises awareness and funds for Hanley Center’s programs. The committee is led by chairmen Lisa and Dan Thomas, with child chairmen, Jack and Whitney; co-chairmen Denise Groo and Val Perez; honorary chairmen Dorothy and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, with child honorary chairmen and grandsons, Landon Branch and Noah LoFaso; and honorary media chairwomen Roxanne Stein of WPTV NewsChannel 5 and Deena Lang of WRMF 97.9. The event committee includes Lyanne Azqueta, Jack Barrett, Krista Basore, Sally Chester, Steve and Kimmie Cury, Lauren and Brett Elam, Bill and Dena Foman, Mike Gelin, Chuck and Lisa Gerardi, Karen Holloway, Suzanne Holmes, Theresa Kewley, Lauren and Daniel Lieberman, Kelly LoFaso, Jennifer Marcone, Michelle and John McGovern, Denise Meers, Mary Katherine Morales, Elizabeth Parker, Michele Poole, John Riordan, Nicky Skolnick, Kellen Smith, Tom and Chris Streit, Jim and Cassidy Sullivan, Jennifer Swanson and Karen Vaughn and Lauren Walker. Event sponsors include Suffolk Construction, the Sunny & Abe Rosenberg Foundation, Florida Power & Light, the Hanley Family Foundation, the Jack C. Massey

Kurit

Running For Seat 3

continued from page 1 for the seat. I want to bring a fresh perspective to the council.” Kurit said education will be a priority, noting that he was glad to see Wellington bring back its education grants this year. “Having great schools increases our property values,” he said. “I want to work with local busi-

Lascola

Seeking Seat 2

continued from page 1 more than seven years. Seniors thought they would have a community center by now. I want to see this community center built for seniors. That is my vision.” Lascola believes the issue has been swept aside to focus on other matters in Wellington. “The senior advisory board feels it has been put on the back burner because of the lawsuits in the village,” she said. Lascola envisions a center with more programming for seniors, as well as a place for caretakers to bring seniors for activities and other care. “My mom has early dementia, and there is no place I can take her to be watched for the day,” she said. “They have services

Foundation, Akerman LLP, the Mestal Foundation, Slatkow & Husak Public Relations, Diana Wister, Suzanne and Michael Holmes, McLaughlin & Stern LLP, Downtown at the Gardens, Lila Photo, the Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau and the Palm Beach County Farm Bureau, Bravo KB, Dari and Billy Bowman, Sarah Cortvriend Esq., Barbara S. Noble, Elizabeth Parker Esq., Tom and Chris Streit, and Young & Stein Attorneys at Law. Media sponsors include: Wellington The Magazine, WPTV NewsChannel 5 and WRMF 97.9. “Lisa and I are so excited to chair the Hanley Center Foundation’s annual Family Picnic event for a second consecutive year,” Dan Thomas said. “This event invites the entire family for a fun-filled afternoon, as research has shown that quality time spent with our children can significantly reduce the likelihood for drug and alcohol abuse. Funds raised are earmarked for prevention efforts in the local community with a focus on school-aged children.” The Hanley Center is a nonprofit residential substance abuse treatment center established by the Hanley family as a community resource nearly 30 years ago. Mary Jane and Jack Hanley started with the goal of bringing quality substance abuse treatment to the southeast. The community rallied behind them to initially build the Hanley Center, and it has become a vital community pillar and national trailblazer for the recovery industry. The Hanley Center has led the treatment industry as a

pioneer, with older adult and boomer programs setting a hallmark for effective treatment and the industry standard for treating those populations today. “At the Hanley Center, we are proud to offer patients world-class addiction treatment. However, it is our hope that families never have to suffer from the disease of addiction,” said Dr. Rachel Docekal, Hanley Center Foundation CEO and vice president of external relations for Caron Treatment Centers. “Our teams of experts understand the importance of prevention, and through our research-based prevention programming, we have helped many children and adults better understand drug and alcohol abuse. We are so thankful to our Family Picnic leadership and sponsors for their hard work and donations creating another successful event — one that gives back to the local community in the form of education for elementary, middle and high school students and their caregivers.” Together, Caron and Hanley treatment centers comprise the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit addiction treatment provider in the country, focused on a 12-Step recovery program with a powerful clinical component. In South Florida, Caron and Hanley operate lifesaving addiction treatment centers at the Hanley Center, Caron Ocean Drive and Caron Renaissance in Palm Beach County, and Gate Lodge in Vero Beach. For more information, call (561) 841-1048 or visit www. hanleycenter.org. Children and families attending

the Picnic will have premium seating that day for world-class horse jumping competition. The exciting afternoon will also include lunch, animal encounters, a magic show, children’s crafts and a silent auction. Tickets to the Family Picnic are $195 for adults (18 and over), $50 per child (7 to 17 years of age), and children 6 and under are free. For more information about the Hanley Family Picnic or Hanley prevention programming, visit www.hanleycenterfoundation.org Sponsorships for the event are still available. If you wish to purchase tickets or reserve a table, contact the Hanley Center Foundation’s Special Events Team at events@ hanleycenter.org or (561) 8411048.

nesses and find grants so that we can raise funds to make sure our schools continue to be highquality. If we have great schools, we’ll attract more people to the community and see our property values rise.” Kurit also wants to limit development to Wellington’s more commercial areas and would fight to keep green space in the village. “I want to make sure we don’t give up green space that has been designed to be kept that way,”

he said. “If a developer wants to come in, I’m all for it, as long as the development is kept to designated areas. I’d hate to see us give up green space we can never get back. I would look to other areas for development, and maybe provide incentives to minimize encroachment into green space.” Kurit vowed to be a voice of compromise on the council. “I want to do what’s best for Wellington,” he said. “I want to try to work things out so all sides are happy.”

Transparency is another issue Kurit is concerned about in Wellington. He said that although the village is transparent in some areas, it could provide better access to residents, especially online. “There are still ways to make sure we improve transparency in Wellington,” he said. “I’d like to see residents able to look online and easily find out what is going on, or find the paperwork they need.” Kurit said residents should choose him because he will be

their voice. “I’m looking forward to serving residents and hope I’m given the opportunity to serve,” he said. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/MattKuritForVillageCouncil. Coates is a Palm Beach County native and longtime Wellington resident who was appointed to the council in 2009. He ran unopposed for his seat in 2010. Coates has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, a law degree from Yale Law

School and a master’s degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic University. He has practiced law in Palm Beach County for nearly 25 years. Coates and his wife, Cheri, have four children. He has served on several boards, including as president of the South Palm Beach County Bar Association, the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington and the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County. Coates did not return calls for comment by press time.

like this in North Palm Beach and Greenacres. As people get older, they need more care. But sometimes the caregivers need time to themselves.” Regarding development in the village, Lascola said she is a proponent of “responsible development,” but not bending to the pressure of special interests. “When I came to Wellington, it had a truly small-town atmosphere,” she said. “I’m not against development if it’s done properly, but things have to be done properly.” Similarly, Lascola said she would push for responsible spending by the council. “I support being conservative fiscally,” she said. “When you have a business, you have to work with what you’ve got. You can’t spend outside your means.” She said voters should choose her because she will fight for what

is best for them. “I have integrity,” Lascola said. “People who know me know I will fight for what I think is right. I won’t back down. I will fight for what I believe is good for Wellington.” Follow Lascola’s campaign on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/SharonLascolaforWellingtonVillageCouncil. Gerwig, 49, moved to Wellington 23 years ago with her husband, Alan, and raised their three children in the village. She is director of client communications for Alan Gerwig & Associates, her husband’s engineering firm. Gerwig was active for many years in the school system, serving as an executive board member on the Binks Forest Elementary School Parent Teacher Association and as a business partner with its School Advisory Council. Gerwig was elected to the Wellington Village Council in 2010 and serves on several boards, including the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council, the Metropolitan Planning Organiza-

tion and the Palm Beach County League of Cities Education Committee. She said she is seeking reelection to continue to be a voice for residents. “I’ve found serving residents fulfilling,” she said. “I think I have consistently been a voice for residents on the council.” Gerwig noted that she pushed for more senior involvement, voting for the formation of the Senior Advisory Committee. “I strive to have more community involvement in the village,” she said. “I wanted more input from residents, and I felt it was particularly important to have our seniors’ voices heard.” The Senior Transportation Program is something Gerwig said she advocated strongly for. “It was a no-brainer to provide our seniors with transportation to give them the freedom to get around,” she said. She said she has also fought to save residents money — be it in taxes or in penalties for code violations. “I’ve consistently ad-

vocated for lower taxes,” Gerwig said. “I have voted to lower the millage rate each year. I also did not support raising code enforcement fines for residents. I felt we have a good system for code enforcement.” Gerwig said she was instrumental in rewriting code enforcement courtesy notices in language that is easier to understand for residents, hoping to make it easier for them to make necessary changes to avoid fines. “We do want compliance,” she said. “We’re not here to be wielding power without regard.” Gerwig said she pushed for more funding for programs at the Wellington Amphitheater and helped create the popular Spring Musical Preview, showcasing local talent. “I thought it was the perfect thing to highlight our school’s musicals and show our local talent,” she said. Although Gerwig said she has been a supporter of the equestrian industry in Wellington, she has still pushed for compliance at local venues. “I think the equestrian community enhances what we have,” she said. “There is no way we would have a tax rate of 2.47 mills with the level of services we have if we didn’t have those $8 million properties.”

Regarding the controversy surrounding the Equestrian Village property, Gerwig said she was supportive of the project but did vote for limitations. “I stood up for what I believed in,” she said. “I try to look at what the industry brings us and whether it will be good for the community. If I don’t think it is, I say so.” Gerwig added that she has treated all applicants with the same level of scrutiny. “If you look at the votes, I think you can see that,” she said. “I treat everyone and every project the same.” If re-elected, Gerwig said she would push to maintain Wellington’s quality of life. “I’m interested in making sure we maintain our status as the equestrian capital of the world as well as our quality of life,” she said. “I’ve always found Wellington to be a place where everyone can be a part of the community. I think we can work together to continue to do that.” Gerwig wants residents to choose her so she can continue her work as a voice for residents. “I want to thank everyone for their support,” she said. “I’ve gotten amazing feedback from residents, and I want to continue to work to make things better for them.” For more information, visit www.annegerwigcampaign.com.

Pets

No ‘Puppy Mill’ Pets

continued from page 1 said that the ordinance was an important step to get rid of the “puppy mill” business practice. “There is no business model that supports selling puppies and kittens in a store unless they come from a ‘puppy mill,’” she said. She said that Wellington is an animal-friendly community with residents who have a passion for their pets. “This community cares so much about its dogs, cats and horses,” Gerwig said. “It seems something like this would be a natural fit, to make sure the animals are cared for properly. I hate to pass an ordinance based on worst-case scenarios, but I don’t see the support for this business model.” Gerwig pointed out that residents looking for purebred animals

could still buy from breeders. “You will still be able to buy purebred dogs,” she said. “You’ll just have to go to a legitimate breeder. I think it’s a good thing for us to do. It shows how much we care about animals.” Mayor Bob Margolis said he had personal experience with “puppy mills.” “I had a puppy from a ‘puppy mill,’” he said. “I know what happens when you bring a puppy home and it gets sick. The store tells you to bring it back, but you can’t just bring it back because you’ve fallen in love with it. I hope no one would purchase a dog from a ‘puppy mill,’ but I want to make sure that does not happen.” Cohen said she would look at how other cities define a “puppy mill” to see if Wellington could tighten the language. Coates made a motion to approve the ordinance, which passed unanimously.

WCC

Amending Its Rules

continued from page 3 and utilize our resources, thus saving each community some money on it, and coming across much stronger,” she said. Other issues the Western Communities Council has shared information on include numeric nutrient criteria, the C-51 studies

Blotter

continued from page 6 gain entry to the home and stole $1,500 cash, approximately eight credit cards and a .38 caliber handgun. According to the report, a neighbor observed an unknown male at approximately 10:30 a.m. pretending to speak to someone in

Dan Thomas, Denise Meers and Mike Gelin.

Sally Chester and Lisa Thomas with Comet.

and the Federal Emergency Management Agency flood maps. “We also have an avenue there with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on illegal manure dumping,” Damone said. “We looked at that as a western issue. There’s lots of issues that are common across the communities.” The next Western Communities Council meeting is set for Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the Indian Trail Improvement District office. a white vehicle parked across the street from the victim’s home. The witness said no one else appeared to be in the vehicle. The suspect was described as a tall black male wearing baggy shorts. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

Tom Streit and Suzanne Holmes.

Wechsler

‘Lone Survivor’

continued from page 16 toughest of our warriors find doing things like that repulsive. The SEALs quite possibly lost their lives because of that mercy. But they did it, knowingly and willingly. This is an excellent movie, even if limited in scope. It does not cover big battles or an obviously important mission like going after Osama Bin Laden. It works on a

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

small scale, but the battle scenes are tough and brilliant. Berg’s direction, like his script, is straightforward, with few digressions. It honors the men who took part in the mission, noting flaws, but using their thoughts and actions as their monument. It will probably not win many awards, but I preferred it to a lot of the fare brought out last month in hopes of winning. See the film. It is tough, not a movie to really “enjoy.” But it is dramatic and extremely well done. The performances are good, and you will not be able to tear your eyes away from the screen.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

Musical Benefit Concert

Rosco Martinez

International Recording Artist

Michaela Paige

Emily Brooke

Country Singer/Songwriter

(from The Voice)

Meet & Greet by the Miami Dolphin Cheerleaders

Discover the Hidden Gem in Wellington 1000 Wellington Trace, Wellington, FL Saturday, January 25, 7:00 p.m. Gates Open at 5:00 p.m. Onsite Parking Available Food, Vendors, and Children’s Activities Don’t Forget your Blanket/Chairs

$20 Admission to benefit the Save our High School Fund

For Event Information, please contact lainiebrian@yahoo.com Want to know more about WCS, but can’t make it to the concert? Visit us at our Open House on Tuesday, February 11, 2014. For more information contact Jennie Peters, Admissions Director at jpeters@wellingtonchristian.org or call (561) 793-1017

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news

CAFCI Installs 2014 Board Of Directors At The Harvin Center In RPB

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) held a board swearing in and general membership meeting on Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Harvin Center in Royal Palm Beach. CAFCI members, friends and guests attended the swearing in ceremony of the photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier 2014 board of directors. For more info., visit www.cafcipbc.org or call (561) 790-4002.

President Dennis Wright with outgoing board members Nadine White-Boyd, Alvin Nembhard, Dr. Elaine Ealy and Nova Brown.

RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and First Vice President Genieve White swear in CAFCI President Dennis Wright.

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria with the 2014 CAFCI incoming board members, RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and Mayor Matty Mattioli.

RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and CAFCI President Dennis Wright swear in First Vice President Genieve White.

CAFCI Secretary Sean Adams is installed by RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and CAFCI President Dennis Wright.

RPB Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara and CAFCI President Dennis Wright swear in new Director Shirley Morris.

Your Bosom Buddies II Meeting At WRMC Focuses On Healthy Eating

Your Bosom Buddies II held its monthly breast cancer support group meeting Thursday, Jan. 9 at Wellington Regional Medical Center. Dr. Matt Symons of Maximized Living Health Centers discussed how healthy eating lowers the risk of cancer. Cancer survivor Jathy Garcia of Hi-Tech Plumbing also presented a check to YBBII. For more info., visit www.yourbosombuddies2.org. photos by Denise Fleischman/town-crier

Jamie Lawson, Cindy Weglewski, Riann Jiminez, Dr Matt Symons, Tee Franzoso, Abbe Felton and Lorna Johnson.

Dr. Matt Symons talks about diet and cancer risks.

Cancer survivor Jathy Garcia of Hi-Tech Plumbing (third from right) presented a check to YBBII.

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Rain Can’t Stop The Party At Trump Horse Show

The second annual Trump Invitational $125,000 Grand Prix was held Sunday, Jan. 5, and columnist Ellen Rosenberg was there. This one-of-a-kind event, the only horse show held in the Town of Palm Beach, featured some of the world’s leading riders. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25

January 17 - January 23, 2014

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Edmund James Salon Opens In Wellington

Edmund James Salon celebrated the opening of its new location in Wellington last month. The salon is located at 12020 South Shore Blvd. near CR Chicks in the Shoppes at Chancellor. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Page 26

Shopping Spree A Town-Crier Publication

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Business

Dr. Robin Braver Joins MDVIP, Putting Her Focus On Patients

MDVIP, the leader in affordable personalized healthcare, recently announced that Dr. Robin A. Braver has opened her new practice to focus on the delivery of a higher level of personalized healthcare with an emphasis on prevention, not just the treatment, of illness. Dr. Braver is board certified in internal medicine and is affiliated with Palms West Hospital. Page 27

Sports

Sem Ridge Girls Basketball Defeats Wellington 47-45

The Seminole Ridge High School girls varsity basketball squad hosted rival Wellington High School on Thursday, Jan. 9, edging the Lady Wolverines 47-45. Turnovers cost the Lady Wolverines in the fourth quarter when they missed a late opportunity. The Lady Hawks played well defensively, clinching the narrow victory. Page 31

THIS WEEK’S index Tails from the Trails............................. 25 BUSINESS NEWS....................................26-27 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 30 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................31-33 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................33-37

Page 24

January 17 - January 23, 2014

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welcome to tHe fti consulting winter equestrian festival held at the Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center

January 8 - March 30, 2014 Join Us Every Wednesday through Sunday to Experience Equestrian Sport at Its Best! Watch Horses and Riders Compete in a Variety of Settings and Enjoy a Day at PBIEC.

Shop Around the Show Grounds You are invited to shop in a variety of locations throughout the PBIEC, including the Vendor Village, Hunter Hill, and The Bridge Deck, the outdoor courtyard oasis filled with exquisite shops and boutiques offering fashion, jewelry, home design, fine art, photography, horseware and more.

Visit a new Vendor area each week!

Grab a Bite to Eat A variety of Food Vendors are located throughout the property, including: Tito’s Tacos: Margaritas, Tacos, Burritos, Chips, Salsa Tiki Hut: Grilled Chicken, Variety Burgers, Grilled Fish, Salads Olis Fashion Cuisine: in the Vendor Village

HUNTER HILL

B+ B Positive Jewellery Bonnie Roseman’s BLT Fashion Botas Willson Boots Carol-Lynn Jones Silver &Housewares Cashmere Beach Cytowave Fabulous Finds Katherine Page Fine Footwear LA Saddlery Lehman Rockwell Vintage Collectables Loddon Stalls Lynne Shpak Custom Creations McCrae Medical Laser Native Visions Gallery Patrice Collection Pinnell Custom Leather Inc. Po’s Needlepoint Show Folio Custom Photography Styleliner Summerties Tricho Salon

Take a Lunch & Tour See the world-renowned equestrian competition, vendors, stables and various venues that Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has to offer, followed by a catered lunch with your group. Equestrian Lunch & Tours are available by appointment Wednesday through Sunday during the WEF season.

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Page 25

Rain Can’t Stop The Party Atmosphere At Trump Event It’s not easy mingling (well, maybe not mingling, but at least existing in the same space for a short period of time) with the upper crust. The first problem: What to wear? When I found out that I’d be covering the second annual Trump Invitational $125,000 Grand Prix on Sunday, Jan. 5, I was thrilled. This one-of-a-kind event, the only horse show held in the Town of Palm Beach, featured some of the world’s leading riders, including Lauren Hough, Laura Kraut, Beezie Madden, Margie Engle and Todd Minikus. Of course, you can watch these amazing riders most weekends at the Winter Equestrian Festival, but this was at Mar-a-Lago. It’s not every day you get to visit with Donald Trump at his home. My closet, unfortunately, holds no PalmBeach-esque outfits, so I opted for basic black and was relieved when I passed muster at media check-in and was allowed to board the bus. The weather was cool and breezy, clouds off to the west. We meandered over to the pool beside the mansion for a cocktail party/ press briefing. A string trio played classically. As the champagne corks started popping, I headed over to the portable stalls and warm-up area, remaining outside due to FEI rules, then strolled to the ring where riders walked the Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/HorseTalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg course. Clouds loomed closer, the Intracoastal a slate gray mirror. Jennifer Santana, from Wellington, was excited to be part of the show. She and her coach and husband, Paulo, own Santana Stables. “This year they added a second speed class for amateurs and juniors,” she explained. “Kendall, my mare, is small, but she doesn’t know it. She’s all heart. She gives me 200 percent. Speed is her forte. My strategy is to be quick and keep her in a steady rhythm. For sure, we have a chance of placing.” Thirteen riders had entered the $5,000 Junior/Amateur Speed Exhibition class; 36 top professionals were slated for the Grand Prix. As Mr. Trump arrived in his helicopter, the clouds dipped lower. Everyone was seated in the tents, which formed an L, bracketing the course. Buffets overflowed with seafood, salads, carved turkeys, desserts beyond count. Lovely white and yellow flower arrangements decorated each table and graced the walkways. Mr. Trump, wife Melania, daughter Ivanka, Georgina Bloomberg and Mark Bellissimo formally welcomed everyone. Mr. Trump

Wellington’s Jennifer Santana maneuvers the course during the rainstorm. mentioned how he’d had his expert grounds supervisors replace four acres of grass, crown the field and improve drainage so the footing would be up to par. Singer/songwriter Hunter Hayes took his place on the stage and entertained for 15 minutes, finishing just as the temperature dropped and the wind gusted.

The rain moved closer. Cameramen stationed around the field shrouded their gear in plastic covers and donned ponchos. Next came an auction for the chance to play golf with Mr. Trump at Trump International, with the proceeds going toward the Great See ROSENBERG, page 33

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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Business News

Edmund James Salon Celebrates Wellington Grand Opening

Edmund James Salon celebrated the opening of its new location in Wellington last month. (Above) Co-owner Lillian Soriero and manager Cynthia Murray. (Left) Staff members gather for the ribbon cutting. The salon is located at 12020 South Shore Blvd. near CR Chicks in the Shoppes at Chancellor. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Call (561) 793-9960 for information on grand opening specials. Meet the stylists at www.edmundjamessalon.com.

Palm Tran Announces Several Schedule Modifications

Palm Tran, Palm Beach County’s public transportation system, recently announced several schedule and route improvements. Changes to routes 62 and 2 began Jan. 12. Palm Tran Route 62 travels via Lake Worth Road from Wellington

to Lake Worth. This route will run later on weekdays, until 7:50 p.m. for both eastbound and westbound buses. Locations served by Route 62 include the Mall at Wellington Green, Wellington Regional Medical Center, Palm Beach State

College and Lake Worth Tri-Rail. Palm Tran Route 2 travels via Congress Avenue from Palm Beach Gardens to Boca Raton and is one of Palm Tran’s busiest routes. This route will now begin earlier on weekdays, at 5:35 a.m. heading northbound from the Boynton Beach

Mall. It will also begin earlier southbound at 5:20 a.m. on weekdays from Palm Beach State College and Congress Avenue. In another upcoming change, Palm Tran will resume service to the new Palm Beach Outlet Mall (formerly the Palm Beach Mall) on

Palm Beach Lakes Blvd. once it has reopened, which is scheduled for February. Routes 2, 33 and 49 will serve the new outlet mall. For complete schedules and trip planning assistance, call Palm Tran customer service at (561) 841-4287 or visit www.palmtran.org.

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Business News

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Page 27

Dr. Robin Braver Joins MDVIP, Putting Focus On Patients

MDVIP, the leader in affordable personalized healthcare, recently announced that Dr. Robin A. Braver has opened her new practice to focus on the delivery of a higher level of personalized healthcare with an emphasis on prevention, not just the treatment, of illness. Dr. Braver is board certified in internal medicine and is affiliated with Palms West Hospital. Braver received her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies. She completed her internship and residency at Coney Island Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. “Maintaining a high volume of patients typical in traditional primary care makes it nearly impossible to focus on the individualized needs of each patient. With the MDVIP model, my patients and I will have a partnership to keep them healthier

365 days of the year, not just in the doctor’s office. I will have time to listen, time to examine, and the time to determine the goals of my patients so I can best serve their needs and interests,” Braver said. “By affiliating with MDVIP, I’ll be able to dedicate myself to delivering better care and results with improved outcomes and significantly lower hospitalization rates for patients.” Braver’s office is located at 12989 Southern Blvd., Suite 204, on the campus of Palms West Hospital. For more info., call (561) 331-3287. The MDVIP model is helping consumers take control of their own health in a rapidly changing environment. MDVIP is a disruption to the conventional primary care “conveyor belt medicine” approach and is gaining increased momentum locally and nationally as consumers learn about their healthcare options.

In healthcare today, physicians frequently step in at the diagnosis stage, which is often too late. This means the patient is not getting the earliest possible care, which gives a patient the best chance of complete recovery and is less costly for the patient and the system. MDVIP-affiliated practices are significantly smaller than traditional practices, allowing physicians to have closer relationships with their patients and a more thorough knowledge of their lifestyle, medical history and overall well-being. As part of the membership, MDVIP-affiliated physicians work with their patients to ensure they receive all the recommended prevention services. Each patient is provided with a personalized wellness plan to make them healthier. Through the travel and reciprocity program, patients who visit or travel to another state and

need to see a doctor due to an urgent or emergency care situation can see any of over 670 MDVIP-affiliated physicians across the country on the same day, too. The smaller practice size also allows MDVIP-affiliated physicians to provide an enhanced level of service, which includes same or next day appointments that start on time. Office visits start at 30 minutes and are unhurried, lasting as long as necessary. Patients also receive their physician’s cell phone number and e-mail address so they can reach them around the clock. Additionally, patients in the MDVIP model renew at an annual rate of 94 percent. MDVIP-affiliated physicians limit their practices to no more than 600 patients and are carefully chosen through a rigorous screening process. MDVIP Inc. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Boca

Dr. Robin Braver Raton. For more information, visit www.mdvip.com or www.facebook. com/mdvip.

November Property Tax Collections Bring In Majority Of Billed Revenue Palm Beach County Tax Collector Anne M. Gannon recently reported that her office collected $2.29 billion of the $3.02 billion billed for the 2013 property tax season during the month of November. The revenue represents 467,985, or 68 percent of all billed properties. November pay-

ments receive a 4 percent discount, the highest allowable by Florida law. Electronic payments increased by $72 million, or 62 percent over November 2012. Also notable is the agency’s successful collaboration with area banks to convert online bill payments from paper checks to

digital payments. “That’s more than $31 million, or nearly 10,000 bank transactions, that we didn’t have to hand process,” Gannon said. “This is a huge efficiency improvement.” The majority of property owners pay by mail. Unlike electronic payments, there is a higher rate of

processing delays that result from taxpayers who staple, clip, fold or mark payments. These taxpayer errors cause payment rejections in the agency’s high speed mechanical processing. Rejected payments must be processed manually, creating delays. This issue could be completely

avoided if taxpayers pay online. Property owners can pay online at www.pbctax.com. Multiple transactions are accepted and an online e-pay tutorial is posted to help first-time users. Payments made by Jan. 31 receive a 2 percent discount. Taxes are delinquent on April 1.

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

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January 17 - January 23, 2014

Saturday, Jan. 18 • The 2014 South Florida Fair continues through Feb. 2. For more info., visit www.southfloridafair.com or call (561) 793-0333. • The Palm Beach County Thrift Store (2455 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach) will hold its monthly auction Saturday, Jan. 18. Store hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with bidding from 8 to 11 a.m. Call (561) 233-2256 or visit www.pbcgov. com for info. • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Jan. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 2835856 for more info. • Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail) will feature Gardening In South Florida: All About Trees on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 9 a.m. Call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org for info. • Growing Green Communities will take place Saturday, Jan. 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pine Jog Environmental Education Center (6301 Summit Blvd.). The focus will be “$aving the 30%: Using the Food We Grow.” Tickets are available at www.slowfoodgladestocoast.com. For more info., call (954) 801-7170 or e-mail scottlew@aol.com. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer Squirrels! for ages 2 and up Saturday, Jan. 18 at 11 a.m. Story time will feature squirrels in stories, rhymes, songs and crafts. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a free Whole Body Vendor Fair on Saturday, Jan. 18 from noon to 3 p.m. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer Chess Club for Kids for ages 8 and up Saturday, Jan. 18 at 2:30 p.m. Practice strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Crafts for Kids for ages 3 to 8 on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host RPB Teen Xpressions for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 3 p.m. Share original poems, writings, artwork and more. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The tenth annual Leta Lindley Prader-Willi Golf Classic will take place Friday and Saturday, Jan. 18 and 19 at the PGA National Resort & Spa. The event will raise money for Prader-Willi research fellowships at Scripps Florida. A dance party will take place Friday at 6 p.m., while the golf outing is Saturday with registration at 8:30 a.m. and a 10 a.m. start. For more info., call (561) 762-2370 or visit www.pwclassic.com. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free ABBA Tribute Concert featuring the Abba Girlz on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 7:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. Sunday, Jan. 19 • The International Polo Club Palm Beach

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community calendar

(3667 120th Ave. South, Wellington) will continue its 2014 season Sunday, Jan. 19 with Joe Barry Memorial Cup action. For tickets, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687. • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Jan. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com. • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Jan. 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.shopgreenmarkets.com or call (561) 929-0237. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a Mommy and Me Tea Party for ages 3 to 6 on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. The cost is $20 per person. Register at www. cookingexperienceclub.org. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Presidents and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking: Woodrow, Ellen and Edith Wilson for adults Sunday, Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. Pre-register by phone at (561) 681-4100, in person or at www.pbclibrary.org/presidents-2014. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., WPB) will host the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra with pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 8 p.m. Call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org for more info. Monday, Jan. 20 • Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and the Village of Royal Palm Beach will present the 12th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday, Jan. 20 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). A continental breakfast will be served from 8:45 to 9:30 a.m. The program will start at 10 a.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more info., call Elet Cyris at (561) 791-9087. • Wellington Regional Medical Center will host its second annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Program on Monday, Jan. 20 at 11:30 a.m. After the ceremony, there will be a reception with refreshments. For more info., call (561) 798-8500. Tuesday, Jan. 21 • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Science for Seniors: Florida White-Tailed Deer on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m. The cost is $5 per person. For more info., call (561) 233-1400. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host the It Takes a Village Parenting Group Series on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. Pre-register by calling (561) 904-4000. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer Tween Games for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. Bring a friend for Wii gaming and board game fun. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Make Sense of Your Senses for ages 3 to 5 on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer Chess Club for Adults on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Kretzer Piano Music Foundation will present Kretzer Kids in Concert on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. at the Harriet Himmel Theater at CityPlace (700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach). For more info., call Kathi Kretzer at (561) 748-0036 or e-mail kkretzer@kretzerpiano.com. Wednesday, Jan. 22 • The Wellington Seniors Club will enjoy an Equestrian Day on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at noon at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Call (561) 784-0119 or e-mail tamainfl@ comcast.net for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Musical Tykes for ages 2 to 5 on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 2:30 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Make It With Paint for ages 10 to 17 on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 5:30 p.m. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Become a Licensed Family Child Care Provider on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 6:30 p.m. A representative from Family Central will discuss the requirements. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host Natural Methods to Boost Your Immune System on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. There is no charge. Pre-register at customer service or by calling (561) 904-4000. • The Play Group will present Last of the Aztecs, a two-act comedy by Joe Feinstein, on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 8 p.m. at the Lake Worth Playhouse (713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth). Call (561) 586-6410 or visit www.lakeworthplay house.org for more info. Thursday, Jan. 23 • The Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail) will feature Stroller Struts on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 10 a.m. Enjoy a lovely morning strolling through the garden with young ones in tow. The event is free for members and $5 for non-members. Call (561) 233-1757 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Presidents and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking: Woodrow, Ellen and Edith Wilson for adults Thursday, Jan. 23 at 11 a.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register, or visit www.pbclibrary.org/presidents-2014. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will offer Let’s Be Pioneers for ages 5 to 13 on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 1 p.m. Learn, make and play pioneer style. Wear a pioneer hat or costume for this trip into history. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Get to Know Your Feelings for ages 5 to 8 on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Cen-

The Town-Crier ter Way) will host Bubble Pop Party for ages 3 to 7 on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. Make your own bubble wands, create bubble art and dance on bubble wrap. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Jan. 23 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 offer 101 Fantastic Fingernails for ages 10 and up Thursday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. Discover out-of-this-world designs using 101 different nail polishes. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Acting Up! for children Thursday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. Enjoy fun theater games and learn basic acting skills. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Presidents and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking: Woodrow, Ellen and Edith Wilson for adults Thursday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register, or visit www.pbclibrary.org/presidents-2014. • State Rep. Mark Pafford (D-District 86) will host a town hall meeting Thursday. Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way) to discuss the upcoming legislative session. Call (561) 682-0156 or e-mail mark.pafford@myfloridahouse.gov for more info. • The Palm Beach Medical Society will host its 2014 State of Medicine and Legislative Dinner on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport (150 Australian Ave., WPB). Call (561) 433-3940 or visit www.pbcms.org for info. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a Top Shelf Wine Experience on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $25 per person. Pre-register at customer service or call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a free Health Starts Here Store Tour on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. Pre-register at customer service or by calling (561) 904-4000. Friday, Jan. 24 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host It’s Snow Cool! for ages 2 to 6 on Friday, Jan. 24 at 11 a.m. Experience the “coolness” of different types of “snow” with games and sensory activities. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The United States Equestrian Team Foundation Gala “Soiree du Cheval” will take place at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. For more info., call Nancy Little at (908) 234-1251 or visit www.uset.org. • Royal Palm Beach will hold a free movie night featuring Despicable Me 2 on Friday, Jan. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Veterans Park Amphitheater. Call (561) 790-5149 for more info. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@ gotowncrier.com.

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Sports & Recreation

January 17 - January 23, 2014

Page 31

Sem Ridge Girls Basketball Slips Past Wellington 47-45

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Seminole Ridge High School girls varsity basketball squad hosted rival Wellington High School on Thursday, Jan. 9, edging the Lady Wolverines 47-45. Wellington jumped out to a sixpoint lead, shutting down Seminole Ridge for the first four minutes of play. But the Lady Hawks’ Kate O’Hara put up a three-point basket to cut the Wolverine lead by three. Seconds later, the Hawks tied the game 6-6. The Lady Hawks continued the pressure, taking an 8-6 lead. By the

end of the first quarter, Seminole Ridge pulled ahead 15-9. The Lady Wolverines trailed for the remainder of the half. Wellington attempted to battle back, coming within two points of the Lady Hawks. However, Seminole Ridge fought hard and maintained a 24-22 lead at the close of the first half. The Lady Wolverines failed to capitalize on converting several free-throws into points to overtake Seminole Ridge. The Lady Hawks led by as many as seven points through the second half, but Wellington continued to pressure and eventually tied the

game 34-34 early in the fourth quarter. Turnovers cost the Lady Wolverines in the fourth quarter when they missed a late opportunity. Down by one point with the Lady Hawks called for a traveling foul, Wellington had a chance. But a misplaced pass ended the chance for the comefrom-behind win. The Lady Hawks played well defensively, and clinched the victory 47-45. O’Hara had a total of 24 points with four 3-point baskets for Seminole Ridge. Latoya Ashman put up 18 points for Wellington, including one 3-point basket.

Seminole Ridge’s Kate O’Hara goes for a lay-up.

Haley Thompson moves the ball up court for Wellington.

Seminole Ridge’s Jessica Cody and Wellington’s Brianna Sabbat battle for possession of the ball.

Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

(Above) Seminole Ridge’s Jessica Cody wins the tip-off. (Below) Cody moves the ball down the court.

Wellington’s Latoya Ashman goes up for two points.

Page 32

January 17 - January 23, 2014

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sports & recreation

WHS Wrestlers Win Western Conference Tournament

Wellington Little League Seniors Finish Second

The Wellington High School wrestling team improved to 18-1 this season and won the western conference championship tournament held at Royal Palm Beach High School. Wellington defeated Royal Palm Beach in the first round 68-10, Seminole Ridge in the second round 47-21 and Palm Beach Central in the third round 84-0. Wrestlers who finished 3-0 at the conference tournament were Colton Macfarlane, Briar Macfarlane, Nik Bonadies, Marcus Morin, Brandon Paz, Josue Arce, Devin Gillotte and A.J. Lopez. Front row (left to right): Mathew Wunderlich, Colton Macfarlane, Briar Macfarlane, Andrew Mitchell, Eric Reid, Marcus Morin and Josue Arce; back row: James Gilfus, Devin Gillotte, Nik Bonadies, A.J. Lopez, Elroy Taylor, Brandon Paz, Andy Leal, Max Baerson, Christian Goss and Parker Evans.

The Wellington Little League Senior Team (ages 14 to 16) ended the fall season by finishing second in the county tournament in December, losing to East Boynton 1-0. Pitching and defense was the name of the game. “We came together as a team and played outstanding baseball the whole fall season. I am proud of each and every one of them,� manager Tony Viscusi said. Front row: Jayson Evans, Max Nassar, Aaron Norman and Jake Evans; middle row: Greg Goodwin, Mikey Viscusi, Marc Terrizzi, Danny Perez and Sam Herman; and back row: manager Tony Viscusi, coach Rick Silver, Victor Velez, Hunter Closson, Daniel Orozco, Jake Silver, coach Jay Evans and coach Scott Closson.

Send sports 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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Page 33

County To Host Marquee International Soccer Match

The United States Women’s National Soccer Team will return to Palm Beach County to face Russia on Saturday, Feb. 8 at FAU Stadium in Boca Raton. The international soccer match is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission, the United States Soccer Federation and Florida Atlantic University are partnering to host this marquee international match, which represents the second appearance for the United States Women’s National Soccer Team in Palm Beach County over the past 14 months. The United States was victorious against China at FAU Stadium in December 2012. The United States Women’s National Soccer Team has not faced Russia in more than a decade. The two teams met last in September 2002, when the United States won 5-1 in

Rosenberg

Mr. Trump’s Grand Prix

continued from page 25 Charity Challenge. Two parties each won, bidding $40,000 each. This was a well-heeled crowd, to say the least. Individual event tickets to the event went for $1,750, and table sponsorships from $10,000 to $35,000. There was no general admission. But even that kind of money can’t control everything.

Uniondale, New York. The U.S. women have never lost to Russia, with a 5-0-1 all-time record. The United States is known as the world’s best team, currently ranked No. 1 in the FIFA women’s world rankings. Russia is a highly competitive team, ranked No. 21 in the FIFA women’s world rankings. Both teams are preparing for the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup. “It’s always a positive to play countries that we maybe haven’t seen that often,” U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Tom Sermanni said. “The Russians have some talented players, and with eight European countries qualifying for the next Women’s World Cup, every country in that tournament is going to have to navigate some very difficult European opponents.”

We stood for the national anthem as the rain gusted down, and by the time the class got underway at 1:10 p.m., there was a steady downpour. It never let up throughout the class, sometimes slowing a bit, sometimes coming so strongly that the Intracoastal vanished behind a silvery curtain. It gusted in on the guests as well, and the tables were pulled back. Somehow, the riders and horses, drenched through and through, kept going. By 2 p.m., the ground was so saturated that each hoof splashed at every stride.

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

The U.S. Women’s Soccer National Team is widely regarded as one of the greatest women’s sports teams in the history of the United States. The team has won three consecutive Olympic gold medals, the most recent taking place, in front of 80,203 fans at Wembley Stadium in London. Palm Beach County is becoming a hotbed for national soccer events. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission recently announced that the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship will take place at the Seacrest Soccer Complex in Delray Beach and the NCAA Women’s Soccer National Championship will take place at FAU Stadium. Both of those events are scheduled for next December. FAU Stadium opened in October 2011 and seats more than 29,000 spectators. It has been

Despite the standing water, the turf held up beautifully, and there were very few slips. Some riders withdrew, and seven who’d gone clear returned for the jump-off. Todd Minikus had the first clear ride in 38.88. Candice King, last to ride, also went clear in 38.76. But the winner was Kent Farrington, a repeat of his win last year on a different mount, who completed the course in 36.85 seconds. The jump crew reconfigured the course, the riders walked it in the pouring rain, and the second class

home to a number of high-profile sporting events, including FIFA international soccer matches and the Major League Lacrosse All Star Game. FAU is home to the only stadium in the United States that offers a picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean. Tickets for the soccer match went on sale to the public last Friday through www. ussoccer.com, by phone at (800) 745-3000, at all Ticketmaster outlets throughout South Florida, including Walmart, as well as at the FAU Wally Sanger Athletic Ticket Office at FAU’s Boca Raton campus. The ticket office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tickets also will be sold the day of the event at FAU Stadium. For more information on the USA Women’s National Team, visit www.ussoccer.com.

got underway at 3:15 p.m., again with a few withdrawals. Santana, unfortunately, had 12 faults to finish eighth. Cloe Hymowitz, the last rider on course, put in a thrilling ride on 75 Bon Vivant in 53.42 seconds to win the class. Heather Hooker on Perle, and Kira Kerkorian on 76 Rashmo, also completed clear rounds in slightly slower times. As soon as the class ended, the rain finally let up. Happy, full, a little soggy, we all headed back down the covered walkway that led from the tent to the road. The red

carpet, which had run the length of the walkway, was now doubled up over the soggier part, giving us slightly higher ground on which to tread. Valets pulled up in one expensive car after another. I headed over to the group awaiting the next bus back to the parking area, about ten minutes north. It had been a great day, despite the weather. The horses and riders had performed like true professionals, and the crowd had been duly appreciative. All in all, a day to remember.

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PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your apartment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012-252779

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

DRIVEWAY REPAIR D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. L i c.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

HANDYMAN THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties. BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

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

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

PAINTING

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J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

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ROOFING MINOR ROOF REPAIRS Don Hartmann R oofing — R o o f p a i n t ing, 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 RC-0067207

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

SCREENING JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

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

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS 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

TAX PREPARATION E X P E R I E N C E D TA X P R E PA R ER— with expertise with individuals and small businesses . Hack and Tax Accounting Services LLC. 561-214-6171

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

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

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

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

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 TRIPLE QUALITY PAINTING, INC. — The finest materials, service & price. Painting Exterior & Interior, Pressure Cleaning, Roof, & Patios, Roof Cleaning, Wood Repair & Faux Finishes Lic. # U21140 7 5 4 - 2 4 5 - 0 8 5 9 o r 5 6 1 - 5 5 7 - 3 11 3

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

January 17 - January 23, 2014 Page 37

TILE / CERAMICS

TREE SERVICE

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

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WELLINGTON PRIVATE FURNISHED ROOM & BATH — with private outside entry & small kitchen area, gated community, utilities included. No smoker, No pets. 1st month, & 1 month security moves you in. 1 person only. $650 per month. Call 561-790-2326

ROYAL PALM BEACH HOME TO SHARE — 50+ Non-Smoker, preferred non drinker, located in Royal Palm Beach, the greatest little city in the area to share home which includes the pool, lanai, kitchen and own bathroom. $2000 monthly includes all utilities including w/d, bedroom furnished. First and last to move in. 561-793-1939

HOUSE FOR SALE - WEST PALM BEACH HOUSE FOR SALE BREAKERS WEST — 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3 car garage. Pool. Gated upscale - Golf Country Club. Available $895,000 by owner. 561-795-0533

COSTA RICA RENTALS ENCHANTMENT OF COSTA RICA — is less than 3 hours away. Home, Villa’s & Condo Rentals in Popular beachside area’s. f o r i n f o v i s i t w w w. b a h i a c u l e b r a . c o m email:info@bahiaculebra.com . Local agent number 561.628.7177

GARAGE SALE

Obituary WILLIAM MADISON WEBB, III William Madison Webb III — passed away suddenly at the VA Medical Center on December 8,

WELLINGTON

2013. He is survived by his wife,

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18th 8 a.m. - 12 Noon — 1907 Tulip Lane. Near Wellington High School. TV’s, Kitchen Items, Furniture, Appliances, Clothing, Misc. Items, Glassware. Too many items to list.

Brenda Webb. He will be laid to

OFFICE SPACE LAW OFFICE TO SHARE: — Royal Palm/ Wellington. Two furnished executive offices plus two secretarial work stations, use of conference room, reception, kitchen. Utilities included. $1,450 month. 561-793-1200, ext. 1 or 561-386-7307

EMPLOYMENT BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours. Please fax resume to 561-791-0952 HUNINGTON LEARNING CENTER IN WELLINGTON — Now hiring certified teachers.$10-$15/hour. Call 561-594-1920 E-mail: MarleneGiraud@hlcwellington.com WELLINGTON TOWNCAR DRIVERS & DISPATCHERS — retirees welcome. Call 561-333-0181. Full-Time Part-Time. DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! — Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account. Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488 PT/FT SALES HELP WANTED — For local flooring store expanding. Sales experience a plus. Will train the right person. 561-333-2306 buyithere7@gmail.com CARPENTER NEEDED— for residential remodeling.Experienced in all remodeling phases- must have tools, truck and Florida Drivers License.Must pass background check Email resume to: Kevin@Rhodesremodeling.com

rest at South Florida National Cemetary, Friday January 17, 2014 at 11:30 a.m All Friends are welcome to attend the graveside Military Memorial.

Page 38

January 17 - January 23, 2014

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