Town-Crier Newspaper July 13, 2012

INDIAN TRAIL AWARDED GRANT FOR PARK COUNCIL TO REVIEW COMMUNITY CENTER SEE STORY, PAGE 3 SEE STORY, PAGE 7 THE

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Volume 33, Number 28 July 13 - July 19, 2012

HOLIDAY FISHING TOURNAMENT

Look For The July Issue Of ‘Forever Young’ In This Week’s Paper Wellington Preliminary Tax Rate Stays Same

The Wellington Village Council gave preliminary approval Tuesday to maintain its property tax rate at 2.5 mills, the same rate as the previous four years. But for the first time in five years, Wellington will see an uptick in its property tax revenue. Page 3

The Royal Palm Bassmasters hosted the 22nd annual Red, White & Blue Fourth of July Fishing Tournament on Wednesday, July 4 at Lakeside Challenger Park in Royal Palm Beach. In addition to the tournament, participants enjoyed raffles, food and more. Shown here are Six & Under Bass winners Christopher Recchio, Ashlyn Nutter and Gabi Ferer. RESULTS & MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 35 PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

RPB Firecracker Golf Tournament

The annual Royal Palm Beach Firecracker Golf Tournament was held Wednesday, July 4 at the Madison Green Golf Club. The day included golf, raffles and prizes, longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, and a barbecue lunch. Page 5

RPB Seniors Group Fourth Of July Party

The Royal Palm Beach seniors activities group held an early Fourth of July party Tuesday, July 3 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Page 12

OPINION PBIEC Hearing Puts Wellington Council In Dangerous Waters

At a special public hearing Tuesday, July 17, Wellington Village Council members will decide whether to revisit changes made to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center property approved last October by the former council. Beware: the council is about to enter extremely dangerous territory. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 12 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 SCHOOLS ............................ 13 PEOPLE ........................ 14 - 15 COLUMNS .................... 23 - 24 BUSINESS .................... 25 - 27 ENTERTAINMENT ................ 29 SCHOOLS SHOWCASE ... 30 - 31 SPORTS ........................ 35 - 37 CALENDAR ...................38 - 39 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 42 - 46 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Indian Trail Board Inks New Policy Addressing Fuel Spills By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors approved a fuel spill policy Wednesday that was developed by staff at their direction after a recent oil spill prompted a scare in TheAcreage. On April 25, a piece of equipment turned over on an Acreage property, allowing about 25 gallons of fuel to leak into a swale. Residents, almost all of whom use wells for potable water, raised concerns about the lack of a policy, due to the possibility of wellfield contamination. ITID Attorney Charlie Schoech said the company that owned the equipment was slow in cleaning up the spill, although state statutes place the responsibility on the owner to report the spill promptly. ITID Administrator Tanya Quickel said the policy had been

reviewed by legal staff as well as the county’s Department of Environmental Resources Management. “Staff has undergone training, and spill kits have been ordered and are in place,” Quickel said. ITID Vice President Carol Jacobs said she was surprised that the district did not already have a fuel-spill policy in place. “I can’t believe with the fuel tanks that we have that we haven’t had a policy,” she said, pointing out that she was aware of one large fuel tank right by a canal. Often it takes an incident such as the April fuel spill to make people aware that they need a policy, ITID President Michelle Damone said. “In the past, Palm Beach County always handled it whenever we had fuel spills,” she said, although this one was on a district road. “We obviously feel more responsible in making sure that those things are

handled, no differently than if it were a county road.” Damone pointed out that the district’s policy is stricter than what the county requires. “I think that shows that we are being responsible,” she said. Supervisor Carlos Enriquez said they were fortunate that the spill happened in a district easement and ITID employees who saw it had the insight to report it. “If they hadn’t, we would never have known there was a fuel spill there,” he said. “The stuff would have been in the water.” Damone said the policy would correct deficiencies that existed before. “It’s exactly what the public has asked for,” she said. “It’s what the board has asked for, it’s what the Acreage Landowners’ Association has supported, and I think it’s a good policy.” Supervisor Jennifer Hager was glad to see that the policy allows See ITID, page 16

Wellington Seniors Finally Get Their Own Committee By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report After years of requests from Wellington seniors to have an official voice in village matters, on Tuesday the Wellington Village Council unanimously approved the creation of a Senior Advisory Committee. At the same time, council members directed staff members to give all committees and boards a larger capacity in Wellington affairs. The idea of a standing committee has been on the minds of senior activists in the village since 2005, when the short-lived Senior Citizens Task Force was created to evaluate the needs of Wellington’s aging population. Though an advisory committee was high on the list of task force recommendations, it never gained traction among village leaders. But

late Tuesday night, seniors finally got their wish. Senior activist Tony Fransetta applauded council members. “Your logic is not flawed,” he said. “I agree with what you’re doing.” According to the staff report, the Senior Advisory Committee will have seven members, five appointed by the council and two atlarge members. Inaugural members include some of Wellington’s most prominent, longtime senior activists. Councilwoman Anne Gerwig appointed former Senior Advocate Howard Trager, Vice Mayor Howard Coates appointed Sam Nebb, Councilman John Greene appointed Barbara Phillippi, Councilman Matt Willhite appointed Fransetta and Mayor Bob Margolis appointed Sharon Zimmerman. The mutually appointed at-large

members are Peter Granata and David Schumacher. Committee members will act in an advisory capacity and discuss matters involving senior citizens in Wellington, including developing and recommending policies, programs and legislation. It will also “provide a forum in which village residents 55 and older [can] state views and concerns,” according to the staff report. Margolis took the opportunity to address the function of committees and boards in Wellington, noting that many meet only at the council’s direction. Village Attorney Jeffrey Kurtz said that could be changed. “My understanding is that your desire is to have them generate some ideas and items without specifically being directed by the See SENIORS, page 16

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Final Remaining Equestrian Village Approval Revoked By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report A divided Wellington Village Council on Tuesday revoked the commercial dressage arena designation given earlier this year to the controversial Equestrian Village site by the former council. In a move that Vice Mayor Howard Coates said will create “uncertainty for the equestrian industry,” council members voted 32 to revoke the site’s “compatibility determination.” Coates and Councilwoman Anne Gerwig dissented. Approved in February, the compatibility determination on the site allowed for year-round operation as a commercial dressage facility. A second item, a master plan that allowed several new access points, was also approved at that time. Both were subject to conditions that a plat be recorded by March 31, a deadline applicant Wellington Equestrian Partners failed to meet, Director of Growth Management Bob Basehart said. Council members revoked the master plan amendment in May. Basehart said that without an updated master plan, the compatibility determination could not stand. “[Staff] feels that the appropriate action in this case is to also revoke the approval,” he said. Basehart noted, however, that council members could choose to modify the conditions of approval or extend the time to allow the property owners to get a new master plan approved. There was extended debate over

whether village staff or the property owners were at fault for missing the deadline, which arrived during the confusing days of Wellington’s contested election. Engineer Michael Sexton, representing Wellington Equestrian Partners, said that his client was waiting on a sign-off by Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz before submitting the plat but never received confirmation of that approval. “I had a conversation with [Kurtz] where I asked him if we were going to be on the agenda for the [March 27 council meeting],” Sexton said. “I was told no. I asked him if the [documents] were approved. My recollection was he said something in the order of, ‘I believe they’re OK.’” But Village Engineer Bill Riebe said that he had given Sexton verbal confirmation of Kurtz’s approval on March 21. Wellington Equestrian Partners attorney Dan Rosenbaum said that Sexton had asked for written confirmation of approval several times but did not receive it. Sexton agreed. “The reason I wanted it in writing, is I do know that items sometimes get walked onto an agenda,” he said. “I wanted the item to get walked onto the [March 27] agenda no matter who was sitting [on the council].” But Gerwig pointed out that there was concern among former council members that any action they took in the wake of the election controversy could have been seen as “sneaking in” an item. Council members questioned See REVOKED, page 7

POSSE BARREL RACES

The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse held Firecracker 1400 Barrel Races on Saturday, July 7 and Sunday, July 8 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Shown here is Marla Gulsby aboard Dixie Girl. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 12 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RPB Council Reviews $32 Million Budget By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council heard a formal presentation on the village’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year Thursday, July 5. The proposed property tax rate will be unchanged at 1.92 mills to help finance a total $32 million budget, with about $5 million for capital projects freed up from reserves due to accounting principles changed this year. Village Manager Ray Liggins said the primary intent of the bud-

get is to prepare a financial plan with the same tax rate despite decreases in revenue, yet also deliver improved services with the completion of Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. “The tax rate is proposed to remain the same at 1.92 mills per thousand dollars of taxable value,” Liggins said. At that rate, the owner of a home assessed at $150,000 after exemptions would pay $288 in village property taxes next year. The budget includes a first-time See RPB BUDGET, page 16

Wellington Out Of The Hunt For 2018 Equestrian Games By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Equestrian Sport Productions, organizers of the Wellington Equestrian Festival, withdrew their bid this week to host the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Wellington was one of five communities under consideration to host the games, regarded as the world championships of the equestrian industry. Promoters cited recent decisions by the Wellington Village Council that they say could endanger local equestrian venues as evidence of a lack of support from the village.

But several council members expressed puzzlement over the withdrawal, noting that they had yet to see information on the bid in order to give support or withhold it. “It wasn’t so much a lack of support for the games,” Equestrian Sport Productions President Michael Stone told the Town-Crier Tuesday. “It was that they are attacking the venues.” Stone cited recent decisions by a majority of council members to revoke the master plan and compatibility determination of the Equestrian Village property, as well as an unusual hearing scheduled

next Tuesday to examine and possibly reconsider a decision last October by the former council to approve a master plan that governs the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. “It makes it impossible to have a successful bid,” Stone said. “The mere fact that they are challenging the venues puts the bid in jeopardy.” Stone said that the Fédération Équestre Internationale (more commonly known as FEI, or, in English, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports), which is the international body that governs the games, looks for support

from the host government. “One Google search shows the reality of the situation in Wellington,” Stone said. “We didn’t want to embarrass ourselves, the United States Equestrian Federation or the FEI.” But withdrawing the bid means Wellington could have a chance at the 2022 games, he said. Mayor Bob Margolis said that the decisions cited by Stone didn’t necessarily mean that the council would be against supporting Wellington’s bid to host the competition. “I don’t think one has anything to do with the other,” he told the

Town-Crier Wednesday. “The actions taken and the hearing have nothing to do with the venues. It’s about the process.” Margolis noted that Wellington’s government could change several times before the 2018 games. “How will it turn out? I don’t know,” he said. “Basing their decision on what happened yesterday and next week is shortsighted.” Council members were expecting to hear a presentation on the games at Monday’s agenda review meeting, Margolis said. “When [Village Manager Paul See WEG BID, page 16

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July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 3

NEWS

Wellington Council Sets Preliminary Tax Rate, Reviews Budget By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council gave preliminary approval Tuesday to maintain its property tax rate at 2.5 mills, the same rate as the previous three years. But for the first time in five years, Wellington will see an uptick in its property tax revenue. Council members voted 4-1 to approve the preliminary rate. Vice Mayor Howard Coates was the lone dissenter. Coates said that he thought that his colleagues on the council should vote to lower the rate because of additional revenue. “We sell 2.5 [mills] like we’re treating taxpayers the same as in previous years,” he said. “I think it should be lowered.” The “truth in millage” or TRIM rate of 2.5 mills means a property tax of $2.50 for every $1,000 of taxable value. At that rate, the owner of a home assessed at $150,000 after exemptions would pay $375 in village property taxes next year. State law requires the village to set its preliminary tax and assessment rates in July. Municipalities may lower the rates before final

adoption in September but cannot raise them. Next year’s proposed budget of $72.03 million is down $1.9 million or 2.6 percent from last year, Director of Financial Management Mireya McIlveen told council members. The budget as proposed is made up of $38.2 million in governmental funds, down $672,000 from last year, and $15.6 million in enterprise funds, down $66,000. Capital projects are budgeted at $3.3 million, down $1.3 million, and utility capital projects make up $5.3 million of the budget. Wellington will retain 263 employees, with three of those positions becoming full-time rather than part-time. The budget also includes 3 percent merit raises and covers increases in employee benefits for insurance and retirement. Public hearings on final adoption of the proposed budget and tax rates will take place in September, when the council will make its final decision. At the proposed tax rate, Wellington will take in about $12.88 million in property taxes — $120,000 more than last year.

Wellington’s total taxable value this year is $5.42 billion. “That’s the first increase in taxable value since 2007 or 2008,” McIlveen said, noting that the average home in Wellington is assessed at about $250,000. Councilwoman Anne Gerwig asked whether Wellington was using any of its rate stabilization funds. McIlveen said it had not, but that there is about $600,000 budgeted to cover any revenue shortages. “The year is not over, so we’re not sure what will happen between now and then,” she said. “At this time, we are not foreseeing using it for revenue shortage.” Coates pointed out that Wellington would be collecting more tax revenue from its residents at the proposed rate. “It would actually result in an increase of tax revenue,” he said. “If we’re telling our taxpayers that we’re treating them the same as last year, that rate should really be 2.47.” McIlveen agreed, but she pointed out that property valuations would affect individual taxes. “Someone’s taxable value could

‘It would actually result in an increase of tax revenue,’ Vice Mayor Howard Coates said. ‘If we’re telling our taxpayers that we’re treating them the same as last year, that rate should really be 2.47.’

go down, in which case 2.5 would be a decrease. Conversely, there could be an increase,” McIlveen said. Mayor Bob Margolis reminded council members that the TRIM rate was merely preliminary and sets the highest rate Wellington can charge. “We will have a lot more discussion with regard to the budget,” he said. McIlveen pointed out that Well-

ington collects less tax from residents than the county or the school board. “About 9.7 percent of the tax bill is our property taxes,” she said. “With solid waste and property assessments, it’s about 16 percent of the total.” But Coates said he thought the council should approve a lower preliminary rate. “This year, the rollback rate, unlike previous years,

is lower,” he said. “I won’t support a rate of 2.5 [mills].” Willhite made a motion to approve the TRIM rate, which carried 4-1 with Coates opposed. In other business, council members voted unanimously to maintain solid waste collection and recycling rates at $160 per unit for curbside service and $125 for containerized service, the same as last year.

Indian Trail Wins Approval For $200,000 Park Grant By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District announced this week that an application for a $200,000 grant for phase one of the Acreage Community Park expansion has been approved by the Florida Land & Water Conservation Fund and will be sent to the National Park Service for final approval. Once the park service has approved the application, an award letter and grant agreement will be forwarded to ITID, according to District Administrator Tanya Quickel. The application was signed July 2 by Florida Land & Water Con-

servation Deputy Secretary Al Dougherty, and the agency will submit the applications this fall. ITID President Michelle Damone said the grant would help the $3.9 million it has available for the project to go farther. Plans call for a community center, several athletics fields, basketball and tennis courts, a splash park, playgrounds, pavilions, picnic areas, and walking and riding trails. “If we completed the park in its entirety, it would cost approximately $10 million to complete,” Damone said. “The board has prioritized Acreage Community Park in the first phase, with, if we can extend our funding, the splash park

being the next step, so receiving the $200,000 grant actually stretches our dollars and expands our potential to go in for other amenities.” ITID Vice President Carol Jacobs said she was happy to receive the boost. “I think that it was good work that Tanya went out and searched for grants,” Jacobs said. “It was about time someone started doing some work on that.” Supervisor Jennifer Hager was also pleased. “I’m looking forward to more grants,” Hager said, pointing out that a $500,000 application is also being prepared. “One step at a time.”

RPB Postpones Consideration Of Inspector General Funding Grant By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council postponed authorization last week for an interlocal grant requested by the Palm Beach County Commission to provide financing for the Office of the Inspector General. The village and other municipalities have been providing payments to the county since voters approved an amendment to the county charter establishing the office, but recently, Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock has been holding the money in escrow until a lawsuit against the county by 14 municipalities is settled. That litigation could take more than a year. In May, Royal Palm Beach received a request from the county commission asking that it enter into an interlocal grant agreement with

the county to provide the village’s share of financing for the inspector general’s operations. Setting it up as a grant would bypass the clerk’s authority to hold the money. The proposal had been placed on the July 5 agenda at the previous meeting after Village Manager Ray Liggins introduced the letter to the council for discussion. “Since the last meeting, I have had conversations with the county, and they have asked that we postpone this item,” Liggins said. “They have a couple of concerns with the drafted agreement, and one of the problems can be taken care of with a postponement.” As of July 15, all the numbers for 2013 would be available to calculate the payments — information that was not available to the council last week. “We were writing the agreement

so it would end on Sept. 30, 2012,” Liggins said. “With those numbers, to be completed and counted by July 15, we will be able to write the agreement through 2013.” Liggins requested the item be postponed until the Aug. 16 council meeting. Councilman Richard Valuntas made a motion to postpone the item. Councilwoman Martha Webster said that the request looked good, other than waiting for final calculations of what the village would be expected to pay. “Other than that, I’d be willing to approve it today,” Webster said. Liggins said the main concern is that since the agreement has the ability to renew, he is looking for a cap on future costs. “When we have those numbers, I’ll be able to take care of that concern,” he said. The motion carried 5-0.

In other business, the council approved a special exception allowing a church to open in the Royal Plaza shopping center at 650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. The Potter’s House, a congregation of about 60, has been meeting in various locations, including the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien said the church is in a general commercial district and will provide 70 seats, which will be in the central portion of the northwestern building in the shopping center. The church will require 18 parking spaces, based on one space for every four seats as required by the village code. The shopping center is required to have 524 spaces, and 673 spaces are provided. The church will have services at 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Wednesdays.

“Staff does not feel that the hours of operation will conflict with the hours of operation of the other businesses within the shopping center,” O’Brien said. The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the application at its meeting June 26. Potter’s House administrator Leslie Colon said the church has been in the area since 1999 and is excited to be able to put its roots down in Royal Palm Beach. “We have great anticipation of ministering to the residents in Royal Palm Beach,” Colon said. The church has met at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center and Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School. “We look forward to being permanent here in Royal Palm Beach so we don’t have to tear down and set up all of our equipment each Sunday,” Colon said.

Webster asked whether the church had looked at other spaces, and Colon said the congregation has met at the cultural center since 2005 and sought out a location within 2 miles of there. Webster said she has spoken with officials from a couple of other municipalities that had approved storefront churches and found that they are empty during the day, but she was aware that the church would have Wednesday services and have congregants coming and going at other times during the week. Colon said office hours will be on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon to 4 p.m. and that the church would have volunteers coming in during those hours. Valuntas made a motion to approve the application, which carried unanimously.

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OUR OPINION

PBIEC Hearing Puts Wellington Council In Dangerous Waters The Wellington Village Council is about to enter dangerous territory. At a special hearing this coming Tuesday, July 17, council members will decide whether to revisit changes to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center property approved last October by the former council. Wellington is taking the unprecedented action of holding a specific hearing to see if information was intentionally left out of last year’s master plan amendment for the Country Place PUD, of which the show grounds are a part. If so, council members could decide to revisit the amendment and possibly reverse the ruling. This action takes the current council well beyond the controversial Equestrian Village project, which divided the community and the current council majority campaigned against, to issues surrounding the PBIEC, which other than a handful of high-level equestrians who have disagreements amongst themselves as to how the shows should be run, is not something that Wellington residents in general have concerns about. This sets a very dangerous precedent of future councils going back and redoing what previous councils have done. By opening the door to revisiting land use and zoning decisions made by past councils, this action by the current council raises the question of, what’s next? How far back will the council go to erase decisions in the past they don’t like? Unfortunately, there’s more at stake regarding Wellington’s future than just the political

aspect. As Vice Mayor Howard Coates pointed out before casting a dissenting vote at this week’s meeting, the council’s decision regarding dressage at Equestrian Village could jeopardize the village’s relationship with the equestrian industry. We understand that elections have consequences, and that the three council members who won this past March did what they said they would do. But after the unpopular commercial/hotel aspects of the Equestrian Village were eliminated, the council didn’t stop there, but went on to attack the part most people liked — the dressage element. The question now is, again, what next? The basis for the council’s special hearing on the Country Place PUD is that a 10-year-old master plan decision was left out of the application detailing the site’s history. It’s a line that has also been left out of several other changes to the PUD over the past decade. Should everyone who built in that area or made improvements to their properties over the past decade have to worry that the council might come for them next? This is the problem with taking such unprecedented action for a specific purpose — when you open up Pandora’s Box, you have no control over what comes next. Many people are concerned about the future of Wellington, and right now they have every right to be. If changing rules and regulations were as easy as pressing the Undo key on a computer, they wouldn’t hold much weight in the first place.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Council Must Help Equestrians As most of us know by now, Wellington was a potential site for the FEI World Equestrian Games to be held in 2018. Our town was one of five possible world locations to host the games for a 15day period. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission, the Economic Council and the Business Development Board were all supporting Wellington in our quest to be approved by the FEI commission. However, due to a non-supportive village council who had infrastructure concerns (Councilman John Greene), cost issues (Mayor Bob Margolis) and other general constant concerns from Councilman Matt Willhite, which lend an overriding concern from [Equestrian Sport Productions President] Michael Stone and [CEO] Mark Bellissimo that they did not have the full support of the council, they withdrew their application. In 2010, the games were held in Kentucky, which had over $200 million economic impact to region and state as a whole. We could have been the beneficiary of the same type of economic boost. Our council needed to step up and see the benefit to our local businesses and retail merchants as well as the opportunity for many part-time jobs for our youth and students in our community. Our previous council had approved Equestrian Sport Productions’ applications for master plan amendments and applications to develop a new modern “gateway to the Equestrian Preserve” at the old Palm Beach Polo complex on the corner of Pierson and South Shore. However, because the Jacobs family owns a large equestrian farm nearby on Pierson Road and did not want a new dressage arena and stadium on the grounds, they funded a major opposition campaign to what the previous council had approved and assisted in campaign support for the newly elected council members, including Margolis. I find it amazing that our newly elected members have hired an independent agent to review the previous council applications and audit in an effort to reverse all approvals and stop any new equestrian improvements. Thus, they are bent on a path

that destroyed Wellington Equestrian Partners’ ability to get approval for the FEI games in 2018. Lost revenue for all our businesses and lost opportunity for our local Realtors to showcase our home inventory to potential visitors. Additionally, they have hired and approved over $250,000 for a new legal team to review all previous applications. It seems the current three council members are pursuing a path of destruction and non-equestrian development policy being true to their funding agent Mr. Jacobs and his wishes. We are now on a path of unnecessary major taxpayer expenses for legal fees, outside consultant additional legal service fees, and hours and hours of staff time to review all previous council approvals and now subject staff and the Wellington Equestrian Partners team to a lengthy “special” review of all previous approvals in a witch hunt to destroy any equestrian improvements they had hoped to make to enhance our major industry. I wonder if the Palm Beach Gardens City Council took a similar adversarial position to any improvement PGA and its golf courses makes, or if the City of Boca Raton treats any petitions for traffic changes for Office Depot’s world headquarters. When an adversarial government acts in a negative manner toward its largest businesses and employers, it does not take the corporate owners long to look for others places to relocate. Wellington residents and elected officials have to make a decision. Do you want our town to remain the premier equestrian center in the United States and allow continued improvements and upgrades to keep it that way, or do you want to reduce it to a few local upscale farms and not bring tourism and their dollars here to assist in our local economy? I urge the village council and the Jacobs family, to roll up their sleeves and pitch in and help Mr. Bellissimo and his partners and not be a burden and work together to make reasonable equestrian improvement developments to keep us the equestrian capital of the United States. Al Paglia Wellington Editor’s note: Mr. Paglia, a

former Wellington Village Council member, was an unsuccessful candidate in the recent Wellington elections.

Enforce Current Rules Against Median Signs People or businesses (who don’t pay property taxes) with signs in a median are already banned by state laws governing signs along state roads. These “signs” are illegal billboards and are prohibited under current statues. Under local ordinances, land owners (taxpayers) can’t even put signs up that flash, move, or are in the right-of-way — on their own property. Either the Department of Transportation or the county should enforce the law. Not enforcing the laws on the books allows those who don’t play by the rules to take advantage of those who do. Fred Levin Wellington

Why Attack Dressage? Dear Fellow Citizens & The Wellington Council: I write to you as a year-round resident of our lovely town, an owner of a local equine-based business and as a dressage rider who competes extensively both in Wellington and internationally. I won’t say that my experience is unusual or unique, but it does afford me a perspective on the impact of past, current and future development of the equine industry in Wellington. I am surprised and confused by the events of the last six months regarding the development of the Global Dressage Festival and the Equestrian Village. I am concerned that I might be “missing something” in being able to understand the actions of the council. Henceforth I ask these questions in a public way, hoping to not only get answers but to understand the mindset of this powerful council. Would you be so kind as to explain how it could be possible that the dressage and derby field complex is now in danger? Is it true that there is a significant possibility that parts of the complex may have to be torn down? I really want to understand how it is that this

council is preparing to jeopardize the viability of what is known (in its infancy) as the “best dressage facility in the world!” I want to really know if you understand that by derailing this facility you will essentially be derailing (at least for a time) genuine international sport in the United States. I do comprehend that this is not some tragedy, but the fallout will seem thus to residents in Wellington, and here is how: Riders, trainers, horse sales professionals, and all the adjunct family and people who go with the aforementioned will go elsewhere. If you are looking for bucolic pastureland, this is no tragedy, but if, like thousands of us, you work here, own property here, send your kids to schools here, relish the lifestyle, support the local charities, etc., your economic base will slowly but surely erode and your ability to enjoy the Wellington lifestyle will diminish. I appreciate that there was genuine concern for the Equestrian Village in its entirety because of the hotel and retail, etc. I was grateful for all the public forum opportunities afforded us by the council so that as residents, we would understand both the positive and negative impact to our community. I also want the council to know that I love to see democracy at work, even if it is “messy and loud and exhausting.” But on that note, I want to know if you, the council, were aware of the omnipresent forces working to influence the public? I was called by lobbyists no fewer than 30 times prior to your election, and I always had only one question for the caller: “Where do you live?” The answer was never the same twice and was never Wellington! I was appalled by this… were you? My mailbox was constantly full of propaganda against the development of anything on the old polo stadium grounds and then against candidates to the council who were running for your seats. Were your mailboxes full, too? Certainly it didn’t escape your observation that “professionals” speaking up at the various public forums wouldn’t have been able to find the corner of South Shore and Pierson without GPS. Was this a concern for you? It sure was for me! I loved hearing from residents curious about the outcomes of the council decisions; their questions and concerns were interesting and

viable and, I hope, led to good governing. I want to know with certainty that you truly have the best interests of the village and its residents and their future at heart when you are voting. I have respect for anyone like yourselves who seek and gain public office. Please say that you are indeed listening to us — your constituents, your neighbors, your fellow residents. It matters to us every day of the year. Without trying to be too dramatic here, we are at a point that will indeed decide the future of Wellington, and I for one want your advice on how to approach a council that seems to be speaking (voting) out of both sides of its mouth at once. If you are indeed “for dressage” then please explain why you are making the process of developing a legitimate facility and a concrete international calendar to go along with it so difficult. As one of your constituents, I need to know that you comprehend that relegating dressage and ultimately the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center to a “gentleman’s hobby facility” will render it so sub-par in the equestrian world that the “real players” will go elsewhere. I eagerly await your thoughts, directives, advice and counsel. Arlene Page Wellington

Corporations Are Not People Or Governments A corporation exists for one purpose — profit. The responsibilities, the concerns and the goals of government are very different from those of corporations. Government cares about its neighbors and allies, making security and world peace a top priority and spending a large percentage of the federal budget on national security and international relations. Corporations care about no one but their shareholders and do not have friends. Effective government has compassion for its elderly,

poor children and the disabled, and provides a safety net program for its citizens in distress (as in the case of weather disasters, terrorist attack or devastating illness). Corporations do not know (or need to know) the meaning of compassion. Government provides police, fire, highways, parks and education for its people, while also providing good working-class jobs for teachers, cops, firefighters, engineers, librarians, etc. Corporations provide jobs, but will ship them overseas for higher profit; will fight to keep democracy (unions) out of their workplace and will pay their CEOs outrageous salaries and bonuses while using every loophole that Congress gives them to avoid paying their fair share. Unfortunately, the far-right Supreme Court has allowed corporations to buy our government through their ruling on Citizens United. Mitt Romney, with the help of his friends, Karl Rove (Crossroads GPS), the Koch Brothers (Big Oil), the coal industry, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, foreign banks, and corporations and billionaires, is benefiting from the lack of public oversight of our elections and from the obscene amounts of private money flowing into Republican campaigns. Unions were once able to stand up for the working class and against the corporate contributions, but Republican union-busting tactics have diminished American unions to a fraction of what they were just a few years ago. They can no longer even begin to compete with the vast amounts of money pouring into the Republican campaigns from corporate giants. There are profound differences between government and corporations. Don’t let the far right deceive you. Unless you are a billionaire, they are not on your side. And just because you’re an outrageously wealthy businessman, doesn’t mean you are qualified to be president. Gwynne Chesher Wellington

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

Is The Wellington Village Council Entering A New Dark Ages? The Dark Ages refers to a period of economic decline, intellectual stagnation and war. Additionally, we all understand that consequences matter more than intentions. A well-known expression says, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” The new Wellington Village Council has turned directly down the path toward hell — the path of lasting economic decline for Wellington, economic stagnation and economic war. Regardless of their intentions, economic decline hurts everyone from the dry cleaner to the restaurant owner, gas station and jewelry shop. Additionally, we understand that village staff morale is severely reduced as everyone from the business leaders to ordinary citizens can see the actions of “un-doing” are clearly wrong. The only ones who don’t seem to understand how distasteful these actions are, are John Greene, Bob Margolis and Matt Willhite. Such heavy-handed government actions by the new council, ignoring its own staff and community leaders, is more reminiscent of old-style Soviet Union politics than representative democracy. The latest council moves appear so dis-

POINT OF VIEW By Victor Connor President-Elect, Wellington Chamber Of Commerce

tasteful that Vice Mayor Howard Coates, who originally opposed the Equestrian Village, had the courage to publicly admonish Mr. Greene for taking actions that appear to repay “political promises” after massive contributions of over $500,000 were injected into the recent election. Right now the council is declaring items already built and completed with approved permits, as retroactively “unapproved” and potentially requiring the land be returned back to whatever it was before. Existing facilities will have to be torn down and destroyed. This is like Pebble Beach deciding it wants to unapprove the golf courses already built,

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or Wimbledon deciding it really doesn’t want tennis courts. The Education Place, a private tutoring school, is now facing the same fate. Last December, after receiving all approvals from the village, they purchased an 8,000square-foot home on 2.35 acres to use as their school. Now their permits are under review, and the school has to engage a legal team to fight to keep their existing approval. Imagine for a moment you were getting ready to build a new facility — say, a medical school. Yet you see the previously favored industry is now un-favored by the new council, and they are reversing previously approved projects. As the CEO, are you going to invest and build in Wellington, knowing full well that at the drop of a lawsuit, the council will retroactively “un-approve” your already approved and completed building? This is the kiss of death for Wellington’s future. Once a precedent is set that approved permits can be un-approved after completion, no business will invest in a community that retroactively un-approves previously approved projects and

requiring returning the property to its previous use. That is exactly what is happening to Wellington Equestrian Partners, the partnership that owns and operates the Winter Equestrian Festival. Over the past five years, they have poured over $30 million into improving the show grounds, making them more accessible, more appealing, and safer for both exhibitors and spectators. These investments make the facilities more permanent, providing greater long-term stability for Wellington. As a result, the equestrian industry has grown, and local businesses in Wellington have benefited during very difficult economic times. It has been a benefit to all Wellington citizens and businesses. Philanthropy was also at a record level, as WEP’s Great Charity Challenge over the last three years pumped $2.7 million into the local community, which included $150,000 to Wellington school PTAs/ PTOs, $125,000 to the Boys & Girls Club, and close to $80,000 to the Wellington Community Foundation. Then came the village election. The first move was the revocation of the dressage

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EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman Jessica Gregoire • Lauren Miró

portion of the Equestrian Village project. WEP opted to withdraw the controversial hotel and commercial portions. As candidates, all members of the council had openly said they supported the dressage/ equestrian elements of the project but not the commercial. Wrong. Without the commercial elements, the council still voted 32 to gut the dressage project because a simple plat, typically a ministerial act, was late. The village was complicit in the delay. The council took no responsibility, ignored their own staff’s recommendation, and then rolled back the approval. In October 2011, a master plan and conditional use for Palm Beach International Equestrian Center was recommended by the staff and approved by the village council. Now, on Tuesday, July 17, in an unprecedented move, the village is holding a hearing to undo what it previously approved primarily because one very wealthy woman doesn’t like the fact that there will be a road within 300 feet of her mansion. The village apparently doesn’t trust its own staff as they have approved an initial See CONNOR, page 16

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NEWS

ROYAL PALM BEACH HOSTS FOURTH OF JULY FIRECRACKER GOLF TOURNAMENT

The annual Royal Palm Beach Firecracker Golf Tournament was held Wednesday, July 4 at the Madison Green Golf Club. The day included golf, raffles and prizes, longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, and a barbecue lunch. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

First-place winners Tim Cahill, Dave Henderson and Dan Eggertson with RPB Mayor Matty Mattioli and Councilman Jeff Hmara. Not pictured: Mattt Boone.

Second-place winners Lew Masotti, Joe Egan, Mark Rodgers and Scott Stowell, Mayor Matty Mattioli and Councilman Jeff Hmara.

Village of Royal Palm Beach staff members Karen Polanco, Mike Cheatham, Phillip Rataj and Carlos Morales.

Third-place winners Doug Roberson, Tim Gonyer, Wes Goodell, Mayor Matty Mattioli, Councilman Jeff Hmara and Hal Burke.

Randy Castricone, Travis Bumgarner, Brian Merkel and Chris Walters.

Jorge Alvarez with closest-to-the-pin winner Bill Durkin.

GOOD EARTH FARM HOLDING PETTING ZOO SUNDAYS IN LOXAHATCHEE GROVES

Good Earth Farm (2141 B Road, Loxahatchee Groves) invites visitors to its large-animal petting zoo on Sundays from 4 to 8 p.m. Visitors can see llamas, donkeys, horses, a variety of birds and more that are cared for at the animal sanctuary. There are refreshments and pony rides available. Admission costs $10 for kids over 3 months old and $8 for adults. For more info., call (561) 792-2666. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Taking a walk: Dakota Gonzalez with Cookie and Jessica Miles with Onyx.

Nancy Fried-Tobin with baby zebra Ozzie.

Alan Tobin takes kids on a hayride tour of the farm.

Page 6 July 13 - July 19, 2012

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CRIME NEWS

Over $9,000 Stolen From Gas Station In Royal Palm Beach

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SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 20 YEARS

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By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report JULY 4 — A gas station employee contacted the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Royal Palm Beach last Wednesday to report a burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 1:15 a.m., a female entered the closed gas station on Belvedere Road with a key and took $9,913 from the safe. The employee said she believed the safe door had been left open slightly. Video surveillance of the incident shows an unknown white female in a gas station uniform enter the station, go to the safe and remove the money. According to the report, the employee believes the suspect is a former employee who was fired for theft, and that another employee might have tipped her off to the safe being open. There was no further information at the time of the report. ••• JUNE 20 — A Riviera Beach woman was arrested Wednesday, June 20 for shoplifting from a store in the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Wellington substation was dispatched to Hollister after 20-year-old Alia Kinsey was discovered stealing two white shirts. The stolen items were valued at $35. Kinsey was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where she was charged with retail theft. JUNE 30 — A Wellington man was arrested Saturday, June 30 following a house party on Appaloosa Trail. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 11 p.m. on Friday, June 29, deputies from the Wellington substation were called to the home to clear an open house party. According to the report, deputies observed several individuals attempt to flee the house or hide. The deputy also observed two mason jars with a green leafy substance inside as well as $623 cash. According to the report, next to the jars was the Social Security card of 22-year-old Gerald Lawrence. Deputies detained several partygoers who, according to the report, said Lawrence was hosting the party. According to the report, the deputy discovered that Lawrence had active warrants for his arrest. The deputy discovered that Lawrence had fled to a friend’s house and found him at that location. Lawrence was arrested and taken to the county jail, where he was charged with failure to appear in court. JULY 3 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to a home in Bella Terra last Tuesday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. Sunday, July 1 and last Tuesday afternoon, someone entered the victim’s vehicle and stole a loaded Glock handgun and a Pioneer stereo and navigation system. The victim said his doors were locked, but there were no signs of forced entry. The stolen items were valued at approximately $2,650. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 4 — A resident of La Mancha contacted the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Wednesday to report a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. and 2

a.m., someone stole the victim’s black 2004 F-250 truck. The deputy did not observe any signs of forced entry. The truck is described as having a Miami Dolphins logo on the outside tailgate, toolbox and magnetic sign, and a license plate that reads, “I speak a foreign language: English.� There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 4 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to a home on Crestwood Circle last Wednesday afternoon regarding a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, at 2 a.m. the victim heard a car alarm coming from outside her apartment, but when she went outside to check, the alarm had already stopped. According to the report, she observed her white 2000 Cadillac Escalade in the parking lot before going back inside. At approximately 1 p.m., she returned to the parking lot and discovered her vehicle was gone. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 6 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation responded to a home on 76th Road North last Friday morning regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. last Thursday and 3 a.m. the following morning, someone stole the victim’s mailbox. The victim said she did not see or hear anyone on her property at the time. According to the report, the victim had already made a vandalism report the day before and noted that it is an ongoing problem in her community. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 7 — A resident of Key Lime Blvd. called the PBSO’sAcreage/Loxahatchee substation last Saturday evening to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10 a.m. last Friday and 5 p.m. the following evening, someone stole two large garbage cans from outside his home. The victim said that his property is fenced but noted that several incidents have occurred at his home. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 9 — A resident of Huntington Woods contacted the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Monday evening to report a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m., someone smashed the victim’s rear bedroom window and entered the home. The victim discovered that the perpetrator(s) took $1,500 cash. The victim’s daughter said she left the house at approximately 4:30 p.m. and nothing was amiss at that time. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. JULY 10 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to a home in the Willows II community Tuesday regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6:10 a.m. and noon, someone entered the victim’s home through a window on the south side of the home and stole three televisions, a Colt .45 revolver with ammunition, a shotgun and a jewelry box.

| XXX NZHBTUSPEPDUPST DPN

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Juan Medina, a.k.a. Juan MedinaSoria, is a white male, 6’0� tall and weighing 220 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 06/10/78. Medina is wanted for domestic battery by strangulation. His occupation is plasterer. His last known address was Dans Place in Greenacres. Medina is wanted as of 07/12/12. • Arturo Rubio is a white male, 5’9� tall and weighing 140 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 09/01/76. Rubio is wanted for violation of supervised own recognizance on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Rubio is w anted as of 07/ 12/12. 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.

Juan Medina

Arturo Rubio

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

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NEWS

Community Center On The Agenda At Wellington Council Workshop By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council will discuss final issues regarding the rebuilding of the Wellington Community Center at a workshop Monday, July 16, before the project goes out to bid. The 2 p.m. meeting will give council members a chance to decide how much direction to put in the bid before potential builders have a chance to pitch their ideas. Last year, the former council directed staff to knock down and

Revoked

Equestrian Village

continued from page 1 Riebe on why he did not send an e-mail or written note confirming Kurtz’s approval. Riebe said that because of the importance of the project, he and his staff tried to get information passed on to the applicant as quickly as possible, in this case with a verbal confirmation. He said it occurs often with developers. “In this case, it’s just how we corresponded,” he said. “From my position, I felt I did what was required of me. I provided that verbal notification and tried diligently to keep the process moving on.” Councilman John Greene asked whether Sexton had requested in writing for a written confirmation from Riebe. Riebe said he had not. Other debate surrounded whether council members truly had the option to do anything but revoke the approval. Kurtz said that council members had the option to extend the time for the applicants to submit a new master plan and plat approval, which could allow for the compatibility determination. But Councilman Matt Willhite said he did not want to approve something that was uncertain. “You’re asking me to approve a compatibility, not knowing the basis for the master plan,” he said. Greene said he thought the applicant should resubmit a complete proposal. Rosenbaum pointed out that the issue could lead to litigation, which would be costly to taxpayers, and suggested tabling the item and going to mediation. “Everyone is sensitive to this,” he said. “It’s a difficult time for everyone. I would not advocate someone litigate something unnecessarily. A lot of planning, time and effort goes into putting shows on. I think the smartest thing to do is to stop the bleeding before it gets out of control.” Greene said he felt that Rosenbaum was trying to shift blame from the applicant to staff. “At no point did your client ever request an extension for time,” he said, pointing out that there was no evidence that Sexton requested written confirma-

rebuild the community center rather than renovate the building. The Wellington Community Center is more than 30 years old and was originally the Wellington Club East, a private country club. Although the building has been retrofitted several times since the village purchased it in the late 1990s, it was not designed to be a community center. The building’s steep entryway has been an issue of contention with seniors and residents with disabilities.

Last September, residents got a chance to provide input on what they’d like to see as far as programming in the new building. Many seniors turned out, asking for more consideration in the process. Director of Operations Jim Barnes told the Town-Crier Wednesday that one of the key issues Monday will be whether to direct bidders to put the large meeting hall on the first or second floor. “They have to decide how much information, design-wise, will be

tion of approval so he could move forward. “I can’t make decisions based on what I don’t have.” Mayor Bob Margolis agreed, noting that his concern was with the process, not necessarily the project. “The reason we are here tonight is that… there had to be a platting by a certain time,” he said. During the public hearing, residents advocated both sides of the issue. Bart Novak said he thought that the project would bring traffic and would cost taxpayers to build infrastructure to support it. “Why do we, the taxpayers, have to support them?” he asked. Jack Mancini said that he relies on the equestrian industry in Wellington to make a living and is worried about its future. “We support our families here in the community with the equestrian industry,” he said. “We put people to work. I feel that we are looking at things that are not in the best interest of the community. Everyone has to come together and work together for this to continue to be the best equestrian community in the world.” Rosenbaum said that business in Wellington is at stake. “If it becomes so difficult that business can’t be done here, and we don’t have a partner in the village council, then the applicant will feel that there is no opportunity here in Wellington,” he said. During council comments, Coates said he thought that Wellington officials played a part in causing the missed deadline. “[Staff] did not advise of approval of the [documents] until a time period when it was impossible to have the item heard on the March 27 agenda,” he said. “I disagree that it could have been walked through. Given the political situation, we would have been lynched.” He made a motion not to revoke the compatibility determination subject to a revised plat. Gerwig seconded the motion, but it failed on a 3-2 vote. Willhite said he could not support the item without an applicable master plan. “I don’t think we have any choice but to follow staff’s recommendation,” he said. But Coates said that staff’s recommendation had been prompted by the council’s decision to revoke the master plan, a move that he

said he thought was a way for council members to reverse the previous council’s decision. “I have a problem with the last proceedings,” he said. “The issues we are supposed to be deciding have been bastardized into a complete referendum on the original sitting council, rather than looking at the sole issue of if there was prejudice in failing to file this plat.” Discussion got heated when Coates suggested that there was a personal vendetta against the applicant being carried out through the council. Greene took offense to the implication. “You keep telling me that the decisions I’m making are political payback,” he said. “I held a position that some people in this community agreed with. Because I’m holding true to what I said I support and don’t support, you’re telling me it’s political payback.” Coates then called into question his objectivity. “If you accept massive campaign contributions from an interested party, I have a hard time believing you can be objective up here,” he said. But Greene pointed out that candidates on both sides were well-financed. Coates repeatedly asked Greene whether he thought the existing dressage arena should be torn down. “I don’t believe the arena is compatible in the [Equestrian Overlay Zoning District],” Greene replied. Margolis said that the applicant must follow the rules. “How many more times can we look the other way?” he asked. “I’m not going to move one more line in the sand.” Greene made a motion to revoke the compatibility determination, which carried 3-2, with Coates and Gerwig dissenting. Coates said he thought that the decision could have broader implications for the industry. “There is nothing the council has done for this applicant that has made him feel comfortable that he is going to get a fair shake,” he said. “We are playing Russian roulette with the equestrian industry. There is nothing more harmful to business than uncertainty, and we have created massive uncertainty for every business owner in Wellington.”

SCOTT HYBER

1958-2012 The Town-Crier mourns the sudden, untimely loss of our good friend and colleague Scott Hyber. Our prayers go out to his family at this time of tragedy.

in the bid — not only in look and feel, but in the placement of rooms,” he said. At the public hearing last fall, seniors overwhelmingly called for the meeting hall to be put on the first floor in order to provide better access. But Barnes noted that nothing has been set in stone. “There isn’t a plan,” he said. “The study [presented in September] was more for programming. It didn’t determine a layout or a plan.” Barnes said council members

would have to decide whether they want to make the decisions on where to put things or let bidders come up with solutions. “When [the new village hall] went out to bid, the project didn’t specify where the council chambers had to be,” Barnes said. “The bid included uses and a general need for space, but it didn’t specify where to place them.” He noted that past council members voted to put the job out to bid using the “design/ build delivery” method, but that the new

council could choose another approach. “It may be that they give us direction to bring it back to certain groups or committees for input before it goes to bid,” he said. Although the workshop is open to the public, Barnes said that typically, workshops do not include time for public comment. After the workshop, Wellington council members will hold a special public meeting beginning at 4 p.m. to address an appeal by A1A Tennis regarding management of the Wellington Tennis Center.

County Commissioners Keep Property Tax Rate Unchanged By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission on Tuesday set its maximum property tax rate for the next fiscal year at 4.7815 mills, the same rate as the current year. That rate would generate $599.6 million, which is $1.7 million, or 0.28 percent, more than the rollback rate of 4.7682, which would generate $597.95 million. “The main purpose of this discussion is for the board to set the maximum millage rate that you can consider at the September public hearings,” Administrator Bob Weisman said. The county also set a library system tax rate of 0.5491 mills, which would generate $37.4 million, and a fire-rescue tax rate of

3.4581 mills, would generate $177 million. The county’s proposed total budget for fiscal year 2012-13 is $3.9 billion, which is $22.7 million less than the current year’s budget. Staff reported that it had an additional $3 million in revenue from debt refinancing but had $1.7 million less due to a loss in revenue from the Property Appraiser’s Value Adjustment Board. “This was an unusual year,” Weisman said. “It was a substantial loss from the Value Adjustment Board process that we just found out about between June and now, and that’s what that $1.7 million is.” Commissioner Paulette Burdick asked whether, if they ap-

proved the motion on the floor, they could look at lowering the budget with any surpluses that might be found, and Weisman said they could. “We’re not asking you to decide anything on this sheet, or how to use whatever monies may be available,” Weisman said. “There is $800,000 net available right now for the board to allocate. You’re not approving anything in the budget actually until you get to the public hearings in September.” Commissioner Karen Marcus made a motion to approve the property tax rates, which carried 5-0. Public hearings are set for Sept. 6 and Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. in the commission chambers. The final tax rate can be lower, but not higher, than 4.7815 mills.

County Opens Long-Planned Homeless Resource Center

Palm Beach County Commission Vice Chair Steven Abrams presides over the dedication ceremony.

Palm Beach County celebrated the grand opening and dedication of the county’s new homeless resource center on June 25. The Senator Philip D. Lewis Center, located at 1000 45th Street in West Palm Beach, is the area’s first regional full-service homeless resource facility. The center is named for Senator Philip D. Lewis, an original and current member of the Homeless Advisory Board appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. Lewis has worked in collaboration with other community partners, bringing attention to the issues of homelessness and hunger, and implementing meaningful solutions through the Ten-Year Plan to End Homelessness in Palm Beach County. The center will serve as the single point of access to connect homeless individuals and families to assessments, services, referrals and housing. The county commission hosted the event along with the Division of Human Services, the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County, HUD and the City of West Palm Beach.

OBITUARY

Kathleen Ann Ruppenstein Passes Away At Age 50 Kathleen Ann “Kathy” Ruppenstein passed away on Sunday, July 8 at 11:11 p.m. at Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Palm Beach after a short but courageous fight against lung cancer. She was 50 years old. Ruppenstein was born June 18, 1962 in Queens, N.Y., to the late James and Rita Gilmartin. She graduated from Franklin K. Lane High School in 1980. She married Robert Ruppenstein on June 20, 1986. They had three children together. The family moved to Loxahatchee

in December 1999. Kathy worked in banking for more than 25 years, most recently at Gulfstream Business Bank in Jupiter. Aside from her career, Ruppenstein was also highly involved with Girl Scouts and was a devoted band mom for the Seminole Ridge High School Mighty Hawk marching band. She also volunteered for the Seminole Ridge High School football team. Ruppenstein was never afraid to speak her mind and was someone many people went to for ad-

vice. She was loved by nearly every person she ever came in contact with. The nurses at the hospital said they have never seen so many visitors for one patient. Ruppenstein is survived by her husband, Robert; children Melissa, Meagan and Robbie; her son-in-law, Nick; sister, Tina; brothers Dennis, Jimmy and Tommy; and many nieces and nephews and other loving family members. She is also survived by her friends who were so sup-

portive through this whole journey. A mass was held Thursday, July 12 at 3 p.m. at Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church in Royal Palm Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Robert Frederick Ruppenstein College Fund. It was Ruppenstein’s dream to have all of her children be college graduates. Donations can be sent to: Gulfstream Business Bank, 250 S. Central Blvd., Jupiter, FL 33458.

Page 8 July 13 - July 19, 2012

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NEWS BRIEFS Deadline For Wellington Talent Search July 16 If you’re an amateur performer who’s ready to be discovered, here’s your chance win cash prizes and perform in front of talent agents. Wellington has extended the deadline to July 16 for amateur Palm Beach County performers to enter the first-ever Wellington Talent Search competition. The grand-prize winner will take home $500 and a full scholarship sponsored by Talent Inc. to attend the Talent Inc. National Talent Convention & Showcase in Orlando — a prize valued at nearly $2,000. Four runners-up will walk away with $250. The competition welcomes both individual and group acts of all genres including singers, dancers, actors, comedians, magicians and anything else that will wow the crowd and the panel of judges. Contestants must be at least 8 years old by June 30, and individual performers and at least half of the participants in each group act must reside in Palm Beach County. If you have what it takes, rush

to the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) by July 16 with a completed application form, proof of age (such as a driver’s license or birth certificate), a headshot, and a CD or DVD with a three-minute sample of your performance. Discs must be clearly labeled with each performer’s name, title of the piece, phone number and category. Wellington will also accept YouTube links in lieu of discs. The Wellington Community Center will accept registrations from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Entries selected for a live audition will be contacted no later than July 19. Live auditions will be held on Friday, July 27 and Saturday, July 28 at 8 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. Contestants who advance will perform in the semifinals on Friday, Aug. 3 at 8 p.m. The top 12 contestants will then compete in the finals on Saturday, Aug. 4 at 8 p.m., and the night will end with the dramatic announcement of the winners. The complete rules and application form are available at the Wellington Community Center and at www.wellingtonfl.gov/

community/parks-and-recreation/special-events. For questions, contact Cultural Program & Facilities Manager Joe Piconcelli at (561) 791-4756 or jpiconcelli@wellingtonfl.gov.

Summer Camp At Giselle’s Dance Studio In RPB Giselle’s Dance Studio presented a performance titled “Variations 2012” on Saturday, June 23 at Royal Palm Beach High School. The two-hour display of exciting choreographies, costumes and backdrops was enjoyed by the audience. Giselle’s Dance Studio is now running a summer camp during the month of July, open to ages 3 to 16. Everyone is welcome to join at any time and be part of this summer spectacular. In addition, registration for the fall session is open throughout July. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Classes will begin Aug. 20. For more information, call (561) 753-9543 or stop by the studio at 298 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach.

Wellington Seeks Input On 2013 Village Budget Wellington’s 2013 fiscal year begins Oct. 1, and if you’re a resident, you’re entrusting the village to do more with less — approximately $2 million less proposed funding compared to the 2012 fiscal year. Balancing the budget is a challenge that staff is tackling head-on, but Wellington wants your input to decide what deserves funding. Wellington has posted a Budget Challenge on its web site at www.wellingtonfl.gov. It’s a survey tool that allows residents to make decisions about how much funding certain services should receive, such as law enforcement, equestrian infrastructure, customer service and programming at the Wellington Amphitheater. Wellington will compile the results of the Budget Challenge, and the data will be presented to the Wellington Village Council at subsequent budget workshops. “The Budget Challenge will help Wellington set its funding priorities for the next fiscal year and will help us create a balanced budget

that reflects the community’s values,” Financial Management & Budget Director Mireya McIlveen said. “We want to know not only what programs and services our residents need, want and are willing to pay for, but also what we could do without.” To take the 2013 Budget Challenge, visit Wellington’s web site at www.wellingtonfl.gov, go to the Departments tab and click on Financial Services OFMB.

Fishing Tourney For Quantum House July 14 The Jupiter Light Lodge #340 will host its sixth annual fishing tournament to benefit Quantum House on Saturday, July 14. Funds raised from the tournament will assist the local hospital hospitality house where “hope has a home” for families while their children are receiving treatments for serious medical conditions in Palm Beach County. The eager fishermen will start their engines for a 7 a.m. bimini start from the Jupiter Inlet. Anglers will be hopeful to catch the largest kingfish, dolphin, wahoo and

snapper/grouper. After a busy morning on the high seas, the boats will head back to land for the 3 p.m. weigh-in at Castaways Marina. An awards presentation and barbecue will begin at 3:30 p.m. to celebrate the contestants’ catches. Cash and prizes will be awarded for the largest fish caught in each category. All participants will bid on items that any angler would love in the silent auction. Event sponsors include Tow Max Tires, Sumitomo Tires, CSI Palm Beach, Carpenter Electric, Square Grouper Tiki Bar, Grand Slam Sportfishing Supply, Sysco Foods Inc., Indian River Fruit, Fishing Headquarters, Juno Beach Bait and Tackle, Seatow, Intermarine and West Marine. Established more than 50 years ago, the Jupiter Light Lodge has served countless organizations in the community. “We are thrilled to have the support of the enthusiastic membership of Jupiter Light Lodge,” Quantum House Executive Director Robi Jurney said. “The organization has made a lasting impact for charities like Quantum House in the community.” For more information, contact Mike Loeffler at (772) 201-0682 or mjl1220@aol.com.

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NEWS

Wording In Livestock Ordinance Still Concerns Acreage Residents By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County planners attended a joint meeting of the Acreage Landowners’ Association and Indian Trail Improvement District on Monday, July 9 at the ITID office to explain a newly drafted livestock ordinance. The office was packed with Acreage residents concerned about how the new rules will affect small lot owners with backyard livestock. The draft ordinance was criticized by ITID supervisors last month after it went before the Land Development Regulation Advisory Board. According to Palm Beach County Planning & Zoning Director Rebecca Caldwell, the regulations now on the books place many residents in violation. The ordinance is to address many of the regulations by taking into consideration residents’ needs, she said. The old regulations became an issue after residents made several complaints regarding livestock. One such case involved a Jupiter Farms woman cited for keeping roosters on her property. Caldwell explained that the new ordinance would apply only to properties without a bona fide agricultural use or exemption, stating that the ordinance would protect property owners with residential principal/primary use in the rural and exurban tiers from get-

ting citations if they keep livestock. Hobby breeders have a different set of requirements based on separate regulations, and this ordinance does not apply to them. Caldwell said the ordinance defined examples of domesticated livestock, which include cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, llamas, alpacas, chickens and other fowl. “We tried to spell out the common domesticated animals, but we also got into questions about emus and ostriches,” she said, adding that broad language such as “including but not limited to” is used in the ordinance. Under the new ordinance, permanent accessory structures on conforming lots must meet a 25foot side interior and rear setback and on non-conforming lots must meet a 15-foot side interior and rear setback when constructed on the rear and side interior of the yard. “What we are saying is that you can’t put an animal on a property line so that it becomes a nuisance to the adjacent property,” Caldwell said. Permanent accessory structures for which proper building permits were obtained are not required to comply with setback requirements. “If you already have a structure that’s out there through proper permits, then you will be OK,” Principal Site Planner Barbara Pinkston-Nau said. Caldwell added that there have

been misconceptions as to the regulations regarding sheds, “that at one point in time they were not subject to permits when constructing new things under $1,000,” she said. “That limitation in the building code was for repair and rehabilitation, and it does not even include electrical or anything like that. Anything under $1,000 always did require a permit.” Temporary or portable structures that don’t require a building permit can be located in the required front and side street yard as long as they have a 15-foot minimum setback from the side interior. “It can be a trough or some type of feeding mechanism they can move around,” Pinkston-Nau said. “We added this because folks had concerns that we were actually limiting the amount of property they could use.” The ordinance gives property owners with livestock six months from the adoption date to comply with the requirements. If cited by code enforcement after the sixmonth period, property owners are given 60 days to comply with the requirements. Several residents, along with ALA and ITID board members, were against the maximum number of six on-site animal sale events permitted in the ordinance. Many argued that such a requirement hindered their rural way of life and livelihood. ALA Gov-

Principal Site Planner Barbara Pinkston-Nau, Deputy County Administrator Verdenia Baker, and Palm Beach County Planning & Zoning Director Rebecca Caldwell listen to concerns. PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

ernment Liaison Mike Erickson raised the concern. “If someone does micro-farming, which is now one of the biggest sustainability pushes in this country, are you telling me that if they sell their neighbor a dozen eggs, that’s one sale and they are only allowed to do that six times?” he asked. Caldwell replied that home occupational licenses don’t allow

any retail sales on-site. “You’re allowed to do garage sales, a certain number of times a year, for 72 hours,” she said. “Right now, you’re not allowed to do any sales, so with this ordinance, we are going to give you six times.” County Commissioner Jess Santamaria advised ALA board members to appoint a representative to raise their concerns to the Palm Beach County Commis-

sioners at their next meeting. “Voice your consensus of what your landowners want,” he said. “I suggest you bring up your most important items, which is the number of sales, and I will back you up.” The ALA decided to not support the ordinance until it does not limit the definition of what’s considered livestock and allows more than six on-site sales of livestock.

LGWCD Approves Payment For Road Paving Despite Cost Overruns By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District approved the final engineering invoice Monday for its recent road-paving project. The invoice included $5,670 for additional inspections that arose after some residents complained about the size and uniformity of the speed humps. “Due to the additional inspection time required for this project, the consultant exceeded the total proposal fee by 5.1 percent,” District Administrator Clete Saunier said. “The original total proposal fee was $111,802. The final actual fee was $117,471.90.” In the project, several roads were paved with open graded emulsified mix (OGEM). Supervisor John Ryan said he thought the level of inspections

and engineering supervision in the way the contractor applied the surface and measurement of the speed humps accounted for the additional cost, which might be necessary in future projects. Supervisor Don Widing said he would be interested in analyzing the costs to apply to future projects. “I think this might be an opportunity for us to step back and take a look at operations from a management perspective,” Widing said. “We have a certified engineer on our staff. Would we be better served looking at how these employees are utilized for services, and are there any cost savings to be realized down the road?” Widing said having an operations engineer on staff might save the district money. He also pointed out that the role of the district

is changing in light of more paved roads and less road grading, and they might be better off to supervise the projects in-house rather than rely on consultants. “I’m not really comfortable with the way we are applying our money from an operational standpoint, but I think there are cost savings that can be realized if we project this out three or five years,” Widing said. “At the same time, we can develop our knowledge base by not being dependent on a consultant.” Widing added that the district needs to develop an interlocal agreement with the Town of Loxahatchee Groves for the maintenance of non-district roads, which remain largely unpaved. “I’m not saying what we’ve done up to this point is wrong,” Widing said. “I’m saying this is a

business decision, and we can do it better and more efficiently.” Supervisor Frank Schiola asked what caused the cost overrun, and Saunier said they had originally anticipated doing one road project per year. “That one road was about two and a half miles, and that would have been something that, based on all of my other responsibilities, I probably would have been able to meet the construction operations,” he said. “However, since it is the first time we did it, there was a learning curve, and we did do 10 miles of roads in one year. It was an extensive amount of work.” Saunier said that about 148 hours of inspection time was allotted, which was exceeded by about 48 hours. The consultant, Erdman Anthony of Florida, also did a speed hump report.

Widing suggested that the district schedule a workshop to analyze the outcome. He also asked whether the construction design and drawings could be done inhouse, but Saunier said the district does not own the necessary software. Ryan said that with the unique situation of roads in close proximity to canals, he valued the output of an outside engineering firm to sign off on the drawings and road construction details, including the speed humps. “If we face any litigation in association with this, I think [we’re] going to be very wellserved to have that professional expertise involved in the background of our decisions,” he said. Schiola said that in light of the amount of work that the district has contracted with Erdman Anthony to do, he has a problem with

the firm billing for the cost overrun. Widing said he thought the district should pay for the cost overrun, but he was still concerned about it. He suggested that handling cost overruns be dealt with more clearly in future projects. Widing’s motion carried 4-1, with Schiola opposed. In other business: • The board certified the results of the June 25 election that returned Robert Snowball to his seat for a three-year term over challenger Roy Parks. Ryan made a motion to receive and file the independent auditor’s report certifying the election, with copies to go to the county’s supervisor of elections and Florida’s secretary of state. Schiola asked how much the See LGWCD, page 16

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NEWS

RPB SENIORS GROUP HOSTS FOURTH OF JULY PARTY AT THE CULTURAL CENTER The Royal Palm Beach seniors activities group held an early Fourth of July party Tuesday, July 3 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Vocalist/pianist Iona Gamble performed, and the seniors sang along to patriotic songs while waving American flags. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Betty Coates, Kathleen Lannaman, Doris Mendez-Weeks and Lawrence Logan.

Margaret Sandifer, Melrose King, Coralee Kentish, Sarah McKenzie and Fay Dawson.

Barbara Baker with Sheila and George Franklin.

Dawn Brodhead, Joan Reed and Marion Howington.

Jerry Springer, Catherine Amico and Michael Greean.

Royal Palm Beach Parkinson’s Support Group members.

MOUNTED POSSE HOSTS FIRECRACKER 1400 BARREL RACES AT JIM BRANDON The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse held Firecracker 1400 Barrel Races on Saturday, July 7 and Sunday, July 8 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. The Youth World Participants Fundraiser exhibition and show was held last Sunday, with proceeds used to buy gift cards to help with travel expenses for youth posse members participating in NBHA Youth Worlds, set for July 22-29 in Perry, Ga. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

James Cooper aboard King.

Kylee Porter rides P.J.

Youth World participants Caelyn Frederick, Addison Rober ts and Faith Jones volunteer at the concession stand.

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SCHOOL NEWS

WHS Project Grad Committee Gets To Work While members of the Wellington High School graduating class of 2013 enjoy their summer vacations, a committee of parents has come together to begin planning the end-of-year party known as Project Graduation. The all-night party, held the night of graduation, is a supervised drug-free and alcohol-free event for graduating seniors. This fun-filled event enables the graduates to celebrate their accomplishment in a safe, secure environment while providing peace of mind to their parents. “The torch has been passed, and it looks like the event is in good hands,” Project Graduation 2012 co-chair Susanne Bennett said. “We wish the new committee the best of luck.” Members of the 2013 WHS Project Graduation Committee are as follows: co-chairs Karen Herrick and Pam Yackulics, Jamie Baker, Troy Bermudez, Sandy Hearns, Chrissy Henley, Donna Sprunger and Amy Thibault. The cost to produce the Project Graduation party is approximately $20,000, so to help offset that cost,

the committee will hold a number of fundraisers in the coming months, beginning with Shop for a Cause Day Saturday, Aug. 25 at Macy’s. “This is the seventh year Macy’s has done this, and we’re very thankful to be included,” said Herrick, who explained how the fundraiser works. “We are selling shopping passes for $5 each, which are good for 25 percent off on regular, sale and clearance merchandise, including designer brands, throughout the store; as well as 10 percent off furniture, mattresses and area rugs. Anyone who purchases one of the shopping passes, whether you use it or not, will be eligible to win a $500 gift card.” Herrick noted that “exclusions and restrictions apply, so please refer to the shopping pass for details.” Additional fundraisers will be held in the coming months, including a fall golf tournament as well as a food and drink event at Whole Foods Market. Details on those and other events will be released as soon as information becomes

Project Graduation Committee — (Front, L-R) Pam Yackulics and Karen Herrick; (back) Donna Sprunger, Sandy Hearns, Chrissy Henley, Amy Thibault and Jamie Baker. Not pictured: Troy Bermudez. available. For more information about next year’s Project Graduation at Wellington High School, or to make a donation, visit the

Project Graduation 2013 Facebook page, or contact the committee at karen.herrick@palmbeachschools. org or (561) 790-2726.

King’s Academy Seniors Enjoy Trip To Europe

Mandy Lopez, Shelby Johns and Robin Seitz at the Tower of London.

The King’s Academy’s senior class of 2012 recently enjoyed an amazing 10-day educational adventure through England and France. The trip was a wonderful culmination of their educational experiences at TKA, filling them with wonderful impressions and memories. This class of seniors followed the tradition of 40 prior classes, traveling to foreign countries to experience history, culture and attractions. The group of 110 TKA students began their journey in London, England where some of the highlights included visiting Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Warwick Castle. They also enjoyed an expansive view of London from the London Eye and cruising on the River Thames. London’s famed West End provided superb entertainment with musicals such as Wicked, Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera. Students were then whisked away on board the Eurostar train, traveling through the Chunnel, an undersea rail tunnel connecting England and France.

In Paris, the group visited the Louvre, the Basilica de Sacre Coeur, Notre Dame and the grandeur of the Latin Quarter. They enjoyed seeing the city of lights by night on a river cruise on the Seine and also marveled at the Eiffel Tower light show. The highlight of the trip was a day spent at Normandy where they visited Omaha Beach and the American cemetery. In a moving ceremony, TKA Valedictorian Maddie Collins and Salutatorian Ryan Larson placed a wreath at the foot of a memorial, and TKA President Jeff Loveland delivered a heartfelt address in memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. As members of TKA honor choir His People sang “Give Me Jesus,” many other visitors gathered to listen and joined hands with the group as TKA Chaplain Gary Butler led them all in an inspiring prayer. The trip gave students a more tangible foundation for their faith while exposing them to the wonders of the world around them. Certainly, this 10-day expedition has created memories that will last a lifetime.

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New VP Of Student Services, Enrollment At Palm Beach State Dr. Peter Barbatis, who has been a community college administrator for 20 years in Florida, Texas, California and New York, has joined Palm Beach State College as the new vice president of student services and enrollment management. Barbatis, 47, comes to Palm Beach State from Bronx Community College, where he had served as vice president for student development/enrollment management since 2010. A New York native who grew up in Orlando, Barbatis was selected after a nationwide search that drew more than 200 applications. He replaces Dr. Patti Anderson, who is retiring. “I’m very excited about this opportunity,” said Barbatis, who is the college’s first Latino vice president. “I think [Palm Beach State] is very student centered.” Barbatis was a freshly minted graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in counselor education and a four-month counseling internship at Santa Fe Community College under his belt, when he landed a job in 1991 as the director of counseling at then Central Florida Community College. He worked in that role for four years and taught developmental math courses as an adjunct instructor before leaving to become dean of student development at Kingwood College in Texas. After two years in Texas, Barbatis moved back to Florida to serve as dean of Broward Community College’s North Campus in Coconut Creek, where he worked for 12 years. He enrolled in Florida International University to pursue his doctorate in higher education administration, which he completed in 2008. Barbatis then took a job in 2009 as vice president of student services at Cañada College in Redwood City, Calif. However, faced with the state’s economic challenges that forced him to cut the counseling budget by 65 percent,

Dr. Peter Barbatis he stayed there just six months before being recruited by Bronx Community College. “Having worked in Texas, California and New York, the reality is we have a very good system in Florida,” Barbatis said. “The Florida College System is very progressive.” Palm Beach State President Dennis Gallon said Barbatis will be an asset to the college. “Dr. Barbatis has extensive education and senior level experience in student services and enrollment management,” Gallon said. “These qualities, combined with his keen interest in student success, should serve him well as he assumes the duties as vice president of student services at Palm Beach State.” Serving more than 51,000 students annually, Palm Beach State College is the largest institution of higher education in Palm Beach County, providing bachelor ’s degrees, associate’s degrees, professional certificates, career training and lifelong learning. Established in 1933 as Florida’s first public community college, it offers more than 100 programs of study at locations in Lake Worth, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens and Belle Glade. For more information, visit www. palmbeachstate.edu.

Send school news items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Marshall Foundation Supporters Enjoy Summer Solstice Celebration The Arthur R. Marshall Foundation hosted a reception Wednesday, June 20 at Cha Cha’s Latin Fresh Kitchen & Tequila Bar in Palm Beach. According to Nancy Marshall, president of the foundation, 125 supporters attended the successful event. Hosted by Joyce McLendon, Bobbi Horwich and Jaimie Goodman, the “friend-raiser” attracted 46 first-timers to a Marshall Foundation event, as well as such familiar supporters as Arlette Gordon, Irma Anapol, Rob Russell of the Colony Hotel and River of Grass committee members Yu Ling

Cui, Roberta Drey, Barbara McDonald, Bernadette Shaloub, Paul Suschak, Phyllis Verducci and Linda Wartow. Among the elected officials on hand were Palm Beach Mayor Gail Coniglio and Councilman Bill Diamond, Lake Worth Mayor Pam Triolo and Vice Mayor Scott Maxwell, Palm Beach County Tax Collector Anne Gannon, Broward County Commissioner Kristin Jacobs and State Rep. Jeff Clemens (D-District 89). Highlights of the Summer Solstice Celebration included the public introduction of the Marshall Foundation’s five new summer in-

Norm Gitzen of Wellington with Michael Sedan.

terns (James O’Connell, Max Wallace, Danielle Koushel, Mary Crider and Kyle Dollman) and Ann Paton, the nonprofit organization’s new director of development. “This was the second of several social events that the Marshall Foundation will be hosting this year in Palm Beach, culminating with our seventh annual River of Grass Gala, which will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8, at the Colony Hotel Pavilion,” Marshall said. Based in Palm Beach County, the Marshall Foundation champions the restoration and preservation of the greater Everglades ec-

osystem through science-based education and outreach programs. Annually, more than 15,000 elementary and high school students in Palm Beach County actively participate in the Marshall Foundation’s various education programs. Founded in 1998, the nonprofit organization has in recent years awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships and internships, planted nearly 100,000 native Florida trees in wetland areas, and involved more than 5,000 volunteers in hands-on restoration projects. For more information, visit www.artmarshall.com.

James O’Connell, Max Wallace, Danielle Koushel, Mary Crider and Kyle Dollman.

Nancy Marshall with Ted and Elena Peroulakis.

Troy Devine, Patricia Atwater, Olympia Devine and Rik Vandejen. PHOTOS BY CORBY KAYE’S STUDIO PALM BEACH

GCDSO Will Host Aug. 1 Wine Tasting To Kick Off Annual Buddy Walk Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization will kick off the 18th annual Buddy Walk with “Buddy Walk… Uncorked,” a wine tasting scheduled to take place Wednesday, Aug. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Wine Cellar at Renaissance Commons (1500 Gateway Blvd., Boynton Beach). Guests will enjoy a variety of wines and food. “This year our Buddy Walk committee was looking for a fun way to bring people in our organization and in the community together to kick off the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization’s largest fundraiser,” said DeeAnne Feulner, chair of Buddy Walk… Uncorked. “With the opening of our new resource center, we are in a period of exciting new growth

and programming and wanted to get our supporters galvanized for raising funds. What better way to do that than a party with wine and food?” The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization serves Palm Beach County and helps children and adults with Down syndrome and their families. The Buddy Walk, a family fun morning of walking followed by children’s activities and a silent auction and raffle, provides most of the funds for the group’s operations. This year’s walk is set for the morning of Sunday, Oct. 21 at John Prince Park’s center pavilion in Lake Worth. The Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization is an educa-

tional resource, support and advocacy organization, which has been empowering individuals with Down syndrome and their families since 1980. The organization supports the inclusion of persons who have Down syndrome in all areas of life as contributing and valued members of society. It provides current and positive information about Down syndrome to new parents, sponsors social opportunities for individuals of all ages with Down syndrome, provides parent training and educational advocacy, and strives to ensure that individuals with Down syndrome can grow up to live, learn, work and play in their community. In 2010, the Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization received the

National Down Syndrome Congress prestigious National Parent Group Award. Tickets cost $20 per person with reservations and $25 at the door (space permitting). All ticket proceeds and 30 percent of any wine purchased at the tasting will benefit the new Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization Resource Center. To order tickets, visit www. goldcoastdownsyndrome.org, look for News Flash (on the right side of the home page) and click details. You can also mail your check (with guest names) to GCDSO, 915 S. Federal Highway, Boynton Beach, FL 33435. For more info., contact Anne at ad.gcdso@ bellsouth.net or (561) 752-3383.

Kim and Gail Marino of Patriot Rail enjoy a toast in anticipation of the “Buddy Walk... Uncorked” wine tasting.

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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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

ELITE NETWORKING PROS MIXER AT LAKE WELLINGTON PROFESSIONAL CENTRE

Elite Networking Pros hosted a membership mixer Thursday, June 28 at the Lake Wellington Professional Centre. It was a successful event with many guests and several potential new members. The group looks forward to expanding its membership and hosting more social events in the coming season. Elite Networking Pros meets every Friday at 7:30 a.m. at the MarBar Grille at the Madison Green Golf Club in Royal Palm Beach. Visit www.elitenetworkingpros.com for more info.

Laura Jaffe, Donna Broder and guest Richard Stevens.

Group members Frank Dowling of Hulett Pest Control, Chris Zeller of Gateway Insurance and Mike Myers of Polo Gear.

Jennifer Fortin, Tom Leinwol and Stephen Mailloux, with Ken and Dave Snitkin.

Tom Leinwol with Frank and Eileen Dowling.

The event had a great turnout.

Giovanni Alicea Graduates U.S. Air Force Basic Training Air Force Reserve Airman Giovanni Alicea recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Alicea completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare princi-

ples 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. Alicea is the son of Damaris Rosado-Morales of West Palm Beach. He is a 2006 graduate of Palm Beach Lakes High School.

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NEWS

American Wave By Arrojo Arrives Sunday, July 15 At Visions Hair Salon In Wellington This Sunday, July 15, top stylists from around the country will gather at Visions Salon in Wellington to be certified in the American Wave, a revolutionary new hair service. The service has already received plenty of positive press in publications from Cosmopolitan to Modern Salon magazines. In her blog¸ Carly Cardellino of Cosmopolitan magazine wrote about the treatment she received

at Arrojo Studio in New York’s SoHo district, where the service originated. “I seriously couldn’t believe my eyes — my poker-straight strands now resembled Sarah Jessica Parker’s in Sex and the City,” she wrote. The service will allow its clients to achieve this season’s hottest looks from beach waves to volume. Arrojo explains on its web

site: “Without dryness, damage, off-putting smells or styling restrictions, we can change the texture of hair that is already curly, use it to give fine hair types a volume boost, create a mélange of different textures, and give waves and curls to anyone that wants them. Using creative soft tool design wraps, we have created a new salon service professionals can use to give a new wave of styling

options to all salon clients.” Visions Salon is honored to be hosting the certification and welcomes the opportunity to open its doors to the Arrojo team and all who will attend. “You never stop learning,” Visions Salon owner Tom Monticello said. To schedule an appointment to receive this exclusive treatment, call Visions Hair Salon at (561) 7901696.

Students Looking For Host Homes Palm Beach County families can learn more about another culture by hosting an academic year exchange student through the exchange student programs Cultural Academic Student Exchange (CASE). The program is currently looking for host homes for several high school–age exchange students due to arrive right before school starts in August. “Families are offered the opportunity of building friendships that last a lifetime,” said Maribel Carrera, the local representative for CASE. “We have a boy from Sweden and a girl from Italy who would love to experience the winter sunshine in Florida.” CASE has exchange students from Europe, South America and Asia just waiting to hear that an American family will host them during their exchange stay. Families with or without children are invited to offer their hospitality

Seniors

Committee Changes

RPB Tourney Winners — As part of its Fourth of July Spectacular, the Village of Royal Palm Beach held several competitions, including the Mayor’s Cup Kayak Tournament and a cornhole tournament. (Left) Cornhole tournament winners Donnie and Mac Beauchesne. (Right) Kayak tournament winners David Suker and David Lorenzo.

ITID

Fuel Spill Policy

continued from page 1 for immediate cleanup, after the recent fuel spill sat in the ground for a month when the equipment owner did not act promptly. Resident Patricia Curry was concerned that supervisors were not notified when the spill happened but said she thought the policy was acceptable. “I think it’s fairly good,” Curry said. “I still would like to see some things in it. Number one, it only deals with petroleum products.”

RPB Budget

Tax Rate Unchanged

continued from page 1 stormwater utility fee of $4 a month per residential unit, primarily to pay for canal maintenance, with a corresponding reduction in public utilities and the general fund, where that money came from previously. “Due to changes in governmental fund accounting requirements, the village was able to release about $5 million previously held in reserves,” Liggins said. “A fiveyear plan for the use of those dollars was presented and approved by the council on May 3.” The budget also proposes to use a little over $400,000 of the freed-up money to balance the budget, Liggins said. Consistent with the five-year plan, the budget proposes to include new software in public works and parks and recreation to reduce costs. The budget also utilizes more contractual services than the year before. “Overall, this year’s budget is $32 million, or $11 million less than last year’s budget,” Liggins said. “Capital expenditures are down $11.5 million, mainly due to the 160acre Commons Park being further along and getting completed. It’s up approximately $450,000 in operating expenses, inclusive of the stormwater utility.” The debt service was reduced $275,000 due to refinancing of the Commons Park debt at a lower interest rate, he said, adding that

Curry explained that it should be broadened to include chemical spills. “We can’t wait 30 days,” she said. “We can’t wait 24 hours, and despite what state law says, that cleanup needs to start immediately. If it’s dumped in a swale, it’s going out into all the canals. If there’s no water, it’s going down into the ground.” Damone pointed out that the policy requires that board members be notified within 24 hours of a fuel spill and that the district will contain the spill within 24 hours. Former Supervisor Mike Erickson said he thought the policy

was a good first effort. “At least going forward, you have the beginnings of a good policy,” Erickson said, adding that he was also concerned about reporting. “You all run the district. You have hired a manager to manage it. For the five of you to be uninformed on this is just absurd to me.” Resident Diana Demarest said she agreed that the policy should be broader to include more than petroleum products. She also pointed out that Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue has a hazardous materials unit. “We have five cars a day fall into the water in Palm Beach Coun-

ty, and we deal with it every day,” she said, adding that she was also concerned about transparency. “The fact that you guys didn’t know about this really, really bothers me… I understand that you have a staff running the district, but I think there’s a fine line here between interference with somebody running day-to-day operations versus you being in the loop on everything that’s going on out here.” Supervisor Ralph Bair made a motion to approve the fuel-spill policy, as well as a motion to expand the policy to include other hazardous materials. They both carried 5-0.

staff will continue to work to further improve revenue through new business development. “I’m pleased to say that this year, as compared to the last three years, we have positive things to say instead of negative things,” Finance Director Stan Hochman said. “We’ve experienced the smallest decrease in property values in the last four years. Tax-related revenues, which were stable or reduced in prior years, are now increasing. There is a major increase in building-related revenues as well.” Total operating revenues have increased by almost $1 million, which is 4.86 percent of the budget, Hochman said. Total operating expenditures have decreased by about $205,000, which is a decrease of about 1 percent. Hochman also updated the prior total property value, which had been estimated at $1.839 billion, to the most recent value of $1.807 billion released by the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office, which is a difference of $31 million in total property value. “Regardless, we’re still maintaining the 1.92 mills per thousand,” Hochman said. He added that 62 percent of the budget is in general operating expenses. General capital is 16 percent, reserves are 15 percent, debt service is 5 percent, and the new stormwater utility fund is 2 percent. General fund revenue is $21.6 million, with property taxes making up 15 percent of that amount, he said. “Other taxes and fees make

up 25 percent; licenses and permits, 16 percent; intergovernmental revenues, 14 percent; charges for services, 2 percent; fines and forfeitures, 1 percent; miscellaneous revenues, 5 percent; current year fund balance of 8 percent; and transfers in, 14 percent,” Hochman continued. For expenditures, personal services take 34 percent of the budget, and contractual services, 37 percent. “Ninety percent of those contractual services are the police contract,” Hochman noted. The budget includes a 2 percent proposed employee merit increase for a total cost of about $110,000, with no cost-of-living allowance. Staff adjustments include the deletion of one maintenance worker in public works and the transfer of the equivalent of 6.25 positions to the stormwater utility. In parks and recreation, a program supervisor was added and one irrigation technician was deleted. Revenue for the new stormwater utility created in April will be solely from the $4 per residential unit, to be used for the collection of stormwater runoff, transmission, treatment and disposal, Hochman said. The revenue of $665,000 will be used solely for the stormwater utility. The general fund went down overall from $22.2 million to $21.6 million. Village council expenses went down 14 percent, from $237,000 to $204,000, largely due to the reduction in the contract with its lobbyist, Hochman said. The village manager’s budget

went up from $1.1 million to $1.2 million; finance went up from $1.23 million to $1.26 million; legal went up from $297,000 to $322,000; police was unchanged at $7 million; community development went down from $1.14 million to $1.12 million; engineering want down from $560,000 to $559,000; public works went down from $2.6 million to under $2 million, due mainly to the creation of the stormwater utility; and parks and recreation went up from $3.2 million to $3.5 million due to increased maintenance of Commons Park. Non-departmental expenses went up from $1.8 million to $1.9 million. Former Councilman Dave Swift asked whether the village went into reserves this year as it did last year, and Hochman said the village was committed to have 25 percent of its annual budget set aside as a reserve, which it has done through the years. “We had roughly $5 million set aside,” he said. However, a recent Governmental Accounting Standards Board ruling found that the $70 million the village has from the utility sale to the county can no longer be segregated from the general fund. “The $70 million that we had in that fund was then combined with the $5 million in the general fund, and our fund balance reserve was no longer 25 percent; it was 350 percent,” he said. “Because of that ruling, the $5 million that was in the general fund was freed up and utilized, and we created the fiveyear plan to use it, and continue to balance the budget.”

OPINION Connor

New Dark Ages?

continued from page 4 $250,000 for outside counsel and engineers, all coming out of taxpayers’ pockets. Their rationale, misrepresentation by omission in the “history” portion of the application based on a 2001 suspension within the PUD (five years before WEP’s ownership). Their own staff couldn’t be trusted so they hired an external consultant. His finding: All applications within the PUD omitted that history. All were approved. Rolling back this approval is selective enforcement and damages the equestrian industry. The estimates of the costs of these lawsuits will be somewhere around $2 million in legal, consultant’s fees and staff time. It’s Mr. Willhite’s position that either way, “the village is going to get sued.” There is a problem with Mr. Willhite’s logic. The village is trading lawsuits where they would

most likely win (because the staff recommended and council approved and they are compliant with the law) with lawsuits where Mr. Coates and Village Attorney Jeff Kurtz believe they will most likely lose (stripping away rights on rarely used procedures on technicalities). The cost to the village will be much higher to defend. Their political allies’ legal costs get minimized or disappear and the village taxpayers and WEP get stuck with higher bills. Not responsible or representative government. Kudos to Mr. Coates for standing up for good government over political cronyism. With a village budget that has dropped from $125 million just four years ago to $75 million today, the village is operating as leanly as possible. So where does the $2 million come from? It has to come from somewhere — do they take it out of Parks & Recreation? Do they take it out of Engineering? Do you close the parks earlier, maintain them less, or let maintenance on the water and sewer treatment facility decline?

Life is about choices. To buy one thing, we often give up something else. The council must decide if undoing previously completed projects and tearing them down is a better use of taxpayer money than keeping parks open, maintaining utilities or setting aside reserve funds for hurricanes and other disasters. Intellectual stagnation. The more time the council spends on second guessing past councils, and the more time they try to get “do-overs,” the less time to look at how to improve Wellington, how to help the businesses of Wellington create more jobs and prosperity. We know what the council is against — the expansion of equestrian facilities and the expansion of the medial arts district. Right now there is a doctor’s imaging office trying to expand its technology and bring in more advanced imaging systems. The permit has been under consideration for 90 days with lots of talk but no action. Finally, war. The council has effectively declared full-frontal at-

tack on the equestrian and medical industries. While they say they support both, they move backward instead of forward; they look to village staff errors from 2001 as rationale for undoing the already done. They don’t seek to build, but instead to destroy and dismantle. In a recent appearance before the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, both Mr. Margolis and Mr. Willhite never once mentioned the equestrian industry in discussing Wellington’s economic strength. Was this an oversight or an unintentional slip demonstrating their disdain for the equestrian industry? In the end, consequences matter more than intentions. Whatever their intentions, the consequence is that we all lose. The mayor says Wellington should be a bedroom community. The bedroom is used for two things — sleeping and something else. Something else is what the business community, the whole community, is getting from this council.

continued from page 1 council,” he said, adding that members could alter the resolution to reflect that ability. Kurtz said that committee and board members could submit ideas that could then be put on their agenda if council members agree. But Gerwig said she thought committee members should be able to set their agenda with a majority vote. Willhite agreed. “The chair of that committee, along with our staff liaison, can set the agenda based on the majority of the council wanting to see something on a future agenda,” Willhite said. “Then if someone has a good idea and wants to put it on a future agenda, there has to be consensus. Then they can work with staff to provide direction.” Coates asked whether they could address those issues in the resolution. “This applies to only one committee,” he said. Kurtz said that the council could direct him to draft language that would apply to all committees. Until then, he noted that it could remove language in the resolution stating that the council must direct them to meet. Gerwig wanted to be sure that advisory members could still come to the village council, and Kurtz said that they would. “They maintain that ability,” he said. “And if the council directs them to look at an issue, they would do that.” After some confusion, Willhite explained that new measures would be drafted to address all

WEG Bid

Proposal Withdrawn

continued from page 1 Schofield] and I met with Mr. Stone, we asked him to come in and make a presentation,” he said. “I told him what we needed was more information.” Councilman John Greene echoed Margolis’ comments. “I was disappointed to learn that they withdrew the application before we got a chance to see it,” he said. Greene said he learned about the event when it was reported in the media. “I didn’t know anything about it,” he said. “We were expecting that presentation. If they want us to lobby to make Wellington the host city, we were supportive of that. Unfortunately, we didn’t have any information. I was never provided one document. I was never asked for my opinion.” But Stone said that the first he heard of a planned presentation was when it was reported in the Town-Crier. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t have known,” he said. “I was supposed to be in Switzerland on the 11th making a presentation to the FEI.” Margolis said he favored bringing the World Equestrian Games to Wellington if the logistics could be worked out but that he had never received information on which to base any decision. Stone said he had notified the village when he learned that Wellington was a contender but that it

LGWCD

Election Costs

continued from page 9 election cost, including the referendum to approve the qualified elector process. Ryan estimated it was $103,000, including legal and accountants’ costs, which led to a $13.50-per-acre special assessment last year, and about $3,000 this year. The motion carried 5-0.

and are allowed to select the student who will live with them. The student will attend the nearest public school to the host family, and each student has his or her own spending money and medical insurance. Hosts provide room, board and guidance. CASE would like to identify host families by Aug. 1, to allow time to begin corresponding with the student before his or her arrival. For more information, call CASE at (877) 417-9675 or visit the CASE web site at www.case-usa.org.

Mid-County Dems To Meet July 16 The Mid-County Democratic Club will hold its monthly meeting Monday, July 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Tree’s Wings & Ribs in Royal Palm Beach. Speakers will be State Senate District 27 candidates Jeff Clemens and Mack Bernard, and State House District 81 candidate Steve Perman. For more information, visit www.midcountydems.com. boards and committees. “This resolution is creating the senior advisory board, and we are directing the attorney to draft one that will address all advisory boards,” he said. Village Manager Paul Schofield asked Willhite to specify that Kurtz draft both resolutions and ordinances to do so, noting that some advisory boards are created by ordinance and others by resolution. Willhite made the motion, which carried unanimously. In other business, the Village Park gym is set to get a $2.42 million facelift after the council approved a contract Tuesday with West Construction. According to the staff report, renovations will include roof repairs, sealing the existing stucco and concrete walls, replacing existing windows and doors, repairing water damage, installing a roof drain system and more. Council members pulled the item from the consent agenda, concerned that there was about a $1 million difference between the two bidders. West Construction bid $2,243,646 while a second company, Brang Construction, bid $3,281,520. Schofield said that Village Engineer Bill Riebe’s cost estimate was “dead smack in the middle of both bids.” Riebe estimated $1.12 million for required repairs and $1.61 million for recommended repairs, for a total $2.73 million. Originally, the budget for the project was $1.04 million, meaning the council would have to approve the additional money, which would come from reserve funds. Coates made a motion to approve the contract, which passed unanimously. took a week to meet with the mayor and staff. “I never heard another word from them,” he said. Margolis said that he thought the council was being used as a scapegoat. “My understanding from talking to people in the equestrian community is that having the games in Florida during hurricane season and in the heat and humidity is not the best of actions,” he said. Margolis added that he felt that the council was being used as an excuse, noting that a statement from Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo had singled out Margolis and Greene, as well as Councilman Matt Willhite, directly for the decision. Greene agreed. “It’s a political agenda,” he said. “They are trying to throw us under the bus.” Both pointed out that Vice Mayor Howard Coates, who was not named, had been more hesitant to show support than either of them at the June 22 council meeting. But Stone said that despite repeated statements from the council members that they support the equestrian industry, they have not shown it. “When they said they supported dressage, we believed them,” he said. “But no matter what they say about being supportive, their actions say different.” Margolis disagreed. “It’s disingenuous to blame the actions of the council for this,” he said. “If the World Equestrian Games do not come to Wellington, they are 100 percent to blame for it.” • The board also kept the same officers for the upcoming year. Ryan asked for consensus to retain Dave DeMarois as chairman, Robert Snowball as vice chairman, Ryan as secretary-treasurer and Widing as deputy secretary-treasurer. “I’m not sure if this is the proper way to do it, but we had a pretty good year last year covering a lot of material,” Ryan said. “I would ask that everybody serve in the same capacities as they did last year.”

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

NEWS

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 17

WELLINGTON AMPHITHEATER PRESENTS BLUES BROTHERS TRIBUTE CONCERT The Wellington Amphitheater hosted a free tribute concert featuring the Blues Brothers Soul Band on Saturday, July 7. Attendees brought chairs and blankets, and listened to live Blues Brothers classics. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER SEE VIDEO FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Blues Brothers Soul Band performs on stage.

Vicente Izquierdo and Maria Salgado.

Sisters Victoria Sutcliffe and Edna Cort dance together.

Emily Fearon and Nick Longhini.

Acucena Naness with her granddaughter Francesca Raxon.

Ken Spellman and Nyobi Jackson enjoy the music.

WPB ANTIQUES FESTIVAL RETURNS TO THE SOUTH FLORIDA FAIRGROUNDS The West Palm Beach Antiques Festival was held Saturday and Sunday, July 7-8 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Vendors offered a varie ty of antiques from jewelry to memorabilia. For more info., visit www.southfloridafair.com. PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Dinah Smith looks through old records from Raol’s Record Shop.

Judy McCormick looks at Renee Rosenzweig’s jewelry.

Cheryl Cannizzaro and Terri Clearfield look at some antiques.

Page 18 July 13 - July 19, 2012

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The Town-Crier

NEWS

LOTS OF FOURTH OF JULY FAMILY FUN IN WELLINGTON AND ROYAL PALM BEACH Royal Palm Beach and Wellington held their respective Four th of July celebrations last Wednesday, of fering residents a full day of activities. In Royal Palm Beach, the day included fishing and golf tournaments; the Mayor’s Cup Kayak Race; a kids funzone; music by A2Z, On Target and DJ Tony the Tiger; rides and games; and the Zambelli Fireworks International show at Lakeside Challenger Park. Wellington’s celebration at Village Park featured games, inflatables, face painting and live music, before concluding with a 9 p.m. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN & JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER Zambelli fireworks display.

Eliana, Brielle and Allison Zimmerman at Wellington’s Fourth of July celebration.

Matthew Scwall has fun on a waterslide in Royal Palm Beach.

Sisters Sophia Bustamante and Seline Novoa in Wellington.

Keagan and McKenna Epstein play on the grass in Wellington.

Derly West and Roxanne Taylor string beads at the RPB event.

Amy and Janaya Ackermann enjoy the Wellington celebration.

Nicholas Perez and Tank enjoy the holiday in RPB.

Steve Bate gets water from Peter Wein in Royal Palm Beach.

Luke and Scarlett Stephens have fun at Village Park.

The Town-Crier

WWW. GOTOWNCRIER. COM

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 19

Page 20 July 13 - July 19, 2012

The Town-Crier

WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Keep Wellington on the World Stage Horse and Hound magazine, the world’s leading English language horse magazine, promoted Wellington as one of the premiere equestrian destinations in its June 2012 issue. Unfortunately, council members Matt Wilhite, Bob Margolis, and John Greene are attacking the core venues of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center under the guise of protecting it in support of a small group of well-funded political allies. The Wellington taxpayer will be picking up the bill for their lack of judgment, independence, and leadership.

Travel Special

COVER STORY

Horse heaven

Nick Skelton was just one of many Brits to decamp to Florida for the Winter Equestrian Festival

With more horses than tourists, guaranteed sunshine and world-class equestrian sport, Palm Beach County in Florida is the ultimate winter sun destination for riders, says Flora Watkins

The most likely consequence will be: - enormous legal bills for the village

T

HAT Americans do it bigger and better is a given — but walking around Wellington, Florida in March this year, I would defy anyone not to be impressed. For a start, there is the Palm Beach International Equestrian Centre, with its multiple arenas, home to the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). From January to March, top-class riders from around the world compete here for serious prize-money, six days a week. Close by there are 65 polo grounds and a new dressage arena. And let’s not forget the 14,000 horses in town for the season. Instead of sidewalks, there are sand bridleways and road signs declare that horses have right of way. It is, simply, heaven for those who love horses. “Most places like to brag about how many tourists they have,” says John Wash, president of the International Polo Club. “We like to brag about how many horses we have here.”

Flora joins in a bit of divot stomping

- reduced services for the community. Tell them that “enough is enough” stop these attacks on Wellington’s business community. Mayor Bob Margolis rmargolis@wellingtonfl.gov

Be a‘snow bird’ WELL-heeled Americans have been wintering in Wellington and its glitzier neighbour, West Palm Beach, for decades — they’re known as “snow birds” to the locals. But a new type of tourist is flocking to the area — keen riders who want to combine an escape from chillier climes with watching the sports they love.

Councilman Matt Willhite mwillhite@wellingtonfl.gov Councilman John Greene jgreene@wellingtonfl.gov 86 HORSE & HOUND

Travel special Costs and contacts Flights: I flew to West Palm Beach, via Charlotte with US Airways. Flights start from about $575 (£366) www.usairways.com Doubles at the Ritz-Carlton in West Palm from: $449 (£286) www.ritzcarlton.com (001) 533 6000 Spa day tickets (non-residents): $50 (£32) Doubles at the Hampton Inn, Wellington from:$279 (£178) www.hamptoninn3. hilton.com (001) 561-472-9696 WEF: admission is free, car parking $20 (£13)/car. A seat in the International Club, overlooking the main ring, is $250 (£159) per day, including brunch, a three-course dinner and unlimited alcohol. International Polo Club (IPC): tickets for Sunday (high-goal) matches from $15 (£9.50); all-inclusive brunch and champagne package for the pavilion is $300 (£191). Weekday matches are free admission For information on trips to both the IPC and WEF contact the Equestrian Visitors Bureau, (001) 561 839 4001, turney.dean@gmail.com

’Gator wrestling in the Everglades

We helped ourselves to a buffet groaning with French toast, bacon and pancakes with blueberry sauce. In the ring, a 1.40m class was in progress and it was hard to know what to focus on — the excellent food or the new darling of US showjumping, Jessica Springsteen in action. “Her dad [rock legend Bruce] was sitting right where you are now last night,” said Mark and I kicked myself for succumbing to jet lag on my first evening. In the outside rings, hunter classes — broadly the equivalent of our working hunters — were taking place.

In the saddle

Pictures by ManciniPhotos

AT the local riding school — all part of the complex — visitors can hire a horse and enter classes at WEF. It’s especially popular with those pony-mad little girls, who can pop round a junior class in the afternoon and stay up to watch the grand prix in the evening. I opted for a trail ride and, as we ambled round WEF in glorious sunshine, it was hard to think of anything that compared, in the UK or elsewhere. Manicured lawns, flowerbeds and lakes decorate the showground, while a network of sandy tracks links the barns (yards) rented by visiting showjumpers. We stopped to look round a barn belonging to one of the partners who own WEF. From the outside it resembled Southfork Ranch in Dallas. Inside — well, let’s say it’s the only yard

No place for those who like to get to bed early, the competitive action continues into the night

with mountains of shrimp and oysters. This time, I was rewarded with a glimpse of The Boss, holding court. His daughter had an unlucky pole down, but we saw the birth of another young star when the gorgeous 17-yearold Reed Kessler, now part of the US showjumping contingent, tied for first place with veteran Margie Engle.

High-goal polo Could this be equestrian shopping heaven?

I’ve ever seen with a groom setting about the stables with a duster and a can of Pledge… Alligator warning signs are dotted around the lakes and I was teased for being “touristy” when I reined my horse in to take a photo. I had to explain that I’ve never met a giant reptile hacking over Epsom Downs…

Shrimp and shopping

DRESSAGE — or “dre-SARGE” as they call it here — is set to be the next big thing in Wellington, shortly to host the only CDI five-star in the US. But polo was the first horse sport to come to Palm Beach County — indeed, the dressage arena is built on the car park of the old polo grounds — and continues to thrive. Strings of ponies being led from barn to pitch along the palm-lined roads are a familiar sight. Again, it is surprisingly cheap to take in a high-goal match. Membership of the exclusive International Polo Club, with its lush tropical landscaping, costs $40,000 (£25,656), but entry to a high-goal match starts at just $15 (£9.50). I was promised a thrilling afternoon, with the world number one Adolfo Cambiaso playing in the final of the Piaget Gold Cup. He didn’t disappoint — on one occasion galloping the entire length of the field, bouncing the ball on his mallet, before knocking it into the goal. Be warned, though, the champagne-fuelled crowd in the pavilion, where I had my seat,

NON-riding family members aren’t forgotten, so there is fabulous shopping, bands to entertain the crowds before big evening classes and a nightclub, once the jumps have been cleared away. With almost two dollars to the pound during my trip, I had to exercise huge restraint to stay away from the shopping village at WEF. Alongside the usual equestrian retailers, there are art galleries and designer stores like Hermès, while Gucci, Ralph Lauren and Saks Fifth Avenue are all planned for next year. There’s no admission charge for the showjumping — just a $20 (£13) parking fee per car — which makes the shopping an even more attractive proposition. WEF has an agreement with the International Polo Club to run its grands prix on a Saturday night — leaving Sunday free for high-goal matches. During my trip, the big Saturday class was the final US Olympic qualifier, which we Entertainment is provided for all the family watched over a three-course buffet, 28 JUNE 2012

Subscribe for less at www.horseandhound.co.uk/subs

. HORSE & HOUND 87

. 28 JUNE 2012

And you don’t need to have the funds of a Rockefeller to enjoy Wellington. I stayed at the Hampton Inn. It’s the only hotel in town at the moment, although there are plans for more. Doubles start from around $279 (£178) during the January-April high season. Competitors and spectators alike stay there and I smiled at the sight of riding boots sticking out from tables in the breakfast room. I had a brunch date, though, so headed straight for the pool, where a swim helped to slough off the jet lag and set me up perfectly for a day of sunshine and showjumping.

Like something out of Dallas I joined Mark Bellissimo, the businessman who transformed Wellington from a town with a big horse show into a thriving equestrian community, for brunch in the sumptuous clubhouse overlooking the main ring at WEF. Mark and his wife Katherine were typical snow birds — decamping to Florida from Boston every winter for Katherine and their three daughters to compete. In 2004 they moved to Wellington full-time and, on finding that the lease was about to expire, set up a partnership to buy the showground. “It’s every American pony-mad little girl’s dream to ride at WEF,” says Mark. “But what we’ve tried to do is create something for mom and dad, too. It’s a family-orientated equestrian leisure destination.” www.horseandhound.co.uk

Travel Special Chasing the dream Like the idea of building a holiday around watching one of your favourite disciplines? Check out the suggestions below

Despite the welldressed crowd, entry to high-goal polo starts at $15

Event: CHIO Aachen World Equestrian Festival 2012 Location: Aachen, Germany What to expect: nine days of top-class equestrian sporting action including showjumping, dressage, eventing, four-in-hand driving and vaulting, plus superb shopping When: 29 June-8 July 2012 Fly from: London Gatwick, Heathrow or Stansted to Maastricht, Cologne-Bonn or Düsseldorf Stay in: Aachen — visit www.aachen-tourist. de to find details of local accommodation More info: www.chioaachen.de/en Event: Kentucky Horse Trials 2013 Location: Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington What to expect: making up one of the three Rolex Grand Slam events, Kentucky offers four days of four-star, international eventing action When: 25-28 April 2013 Fly from: London Gatwick or Heathrow to Lexington Stay in: Lexington — check out the visitor guide on the website (below) More info: www.rk3de.org Event: CDI**** Fritzens Schindlhof Location: Fritzens, Austria What to expect: three days of four-star international dressage set in the stunning snow-capped hills of Austria When: June 2013 (exact date still to be confirmed) Fly from: London Gatwick to Innsbruck Stay in: Fritzens More info: www.schindlhof.at Event: Luhmühlen CCI**** Location: Luhmühlen, Germany What to expect: this international four-star event is part of the HSBC FEI Classics series and promises four days of world-class eventing at its best When: 13 June-16 June 2013 Fly from: most UK airports to Hamburg Stay in: Luhmühlen: the website (below) has details of local accommodation More info: www.luhmuehlen.de Event: Gucci Paris Masters Location: part of the Salon du Cheval, Paris What to expect: a Parisian version of London’s Olympia, with a mixture of international competition, spectacular equestrian displays and plenty of tradestands When: 30 November-2 December 2012 Fly from: Luton to Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport or Orly Airport Stay in: Roissy: a link on the website (below) offers accommodation options More info: www.salon-cheval.com

88 HORSE & HOUND

reminded me very much of Henley Regatta — in that not a lot of sport was watched. After the obligatory divot stomping at halftime, I slipped round to the opposite side of the pitch to watch the final chukkas from the grandstand. It’s for players and members only, but if you can blag your way in, then do so. It’s also seriously smart; think Pucci prints, big sunglasses and Hermès Birkin bags. Enthused by watching some of the world’s finest, during the after-party I persuaded Brandon Phillips, a Canadian five-goal player, to give me a lesson early the next morning. He promised to put me on something halfdead, but my “electric ass” had my little mare, Mac, dancing about. She settled down once I had her cantering and, under Brandon’s patient and astute tuition — “You should be able to spit on the ball when you hit it” — he soon had me giving the ball a satisfying thwack. We hacked back to his barn, the ponies swishing their tails against the flies. By 10am the sun is already fierce, though the heat is nothing compared with the stifling humidity of the summer months. For this reason, the showjumping season finishes at the end of March and the polo in April.

Not just a horsey holiday NON-riding husbands and sons can be lured to Palm Beach County with the promise of championship golf courses, deep-sea fishing and water sports.

. 28 JUNE 2012

And it would be a shame to come this far without seeing the ocean — so for the last few days of my trip, I checked into the Ritz-Carlton in West Palm Beach for some serious pampering. My suite — complete with a huge, freestanding bathtub — overlooked the Atlantic and, lounging among all the Rococo furniture, silver and crystal, I almost felt like one of the smart Palm Beach polo set. With a serious case of cramp in my right arm after swinging a mallet all morning, I put myself in the hands of the capable therapists at the hotel’s spa. After the best massage I’ve ever had, I sunbathed and splashed about in the water pleasure garden. If shopping’s your thing, then Worth Avenue — the Rodeo Drive of the east coast — is a short taxi ride away. But I headed out to the Everglades for a memorable airboat ride. We skimmed across the water and foliage, stopping at a “gator hole” so Jeff, our driver, could point out the “eight-foot Mama” lurking below the surface. She shot off when she saw us, which was perhaps just as well. “Every time I’ve picked her up, it hasn’t turned out good,” Jeff admits. He later scooped a baby out of the water and insisted that I hold it for a photo, showing me how to grasp the back of its neck to keep safe from its snapping jaws.

A new type of trip BEFORE this trip, my idea of a riding holiday in the US was the ranching type. But if you want to combine some beach time with sightseeing, watching first-rate horse sport and, perhaps, having a go yourself — all with guaranteed sunshine — this could be the destination for you. OK, so I’m now hooked on polo. “Congratulations,” says my non-horsey other half. “You’ve found a way to enjoy horses that is even more expensive.” But I was also, I reflected, as I sipped a cocktail in my giant bathtub, heading back to an English winter with all the knots smoothed out of my shoulders and an enviable golden glow. And who would have thought you could enjoy a riding holiday without coming home with a farmer’s tan? H&H

Polo pictures by LILA PHOTO for International Polo Club Palm Beach

- increased taxes

Picture by ManciniPhotos

- reduced opportunities for our businesses

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Advice For Getting ‘Problem Loaders’ Into A Trailer

Being the center of attention in a show ring may bring joy, but being the center of attention at the show grounds because your horse won’t load into the trailer can bring humiliation and frustration. Andrea Stonecipher of Smooth Sailing Stables offers tips for handling this problem. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 21

Wellington Baseball Teams Win Championships

With its showing in the Palm Beach County Little League Tournament, otherwise known as the 2012 Spring District Invitational, Wellington Recreation Little League cemented its place as one of the county’s best programs by winning championships in three age divisions. Page 37

Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business Get In Shape At Your Own Pace At Iron Lion Fitness Studio In Wellington

Don’t let the lion intimidate you; Wellington’s Iron Lion Fitness Studio is a warm and inviting place with a friendly atmosphere. Owned by Michael Bates and Seth Kaufmann, the studio offers a variety of options, which include indoor cycling, personal training, weight management and yoga. The RealRyder fitness bikes are one of Iron Lion’s most popular services, and the classes are lively and upbeat. All instructors are certified professionals. Page 25

Sports Annual Red, White & Blue Fishing Tourney Returns To Royal Palm

The Royal Palm Bassmasters hosted the 22nd annual Red, White & Blue Fourth of July Fishing Tournament on Wednesday, July 4 at Lakeside Challenger Park in Royal Palm Beach. In addition to the tournament, participants enjoyed raffles, food and more. Page 35

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ........................23-25 BUSINESS NEWS.................................. 25-27 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ...................... 29 SPORTS & RECREATION........................ 35-37 COMMUNITY CALENDAR ......................38-39 CLASSIFIEDS ........................................42-46

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Palm Beach Riding Academy Come join us and discover the world of equestrian sports this summer! We are very fortunate to be located at one of the world's best horse show facilities and have our own covered arena (a bonus during the hot summer months). Our programs are tailored to meet ALL LEVELS of riding experience; whether you are an avid rider, or have no prior experience, we can guarantee that you will learn new things! SUMMER CAMPS AND LESSONS AVAILABLE Our summer camps run Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 2 PM (with extended hours available), from June 11 through August 17, 2012. Our lesson program can be tailored to fit your schedule.

We look forward to meeting you! For more information, please contact Anne-Caroline at 561-784-1133 or annecaroline@equestriansport.com

WWW.PBRIDINGACADEMY.COM

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July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 23

FEATURES

Expert Tips For Getting ‘Problem Loaders’ Into A Trailer Being the center of attention in a show ring may bring joy, but being the center of attention at the show grounds because your horse won’t load into the trailer can bring humiliation and frustration. Trust me: I’ve been there more than once. One time, a friend had to leave her horse at a show grounds overnight after hours and hours of failed attempts to get him into the trailer. It’s a humbling experience, one Andrea Stonecipher knows all too well. “I’ve seen all the tricks,” she laughed. “Food, a butt rope, swatting with brooms, lead rope chain over the nose, getting more people to help. These may or may not work, but it’s still stressful for the people and the horse.” Andrea lives in Jupiter Farms, where she has owned Smooth Sailing Stables for 13 years. She teaches basic English hunt seat with a nice, healthy dose of natural horsemanship thrown in. Her other specialty is working with problem loaders. “Over the years, I’ve helped many desperate horse owners,” Andrea said. “The worst ones are people calling me at the last minute who have to move their horses immediately. I’m talking bad situations, like the gal who called from a boarding barn where the barn owner threatened to hurt her horse if it wasn’t off the property immediately, due to a disGet 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 agreement. The horse, who usually loaded well, now refused, spooked by the emotionally upset owner and the screaming, irate barn owner.” And then there was the time a horse was already in the trailer, but no one noticed the wasp nest. “Already on the road, the trailer started bucking around,” she recalled. “They got the horse out, cleared out the wasps, but the horse refused to get back in. Unfortunately, I’ve seen it all.” Andrea said the best way to ensure a calm, reliable loader is not to be in a hurry but to take time and build the horse’s confidence. “The person loading the horse should be quiet and self-assured,” she said. “When you’re worried or nervous, you give off negative energy, which upsets a horse. Your fear can make a horse afraid. Horses look for leaders. Changing to negative energy changes the outcome.” Andrea has borrowed many of her techniques from some top trainers, especially Clinton Anderson and Pat Parelli. “I watch the best. What they do makes sense to the horse,”

Andrea Stonecipher of Smooth Sailing Stables prepares to load a horse. she said. “Once you’ve gained a horse’s trust and respect, they’ll do anything for you, even walk into a metal box on wheels. A horse with trailering problems often has problems in other areas as well.” Andrea characterized problem loaders as two types: horses that are stubborn and horses that are fearful. Regaining these horses’ respect requires different approaches. “A stubborn horse knows how to load; he just decides he doesn’t feel like it. It’s a choice,”

she explained. “The fearful horse, however, has become irrational. He believes going into the trailer will injure or kill him; he’s in fear for his life. This horse can be really dangerous, and he or the handler can easily get hurt.” Getting a stubborn horse to load takes thinking like a horse. “The stubborn horse locks his legs and suddenly develops a long, giraffe-like neck, which can reach soooo far into the trailer,” Andrea said. “Or he may stand See ROSENBERG, page 24

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FEATURES

Every Once In A While, I Answer Letters Friends Send Me! Because it’s summer and I’m “on vacation,” I decided to answer the letter that my childhood friend, Bonnie, sent me four months ago. This is actually record time, as you shall see. Dear Bon, Surprise! I am actually answering your letter of April 11! I always save your Christmas letters, too, with every intention of answering — until the next one shows up a YEAR later. Hopefully, things will slow down a bit now, but I doubt it! My older girlfriends tell me life just speeds up faster and faster. It sure seems that way! Thanks for asking about my “kids.” Daughter Jen LOVES her grown-up life as a mechanical engineer, although she is now Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day! Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer. On Facebook, stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page and click the “Like” button.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER officially an Imagineer (her company, Hallmark, got permission from licensee Disney to use the title) and mostly sits around in a think tank all day trying to come up with cool stuff — the dream job she always wanted. Neither of us can believe they pay her to do this. Her husband, Greg, has started up City Bitty Farm on their property to supply local restaurants with micro greens. Son Charlie just returned from visiting her, where he designed and painted a bat house to, yes, house live bats. I didn’t know this before, but I guess every backyard farmer needs bats.

My parents are doing well, too. Mom goes to the Y for exercise three times a week, and Dad swims (regulation!) laps, one for every year he’s lived. As for me, if I walk around the block, I give myself a gold star. How is your knitting business going? Not too many people still shear the sheep and card the wool themselves. I think you should sell your stuff to Palm Beach shops at skyhigh prices because their clientele also have homes where it’s cold — up north, in Europe and probably in the Yukon. Whatever looks most (to us) like a flagrant disregard for cost is where they want to live. I’m sure you remember my brother Jim. He and Linda now have one grandchild who is 5. Linda says the kid is off the wall with hyperactivity. She thinks it’s his bajillion food allergies, and it probably is. Doesn’t matter — I always consider hyperactivity a good thing as opposed to its alternative, life as a slug. The kid absolutely adores Jim, and Jim still loves anything mechanical, so he’s try-

ing to pass on what he knows to the kid (typical grandparent!). I was sorry to hear that your son broke up with the girl who knew that “an egg cup makes a very good hat.” Not everyone reads “Eloise,” so it’ll be hard to replace her. Maybe he’ll find someone to cook “Green Eggs and Ham.” There’s always hope. I am still quite happy with my antiques shop. It’s 3,000 square feet and I have stocked it to the gills – all sweetly arranged but DENSE. We are having our best fiscal year since we opened 10 years ago and I need a second location, but first I need to do an inventory of the place. Why don’t you agree to help? We’ll catch up on things over the month of 24/7s it will take us to complete the task. In short. I love ya. I miss ya. I need ya. What more could you ask? — Deb That ought to cover it. I’m good for the next 4-6 months.

Great Acting Makes A Difference In New ‘Spider-Man’ Film We really enjoyed The Amazing SpiderMan. It’s a good movie that provides a good measure of fun for its audience. When you have to spend a good bit of cash to see a film, simply having good 3-D special effects is not enough. Happily, the story is the important thing in this movie, and, performed by really good actors, it holds together better than any of the other summer films this year. Its biggest flaw, ironically, is that the script and the actors are so good. Most superhero films have vivid heroes with cardboard alter egos. Who would go to a movie about Bruce Wayne or Clark Kent? The vanilla personalities basically serve as a contrast to the superherodom (if that’s even a word) of the other sides of the equation. That held true to a lesser degree in the earlier Spider-Man series. Tobey Maguire was properly stoic as the hero, and Kirsten Dunst fainted daintily and beautifully while being rescued as Mary Jane Watson. The first two movies, at least, were nicely done and made a lot of money. The third was not as good. So why have a fourth? This movie, however, turns the formula on its ear. Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) is an intelligent and sensitive teen. Gwen Stacy

Rosenberg

Working With Problem Loaders

continued from page 23 with just his front feet inside but his back feet outside. He’s not afraid, just refusing to go in. This is a lack of respect from a smart, fat, spoiled horse, typically confident in himself, one who likes to outwit people, push into their personal space.” Andrea will often use reverse psychology and make it the horse’s idea to get in. “I put him to work near the trailer, make him move his feet. I lunge him in small circles, make him back up, change speed and direction, get his

(Emma Stone) is strong and amusing, and takes part in the action. For those interested in these things, this is close to the original story done by Stan Lee a half-century ago. Instead of simply being bitten by a radioactive spider as in the first movies (and being bitten by a radioactive spider is probably no worse than being bitten by a non-radioactive one in the real world), Peter’s father was a pioneer in “trans-species genetics” who was murdered when Peter was a boy. Now a teen, he finds some of his father’s old papers and looks up his former partner Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans) at his ultra-modern facility, where he gets bitten by an experimental spider which causes the changes. Garfield is a fabulous actor; every emotion flashes across his face. He stands up to bul-

lies even before he gets his power (and gets beaten for it). He adores the very popular, brilliant Gwen from afar. He is confused at his seeming desertion by his parents and the death of his uncle. Of course, he does get his power, and the two kids begin a relationship that is both tender and fun. The biggest problem I had in the film was that every once in a while, Peter put on this weird suit, covered his face with a mask and went out to battle this evil super-lizard. Frankly, I really didn’t care; I wanted to see those two really nice kids get together. Even better (to the father of a couple of very capable daughters), Gwen plays a major role in defeating the bad guy even while staying in character. She has no superpowers but is just a strong young woman. The acting, not only by the two leads (if there is an award for best acting as non-villains in a superhero movie, they should win easily) but by the whole cast, is excellent. Sally Field and Martin Sheen as Peter’s aunt and uncle could sleepwalk through the parts but gave strong performances. Denis Leary was exceptionally good as Gwen’s father, a police captain who is determined to jail Spider-Man. Ifans was good as the bad guy but, for a

change, the real emoting is done by the heroes. The action scenes, in 3-D or not, are beautifully done. This is, after all, a superhero summer film, and Spider-Man has to swing from buildings and do a lot of special stunts. Those are fine. But what really pulls the film together and helps it rise far above the typical superhero sequel is its really strong script (James Vanderbilt and Alvin Sargent were the lead writers of a committee) that focuses on character. Peter’s growth as a person, learning that responsibility is more important than revenge, becomes the central focus rather than a sidebar of the story. That makes the movie special all by itself. There was ample evidence in a quick scene at the end of the final credits (don’t run out the theater door as soon as the regular ending happens) which made it clear that a sequel is planned. And I would be delighted to see the story of Peter and Gwen move forward. Bad guys, watch out! This is a movie to see. It ranks with The Avengers among the best movies of the summer. So wait for a spot of rain and start swinging through the streets with Spidey.

heart pumping,” she said. “When he’s a little tired, the only place he can stop and rest is in the trailer. I lead him to the trailer and give him that option. If he steps all the way in, he gets to rest. If not, it’s back to work immediately. I’m establishing that I’m in charge, I call the shots. It increases his respect for me. It usually takes less than a half-hour.” Fearful horses have other challenges. “A fearful horse knows he’s about to die. The whites of his eyes show, he’s snorting, his muscles are rigid, his head’s up, he’s spooky, ready to flee,” Andrea said. “Maybe he has had a previous bad experience, or it could be lack of exposure to trailering. You can’t shove or push this horse in. I teach him that a trailer is fun, safe buffet on wheels. I let

the horse look at it all over, sniff it. This horse usually takes a while to get in — you can’t load this horse when you’re late for a show. Getting into a trailer should become a regular part of daily training. Ideally, the best way to teach this horse is to park a trailer, safely, in its paddock, leave it open, and feed the horse in it. Soon, the horse will be standing in the trailer, waiting for you.” I actually used this technique with one of my mares. She went three days without grain (but lots of hay), until she finally decided to walk in and eat. After that, she became an easy loader. “The most important thing with both types of horses is to remain cool and calm,” Andrea stressed. “Before loading, make sure the trail-

er is safe, tall enough, and free of hazards like wasp nests. When getting ready to load up, allow enough extra time so you’re not in a rush. Know your horse, and make sure he’s prepared and you’ve practiced. Have an experienced friend along to help, if needed. Make sure the horse feels good about getting into the trailer. Reward him with a treat or a pat.” The goal isn’t getting somewhere, Andrea explained. “The goal is having a horse who feels safe in a trailer and loads up calmly, confidently and consistently, because he trusts you,” she said. For more information, or to contact Andrea, visit www.smoothsailingstables.com or e-mail andrea@smoothsailingstables.com.

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler

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BUSINESS NEWS

Iron Lion Fitness Studio owners Michael Bates and Seth Kaufmann. PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Get In Shape At Your Own Pace At Iron Lion Fitness Studio In Wellington By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Don’t let the lion intimidate you; Wellington’s Iron Lion Fitness Studio is a warm and inviting place with a friendly atmosphere. Owners Michael Bates and Seth Kaufmann picked the name and logo, a lion’s head, to symbolize inner strength, endurance, balance and sound judgment. Bates and Kaufmann are longtime Wellington residents who have been friends since they were young students. Kaufmann holds a master’s degree in exercise science from Florida Atlantic University. He went into business first, starting a successful in-home personal training company. When Kaufmann could not take any more clients because of limited space, he decided to open a studio. That is when he enlisted the help of Bates — an accountant who holds a degree in finance from the University of Central Florida — to run the administrative side. They also expanded on the business plan, and added RealRyder fitness bikes and yoga classes. “Everything just steamrolled from there,” Kaufmann said. Iron Lion Fitness Studio opened in April and has been making a difference in the community even before it officially opened its doors, having hosted several charity fundraisers. One of its most successful fundraisers to date was the Ryde-A-Thon to benefit the Palm Beach School for Autism. “We raised $5,000 for the school’s new facility,” Bates said. “They are naming a school room after the studio.” The studio offers a variety of health and wellness options, which include indoor cycling, personal training, weight management and yoga. The RealRyder fitness bikes (not to be confused with traditional spinning bikes) are one of Iron Lion’s most popular services. Unlike the spinning bikes, which are stationary, Re-

alRyder bikes glide and move as the rider moves. The classes are lively and upbeat. “Our philosophy is to play fun music, and let’s make it a party,” Kaufmann said. “We even have an ’80s cycling class, which people love because it plays all the hits.” All instructors are certified professionals. “They all love teaching so much,” Kaufmann said. “They all want to share their passion with others.” Iron Lion Fitness Studio has an intimate and personal feel, Kaufmann noted. “Everyone who comes in knows each other, and it’s really like a family atmosphere in here,” he said. When clients first walk into the studio, they enter a large open space with a comfortable seating area, a place for children to play and areas for personal training. In the back of the studio, through glass doors with the lion head logo on it, 20 RealRyder bikes are lined on one side of the room, across from the instructor’s bike. The room is also used for the yoga classes. Registration for classes is available online. “You can reserve your bike up to a year in advance,” Kaufmann said. People can also view all the classes available online on the Iron Lion Fitness Studio web site, www.ironlionfit.com. “On Saturday mornings we started doing a 30-minute cycling and 30-minute yoga class,” Kaufmann said. “This class is popular because it combines a little bit of cycling and yoga.” There are various payment options, from pay-as-you-go or a monthly unlimited flat-rate option. Iron Lion Fitness Studio is located at 10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 160, Wellington, in the same shopping plaza as Fresh Market in front of the Mall at Wellington Green. For more information, call (561) 204-LION.

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 25

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Wellington Chamber Hires Monica Kallas The Wellington Chamber of Commerce has announced that Monica Kallas has assumed the position of new member marketing and public relations director. Her duties include welcoming new members to the chamber and introducing them to the community. Kallas graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, majoring in marketing. Since that time she has successfully owned, operated and marketed several businesses such as a commercial photography shop, a five-star resort in Central Florida, a martial arts school, a real estate appraising company (where she was a state-certified residential real estate appraiser), a recording studio, and currently is owner and marketing specialist of SharpShooter Marketing Group. In between these projects, she also worked with a large advertising agency as an account representative for two large builders and a dance club on the Disney World grounds. While running businesses and raising two sons, Kallas has continued to attend accredited courses, seminars and classes relat-

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Monica Kallas ing to business, marketing, real estate and law. Kallas is also co-chair of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce Small Business RoundTable, where she helps area businesses attain their business and financial goals via informative monthly sessions provided by speakers who are experts in their fields. “My goal is to provide attendees the latest tools and knowledge to utilize in their businesses immediately to improve their operations and meet their business goals,” Kallas said.

BUSINESS NEWS

Stocked N Loaded To Provide Food At Cruzan Amphitheatre

Stocked N Loaded, a gourmet food truck and catering service owned and operated by Chef Dave Rashty, has signed a deal to provide all of the concession food for the 2012 concert series at the Cruzan Amphitheatre, in partnership with Aramark. Stocked N Loaded is known for providing its patrons with fresh, delicious food using classic French techniques and modern flavor profiles, and now it will be offering their delectable food at the Cruzan Amphitheatre. The gourmet, upscale menu will be available in the VIP areas and also at three carts and three food trucks strategically located throughout the 19,000-seat open-air venue, too. Rashty himself is a classically trained French chef, and his abundant knowledge and skills undoubtedly will be reflected by the menu selections he is going to offer at the amphitheater. “We plan on offering a varied menu, customized to each event,” Rashty said. “For instance, the night of the Dave Mathews Band concert, we will be serving ribs, pulled pork and alligator chili.” Rashty and Stocked N Loaded

Chef Dave Rashty in front of the Stocked N Loaded truck. plan to offer some special amenities for the concert patrons. By the beginning of the concert series, they will have an app available to all boxseat ticket holders to use. By downloading this new app, concert-goers will be able to order their evening’s food selections and remain in their seats and enjoy the music. The staff from Stocked N Loaded will do the rest. They will cook and deliver the food to them

when it is ready — right to their seat. For those who can’t decide what to eat or maybe they just want something to share with their friends, Stocked N Loaded will be offering a sampler platter in the VIP section, too. For more information about Stocked N Loaded, visit www. stockednloaded.com or contact Rashty at chefdave@stockedn loaded.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Attorney Sarah Shullman Appointed To Several Posts The Law Offices of Sarah Shullman, P.A. have announced that managing partner Sarah Shullman has been appointed to co-chair the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion of the Palm Beach County Bar Association. Shullman was also appointed to the Florida Association for Women Lawyers Board of Directors, for which she will act as the director of programming. The Palm Beach County Bar Association, through its Committee for Diversity and Inclusion, is committed to meeting the needs and goals of the community’s minority population. The bar has partnered with multiple minority bar associations to improve the hiring, retention, promotion and support of minority lawyers in Palm Beach County. “This year, we are absolutely committed to making diversity a focus of our bar events and programs,” said Shullman, incoming co-chair of the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion. “It is incredibly important that the legal community reflect the community as a whole, and our goal is to encourage legal employers to consider minority candidates when making their hiring decisions.”

Founded in 1951, the Florida Association for Women Lawyers (FAWL) strives to propel women lawyers into economic, social and leadership spheres of power. As programming director for 2012-13, Shullman will be planning and executing monthly luncheons that feature distinguished female lawyers as speakers and panelists. Past panelists include Supreme Court justices; local, state and federal judges; and successful attorneys. “FAWL is an important voice for women,” Shullman said. “As we continue to reach past the glass ceiling, we also have families and children to balance. FAWL provides a powerful forum for female attorneys who strive to succeed in both aspects of their lives, and I am excited to give back to this organization the support it has given to me.” The Law Offices of Sarah Shullman, P.A. is a boutique litigation firm representing individuals and businesses at all stages of litigation, trial, mediation and appeal. The firm provides representation in commercial, civil and real estate litigation, contract disputes, consumer law and

Sarah Shullman consumer finance litigation. Shullman opened her office in Wellington in late 2011 in order to provide her clients with global, cutting-edge legal services with a more local and value-added focus. The office is located at 12230 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 110-E. For more information, call (561) 227-1545 or visit www.shullman law.com.

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 27

Thais Piotrowski Named To Marshall Foundation Board Nancy Marshall, president of the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades, has announced that Thais Piotrowski has been named to the nonprofit or ganization’s board of directors. “Thais Piotrowski brings nearly a decade of business experience to the Marshall Foundation, and her expertise in both wealth management and estate planning will be particularly invaluable as this growing and vital nonprofit organization approaches our 15th anniversary in 2013,” Marshall said. “I am particularly pleased that both Thais and her husband, Matthew, have agreed to serve as official co-chairs of our seventh annual River of Grass Gala, which will be held on Dec. 8 at the Colony Hotel, Palm Beach.” Piotrowski is a private wealth advisor and certified financial planner for Ameriprise Financial. She is also licensed as a chartered retirement planning counselor and small business financial advisor. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and is a huge fan of

Thais Piotrowski the Gators. Growing up with two parents who have careers in agronomy, and being born and raised in Brazil, where nature is valued and cared for, she has a true appreciation for the Everglades and understands its importance to future generations. For more information about the Marshall Foundation, call (561) 2339004 or visit www.artmarshall.com.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

‘Divorce Party The Musical’ Now Through Aug. 19 At Kravis Back by popular demand, Divorce Party The Musical: The Hilarious Journey to Hell… and Back! has returned to the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach this summer for a six-week run now through Aug. 19. Flip-Her Productions announced the return of the brilliant cast that delighted audiences at the sold-out engagement earlier this year. The cast includes Janna Cardia (Wizard of Oz, Grease, Oliver) returning as the character of Linda, along with Soara Joye-Ross (Les Miserables, Jerry Springer: The Opera) as Sheila, and Stacey Todd-Holt (Cry Baby, Elf) and Scott Ahearn (Best Little Whorehouse in Texas , Chicago) as multiple male characters. In addition to these return performances, Broadway’s Mary Jane Waddell (Mamma Mia!, Les Miserables)

makes her debut in the role of Carolyn, and Kathryn Kendall joins as Courtney. Whether you are newly divorced, on the brink or happily remarried, Divorce Party The Musical: The Hilarious Journey to Hell… and Back! promises a night of laughter and solidarity for all. The story centers on Linda, who is still reeling from the collapse of her marriage. When all she wants to do is have another bowl of Chubby Hubby ice cream, Linda’s three friends (along with a massage therapist/pizza delivery boy/make-over guru and others) decide to help her move on to a new beginning by throwing her the mother of all divorce parties. Using familiar songs with clever new lyrics, and coupled with a healthful dose of comic mayhem (and a touch of “naughty”), the girls

cut loose on the realities of divorce, long-term relationships and moving on. Broadway and Tony Award–winning theater producer Mark Schwartz (Menopause The Musical) teamed up with Dr. Amy Botwinick, author of Congratulations on Your Divorce: The Road to Finding Your Happily Ever After , to create this riotous new production, which features direction, lyrics and choreography by Jay Falzone (Shout! The Mod Musical, Cooking With the Calimari Sisters). “Divorce parties are a growing, global trend,” said Botwinick, who uses her own divorce experience as a way to help empower other women. “The parties are a way of removing the perceived stigma associated with divorce and instead, focusing on a new phase in a person’s life.”

Schwartz saw the theme as a perfect follow-up to the successful Menopause The Musical. “Finally, another girls night out,” Schwartz said. “Divorce Party The Musical is the perfect opportunity for friends and adult family members to get together and laugh at a subject that affects nearly everyone.” Divorce Party The Musical is intended for adults only and is presented by Flip-Her Productions. The show runs now through Aug. 19 in the Kravis Center’s Rinker Playhouse, with performance times Tuesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with matinees Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now. As part of a special girls night out discount, groups of 10 or more re-

ceive 10 percent off ticket prices. To purchase tickets, visit the Kravis Center box office at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in downtown West Palm Beach, visit www.kravis.org, or call (561) 832-7469 or (800) 572-8471.

The Phantom Recommends ‘Hairspray’ At L.W. Playhouse Change is in the air with Hairspray at the Lake Worth Playhouse! The Lake Worth Playhouse is previewing its 60th season with its production of Hairspray, a musical that soars with fabulous music and choreography sure to leave you swinging like the ’60s! This Tony Award–winning, critically acclaimed Broadway musical is loads of fun with its 1960s-style dance music, rhythm and blues, eccentric characters, and most important, style. Hairspray sweeps you away to 1960s Baltimore, where the ’50s are out, and change is in the air! Loveable plus-size heroine Tracy has a passion for dancing and wins a spot on the local TV dance program. Overnight she finds herself transformed from an outsider to teen celebrity. Can a larger-than-average adolescent somehow manage to vanquish the

program’s reigning princess, integrate the television show, and find true love all without mussing her hair? With more than 30 actors in this production, Hairspray features many South Florida theater and Lake Worth Playhouse favorites, including Ashley Rodriguez (Mimi in Rent) as Amber, John Costanzo (Mushnick in Little Shop of Horrors) as Edna, Nikki Bradley (Mama Morton in Chicago) as Motormouth and Dominic Servidio (Dentist in Little Shop of Horrors and Rooster in Annie) as Link, among many other frequent playhouse faces. Also featured is Fednike Nazistene (Dynamite). Fednike began acting as a child in the playhouse’s outreach program for underserved youth in the Lake Worth community. Through this outreach initiative, Fednike developed a love for theater and the arts and is now returning to the stage as a seasoned and talented performer. The show will be directed by Clayton Phillips, director of the sensational shows Chicago and The Music Man, and the production manager at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre. Variety magazine wrote “... this sweet, infinitely spirited, bubblegum-flavored confection... it more than lives up to its promise.” The New York Daily News promises it “wins your heart.” And according to the New York Times, “Hairspray succeeds in recreating the pleasures of the old-fashioned musical comedy without seeming old-fashioned.” Hairspray has won Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Direction of a Musical and Best Original Score, and Drama Desk Awards for Best Musical, Outstanding Lyrics, Outstanding Music and Outstanding Director. The original production of Hairspray opened Aug. 15, 2002 at the Neil Simon Theatre. The production originally was directed by Jack O’Brian, with choreography by Jerry Mitchell. The production went on to win eight Tony Awards (of its 12 nominations). The production ran on Broadway for 2,642 shows, or the equivalent of six years. It opened Oct. 11,

A production still from Hairspray with plenty of the play’s namesake. 2007 in London’s West End at the Shaftesbury Theatre, where it later won 11 Oliver Awards. The original leads of Tracy and Edna were played by Marissa Jaret Winokur and Harvey Fierstein, respectively; both went on to win Tony Awards for their performances. Also, Matthew Morrison, the popular Glee star, originated the role of Link Larkin in the original production. In 2007, Hairspray, the musical, was made into a movie, with famous actors, such as John Travolta as Edna, Queen Latifah as Motormouth and Michelle Pfeiffer as Velma Von Tussle. The Lake Worth Playhouse is a nonprofit community theater with a diverse array of offerings, including award-winning dramas, comedies, musicals, area premieres, Broadway favorites, children’s shows, ballets and op-

eras on film, live concerts, improv comedy and alternative programming. In addition to its main stage theatrical fare, the playhouse presents year-round independent and foreign films in the Stonzek Theatre, an intimate blackbox-style theater equipped with a large viewing screen and high-definition projection. The playhouse offers a variety of educational programs for adults and children, as well as community outreach initiatives that bring cultural programs into the neighborhoods of underserved youth and also make theater available free of charge for disadvantaged citizens in the community. Matinee and evening performances will run through July 29 at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $30 and $26, respectively. Tickets can be purchased through the Lake Worth Playhouse box office at (561) 586-6410 or online at www. lakeworthplayhouse.org.

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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• ACADEMY FOR CHILD ENRICHMENT — In the heart of Royal Palm Beach, the Academy for Child Enrichment offers free VPK. Infants through after school day and night care, 6:30 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday. Meals included. Se habla Español. Special rates for fall registration. Visit www.smallworldpbc.com for more info. The academy is located at 700 Camellia Dr., Royal Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 798-3458. • LA PETITE ACADEMY — At La Petite Academy in Royal Palm Beach is passionate about providing children with the tools they need to be successful in all aspects of their lives. La Petite offers a range of educational and care programs for infants to school-age children who come to the academy before and after school. Through its Whole Child Education approach, La Petite promotes children’s critical-thinking skills and natural curiosity to actively learn at their own pace. The school is now offering a newly remodeled environment, flexible hours, Smar tBoard computer technology, free VPK and nutritious federal food program meals. Call (561) 790-2949 to schedule a tour. • NOAH’S ARK — Noah’s Ark is located on Okeechobee Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. They offer free VPK, low rates and special registration for fall. They offer care for infants and preschool children as well as after-school care. Se habla Español. Noah’s Ark is conveniently located at 14563 Okeechobee Blvd. between Royal Palm Beach and Loxahatchee Groves elementary schools. Call (561) 753-6624 for more information. • OXBRIDGE ACADEMY —Located on a beautiful, 40-acre campus in West Palm Beach, Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches is an independent, coeducational college preparatory school that opened September 2011. Teachers use advanced technologies and a projectbased curriculum to engage students in rigorous academic programs, meaningful student research, collaboration, creativity and life-changing service learning. Generous need-based financial aid is available to ensure an exceptional and diverse student body. Visit www.oapb.org to learn more. • SACRED HEART SCHOOL — Sacred Heart School in Lake Worth is now accepting applications for 2012-13 pre-k through eighth grade. State scholarships, VPK, McKay, Step Up for Students

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accepted. The Cathleen McFarlane Ross Learning Lab, which teaches the Morning Star Program, opened in the fall of 2011 allowing children with learning differences to receive a quality Catholic education. These children may have ADHD or an autism spectrum disorder, to name a few. Sacred Heart believes that all of God’s children have a right to a Catholic education. The positive is accentuated to help the students recognize their potential. Building self-esteem and self-confidence is integrated into the curriculum of language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, computer, librar y, art and music. Sacred Hear t offers a technology-based curriculum. The Learning Lab has all new technology, and there is also updated technology throughout the school. There are Promethean boards in all classrooms and 25 iPads. All the desktop computers, laptops and iPads are loaded with the Rosetta Stone program, and the students have access to learn 30 different foreign languages. For more information, call (561) 582-2242 or visit www.sacredheartschoollakeworth.com. • TEMPLE BETH TORAH LEONIE ARGUETTY PRESCHOOL — Temple Beth Torah Preschool has been in Wellington for over 20 years with a strong reputation for high quality early childhood education. They are the only area preschool with NAEYC accreditation, assuring parents that the program meets high national standards for quality and professionalism. The preschool offers a variety of learning experiences that prepare your child for private and public elementary schools. Then there are also the intangibles: the caring teachers, the warmth and sense of community that permeates the halls. Come see what makes this school so special. Temple Beth Torah Preschool is located 900 Big Blue Trace in Wellingt on. Call (561) 793.2649 or email psdirector@templebethtorah.net for more information. • TINY TIKES ACADEMY — Tiny Tikes is new to the western communities but not new to the childcare community. With three locations, Tiny Tikes have been serving the families of Palm Beach County for more than 20 years. Their ne west center is located at 16245 Okeechobee Blvd. in Loxahatchee featuring a great staff that shares a commitment to excellence. They have maintained the top VPK scores in the county for over 5 years. With the recent addition of the child care food program, which provides nutritious meals and snacks to children at no extra cost, Tiny Tikes of fers parents and children a great program at an af fordable cost. To learn more, call (561) 790-1780.

Enroll Now and Get Free Registration!* Learning is everywhere. Especially here. h )I=J;@œœD 9F< GI= CAF<=I?9IK=F h (G=F 9E GE h =IKAl=< K=9;@AF? JK9>> h %AK=I9;P 9F< E9K@=E9KA;J >œ;LJ h -@= D9K=JK ,& +- œ9I< AFK=I9;KAM= N@AK=:œ9I< K=;@FœDœ?P >œI 9DD 9?=J

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*Programs and hours of operation may vary by school. Offer is for free registration for new enrollees only. Offer is valid on a space-available basis for all age groups; no cash value. Offer available only to those accounts when full tuition is paid in advance; must be paid by check or ACH payment. Limit one coupon per child. One time use. Family must enroll for a minimum of three half-days per week and must not have been previously enrolled at a Learning Care Group school. Learning Care Group is not responsible for and cannot replace or redeem lost, stolen, destroyed or expired coupons. Offer not valid for Learning Care Group associates or their immediate families. Offer valid at participating locations only and subject to availability. Offer does not guarantee enrollment. La Petite AcademyÂŽ is an equal opportunity provider. Offer expires November 16, 2012. Coupon code FE13 Free Reg.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Annual Red, White & Blue Fishing Tourney Returns To RPB By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Bassmasters hosted the 22nd annual Red, White & Blue Fourth of July Fishing Tournament on Wednesday, July 4 at Lakeside Challenger Park in Royal Palm Beach. In addition to the tournament, participants enjoyed raffles, food and more. Haylie Young caught the big bass, which weighed 4 lbs., 7 oz. Victoria Recchio caught the big fish (other), a catfish weighing 2 lbs., 3 oz. The rest of the results, by age category in weight of total fish caught, are as follows: • Six & Under (Other) — First place went to Zelia Beckett, 6 lbs., 10 oz.; second place went to Derrick Lucas, 6 lbs., 9 oz.; and third place went to

Ivan Bruno, 5 lbs., 14 oz. • Six & Under (Bass) — First place went to Christopher Recchio, 2 lbs., 9 oz.; second place went to Ashlyn Nutter, 1 lb., 4 oz.; and third place went to Gabi Ferrer, 10 oz. • Seven to Nine (Other) — First place went to Bryson Chase, 5 lbs., 12 oz.; second place to Cody Wasielewski, 3 lbs., 12 oz.; and third place to Domenic Fusca, 3 lbs., 7 oz. • Seven to Nine (Bass) — First place went to Bradley Marsh, 4 lbs., 2 oz.; second place went to Riley Vokes, 2 lbs., 9 oz.; and third place went to Ryan Cohen, 1 lb. 6 oz. • Ten to 12 (Other) — First place went to Maryan-

na Poe, 9 lbs., 3 oz.; second place went to Robert Reyers, 6 lbs.; and third place went to Mia Fusca, 2 lbs., 10 oz. • Ten to 12 (Bass) — First place went to Jimmy Martin, 5 lbs., 6 oz.; second place went to Dylan Martinez, 4 lbs., 13 oz.; and third place went to Scott Eisenstark, 4 lbs., 4 oz. • Thirteen to 19 (Other) — First place went to Courtney Bruckner, 6 lbs.; second place went to Nicholas Johnson, 2 lbs., 8 oz.; and third place went to Rubin Lebron, 7 oz. • Thirteen to 19 (Bass) — First place went to Kyle Lockwood, 5 lbs., 9 oz.; second place went to Kassadi Mott, 4 lbs., 13 oz.; and third

place went to Trevor Kenny, 2 lbs., 5 oz. • Adult/Child (Other) — First place went to Nick and Ed McGregor, 3 lbs., 10 oz.; second place went to Trent Shell and Dara Sandler, 1 lb., 7 oz.; and third place was a tie between Brody and John Jara and Brody and Paul Williams, 10 oz. • Adult/Child (Bass) — First place went to Haylie and Robert Young, 4 lbs., 7 oz.; second place went to Lance and Andrew Covert, 4 lbs.; and third place went to Brandon and Shon Hinkle, 2 lbs., 5 oz. For additional information about the Royal Palm Bassmasters, including upcoming events, visit www. royalpalmbassmasters.org.

Thirteen to 19 Bass winners Kassadi Mott and Kyle Lockwood with Nicholas Johnson (center).

Ten to 12 Bass winners Scott Eisenstark, Jimmy Martin and Dylan Martinez.

Adult/Child Bass winners Lance and Andrew Covert and Brandon and Shon Hinkle.

Seven to Nine Other winners Bryson Chase, Cody Wasielewski and Domenic Fusca. Ten to 12 Other winner s Mia Fusca, Robert Reyers and Maryanna Poe.

Seven to Nine Bass winners Bradley Marsh, Riley Vokes and Ryan Cohen.

Haylie Young with her awards.

Six & Under Other winners Zelia Beckett and Derrick Lucas (left) and Ivan Bruno (right).

Thirteen to 19 Other winners Nicholas Johnson and Courtney Bruckner.

Adult/Child Other thirdplace winners Brody and Paul Williams.

Royal Palm Bassmasters members enjoy the day.

Adult/Child Other winners Nick and Ed McGregor, Trent Shell and Dara Sandler, and Brody and John Jara. PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

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SPORTS & RECREATION

LOCAL AMERICAN LEGION TWIRLERS TO HOLD GARAGE SALE JULY 14 TEAM WINS IN NEW YORK

The American Legion Post 12 18-U baseball team took first place in the Joe Graci Memorial Tournament held in June in Westchester, N.Y. During their trip to New York, the boys also got to see the 9/11 memorial, a New York Yankees baseball game and took a tour of New York City. They also finished in the top 10 out of 80 at the Perfect Game Tournament. The team will compete in the state tournament July 2629 in Fort Pierce and hopes to compete in the regional tournament set for Aug. 9-13 in Sumter, S.C. Team members are Jacob Aqua, Kevin Aubry, Timothy Becker, Colton Coates, Niko Dellapenna, Mitchel Evelyn, Zach Gerboc, Kaelan Jacobs, David Koos, Brandon Krock, James Lovett, Alex Maxson, Shawn Murray, Kyle Perkins, Austin Spitz, Spencer Stockton, Jared Tosner and Andrew Zipp. The team is coached by head coach Fred Manriquez and assistant coaches Matt Oxendine and Tommy Kirchner.

The Solid Gold Twirlers, a baton-twirling, poms and flag team based in the western communities, will hold a team-wide garage sale Saturday, July 14 from 7 a.m. to noon at 455 Folsom Road in Loxahatchee Groves. The event is a fundraiser for the team, which has qualified to represent Florida and the western communities at the 2012 AAU Junior Olympic Games set to take place July 30 through Aug. 3 in Houston, Texas. For more information, e-mail solidgoldtwirlerspb@gmail.com. Shown above and to the right are the Solid Gold Twirlers at the 2012 AAU Junior Olympic Qualifier held May 19 in Orlando.

Send sports news items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Wellington Baseball Wins County, District Championships Wellington Recreation Little League recently made some history. With its showing in the Palm Beach County Little League Tournament, otherwise known as the 2012 Spring District Invitational, Wellington baseball cemented its place as one of the county’s best programs by winning championships in three age divisions. The Wellington all-star

teams in Coach-Pitch (7-8), 9Year-Old All-Stars and 10Year-Old All-Stars went a combined 27-2 en route to their championships. The 10-Year-Old All-Stars got the balling rolling by going 9-0 in their tournament and defeating Boca Raton 96 in the final on Monday, June 11. The 9-Year-Old All-Stars (9-1) took home a championship two nights later by de-

The 10-Year-Old All-Stars.

feating East Boynton 7-1. The 8-Year-Old All-Stars went 9-1 in their tournament and defeated West Boynton 4-3 in the final on Friday, June 15. Since Wellington began Little League International in the fall 2008, Wellington had secured one all-star championship in 2010 and one strong team tournament in 2011. In this season’s district invitational, the league won

three all-star championships, a clean sweep of all of the allstar divisions offered in this particular tournament. On June 30, the 9-10 Combined All-Star Team took Wellington’s first-ever Little League District 7 International Tournament and will now advance to the Little League Florida Sectional Tournament in Port St. Lucie on Saturday, July 14.

The 9-Year-Old All-Stars.

The 9-10 Combined All-Star Team.

Players and coaches from the Coach-Pitch team.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturday, July 14 • ESPN 760 AM Radio personalities will compete against the athletic coaches of Savon’s Academy on Saturday, July 14 in the annual Savon’s Academy Charity Basketball Game at 1 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Current and former NCAA basketball players will also be there. Visit www.savonscademy.com for more info. • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host a “This2That: Accessor-Ts” on Sunday, July 15 at 1 p.m. Bring an old T-shirt, and Resource Depot will show you how to re-purpose it into a unique scarf and matching bangle. Light refreshments and a wine tasting will be provided. The $10 fee will benefit Resource Depot. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • Nature’s Center (5301 State Road 7, Lake Worth) will host an orchid class Saturday, July 14 at 2 p.m. Learn how to properly pot, tree-mount and care for orchids. Call (561) 434-5777 or e-mail info@the naturescenter.com to register. The classes are free, and walk-ins are welcome. Visit www.thenaturescenter.com for more info. Monday, July 16 • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host “Summer Kids Cooking Camps” for ages 6 to 12 Monday through Friday, July 16-20 and again Aug. 6-10 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $150 per child. RSVP to (561) 904-4000. • “Dream Big: Ice Age Rampage!” for age 5 and up will take place Monday, July 16 at 10 a.m. at the Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) and 3 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way). Learn about and see real Florida fossils. Call (561) 681-4100 (Acreage) or (561) 790-6030 (RPB) to pre-register. • The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon will take place Monday, July 16 at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington). Registration begins at 11:30 a.m., and the luncheon begins at noon. For more info., call (561) 790-6200 or e-mail marylou@cpb chamber.com. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will present Campfire Stories for ages 8 to 12 on Monday, July 16 at 4 p.m. Listen to creepy tales and scare your friends with some of your own. Call (561) 681-4100 to preregister. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Coupon Strategies for adults Monday, July 16 at 6:30 p.m. Learn

how to save on groceries. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register. Tuesday, July 17 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will present “Water Conservation: Reduce Your Use” for adults Tuesday, July 17 at 2 p.m. Learn how small changes can add up to a big difference. Call (561) 681-4100 to preregister. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Harry Potter and the Quest for Excalibur” for age 12 and up Tuesday, July 17 at 2 p.m. Do you have what it takes to find King Arthur’s famous sword? Dress to get messy. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host a Crochet Club meeting Tuesdays, July 17, 24 and 31 at 5 p.m. Learn introductory stitches or bring current projects and socialize. Yarn will be available for new participants. Children age 9 and up are also invited. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Society of the Four Arts (2 Four Arts Plaza, Palm Beach) will continue its playreading series “Summer of Shaw” Tuesday, July 17 at 5:30 p.m. with Pygmalion. There is no charge. Call (561) 659- 8513 or visit www.fourarts.org for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will present “A-Z Mysteries” for ages 6 to 8 on Tuesday, July 17 at 7 p.m. Compete and cooperate with other detectives in the search of 26 clues to solve the ultimate alphabet myster y. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council will meet Tuesday, July 17 at 7 p.m. at the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District office (101 West D Road). Call (561) 7932418 or visit www.loxahatcheegroves.org for more info. Wednesday, July 18 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host a Staff-Guided Tour of the Librar y on Wednesday, July 18 and Tuesday, July 24 at 10:15 a.m. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • “Little Bear’s Big Dream & Other Tales” will be held Wednesday, July 18 at 11:15 a.m. at the Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) and at 3:30 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way). The all-ages event will feature lively audience participation tales and music from around the world with stor yteller Bob Kanegis. To pre-register, call the Wellington library at (561) See CALENDAR, page 39

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 38 790-6070 or the Royal Palm Beach library at (561) 790-6030. • The Safety Council of Palm Beach County will offer a Basic Driver Improvement Course on Wednesday, July 18 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Wellington High School (2101 Greenview Shores Blvd.). For more info., visit www.safetycouncilpbc.org. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “The Alchemy of the Everyday: Book Arts & the Magic of the Imagination” for adults Wednesday, July 18 at 6 p.m. featuring John Cutrone of the Jaffe Center for Book Arts at Florida Atlantic University. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • A Quarters Auction Benefit for Local Charities will be held Wednesday, July 18 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Businesses will offer items to bid on including Tupperware, Pampered Chef, Bling shirt making company, Simply Said and Celebrating Home. There will also be a gold buyer on site to buy any jewelry, with 15 percent being donated to charity. For more info., call Julie Bryant at (561) 797-1501, visit www. my.tupperware.com/juliebryant or e-mail juliebryant@my2.tupperware.com. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) host “All Hands on Craft: Paper Flower Embellishments” for adults Wednesday, July 18 at 6:30 p.m. Create paper flower embellishments to add elegance to your crafting projects. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Shulamit Hadassah has scheduled one of the most informative and entertaining speakers in the country to conduct a presentation on identity theft and how not to become another statistic Wednesday, July 18 at 7 p.m. at Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 30 (9950 Stribling Way, Wellington). The cost is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP to Sondra at (561) 966-3779. Thursday, July 19 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will present “Doofenshmirtz Evil Science Camp” for ages 7 to 11 on Thursday, July 19 at 3 p.m. Learn how to make some truly evil Inators to help defeat Perry the Platypus. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Militar y Trail, WPB) will host a lecture “Native Wildflowers & the Three Bs (Birds, Butterflies & Bees)” on Thursday, July 19 at 6 p.m. The speaker with be author Rufino

Osorio. The cost is $10. For info., call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org. • The Safety Council of Palm Beach County will offer a Motorcycle Course on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, July 19, 21 and 22 at Wellington High School (2101 Greenview Shores Blvd.). This combined classroom and road course is required for motorcycle endorsement. The times are 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more info., visit www.safety councilpbc.org. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Teen Game Night” for ages 12 to 17 on Thursday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Challenge your friends to Wii and board games. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. • Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host a free Gluten-Free Shopping Tour on Thursday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Take an informative tour of the glutenfree products around the store and enjoy samples. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info. • American Legion Chris Reyka Memorial Post 390 will meet Thursday, July 19 at 7 p.m. at Palm Beach Fire-Rescue Station 30 (9610 Stribling Way, Wellington). All eligible veterans are welcome and encouraged to attend. E-mail wellingtonlegion390@gmail. com or call (561) 301-2961 for more info. Friday, July 20 • BoomerTimes and SeniorLife will host the eighth Boomer Expo on Friday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Learn about the newest products and services and meet experts in the field of health, wealth, entertainment and travel. Participants will have a chance to win more than 50 prizes. Admission and parking are free. Call (561) 736-8000 or email srlife@gate.net for more info. To become an exhibitor, call (561) 736-8925. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will hold a Go Club meeting for ages 8 to 17 on Friday, July 20 at 4:30 p.m. The American Go Foundation will teach you how to play this ancient Asian strategy game. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will feature a free screening of the movie We Bought a Zoo Friday, July 20 at 8 p.m. Bring your own seating. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info. 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.

July 13 - July 19, 2012 Page 39

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Florida Saltwater Fishing Books visit us at www.fishing regulations.org Semi-Annual Florida Fishing Regulations book with side by side photos and current January 2012 Florida saltwater fishing regulations for each fish. Laminated front & back covers²100 lb. coated paper inside ±51/8 X 81/2 (fits into tackle box) Free update coupon for the changes July 2012. GBC bound for easy page replacement Bait & Tackle section - Measuring Fish section Rope knots section-Shark id section and more

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\ HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in W ellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINAT OR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays. Also needed: EXAM PREP TUTORS 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 your resume to marlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com VOLUNTEERS NEEDED — 14 years and over for community service. Have fun with animals & kids 792-2666 ENTRY LEVEL RECEPTIONIST — Computer literate. Heavy phones & filing. Fax resume 561-333-2680 WINDOW INSTALLERS WANTED Subcontractors only. Top Pay. No Brokers. Call Matt 561-714-8490 FRONT DESK — Loxahatchee/ Boynton Beach. Busy Dermatology practices, full-time, experience preferred, must be available for flexible hours, evenings and weekends. Fax resume to 561-790-7568 MEDICAL ASSISTANT NEEDED IN LOXAHATCHEE/BOYNTON BEACH — Busy Dermatology practice, full-time, experience preferred, must be available for flexible hours, evenings and weekends. Fax resume to 561-790-7568 DRIVERS WANTED — Full-time, Part-time, Day & Night Shifts. Retirees welcome. Clean drivers license required. W ellington Towncar/Cab 561-333-0181. GENERAL MAINTENANCE PERSON NEEDED — for Residential, Community Association FT/Part Time, 24 hours per week,Mon-WedFri, 7:30am - 4:30pm. $10.00 per hour. Background Check & Drug Test Required. Fax resume to 561967-7675 or call 561-967-3337 for an appointment-or email resume to tkiser@capitalrealtyadvisors.com DRIVERS: DEDICA TED ACCOUNT! — Top Pay, Benefits, Miles, Great Weekly Home-Time & More! Werner Enterprises. 1-888567-4854

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 ap artment. 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 561-3331923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

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

FULL SERVICE DESIGN/BUILD —contractor offering architectural design, engineering and construction in South Florida, Commercial, Residential and Industrial construction specializinig in custom design utilitizing concrete,stone and timber. Post and beam, ornament al iron and conventional styles. New England builder since 1973 in the timber frame style and in Florida since 1989 offering all types of cmu and concrete construction. Additions, alterations and improvements to equestrian out buildings. Florida State Certified Building Contractor. Project list and references upon request. Free Consultation. Email: dvdros@bellsouth.net or phone 561-632-8061 or visit our website www.drosettabuilding.com

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

JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-6016458

TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SER VICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 199212121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com

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

ARE YOU SERIOUS? Call Coach Cristina or visit www .results44.com for more info. (561) 288-0124 30 day $ back guarantee

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references. Shopping available. 561-572-1782 HOUSECLEANING — affordable cleaning services, Royal Palm Maids. 561-666-7738 “For all your cleaning needs” FAMILY OWNED CLEANING BUSINESS IS EXPANDING — We are honest, reliable and dependable. Over 20 years experience in the Western Communities. Call today to get started. Norma 561-3555044

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

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

STOP SCRATCHING AND GNAWING — Promote healing & hair growth.StampoutITCHAMCALLITS! Shampoo with HAPPY JACK Itch No More. Apply Skin Balm add Tonekote to diet. Goldcoast Feed 793-4607 visit our website www.kennelvax.com T OWN-CRIER NEWSPAPER CLASSFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL T ODAY TO PLACE YOUR AD AD HERE 561-793-7606

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102

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 rep air, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinet s/ countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215

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

CARD/PSYCHIC READINGS — p ast, present, future. Advice, love, marriage, business, help with all problems. By appointment only. Call 561-293-0405 or 561-683-5164

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in rep airs. 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 561-3090134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC023773 RC-0067207 JOHN C. BEALE BUILDING & ROOFING — Additions, remodeling, roof repairs & replacements, screened porches. Licensed & Insured. Call for Free Estimates. 561798-6448 ccc1326383 ccc1250306

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

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

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

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

STEAMPRO TILE & CARPET CLEANING — Residential & Commercial. 561-818-8635 (of fice) 561-255-9098 (cell) Licensed, Bonded and Insured.

ALL MUST GO! — Estate Sale Next Saturday, July 21st 8 a.m. Noon Furniture, Household items, TV’ s, Crafts, Beading material & much more! 9 Bay Cedar Ct. (Strathmore Gate)

ROOM FOR RENT OR HOUSE T O SHARE — with a professional. Wellington Lakes in Wellington. No pets. No Smoking. 561-236-9702

FURNISHED HOUSE FOR RENT/ SHORT OR LONG TERM — situated in a cul-de-sac and 5 minutes away from Spruce 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. Weekly housekeeping, linen service and lawn cutting plus all utilities included. For more details call (403) 808-7254 OR (403) 700-2065 106.33 ACRE EQUESTRIAN FARM NEAR AIKEN, SC — Please call Debbie Harrison, Realtor with Blanchard and Calhoun Real Estate Co., at 803-480-5245 for details.

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