Town-Crier Newspaper December 18, 2015 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

WELLINGTON CHAMBER HOLIDAY LUNCH SEE STORY, PAGE 3

NUVISTA SUPPORTS TOYS FOR TOTS SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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Equestrian Board Supports Permanent Grand Prix Farms Access To PBIEC

Volume 36, Number 49 December 18 - December 24, 2015

Serving Palms West Since 1980

RINGING IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON

Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee recommended approval of master plan amendments allowing access from the Grand Prix Farms development to the Wellington Country Place development last week. The approvals will replace a temporary access agreement recently approved by the Wellington Village Council. Page 3

Tipsy Salonbar In Wellington Hosts Grand Reopening Celebration

Tipsy Salonbar in Wellington hosted a grand reopening celebration Dec. 10 with Beth Nguyen as head owner, while introducing Dr. Bao Doan and Tipsy’s new med spa, featuring treatments such as Botox and Microdermabrasion. Tipsy is located at 10120 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 100, in the Pointe at Wellington Green. Page 17

Bill’s Bikes Motorcycle Toy Run Brings In Toys For Tots Donations

OPINION History Will Judge The Paris Climate Change Agreement

History will be the judge of last weekend’s historic Paris Agreement, the pact that commits 196 nations to work together in an attempt to limit climate change and stem the continued rise of greenhouse gas emissions. Here is hoping that it leads to a new era of innovation that puts the worst dangers behind us. With luck, history will judge the effort a success, not too little, too late. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS................................. 3 - 9 OPINION.................................. 4 CRIME NEWS.......................... 6 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 8 PEOPLE................................. 13 SCHOOLS.......................14 - 15 COLUMNS...................... 16, 25 BUSINESS......................26 - 27 SPORTS..........................31 - 33 CALENDAR............................ 34 CLASSIFIEDS................ 35 - 38 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The 32nd annual Wellington Holiday Parade rolled down Forest Hill Blvd. on Sunday, Dec. 13. The event, produced by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington, featured more than 100 parade entries with close to 3,000 participants. Shown here are Santa Claus (Henrik Nordstrom) and Mrs. Claus (Maggie Zeller) on the Wellington Rotary Club float. SEE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Residents Support Aero Club Pathway

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Municipal Complex hosted approximately 40 Aero Club residents Tuesday for an informational meeting about the Aero Club Multiuse Path Project. The meeting, led by Village Engineer Bill Riebe and Senior Engineer Patrick Barthelemy, explained the scope of the plan, as well as three design options for the project that will add a pathway, friendly for bikers, skaters, walkers and joggers, through the community. “We want to present our various conceptual design options to you guys,” Barthelemy said, asking residents for their input as the project goes forward. The three options were designed to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, allow for a 6-foot separation between the edge of the roadway and the edge of the path, meet the required drainage standards, and leave a 6-foot clear zone around trees and a 4-foot clear zone from property lines — all while keeping within a $675,000 budget.

The pathway, Barthelemy said, will be topped by at least 1 inch of asphaltic concrete over at least 8 inches of compacted lime rock base, which is over 12 inches of a compacted subgrade. Twenty driveways on 15 lots will be affected as the path runs through the driveway because of ADA crossslope requirements. “The common element that you’ll notice in all three designs is that when we get back here along the canal, we moved all three pathways behind the trees that are along the canal so we don’t disturb any of those, and then we maintain that all the way around until we get back into the homes,” Barthelemy said. “And then the designs are all different from that point.” Option A starts 4 feet off of a property. When a tree is in the path, the path will meander around the tree, maintaining a 6-foot clear zone from the tree trunk. Option A has the following impacts: disturbance of oak tree root systems; close to private property; relocation of existing private entry columns and key pads on three See AERO CLUB, page 18

GL Homes Pitches Plan To ITID SENIORS CLUB DINNER

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report GL Homes representatives gave a presentation Wednesday to the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors on their proposed development west of The Acreage. The discussion included the pledge of a 640-acre water retention area to ITID, to improve all roads affected by the development and to become an activated ITID unit. GL Homes Vice President Kevin Ratterree said the plan was scheduled to go before the county’s Land Planning Agency this month, but it was postponed because the proposed Avenir project in Palm Beach Gardens presented its traffic plan to the county and received approval, which made it necessary for GL Homes to modify its own plan. “Palm Beach County issued approval, and GL Homes had to revise its application to include

Avenir as background traffic,” Ratterree said. “It was too short a time to assess traffic impact.” As a result, the GL Homes application will probably go before the Palm Beach County Commission in March for a transmittal hearing, with an adoption hearing in June or July. The developer is asking to change the land use designation on its 4,900-acre site from 0.1 to 0.8 homes per acre, which would enable about 3,900 homes. The site is to the northwest of The Acreage, east of the federally owned Moss property. Ratterree said that the idea of dedicating a water retention area to ITID came out of a question asked in a meeting with ITID Engineer Jay Foy and Palm Beach County Water Resources Manager Ken Todd on how the development can provide a positive benefit to the area. “Mr. Foy is intimately more qualified than I am to give details

of that, but the idea is that the property, if developed as a reservoir, could hold up to 5,000 acre feet of additional water,” he said. “This area could be used for additional discharge over time, so part of our proposal is the dedication of that property for free to the improvement district.” Ratterree added that an additional 1,125 acres has been set aside for either agricultural use or water purposes, if the South Florida Water Management District is looking for additional water storage. The site itself will have a series of external and internal buffers, and perimeter buffers 50 to 100 feet wide that will provide connectivity for pedestrians and equestrians. “Those elements — the 640 acres, the 1,125 acres, plus the exterior buffer network — represent 50 percent of the site in what we’re calling ‘exterior open space’ that is defined in the proposed See GL HOMES, page 4

Local Issues The Focus At McKinlay Town Hall Meeting

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay and top county staff held a meeting at Loxahatchee Groves Town Hall last Thursday to give updates on projects and issues affecting the western communities. Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Chief Jeff Collins started the discussion, announcing that the new Station 22, currently located in a rented storefront with engines kept outside, will be built on property provided by the new Westlake (Minto West) development and will be four bays with five personnel instead of three, making it a potential battalion station. Another station is planned near FPL’s West County Energy Center. Collins added that PBCFR was in a critical level of deficit spending following the recent economic downturn, but the recent economic

improvement is allowing the department to pull out of it this year. However, new hiring and capital projects were delayed, and now money needs to be restored to the budget to allow for capital improvements. “This will be the first year that we’ve balanced the budget based on ad valorem dollars,” he said. “We will see an actual positive cash flow. We know we have to start funding more positions.” Chris Pettit of the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department credited local special districts for working with the county and other water management entities for helping maintain a fresh water supply and environmental quality. Projects he is working on include one with Westlake’s Seminole Improvement District, a $2 million plan to provide additional water storage, in coordination with

a north county project to reduce discharge to the Lake Worth Lagoon and restore water flow to the Loxahatchee River. “This will capture stormwater otherwise lost to tide,” Pettit said. “The ultimate goal is to benefit the north fork of the Loxahatchee River.” Palm Beach County Legislative Affairs Director Todd Bonlarron said that he and his staff have spent a lot of time in Tallahassee pushing back on the state’s attempts to compromise home rule authority and keep local growth management policy in place. Bonlarron said that the legislature will be back in session on Jan. 12, and he and his staff will be there to try to get legislation favorable to the county enacted and block unfavorable legislation. “Oftentimes what doesn’t happen in Tallahassee is more imporSee TOWN HALL, page 18

The Wellington Seniors Club held its annual installation dinner and dance on Friday, Dec. 11 at the Wanderers Club. The Studio 54 Band played dance music from the 1960s and 1970s, while seniors partied the night away. Shown here are Mae and Tom Loglisci, Eileen and George Kuhnel, Mary and Tony Alfalla, Peg Caliendo and Jerry Springer. SEE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Coventry Green Wants Fence Along Forest Hill Blvd.

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Richard Cosola of Canterbury Circle in Wellington’s Coventry Green neighborhood presented a petition last week signed by his neighbors asking that the Wellington Village Council consider erecting a barrier fence on Forest Hill Blvd. along Palm Beach Polo’s old north course. “It’s very specific,” Cosola said at the Dec. 8 meeting. “It’s to have a barrier along Forest Hill Blvd. where our community ends to just about the top of the hill. You probably all have passed it about a thousand times. We’re that community right after the library. There’s a big problem. We have a completely open space to that sidewalk. Anybody, at any given time, can just walk right from

that sidewalk into the back of our property.” A vehicle could also hop the curb and drive into the area, he said. “Imagine what we’re subjected to,” Cosola said. “We’ve had some burglaries, some vandalism. I’ve put lights up.” Cosola said that the south side of Forest Hill Blvd. has a split-rail fence and a ficus hedge shielding the view of a polo field owned by Palm Beach Polo. “We’re not asking for a ficus hedge, we know about those,” he said, “but maybe a split-rail fence with the proper foliage would be easy to do.” Cosola said that there is a sufficient public easement on the north side to put up a fence and hedge. “You may ask is that [Palm See FENCE, page 18

PBSC Hopes To Open New Campus In Fall Of 2016

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Jacqueline Rogers, dean of health sciences and public safety at Palm Beach State College, gave a presentation to the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board on Monday about the new college campus under construction at Southern Blvd. and B Road in Loxahatchee Groves. Rogers told the board that she was appointed as director of the new campus a week ago. “I’m very excited, and actually you’re the first audience that I’ve gotten to say that in front of,” she said. The first building on the campus is now well out of the ground. “The third floor is ready to be poured, the steel beams are still there, and we’re hoping that it

will be completed next year at this time, perhaps for a late fall or January opening,” Rogers said. PBSC is the nation’s eighthlargest producer of associate’s degrees in arts and sciences, awarding more than 6,000 degrees and certificates each year. It has the lowest tuition in the state and is a steppingstone to higher education, according to a video presentation Rogers showed at the meeting. The college also offers baccalaureate degrees and a variety of technical, health, visual and performing arts, criminal justice, firefighting, paramedic and managerial programs. “If you have ever been taken care of in a dental office, seen a nurse or had the opportunity to interact with a police officer or

firefighter, maybe not in the best of situations, those individuals are 90 percent likely to have completed the programs at Palm Beach State College,” she said. PBSC is far more than just a place students go for two years before heading to a university, she explained. “We are about infusing the county work force and providing training for the jobs that we have here in Palm Beach County,” Rogers said. The college also offers a program called “Finish for Free,” in which dual-enrolled high school students or those in the early-admit program who have completed 30 credits at the college with a 3.5 GPA and decide to finish college there can have their degree paid for.

“That is a phenomenal boost to what parents are able to do to send their kids to college,” she said. “There are a number of opportunities for students to attend college for free, and we want you to take advantage of that.” The Loxahatchee Groves campus will focus on technology and health sciences. “That’s where we’re headed to begin with,” Rogers said. “Our board has approved those programs initially at the first building, [and] we will have multiple buildings at that site, so the first program we will move there is health information technology, which is all about healthcare, but no blood. If you know anyone who really wants to get into healthcare, but they don’t want to interact with

patients day-to-day, but realize the importance of health sciences and healthcare, they can work in health information technology, medical coding, medical transcription [or as a] medical information specialist.” The other program that will be located at the new campus is the nursing bachelor’s degree curriculum. “We have some exciting things coming,” Rogers said. “We are going to have the newest technology at this campus. I looked at some furniture designs today, and what people will see will be beyond their expectations when they walk through the front doors next year.” Rogers hopes to get a certificate of occupancy in September of See NEW CAMPUS, page 18

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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NEWS

Equestrian Board Supports Permanent Grand Prix Farms Access

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Equestrian Preserve Committee recommended approval of master plan amendments allowing access from the Grand Prix Farms development to the Wellington Country Place development last week. The approvals will replace a temporary access agreement recently approved by the Wellington Village Council. Senior Planner Cory Lyn Cramer explained that there were two master plan amendments, one for lots 8, 9 and 10 of Grand Prix Farms, a planned residential development, and another for Wellington Country Place, a planned unit development that includes the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. “The request before you is to add two access points that would allow vehicular traffic to utilize Gene Mische Way to enter lots 8, 9

and 10,” Cramer said. “In order to do this, a master plan amendment for each of the planned developments is required to identify these access points. The requested access points for Grand Prix Farms are the same access points that are requested for the Wellington Country Place PUD.” Grand Prix Farms is made up of both residential and commercial recreation land uses, with lots 8, 9 and 10 now unified into a single lot. There are two permanent barns on the property, and during the equestrian season, additional temporary stalls are constructed. The site operates as an official FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale) quarantine facility. Equestrian Sport Productions received a seasonal equestrian permit for the 2015 season for two driveway access points from Gene Mische Way to lots 8, 9 and 10, and a similar request was approved

by the council earlier this month for the 2016 season. The request before the committee was to obtain permanent approval for the access points. “The purpose of the access is to allow users of the FEI facility that’s located on lots 8, 9 and 10 to access the site from Gene Mische Way,” Cramer said. “The access to Grand Prix Farms Drive, which is within the gated community to the west, will be limited to the owners of the property, to those entities that may be maintaining the property, and to emergency vehicles, so there will not be through access for the people who are stabling their horses on that lot through Grand Prix Farms.” Committee Member Houston Meigs asked whether the property owners association had approved the permanent access, and Michael Sexton, agent for Equestrian Sport Productions, said that Wellington

Equestrian Partners, owners of the lots in question, went to the Grand Prix Village Property Owners Association in 2013. “They received approval from them for both the initial temporary connection, which was done through a special use permit, but at the same time they developed a site plan, went through the Architectural Review Committee with the Grand Prix Village POA, and got an approval that required a greater than 75 percent approval by the membership of the POA for a permanent access to Gene Mische Way,” Sexton said. The plan was for an initial oneyear trial, with provisions for a permanent solution. The agreement stipulates protections for the POA. “It is still part of the property owners association, which has the ability to monitor what’s being done on the property,” Sexton said. “They can come back to the

ownership if they feel that it’s not being utilized in the fashion that it was approved for.” Committee Member Michael Whitlow asked how access will be restricted to Grand Prix Village, and Sexton said that the property has fencing and gates that restrict access to the property from both directions, as well as security that monitors both gates. Committee Chair Linda Elie was concerned about having two driveways that cross a bridle path. “I think, at the very least, we should put in something to indicate that we’ve got a bridle path here, four-way stops or something, just for safety purposes,” Elie said. Sexton said that there will be gates on both sides of the bridle path, so access will be controlled. “There are also security people who are watching who’s coming in and out,” he said. Elie explained that markings

should also be included for safety, and Sexton agreed. Whitlow made a motion to approve the amendments with the condition that the bridle path crossings be clearly marked, and they both carried 4-0 with members Linda Smith Faver, Richard Ellis and Mary Jo Shockley absent. In other business, the committee recommended approval of another master plan amendment to add two access points from the Wellington Country Place PUD to the Grand Champions Polo north of Lake Worth Road and west of the C-6 Canal. The access points will provide better ingress and egress to the polo fields and also redirect traffic away from the residential pod itself, Cramer said. Committee Member Dr. Kristy Lund made a motion to approve the amendment, which carried 4-0.

Wellington Chamber Caps Successful Year With Holiday Lunch

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Chamber of Commerce held its holiday luncheon at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Wednesday, Dec. 16. Chamber President Johnny Meier opened the meeting with a discussion of WinterFest 2015, which took place recently at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The event drew more than 8,000 people. Meier thanked all of the sponsors for their parts in the successful event. “The chamber salutes all of our exhibitors, sponsors and performers for making their contribution

to Wellington’s unique lifestyle, its economy, and a spectacular event, and to each of you for attending, for being part of this event and part of our community,” Meier said. “We look forward to seeing you all next year.” On Feb. 28, he said, the chamber will be hosting the first Wellington ColorFest 5K, kicking off at 7 a.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Vendor and sponsorship spots are available for the run where participants are sure to get messy. For more information, visit www. wellingtonchamber.com. The proposed slate of officers for 2016-17 includes Meier as the

Councilman-Elect Michael Napoleone, Chamber Executive Director Michela Green, Chamber President Johnny Meier, Councilwoman Anne Gerwig and Councilman John McGovern.

immediate past president, Debra Crompton as president-elect, Tiffany Rodriguez as vice president, Dale Grimm as treasurer, Stuart Hack as secretary, and board members Blanca Greenstein, Michael Ferreira and Dr. Randy Laurich, and a representative from Palms West Hospital. Alec Domb nominated Bedonna Flesher to the board. Nicky Greed, local reggae rock singer/songwriter, who has performed at WinterFest twice, performed for the members, closing out the last luncheon of 2015. To learn more about the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Melody and Alex Domb with Bedonna Flesher.

VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH EDUCATION ADVISORY BOARD SCHOLARSHIP PRESS RELEASE The Village Council of the Village of Royal Palm Beach is proud to announce they are awarding ten (10) $1,000.00 scholarships to high school seniors residing in the Village of Royal Palm Beach. Seniors, graduating in May, application can be downloaded from the Village website at www.royalpalmbeach.com. The completed application must be postmarked no later than Friday, February 19, 2016 or may be hand-delivered to the Clerk’s Office at Village Hall located at 1050 Royal Palm Beach Boulevard in Royal Palm Beach by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 19, 2016. Finalists must be available for interviews on Saturday, April 2, 2016. The scholarship committee of the Education Advisory Board will make the final determination. Winners will be announced in April and the scholarships will be awarded at the Village Council meeting on Thursday, May 19, 2016. If you have questions, please call 790-5101.

Publish: Town-Crier 12/18/15 & 1/8/16

Singer/songwriter Nicky Greed performs.

Johnny Meier, Debra Crompton, Dale Grimm, Blanca Greenstein and Tiffany Rodriguez.

Kathleen Williams and Jennifer Hernandez.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

The Town-Crier

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OUR OPINION

History Will Be The Judge Of The Paris Climate Change Pact

History will be the ultimate judge of last weekend’s historic Paris Agreement, the pact that commits 196 nations to work together in an attempt to limit climate change and stem the continued rise of greenhouse gas emissions. The pact, adopted after years of groundwork and 13 days of intense bargaining in France, puts the world’s nations on a course that aims to change the way energy is produced and consumed, with countries gradually reducing their reliance on fossil fuels in favor of cleaner forms of energy. It is a positive step that, finally, a large percentage of the world’s leaders have figured out that there is a serious problem regarding climate change and, more importantly, have agreed to actually do something to safeguard the planet from its worst ravages. The fact that 196 nations signed off on the proposal is a rare display of universal agreement on a topic that has been a political football in many nations, including the United States. The agreement cobbles together pledges by individual nations to cut or reduce emissions from fossil-fuel burning, and it establishes a framework of rules which provide for both monitoring and verification, as well as financial and technical assistance for developing countries. All 196 nations are obligated to limit their emissions to relatively safe levels, leading to less than 2 degrees Celsius of global temperature rise, with a hope for only 1.5 degrees Celsius, with regular evaluations to ensure that these commitments can be increased in line with scientific advice. Additionally, funding will be provided to poorer nations, so they can work effectively to reduce emissions and deal better with the effects of extreme weather. Further, nations impacted by climate-related disasters will gain urgent aid. It is also a significant achievement for President Barack Obama and his administration. The president has made dealing with climate change a key provision of his political legacy, all the while facing vocal opposition from many Republicans, who take umbrage with the scientific community’s position that Earth’s recent warming is directly linked to man-made pollution.

However, there are some issues that need to be resolved as countries implement the proposal. First, poor countries are concerned that the money provided to them will not be nearly enough to protect them. Without proper funding, it is likely that some of these nations will opt out, hampering the pact’s implementation. Also, the agreement does not take effect until 2020. True, it takes nations some time to put in place their own steps to bring about a proposal of this magnitude, but because not all of the agreement is legally binding, some future governments could yet renege on their commitments. Political necessity here in the United States is one of the key reasons that the pact is not legally binding. Set up this way, the Obama administration does not have to bring the agreement before the Republican-controlled U.S. Senate for approval. According to Secretary of State John Kerry, binding legal requirements would have made the Paris agreement a treaty, requiring approval from two-thirds of the U.S. Senate — an impossibility in the current political climate. Further, we in South Florida have regional concerns as well. As we noted in August, some 2.4 million people and 1.3 million homes in Florida sit within 4 feet of the local high tide line. Sea level rise is more than doubling the risk of a storm surge at this level in South Florida by 2030. Taxpayers are already paying the price for climate change as saltwater pushes through porous bedrock into coastal drinking-water supplies, and rivers and canals choked by heavy rains have a harder time draining. Hopefully, the action taken by the world community will be enough to stop the changes before irreversible damage is done to our fragile ecosystem. For all its flaws, the Paris Agreement serves a useful purpose. It places its emphasis not on a politically impossible “cap and trade” concept that made dealing with climate change the enemy of economic growth, but on a push for cleaner energy and new technology. That’s something we do well here in the United States. Here is hoping that this new pact leads to a new era of innovation that puts the worst dangers of climate change behind us. With a little luck, history will judge the effort a success, not too little, too late.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Lox Council Plagued With Tunnel Vision

Loxahatchee Groves hosted a barbecue looking for residential feedback regarding a possible “Commercial Low Impact” zoning change on Okeechobee Blvd. Three of the five councilmen attended the event, Councilman Jim Rockett was a no show, and Councilman Ryan Liang left early. Please be reminded that these are the two councilmen under an FDLE investigation for the last council election. Everyone seemed focused on Okeechobee. When I brought up that Collecting Canal Road needed to be brought into the conversation, I was shut down. My point was, now that our council has approved a commercial entity at Folsom and Okeechobee, and they approved the commercial shopping plaza on Southern and B Road, Collecting Canal will become an alternate route. Why can’t this council see the big picture? Something has to become a problem before it is addressed by this council. The mayor dismissed and cut me off. It seemed the other councilmen did not mind hearing my suggestion. This council approves projects without the future of the town in consideration; they have no future vision. Look at the non-existent trail system. They approved money for the “trail bill,” lobbyists, surveys and attorneys, so that the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District could gain a tighter grip on the “LGWCD maintenance easements” (aka, our trails). We could have water and fire hydrants down B Road at the expense of these developers, but we don’t because of council tunnel vision. Let’s just “Say No to Minto.” Wasted time. The present county commissioners don’t get our lifestyle and don’t care; they want money. Our council could protect us from these big housing projects by protecting our town from within. Existing ordinances are allowing these invasive projects surrounding and now infiltrating our town. Who wrote them? Ask our mayor. The taxpayers of Loxahatchee Groves are throwing good money after bad because our town leaders did not have a realistic

vision of the future when writing the town charter. Now they need to keep rewriting and changing it at our expense. A gas station owner told me that 24-hour gas stations survive not selling gas; they make their money selling beer and cigarettes, so change the alcohol sale ordinance to end at 2 a.m. That will also reduce the crime that will come from that business opening in our community, and those that will follow. Our council doesn’t care, only Councilman Tom Goltzené has tried to help clean up the neighborhood plaza and its sketchy business practices, but since he is the minority vote, the plaza is getting worse. We know one thing: constant threat of legal action by the landowners of Okeechobee will assure the commercial low zoning. Current council running for re-election will use this issue for political grandstanding as we saw in the final comments, by one councilman waving his “No Minto” pom poms at the barbecue. Not all of us felt fighting Minto was the way to protect our town. We would have a trail system if we had money for lawyers, but our “tunnel vision” council is not welcoming the equestrian community. Thus the attack on seasonal trailers for equestrian accommodations. Curiously, this council has never brought attention to the broken, rundown and overcrowded landscaping accommodations (trailers) or the issues surrounding the trailer park... Fellow Loxahatchee Groves residents, it’s time for action. Vote in March. We need councilmen involved with community projects, who are willing to attend meeting like the League of Cities, on which Loxahatchee Groves has not been represented. We are entitled to grants and other programs we are missing out on because of an inactive council. I have lost my speaking voice. A loss for words strikes me when I look at this current council. Let’s stop the bad rap that Loxahatchee Groves has earned for the past few years: election tampering, slaughterhouses, selective code enforcement, trash, OIG investigations, crimes against children, transients, public intoxication and more. I apologize for leaving other important issues out, but this is not the Loxahatchee Groves I moved

to in 1989. It should be a better place to live, not worse. Enough is enough. This council does not hear us. Phillis Maniglia Loxahatchee Groves

RaceTrac Is Not Appropriate

Richard Nielsen’s letter (Time For Honesty About RaceTrac, Dec. 11) echoes something written by an attorney rather than a concerned taxpayer or resident. While “legal” does not always equate with “appropriate,” that simply means many laws, zoning and otherwise should be re-examined periodically so that they can be consistent with an evolving community’s desires. We live in a country that embraces personal property rights, but the counterweight should be an impartial council that protects neighboring citizen’s property values, preventing junkyards and bordellos being built randomly. Gas stations bring a high degree of extra traffic, noise and pollution. Even more so with cheap gas for anyone without a Costco card. Will that bring in large trucks and buses for diesel fill-ups? Perhaps Mr. Nielsen feels lines of cars waiting at the pump and obstructing traffic patterns going in and out of the RaceTrac facility is an attractive picture. He should build his dream house next door to this proposed project. The two banks previously occupying the property did not go out of business because it was an obscure corner location. They failed because of bad business practices. The corner of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Southern Blvd. is a heavily trafficked location. Certainly, it would be attractive to an alternative, low-impact enterprise. A decade from now, no one can predict if there will even be a need for gas stations. Electric or alternative energy cars may have a serious impact on the market. Once underground gas/diesel storage tanks are buried beneath the tarmac, the land use becomes even more limited and is subjected to stringent guidelines established by the EPA for any construction on previous gas station sites. That area and that particular corner are already amply con-

gested due to the restrictions on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and the abundance of traffic on Southern Blvd. Opening up a high volume operation of any nature would be just another poor decision by the village council. Lenore White Royal Palm Beach Editor’s note: Ms. White is a candidate for the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

WinterFest 2015 A Smashing Success

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce another smashing success! WinterFest 2015 with Vanilla Ice drew record breaking crowds on Nov. 28 of more than 8,000 people to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The event provided a line-up of holiday performances, phenomenal food vendors, holiday shopping, business and service vendors, a food and wine festival, the Kids Winter Wonderland Village and ice skating. Local celebrity musical sensation, philanthropist and DIY Network television star Vanilla Ice performed his iconic celebrated musical hits to an overflowing crowd. Winterfest is the most anticipated holiday event of the season. The exceptional hard work and dedication of sponsors, vendors and the professionals at PBIEC allow us to celebrate the success of this event. The chamber wishes to thank our sponsors, without whom we could not host such a spectacular event. Host Venue and Presenting Sponsors: Equestrian Sport Productions and the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Title Sponsor: the Royal Inn. Winter Wonderland Village Sponsors: Chukker TV, Grand Champions Polo Club, Palms West Hospital and the Children’s Hospital at Palms West. Food & Wine Event Sponsors: Florida Interventional Pain Management, PYRA Promotions and the Wellness Experience. Snow Sponsor: Bethesda Health. Commemorative Brochure Sponsor: Self Discovery Life Mastery. Photo Booth and Physicians Reception Sponsor: My Community Pharmacy. Red Carpet Sponsor: Cravy. Media Sponsors: Chukker

TV, LocalDines.com, Talk 4 Media, the Town-Crier and Wellington The Magazine. Our exceptional WinterFest vendors were Bethesda Healthcare, the Binks Forest Golf Club, BJ Events, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Chappy’s Food Cart, Chick-Fil-A, Chukker TV/Grand Champions Polo Club, Cobblestone Chiropractic & Wellness, Cruise Planners, Furry Friends Adoption & Clinic, Jordan’s Steak Bistro, Keyes Real Estate Mortgage & Title, Kish Events & Decor, Kona Ice of Palm Beach, My Community Pharmacy, My Sweet Bar, Palm Beach Health Center, Palms West Hospital/the Children’s Hospital at Palms West, Paradise Kettle Corn, Perfect Smile Dentistry, Place of Hope, Pure Barre Wellington, Royal Inn/Wellington Mall, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Self Discovery Group, Shullman Orthodontics, State Energy, Talk4media.Com, the Beach Buffalo, the UPS Store, Truderm, Waters Edge Recovery, the Wellington Wolves and the Wild West Diner. We were thrilled to once again offer an amazing VIP food and wine festival boasting the exceptional establishments of the Binks Forest Golf Club, Hurricane Grill & Wings Wellington, Jordan’s Steak Bistro, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Stonewood Grill & Tavern, the Art Cellar, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Market Wellington and Wild West Diner. If you have not yet visited these establishments or utilized their catering services, do so! Thank you to our VIP food and wine table sponsors: Bethesda Health, Davidson & Davidson Media Group, Effective Solutions, Erin Downey, Family Vision Center, Florida Interventional Pain Management, Floridian Community Bank, Gulfstream Goodwill, K & E Travel, the Law Offices of Alexander L. Domb, My Community Pharmacy, Palm Beach Aquatics, Palms West Hospital, PYRA Promotions, Self Discovery Group, Superior Environmental Management, the Royal Inn, the

Wellness Experience and Waters Edge Recovery. Our performers could not have been more phenomenal! If you have not heard or seen any of the following, please make it a point to check them out. They are exquisite each in their own. Thank you to our Master of Ceremonies Wes Kain, Michaela Paige, Alyssa Marie Coon, Angeline Fontaine, Nicky Greed, Sarah Spiritual and the Palm Beach Mako Cheerleaders. Thank you to Area Superintendent Dr. Matthew Shoemaker of the School District of Palm Beach County, Meridith Tuckwood from the Village of Wellington and the exceptional volunteers from Palm Beach Central High School, Wellington High School and Suncoast High School. A very special thank you to Nina Anschuetz for her talents and diligence, Kayla Anschuetz for organizing our volunteer base, the Wellington Chamber Board of Directors and President Johnny Meier for their leadership, Monica Kallas, Debbie Crompton, Sharon Lasko, Karen Gorham and Stuart Hack, as well as Mayor Bob Margolis, who kicked off our 2015 event. Our local superstar and philanthropist Vanilla Ice astounds us each year. His spirit of giving and dedication to our community is outstanding. His efforts and those of his team make this event possible. The chamber is grateful to have the privilege of working with them! The chamber salutes all the exhibitors, sponsors and performers for making their contribution to Wellington’s unique lifestyle, its economy and this spectacular event. Thanks also to all of you for attending, for being part of this event and for being a part of our community. We look forward to seeing you all next year. Happy holidays! Michela Green, Executive Director Wellington Chamber of Commerce

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words suggested). 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 33, Wellington, FL 33414; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

NEWS

GL Homes

Pitch At Indian Trail Meeting

continued from page 1 comprehensive plan amendment making its way through the county,” Ratterree said. A perimeter buffer to the east will separate the development at least 300 feet from the nearest residential lot line. The development will have several internal civic sites for churches, schools and other uses, including a 42-acre site adjacent to the existing county park for expansion, and a site for a new fire station. The development will also have

several internal recreation sites with basketball and tennis courts, as well as a 26-acre central site with a fitness facility for residents, he said. A total of 350,000 square feet for commercial use will be divided into several internal sites designed for easy access by residents to meet basic needs such as groceries, thereby reducing the need for them to go offsite. “The concept is to provide retail for neighborhood-related activities,” Ratterree said. “We are not trying to compete with Minto or Avenir.” The housing units will be a mix of zero-lot-line, medium-size single-family and larger estate homes, connected with 11.25 miles of 8-foot paved pathways.

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“We are trying to promote a system of interconnectivity that will be open to the public,” Ratterree said. “The HOA will not have authority to undermine that.” Around the perimeter will be 17.5 miles of horse trails, flat grass areas owned and operated by the HOA, but open to the general public. “The internal connectivity will provide a system where people do not have to get in their car but walk to non-residential components,” he said. The developer is also proposing a trolley to provide internal shuttle service, as well as to Minto’s Westlake amenities. Although GL Homes could develop under the state’s new proportional share policy, which BARRY S. MANNING Publisher JODY GORRAN Associate Publisher

only requires a developer to pay its share of traffic impacts, Ratterree said that his company is proposing to improve all roads directly impacted by the development, plus an additional $5 million to the county for other road improvements. He pointed out that GL Homes represents only a small portion of total road improvements that will be needed in the area. The project shows the expansion of numerous roads, including Northlake Blvd., the Beeline Highway and 60th Street from Seminole Pratt Whitney Road to 140th Avenue North, which is part of the county’s long-range transportation plan and is a partially federally funded road that has not been built, according to GL Homes JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor

DAWN RIVERA General Manager

RON BUKLEY Managing Editor

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman • Paul Gaba • Julie Unger CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Ellen Rosenberg • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ART & PRODUCTION MANAGER/ Stephanie Rodriguez ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Wanda Glockson STAFF/ Jacqueline Corrado • Shanta Daibee • Jill Kaskel • Geri O’Neil

traffic engineer Bryan Kelly. GL Homes, which is currently an inactivated unit of ITID, is also offering to become activated as units are built. “We will agree, as part of this approval process, to petition you as a board to make our development part of your improvement district,” Ratterree said. Supervisor Gary Dunkley asked if staff could be directed to meet with the GL Homes representatives. “It sounds all well and good, but I don’t know how much it will impact our community,” he said. Dunkley also requested that legal staff schedule a discussion for the residents’ benefit regarding their ownership of easements. “Everyone is under the contention

that we own property to the center of the road,” he said. Dunkley made a motion for legal staff to give a brief summary to supervisors sometime in the future on what they can and cannot do when addressing the development request. That motion passed 5-0. He also asked the board if it would want to approve a resolution similar to those passed by the Village of Royal Palm Beach and the Town of Loxahatchee Groves opposing the density increase, but Supervisor Michelle Damone said that she would not support such a resolution until the board hears a report from Palm Beach County staff on the project. Dunkley made a motion to invite county staff to give a presentation, which carried 5-0.

POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414-4758. Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Town-Crier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414-4758. Founded In 1980 By Bob Markey Sr.

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NEWS

WELLINGTON SENIORS CLUB INSTALLATION DINNER DANCE AT WANDERERS

The Wellington Seniors Club held its annual installation dinner and dance on Friday, Dec. 11 at the Wanderers Club. The Studio 54 Band played dance music from the 1960s and 1970s, while seniors partied the night away. For more information about the Wellington Seniors Club, call Sally Schwartz at (561) 793-8735. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Seniors Club President Jerry Springer, Vice President Tony Alfalla, Recording Secretary Peg Caliendo, Treasurer George Kuhnel, Corresponding Secretary Mae Loglisci, Sally Schwartz, Mary Alfalla and Eileen Kuhnel.

Estelle Rubin, Peg Caliendo and Sally Schwartz.

Salli Stegall celebrates her birthday in style.

Hilde Wanklyn, Helen Franke and Nancy Koloff.

St. Rita Catholic Church Forever Young Club President Maryann Boomhower, Wellington Seniors Club Recording Secretary Peg Caliendo and President Jerry Springer.

Darell and Sherry Bowen, Sally Schwartz, Howard Trager and Estelle Rubin.

Jeannette and Tibor Donko, Sheron and Bob Flaster, and Bill and Ingrid Biegler.

POPULAR ‘BACK TO BETHLEHEM’ RETURNS TO COMMUNITY OF HOPE CHURCH

Community of Hope Church hosted its annual “Back to Bethlehem” event last weekend. Back to Bethlehem is an outdoor, walk-through experience that is both fun and beautiful. Guests enter a walled city constructed to look like Bethlehem as it appeared 2,000 years ago, telling the story of the birth of Jesus Christ in a fun and interactive way. For information about Community of Hope Church, call PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER (561) 753-8883 or visit www.communityofhope.church.

Rylin, Lilly, Melissa, Tyler, Logan and Edward Brouillette sell fruit.

Census taker Larry Moore.

Aaralyn Ungleich and Alexa Brodziak with a Roman soldier (Cory Freitas).

Shepherd Jonathan Culver, angels Harmony Savasten, Alexis Brennan, McKailee Miskura and Courtney Hardy, Mary (Linda Brennan) and Joseph (Jarrad Brennan) at the birth of Jesus.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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CRIME NEWS

Vehicle Burglary Reported At Cemetery In RPB

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report DEC. 13 — A deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was called Sunday afternoon to Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery on Southern Blvd. regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, someone entered the victim’s 2003 Honda Odyssey by smashing the driver’s side window sometime between 4:45 and 5 p.m., stealing two purses and a Samsung Galaxy S5, valued at $700. According to the report, the purses also contained driver’s licenses, jewelry, credit cards and more. ••• DEC. 9 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 85th Road North in The Acreage last Wednesday regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9:30 p.m. last Tuesday and 3:03 a.m. last Wednesday, someone damaged the lock to the victim’s trailer and stole a 2012 Kawasaki motorcycle, valued at $2,500, a 2006 Kawasaki motorcycle, valued at $600, two motorcycle helmets, together valued at $500 and several other motorcycle related items. DEC. 9 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home on Alexandra Circle in the Olympia community last Wednesday regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between Dec. 8 and Dec. 9, someone damaged the victim’s mailbox, causing approximately $250 in damage. DEC. 9 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Stallion Drive in the Royal Ascot Estates community last Wednesday regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. last Wednesday, someone entered the victim’s home by prying open the front door. The perpetrator stole an Apple 13-inch Macbook Pro computer, Microsoft Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii gaming systems, and an Apple iPod 5, along with a jewelry box containing four gold bracelets, 10 gold necklaces, 10 pairs of gold earrings and four gold rings, as well as several other items. The stolen items were together valued at more than $8,300. DEC. 10 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home on Shoma Drive last Thursday regarding a theft. According to a

PBSO report, sometime between 10 a.m. on Dec. 7 and 12:30 p.m. last Thursday, someone entered the victim’s garage and removed a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, valued at $180, from a gun cabinet. DEC. 11 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a parking lot on State Road 7 near the Mall at Wellington Green last Friday regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 3:50 and 10:10 p.m. last Friday, someone keyed the victim’s 2014 Hyundai Sonata and left a dent in the left part of the rear bumper. DEC. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Sunday morning to a home on Tangelo Blvd. in The Acreage regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:33 p.m. last Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday, someone struck the victim’s mailbox, causing $75 in damage. DEC. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to the Wellington’s Edge community Sunday evening regarding multiple vehicle burglaries. According to the first PBSO report, sometime between 5 and 6:15 p.m. Sunday, someone broke the passenger-side window of the victim’s Nissan Altima and stole a bag containing makeup, valued at $125 from the front seat. DNA evidence was gathered from the vehicle. According to a second PBSO report, someone smashed the front passenger window of the victim’s 2008 Jeep Patriot, causing $175 in damage, and stole the victim’s driver’s license, credit card and $100 in cash. According to the report, when the victim went to cancel the credit card, she was told that it had already been used at several locations for a total of $102 in charges. DNA evidence was gathered from the vehicle. DEC. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called Sunday to a location near the Wellington Amphitheater on Forest Hill Blvd. regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:30 a.m. and 8 p.m., someone broke the front passenger window of the victim’s 2007 Volkswagen Jetta and stole a diaper bag, valued at $60. DEC. 13 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Sunday evening to Palms West Hospital on Southern Blvd. regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 and 10:28 See BLOTTER, page 18

WOMAN WANTED FOR CREDIT CARD FRAUD

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on an unknown woman wanted for using a stolen credit card at stores in Royal Palm Beach. The woman shown here was captured on surveillance video at Publix and Marshalls stores in Royal Palm Beach. She used a stolen credit card to make purchases in excess of $500 on Nov. 10 and Nov. 11. Anyone who recognizes the woman is urged to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Joan Cantatore, alias Joan Finn, Joan Mele and Joan Fitzgerald, is a white female, 5’5’’ tall and weighing 140 lbs., with gray hair and brown eyes. Her date of birth is 08/09/39. Cantatore is wanted for failure to appear in court on felony charges for public assistance fraud. Her last known address was Palm Beach Trace Drive in Royal Palm Beach. She is wanted as of 12/10/15. • Solomon Frazier is a black male, 6’6’’ tall and weighing 180 lbs., with black hair, brown eyes and multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 11/09/90. Frazier is wanted on felony charges for shooting into a building. His last known address was Stratford Road in Greenacres. His occupation is listed as security guard. He is wanted as of 12/10/15. 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.

Joan Cantatore

Solomon Frazier

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

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Page 7

NEWS

NuVista Living Proud Of Its Longstanding Toys For Tots Support

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The toy donation box at NuVista Living in Wellington is overflowing with gifts for less-fortunate children thanks to a very successful drive to support Toys for Tots. Dozens of gifts have been left by staff members, residents and family members of residents, and a large donation came in Monday from the office of owner Paul Walczak. According to NuVista Lifestyle Director Pamela Collins, when Walczak’s assistant Janet Bradley dropped by with a carload of gifts to brighten the smiles of children this holiday season, the facility’s two large Toys for Tots drop boxes were completely filled. “The building has been here for four years, and Paul makes a huge donation every year to Toys for Tots,” Collins said. Walczak has been involved with

Toys for Tots since 2001. “It represents a significant opportunity to brighten the lives of many children who may be less fortunate this time of year,” he said. “We recognize our community stewardship to be thankful and sharing in our successes.” Filling the box with toys has become a tradition at NuVista, an assisted living and rehabilitation facility located near the Mall at Wellington Green. “We set the box out a few weeks ago, and the employees, the residents and their visitors have been donating,” Collins said. School groups often visit NuVista and have made positive comments about the box. “We’re a community-based building here, so it’s been nice for everyone who walks in and sees it. We’re giving back to the community,” Collins said. The patients are also pleased to

be involved. “We try to pride ourselves on our whole culture inside the building of being very positive, looking out for the community, giving back all the time, being healthy,” she explained. “We try to promote love and giving back.” Setting a good example, and helping others, is why Walczak has been so dedicated to Toys for Tots. “NuVista is a place of life, and nothing represents life greater than our children,” he said. “We all want to see the smiles and joy of the holiday season, and the U.S. Marine Corps’ commitment to this longstanding program is an example that we should all follow. Plus, we have a lot of grandparents who move through NuVista on a daily basis, and we know the power of the child’s smile.” Father of three children, Walczak said that he loves giving other children a better, brighter holiday season through donating gifts.

“Nothing is more satisfying and rewarding than the power of the next generation; our children are our future,” he said, adding that NuVista is committed to the Toys for Tots organization and will continue to support it. NuVista Living, Collins explained, is a new way of providing healthcare through assisted living and short-term rehabilitation, and the company’s new Jupiter facility will offer memory care. “We want it to be dignified. We want it to be happy here. Once a week we have music. We have coloring,” Collins said. “It’s all about promoting a healthy lifestyle.” If a patient has had knee or hip surgery, and is coming out of the hospital, he or she can come to NuVista Living. The usual rehabilitation stay, Collins explained, is two weeks. Patients are taught how to climb stairs and go about their daily activities without

Pamela Collins and Janet Bradley with NuVista’s donation boxes. harming their stitches. To learn more about NuVista Living, call (561) 795-3360 or visit www.nvliving.com. To donate a

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

toy to Toys for Tots this holiday season, visit www.toysfortots. org to find a convenient drop-off location.

Weather Expert To Speak At Cops Helping Kids Honors Santamaria Former Palm Beach ing with and supporting the Wellington Radio Club Meeting County Commissioner Jess organization for more than

The Wellington Radio Club will meet Monday, Dec. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station 30 (9610 Stribling Way). The meeting is open to the public and will be focused on the 2015-16 “Super Intense El Niño.” In the average year, 10,000 severe thunderstorms, 5,000 floods and more than 1,000 tornadoes occur across the United States. But this year may be far worse than average due to the impact of an extremely strong El Niño that is likely to produce very severe weather. National Weather Service Senior Forecaster Arlena Moses will lead a special

presentation. Like many radio amateurs, Moses grew up with a love of weather that ultimately led her to major in the environmental sciences. She is on top of severe weather with five monitors and three keyboards, putting at her fingertips a wealth of weather information. During her 10 years with the National Weather Service, Moses has forecast and experienced the weather patterns of both California and Florida. She is qualified to share her knowledge of this year’s unique El Niño and to wrap-up the unusual 2015 hurricane season. For info., call Wellington Radio Club President Larry Lazar at (561) 385-2986.

National Weather Service Forecaster Arlena Moses

Santamaria was recently recognized by Cops Helping Kids Inc. for his dedication, involvement and participation in the program. For many years, Santamaria has been supporting the program, primarily for disadvantaged youth in the Belle Glade, Pahokee and South Bay communities. The program is driven by law enforcement officers and those in the community who volunteer their time to help others. According to the organization, the Santamaria family has been an excellent role model for the children involved in the program. Santamaria has been work-

a decade. In 2015, he was named a Platinum Silver Gloves Sponsor. The program is excellent at teaching children self-discipline and character formation and through athletics, Santamaria said. The program is advantageous all around, he explained, because it teaches children that the police are there to help them, and also gets the children off of the streets and into something productive. Everyone benefits from the bonding and growth that occurs through sports and athletics, Santamaria explained. For more info., visit www. copshelpingkidsflorida.com.

Jess Santamaria accepts the Florida Youth Service Award from Michael LeStrange of Cops Helping Kids.

PARTY AT THE SHOW GROUNDS BENEFITS CLIENTS OF THE CARIDAD CENTER

The Wellington Equestrian Group held its sixth annual Christmas in Wellington event, supporting families of the Caridad Center on Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. During the festive party, hundreds of Caridad Center families were adopted by members of the local equestrian community to provide gifts for their Christmas holiday. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Laura Kallas, Nancy Hooker, B.J. Meeks, Caroline Moran, Pablo Perez and Scarlett Fave.

Dollene Ewing, Laura Kallus, Scarlett Fave, Caroline Moran and Connie Berry from the Caridad Center.

Cynthia Sulzberger, Sinforino Baldovinos and Angelica Palacios with Jackie, Dajany, Arelis and Jayden Bladovinos.

Camilla and Cecelia Cajas with their raffle item.

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Brisa and Brian Perez.

Franny Abbott and Caroline Moran with Cilantro’s Deli owner Herman Moreira, who sponsored the food.

Jusseth, Avelino, Hazzel and Olga Quiroga.

Page 8

December 18 - December 24, 2015

Bike Rodeo And Helmet Check

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 9 substation in Royal Palm Beach will host a free bike rodeo and helmet check Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to noon for children ages 4 to 14 at the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach, located at 11498 Okeechobee Blvd. For more info., call (561) 790-5180.

CAFCI Plans New Year’s Eve Ball

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) will hold its 26th annual New Year’s Eve Gala at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way) on Thursday, Dec. 31 starting at 8 p.m. Top Ranking Sound and Tri Star will provide the entertainment. The semi-formal affair will feature a buffet with cuisine from Chef G, door prizes, dancing and a 50/50 raffle. Reservations are suggested. Tickets are only $50. The evening will culminate with

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NEWS BRIEFS a midnight champagne toast to ring in 2016. Tickets can be secured from any CAFCI member. For more info., call any of the following committee members: Dennis Wright at (561) 653-1586, Lawrence Logan at (561) 791-0162 or Junnette Powell at (561) 346-2353, or call the CAFCI hotline at (561) 7904002. Tickets are also available at www.cafcipbc.org.

Equine Law Course In Wellington

“Equine Law 101: Business Essentials for Horsemen” will be offered starting Monday, Jan. 18 at #1 Education Place in the original Wellington Mall (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 23). The series will be led by Krysia Carmel Nelson, a well-known equine lawyer practicing in both Florida and Virginia. The eight-week series of classes will focus on horse industry topics such as contracts, sales, business organization, insurance, regulatory bodies, liability, employment and immigration law.

Classes will be held Mondays from 4 to 6 p.m. at #1 Education Place. Participants can register for the whole series of eight sessions, a mini series of three sessions or individual classes. To register, call Anita Kane or Judy Blake at (561) 753-6563.

Celebrations Of Light Art Exhibition

In honor of “celebrations of light” from cultures around the world, the Bootz Cultural Arts Center (420 S. State Road 7, Suite 120, Royal Palm Beach) will host an evening of art exhibitions and demonstrations on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. The Celebrations of Light Art Exhibition will feature work from local artists and students on display throughout the Royal Office Park and the Bootz Cultural Arts Center. Artists will teach workshops and also demonstrate their art. Participating artists will be: Sandy Axelrod, Linda Zolet, Lesley Reed, Sandra Barbieri, Lori Axelrod, Sirce Giveon, Marilyn Bobbin

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Salisbury, Jeanne Bootz, Mayling Pao, Cynthia Coriell Hockaden, Jayne Ives and Roehl Acosta. Demonstrations include a cooking demo by Sandy Axelrod. Her cookbook and jewelry will also be for sale during the event. There will also be a book signing with Sandra Barbieri. Her bilingual children’s book will be available for purchase. Also included will be artist demos by clay artist Lesley Reed and polymer clay artist Lori Axelrod. There will be a candle jar painting party hosted by Destination Painting Party, live painting by Nicaraguan artist Mayling Pao and a kids’ activity. Attendees will be able to meet the teachers and register for upcoming winter classes. Admission is free, but the candle jar painting project is $15. For more info., visit www.bootzculturalartscenter. com, call (561) 290-2753 or e-mail bootzculturecamp@gmail.com.

Holiday Dance Camp Planned

Wellington Ballet’s Winter Holiday Dance Camp will take place Monday, Dec. 21 through

Wednesday, Dec. 23 taught by Sarah Manuel and Sarah Marsengill. It will feature ballet, jazz, tap and tumbling, as well as fun games and arts and crafts. The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is designed for children ages 4 to 8. Beginners are welcome. RSVP to Randy at (561) 296-1880.

Tickets On Sale For Father Daughter Dance

Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and all blends of families are invited to take part in Wellington’s annual Father Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 6. It will be a night of delight designed for daughters ages 5 to 14. The evening includes dancing, a delicious dinner, games and pictures. Each couple will receive a keepsake to cherish the memories of this fun evening. The theme for the evening is “Wish Upon a Starfish.” The Father Daughter Dance will take place in the Village Park gymnasium, located at 11700 Pierson Road, from 6 to 9 p.m. Doors

open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale through Thursday, Feb. 4 or until they sell out at the Village Park gymnasium. The cost is $50 per resident couple and $62.50 per nonresident couple. Additional tickets can be purchased for $20 per resident and $25 per nonresident. The event is expected to sell out, so make sure to purchase tickets early. For more info., call (561) 791-4005. The Father Daughter Dance is sponsored in part by Simon Orthodontics, and additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

TWBA Luncheon Set For Jan. 13

The Western Business Alliance has several exciting events planned. On Wednesday, Jan. 13 at 11:30 a.m., the group will host a luncheon at the Madison Green Country Club featuring Sheriff Ric Bradshaw as guest speaker. On Thursday, Feb. 18 at 5:30 p.m., the group will host a social event at CJR Fine Art & Frame. For more information, visit www. thewesternbusinessalliance.com.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 9

NEWS

32ND ANNUAL WELLINGTON HOLIDAY PARADE SPREADS SEASONAL CHEER

The 32nd annual Wellington Holiday Parade rolled down Forest Hill Blvd. on Sunday, Dec. 13. The event, produced by the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Wellington, featured more than 100 parade entries with close to 3,000 participants. There were more than 20 large floats. Florida Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera participated in the parade, and the Wellington Wild 13U softball team and the Wellington All-Stars 13U baseball team served as grand marshals in honor of their amazing seasons. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Chamber CEO Mary Lou Bedford, Casey Martini of Carrabba’s, Chamber Vice Chair Laura Trosclair of Mercantil Commercebank, Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis, Florida Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera, Sal DelGreco and Kelly Boudreau of the Schumacher Family of Dealerships, and Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig.

Parade Grand Marshals: The 13U Wellington All-Stars (left) and the 13U Wellington Wild (right) teams won national titles this year.

The Wellington High School marching band.

Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Emilia McGovern, Wellington Councilman John McGovern, Victoria McGovern and Dorothy Bradshaw.

Mrs. Wellington 2015 Karyn Turk with Tinu Pena.

Wellington Mayor Bob and Linda Margolis.

The Palm Beach Central High School marching band.

Royal Palm Beach Mayor Matty Mattioli and Laurel Bennett.

Loxahatchee Groves Mayor Dave Browning.

Martha Cross and the bedpan brigade from Wellington Regional Medical Center.

The Everglades Farm Equipment parade entry.

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Don Neely rides in a 1939 Buick Century.

Page 10

December 18 - December 24, 2015

Featuring a fully stocked bar.

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Guests toasting to a delicious dinner.

Owner Mahendra Patel and Chef Tapan.

Elegant private room perfect for small parties or meetings.

RATED EXCELLENT BY ZAGAT, THEIR REPEAT CUSTOMERS, AND ME! BY JOE NASUTI The best way to describe my visit is... yummy... yummy... yummy! This is the best Indian food for my tummy... and yours! The India Grill + Bar is the home of the best Indian food in the Palm Beaches! If you’ve never tried Indian food, you don’t know what you have been missing. I became a fan of Indian food in the early 1980s at a Christmas party hosted by an Indian doctor in Philadelphia, and I’ve been addicted ever since to the wonderful flavors of India. Let me make it very simple for first timers. I would highly recommend the following. For starters, try the Onion Bhajee ($5.95), the spicy Indian version of the blooming onion, but far better, along with the Garlic Naan Bread ($3.95). For an entree, I would recommend either Chicken Tikka Masala ($16.95), or the incredible Mixed Grill Platter ($25.95), an assortment of Tandoori grilled shrimp, lamb chops, chicken Tikka and Malai lamb, or any delicious curry dish ($11.95 to $18.95). They are simply amazing and large enough to share. Next to curry, naan bread is as Indian as it gets, and the garlic naan at India Grill + Bar is a must — then again, any and all of their curry dishes are my favorites and will soon become yours. I travel around the world and always seek out an Indian restaurant while on vacation. My travels include New York City, where you will find some of the best Indian restaurants in America, and my travels to England. There are 2,100 McDonald’s restaurants in England and 2,200 Indian restaurants, where you will find some of the best in the world. Fortunately, you and I only have to travel to Royal Palm Beach to experience the wonderful flavors of India! India Grill+ Bar is vegetarian/vegan friendly. Enjoy their eight

popular Vegetarian Delights ($9.95 to $14.95), and all can be prepared vegan style. A customer waiting for takeout recommended the Vegetable Malai Kofta ($14.95), croquettes of ground vegetables and cheese, stuffed with nuts and raisins in a creamy and tasty sauce. Everything I tasted was incredible! There are more than 70 authentic offerings from which to choose, so if you are a connoisseur of Indian food, then all you need to do is either try something you have never heard of (I do this all the time) or close your eyes and point. Either way, you are in for an incredible treat. As good as the dinner is, dessert is something else entirely. Here, I would order Mango Kulfi, a traditional Indian mango ice cream... Try it, and welcome to India. Over the years, I have become accustomed to the best Indian restaurants, and India Grill + Bar is one of the best. I will be going back very soon, very often! In addition to the main dining room, there is much more than meets the eye, including a private dining area and bar that accommodates up to 90 guests for holiday parties, banquets, business meetings and even weddings. The bar area is a great place to host a social event for upward of 50 guests. My favorite is the private cozy dining room — this well-appointed area is top notch for a VIP party that will impress up to 18 of your guests. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. For reservations, or further information, call (561) 249-7168 and please tell them that Joe Nasuti, the Phantom, highly recommended that you visit his favorite Indian restaurant! India Grill + Bar was opened in 2012 by owners Mr. Soye Thoma and Mr. Mahendra Patel and is located in the Royal Plaza shopping center at the corner of Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. 

650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. (Corner of Southern Blvd.) Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411

For Reservations, Call 561-249-7168

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Page 11

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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Page 13

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Kids Cancer Foundation Hosts Visit From Santa Claus At The Fairgrounds

More than 350 local children battling cancer and their families were treated to a visit from Santa Claus on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The Kids Cancer Foundation sponsors the annual event and thanks the many local benefactors to the successful toy and gift card drives including: the Cleveland Clinic, Cosmetics for a Cause, Everglades Elementary School, the Gold Coast Builders’ Association, Helping Hearts, Hulett Environmental Services, the Jessie Rees Foundation, Kiting for Kids, Wellington Landings Middle School, Nations Safe Drivers (NSD) and Smoke Inn, along with a number of other generous individuals and organizations and the continued annual support of the South Florida Fairgrounds, the Professional Firefighters & Paramedics of Palm Beach County and the Fraternal Order of

Leatherheads Society (FOOLS). Families were treated to a breakfast buffet sponsored by Once A Month Charities and Strathmore Bagel. Everyone had the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa, do a special holiday craft sponsored by Home Depot of Royal Palm Beach, decorate gingerbread men, see Santa ride in on the fire truck and enjoy a morning far removed from the doctor’s office and the hospital. In addition, every child received a teddy bear from Santa, and each family received gift cards and a bag filled with age-appropriate toys and games for their children. The Kids Cancer Foundation is a nonprofit charity that provides hope and support to children and families in the community battling childhood cancer and/or a blood disorder. The Kids Cancer Foundation strives to meet all

Kids Cancer Foundation families got a chance to meet Santa. the unique physical, educational, emotional, financial and spiritual needs of the many local children and families they care for. For

more information about the Kids Cancer Foundation, visit www. kidscancersf.org or call Michelle O’Boyle at (561) 371-1298.

Sean Twomey and Kaitlin Chapman were married on Nov. 14.

Sean Twomey And Village Of Wellington Celebrates Another Successful Art In Public Places Program Kaitlin Chapman Wed

On Monday, Dec. 7, the Wellington Parks & Recreation Board recognized artists Talia Fradkin and Rania Awada Assi, whose pieces were selected for exhibit in the Art in Public Places program. Fradkin, a high school senior and 17-year-old Wellington resident, has previously participated in both the Student Art Program and the 11th annual Art in Public Places program. An active volunteer in her community and leader

Sean Twomey and Kaitlin Chapman were married on Saturday, Nov. 14. The wedding was originally planned for the Royal Palm Beach Commons Park Wedding Pavilion but the weather caused a change in venue at the last moment to the Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association Hall in West Palm Beach. Standing up for the couple were: Maid of Honor Kayla Westfall; bridesmaids Yvone Ao, Jackie Chapman, Jennifer Blevins and Siobhan Samson; Flower Girl Kyla Vaught; Best Man Christopher Twomey; groomsmen Jonathan Alvarez and Anthony Vargas; and Ring Bearer Kellan Bernier. The groom was raised and went

in numerous local clubs, Fradkin enjoys taking photos of nature. Assi, also a returning artist to the Art in Public Places program, has a background in journalism and enjoys the expressive quality of painting. The program is an ongoing collaboration between the Village of Wellington and the Wellington Art Society. This year’s artwork will be displayed in Village Park and the Lake Wellington Professional Centre.

to school in Royal Palm Beach, attending H.L. Johnson Elementary School, Crestwood Middle School and graduated from Royal Palm Beach High School in 2007 at the age of 16. He worked locally for years in Royal Palm Beach and met his bride while both were working at the Target store in Royal Palm Beach. The bride was raised in Palm Beach County and Hiram, Ga., graduating from McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Ga. She relocated to South Florida, completing and earning her certification in phelebotomy at South Tech Academy. The bride and groom now reside in Palm Beach Gardens.

Wellington Girl To Sing At Carnegie Hall Dec. 26

Parks & Recreation Board Member Christopher Fleming, artist Rania Awada Assi, Board Member Mike Pignato, artist Talia Fradkin and Board Member Dr. Jeffrey Zipp.

Artist Talia Fradkin displays her photograph “Garden Joy” with Shirley Browne of the Wellington Art Society.

14569 Southern Blvd. • Loxahatchee Groves, FL 33470 561-793-1370 • www.arthurmurrayre.com 10 ACRES LAND — beautiful high and dry, cleared 4/2.5, CBS, fenced. Loxahatchee Groves $749,000 15 ACRES LAND — electric, well, mostly cleared, paved road, high and dry. Loxahatchee Groves $595,000 10 ACRES LAND — cleared, fenced, high and dry, paved road. Loxahatchee Groves $395,000 10 ACRES LAND — South of Okeechobee, fenced, cleared, electric, water subdivided into two 5 acre lots. $739,000 5 ACRES LAND — 1/4 mile north of Southern Blvd. and Wellington high and dry, fenced partially cleared. $450,000 20 ACRES LAND — Okeechobee Rd. frontage Great Commercial potential, cleared, fenced, water, electric. $2,200,000 5 ACRES LAND — with cabin, paved road, fenced, electric, water, septic, clear, high and dry. Loxahatchee Groves $324,999 OKEECHOBEE RD. FRONTAGE — Commercial potential, electrical, high and dry, fenced. Loxahatchee Groves $995,000 5 ACRES LAND — House pad, well, electric, high and dry, fenced, 900 feet from pavement. Loxahatchee Groves $299,000

5 ACRES LAND — High, dry, electric, well, paved road. Loxahatchee Groves $199,000 5 ACRES LAND — 3 bedroom, 2 bath, South of Okeechobee, 1 mile to Wellington CBS High, Dry. Call for price.

1.25 ACRES — hi, dry, close to schools and shopping. The Acreage $68,000 1/2 ACRE 3-2 fantastic location 200 Ft. From Southern Boulevard Loxahatchee Groves. $225,000 5 ACRES — private, Delwood, close to White Fences. $149,000 1 ACRE 3-2 HOUSE — W/1-1 guest house, four stall barn, fenced, 200 feet from Southern Blvd. Loxahatchee Groves. $345,000 1.15 ACRES 3-2 w/garage Close to schools and shopping. The Acreage $224,900 1.25 ACRES 5-3 CBS HOME — plus 1000 Sq.Ft. Guesthouse, 25X40 detached garage. The Acreage $282,900

Lauren Galin, an 11-year-old girl who attends Emerald Cove Middle School, was recently a winner in an international vocal competition and chosen to perform on Saturday, Dec. 26 at Carnegie Hall in New York City. She has

performed the national anthem at many Wellington events and is part of the five-girl nonprofit group CAST (Children’s Acting Singing Troupe) that performs throughout South Florida to raise money for those in need.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

RPBHS DRAMA STUDENTS EXCEL AT DISTRICT COMPETITION

Royal Palm Beach High School’s drama department recently won 24 medals at the school district’s drama competition. Superior ratings were achieved in seven events, resulting in further competition at the state level. The group’s ensemble play, Peter and the Starcatcher, received a perfect score in all five categories, and included actors Jenna Rubiano, Leashberto Crespo, Ase Afariogun, Alexis Szehner, Marcella Marques, Peyton Davis and Mitchell Antoine. Shown above are RPBHS drama students.

ELBRIDGE GALE KIDS SHARE THEIR LOVE OF READING

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SCHOOL NEWS

A Captivating Career Day At Crestwood

Crestwood Middle School in Royal Palm Beach recently welcomed visitors for the school’s annual career day activities. People from the community gave their time to come and speak to classes about their chosen profession. There were community leaders from many different paths: doctors, nurses, artists, healthcare workers, college professors and many more. “This is an impressively welcoming atmosphere,” said Lisa Kelly, representing Wellington Regional Medical Center. She further commented on the

diverse professions of the many speakers who volunteered their time. Happily, she visited with the director of the local KinderCare center, finding a familiar face in the crowd, which added to the ambiance. The event takes place every year at Crestwood. Students participated in “dress for success” day and continued career building conversations after the speakers left. Speakers were invited to a continental breakfast with entertainment by the jazz band directed by Amanda Leonard, and lunch was served in the media center at the end of the morning.

Dr. Douglas Freedman and Dr. Sharon Haas during career day.

WES Advanced Chorus Shines At Hoffman’s

On Thursday, Dec. 10, Wellington Elementary School’s advanced chorus sang holiday songs at Hoffman’s Chocolates in Greenacres. The chorus is under the direction of music teacher Dave Morrison. The students, in grades three through five, were selected to be in this special chorus, which performs at several different venues throughout the year. At Hoffman’s, the students sang seven holiday songs, while visitors, students, families and staff watched the future stars shining bright. After the performance, the chorus enjoyed walking through the beautiful winter villages and visited the chocolate shop.

Wellington Elementary School’s advanced chorus singing at Hoffman’s Chocolates.

Florida College System Chancellor To Speak At PBSC Commencement To Be Held Dec. 18

Students in Laura Corzo’s fourth-grade classes at Elbridge Gale Elementary School made bookmarks for pediatric patients at Palms West Hospital and the Kids Cancer Foundation. In the bookmark project, students had to complete a bookmark book review and an illustration that depicts their favorite book or author. Students had the option of making a second bookmark to donate to the pediatric patients. All of the students made a second bookmark and were very happy to be able to spread their love of reading with other children. “It is very nice to see students so eager to help others, especially those children who are very sick,” Corzo said. In addition to this project, students will also be donating books that they have read already. In the book, they will include a book evaluation where they have to analyze, evaluate and cite certain parts of the book. Shown above are students with their bookmarks.

Madeline Pumariega, chancellor of the Florida College System, will be the keynote speaker at two commencement ceremonies to be held Friday, Dec. 18 for Palm Beach State College’s more than 2,600 fall graduates. The first ceremony will be held at 9:30 a.m. at the Palm Beach County Convention Center for the 1,219 graduates of the associate in science, associate in applied science, bachelor of applied science and bachelor of science in nursing degree programs, along with the certificate programs. The second ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. for the 1,388 graduates completing the associate in arts transfer degree. Both ceremonies will be streamed live at www. palmbeachstate.edu.

This will be the first commencement for PBSC’s new President Ava L. Parker, who took the helm in July. Pumariega, who started her own higher education at a community college, became chancellor in August, leading a system that serves more than 800,000 students at 28 colleges throughout the state. She began her new role after serving since 2013 as president of Take Stock in Children, a statewide nonprofit organization that aims to help at-risk youth break the cycle of poverty by completing college. She previously spent 20 years in key roles at Miami Dade College, most recently as president of its Wolfson Campus. Pumariega serves on the board of City Year Miami and on a

steering committee for the Miami Foundation. She is a member of the International Women’s Forum and Leadership Florida. She also was a Kellogg Fellow for the League for Innovation’s Expanding Leadership Diversity in Community Colleges. After a earning a degree from Miami Dade College, Pumariega earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and secondary education from St. Thomas University and a master’s degree in education from Florida Atlantic University. For more commencement information, visit www.palmbeachstate.edu/graduation. Serving 48,000 students, PBSC is the largest institution of higher education in Palm Beach County.

Madeline Pumariega PBSC offers more than 130 programs of study at locations in Lake Worth, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens and Belle Glade, with a new campus under construction in Loxahatchee Groves.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 15

SCHOOL NEWS

Adecia Harrison, Mya Williams and Wyatt Davis take a selfie to raise awareness.

Lauren and Scott Dobbs, Michael Bryant, Joel Velasquez and Michael Hill.

RPBHS SADD Brings Mental Illness Into The Light Hosting Mental Health Awareness Fair

On Monday, Nov. 30, Royal Palm Beach High School students attended the Mental Health Awareness Fair held during all three lunch periods. The fair had a carnival-like atmosphere and included games. Music was provided by the RPBHS student council. At each carnival station, the conditions and definitions of various mental illnesses were displayed. Guests at the event included SADD (Students Against De-

structive Decisions), the Palm Beach County Substance Awareness Coalition, the Hanley Center, the RPBHS Guidance Department, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Positive Pocket, Lauren Dobbs and DATA. “Children’s family members and doctors are more focused on physical illness, leaving mental illness in the dark,” explained SADD Advisor Maureen Witkowski. One in five children suffer from

mental illness and only 20 percent get help. Some of these children drop out of school and some resort to self-medication. The Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act passed seven years ago, in 2008. This law requires insurance coverage for mental health, behavioral health and substance-use disorders. Finally, mental illness has been defined as a condition needing medical intervention.

The majority of the time, mental illness is not diagnosed because it is not talked about or screened enough. Prior to the fair, the school’s guidance department offered an anonymous wellness survey that the majority of the students participated in to bring greater awareness to mental wellness. This Mental Health Awareness Fair was a huge success and had participation from more than half the school.

ROYAL PALM KIDS REACH OUT TO THE ELDERLY

Crestwood Middle School seventh graders Amanda Ng and Jenna Brooker reached out to the elderly at Morselife Health Systems on Dec. 9 at Helen Gould’s “Age is Just A Number” art show. Ng spent Saturdays this summer painting with Gould and accumulated more than 40 paintings, which will be displayed at Morse and in residents’ rooms. Ng and Brooker helped set up refreshments and then helped transport the elderly to see the art. Gould, who is 99 years old, hopes to complete 50 paintings for her 100th birthday art show. Ng has committed to helping Gould reach that goal. (Above, left to right) Amanda Ng helps Helen Gould paint; Amanda Ng and Jenna Brooker; Amanda Ng and Ms. Jean; and Jenna Brooker prepares snacks.

An English Honor Society student works with New Horizons students in Lourdes Sanchez’s first-grade class.

WHS Honor and New Horizons Students Forge Partnership

There is no better role model for a young child than a teenager. New Horizons Elementary School recently partnered with Wellington High School’s English Honor Society and invited club members to come into classrooms and read to first-grade students.

The high schoolers read Goldilocks and The Three Bears and prepared a craft to go along with the reading. The first-grade students were excited to welcome their new teenage friends, and the experience was positive for all.

Wellington High School honors students visit Wellington El.

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Sheriff Ric Bradshaw will speak to TWBA members and guests at the January 13th luncheon to be held at Madison Green Country Club. Sheriff Bradshaw will cover many security issues that are vital to local business owners. A career law enforcement professional for over 43 years, Sheriff Bradshaw is the leader of the largest law enforcement agency in Palm Beach County—PBSO. Join us on Wednesday, January 13, starting at 11:30 at Madison Green Country Club located at 2001 Crestwood Blvd. North in Royal Palm Beach. This first luncheon of 2016 is not one to miss!

Welcome New and Renewing TWBA Members Adele Steinberger, P.A...................................Adele Steinberg

AllState Insurance – Tom Neumann ..............Tom Neumann Bell Business Forms ......................................Ken Bell CJR Fine Arts & Frame ..................................Jack Rosen Evergreen Insurance Agency .........................Maggie Zeller Family Care Nurses Registry ..........................Carmen Johnson, RN

Keller Williams Realty Wellington .................Don & Maureen Gross Hilda M. Porro, P.A. ......................................Hilda Porro Horizon Pool & Patio, Inc. .............................Chuck Grove JJJ Automotive Inc. .......................................John Lawson Law Offices Of John P. Marinelli, LLC .............John Marinelli Men’s Wearhouse.........................................Jeffrey Femenia

Ocean’s Electric of South Florida, LLC ............Fred Farnes Quad S Solutions ..........................................Selena Smith RPB Technologies, LLC...................................Ron Tomchin The Town-Crier .............................................Barry Manning US Building Inspectors, Inc............................Patti Neri Wellington The Magazine .............................Dawn Rivera

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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FEATURES

My Grandkids Have Gone Christmas Crazy... And It’s Hilarious!

My grandchildren have gone completely insane. Orion, age 3, completely understands that a man with a white beard is going to bring him presents. Tess, at 14 months, merely feeds off her brother’s excitement, screaming and precariously toddling lickety-split around the house with her hands in the air until she falls. It’s magical alright. There’s not room enough in this column to write all the funny things they say and do, even if I keep it to Christmastime stuff alone. For instance, Orion was worried sick that he wasn’t being good enough to get

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER toys from Santa Claus. “Sometimes I not good,” he confessed quietly. “Sometimes I bad.” Bad. People are dying in massacres and this little guy crinkles his brow in torment because he grabbed a toy rolling pin from his sister. I had to remind him of

all the good things that he has done this year so he could relax. Tess is probably much more “bad,” but she is too young to have a conscience, so nothing she does counts. She is systematically undecorating the tree, stepping on ornaments, licking the lights — anything she can get away with when we’re not looking. Last night, presumably because he was in a festive mood, Orion wrapped several yards of ribbon around his neck until we all hollered, “Stop that! You’re going to choke yourself!” Then he started gagging and, in unison, we yelled, “Are you OK?” Evidently we had scared him, because his

frantic reply was, “I’m choking myself!” But it’s not all worry and fear with that kid. He also has the responsibility of taking any present that comes into the house and putting it under the tree. He has great fun with this but, unfortunately, already knows how to read his name. He will excitedly scan each tag looking for it, sometimes ending up crestfallen. Last week he grabbed one gift and said, “A big onae! Maybe it for me!” Then there was there a careful studying of the tag followed by the saddest voice you ever heard saying, “No. It not for me… I sad it not for me.” Worry, fear and sadness. Super holiday fun!

On the other hand, Tess is joyful 100 percent of the time. She absolutely loves that there is a gigantic tree in the house; that there are cookies available nearly on demand; and that Orion is there as the announcer. He’s the John Madden of Christmas, explaining even the most rudimentary things to her. She revels in the attention. “What you want for Christmas, Tessie?” Orion asks. “Goo-goo, gaga,” she replies. “I think Santa has room for that on his sleigh!” A small celebration ensues, with much See WELKY, page 18

‘Heart Of The Sea’ Not As Good As The Novel The Story Inspired

Call me ambivalent. The movie In the Heart of the Sea is a story about the confrontation of a whaling ship with a great white whale that inspired Herman Melville’s great novel Moby Dick. Unfortunately, without the lyric power of the novel, whose brilliant opening line I just sort of misused, the film seems more an expensive version of a Godzilla movie, with an overly long stretch about people struggling to survive in lifeboats. It is a decent movie, but not a really good one. We learn at the start that the film is not the great novel but the inspiration for it, as author Melville (Ben Whishaw) interviews Thomas Nickerson (Brendan Gleeson), the final survivor of the Essex, a whaling vessel that was sunk by a great white whale, to get the information needed to write his novel. The first part of the movie is a sort of soap opera focusing on hero Owen Chase (Chris Hemsworth), assigned as first mate

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler on the Essex under the less-experienced Capt. George Pollard Jr. (Benjamin Walker), who has important connections. The crew is not happy about that, but young Nickerson (Tom Holland) is more interested in surviving his first voyage. The opening segments are about conflict as the captain sails them into a storm that almost destroys them, and they finally sail to get to the whales. There they face a huge whale that is the size of the ship. Considering the detail director Ron Howard shows earlier when

they kill another whale (tough scenes of cutting up the whale), I was almost rooting for the whale. And the whale wins. The rest of the film shows the survivors on a small island and the open sea, where they’re forced to commit atrocities on each other for survival. Among them is cannibalism (this is not a movie for children). For all the focus on action in the trailers, the battle with the whale is very quick, no more than a few minutes. The attack on the survivors in the boats is rather unwhale-like. There are several huge inconsistencies. It is clear that a lot of the background is computer-generated, and that limits the fear we might have for the sailors. Also, the size of the ship seems to change. At times it seems large, but when it is up against the whale, it suddenly shrinks… and not just because the whale is so huge. After all, the whale was computer-generated.

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Even more to the point, this is supposed to be told from Nickerson’s point of view, yet we learn details of Chase’s life and see a lot of things that were done in private on the ship. Moving back and forth between first-person and third-person versions weakens the narrative. The ongoing interview interrupts the narrative and changes the film’s focus. Surprising in a Ron Howard film, the acting seems flat. Most of the people seem more like one-dimensional stereotypes. And by setting up the “experienced good guy hero” against a weak but not villainous opponent, there is far too little real drama. This is not a case of poor acting; the script is extraordinarily limiting. Melville’s book (and the movies made of it) focus on obsession. Ahab’s fanatic search for the whale that cost him a leg created a focus ably fortified by his use of symbolic phrasing. “Call me Ishmael,” perhaps the best opening line of any novel,

created a narrator whose impressions were central to the story. For those not biblically inclined, Ishmael, the son of Abraham, was cast out as a wanderer but was rescued by God through a miracle. And so Ishmael in Moby Dick wandered and was saved. But the real story is Ahab’s obsession, his view of the whale as the ultimate in evil, a tool of the devil. There is no obsession in this film. The crew was there for the money they could get by slaughtering whales. The battle with the whale was not planned, was spontaneous, and the whale easily got away. A lot of men were killed by the whale, but others died at other men’s hands. Despite all its flaws, it is not a bad film. There are a lot of interesting elements. The battle with the great whale was well-done, if not the main focus of the film. However, considering the high price of movie tickets, this may wind up as one to wait for when it reaches pay per view.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 17

NEWS

TIPSY SALONBAR IN WELLINGTON HOSTS GRAND REOPENING CELEBRATION

Tipsy Salonbar in Wellington hosted a grand reopening celebration Thursday, Dec. 10 with Beth Nguyen as head owner, while introducing Dr. Bao Doan and Tipsy’s new med spa, featuring treatments such as Botox and Microdermabrasion. Tipsy is located at 10120 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 100, in the Pointe at Wellington Green. Call (561) 791-5603 or visit www.tipsysalonbar.com for more info. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Jessica Zada, Letizia Sotelo and Malyha Siddiq.

Receptionist Karina Trindade with a cupcake.

Beth Nguyen and Paty Barr.

Kristy Rounds styles Paty Barr’s hair.

Dr. Bao Doan and Dr. Tuan Nguyen.

Michelle Nguyen paints Sophia Vazquez’s nails.

Bac Hai Nguyen, Dr. Bao Doan, Beth Nguyen and Matthew Lindahl of Tipsy’s Salonbar in Wellington.

Nicole Zaccagnini, Breigh Ignasiak and Whitney Moerings.

TED MATZ OFFERS DEMONSTRATION AT WELLINGTON ART SOCIETY MEETING

The Wellington Art Society held its monthly meeting Wednesday, Dec. 9 at Bootz Culture Camp. Members brought artwork for show and tell. Ted Matz of Ted Matz Fine Art gave a demonstration on the use of light and shadows using water soluble acrylic paints. Refreshments and raffles rounded out the meeting. For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Donna Donelan, Susan Mosely, Jeanne Bootz and Sandy Axelrod.

Lindy May shows her artwork of ceramic leaves and copper stalks.

Maria Martin shows her painting “Winter is Coming.”

Ted Matz ended with this painting, a study in shadows or light and dark, in 30 minutes.

Page 18

December 18 - December 24, 2015

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NEWS

Annual Meeting Reviews Successful Year For Wellington Cares

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington Cares held its year-in-review annual meeting Thursday, Dec. 3 at Casa Tequila Mexican Cuisine in Wellington. Friends, colleagues, caregivers, volunteers and more sat down for a delicious lunch as they learned about what the organization accomplished in 2015. “We are so fortunate to have all of our friends, volunteers and participants here to join us today for our annual meeting, as well as for our annual holiday party,” Executive Director Kathy Foster said. In January, Wellington Cares will turn 6 years old, although it took a while for the organization to get up and running. “We’ve been providing services now for almost three years, and our membership, both with people who welcome us into their home, as well as our volunteers who go into the homes and help our friends in need, continues to grow on a daily basis. We’re delighted that we’re able to offer these services free of charge,” Foster said. Wellington Cares offers services designed to help older residents “age in place.” Services include pickup and delivery of dry cleaning, prescriptions and groceries; in-home services such as laundry, light meals and cleaning; socialization by home visits or phone calls;

assistance scheduling appointments, writing letters and paying bills; helping seniors coordinate with local services; transporting seniors to medical appointments, therapy appointments or places of worship; and small home repairs, patient advocacy and hurricane preparation None of it would be possible without the hard work of the nonprofit’s board. The Wellington Cares’ Board of Directors includes Executive Director Kathy Foster, Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary Marion Frank, Volunteer Advisor Joan Manning, Cheryl Anders, Alec Domb and Daniel Turner. “They work on a weekby-week and month-by-month basis to make this happen,” she said, before also thanking sponsors Schaefer Drugs, Floridian Community Bank, Effective Solutions and Extraordinary Charities of Palm Beach. Foster introduced Diane Gutman and Selena Smith. “We wouldn’t be here today without Diane,” Foster said, praising Gutman’s coordination, communication and matching abilities. “Selena is always out there promoting us, helping us raise more money and looking for opportunities for us to make sure that we can stay financially afloat.” Gutman, before reading notes from participants, thanked the

volunteers for their hard work and dedication. “I’d really like to thank the volunteers for everything that you do,” she said. “It is really with a big heart that you all extend your time to this organization and to our participants. It doesn’t go unnoticed that you all do it because you want to and not because you have to, and that spreads a lot of love in this community.” Volunteers were honored with plaques for their exemplary dedication and service. Those who have accumulated more than 50 volunteer hours since 2012 include Lu Croteau, Melody Domb, Al Klarich, Carol Testa, Evelyn Regan and Sharyn Vowles. Volunteers with more than 100 hours of volunteerism include Janice Downs and Joan Manning, while Ann Brinson exceeded 150 hours. In January 2015, volunteer Ellie Vogt began the Hospitality Committee, where she mans the phones daily, weekly or every other day. She was also honored. Raffle prizes were given out during the luncheon, where Foster announced that gift cards will be distributed to participants for the holidays. “Thank you for all you do for Wellington Cares,” Foster said. For more information about Wellington Cares, visit www. wellingtoncaresorg.com.

Marion Frank, Kathy Foster, Daniel Turner, Cheryl Anders and Joan Manning.

Selena Smith and Diane Gutman.

Carol Testa receives an award from Wellington Cares founder Kathy Foster.

Kathy Foster thanks Ann Brinson for more than 150 volunteer hours.

Lucy McQuillan and Janice Downs enjoy the luncheon and holiday party.

Joanne Dee and Kathy Foster.

Wellington To Kick Off 20th Anniversary With ‘Breakfast On The Green’ Dec. 31

Join the Village of Wellington for “Breakfast on the Green” on Thursday, Dec. 31 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The event will kick off the village’s celebration of the 20th anniversary of Wellington’s incorporation.

Town Hall

County Officials

continued from page 1 tant than what does happen,” he said. A key component for them is controlling agricultural enclave legislation enacted originally on the Westlake property, proposed by Callery-Judge Grove before it sold the almost 4,000-acre tract to Minto. “We worked seven or eight years on that, but it became law,” Bonlarron said. Their recourse has been to sit down and work with local developers to try to create more friendly relations with them in order to keep the decisions local, rather than having them pursue favor from the state through ag enclave policy. “We feel good about going into this legislative session in regard to issues in the western communities,” Bonlarron said. The county is continuing its pursuit of missing funding for the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area levee that will provide additional flooding protection in The Acreage. That project got underway with partial funding from the state after the existing levee was almost breached after Tropical Storm Isaac. He added that the Seminole Improvement District project, which will direct water from Corbett northward via the Mecca Farms property, will also help control flooding. Bonlarron’s staff has also been working with Palm Beach State College on development of the new Loxahatchee Grove campus. The state recently released a budget of $79.3 billion, which is 1 percent greater than last year, but with a greater local tax burden on the Palm Beach County School District. The state is also talking about close to $1 billion in tax cuts to corporations. “It’s going to be a long 60 days,” Bonlarron said. Another difficult discussion will be how to allocate funding for the Amendment 1 referendum approved by voters last year to acquire environmentally sensitive areas. The legislature allocated the money largely for staff salaries rather than land acquisition, which

Fence

Coventry Green

continued from page 1 Beach Polo] land; well, actually, it’s the easement,” he said, asking whether the village manager could verify that. “The actual area is maybe 3 or 4 feet from the sidewalk.” He added that the property on the north side will probably be developed at some point. Palm Beach Polo owner Glenn Straub has floated several ideas for the unused land. “He has cooperated with us over the years, and actually helped us

Attendees are invited to savor a light breakfast of eggs, sausage, hash browns, bagels, as well as a fruit and yogurt parfait. Coffee and water will also be available. Guests will be treated to a live acoustic show by local artist Bobby Gugliuzza (aka Bobby G), who will perform on the stage during

the breakfast. There will also be give-a-ways to commemorate the event. Guests are encouraged to bring photos from past decades to share. The images will be scanned and used in 20th anniversary events and promotions throughout the year.

led to a lawsuit by environmental organizations. “A lot of environmentalists wanted to see more purchase of public lands,” he said. “The legislature had a very different idea.” Palm Beach County Administrator Verdenia Baker, who lives in Royal Palm Beach, said she spends a lot of time in the western communities and is trying to control growth that would negatively affect the area. “I love this county, and I’ve seen the development. I want us to be able to get out of driveways and onto Okeechobee Blvd.,” she said, explaining that the county does the best it can to control development under the statutory controls it has to work with. “We do not rubber-stamp projects. Developers say they would rather stick hot pokers in their eyes than deal with us.” Minto’s Westlake project, approved in 2014 with 4,500 residential units and a million square feet of nonresidential uses, was the result of years of compromise, starting with 10,000 residential units and several million square feet of nonresidential uses. The county is now working on GL Homes’ application for 3,900 homes and 345,000 square feet of commercial use, which has not yet been approved. Baker said that county staff is working with GL Homes, rather than turning it down and having them go to the state for ag enclave approval. The GL Homes application will go before the Palm Beach County Commission for transmittal in February. Palm Beach County Engineer George Webb noted that the county recently adopted a revised five-year road program financed by impact fees and gas taxes that includes the widening of remaining sections of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, improvements to the intersection of Northlake Blvd. and Seminole Pratt, and Northlake Blvd. to Hall Blvd. In 2017, the county will undertake improvements on Lyons Road and Sansbury’s Way. A project to replace the bridge over the C-51 Canal is underway, but County Road 880 had to be shut down in order to stabilize the canal bank. “We had to invest a million dollars this year and a million next just to

keep the road from falling into the canal,” Webb said. Another project being undertaken is to redesign the off-ramps from Southern Blvd. to State Road 7 to improve traffic flow under the overpass so that there is only one left turn at a time in order to reduce confusion. A project to widen the bridge on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. at the M Canal in The Acreage is also underway. Webb also reported that the Florida Department of Transportation is pushing hard to complete the State Road 7 extension to Northlake Blvd., although it is still being challenged by the City of West Palm Beach. The county is also following up on a request by the Town of Loxahatchee Groves for traffic calming on Folsom Road, but the county process requires soliciting neighbors to see what they support. The county is also trying to sort through several large development applications in the region, many of which have been submitted without consideration of traffic impacts from other developments going through the same process. He cited the GL Homes plan, along with Avenir in Palm Beach Gardens, as two projects that have to go through two different agencies for land use changes. “The big question is where is all the traffic going to go,” Webb said. The county is also trying to get a new north-south road in and out of The Acreage, tentatively by an easement on the east side of the Mecca property. Webb noted that a plan has been scrapped to connect the original Seminole Pratt easement between Mecca and Corbett to the Beeline Highway. Webb stressed that road planning has been complicated by the demise of concurrency at the hands of the state, which has mandated a new policy of “proportional share,” where the developer pays only for its portion of impact, which he said will throw improvements behind until ensuing developers pay their share. “Palm Beach County has for decades had a reputation for tying infrastructure to growth,” Webb said. “We lived and died with concurrency. We built a lot of roads. A few years ago, the state, in its wisdom, dictated that we can’t do that anymore.”

clean up the north course,” Cosola said. “It used to be a real disaster. When it was not cleaned up, it used to be a hangout for homeless people. Now we’re asking for some help from you, and I think there’s an easy solution.” Cosola said that the small community had authorized him to speak on their behalf. “It’s a small community, it’s 28 people, 18 people signed it and nobody is opposed. The ones who didn’t sign it just weren’t there,” he said. Councilman Matt Willhite asked Cosola whether he had reached out to Straub to see if Palm Beach Polo would install a matching hedge on the north side as he had done on the south and maintain it, and Cosola

said he had, but Straub wasn’t interested. “He’s a nice guy, but that’s not his main thing,” Cosola said. “You’ve got to understand, he’s got his polo field, it’s nicely blocked off, and it looks good. I can imagine how lousy it would look if you didn’t have that hedge and fence there, but he doesn’t have that same interest in the property [on the north side] at this time, until maybe he develops it someday, and I think that’s what he’s looking for.” Village Manager Paul Schofield said that he would set up a meeting with Cosola and Assistant Village Manager Jim Barnes to discuss options for the roadway.

Aero Club

Pathway Project

continued from page 1 lots; the removal of six oak trees; the relocation of nine Washingtonian palms on Take Off Place; the possible disturbance of sprinkler systems; and the removal and replacement of 20 driveways. Option B is a 6-foot-wide asphalt path that begins at the edge of the road pavement, so there is a 6-foot offset, and then the 6-foot path. “In this option, we avoid almost every tree — we keep all of the existing trees, the swale winds up moving over slightly, so it would be in between the path and the existing tree line, or your property line. We’ve looked at it; it’s doable, and it’s definitely a good option,” Barthelemy said. Option B’s impacts — the relocation of nine Washingtonian palms, possible disturbance of sprinkler systems, and the removal and replacement of 20 driveways — are all present in Option A as well. “We believe this is the best design, the preferred design, and we hope you do, too,” Barthelemy said. Option C was created to show what it would take to put in an 8-foot path. With Option C, in addition to the three impacts of Option B, there would be the removal of 51 oak trees, it would

New Campus

Opening Next Year

continued from page 1 2016. “The construction is on schedule right now, so the best case would be at the end of September, so between September and December, we would be able to offer some classes,” she said.

Welky

Christmas With Tykes

continued from page 16 jumping up and down, clapping of hands and Tess’s signature onefoot tap and twirl that means she’s dancing. Until she falls. Orion himself has asked Santa (twice) for a flying lawn mower. The elves are in fits over that one. And if he’s talking about a riding mower, we’re all in big trouble. So the big day is looming large for the little ones, but my favorite time may well be the 24 days leading up to it. The excitement! The anticipation! The hilarity! If I could bottle that joy and sell it, I’d never have to work again. And it truly would be Christmas every day of the year.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

be close to private property, and it would require the relocation of three existing private entry columns and entry gate pads. Construction is projected to begin April 18 and conclude Sept. 30. Residents Terry Olson and Karl Bennett asked about the particulars of the construction: where the construction would start, whether it would be put out for bids and whether it would affect aircraft. Barthelemy explained that some of the construction preferences are up to the contractor. Riebe explained that the equipment would be small, and that the $675,000 budget is adequate for the project. John Sergeant, who looks forward to the pathway, suggested that something be considered to warn pedestrians about bicycles. He also stated a preference and suggestion for concrete rather than asphalt, for aesthetics and durability. Dianne Melita asked if there was a possibility for concrete. “There’s a big difference in price between concrete and asphalt, for starters,” Barthelemy explained. “On top of that, concrete tends to cost more to maintain and takes more effort to maintain. Concrete tends to fail in a way that creates tripping hazards, while asphalt does not.” Melita was also concerned about property values when considering concrete or asphalt. Riebe explained that there has not been a noticeable market difference between the two, and that properties

in Wellington are increasing in value across the board. Christian Schoemig gave a nod the engineers. “I want to thank you very much for being here tonight and for going through the effort,” Schoemig said. “It’s late, and I want to say I really appreciate what you’re doing. The sidewalks will hopefully provide a lot of safety and potentially save lives… It seems like Option B seems the most reasonable, has the least impact and is the most sensible for pedestrians and cyclists alike.” Aero Club President Steven Daiagi commended the engineers. “We’re all about saving the trees and keeping the grass and all of that,” he said. “I also believe that plan B is the best way to go.” Daiagi raised concerns, such as the impacts to the homes and finding a way to work with residents’ sprinkler systems and driveways. Riebe explained that paver driveways will not have a strip of asphalt. The pavers need to be removed, the asphalt put down, and then the pavers replaced. In the past, he explained, residents have been financially compensated for the cost of removing and replacing the pavers. He promised to look more into the sprinkler issue. After residents’ questions and concerns were heard, Riebe and Barthelemy asked residents to vote. Option B was the overwhelming favorite. Another meeting on the project will take place before construction begins in April.

Board Member Renatta Espinosa asked whether there would be a theater at the new campus similar to those at the Lake Worth, Eissey and Belle Glade campuses, and Rogers said it will not have a theater, but an amphitheater and a large lecture hall that can offer some student activities. Espinosa also asked about science, technology, engineering and math (STEAM) programs, and Rogers said that the campus will focus on technology at first. “Remember, there’s probably going to be more than 10 buildings

when we build out this entire campus,” she noted, explaining that many other programs will come online later. Espinosa said that she would like for younger students to be able to come and see the campus to interact with the college students and instructors, and Rogers said that the college is always open to tours. “We welcome student groups,” she said. “We have student groups come all the time, and we show them what we have to offer and get them excited about coming to college.”

Blotter

continued from page 6 p.m., someone stole the victim’s Apple iPhone 6S, valued at $600, from his hospital room. DEC. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Monday afternoon to a home on Key Lime Blvd. in The Acreage regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. last Thursday and noon Monday, someone stole the water softener system, valued at $2,000, from a vacant home. DEC. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called Monday afternoon to the Publix supermarket on State

Road 7 regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 p.m. Sunday and 1 p.m. Monday, someone stole two batteries, valued at $1,000, from a scissor lift that was being used by a vendor to fix the store’s air conditioning system. DEC. 14 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called Monday afternoon to a tire store on State Road 7 regarding the delayed report of a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between Dec. 8 and last Thursday, someone stole a Solus Snap-On diagnostic scanner, valued at $5,000, from the manager’s office.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 19

it Matters.

Wellington is America’s top equestrian destination and the Winter Equestrian Capital of the World. Wellington is also recognized by Money Magazine as one of America’s best communities in which to live, work, play and raise a family. And it matters that we have the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area to help us keep it that way.

It matters to the residents of Wellington because the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area enhances our home values, preserves our environment and enriches our quality of life.

It matters to the economy of Wellington because the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area sustains such a vibrant mix of commerce in a uniquely beautiful setting.

It matters to our equestrians who live and visit here because the Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area offers world-class spaces to show and beautiful places to ride while also providing a rural equestrian lifestyle that makes our village so unique.

It matters that Wellington is not like many of the crowded, overdeveloped cookiecutter South Florida communities. Our residents and visitors alike take great pride in places like our Wellington Equestrian Preserve Area.

The Equestrian Preserve makes us different, helps sustain our economy and protects our village from the kind of overdevelopment that is destroying so many of our neighboring communities. It’s part of who we are. And that matters. Sponsored by Preserve & Protect Wellington, Inc. 11924 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 10A-335 | Wellington, FL 33414 For more information visit

www.EquestrianPreserve.org

Pd. pol. adv. paid for by Preserve and Protect Wellington, Inc., 11924 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 10A-335, Wellington, FL 33414 EPA Ad 3.indd 2

11/27/15 12:36 PM

Page 20

December 18 - December 24, 2015

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 21

NEWS

BILL’S BIKES MOTORCYCLE TOY RUN BRINGS IN TOYS FOR TOTS DONATIONS

The 33rd annual Bill’s Bikes Memorial Toy Run was held in cooperation with the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation on Sunday, Dec. 13. Hundreds of motorcyclists rode in a parade, escorted by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office from the South Florida Fairgrounds to Dreher Park in West Palm Beach. Participants each brought toys to donate to the Toys for Tots campaign. Learn more at www.pbtoyrun.com. PHOTOS BY MIKE COLAROSSI/TOWN-CRIER

PBSO Chief Deputy Michael Gauger kicks off the parade as grand marshal.

Kevin and Karina Maska.

Terrie Gempel and Nina Lynch.

Jenny Grebow is ready to ride in holiday style.

Santa Claus stopped by to make an appearance.

Many of the motorcycles were carrying teddy bears.

Mark Andrews and Jennifer Webster with their dog Chanel.

Mike Gilmore and Casey Geist.

TEAM OF FPL ‘ELVES’ DECORATE THE HOME OF LOCAL NATIONAL GUARDSMAN

Florida Power & Light Company sent “elves” to transform the yard of a Florida National Guard member and his family into an energy-efficient holiday wonderland using more than 1,000 energy-efficient decorations, including LED and solar holiday lights. VetNext (FPL and NextEra Energy employees who served in the military) also volunteered to decorate the fellow veteran’s home. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Thomas Zaldivar, Christian Hunter, Michelle Sudowski, Sarina Tenan, Larry Herron and Joseph Zaldivar.

Jennifer Herron gives Nina a special gift as her parents, Florida National Guardsman Peter and mom Lucy, look on.

Thomas Zaldivar, Jennifer Herron, Tanya Vaughn-Patterson and John G. Guido.

Page 22

December 18 - December 24, 2015

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Fun Time At The Vinceremos Holiday Horse Show

December 18 - December 24, 2015

WHS Standouts Honored At Lou Groza Awards

The 24th annual Lou Groza Awards Banquet got underway Monday, Dec. 7 with two Wellington High School football standouts nominated for key awards: senior receiver Ahmmon Richards and junior placekicker Logan Robinson. Richards took home Player of the Year honors. Page 31

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business

Horizon Pool & Patio Rewards Faithful Customers For 30 Years Of Loyalty

Horizon Pool & Patio has been serving its customers in the western communities faithfully since 1985. Horizon counts hundreds of pool owners among its clients, and the owners and staff are proud that some of their first customers remain customers today. Horizon owners Chuck and Linda Grove chose to do something special this year for the customers who have been with them from the beginning. Page 26

Sports Lady Wolverines Top Sem Ridge In Basketball

Shopping Spree

Van Dell Since 1939

There is still time... You have a week!

On Dec. 10, the Wellington High School girls basketball team traveled to take on Seminole Ridge High School and routed the Hawks 54-13, to improve their overall record to 9-3. The No. 5 Wolverines started slow on offense but played much better on defensive. Page 31

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 25 BUSINESS NEWS....................................26-27 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................31-33 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 34 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 35-38

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Fun Time At Vinceremos Annual Holiday Horse Show

On Saturday, Dec. 5, the weather might have put a damper on many weekend plans, but at the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center in Loxahatchee Groves, the rain was barely acknowledged. Under Vinceremos’ sheltering covered arena, the annual holiday horse show went off without a hitch. The parking lot was absolutely jam-packed. The arena had been divided in two. The western half held a variety of obstacles for riders and horses to traverse, while the eastern half offered game booths for everyone to play. The show’s theme was “Candy Land,” and Deb Levinsky, the show’s organizer, was thrilled. “We’re off to a great start,” Deb said. “The rain hasn’t stopped us at all. Our goal was to create an event where our riders could show off all they’ve learned and achieved for their friends and families. The whole thing is family-friendly. We have lots of games and activities for non-riding siblings.” Planning for the fun event got underway back in May. “A lot of people helped and donated time and materials,” Deb said. “It’s a real comingtogether of a large community. The Wellington High School DECA students partnered with us. They were out here last month helping paint and create the candy decorations, and 25 of them are here today helping out, along with 35 of our Vinceremos volunteers.” Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL.

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg Many area businesses also helped out. “Home Depot donated paint, we found a lot of materials at Resource Depot, Walgreens donated candy, and we received a very generous check from Joe Rosenberg at Coldwell Banker,” Deb said. “This has been a real community effort, and a win-win for everyone.” The game booths included “feed the horse” (throw a plastic apple through the wooden cutout of a horse with an open mouth), “catch a duck” (plastic ducks bobbing in a kiddy pool), “cake ring toss,” “pin the gumball” and “candy surprise.” The craft tables offered coloring, ornament making and tattoos. The horses sported colorful ribbons in their manes and tails as riders maneuvered the Candy Land course: weaving through the lollipop poles, stepping over the Hershey’s Kisses ground poles, dragging a peppermint stick through candy lane, walking a figure-8 around inflated donuts, riding the rainbow bridge over the fudge river, depositing a bag of popcorn into an oversized popcorn container, circling the gingerbread house, and trotting between the Tootsie Roll poles. After that,

Charlie Davino on Flitz trots through the Tootsie Roll rails. riders completed an equitation class, riding around the perimeter. Peggy Davino watched her son, Charlie, complete the course, beaming with pride. “This is our second year doing the holiday show,” she said. “His confidence is so much better this year, and his riding ability is amazing. He has changed 180 degrees since we started coming out two years ago.” Vinceremos has given Charlie a place to shine. “Charlie has autism, and he was angry at

many things, especially because he couldn’t play sports with other boys,” Peggy said. “But this is a sport he’s good at. He learned that he couldn’t be angry around the horses. Coming here has helped him in many ways. He will be 11 on Christmas Eve, and out here he’s a normal kid. This is a wonderful program.” Executive Director Ruth Menor announced each horse and rider combo as they entered the arena. “This is a great day,” she said. “It’s so much fun seeing all the riders and families here See ROSENBERG, page 33

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BUSINESS NEWS

Horizon Pool & Patio Rewards Faithful Customers For Loyalty

WestJet’s inaugural flight landed at PBIA at 10:32 a.m. on Dec. 11.

PHOTO COURTESY DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES

WestJet Launches Flights To Palm Beaches From Toronto

WestJet launched its much-anticipated nonstop, seasonal service to the Palm Beaches from Toronto on Dec. 11. Flights will be offered twice weekly, Fridays and Mondays, between the Toronto Pearson and Palm Beach international airports. “We’re thrilled that WestJet is providing another easy and convenient direct flight option for our Canadian visitors,” said Jorge Pesquera, president and CEO of Discover the Palm Beaches. “The highest percentage of our destination’s international tourists are traveling from Canada.”

DTPB’s data shows 266,000 Canadians visited Palm Beach County from January through September 2015. In 2014, more than 360,000 Canadians spent an estimated $470 million and stayed 343,000 hotel room nights in the Palm Beaches “We are pleased to provide nonstop, twice-weekly service between Toronto and West Palm Beach,” said WestJet spokesman Robert Palmer. “We look forward to providing Canadians with easy access to the Palm Beaches, as well as Floridians with the opportunity to visit any number of Canadian destinations.”

Thirty years in business is a milestone to make any company owner proud. For Horizon Pool & Patio, it’s also a family celebration. Horizon has been serving its customers in the western communities faithfully since 1985. What began as a small pool retail store is now a multigenerational family business focused on bringing pools to the next generation. Horizon Pool & Patio counts hundreds of pool owners among its clients, and the owners and staff are proud that some of their first customers remain customers today. Chuck and Linda Grove, owners of Horizon Pool & Patio, chose to do something special this year for the customers who have been with them from the beginning. “We wanted to show our appreciation to those customers that have been with us the entire 30 years. From our family to yours, thank you for all of your support throughout the years,” Chuck Grove said. He and his wife have been making personal deliveries of festive holiday greetings to many of those customers this month. Horizon Pool & Patio is located

Chuck and Linda Grove drop off a greeting at a customer’s mailbox. at 12785-A W. Forest Hill Blvd. in the Wellington Plaza. To learn more,

call (561) 790-0665 or visit www. horizonpool.com.

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Page 27

Calling All Entries For ‘Fair Housing’ Poster Contest

“Fair Housing Opens Doors” is the theme of this year’s annual Fair Housing Month art, essay and audio-visual contest. The contest is sponsored by the Palm Beach County Office of Equal Opportunity in collaboration with the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches and the Legal Aid Society

of Palm Beach County. Students in Palm Beach County are invited to create a poster, essay or video that conveys the message that it is illegal to discriminate in the sale or rental of housing because of race, color, religion, family status, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital

status and gender identity or expression. Students may submit only one entry for each category no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 15. Third-grade through fifth-grade students may submit a poster; sixth-graders through eighth-graders can submit a poster and/or an essay; and high school students can submit

an essay and/or video. First-place winners in elementary and middle school will be awarded $100 cash. High school first-place winners will be awarded a tablet PC. Second-place winners receive at least $50 at each level, and thirdplace winners get at least $25. Winners will be announced Feb.

29. Prizes will be awarded April 20 at a reception in West Palm Beach hosted by the Realtors Association and the Legal Aid Society. For contest rules and more information, visit www.pbcgov.com/ equalopportunity or contact Kathi Dillard at (561) 355-4927 or kdillard@pbcgov.org.

Origins Behavioral Healthcare Names ABWA Chapter Kicks Off 2016 Motivational Speaker New Executive Director For Hanley Hosting The Northern Palm Beach Chap- There are five main patterns that

Origins Behavioral HealthCare, one of the nation’s top brands in residential substance-abuse treatment, has recruited a talented administrator to fill a key strategic position in the company. Kerry Coyle, who holds a master’s degree in social work, has been named executive director of Hanley Center at Origins. She will lead the center’s multidisciplinary team and help to continue to elevate the standard of recovery treatment based on evidence of efficacy. Origins acquired the West Palm Beach-based Hanley Center last December, aligning two of the best treatment companies in the country into a powerful standout in the recovery industry. Origins now offers residential treatment centers in West Palm Beach, Vero Beach, Singer

Island in Florida and South Padre Island, Texas. “Kerry’s passion for 12-stepbased treatment aligns perfectly with the treatment model and philosophy of Origins,” CEO Drew Rothermel said. “Her extensive experience and exemplary track leading long-term addiction treatment programs will serve her very well.” Over the course of her nearly 15-year career in behavioral health, Coyle has worked as a family consultant and primary therapist, and held various leadership positions. She brings years of experience serving as a top leader for other large treatment organizations. Prior to pursuing a career in addiction treatment, she worked with at-risk youth providing behavior modification.

Kerry Coyle Coyle earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work from Florida Atlantic University. To learn more about Origins, visit www.originsrecovery.com.

ter of the American Business Women’s Association will host its monthly meeting Wednesday, Jan. 13 at the PGA Boulevard Embassy Suites Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens. Networking will be from 6 to 6:30 p.m., with dinner and the program following. The cost is $22. Guests are welcome. The January speaker is Alexia McLeod, CEO and founder of the Therapeutic Center 4 Hope. Alexia is a psychotherapist and motivational speaker known for her dynamic coaching, leading and teaching style. She launched the West Palm Beach Chapter of Suits, Stilettos and Lipstick, where she continued to spread her message of empowerment. The January program title is “Patterns that Block Your Vision.”

Alexia will focus on. The goal is to show how patterns of behavior and thinking can hinder us or catapult us into our success if we allow it to. Difficult times don’t have to define us. Join the group for an informative discussion as McLeod teaches how to break the negative patterns. To make reservations, or for more information, contact Karen Dooley at (561) 543 5641 or Chapter President Rebecca Ott at (772) 828-0915. The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and provide opportunities for them to grow personally and professionally. For more information, contact Ott or visit www.abwanpbflorida.org.

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Page 31

WHS Football Standouts Honored At Lou Groza Awards

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The 24th annual Lou Groza Awards Banquet got underway Monday, Dec. 7 with two Wellington High School football standouts nominated for key awards: senior receiver Ahmmon Richards and junior placekicker Logan Robinson. The event, held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, was hosted by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission and presented by the Orange Bowl. Richards received Player of the Year honors. He was in good company, up against a talented group of athletes, such as Suncoast quarterback Matt Dane, Oxbridge Academy running back Travis Homer, Atlantic running back Shawndarius Phillips and American Heritage running back Devin Singletary. “This is the biggest honor for me,” Richards said. “I’m just glad I am able to represent my family in this way. I’m so happy right now.” Richards added to his accolades over the past two seasons. Last year, he was the Sun-Sentinel’s large school player of the year. This season, he added to his honors by being the only Palm Beach County player selected to participate in the 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas on Jan. 9. He

has become one the nation’s most sought-after players, with offers from Miami, Alabama, Auburn and Tennessee, to name a few. Coming off his junior season, Richards is credited with 53 pass receptions for more than 1,300 yards and 23 touchdowns. Knowing he had a bull’s-eye on his back, as opposing teams keyed on him, his senior year was even more impressive. Richards totaled 73

receptions for 1,442 yards. Wellington is no stranger to the Lou Groza events. Last year, Wellington won the District 9-8A title and earned a regional finals appearance. The Wolverines finished last season with a school-best 11-2 record, receiving the Lou Groza Team of the Year award, and Wellington’s Tom Abel received Coach of the Year. “We’re grateful to be here, and

it shows that Wellington football is headed in the right direction,” Richards said. Abel and several of Richard’s teammates were on hand to support the senior receiver. “It’s another big year for the school,” Abel said. “Logan was huge for us this year, and I can’t say enough about Ahmmon — he’s going to be a three-time MVP for us this year.” The Groza awards also direct their

Ahmmon Richards and Logan Robinson (center, wearing corsages) are surrounded by their supportive Wolverine teammates before the ceremony.

focus to off-the-field successes. Both Ahmmon and Robinson maintain over a 3.0 GPA in the classroom and put a lot of emphasis on their academics. Robinson was a nominee for the Placekicker of the Year but was edged out by Pahokee’s Ezekiel Hernandez. Robinson was one of the top kickers in Palm Beach County. He went six-for-eight on field goals and See GROZA, page 33

Wellington receiver Ahmmon Richards, who had a stellar senior-year season, accepts his Player of the Year award. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Lady Wolverines Rout Seminole Ridge, Improve To 9-3

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report On Thursday, Dec. 10, the Wellington High School girls basketball team traveled to take on Seminole Ridge High School and routed the Hawks 54-13, to improve their overall record to 9-3. The No. 5 Wolverines started slow

Haley Thompson gets a jump shot for the Wolverines.

on offense but played much better on the defensive side of the ball. The Hawks (2-11) grabbed the lead right out of the gate, but it did not last. Three minutes into the game, the Hawks led 3-2, but a determined Wellington defense buckled down and closed out the first period with a 10-4 lead. The Hawks moved the

ball around well but could not put it in the net. The Hawks also had a difficult time picking up rebounds. The Wolverine offense kicked into gear, and put up 11 second-period points, defensively holding the Hawks scoreless, to end the first half 21-4. Seminole Ridge could not crack the Wellington defense.

Wellington’s McKenzie Steuerer tries to split the Hawks defense for a score.

Two points were scored by the Hawks four minutes into the second half after both teams struggled offensively, but the Hawks needed more than just one score to close the margin on the visiting Wolverines, who held on to a 21-6 lead. Wellington found its groove near the end of the third period,

putting up 13 points in just under three minutes to extend its lead to 34-8 going into the final period. A valiant fourth-quarter effort landed the Hawks five more points on the board, but Jillian Duncan put up six for Wellington and Aurelia Lebron had two three-pointers in the fourth See BASKETBALL, page 33

Wellington’s Camryn DeBose reaches for the rebound. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

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SPORTS & RECREATION

OWEN HOLOWECKI DOES WELL AT NFL’S PUNT, PASS & KICK EVENT

Registration is underway for adult softball leagues at Okeeheelee Park. Leagues are available for men’s and mixed teams, ages 18 and older. Registration ends Dec. 30. Leagues start the week of Jan. 8. Leagues are formed on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited. For more information, contact Adam Schackmann at (561) 9636722 or aschackmann@pbcgov. org.

SULLIVAN MANEY SIGNS WITH ECKERD COLLEGE

Golf Academy Enrolling For Holiday Camps

Owen Holowecki of Loxahatchee (shown above) recently came in as fourth in his age group at the 2015 NFL Punt, Pass & Kick Miami Dolphins Team Championship. He competed against other children his age in a variety of skills. For more information, visit www.nflppk.com. PHOTO COURTESY MIAMI DOLPHINS

The Kevin Perkins Golf Academy is now enrolling students for its Junior Christmas Holiday Camps at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. The week long camps are open to boys and girls ages 7 to 17. Golf clubs will be provided if needed. The camps will be held from Monday, Dec. 21 through Thursday, Dec. 24 and from Monday, Dec. 28 through Thursday, Dec. 31. For more information, visit www. kevinperkinsgolfacademy.com or call (561) 301-3783.

Seminole Ridge High School senior Sullivan Maney has signed an athletic scholarship letter of intent to play volleyball for the Tritons of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg. “Eckerd is getting a tremendously talented player in Sullivan, where her amazing versatility will be an asset to the Tritons,” SRHS coach Scott O’Hara said. “She’ll impress with her rocket serve, pinpoint setting and accurate hitting. She can truly do it all on the court.”

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Wellington Honors

continued from page 31 to lift the Wolverines in a late surge, putting the game out of reach, 54-13. Duncan totaled 19 points for Wellington overall. Camryn DeBose had 11 points, and McKenzie Steuerer tallied three three-point baskets and totaled 10 points for the Wolverines. Aneesha Cason recorded five points for the Hawks. (Right) Seminole Ridge’s Aneesha Cason tries to get by Wellington’s McKenzie Steurer.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Holiday Show

continued from page 25 together. They don’t always see each other, coming just on their riding day, but this gives them a chance to visit and watch each other and share the spotlight. I love the fellowship of it all. It’s a great community collaboration.” Lauren Bordeaux, 16, was there helping out. She is a sophomore in Wellington High School’s DECA

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Groza

WHS Win Over SRHS

Rosenberg

December 18 - December 24, 2015

program and has been a Vinceremos volunteer for four years. “For our annual competition project, we decided to get involved in the holiday horse show,” she explained. “DECA members worked on props and decorations and helped out in all sorts of ways. Twenty of us are here today, helping out. We’ll write a 30-page paper detailing all of it for the competition. I’ve volunteered at the Special Olympics, but this is my first time at the holiday horse show. It’s a great way for riders to watch and support each other and make friends. I’m

continued from page 31 33-for-35 on point after kicks. He kicked a 42-yard field goal, which proved to be critical points in a 3028 victory over Boca Raton. In a close 42-35 loss to perennial power Dwyer, Robinson kept the Wolverines in the game due to a staggering three successful onside kicks. “As a junior, it’s an honor to be considered for an award of this stature,” Robinson said. Robinson returns next year as placekicker for the Wolverines, and has one more year to make another

run at adding to his impressive stats. He hopes to contribute in big ways

for the Wellington program for one more season.

out here almost every day after school. I love being here so much.” A fire truck from Station 21 was also pulled up under an edge of the overhang. “We love doing public events like this, connecting with the community,” Capt. Mike Owens explained. “The kids are welcome to climb on the truck, examine the gear, sit in the front seat. We get a charge out of it. Vinceremos does a lot of good, and we’re glad to help support them.” Girl Scout Troop 20178 showed up with five volunteers. Co-leaders

and moms Jill Sorensen and Helen Archer watched. “This whole event and organization is wonderful,” Helen said. “This is our first year helping out. We’ll definitely be coming back.” “I’m amazed at the opportunities they give to the clients,” Jill added. “The smiles on everyone’s faces are priceless. My daughter wants to volunteer here next year when she’s old enough.” Just then, Megan, Jill’s daughter, dashed over from her spot helping with the popcorn post of the trail class. “This is awesome!” she

exclaimed. “Everyone’s having so much fun. I love horses and helping people. I’m volunteering here this summer, about a minute after I turn 12.” “We can always use more volunteers, especially adults,” Volunteer Coordinator Deb Rasmussen said. “We give 95 lessons a week, Monday through Saturday. There’s enough work for everyone: horse leaders, side walkers, general horse care. Give us a call.” To volunteer, or for more information, call (561) 792-9900 or visit www.vinceremos.org.

Wellington placekicker Logan Robinson, coach Tom Abel and receiver Ahmmon Richards with his player of the year award.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Saturday, Dec. 19 • The West Palm Beach Gun & Knife Show will return to the South Florida Fairgrounds on Saturday, Dec. 19 and Sunday, Dec. 20. Admission is $10. For more info., visit www.flgunshows.com. • Wellington’s 25th annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic will take place Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Village Park front lake (11700 Pierson Road) presented by the Village of Wellington, in conjunction with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. Registration opens at 8 a.m., and the tournament runs from 9 to 11 a.m. Awards and fish tales will follow from 11 a.m. to noon. Call (561) 791-4786 for more info. • The Green Market at Wellington will be held Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.greenmarketatwellington.com for more info. • Clinics Can Help, a local nonprofit organization enabling access to healthcare through the donation of medical equipment and supplies, will be wrapping gifts at the Wellington Barnes & Noble store on Saturday, Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. To learn more, call (561) 640-2995 or visit www.clinicscanhelp.org. • Congregation L’Dor Va-Dor (3475 Woolbright Road, Suite 19, Boynton Beach) continues its monthly Torah, Talk & A Taste discussion group on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 10 a.m. with Rabbi Barry Silver. Call (561) 968-0688 for more info. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Deer & Raptor Walk on Saturday, Dec. 19 for all ages at 10:30 a.m. Go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the deer and raptor compounds, see the animals up close, and learn about these unique critters. Reservations are required. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “The Force is Awake” for ages 7 to 11 on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Participate in the Jedi Training Academy and learn some mind tricks to defeat the Dark Side. Make your own light saber to bring home and practice your Jedi skills. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Due to inclement weather, Royal Palm Beach’s Winter Fest Event has been rescheduled for Saturday, Dec. 19 from 1 to 9 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Get in the holiday spirit and enjoy some entertainment on the main stage. A variety of holiday crafts will be available, as will be great food provided by the popular Food Truck Invasion. The event also includes games, rides, the Kids Fun Zone and Royal Palm Beach’s own skating rink. Santa Claus will be stopping by for a visit. Holiday craft vendors can register at www.pottcevents.com. For more info., call (561) 790-5149. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Let It Snow!” for ages 4 to 8 on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. Get a little taste of the magic of winter with a celebration of snow. Kids will make snow cones and take part in a fun snow activity. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

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• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host an Acoustic Java Jam for adults Saturday, Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent, or bring your acoustic instruments and jam out. Coffee will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Fuyu Matsuri: Winter Anime Fest for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 3 p.m. Fuyu Matsuri is the Japanese winter festival. Wear your kimono or favorite cosplay outfit and get ready to enjoy some warming winter treats and fun anime crafts. Plus, participate in a costume contest. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • ZMC Entertainment will present its Winter Wonderland Holiday Show on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) with professional performers, singers and dancers in a performance to the theme of Disney’s Frozen. Santa Claus himself will make a special appearance. Character photo opportunities will be available at the end of the show, and food trucks will be on site for food and beverage purchases. Attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets for seating. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for info. • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present A Well-Strung Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 8 p.m. The all-male singing string quartet Well-Strung becomes a festive foursome in this new holiday show, which features violinists Edmund Bagnell and Christopher Marchant, violist Trevor Wadleigh and cellist Daniel Shevlin. Visit www.kravis.org for more info. Sunday, Dec. 20 • The fourth annual Wellington Holiday 5k Run returns to Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) on Sunday, Dec. 20. The race begins at 7 a.m., and participants are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to be donated to Wellington families in need as part of the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive. All participants will be provided with jingle bells to wear prior to the start of the race. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov or www. active.com. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Nail Stamping for the Holidays for adults on Sunday, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. Bling in the New Year with amazingly artistic nails. Learn how to use the technique of nail stamping to add winter and holiday designs to your favorite manicure. Paint your nails prior to the program. All materials will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a bird walk at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands (13206 Jog Road, Delray Beach) on Sunday, Dec. 20 at 4 p.m. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info. Monday, Dec. 21 • The Kevin Perkins Golf Academy is now enrolling for its Junior Christmas Holiday Camp at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. Two week-long camps are open to boys and girls ages 7 to 17. Golf clubs will be provided if needed. The camps will be held Monday through Thursday,

Dec. 21-24 and Dec. 28-31. Call (561) 301-3783 or visit www.kevinperkinsgolfacademy.com for more info. • Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host Lego Robotics with 4-H on Monday, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon as part of the ongoing exhibition “Nature Connects: Art with Lego Bricks.” Students from Palm Beach County schools will provide a live demonstration and presentation on Lego Robotics. Call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts. org for more info. • Wellington’s Community Services Office will host a Madden Tournament on Monday, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for those 12 and older. For more info., call Jonathan Salas at (561) 791-4764. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Monster Mash-Up Story Time for ages 4 to 6 on Monday, Dec. 21 at 2 p.m. Frightfully fun and funny monsters are hiding in the library. Hear about some favorite monsters and discover new ones while creating your ideal monster pet. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host We Go Together: Parent/Child Craft Time for ages 5 to 11 on Monday, Dec. 21 at 2:30 p.m. Need something to do during the school break? Spend time together making a special craft. All materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Craftapalooza for ages 2 to 8 on Monday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. Choose to create multiple crafts from fun selections. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Tuesday, Dec. 22 • Olympic gold medalists Meryl Davis and Charlie White will headline Willy Bietak’s Broadway on Ice musical extravaganza at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts on Tuesday, Dec. 22 and Wednesday, Dec. 23. Call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org for more info. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Story Time for ages 2 to 5 on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. Introduce little ones to Mother Nature through stories. Reservations are required. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info. • The Village of Royal Palm Beach, Crazy Games and Bounce House Rentals will co-sponsor Winter Kids FunFest on Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). Admission bracelets are $10 in advance and $12 at the gate. To purchase advanced admission bracelets, inquire about volunteer/vendor opportunities or for more info., contact Nancy Molina at (561) 386-9703 or crazygames2011@hotmail.com. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host its Under Construction Lego Crew for ages 7 to 12 on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 2:30 p.m. Use Lego bricks to make fantastic creations. Work by yourself or as a team to bring building challenges to life. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

The Town-Crier • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Teen Takeover for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 6 p.m. Enjoy Wii games, board games and more. Bring a friend or make new ones. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Wednesday, Dec. 23 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Party With Our Parachute” on Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 9:30 a.m. for ages 2 and 3, and at 11 a.m. for ages 4 to 6. Help children develop social skills, spatial awareness and gross motor skills while engaging in physical activities that spark the imagination. Parent/caregiver participation is needed for maximum enjoyment and success of the program. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Catch That Gingerbread Man for all ages on Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. Listen to and participate in a slightly silly version of the gingerbread man story featuring masks, a game of gingerbread hot potato and some delicious cookies to decorate. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Not Your Grandma’s Bingo on Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 3:30 p.m. Create your own card and see if luck is on your side. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Monday, Dec. 28 • The Village of Wellington will host a Winter Break Sports & Circus Arts Day Camp from Monday, Dec. 28 through Saturday, Jan. 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road, Wellington). Designed for children ages 5 to 13, the camp costs $250 for residents and $275 for non-residents. For more info., call (561) 345-3217. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Lego Bricks on Monday, Dec. 28 at 3 p.m. Create vehicles or buildings out of Lego bricks. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Wednesday, Dec. 30 • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will feature Matisyahu: Live at Stubb’s 10-Year Anniversary on Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 8 p.m. For tickets, call (561) 832-7469 or visit www. kravis.org. Saturday, Jan. 2 • The Green Market at Wellington will be held on Saturday, Jan. 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.greenmarketatwellington.com for more info. Monday, Jan. 4 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Art Club for ages 6 to 12 on Monday, Jan. 4 at 3 p.m. Live through your art by exploring different mediums. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.

The Town-Crier

EMPLOYMENT Hotel Front Desk Clerk Job Opening

Person with good verbal/written communication skills and the motivation to provide good customer service. Flexible schedule needed (mainly night shift, weekends and holidays) Experience preferred, but we will train the right motivated person. Royal Palm/Wellington/Acreage residents will save on gas and travel time. Send resume via e-mail to info@ royalinnhotel.com or fax to 561-795-1502

Drivers: New Pay! $2,500 Sign-On Bonus! Consistent Freight, Great MIles on This Regional Account, Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488

FOR SALE PRINTERS AND HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES FOR SALE — NEW Canon Pixma MG7120 - All-In-One InkJet Color Photo printer includes Ink $99; NEW Oreck Floor SteamIt $99. Vintage Sewing Cabinet $50. NEW AVANTI Mini Fridge $99. Used Once Eureka Big Shot Enviro Steamer $30. NEW “NEAT” Computer Organizer $99. Call 561-790-3951.

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December 18 - December 24, 2015 Page 35

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

A/C AND REFRIGERATION

PAINTING

ROOFING

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

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

ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207

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

DRIVEWAY REPAIR D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

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

LAWN SERVICE YELLOWHAMMER LAWN SERVICE — Serving Loxahatchee, Acreage and Loxahatchee Groves ONLY High quality, affordable yard maintenance. NO CONTRACTS! Locally owned and operated. 561-320-1118

LOCKSMITH C.K.s L O C K & S E C U R I T Y 561-7329418 Full Service Security Since 1960 — Service and installation of locks, safes, camera’s alarms, monitoring, duplication of keys, car remotes and so much more.

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. Residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-578-2873. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES \

NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated. Residential/Commercial. Wood Replacement, Roof Coatings, Solar Vents, Skylights & Roof Ventilation. 561-656-4945 Lic. & Insured CCC1330208 Free Estimates

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

PLUMBING

SCREENING

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

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

PLUMBING SERVICES — General services, Installation,Repairs etc. Please call Roger at 781-475-6736.

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

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

TREE SERVICE TREES TRIMMED AND REMOVED — 561-798-0412 D.M. YOUNG TREE SERVICE. Family Owned & Operated Lic. & Insured 1992-12121 Visit our website at dmyoungtreeservice.com

ROOFING

TUTOR

ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

IS YOUR CHILD NOT MEETING GRADE LEVEL EXPECTIONS OR NEED EXTRA HELP WITH HOMEWORK? HIRE A TUTOR! — Laura, Certified Elem e n t a r y Te a c h e r K - 6 5 6 1 - 3 2 4 - 6 4 8 8

WALLPAPERING

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

WATER SUPPLY & TREATMENT WELL WATER AND CITY WATER — Supply, Service and water treatment. 561-7845210. Loxahatchee Irrigation Supply Inc.

Page 36 December 18 - December 24, 2015

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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The Town-Crier

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

The Town-Crier

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

HERE’S MY CARD

Lic & Insured CFC057392, CAC1817688

SEPTIC & DRAINFIELD SPECIALISTS

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS CARD FOR A S L O W A S $2 1 A W E E K

Page 37

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

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The Town-Crier

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON

ADVERTISE • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE YOUR BUSINESS CARD FOR AS LOW AS $ 21 A WEEK

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 39

December 18 - December 24, 2015

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GREATNESS

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STARTS

Page 40

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

Page 41

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December 18 - December 24, 2015

The Town-Crier

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