Town-Crier Newspaper August 15, 2008

THE ROYAL PALM BEACH

New RPBHS Principal Is A Man With A Mission

Royal Palm Zoners Clear Way For South University Campus

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission gave its approval Tuesday to site plan changes for a proposed office development on State Road 7 that will include a private university campus. Among the changes is a 40-foot clock tower that will bear the name of South University.

The developers originally planned to build a commercial office complex on the former site of the Posse Grounds, a tenacre parcel on the northeast corner of SR 7 and Belvedere Road. Although the plans for Corporate Center West, as it is called, have consistently called for three two-story buildings containing a total of 100,000 square feet of floor space, the village approved a special exception for the site in February allowing an academic institution as one of the permitted uses on the site.

The application reviewed by the commission Tuesday included several requests, including a variance for the height of the clock tower and its proximity to the road.

Developer’s agent Jan Polson of Cotleur & Hearing explained that the university requested the addition of the clock tower. “The college has asked to put in a 40foot clock tower, with a sign designating South University at its base,” she said. “It will need a variance because it is set back only 15 feet from the edge of the property and because it exceeds the height requirement of the village, which is 32 feet.”

Other modifications to the site plan include an outdoor seating area, installation of an emergency generator, the re-phasing of parking spaces and minor architectural changes.

“We are also requesting an outdoor seating area at the northwest corner of the central building in the complex to provide an outdoor seating area for faculty and staff,” Polson said. “It will be set off by a wall. The university also requested a backup generator, which will be screened from view, as well as an earlier phasing-in of parking to accommodate students. The number of parking spots will remain the same.”

The staff report did not indicate what course offerings would be available at the Royal Palm Beach campus.

South University began as a private college in Savannah, Ga. offering two-year business-oriented degrees. The college now offers associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees on campuses in Savannah; Columbia, S.C.; Montgomery, Ala.; and Tampa and West Palm Beach here in Florida.

Courses at the West Palm Beach campus on North Congress Avenue lead to degrees in business administration, criminal justice, graphic design, healthcare fields, legal studies and other disciplines.

The exception granted to Corporate Center West in February allows an institution with a student population of between 605 and 870 students that would occupy up to 60,000 square feet of floor area, with the remainder of the square footage to be general office use.

The three two-story buildings laid out in the site plan include a central building with 40,000 square feet of floor area and buildings to the east and west each having 30,000 square feet of space. While the central building will house the bulk of the campus, the building on the east side of the property will

contain either additional university uses and/or professional office uses, and the building on the west side will be utilized for general office uses. Polson told the commissioners that the architectural changes being requested would improve the look of the development. “We are adding towers on the north side to match those already in the design on the south side and are elongating the windows on all three buildings to make them more rectangular,” she said. “Eight of them in Building B, where the college will be located, will now be arched. That will improve the look of the building.”

Awnings included in the original site plan have been removed from arched windows to make them more visible, and a hipstyle roof will be added at each end of Building B on its north elevation, to better match the south elevation.

The property owners also asked for a variance to allow a reduction in size of parking spaces from 10 feet by 20 feet to 9.5 feet by 18.5 feet and to not require wheel stops. The variance was approved by the county with the reduced dimensions and had been accepted by the village at the time of annexation. However, that variance has expired.

Commissioner Jackie Larson expressed concern about the environmental impact of the emergency generator and asked what fuel would be used. Polson and the village’s Development Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin assured her that all environmental regulations would be strictly enforced.

Commissioner Darrell Lange said he liked the architectural changes and that there should be

See CAMPUS, page 19

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Guarn Sims, the new principal at Royal Palm Beach High School, has a vision and goal for the school’s future.

“I’m excited looking at some of the initiatives the school has already embarked upon,” Sims said Thursday. “There’s some very fertile ground to expand upon. I have been talking with the staff about creating a stronger literacy culture in the school, producing kids who are reading and comprehending at a higher level, getting students engaged to be more leisure readers.”

Sims hopes to use such programs to move his new school up in the rankings. “Through programs such as this, and with higher expectations, we’re looking to take the school next year to a B, and our ultimate goal is to be an A-rated school,” he said.

Sims takes over from José Garcia, now principal at Watson B. Duncan Middle School in Palm Beach Gardens. Sims was principal at Lantana Middle School last year; he carried that school from a B to an A grade. Before that, he was principal at Boynton’s Galaxy Elementary School, raising its grade from a D to an A over four years.

After looking at the FCAT results from last year, Sims said he is most concerned about reading scores. Royal Palm Beach High School, despite making gains, retained its C grade last year. The school’s point score jumped from 437 to 461, but was still well short of the 495 points needed to attain a B grade.

One of the specific challenges RPBHS needs to overcome, Sims said, is the number of Level 1 and Level 2 readers — students the school district considers the lowest 25 percent of the reading population.

“It is all based on sound research, focused on what other schools similar to Royal Palm Beach High School are doing to help students become more productive, higher-thinking students in the area of literacy,” he said. “Getting more of them to, number one, become more proficient readers because we know that’s linked to graduation, and number two, just getting kids to grow one year every year… That student will meet that proficiency target and be able to open the doors after high school.”

Sims grew up in Palm Beach

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Residents of a crime-plagued Wellington neighborhood have put the kibosh on plans for a playground intended to help their community.

The “White Pine Tot Lot” was conceived as a pilot project by a group of Wellington volunteers who presented the plan to the Wellington Village Council in May. But after hearing from residents who live in the vicinity of White Pine Drive and the 12th Fairway on Tuesday, council members decided not to approve village funding for the project. The 12th Fairway neighbor-

Well-Funded State Rep Takes Aim At Property

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser Gary Nikolits faces a formidable opponent Aug. 26 in his bid for re-election. Term-limited State Rep. Richard Machek (D-District 78) is challenging Nikolits and has raised a substantial amount of money to mount his campaign. At more than $100,000, Machek’s campaign war chest is approximately double that of Nikolits. However, Nikolits said he is not intimidated by the imbalance of campaign funds.

“I would expect a four-term state legislator to have a lot of contacts,” Nikolits told the Town-Crier. “That is not surpris-

ing. He has also spent a lot more than I have without much to show for it. He has a whole team of consultants that I don’t think are necessarily needed. I always look at not how much you’ve raised, but how much you have left going into the final few weeks, and from that standpoint, we’re not that far apart.”

Machek said many business leaders frustrated over high taxes asked him to run.

“They feel we need a change there,” Machek told the TownCrier. “The present appraiser has been there 16 years, and many people just don’t feel comfortable that he’s doing the job he was elected to do.”

Machek promised to bring a more business-oriented ap-

proach to the office. “I’ve run various businesses and have been on various boards over the last 50 years, and it has given me the experience I need to bring business harmony to that office, versus just property appraisal,” he said.

Machek claims widespread support from local business groups, including the Business Political Action Committee of Palm Beach County (BIZPAC) and the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches.

“The Board of Realtors endorsed me because they know that I can bring this office into the 21st century with technology,” Machek said. “That will be very helpful for those who are in the sales industry or those

who just want to know what their appraisals are.”

However, Nikolits pointed with pride to his office’s public access web site, created shortly after he took over.

“We wanted to improve our customer service area and make it more user-friendly,” he said.

“One of the first things I did was create the PAPA web site that many people in this county now use. It puts all of the property in this county out on the web so that people have an opportunity to see how their assessments are derived. If there are mistakes, they can call it to our attention.”

Nikolits, who was first elected in 1992, noted that his office is often blamed for higher taxes but argues that he only interprets

hood and adjacent White Pine Drive in central Wellington have long been dogged by frequent residential burglaries, incidents of vandalism and drug-related activity. Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Greg Richter, Wellington’s senior law enforcement officer, told the council Tuesday that his personnel have been making a serious effort at getting local residents involved in preventing crime in the area. Richter said he supported the playground proposal, modeled on successful efforts elsewhere in Florida, saying it would give

the market and implements the tax rates levied by others.

“The property appraiser really doesn’t do anything other than interpret what buyers and sellers do in the market, and determine the market value of people’s property,” Nikolits said. “It’s our value estimates that are used by the local tax authorities when they levy their taxes. Taxes are really the purview of the taxing authorities, not the property appraiser. When we had the run-up in the [real estate] market, everybody was complaining about high taxes — that it was our fault. It wasn’t.” Nikolits said the property ap-

New Man In Charge — Guarn Sims, new principal at Royal Palm Beach High School, aims to raise grades and improve reading at the school. PHOTO BY RON

Visions Hair Studio in Wellington held its Second Annual Haircut-Athon fundraiser last Sunday. Shown here, Gabriella Pugliese styles Jana Newman’s hair. STORY & PHOTOS, PAGE 21

PHOTO BY CANDACE MARCHSTEINER/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Council OKs PBCC Lease Negotiations

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Although village and school officials have already been discussing the details for months, the Wellington Village Council voted Tuesday to formally begin negotiations with Palm Beach Community College on leasing the “K-Park” property for the site of a new Wellington campus.

The most controversial element of the PBCC proposal is the village’s contribution of the 60-acre parcel on State Road 7, said to be worth $20 million or more. The village purchased the land for $8.5 million in 2003 with plans to build a “signature park” there, but due to a tightening budget and shrinking revenues has deferred development of the property.

Several proponents and supporters of the proposal urged the council to proceed with plans for the campus.

Resident Ruth Kurtz said the campus would prove the highest and best use for the land, and that it would fill a real need for higher education opportunities in the village.

“We need to provide a higher educational opportunity for all,” she said. “I urge the council to move forward with this campus. The debate is not about giving the land away but to get value for tax dollars. The community should have a community college.”

But opponents of the proposal raised objections as well. Wellington recreation activist Steve Haughn said in almost any other instance he would have been in favor of building a college campus, but the K-Park land was purchased specifically for the benefit of Wellington residents. He charged that a college campus would not be strictly public use, and that a lower percentage of village residents would utilize the campus than its proponents have estimated.

“There is a constant reference to 25 percent of the residents. That’s about 15,000 people,” Haughn said. “Only five percent of the residents use PBCC. In 2011, this village will look at a $2 million deficit in our budget, and a $4 million deficit in 2012. You will be saying, ‘cut our services.’ I urge you to look at this again before you make a decision.”

Palms West Chamber of Commerce President John Spillane also urged the council to wait. He said the chamber would be happy to take part in a future study of the development of the K-Park land, but said members of the chamber’s Economic Development and Government Affairs committees had reviewed the PBCC proposal carefully.

“The joint committee was initially quite impressed with the scope and depth of the PBCC’s project phasing,” he said. “However, it was the committee’s recommendation to the board of directors that the proposal is premature in view of the fact that there does not seem to have been any extensive evaluation by the Village of Wellington staff of the K-Park site’s highest value to the region.”

Spillane said the chamber recommends the village defer negotiations on the proposal a minimum of six months to allow time for further study. “The sixmonth timeframe proposed is negligible in comparison to the 30-plus years of development for the current PBCC campus being considered by the village council,” he said.

Wellington businessman Howard Sohn said he supports higher education but cautioned that the village shouldn’t jump at the first proposal by the first college.

“You need to see what the best proposals are, and then you can make a decision,” Sohn said. “Maybe PBCC will be the best use for the site. You would not hire a contractor on the first bid. Let the bids come in, evaluate them, weigh them and discuss them.”

But Wellington resident Seth Rosen, enrolled in a University of Phoenix study program, said the village would not be giving the land away. “I think it’s selfish to think that too much money can be spent on education,” he said. “Impacting our economy positively starts with providing a higher education that is accessible to everyone. A fair agreement can be reached between the village and PBCC.”

Recent high school graduate Anne Chen told the council she had taken advantage of the dual enrollment program offered at PBCC. “My parents had to drive me back and forth from my home in Wellington to the Lake Worth campus,” she said. “I am now going to the University of Miami to take part in the sevenyear honors program in medicine. A lot of the credits I earned here can go to other universities. I am an example of what PBCC can do.”

Resident Debbi Piconcelli told the council a college campus is the only thing missing from the village’s array of amenities, which had grown tremendously since her arrival in 1976.

“When the Mobil gas station opened, we thought we had died and gone to heaven,” Piconcelli said. “We have seen so much growth and development here. The only thing we don’t have is a college.”

During council discussion, Councilman Bob Margolis said he could not vote in favor of pursuing the PBCC offer without the promise of a public referendum on the issue. However, he also stressed that he does not advocate selling the land for commercial use.

“I need to take into account the number of residents who asked me to wait,” he said. “I commend the Palms West Chamber of Commerce for asking for further direction. I am not saying we should sell the land, go out to bid and have a strip center or a shopping center or movie theater. I want to see my questions answered. I have to answer to the whole community. I appreciate you allowing me to disagree. We agree to disagree.”

Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto said the council was not making a final decision, just considering whether to enter into negotiations. She said the village should move ahead on expanding its educational culture beyond K through 12.

“I challenge the college,” she said. “How soon can you be here? We have facilities; we can offer programs in the spring. We don’t want to wait three years.”

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore said the council’s decision to purchase the very building they were meeting in that night, the former Wellington Club East clubhouse, was also controversial but had proved a wise choice. He said he didn’t want to wait and let an opportunity slip away.

“I want to support it,” Priore said. “I want to move forward with the negotiations. I am ready to go forward.”

Priore made a motion to open formal negotiations on a lease with the college and also include discussions with Life Covenant Church, which owns adjoining property and is offering a land swap. Benacquisto seconded the motion, which passed 3-1 with Margolis opposed and Councilman Matt Willhite absent.

Wants To Buy Village-Owned Land

Two Dems Battle For Shot To Become County’s Top Prosecutor

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Aug. 26 primary election will decide which of two Democrats will face Republican Joseph Tringali this fall in the race for State Attorney of the 15th Judicial Circuit.

While Assistant State Attorney Paula Russell is hoping to succeed her boss, retiring State Attorney Barry Krischer, former assistant U.S. attorney Michael McAuliffe told the Town-Crier he enjoys Krischer’s endorsement. Krischer is retiring after 16 years as Palm Beach County’s top prosecutor.

“Barry is endorsing me because of my leadership abilities and my prosecution experience, both in this community and in the U.S. Attorney’s Office on a national basis,” McAuliffe said.

“He agrees that the office would be better in the next chapter of its life with a person who brings a respectful but fresh set of eyes.” Russell, who earned her law degree in 1983 and has spent her entire legal career in the State Attorney’s Office, said she is not disturbed that Krischer endorsed McAuliffe. “Mr. Krischer said he was going to retire in 2002 and Mr. McAuliffe indicated an interest in running for state attorney then, and so Barry supported that,” the 49-year-old Russell said. “I was interested then but my mother was very ill at the time and I could not make a commitment. Barry is keeping with the commitment he made

prior to me indicating I was going to run, and I respect that.”

McAuliffe, 45, served the Southern District of Florida while working for the federal government, and now owns a private practice in West Palm Beach. He said stability has been a hallmark of Krischer’s tenure, but economic conditions have made change imperative.

“Barry was in there 16 years and was a high-ranking assistant before then,” he said. “The downside is that an organization runs the risk of getting stale. I believe that what that office needs now is just that, a respectful but new perspective, and I think Barry agrees with that.”

McAuliffe said he believes there is a large talent pool of upand-coming and experienced prosecutors in the State Attorney’s Office who do their jobs with commitment and passion but are under-appreciated by the community.

“I hope what the assistants might be looking for and certainly should expect is vigorous advocacy on their behalf both within the local criminal justice system and in Tallahassee on behalf of prosecutors,” he said.

“The office has been hit by serial budget cuts. It’s down almost 15 percent from two years ago. Fairly soon the office will be at its functional floor of operation — that is, enough assistants to staff the felony trial divisions, literally, just people to be in court.”

McAuliffe said he will look

for ways to make the office more efficient and effective, and said his experience as a private sector prosecutor running his own firm gives him better insight into the fiscal bottom line.

“I want to reward the performers, and I think private-sector experience is a key element to leadership, particularly in times of budgetary crisis,” he said.

In addition to fiscal management abilities, McAuliffe said his federal experience is a significant asset. “I have waited for this opportunity to help serve the community as state attorney,” he said. “I think my background uniquely qualifies me to lead the office. I have experience, both here in this community and on a national basis, as a prosecutor handling very significant cases.”

But Russell said her hands-on experience in the State Attorney’s Office makes her the better candidate. “It’s absolutely critical for the next state attorney to have the experience not only in state criminal court, but actually working within that office,” she said.

Her experience in the office includes time in the Crimes Against Children Division and Officer Intake Division, service as chief of the First Appearance Division and deputy chief of the Juvenile Division, and as chief of several felony divisions. “I’ve investigated and tried just about every type of case from theft to first-degree murder and everything in between,” she said.

The State Attorney’s Office makes life-or-death decisions, Russell said.

“My Democratic opponent Mr. McAuliffe has never practiced in that office,” she said. “He has never practiced in state criminal court. We prosecutors rely on each other for our experience and knowledge in that office in dealing with difficult decisions every single day. If my Democratic opponent is elected, he will walk into that office with less experience than all 107 lawyers in our office.”

McAuliffe noted that he enjoys endorsements from the Voters Coalition of Palm Beach County, the Police Benevolent Association, the Fraternal Order of Police and numerous business organizations. He also has the support of Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw.

“Ric and I intend to work as a crime-fighting team,” McAuliffe said. “That will make us an effective force, pushing back against violent crime including gang violence. We’re not going to think of it as my case or your case, but our obligation to the community and how to meet the mission.”

However, Russell counters that endorsements carry too much baggage in the current political climate. “I’m not seeking endorsements, especially from elected public officials, because of the environment that we’re in with the federal investigation of elected public officials,” she said. “My opponent

has gotten several key endorsements, two of which I’d like to talk about, the Police Benevolent Association and the Fraternal Order of Police. Every police officer you talk to on the street that has ever worked with me for the past 23 years will say they will support me, and indeed, they will vote for me, because they’ve worked with me, they respect me and they know I’m ethical, knowledgeable and professional.”

Russell said she can’t account for the two organizations’ endorsement of McAuliffe. “I can’t answer that,” she said.

“Those two organizations are extremely political. Politics has no place in the State Attorney’s Office. Politics has no place in this race whatsoever. When you’re endorsed by public officials, when you’re endorsed by organizations, it gives the ap-

pearance that you’re beholden to them in some fashion. I intend to be a completely independent state attorney so that I can never be accused of favoritism from one side or the other. I represent the people of Palm Beach County. I do not represent elected public officials or political organizations.”

Russell has lived in Boca Raton for 39 years. She received her law degree from Nova Southeastern University, her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Florida Atlantic University and an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Broward Community College. McAuliffe received his law degree from William & Mary Law School in 1989 and his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas at Austin in 1985.

Paula Russell Michael McAuliffe

OUR OPINION

Aug. 26 Primary Election: Town-Crier Endorsements, Part 2

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26 for the primary election.

Continuing what we began last week, the Town-Crier offers our opinions on some of the candidates voters will find on the ballot:

PALM BEACH COUNTY SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS — In one of the county’s more hotly contested races, one thing is clear: incumbent Dr. Arthur Anderson has to go. In four years, Anderson has presided over one election blunder after another. The question is whether his replacement should be State Rep. Susan Bucher or Wellington Councilman Bob Margolis. There’s no doubt about the qualifications of Bucher, whose eight-year tenure serving District 88 is coming to an end due to term limits. But while she has earned a reputation as a sharply partisan Democrat, Margolis (also a Democrat) has proven himself to be more non-partisan, as well as a capable businessman with an organizational eye. Margolis would provide the necessary oversight of the election process while keeping a close eye on spending. The Town-Crier endorses Bob Margolis as Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections.

STATE ATTORNEY, DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY — With a decade of experience as a federal prosecutor as well as the endorsement of outgoing State Attorney Barry Krischer and Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Michael McAuliffe is the better choice for this office. Although his opponent Paula Russell has more than two decades of experience as an assistant state attorney, McAuliffe has a stronger vision of what he’d like to accomplish (such as increasing public corruption cases). The winner will face Republican Joseph Tringali in November. The Town-Crier endorses Michael McAuliffe in the Democratic Primary for State Attorney.

PALM BEACH COUNTY SHERIFF — Elected in 2004, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw has had a strong first term. A career law enforcement leader, Bradshaw has waged a successful campaign against gangs, put more deputies on the street and improved the PBSO’s overall image. Looking ahead to his next term, Bradshaw has plans for addressing issues of limited jail space, a limited budget and ways to streamline the crime-reporting process. Challenger Cleamond Lee Walker is not nearly as qualified to be sheriff. The Town-Crier strongly endorses the re-election of Ric Bradshaw as Palm Beach County Sheriff.

PALM BEACH COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER — Incumbent Property Appraiser Gary Nikolits has seen better years. Ever since the real estate bubble burst, Nikolits has found himself on the wrong end of taxpayers’ frustration because of a state law that required him to appraise property by its “highest and best use.” That means the

Council Takes Right Action On Foreclosures

What a difference a few years makes, and what a difference a mayor makes. Recently our [Wellington] Village Council (sans Councilman Bob Margolis) discussed the overwhelming foreclosure and abandonment of properties here in Wellington. It was outstanding watching the village manager [Paul Schofield], village attorney [Jeff

Kurtz] and the council trying to address the expedited code enforcement and cleanup of the properties.

A few years ago, Binks Forest under Peninsula Bank was a disaster for more than one and a half years, yet absolutely nothing was done. What a difference good leadership brings. This is Mayor Darell Bowen, Councilman Dr. Carmine Priore and Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto attempting to stay ahead of the curve to protect our village and the neighbors from

owner of a marina would pay taxes on the highest and best use of his building, which could be a condominium. In fact, Nikolits has lobbied the state to change the laws making the appraisal process better for taxpayers. His challenger is State Rep. Richard Machek (D-District 78), who is being forced out of office due to term limits. While Machek has done good work as a legislator and would certainly make a qualified property appraiser, Nikolits has done a very good job in difficult and challenging times. He remains the better candidate for the position. The Town-Crier endorses the re-election of Gary Nikolits as Palm Beach Property Appraiser.

PALM BEACH COUNTY CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT — In the race for Clerk of the Circuit Court, incumbent Sharon Bock is challenged by her former employee Bridget O’Connor. Bock has done a commendable job serving as the county’s financial watchdog. She has also streamlined a very bureaucratic office. It is true that she has had a difficult working relationship with the county commission, and perhaps that is an area Bock needs to work on when re-elected. However, while O’Connor raises some interesting points that should lead to improvements at the clerk’s office, she is not the most qualified person to run what is essentially one of the largest businesses in the county. The Town-Crier endorses the re-election of Sharon Bock as Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court.

INDIAN TRAIL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, SEAT 4 — Two challengers are facing incumbent Michelle Damone in the race for Seat 4: Barbara Brecker and Patricia Curry. Brecker and Curry have been vocal opponents of the district’s current board of supervisors, arguing that they have ceded too much to the county. While they have strong points of view, both would lead ITID into more fights with the county that it can’t afford at a time when finances have just been put back in order. Damone has been instrumental in returning the district to solvency and ending lawsuits with the county through negotiation. She has done so with the understanding that the ITID supervisors must be firm with the county on some issues but not intransigent to the point where they just say no to everything; that would be bad for ITID taxpayers. As long as The Acreage remains under county governance, it must have leaders who can work with county commission. In the race for Seat 4, Damone is that person. The Town-Crier strongly endorses the re-election of Michelle Damone to Seat 4 on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors.

Whether you agree with our opinions or not, please make a point to vote on Aug. 26 and help keep our democracy strong!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

these disheveled properties. This type of planning will hopefully avert far worse conditions as our economy continues to nosedive. Keep up the good work! George Unger Wellington

Support WRMC Med School Idea

Rational homo sapiens would stop at nothing to have a college of medicine in their backyard. No doubt, my son will be thrilled to attend a health school a

JOIN IN A TOWN-CRIER ONLINE POLL!

stone’s throw away from our house. To build a medical school in Wellington is really a stroke of genius! A school of medicine trumps a community college or a park, and to think otherwise borders on the absurd:

• With our economy in shambles, a steady flow of ad valorem taxes from a medical school is by no means a paltry pittance but a much-needed windfall (in the vicinity of half a million dollars per year) to the village.

• A state-of-the-art medical college will invariably boost property values in Wellington.

• Return of investment from a med school is relatively immediate, whereas a community college won’t bring in the dough until 25 to 30 years down the road.

• The Palm Beach Community College project is exceedingly burdensome as it entails the construction of 14 buildings tantamount to levying Wellington residents exorbitant rates for years on end.

• PBCC will eventually register 8,200 students, but a village survey shows State Road 7 can only handle traffic generated by a maximum of 2,000 students.

• We have at least four community colleges located in stra-

tegic areas of the county. How many more do we need? Common sense dictates enough is enough! There’s a dearth of doctors in our county, and a med school will surely alleviate this dilemma.

• Creation of a park in tandem with a community college defies logic, too, since it’ll be nothing less than an inert “white elephant” draining city financial resources to the max. By any stretch of the human thought, monetary gain is minimal vis-àvis a lucrative medical school investment.

• We might not produce physicians of historic acclaim like Hippocrates or Dr. Albert Schweitzer, but to graduate gifted students with a unique skill to heal is a monumental achievement of which every Wellingtonian can be truly proud. And if we instill pride in our residents, great things are bound to happen as they become active

participants in community growth.

• It will help approximately 600 students (proposed student population) survive the rigors of a ten-year medical degree with emotional and moral support from caring family members. National studies show a good half of out-of-towners don’t finish school as they go wayward sans parental guidance.

• In the same vein, it’ll spare about 600 families the burden of paying astronomical boardlodging fees with their children staying at home as they pursue a lengthy, money-draining medical profession.

• It’s “opportunity at its best” for it will generate jobs for countless unemployed Wellington and surrounding area residents.

• A flourishing med school is a shot-in-the-arm as it ushers in collateral income-generating

See LETTERS, page 19

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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

Commissioner Addie Greene No Friend To Law-Abiding Citizens

Palm Beach County Commissioner Addie Greene did law enforcement, the residents of the western communities and above all herself no public service when she branded a sheriff’s deputy as a murderer for fatally shooting a 16-yearold boy who was apparently trying to run him down with a stolen car. Her latest tirade was launched against Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Deputy Eric Bethel, who fatally shot and killed Ruben Charles DeBrosse, a student at Royal Palm Beach High School, at about 2:20 a.m. on Aug. 2. Authorities said the youth was driving a stolen car, which he crashed into Mr. Bethel’s patrol car and then tried to run the deputy down. Initial reports indicated that the officer was saving his own life by firing into the car in the parking lot of Royal Palm Beach’s Regal Cinema 18 on State Road 7. Before the ink was dry on the report, Ms. Greene, who not so coincidentally is running for re-election, declared that the boy was “murdered.” That, by the way, is a legal term used in a criminal charge against a person accused of the unlawful killing of another person. As a young police reporter back in the ’60s, a city editor made me put my hand on his desk so he could slap it with a pica pole. My offense: I wrote that someone was murdered, instead of shot to death. I never made that mistake again.

Ms. Greene’s use of the word “murdered” was far more sinister than the mistake I made as a green reporter. She used it to pander to her Riviera Beach constituents who believe that cops are always wrong. She had no words of comfort for the family of the boy who was killed. She didn’t take advantage of the opportunity to say some wise words about teaching our children that stealing cars is not only wrong, but could result in very serious consequences. She didn’t articulate concern about the growing problem in the county of children making wrong choices in their behavior. That may not be so unusual in this case, where

Point of View...

By Don Brown

both she and the boy are black and the cop is white. Not so unusual, that is, until one realizes that Ms. Greene is also the chair of the county commission — the highest-ranking elected official in the county. Instead of using the tragic shooting as an example of something that went horribly wrong after a youngster made a bad decision, and providing leadership to help us understand and bring us together, she chose the low road of race baiting and pandering to her constituency. This tragedy occurred in Royal Palm Beach, which Family Circle magazine recently recognized as one of the top ten communities of its size in the nation for families — hardly a community that would condone the “murder” of one of its sons. There has been no disclosure of anything that would indicate Deputy Bethel’s proclivity to “murder.” But Ms. Greene didn’t care about any of that. She was more interested in turning a tragic killing into a full-scale racial incident.

Ms. Greene later issued an apology to the PBSO, which is like turning your dog on a guy, then apologizing after it chomps a chunk of flesh from his leg. She also attempted to deflect attention away from her inappropriate “murder” accusation by pointing out that she was the recipient of hate mail, seemingly as an attempt to link that to the youth’s death, or as an excuse to launch her own itchy verbal trigger finger. Even after Sheriff Ric Bradshaw announced a suspect for at least some of the hate mail (a black man from Lake Worth who sent similar mail to other elected offi-

TOWN-CRIER

cials, both black and white), she continued to wallow in the mud. Rather than expressing relief that the alleged hate-mailer had been caught, she complained that Sheriff Bradshaw hadn’t called her before talking to the media.

And instead of finding a way to defuse the situation, Ms. Greene threw more gasoline on the flames, thanks to the help of a Palm Beach Post reporter’s stupid question about whether she was concerned for her safety. Ms. Greene’s response, according to the Post: “The only people that frighten me are all those sheriff’s vehicles that were at the press conference.” Honestly, is there anyone who believes that Ms. Greene is in any danger from the cops?

This latest flap is not the first time Ms. Greene has made outrageous remarks against law enforcement. Three years ago, in a similar incident, a grand jury cleared a Delray Beach police officer in the shooting death of another 16-year-old Afri-

can-American. Ms. Greene took the “leadership” position of warning black youths approached by cops to “run and find the biggest crowd of people. If he doesn’t, he will be killed.”

Because of Ms. Greene’s outrageous “murder” remark and her previous and subsequent bad behavior, the Police Benevolent Association called for her ouster and decided to support her opponent in the upcoming election, Liz Wade, who at least had the good sense to not turn a tragic shooting into a racial issue. At a time when area politicians are playing musical addresses for the sake of political expediency, I wish it wasn’t to late too register to vote in Ms. Greene’s election. I would have found a Riviera Beach address so I could vote for Ms. Wade. In the meantime, my advice to residents of County Commission District 7 who believe Ms. Greene’s diatribe: call her the next time you need a cop.

No Moral Boundaries For These Crooks

Granted, they are innocent until proven guilty, but can we but wonder about the shameless scams Californians Rudra Sabaratnam and Estill Mitts are charged with? Basically the pair is accused of recruiting homeless people as fake patients and billing federal government programs for millions of dollars in unnecessary services.

Sabaratnam is chief executive officer of City of Angels Medical Center while Mitts is operator of a skid row health assessment center. And, say the feds, these possible connivers submitted bogus bills for hundreds, and more likely thousands, of dol-

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

lars on down-on-their-luck patients recruited from L.A.’s notorious skid row. The duo is federally charged with conspiracy to receive and take kickbacks for referrals and to commit healthcare fraud. Sabaratnam additionally was charged with paying kickbacks, and Mitts with money laundering and tax evasion.

These charges, incidentally, are loaded with jail time if guilty. Sabaratnam might face 50 years in the pokey, and Mitts could be looking at 140 years. Wow! The enormity of this suspected rip-off of the public trust, and trough, is mind-boggling. According to Frank Mateljan, spokesperson for the city attorney’s office, “certain skid row workers were receiving kickbacks up to $20,000 a month from some of these hospitals.” I guess when a crooked mind concentrates on devising a crooked scheme it has no moral or ethical boundaries whatsoever.

Candidates State Their Cases At Palms West Chamber Forum

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

A host of candidates running for local, county and state office were on hand Monday for the Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s candidates forum at the Wellington Community Center.

Incumbent Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw said he is seeking another fouryear term because there remains much work to do.

A large focus of his recent efforts have been fighting gangs, and Bradshaw said his agency has made tremendous strides in getting gang members and guns off the streets.

“As far as gangs, we have made tremendous efforts in 13 short months,” Bradshaw said. “To date, we have arrested over 2,300 people and taken 700 guns off the street. The last gang we took out of Lake Worth was responsible for the large portion of narcotics traffic, not to mention 85 shootings. The more we make progress on gangs, the better we do with narcotics and violent crime.”

While Bradshaw’s challenger Cleamond Lee Walker gave the incumbent credit for doing a good job, Walker said he is running because he felt there are some issues the current administration had not adequately addressed. “Palm Beach County and other counties in the State of Florida have been overrun by drugs,” he said. “Our police departments have done little. Ric has done well, but drugs in Palm Beach County are still rampant. My main goal is to stop that.”

Incumbent Supervisor of Elections Dr. Arthur Anderson, who is challenged by term-limited State Rep. Susan Bucher (D-District 88) and Wellington Village Councilman Bob Margolis, said he has done much to bring the elections office into the 21st century.

“When I took over there were no established business and accounting practices in place,” he said. “I established requirements for business affairs. During my period of service to you, I turned over $3.8 million to taxpayers. Many of us have expressed concerns that our absentee ballots are not being processed accurately. I have put in place a sophisticated piece of equipment that is so sophisticated that it can

track our ballots by precinct and do a signature comparison.”

Bucher said she chose to run because she wanted to get Palm Beach County off the national election radar screen.

“We have had difficulties since the year 2000,” Bucher said. “We are infamous throughout the country. I come from a background of just completing eight years in the Florida Legislature. I was known for my hard work and attention to detail, and I would love to use those skills in the Supervisor of Elections Office so we can have the proper administration, get off that radar, and make sure we count your vote accurately and appropriately.”

After six years on the Wellington Village Council, two as vice mayor, Margolis said he would like to take that experience, combined with his 25 years of corporate experience with Procter & Gamble, and put it to work bringing business oversight to the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office.

“The Supervisor of Elections Office is a non-partisan office,” Margolis said. “I believe very strongly it should be run as a business. I know how to develop training programs for poll workers. I know what it means to provide customer service. I have been providing customer service for years. I know what it means to reach out to voters and residents of Palm Beach County. I want to provide confidence back to the voters.”

Incumbent Group 14 Circuit Court Judge Diana Lewis said she is running because after serving six years on the court, she is eager to be elected to another six-year term.

“Prior to becoming a judge, I was a practicing trial lawyer,” Lewis said. “The one thing I am most proud of is that within the last six months, I have gotten my trial docket caught up, so if you want to go to trial, you could get a trial in 30 to 60 days.”

Lewis’ challenger Lisa Small spoke of her background representing small families, entrepreneurs and individuals in the areas of business litigation, community associations, construction law and probate litigation.

“Over the course of my legal career, I have been elected by

my peers as president of the Palm Beach County Bar Association and for a second term on the Florida Bar Board of Governors, which regulates the 80,000 lawyers in our state,” Small said. “We have to make serious decisions about lawyer misconduct and how to prosecute.”

Incumbent Group 23 Circuit Court Judge Richard Wennet focused on his experience as a judge for the past 24 years, noting that he had presided over virtually every type of case that has come before the court, including high-profile cases such as the Nathaniel Brazill murder trial. “I’ve been endorsed by law enforcement agencies, and agencies from the Voters Coalition to both daily newspapers in Palm Beach County.”

William Abramson, who is challenging Wennet, has worked as a practicing attorney in Palm Beach County for the past 15 years. He began his career in the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office.

“For 13 years, I have provided legal representation for Palm Beach County and the surrounding areas,” Abramson said. “People who understand the importance of having good representation have contacted me.”

In the race for State Attorney, Michael McAuliffe said he wanted to succeed retiring State Attorney Barry Krischer, noting his support from Krischer and his strong working relationship with Sheriff Bradshaw. McAuliffe’s background in-

cludes time with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, investigating cases on domestic terrorism, hate crimes and human trafficking, while prosecuting bank robberies, violent crimes and drug use cases. He had been in private practice for several years.

“One of my priorities is to work with the sheriff so this will be a seamless team,” McAuliffe said. “It’s not my case versus your case. It’s our responsibility to figure out the effective law enforcement tools to make you safer and make our lives better.”

Paul Russell, who faces McAuliffe in the Aug. 26 Democratic primary, has working in the State Attorney’s Office since 1985. She had interned at the State Attorney’s Office in law school and was hired by then state attorney David Bludworth.

“I have been there ever since,” Russell said. “I have been in every single division in that office. I have been in the Crimes Against Children Division. We prosecute individuals who are accused of not only sexually abusing children, but physically and emotionally abusing children. I am currently in my third term of duty in the Juvenile Division.”

Incumbent Clerk of the Circuit Court Sharon Bock is seeking a second term. “I brought fiscal accountability and fiscal transparency to my office and to the county,” Bock said. “Besides being the clerk of the court, I am the county registrar, I am the treasurer and I am the accountant. I am the clerk to the Board

of County Commissioners, and I am your auditor. I brought the most extensive budget reductions in my own budget.”

Challenger Bridget O’Connor said she is running because she used to work for Bock and thought the voters “had been sold a bill of goods.”

“I believe I can bring true accountability and transparency back to the organization,” O’Connor said. “I am not a politician, but I am an experienced businesswoman. I want to serve you as the next Clerk of the Circuit Court.”

Incumbent Property Appraiser Gary Nikolits discussed his background and explained the current state of the real estate market.

“Palm Beach County, as most of the nation, is in a state of flux when it comes to real estate,” Nikolits said. “We watched the real estate market increase dramatically over the last several years. Now we are watching a similar decline. This is not the time to change captains of the ship.”

Nikolits’ challenger, the termlimited State Rep. Richard Machek (D-District 78), noted how he had served in the Florida House of Representatives as a strong defender of the environment and water issues, especially for those who live in the Wellington area. “I have over 35 years of business experience in Palm Beach County,” Machek said. “I have the experience it takes to do this job.”

Also speaking at the forum

candidates for

Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors, Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners and the Palm Beach County School Board.

Ric BradshawCleamond Lee WalkerDiana LewisLisa Small

William Abramson

Richard Wennet PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Man Shot In RPB Home

By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report

AUG. 12 — A Royal Palm Beach man was injured Tuesday morning after being shot at his home on Azalea Drive. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, 21-yearold Kier Ferguson was inside when three men knocked on the door and entered the house at approximately 11 a.m. A dispute broke out between Ferguson and the three men, one of whom shot Ferguson in the lower back, according to the report. Ferguson was airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach with non-life-threatening injuries. An investigation is ongoing.

• • •

JULY 29 — A resident of Chapparel Way called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday, July 29 regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his house on July 28 and returned the following day to find that someone had stolen his garage keypad, which had been mounted outside the garage door. The keypad is valued at approximately $150. There was no suspect information at the time of the report.

AUG. 2 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched Saturday, Aug. 2 to the parking lot of the Mall at Wellington Green in response to an attempted vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked his vehicle at approximately 9 a.m. and entered the mall. When he returned at approximately 5:50 p.m., he discovered that someone attempted to pry the driver-side door lock, although no entry was made. Mall security checked for surveillance video footage, but none was found. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

AUG. 8 — A Royal Palm Beach man was arrested last Friday after being pulled over in front of the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the substation in Royal Palm Beach observed 18-year-old Michael Hill make a left turn without signaling. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and ran a background check on Hill’s vehicle, which revealed that Hill’s license had been suspended on two separate occasions. The computer check also revealed that Hill was wanted for failure to appear in court. He was arrested and issued citations for failing to signal, failing to present proof of insurance and driving with a suspended license. He was transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.

AUG. 10 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched last Sunday to a construction site at H.L. Johnson Elementary School in reference to a burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 4 p.m. last Saturday the complainant locked a trailer. When he returned at 6:40 a.m. the following morning, he discovered that the wooden door had been pried off its hinges and several coils of copper wire were stolen. The total estimated value of stolen wire is $1,848. The scene was processed for DNA evidence.

AUG. 10 — An Acreage man was arrested for shoplifting last

Sunday at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, 39year-old Javier Colon was at the checkout register when he was observed placing items inside a toy box in an attempt to conceal them. Colon purchased the toy but did not inform the cashier of the other items inside the box, which included an iFlip portable video system, a DVD and a PlayStation 3 video game. Colon was apprehended, and a records check revealed that he had an active warrant for failure to appear in court for driving with a suspended/cancelled/ revoked license. He was transported to the county jail.

AUG. 11 — An employee of the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Belvedere Road called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Monday regarding a shoplifter. According to a PBSO report, a Wal-Mart loss prevention officer observed 19-yearold Rachel Soobitsky of The Acreage give her purse to 20year-old Benjamin Villano of Royal Palm Beach, who placed three bottles of cologne inside it as well as several food items. Soobitsky then passed all points of purchase and exited the store. According to the report, Villano then picked up a six-pack of white socks from a return cart on his way past the register and exited the store. The loss prevention officer apprehended the pair and recovered the stolen items, which totaled $70.13. Villano and Soobitsky were charged with petit theft and taken to the county jail.

AUG. 12 — Three Belle Glade women were arrested Tuesday night after being caught shoplifting at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, a Wal-Mart loss prevention officer observed 24-year-old Marqueta Bland and 23-year-old Harrisha Salter select articles of clothing and conceal them inside their handbags. The pair then met with 24-year-old Latoya Lewis, who selected a pair of boxer shorts and concealed them inside her handbag. All three exited the store without paying for the merchandise. They were apprehended and taken to the loss prevention office, where the items were recovered. According to the report, Bland and Salter were found to be in possession of marijuana. All three were arrested and transported to the county jail.

AUG. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to the parking lot of the Regal Cinemas on Wednesday in reference to a delayed report of a vehicle burglary. According to the PBSO report, the victim said he arrived at the movie theater at 9:55 p.m., having parked his 1997 Pontiac Sunbird near the parking lot’s driveway on State Road 7. He left the movie at approximately 12:30 a.m. and drove to a home in Wellington where he is staying while on vacation. According to the report, the victim later discovered the Tom Tom GPS was missing from his vehicle, along with a briefcase containing a laptop computer and a gym bag containing tennis racquets. There were no signs of forced entry to the vehicle doors or trunk area.

• Floriberto Rosario, a.k.a. Niadeo Lopez or Rosario Floriberto-Lopez, is a white male, 5’5” tall and weighing 140 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 11/ 02/76. Lopez is wanted on two counts of violation of supervised own recognizance on the charges of attempted purchase of cocaine. His occupation is laborer. His last known address was Adam Circle in Lantana. Lopez is wanted as of 08/14/08. 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.

Roger Rosales

Floriberto Rosario

St. Peter’s Seeks Vendors For Harvest Fest

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington is currently planning its third annual Harvest Fest to be held on Saturday, Oct. 25. The Harvest Fest will feature craft vendors, a barbecue dinner, bake sale, entertainment and a rummage sale. Booth space (10’x10’) is available to vendors in the church’s air-conditioned building, or you can furnish your own tent for a 10’x10’ space outside. Inside space furnished with a six-foot table costs $40; outside space costs $50. For more information, or to request an application, call Al Bennett (561) 753-6784 as soon as possible. There is limited space available.

Wellington Art Society Open House Sept. 10

The Wellington Art Society is planning for big things in 2009, starting with its annual Open House/Membership Drive on Wednesday, Sept. 10 from 6:45 to 9:30 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way at the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Royal Palm Beach Blvd.).

The Open House provides an opportunity for interested artists and art lovers to meet and socialize with Wellington Art Society members and learn more

about the group’s upcoming events, speakers and exhibits. Several members will have their work on display at the event, and there will be a raffle. Admission is free.

Founded in 1981, the Wellington Art Society is open to artists working in all media and patrons of the arts, providing both local and regional artists a platform to share their work, learn more about their craft and serve the community through their art. A non-profit organization, its mission is to educate and encourage originality and productivity among its members and area youth through programs designed to further the advancement of cultural endeavors in the western communities. For more information about the Wellington Art Society, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org or call President Adrianne Hetherington at (561) 784-7561.

Girl Scouts To Recruit At Area Schools

The Girl Scouts of Palm Glades Council will hold recruitment events on the following nights at the local elementary schools:

• Tuesday, Aug. 26 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Acreage Pines Elementary School cafeteria.

• Friday, Aug. 29 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School cafeteria.

• Thursday, Sept. 4 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Emerald Cove Middle School cafeteria.

• Friday, Sept. 5 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Binks Forest Elementary School cafeteria.

• Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Panther Run Elementary School cafeteria.

• Thursday, Sept. 11 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Elbridge Gale Elementary School cafeteria.

• Friday, Sept. 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Frontier Elementary School cafeteria.

For more information, call (561) 427-6902 or e-mail sholmes@gspgc.org.

Joe Abruzzo

Campaign Office Opening

State House of Representatives District 85 Democratic candidate Joseph Abruzzo will host a campaign office opening party and barbecue on Saturday, Aug. 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Crexent Business Center (8401 Lake Worth Road, Lake Worth).

The cost is a suggested contribution of $10 per person. In addition to a barbecue meal, there will be a children’s poster-making table as well as volunteer signup.

RSVP to Vanessa Miller at (561) 201-0456 or vrmiller@ mail.com. For more info., visit www.josephabruzzo.com.

Kids Yoga Day At Moksha

Moksha Yoga Studio will host Free Kid’s Yoga Day on Saturday, Aug. 23. Bring the kids to shake out their sillies, stretch

into their favorite animals, go on an adventure, play fun yoga games, hang out upside down and float away on a magic carpet into relaxation. Kids love to do yoga, and what better way for them to explore and discover mind and body, and learn how to focus, relax and develop self-control. The free event with classes for two different age groups will be an introduction to Moksha’s Kid’s Yoga Series starting in September.

For ages three to six, the event will take place from 1 to 2 p.m.; for ages six to nine, the class will run from 2 to 3 p.m.

Space is limited. Call Cora Rosen at (561) 427-1767 to preregister.

Moksha Yoga Studio is located at 3340 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 5.

‘Stroller Daze’ At Science Museum

The South Florida Science Museum will hold “Stroller Daze” on Thursday, Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Presented by the Young Friends and Families of the South Florida Science Museum, Stroller Daze is the museum’s annual event for children. Filled with fun activities, the day will include storytelling from the Palm Beach County Library, child-friendly planetarium shows, touch tanks, games, giveaways and more. Snacks and refreshments will be avail-

able for all visitors. The museum is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach. Admission is $9 for adults, $7.50 for seniors and $6 for children. For more information, call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsm.org.

Zach Schwartz Quintet At Cuillo

The Zach Schwartz Quintet will perform at the Cuillo Centre for the Arts in West Palm Beach on Friday, Sept. 5 and Saturday, Sept. 6 in the intimate Second Story Theatre.

The Zach Schwartz Quintet plays classic jazz, specifically bebop, post-bop and hard bop. Schwartz’s tenor saxophone sound has been influenced primarily by such greats as Stan Getz, Dexter Gordon, Sonny Rollins, Hank Mobley and John Coltrane. Schwartz is also an accomplished recording producer and is the owner of On Site Recording Productions, with his newest location in West Palm Beach.

Other quintet members include Dave Gibble on trumpet, a music professor at Palm Beach Community College and leader of the popular Tuesday Night Big Band; pianist Dolph Castellano, a be-bop master in high demand; and Karl Ott on drums and Dave Tomasello on bass, both consummate professionals and veterans in their own right.

Studio Theatre

Improv Classes

The Studio Theatre of Wellington is offering improvisation classes for kids, teens and adults. For adults, classes will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays, Sept. 15 through Nov. 7. Classes for children ages eight to 12 will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 10 through Oct. 29. Classes for teens will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Sept. 25 through Nov. 13. The cost is $200 for the full eight weeks, and each session ends with a performance. Enrollment is limited. Call Paula Sackett at (561) 204-4100 for more information. The Studio Theatre is located at 11320 Fortune Circle in Wellington Commerce Park.

Boxing At JCC

The Wellington branch of the Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches (13889 Wellington Trace, Suite A-15) will present Big Time Boxing Academy with professional boxer Jameel McCline on Tuesday, Aug. 26 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. McCline will teach confidence-building and lead noncontact boxing exercises. The cost is $5 per person pre-paid, $10 at door. For more info., call (561) 253-6030.

Show times are at 8 and 10 p.m. The cost is $15 general admission and $10 for students. The Cuillo Centre for the Arts is located at 201 Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach. For more information, call the box office at (561) 835-9226.

Cadet Corps Program Getting Underway At Seminole Ridge

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report

Faculty and staff at Seminole Ridge High School realized a longstanding goal as they prepared for the 2008-09 academic year — the addition of a National Defense Cadet Corps (NDCC) program at the school.

Interest in the program began as a request from students when the school opened three years ago. The program received much support and encouragement from the School Advisory Council.

“We just cultivated that interest and gave form and substance to the program,” said Principal Dr. Lynne McGee, whose two sons are officers in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

As of mid-August, nearly 120 students had enrolled in the program. “This area is very conservative, middle-class and very patriotic,” Assistant Principal Darren Edgecomb said. “We expect another 120 leaders on campus after this program.”

The program is run by recently retired U.S. Army Major Samuel Smith. He intends to see that expectation fulfilled. “We’ll establish pride, esprit de corps and bring out leadership qualities that most students already have,” Smith said.

For students not involved in organized group activities such as band or sports, the program “provides that medium to understand group dynamics and how to work with others,” Smith explained.

Born and raised in Belle Glade, Smith graduated from Glades Central High School in 1984. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1985 and served three years before enrolling in Florida A&M University, where he completed the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program and earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology. In 1991, Smith was commissioned into the infantry as a second lieutenant. Much of his career was spent as a logistics officer with the ordinance corps. He served in Texas, South Carolina, Germany and in Iraq from 19951996, before becoming the senior ROTC instructor at Florida A&M.

Upon returning home, Smith wanted to work in a junior ROTC program. At the same time, Seminole Ridge was looking for someone to lead their new program. The rest fell into place. Having family members as educators in Belle Glade, Smith heard of Dr. McGee before meeting her. “I saw all the

good things they told me about,” he said. “We hold the same beliefs as far as holding people accountable.”

To his surprise, Smith recognized Edgecomb from their high school days.

The common bonds in the program’s leadership extend to its first official volunteer, Robert Trepp. Trepp, owner of Cardinal Electric and a SAC board member since the school’s opening, served in the Army from 1982 to 1986, and was a member of the European Berlin Brigade Drill Team.

“The National Defense Cadet Corps is a fantastic way for kids to learn responsibility, respect, self-discipline, self-esteem and to find themselves before they go off to college, into the service or into a trade,” said Trepp, who donated collared shirts that will serve as the group’s first uniform.

According to Edgecomb, the first term’s schedule includes studies of rank structure and military history as well as an evaluative period.

Smith said he’ll emphasize citizenship and community service, and intends for students to “be visible in a respectable, professional way” as they support local programs. “If we can mo-

tivate students to be better citizens, it will lead to a higher graduation rate,” he said.

Students do not need to be part of the NDCC to reap the benefits of its leadership classes. Those who do become cadets must participate in the color guard, community events, the drill team and in challenges against other schools. “NDCC is all about the students — what they bring and how they participate to make the program work,” Smith said. “We ask for community support in getting the program started.”

Smith added that donated funds would boost the inaugural season. “We want to make sure we make a great impression,” he said. “We are going to be a great organization.” To support the corps, call McGee’s office at (561) 422-2600. McGee said the start of the program is the culmination of a three-year quest. She noted that the new academic year is the first year the school will graduate “full-fledged Hawks” who have attended Seminole Ridge since their freshman year.

SRHS Cadet Corps — SAC Board Member Robert Trepp, retired U.S. Army Major Samuel Smith, Assistant Principal Darren Edgecomb and Principal Dr. Lynne McGee. PHOTO BY CANDACE MARCHSTEINER/TOWN-CRIER

Lox Groves Residents Have Their Say On Draft Comp Plan

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the public got a chance to comment on progress in drafting a comprehensive plan for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves at a workshop session Saturday at Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School.

The town has hired the consulting firm Calvin, Giordano & Associates to draft the plan, a primary document for municipal policy on land use, levels of service, housing standards and other aspects of government.

The firm’s planner Lorraine Tappen opened discussion on six of the plan’s nine elements, beginning with future land use.

Resident Maureen Lefkowitz asked her to clarify what agricultural uses would be deemed compatible with residential areas. Tappen said such definitions will be spelled out when the town drafts its land development code, a separate document, but offered an example from the Palm Beach County code currently in effect.

“There are certain ag uses that are not allowed in this area,” she said. “One is agriculture trans-

shipment. You can’t have an agriculture distribution area with trucks pulling in with produce and leaving with produce. It’s not allowed. It’s not considered compatible with a residential area. Ag research and development are not currently allowed.”

Tappen said the town will use the county code as a starting point and tailor it to the needs of Loxahatchee Groves. “When you get down to the land development regulations, the town will need to review the different agriculture uses and interpret for themselves which ones are compatible,” she said. “Do we want to keep them all that are in the Palm Beach County Land Development Regulations, or do we want to loosen them up or do we want to tighten them up?”

Veronica Close questioned the inclusion of an “institutional uses” category among land uses, which would apply to schools, clinics and hospitals, nursing homes, governmental buildings and more. Close said the uses included in the definition seem rather broad.

Tappen said the institutional uses, once again, would be

firmed out when the town draws up its land development regulations. “We will figure that out,” she said. “Folks don’t want to see a large place of assembly come in that would create a lot of traffic. We would need to regulate that. We would keep the institutional uses, but limit in the sense that it doesn’t create significant traffic impacts in neighborhoods.”

Linda Isaacs urged the town to do as much as possible to protect traditional agricultural-related businesses, which she said are being driven away. “They sell mulch,” Isaacs said. “They sell sod. They belong here. They were here before me. They belong here. I don’t know who’s closing them down. They need to be grandfathered in.”

Tappen noted that the plan’s transportation element requires adoption of a road and equestrian trail master plan that will take stock of existing infrastructure and identify potential improvement areas.

Town Clerk Matt Lippman noted that the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council will discuss authorizing the road plan

at their Aug. 19 meeting. “If the town council does authorize us to move forward, we will start working on this Aug. 20,” he said. “Hopefully we will be complete two months after the comprehensive plan.”

Tappen remarked that language had been added to several elements in the document to reflect a governor-sponsored initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Florida. Isaacs asked for some consideration for electric cars, not just because of the greenhouse gas issue but because of their lower environmental impact overall.

The plan’s infrastructure element addresses potable water, sanitary, sewer, drainage and natural groundwater. Resident Howard Voren said that the document states that the town has no utility franchise provider and residents are expected to “remain on private wells for the foreseeable future,” and he suspected it would be interpreted as an expectation of eventual mandatory city water hookups.

“I believe that there needs to be wording added on to the end of it, that says we will never be

forced to go off our well if we don’t choose to do so,” Voren said.

Lippman and Tappen said language could be drafted to address Voren’s concerns.

Voren also expressed concerns about a paragraph in the plan’s conservation element addressing the regulation of exotic plant species, and questioned the impact of removal regulations on residents.

Councilman Dr. Bill Louda said he understood those concerns and noted that it was both a blessing and a curse when the county decided to relax its stance on the removal of exotic plants.

“The county does not want to do it anymore,” Louda said. “They are strapped. I said I would like to see them all removed yesterday, but it won’t happen. We need to have something, such as education; help with grants. It has to be something sensible. As an environmentalist, I would like to see it cleared. As a practical person, I know it won’t work. It’s too much of a burden on our citizens.”

Wojnar: Footing Problem Solved At Hamlin Equestrian Park

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the Indian Trail Improvement District Parks & Recreation Committee got an update on expansion plans for Hamlin Equestrian Park on Monday and recommended

some changes to the new master plan for the park. The district is in the process of expanding the seven-acre park with the addition of two adjacent acres to the east. The first stage of the work involved enclosing a drainage canal sep-

arating the two parcels, and ITID Parks Director Tim Wojnar told committee members that district workers have almost completed the pipe-laying and fill work that is replacing the open canal.

Wojnar added that he had reached a solution to a long-discussed footing problem in the main ring at the park. He thanked Committee Member Cliff Battles for suggesting the solution.

“We’re using concrete screen, which is a very finely ground dirt,” Wojnar said. “It has solved most of our problems and cost only a quarter of what we thought we might spend. That saved us $30,000 from the amount that was allocated to fix the footing.”

Committee Chair Celeste Hathhorn said she was impressed with the new footing, and so were equestrians of several disciplines. “I’ve been riding on it with my family for several weeks,” she said. “Ev-

eryone I know who’s ridden on it has said they like it, no matter what kind of riding they do.”

A preliminary site plan for the expanded park, presented to the committee last month, includes features such as a large equestrian ring, bleachers, a shade structure, lighting, a concession area, covered wash area and increased parking.

Committee members on Monday proposed a change to the plan, suggesting a move of the existing exercise and lunging rings on the west side of the park to the new area to the east, in order to use the space for a large ring for shows.

The changes were suggested by Committee Member Linda Renna, who said that having the two smaller rings next to the parking area available for warmups would reduce the need to walk horses through the park, and that having the larger show area on the west side of Hamlin Park would keep shows from disturbing the park’s neighbors

to the east. Also, the lighting and concession areas would more readily support two adjacent large rinks than two widely separated ones, she said.

Committee Member Helmut Schmitt made a motion to accept Renna’s suggestions and recommend that the ITID Board of Supervisors include them in the final park site plan.

Also Monday, ITID Supervisor Ralph Bair told the committee that the district is negotiating with Palm Beach County to regain ownership of Acreage Community Park, which the district gave to the county in exchange for a 25-year lease and promised park improvements.

“Tim and I have met with [County Commissioner] Jess Santamaria and Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation Eric Call about getting the park,” Bair said. “Both of them said to get a formal resolution prepared by our attorneys and present it to the Board of County Com-

missioners. They promised their support.”

Bair noted that the county wants the titles to a seven-acre site near the Publix supermarket on Orange Blvd. for a library and an eight-acre conservation easement located in Acreage Community Park. He said that the district would be willing to consider trading the land in order to regain ownership of the park. “They want land from us, and we will be glad to talk to them, but we want something in return,” Bair said. “And what we want is to get our park back.” Bair said ownership of the park has proven a stumbling block in efforts to get improvements built. “They said it is against the law for them to improve parks that they don’t own,” he said of the county. “The county built Sam Friedland Park instead, just west of the district. They haven’t kept their promise to pay, and we don’t want to pay for improvements unless we own the land.”

Park Work — Work is underway to lay pipe and cover an open canal that separates the two parts of Hamlin Equestrian Park.

PHOTO BY LEONARD WECHSLER/TOWN-CRIER

Town Clerk Matt Lippman

Nancy Fried-Tobin, who operates the Good Earth Farm animal sanctuary on B Road, said her business had its own problems with the county’s Department of Environmental ReSee LOX GROVES, page 18

PBSO Deputy Asks Groves District To Help Fight Crime

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Having just established a crime watch effort among workers at the Indian Trail Improvement District (see related story, page 13), the law enforcement officer who designed the program urged the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors on Monday to consider a similar endeavor. District 3 of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office covers The Acreage, Loxahatchee Groves and points north including Jupiter Farms. All three communities have similar characteristics that make them prime locations for residential burglaries: rural settings, large lot sizes, a lack of street lighting, and long, unpaved roads that are difficult for law enforcement cruisers to patrol efficiently.

In the past month, District 3 Community Services Specialist Deputy Richard Buchanan trained ITID maintenance workers and other employees to be effective eyes and ears for law enforcement, and how to report suspicious activity and deal with potential crime scenes and evidence.

Buchanan told the LGWCD supervisors he had developed a similar program for Palm Beach Gardens several years ago, and updated it for the more rural landscape of The Acreage at the request of ITID Administrator Chris King. “When Chris called me, I updated it to meet the needs of the workers that work for ITID,” Buchanan said. “We trained all the employees.” Buchanan described the ITID program as a spinoff of urban and suburban community crime watch and neighborhood watch programs, tailored for the public works employees of the area. “You tell the employee what to look for and how to report a crime,” he said. “When they see evidence along the canal banks, they are told not to touch it and to try to keep people away from it. They are also told how to describe an individual as a suspect, how to describe cars and report other criminal activity.”

Buchanan said he would like to establish a similar program of training for LGWCD workers, who would be of tremendous help to law enforcement because of their presence in every part of Loxahatchee Groves.

“The guys that work out here are an additional set of eyes and ears for the PBSO,” he said. “It’s basically the same thing as the Neighborhood Watch program. It has been around for many, many years.”

Buchanan noted that the vulnerability of Central American immigrants who work as laborers in the local area acts as a draw for criminals who prey on them. Their limited English and sometimes questionable immigration status inhibits them from reporting the crimes to the authorities, he said, which makes the problem worse.

“Some of the problems we have been experiencing out here are happening particularly with the Guatemalan population,” Buchanan said. “They ride the roads. They go to work or come home. The bad guys come up to them, and sometimes hit them with their cars and knock them off their bikes to rob them. This Thursday we will have a representative of the Guatemalan Consulate visiting us, and he will be in Loxahatchee Groves

Man Injured In Acreage Crash

AUG. 9 — A West Palm Beach man was critically injured last Saturday after a traffic collision in The Acreage. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, 28-yearold Pablo Castro was driving his 1998 Cadillac DeVille at 10:47 a.m., traveling eastbound on Persimmon Blvd. just east of Avocado Blvd. when he collided with the rear end of a garbage truck. Castro was airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, where he was last listed in critical condition. No one in the garbage truck was injured.

Church Offers

Preview Service

Church @ the Grove in Loxahatchee will hold a preview worship service on Sunday, Aug. 24 at 10 a.m. at Golden Grove Elementary School (5959 140th Avenue North). Open to the community, the service gives everyone the chance to come

talking to a lot of people. He also will be in Lake Worth and West Palm Beach.”

Buchanan said experience indicates that criminals from the Lake Worth area cruise the western communities and Jupiter Farms scouting out homes for burglary targets. Residents of such communities get complacent and feel safe enough to leave their doors unlocked, he said, and when burglars find easy entry, they tend to return. Because burglars are looking for easy ways into homes, Buchanan said that if residents retrofit their homes to make them more resistant to forced entry, burglars will be convinced to seek easy pickings elsewhere. He said he learned from personal experience how sliding glass doors encourage burglars, and retrofitted his own home to get rid of the sliding glass door.

“This is what these guys look for,” Buchanan said. “They look for houses, and they look for victims. They come and knock on the front door. If nobody answers, they knock again. They will kick in the front door or they will go around to the back and find their way in. They will head for the bedroom because that’s where you keep your jewelry and money. One of the things we found in the Jupiter Farms area was that people leave their cars open at night; that’s what these guys look for.

Buchanan said that many residents still feel that “country living” means they’re out of reach of urban crimes. “The better you can secure your home, the less likely you will have someone breaking into it,” he said. “The safer you can make your home, the more discouraged they will get.”

Buchanan also spoke of some of the attacks on migrant workers and said that the victims, who do not speak English well, are often afraid to report what had happened. From the audience, Loxahatchee Groves Councilman Dennis Lipp noted that the Acts 2 Worship Center had established a social services center for the area’s migrant laborers and asked Buchanan if he had spoken to the church’s Pastor Calvin Lyerla. Lipp said Lyerla had spoken to the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council about possibly increasing PBSO patrols, especially on Friday afternoons, when the workers get paid.

Buchanan said he would speak with Lyerla, and he had also created safety alerts in Spanish for the laborers bearing expressions in English in case of emergency, stating the need for assistance, an interpreter or medical attention. After the presentation LGWCD Administrator Clete Saunier told Buchanan he would pursue further discussions with him about an employee crime watch program for the district.

and see what Church @ the Grove has to offer. The service will last one hour. Casual attire is acceptable, and there will be refreshments available. “While we’re still growing, we’ve got a lot to offer,” Pastor Holly Ostlund said. “We’ve got a great children’s program, a super program for teens that’s beginning, relevant messages for God’s people of today’s world… and a great group of people!” For more information, contact Ostlund at (561) 333-2020 or churchatthegrove@bellsouth.net.

4H At Good Earth Farm

The Good Earth Farm in Loxahatchee Groves will hold a 4-H Club for kids ages eight and up. The club is free to join. Parent commitment and involvement is imperative. The club plans to focus on a horse and llama project. The Good Earth Farm is located at 2141 B Road. Call Nancy at (561) 792-2666 or visit www.the goodearthfarm.org for more information.

Deputy Richard Buchanan

ITID Employees, PBSO Team Up To Form Crime Watch Program

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

The Indian Trail Improvement District’s Employee Watch Program is now in effect, with district workers trained to be on the lookout for signs of criminal activity in The Acreage.

ITID officials and residents have long complained that the 117-square-mile district, with its large and often wooded lots and long dirt roads, is poorly po-

liced. Representatives from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office recently trained the workers who maintain the district’s roads, canals and parks how to spot suspicious or criminal activity and what to do if they discover a potential crime scene or evidence.

Capt. Chris Calloway commands PBSO District 3, which includes The Acreage, Loxahatchee and Loxahatchee

COATES CAMPAIGN HOSTS FUNDRAISER

Groves, as well as more northerly areas of the county. He told the Town-Crier last Friday that he has high hopes for the new program, tailored especially for ITID. “We will have a lot more eyes on the streets looking out for citizens,” he said.

ITID Human Resources Director Loren Slaydon told the Town-Crier that all district employees had already received two training sessions in spotting suspicious behavior and materials, and would receive more follow-up training in the near future.

Deputy Robert “Bucky” Buchanan, the PBSO’s community services specialist for District 3, designed the program and trained the workers. “This is a specialized program,” he said. “It is similar to the Citizen Observer Patrol but has the advan-

Howard Coates and his family at the event.

Sid Dinerstein, Bob Harvey, Cheryl and Clint Glass and Jay Goldfarb.

Jeff Dever, Howard Coates, Lawrence Davenport and Al Paglia.

Nicole Perry Banks has been named the new dean of student services at Palm Beach Community College’s Boca Raton campus. She joined the college Aug. 1. An Ohio native and Royal Palm Beach resident, Banks said she is excited about serving the more than 12,000 students on the Boca campus. “This is an exciting opportunity for me,” Banks said. “PBCC is such a wonderful place to grow, and I am looking forward to my own enrichment as well as to being a part of that process for others.” Banks’ varied higher education background includes experience in admissions and recruitment, student orientation, diversity training, judicial boards, handbook and policy review, budget development and presidential affairs.

Most recently, Banks worked from 2005 to 2007 as director of multicultural affairs at Ursiline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio. Prior to that, she worked for one year as associate dean of students at Eastern Michigan University. Banks served in several positions at her alma mater, Central State University. Banks holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Central State University and a master’s degree in education with an emphasis on student affairs in higher education from Wright State University in Ohio.

Jason Shay and Jane Rutstein

Jane Rutstein, Jason Shay Wed In Seattle

Jane Rutstein and Jason Shay were married on Sunday, June 22. The wedding and reception took place at the Edgewater Hotel in Seattle, Wash.

The bride’s sister Sarah Rutstein served as the maid of honor. The groom’s brother Adam Shay, a resident of Wellington, served as the best man.

The bride is the daughter of Nancy and Harry Rutstein of Seattle. She is a 2004 graduate of Tufts University and obtained

her master’s degree in teaching at Seattle University in June.

The groom is the son of Fran and Alan Shay of West Palm Beach, formerly of Wellington. He is a 1998 graduate of Suncoast High School and received his bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Central Florida in 2001. He is employed as a software engineer at Microsoft Corporation in Redmond, Wash. The couple resides in Seattle.

YWCA Of Palm Beach County Names 2008-09 Board

The YWCA of Palm Beach County announced its officers and board of directors for 200809 at a meeting held recently at the Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.

Nancy Marshall was installed as president, Jana Hirsekorn as first vice president, Ann Briere as second vice president, Wellington resident Allyson Samiljan as secretary and Alisa Padron as treasurer.

State Rep. Priscilla Taylor (DDistrict 84) presided over the installation of the officers and board members.

Newly elected board members include Lori Columbino, Judy Jacobs, Carolyn Silbey, Karen Swanson and Phyllis Verducci. Returning board members are Eileen Daly, Wellington resident Leslie GarciaFurey, Linda Hirsch, Peggy

Kelleher and Sophia Nelson.

The YWCA operates a domestic violence program, which includes the Harmony House shelter for domestic violence victims, transitional housing for homeless women and their children, and outreach and advocacy services.

The YWCA administers child development centers in West Palm Beach and Royal Palm Beach providing quality childcare that enhances the cultural awareness and social skills of the children. The YWCA also sponsors a program for girls aged nine to 13 years, Y-Girls, that through mentoring and training empowers the girls to take charge of their lives and become productive citizens.

For more information about the programs of the YWCA, call (561) 640-0050.

YWCA Board of Directors — (Front row, L-R) Nancy Marshall, Phyllis Verducci, Ann Briere and

Leslie Garcia-Furey; (back row) Allyson Samiljan, Alisa Padron, Jana Hirsekorn, Sophia Nelson, Peggy Kelleher, Carolyn Silbey, Eileen Daly, Linda Hirsch, Priscilla Taylor and Lori Colombino.

Nicole Perry Banks

Wellington Kids Raise Money For Troops

A group of Wellington children recently beat the summer heat and got a “patriotic heartbeat” giving out lemonade to raise money for Forgotten Soldiers Outreach, a Boynton Beach-based not-for-profit organization that has been sending out monthly care packages to U.S. servicemen and women serving overseas since 2003. The children distributed flyers with the date and location to their neighbors, attaching a Forgotten Soldiers Outreach brochure. The minute the children opened the lemonade stand, it poured, but the rain did not discourage them. They sold lemonade the entire weekend between rain clouds. It was like a mini block party as neighbors stopped by to

write letters to the soldiers and donate. The children used the popular slogan “land of the free because of the brave” on their signs.

Sharon Boland, a neighborhood mother who helped spearhead the fundraiser, was pleased with the outcome.

“We had donations from sheriff’s deputies who drove by, dog-walkers, joggers, landscapers and various service companies,” she said. “Everyone was walking and talking proud.”

Boland explained that supporting the military is something personal for her.

“My father was a decorated WWII veteran,” she said. “I have worked for a major airline over 25 years and see soldiers being deployed all the time. It is

tough to hold back the tears as I watch them say goodbye to their loved ones. It is even harder to fight back the tears when they are welcoming them home! I am always thanking them for our freedom and for what they do everyday.”

The children who participated in this fundraiser presented their “cute money box” filled with lots of dollars and change from their lemonade fundraiser to Forgotten Soldiers Outreach at their warehouse on Wednesday, Aug. 13. They raised more than $200.

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach

Executive Director Lynelle Chauncey Zelnar said she is proud of the children’s efforts. “I remember when I first got an e-mail saying that the children

of this Wellington neighborhood wanted to hold a fundraiser to sponsor FSO’s ‘we care’ packages by having a neighborhood lemonade stand, and that they were hoping to make this a rewarding experience of a lifetime,” she said. “Well, they achieved just this, even through weather obstacles. These children stand proud and should be. It is just so amazing to see children put out such effort to help support our organization in assuring that our soldiers are not forgotten.”

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach headquarters warehouse is located at 1114 N. Federal Highway in Boynton Beach. For more information, call (561) 369-2933 or e-mail info@forgotten soldiers.org.

County Exhibit To Feature Local Artists

Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places program invites the public to attend an artist reception at the Palm Beach International Airport on Wednesday, Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the airport’s concession mall, Level 2 Main Terminal, across from Travelers Lounge. Parking is available in Short Term levels 4-7.

Aaron Wells of Silver Beach Productions, a Wellingtonbased independent film and television production company, recently announced that his firm has earned two distinguished industry honors.

With refreshments at hand, guests can mingle with Palm Beach County artists whose sculpture, photography, paintings and mixed-media works are inspired by the flora, fauna and natural places of Palm Beach County’s unique environment. The exhibition “Local Treasures” runs through Sept. 24. Selected works were chosen by Palm Beach County’s Public Art Committee. The art is for sale.

artists Adrianne Hetherington and Peter Marshall of Royal Palm Beach.

“Local Treasures” features works by western communities

Area Students Graduate From South University

The following students recently graduated from South University in West Palm Beach: Adriana Lecolant of Loxahatchee received an associate’s of science degree in physical therapist assisting cum laude; Jouse Charles of Wellington received an associate of science degree in business administration; Kelly Nance of Wellington received an associate of science degree in paralegal studies; Lauren Ruth of Wellington received a bachelor of science degree in nursing; Lauren Falcone of Wellington received an associate of science degree in physical therapist assisting; Marva Carpenter of Wellington received a bachelor of science degree in nursing; Nadine Sollak

of Wellington received an associate of science degree in nursing; Victoria Ortiz of Wellington received an associate of science degree in physical therapist assisting; Ashley Hoellan of Wellington received a bachelor of science degree in nursing summa cum laude; Donovan Stanley of Wellington received an associate of science degree in physical therapist assisting; and Jenny Benoit of West Palm Beach received an associate of science degree in nursing. Established in 1899, South University is a private academic institution dedicated to providing educational opportunities for the intellectual, social and professions development of a diverse student population.

Through a grant from Palm Beach County’s Cultural Council, HMS Host helps support Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places exhibition at the Palm Beach International Airport, “Destination: Culture.” Selected works are exhibited for four months, with changing cultural and travel themes for ev-

ery exhibition. For a virtual tour of the art, visit www.pbcgov.com/fdo/art/ artworks.htm. Artists interested in receiving “Call to Artists” for upcoming airport exhibitions and other Art in Public Places projects can submit their contact information through the Artists’ Registry page of Palm Beach County’s Art in Public Places web site at www.pbcgov.com/ art/fdoregistry.aspx.

4-H MEMBERS CLEAN LAKE WORTH BEACH

On Monday, July 14, the 4-H Robotiers Club cleaned up a half-mile stretch of Lake Worth Beach as a community service project. The families included the Andersons, the Cohens, the Johnsons, the Kriegers, the McBrayers and the Nungessers. They are shown here with some of the trash.

Silver Beach Productions was awarded a CINE Golden Eagle for the documentary-style promotional video What is Art? for St. Petersburg-based gallery NOVA 535, a unique art gallery and event venue where visitors enjoy spectacular visual and performing arts experiences. Suzanne Niedland of BusEye Films LLC produced the film; Wells directed and edited. What is Art? also received a Silver Telly Award earlier this year. CINE Awards are greatly valued in the moving-image industries. CINE Golden Eagle Award winners are considered to be among

the highest achievers in the visual arts. This is Wells’ and Niedland’s second CINE Golden Eagle Award together; they received their first for the short film Opportunity Knocks, starring Tristan Rogers, Niedland, and Tim Powell. In addition, Silver Beach Productions and Evansewell Advertising have been honored for their SunFest 2008 coproduction at the 29th Annual Telly Awards with a Bronze Telly. The television commercial was conceived by Robert Evans and Sherra Sewell of Evansewell; Wells directed and edited. SunFest is Florida’s largest waterfront music and art festival. This is the second Telly the collaborators received this year, the first being a Silver Telly for their ArtiGras 2008 TV commercial.

WHS Majorettes Claim National Championship

Fifteen members of the Wellington High School band’s majorette squad, under the direction of coach Adrienne Brady, have won the Drum Majorettes of America National Championship for the second year in a row.

The national competition was held at Gardner Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. July 25-26. The girls competed in eight categories and were named national champions in two of the events, Dance Line and High School Halftime. In addition, the WHS Majorettes were named the “Most Out-

standing High School Team” by the DMA and were invited to perform the organization’s award-winning halftime routine at the opening ceremonies on July 27. The WHS Majorettes also performed in the United States Twirling Association National Championships in Daytona Beach on July 17. At the USTA Nationals, they earned two second-place finishes in Show Corps Routines. WHS would like to congratulate the girls and to coach Brady for their outstanding repeat championship.

Award Winners — Producer Suzanne Niedland, Nova 535 owner Mike Novilla, and Wellington director Aaron Wells.

JCC Pre-School Helps Kids With Developmental Disabilities

Debby Gans believes the Liv Luv Program at the Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches Rosenblatt Early Childhood Learning Center worked a miracle with her son Benji.

As a baby and toddler, Benji cried constantly, exhibited fear and dislike of others, and had serious speech problems. Now at age four, a year after entering the Liv Luv Program, Benji is almost ready to join a mainstream preschool class.

“Liv Luv is the best-kept secret in Palm Beach County,” said Gans, who has a master’s degree in early childhood education from Columbia UniverSRHS Advisory Council Begins Its Fourth Year

The Seminole Ridge High School Advisory Council will meet Monday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. in the media center. All parents and community members are invited to attend.

In other Seminole Ridge news, swim and dive team tryouts begin at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20 at the Calypso Bay water park in Royal Palm Beach. All paperwork and eligibility packets must be completed before students may enter the pool to try out. Need a packet? Come to Athletics Night Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 5:30 p.m., where you can turn in or pick up that necessary paperwork. Email swim team coach Marie Pelfrey at pelfrey@palmbeach. k12.fl.us for more information.

Schools Reopening, Be Careful

Summer is officially over and the opening of the new school year is upon us. Palm Beach County public schools open on Aug. 18. Once again school crossing guards from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office will be at elementary and middle school locations to help ensure children’s safety as they travel to and from school. The PBSO encourages parental cooperation and assistance in alleviating the traffic congestion in and around the schools by allowing children

sity. “It amazes me nobody knows about it. They’ll love your child and help him or her to function better in a typical environment. This is the only preschool experience where Benji felt special rather than different. They’ve figured out a way to help most kids. With its process of mainstream inclusion, it is the ideal model for special-needs programs.”

Two years ago, the JCC of the Greater Palm Beaches in partnership with Butterfly Effects, a cutting-edge therapy services provider, created the Liv Luv Program to meet the needs of children ages two to six with special learning and social/emo-

to ride their bicycles or walk to school.

Deputies will be stationed around schools to enforce the 20-miles-per-hour school speed limit as well as the required helmet law for bicyclists under the age of 16. Speeding in the school zones will result in a fine.

Passing a stopped school bus that is loading or unloading children is a violation of the law. A driver approaching a school bus displaying flashing lights and stop bar should come to a complete stop.

Bus Drivers Hold Mock School Day

The School District of Palm Beach County’s Transportation Department recently held a mock school day. Beginning with their early morning routes and continuing with their afternoon routes, bus drivers performed a dry run before school starts on Aug. 18 to check road conditions and see if any changes should be made.

Parents can assist by ensuring their child is at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. For students who require supervision, parents should arrive at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled drop-off time.

Parents should walk with young children to the bus stop, discuss where they should stand and how they should behave as they wait for and ride the school bus.

For more information, visit trans.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/cms.

tional needs. Liv luv is Hebrew for “blossom”

Butterfly Effects Clinical Director Charlotte Fudge said it is the first program of its kind in the county. “The first year of the program has been incredibly successful, helping many students transition to a regular classroom,” she said.

The nondenominational program gives children with autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other learning disabilities the opportunity to learn new skills and address behavioral concerns in an intense smallclassroom setting while exposing them to daily activities in a

mainstream classroom.

The Liv Luv Program is unique and effective because it combines the following segments:

• An inclusion program that occurs in a small-classroom setting within a mainstream school.

• Enrollment that is based on a session system verses a yearly one to continuously assess the student’s need for program placement.

• A one-to-two teacher-to-student ratio for intensive instruction and program individualization.

• A board-certified behavioral analyst who prepares individualized education and interven-

tion plans to address each child’s needs.

• Weekly consultations by speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists to address additional language, pragmatic, motor and sensory processing concerns.

• The Butterfly Effects web site allowing parents to monitor and participate in the child’s progress through observing classroom videos and reading daily progress reports.

Candidates for the Liv Luv Program include children ages two to six displaying a high frequency of social skill problems and language delays, who are unable to attend a mainstream

class without support. For more information about the Liv Luv Program, call (561) 640-5603.

The Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches strengthens and enriches Jewish families, individuals and the community at large through cultural, health, educational and social programs and services that emphasize Jewish values, build Jewish identity and create deeper connections with the community, enhancing the quality of life for all. The Wellington Branch is located at 13889 Wellington Trace, Suite A-15. For more information, call (561) 253-6030.

Education Foundation Gets Leadership Grant

The South Florida Community Leadership Foundation recently awarded the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County a $200,000 grant for executive leadership development.

SFCLF Treasurer and Director of Corporate Citizenship for Citrix Systems Jo Moskowitz made the presentation to the board of directors at its July 30 meeting. The purpose of the grant is to enhance the executive leadership capacity of school district staff.

The efforts will serve as a major catalyst in driving systemic change within the district that will lead to greater student achievement and overall school improvement.

“We remain completely committed to the SFCLF’s vision and will put this generous funding toward leadership development at the school district,” Palm Beach County Schools Su-

perintendent Dr. Art Johnson said. “As a board member of the SFCLF, I would like to personally thank the other board members for their respective commitment to public education, the genius of democracy.”

Citrix Systems Inc. founded the SFCLF in 2003 as a nonprofit charitable organization in cooperation with South Florida businesses and community leaders. Its purpose is to work with district superintendents to enrich the teaching and learning environment in South Florida. The concept is intended to empower school leadership with modern business management tools.

Education Foundation Executive Director Mary Kay Murray applauded the donation.

“Leadership has long been recognized as the cornerstone of success in any organization, and public education is no different,” Murray said.

WHS Marching Band To Perform On USS Missouri

The Wellington High School marching band is expected to receive an invitation to perform at the USS Missouri in Pearl Harbor. The USS Missouri is the battleship on which Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces, ending World War II on Sept. 2, 1945.

The invitation will be coming from both the USS Missouri itself and Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle. The USS Missouri is permanently docked at Pearl Har-

bor, overlooking the site of the USS Arizona. The WHS band is currently scheduled to leave on March 26, 2009 and return April 2 — the majority of days occurring during spring break. Along with the honor of the performance invitation, the trip would be a once-in-a-lifetime cultural and historical experience for the band students. The itinerary currently includes events such as a luau, a full day at the Polynesian Cultural Cen-

ter, visits to the USS Arizona and other sites at Pearl Harbor, a dinner cruise and beach time. This performance trip invitation will satisfy the requirements of an educational experience in a safe area that students will truly enjoy. The estimated cost of $2,000 per person for students and chaperones includes all meals and scheduled activities, airfare, ground transportation and hotel costs. Considering the high costs of airfare due to in-

creasing fuel prices, the travel company has kept this trip at a reasonable cost. Publicity and solicitation of donations will be for the only high school band representing Palm Beach County in such a prestigious manner for the upcoming school year. The Wellington High School Band Boosters are a not-forprofit organization. For more information, visit www.whs band.com.

Education Grant — (L-R) School Board Member Dr. Sandra Richmond, Education Foundation of Palm Beach County Executive Director Mary Kay Murray, SFCLF Treasurer and Citrix Systems Corporate Citizenship Director Jo Moskowitz, Education Foundation Chairman Michael Kohner and Pew Education Fund Executive Director Louise Grant.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, Aug. 16

• The 2008 Goode Water Ski National Championships conclude Saturday, Aug. 16 at Okeeheelee Park. Hosted by the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches, the competition is expected to draw up to 800 skiers nationally, competing in slalom, trick and jump. For more info., call Phil Brodt at (954) 803-8169 or Pat Keeler at (561) 793-8103.

• Buckler’s Craft Show will continue at the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) Saturday, Aug. 16 and Sunday, Aug. 17 featuring a wide variety of crafts and accessories from the unusual to the unique. Call (561) 7930333 or visit www.south floridafair.com for more info.

• The Lake Lytal Masters Swim Team will hold its Sixth Annual 12-Hour Swim on Saturday, Aug. 16 to benefit the Pediatric Oncology Support Team (POST) of the Child Life Institute in West Palm Beach. The event will take place at the Lake Lytal Park swimming pool in West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 629-2023 or e-mail lytalmasters@aol.com.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Back to School activity on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 11 a.m. for ages two and up. Say goodbye to the lazy days of summer and get stoked for school through books and a craft. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) will host their Annual Business Expo on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane). This year’s theme will be “Small Business Survival Guide for Tough Economic Times.” Display your business for a donation of $50. The event is free to the public. For more information, call J. Amanayea Abraham at (561) 791-1618 or Tinu Peña at (888) 609-8791.

• The Palm Beach County Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (FOOLS) will battle a media all-star team in a Charity Softball Game on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 1 p.m. at Seminole Palms Park in Royal Palm Beach. The game is open to the public. Admission is $5 and tickets will be sold at the gate. The Palm Beach County FOOLS is a non-profit which helps firefighters in need. For info., call (561) 373-5424.

• Wild Orchids Café at Veterans Park in Royal Palm Beach will hold a Back to School Explosion Luau on Saturday, Aug. 16 from 5 to 11 p.m. Attractions will include a hot-dog-eating contest, pie throwing, virgin drink bar, tiki torches, limbo contest, prizes and a DJ. Admission is free. Food will include pulled-pork sandwiches, a roasted pig and more. For more info., visit www.wild orchidscafe.com or call Helen at (561) 252-8633.

• The Studio Theatre of Wellington is proud to welcome back Long Story Short, Wellington’s own improv comedy troupe, on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 8 p.m. The studio is located at 11320 Fortune Circle in Wellington. Tickets are $10. To RSVP, call the studio at (561) 204-4100.

Sunday, Aug. 17

• St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) will celebrate cultural diversity on Sunday, Aug. 17. At the 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. services, the church will welcome the Avenue D Boys Choir in their first public appearance since returning from their successful trip to Italy. The services will also feature music by the St. Peter’s Chancel Choir. The church will join in fellowship at a luncheon at noon with music provided by steel drummer Jose Hosein. The lunch will be catered, but church members are encouraged to bring food to share that expresses their background. For more info., call (561) 793-5712 or visit www.stpeters-umc.org.

• St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Lake Worth will present its annual Wine Tasting Extravaganza on Sunday, Aug. 17 at 5 p.m. featuring wine and pasta pairings. Tickets are $25 per person. Call (561) 582-6609 for more info.

Monday, Aug. 18

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold “Baby Story Time” on Mondays, Aug. 18 and 25. The event features rhymes, finger plays, songs, books and toys. Times are 9:30 a.m. for ages up to eight months and 11:15 a.m. for ages nine to 12 months. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070. Tuesday, Aug. 19

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will

host “Music, Music, Music” on Tuesday, Aug. 19 and 26 at 10:15 a.m. for ages 12 months through 30 months. Little ones will sing, dance and play percussion instruments. To preregister, call (561) 790-6070. Wednesday, Aug. 20

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Caldecotts and a Craft” on Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 3:30 p.m. for ages four through eight. Celebrate a few Caldecott award-winning books, sing songs and create a special craft. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County has planned a Networking Mixer on Wednesday, Aug. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event will take place at the Windsor Gardens Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens and will include an evening of food, beverages, prizes, games and networking opportunities. Attendees are encouraged to bring plenty of business cards. The cost is $15 for chamber members and $20 for non-members. Register online at www. womenschamber.biz or call (561) 684-4523.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Socrates Café: A Nationwide Dialogue on Wednesday, Aug. 20 at 6:30 p.m. for adults. Marji Chapman of the Society for Philosophical Inquiry will lead a discussion of a variety subjects. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

Thursday, Aug. 21

• The Village of Royal Palm Beach will conduct a public meeting to discuss capital improvements for Village Commons Park on Thursday, Aug. 21 at 2 p.m. at the RPB Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane). The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss a $200,000 application for a Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program Grant. For more info., call the village clerk’s office at (561) 790-5100.

• Clematis By Night will feature Luis Manuel and the Charambo Band on Thursday, Aug. 21 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Centennial Square in downtown West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 8221515 or visit www.clematis bynight.net.

Friday, Aug. 22

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Book Discussion on Friday, Aug. 22 at 3:30 p.m. for adults. Self-help enthusiast Catherine Windecker will examine the book Make Your Creative Dreams Real: A Plan for Procrastinators, Perfectionists, Busy People & People Who Would Really Rather Sleep All Day. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Young Artist Series: Let’s Paint” on Friday, Aug. 22 at 3:30 p.m. for ages five through eight. Bring your old clothes and paint a picture using sponges. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070. Saturday, Aug. 23

• The South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.) will host “Our Kids World Expo” on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 23 and 24. The event is designed for children 12 and under. Kids can see exotic animals, watch dance performances, enjoy science demonstrations and many other fun activities. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Call (561) 793-0333 or visit www.south floridafair.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Tooth Fairy” on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 11 a.m. for ages two and up. Hear stories about this visitor of the night. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The American Cancer Society’s Evening on the Green will take place Saturday, Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Equestrian Club by Tavern on the Green (3401 Equestrian Club Road, Wellington). The event will feature the popular band Memory Lane and other entertainment as well as cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and more. Sponsorship packages are still available. Tickets cost $150 per person. For more info., call (561) 366-0013, ext. 5138 or e-mail michelle. cavanaugh@cancer.org. Sunday, Aug. 24

• Temple Beth Zion (129 Sparrow Dr.) will host an open house on Sunday, Aug. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bagels will be served. Meet the staff, including Rabbi Bert Kieffer. For info. call (561) 798-8888. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 7936090. E-mail: news@gotown crier.com.

Wellington PZA Board Supports Changes To Bellissimo Development

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board unanimously approved a master plan amendment Thursday that would reduce the number of residential units in an equestrianoriented housing development in southern Wellington.

Developer Mark Bellissimo’s company Far Niente Stables is seeking permission to reduce the number of dwelling units on the southern 83 acres of its 600-acre Grand Prix Acres subdivision from 64 units to 36, and to schedule development in two

Tot Lot Residents Seek Other Initiatives

continued from page 1 residents a place to socialize outdoors and their children a place to play.

“They can walk to it,” Richter said. “They can spend time with their children without having to pay to go somewhere. They can talk about neighborhood issues. The community policing officers would see them. They could talk to the residents. They can talk about their concerns. It would beautify the neighborhood. It would make it more attractive for them to live there.” But during public comment,

Sims

New RPBHS Principal

continued from page 1 County. After attending Galaxy he went to Congress Middle School and graduated from Santaluces High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1991, where he played offensive tackle on the football team. He received his master’s degree in educational leadership at Florida A&M University in 1993.

Temple Sell The Land?

continued from page 2 said his congregation began with eight members and quickly grew to a total membership of 45 families. With the merger, the congregation stands to gain 90 to 100 additional members, he said, and the sale of the Temple B’nai Jacob property in West Palm Beach would help fund the purchase of the village parcel.

“With proceeds from the sale of the property, we are looking to buy land in Wellington,” Kohan said. “The reason we are here tonight is that looking around and driving around, we saw that there is not a lot of land available. We wanted to inquire about purchasing this property.”

Kohan described his congregation as an asset to the community. “The Jewish population is growing in Wellington,” he said. “We provide a need for the community with our synagogue.”

Two years ago the council rejected another purchase request on the property, from a Lake Worth woman who wanted to build a private preschool there. At the time, village staff stressed that the property was one of the few areas in the Lake Worth Road corridor that the village could use for debris management and staging activities after a storm.

phases, the first on a 21-acre parcel and the second on a 62acre parcel.

The property, located on the north side of 40th Street South about 1.5 miles west of South Shore Blvd., has been the site of the Littlewood Farms equestrian show grounds since 1998. The amendment, if approved by the Wellington Village Council, would allow development in two phases, 21 units on the eastern 21 acres containing Littlewood Farms and 15 units on the western 62 acres. “This is market-driven,” Village Attorney Jeffrey Kurtz said. “They will

area resident Margaret ThorneHenderson said that while the tot lot sounded like a good idea, there were too many bad apples in the neighborhood, and not enough parents with kids who would use the lot.

“I think the tot lot sounds great,”

Thorne-Henderson said. “But I feel in that particular location it will become a hot spot for the teens who live in rented homes, and they don’t care.” Thorne-Henderson said that although she is a retired military officer familiar with the use of weapons, she feels threatened in her own neighborhood. “I live alone,” she said. “I am out of my house a lot. I am fearful coming into my house. I feel the tot lot sounds wonderful, but when you build it, they will come. The wrong crowd will show up, and that’s where they will stay.”

Sims, who turns 39 on Monday, Aug. 18, said he is enthusiastic about the number of teachers on campus who are committed to the school and have shared an eagerness to improve student performance. “They are confident and ready to deliver this school something we have not experienced in a long time,” he said.

RPBHS has a diverse mix of students, and Sims said it is a challenge to get some students to read and comprehend English when that might not be their native tongue. Also, some students have difficulty performing

develop that according to what the market will allow.”

The 64 units originally envisioned were provided in the zoning the village inherited from the county after it incorporated, Kurtz said.

The PZA Board had rescheduled its meeting to Thursday so the Wellington Equestrian Committee could review the proposal at its meeting the previous evening. The Equestrian Committee did not have a quorum when the proposal appeared at its July 9 meeting.

Village staff had recommended approval with conditions, in-

White Pine resident Don Marshall said there are too many problems in the neighborhood to be addressed by a tot lot. Youngsters ranging from seven to 16 years old travel in packs and terrorize the area, he said.

“We have been vandalized,” Marshall said. “We have graffiti written on our house. We have alarms. We look out for each other. The PBSO has done a good job in attacking this problem. Your deputies are very good. I have talked to a number of them. They have made seven or eight arrests recently. You need to be considering that before you vote. When you put the tot lot in, it won’t bring the persons to the area it’s designed for. It will be a hangout for the people causing problems.”

Sandra Blakeman said she did not want to see toddlers exposed

well because they are distracted by tough economic conditions or a bad home environment.

However, Sims stressed that similar schools have been able to rise above those hurdles.

“Many schools are showing that these kids can develop and make gains and meet that proficiency target,” he said.

Sims pointed out that a high school with a challenging student population — John I. Leonard in Greenacres — has pulled up from a D grade last year to a C this year, and closer to a B than RPBHS was last year. “They have absolutely

cluding that several roadway options be provided, either a route through the undeveloped Wellington Country Place PUD to the east, a route utilizing the Lake Worth Road right of way, a route utilizing 40th Street, or a combination of those options. The Equestrian Committee recommended approval with the conditions suggested by village staff, but questioned the need for 40th Street to be included as an option for east-west access due to the potential for increased traffic within the equestrian area south of the right of way for Lake Worth Road.

to such a bad element. “I think it’s absurd,” Blakeman said. “I don’t want to have anything to do with these people. They are the people who have broken into my home and car. I have to stand strong and say this is wrong.”

Council members said they were overwhelmed by the feedback and wanted to reconsider the tot lot proposal, but not the community policing effort.

“I am not prepared to vote for it,” Mayor Darell Bowen said. “I had reservations for this before these folks came here. I don’t think at this point it’s fair to jeopardize what little peace and quiet these people have to solve a problem on the other side of the street.”

Bowen suggested meeting with residents and working with them to come up with other ideas. “I really want us to go af-

challenging populations, but look at how much growth they have experienced,” he said. “They are closer to our goal than we are.”

Sims said he intends to put to good use the grade-raising experience he gained at Galaxy and Lantana. “We needed to build a dialogue in terms of what you’re doing every day and how you’re moving kids,” he said. “That’s the same philosophy I brought to Lantana, and that’s the same philosophy I bring here.”

Village staff maintains that 40th Street is a public right of way and should be retained as part of an overall potential traffic circulation plan. James Whisenand, who owns 25 acres near the site, urged the board to follow the Equestrian Committee’s recommendation to delete the 40th Street option. “The essence of change under staff’s recommendation would make 40th Street a major thoroughfare,” Whisenand said, noting that 40th Street is currently part gravel road and part dedicated bridle path.

Michael Sexton, the agent for

ter these bad guys,” he said. “I want to continue the pressure you are putting on the thugs. Maybe there is another outlet. I know it’s easy for us to say the kids need to register at the Boys & Girls Club. We have to find something appropriate for them. I’m not sure what it is.”

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore said he, too, was upset by what he had heard.

“When I listened to the residents, I think I am somewhere else,” Priore said. “I say wait a minute, this is not Wellington. Maybe we have been living in a vacuum. Maybe we can enroll the children in an after-school program. At least they are in a supervised controlled area where they can express and let off some steam. I am sure you have an element that is genuinely criminal. It became that way by the atmosphere and environment they are exposed to.”

Councilman Bob Margolis said he could support further meetings with the residents, but that something must be done

Lox Groves Comp Plan Public Input

continued from page 9 sources Management. She requested that the town create its own agencies and not hire outside providers for such services.

Far Niente Stables, said the other option for an east-west thoroughfare, Lake Worth Road, is tenuous because that route is not yet all approved right of way. Committee Member Carmine Priore III made a motion to approve staff’s recommendation including the retention of the 40th Street option, seconded by Committee Member Craig Bachove. The Wellington Village Council is expected to review the application at its Aug. 25 meeting, scheduled for a Monday because of the primary election the following day.

soon. Margolis said he passes the area on the way to work and he often sees kids as young as two out in the streets without supervision. He said other council members should ride along with the PBSO and open their eyes to what is going on in the neighborhood.

“We need also to talk about the other areas in Wellington, and look at homes in foreclosure and the rental homes,” he said.

Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto, who helped spearhead the tot lot idea, said she wanted the issue addressed soon.

“If the tot lot is not acceptable, I understand,” she said. “What I will not tolerate is a year from now there is still a problem. In the next 60 days we have to figure out what we will do; if we are going to move forward with the crime watch, the problemoriented policing and the COP program. In 60 days, we would have gotten to our solution. It should be a model that we should be able to apply to other communities who have trouble.”

spent with the town and residents, and was impressed by the amount of public input involved in the process.

Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen said that the temple would be an honorable use for the civic site, but he wanted to get all the information about the village’s vacant land holdings before making a decision.

“We need to take the time to assess all the vacant properties we own and determine what we would do with them and how we dispose of them,” Bowen said. “This particular site we used for a debris staging area. I also would like to be sure that we have a contingency plan for that if we sell it to you all. I am looking for a motion that we table this.”

Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto said she would make the motion but wanted the updated inventory by next week. She also said that she would like to discuss the matter during the council’s workshop on economic development initiatives, scheduled for Aug. 19. However, she did not want to hold up the temple’s process of finding a new home.

“We are happy you want to have a home in Wellington,” she said. “It would be a great addition for you to have that space.”

Councilman Dr. Carmine Priore agreed. “I don’t mind us going through the process of looking at the pieces of land,” Priore said. “I don’t want to see another strip center. I think this

Leisure Services Director Jim Barnes told the council Tuesday that while a draft of a staff-prepared vacant land inventory is on hand, the final assessment would be ready by the end of the week.

Hotly Contested Race

continued from page 1

tion process. “Whatever we do it has to be reviewed by the Department of Revenue in Tallahassee, and they look at all classes of property,” he explained. “They make certain that the level of assessments that we’re at achieves the standard that is required for tax assessment roll approval, so everything we do is scrutinized every year at the state level.” During the property price boom, Nikolits came in conflict with some business people, es-

pecially marina owners who said skyrocketing taxes were driving them out of business.

Machek argues that the Property Appraiser’s Office under Nikolits went too far in its application of the state’s “highest and best use” rule, assessing as if waterfront property had been developed into multi-story condominiums.

Nikolits criticizes Machek, a sixth-generation Floridian, as not having the credentials necessary to run the Property Appraiser’s Office. Machek ran a large agricultural corporation in Palm Beach County with 350 employees for more than 37 years. He worked for his family’s agricultural operation for 15 years. Before being elected to the State Legisla-

‘I think people are concerned that he’s gone a little far to one side and is not being fair with the appraisal process.’

— Richard Machek

would be an ideal use of the property. I would like to begin engaged consideration with the parties involved, what they are looking to do and what they want to do; we won’t put them behind on their timeline.”

Councilman Bob Margolis seconded the motion, which passed 4-0 with Councilman Matt Willhite absent.

In other business, the council approved an extension of a deadline for completion of the clubhouse at the Binks Forest Golf Course from Oct. 31 to Dec. 31.

The council had set deadlines for the restoration of the course and the clubhouse in return for allowing property owner Aquila Binks Forest Development the right to build 90 townhouse residential units on the course’s former driving range. By the agreement, the company cannot start construction of the residential units until the course and clubhouse work have been completed. Restoration of the course was completed late last year, but only after the council granted an extension of that deadline as well.

Without the latest extension, the company would be subject to fines of $1,000 a day in damages and more importantly, the village would be entitled to revert the driving range property back to its previous commercial recreation use designation.

Priore made a motion for approval of the extension, which was seconded by Benacquisto. It passed unanimously.

ture, he served on the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board from 1995 to 1999. He has also served on the board of the Florida Farm Bureau and currently serves on the board of the Health Care District of Palm Beach County.

Machek, who co-sponsored a law requiring appraisers to consider zoning changes and permits that may be needed in order to apply the “highest and best use” criterion, said he can use his experience as a legislator to offer a different interpretation to the law or possibly get it changed.

“I think the biggest beef most commercial businesses, particularly the marina owners in Palm Beach County, have always had is that [Nikolits] is

One of the biggest transitions from middle to high school will be increased social functions. “There are more social commitments, there are more evening activities, but that’s what I’m about,” Sims said. “I’ve always presented myself as a community person. I like to be involved. I like to get to know the village council. I’m planning on calling the mayor today just to formally introduce myself, and I’m looking forward to coming to a council meeting just to officially say who I am.”

Sims said all the RPBHS teachers and parents he has talked to are interested in helping improve RPBHS. “I’m very confident that in a very short time,” he said, “people who come on this campus will feel the sense that there are some incredible academic things going on here to prepare kids for postsecondary education, whether it be a college, university, junior college, trade school, but we’re preparing kids for the next phase of their life, which is absolutely important.”

ITID Watch Fighting Crime

continued from page 13 tage that workers are out working in the community all day while residents are out working. We taught the workers what they should look for, how to report possible problems and how to identify stolen vehicles and suspects.”

Buchanan previously designed a similar program for the

using ‘the highest and best use,’ which is one of the eight criteria,” Machek said. “To appraise a piece of property, particularly a marina, for something it might be five years or ten years from now, you can’t put that value on that property now. You’ve got to appraise it at its present value. I think people are concerned that he’s gone a little far to one side and is not being fair with the appraisal process.” Nikolits, however, stands behind the professionalism he says he has brought to the Property Appraiser’s Office. He noted that he is a professional real estate appraiser with more than 32 years experience appraising property in Palm Beach County. “The race seems to be a con-

‘The race seems to be a contest whether experience and qualifications are important or whether it’s really just a management job.’

—

Gary

Nikolits

Louda said any town agency still would have to interact with outside agencies. He noted that while it might be a good idea if the town developed its own environmental management department, the town must be careful not to place undue financial burdens on residents.

Tappen then asked for feedback on the housing element.

Councilman Dennis Lipp said he was concerned about mobile homes being included in the definition of affordable housing and said he did not want Loxahatchee Groves to be known as a place with “double-wides.”

Tappen noted that the state stands firm about its inclusion of mobile homes and manufactured homes as affordable housing.

Close, who herself worked as a planner, concurred with the concerns about mobile homes but said the matter would probably require more research.

Close added that she was pleased with the detail and time Calvin, Giordano & Associates

more suburban Palm Beach Gardens. “It worked well in different circumstances,” he said. “But it was not designed for a rural area. When the ITID asked for a program, I revised it to match their capabilities.”

Buchanan said that because ITID work teams range across the whole district, they are particularly suited to spotting anything unusual. “They know the people,” he said. “They are more likely to spot things like discarded stolen cars or stolen ATMs along and in the canals.”

“Twenty years ago we were sitting in our offices doing what we were trained to do,” she said. “Then we went to our politicians and said, ‘is this a good plan?’ And the politicians said it was a great plan. I think it’s great that a lot of people have come out to participate.”

At the end of the meeting, Fried-Tobin issued an appeal for anyone who could take in an unwanted horse. “We are a large animal sanctuary,” Fried-Tobin said. “We rescue and rehabilitate horses and other animals. These are terrible times. We feel it a lot. I get people coming to my door, telling me, ‘if you don’t take my horse, I will have to kill it.’ People are leaving their homes and leaving their horses to die in their back yards. They are doing it with goats, dogs and horses, particularly with horses. They are expensive. If you have land, you have space, and you could absorb another horse, please call me.”

The town is hoping to approve its finalized comprehensive plan for state review on Sept. 16. If the town makes the state transmittal deadline and there are no significant objections from the DCA, the town will adopt the comprehensive plan in January.

Capt. Jeff Lindskoog, who supervises the PBSO’s volunteer programs as commander of its Community Services Division, said the ITID program is an example of the diverse ways a community can help reduce criminal activity. “We have the Citizen Observer Patrol and Neighborhood Watch,” he said. “The COP has a strong mounted presence out here. And we’re trying new things. We even have a retired cartoonist who is doing a comic book for us called ‘Gangbuster.’”

MachekGary Nikolits test whether experience and qualifications are important or whether it’s really just an administrative or management job,” Nikolits said. “I can assure it’s a good combination of both, but where you manage an office like the property appraiser’s, you first have to have an understand-

ing of what it is that you’re managing. You wouldn’t hire your gardener to repair your air conditioner, because he’s not qualified to do that. So why would you hire someone with no appraisal qualifications to appraise the 625,400 parcels of property in Palm Beach County?”

Richard

Campus

RPB Zoners

continued from page 1 no trouble with the variance allowing the clock tower to be only 15 feet from the property’s edge, since there is also a 77foot setback because of a canal crossing along SR 7 at that point. However, Lange said he was concerned about the height of the tower. “I like letting the architecture of the buildings speak for itself without being overwhelmed by a special feature,” he said.

Lange made a motion to approve both the revised site plan and architectural approval, which the commission passed unanimously. In a separate motion, Lange recommended approval of the variances, which also passed unanimously. The Royal Palm Beach Village Council is scheduled to review the application at its meeting Aug. 21.

Also Tuesday, the commission voted unanimously to approve a site plan modification to reduce the floor area and seat-

Letters continued from page 4 businesses that infuse a steady flow of revenue into city coffers.

• It’s going to make Palm Beach County a vital center of higher learning for the whole of Florida: Northwood University (business), Palm Beach Atlantic University (liberal arts), Kaiser University (allied health courses), Florida Atlantic University (engineering and law), Scripps (disease cure and control research) and Wellington Med School (doctor of medicine degrees).

• A renowned school of medicine will attract students, parents and visitors alike and lifts Wellington one step closer to becoming a tourist Mecca.

• Med schools are all over Florida except in Palm Beach County: Florida State University in Tallahassee, the University of Florida in Gainesville, the University of South Florida in Tampa, the University of Central Florida in Orlando, and the University of Miami and Florida International University in Miami — but none in this area. We’re no second-rate Floridians; we need and deserve a medical college, too!

• Some say it’s an uphill climb needing state approval. Not so! Partnering with a private university sidesteps state’s blessing. And Wellington Regional Medical Center (WRMC), now training residents from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, which has a campus in Bradenton, makes the process a lot more hitch-proof.

• It will offer another possibility for existing public medical universities to expand. FSU now has satellite medical regional campuses in Daytona and Fort Pierce. Why not UF expanding its medical campus to Wellington? Of course, the state’s gosignal is still needed in this regard, but it’ll be a lot easier (less expensive/extensive) than sanctioning a new med school.

• Council members are growing keen to the venture’s wisdom. Councilman Bob Margolis struck at the issue’s core when he said, “a medical school is a good opportunity… it will bring a tax base in, higher education and graduates who could afford the Wellington lifestyle.”

To paraphrase WRMC CEO Kevin DiLallo, a medical arts district on State Road 7, with WRMC as the hub, an array of medical office buildings around it, plus a reputable med school, will surely revitalize the city’s sagging economy. Albert Einstein I’m not, but a world-class med school, A-rated professors and top-notch graduates would surely bring prestige and progress to our beloved city. I implore the honorable mayor and valued council members to open a medical college and make Wellington a veritable “crown jewel” of Palm Beach County. It behooves everyone to know that we won’t be judged by our lofty titles or pompous earthly possessions, but on how we’ve created change that matters most — selfless change geared to improving the lot of the less-fortunate.

Mr. DiLallo, who was recently honored by the area chamber of commerce, came out with his formal request on June 23 risking being branded a straightjacket case. But let’s look up to him as a pillar of strength and vision for making Wellington an ideal place for our children to inherit and enjoy. And if his avant-garde idea would come to fruition, he and the whole Wellington Village Council shall have made their mark on history.

Mario H. Casuga Wellington

ing capacity for Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Church, located on the east side of Crestwood Blvd. north of Southern Blvd. Commissioners also unanimously granted architectural approval for the church.

Architect Horacio Carlos Huembes of Miami-based architectural firm Villa & Associates told the commissioners that because of changes in parish boundaries, the Diocese of Palm Beach has requested a reduction in the floor area of the church from 28,500 square feet and 1,500 seats to 24,085 square feet and 938 seats. The diocese is also seeking a reduction in the number of required parking spots from 378 to 253. Based on the reduced size of the church, 235 would be required under current village regulations.

“The diocese found that as the parish boundaries changed, a church the original size was no longer feasible,” Huembes said. Commission members said they were delighted with the appearance of the church plans and voted unanimously to recommend approval.

Koons: More Cuts Ahead

A couple of months ago, I explained how the housing slump, state-mandated revenue cuts and voters’ adoption of an additional homestead exemption (Amendment 1) would make this an especially difficult budget process. Well, things are worse than we thought. And I’m sorry to say next year looks even bleaker.

Unlike several cities facing similar revenue shortfalls, the Board of County Commissioners is not raising the millage rate this year to make up the difference. We have decided to get by with whatever revenue has already been collected. Each week it seems there is a new list of county jobs, programs and services on the chopping block. Making these cuts is painful, but it’s what the voters said they wanted.

We’ve cut funding for road construction, median landscaping and beautification, building permit processors, vegetation inspectors, sheriff’s vehicles, business incubators and teen residency shelter beds, and we’re not done. Some of these cuts have been initiated now to reduce the hit on reserve funds. We can’t afford to deplete our reserves in case we have a major storm or some other catastrophic emergency.

Next year (FY-2010), Palm Beach County is anticipating at least a five-percent loss in property valuation, and our administrator says to expect a $110 million budget shortfall if the millage rate remains at 3.78 mills. Even if we decide to raise the millage rate — something the commission hasn’t done since 1998 — to the state-allowed rollback rate of 4.07 mills, we will still be looking at a deficit of $60 million.

So, how do we close this shortfall? Tapping reserves again is out of the question, and there’s nothing left in the capital budget because we killed just about every project this year. That leaves a huge hit to the operations budget; major layoffs and deeper service reductions are inevitable.

Besides trimming everywhere we possibly can, I think we need to look at some new revenue sources, such as user fees. For example, boaters may have to pay $10 a year for a permit to use our county boat ramps.

Parking is currently free at county-owned beach parks, while most municipal beaches have meters. Maybe the county should start charging for beach parking, too. The Juno Pier charges a nominal admission. Why not ask a dollar or two to stroll out on the boardwalks at the Wakodahatchee and Green Cay wetlands facilities? Golfers pay greens fees. Wouldn’t tennis players kick in a few dollars to play on our county-owned tennis courts? How about $1 to borrow a book or a DVD from the library? It’s still a lot cheaper than buying them. Palm Tran and Tri-Rail are experiencing record ridership. Maybe their fares should be increased to cover more of their operating costs. I realize that none of these options will be very popular, but lawmakers and citizens who demanded property tax relief had to know there would be a trade off in public services. That’s just basic economics. As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. Please feel free to call me or my staff at (561) 355-2202. County Commissioner Jeff Koons, District 2

Visions Hair Studio Raises Money For American Cancer Society

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report

Visions Hair Studio in Wellington held its Second Annual Haircut-Athon fundraiser last Sunday. This year’s designated charity — breast cancer awareness and research through the American Cancer Society — was very personal for salon owners Tom and Linda Monticello.

“Valentine’s Day 2006 was a day I’ll never forget,” Linda recalled.

It was the day the couple found out that Linda had breast cancer. A routine mammography revealed a suspicious spot that turned out to be a fatty tumor, but the cells around the tumor indicated that Linda had lobular cancer, the second most common form of breast cancer. The news caught Linda by complete surprise.

“No one in my family has ever had cancer, so I thought it wouldn’t happen to me,” she said. “Sometimes women think there should be a lump, but this kind doesn’t grow that way,” Linda explained.

Lobular cancer is typically found in its advanced stages; fortunately, hers was detected early.

Linda immediately opted for a double mastectomy and reconstruction to avoid the risks that go with lengthy treatments. “I’m interested in awareness, for women and men to know all the different types [of cancer] ,” Linda said. “If something is suspicious, keep

looking until you get an answer.”

According to Linda, the couple’s lifestyle changed for the better. They consume less caffeine, live on a more vegetable-based diet, eat meat only two to three times a week, limit their portions and eat more organic food, including the switch from beef to bison. “I feel better than before. I have more energy,” she said.

Stylist Tara Weldon has worked at Visions for eight years. She committed to volunteering the entire six hours for the event. “I’m here to pay it forward,” she said. “Three people in the salon have had cancer, and I’ll do every little bit I can to help.”

Getting her hair done by Weldon was Wellington resident Donna Leverone, who lost her twin sister to breast cancer two years ago. Leverone’s sister was 47 when she died.

“My sister always referred to me as her yolk, the other half,” Leverone recalled tearfully. “She made me laugh ’til the very end. They’re beautiful people here [at Visions] — all of them.”

For stylists Brianna Julius and Annie Mizrahi, the “why” for donating a day’s work was simply answered with a more important question: “why not?” In side-by-side stations, the pair seemed to enjoy the constant company of patrons and each other.

At the salon’s entrance, a display table held information about the American Cancer Society and its upcoming

5K Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, as well as pink ribbon items for sale, including cuff bracelets and a fuzzy pink “sleepwalker” mask.

“That’s for those who are working on the date of the walk, or are out of town, or who just have to sleep in,” said American Cancer Society liaison Maureen Gross, who created the mask idea. “They can participate by joining the sleepwalker team for a donation of $20.”

Joining Gross were event chair Terri Priore, media chair Mair Armand and sponsorship chair Shauna Hostetler. “[Breast cancer] is something we need to work to eliminate. Eventually nobody should need to hear the words ‘you have breast cancer,’” Priore said.

Armand said a steady flow of patrons came in to support the cause. Visions Hair Studio asked for a $25 donation per haircut; one man gave $100.

“We raised over $2,400 thanks to the efforts of our staff who made it all possible,” Tom Monticello said. “It gives me a great sense of satisfaction to raise money for cancer, especially breast cancer.”

The Western Communities Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk is slated for Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Greenview Cove Golf Course (2470 Greenview Cove Drive). For more information, call Gross at (561) 650-0136 or visit http://makingstrides.acsevents. org/westerncommunities.

PHOTOS BY CANDACE MARCHSTEINER/TOWN-CRIER

Stylist assistant Giana Delai washes Jane Dribben’s hair.

Stylist Tara Weldon with regular customer Donna Leverone.

The stylists gather with Visions Hair Studio owners Tom (far right) and Linda (front left) Monticello.

Stylist Annie Mizrahi works on Paul Marques’s hair.

Jennifer Grove gets her hair styled by Sue Hooks.

Sue Chasteen styles the hair of Hannah Smith, whose maternal grandmother has breast cancer.

Western Communities 5K Walk chairs Mair Armand, Terri Priore and Shauna Hostetler.

Brianna Julius trims the hair of Marissa Priore.

Reality Series Pilot Filmed At Nicole’s Village Tavern In Wellington

By Candace Marchsteiner Town-Crier Staff Report

Nicole’s

a Los Angeles entertainment company film crew sweated through the delayed set-up to film the pilot for a potential Animal Planet reality show series titled Wellington. Hopeful television extras ate, drank and waited for their moment of fame. The show follows the lives of three sisters from Wellington’s equestrian community: Ainsley, Courtney and Sydney Vince. On this night, only Ainsley made an appearance. The previous weekend, the crew followed the sisters at a horse show in Toronto. After the scene at Nicole’s, the sisters were slated to travel to the Hamptons in New York for a polo match, horse show and so-

cial events. Ainsley, the eldest sister, rides horses professionally. A hunter and jumper, she won two Canadian championships and was in the World Cup finals three times. Her list of accomplishments goes on and on. Ainsley’s sister Courtney is a professional rider who works at a barn in Canada. Sydney also rides and is an agent with a local insurance office.

“I’m a little nervous,” Ainsley admitted as a tiny microphone was clipped to her top, but she’s hoping that the show will bring the horse community into a positive spotlight outside of Wellington. “My friend Schuyler Riley said it best. She said that it’ll be nice to personalize the people involved in the horse community since there are so many misconceptions.”

A longtime friend, Riley rides with Ainsley and owns a farm in Wellington. Once the pilot is submitted to the network, the waiting could last six days to six months, director Jason Sands said. Sands is best known for his direction of the popular MTV reality show series The Hills, a spin-off of Laguna Beach for which he directed the second season. A perfect scenario, Sands said, would mean quick acceptance of the series so that the show could be shot in Wellington during its peak season in winter and air next spring. With staged lighting, massive amounts of high-definition camera equipment and the constant presence of people, how real could a reality show be? “We’re talking about grown-ups here — people with established, successful businesses,” Sands said. “It’s important for them to maintain their integrity, so it’s real.”

Director of Photography Greg Matthews. Sound mixer Joe Beach adjusts Ainsley Vince’s microphone.

A shot from inside Nicole’s Village Tavern.

Cinematographer Ed Garcia chats with show extras Paris Vazquez and Andrew Mazoleny.

PHOTOS BY CANDACE MARCHSTEINER/TOWN-CRIER

“Wellington” Director Jason Sands with Ainsley Vince.

• BEEF O’BRADY’S in Royal Palm Beach’s Village Royale plaza is a great family place for food and fun. Sports teams are always welcome. We support community activities. Tuesday kids eat free with each adult meal purchased. For hours and more information, call (561) 795-8500.

• CELEBRITY DINER serves breakfast and lunch, take out and catering seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Breakfast from $3 to $7 and lunch from $4.49 to $8. The diner is located at 10121 Southern Blvd. at the northwest corner of State Road 7 in the Kmart plaza. Call (561) 793-3422 for information.

• CHINA TOYKO has some of the best Chinese and Japanese cuisine in the western communities. China Toyko is open Monday thru Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Free delivery is offered within the Wellington area. China Toyko is located at 11924 W. Forest Hill Blvd, Suite 24 in the Town Square plaza. Call (561) 7919907 for pick-up or to place your order.

• EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS offers mouth-watering gifts that make them say wow! Are you tired of giving the same old gifts, flowers or cards to express your appreciation or acknowledge a special day? Do something new and delicious. Send a beautifully designed fresh fruit arrangement. You can even have the fruit dipped in creamy chocolate for an extra-special touch. To order your Edible Arrangement, visit the store at 13873 Wellington Trace, Suite B-5 in the Wellington Marketplace or call (561) 422-3232.

• GUN CLUB CAFÉ has two great locations in Royal Palm Beach and West Palm Beach serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. The West Palm Beach location has been serving Palm Beach County for over 25 years. Kids eat free Monday through Thursdays, with each adult entree purchased. See our ad on this page for specials or call the Royal Palm Beach location at (561) 792-8723.

• NICOLE’S VILLAGE TAVERN, located in the heart of Wellington, offers everything, starting with their delicious breakfast for four, to their “Back To Basics” off season lunch specials served all day for just $6.50, or join them at the end of the day for one of the many tantalizing dinner entrees such as Blackened Tilapia with a tropical mango relish, Chicken Cutlet Picatta with capers and lemon garlic wine sauce or Bistro Medallions of Beef with a merlot demi glaze. Want to make reservations or get more information? Call (561) 793-3456. Nicole’s Village Tavern is located at 12300 South Shore Blvd., Wellington.

• TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ, voted “Best of Food, Sun Fest 2007,” is located in Wellington’s Courtyard Shops plaza near IHOP. It offers not only some of the most popular smoothies but also the new six super-charged smoothies with acai or goji and pomegranate. In addition, you can choose from their wide menu items including wraps for lunch or breakfast, soups, salads, sandwiches. Tropical Smoothie also offers catering. Call (561) 296-5999 for information.

CONTENTS PREPARED BY THE MARKETING DEPARTMENT

Start Of School Year Only Signals End Of Summer’s Labors

Can you believe it? School is starting up again. That stinks — right, kids? There’s so much that still has to be accomplished, and I’m not talking summer school. Karate, ballet, gymnastics or music lessons might be OK, but I’m talking about the real work of childhood:

1. Developing social skills. When school is out, kids tend to rediscover friends they have in the neighborhood. But now everyone’s a year older — and wiser. This could be a good thing or it could necessitate the reclaiming of turf. Turf reclamation sometimes ends with someone getting pounded but, hey, that’s summer. There’s a lot of “survival of the fittest” in it.

2. Discovering changes in the locale. Sometimes over the course of a school year, new businesses pop up or old standbys change hands. For anyone with a bicycle (or access to a real car!), the territory must be re-explored and logged into

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

one’s mental MapQuest. After all, any self-respecting kid needs to know the nearest location for video game purchases, DVD rentals, candy bars, french fries — that kind of thing.

3. Exploring construction. If a new house is going up in the neighborhood — or roadwork is happening — it must be checked out every single day. You never know what kind of awesome heavy machinery may be on site at any

given time and you don’t want to miss it.

4. Chasing ambulances. Especially important for budding lawyers, doctors and firemen, ambulance chasing has gotten a bum rap. Every kid with wheels needs to follow any emergency vehicle headed toward their neighborhood. The sound of a screaming siren makes the blood rise. Red lights beckon. Curiosity calls. Sure, it could be a false alarm, but then again, it could involve the kid who pounded you in last week’s turf war. One needs to get the facts firsthand.

5. Finding true love. Even if you promised your special classmate (music rises) “see you in September,” a lot can happen in eight to 12 weeks, especially when you’re young. Paths cross. Stars collide. It’s nobody’s fault. One day you’re cruising the mall with your best bud, the next day you’re at the movies with “the cutest person in the world.” Paths and stars doing what they do,

you are basically powerless to resist. Anyway, you tell yourself that your special classmate may have been smitten with someone else over the summer as well. Actually, you’re kind of hoping they were. 6. Finding yourself. The true work of childhood — and it happens quickly — is self-discovery. Although somewhat scary for us adults, kids (especially preteens) may go back to school looking quite different than when they left. New haircuts and kickier clothes are just part of it. They have a new attitude. They’ve grown. They’ve matured. They’re ready to take on the world. They charge onto the school bus, barrel into the school, reconnect with friends (that movie date wasn’t nearly as hot as the special classmate today — wow!) and then are asked to settle down so class can begin. Good luck with that, teachers. My heart goes out to you.

A Recent Oldies Concert Spoke To The Eternal Teenager In Me

I love rock and roll more than rock. It may be a minor distinction, but the old-fashioned music of the ’50s and ’60s speaks to me far more than what came later. Part of it, of course, is that it is the music of my youth, but another part is the fact that it represents a simpler, happier time. The singers were not trying to change the world. They wanted to have some fun, or at least their songs did. Love was almost always in the air, whether in happy ways or through heartbreak. Singers did not depend on fancy special effects. The classic story, probably not completely true, is of the kids singing in the high school bathroom who wait on a street to audition for a disc jockey and then go to a recording studio (that just happens to be free that afternoon), cut a record and make a fortune.

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

Cannon singing about it. Of course, as a proud Floridian, I could also bounce along to “Tallahassee Lassie.”

Cannon was great, but the person I really wanted to see (and, of course, hear) was Shirley Alston Reeves, one of the great ladies of music, a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The former lead singer of the Shirelles, arguably the best of the girl groups of early rock and roll, sang hits such as “Baby It’s You,” “Mama Said,” “This Is Dedicated to the One I Love,” “Soldier Boy” and the classic hymn to teenage insecurity, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow.”

Going to an oldies concert is a treat, particularly here in Palm Beach County. Everyone is my age. And the singers are almost all older than I am. They’re not able to breakdance like the kids, but they know their songs. They generally have been singing them for the past 40 years.

The “Memories of Palisades Park” show last Friday at the Kravis Center brought back those memories for me. I am old enough to actually remember going to the park and listening to Freddy

Does that sound like I made it up? Watch the old B-movie American Hot Wax. And of course, in The Buddy Holly Story, his first record is released as “Negro music” despite his group being “persons of pallor,” and they become sensations. The romanticism is there, although I cannot speak as to whether it is true.

Notice the overriding theme. Love wanted, true love forever, love maybe lost and love really lost. These are the really important themes. Today’s female singers are more likely to boast of amorous achievements, working hard to match anything a male rock singer can do, and focus on today’s lover rather than eternity’s love. What a loss!

The Tokens, another favorite group, also per-

formed. The three singers (two originals and Jay Traynor, who was the original lead of Jay & The Americans before being replaced by Jay Black) have been performing and producing songs for over 40 years. As they ran through their songs, the three old-timers used their expertise to bring back the old times. The audience applauded heartily, particularly for their biggest hits “Tonight I Fell in Love” and “Portrait of My Love,” but it was clear that everyone was just waiting for their last song, their really big hit “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” As the audience sang along with the wimowehs, Jay Siegel’s falsetto sounded as good to me as it did back in 1961, and the evening was complete. Sign me up for any old rock-and-rollers. And if you’re of my generation, come on down to the Kravis Center or any of the other places where the old music is heard. Enjoy the memories and the love of a time when love meant the one person you would be with forever, not “the one you’re with.”

We Should Look Northward For Ideas On Fighting Local Crime

Most of us living in Palm Beach County came here from somewhere else, looking for a better way of life. I brought my family here from Brooklyn more than 25 years ago, so my kids could grow up a little different than the way I did (just a little different).

My last seven years working for the New York City Police Department was spent with a gang task force in Brooklyn. I became an expert on gangs. I knew more about gangs than I really wanted to know. Because of the gang influence in Brooklyn, most of the junior high schools and high schools were not places I wanted to send my children or anyone else’s. I knew more about what was going on in these schools than the teachers and school administrators knew. And most of it wasn’t good.

Because I couldn’t send my kids to public school, I sent my eldest son to a private religious school in Brooklyn for three years. I had to pull

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

him out of there because he started to question why we weren’t doing certain things at home that his school told him we should be doing.

When my time came to retire from the NYPD, I knew I had to do something painful — I had to leave Brooklyn. To this day I have never forgiven Walter O’Malley for moving the Dodgers (I still can’t find forgiveness in my heart) to La-La Land. Now I was going to leave Brooklyn also.

After careful investigation, my wife Sharon and

I decided Palm Beach County would be the per-

fect place to raise our young family. And to this day I have never looked back. One by one my entire family (parents, brothers, aunts etc.) moved here. We all thought we found paradise. That feeling stayed with me until recently. I am now starting to see very disturbing things in our beloved county, things that remind me of Brooklyn 25 years ago. The crime I thought I left behind is starting to appear at my front door. Every day the news reports come blasting out of my TV and radio about shootings, stabbings, armed robberies, road rage, muggings of little old ladies at shopping centers, etc. In my wildest dreams (and I have had many of them) I never thought I would see this in Palm Beach County. What the heck is going on here? I guess besides the good folks who left the northeast, the bad folks followed right behind them. In New York City, crime is at its lowest rate ever. The murder rate is the lowest

it has been since they started keeping records. If things here keep going the way they are, we may have more people per capita killed here than in New York City this year. Just a couple of weeks ago, five people were shot in the Glades in less than 98 minutes, and one died. All of the victims were 23 or younger. Is it the economy, lack of jobs or is everyone just going mad? I have some theories on how to stop this madness, but I don’t think many people will listen. We in Palm Beach County must study what New York City did and is still doing to lower its crime rate (it’s the safest big city in the country) and follow that example. (LA is trying to follow New York City’s example; Chicago, however, is not, and most news junkies know what is happening there.) If we do not come up with a plan to fight this crime wave, I don’t want to tell you (I am sure most of you already know) what the future holds.

TOWN-CRIER SPORTS & RECREATION

WATER SKI NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS UNDERWAY AT OKEEHEELEE PARK

The 2008 Goode Water Ski National Championships kicked off Tuesday at Okeeheelee Park. Hosted by the Ski Club of the Palm Beaches, the competition is expected to draw up to 800 skiers nationally, competing in slalom, trick and jump. The competition will run through Saturday, Aug. 16. For more info., call Phil Brodt at (954) 803-8169 or Pat Keeler at (561) 793-8103.

Western Pleasure Horses Should Enjoy What They’re

Keli Wakeley has been riding and training Western Pleasure horses in South Florida since 1997. She makes her home in Royal Palm Beach and trains at TLP stables in Loxahatchee. She’s licensed by the Certified Horsemanship Association and has volunteered with a local 4-H group called the Sassy Spurs. Although she doesn’t have her judge’s card, she does judge some of the smaller 4-H shows.

According to Wakeley, many people confuse Western Pleasure with just riding down the road for pleasure, which many people in The Acreage enjoy doing. Western Pleasure horses, which are often Quarter Horses, have a slow, natural way of going. Depending on your showing goals, you might get a less-trained horse for local shows, or a better-trained, fancier one with good bloodlines

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

if you also plan to show at the state or national level.

Wakeley said judges look for that natural way of going. The horse shouldn’t look mechanical or artificial. A horse should carry his head comfortably, not too high or too low, and the overall conformation should be correct.

“Judges also like to see horses who look happy and content doing their job,” Wakeley explained.

“A Western Pleasure horse should look like he’s always happy to cooperate with his rider. Given the choice between a horse who has a great build and is a stellar mover but who is obviously unhappy, and one who’s only average in looks and movement but really loves what he’s doing, the happy horse will almost always place higher.”

In addition to movements, judges look for a working partnership between horse and rider.

Wakeley said they should look like they get along in general, not just for the class.

“No matter what the rider’s level or experience, she should be showing that horse as well as she can,” Wakeley said. “Whether the rider is a complete novice or very experienced, she should be doing what she knows to the best of her ability.”

Wakeley also likes to see both horse and rider neatly turned out, with outfit and equipment clean and correct. Riders don’t need to go to extremes when buying clothes or tack. The show ring is about riding; it’s not a fashion contest. Simply throwing around money and buying the fanciest saddle and bridle or the most fashionable, top-of-the-line outfit is not necessarily going to favorably impress the judge, and

may even detract from the overall picture.

Good, solid riding is always going to trump bells and whistles.

Riders should also know the class requirements before entering the ring. If the horse is less than five years old, it should be shown in a snaffle bit, and the rider should be using two hands on the reins. If the horse is over five, it should be in a curb bit, and the rider should be using only one hand on the reins.

“Don’t get too technical,” Wakeley advised. “When you’re out there. It should be clear that you know the basics.” Wakeley said she thinks small shows are a great way for riders to gain showing experience and improve their riding. It’s a nice way to see what other riders are doing, how their horses are going, and to get an unbiased judge’s opinion of their overall strengths and weaknesses. Smaller shows usually allow the judges more

time to talk to the participants, make individualized comments and tell riders what they should be working on.

Local shows are usually closer to home, may have fewer participants than a larger regional show, and are more economical. Being nearby, it takes less gas to get there, and show fees are negligible. The pressure is also lower, and the focus is not so much about winning but about having a good time. Small local shows are more family affairs and are easier to enjoy, especially for younger riders.

“To me, when I’m judging, teaching the riders is the best part,” Wakeley said. “I like being able to watch the kids ride, and then go up to them afterward and tell them what they’ve done right and what needs improving. In my classes, the blue ribbons usually go to riders who can present me with a neat, clean overall picture and a safe, controlled ride.”

Janice Prociw of Iowa and Ruth Johnston of Mulberry, Fla., fourthand first-place slalom winners.

Keli Wakeley

Ten-month-old Summer Soash

Brianna Alvarez

Valerie Smith, Shirley Coble, Janice Prociw and Kay Kelly with their medals from the Women’s 6 slalom.

Monica Seale of Texas does some trick skiing.

Tallahassee’s Kelley Breeden with her fifth-place medal in Girls 1 Slalom.

Fred Krueger of Illinois took 11th place in the Men’s 7 Slalom.

Women’s 8 slalom winners Pat Fischer and Margaret Woodard. Pat Fischer, who placed fourth in the Women’s 8 Slalom division.Men’s 7 Slalom fourth-place winner Dicky Anderson.

Sixth-place Women’s 6-11 Slalom winner Gwen Lang-Wamhoff.

XTREME CHEERLEADERS HOST ‘MINI CHEER CAMP’

The Acreage Xtreme cheerleaders held a “Mini Cheer Camp” on Monday, Aug. 4 and Tuesday, Aug. 5 at Acreage Community Park, taught by the senior squad with help from junior squad. The new girls were taught new cheers, dance moves and games that they can take back to their own teams. The girls will cheer for the football players from the sidelines for football teams once the season kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 23. At the end of the second day of camp there was a show for parents to demonstrate the girls’ hard work and show what they had learned.

Florida Trail Association Announces Fall Events

The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association offers several upcoming activities open to the public on the following dates:

• Saturday, Aug. 30 — Meet at the Jupiter Lighthouse (500 Captain Armour’s Way) for a 45-minute tour beginning at 4 p.m. Admission is $7. After the tour, the group will proceed to Cafe Sole for dinner. Call Gail at (561) 968-3887 for more information.

• Monday, Sept. 1 — Enjoy a program titled “Florida Takes to the Trails” at 7 p.m. at the Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). Call

Sherry at (561) 963-9906 for more information.

• Saturday, Sept. 6 — Engage in a little exercise in John Prince Park. A one-hour walk with good company and enjoy breakfast afterward at TooJays restaurant in Lake Worth. Call Paul at (561) 963-9906 for more information.

• Sunday, Sept. 7 — See what natural Florida has to offer at Jonathan Dickinson State Park (16450 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound). Meet at 8 a.m. at the entrance to the parking lot. Call Mary at (561) 3917942 for more information.

• Saturday, Sept. 13 —

Come out and get wet and dirty while helping to maintain the hiking trails at the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area. Meet at the southern entrance at 6 a.m. at the north end of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. Call Beth at (561) 5319502 for more information.

• Sunday, Sept. 14 — Enjoy an evening stroll at the Boynton Inlet. Snacks will be provided afterward. Call Daisy at (561) 439-5780 for more information.

• Saturday, Sept. 20 — Meet with a group of people who enjoy walking. The group will meet at Okeeheelee Park at

LADY GATORS

The Palm Beach Gardens Lady Gators 14-A softball team finished their summer winning a national title at the United States Specialty Sports Association National World Series played at the Disney Wide World of Sports in Orlando. The Gators played against 30 teams from across country and ended the tournament with a 9-0 record. The girls definitely had a season to be proud of. Four players were selected to the All-Tournament team: Macey Cheatham, Alana Tabel, Marissa Timoteo and Vicki Velastegui. The

7:30 a.m. Call Daisy at (561) 439-5780 for more information.

• Saturday, Sept. 27 — In celebration of National Public Lands Day, the group will meet at 7 a.m. at the south entrance to the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area to explore and develop a hiking trail in the western part of the management area. Call Paul at (561) 963-9906 for more information.

• Sunday, Sept. 28 — Come out and explore some of Palm Beach County’s natural areas. Call Alan (561) 586-0486 for more information.

Jimmy Lytle of Ocean Ridge won his pro debut last Tuesday with a five-under-par 67, winning at the Minor League Golf Tour at the Links at Madison Green in Royal Palm Beach.

Lytle had ten birdies, five on each nine (numbers 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15 and 17), to overcome bogeys at 5, 10 and 18 and a double bogey at the third hole.

As an amateur, Lytle won two MLGT events earlier this year: Jan. 8 at the Florida Club and June 25 at Atlantis Country Club. He earned $600 in cash from the $2,987 purse, compared to merchandise cer-

tificates worth $750 in January and $600 in June. Marvin King of Lewisville, Texas was six under par for 12 holes with an eagle and four birdies, but he bogeyed numbers 14, 15 and 16 to finish second with 69. The 76th event of the MLGT’s fifth season drew 29 starters. For more information, visit the Minor League Golf Tour web site at www.minor leaguegolf.com. The Links at Madison Green is located at 2001 Crestwood Blvd. North. For more information, call (866) 492-1828 or visit www.madisongreengolf. com.

Lady Gators were lead by an outstanding coaching staff. Gary Cohn was the head coach, assisted by Scott Tabel and Jim Turnier. The Lady Gators include girls from Wellington, Loxahatchee, Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens. Pictured here are (front row, L-R) Vicki Velastegui, Lauren Frye, Lindsey Fussell, Carson Coyle, Sarah Collier and Emma Regenbaum; (back row) Alana Tabel, Shelby Turnier, Hannah Cohn, Macey Cheatham, Marissa Timoteo and Taylor Schwartz.

Jimmy Lytle Wins Minor League Golf Tour At Links At Madison Green

Cheerleaders and camp attendees gather for a group shot.

Isabelle Dunne demonstrates a cheer routine.

Campers learn how to make a banner for football players to run through.Eileen Serrano demonstrates a dance.

Educational Outfitters Makes School Uniform Shopping Easy

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Educational Outfitters, a new store specializing in supplying school and business uniforms, recently opened in the Guitar Center Plaza at the northwest corner of Haverhill and Okeechobee boulevards.

Educational Outfitters is a national franchise that offers the hometown service of a familyowned store. The new location is the company’s third in Florida, with the others in Tampa and Orlando.

Diane Smith, who co-owns the local store with Andrew Bilardello, said all the company’s stores are locally owned and operated.

“Many school uniform stores are nationally owned with a manager on site, but Educational Outfitters requires the owner to be present in the store so people know who they’re dealing with,” she said.

Smith’s mother Linda Smith manages the store, her niece Crystal Smith tends the counter, and nephew Dale Smith operates the embroidery stitcher.

“We like the family-run atmosphere, as do most people we talk to,” Smith said.

Educational Outfitters and its subsidiary Custom Logo Outfitters are a perfect combination to offer top-quality apparel that can be customized with the emblem of a school or business, Smith said. “We provide to public and private schools,” she said, “about five or six private schools in Palm Beach County and the rest public schools with a dress code.”

The store, which also provides uniforms for businesses, is open year round and is fully stocked with school uniform apparel.

“One of the things we found is that the local public schools never had a local uniform store to go to, so they have been excited about this,” Smith said.

“I’m currently working with Binks Forest Elementary, Royal Palm Beach Elementary and Grassy Waters Elementary on their dress code. Parents have been very excited coming in here and getting the customer service they’ve never been afforded before.”

As a national franchise, the store works with some of the

country’s top school uniform manufacturers. “It’s top quality, and we can give low prices because of our national franchise buying power,” Smith said.

As a special incentive for parents, Educational Outfitters is offering a discount through August to help mitigate the lack of a tax holiday this year for backto-school purchases.

“Normally what we like to do at Educational Outfitters is offer a ten-percent discount during the months of June and December to get parents to buy early for their kids so they don’t have to worry about last-minute shopping for school,” Smith said, “but due to the fact that the state is not offering a tax-free week this year, I decided to extend that ten-percent discount for the entire month of August to give parents a break. I think right now everybody needs a little help.”

The store also offers a yearround discount of 15 percent to teachers, law enforcement personnel and firefighters. “I like to tell teachers they deserve a 15-percent discount because they give out a lot of their own money throughout the year for products and supplies that they need for their students,” Smith said.

The store also provides athletic wear, spirit wear and accessories. “It’s pretty much onestop shopping,” Smith said. “It’s a convenience for parents, businesses and schools. We embroider on site, which people like because we embroider specific to their needs. We do have some that are pre-embroidered.”

Schools can have their emblems digitized at Educational Outfitters and have it embroidered on whatever they wish, she said. Others processes available include printing, heat press and flocking, a process that affixes particles of material to the apparel instead of stitching to create the emblem.

While parents and school staff are welcome to visit the store, Smith said Educational Outfitters representatives can also visit the schools directly for pre-orders. “I work with the principals to establish communications and find out what their needs are, whether it’s uniforms or spirit wear,” she said.

Smith added that Educational Outfitters will arrange with schools to share a portion of its profits with them at the end of the school year, based on sales. “That is a built-in fundraiser for the school,” she said. “They can buy equipment, they can provide more activities for the students, so it’s a win-win situation for everyone.”

Smith said the store can work with the schools on fundraisers such as sales of shirts, sweatshirts, thumb drives or bottles of hand sanitizer emblazoned with the school logo.

Concerns about prices are alleviated when potential customers come in to see that the prices are reasonable and the uniforms are made by first-class manufacturers including Polo, School Apparel and Gator of Florida, Smith said.

“Some people might be concerned that if they go to a school uniform store, it will be more expensive than a retail store,” she said. “However, we are a retail store with the buying power of a national store. The best part is we guarantee all of our uniform products.”

In addition to school uniforms, the store’s subsidiary Custom Logo Outfitters can provide custom-stitched logos on business apparel for any kind of marketing needs, including blazers or casual wear. Smith said she will work with businesses on logo and name-recognition products and will offer discounts on logo setup fees if the apparel is purchased from Educational Outfitters.

“I always provide what I can for the businesses in order to help them market their product and market their company at the lowest possible price,” Smith said. “One of the best ways is through work apparel. If you’re wearing a work shirt with the company’s name on it, people are going to see it, and then they’re going to ask questions.”

Educational Outfitters is located in the Guitar Center Plaza at 5029 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach and is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

For more information call (561) 686-0500 or visit www. educationaloutfitters.com.

School Threads — (Above) Educational Outfitters co-owner Diane Smith with her mother, store manager Linda Smith. (Below) Embroiderer Dale Smith with Linda Smith. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Educational Outfitters staff with Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.

Spotlight of Wellington represents a new twist in the performing arts educational experience. Spotlight of Wellington offers a diverse program of classes for tots, kids, teens and adults through the venues of dance, music and theater. The majority of the performing arts instructors are certified educators. The marriage of dance/music/theatre teacher and school teacher is one with positive outcomes. Spotlight of Wellington is located at 9192 Forest Hill Blvd. in the Kobosko’s Crossing shopping plaza. For more info., call call Niki-Ann Giliberti at (561) 790-7758. Pictured here are Spotlight of Wellington staff with Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.

Cartridge World Offers Refills For Students

The new school year is fast approaching, and so is the time to stock up on pencils, notebooks, backpacks and printer ink cartridges. While back-toschool expenses can get costly, Cartridge World Wellington, part of the world’s fastest-growing ink and toner refilling retailer, is offering a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative for students to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to ink cartridges.

Cartridge World is encouraging local students to refill their existing ink cartridges rather than throw them away or buy new ones. Customers can bring their empty ink and toner cartridges into the store and have each refilled, or they can swap out their cartridge for one that is ready to go. All Cartridge

Pizza Fusion opened a new restaurant in Wellington last Friday. Located at 10160 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite G130, in the Pointe at Wellington Green, the restaurant is LEED-certified. It offers the area’s first organic beer and wine bar, featuring a diverse selection of organic beer on tap and in the bottle, as well as a number of organic wines.

World products come with a 100-percent money-back guarantee on quality, and students and consumer save substantially over buying new, name-brand cartridges.

“When students are heading back to school, we want to encourage them to prepare for the year the green way by refilling their cartridges instead of buying new,” Cartridge World Wellington owner Howard Sohn said. “This is the ultimate form of environmental responsibility, not only recycling but reusing cartridges.”

Refilling ink cartridges also helps students learn the importance of reusing and recycling to protect the environment. In North America alone, more than 350 million cartridges are discarded in landfills, and that num-

vice and overall operations. Currently, the company has more than 75 restaurants built to LEED certification standards opening in 15 states around the country, from California to New Jersey.

ber increases by 12 percent annually. Switching to remanufactured cartridges not only keeps them out of the landfills, but also reduces carbon emissions by an estimated one million pounds per year and conserves half a gallon of oil for each laser cartridge that is reused and recycled. This fall, many Cartridge World stores are also demonstrating their commitment to the community with the “Recycle Rewards” program. The program encourages educational and philanthropic organizations to raise money and save the environment by collecting empty printer cartridges. Participating stores provide local groups with recycle bins and the resources to run a successful recycle drive.

Upon completion of the drive, Cartridge World will pick up the empty cartridges and write the organization a check.

“Cartridge World is not just selling environmentally friendly products — we are determined to educate the community about our services and assist them in their fundraising efforts, as well,” Cartridge World Senior Vice President Joy James said. “We pride ourselves on providing the best, environmentally friendly alternative and value the time and efforts put into enriching future generations.”

Cartridge World Wellington is located at 13860-5 Wellington Trace. For more information, call Sohn at (561) 7915050 or visit the company’s web site at www.cartridge worldusa.com.

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneurial Academy will begin Tuesday, Sept. 9 and meet consecutive Tuesdays through Oct. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Wellington campus, located in the Wellington Reserve on State Road 7. Participants will learn from Palm Beach Atlantic University MacArthur School of Leadership and School of Business professors the principles behind sound business practices and becoming a leader in their field.

A panel discussion of member business owners and entrepreneurs will build upon the concepts with practical application. Topics covered in this comprehensive program include: completing a sound business plan; sustaining a business during tough economic times; marketing yourself at the grassroots level; building employee loyalty and retention;

fiscal responsibility and business ethics; information technology; banking, business location and leasing; and recruiting and training.

This series of eight workshops is designed to help small businesses understand the dynamics that lead to success in the world of commerce and provide broad-based, fundamental business expertise to both potential and current entrepreneurs to guide them in starting and growing a prosperous business. The registration fee for the entire series is $125 per person. Non-members receive a $50 credit toward chamber membership.

For more information, call Anitra Harmon at the Palms West Chamber of Commerce at (561) 790-6200 or visit www.palmswest.com to download an application. The deadline for registration is Thursday, Sept. 4.

Anja Eckbo and James Angel are the eco-entrepreneurs behind Pizza Fusion’s new Wellington location.

“Running a business that embraces our socially conscious values will be a very rewarding experience,” Eckbo said. “We’re very excited to introduce Wellington to Pizza Fusion. Pizza Fusion’s delicious, organic menu will be a great addition to city’s booming restaurant scene.”

Pizza Fusion, whose motto is “saving the earth, one pizza at a time,” serves a gourmet, organic menu of pizza, ciabatta sandwiches, wraps, desserts, beer and wine. They also offer healthconscious alternatives for people with selective diets and food allergies, including gluten-free, vegan and lactose-free options.

Taking the lead in the environmentally sustainable restaurant sector, Pizza Fusion practices an eco-friendly approach to their entire existence, including their restaurants’ build-out, ser-

“We’re thrilled to be furthering our reach across the South Florida market and look forward to Anja and James embracing the socially conscious residents of Wellington,” Pizza Fusion cofounder and CEO Vaughan Lazar said. “As South Florida continues to support eco-friendly businesses and demand the quality and taste of handcrafted, organic food, we’re pleased to exceed their expectations time and again while setting the standard for ‘green’ business practices as the most environmentally sustainable restaurant in America.”

Pizza Fusion is the only restaurant chain in the world to build all its restaurants to LEEDcertification standards. Its restaurants feature a number of unique, eco-efficient products, techniques and designs, such as eliminating the need for water heaters by reusing waste heat from their ovens to warm their water.

Other eco-friendly elements and initiatives include using only Energy Star-certified appliances whenever possible, countertops made from glass bottles

recovered from their current locations, organic cotton employee uniforms, bamboo flooring, 30 percent recaptured industrial concrete, ceiling panels made from 74 percent recycled aluminum cans and 24 percent post industrial metals, USG gypsum board made from pre-used drywall, insulation made from recycled blue jeans, ceiling baffles made from recycled composite board, low voltage and low heat lighting, furniture made from reclaimed wood, 100 percent

Ultra Cleaners, a high-quality, full-service dry cleaner, recently announced the expansion of its free pickup and delivery service to your home or office in the Wellington and Royal Palm Beach area. Located at 10240 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 130, in the Pointe at Wellington Green, Ultra Cleaners is a familyowned business headquartered in Wellington with four locations in Palm Beach County. Besides high-quality dry cleaning, Ultra Cleaners produces top-notch men’s business shirts, and offers expert alterations and repairs with

Da Vinci Whitening Offers Quick, Long-Lasting Treatment

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

A Royal Palm Beach company is leading the way in providing access to a brighter, whiter smile. George Domaceti, president of Da Vinci Whitening Systems, said his company’s process yields great results in short order.

“People come in and get three 15-minute treatments,” he said. “Their teeth are brightened about four to five shades after the first one or two treatments, and generally seven to ten shades after three.”

Da Vinci’s Light-Activated Chairside Whitening System uses a light to activate whitening gel on the teeth, Domaceti explained.

“We use a light-emitting diode, an LED, set to operate in 480-580 nanometer wavelength. That activates our chemicals, which are a specialized hydrogen peroxide mix,” he said. “It has been approved by the Food & Drug Administration.” At each treatment, the client puts on a plastic retaining tray and sits back in a reclining chair with the light focused on the chemicals for 15 minutes.

“It is not painful at all,” Domaceti said. “A few patients feel some warmth in their mouths. But it is safe enough that a few people have asked to have their treatments done consecutively, one right after the other.”

Domaceti said the effects of the treatment last up to three years. While other companies have produced similar systems,

he said the Da Vinci treatment is the simplest and least expensive. “We’re so sure that our product is so much better than other similar ones, we tell people to request samples of other whitening gels and compare results,” Domaceti said. Domaceti has been manufacturing teeth whitening solutions for sale to dentists since 1998, but this light-activated system is used both by dentists and cosmeticians. While dentists who provide the treatment may charge $500 and up, Domaceti said cosmetologists who establish a Da Vinci Teeth Whitening Center charge rates that are closer to $150 for the threephase treatment.

Da Vinci is one of the fastestgrowing franchisers in the country. “We began less than two years ago with this system, and we now have 123 franchises,” Domaceti said last Friday. “We got our last one yesterday. And we’re spreading worldwide, with several franchisees in Canada and Europe.”

The company’s offices on State Road 7 are equipped to train franchisees to use the system properly.

“We train people here at our offices,” Domaceti said. “They come in and learn how to use the system. Although the system itself is simple and safe, it is important to individualize treatment for each person. We have seven franchisees in the Palm Beach area, both dentists and cosmeticians. We make sure they are all carefully trained here over a period of several days.”

While the focus of the office is administration and training, Domaceti and his staff occasionally handle clients themselves. “If we’re not training anyone, we can use our training room and actually help people directly,” he said.

Many people look to the Da Vinci system for a quick appearance upgrade, Domaceti said.

“We have people coming to our franchisees before they go for important interviews,” he said. “This is a very quick and easy way to look better that is low cost and very safe.”

Domaceti lives in The Acreage with his wife Maria and two children. “My daughter Brianna is nine and starting the fourth grade at Frontier Elementary,” he said. “And my son Brandon is six and starting there this year.”

In his free time, Domaceti coaches baseball for the Acreage Athletic League.

“I believe we should all take part in helping our community,” he said. “I loved baseball when I went to Mercy College up in Westchester, New York, and this is one way I can give back.”

Da Vinci Teeth Whitening Systems is located in the Regal Center at 1011 N. State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For franchise purchase information or franchisee locations, call (561) 798-0290 or visit the company’s web site at www. davinciteethwhitening.com.

Clerk’s Web Site Offers Filing Of Property Assessment Challenges

Just as notices about proposed property taxes are appearing in homeowners’ mailboxes, there’s something new that makes disputing the information easier than ever. MyVAB, which is now available on the Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller’s web site, allows property owners to file a petition online challenging the assessed value, classification, exemption or portability status of their property with the Value Adjustment Board or “VAB.”

By filing electronically at www.mypalmbeachclerk.com, property owners can save gas and avoid the hassle of driving to file in person.

MyVAB also gives people real-time access to their petition, allowing them to view scheduled hearings and to submit supporting materials. Those wanting to file in person still can, but will also receive online access to their petition.

“Our goal was to implement and use technology to help the

public save time and money,” Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock said.

“MyVAB is an innovative service that helps you do both. It will also make the VAB filing process more cost-effective and time-efficient for our office.”

The clerk’s office, which receives and processes VAB petitions, saw a 66-percent increase in petitions to challenge assessed property values over the past two years. Petitions increased from 6,720 in 2005 to

11,184 in 2007 due to rising property values and other factors. This year will likely be just as busy with as many as 15,000 petitions expected by the Sept. 15 filing deadline. By accepting petitions online through myVAB, the clerk’s office expects to save thousands in overtime and clerical costs, copy charges and postage alone. It is also expected to simplify the process for others, including the Property Appraiser’s Office and special magistrates handling

VAB cases. The Property Appraiser notifies property owners in August of their property’s assessed and market values in a truth in millage (TRIM) notice.

The VAB, which consists of three county commissioners and two school board members, approves and hires special magistrates to settle any disputes between the property owner and Palm Beach County Property Appraiser. As clerk to the VAB, the clerk’s office receives and pro-

cesses petitions, schedules and coordinates hearings, clerks and records the hearings and more. Petitions cost $15 to file online or in person.

MyVAB uses Axia software designed by Pioneer Technology Group, a Florida-based provider of custom software for county governments. For more information on myVAB or the Clerk & Comptroller’s office, visit www.my palmbeachclerk.com or call (561) 355-6289.

Whiter Teeth — Da Vinci Whitening Systems President George Domaceti inside his Royal Palm Beach office.

PHOTO

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS

WELLINGTON • ROYAL

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BEDROOM

BATH PLUS GARAGE - in Wellington. $1,400/mo. Go to http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/apa/ 694802361.html to see pictures. Call 561-312-4451. FURNISHED STUDIO APARTMENTFully furnished with kitchen in Palm Beach Polo. Gated pool/Jacuzzi, private entrance, cable, water, WI-FI included. Available Until 12/15/08 $635/Mo. until 12/15/08. Call for details. 561-281-0632 RIGHT IN THE HEART OF WELLINGTON - 2 bedroom 2 bath condo First floor, recently updated pristine condition $950. First and Security. (561) 793-9619 or Cell (561) 704-7039

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websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-9433 or Cell 561252-1186 Lic’d- Well. & Palm Beach COMPUTER REPAIR - We come to you! After hours and weekends services available. Spyware/Adware/Virus Removal, Networking, Wireless, Backup Data, Upgrades. Call Anytime. 561-713-5276 MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/Software setup, support & troubleshooting www.mobiletec.net. 561-248-2611

WELLINGTON HOME DAYCARE - has openings. All ages welcome. License 50-51-03893 561-798-9257

HOT WYRE ELECTRIC — For all your electrical needs. Panel upgrades, installations, repairs, lightening protection, troubleshooting. Licensed, Insured, Free Estimates. 561-313-0134

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