Town-Crier Newspaper August 22, 2008

AREA STUDENTS HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL

PRIORE INSTALLED AS PRESIDENT

Storm Brings Tornado Damage, But Drainage Structures Hold

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Already humming due to Tropical Storm Fay, Wellington’s Emergency Operations Center swung into action several hours before dawn Tuesday after a tornado ripped roofs off barns and damaged several homes in the village. With Fay approaching, Village Manager Paul Schofield declared a state of emergency at noon Monday and put Wellington Operations Director John Bonde in charge of emergency operations.

“We went into full mode this morning when we got a call at about 3:15 a.m. stating that tornados had touched down,” Bonde told the Town-Crier Tuesday afternoon. “With Paul’s declaration, we had started at that point, but we only partially activated. This morning I received a call from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the sheriff’s office stating that a tornado had caused structural damage. Fire-rescue and the sheriff’s office were on the scene at the time. The good news is there were no injuries to people or to animals.”

a group of area firefighters, and the Media AllStars at Seminole Palms Park in Royal Palm Beach. Page 25

Business

Contractors Plus Can Help Find The Right Person For The Job Local interior decorator Kandi Warrack has taken her business to the next level. Having restyled local homes since 1996 as the creative force behind Decorating on a Dime, Warrack is putting her contacts and experience use with a new enterprise, Contractors Plus. Page 28

Bonde said Wellington’s emergency cadre mobilized at the Wellington EOC at about 4:15 a.m. Staff started arriving just before sunup and village teams were on the road shortly after dawn to assess the damage.

Bonde said three of the seven barns at the Palm Beach Equine Clinic on Southfields Road sustained severe tornado damage early Tuesday as well as several

occupied homes about a halfmile to the north on Polo Island Drive. A car at the Players Club on South Shore Blvd. was turned on its side, he added.

“What appears to have happened was the tornado originated to the southeast, down along Lake Worth Road and 120th [Ave.],” he said. “It started near Polo Park Middle School and proceeded northwest and ended up here at Greenview Shores and South Shore. Evidently it bounced, it touched down along several locations in that path, and that’s where you see the damage.”

An airborne two-by-four penetrated several barriers before coming to a stop in the livingroom wall of a home on Polo Gardens Drive.

“It flew through the screen enclosure, through the sliding

glass door and across about 25 feet of the living room,” Wellington building official Jacek Tomasik said. “Can you imagine the speed it had to travel to get through all that?”

Bonde said the village’s utilities weathered the storm without problems except for one downed power line on Pierson Road. Although parks were shut down due to standing water on the fields, the village offered activities for children in recreation buildings because schools were closed Tuesday.

By 8 a.m. Tuesday, all roads in the village were open except for a portion of Pierson Road, Bonde said.

“We’re waiting for FPL to finish the repairs before we re-open that section of road,” Bonde said that afternoon. “That’s the only

See STORM, page 5

County To RPB: We’re Beginning Work On Roebuck

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach County has begun the initial stages of preparation work on the long-awaited extension of Roebuck Road, a county official told the Royal Palm Beach Village Council on Thursday.

Engineering/Public Works Operations Director Omelio Fernandez told the council the county is seeking permits from the South Florida Water Management District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, adding that the design work for the road is about 65 percent complete.

An extended Roebuck Road would connect the under-construction northward extension of State Road 7 to Jog Road, and would follow the northern border of three communities along Okeechobee Blvd. — Baywinds, Andros Isle and Riverwalk.

The Roebuck extension is intended to take some pressure off the overloaded Okeechobee Blvd. Fernandez said the county’s widening work on Okeechobee Blvd., which will make the roadway eight lanes wide from Florida’s Turnpike to Royal Palm Beach High School, will not be sufficient to manage the area’s traffic volume.

“The official service limit for traffic on a six-lane road is 49,200 cars a day,” he said. “For eight lanes, it is 63,800. Right now, there are 68,000 trips each day. So the road would be overloaded even at eight lanes. The new road is needed.”

Fernandez told the council the county is budgeting $9.5 million for planning and mitigation in 2009 and 2010, and plans to spend $33.75 million to build a four-lane road beginning in 2011.

“We are doing this as a fourlane road because environmentalists said they would prefer that building on the land would be better if it were only done once,” he said.

Mayor David Lodwick said he expects the City of West Palm Beach to offer more objections to the extension plan on environmental grounds, but noted that the city had assented to the Roebuck extension in order to get approval to build the three communities along Okeechobee Blvd. “Once the people moved in on the land that was no longer quite so sensitive, they suddenly became environmentalists about the agreed-on road to the north,” he said.

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria, who was honored by the council Thursday for his support of the village’s July 4 celebration, told the council that

despite having been approved, the battle for the road is not finished.

“There’s a saying in baseball that it’s not over until it’s over,” he said. “It should be over, but it’s not. West Palm Beach Mayor [Lois] Frankel is not giving up. They’ll keep on trying to derail the road; they’ll do everything possible to renege on their contract.”

Also Thursday, the council approved a series of applications submitted by Corporate Center West LLC for its three-building office development on SR 7, now renamed the University Centre after its major occupant, South University. The applications included major site plan modifications and several variances, the most significant relaxing setback requirements for a 40-foot clock tower on the property at the northeast corner of SR 7 and Belvedere Road.

Developer’s agent Jan Polson of Cotleur & Hearing told the council the university requested the tower as a landmark.

“The college has asked to put in a 40-foot clock tower, with a sign designating South University at its base,” she said. “The site plan will need a variance because the tower is set back only 15 feet from the edge of the property and because it exceeds the 32-foot height limit of the village.”

Although the developers originally planned a commercial office complex of 100,000 square feet on the ten-acre site, the former home of the Posse Grounds, the village approved a special exception in February allowing establishment of an educational institution there. The exception allows a student population of up to 870 students. According to current plans, South University will occupy at least 40,000 square feet of the 100,000-square-foot development.

Courses at South University’s West Palm Beach campus lead to degrees in business administration, criminal justice, graphic design, healthcare fields, legal studies and other disciplines. On Wednesday, West Palm Beach campus president John Peterson told the Town-Crier the campus will relocate to Royal Palm Beach at the end of 2009 with classes beginning there in January 2010.

“Because we allow students to enter at eight different times of the year, we can be flexible about an exact date for the move,” he said.

In other business:

• The council approved a site plan modification to reduce the

See ROYAL PALM, page 16

Planners Turn An Eye Toward Wellington’s Future

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

While Wellington planners envision Forest Hill Blvd. at Wellington Trace as a prime area for redevelopment as a multifaceted destination location, much of their new redevelopment and economic incentive plan focuses on policy changes and capitalizing on existing village assets.

The village has been working to create a long-range plan that will address the fate of some of Wellington’s aging neighborhoods as well as encourage development that will bring more quality jobs to the area. Members of Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board heard a presentation last week on concepts for the plan, which is still under development.

The plan centers on a series of initiatives toward sustainable development that will provide short-term results that fit well with Wellington’s long-range plans.

Associate Planner Bill Nemser, who outlined the plan to PZA Board members at their Aug. 14 meeting, acknowledged that the current economic climate is not conducive to a large

municipal investment in redevelopment, but that the village still wants to do something to preserve its quality of life.

“The big concern that we have is the economic reality that we’re facing today,” he said.

“Because of that, there’s a lot of policy-based initiatives that are not what you’d normally expect in an economic development plan.”

The plan is geared to capitalize on and reinforce existing programs and phenomena already present in the village, Nemser said. Some initiatives would attract private investment by providing a plan investors can build around in order to create employment that will sustain families, rather than minimumwage jobs.

“Sustainable initiatives is a concept that is popular now and makes sense: development that meets the needs of the present without sacrificing the needs of the future,” Nemser said.

Nemser said one goal is to amend the village’s comprehensive plan to include a “sustainable development” component. “It will influence all the decisions that the village makes,” he said.

Some rudimentary elements of sustainability exist in parts of the village’s current land use code, Nemser said, but the introduction of a specific sustainable development element would help the village avoid mistakes that have been made locally and elsewhere in the past.

“The idea is that we maintain a long-term view, and that’s our first initiative,” he said.

Nemser included environmental sustainability as an element that does not provide an overt economic return, but is nevertheless an important ingredient in Wellington’s appeal.

“Our natural resources are of tremendous importance,” he said. “It goes without saying that the environment is very important.”

To illustrate the concept of capitalizing on existing assets, Nemser said the village should create a medical arts district in the area surrounding Wellington Regional Medical Center, where other medical buildings are already springing up.

“We don’t have to bring a hospital here — we already have it,” Nemser said. “We’re already ahead of the game by having that asset.” Village policy to support med-

ical investment in that area would be a wise choice, Nemser said. “We think creating a medical district will draw more medical support facilities here,” he said. “It’s not going to cost the village anything. It’s just a question of planning and establishing an identity.” Another initiative would be to allow flexible light-industrial zoning in a particular area that can accommodate a wide variety of uses, such as biotechnology, that are compatible with surrounding development.

A similar area already exists with the industrial park off Fairlane Farms Road, Nemser said.

“The idea is not any specific area,” he said. “We could put it anywhere.”

Flexible zoning would create more family-sustaining jobs and incentives for investment, Nemser said. “It’s not something we haven’t done already, but we don’t have a flex zoning district,” he said. “In this sense, we’re sort of behind the curve with a lot of other local governments.”

Nemser identified the Wellington Community Center on Forest Hill Blvd. as an asset the village can invest in. “We al-

ready own the land, and that’s a tremendous advantage,” he said. “We’re trying to keep our cash outlay to a minimum. We still have to build a building, but there’s a number of ways we can build on site.” An expanded municipal complex on the property would provide space for departments currently renting offices elsewhere, Nemser said, explaining that staff members spend a lot of time commuting from Planning & Zoning Department offices at the original Wellington Mall to municipal offices. “It also allows for savings in practical personnel movement,” he said. “It would offer a savings for the village that would probably pay for itself in a very short time. The idea would be to create a centerpiece that would be functional and also look nice.”

The village’s Equestrian Preserve Area presents the potential for another initiative, Nemser said. “We sort of lucked out with this, because the equestrian industry is an important asset to Wellington,” he said. Planners are

above is Priore (center) with Greenacres Mayor Sam Ferreri and former South Bay mayor Clarence Anthony. MORE PHOTOS,

Groves Council: Keep Landfill Away From Everglades

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council were less than enthusiastic Wednesday about the Solid Waste Authority’s search for a new landfill site in western Palm Beach County.

Planner Colleen Walter of Kilday & Associates offered an update to the council on the county garbage authority’s search, which has narrowed to three sites.

The SWA, searching for a landfill location in the Everglades Agricultural Area, has settled on three potential sites between seven and eight miles from Loxahatchee Groves.

Walter said the SWA is in its second phase of evaluation of those sites, all of which would be accessed from Southern Blvd.

“We came here tonight to give you an update on the analysis and to get the comments from you as a part of the Tier 2 analysis,” she said.

Councilman Dr. Bill Louda said he had recently attended a conservation conference, and heard presentations from scientists on the environmental impacts of landfills, mining and power plants. He said the opinion of most experts there was that fighting such projects is futile because there is so much money involved.

Nevertheless, he questioned the wisdom of creating a land-

fill anywhere west of State Road 7.

“I am a member of Audubon and the Sierra Club,” he said. “It will impact wading bird population. Putting it anywhere near a wildlife refuge is unbelievably wrong.”

Louda also questioned how the proposed buyout of U.S. Sugar land by the State of Florida might interfere with the SWA site selection. He said there are still too many unknowns regarding that plan for the SWA to build a facility anywhere near Belle Glade, Pahokee or South Bay.

Councilman Dave Autrey concurred with Louda. “I would echo Bill,” he said. “It makes more sense to put it further north.”

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog asked if the SWA could consider options that do not involve a landfill. Walter said the SWA has been doing that, but despite the alternatives, which include a new waste-to-energy facility and more recycling education, a new landfill would still be needed to take care of the growing amount of trash in Palm Beach County. “This is the last landfill site to be sited in Palm Beach County,” she said. Walter thanked the council members for their comments and said she would take them to the Solid Waste Authority Governing Board.

‘I am a member of Audubon and the Sierra Club. It will impact wading bird population. Putting it anywhere near a wildlife refuge is unbelievably wrong.’

—

Councilman

Dr. Bill Louda

Reading Among New Principal’s Top Priorities

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

William Latson, Polo Park

Middle School’s new principal, has had a diverse 15-year career in the Palm Beach County School District, working at the elementary, middle and high school levels as well as in the district offices.

It was there that he crossed paths with his predecessor at Polo Park, the now-retired Marcia Andrews. After teaching at Coral Sunset Elementary School in Boca Raton from 1993 to 1999, Latson worked as a personnel specialist at the School District of Palm Beach County, recruiting teachers and administrators for the county’s 185 schools.

“I actually worked with Marcia Andrews at that office,” Latson said. “She was director of personnel when I went there. I knew her well. I worked with her for over two years. She seemed happy that it was me coming in, because she knew how I did things and how she worked.”

Polo Park recently earned an A grade, and Latson said that while the grade is a source of pride, he doesn’t see it as the critical measure of how well the school is doing.

“I really don’t focus on the grade of A,” he said. “That doesn’t do a whole lot for me. The community likes to see their school as an A. That’s great. It does show the students are performing. But for me personally, I focus on the Adequate Yearly Progress, which is a lot more important to me. If your subgroups are making the gains they are supposed to make, you are going to make the A. You can get an A as we have done, and not meet AYP. I never talk about the school grade. I always talk about AYP.”

Latson said that as principal, he wants to place more emphasis on improving the situation of students who are struggling at Polo Park. “We can provide them with the education they need to become proficient and everyone in the school will benefit,” he said. “Our goal is to not leave any children behind. If we have two or three percent who are not doing well, we have to work on getting them up.”

With some students not reading at grade level, Latson said he wants to improve reading skills at Polo Park this year.

“That’s a national problem, and we have to focus on that,” he said. “That’s one of the goals

William Latson

we are working on here. We have increased the number of reading teachers. We are increasing the number of students who are going to be taking reading this year.”

Latson said he knows from experience that secondary schools place less emphasis on reading, so students should get as much assistance as possible developing that vital skill before high school.

“Just because the students have gotten out of elementary school doesn’t mean that their reading skills are strong enough to help them through the rigors of secondary education,” he said. “Especially with my elementary background and working on all three levels of schools, there is a definite need to continue the reading focus and make sure that they have the balance of skills they need to continue. If they are proficient readers and they are strong readers, that will help them in their science, in their writing and in their mathematics.”

Latson lives in Broward County and grew up there. He said many of his family members, including his parents, have had careers in education.

“Both my parents were administrators,” he said. “I come from a family of educators, including my aunts and my uncles.”

Latson said he chose to work in Palm Beach County precisely because so many of his relations work in the Broward school system.

“I wanted to establish myself,” he said. “I wanted to make sure that whatever I did was on my own merit. I wanted to know if I got a job, it was because they thought I was the best person for it, and if I was promoted, it’s because of what I have done.”

Some Equestrians Skeptical Of Manure-To-Energy Proposal

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Local veterinarian Dr. Scott Swerdlin, the president and CEO of Wellington Energy LLC, gave fellow members of Wellington’s Equestrian Committee a presentation last week on his company’s vision for a plant that would generate electricity by burning the village’s plentiful supply of horse manure.

Manure has proved a headache for Wellington, as the waste has been identified by the federal government as a prime source of the phosphorus that damages water quality in the Everglades. While the village solved the water quality problem by channeling water through filtration marshes and imposing restrictions on manure handling and disposal, finding a use or destination for the estimated millions of pounds of manure generated annually remains a problem.

In 2006, the village invited proposals for innovative manure disposal methods, and ultimately selected Wellington Energy from among seven applicants.

Wellington Energy proposes carting the manure to a specialpurpose incinerator in the village, where steam generated by the heat would power a turbine generator to produce 24 megawatts of electricity daily, to be sold to Florida Power & Light.

Swerdlin, whose Palm Beach Equine Clinic contains 318 horse stalls, told Equestrian Committee members on Aug. 13

that he was motivated to find a manure solution by a sense of responsibility.

“We are all stewards of our environment,” Swerdlin said. “As a horseman and someone who owns a sports complex, I have a facility that produces the second most amount of manure [in Wellington]. I am looking as a horseman for the best option for disposing of it.”

Swerdlin said the plant would operate on a total combustion basis, large enough to consume 100 percent of the manure and shavings delivered to it, and would have no adverse environmental impact. Besides producing electricity, he said the combustion would also produce ash that could be sold for use as an aggregate in the manufacture of concrete blocks.

While there are other manure disposal options, such as using anaerobic digesters and composting the material, Swerdlin said both present problems. He first outlined the issues involved with composting.

“The sheer volume creates massive storage and retention issues. The volume can create runoffs and leaching problems,” he said. “The monthly requirement would be a football stadium. For our needs, we don’t have anything that would be of a sufficient size and space to do it.”

Anaerobic digestion, he said, is a great idea in concept but also presents storage difficulties and would create byproducts requiring a further disposal process.

The process creates methane gas, Swerdlin added.

“Methane itself is dangerous,” he said. “It’s also highly explosive if allowed to come in contact with the atmosphere. It also emits hydrogen sulfide. It has to be away from our population, and like the other process, we also get right back to five dollars a gallon for diesel.”

Swerdlin said the greatest drawback to a waste-to-energy facility would be its construction cost of $13 million to $15 million, but the outlay would be justified by the facility’s lifespan of 50 years. He said his company is working with the Village of Wellington and the South Florida Water Management District to identify a site without incurring any cost to residents.

“We are welcoming investors,” Swerdlin said. “As for the last question, whether there are any environmental impacts to this, there are none. We designed in a way so there would be none. The project is expensive, but there are no negative aspects to it. As for where we are going to place this, we have not decided on a site as of yet… It will not cost the equestrians anything. We would lease the site from the South Florida Water Management District or from the village or in conjunction with the two in order not to pass the costs onto the residents.”

When Swerdlin invited questions from the audience, Travis Dearing of Rustic Ranches said he doubted that the plant would present no environmental im-

pact, as it would produce emissions. He said the State of Florida has placed a moratorium on building incinerators, which is what the project appeared to be.

“It sounds like an incinerator,” Dearing said. “If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s a duck. If we can burn it, it sounds like an incinerator. If it permits emissions, it’s an incinerator. It’s not permitted in the State of Florida.”

Equestrian Joan Moreno said she was troubled by the apparent profit-making aspect of the enterprise and questioned the prospect of manure suppliers paying a fee to contribute raw material.

“It hardly seems fair that one segment of the population is charged to supply the product,” Moreno said. “It doesn’t quite seem fair. Do the horse owners have an alternative other than supplying your energy? Can’t we continue doing what we are doing now?”

Swerdlin said it would not be practical or pragmatic to continue the status quo. Wellington residents cannot just continue dumping the waste in other communities, and that the best answer would be to do something within the community while producing energy from it.

“What is the solution? I don’t know,” Swerdlin said. “This is the best one we could come up with.”

Loxahatchee Groves resident Jennifer Swanson, who owns land in Wellington, said she had heard that the proposal might put

haulers out of business. Swerdlin said that is not likely, and that the haulers would just be taking the manure to a nearer place, thus saving gas money.

Swanson then asked if the proposal had been effective anywhere else. Swerdlin said a similar proposal using chicken manure had been implemented in Pennsylvania, but nobody had tried using horse manure. Wellington would be the ideal place to do so. “There is nowhere that has the density of horses like Wellington,” Swerdlin said. “That’s why we would be unique. It would be the first waste-to-energy plant.”

Equestrian Steven Frank said the facility would present traffic problems, as haulers would be lining up to dispose of the waste, and he was also concerned about the potential impact on the value of nearby property.

“We’re going to have traffic problems,” Frank said. “These people would be coming through the equestrian community. More of these huge trucks would come in one after another. We like to keep the equestrian community nice and keep property values up. This will be near the large horse areas. I don’t see a reason to have this here. Looking at the environment, it was said there would be no odor. That’s if it works right. That means it will never stink. What do we do if it stinks?”

“The good news is that horse manure has a benefit to agriculture,” Roth said. “If you run it through an anaerobic digester, you can put the liquids and solids into the fields, and you close the loop. You can put the nutrients back into the field.” After further questions, Swerdlin thanked the equestrians and others in attendance for their feedback. He noted that the details still need to be worked out.

“We are way ahead of ourselves,” he said. “I am glad to talk to anyone more about this project. We are hoping to find a solution here. We feel this might be the best solution.”

Rick Roth, who operates an agricultural business in Belle Glade, said anaerobic digestion should be given more consideration. Roth said the waste-toenergy process would be three times more costly than anaerobic digestion.

Manure To Energy — Local veterinarian Dr. Scott Swerdlin gives his presentation at last week’s meeting.

OUR OPINION

Tropical Storm Fay Shows The Need To Remain Ever Vigilant

South Florida finally got its first taste of the 2008 hurricane season Tuesday morning when Tropical Storm Fay blew through the area. It had been a long time coming for the region — a very long time. The past two years were like a free pass after the tumultuous seasons of 2004 and 2005. So when meteorologists began reporting on Fay late last week, there’s no doubt a good number of Floridians were skeptical that it posed any real threat. Thankfully, that attitude was not shared by Wellington’s emergency operations staff, who had plenty of work cut out for them before, during and after the storm. The severity of Fay’s impact on Wellington, which was nowhere near the eye of the storm, came as a bit of a surprise. Fortunately, the village’s response was immediate and thorough, and they deserve praise for their tireless efforts during such difficult circumstances. As the tropical storm drew closer, meteorologists predicted it would hit the Keys and travel up the west coast, giving Palm Beach County a good soaking but sparing us its strongest winds. But that wasn’t the case. Rain wasn’t our only problem; Fay brought its share of tornadoes as well. Not only that, but Fay included Wellington in its path of destruction, despite the village’s considerable distance from the storm’s eye. While most people were enjoying the weekend off, Wellington’s emergency workers were busy ensuring that the proper safeguards are in place.

The most obvious concern, flooding, was dealt with first. Wellington began lowering canal levels last Saturday, making room for the more than eight inches of rain the village received, according to a report issued at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. And on Monday, tornado warnings were issued repeatedly throughout the night; the following day, the village confirmed two tornadoes of the four reported. Meanwhile, crews worked various neighborhoods to clear debris from the roads, and the village provided updated information on cable Channel 18, its web site (www.ci.wellington.fl.us) and its emergency broadcasting system (AM 1680).

Although Tropical Storm Fay caused a good deal of physical and financial damage to Wellington, the consequences would have been far worse if it were Hurricane Fay. But in any case, one thing is certain: if a stronger storm were to blow over the area, Welling-

Willhite:

Is PBCC Really A Good Fit For Wellington?

Editor’s note: In the article “Full Speed Ahead: Council Members Ponder PBCC Plan,” some, including Councilman Matt Willhite, have suggested that his comments regarding the Palm Beach Community College proposal were not clearly reported, especially as it concerns the Mall at Wellington Green. For the sake of accuracy, the Town-Crier invited Mr. Willhite to clarify his position. In my opinion, Palm Beach Community College may be a good fit for the Village of Wellington, yet it should not be at the expense of the residents of Wellington. The idea of giving away 63 acres of land to any single entity is preposterous to me. Some have said that this is not a land giveaway; however, when you sign a 45-year lease that can only be evaluated every five years and there is no dollar amount associated with each year of the lease, I call it a giveaway. Not to mention, we have had three offers to purchase the land this year, an offer in 2004, and one

in 2007. Additionally, Palm Beach Atlantic University already has a campus in Wellington, which they pay for; Wellington Regional Medical Center wants to build a medical school in Wellington; and South University is in the process of building a campus on State Road 7 at Belvedere Road right now. Why are we not offering land to these other schools and making this a true school of higher education facility?

The sale of the land would have brought additional revenue into the village, which would have helped all of the residents with their tax bill. The community college idea would not bring any tax revenue to the village; they are tax exempt and would additionally not pay any impact fees, yet there would be quite a bit of call for services from the village to accommodate the college. Whether it is from fire, police, code enforcement, the utility department and public works to maintain the roadways, we would have to bear the burden of those costs.

I am not advocating the sale of the property; this land was purchased for public use by the residents, such as a park. Yes, in today’s tough economic times it is unfeasible for us as a village to build a park; however, this

Sometimes what we see with our own eyes and hear with our own ears can be very deceptive. I found myself in that situation on Saturday, Aug. 9 while at the Publix supermarket on Royal Palm Beach Blvd., in the heart of the village.

I was heading into the store when I passed a pair of camouflage-clad apparent veterans soliciting money for their brothers and sisters in need of support. I walked on into the store, figuring on dropping a buck or two into the hat on my way out. However, when I came back out, I arrived at the veterans’ table the same time a Palm Beach County deputy sheriff happened by. I stopped in my tracks when he demanded an ID such as a driver’s license from the person at the table. He couldn’t produce a license, telling the officer he had left his wallet at home. However, he did have a card hanging from his neck identifying him as a member of the Veterans Support Organization, Southern Florida Chapter. Case closed, right? Unfortunately, no. The deputy wanted to see a permit, a requirement from which non-profit organizations are exempt. During the back-andforth between the officer and presumed veteran, two other deputies showed up, one guarding the cash and the other two talking with the vets on the other side of the store.

My own reaction was immediate. There was plenty of literature on the table, including a slick color card clearly identifying the group and its purpose, and providing an address and telephone number. There was a book on the table with pages of glowing references and photos. They looked completely legitimate. So why were the cops hassling these vets, who were trying to help their fellow former servicemen and women? I decided to find out.

I checked out a web site printed on the colorful card I had picked up and discovered that the organization is indeed legit and has groups in several states. I then called the Lauderhill phone number listed on the card and talked to Richard VanHouten Jr., chief operations officer of the Southern Florida Chapter. The organization, he told me, collects between $20,000 and $50,000 per month

ton residents need not worry about the village’s ability to deal with the situation. For more information, download the village’s hurricane brochure, which is available online as a PDF file. A link to the brochure can be found on the Publications and Reports page on the village’s web site.

Town-Crier Primary Endorsements

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26 for the primary election. In previous weeks, the Town-Crier has issued the following endorsements:

U.S. Congress, District 16, Republican Primary: GAYLE HARRELL

U.S. Congress, District 22, Democratic Primary: RON KLEIN

State Senate, District 27, Republican Primary: MATT CALDWELL

State House, District 83, Democratic Primary: RICK FORD

Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections: BOB MARGOLIS

Palm Beach County Sheriff: RIC BRADSHAW

Palm Beach County Property Appraiser: GARY NIKOLITS

Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court: SHARON BOCK

State Attorney, Democratic Primary: MICHAEL McAULIFFE

Palm Beach County School Board, Seat 1: DR. MONROE BENAIM

Indian Trail Board of Supervisors, Seat 4: MICHELLE DAMONE

Port of Palm Beach, Group 2: GEORGE MASTICS

Whether you agree with our opinions or not, vote Aug. 26 and keep our nation strong!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

doesn’t mean we may not be able to fund such a venture in the future. The economy will turn around, and if we give this land away now, we will not have it in the future. As I was growing up, I had an ideal: if you had land, you had worth. This is why it seems so inconceivable to just give it away.

Many residents have voiced their concerns to me about this idea, and I have tried to be an advocate for their interest. Whether it is trying to voice their concerns, their opinions, and even the fact that they should have the ultimate say with a referendum vote. Yes, we are elected to make these types of decisions; however, with the magnitude of this, such as the City of West Palm Beach found, it would be beneficial to have the residents ultimately decide. Something that I am not so sure of is why the business community is behind this idea with so much support. I’m not sure which businesses are going to prosper so much, especially since the college claims a large number of the students who will attend this campus already live in Wellington. In my discussion with representatives from the Mall at Wellington Green, I heard some concerns with reference to traffic and the fact that

By Don Brown

and distributes it to needy vets. A screening group that operates out of the Veterans Administration Hospital typically refers clients to the Veterans Support Organization.

Mr. VanHouten said his group has been rousted by sheriff’s deputies before. “Sometimes they’re a little too over-protective of the community,” he told me. He said the deputy in the Publix incident gave the volunteer a 20-minute lecture before they were sent on their way.

But not so fast. As I said at the beginning, what we see and hear is sometimes deceptive. Capt. Tony Araujo, commander of the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation, cast the incident much differently. “The officer was flagged down by a passerby complaining about the vets group being too aggressive,” Capt. Araujo told me.

My own recollection is that the person collecting the money was a bit overbearing. And that he wasn’t very happy about having his work interrupted by the deputy’s request to produce identification.

The PBSO officer in question: Sgt. Larry Smith, formerly with the RPB Police Department before it was taken over by the PBSO. “He’s a former Marine himself,” said Capt. Araujo, also a veteran. “He’s the last person who would hassle a veteran.”

Capt. Araujo explained that Sgt. Smith was merely protecting real veterans from potential masqueraders. “We had a similar complaint recently at Wal-Mart, and the person at the ‘vet’s’ table took off,” he told me.

Capt. Araujo also pointed out that the Publix

TOWN-CRIER

the land could be donated to the college when they had to pay for their land. I may have not expressed their concerns very well [at a recent council meeting], and for that I apologize. The mall has been a great partner in our community and has always worked well with all aspects of the village.

With today’s economy and the turmoil the State of Florida is in, I am deeply concerned that PBCC will not be able to build this campus to its expectations and meet the terms of their timeline. The college has stated that they only have $15 million to build this campus and are relying on state funding to help fulfill their obligations to the campus. I’m guessing this is why they are refusing to pay anything for the land. As a resident and taxpayer, it bothers me that we have already paid $9 million for this land and only recouped about $5 million to date. Therefore, we will not only not be receiving any revenues, but the residents of Wellington will be bearing the remaining $3 million, plus the consultants’ and staff time invested; this is a total of about $4 million from the Village of Wellington.

In evaluating this project, if it is not the land we may need in the future, or the tax revenue we

could collect, I would hope that if the village deemed the land surplus, that any type of project placed on the piece of land would generate another beneficial option for the village, and that would be jobs. But the college plan only provides 216 fulltime jobs in 27 years. To me, this is not the most fiscally responsible choice for Wellington to make. If the land is deemed surplus and the village cannot maintain or build on it for future use, the land should be put out to a competitive bid process like everything else in government.

To date, I have not had any ill feelings toward the PBCC representatives or proponents for the project. My concerns, questions and comments have not been personal, but strictly in the best interest of the residents and taxpayers of the village. The residents have expressed concerns including why we are the only ones funding the project, traffic is already too congested, and

what adverse affects will we feel from the project in the long term. Overall, I do not feel it is the responsibility of government to fund private industry, and in giving this land to the community college, we are doing so. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions or concerns at mwillhite@ci. wellington.fl.us. Matt Willhite, Councilman Village of Wellington

For The Record

Two articles published last week regarding employee crime watch programs in The Acreage and Loxahatchee Groves reported that PBSO Deputy Robert Buchanan created a similar program in Palm Beach Gardens; he did not. Rather, he adapted a similar program for use in rural areas. The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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

manager had asked the veterans to leave.

Capt. Araujo said PBSO deputies support veterans’ causes. “We have a veterans homeless outreach program all over the county,” he said. “When we find them we try to get them help.”

Readers might remember Sgt. Smith’s name. He was one of a group of Royal Palm Beach police officers who reached into their own wallets to help a family of Hurricane Katrina refugees who had been robbed shortly after arriving in the area. So who was right in the Publix incident? I think there might have been a communication gap. I tend to side with the cops — I believe that law enforcement officers are just as eager to help a veteran as most Americans, especially in small communities such as Royal Palm Beach. Sometimes veterans’ organizations have to go out of their way to show the legitimacy of their organization. Unfortunately, there are many phony groups claiming they are helping veterans but who are actually pocketing the cash for themselves.

As a veteran myself, I rarely fail to give up a

few bucks to help my fellow vets. No doubt a huge number of Americans feel the same way. I remember coming home in 1966 from Southeast Asia and being treated like a war criminal. However, I angrily pass up those vets (or maybe they really aren’t) who hold up signs asking for help because they’re veterans. Real veterans can go to scores of agencies for help rather than humiliating themselves on street corners. It actually humiliates me as well as most of the vets I know.

I’m proud to boast that there were six Brown boys in the service at the same time. President Lyndon Johnson wrote our parents a nice letter to tell them they had more sons serving in the military at the same time than any other parent in the nation. None of us returned home feeling sorry for ourselves or asking others for handouts. We went to work.

I’d like to see the Veterans Support Organization arrange a meeting with PBSO officials and clear the air. Heck, they might be able to sign up some more volunteers. Call it a veterans’ bonus.

Iraqi Government Should Pick Up The Tab

Regardless of how one feels about the Iraq war, I suspect there is pretty much unanimity that with a $97 billion budget surplus, the Iraqi government should be heavily involved in paying for the rebuilding of its nation. Of course, there is another theory: “Why should we be stupid and shell out our money when the United States is blithely paying the bills.”

In just the past three years, Iraq has earned at least $150 billion in oil revenues on the way to its impressive surplus. How much has it spent on reconstruction and repairing its infrastructure? A paltry $3.9 billion. Of

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

course, since 2003 our Congressional “watchdogs” have appropriated $48 billion for these vital projects. Add to this morass of bewildering brainpower the recent plans of the Pentagon to shell out $33 million from an “emergency fund” to finance an economic zone at Baghdad International Airport. What in the world

makes our military masterminds believe they should be spending “emergency” money for a retail project half a world away? Among others, senators Carl Levin (D-MI) and John Warner (R-VA) are publicly questioning this wacky move. Iraq has the third-largest oil reserves in the world, and the big bucks should continue to roll in. Perhaps if the Iraqi government did not take off most of the month of August for vacation during wartime, it might find the time and motivation to spend some of its surplus helping its own people to an easier life.

Storm Basin B

Passes Test

continued from page 1 section of road that was closed and has been closed since the storm early this morning.”

Heavy rain had raised the water level in Wellington canals about a foot and a half above normal as of 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Bonde said, but the level was beginning to recede.

“We have all our pumps running,” he said. “We did lose a pump this morning to an electrical problem. We got it back on line within an hour and a half, and we’ve been pumping ever since.”

Bonde said that while some canals overflowed their banks and some streets had standing water on them, he expected to have canals back to normal levels on Wednesday.

Bonde said one of the stranger incidents of Fay’s visit was an automobile burglary at the height of the storm, but the suspect was arrested.

Most village employees reported for work as usual on Tuesday and resumed normal operations, Bonde said. “We were answering normal operation calls as well as having the EOC doing its thing,” he said.

Damage assessment teams estimated $642,000 in commercial damage, mainly associated with the horse barns, and $391,000 in residential damage, mostly to roofs and porch screens, Bonde said. The storm management cost to the village was about $215,000.

Bonde said the storm was a good test of the rerouted flow

of surface water from southern to northern Wellington. “That’s what we were concerned about, because with the replumbing from Basin B to Basin A as part of the Everglades [restoration] plan, we weren’t sure what to expect,” he said.

“We believe we received at least ten inches of rain during this incident, at least in portions of the basin, and therefore this is the largest amount of rain that we’ve had since it has been replumbed. We are tweaking the system as a result of what we have learned. We’ve had all the pumps going. It seems to be performing very well.”

Bonde also noted that water levels in the village did not reach emergency levels due to Fay. “We do have one pump station that we’re not allowed to use unless there’s an emergency,” he said. “That is Pump No. 2. We’ve requested No. 2 to come on, but [the South Florida Water Management District] has asked that we not activate that until we have flooding in Basin B, which we do not have at this time.”

Bonde said the overall assessment of the new drainage system is good. “We dusted off the tools, and they seem to work,” he said. Water in the canals was going down about one-tenth of a foot per hour after the rain stopped Tuesday afternoon.

“That may slow as groundwater starts to come in,” Bonde said. “The top of it is very easy to get down, but as the groundwater starts to come to the canals it’s slower, but we’ll be working probably the next 24 hours to get the canals down to what we call control elevations.”

It’s

You

A view of barns at the Palm Beach Equine Clinic, which was ravaged by a tornado.A flooded horse farm off Pierson Road.

Assistant Incident Commander Jim Barnes (left) and Incident Commander John Bonde (right) examine damage photos.

A destroyed fence behind a house on Dunster Court.

A tree fell on this home in the La Quinta complex.

Surface Water Management Specialist Kurt Hamilton clears debris from a pump station grate.

This screen enclosure on Dunster Court was demolished.

That Championship Season Starts

By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report

AUG. 13 — A West Palm Beach woman was arrested last Wednesday for stealing prescription drugs from the Walgreens pharmacy on Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, Walgreens began investigating an employee in early July in reference to missing medications. The report indicated that during her tenure at the pharmacy, 22year-old Deanna Marie Johnson-Cockayne had stolen Tylenol with codeine, alprazolam (Xanax) and Cialis pills. She was arrested and transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.

AUG. 16 — An Acreage man was arrested last Saturday night on drug charges after being pulled over on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was traveling southbound on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. when he observed a vehicle driven by 19-year-old Christopher Griffiths turn westbound onto Southern Blvd. without stopping for a red light. The deputy followed Griffiths and clocked him traveling at 62 miles per hour in a 45-mph zone before initiating a traffic stop at the intersection of Crestwood Blvd. Upon making contact with Griffiths, the deputy observed in plain view on the passenger-side floor a syringe with a white plastic cap, a small piece of tin foil with a dark line running through it and a roll of tin foil in the passenger-side door compartment, according to the report. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a metal spoon with burn marks and two white pills, which later tested positive as carisoprodol (Soma). Griffiths was arrested and taken to the county jail.

AUG. 17 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched to the Calypso Bay water park last Sunday in response to a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim arrived at the park at approximately 1 p.m., leaving her purse in the trunk of her vehicle before entering the park. When she returned approximately 40 minutes later, the victim discovered someone had smashed the front driver-side window and opened the trunk using the trunk-release handle inside the car. According to the report, the suspect stole the victim’s purse, which contained a $365 deposit, $300 cash, a Best Buy credit card, a Social Security card and a $100 check made out to cash. The vehicle was processed for latent prints; three were obtained from the trunk. The victim noted that when she placed her purse in the trunk, she observed a red Mazda with dark tinted windows parked with the engine running.

AUG. 18 — A West Palm Beach man was arrested for shoplifting Monday afternoon at the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Belvedere Road. According to a PBSO report, 21-year-old Alexis Prichard was observed selecting several items from the grocery department before pro-

ceeding to the electronics department, where he placed two movies into a shopping cart and exited the store without paying for the merchandise. The total amount of stolen goods recovered was $222.61. A background check revealed that Prichard had an active warrant for simple battery. He was arrested and transported to the county jail.

AUG. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched Tuesday to a jewelry store in the Mall at Wellington Green regarding a grand theft. According to a PBSO report, store employees took inventory before closing last Sunday. On Monday, an employee noticed that three expensive rings were missing from a display: a 14-karat white gold three-diamond stone ring valued at $2,399; a 14-karat white gold diamond engagement ring valued at $3,499; and a 14-karat yellow gold diamond engagement ring valued at $1,499. There was no video surveillance or suspect information available at the time of the report.

AUG. 20 — A resident of Easthampton Circle called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Wednesday regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left for work at approximately 7:30 a.m. and returned at approximately 4:15 p.m. to find that his home had been ransacked. Stolen from the residence were two computers as well as miscellaneous change. The victim said the sliding door on the west side of the house was locked. No signs of forced entry were found. There were no known suspects at the time of the report.

AUG. 20 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to Village Park on Pierson Road Wednesday morning regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. on Tuesday and 8:30 a.m. the following morning, someone pried open the concession rollup door and gained entry. Items were moved around, although it is not known if anything was stolen. DNA samples were taken. There was no further information at the time of the report.

AUG. 20 — A resident of Regal Court called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Wednesday night in reference to a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9 and 10 p.m. someone entered the house and went through all the dresser drawers and cabinets. Stolen from the residence were $800 cash and 15 antique pens valued at approximately $1,500. DNA samples were taken from the point of entry.

AUG. 20 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched early Wednesday to a home on White Pine Drive regarding an attempted residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 2:15 a.m. an unknown black male kicked in the door and stood inside the doorway. The resident then picked up a knife and screamed at the suspect to get out of the house. The suspect fled in an unknown direction.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives:

• Jeremiah Ailes is a white male, 6’ tall and weighing 180 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 02/14/81. Ailes is wanted for violation of supervised own recognizance on the charge of operating a chop shop. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was April Drive in Loxahatchee. Ailes is wanted as of 08/21/08.

• Thomas Taylor is a white male, 6’1” tall and weighing 250 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 11/27/58. Taylor is wanted for failure to appear in court on the charge of failure to redeliver leased equipment. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Hawthorne Place in Wellington. Taylor is wanted as of 08/ 21/08. 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.

Jeremiah Ailes

Thomas Taylor

Wellington Chamber Luncheon

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will present an informative luncheon for its membership on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the Bonefish Grill restaurant (9897 Lake Worth Road, inside the Woods Walk shopping plaza).

Speakers will include Florida Tax Watch Senior Vice President Harvey Bennett and State Rep. Frank Attkisson (R-District 79), who will discuss Amendment 5, the proposed so-called “tax swap” that would eliminate school property taxes and replace them with other sources of revenue. Immediately following the presentation, the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions of the speakers. The luncheon will begin at noon. For more info., call the chamber at (561) 792-6525 or visit www. wellingtonchamber.com.

County Budget Hearings In September

The Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners will hold two public hearings in September for preliminary and final adoption of the fiscal year 2009 budget.

Both public hearings will be held at 6 p.m. in the sixth floor commission chambers of the County Governmental Center (301 N. Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach). Preliminary

adoption of the budget will take place Monday, Sept. 8 and final adoption on Monday, Sept. 22. Citizens will have an opportunity to comment during both hearings. The millage rate has been tentatively set at the current rollback rate of 3.7811 mills ($3.7811 per $1,000 of taxable property value). The final rate could be lower, but not higher mills. For more information, call (561) 355-2754 or visit www. pbcgov.com.

Wellington Moving Skate Park To Pierson

The Village of Wellington Skate Park, currently located at Little Blue Park, closed for approximately one month beginning Aug. 18 for a relocation and renovation project. The skate park equipment will be relocated to Village Park on Pierson Road. Upon completion of the project, a notice will be issued announcing the re-opening date. The village is looking forward to the relocation and hosting future skating events at Village Park. For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at (561) 791-4005.

Upcoming RPB Rec Programs

The Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Department has the following programs available this fall:

• Early Childhood Activity Programs — Pre-school classes are offered for children ages three to five on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings beginning Sept. 16. Classes include Dr. Who… Red Fish or Green Eggs?; Color, Shapes & More; Fun with Numbers; Busy Bees; Alphabet Adventure; and Oodles and Doodles of Fun. Also offered is a “Mom and Me/Dad and Me” class for young children. Classes last an hour and a half, and the program runs for eight weeks. Register early; classes are expected to fill quickly.

• Pre-School Dance Class — Dance classes for children ages two to five will be offered Thursdays during the morning and early afternoon. The Tiny Toes is a one-on-one class for children and parents to discover the world of dance through imagination and movement. The class will introduce children to formal ballet techniques for a strong foundation.

• Story Time in the Park — Read, sing and dance at Royal Palm Beach Veterans Park every Friday beginning Sept. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Children can bring a snack and enjoy the playground with their friends.

• Youth Yoga (Ages Eight to 14) — There are many benefits of yoga for children. It builds physical strength and flexibility, can increase focus and concentration and foster self-esteem. This class will be offered Thursdays at 4 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane) beginning Sept. 18. The program runs for six weeks.

• Cartooning (Ages Eight to 14) — Find yourself doodling on your homework paper? Then come check out this cartooning class, which will take place Tuesdays at 4 p.m. starting Sept. 16.

• Beginners Conversational Spanish (Ages Eight to 14) Would you like to learn a few basic words of Spanish? This class will start with simple words and increase to sentences. The six-week class will be held Mondays at 4 p.m. at the RPB Recreation Center beginning Sept. 13.

For more information about any of these programs, call the Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Department at (561) 790-5124 or visit www.royal palmbeach.com.

LGLA To Meet On Aug. 28

The Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. inside Classroom 1 at Palms West Hospital.

Speakers for the meeting will include David Bates, Pat Davis and Carmine Priore III of Florida Power & Light.

Bates will discuss solar energy options for home use and resale of excess production to FPL. Davis and Priore will give an update on the energy plant under construction near 20-Mile Bend.

For more information about the LGLA or the July 24 meeting, contact Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875 or marge@ herzog.ms.

Post Office To Host Passport Fair In RPB

Salvatore Vacca, officer-incharge for the West Palm Beach post offices, will host a passport fair at the Palms West branch of the United States Post Office (10299 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Beach) on Sunday, Aug. 24 from noon to 3 p.m.

“We want to accommodate customers located in Royal Palm Beach, Wellington and other western communities who have been unable to schedule an appointment during normal passport hours of operation,” Vacca said.

Vacca recently changed the appointment policy that went in to effect on July 2, 2007 for the passport acceptance site at the main post office branch on Summit Blvd. in West Palm Beach. Under the new policy, the main post office will accept walk-ins for customers who would like to apply for a passport.

“The main post office is the only West Palm Beach City Passport Acceptance Site which no longer requires an appointment Monday through Friday,” Vacca said. “Appointments will still be available Saturdays during the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the main post office.”

Documentation required includes: current proof of U.S. citizenship, proof of identity and Social Security number.

The cost is $100 for age 16 and up, and $85 for under 16. Passports are valid for ten years. Passport photos will be available for $15.

Due to the new regulations required for travel to and from the Caribbean, Mexico and Canada, the turnaround time for passports is two to three weeks. Expedited service is available for an additional $60 with a turnaround time of one week.

For more information, call the Miami Passport Agency Information Line at (877) 487-2778 or visit www.travel.state.gov.

Golf Tourney To Benefit Autism Services

Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) will host its second annual FAU/ CARD Golf Tournament Friday, Sept. 19 at the Rees Jones Course at Breakers West. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., and the shotgun start is at 8:30 a.m. The tournament is designed to raise awareness of autism and related disabilities, and help fund CARD programs and services. CARD’s focus is to optimize the potential of people with autism and related disabilities. Card offers support, at no charge, within homes, residences, child care programs, schools and the community.

The cost to enter is $250 per golfer and $1,000 per foursome, which includes greens fees, range balls, cart, golf shirt and luncheon. For more information, or to register, call Kyle Bennett at (561) 297-3052 or register online at https://fauf. fau.edu/card.

FWC Finds Missing Acreage Tiger

A swift response by officers of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, among other officers, averted potential tragedy when a lion and Bengal tiger escaped from their cages at McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary in The Acreage.

The adult tiger and lion escaped sometime late Tuesday or early Wednesday. Officers captured both animals by Wednesday morning and returned them to secure cages.

McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary has been operated by Mark McCarthy as a traveling educational exhibit since the mid1980s. McCarthy also holds a wildlife rehabilitation permit.

The FWC last inspected the facility on Jan. 29 and found no problems, except for an unlocked venomous reptile cage. “The sanctuary has a good record with the FWC,” said

Future New Village Center?

continued from page 1 comprehensive plan, Nemser said, which will try to account for the various lifestyles found in the village’s southern area.

“You have people who play polo, people who are in dressage, people who just have their own horse and some people don’t have horses at all, but there’s a way of life for each of

The Bengal tiger at McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary.

Capt. John West, FWC’s captive wildlife coordinator. “They have met caging and sanitation requirements and have the required permits.”

McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary houses one lion, six tigers, five cougars, five leop-

these people, so to identify some of these interests and try to find common ground is going to be a challenge,” he said. Nemser said the most challenging aspect by far is improving the village’s aging neighborhoods. For a relatively small cost, village planners could create initiatives that would provide developers a framework for the design of new housing, Nemser said.

Another initiative would be to create a “village center” commercial area. “When we started

ards and other big cats. Representatives from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary also assisted in securing the tiger and lion. The FWC is investigating how the animals escaped their cage.

this project, we asked what do we want to achieve, and a village center was pretty much at the top of everybody’s list,” Nemser said.

The idea would be to create a newfound sense of place in central Wellington, largely through private initiative, Nemser said, primarily along Forest Hill Blvd. He said the village would like to do its best to retain existing businesses in the area. “Retaining present businesses is a priority,” he said. High on village staff’s pref-

RPB Fire Causes Damage, No Injuries

AUG. 14 — A two-alarm fire in Royal Palm Beach last Thursday afternoon proved a tough challenge for Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue crews. According to a PBCFR report, a lightning strike on the ten-unit apartment building caused fire to spread rapidly due to the building’s wood frame construction. Another factor was the lack of firewalls in the building; in the 1970s, when it was

built, firewalls were not part of the building code.

PBCFR personnel made a stop at the third connected apartment by getting ahead of the fire and quickly pulling drywall from ceilings and walls. The end result was three fire-damaged units upstairs and three waterdamaged units downstairs. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians; several dogs and one cat were rescued.

PBCFR

RPB Woman Dies In Wellington Crash

AUG. 18 — A Royal Palm Beach woman was killed Monday afternoon following a traffic crash on State Road 7 in Wellington. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, at approximately 2:30 p.m. 42year-old Janet Augustine

erences is the property now occupied by the original Wellington Mall and the Wellington Plaza across the street.

Nemser said the area could be good for a mixed-use development with commercial uses on the first floor, offices on the second and apartments on the third. “Many residents would enjoy this amenity,” he said, adding that the increased density would also be an incentive for developers.

Nemser said village planners envision Forest Hill Blvd. as the

Smith was traveling southbound on SR 7 and approaching Lake Worth Road when she lost control due to heavy rain and struck a tree in the center median, causing the vehicle to overturn.

There were three passengers in Smith’s vehicle: 54-year-old

backbone of a town center, but “right now it doesn’t look that good.”

A combination of private and public investments could dress up Forest Hill Blvd., Nemser suggested, including possible narrowing and landscaping to calm traffic. “I think we would all like Forest Hill Blvd. to be some sort of arrival point,” he said. “Forest Hill traffic could be calmed so drivers don’t want to use it as a cut-through.”

PZA Board Member Morley Alperstein asked if eminent do-

main would be used to execute any of the initiatives, and Nemser said the village is determined to avoid condemnation if possible and provide initiatives for redevelopment instead. The goal is to engage property owners in an atmosphere of cooperation.

“We can create incentives that don’t involve cash outlay from Wellington,” Nemser said. “We want to create jobs that are sustainable, but we want to retain the atmosphere that attracted people to Wellington in the first place.”

Doretta Laing and eight-yearold Ryan Scott, both of Royal Palm Beach, along with 72year-old Adessa Gray of Boynton Beach. The three passengers were transported to Delray Medical Center, where they were last listed in serious condition.

personnel with a rescued cat.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER AND LEONARD WECHSLER/TOWN-CRIER

Binks Forest Elementary School students Mattea Virgili, Claire Keane and Adam Virgili wait for the school bus.

Sarah Torres heads to Panther Run Elementary School with mom Sherry.

Hailey Guzik, with her mom Babette, on their way to the Cambridge Academy in Wellington.

Panther Run Elementary School students Natalie McGilivary and Danae Rojas.

Elbridge Gale Elementary School student Arnold Bartolo with his mother Santresa and younger brother Carlos.

Crestwood Middle School students meet up before the start of school.

Panther Run student Brandon Nelson.

Making Strides Kickoff Party Set For Aug. 28

A kickoff party for the Western Communities Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk will be held Thursday, Aug. 28 at center court in the original Wellington Mall at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. Registration begins 5:30 p.m. The program takes place from 5:45 to 7 p.m. Anyone interested in obtaining information about the Oct. 18 walk is invited to attend. The party will feature presentations by the American Cancer Society, local breast cancer survivors, Palms West Radiation Therapy Center Medical Director Dr. Michael Wing, honorary chairs Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Margiotta, as well as sponsorship representatives. Sponsors include Visions Hair Salon, Florida Power & Light, Palms West Hospital, Wellington Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore, BE Aerospace, Kool 105.5 FM and News Radio 1290 AM WJNO.

Information packets for team captains will be distributed to prepare for the walk. Refreshments will be provided by Soho Taverna and Kibi’s Sweets.

The walk will take place Saturday, Oct. 18 at the Greenview Cove Golf Course (2470 Greenview Cove Drive, Wellington).

Making Strides — (Front row, L-R) co-chair Kate Reagan, co-chair Terri Priore and sponsorship chair Shauna Hostetler; (back row) new teams chair Stacy Somers, media chair Mary Armand and team development chair Christine Cortellesso. Not

Maria Silva.

Registration and the survivor breakfast will begin at 7:30 a.m. The program will begin at 8:15 a.m., and the walk will begin at 9 a.m. The purpose of the noncompetitive walk is to raise awareness and money to fight breast

cancer, and provide hope to all people facing the disease. Teams from Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, The Acreage, Loxahatchee Groves and the Glades will take part in the event. The Western Communities Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

5K Walk is one of more than 125 walks being held across the country. For more information, call Maureen Gross at (561) 3660013, ext. 5136 or visit making strides.acsevents.org/western communities.

Jessie Mann of suburban Lake Worth is a member of the 4-H Club’s Animal Paws. Her mother Sandy is the leader of the club, which focuses on trainer dogs and foster kittens. Jessie and her former guide dog puppy Paul will help promote Buddy Walk and Southeastern Guide Dogs nationwide by appearing in one of 200 photographs (out of 2,500 entries) that will appear on the big panorama screen in Times Square in New York City on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 10:30 a.m. The Buddy Walk was established in 1995 to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. For more information about Buddy Walk, visit www.buddywalk.org. For more information about Southeastern Guide Dogs, visit www.guidedogs. org. Pictured above are Jessie and Paul.

MID-COUNTY DEMOCRATIC CLUB MONTHLY MEETING IN ROYAL PALM BEACH

The Mid-County Democratic Club held its monthly meeting on Monday, Aug. 18 at Tree’s Wings in Royal Palm Beach. The guest speakers were Group 23 Circuit Court Judge Richard Wennet, State Sen. Dave Aronberg (D-District 27) and Mid-County Democratic Club Vice President David Schumacher. For more information about the club, contact President Allen Mergaman at (561) 255-0724 or acis714@yahoo.com. Clockwise from above: Schumacher, Aronberg and Wennet. PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

pictured: survivor chair Ana

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL AT THE KING’S ACADEMY

The King’s Academy welcomed back kindergarten through 12th-grade students for their first day of school on Thursday, Aug. 14. The school is located at 8401 Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach. For more information about the school, call (561) 686-4244 or visit www.tka.net.

Wellington Elementary Construction — Students returning to Wellington Elementary School are seeing progress in the construction of the

administration building and cafete-

Holly Hughes Joins S.F. Science Museum

The future of science educa-

tion in South Florida is growing stronger with the announcement that Holly Hughes has been named vice president of education and programming at the South Florida Science Museum.

Prior to joining the museum, Hughes was the education director of the Flagler Museum. Her work at the Flagler Museum was honored with awards from the Palm Beach County Cultural Council and the American Association for State and Local History.

Before relocating to South Florida, Hughes served as associate director of community science grants programs at the St. Louis Science Center (SLSC) in St. Louis, Missouri. The SLSC is one of the most visited science museums in the nation. She earned her master’s degree in museum studies and her bachelor’s degree in anthropology at the University of Missouri. In her new role, Hughes oversees strategic planning for the museum’s educational experiences including exhibits, plane-

Holly Hughes

tarium and aquarium programming; and assists with the design, implementation and evaluation of curriculum for school and public programs. The South Florida Science Museum is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach in the north end of Dreher Park. 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.

FAU Offers Master’s In Environmental Education

Florida Atlantic University’s Board of Trustees recently approved a new 36-credit, interdisciplinary master’s degree program in environmental education that will be offered this fall by the department of teaching and learning in FAU’s College of Education.

The program provides students the opportunity to incorporate environmentally related courses offered by all nine FAU colleges and includes opportunities to apply academic theory to practical experiences with children in the classroom as well as on-site at the Pine Jog Environmental Education Center, a

135-acre natural preserve in the heart of Palm Beach County.

Students have a choice of four tracks of concentration, including environmental education and general science for certified elementary teachers, environmental education for certified middle and high school teachers and non-formal center educators, environmental education for sustainable planning educators, and environmental education for center administrators. Courses required in the environmental education area of specialization, as well as other required and elective courses, are offered on site at the new pro-

fessional education facility at Pine Jog.

The School District of Palm Beach County’s new Pine Jog Elementary School, one of Florida’s first leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) certified elementary “green” schools, is located on 15 acres on the Pine Jog property. This technologically advanced elementary school provides educational, research and teaching opportunities for students and faculty, as well as the surrounding community. In recognition of the opening of the new school and degree program, two graduate courses

are scheduled for the fall 2008 semester on site at the Pine Jog Center, including “Science: Elementary and Middle School” and “Perspectives of Environmental Education.” For additional information about the master’s program, as well as scholarships available to FAU service area teachers, email Dr. Carol Meltzer, environmental education graduate program coordinator, at meltzer @fau.edu.

For more information about employment, graduate assistantships and housing on-site at the Pine Jog, e-mail Karen Aubry at kaubry@fau.edu.

new

ria. A two-story classroom building is also part of the renovation. Pictured here, fifth-grade student Elizabeth Amaro surveys the construction site with her mother Diane, who teaches the fifth grade.

Parents accompany students for the first day of school.Victoria and Grace Melvin put on their best smiles.

Chaia Quirones engages in a coloring project.Students walk into the school.

On Friday, Aug. 15, Aaron Taslitz, son of Wellington attorney Neal Taslitz, sang three songs at Temple Beth Torah in Wellington. They were songs that he recently performed with the HaZamir Choir at Carnegie Hall. HaZamir is an international Jewish high school choir created by Matthew Lazar to provide Jewish teens with a high-level choral experience in a Jewish environment. Local HaZamir chapters exist in cities across the United States and Israel. Aaron will start at Indiana University on Sept. 2. Shown here is Aaron Taslitz (center) with Cantor Carrie Barry (left) and Rabbi Stephen Pinsky.

Kellen Edward Pike — son of Eileen Anne and Christopher Richard Pike of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on July 28.

Heidi Cierra Alcime daughter of Judith Philius and Claudius Alcime of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on July 28. Mia Adriannie Gordon daughter of Donna and Collin Gordon of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on July 30.

Tristan Chase Gray — son of Brandy Moore-Gray and Jason Gray of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug.

1. Cia’la Sarai Smith daughter of Priscilla Smith of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 6. Yazmin Lucia Ramirez daughter of Ines Montero and Juan Ramirez of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 7.

Gerkmayne Joseph Mensah-Koffe Gbedey — son of Camille Etienne and Gerard Gbedey of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Aug. 8.

Matthew Croft Completes Army Basic Training

Army PFC Matthew A. Croft has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Croft studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice

Hernandez Completes ROTC Training

Jonathan Hernandez, son of Joe and Laura Hernandez of The Acreage, graduated from the Army ROTC Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC) at Fort Lewis, Wash. on Friday, Aug. 8. LDAC is a demanding, 33-day leadership capstone event attended by more than 4,500 ROTC seniors from across the nation.

Jonathan graduated from Wellington High School in 2005 and is now a senior at the University of South Florida majoring in public health. He completed an associate of science degree in emergency medical services from Edison College in Fort Myers in 2007 before enrolling in the ROTC program at USF. Upon graduation he expects to serve on active duty and be commissioned as an officer in the United States Army.

in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, the military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises.

Croft is the son of Cathrine Croft of Royal Palm Beach. He graduated from Royal Palm Beach High School in 2005.

The LDAC course is the most important training event for an Army ROTC cadet. It incorporates a wide range of subjects designed to develop and evaluate leadership ability. The challenges are rigorous and demanding, both mentally and physically. The LDAC tests intelligence, common sense, ingenuity and stamina. These challenges provide a new perspective on an individual’s ability to perform exacting tasks and to make difficult decisions in demanding situations.

The course places each cadet officer candidate in a variety of leadership positions, which simulate stressful combat situations. Cadets are evaluated by platoon tactical and counseling (TAC) officers and noncommissioned officers. In addition to proving their leadership ability, cadet

Acreage Artist In Lake Worth Exhibition

Modern realist painter Tony M. Baker of The Acreage will be displaying and selling his art at the 12th Annual Food, Wine & Art Experience in Lake Worth on Thursday, Oct. 2 from 7 to 9 pm. This event is sponsored by the American Lung Association of

Florence Betty Nelson Of RPB Dies At Age 77

Florence Betty Nelson passed away on Sunday, Aug. 17 after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her husband, Carl T. Nelson and her parents, Harold and Henrietta Husserl. She is survived by her son, Richard Nelson of Royal Palm Beach, and her daughters, Kim Young of Boca Raton and Deborah Delaney of Capitola, Calif.; her brother, Robert Husserl of Simi Valley, Calif.; and her cousins Flo Mann of Wellington and Jerry Weissman of Cranbury, N.J. She also leaves behind five grandchildren, Ricky Nelson, Stephanie Young, Elizabeth Young, Lauren Delaney and

Jack Delaney as well as many other loving relatives and friends. Born Nov 6, 1930, in Bronx, N.Y., Florence lived in Royal Palm Beach for 35 years. She was an award winning Realtor for more than 30 years and spent much time and energy volunteering and working with civic organizations, including C-PAL, ORT, Soroptimists, Hadassah and Wellington Senior Theatre Group. A celebration of her life will be held at the Cultural Center in Royal Palm Beach at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 31. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Palm Beach County, Inc., 5300 East Ave., West Palm Beach.

officer candidates must meet established standards in physical fitness, weapons training, communication, combat patrols and demonstrate their proficiency in

Florida, Southeast Area, in partnership with the Lake Worth Chamber of Commerce. The exhibition will be held in the Lake Worth Cultural Plaza in downtown Lake Worth, at the corner of Lake Avenue and M Street. For more info., visit www.foodwineandartexperience.com. Baker is a member of the Wellington Art Society and the Art Alliance of Jupiter. Some of Baker’s work can be seen at www.tonybakerstudio.com.

Robert “Bob” Davis Brooks died on Monday, Aug. 11 at Forsyth Medical Center in WinstonSalem, N.C. after acquiring von Willabrand blood disorder. Bob was preceded in death by his father and mother Lloyd Thomas and Pearl Seagraves Brooks, brothers Lawrence and Lloyd Brooks, and sister Florence Campbell. He was born on Aug. 7, 1932 in West Ashville, N.C., and served in the United States Air Force for four years as an airplane mechanic. He had his own airplane, which he flew for pleasure with friends and family.

Bob retired from Texaco Inc., where he was a terminal man-

ager and ended his 30-year career in Fayetteville, N.C. Bob and his wife of 49 years Shirley retired to Wellington, where they were active members of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington. After more than 12 years, Bob and Shirley moved to Greensboro, N.C. to be closer to family and became a member and a deacon of Lawndale Baptist Church. Bob is survived by his wife Shirley and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington.

many other military skills. Cadet officer candidates must excel to be considered competitive for a commission

Jonathan Hernandez

Tony M. Baker

Florence Betty Nelson

Donation — (L-R) Pythian Sister Susan Bergstein, Pythian Youth Foundation Vice President and Past Grand Chancellor Norman Bergstein, Past Deputy Supreme Chancellor Sir Phil Newman, JCC Development Director Amy Mauser, JCC Executive Director Michelle Wasch, and Past Grand Chancellor and PYF Past President Sir Irving Margulies.

Pythians Donate Money To Special Needs Camp

For the fifth consecutive year, the Pythian Youth Foundation Inc. has made a donation to Camp Tikvah, the special-needs camp operated by the Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches. The $3,500 donation brings the Pythian’s support of the camp to over $15,000.

JCC Executive Director Michelle Wasch said the Pythian Youth Foundation’s donation will allow several children to attend summer camp who otherwise would not have been able. JCC Development Direc-

Wellington Garden Club

To Meet

The Wellington Garden Club’s first meeting of the 200809 season will be held Friday, Sept. 5 at the Wellington Community Center, 12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.

Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a light buffet lunch provided by the members. The business meeting will start at 12:15 p.m., followed by the speaker at 1 p.m.

September’s speaker is Chriss Barr, owner of Palm Beach Feng Shui, a consultation program for homeowners and entrepreneurs.

A former financial planner and hedge fund researcher, Barr found herself with clients very interested in her talent as a feng shui and dowsing expert, so she decided to start her current company.

Barr is the author of the ebook 4 Easy Ways to Ignite your

tor Amy Mauser said the money will enable children with autism, Asperger’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and physical and cognitive impairments to attend a number of programs at Camp Tikvah.

Past Grand Chancellor Sir Irving Margulies said the goal of the Pythian Foundation is to support as many special needs camps as possible throughout Florida. For more information on donations or grants to the Pythian Youth Foundation or the Knights of Pythias, call Margulies at (561) 683-4049.

Love Life and Fatten Up Your Wallet, and two home-study systems: The Buyer Magnet System for Professional Realtors as well as Feng Shui: The Green Way for Homeowners. Barr’s topic for the garden club meeting is “Feng Shui Your Garden.”

Guests are welcome; there is no admission fee. For information, call Mary Anne at (561) 968-1062.

New American Legion Post In Wellington

The first meeting of the Wellington American Legion Post #390 will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27 in Room 2A at Wellington Village Park, 11700 Pierson Road.

The American Legion is open to all military veterans and their relatives. It serves the community through children and youth programs, veterans’ legislation and benefits, scholarships and

Loxahatchee Woman Writes NASCAR Book

Jeff Gordon fan Maria Bennett of Loxahatchee has compiled her weekly poetic recaps of NASCAR racing into a book titled Lyrical Laps and Laughs.

A Palm Beach County resident for almost 24 years, Bennett is originally from upstate New York. She is a wife, homeschool mom, singer, songwriter, recording artist, author and speaker.

Jeff Gordon’s stepfather John Bickford, who serves as vice president of Jeff Gordon Inc., encouraged Bennett to compile her weekly recaps into Lyrical Laps and Laughs

Bennett recently visited her hometown of Watkins Glen, N.Y. for some book and CD signings the week of the NASCAR Sprint Cup race on Aug. 10. She also opened the Race Fever event in Corning, N.Y. on Thursday, Aug. 7 by singing the national anthem. Bennett also conducted a book and CD signing that night.

Bennett has sung the national anthem for numerous professional sporting and civic events in South Florida and sings annually for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office memorial service and other law enforcement events.

financial aid, national security, and protection of the flag.

For more information about the Wellington chapter, call District Commander David Knapp at (561) 301-2961.

Pvt. Laureano Completes Army Basic Training

Army Reserve Pvt. Samuel Laureano Jr. has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, Laureano studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, the military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and

Bennett wrote and recorded the CD single “Overwhelmed” for Gordon and his wife Ingrid in honor of their firstborn daughter Ella.

To read reviews of Lyrical Laps and Laughs , visit www.amazon.com and www. barnesandnoble.com. You may also find more information, including how to order the book or CD, at www.theoriginal route66.com.

Bennett is personally donating part of the proceeds from the sale of both the book and CD to

field training exercises.

Laureano is the grandson of Gena Laureano of New Britain, Conn., and stepson of Cirilo Santiago of Royal Palm Beach. He is a 2005 graduate of Royal Palm Beach High School.

Quilting Bee To Make Donation

The ladies of the Wellington Quilting Bee will present 23 handmade quilts to Children’s Home Society representative Jane Snell on Thursday, Sept. 4. Marietta Bowie and Ruth Carlton started the Quilting Bee about 10 years ago, meeting in each other’s homes. Now the expanded group meets every Thursday to pursue their individual interests, patchwork, embroidery and intricate designs in all types of quilting. Each one is a work of art. Call (561) 792-9766 for more information about the Wellington Quilting Bee.

Ludovico Is Lauderdale Billfish Tourney Artist

Wellington Artist Tony Ludovico has been selected as the 2009 Official Tournament artist for the 2009 Fort Lauderdale Billfish Tournament.

“I first saw Tony’s work at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show last year and was so amazed that it literally stopped me in my tracks,” Tournament Coordinator Mark Constantino said. Ludovico is an underwater videographer and photographer who got his start in 1979 scuba diving. In 2005, Ludovico started his own company, TLUV Images.

Over the past eight years, he has shot underwater video footage for various TV programs including Hook The Future, Get Wild With Cindy Garrison and The Bite, which air on various national, international and local channels.

Since 2007, Ludovico has displayed his images in a variety of galleries in Pompano Beach, Key West, Stuart, and Rockport, Texas. In addition to the fishing tournament, this year will be the inaugural year for SeaFest, a family event that is equal parts seafood festival, arts and crafts fair, and music festival. There will be several seafood vendors on site to create the feel of a seafood festival, but there will also be traditional festival foods such as barbecue, hot dogs and hamburgers. There will also be a market area, which will feature Ludovico’s work and showcase several other vendors. For additional information, visit the tournament’s web site at www.lauderdalebillfish. com.

the Jeff Gordon Foundation, which helps children and families with life-threatening diseases.

Bennett will autograph copies of her book if they are ordered through www.theoriginal route66.com.

The jacket of Lyrical Laps and Laughs

Maria Bennett

Carmine Priore Installed As Florida League Of Cities President

The Florida League of Cities held its 82nd Annual Conference Aug. 14-16 at the Tampa Convention Center and the Tampa Marriott Waterside.

Highlights of the event included the recognition of outgoing president Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis and the installation of incoming president Wellington Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore.

Priore was installed by his son, Carmine Priore III, before a crowd that included several Wellington council members and other village officials.

Priore kicked off his one-year term as league president with a civic education challenge to city officials statewide.

“As city leaders, we all have responsibilities for the civic well-being of our schools, our communities and our citizens,” Priore said. “What better way to encourage civics in education than through the association for Florida’s public servants — the Florida League of Cities.” Ortis said he is confident that Priore will continue the league’s legacy. “He is truly a committed public servant and a shrewd municipal official,” Ortis said.

Priore has been very active with the Florida League of Cities, serving on many committees and on its board of directors. He is also the outgoing second vice president of the Florida League of Cities and a past president of the Palm Beach County League of Cities.

During his year as president, Priore hopes to increase civic knowledge, promote better civility and ethics in government, and ultimately produce better governance.

“Vice Mayor Priore has committed his life to public service and will be a great asset to our organization,” Florida League of Cities Executive Director Mike Sittig said. “I eagerly anticipate his leadership and presidential platform on civic education.”

Other officers installed were Tallahassee Mayor John Marks as first vice president and Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper as second vice president.

The Florida League of Cities Inc. is the official organization of the 412 municipal governments in Florida, designed and established to meet and serve the needs of Florida’s municipal officials.

Palms West Hospital Now Offers Digital Mammagrophy System

The Breast Center at Palms West Hospital recently announced that it has “gone digital.” Palms West Hospital has partnered with GE Medical Systems to acquire a state-of-the-art GE Senographe System. This technology features the only

full field digital mammography system with digital stereotactic biopsy capabilities.

“This essentially means that, not only do we have the sharpest digital image taken during your mammogram, but this technology is carried through if a

biopsy is recommended,” Palms West Hospital radiologist Dr. Timothy Carter said. Palms West Hospital is the only facility in the western communities to provide this digital continuum of breast care.

Digital mammography is a patient’s newest ally in the fight against breast cancer. With this new technology, digital images appear in seconds on a computer screen, revealing an exciting new world of diagnostic possibilities, including better visibility at the skin line, greater image flexibility, shorter exam times, faster results, fewer call backs and less anxiety. Request your digital mammogram today for the following reasons:

• A digital mammography exam usually takes less than half the time of a traditional film-based exam, and there is less of a chance you’ll be called back to retake your images.

• Your physician will gain viewing options with the unique ability to enhance certain areas to get a more precise picture of your condition.

• Your breast images can be zoomed in and out, and the contrast can be lightened or darkened. Also, through an inverting feature, black can reverse to white and white can change to black. This feature helps detect micro calcifications, which is like revealing a grain of salt in a ball of clay. All these image enhancements help aid in proper diagnosis.

• Digital images give better visibili-

ty of the breast, particularly near the skin line, chest wall and in women with dense breast tissue. Also, digital images are helpful for women with implants and for imaging patients with known abnormalities. The hospital’s new digital stereotactic biopsy unit provides greater flexibility for patient positioning, the stereo table has a 1,000-pound weight capacity versus 350 pounds on the prone table. The table also accommodates kyphnotic patients and patients who cannot lie on their stomachs, giving them the option to have their biopsy while lying on their side. Additionally, the Breast Center at Palms West Hospital offers breast MRI with MRI guided breast biopsy, ultrasound-guided breast biopsies and bone densitometry. Palms West Hospital is located at 13001 Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. For more information, call (561) 798-3300 or visit www.palmswest hospital.com.

Royal Palm Council News

continued from page 1 floor area and seating capacity for Our Lady Queen of the Apostles Church, located on the east side of Crestwood Blvd. north of Southern Blvd. The proposed size change from 28,500 square feet and 1,500 seats to 24,085 square feet and 938 seats was because new parish boundaries had reduced the need for the

presented plans for a two-story office building of 33,000 square feet and a one-story wholesale trade building of 15,875

square feet on the 4.5-acre property. The council approved a landscape waiver of the 25-foot buffers required on the east and west side of the property and allowed a 15-foot right-ofway buffer along SR 7 because it is adjacent to a 40-foot-wide Lake Worth Drainage District canal easement. On the east side, a dry retention area would complement a 22foot residential buffer.

• The council approved site plan modifications for an industrial park located behind Al Packer Ford West on the north side of Southern Blvd. The owners of the Palms West Industrial Park sought permission to add two new uses for the 82,400-square-foot site, to allow a fitness center and a school. The latter use is limited to business, trade, studio or vocational schools only. Two of the three affected bays are already tentatively reserved for a gymnastics school.

U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson

Loxahatchee Groves Vice Mayor Marge Herzog with Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick

Outgoing league president Frank Ortis with Dr. Carmine Priore.

Former congressman and MSNBC commentator Joe Scarborough

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore (right) is installed as the league’s new president by his son Carmine Priore III while his wife Marie looks on.

Tallahassee Mayor John Marks, Dr. Carmine Priore, former Congressman Lou Frey and Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis.

Event speakers with the E. Harris Drew Municipal Official Lifetime Achievement Award.

Royal Palm Beach Councilman Matty Mattioli, Joanne Stanley, RPB Village Manager David Farber and RPB Councilwoman Martha Webster.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Lantana Mayor Dave Stewart, Wellington Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto, Dr. Carmine Priore and Village Manager Paul Schofield.

Dr. Carmine Priore with Wellington Councilman Bob Margolis and wife Linda, and Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen and wife Sherri.

Wellington’s Community Development Director Marty Hodgkins with his wife Linda.

Digital Mammography — Breast Center staffers Kim Rinaldi, Colleen Campbell, Debra Stevens, Doris Silva and Tammy Mosley with the new digital mammography equipment.

‘BACK TO SCHOOL EXPLOSION’ LUAU AT WILD ORCHIDS CAFÉ IN ROYAL PALM

Wild Orchids Café at Veterans Park in Royal Palm Beach held a “Back to School Explosion Luau” last Saturday evening to kick off the new school year on a fun note. Kids enjoyed a series of contests including a limbo match, a hot dog eating contest, hula hoop spinning and pie throwing. Later in the evening, local bands played, and teens and adults danced. Wild Orchids Chef Chris Paul said he and his partners wanted to provide some fun for the youngsters. “There’s not a lot around here for teens,” he said. “We want to pull the community together.” DJ Bruce Riley of Club U-Turn said is was great to see the different elements within Royal Palm Beach breaking bread together and having a good time. For more information about Wild Orchids Café, visit www.wildorchidscafe.com.

PHOTOS BY LEONARD WECHSLER/TOWN-CRIER

Kalie and mom Chrissie Galeza inside the cafe.

DJ Bruce Riley of Club U-Turn keeps the crowd on its feet.

Hula-hoopers get into the swing of things.Tiarra FearonYoungsters take turns going under the limbo stick.

Tiahanna Durrant

Sara Bartley with mom Bonnie

Leonardo and Adanelly Gonzalez

Starr Skayler

St. Peter’s Methodist Church Welcomes Boys Choir From

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington celebrated cultural diversity day on Sunday, Aug. 17 in a service that welcomed the Avenue D Boys Choir of Fort Pierce.

Members of the church praised both the singing and the credo of the young men, clapping along with the music and listening quietly as several told how the choir had improved their lives.

“It was wonderful to not only hear them sing but to talk about

how they are improving their lives,” said Margaret Tamsberg, a member of the church’s choir.

Dr. Earl Hendricks, pastor of Family of Faith Worship Center, leads the choir. He said the name was chosen because Avenue D was the most notorious street in Fort Pierce, known for drugs and prostitution.

“Nathaniel said in the Bible that nothing good came from Nazareth,” Hendricks told the congregation. “All of these boys live within walking distance of that street, and we can point to good things coming from Ave-

nue D. All our boys graduate high school, and we have seven in college right now.” Hendricks said he hoped to raise enough money to found a school for boys so that more of them would grow up with the same opportunities as current members of the group.

Jose Hosein of Trinidad, a member of Tropical Steel Sound, played steel drums during the luncheon after service. “I think it is important for all of us to understand that under our differences, we are really alike,” he said.

Fort Pierce

’80s Regeneration Tour Arrives At The Kravis Center Aug. 31

Together for the first time live and in concert on one stage, 1980s pop icons 10,000 Maniacs, ABC, Missing Persons, Naked Eyes and Tommy Tutone will be featured in this summer’s hit-filled inaugural version of the ’80s Regeneration Tour that arrives at the Kravis Center at 7 p.m. on Aug. 31.

“When Smokey Sings,” “Always Something There to Remind Me” and “867-5309/ Jenny”are just some of the megahits that will be thrilling fans and regenerating those feelgood ’80s memories. ABC was formed in 1980 by Martin Fry and included David Palmer, Mark White, Stephen Singleton and Mark Lickley. Pigeonholed as part of the New Romantic movement of the time, ABC charted ten U.K. and five U.S. Top 40 singles between 1981 and 1990. In 1982, the band had three top-ten hits: “Poison Arrow,” “The Look of Love” and “All Of My Heart.” Fry and Palmer, together with Chuck Kentis, have put togeth-

er a new ABC album called Traffic Famed as much for their video-ready space-age image as for their music, the Los Angelesbased Missing Persons formed in 1980. In 1981, the band released its self-titled debut EP; after signing with Capitol, the label reissued the record in 1982, and the singles “Words” and “Destination Unknown” both nearly hit the Top 40. Their videos also helped Missing Persons find success on the fledgling MTV network, where Dale Bozzio’s hiccuping voice and campy look combined with the group’s synth-driven songs to make them naturals for heavy rotation. Later in 1982, the group issued its first full-length album, Spring Session M, which launched the underground smash “Walking in L.A.” Tommy Tutone is a power rock band best known for its 1982 hit “867-5309/Jenny,” which peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Although they are usually referred to as a

San Francisco band, Tommy Tutone was actually based in Willits, Calif. at the time “Jenny” was released. The song became so popular that to this day, people in the United States dial the telephone number and ask for “Jenny” as a prank. Regarding the famous number, frontman Tommy Heath commented: “we had people threatening to sue us. It was the Buffalo Chief of Police’s daughter’s number in New York.” Tommy Tutone had previously charted with another top 40 hit on the Hot 100 — 1980’s “Angel Say No,” predating “Jenny” by two years. The name of the band developed from “Tommy and the Tu-tones” to merely Tommy Tutone. 10,000 Maniacs emerged from New York in the early 1980s, releasing their own self-financed EP Human Conflict Number Five and album Secrets of the I-Ching, which showed their developing postnew-wave sound. However, it was the band’s breakthrough albums for Electra Records —

1985’s The Wishing Chair and 1987’s In My Tribe — that revealed their sophistication and talent for melodic songs, cementing their place in the pop stratosphere.

Pete Byrne, as singer of the synth-pop pioneers Naked Eyes, will be performing hits such as “Always Something There to Remind Me,” “Promises, Promises” to name a few. The group has been playing live shows from Hollywood to Carnegie Hall, has performed on PBS and put out a live concert DVD. A critically acclaimed ten-song acoustic collection was released last year. The band is currently working on a new studio album. Tickets cost $20 to $75. The performance will take place in the Alexander W. Dreyfoos Jr. Concert Hall. Tickets are on sale at the Kravis Center box office, located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, by calling (561) 8327469 or online at www.kravis. org.

Dr. Earl Hendricks and wife Maria with the Avenue D Boys Choir. PHOTOS BY LEONARD WECHSLER/TOWN-CRIER

ABC’s Martin Fry.

Jose Hosein of Tropical Steel Sounds.

Choir members line up for lunch.

• 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) 7958500.

• 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) 791-9907 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.

• JAPAN EXPRESS offers delivery and take-out of authentic Japanese, teriyaki, vegan and sushi bar in town. Under new management, Japan Express promises to deliver the freshest food cooked to order for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Japan Express is located in the Wellington Marketplace at the corner of Wellington Trace and Greenview Shores Blvd. Call (561) 792-8889

to place your order or visit them online to view their full menu at www.japanexpress.us.

• 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.

What I Wouldn’t Do To Get My Hands On Some Olympic Gold

Just like everyone else in the world, I’ve been watching the Olympics on TV. It’s a wonderful break from reruns, if you ask me. Plus, how many times can you hear the question, “deal or no deal?” before you start to crack up?

I liked watching the Olympics’ synchronized divers. I thought about the Chinese team and how one diver of the pair looked like a mere shadow of the other. They were excellent. Then I thought about what it would take to get me to participate in synchronized diving — or in any diving at all. In the first place, I swim with my head sticking up so I don’t get water in my ears. Water in the ears is a risk I don’t like to take, especially since the doctor told me I have the hearing of a fiveyear-old child. I guess I have the bravery of a five-

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

year-old child, too. I’d be the only one getting to the side by dogpaddle. In the second place, I have an aversion to barreling through the air with my head pointing down. Something about that goes against my grain. And in the third place, I am not getting up on

that platform. I’m not afraid of heights — I’m afraid of depths. I took swimming lessons at about age ten (we were late bloomers up there in Wisconsin — plus, we had to chip through the ice first)… The final exam was to jump off the diving board. No head-first showy stuff, no synchronization, just jump. I was so terrified I took the lifeguard down with me. And I remember why I was terrified — when you’re up there, you are looking through the surface of the water, so it looks a lot further than it is.

Diving may not be my forte. Or swimming. Or showering as the world watches (what’s up with that?)

However, I would like to own a gold medal. When I worked for the Village of Wellington, my

coworker Chet Cetlinski brought in his son Matt’s Olympic gold medal. Matt helped Team USA win the 4x200-meter freestyle at the Summer Olympics in Seoul in 1988, but never mind that. The exciting part for me was holding the medal. I remember being surprised by how heavy it was. Now if we fast-forward 20 years to Michael Phelps and his bajillion gold medals for swimming, I get to thinking — all those medals must get really heavy hanging around ol’ Mike’s neck. Maybe he’d like to lighten up a bit. Maybe he’d like me to take a medal or two off his hands. Fat chance. Actually, I don’t blame him. Anyone who’s spent that many years with water in his ears deserves a medal.

‘Tropic Thunder’ Doesn’t Deliver Quite Enough Bang For My Buck

‘I’ On

CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

The problem with the new movie Tropic Thunder is that it is just not very funny. It manages to be funny at times, just not very much or for very long. When you have a movie that stars Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr., you expect them to be hilarious. And unfortunately, they are not. With top comedy stars headlining, you realize their problem when the funniest person in the movie is Tom Cruise as a balding, bottom-heavy studio chief. A movie about that character would have been fun. But Tropic Thunder focuses on a group of hapless actors trying to make a film about the rescue of a wounded sergeant during the Vietnam War. The movie spoofs not war, but Hollywood. The best scenes in the picture are the trailers at the beginning introducing the actors of the moviewithin-a-movie. Stiller’s character has worked a superhero franchise to death, Black’s specializes in flatulence films, and Downey’s character has won five Oscars, with his most recent film a portrayal of homosexual priests. These three, along with Brandon T. Jackson and a geek whose name no one can remember (Jay Baruchel) are the leads of the film. On the advice of writer Nick Nolte, their crazy British director (Steve Coogan) ships them off to the bush to do a sort of reality movie. The director is immediately killed and the actors run afoul of indigenous drug dealers.

That might sound funny to you. I guess it did to the people who made the movie, but it just does not work. The film is rife with cheap gags, but is more or less bereft of humor except when Cruise is on screen, and he is for only a few minutes. As the director and co-writer of Tropic Thunder, Stiller needed an editor badly. Actually, he needed to collaborate with better writers. The film might be fun for Hollywood insiders, but I found it tedious. Stiller, who occasionally can be funny, just was not funny at all in this film. His character sometimes falls into the mannerisms of a previous role as a retarded man. Some advocates for the disabled screamed about it. They should’ve complained that he just wasn’t funny doing it. Black has occasionally been very good playing complex characters, with his inherent insanity peeking through. In this movie, he plays an allout druggie and seldom gets any laughs. Downey is very good. Playing a great Austra-

lian method actor who gets a skin transplant to play a black sergeant, he disappears into the part, speaking enough jive to make the authentically black Alpa Chino (Jackson) crazy. Cruise, playing the crude studio head with a presidential ego, threatening to call down fire and brimstone on the pushers who have kidnapped Stiller, before realizing he could make more money by collecting insurance on the star, was great. I have read in a couple of magazines that he might have been doing his impression of studio heads. Frankly, those guys scare me. Give them weapons and they might rule the world. I wish the movie had been better. They spent a lot of money and hired good stars. It might go well in a couple of months on DVD with a nice bag of homemade popcorn and a can of soda at about a tenth of the theater price. I like the performers and wish the movie had lived up to its possibilities.

My Grandson Enjoyed A Birthday Surprise Intended For My Wife

A couple of months ago my wife Sharon pulled me (kicking and screaming) off my favorite chair as I was watching a baseball game. She informed me we were going to CityPlace, because there were some stores there that she had to go to. I said “that’s nice, but why do I have to go?” As usual, it was a bad choice of words. Once again I got “the look,” which only my wife can give me. After we arrived at CityPlace, I decided to walk to the Kravis Center to see what shows they would have in the next couple of months. One was an old-time rock ‘n’ roll show taking place on my wife’s birthday. I figured this would be a perfect birthday present for my wife. She loves the oldies as much as I do (well, almost as much). I bought two tickets in the nosebleed section. I didn’t tell my wife, figuring it would be a great surprise. Well, guess what? She had a better surprise for me! About three days after I bought the tickets, she told me that for her birthday she would be going to North Carolina with our son and his family. And, of course, I would be watching my 20percent dog EZ. I told her to have a good time,

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

but I didn’t tell her about the tickets. A couple of days before the show I had another one of my great ideas. I decided to take my number-one grandson Max to the show. When I told Max about the show, he was very excited. But his twin brothers Carter and Chandler were not happy campers. I explained to them that no one under eight (Max’s age) was allowed in. Much to my surprise, they said they understood. When we got to the Kravis Center I stopped at the box office to see if the show was sold out. They told me the show was only half sold. That meant half of the seats would be empty. To me, this was good news.

And here is why (I will now let you in on a little secret): at the Kravis Center, when shows do not sell out, they usually move the folks from the cheap seats (nosebleed section) to much better seats. And that is exactly what happened. We ended up in some very expensive seats.

The show started off with Shirley Alston Reeves, the original lead singer of the Shirelles (the night before the show I saw her on PBS).

The one song of hers that my grandson knows is “Soldier Boy.” For many years I have been telling him that the Shirelles sang it just for me as I was shipping off to Vietnam. To this day he still thinks this is a true story (I am a good storyteller).

Of course it didn’t hurt my story when he saw the tears start to fall from my eyes as Ms. Alston Reeves sang “Soldier Boy.”

The Tokens were also in the show. I saw them perform last year at the Hard Rock. Before that, the last time I saw the Tokens was in Lincoln High School. I went to high school with two of the original members of the group. When lead singer Jay Siegel mentioned Ocean Parkway and Lincoln High School, the house went wild. And yes, Jay

can still hit the high notes when he sings “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Of course, my grandson was very familiar with this song. One of the members of the present Tokens is Jay Traynor, the original lead vocalist for Jay and the Americans. The so-called star of the show was Freddie “Boom Boom” Cannon. Freddie looked and sang great. “Palisades Park” is the song I like best from Freddie’s many hits. Of course, growing up near Coney Island, I really didn’t need “Palisades Park” in my life. But I still like the song. Just like on the PBS shows, all the old folks (myself included) were dancing in the aisles. My grandson, meanwhile, was hiding under his seat. He could not believe the moves his grandfather was doing in the aisles. My wife missed a great show. The only complaint my grandson had was that the music was too loud. I tried to explain to him that just about everyone in the crowd was older than himself and most would have trouble hearing. His only response was the same withering glance my wife always gives me. Now two members of my family are very good at giving me “the look.”

• ABSOLUTE DANCE OF WELLINGTON — When prices everywhere are rising daily, isn’t it refreshing to know that a business is committed to keeping their prices down? Absolute Dance is freezing their monthly tuition for yet another year so young children can keep dancing. It is our goal to ensure that every child has a positive experience, whether it is a two-year-old taking their first Mommy & Me class or an 18-year-old dancer wishing to perform with the Miami City Ballet. Experienced teachers, observation cameras in both studios, yearly themed recital (this year is Peter Pan), and all at a price you can afford! For more info., call (561) 798-1388 or visit www.absolutedanceofwellington.com.

• BOOMER’S MUSIC — The recording studio at Boomer’s Music is nearly complete. Workshops are available for beginners to intermediate students. Co-owner Jeanie O’Neill has taken over as drum instructor and revised the lesson program. Boomer’s instructors give their all to students and are able to bring out the best in them. For more info., call (561) 656-1259.

•EDUCATIONAL OUTFITTERS — Educational Outfitters is the one to turn to for new school apparel. The nation’s premier store for apparel and uniforms located right in our own backyard. They offer on-site embroidery and screen-printing services in a retail location with fun school accessories made available by a national company with local ownership. For every dollar you spend, a percentage goes back to your school. The store is offering at 10 percent discount the month of August. ducational Outfitters of Palm Beach is located at 5029 Okeechobee Blvd., at the corner of Haverhill Road. For more info., call (561) 686-0500 or visit www.educational outfitters.com.

• GLADES DAY SCHOOL — Founded in 1965, Glades Day School offers a balance of academic, athletic and extracurricular programs. Serving students from kindergarten through grade 12, Glades Day provides the opportunity for students to develop to their fullest potential. Accelerated math and science programs are offered to advanced students, and all students are offered a

full range of programs from computer technology and foreign language to the performing arts. Registration for the new school year is on-going and financial aid is available to those who qualify. Glades Day School is located at 400 Gator Blvd., Belle Glade. For more information, call (561) 996-6769 or visit www.glades dayschool.com.

• LEARNING FOUNDATION OF FLORIDA PRIVATE SCHOOL — The Learning Foundation is a private school, including elementary, middle and high school. We pride ourselves on the personal commitment and attention offered to every child. Students’ individual educational needs are first — “One to One Can Make The Difference!” McKay scholarship are accepted. Grade forgiveness and/or acceleration is available for grades nine through 12. Private tutoring is available K-12 all subjects including, math, science, history, English, language, arts and Spanish. The school specializes in exceptional student education and advocacy assistance is also available. For more info., call director Debra Thornby at (561) 7956886.

• PALM BEACH DAY ACADEMY — Palm Beach Day Academy creates confident learners. Serving Palm Beach County’s primary through ninth grade students, Palm Beach Day Academy has found the right balance of challenging academics and individual support, the right balance of personal achievement and social awareness, and the right balance of disciplined structure and boundless creativity. For more information, call (561) 832-8815 or visit www.palmbeachdayacademy.org.

• TEMPLE BETH ZION RELIGIOUS SCHOOL AND PRE-SCHOOL — At Temple Beth Zion’s pre-school, children of all faiths learn and play together. “My First Jewish Experience” is a fun Montessori-style experience for children ages 5 & 6, including vocabulary games, art, musical activities, Jewish holidays, prayers and customs. “More Jewish Experiences” (ages 6 & 7) is a continuation of the program, learning to read and write in Hebrew. For more info., call (561) 798-8888 or visit www. templebethzion.net. The temple is located at 129 Sparrow Drive in Royal Palm Beach.

• WELLINGTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL — Wellington Christian School has been serving the western communities since 1981, offering a Christ-centered education for pre-K through 12th grades. Accredited by SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) and CSF (Christian Schools of Florida), WCS offers a competitive athletic schedule, diverse fine arts program, and extracurricular activities. For more info., call (561) 793-1017 or visit www.wellingtonchristian.org.

CONTENTS PREPARED BY THE MARKETING DEPARTMENT

TOWN-CRIER SPORTS & RECREATION

Rain Puts A Damper On Charity Softball Tournament In RPB

A heavy thunderstorm Saturday afternoon forced the postponement of a co-ed charity softball game between the Palm Beach County FOOLS, a group of area firefighters, and the Media AllStars at Seminole Palms Park in Royal Palm Beach.

The FOOLS jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning before the Media AllStars rallied in the top of the second to take a 5-4 advantage. The FOOLS rallied in the bottom of the second for three runs before heavy rains made the field unplayable, forcing the postponement.

Ric Blackwell, the veteran morning anchor for WFLX Fox 29 and WPEC News 12, organized the Media AllStars. He was joined by colleagues John Bachman, Suzanne Boyd, Lindsay Cohen and Alex Zequiera, along with Paige Kornblue of WPTV NewsChannel 5 and Meredith McDonough, Kate Wentzel, Bob Kaple and acting news director Steve Boyer, all of WPBF News 25.

Proceeds from the game will benefit the not-for-profit Palm Beach County FOOLS and its Firefighter Fund to honor local firefighters who were killed, injured or become sick while serving their communities. This event helps firefighters who spend their lives and careers helping others.

The game has been rescheduled for Oct. 18 and will be open to the public. Admission is $5 and tickets will only be sold at the gate.

“We’re disappointed that we couldn’t play the entire game because of the conditions, but we’re looking forward to getting back on the field with the media,” said Richard Kingston of Royal Palm Beach, a 15-year veteran of Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and manager of the FOOLS team. “Everyone on both teams was having a good time for a great cause.”

The Palm Beach County FOOLS (Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society) is a non-profit organization of area firefighters established to help fellow firefighters and those in need in their communities while bringing back tradition, honor, pride and brotherhood into the service.

Wellington residents Dwight Saxon and Tony Andrewson are the FOOLS co-chairmen. Buddy Yarbrough of Lake Worth is chairman emeritus. Committee members include Kingston and Wellington residents Cherie Andrewson and Connie Saxon.

Seminole Ridge Football Coach Expects Big Things This Year

By Paul Gaba Town-Crier Staff Report

With a young, inexperienced squad in 2007, the Seminole Ridge High School football team went 5-5 and closed out the year with an impressive victory over powerful Park Vis-

ta, which had suffered only one loss previously.

Just think about how good the Hawks could be this year. That’s what head coach Matt Dickmann is thinking about — and it’s why he is excited about the coming season.

“It was big to go out beating Park Vista, which had only lost one game when we beat them,” Dickmann said, adding the 17-14 upset victory was big for the program, because they had lost some close games during the year.

“Last year, we had a young squad, and when we had to come up with the big play, all too often it seemed we came up short in that category,” Dickmann said. “We lost several times when we had opportunities, like against [Palm Beach] Lakes and Royal Palm Beach, and it snowballed from there. You just can’t do that against good teams that anticipate when they know you’re going to have to come up with those big plays.”

Dickmann praised his team’s unyielding desire to do their best. “I’ll tell you this much. They might not have been the most talented class last year, but they always came out ready to go, and gave everything they had on the field,” he said. “They were totally dedicated on the field, and while we didn’t have many seniors, the ones we had set a great example for the team, especial-

ly for this year’s seniors. They had a great attitude, regardless of the adversity, and that helped us for this year as a stepping stone.”

Along with the experience factor, Dickmann said another key is staying healthy, and mentioned senior quarterback Tyler Wilhelm as an example.

“Tyler broke his collarbone last year, in the first game of the season against Wellington, and that ended up keeping him out for eight weeks,” Dickmann said. “But right now, he’s 100 percent healthy. He worked hard in the off-season, and has a much stronger arm now. He gets out of the pocket well, and he makes good decisions.”

Not only is Wilhelm in good shape, Dickmann said, but he has drawn the attention of college scouts. “There’s a lot of interest in him, but they want to see some more film on him, because he played so little last year,” Dickmann said. “He’s six-three, 205 pounds. The kid is a good athlete, he’s very bright, and he plays the game with his head.”

Joining Wilhelm as captains for Seminole Ridge this year are tight end Kyle

Irish, fullback Will Jones and linebacker Michael Fioramonti. Other key returning players include center Brandon King, offensive tackle Zach Prevatt, running back Jay Wrisper, split end Jeacky Charles, cornerback Jeff Moise, defensive lineman Darrel Thomas and linebacker J.B. Coulter.

The Hawks will still be competing in Florida High School Athletic Association Division 6A, which means Dickmann and his staff — defensive and linebacker coach Ben Kenerson, offensive line and special teams coach Justin Hilliker, split ends coach James Parson, quarterbacks coach Mike Doyle, defensive backs coach David Runner and defensive line coach Mark Nieter — will need to have the troops ready for tough district competition from schools such as Vero Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter and Palm Beach Lakes.

But Dickmann said the current lineup is the “strongest team in school history and that I have ever coached in 22 years, because they work hard in the off-season.”

Horses Sometimes Find Friends In Other, Unlikely Species

Horses are herd animals. A solitary horse is often lonely, pining for a buddy. Most horses are happiest when they’re with another horse or, ideally, a herd. But many times this isn’t possible or practical. When that’s the case, horses pick other animals to be their best buds. Sometimes these pairings are a little weird.

The Fox Hill was sort of an English dude ranch in Greenville, New York. It had a string of about 20 horses for weekend guests. Every night they were turned out into a ten-acre pasture. Every morning they’d be waiting at the barn door, stamping and milling about, impatient for breakfast. When the huge barn door slid back, they’d stomp into the barn, metal horseshoes ringing against the cement floor. Each horse unerringly marched into its own stall and waited for the hay and grain to arrive. The stalls were straight-standing stalls divided by low wooden partitions, arranged side by side, each about a yard wide, just enough room for a horse to stand, but not turn around. During the winter, it got pretty cold in that barn. The horses handled it well — horses love cold weather, but the barn cats, a collection of thinsided, long-tailed stalkers, dreamed of a warm spot inside a heated house. The cats’ solution, and the cooperation of the horses, was amazing. As soon as the horses had come in and were settled and eating, the barn cats carefully dropped out of the rafters onto the horses’ backs, then curled up and napped on those broad butts, using the horses as furry heating pads. Some cats had favorite horses and walked down the line, crossing from horse to partition to horse, ending up on her friendliest (or warmest?) equine. Some cats curled up in the mangers in front of the horses, and the horses contentedly ate around them. I never saw a cat scratch a horse or a horse bite or kick a cat. I watched this happen time after time, marveling at the cooperative relationship.

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

Racehorses, which aren’t turned out with other horses once they’re in training, can get lonely. They are frequently paired with ponies or goats. I recall once such horse, a bay Thoroughbred no longer fast enough to be on the track. A friend bought him from the trainer for a dollar and kept him at the barn where I was boarding. Bolo, as they named him, came with Sarah the goat. The two were inseparable. Sarah lived just outside Bolo’s stall, or sometimes wandered up and down the aisle, a white, long-haired goat who loved to sneak up behind and butt unwary visitors. When Bolo was being ridden, Sarah had to be locked in the stall or she would have gone along. Sarah got frisky at feeding time. It was impossible to walk down the aisle with feed buckets in hand, without having Sarah “help” by jumping up and sampling the feed. Babette, the barn owner, got creative. Giving Sarah a small pile of feed only worked for a short time, and then she would be back “helping” again. Babette rolled the empty feed buckets down the aisle for Sarah to nose through and play with. It kept her occupied just long enough for Babette to finish feeding. She called it “bowling for Sarah.”

Acreage couple Bob and Susan have a horse, a donkey and a steer. The horse, a somewhat opinionated bay mare named Misty, came from Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control. The steer, a white Brahma cross named Notchie, was res-

cued from an auction where he was destined to be turned into steak. The donkey, Murphy, came from a petting zoo that was down-sizing.

“Notchie was only five months old,” Susan said.

“He thought Misty was his mom and stayed right with her. When we rode out, Notchie ran and bellowed. We got Murphy to keep him company. Murphy got along great with everyone, right from the start. The thing is, everyone was such good friends that they hated being apart. When we took Misty out, both Notchie and Murphy ran along

the fence, crying. They’re a great herd, really good friends.”

Susan said Notchie’s favorite weekly occurrence is garbage pickup. He waits and watches for the garbage truck, and by the time it gets to his street, he runs along the fence, bellowing and chasing the truck.

“The garbage men all know him,” Susan said. “They honk and wave at him. He runs and moos. It’s the funniest thing to watch. I get a real kick out of it.”

Paige Kornblue of WPTV NewsChannel 5 singles in a run.

The FOOLS’ Jen Johnson makes it to third base as Steve Boyer, acting news director of WPBF News 25, waits for the throw.

John Bachman of WPEC News 12 pitches for the All-Star Media Team.

FOOLS player Amanda Bomera of Wellington makes contact with the ball despite the rain.

Seminole Ridge football Coach Matt Dickmann (left) with last year’s team. PHOTO BY PAUL GABA/TOWN-CRIER

Notchie the steer, Murphy the donkey and Misty the horse at home in The Acreage.

PHOTOS COURTESY MARK CARR

SOFTBALL GIRLS THANK BOWEN, ROSENBERG

The Wellington Wild girls travel softball program recently presented Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen and Wellington Parks and Recreation Director Ivy Rosenberg with a special thankyou photo for all their support this season. The photo features Bowen with the Wild players and coaches at their annual Mother’s Day Tournament in which Bowen threw out the first pitch. Bowen and Rosenberg were key in assisting the Wild team with providing an opportunity for girls to excel in fast-pitch softball as they traveled throughout the state of Florida representing Wellington. Pictured above with Bowen and Rosenberg are players Brennan and Bailey Cain, and Britney and Katie Schmidt.

Fall Sports Programs In Royal Palm Beach

The Royal Palm Beach Parks and Recreation Department will begin accepting registration for the following programs at the RPB Recreation Center:

• Adult Flag Football — This program is for ages 18 and over. Team registration will be held Sept. 9-17 with a maximum of eight teams. A mandatory captain’s meeting will be held Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. The fee is $480 per team. Games begin Sept. 24 and will be played Wednesdays at the Katz soccer fields.

• Adult Basketball Club — This program is for age 18 and up and will take place Sundays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8:45 p.m. The program runs Sept. 3 through Dec. 28. The fee is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. A valid photo ID is required.

• Beginner Golf League This four-week instructional clinic will be held at the Village Golf Club on Sundays from

Sept. 14 through Oct. 5. Ages seven through 17 will meet from 2 to 3 p.m. Age 18 and up will meet from 3 to 4 p.m. Clubs are not required. The cost is $45 for residents and $60 for non-residents. Registration is open through Sept. 11.

• Tumbling Instruction — Classes will be held Fridays, Sept. 5 through Oct. 10 at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center with “Gym Like This!” The program is for ages five to 15. The cost is $72 for residents and $87 for non-residents. Intermediate classes will meet at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.; beginners will meet at 5 p.m. To register for any of the above programs, visit the RPB Recreation Center (100 Sweet Bay Lane) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Thursday and Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call (561) 790-5124 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com for more information.

Wave U-16 Girls Play To A Tie In Opener

Last weekend was Shannon Sanguinetti’s debut as the new head coach of the Wellington Wave U-16 girls soccer team. If this name is familiar, it should be. Shannon was also the assistant coach for this year’s Class 6A state champion Lady Wolverines women’s soccer team at Wellington High School.

The Wave girls hosted their early season opener against the Miami Premier last Saturday morning under the sun.

Both teams had several opportunities to score in the first half but neither could muster a goal due to solid defensive play. The big save of the first half came when a Miami Premier

forward broke through the Wave defense and placed a solid shot just under the cross bar, and Wave keeper Brianna Nardi jumped up to tip the ball over the bar. The first half ended scoreless.

The Wave came out in the second period pressuring the Miami defense early. Wave forward Jillian Collins received a pass from the midfield, and drove the ball up the right side. Collins curled in behind the defender and launched the ball high into the back of the net for the 1-0 lead nine minutes into the half.

Solid play from Wave defenders Katie Hanlon, Maria Collins

and Brittany Hobby kept the Miami offense off balance for most of the second period. Occasional battles for possession took place in midfield between Maggie Matella and Nicole Falzone trying to control play.

With about five minutes left to play, Miami set up for a corner kick and sent a high looping corner kick directly into the penalty area. The ball landed too far for the keeper to commit, and was bounced around off of several players from both sides. The penalty area was crowded with the defense trying to clear, and the keeper trying to track the ball through a wall of players. A Miami forward grabbed a de-

flection and struck a shot into the right side of the net, making the score 1-1 with little time left. The Wave fought back and took the ball up field twice before the final whistle, with both shots going wide right, making the final score 1-1.

Sanguinetti was pleased with her team’s performance for their first game.

“The team only had two weeks to prepare, and were as prepared as they could be for their opening match and played very well,” she said. Next week the Wave girls will face Team Boca at Florida Atlantic University and host the Makos on Sunday.

Martial Arts Event To Benefit Children’s Hospitals

On Saturday, Sept. 27, thousands of tae kwon do students across the United States will be breaking boards and putting on martial arts exhibitions to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. The event is called “Health Kicks.” Locally, it will be presented by Palm Beach Super Tae Kwon Do from noon to 2 p.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). The event is organized by American Tae Kwon Do United (ATU), a professional organization for tae kwon do schools

throughout the country that is dedicated to having a positive impact on the lives of children in their communities.

Sun Chong, a tae kwon do grandmaster and the president of the ATU, started the idea as a result of his experience conducting Health Kicks for ten years with his schools located in the suburbs of Buffalo, N.Y. In that time, Chong and his students were able to raise an impressive $420,000 to benefit the Women’s and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. Similar to a walkathon or a

dance-athon, the Health Kick is a board-break-athon. Students of all ages and belt ranks, many of them children, are currently gathering sponsors and pledge. Then on Sept. 27, they will be breaking those boards with a variety of tae kwon do kicks, punches and strikes.

One hundred percent of the profits from each event will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network to distribute to children’s hospitals throughout the country. The Children’s Miracle Network is a non-profit organiza-

tion dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising money for children’s hospitals across North America. All donations raised by each Health Kick go directly to the area’s closest Children’s Miracle Network affiliated hospitals. Children’s Miracle Network hospitals use the money to provide lifesaving pediatric care, education and research.

For more information about Health Kicks at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, call Gene Nardi at (561) 784-8964.

Nicole Falzone battles for midfield possession against two Premier players.

Katie Hanlon takes the ball from a Miami Premier forward.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

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 legendary visitor of the night. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Moksha Yoga Studio (3340 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 5, Wellington) will host Free Kids 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. 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) 4271767 to pre-register.

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

• 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. Tickets cost $150 per person. For more info., call (561) 366-0013, ext. 5138 or e-mail michelle.cavanaugh@ cancer.org.

Sunday, Aug. 24

• Church @ the Grove 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 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. The church also offers a children’s program. For more info., contact Pastor Holly Ostlund at (561) 333-2020 or church atthegrove@bellsouth.net.

• 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.

Monday, Aug. 25

• The Royal Palm Beach Library (500 Civic Center Way) will hold pre-registration for “Fall Story Time” for ages nine months to five years for sessions from Sept. 8 through Oct. 31 beginning Monday, Aug. 25. For info., call (561) 790-6030.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will hold “Baby Story Time” on Monday, Aug. 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) 7906070. Tuesday, Aug. 26

• The Girl Scouts of Palm Glades Council will hold a recruitment meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Acreage Pines Elementary School cafeteria. For more info., call (561) 4276902 or e-mail sholmes@ gspgc.org.

• The Wellington branch of the Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches (13889 Wellington Trace, Suite A-15) will present the 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 non-contact boxing exercises. The cost is $5 per person prepaid, $10 at door. For more info., call (561) 253-6030. Wednesday, Aug. 27

• The Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County will host a networking mixer on Wednesday, Aug. 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Windsor Gardens Hotel in Palm

Beach Gardens. It 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 “Pajama Time” on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. for ages three and up. Wear your favorite pajamas to story time to hear stories about bedtime. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Wellington’s Movie Discussion Group” on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m. for adults. Did Sex and the City leave you craving a conversation about the current state of relations between women and men? Join in a lively discussion led by Sara Harris. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070. Thursday, Aug. 28

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Estate & Life Care Planning” on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 2 p.m. for adults. Attorney G. Mark Shalloway will reveal how to protect your assets from the costs of long-term care and discuss the basics of probate, guardianships and recent changes to Medicare and Medicaid. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• A kickoff party for the Western Communities Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk will be held Thursday, Aug. 28 at center court in the original Wellington Mall at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. Registration begins 5:30 p.m. The program takes place from 5:45 to 7 p.m. Anyone interested in obtaining information about the Oct. 18 walk is invited to attend. For more info., call Maureen Gross at (561) 366-0013, ext. 5136.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Teen Game Night” on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 through 17. Enjoy Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Hero and snacks. To preregister, call (561) 790-6070.

Friday, Aug. 29

• Come join Temple Beth Zion for “Shabbat by the Sea” on Friday, Aug. 29. Congregants will meet at the municipal beach at the end of Okeechobee Blvd. Pack a picnic dinner and arrive at 6 p.m. The Shabbat Service led by Rabbi Bert Kieffer will begin at 7:30 p.m. For more info., call (561) 798-8888 or visit www. templebethzion.net.

• The Girl Scouts of Palm Glades Council will hold a recruitment meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School cafeteria. For more info., call (561) 427-6902 or e-mail sholmes @gspgc.org.

Saturday, Aug. 30

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Colors” on Saturday, Aug. 30 at 11 a.m. for ages two and up. Participants will have a colorific time reading books and making craft. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hold a tour of the Jupiter Lighthouse (500 Captain Armour’s Way) on Saturday, Aug. 30. Meet at the lighthouse 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 info.

Sunday, Aug. 31

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present the ’80s Regeneration Tour with 10,000 Maniacs, ABC, Missing Persons, Naked Eyes and Tommy Tutone on Sunday, Aug. 31 at 7 p.m. For more info., call the box office at (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org.

Monday, Sept. 1

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will host “Florida Takes to the Trails” at 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 1 at the Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). Call Sherry at (561) 963-9906 for more info.

Thursday, Sept. 4

• The Girl Scouts of Palm Glades Council will hold a recruitment meeting from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Emerald Cove Middle School cafeteria. For more info., call (561) 427-6902 or e-mail sholmes@gspgc.org.

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.

Contractors Plus Can Help Find The Right Person For The Job

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Local interior decorator Kandi Warrack has taken her business to the next level. Having restyled local homes since 1996 as the creative force behind Decorating on a Dime, Warrack is putting her wealth of contacts and experience with local contractors to good use with a new enterprise, Contractors Plus.

Essentially, Warrack uses her expertise to find the right contractor for a customer who wants remodeling work done.

“When people call in and they’re looking, say, for somebody to replace windows, or they’re looking for someone to restructure their pool screen, or they’re looking for remodeling in any way, shape or form, we’re a one-stop shop,” she said. “They can contact me, and I will filter whatever contractor they need for that particular job.”

Warrack bills clients for the contractor’s work, which simplifies things in cases of multiple contractors on a project, and clients usually make out better in the end. “Because of the volume of business, the contractors give me a discount rate,” she explained.

People in need of a remodeling job can call Warrack and describe what they want to do. She will assess their needs and contact the contractor best suited for the job, who will provide an estimate and if approved, proceed with the job. With over a decade of decorating experience in Wellington, Warrack said she has learned who the more reliable contractors are. “I work exclusively with contractors who are very reputable and show up on time. We are able to do it at a reasonable cost because we have the agreements with the contractors in the area,” she said. “This enables homeowners in the area — women in particular — who maybe don’t have someone to call to do the fixer-uppers. They can just contact us, and we’ll do on-site free estimates.”

Warrack said her work as a decorator demonstrated the de-

mand for someone to point clients in the right direction. “There’s a lot involved with hiring an electrician, hiring a plumber, and finding custom countertops, cabinets or flooring, so by having a one-stop shop, I can filter all those things in at budget prices and save clients about ten steps,” she said. “They don’t have to go out and do the research. I’ve got it all done for them.”

Years of decorating work have also made Warrack adept at understanding the many different ways a remodeling situation can be addressed.

“I have a list of everything clients would possibly need for any kind of restructuring or remodeling,” she said. “If someone were to call me, for example, and say, ‘I really want to update my cabinets but it’s really a little bit difficult to redo everything,’ what I can do is come out with cabinet samples. I can send a contractor out. We can get an idea of what they’re looking to do. I then do the research and find the lowest possible price along with a contractor to do it.”

Warrack said she inherited her passion for decorating from her mother, who was also a decorator. “I’ve been doing this in one form or another since I was a little girl,” she said. “As I got older, I decided to do it as a career. What’s better than to do something that you love for a living? My mother taught, so I grew up knowing what you’re supposed to do here, what you’re supposed to do there, what looks good, what doesn’t. I’m very hands-on. I do many of the faux finishes myself. I’m very experimental, and I like to try different things. However, I’ll try it on paper before I do it in a home.”

Warrack characterizes herself as a problem solver.

“I like to go in and take a structure and say, ‘OK, now what’s the best use of space here? What can we do? What walls can we tear down to make best use of space?’ I love the creative end of it,” she said. “People would be surprised. It’s

amazing how reasonable things can be done for if you have the right contacts.”

Client Irene Douglas, gives testimony to Warrack’s decorating expertise. “What I love about Kandi is that she can just look into a room and you don’t have to buy a whole set of furniture,” Douglas said. “She can just move a lamp or take a couch and angle it. She has wonderful ideas without spending a lot of money.”

In addition to typical remodeling and reconstruction jobs, Warrack can also find clients the help they might need during hurricane season.

“One of the reasons I got involved with this was that with our recent hurricane seasons, there are so many quick jobs that need to be done, either in preparation or after the fact: screen enclosures that get torn down that need to be rebuilt, cleaning up the property, patching holes in roofs or whatever may happen as a result of a hurricane,” she said. “We have contracts with companies that will allow us first bid. They’ll come to us first because of the volume of business we provide them, which also allows us to offer a lower cost. That’s one of the advantages that we have for hurricane cleanup or repair.”

Contractors Plus can also put clients in contact with trusted real estate agents and appraisers if needed, Warrack said.

“There are many times you need appraisers for insurance purposes,” she said. “There are people who, when damage hits, they are interested in just getting out. In those situations, it’s nice to have someone who can come out and do an appraisal for you, as well as a real estate agent that can come out and give you the information you need. It’s a nice fit. We have a lot of people who work together. I’ve had a reputable business in this area for quite a while, and I work with very reputable people.”

For more information on Contractors Plus, call Warrack at (561) 385-1493 or e-mail accjob1@aol.com.

‘People would be surprised. It’s amazing how reasonable things can be done for if you have the right contacts.’ — Kandi Warrack of Contractors Plus

Interior Makeover — (Above and below) Interior decorator Kandi Warrack of Contractors Plus stands inside the redecorated bathroom of client Irene Douglas. PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Fresh Market Sidewalk Sale To Benefit Junior Diabetes Research

The Fresh Market in Wellington is gearing up for its annual sidewalk sale to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). From Friday, Sept. 12 through Sunday, Sept. 14, the gourmet grocer will be serving up hamburgers, hot dogs and root beer floats.

All of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the JDRF. The sidewalk sale will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

In preparation for this yearly event, the Fresh Market will kick off a sneaker-sale drive, selling JDRF logo paper sneakers at its registers, again with all proceeds going to JDRF. The sneaker sale campaign will run from Aug. 29 through Sept. 12. Walgreens, Marshalls and Advance Auto Parts stores will also be hosting sneaker sale campaigns during the month of September.

The Fresh Market’s commitment to JDRF and the foundation’s mission to find a cure for diabetes and its complications is unwavering. All 79 of its stores in 14 states bring communities together to raise critically needed funds for diabetes. The Fresh Market has already raised over $500,000 for the JDRF since 2005. Last year, the sidewalk sale raised a total of $267,000 for the JDRF.

“We are glad to help the community in any way we can,” Wellington Fresh Market Manger Rodney Verbeck said. “This

is why we are continuing our support of endeavors like these.”

Steve DiMaggio, manager of the Boca Raton Fresh Market, agreed. “From top management at our headquarters, to every manager and employee in our stores, we believe that it is important to be responsible corporate citizens,” he said. “We also know that events like these lead to great camaraderie within our stores and in the communities in which we serve.”

The JDRF was founded in 1970 by the parents of children with juvenile diabetes — a disease that strikes children suddenly, makes them insulin dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Since inception, the JDRF has provided more than $1.16 billion to diabetes research worldwide. More than 87 percent of the JDRF’s expenditures directly support research and education about research. The JDRF’s mission is constant: to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research.

The Wellington Fresh Market is located at 10640 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington Green Square. For more information, call (561) 753-9861 or visit www.freshmarket.com.

For more information about juvenile diabetes, the JDRF or the sidewalk sale, call the Greater Palm Beach County Office at (561) 686-7701 or e-mail greaterpalmbeach@jdrf.org.

SF FAIRGROUNDS HOSTS TRI-CHAMBER MIXER

The Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County joined the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County and the Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County last Wednesday at the South Florida Fairgrounds for a networking mixer. The event included opening remarks from South Florida Fair Community Outreach Trustee Chair Jack Frost, Fair Chairman David Goodlett and Fair President and CEO Rick Vylamil, who gave a presentation on what to expect from next year’s fair. Representatives of the three chambers also spoke, including Pat Taras and Theresa LePore of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Yvette Trelles and Pedro Guilarte of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Paul Nunnally and Verdenia Baker of the Black Chamber of Commerce.

Groundbreaking For Wellington Medical Arts Pavilion IV Scheduled For Sept. 4

The Rendina Companies will break ground on Wellington Medical Arts Pavilion IV on Thursday, Sept. 4 at 8:15 a.m.

The site, on the campus of Wellington Regional Medical Center, is located immediately across from Wellington Medical Arts Pavilion III.

The planned four-story, 50,000-square-foot medical office condominium building is currently more than 50 percent committed and construction is scheduled to be completed in the third quarter of 2009. Rendina will provide all project funding and is responsible for all project development and management from start to finish.

“We’ve enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Wellington Regional Medical Center, where our projects have benefited the hospital, the physicians and

most importantly, the community as a whole,” Rendina Executive Vice President of Leasing & New Business Development Todd Varney said. “This is the fourth step in an overall campus plan that will allow Wellington Regional to continue to expand to meet our area’s everchanging needs.”

WRMC strives to provide quality, cost-effective patient care and outpatient services, and further enhance the “onestop shopping” environment of this expanding hospital campus.

“With the recent expansion and current growth plans for the hospital, it is necessary for us to continue to improve our campus’s facilities as a whole,” WRMC CEO Kevin DiLallo said. “This fourth medical arts pavilion serves a

dual purpose of adding physician space to a campus already at capacity and also affording our on-staff physicians the opportunity to reap the benefits of our continued success through 100-percent ownership of their office.”

Wellington Regional Medical Center is owned by Universal Health Services Inc., one of the nation’s largest and most respected healthcare management companies. The hospital, founded in 1986, is a 143-bed comprehensive acute-care hospital located on a 56-acre medical campus at the intersection of State Road 7 and Forest Hill Blvd.

The Rendina Companies is one of the nation’s leading fullservice medical real estate development companies, providing national real estate develop-

ment, leasing, financing, construction, and comprehensive property and asset management services to healthcare providers and the related development industry. In the past 20 years, the firm has developed more than 4.5 million square feet of medical facilities throughout the country.

With headquarters in Jupiter and La Jolla, Calif., the company maintains extensive real estate holdings and development properties nationwide. It provides for all aspects of development, from site analysis and acquisition through development and leasing, including a wide range of financing options and development programs. For more information, call Varney at (866) 630-5055 or visit www.rendinacompanies.com.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

South Florida Fair Community Outreach Trustee Chair Jack Frost.

Theresa LePore of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

Black Chamber of Commerce representatives Paul Nunnaly, Stephanie Scott Johnson and Frank Cummings.

Pat Taras, Maryam Fraser, Margarita Abrishami, Theresa LePore and Sharon Merchant.

Fighting Diabetes — Wellington Fresh Market Manager Rodney Verbeck with store employees.

Classes Beginning At New Dance Theatre At Wellington Green

By Leonard Wechsler Town-Crier Staff Report

A well-established Broward County dance studio is opening a new location in the western communities. Classes at the Dance Theatre at Wellington Green begin this Saturday, Aug. 23.

In its 16-year history, Dance Theatre has already established locations in Davie, Parkland and Coral Springs. Director Michelle McGrath Gerlick said the new location in the Wellington Green Square shopping plaza on Forest Hill Blvd. will likewise provide instruction in a wide range of dance styles.

“Today’s professional performers have to be able to do everything,” Gerlick said. “It’s not just learning how to sing, dance and act. For a dancer, you have to be able to dance any style. You could be working a hip-hop concert or be part of the chorus line of 42nd Street, where you have to tap dance ” Gerlick said each of the three Broward County locations has between 400 and 600 students, studying techniques in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, lyrical and acrobatics, and the Wellington studio will offer the same.

Most of the instructors have performed as professional dancers, although some are longtime Dance Theatre students, Gerlick said. Students may specialize in one discipline or learn a variety of styles, and it doesn’t matter whether they’re aiming for stardom or dancing for recreation.

“We can turn our dancers into professionals if that’s what they want, but we also provide a great place after school for people who just love to dance and want to become better,” Gerlick said. “It’s probably the most fun you can have doing exercise.”

The school accepts students as young as two and a half and runs early programs during school hours for very young children. Most classes are scheduled after school hours since most students are school-aged. The school will also offer ballroom dancing classes for adults.

A lifelong resident of Broward County, Gerlick began her dance training 35 years ago at her parents’ school the Academy of Ballet Arts. She has been a Miami Heat dancer and was a “Fly Girl” on Fox TV’s In Living Color

“I come by my love of dancing naturally,” Gerlick said. “My mother Joni Arlen McGrath was a dancer in New York. She was a Rockette and a June Taylor Dancer and also appeared with my dad on The Ed Sullivan Show. Mom also is choreographer for the Broadway Ziegfield Club, which is made up of

showgirls from the old days on Broadway.”

Gerlick credits her mother, who serves as Dance Theatre’s manager, for contributing much to the school’s curriculum.

“She knows the old styles really well and makes sure that our dancers know that,” Gerlick said. “I work to keep things modern and cutting-edge. Our students gain from being able to get elements from both. Look at So You Think You Can Dance. They ask all the dancers to use a variety of styles. That’s what’s really needed. Unfortunately, many schools only teach one style.”

While the school promotes different types of dancing so students can perform more than what the current tastes favor, Gerlick acknowledges that trends create demand among students.

“Right now, hip-hop is very popular,” she said. “We have a lot of classes in that, including one that is specifically for boys.”

Gerlick also noted that her school does not try to push students beyond their abilities. “We get some girls who want to learn ballet,” she said. “But we make sure the girls don’t get up on pointe, on their toes, until they are old enough that their feet can handle that. We want our dancers to only do what is healthy.”

The school recently gained a measure of fame when former Dolphin Jason Taylor trained there with his partner Edyta Sliwinska for his work in Dancing With The Stars.

“I was there, or my husband was, for all of their training sessions,” Gerlick said.

Dance Theatre students all take part in the school’s recital, which will be held in May.

“Our best dancers, who we call our X-treme Team, compete and perform locally and nationally,” Gerlick said.

“The group has performed over the years at a variety of charitable fundraisers, but also performed at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, the 2004 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the 2006 International Dance Challenge. We have competed successfully in a lot of competitions.”

The Dance Theatre at Wellington Green is located in the Wellington Green Square shopping plaza at 10620 W. Forest Hill Blvd. and offers classes from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

For more information, call (561) 784-4401 or visit www.dancetheatre. net.

Located at 1035 S. State Road 7, Suite 310, in the Wellington Reserve, Master Dental is an endodontic practice run by Dr. Janice Master, who has been practicing dentistry for 15 years. The office has state-of-theart equipment and a friendly and compassionate staff. Master Dental accepts most insurance policies and tries to work with those without insurance. Master, who is fluent in Spanish, has been in South Florida for four years. Her philosophy is simple: “always do what is right for the patient and remember there is a person attached to that tooth.” For more information, call (561) 795-7133. Pictured here is Dr. Janice Master, her staff and family members with Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.

Star Dance Teachers — Dance Theatre Director Michelle McGrath Gerlick (second from the right) and husband Randy (second from the left) are flanked by former Miami Dolphin Jason Taylor (right) and his Dancing With The Stars partner Edyta Sliwinska (left).

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS

*YARD CLEAN-UP AND MULCHING * SPRINKLER MAINTENANCE & REPAIR * EXPERT HEDGE & TREE TRIMMING * LOW WATER-LOW MAINTENANCE GARDENS * HOUSE CARE SERVICES

ROXANA MATHIEU - Professional Pianist. Affordable Private Lessons. 561791-9261 THE CHIP ERASER - Dents, bumper repair, custom color matching, chips, scratches, mobile auto body repair. I come to you at your convenience. 561704-3164

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! Lic.#9001390. 798-3132.

ROLL DOWN SHUTTERS — Accordion shutters, storm panels and rolling shutters...prices that can’t be beat. All shutters Systems, Inc. 863-0955

AFFORDABLE HURRICANE PRO-

TECTION — 2 - 4 wks. Installed Guaranteed! 10% deposit . Will get you started. All products, Dade County approved. We manufacture our own product. 561-568-6099, 772-342-8705 Lic. & Ins. CGC 1511213 SALES, SERVICE AND INSTALLATION FOR ALL TYPES — Windows, doors, accordion & panel shutters. Impact glass. USA IMPACT WINDOWS & DOORS. 561-502-1518

PANELS PLUS, LLC. - Aluminum, Steel, Accordian, Lexan. All Dade County Approved. Do-it-Yourself or installation available. 561-722-8343. Lic. & Ins.

HURRICANE PROTECTION — Accordian & Bahama Shutters, impact doors & windows, sales, service & installation, financing available. RAINGUARD, Inc. 561-969-9005 Lic. Bonded. Ins U15212. Owner/Installer.

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC - Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-9646004 Lic. #U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

Hot Tub Express -

561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident. PAINTING - HOME PAINTING Interior - Exterior. $1290 +tax up to 2500 sq. ft. (walls area) 561-674-HOME(4663)

Over 23 years experience. License #U-18337 • Bonded • Insured Owner/Operator George Born. 561686-6701

ELITE POOL CLEANING - "You dealt with the rest now deal with the best" All maintenance & repairs, salt chlorinator, heaters, leak detection. 561-7915073. Inquire about 1 months free service.

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING — Established in 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.Call Butch 561-309-6975 BD TEEJAY'S TURBO CLEANING - Pressure Cleaning. Houses, Buildings, Driveways, Walkways, Screen Enclosures, & More. No Job Too Small. From Top to Bottom. Pool Decks, Property Management. Residential/Commercial. Free estimates. 255-1399 Cell. Timmy T. 792-2888

FUND YOUR OWN REVERSE MORTGAGE. SAVE YOUR HOME - & get paid to help others do the same. We can now assist people under 62 years of age. Madelyn 561-422-2910

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS – Roof painting. Carpentry. License #U13677. 9675580. BD SHAKE ROOF SPECIALISTS –– New roofs, repairs, preservation. License #CC025465. Shake Masters, Shake Chem. Members of Shake Bureau. 439-6668 BD ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. BD ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134