CRIME STOPPERS AT CHAMBER LUNCH SEE STORY, PAGE 3
NEW GENERAL MANAGER AT THE MALL SEE STORY, PAGE 7
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INSIDE RPB Zoners Oppose Drive-Through For SR 7 Shopping Center
Volume 34, Number 4 January 25 - January 31, 2013
HOWLIN’ HOEDOWN FOR BIG DOG
The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval Tuesday of an application for upgrades to the Anthony Groves commercial development, but recommended against a proposed restaurant drive-through lane after a representative of the nearby Victoria Grove residential community expressed traffic concerns. Page 3
Glades Academy Students Visit Farm
Horse Tales Literacy Project held a literacy and equine experience Friday, Jan. 18 at Good Earth Farm in Loxahatchee Groves. First- and fourth-grade students from Glades Academy Elementary School in Pahokee engaged in activities, such as reading to horses, grooming, tacking, nutrition and veterinary care. Page 9
CAFCI, RPB Host MLK Day Celebration
Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and Royal Palm Beach presented their 11th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Page 13
Free Folk-Rock Show
New York’s Gathering Time trio returns to Wellington to perform their Great Folk-Rock Festival on Saturday, Jan. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. Page 14
OPINION Great Charity Challenge, Mitzvah Day And More
Martin Luther King Jr. Day may have come and gone, but its message of community service carries on. And this weekend, residents of the western communities have a chance to do just that. Not only are there opportunities to get out in the community and do some hands-on work, but there’s a chance to support dozens of great causes while having fun. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 SCHOOLS ............................ 15 PEOPLE ............................... 16 COLUMNS .................... 25 - 26 BUSINESS .................... 27 - 29 ENTERTAINMENT .................31 SPORTS ........................ 37 - 39 CALENDAR ................... 40 - 41 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 42 - 47 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
The second annual Howlin’ Hoedown was held Saturday, Jan. 19 at the Players Club in Wellington. Money was raised to support Big Dog Ranch Rescue, a local nonprofit devoted to saving the lives of unwanted pets. The event offered participants a fun-filled, casual evening that included a silent auction, live auction, line dancing, barbecue dinner and more. Pictured above, Brittney Walton and Tayla Dumoulin are dressed for the hoedown. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Wellington Council Switches League Lunch To Polo Club By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Lawsuits aimed at certain members of the Wellington Village Council have prompted the council to move a League of Cities luncheon planned next month at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. When the issue of whether to move the event — and whether to support events at the show grounds at all — was raised at the council’s Jan. 8 meeting, council members decided to keep the location so long as all of the council was welcome. But within the past two weeks, the owners of the equestrian center have named both Councilman John Greene and Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis individually in lawsuits. Village Manager Paul Schofield raised the issue again during his manager’s comments. “I need to know what you want to do,” he said. Greene said he had spoken with
representatives from the International Polo Club Palm Beach, who offered their venue for the Feb. 20 meeting. “I know there was concern over some of the politics with certain venues at the last meeting,” he said. “It seemed that the council’s discussion was that we wanted to try to focus on an equestrian venue. I reached out to IPC… and they have the date available.” Vice Mayor Howard Coates asked whether the League of Cities had a preference. Schofield said they did not. “They are Switzerland,” he said. “They will go wherever we ask them to.” But Councilwoman Anne Gerwig thought the decision was to stay at PBIEC so long as all council members were invited. “We all agreed that if we were welcome at the site, we would go,” she said. “I don’t understand why we’re having this conversation. If you just want to move it, I can easily be outvoted. But I don’t understand why we’re discussing it.”
Greene noted that at the last meeting, staff recommended against attending if the event was at PBIEC. “They recommended we don’t hold it at a venue with which we are involved in heavy litigation,” he said. “There are certainly issues for some of the folks there toward certain council members. It’s not a very neutral site.” But Gerwig still wasn’t convinced. “We don’t have to do what staff says,” she said. “We made the decision at the last meeting, and it has been publicly noticed on the League of Cities web site.” Margolis asked Schofield to explain what had happened since the Jan. 8 discussion. “The lawsuits have been amended to name two council members individually,” Schofield said. However, Schofield did note that he has confirmed that all council members were welcome to atSee LEAGUE LUNCH, page 20
Ron Jarriel Disputes Manager’s Memo At Lox Council Meeting By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Loxahatchee Groves Town Councilman Ron Jarriel defended his actions last week after the town’s management company criticized him for directly asking the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District for help with hedging work on a town road. His action drew a letter from Town Manager Mark Kutney suggesting that Jarriel was undercutting Kutney’s authority as town manager, since he had been directed by the council to seek a contractor to do the work. In a memo to Jarriel dated Dec. 11, Kutney wrote: “It is with deep sadness that I must write this... I specifically refer to your actions at the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors meeting last evening. Earlier that afternoon, I had informed you
that the town’s public works independent contractor was set to undertake the hedging of Sixth Court North from D Road to Folsom Road. Although you expressed a contrary view, you did not advise me of any intention to address this matter in front of the LGWCD board.” Kutney’s memo also charged that Jarriel had violated the town’s charter regarding non-interference by council members and asserted that Jarriel violated the town’s ethics code, which states that no public officer shall undermine the duties, responsibilities and role of the town manager. Jarriel asked that the issue be placed on the Jan. 15 council agenda for discussion, saying he felt his actions were not unwarranted if he were acting as a citizen. “We have a situation where the town manager felt I was unethical,
and I want to clarify it tonight,” Jarriel said. “If the council feels like I was unethical, then I need to know it, and it won’t happen again. If they agree with the way I feel, then we have to ask for legal advice how we can keep this from happening again.” Jarriel said he was concerned that Kutney had also written a letter to LGWCD Chairman David DeMarois expressing similar concerns, a move Jarriel said was “uncalled for.” He pointed out that LGWCD staff hedged the road in six hours using its hedging tractor, which is capable of trimming as high as 22 feet. “If the town had been able to get their contractor to do it, we had an estimated cost of 30 hours,” Jarriel said, pointing out that the town’s independent contractor is See JARRIEL, page 20
Serving Palms West Since 1980
ITID’s Hager Puts Focus On Resident Input, Board Unity By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Newly appointed Indian Trail Improvement District President Jennifer Hager told the Town-Crier this week that her primary goal is to make sure that residents are allowed input into district issues and that the board continues to work together. The ITID Board of Supervisors was shaken up in the November election when former Supervisor Carlos Enriquez lost to newcomer Gary Dunkley, who voted with Hager and Vice President Carol Jacobs to make Hager the district’s new president. Hager replaced longtime ITID Supervisor Michelle Damone in that role. Damone remains on the board, but without a title. “There is a change to the board,
specifically with myself being president, and I would like the public to know that they can come to these meetings and be heard, and that’s important to me,” Hager said. “I want to hear what they have to say. I am their voice, and I feel strongly about my obligations to these people.” Hager said she relates to residents attending meetings because she was once in their position. “I know at these meetings it’s difficult to get up and speak, and it’s more difficult when you’re up there speaking,” she said. “People get nervous, but I’m not very intimidating. I think that we’re a community and we can work together, and part of it is to hear what residents have to say and let them See HAGER, page 20
SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR’S PRESIDENTIAL THEME
The 2013 South Florida Fair opened Friday, Jan. 18. This year’s theme is “Washington, D.C.” and it includes an Air Force One fuselage, Oval Office replica, salute to past presidents, first ladies’ gowns on display and more. The fair concludes Feb. 3. Pictured above are Bob Johnson and Ellen Kestecher at a White House podium replica. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 11 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Wellington Council Votes To Move Tennis By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Tennis Center will be moving, but to where remains undecided. Members of the Wellington Village Council voted 4-1 this week to move the center, which has been adjacent to the Wellington Community Center since the village purchased the property in the late 1990s. Councilwoman Anne Gerwig was the lone dissenter, citing concerns about the additional $2.5 million it will cost to move the tennis center. “I don’t think that’s a good use of taxpayer dollars,” she said. The discussion of whether to move the tennis center has lasted months, with several workshops called to discuss the issue. Village Manager Paul Schofield told council members Tuesday that they needed to decide whether they wanted to move the facility before plans can be made for the Wellington Community Center reconstruction.
“You do not have to make a decision about where it’s going to go tonight,” Schofield said. “But you do have to make the decision about whether it’s going to be reconstructed on this site or you’re going to move it.” Gerwig wanted to know why the council had to decide on the tennis facility that night. Schofield said the process could not continue until the decision was made. “You don’t have to decide tonight,” he said. “But we cannot move forward with the [request for proposals] until we know if the tennis facility will be a part of the plans.” Councilman Matt Willhite said he thought the facility should be moved in order to open up more parking and space for other popular activities the village now offers residents. “I think we are trying to pack too many things into this one area,” he said. “We had the community center and pool, but we wanted to create a ‘downtown See TENNIS, page 4
RPB Agrees To Slightly Loosen Rules On Garage Sales By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council eased some of its limitations on garage sales last week after a resident asked that sales be allowed more than twice a year. At the Jan. 17 council meeting, Community Development Director Rob Hill said he had researched the issue at the council’s direction after resident Candice Cavaleri made the request for more lenient yard sale rules at the council’s Dec. 20 meeting. Cavaleri had requested allowing four yard sales per year instead of the two, that four signs be allowed instead of two, and that the $10
registration fee include a posting on the village web site. Hill provided a list of garage sale regulations in other municipalities. “Surprisingly, you’ll see that they vary from no regulation at all, to some that are quite numerous, and some that replicate the same regulations that we have,” Hill said. Of the 10 municipalities surveyed, only two charge a fee, $5 by Lantana and $10 by Atlantis. Four do not regulate the number of sales per year. Three restrict the number to two, the county allows three, Lantana allows four and West Palm Beach allows six. Hill said the village has received
little feedback regarding yard sales other than from Cavaleri. “People seem to think it is adequate having two, but it hasn’t generated a lot of concern,” he said. “I would be remiss if I did not tell you that I did bump into some residents who pointed out to me that they do not enjoy the extra traffic in residential neighborhoods.” The village currently allows two yard sales per home per year using two village-issued signs. The $10 fee covers the cost of the signs and administrative costs. “Garage sales that go beyond that, code enforcement would kick in with a warning, and if it was to continue,
it would be covered by the special magistrate,” Hill said. Hill added that he had met with the village’s web site operators, who said posting yard sale announcements would not be difficult. Hill also pointed out that the Recreation Department hosts two community garage sales per year, with a garage sale focused on children’s items coming up Saturday, Feb. 2 at Veterans Park. Vice Mayor Fred Pinto asked Hill for a recommendation, and Hill said he thought the current policy is appropriate. “It really hasn’t generated many concerns, so I would recommend staying with the posi-
tion that we have now,” Hill said, adding that allowing additional village-issued signs would not be a problem. Councilwoman Martha Webster said she liked the idea of listing the sales on the village web site. “Looking at our survey, you see that we charge the most,” she said. “Our citizens are also our clients, and having them included in a web site listing would be excellent.” Webster said she would also like to increase the number of allowable signs to four and increase the number of allowable garage sales. “If you were to have a garage See SALE RULES, page 20
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NEWS
Wellington Chamber Learns Benefits Of Crime Stoppers Program By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday learned about Crime Stoppers, the civilian volunteer nonprofit dedicated to providing anonymous tips to lawenforcement officers across the nation. Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County President John Shwiner was on hand to share the history, mission and success of the organization. Crime Stoppers began in Albuquerque, N.M., in 1976 as a way for civilians to aid law enforcement in solving crimes, Shwiner said.
“Today, there are over 1,200 Crime Stoppers organizations throughout the world,” he said. The Palm Beach County branch was founded in 1981. Shwiner said the organization is a way to encourage citizens to help police officers when they otherwise wouldn’t. “There are two reasons why people don’t call the police,” he said. “Number one is the fear. If you call the police and they get your name and address, the next thing you know, you’re sitting in court being asked what you were doing there that night. The other issue is apathy. That’s
Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County President John Shwiner speaks at Wednesday’s chamber luncheon.
where the reward comes in.” Crime Stoppers offers an opportunity for those who may have witnessed a crime to contact lawenforcement officials anonymously on the phone or electronically and give information without having to share their name or address. “Crime Stoppers is a triangle of involvement,” Shwiner said. “It requires law enforcement, it requires community and the media to be successful.” The organization partners with media outlets to publish the names and identifying information of criminals who are on the lam. Shwiner noted that it was his organization that created what may be the first-ever reenactment of a crime. He noted that America’s Most Wanted host John Walsh was inspired by the organization. “He spent about a week with us,” Shwiner said. “That was his catalyst for going on the air to do Most Wanted.” In 1994, the organization expanded to offer programs aimed at students to help cut down on drug use and weapons in schools. “It was an opportunity for the students to call and remain anonymous,” he said. “Kids don’t want to be a rat or to be subject to any kind of retaliation. It was quite a massive campaign.” Shwiner said that students
bought into the program and helped to make it a success. Students are also offered a $500 reward for recovery of a firearm. “Obviously, we can’t keep every gun out of every school,” he said. “But we can try.” Over the years, Shwiner said the organization has adapted to keep up with technology, even offering a free mobile app. “Over 50 percent of our tips are coming in electronically through our web page,” Shwiner said. “We have to make sure we maintain anonymity for our tipsters.” The organization is financed heavily by donations. Although they receive a grant charged in the form of court fees in the Palm Beach County court system, the $20 fee is subject to processing fees by several local and state organizations, leaving little for the organization. Shwiner said any donation would help. “If you donate anything to Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County, it stays in Palm Beach County,” he said. “It goes to our community, our schools and our children.” And the return on the investment is well worth it. Shwiner said that since 1981, there have been 104 homicides solved, 4,700 arrests made, 7,000 cases solved, $7.81 million in prop-
Bill Tavernise, Mike Nelson, Chamber President Alec Domb, Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County President John Shwiner, Victor Connor and Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County Treasurer Dale Grimm. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER erty recovered and $18.6 million in narcotics recovered thanks to anonymous tipsters. “In that time we’ve awarded a total $475,000 in rewards,” he said. The school program has been equally successful, Shwiner said. Since 1994, there have been 620 arrests and 613 cases solved, as well as $150,000 in property and $40,000 worth of narcotics recovered. “But the next statistic is most important,” Shwiner said. “There have been 250 weapons taken out of Palm Beach County schools, including 48 loaded handguns.” The total reward money paid
Also at the luncheon, the chamber unveiled a new logo. out? $47,000. “Most students never collect their rewards,” he said. For more information about Crime Stoppers, visit www.crime stopperspbc.com.
RPB Zoning Board Opposes Drive-Through For SR 7 Shopping Center By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval Tuesday of an application for upgrades to the Anthony Groves commercial development, but recommended against a proposed restaurant drive-through lane after a representative of the nearby Victoria Grove residential community expressed traffic concerns. Development Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin said the Anthony Groves commercial development on the west side of State Road 7 south of Southern Blvd. sought approval to add two towers and repaint two buildings in different tracts of the shopping center, and add a drive-through on the south end of the southernmost building near the Motor City Car Wash, which requires a special exception.
Erwin pointed out that northern Tract 2 is zoned commercial general and the southern Tract 6, where developers want the drivethrough lane, is zoned neighborhood commercial. The only changes to Tract 2 would be the addition of the two corner towers and two brick paver areas outside a restaurant for patrons, he said. The proposed drive-through for Tract 6 would be along the rear of the building to the west. Traffic would run next to the building, with a 10-foot bypass lane. In order to accommodate the drivethrough, vehicles would be restricted to one-way along the west and south sides of the building. The application meets all the village’s requirements for those types of uses, Erwin said, adding that village staff recommended approval.
Jennifer Vale with Land Design South, agent for the applicant, said the improvements and changes are intended to draw quality tenants to the commercial center. Victoria Grove Homeowners’ Association President Donna Maes said she did not object to any of the changes except the proposed drive-through lane. “The drive-through is definitely a big issue,” Maes said, explaining that homeowners were already concerned about increased traffic from the Enclave, a residential project underway nearby. Maes said the developer has not said which restaurant is interested in the space. “But whatever it is, it’s going to bring a lot of traffic,” she said. “With the car wash, we have Steak & Shake next door. We have a tremendous volume of traffic there. We’re asking you not allow a drive-through restaurant
there. Everything else we can live with.” Commissioner Jackie Larson said she frequents businesses in the area where the drive-through is proposed and does not believe there is enough space. “Every time I have tried to come out the south entrance to get to your circle, that driveway on the south end is very narrow, and there is not a lot of visibility,” Larson said. “I’m really having a hard time, having physically been there, envisioning two lanes of traffic.” Commission Alternate Michael Axelberd said that the overall plans are pleasing aesthetically. “I think it looks great,” he said. “It’s apparent to anyone who has been to the shopping center that the landlord has had a little bit of difficulty keeping the buildings filled all the time.” Axelberd asked whether traffic
studies have been done to substantiate the proposed drivethrough, and Erwin said the developer has a letter of equivalency from the county based on studies for a drive-through restaurant provided by the applicant. Property owner Martin Heise said he would be willing to meet with the Victoria Grove HOA to explain his plans, adding that one of the potential clients is Dairy Queen, which prefers stores with drive-throughs. “If I can attract a better tenant with a better building, nicer colors, tower features that are attractive, I can get good, national tenants in there,” he said. “If I don’t, I settle for what comes next.” Heise said he does not consider the residents’ traffic concerns insurmountable. “I’ve built four shopping centers in this area, and I just try to
bring in good-quality tenants,” he said. “I try to stay away from second-rate properties that have lowbudget tenants because it becomes a maintenance and management headache for me.” The proposals are intended to improve what has been a problem property, Heise said. “It’s good for you, good for me, good for the city if I can keep a full building,” he said. “Otherwise I get tenants that go in and out of business, and little by little the property diminishes.” If the drive-through is the only issue, he asked that the decision be postponed until he has an opportunity to talk to the residents. Otherwise, he asked that the rest of the improvements be approved. “I would hope that the vote isn’t to kill everything because I’ve got See RPB ZONE, page 20
Page 4 January 25 - January 31, 2013
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OUR OPINION
A Weekend Of Service: Charity Challenge, Mitzvah Day & More Martin Luther King Jr. Day may have come and gone, but its message of community service carries on. And this weekend, residents of the western communities have a chance to do just that. Not only are there opportunities to get out in the community and do some hands-on work, but there’s a chance to support dozens of great causes while having fun. Saturday, Jan. 26 starts off with a morning road cleanup in Wellington. Later on, the FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge returns to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Meanwhile, Sunday is Mitzvah Day in Wellington, which offers a variety of projects for people to take part in. We recommend everyone make an effort to join in. For the fourth year now, the Great Charity Challenge comes to Wellington. Here’s how it works: teams of three comprising amateur, junior and professional riders are each designated a local charity assigned at random. They compete for prize money, and all of the money goes to the charities. This year, $1.5 million will be distributed among 34 charities from Palm Beach County. Charities selected for the event are chosen at random as well, and all registered nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach County are eligible. Though the top prize is $150,000, each charity is guaranteed to come out with at least $10,000. What’s great about the Great Charity Challenge is that it’s intended for a general family audience, not just for fans of equestrian sport. The event brings together the greater communi-
ty with the equestrian world and draws thousands of people to Wellington. In that spirit, a new family-friendly feature has been added this year, with the inclusion of a hand-painted Venetian carousel for all ages to enjoy. For more information, including a list of participating charities and a chance to vote for your favorite, visit www.ftigreatcharitychallenge.com. The Saturday night event promises to be a relaxing occasion at the show grounds — just right for anyone taking part in the morning road cleanup, sponsored by the Wellington Preservation Coalition as part of Wellington’s “Adopt a Street” program. The cleanup will take place along Wellington Trace, starting at Forest Hill Blvd. and ending at Fire-Rescue Station #25. Meet at 9 a.m. in the parking lot of the original Wellington Mall. Call (561) 333-9843 for more info. To wrap up the weekend with some more good deeds, Temple Beth Torah joins the Village of Wellington for Mitzvah Day on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. This includes indoor projects such as sewing (teddy bears, blankets), sorting buttons (for local nonprofit Hugs & Kisses) and baking cookies (to deliver to public safety officers), as well as outdoor tasks such as beautifying Wellington’s Section 24. Call the temple at (561) 793-2700 for more info. Community service is not just a good way to help out; it’s a way for residents to feel like a part of their community and even meet new people along the way. So if you’re able to, please take part. Even the smallest task is a step in the right direction.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thanks For ‘Christmas Child’ Donations I wanted to write to thank fellow West Palm Beach area residents who generously gave of their time and means to help impact thousands of hurting kids this Christmas. Together we were able to pack 10,219 shoe boxes — filled with toys, school supplies and basic necessities — for Operation Christmas Child. Our packed shoe box gifts, joined by millions of others, are now on their way to needy children in 100 countries. During the 2012 collection season, Operation Christmas Child reached a milestone — more than 100 million children have been impacted by the power of a simple gift since 1993. I would like to thank the volunteers at our local collection sites and all those who packed an Op-
eration Christmas Child shoe box gift. For many of the children who receive these gifts, this shoe box will be the first gift they have ever received. Although our local drop-off locations in West Palm Beach are closed, gifts are received yearround at Samaritan’s Purse by mailing them to 801 Bamboo Road, Boone, NC 28607. There are also year-round volunteer opportunities available to serve with Operation Christmas Child. Find out how you can use your gifts and talents to make a difference in children’s lives around the world by visiting www. samaritanspurse.org or by calling (407) 852-3727. Thank you, again, to everyone who participated in this project. A simple gift, packed with love, can communicate hope and transform the lives of children worldwide. Cindy Beyer Regional Director, Florida and Puerto Rico Operation Christmas Child
President’s Gun Plan Has Merit I truthfully am at a loss to understand opposition to President Obama’s gun violence prevention proposal. Congressional opposition can be dismissed as Republicans once again playing politics. The knee-jerk reaction from the NRA speaks to the organization’s self-interests over the public’s welfare. And the opposing American public simply does not understand the content, which is basically as follows: 1) Gun owners are to go through a proper background check. 2) The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is currently required to report people who should not access guns, but states have been derelict in their duty, as evidenced by recent shooters who obviously should have been prevented access to guns. 3) The reinstatement of the 1994 assault weapons ban outlawing
military-grade weapons such as the AR-15, which was used by Newtown gunman Adam Lanza and by James Holmes during the Aurora Theatre shootings. 4) Accessories to military-grade weapons are also dangerous, and Obama proposes banning extended magazine clips that hold more than 10 bullets. 5) Banning armor-piercing bullets, also known as “cop-killer bullets.” 6) Better-funded police officers, but Congress prefers to continue a course of austerity. 7) A better tracking system of guns used in a crime, tracing such arms back to the original owner. 8) The NRA has long blocked research on how video games, the media and violence affect violent gun crimes. It’s time we learn the truth. 9) Encouraging mental health providers to get involved. 10) We’ve all heard tragic stories of children who were able to access a parent’s unattended gun.
Obama is calling on the justice department to initiate improved gun safety technology. 11) Increase the number of school counselors with funding from an existing Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) hiring grant and a new comprehensive school safety program. 12) Encourage a safer school environment identifying at-risk
students early and providing professional support. 13) The issuance of a directive to heads of state health programs, enforcing “mental health parity.” For the sake of our children, grandchildren and the youngster next door, this proposal is needed to protect them. Judi Gray Boca Raton
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 Potpourri Of News From Around The World... From A Single Day Did you know that Germany had squirreled nearly half of its gold reserves at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York? Yup, billions of dollars of the European nation’s postwar accumulated gold has been safely stored under the bustling streets of New York City. Now firmly established as the continent’s leading industrial nation, Germany will start to return much
Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin of the wealth (300 tons of gold) to the vaults of the Bundesbank in Frankfurt.
And yes, there are greedy legislative operatives even in a country like Kenya. In a nation where the average annual income is $1,700, the 221 departing Kenyan legislators outraged the population by trying to award themselves a $110,000 bonus on top of their salaries. Their regular salaries are $175,000 per year. Fortunately, the nation’s embattled president,
Mwai Kibaki, refused to sign the bill. Back in America, it turns out that intercollegiate athletics in public universities cost a pretty penny. Paid for in good measure by students, the Division I athletic programs have ignored the nation’s tough times, and between 2005 and 2010, their athletic costs skyrocketed at least twice as quickly
as academic spending versus other schools with top-tier athletic programs. Football easily tops the athletic money being spent, with $92,000 per athlete against a paltry $14,000 for non-athletes. Then there is the state of Mississippi. In one state school district, 33 of every 100 children were arrested or referred to juvenile detention centers. Other state dis-
tricts included second- and thirdgraders in their referrals. The most often, “referred offense” was disorderly conduct. Also, there have been numerous cases in which kids have been handcuffed (or sent home) for violating the dress code, not wearing a belt or wearing the wrong type of shoes. C’mon fellas — this is the 21st century!
NEWS
Wellington Grants Permit For Horse Shows At The Ridge Farm By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Members of the Wellington Village Council unanimously granted an equestrian special-use permit Tuesday to The Ridge at Wellington for several horse shows this season despite a protest from Equestrian Sport Productions. The Ridge at Wellington is a show facility in the Palm Beach Point community that hosts a weekly show geared toward lower-level competition. The item was pulled from the consent agenda because of a lastminute protest from attorney Dan Rosenbaum, representing Eques-
Tennis
Moving, Not Sure Where
continued from page 1 feel’ so we added the amphitheater and the municipal complex. But we tried to do it on less land than we really needed.” But Gerwig said that Wellington is creating its own parking woes by holding events that block off parking spaces from public use. “This parking problem is selfinduced,” she said. “When we put food trucks all over the parking lot and we don’t have the space, that’s our fault.” Gerwig also noted that there is plenty of parking in front of the municipal complex that goes unused. “Very rarely is there an actual parking shortage,” she said. “The other night when we had Odyssey Road play, I went to look at the parking lot in front of this
trian Sport Productions, the company that produces the Winter Equestrian Festival. Rosenbaum suggested that village staff did not evaluate the permit application based on the required standards. “We received this objection today,” Village Manager Paul Schofield said. “Absent an objection, these permit applications would be on the consent agenda.” Long Range Planning Director Tim Stillings explained that originally, staff did not believe the shows would require an equestrian special-use permit but later felt it would apply.
“The shows are more than four days,” he said. “The brochure suggested that although they are not selling tickets, they aren’t turning people away who want to go watch.” Stillings said the shows are lowimpact on the community and noted that the site is zoned for commercial equestrian use. “If you didn’t know there was a show there and drove by the site, you wouldn’t know a show was there,” he said. Stillings said that the site met all 10 standards required to issue a permit. “I disagree that we failed to evaluate the application based
on the standards sufficiently,” he said. Vice Mayor Howard Coates said the show seems to be a low-intensity use. “The intensity of this seems to be very light,” he said. “There’s not a great number of spectators there.” Coates said he thought one recommendation on the application — to have security personnel on site — was unnecessary and costprohibitive. “It doesn’t look like there will be much done with it to begin with in terms of spectators and crowd control,” he said. “Aren’t we overreacting?” Stillings said the condition came
from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. “They said they recommend hiring someone,” he said. “It wasn’t a requirement. We could put a condition that if they expect to receive more than 100 visitors they do so, but it was a recommendation on their part.” During public comment, several residents spoke in support of the show. Gene Fruehling said that he lives about three farms away from the site. “I don’t even know when they have shows,” he said. “The activity they have isn’t any different than a busy day at our
farm with riders and trainers.” Mason Phelps characterized the shows as first-class but low-impact. “They do not sell tables,” he said. “They don’t advertise to spectators. I fully support what they are doing, and I applaud them for providing… a place to develop younger horses and younger riders so they can one day compete at the Winter Equestrian Festival.” Coates made a motion to approve the permit subject to removing the recommendation to hire security, which passed unanimously.
building. There were eight cars there. This parking lot is not being utilized.” Vice Mayor Howard Coates, however, said that there is a parking shortage. “I’m in favor of moving tennis in part because of my concerns about the parking we currently have,” he said. “My perception is that there have been times when there is a significant shortage of parking. I’ve been there at times where I can’t find a space.” Yet moving the tennis center wouldn’t necessarily add enough spaces. “In looking at the concept drawings, it adds very little additional parking,” he said. “It really doesn’t address the issue.” Willhite added that the tennis program would have more ability to expand in a stand-alone facility, citing prior comments by Wellington Tennis Center Director Tommy Cheatham. “He said the other night that he
could increase the usage of the facility with more courts,” Willhite said. “We also know that longterm maintenance has to be done to the existing courts that are here. We can make the decision to wait and do the repairs, or to enhance the facility and the tennis program.” Gerwig said Wellington already offers an extensive community tennis program. “This is a very high-end facility for a community like ours to have,” she said. “I can see expanding a program that is wellused, but we’re really overshooting the mark for a community tennis center.” She noted that Delray Beach is the only other municipality with a high-end clay court facility. “I feel like what we’re doing now is perfect for this community,” she said. Willhite said he believed the decision to move the facility
should be site-specific. “I think we need to choose a location,” he said. Among the sites in the running are 10 acres behind the Mall at Wellington Green and 15 acres on Lyons Road, adjacent to the Village Walk community. Willhite said that the Village Walk site would be the best choice. “I’ve come to think it’s a very beneficial area,” he said. “We are already maintaining the 10-acre site [behind the mall] for off-site park facilities. People are using it. Why should we take that away from them?” He said he would support building the new facility prior to demolishing the community center so tennis would not be interrupted. But Gerwig said she thought that deciding on whether to move tennis, and especially where to move it to, was hasty without public input. “I do not like to be told that we
have to make this decision tonight,” she said. “We have not had any public hearings on this. We haven’t advertised it. We haven’t told the people at Village Walk that we’re considering a 21-court tennis center next to them. I think it’s premature for us to say we’re going to do this with no community input.” Coates said that although he thought council members could decide that night whether to move tennis, he agreed with Gerwig about getting public input into a new location. “This is a very serious decision involving not only our tennis center but the expenditure of our taxpayer dollars,” he said. “I’m hesitant to make a $3 million decision without some kind of public hearing.” Coates said that he was not opposed to moving tennis, but would want to hear from residents — especially those in Village Walk
— before deciding on a location. Councilman John Greene asked Schofield to clarify whether a location had to be decided on. “The only thing you’ve asked for us to do is decide whether we want to move tennis,” Greene said. “It wasn’t site-specific, is that correct?” Schofield said that was correct. Greene said he believed moving tennis would be best for the community. “I will support moving tennis to a site that we can decide upon after public discussion,” he said. Mayor Bob Margolis agreed. “I think it’s time,” he said. “I think the extra money is worth it because of the extra courts. There will be additional revenue. There could be opportunities from tennis tournaments. I think it’s a winwin opportunity.” Willhite made a motion to move the tennis center, which passed 41 with Gerwig opposed.
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EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah W elky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Shanta Daibee • Carol Lieberman • Geri O’Neil
POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414-7458. Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The TownCrier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 334147458. Founded In 1980 By Bob Markey Sr. Copyright 2013, Newspaper Publishers Inc. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising.
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January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 5
NEWS
CENTRAL CHAMBER HOSTS NETWORKING MIXER AT NEW BUFFALO WILD WINGS The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce held its monthly networking mixer Wednesday, Jan. 16 at the new Buffalo Wild Wings in Wellington. There were raffles and a 50/50 drawing. The grand prize was chicken wings once a week for 45 weeks. Buffalo Wild Wings is located at 2837 S. State Road 7 in Wellington. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Mary Lou Bedford, Hillary Bedford, April Abercrombie, William Brasmer, Jessica Clasby and Bonnita Calhoun.
Marianne Malky, Morris Loskove and Joann Bayer.
Dr. Jeffrey Bishop, grand prize winners Kimberly and David Leland, Buffalo Wild Wings General Manager David Baldwin and Jessica Clasby.
Dr. Vincent Dolce and Dian Keller.
April Abercrombie and Bonnita Calhoun.
Simon Briscoe, Andrea Kalina and Vicki Gerrish.
Kimberly and David Leland, Linda and John Spillane, and Ron Tomchin.
TEMPLE BETH TORAH HOLDS SHABBAT SERVICE AT WELLINGTON AMPHITHEATER Temple Beth Torah held a Shabbat service on Friday, Jan. 18 at the Wellington Amphitheater. The event was free and open to the public, and included live music from the Tem ple Beth Torah band and a ceremony welcoming the Jewish sabbath. For more info., visit www. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER templebethtorah.net. SEE VIDEO FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
The Temple Beth Torah band performs.
Rabbi Stephen Pinsky conducts the ceremony.
The Amburgy family enjoys the evening.
Madison Andrews and Elana Groves.
Karly Miller and Abigail Bilkis.
Page 6 January 25 - January 31, 2013
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CRIME NEWS
Thieves Take $15,000 In Jewelry From RPB Home By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report JAN. 22 — A resident of La Mancha called the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach on Tuesday afternoon to report a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., someone pried open the victim’s rear sliding glass door and entered the home. Once inside, the perpetrator(s) removed approximately $15,000 in custom jewelry, including several pearl and gold necklaces and bracelets. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. ••• JAN. 16 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to a home on Crestwood Circle last Wednesday morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. last Tuesday and 6 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and removed her car stereo, a wallet containing $250 cash, a credit card and the victim’s driver’s license. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JAN. 16 — A resident of 68th Street North called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Wednesday morning to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, the complainant’s son parked his gray mountain bike on the front porch on Friday, Jan. 11, around 9 a.m. At approximately 8:30 a.m. last Wednesday, the family discovered that the bike was missing. The complainant said his son usually parks the bike on the front porch unsecured but did not know who would have taken the bike. The stolen bike was valued at approximately $460. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.
JAN. 18 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded last Friday to a home on Oleander Drive regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 and 10:30 a.m., someone entered the home and stole an iPad 2, a 45inch LG television, a Dell laptop computer, a cell phone and a Ninendo Wii, along with the victim’s driver’s license and Social Security card. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) used a screwdriver to break the lock on the south sliding glass door of the home. The stolen items were valued at approximately $2,880. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JAN. 21 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home in Sugar Pond Manor on Monday morning regarding an incident of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between Saturday, Dec. 15 and Thursday, Jan. 3, someone punctured all four tires of the victim’s Jeep Grand Cherokee and scratched profanity onto the driver’s door and rear passenger door. According to the report, the victim was out of town and arrived home last Sunday to discover the damage. A neighbor said he noticed the flat tires around Thursday, Jan. 3. According to the report, the neighbor noted that around Tuesday, Jan. 1, someone egged her home and stole a grille. The damage caused to the victim’s vehicle was approximately $2,400. There were no suspects at the time of the report. JAN. 21 — A Wellington resident contacted the PBSO substation in Wellington Monday morning to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim was at a coffee shop on Forest Hill Blvd. at approximately 10:25 a.m. when someone stole her designer wallet See BLOTTER, page 20
The man pictured above is sought for a theft at the Zales jewelry store in the Mall at Wellington Green.
PBSO Seeking Mall Theft Suspect DEC. 6 —Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office detectives are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a suspect wanted for grand theft, relating to an incident Thursday, Dec. 6 in the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, a white male entered the Zales jewelry store in the Mall at Wellington Green, posing as a customer. Sales assistants helped him for nearly one hour before he placed
a 1.97-carat diamond princess-cut solitaire engagement ring on his pinky and fled the store. According to the report, the suspect was seen in Macy’s before entering Zales. The suspect was wearing a white, long-sleeve shirt, blue jeans and a blue baseball cap with an orange letter “F.” Anyone who can identify this suspect is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS.
Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Jybray Air-Barber, a.k .a. Jybray Barber, is a black male, 6’3” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 07/09/90. AirBarber is wanted for burglary of a dwelling, grand theft from a dwelling, dealing in stolen property and false verification of ownership. His occupation is unknown. His last known addresses were Silk Carnation Way in Royal Palm Beach and Montauk Drive in Wellington. AirBarber is wanted as of 01/17/13. • Korey Vaudreuil is a white male, 5’6” tall and weighing 150 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his right forearm. His date of birth is 06/ 25/94. Vaudreuil is wanted for violation of probation on a charge of burglary of a dwelling (two counts). His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Wellington Trace in Wellington. Vaudreuil is wanted as of 01/17/13. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc. com.
Jybray Air-Barber
Korey Vaudreuil
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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January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 7
NEWS
PBSO’s Gauger: Mental Health Issues Loom Large In Gun Debate By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Officials from the Palm Beach County School District and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office spoke on gun issues at last week’s public forum meeting hosted by County Commissioner Jess Santamaria at the original Wellington Mall. “We’re very active at the sheriff’s office,” PBSO Chief Deputy Mike Gauger said at the Jan. 16 meeting. “We have a firearms forensic lab. We do a lot of work with firearms.” Gauger said that his and other officers’ personal feelings about firearms had no bearing on their enforcement of gun laws. “We are given a set of laws by the county, the state and the federal government,” he said. “We enforce those laws fairly and equally with parity for everyone.” More people are killed with firearms in the United States than in any other country in the world, Gauger noted. “We also have more people in prison than any other country in the world,” he said. “In our armed services, sadly, in the past year they have lost more servicemen by suicide than they have in armed conflict, and the majority of them were with weapons.” Gun issues are more of a societal problem than guns or gun laws, he said. “We’re all aware of Sandy Hook,” Gauger said. “What happened at Sandy Hook? A young man suffering from mental illness walked into a school with weapons and started shooting children and teachers.” The weapons came from the man’s mother, who had purchased
several weapons and left them in her home accessible to her son. “This happens all the time,” he said. “I said it’s a community issue, it’s a society issue. Mental health issues are present in a lot of the folks who are these active shooters.” Gauger said there was a disconnect with reality during the Reagan era when many mental institutions were closed and the patients released. “They were going to transfer all those folks from those centers and send them to the community, where they were going to provide all this funding so they could be treated,” he said. “It worked the first year, and after that year they de-funded those programs every year, including right up to this year.” Gauger pointed out that the state government currently wants to take away financing for psychotropic medications for those who are bipolar, manic depressive or have aggressive backgrounds, adding that such people are involved with many of the shootings the sheriff’s office handles. “A family came forward about a week ago and said, ‘We’re suing the sheriff; they shot our child,’” he said, pointing out that shortly before the child was shot, the mother had stopped giving him drugs that reduced hostility and aggressiveness. “This is happening all around, and those with access to firearms are not being reported, not in the system, where they are not allowed to have or purchase firearms.” Possession of firearms by gang members is a big issue locally, Gauger said, pointing out that PBSO confiscated between 600
and 700 guns from gang members in the past eight years. “We have dismantled the gangs that are doing all the shootings,” he said. “Our gang-related homicides are way down, but our domestic homicides are up, though. It’s a family issue, and that’s where it all starts. Parents, know where your guns are.” Corp. Mike Johnson, a firearms expert with the PBSO, said gun laws apply to police officers as they do to anyone else. “I’ve been a law enforcement officer for almost 40 years,” he said. “Up until I got my concealed weapons permit, every time I went to buy a gun, I had to go through a background check, and I had to wait five days. I’d walk into a store in my uniform wearing my gun, but I’d still have to wait five days. There are laws in place that keep guns out of the wrong hands.” Johnson noted that those precluded from buying a firearm include anyone with a history of mental illness or domestic violence. He said the biggest problem is with those who buy firearms but don’t secure them. The PBSO and federal officers regularly monitor gun shows for illegal sales, and those caught violating gun sale laws are not only arrested but also must forfeit guns in their possession, he said. Gauger said the PBSO is developing a community-driven program that allows residents to call and report families in which they think that someone has a mental condition that should prevent them from having access to firearms. He added that while the county jail population has decreased from
PBSO Chief Deputy Mike Gauger (left) and School District Police Commander Eli Cano (right) discuss gun issues at a public forum in Wellington last week. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER 3,400 to 2,400 in recent years, spending on the PBSO’s mental health unit has increased by 40 to 50 percent because the state and federal governments have cut financing almost to nothing for such programs. Palm Beach County School District Police Commander Eli Cano said the school district has prepared a countywide safety plan in response to the Sandy Hook shooting. There was already a safety plan in place. This most recent episode has challenged the district to revisit the plan and improve upon it, he said. Communication with students and parents was listed as a top concern. “A lot of questions have been asked since last month’s tragedy,” he said. “A lot of those questions we can’t answer.” He said that students need a
safe environment to be successful. “We communicate that to them and let them know we’re going to be there,” Cano said. After Sandy Hook, the number of calls to the school police to report the possibility of shootings increased dramatically, Cano said. “We had to respond to these, so we reached out to the sheriff’s office, we reached out to Delray, Boca, Jupiter, every jurisdiction in the county.” With the help of other departments, they were able to address the calls that were coming in, Cano said. The school district also has conducted a countywide security and facility review to see where each school stands, he said. Things being considered include optimal placement of camera monitors, how entries are set up and fenc-
ing conditions. All schools will now have a police aide at the entrance to register anyone coming on campus. Each school’s crisis plan is also being reviewed. “Every school has a crisis plan where every employee knows what he or she has to do,” he said. “We’re revisiting that. We’re making sure that everybody has a clear understanding of what is to be done.” Additional counseling has also been provided for teaching staff and students. “We have to be there for them,” Cano said. “Even though it happened up in Connecticut, we had a lot of people here affected. We had a lot of teachers in tears and students who didn’t want to come to school. It’s my job and responsibility to make sure that these people, when they do return, are going to be safe.”
RPB Agrees To Fund Median Sign For Cypress Head Neighborhood By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a median entry sign for the Cypress Head community last week. The sign will be built by village staff on Cypress Head Avenue, and measures will be taken so it is not placed where it might have to be destroyed by future development at the adjoining Cypress Key mixed-use development. Cypress Head, off Southern Blvd. east of the Crestwood Square shopping center, was supposed to have an entry sign built by the Cypress Key developer, but economic conditions stalled the project, which has remained unfinished for years. Meanwhile, Cypress Head has remained without an entry sign. Residents of Cypress Head petitioned the council in November for a median sign. Public Works Director Paul Webster presented several op-
tions, with cost estimates for a median sign or a wall sign built inhouse or by a contractor. Cypress Head Avenue is currently right-in, right-out and leftin, left-out, but the approval for the future Cypress Key development would change that to rightin and right-out only, Webster said. “The options we have looked at is an entry sign in the median of Cypress Head Avenue, and a sign on the wall at the northeast corner at Southern Blvd. and Cypress Head Avenue, or no additional sign,” Webster said. The estimated cost for the median sign with contracted labor would be about $28,000, or less than $12,500 if done in-house, Webster said. The cost for a wall sign would be about $16,300 for contracted labor and about $8,400 in-house. Webster said the staff recommendation was for a wall sign using in-house labor, and to work
with the developer of the adjacent property to build entry signs that identify both properties. Mayor Matty Mattioli pointed out that the wall sign would be visible only to drivers traveling east but that the median sign would create another problem in that it would be in jeopardy of having to be removed when new construction begins. “I have no problem with the wall sign, but I don’t know what the residents have to say about this,” Mattioli said. “Do the neighbors know what’s going on? Are they satisfied with the wall sign? If they are, I am. Let’s do it.” Webster said the original petition had requested a median sign. Mattioli said that one day, the adjacent property would be developed and they could negotiate a median sign. “In the meantime, they have something, [which is] better than nothing,” he said. Councilman Richard Valuntas,
who lives in the Cypress Head community, said most of the residents he had spoken with preferred a median sign, but he agreed with the reduced cost of the wall sign. “Cheaper is better, although there is a big concern, you’re definitely not going to see it if you’re heading westbound on Southern Blvd.,” Valuntas said. “In my mind, it definitely has to be done inhouse.” Vice Mayor Fred Pinto said he would prefer the median sign, but he was concerned that it would be money wasted if the developer wanted something else there. Valuntas said the developer would have no say what goes there since Cypress Head Avenue is a public right of way. “My understanding is that if we put the sign up in our right-of-way, we can do it,” he said. Village Manager Ray Liggins confirmed that Cypress Head Avenue is a public right-of-way. “We
would put it in the median where it would have the least probability of being in the way of construction,” Liggins said. “Once it’s there, we can make the developer deal with it when he comes in.” Liggins pointed out that the Cypress Head Avenue entrance would also be a shared entrance with Cypress Key. Councilman Jeff Hmara said he thought the median sign made more sense, noting that under the current development approval, Cypress Key would also have a western entrance that could have its own sign. Councilwoman Martha Webster said she understood that a wall sign would not be readily visible by westbound drivers but pointed out that the Cypress Key property is currently under litigation that might be resolved soon. “If a developer comes in there, then it’s going to be an amazing [transformation],” she said. “They would replace it with something you
would be much happier with, because it would be superior to an in-house sign, although we do wonderful work… You have waited so long now, maybe with a little more patience you might have a better one.” Cypress Head resident Rene Berlingeri, who submitted the petition in November, said he understood paying less for a sign but questioned its effectiveness. “We put the sign on the wall, you only see it one way,” Berlingeri said. Liggins said there was a risk for a median sign in that a new developer might want to change his plan to make Cypress Head Blvd. the main entrance to Cypress Key. However, any changes to the development plan would have to come to the council, he said. Valuntas made a motion to approve a staff-made median sign, placed where it would not need to be demolished due to future construction. The motion carried 5-0.
Mall At Wellington Green Names Marc Strich New General Manager
Marc Strich
Retail veteran Marc Strich has been named the new general manager of the Mall at Wellington Green. Strich succeeds Dorian Zimmer-Bordenave, who was promoted to regional vice president of center operations for the Taubman Company. Michigan-based Taubman owns, leases and/or manages 27 premium shopping centers, including the Mall at Wellington Green. Effective immediately, Strich will oversee mall operations, its management team and asset management, as well as retailer and community relations, marketing and sponsorship. A seasoned retail executive, Strich has spent the past 12 years as general manager of Woodfield Mall, a super-regional shopping
center in Schaumburg, Ill., outside Chicago. Taubman recently sold its interest in Woodfield and no longer manages the mall. While general manager at Woodfield, Strich also served as center operations resource for Taubman Asia in Korea and China and has assisted with the Mall of San Juan, opening next year in Puerto Rico. Before that, Strich was general manager of Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor, Mich., for four years and was previously assistant general manager at Woodfield. He also holds extensive multi-unit retail experience. Strich has been active in the Schaumburg community, having served on the Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau Board of Directors, as a member
of the Schaumburg Business Development Commission and as exofficio board member and former chair of the Schaumburg Business Association. The multilingual Strich attended the International School for the French Language in Dijon, France as well as the Colegio Ponceno de Varones in Ponce, Puerto Rico and earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. “Palm Beach County is one of the most desirable areas to live and conduct business in, and I am excited about joining the Mall at Wellington Green and moving to such a great community,” Strich said. The Mall at Wellington Green is a two-level, enclosed regional
shopping center at the southwest corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and State Road 7. The mall features more than 180 retailers and restaurants, including Dillard’s, JCPen-
ney, Macy’s, Nordstrom, City Furniture and Ashley Furniture Home Store. For additional information, visit www.shopwellingtongreen. com.
Help Clean Wellington Trace This Saturday The Wellington Preservation Coalition is now involved with Wellington’s “Adopt a Street” program. Coalition members invite the community to join them Saturday, Jan. 26 for a cleanup along Wellington Trace, from Forest Hill Blvd. to Palm Beach County FireRescue Station #25. Participants will meet in the parking area of the original Wellington Mall and will start promptly at 9
a.m. The coalition will supply all necessary items needed for the cleanup. The Wellington Preservation Coalition has adopted this portion of Wellington Trace as part of its commitment to engage in public service and stay involved in the community. For more information, call (561) 333-9843, e-mail contact @preservewellington.org or visit www.preservewellington.org.
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NEWS BRIEFS Wellington Offering Nursing Scholarship
Dressage Summit Set For Feb. 9-11 At Show Grounds
Wellington has joined with the NRI Institute of Health Sciences to announce a scholarship award of $15,000 to one Wellington resident. The Licensed Practical Nurse program at the Royal Palm Beach campus of Nursing Resources International begins in March. The scholarship will cover the entire cost of the 10-and-a-halfmonth training program offered by NRI. Applications for the scholarship are available to pick up at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) or downloaded from the village web site at www.wellingtonfl. gov. The completed application must arrive at the Wellington Municipal Complex no later than Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. The Wellington Village Council will make the final determination of the scholarship winner. For more information, call Community Projects Manager Kim Henghold at (561) 791-4137.
The 2013 Dressage Summit will be held Feb. 9-11 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. Featuring Klaus Balkenhol, Walter Zettl, Christoph Hess, and Linda and Pat Parelli, the Dressage Summit will focus on working together to build stronger horse/ human partnerships in classical dressage. These renowned presenters will demonstrate how to apply the fundamental principles of classical dressage to every level of the sport while respecting the dignity of both horse and human. This groundbreaking collaboration between dressage masters and top horsemen provides an exciting new perspective where dressage and natural horsemanship converge to enhance the training of the dressage athlete. Topics for the Dressage Summit range from developing the basics in any horse, overcoming training issues, developing a confident and willing horse, practical application of the dressage training scale for any horse, develop-
ing a physically and emotionally fit athlete to for competition, and applying psychology for the horse (and rider) to improve the partnership. Three-day tickets to the 2013 Dressage Summit are available for $195, and one-day tickets cost $95. Limited VIP tickets are available for $395 and include catered food, complimentary beer and wine, as well as the chance to mingle with Dressage Summit presenters. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.dressage summit.com or call (855) 727-3554.
Grandparents Circle Coming To Wycliffe The Commission for Jewish Education of the Palm Beaches will hold its Grandparents Circle program on five consecutive Tuesdays at 10 a.m. beginning Feb. 12 at Wycliffe Country Club (4650 Wycliffe Country Club Blvd., Wellington). Created by the Jewish Outreach Institute and implemented locally by the CJE, this free program includes a five-session course, a connection to family-friendly
events and a national e-mail discussion forum providing a supportive online community of peers. “Regardless of how children in interfaith homes are being raised, each child is entitled to their legacy. As Jewish grandparents, we have the privilege of passing down our heritage,” said N. Deborah Stapler of Palm Beach Gardens, a Commission for Jewish Education board member and participant in CJE’s Grandparents Circle inaugural year. The CJE provides ideas and support that can lead to positive Jewish conversations and activities with their adult children, their spouses and their grandchildren. Rabbi Janie Grackin, the Grandparents Circle instructor for CJE, is an international community educator, who uses the art of storytelling to inspire and educate. She creates programs for intergenerational populations in synagogues and schools in the U.S., Europe and Israel. For more information, or to register for CJE’s Grandparents Circle, contact CJE Jewish Family Life associate Erika Simon at e.simon @cjepb.org or (561) 209-2607, or visit the CJE web site at www. cjepb.org.
Flu Shots Feb. 1 At The South Florida Fair The Palm Beach County Health Department will offer flu shots Friday, Feb. 1 from noon to 4 p.m. at the South Florida Fair. There is no charge for the vaccine with fair admission. “Every year people get the flu, causing them to miss work or school,” Health Department Director Dr. Alina Alonso said. “And the flu can lead to more severe complications that can result in hospitalization or even death. A flu shot is an excellent preventive measure.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 30,000 people die in the United State every year from complications associated with the flu. The CDC recommends the following preventive measures: completely cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing to prevent germs from going air borne, wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer when not available, properly dispose of used tissues, and stay home if you are sick.
Flu shots are available throughout the county at various healthrelated facilities. To find a flu shot location, call 211.
Local Artists Featured In Wellington Wellington has announced that the eighth annual Art in Public Places program for the 2012-13 year is displayed in three Wellington municipal locations. The Wellington Community Center, the Village Park gymnasium and the Wellington Municipal Complex will be showcasing the artwork until August. The public is invited to view the artwork, which includes paintings and photographs, during normal business hours. The featured artists are Mika Berlic, Talia Fradkin, Jeannette Parssi, Judy Pritchatt, Robert Mariani, Joanne Baker MacLeod, Adrianne Hetherington, JoAnn Tonks, Ted De Rubis and Hildegard Donavan. An artists reception was held Wednesday, Jan. 9. For more information, call Community Programs Manager Michelle Garvey at (561) 791-4082.
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NEWS
HOWLIN’ HOEDOWN AT THE PLAYERS CLUB BENEFITS BIG DOG RANCH RESCUE The second annual Howlin’ Hoedown was held Saturday, Jan. 19 at the Players Club in Wellington. Money was raised to support Big Dog Ranch Rescue, a local nonprofit no-kill shelter devoted to saving the lives of unwanted pets. The event offered participants a fun-filled, casual evening that included a silent auction, live auction, line dancing, barbecue dinner and a plain-ol’ howlin’ good time. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Event Chair Hope Barron (fourth from right) with members of the Event Committee.
Lorrie Browne and State Attorney Dave Aronberg.
Tom and Cathy Ferris.
Carol and Jim O’Neil have a “howling” good time.
Volunteer Christina Caillouette with Harvey and Big Dog Ranch Rescue Vice President Meg Weinberger.
Joanna Boynton looks over an auction basket.
Dr. Jeffrey Bishop and Ben Boynton.
Hope Barron, Angie Lopez-Belio, Galina Kogan and Marisol Lopez-Belio.
GLADES ACADEMY STUDENTS VISIT GOOD EARTH FARM IN LOXAHATCHEE GROVES Horse Tales Literacy Project held a literacy and equine experience Friday, Jan. 18 at Good Earth Farm in Loxahatchee Groves. First- and fourth-grade students from Glades Academy Elementary School in Pahokee engaged in several activities, such as reading to horses, grooming, tacking, nutrition and veterinary care of hor ses. For info., visit www.horsetalesliteracy.org. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Miss/Mr. Rodeo Palm Beach County Director Chelsea Chilcutt introduces pony Cookies ’n’ Cream to Tahari Tate, Antrimayah Bowles and Monaejah Jenkins.
Horse Tales Literacy Project Coordinator Shelly LeConte shows students the zebra.
Palm Beach Equine Clinic veterinarian Hilary Clayton (back, third from right) with the Glades Academy group.
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January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 11
THE 2013 SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR KICKS OFF WITH OPENING WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
The 2013 South Florida Fair opened Friday, Jan. 18. This year’s theme is “Washington, D.C.” and it includes an Air Force One fuselage, Oval Office replica, salute to past presidents, first ladies’ gowns on display and more. Also new this year is an elephant encounter show and America on Ice. The fair concludes Feb. 3. For more info., visit www.southfloridafair.com. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Chief Operating Officer Vicki Chouris cuts a ribbon to open the fair.
Palm Beach County Health Deptartment nurse Patty Taggart gives Marianne Fann a free flu shot.
(Front row, L-R) Corbin Buell, Matthew Gosa and Christiana Dukes; (back row) Firefighter Training Show Chief Neal Snyder and Aisa Uchimura.
South Florida Fair Chair Eva Webb helps Liam Terrell plant a sunflower seed at the Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation table.
Chico the Wonder Horse gives Cali Harris a kiss.
JC Western Cowgirls drill team members Michelle Carlin (on Toby), Jesse James (on Gigi), Payton Bristow (on Kizzy), Taylor Lamerson (on Tootisie) and Maranda Mattino (on Spirit).
Whole Foods Market Program Nets $1,482 For County Food Bank Whole Foods Market in Wellington has donated $1,482 to the Palm Beach County Food Bank, representing donations made by customers during the months of November and December to its Grab and Give Program. Customers at the store on State Road 7 were encouraged to “grab” a donation ticket in values of $1, $5 or $10 to “give” as a donation (Left) Diana Donnelly of Whole Foods Market with Palm Beach County Food Bank Executive Director Perry Borman.
to the Palm Beach County Food Bank. The amount selected was added to their bill at checkout, with all of the donations going to the Palm Beach County Food Bank. “We raised a considerable amount this year thanks to our enthusiastic team members and our generous customers,” said Lauren Belinsky, marketing team leader for the Wellington Whole Foods Market grocery store. Palm Beach County Food Bank Executive Director Perry Borman said the organization is very ap-
preciative of this effort. “The work of the Palm Beach County Food Bank plays a critical role in alleviating hunger for tens of thousands of families throughout our community,” he said. “This generous donation by the customers of Whole Foods helps us provide food to those who need it.” The Palm Beach County Food Bank is a nonprofit organization that rescues, collects and distributes food to dozens of agencies that take on the daily responsibility of feeding the hungry in Palm Beach County. During 2012, the
Palm County Food Bank transported more than 5 million pounds of food and distributed it at no cost to dozens of agencies in Palm Beach County, helping to provide food to more than 100,000 individuals. For more information about the Palm Beach County Food Bank, visit www.pbcfoodbank.org or call (561) 670-2518. For more information about Whole Foods Market community giving, visit www.wholefoods market.com or visit the Wellington store at 2635 State Road 7.
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LILA PHOTO
LILA PHOTO
ALEX PACHECO
The Perfect Match – Polo and Brunch
Enjoy fabulous cuisine, entertainment, fashion and, of course, world-class polo every Sunday, January 6 through April 21. Entrance at 2 p.m. | Polo match at 3 p.m.
Ticket Prices
Champagne Brunch
January-April
January-February: $100 March-April: $120
m (FOFSBM "ENJTTJPO #MFBDIFS 4FBUJOH m /PSUI BOE 4PVUI 4UBEJVN -BXO 4FBUJOH m $FOUFS 4UBEJVN -BXO 4FBUJOH m #PY 4FBUT MJNJUFE BWBJMBCJMJUZ
The Pavilion Reception Pass January-February: $55 March-April: $65 r 1SF NBUDI DIBNQBHOF UPBTU r 1BTTFE MJHIU IPST E PFVWSFT r 5XP DPNQMJNFOUBSZ ESJOL UPLFOT
r 1BWJMJPO SFDFQUJPO r -BWJTI HPVSNFU CSVODI r 7FSBOEB TFBUJOH r 5XP DPNQMJNFOUBSZ ESJOL UPLFOT
Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch (for two) January-February: $300 March-April: $330 r $PNQMJNFOUBSZ WBMFU QBSLJOH r 1BWJMJPO SFDFQUJPO r -BWJTI HPVSNFU CSVODI r " DPNQMJNFOUBSZ CPUUMF PG 7FVWF $MJDRVPU
For tickets, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687. Polo HOTLINE 561.282.5290 3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington, Florida 33414 *Tax inclusive. Parking additional, unless otherwise noted.
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NEWS
CAFCI, ROYAL PALM BEACH HOST MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY CELEBRATION Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) and Royal Palm Beach presented their 11th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Monday, Jan. 21 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. This year’s theme, “An Inspirational Legacy,” featured a variety of local talent. The keynote speaker was Urban League of Palm Beach County President and CEO Patrick Franklin, while Palms West PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER Presbyterian Church Rev. Ruffin Stepp gave the invocation. For more info., visit www.cafcipbc.org. SEE VIDEO FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM
CAFCI President Dennis Wright addresses the audience.
Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Martha Webster, Councilman Jeff Hmara, Mayor Matty Mattioli and Vice Mayor Fred Pinto watch the performances.
Demi Masters sings the national anthem.
County Commissioner Jess Santamaria with Elet Cyris.
Rev. Ruffin Stepp prepares to give the invocation.
CAFCI Cultural Director and event organizer Elet Cyris thanks local officials and guest speakers, including Patrick Franklin.
The Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County performs a musical tribute.
Dare To Dazzle Trunk Show And Cocktail Reception In Palm Beach Judy Grubman of Judith Murat Fine Jewelry, vice chair of the Dare to Dazzle gala for the Cleveland Clinic Florida and renowned artist and designer, welcomed more than 50 guests honoring Sydell L. Miller and the Cleveland Clinic Florida on Thursday, Jan. 17 at A.R.T. on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. The evening included several new designs from Grubman’s spring collection, showing interchangeable pieces that are creatively engineered from pendants to necklaces and earrings to necklaces — which reflect the sparkle that guests will experience at the Cleveland Clinic’s upcoming
black-tie affair, Dare to Dazzle. Ten percent of the proceeds from the weekend-long trunk show will benefit the Cleveland Clinic Florida. Grubman’s reputation as a uniquely talented and original designer has put the artist in the spotlight by creating distinctive oneof-a-kind pieces that communicate personality and style throughout the country in eponymous boutiques and department stores, including Bergdorf Goodman, Fortunoff, Greenleaf & Crosby, Hamilton Jewelers, London Jewelers, Rose Jewelers, Saks Fifth Avenue, Scully & Scully and Torneau, and
with celebrity darlings such as Anne Hathaway, Tyra Banks, Lisa Guerrero, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez and Jennifer Hudson. Sydell L. Miller is chairwoman of Cleveland Clinic Florida’s fifth annual ball, which will return to the Mar-a-Lago Club on Saturday, Feb. 9. Themed Dare to Dazzle, the affair has plenty of surprises in store and promises to be a sparkling evening of elegance and entertainment to benefit the worldrenowned, not-for-profit medical center with Florida locations in West Palm Beach and Weston. Bruce D. Bent is the honorary chairman, and a special tribute will
be made to Patrick Park, who is the recipient of the 2013 Sydell L. Miller Award. All proceeds from the 2013 event will remain in Florida to enhance the programs and services offered at the West Palm Beach and Weston locations and support Cleveland Clinic’s plans to expand into Palm Beach Gardens and Parkland. For more information on Dare to Dazzle, call (561) 804-0264 or visit www.clevelandclinicflorida.org/ palmbeachball. For more information about Judith Murat Fine Jewelry, visit www. judithmurat.com.
Judy Grubman, Andrew Bytnar and Ruby Rinker. PHOTO BY LUCIEN CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY
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SCHOOL NEWS
Course Registration Underway At SRHS From now until Monday, Jan. 28, Seminole Ridge High School students can download applications for advanced coursework (AP/ AICE) from the “Guidance” link at www.seminoleridge.org, pick them up from their current AP/AICE teacher, or the get them in the guidance office. Advanced coursework
applications are color-coded by subject area. Advanced coursework applications are due to AP/AICE teachers Monday, Jan. 28. Freshmen will meet individually with counselors to complete course registration Wednesday, Feb. 6 and Thursday, Feb. 7. Sophomores will
Seminole Ridge JROTC — Erik Learman, Joseph Rimi, Charlie Green, Brogan Zelinka and Kimberly Waddell.
meet individually with counselors to complete course registration Tuesday, Feb. 12 and Wednesday, Feb. 13. Juniors will meet individually with counselors to complete course registration Thursday, Feb. 14 and Friday, Feb. 15. • Marksmen Earn Fourth — The JROTC marksmanship team took fourth place in competition against seven area schools Jan. 12 at Atlantic High School. “It was a standard three-position meet that involved firing in the prone, standing and kneeling,” said retired Lt. Col Hans Hunt, the battalion commander. “For each firing position, our marksmen would shoot 10 shots at the target from a range of 30 feet. Joseph Rimi and Brogan Zelinka, the top shooters for the team, learned that they need to work on their timing and not to rush. Next competition, they’ll be ready.”
• Drive to Honor Newtown Victims — On Monday, Jan. 28, students in the SRHS National Honor Society, in cooperation with the SECME engineering club, will host a special blood drive to honor those killed in the school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. “Giving blood is a small sacrifice with great rewards,” SECME sponsor Erich Landstrom said. “Each donation can save up to three lives.” For every pint donated, SECME celebrates by launching a “personalized” water rocket. “This year, to honor the 20 children and six adults who died at Sandy Hook Elementary School, NHS and SECME will release 26 water rockets, each dedicated toward a child or adult killed in the shooting,” Landstrom said.
Osceola Creek Honors Scholar-Athletes Osceola Creek Middle School has announced the recipients of its Scholar-Athlete Award for December. The award is sponsored by the school police and honors varsity athletes who also excel in academics, effort, behavior and school spirit, and serve as role models for others. This month’s honorees carry high grade point averages as well as play varsity sports. Girls volleyball honored 13year-oldAlysa Tabel. “This is Alyssa’s third year of playing volleyball at the middle school level,” Coach Shayne Sanderford said. “She has been a starting player ever since sixth grade and has improved tremendously over the past three years, and I expect her to continue to improve while in high school. She was a great asset to our offense this year, and was an enthusiastic, coachable, talented and contributing member
of the OCMS volleyball team.” Tabel has a 4.88 grade point average, while also being a member of Osceola Creek’s softball and basketball teams. She was selected as the Female Athlete of the Year as a sixth-grader. Tabel hopes to play basketball at the University of Connecticut and move on to play in the WNBA. She also wants to follow her father’s footsteps into law enforcement. Boys soccer honored seventhgrader Jonathan Fioramonti. “Jonathan Fioramonti is an outstanding athlete,” boys soccer coach Tony Bugeja said. “He has been a starter on the Creek squad since the sixth grade. He is outstanding in the classroom and is a leader in the community. I am proud of his ministry work that he has done through his faith to impact others around him. I am honored to announce him for this award.”
Scholar-Athletes — Osceola Creek Principal Dan Frank, Alysa Tabel, Jonathan Fioramonti and School Officer Sandy Molenda. Fioramonti, 13, carries a 4.93 GPA, and also plays on Osceola Creek’s boys volleyball team. He is undecided on a college but is leaning toward either a medical or engineering career. Supporting the program are
Esha Dudhwewela (second place), Siam Khan (first place) and Alexa Pamatat (third place).
Binks Forest Holds Annual Spelling Bee Binks Forest Elementary School recently held its annual spelling bee, where the top 28 fourth- and fifth-grade spellers showed off their talents. The spelling bee lasted for 16 rounds. This year’s final spellers were all fourth-graders. The crowd was on their feet when Siam Khan from Gianna Gouveia’s class secured first place by correctly spelling the word “audacious.” Esha Dudhwewela and Alexa Pamatat from Robin Alicea’s class placed second and third. Some of the words included“interrogative,” “impediment,” “archaic” and “subsequent.” Khan and Dudhwewela have the opportunity to compete in the fi-
nal local spelling bee on Feb. 21 at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton. Binks Forest congratulates all of the participants. They are as follows: fourth-graders Siam Khan, Johan Rotchin, Cameron Garcia, Xavier Bernard, Alexandra Lares, Esha Dudhwewala, Abbie Hynes, Alexa Pamatat, Kayla O’Connor, Mia Caro, Ashley Kung, Allison Alvarez, Alec Anzalone and Megan Shah; and fifth-graders Chelsea Hiser, Jacob Levin, Tara Kari, Ella Weider, Fritzgerald Duvigneaud, Milena Chib, Emma Rantanen, Samantha Govero, Hannah Sam, Melissa Richter, Zachary Stefansson, Ryan Bruno and Rhett Smallridge.
NEW HORIZONS CELEBRATES READING
Subway, Domino’s Pizza and Burger King (located at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd.) and Dairy Queen (at Royal Palm Beach and Okeechobee boulevards), which donated free food coupons.
‘Steel Magnolias’ Opens Jan. 28 At TKA The King’s Academy Fine Arts Department will present Steel Magnolias Jan. 28 through Feb. 2. The production will take place in an intimate black box theater setting. Steel Magnolias is a comedydrama play about the bond among a group of Southern women in northwest Louisiana. It was writ-
ten by Robert Harling, based on his experience with the death of his sister. The action centers on Truvy’s beauty parlor and the women who regularly gather there. The story begins on the morning of Shelby’s wedding to Jackson and covers events over the next three years, including Shelby’s decision to have a child de-
spite having Type 1 diabetes and the complications that result from the decision. There is also a glimpse of the unlikely friendship between Clairee and Ouiser; Annelle’s transformation from a shy, anxious newcomer in town to a good-time girl and then to a revival-tent Christian; and Truvy’s relationships
with the men in her family. Tickets cost $20 per person or $100 for a table of six, which includes dessert. Tickets can be ordered online at www.tkafinearts. net by printing out and mailing the order form or by calling (561) 6864244, ext. 353. The King’s Academy is located at 8401 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach.
Students, parents and teachers from New Horizons Elementary School gathered at the Wellington Barnes & Noble store for their annual book fair. Students performed Reader s’ Theater plays, recited poems they created, read stories they composed and sang songs all designed to encourage and proclaim the joys of reading. Pictured here are Mary Fran Weissleder with her third-grade class after performing a Readers’ Theater play.
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PALMS WEST PEOPLE
Meet 2013’s Acreage Landowners’ Association Board Of Directors The Acreage Landowners’ Association has announced the 2013 ALA Board of Directors while bidding farewell to the outgoing 2012 board members who have completed their terms. Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective to the board as well as much generosity of spirit and concern for Acreage residents. • President Bob Renna — A Florida resident since 1976, Renna has been married for 20 years and has four children. He has lived in The Acreage since 1992 and joined the ALA the same year. Renna has been an ALA board member since 2007 and president since 2008. From 1970 to 2004, he owned three businesses. Renna is the organizer of the Acreage Community Park Jam. “I became an ALA board member in an effort to keep The Acreage unique and a great community for all to live in and enjoy,” he said. • Vice President Todd Newfield — Married for 25 years and with two children in college, Newfield recently retired from Pembroke Pines Fire-Rescue and is owner/ operator of a lawn-care company.
He has been a western communities resident since 1994 and an Acreage resident since 2001. “After regularly attending ALA meetings for some time and educating myself on community issues, I joined the 2012 ALA board and hope to bring a positive voice on issues that affect our community,” Newfield said. • Secretary Ken Hendrick — Having lived in the Loxahatchee/ Acreage area since 1989 and married for 11 years, Hendrick is the former owner of Star Window Cleaning, which employed 27 people. “I sold that business in 1992 and started Hendrick Services Sign Service, he said. Hendrick is a former president of the Acreage Network Referral Group and currently on the IT board at Seminole Ridge High School. He has owned Loxahatchee Radio since 2005, offering free advertisements to all business owners in The Acreage. “I attend most of the ALA and ITID meetings in an effort to be a voice for our community residents who are unable to attend and help out due to work and other con-
straints,” Hendrick said. • Sergeant at Arms Sandra Love Semande — An Acreage resident since 1985, Semande is married with children (his and hers) who have attended Acreage schools. She worked as office manager at the Indian Trail Improvement District from 1993-99 and has volunteered with numerous Acreage schools and organizations. She currently works as a school crossing guard and volunteers for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Observer Patrol program. Semande served on the ITID Board of Supervisors from 2006-08. “I look forward to working with our new group of ALA board members, to continue being the watch dog for our families, friends and neighbors of this beautiful community, and provide free fun filled events for our residents,” she said. • Treasurer Ellen Guncheon and Director Randy Guncheon — The Guncheons have been married for 20 years, and their daughter is a senior at Seminole Ridge High School. They have been Acreage residents since 1989.
“We chose to serve on the ALA board after taking a bigger interest in the happenings of our government through the ITID board,” they said. “The ALA gives us the chance to try and be a voice for the fellow residents on issues such as drainage, water, roads and fiscal accountability.” • Director Mike Erickson — Erickson and his wife Pam moved to The Acreage in 1987 as newlyweds to build their dream house. While raising three boys, Erickson has been active in local organizations such as the ALA and Acreage Athletic League community, through groups including but not limited to the AAL, the ALA, the Acreage/Loxahatchee Rotary Club, the ITID Board of Supervisors and the Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life. The Ericksons own and operate the marine-oriented manufacturing company Canvas Designers Inc. in Riviera Beach. “Successfully starting and running a business that employs approximately 40 people with more than half of them from The Acreage provides me a skill set that I want to use to make our communi-
ty a better place to live,” Erickson said. “Change is constantly happening; the trick is to make sure the changes positive affect the results which will define what this community is in the future.” • Director Denis M. Greenidge — Greenidge and his wife built their home in 2004 and moved to The Acreage last April after his retirement from the Defense Intelligence Agency. Prior to the DIA appointment, Greenidge worked as an analyst for the U.S. military in Netherlands, Germany, southeast Asia and the Middle East. “I became an ALA board member to make a positive contribution to The Acreage, to become a part of the problem-solving team and to work for future economic development in our growing community,” he said. “My immediate focus is to work with my ALA counterparts, using my management and planning skills to ensure that the drainage problems and any proposed solution is comprehensive, and that it takes into account the impact of changes resulting from growth — potentially 70,000 residents.”
• Director Perry Williams — Williams and his wife Vickie have lived in The Acreage for 27 years. He has been a heavy equipment operator for his family’s company for more than 35 years. The Williams’ have two Shih Tzus, a very large Pekinese and a large neighborhood black cat they call Midnight, who adopted them. “I’m looking forward to participating and helping with resolving problems and creating events for the community,” Williams said. “I am concerned with the issues of The Acreage as it continues to grow. Hopefully more residents will begin to participate in our quest to improve our neighborhood.”
Talia Fradkin Wins Wellington FifthMichael Turaniczo Statewide Historical Graders Learn How Graduates Air Force Oration Contest To Sew At ArtStart Basic Training Wellington resident Raymond Wess, president of the Palm Beach Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, represented his chapter at the Florida State Conference for the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. The Sons of the American Revolution is a lineage society composed of individuals who can trace their ancestry back to a Revolutionary War patriot. This year’s state conference was held Jan. 11 in Kissimmee. The Palm Beach Chapter’s chapter winner, Wellington resident Talia Fradkin, entered the Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest. With the support and encouragement of Wess, Fradkin placed second in the state of Florida with her oration titled “What’s in a Name?” about Margaret Corbin, the first woman to receive a pension by the army for her valiant efforts, the same as a male soldier.
Talia Fradkin and Raymond Wess accept the award. “Captain Molly,” as she was called, took her husband’s place behind the cannon when he fell in battle. “I learned so much from the research for this speech, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to represent the Palm Beach Chapter,” said Fradkin, who serves as Florida Society Children of the American Revolution state historian.
Working with ArtStart’s Jeannette Pomeroy Parssi, Wellington fifth-graders Hope Sohn and Olivia Bomar learned to read a pattern, cut fabric and work on a sewing machine to create their very own new clothes. “The girls did a great job,” Parssi said, “and they did it all themselves, from adding the ruffles and zippers to doing all of the finishing work. I think they both look great!” Preparing for the auditions at Bak Middle School of the Arts, two other ArtStart students used the sewing machine to create their 3-D works of art for their portfolios. “When these girls heard about it, they wanted to try their hand at sewing,” said Parssi, who added that ArtStart is now offering sewing classes to anyone who wants to learn, regardless of age or ability. Parssi has been sewing since she was a young girl herself, and
Hope Sohn and Olivia Bomar display clothes they created. has taught her own daughters the craft. ArtStart is a nonprofit organization providing educational opportunities in the arts. For more information on the sewing classes, contact ArtStart’s Parssi at (561) 635-2037 or visit the ArtStart web site at www.artstart inc.org.
Air Force Airman Michael Turaniczo graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Turaniczo completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force. Turaniczo is the son of Mike and Kelly Turaniczo of The Acreage. He is a 2007 graduate of Seminole Ridge High School.
Michael Turaniczo
Send Palms West People 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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POLO & EQUESTRIAN
Villa Del Lago Defeats ERG 11-10 In Joe Barry Memorial Cup Action Villa Del Lago narrowly edged ERG 11-10 in Joe Barry Memorial Cup action Sunday, Jan. 20 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. Polito Pieres scored the first goal of the game in the opening 25 seconds of play to give Villa Del Lago the early lead. Jeff Blake responded with a goal for ERG, but Villa
Anthony Fasano at Sunday polo.
Del Lago’s Agustin Obregon closed out the scoring with a goal in the final 32 seconds of the chukker to make the score 2-1. Three consecutive goals in the second period put Villa Del Lago on top, 5-1. The team got two goals from Pieres and another goal from Obregon. Paco de Narvaez put ERG on the scoreboard, but at the end of the second chukker, Villa Del Lago was in front by three goals, 5-2. The two teams exchanged goals in the third, with Magoo Laprida scoring twice from the field, while ERG relied on a pair of penalty goals from de Narvaez. The first half ended with Villa Del Lago defending its two-goal lead, 6-4. Two more goals from de Narvaez (one on a penalty shot) were offset by a pair of goals from Laprida, and the fourth chukker ended with Villa Del Lago maintaining its lead, 8-6. Pieres added two more goals to the Villa Del Lago total in the fifth,
Though briefly tied in the first chukker, Villa Del Lago pulled ahead and remained there for the rest of the match.
Susie and Jack Hanna with Tara Lordi. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO
but ERG got single goals from Scott Wood and de Narvaez (a 60yard penalty conversion). ERG continued to trail by two goals, 108. Just one minute into the final
chukker, Blake scored to cut the Villa Del Lago lead to a single goal, 10-9, but ERG would get no closer. Pieres converted a penalty shot for a goal, 11-9. ERG continued to press its attack, but time wasn’t
on its side. De Narvaez scored the final goal of the game, but the Villa Del Lago defense kept ERG off the scoreboard for the final three minutes of the game to ride off with the 11-10 win.
Pieres set the pace for Villa Del Lago with six goals, one on a penalty shot. Laprida and Obregon scored two goals each, and Villa Del Lago was awarded one goal See POLO, page 20
Kessler Wins $50,000 Wellington Equestrian Realty Grand Prix CSI 2* The youngest rider in the $50,000 Wellington Equestrian Realty Grand Prix took top honors on Saturday, Jan. 19, as 18-yearold Reed Kessler and Ligist jumped to victory during the highlight event of week two at the 2013 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival. With riders representing 14 different countries competing in the class, the United States took the top seven placings, and the
young women placed first, second and third. Kessler and Ligist topped Katie Dinan, 19, and Nougat du Vallet, and Brianne Goutal, 24, aboard Nice de Prissey. Luc Musette of Belgium set the course for last Saturday night’s $50,000 Wellington Equestrian Realty Grand Prix. The riders were all complimentary of Musette’s course for the evening. “I thought it was amazing. I thought this course was beautifully built and
Reed Kessler aboard Ligist. PHOTOGRAPHY BY SPORTFOT PHOTO
spot on with the number of clears,” Goutal said. Kessler agreed. “I thought the course was outstanding,” she said. “I love really natural-feeling courses and I thought the whole thing felt so natural and smooth. There were options for your horses, and I thought it was fantastic. He actually reminded me that this was the second grand prix I have won that he designed. He designed the 2* in Paris that I won when I was 16, and I love his courses.” Fifty-four entries started the class in round one, and nine advanced to the jump-off with four jumping double clear. Katie Dinan and Grant Road Partners’ Nougat du Vallet were the first pair to clear the short course and set the time to beat at 38.19 seconds in the jump-off, eventually finishing second. Ken Berkley and Ax-Cent, owned by Rivers Edge, also cleared the jumpoff course and stopped the clock in 39.12 seconds to place fourth. Reed Kessler and Ligist were next to go and blazed through the course in 37.81 seconds to take the lead. Last on course, Brianne Goutal and Cloverleaf Farm’s Nice de Prissey, cleared the short course in 38.53 seconds to secure fourth place honors.
Kessler was thrilled with the effort of her horse Ligist in the evening’s class. Kessler and the 13-year-old Swedish Warmblood gelding recently jumped up to 2.10m in a six-bar class in Geneva, and the rider feels that the class really “raised his sights.” Second-place finisher Dinan was also very pleased with her mount Nougat du Vallet. Dinan, who is currently in college at Harvard University, is off from school for the month and making the most of her time in Wellington. Goutal went last with her mount Nice de Prissey and had the opportunity to see both riders go in the jump-off, but had to take into account her horse’s large stride. Garfield and Alexandra Crown jumped their way to championship honors in the Antares Large Junior Hunters 16-17 division during week two of competition at WEF. Crown, of New York City, and her 11-year-old Holsteiner gelding nearly swept the division after winning all four over fences classes. The pair placed fourth in a competitive under saddle class on day two of competition for the division. The reserve champion title went to Southfields Farm’s Bishonen and David Oberkircher. The 11-
year-old Warmblood gelding, trained by David Raposa, placed second over fences during day one of competition. Bishonen and Oberkircher took home the blue in the under saddle class on day two after earning fifth and third-place ribbons in the over fences rounds. Crown and Garfield were also named junior owner/rider champion for earning the most points of any owner/rider combination in the division. Crown purchased Garfield in late 2011 after deciding to move up from the pony hunter divisions. “[Trainer] Scott Stewart had shown him for a year before me, so he knew he would be a perfect first year hunter for me,” Crown said. Stewart was onto something; Crown and Garfield competed up and down the east coast in 2012 before being named Large Junior Hunter 15 and Under Champion at the Pennsylvania National in Harrisburg. The pair had strong performances at the Hampton Classic, Capital Challenge, and Washington International horse shows as well. The Winter Equestrian Festival features 12 weeks of competition that conclude March 31. More than $6 million in prize money will
Alexandra Crown aboard Garfield. PHOTO BY ANNE GITTINS PHOTOGRAPHY
be awarded through the circuit. For full results, visit www.show groundslive.com. The Palm Beach International Equestrian Center is located at 14440 Pierson Road, Wellington. For more information, visit www. equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-5867.
Page 20 January 25 - January 31, 2013
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NEWS
SUPPORTERS TURN OUT FOR RPB CANDIDATE DAVID SWIFT’S CAMPAIGN EVENT
A campaign party was held for former Royal Palm Beach Councilman David Swift Jan. 20 at the Village Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Swift, who served on the council for 20 years, is challenging incumbent Councilwoman Martha Webster in the March municipal election. The event was a success, with 38 RPB residents on hand. Another campaign reception is planned for Feb. 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Hilary’s Restaurant (630 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). For more info., visit www.dave-swift.com.
David Swift (eighth from left) with supporters, including Vice Mayor Fred Pinto and Mayor Matty Mattioli.
PBCHS To Host Dance Marathon Palm Beach Central High School will host a Dance Marathon on Saturday, Jan. 26 from noon to 8 p.m. to benefit Shands Hospital for Children at the University of Florida. With more than 150 colleges and high schools raising money for local Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, Dance Marathon has become a nationwide movement. Dance Marathon is a completely student-run philanthropy celebration filled with dancing and standing, but absolutely no sitting. “We dance for those who
can’t” has become the universal reply when spectators question how people could stay on their feet for that long. The money raised from Dance Marathon provides for more than 17 million patients each year, including 88 percent of all children battling cancer. This year, Palm Beach Central has decided to begin and establish Dance Marathon. All money raised will directly benefit Shands Hospital for Children. For more information, visit www.helpmakemiracles.org/event/ palmbeachcentral.
Shower For Shelter Set For Jan. 27 Holy Ground Shelter for Homeless Inc. will host the second annual “Shower for Shelter” luncheon and auction on Sunday, Jan. 27 from noon to 3 p.m. in the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Holy Ground Shelter for Homeless Inc. is an independent, faith-
League Lunch
Moved From PBIEC To IPC
continued from page 1 tend the luncheon, should it be held at the show grounds. Coates said he wanted to be sure all council members are comfortable attending. “I was in favor of keeping it at [PBIEC] not because of politics but because of how we brand our village as an equestrian community,” Coates said. “But I also understand the views of my co-council members who are being sued personally. If they are not comfortable being at that site, I could not, in good conscience, push to keep it someplace where they would not feel comfortable.” Yet Coates wanted to be sure the luncheon stays in Wellington. “It sounds like Councilman Greene already worked that out,” he said. “I would support doing it at IPC if the rest of the council is comfortable there.” Greene thanked Coates for his support. “I’m just not comfortable,” he said of plans to hold the luncheon at the equestrian center. But Gerwig said it was playing politics no matter where they held it. “To say any location is not political is a little absurd,” she said. “I don’t agree that [IPC] is a nonpolitical location.” Coates said he was concerned with comfort, not politics. “If it’s a place where council
Polo
Joe Barry Final This Sunday
continued from page 19 on a Penalty 1 for dangerous riding in the area of the goal. ERG’s de Narvaez led all scoring with seven goals, five on penalty shots. Blake added a goal from the field and a penalty conversion for a goal, and Wood accounted for a goal in the loss. Laprida was named MVP for his efforts, while Lola, a 6-year-old Bay mare owned by Marcos Bignoli and played by Pieres, was honored as Best Playing Pony. Tournament semifinals were played Wednesday afternoon, but results were not available by press time. The first match pit Villa del
based nonprofit organization that provides housing and mentoring to homeless, pregnant or parenting teens and guides them toward becoming independent adults and good parents. Tickets to the event cost $75, and the public is invited to attend. For more info., call (561) 355-5040 or visit www.holygroundpbc.org. members are expected to attend, it has to be a place where they’re comfortable,” he said. “It seems to me that at least four out of the five of us are comfortable at IPC, whereas only two out of five would be comfortable at the other site.” Coates made a motion to move the meeting to IPC, which carried 4-1 with Gerwig dissenting. In other business, council members unanimously voted to put out a request for letters of interest from lawyers or law firms looking to step in as Wellington’s village attorney. Assistant Village Manager Francine Ramaglia explained that the option would allow Wellington to seek both in-house attorneys and contracted law firms. Coates said he would agree with that. “I want to expedite the process,” he said. Schofield said that the process for selecting a firm or individual lawyer would be different, so the council would need to decide eventually which to do. Coates said he wanted the opportunity to hear a presentation from prospective attorneys, and Schofield said council members would have that chance. “You get to have that anyway,” he said. “The main difference is in the hiring process, whether you have an employee or enter into a contract.” Council members directed staff to request letters of intent so they could continue to decide whether they wanted to hire in-house or contracted counsel. Lago against Audi, with Zacara playing Crab Orchard in the second semifinal. The finalists will meet in the Joe Barry Memorial Cup championship game Sunday, Jan. 27 at 3 p.m. The high-goal polo action takes place every Sunday through April 21 at the International Polo Club. Ticket prices for Sunday polo range from $10 general admission to $120 box seating. Tickets for Sunday brunch at the Pavilion and its reception start at $55, upward to $330 for the Veuve Clicquot brunch package for two. Tickets can be purchased online at www.internationalpolo club.com or by calling (561) 2045687. Find IPC on Facebook, follow on Twitter at @SundayPolo or visit www.ipcscoreboard.com for up-to-date scores, schedules, rosters and all other polo information.
Lily Ross and Amer Marukic enjoy the afternoon. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO
Nixie and David Swift
Hager
More Focus On Drainage
continued from page 1 know that they’re welcome at the meeting.” Hager said residents have talked about the discord on the board and with staff. “I have voiced this in the past, and I believe it to be true,” she said. “The only way that we’re really going to be able to work through these problems is to not stay in the past — this might sound cliché — but to learn from the past, and to move forward with what we have built, and keep going.” Being a schoolteacher, Hager considers herself experienced at dealing with diverse personalities. “There are personalities everywhere,” she said. “I have to deal with a myriad of personalities, in school, with parents, other teachers, students, the public; I’m out there talking to residents a lot. On this board there are a lot of personality issues. I just think we need to be adults and handle it.” Hager said she wants to take a realistic outlook at the district and its responsibilities. “As far as I’m concerned, Indian Trail is first and foremost a water control district,” she said. “We’re not the president’s office; we’re not the county commissioners. We need to be able to manage what we are before we can hope to do anything more.”
Jarriel
Actions Concern Manager
continued from page 1 LGWCD Supervisor Frank Schiola. “The job would have been done with a pole saw and a chain saw. At $26.50 an hour, it would have been approximately $800. That’s not counting the rental of the chain saw and pole saw.” Jarriel also pointed out that using those tools would have been dangerous compared with using the tractor. Kutney’s letter to DeMarois referred to a 1999 attorney general opinion that special districts could not perform work on private roads. Jarriel did not feel that concept applies. “Everybody knows that the roads in Loxahatchee Groves are basically public roads because they’re open to the public,” Jarriel said, estimating that he has personally put in 20 to 30 requests for various types of maintenance on behalf of residents. Councilman Tom Goltzené said he has spoken to Kutney about the need for hedging and trimming on Sixth Court North. “I spoke to him as we rode in his vehicle the length of the street and watched the branches bounce off his windshield,” Goltzené said, adding that the town had been waiting a long time to see any work done. Jarriel said the town is in need of an interlocal agreement with the district for such work, but it has been stalled by recent events, including the dismissal of former
Blotter continued from page 6 from her purse. The wallet was described as a two-fold beige Khloe wallet valued at approximately $1,200. Inside was the victim’s bank card, gift cards, $20 cash and the victim’s state identification. There was no further information available at the time of the report. JAN. 22 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched Tuesday to a construction site in Oakmont Estates regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. last Thursday and 8 a.m. Tuesday, someone entered the home, which is currently under construction, and stole five uninstalled kitchen cabinets. The complainant said that the home did not yet have locks on it, so there was no forced entry. The stolen cabinets were valued at approximately $2,000. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.
David Swift and Tinu Pena.
David Swift speaks to his supporters.
Under her leadership, Hager wants ITID to focus on water first, including the proper care and maintenance of swales, canals and retention areas. “I agree that Indian Trail needs to pursue every avenue to get more outfall,” she said. “The board is continuing to ask for more discharge from the South Florida Water Management District. We need more than the allotted quarter of an inch. However, we need to pay careful attention to how we maintain the outfall that we currently have. It’s not a matter of only having a quarter of an inch allowance, it’s more of a matter of how we deal with and manage that quarter of an inch we’re allotted.” As a part of the process, Hager said ITID will continue to work to find ways to hold water. “We need the capacity to maintain more of our own water,” she said. “The ability to hold on to more of our own water in an emergency would decrease the likelihood of severe flash flooding, which was the problem with [Tropical Storm] Isaac.” As an example, she said that if swales and canals were designed so they could hold more water, it would not only increase storage capacity, but also lead to fewer issues with moving large amounts of water when necessary. Also, pumps and other equipment need to be maintained so that they are dependable. “We have problems with things not working when they’re supposed to,” Hager said. “That, to me, is compro-
mising what people work for. I get up and go to work so I can have my property with my horses on it. And I’m sure a lot of people are like that. I mean, if I don’t have my property, what do I have? Not much.” Roads are another district responsibility, and Hager said she has not been happy with their condition since she moved here. “That’s one of the main reasons I got involved,” she said. “We really need to rethink the roads. I don’t know if it’s going to come down to graders or people operating the graders, but the roads are a mess. I would like for people’s cars not to get destroyed going down washboard roads, but then again there has to be some happy medium. I moved out here because I love the idea of living on dirt roads, but with a dirt road comes a price.” Many people speed down roads to decrease the washboard effect on their vehicle, she said, but they need to be made aware that speeding is also what creates the washboard effect. “We only have six graders and 110 square miles to deal with,” she said. Horse trails need to be improved so they are safer, Hager added. “I don’t want people to think that’s my only concern, because it isn’t, but there’s nowhere safe to ride out here in The Acreage,” she said, pointing out that one of the problems is that the existing trails are not interconnected. “A rider is forced to enter into traffic, cross
traffic or move with traffic… If they want to ride without the threat of traffic, they have to trailer to a riding area. To be able to ride around the neighborhood has become increasingly dangerous.” She also wants to improve safety for pedestrians by seeing that all roads have at least one sidewalk or guardrail. “I’m looking for something that will make the most people happy,” Hager said. But in order to achieve these things, the board has to work together. “We need to remember that our jobs are to serve the public, and I’m not there to serve myself,” Hager said. “If we can remember that one aspect in this game, so many other issues and concerns will iron themselves out.”
LGWCD Administrator Clete Saunier. The memo from Kutney warned Jarriel to take his concerns seriously, “since these infractions are considered malfeasance.” “I would advise you that you conduct yourself accordingly, as the management company cannot continue to overlook this indiscriminate behavior in the future,” Kutney concluded. Jarriel asked council members if they thought he had behaved unethically. “I personally feel like the management works for the council. The way I read this letter is we work for management,” he said. Kutney said the management company enjoys its role but that there have been several situations where Jarriel had pushed the envelope. “You guys have been great bosses,” he said, adding, “Ron Jarriel is a fine man [and] my memorandum was an attempt to help Ron.” Kutney pointed out that the management company operates under direction of a council majority and that if individual council members do things that could affect the rest of the council, it’s a serious situation.
Kutney said he had no intention of the discussion being on the agenda, but Jarriel had insisted. He added that Jarriel cannot appear before other governmental bodies saying he is only a resident, because he is still a councilman. “I’m sure when those supervisors look at him they don’t recognize just Ron Jarriel, resident,” Kutney said. During public comment, LGWCD Supervisor Don Widing said that if he’d known his motion at the district meeting was to do the hedging, he would not have done it, and he did not know that the town’s contractor was Schiola. He added that it had taken too long to reach an interlocal agreement between the district and the town. “It doesn’t take 10 people three or four months to make a simple decision on who’s going to cut some stinking dead trees down in this town,” Widing said. “We’ve got to stop these little skirmishes.” Councilman Jim Rockett said he did not disapprove of Jarriel’s behavior. “I think he might get overzealous at times, but that’s it,” Rockett said. “I’m not interested in doing anything about it.” Vice Mayor Ryan Liang said he
supports Jarriel and his actions. “I think the bigger question is, why did he feel he needed to go directly to the district?” Liang said. “At times, I’m sure we all have felt government is moving too slow. We’re trying to get things done, and Ron feels at times that he needs to take it into his own hands. I have no objections to that, but we do need to follow our guidelines.” Liang added that he would have liked the council to have discussed the issue before Kutney’s letter had been sent to the district. Goltzené said the function of the council is to make policy. “In doing that, we ought to realize those policies are for everyone, including ourselves,” he said. “Ron needs to understand, and I say this with all due respect... that his role in this situation is one of five, and one who is here to vote on issues and give direction to management, and to allow management to do the work.” Goltzené said he did not want to sanction Jarriel, and that it was Jarriel himself who had brought the issue up. “I’d just like to see people get along, work together and we not have any repercussions of this between us,” he said.
terly rather than possibly allow a sale on four consecutive weekends. “That could be a problem for some neighbors,” he said. Webster made a motion to go with four garage sales, one per quarter; to keep the fee the same; to include the web site link; and to issue a maximum of four signs. Pinto, however, preferred three sales, spaced apart due to traffic concerns, and Webster agreed to amend her motion. Cavaleri thanked council members for their consideration. “Three is better than two,” she said. Mayor Matty Mattioli said he
would vote for the motion but was concerned about making changes to benefit only one person, since no one else seemed to be concerned about yard sales. “I will support this, but I just want to put a warning out that you’re on a slippery slope,” he said, reminding his fellow council members of a 2011 incident when the council decided not to change an ordinance to allow a resident to give swimming lessons in a residential neighborhood. “If you do it one time, you have to do it for everybody.” The motion carried 5-0.
show that it would have an impact on Victoria Grove, I would be leaning toward approving it, personally,” he said. Commission Alternate Joseph Boyle said he thought traffic is an issue. “I don’t like driving along that road now,” Boyle said. “I think it’s a pain in neck going through Victoria Grove… I’m surprised the traffic study didn’t address it. My feeling is everything except the restaurant drive-through is pretty much a slam-dunk.” Commissioner Richard Becher said he was surprised that residents were not raising questions about possible light intrusion and late operating hours from a drivethrough restaurant. “I think the average building there closes around 6 or 7 o’clock,” Becher
said. “We don’t know how late a drive-through will stay open.” Heise said he has actually had requests for additional lighting in that area to help fight illegal activity. Axelberd made a motion to approve all the requested changes except the drive-through, and it carried 5-0. Axelberd also made a motion to postpone a decision on the drivethrough and give the owner an opportunity to meet with residents; it died for lack of a second. Boyle made a motion to deny the drive-through, which carried 4-1 with Axelberd opposed. The commission’s denial is only advisory in nature. A final decision will be made by the council next month.
Sale Rules
Three Sales, More Signs
continued from page 1 sale, I don’t think two signs would get you to the location of your garage because of the way the streets are here in Royal Palm Beach,” she said. “I would go to four signs, and I would be inclined to go to three or four garage sales per year.” Councilman Richard Valuntas agreed with Webster’s suggestions, except that he would restrict the sales to one garage sale quar-
RPB Zone
Traffic Concerns Residents
continued from page 3 to proceed,” he said. “I’ve got tenants that have signed.” Erwin said the commission’s options would be to recommend denial of the drive-through and let the applicant appeal it to the Royal Palm Beach Village Council, which would be more expeditious, or postpone it so the applicant could talk to residents. Axelberd acknowledged that the shopping center needs some anchors to help out the other stores. “Unless there is a traffic study to
ITID President Jennifer Hager
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Pure Thoughts’ Beach Polo A Unique Experience
A beach polo fundraiser for Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue was held Saturday, Jan. 5 at Palm Beach Shores on Singer Island. Everyone had fun, even the people swimming by in the ocean. It started as the brainchild of Pure Thoughts volunteer Jill Wardle. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 25
January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 23
Bronco Girls Soccer Defeats WHS For District Title
The Palm Beach Central High School girls soccer team won its first district championship Friday, Jan. 18, defeating Wellington High School 6-1 before a capacity crowd. It was the second meeting of the season between the rival schools. Both teams advanced to the regional tournament. Page 37
Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION
INSIDE
Business Caremore Family Practice Focuses On Personalized Treatment Of Patients
Caremore Family Practice is a family-owned and family-operated office in Royal Palm Beach that focuses on bringing patients that hometown family doctor feel. The husband-and-wife team of Dr. Daniel and Dr. Geetanjali Dodson opened the practice in June 2010. To make certain that clients receive the best possible care, Caremore Family Practice tailors their services to provide only basic medical care, and the Dodsons build close relationships with their clients. Page 27
Sports WHS Girls Basketball Squad Edges Royal Palm Beach 46-29
The Wellington High School girls varsity basketball team defeated Royal Palm Beach High School 46-29 on Friday, Jan. 18 in Royal Palm Beach. Though both teams got off to a slow start, the Lady Wolverines took an early lead and were able to push past Royal Palm Beach. Page 37
THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ........................25-26 BUSINESS NEWS.................................. 27-29 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 31 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 37-39 COMMUNITY CALENDAR ...................... 40-41 CLASSIFIEDS ........................................ 42-47
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January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 25
FEATURES
Pure Thoughts’ Beach Polo A Fun, Unique Experience A day at the beach: sun, sand, surf and… steeds? Yep, there were horses on the beach Saturday, Jan. 5. Specifically, the beach was Palm Beach Shores on Singer Island. And the horses were seven polo ponies and two miniature horses for kids to pet and enjoy. And what, you might ask, were the polo ponies (and the minis) doing on the beach? They were there as part of a fundraiser for Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue, playing polo on the beach. It all started as the brainchild of Jill Wardle, a Pure Thoughts volunteer and Palm Beach Shores resident. She went to lots and lots of council meetings and talked to lots and lots of people. “Originally, I envisioned something like an old-fashioned barbecue or a keg party,” Wardle said. “But it kept growing and growing, and finally progressed into this.” Pure Thoughts President Brad Gaver has long been a polo enthusiast and regularly practices with other local players, some of whom were the other players in this quasi match/ demonstration. Kristen Brayden, another amateur like Gaver, brought two of her horses. Gaver brought three rescued Thoroughbred mares (Millennia, Chiquita and Panda) he has been using as polo ponies, and the two pros, Carlos GonzaGet 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 lez and Alejandro Retamoso, brought two of their polo ponies. By 11:30 a.m., the four riders were mounted and riding around in an area cordoned off by yellow police tape. The “goals” at either end were marked by traffic cones. Gaver briefly explained polo to the interested crowd of 200 to 250, and then the demonstration began. Ever try running in deep sand? Not only was it tiring for the horses, but the ball kept getting stuck. Then someone threw in a beach ball, and that worked a lot better. Happily, the day was overcast and breezy, so no one had to deal with hot sun. Everyone had fun, even the people swimming by in the ocean. It’s not every day you get to watch a polo match while sitting on a blanket under your beach umbrella. “I think this is just wonderful,” Palm Beach Shores resident Maura DeReuil said. “That’s the beauty of this town. You never know what’s going to happen next. I came down just to watch the polo. I’ve never seen it live before, just a little on TV. It’s fascinating, a
Polo on the Beach players take to the “field.” peek into a whole different world. And it’s all for a good cause, to help save rescue horses who can be retrained to play polo or do all sorts of things.” Which is, of course, the point. Horses can be trained to do all sorts of things, and many rescues enjoy new careers, like the ex-race-
horses now playing polo. And the nice thing is, if you volunteer at Pure Thoughts, you get to be part of that retraining process. Heck, you can even learn to play polo. In addition to the polo match, the nearby community center housed a variety of silent See ROSENBERG, page 26
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Large size full bodied molded copper weathervane in the form of “Blackhawk”. Late 19th. century. Courtesy of Chisholm Gallery, LLC
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Noble Haus
Wellington & Co. Antiques
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FEATURES
Never A Dog Lover, I’m Now ‘Coexisting’ With Two Pups Every once in a while, I like to write an enormously unpopular column about dogs. I don’t have a dog; I don’t want a dog, and this seems to be the heart of the problem. People think I don’t appreciate dogs. I do. I appreciate them. But I also think of them as (shudder) animals. And, in my mind, animals have their “place.” Their place is not in baby strollers or in the food court at the mall. Their place is not in bed with humans or hanging out of driver’s side windows. I prefer cows. You don’t see cows in the food court except in their place, in between hamburger buns (sorry). But now I am staying with my daughter, and she has two dogs — an old dog and a new dog. The old dog has been there for her Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day! Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer or stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page on Facebook.
Deborah Welky is
The Sonic BOOMER through thick and thin, helping her through nasty breakups and confusing home relocations. The new dog has been brought in because the old dog is... well, old. My daughter expects that he will no longer be able to perform his doggy duties much longer and wants him to train his replacement. (This does not bode well for me, especially if a new mom suddenly shows up on the doorstep.) Over the years, I have come to know both dogs. They seem to like me even though I don’t take them to the mall, sleep with them or
allow them to drive my car. I do take them for long walks and release them frequently into the yard because that’s what dogs like. In return, they will lick my hand or allow me to pat them on their heads. That is the relationship we have — we’re not siblings, we are merely a woman coexisting with two dogs. When they’re good, I give them treats. When they’re bad, I feel grateful they don’t belong to me. My daughter doesn’t have a stroller for her dogs nor take them to the mall nor let them drive, but the older one has earned the right to sleep on the bed and sit next to humans on the sofa. The vet said this special treatment would help the older one accept the younger one. I don’t think it does. I think it helps the older one put on airs. So sometimes I rebel and invite the younger dog onto the sofa, too. This riles the old one, and the new one knows it, but she really, really wants sofa time. She tries to melt into
nothingness between me and the arm of the furniture, looking up at me occasionally with adoration in her eyes and trying to ignore the huffing outrage of the older dog. But if the older dog barks, she immediately leaps down and flops on her back in front of him. (“I am your slave, oh, Great Master. I didn’t mean to upset you, but she invited me. Here, have a free sniff.”) I do have a certain affinity for these animals because they seem to add a layer of love to my daughter’s life, and there’s no such thing as too many layers of love. I myself calm down when I pet them. On the other hand, I know they would turn me over to terrorists in exchange for a LivaSnap. I don’t blame them — they’re animals and they know it, even if no one else does. There will be none of this “You turned me over to terrorists?” “Yeah. I’m an animal.” I know.
‘Silver Linings Playbook’ A Cute Film With Great Acting Silver Linings Playbook is the little movie that could. Opening in a season of very big movies, it has developed a large following despite being a small film that constantly teeters on the edge of deciding whether it’s a tragedy or a comedy. But in a year when most of the big-money winners were focused on large body counts, it’s a welcome relief to have a small movie that centers on one very strange family. Pat Solitano Jr. (Bradley Cooper) is taken, too soon, from a mental institution by his mother, Dolores (Jacki Weaver), where he’s been sent for beating the daylights out of the guy he found taking a shower with his wife. Even though she has betrayed him and has a restraining order on him, he is totally focused on winning her back, something that clearly is a sign of his instability. He winds up living at home with his parents, neither one of whom understands him. His father, Pat Sr. (Robert DeNiro), has lost his regular job and is a bookie. His life centers more on how well the local sports teams do than anything else; it is clear that the nut has not fallen far from the tree. Young Pat is introduced to Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a young widow, at a dinner
Rosenberg
Polo On The Beach Fundraiser
continued from page 25 auction items: massage gift certificates, artwork, jewelry and Breyer model horses. There were hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, potato salad, chili, soda, beer and even champagne with strawberries. Everyone seemed to be having a great time. Pure Thoughts raised $2,500 toward building a 14-stall barn at its new facility on F Road in Loxahatchee Groves. “It was good; a lot of fun,” Gaver
‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler thrown by a friend. She and Pat quickly seem to bond over the effects of different medications they have taken. She inappropriately suggests immediate sex; he considers himself married. They keep meeting, however, while running and eventually have one of the strangest dates ever on film. He discovers that she has been fired for sleeping with everyone at work, both men and women, as part of her desperate search for identity and is fascinated before there is another blow-up between them. He begs her to bring a letter to his exwife, and she agrees on the condition that he be her partner in an upcoming dance competition. Eventually, it becomes clear to the audience that the two are perfect for each other. It takes them a lot longer.
said. “A lot more people know about us now and want to help out. It was such a success that next year we’re planning on doing it again, bigger and better. We had a lot of community involvement and a lot of awareness.” “I think of it as west meets east,” Wardle said. “Many people in the western communities know about us and are familiar with horses. Now we’ve brought horses to the eastern part of the county.” It was a very successful event. Or, as someone said, walking over to watch the horses, “This is neat!” For more information about Pure Thoughts Horse Rescue, call (561) 951-2108 or visit www.pthr.org.
What carries the movie is the superb acting. Who knew Bradley Cooper could really act? As the very strange center of the film, he manages to be sympathetic even as he drives everyone around him crazy: storming into his parents’ bedroom at four in the morning to rage at the ending of A Farewell to Arms, falling apart everywhere when hearing his wedding song, being blunt to the point of sadism. Somehow, even though the character seems not to deserve it, the audience winds up rooting for him. DeNiro gives his best performance in years as the Philadelphia Eagles’ obsessed fan, and Weaver is great as the sane member of the household. Chris Tucker as Pat’s friend and fellow former inmate Danny steals most of the scenes he’s in. A special mention should be made of Anupam Kher as his Indian psychiatrist, who created a real person out of what could have been a stereotype. Jennifer Lawrence, however, is the spark that makes this movie work. She is appropriately strange and winsome, far smarter than she seems. She has a wonderful scene where she turns all of Pat Sr.’s obsessive nonsense back on itself. Her dancing, a key element in a wonderful ending sequence, is great. Although
(Above) Jill Wardle with her son. (Right) The players: Brad Gaver, Carlos Gonzalez, Alejandro Retamoso and Kristen Brayden.
the prime focus of the story is Pat’s search for identity, it is her journey that paves the way. Not until near the end do we realize that she has found a way to heal, and because of her own increasing stability, she is able to help in Pat’s transformation. This is a small-scale film trying to compete for awards against films far larger. It doesn’t look for universal emancipation or universal salvation. It is a little film focused on a small group of, aside from their essential weirdness, regular people. And it works wonderfully well on that level. While both Pat and Tiffany at first seem too strange to root for, the exceptional performances of Cooper and Lawrence draw us in. We want them to get together, we want them to succeed in their strange dancing venture. Even though Pat seems to be fixated on his ex, instead of on Tiffany, we want them to find their own way. It is a lovely film. David O. Russell has created an amusing, touching look at people whose needs bring them together. The top cast has been nominated for a lot of awards, and their work sparkles all over the screen. This is a very, very good movie, one designed for adults.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Dr. Daniel and Dr. Geetanjali Dodson at their practice in Royal Palm Beach. PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER
Caremore Family Practice Focuses On Personalized Treatment Of Patients By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Caremore Family Practice is a family-owned and family-operated office in Royal Palm Beach that focuses on bringing patients that hometown family doctor feel. The husband-and-wife team of Dr. Daniel and Dr. Geetanjali Dodson opened the practice in June 2010. The two met during their residency at Wellington Regional Medical Center. Dr. Geetanjali Dodson received her medical degree from Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, while Dodson received his medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences’ College of Osteopathic Medicine. In 2009, after completing their residency, the Dodsons got married and decided to stay in the western communities to open their own family practice. Caremore Family Practice would be their chance to bring personalized service and care to patients, something that they believed was missing from today’s medical industry. “We worked for many big medical practices and have seen how these different companies operate,” Dodson said. “We didn’t really like the group structure and did not want to become a factory like many of these practices are.” At Caremore Family Practice, doctors can treat all ages, from newborn babies to the elderly. Dr. Geetanjali Dodson focuses on women’s health concerns such as women’s exams including pelvic exams, breast cancer screening and gynecological issues. Dr. Daniel Dodson focuses on men’s heath and most of the pediatric care. “We have generations who come here, from grandparents to grandchildren,” Dr. Geetanjali Dodson said. “We really like that family atmosphere.” To make certain that clients receive the best
possible care, Caremore Family Practice tailors their services to provide only basic medical care. “We don’t offer a lot of excess procedures,” Dr. Daniel Dodson said. “Most big offices offer cosmetic procedures and sell goods and products.” Their approach is different from many other practices, Dr. Daniel Dodson noted. “They operate like a business, where our focus is on our medical care,” he said. “For us, that’s the biggest thing, because our motto from the beginning has been not to build an empire but a true medical practice designed for our patients’ health needs.” Operating a family medical practice, the Dodsons believe that they understand what families need in quality medical care. “We are a family that treats families, and we treat our patients the way we would want our family to be treated,” he said. The Dodsons build close relationships with their clients. “We know our patients on a firstname basis,” Dr. Geetanjali Dodson said. “And they really appreciate that because they feel more comfortable with us.” If a patient needs to speak to a doctor after hours in case of an emergency, the doctors are reachable by cell phone. “We give them our personal numbers so that they know we are there for them when they really need us,” Dr. Geetanjali Dodson said. Caremore Family Practice tries to make it as easy as possible for families who visit. All blood work, EKGs, full physical exams, basic vaccinations and flu shots are done in-house. “We try to manage everything in-house,” she said. “Occasionally, we have to refer a patient to a specialist, but we try our best to take care of everything ourselves for our patients’ sake.” Caremore Family Practice is located at 1117 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. For more information, visit www.caremore fp.com or call (561) 784-4481.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Bank Of America Foundation Donates To Grandma’s Place
The Realtors Commercial Alliance Palm Beaches 2013 board.
Realtors Alliance Installs New Board At its 2013 annual installation, the Realtors Commercial Alliance of the Palm Beaches announced that F. Ted Brown III of Re/Max Island Properties will serve as president. Other officers installed for a oneyear term include Paul Snitkin, Anderson & Carr, as president-elect; Robert Goldstein, Hospitality Consultants, as secretary; and Scott Field, Realty Associates, as treasurer. In addition, 2013 directors are John Beall, Keller Williams; Carol Bernton, Keyes Company; Mark Dreyer, Re/Max Advantage Plus; Michael Golieb, American Property
Exchange; Edward Kearney, Kearney Commercial Realty; and Alan Steinberg, Keyes Company. The RCA’s mission is to support their members by identifying needs and developing, promoting and providing programs and services to enhance their members’ ability to conduct their individual businesses successfully and with integrity and competency. Further, the RCA promotes the preservation of the right to own, transfer and use real property. For more information about the RCA Palm Beaches, visit www.rcapb.com.
Grandma’s Place Inc., a not-forprofit emergency foster shelter in Royal Palm Beach, recently received a $5,000 grant from the Bank ofAmerica Charitable Foundation in its latest round of funding. “Grandma’s Place is a place of refuge for children who are in a very difficult time of their lives,” said Kelly Sobolewski, senior vice president Palm Beach County market manager at Bank of America during her recent visit to Grandma’s Place. Grandma’s Place President Karen Vaughn thanked the foundation. “We are deeply grateful for the gift from the Bank of America Foundation,” she said. “The funds granted will help us to carry on our mission, but more than that, the warmth and assistance offered by Kelly and all of the Bank of America employees is overwhelming and so deeply appreciated.” Grandma’s Place serves children from birth through 12 years of age who have been removed from their own homes by the Florida Department of Children & Families due to abuse or neglect. Grandma’s Place provides a loving and nurturing homelike environment, and wel-
Bank of America’s Kelly Sobolewski (back center) with Grandma’s Place President Karen Vaughn Karen Vaughan and Program Manager Jackie Alvarez with a child from Grandma’s Place. comes all children, including those with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol effects or profoundly delayed. The goal of the program is to provide shelter and loving care to these children until they can be re-
united with their families or other safe placement can be found. Grandma’s Place is the only agency in the county accepting emergency cases for children from birth to age 10. For more info., call (561) 753-2226 or visit www.grandmasplacepb.org.
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BUSINESS NEWS
Health Care District Chair Benjamin Frank To Step Down Benjamin Frank, Esq., chairman of the Palm Beach County Health Care District, recently announced that he is stepping down from the board after completing an accomplished four-year term of volunteer service. During Frank’s tenure, the public health care system marked its 15th year of operating a model school
health program and its 20th year of overseeing the county’s nationally recognized and life-saving trauma system. Frank’s term was also highlighted by the district receiving a federal grant to provide primary care at four Palm Beach County Health Department public health clinics. Frank’s
ABWA Meets Feb. 13 At Embassy Suites The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Feb. 13 at the PGA Embassy Suites Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens. Networking will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m., with the dinner and program beginning at 6:30 p.m. The February speaker will be Sharon Maupin, a state-certified general real estate appraiser at SF Holden and the 2012-13 ABWA North Palm Beach chapter president. The program title is “How and Why to Conduct a Mid-Year Review,” and it will explore the vision of the chapter, provide guidelines for members to create a personal mid-year review, enhance personal achievements
and provide the confidence to move forward into 2013. The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking, support and national recognition. The cost to attend is $20, and guests are welcome. To make reservations, call Dottie Smith at (772) 545-7145 or Sharon Maupin at (561) 329-4485. For more about the Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the ABWA , call (561) 908-4798 or visit www.abwanpbflorida.org.
steady leadership, as well as his commitment to government transparency and fiscal responsibility, helped guide the agency during the economic recession, transition in management and national healthcare reform. “I am extremely proud of the Health Care District and its dedicated staff in providing the quality care that continues to improve the health of our community,” Frank said. “It has been an honor and a privilege to have played a leadership role in this important public health organization.” In October 2011, the Health Care District Board elected Frank as its chair. That year, the district expanded access for the county’s uninsured in a pilot stop-gap program designed for residents while they were waiting to become eligible for health coverage. Also that year, Lakeside Medical Center, the district’s public hospital in rural, western Palm Beach County, launched a three-year Family Medicine Residency Program to help train doctors in the underserved region and encourage them to practice locally. The following year, Lakeside Medical Center received national recognition for quality care and patient satisfaction.
In January 2012, the district began construction of a 120-bed facility in Riviera Beach to replace its aging skilled nursing home, the Edward J. Healey Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. At the time of Frank’s appointment by former Gov. Charlie Crist in 2009, the economic downturn forced the district to balance increased demand for healthcare services with reduced funding resources. Frank played an instrumental role in stabilizing the property tax rate while maintaining core programs and services to benefit the county’s most needy residents. Frank has been a strong proponent of the district’s model of the dollar following the patient. The district utilizes this model in programs like the county’s integrated trauma system and the district’s health coverage plans, which feature strong public and private community partnerships. Frank also backed initiatives that maximize local funding by drawing down state and federal dollars to help support local hospitals, private physicians, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and government and community agencies. “We thank Mr. Frank for his four years of dedicated service during
Benjamin Frank which he set high standards for good governance, financial accountability and transparency,” said Dr. Ronald J. Wiewora, the Health Care District’s chief executive officer and chief medical officer. “Mr. Frank’s skillful leadership, advocacy of the Health Care District’s mission, and genuine appreciation of the work of our dedicated employees has helped strengthen the health care safety net for all of our residents. We wish him well in the future.”
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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT
Palm Beach Dramaworks’ ‘A Raisin In The Sun’ Opens Feb. 1 Considered by many to be one of the greatest plays of the 20th century, Lorraine Hansberry’s powerful drama A Raisin in the Sun will open Friday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. at Palm Beach Dramaworks’ Don & Ann Brown Theatre (201 Clematis Street, West Palm Beach). The production will play a strictly limited engagement through March 3, with specially priced preview performances on Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 30 and 31. For 12 years, West Palm Beach’s only professional, multi-award-winning resident theater has brought to the Palm Beaches a distinguished roster of plays under the guidance of Producing Artistic Director William Hayes. Set in the 1950s on the South Side of Chicago, A Raisin In The Sun is the story of the Younger family and their receipt of a substantial insurance payment that leads to lifechanging decisions. The play is inspired in part by the experience of playwright Lorraine Hansberry’s family, when her parents purchased a house in a white neighborhood. As the Youngers argue over how best to use the money, the drama addresses issues that were rarely
discussed at that time, including women’s rights and black identity. The play’s title comes from the poem “Harlem,” also known as “A Dream Deferred,” by Langston Hughes. Directed by Seret Scott, the production features Joniece AbbottPratt, Shirine Babb, Pat Bowie, Marckenson Charles, Ethan Henry, Dave Hyland, Mcley LaFrance, Jordan Tisdale, Mekiel Benjamin, Joshua Valbrun, Lanardo Davis and Jeffrey Brazzle. Set design is by Paul DePoo, costume design by Brian O’Keefe, lighting design by Joseph P. Oshry, and sound design by Rich Szczublewski. Guest director Seret Scott directed a dozen productions for San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre while serving as an associate artist. Off-Broadway, she directed the premiere of Mujeres Y Hombres at the New Victory Theater, Birdie Blue and Zooman and the Sign for Second Stage, and Yohen for Pan Asian Rep. Scott’s work has also been seen at Arena Stage, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, Ford’s Theatre, South Coast Repertory, Hartford Stage, Long Wharf Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, National Black Theatre Festival and American Con-
servatory Theater, among many others. She is a former director in residence at New Dramatists and a Drama Desk Award–winning actress. Hansberry was a playwright, author and activist. The granddaughter of a freed slave, she grew up in a middle-class activist family in Chicago. After moving to New York, Hansberry worked for a time at Paul Robeson’s progressive black newspaper, Freedom, first as a writer and then as an associate editor. Hansberry completed A Raisin in the Sun in 1957, but it took producer Philip Rose well over a year to raise the money to bring the play to Broadway. The original production, directed by Lloyd Richards, opened on March 11, 1959. Dramaworks’ season will continue with Exit the King by Eugene Ionesco (March 29 through April 28) and Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel (May 24 through June 16). Evening performance hours are 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday. Matinee performance hours are 2 p.m. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday with previews Dec. 5 and 6. Tickets cost $55 for all performances. Student tickets are available for $10. Group rates for 20
Ethan Henry in a scene from A Raisin in the Sun. PHOTO BY ALICIA DONELAN
or more and discounted season subscriptions are also available. Dramaworks’ new Don & Ann Brown Theater is located in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. For additional information, call the box
office at (561) 514-4042, open Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit www.palmbeachdrama works.org.
Annual Florida Ceramic Art Show & Sale Jan. 25-27 In WPB
Royal Doulton author and expert Louise Irvine is one of the featured speakers.
Macaw in Paradise a Boehm Porcelain creation.
Pascoe & Company is hosting the 27th annual Florida Ceramic Art Show & Sale Friday through Sunday, Jan. 25-27 at the Hilton Palm Beach Airport in West Palm Beach. The event showcases the finest antiques and collectibles from the world’s leading pottery and porcelain companies. Show highlights include Royal Doulton, Boehm Porcelain, Moorcroft and Ardmore. The Florida Ceramic Art Show is the largest-selling exhibition of retired Royal Doulton rare figurines and character jugs. This year Royal Doulton is celebrating its centenary, and Louise Irvine, the leading Doutlon author and expert, will be speaking at the event. Boehm Porcelain will be making their debut at the show, showcas-
ing porcelain sculptures of flora and fauna, all handmade and hand-decorated in the United States. Boehm President Sharon Lee Parker will be speaking on how she saved Boehm, America’s leading porcelain company, from being shipped overseas. Parker is a local cancer coach and survivor from Palm Beach. With pieces showcased in the White House and the Vatican, collectors consider Boehm to be an American treasure. Moorcroft Art Pottery will also be celebrating 100 years, and Paul Stevenson will be traveling from the U.K. to speak at the Florida event. Fée Halsted will be speaking and autographing her new book on Ardmore Ceramic Art, an art center on Ardmore Farm in the foothills of the
Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Halsted founded the center in South Africa and has moved South African pottery from the craft world to the realms of fine art. The Zulu artists featured through Ardmore receive worldwide recognition. The Florida Ceramic Art Show and Sale takes place Friday through Sunday, Jan. 25-27. The event is invitation only on Friday, with hours from 7 to 10 p.m. On Saturday, Jan. 26, the show is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will be open to the public on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit www. pascoeandcompany.com/blog/ events or call (800) 872-0195.
The Phantom Recommends P.B. Pops’ Oscar Night Feb. 4-8 Hear songs from Jaws, blockbuster movies such as Star Concerts for the Palm Beach Pops calling (561) 832-7677 or visiting Road in Boca Raton. To purchase Superman, Star Wars, Wars, Indiana Jones, Superman, ET, begin Monday and Wednesday, www.palmbeachpops.org. tickets, call (800) 564-9539 or visit Schindler’s List and more. Jurassic Park and more. Feb. 4 and 6 at the Carole and Barry The Kravis Center is located at www.fauevents.com/online. Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach The Palm Beach Pops will explore Kaye Performing Arts Center at Flor- 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Coming up next, Clint Holmes will Pops will celebrate the world’s most the prolific film composer’s most epic ida Atlantic University in Boca Ra- Beach. Visit www.kravis.org for more debut his brand-new concert, “The Oscar-nominated film composer, scores and magical themes, from the ton; Tuesday, Feb. 5 at the Eissey information. Music of James Taylor, Billy Joel, John Williams, who created many of unparalleled fanfare of Star Wars to Campus Theatre at Palm Beach State The PBSC Eissey Campus The- Elton John, Paul Simon and More” the 20th century’s most recogniz- the quietly gorgeous moments of College in Palm Beach Gardens; and atre is located at 3160 PGA Blvd Palm Feb. 25 and 26 at the Kravis Center, able popular music. Join the orches- Jurassic Park. The program encom- Thursday and Friday, Feb. 7 and 8 Beach Gardens. To contact the tick- Feb. 27 and 28 at FAU’s Kaye Pertra Feb. 4-8 for a celebration of this passes both instantly recognizable at the Kravis Center for the Perform- et office, call (561) 207-5900. forming Arts Auditorium and March great contemporary film composer melodies and moments of lush or- ing Arts in West Palm Beach. TickThe FAU Kaye Performing Arts 3 at the PBSC Eissey Campus Theand hear the familiar themes from chestral power. ets start at $29 and are available by Auditorium is located at 777 Glades atre. Joe Nasuti, the Phantom, is a featured writer for the Town-Crier, Forever Young and www.yournews.com. Comments & recommendations are welcome at thephantomdiners@aol.com.
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This Year: Unbottle Your World Wrap Up A Kinetico K5 Drinking Water Station And Get 4 Stainless Cups As A Bonus
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SPORTS & RECREATION
WHS Girls Basketball Squad Edges Royal Palm Beach 46-29 By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School girls varsity basketball team defeated Royal Palm Beach High School 4629 on Friday, Jan. 18 in Royal Palm Beach. Though both teams got off to a slow start, the Lady Wolverines took an early lead and were able to push past Royal Palm Beach. Both teams struggled to score in the first quarter, but baskets by Latoya Ashman, Brianna Sabbat and Haley Thompson for Wellington helped edge the Lady Wolverines ahead, 9-5. Shamiah Manely and Japrincess Ford added bas-
kets for Royal Palm Beach. At the beginning of the second quarter, Manely nailed two foul shots to cut into the Lady Wolverines’ lead. But Wellington’s Ashman was fouled next and put in a basket to keep the lead. On the next play, Rachael Lee put in 3 points for Wellington to make the score 13-7. On the next play, Chelsey Smith drove the ball underneath the basket and passed to Manely, who sank it for 2 points. Smith also added a foul shot to narrow the lead 13-10 with 3:41 left in the half. Ashman put in another 2 points for the Lady Wolverines, making the score 15-10. With less than two minutes left in
RPB’s Chelsey Smith runs the ball under the basket while Wellington’s Haley Thompson chases her down.
the half, Wellington began to pull away, nailing back-to-back baskets. The Lady Wildcats struggled to keep up, with Smith nailing 2 points to finish the half 19-12. The second half saw the Lady Wolverines continue to dominate, scoring double the points while holding Royal Palm Beach back, finishing the game on top, 46-29. The two teams met again on Tuesday, Jan. 22 when the Lady Wildcats traveled to Wellington. Again Wellington came away with the win, 52-31. Wellington travels to Park Vista on Friday, Jan. 25 for a 7:30 p.m. game.
Chelsey Smith lines up a foul shot for the Lady Wildcats.
Wellington’s Latoya Ashman looks to pass.
Wellington’s Haley Thompson faces off against RPB’s Chelsey Smith. PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER
Bronco Girls Soccer Defeats Wellington 6-1 For District Title By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach Central High School girls soccer team won its first district championship Friday, Jan. 18, defeating Wellington High School 6-1 before a capacity crowd. It was the second meeting of the season between the rival schools. Palm Beach Central shut out Well-
ington 3-0 earlier in the season. The Bronco victory marked the third in a row over the Wolverines, which may illustrate a wind of change, where for the past nine years, Wellington has defeated the Broncos year after year since Palm Beach Central’s inception. Third seed Wellington (9-7-4) defeated Seminole Ridge 8-0 in the
Bronco Yulie Lopez scores one of her two goals against Wellington.
quarterfinals and advanced to the semifinal round, where the Wolverines bested second seed Jupiter 2-1 to face the top seed Broncos (18-1) in the finals. Palm Beach Central defeated fourth seed Palm Beach Gardens 6-1 in their semifinal match. Palm Beach Central senior Yulie Lopez tallied two scores and three assists on the night, but it was Wellington that struck first in the ninth minute, when midfielder Darby Bach launched a rocket from 30 yards out over the Palm Beach Central goalkeeper Haley Brunner. Even though Wellington pressured early on, the quick score sparked the Palm Beach Central squad. Two minutes later, Lopez sent a pass to the center just 8 yards from the net to Amber Agrillo, who placed the ball into the back of the net past Wellington keeper Lynn Sobczyk for the equalizer. Palm Beach Central’sAndrea Delgado scored off another pass from Lopez to give the Broncos the 2-1 lead. Lopez finally reached pay dirt when she beat the Wellington defense on the right side and sent a low ball under Sobczyk from only a few yards out to extend the Bronco lead to 3-1 in the 25th minute. Palm
The Lady Broncos celebrate winning the district championship. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER
Beach Central’s Amanda Torres scored from 8 yards out from a Lopez pass just before the end of the half to close out with the score 4-1. Wellington fought back, pressuring high over the top on accession, but had difficulty maintaining possession in midfield. Lopez struck again in the 54th minute for the 5-1 advantage. Delgado created magic on the final goal, being forced out-
side, launched a shot from the near corner 25 yards out, hitting just inside the far post to close out the contest 6-1 and take the District 95A championship title. Both teams advanced to the regional tournament. On Wednesday, Wellington traveled to play Boca Raton, while Palm Beach Central hosted West Boca Raton. Results were not available at presstime.
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SPORTS & RECREATION
SHAPIRO SIGNS TO PLAY SOFTBALL FOR PBSC
Seminole Ridge High School Hawk center fielder Heather Shapiro has signed a scholarship letter to play softball for Palm Beach State College. Shapiro was excited to be joining the Palm Beach State team. “I’m happy to be a part of the Lady Panthers!” she said. Shown above is Shapiro (front row, center) with her parents Richard and Annette; (back row) SRHS Principal James Campbell, sister Stephanie Shapiro and SRHS Athletic Director Scott Parks. 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.
Piranhas Bring Basketball Action To West Palm Beach
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission has announced a partnership with the United States’ firstever international rules professional basketball league, the American Basketball League and the local team, the West Palm Beach Piranhas. The American Basketball League kicked off its inaugural 24-game season on Jan. 19, fielding a 12-team league to challenge the recent economic failings of current minor league basketball organizations. Initial ABL markets include San Antonio, Laredo, Sugarland, College Station, Boerne, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Palm Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, Sebring and Corpus Christi. Future expansion is scheduled for California, New York and Puerto Rico. Never before in American sports history has a professional league been developed for the purpose of operating as an international farm club, or feeder league, for global basketball. The local ABL team, the West Palm Beach Piranhas, whose general manager is former Suncoast High School basketball standout Richard Rellford, will next play Saturday, Jan.
26 at Berean Christian School (8350 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). Tip-off is at noon, and tickets are available at the door. The cost is $7 for adults and $5 for children under 12, seniors and military personnel. “To be a part of bringing professional basketball to West Palm Beach is a dream come true,” Rellford said. “Our mission is to offer a family-oriented professional sports product that will have a positive impact on the sports and economic communities of West Palm Beach, and having the Palm Beach County Sports Commission as a partner solidifies our mission.” The Piranhas roster includes University of Houston’s former 7-foot1 center, Anwar Ferguson, University of Central Florida forwards P.J. Gaynor and Dwight McCombs, former Florida Atlantic University point guard Alex Tucker, along with several Palm Beach County basketball standouts. “The Sports Commission is excited to be a partner with a professional basketball league in Palm Beach County,” Executive Director George Linley said. “In addition to promot-
ing the county as a sports destination the league will bring economic and tourism benefits as well.” The West Palm Beach Piranhas’ remaining home schedule is as follows: Saturday, Jan. 26 at noon; Saturday, Feb. 9 at noon; Saturday, Feb. 16 at noon; Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 23 at noon; Saturday, March 2 at noon; Saturday, March 16 at noon; Saturday, March 23 at noon; Thursday, March 28 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 30 at noon; and Saturday, April 6 at noon. For more information about the ABL, visit www.abl-hoops.com or call Rellford at (561) 601-8890. For additional information on the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, visit its web site at www.palm beachsports.com.
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SPORTS & RECREATION
January 25 - January 31, 2013 Page 39
Bassmasters Hosts End-Of-Year Tourney In Belle Glade The Royal Palm Bassmasters held its end-of-the-year classic fishing tournament Nov. 10 and 11 on Lake Okeechobee, out of Belle Glade. The tournament is a team tournament, but individual weight is used to determine the Classic Champion for those who qualified. First place was awarded to the team of Rick Eaton (boater), with 10 fish weighing 16 lbs., 5 oz. and partner Mike O’Connor (co-angler), with 10 fish weighing 13 lbs, 8 oz., for a team weight of 29 lbs., 13 oz. Second place was awarded to the team of Herman Parker (boater), with 10 fish weighing 13 lbs., 12 oz. and
partner Bill Latham (co-angler), with 10 fish weighing 14 lbs., 4 oz., for a team weight of 28 lbs. Third place was awarded to the team of Larry Payne (boater), with 10 fish weighing 18 lbs., 14 oz. and partner Phil Northrop (co-angler), with seven fish weighing 8 lbs., 1 oz., for a team weight of 26 lbs., 15 oz. The Big Fish on the first day of the tournament was caught by Chris Schultz, with a bass weighing 3 lbs., 2 oz. The Big Fish on the second day was caught by Larry Payne and weighed 4 lbs., 5 oz. Twelve members qualified for the
chance to be crowned Classic Champion. The individual weights over two days of fishing for each qualifier were totaled for the following results: Classic Champion – Larry Payne, 18 lbs., 14 oz.; second place – Rick Eaton, 16 lbs., 5 oz.; and third place – Ed Singleton, 15 lbs., 2 oz. For more information, e-mail rpbassmasters@gmail.com or visit www.royalpalmbassmasters.org. (Clockwise from right) Ed Singleton and Chris Schultz; Rick Eaton and Mike O’Connor; Larry Payne; and Bill Latham and Herman Parker.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, Jan. 26 • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Jan. 26 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 283-5856 for more info. • Ultima Fitness (12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will host an “Ultima-te Makeover Open House” on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Stop by to try one of the free group fitness classes. For more info., call (561) 795-2823 or visit www. ultimafitness.com. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Writing Series: Theme” for adults Saturday, Jan. 26 at 9 a.m. Learn how to find the heart of your story and strengthen the rest of your narrative. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host the free event “Whole Body Fair and Mini-Makeovers!” on Saturday, Jan. 26 from noon to 3 p.m. Learn about vitamins, supplements, body care products and more. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host “Shake it Like a… Kelp Shaker?” on Saturday, Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. Learn ways to flavor foods by utilizing techniques from various cultures. There is no charge. Call (561) 904-4000 for info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Tea Party!” on Saturday, Jan. 26 at 2 p.m. Celebrate the birthday of Lewis Carroll with wacky tea party games and tasty snacks. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free concert with Gathering Time’s Tribute to Folk Music on Saturday, Jan. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own seating. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info. • Pianist Copeland Davis will perform a collection of popular jazz, rock, blues and classical songs, backed by an 11-piece band, Saturday, Jan. 26 at 8 p.m. at the Eissey Campus Theatre on Palm Beach State College’s campus in Palm Beach Gardens. For tickets, call (561) 207-5900. Sunday, Jan. 27 • Temple Beth Torah (900 Big Blue Trace, Wellington) will partner with the Village of Wellington to host “Mitzvah Day” on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. Approximately 150 volunteers will participate in a variety of service projects. For more info., call (561) 793-2700.
• The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will continue its 10th anniversary season on Sunday, Jan. 27 with the Joe Barry Memorial Cup. For tickets, visit www.international poloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687. • Community of Hope Church (14055 Okeechobee Blvd, Loxahatchee Groves) will offer a free showing of Bill W., a documentary film about the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, on Sunday, Jan. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-8883 or e-mail recovery@ gocoh.com for more info. Monday, Jan. 28 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon featuring Palm Beach County Administrator Bob Weisman on Monday, Jan. 28 at 11:30 a.m. at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 7906200 or e-mail marylou@cpbchamber.com for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will feature “Great Groundhog” for ages 4 to 7 on Monday, Jan. 28 at 3:30 p.m. Punxsutawney Phil comes out of his burrow on Groundhog’s Day and predicts how much longer winter will last. Learn about shadows and read stories about groundhogs. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Legos” for age 8 and up Monday, Jan. 28 at 4 p.m. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • Community of Hope Church offers “Celebrate Recovery,” a Christian recovery program for anyone seeking to break free from hurts, habits and hang-ups that disrupt your life and rob you of peace, every Monday at 7 p.m. Call (561) 753-8883 or e-mail recovery@gocoh.com for more info. Tuesday, Jan. 29 • The Palm Beach County Commission will hold a workshop meeting Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach). For more info., visit www.pbcgov. com. • The Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane) will host “Early Childhood: Passport to Adventure” on Tuesdays and Thursdays from to 10 a.m. to noon. Early childhood staff prepare pre-schoolers for VPK and kindergarten through fun, recreational activities. The session fee is $135 for Royal Palm Beach residents and $150 See CALENDAR, page 41
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 40 for nonresidents. Call (561) 790-5124 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Book Hedgehogs” for ages 9 to 14 on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 4:30 p.m. Fold pages to turn a worn-out, paperback book into a cute hedgehog. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host “Pre-Game Tasting” featuring game day snacks with a beer and wine tasting Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy samples of the ultimate football party appetizers. A $10 donation benefits Wellington High School Project Graduation. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Teen Game Night for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 6 p.m. Play Nintendo Wii and board games. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Club Pokémon” for ages 6 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info. Wednesday, Jan. 30 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Tween Game Day” for ages 8 to 12 on Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 4 p.m. Challenge your friends to Wii and board games. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host “Engine 2: 28-Day Practice Drill Challenge Information Class” on Wednesday, Jan. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Learn about the upcoming Engine 2 Challenge created by Rip Esselstyn, former professional tri-athlete and firefighter. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. Thursday, Jan. 31 • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will host its annual Palm Beach Wine Auction on Thursday, Jan. 31 at the Mar-a-Lago Club (1100 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach). The auction will start with a reception at 6 p.m. followed by a five-course dinner. For more info., visit www.palmbeachwine auction.org. • Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Jan. 31 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. • State Rep. Mark Pafford will host a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, Jan. 31 at 6 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151
Civic Center Way, Royal Palm Beach). Call (561) 682-0156 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Craft Night: Fabulous Fabric Flowers” for adults Thursday, Jan. 31 at 6:30 p.m. Learn to make gorgeous, no-sew flowers with fabric and felt. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host the Acreage Avengers for ages 12 to 17 on Thursday, Jan. 31 at 6:30 p.m. Share your ideas to make the library a better place. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Teen Game Night for ages 12 to 17 on Thursday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. Challenge your friends to Wii and board games. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to preregister. Friday, Feb. 1 • World-class dressage, show jumping, hunter and polo teams will show off their newfound skills in the reining ring at the Equestrian Aid Foundation fundraiser “Who Reins Supreme?” on Friday, Feb. 1 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Tables, tickets and sponsorships may be purchased at www.equestrianaidfoundation.org or by phone at (800) 792-6068. • #1 Education Place in the original Wellington Mall (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 23) invites the community to an open house Friday, Feb. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more info., call (561) 753-6563 or visit www. 1educationplace.com. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Be a Teen Reading Buddy” for grades six to 12 on Friday, Feb. 1 at 10 a.m. Participants meet on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. to read with children and earn volunteer hours. Pick up an application. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 Forest Hill Blvd.) will present a free screening of the movie Won’t Back Down on Friday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own seating. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info. Saturday, Feb. 2 • Get great bargains on children’s stuff at the sixth annual Kids Garage Sale on Saturday, Feb. 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Park in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 790-5149. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. Email: news@gotowncrier.com.
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HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in W ellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINATOR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays. Also needed: EXAM PREP TUT ORS Now Hiring SAT/ACT Preparation Tutors. Must have a 4 year degree preferably in Mathmetics or English. Be available to tutor on Saturdays. Please e-mail resume tomarlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com ORGANIC GREENHOUSE in WEST PALM BEACH — is looking for a good MULTI-TASKER who is not afraid to work and grow with the company. Hopefully you are health minded and interested in helping people. Duties include Seeding/Growing/ Packing/Delivering/Landscape/ Customer Service *Clean license/ driving record is a must *References required *Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs *This position is a parttime job which may develop into full time for the right person *This is a non-smoking workplace If you are still interested, please email your resume to: alberto@ulsprouts.com or call 561 795-2554 ENTRY LEVEL RECEPTIONIST— Heavy phones, filing, etc. part-time. Fax resume to 561-333-2680 NEED RETIRED TEACHER TO TUTOR — subject Earth Science. 3 - 4 hours a week (morning). Schedule own preference. (561) 972-0219
16 STALLS FOR RENT Full or partial board available. Located Jupiter Farms 701-230-0555 Ask for Tracy.
FURNISHED HOUSE FOR RENT/ SHORT OR LONG TERM — situated in a cul-de-sac and 5 minutes away from S pruce Meadows, this 2000 sf. 2 story newer house in Shawnessy has hardwood floor throughout and 2.5 bathrooms. Leather furniture, 48” TV and a Piano in main floor. Master bedroom has Jacuzzi. 2 large size bedrooms and bonus room. Wireless Internet, double att ached garage, fenced backyard with BBQ. W eekly housekeeping, linen service and lawn cutting plus all utilities included. For more details call (403) 808-7254 OR (403) 700-2065
FURNISHED ROOM FOR RENT — Pool home - will share bath with 2 male roommates. Internet/cable included. Access to home. Washer/ Dryer included. $550/mo. Annual or Seasonal. 561-386-5568
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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
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
MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/ Software setup, support & troubleshooting w w w.mobiletec.ne t. 561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards. IN-HOME COMPUTER TRAINING & SERVICE — Patient teacher. experienced technician. Reasonable rates. Satisfaction guaranteed. For info call Randy 561-800-9552. Randy@Trahanconsulting.com
DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716
THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home 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 inst allation, minor d r y w a l l , k i t c h e n s / c a b i n e ts / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215 HANDYMAN AND CLEANING SERVICES — Caza Services for all your handyman and cleaning needs. 18 years experience. No job is too small. Call us today. Insured 561-802-8300 or 754-242-3459
ROSE'S HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE — 30 years experience $12$15 per hour. 561-827-0140
HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffit s, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561791-9777
BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE — Auto •Home • Life• Renters •Motorcycle •RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh
RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com
JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./ Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident
PLACE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AD HERE. CALL 793-7606 RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PEST CONTROL AND HANDYMAN — 20 years experience, family owned and operated. Licensed and Insured. Free estimates. Call Tom at 954-254-7233 JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458
ANMAR CO.—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528
J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior p ainting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com
HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references. Shopping available. 561572-1782 HOUSECLEANING — af fordable cleaning services, Royal Palm Maids. 561-666-7738 “For all your cleaning needs”
MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.
ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576
SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600
JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com
ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777
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
EXPERIENCED TAX PREPARER — With expertise with individuals and small businesses - Hack Tax and Accounting Services 561-2146171
SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980. Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258
TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com
PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Inst allation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman's touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263
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