Town-Crier Newspaper December 18, 2020

WOMAN RESCUES DOGS FROM CHINA SEE STORY, PAGE 7

WINTERFEST RETURNS TO WELLINGTON SEE PHOTOS, PAGE 8

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TOWN-CRIER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

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INSIDE

Celebrating 40 Years Of The Town-Crier

Volume 41, Number 29 December 18 - December 31, 2020

Serving Palms West Since 1980

ACREAGE PARK RIBBON CUTTING

Souvenir Magazine Inside This Issue

Buddy Bench Installed At New Horizons Elementary School

New Horizons Elementar y School, with support from the Rotary Club of Wellington, is the most recent addition to the growing Buddy Ambassadors program. The school held a ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 9, during which 69 students were presented with patches and certificates. Page 16

Wellington Wolverines Boys Varsity Basketball Team Has Lofty Goals

The Wellington High School boys varsity basketball team has one primary goal this season — a March trip to the state finals in Lakeland. That’s not an unrealistic goal for a program that has reached the state final four in Lakeland four times over the past six seasons. Page 21

The Indian Trail Improvement District held a grand opening celebration for the Acreage Community Park southern expansion on Saturday, Dec. 5. The event was preceded by a holiday parade and was highlighted with the dedication of the new amphitheater, children’s playground and the Garden of Hope. Shown above, the ITID Board of Supervisors participates in a ribbon cutting for the park’s new amphitheater. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 18 PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

County Virus Cases Decline, In Contrast To State & Nation

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report In recent weeks, Palm Beach County has seen a decline in daily COVID-19 positivity rates, despite a national and statewide upward trend, according to a report at the Tuesday, Dec. 15 meeting of the Palm Beach County Commission.

Also this week, vaccines arrived in Florida at select hospitals, although it will not be immediately available to the general public.

Florida Department of HealthPalm Beach County Director Dr. Alina Alonso said the spike in new cases of the virus in the U.S. has continued to rise. On Dec. 4, Alonso reported the highest spike yet of 227,885 new cases, followed by a sharp drop over the following two days, followed by more sharp rises.

“My hope was that the peak was finally coming down,” she said of the national numbers. “My problem was that the peak was straight up, exponentially. That’s not good news, and before things start coming down, that other side

has to come down… Yesterday [Dec. 14], we actually had the highest number of cases in the U.S. — 232,369 new cases in one day. That’s a lot to handle.”

As a result, she said hospitals are short staffed and in a critical mode with the holidays and people traveling. She thanked county residents and businesses for observing CDC rules of wearing masks and social distancing. She attributed this for the county seeing an average decrease in daily COVID-19 cases of positivity.

“We went significantly down,” Alonso said. “We were at 5.67 [percent positivity]. That’s the first time we’ve been at 5 for about three weeks, so that’s very good.

This virus isn’t over, and we can’t let our guards down.”

The county cases have continued to decline, from an average of 552 cases per day from Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 to 512 cases per day from Dec. 7 to Dec. 13.

Miami-Dade County continues to lead the state in positivity at 9.12 percent, up from 8.5 percent.

Broward County went down from 7.68 to 7.53 percent.

“Florida has now had a total of 1,134,383 cases, which is an additional 8,452 new cases,” Alonso said. “That has gone up.”

Florida had 142 hospitalizations and 137 deaths since Dec. 8, compared to 105 at the commission’s previous meeting, for a total of 58,269 hospitalizations and 20,003 total deaths.

“That’s not a good indicator, and the concern is of the elderly becoming infected, having to go to the hospital and then deaths occurring, so we’ve got to keep a close eye on that,” Alonso said.

Five hospitals in Florida started receiving the first vaccines on Dec. 14, although none of them are in Palm Beach County. She said the hospitals were chosen based on their ability to manage and store the vaccine, which must be stored in super-cold freezers.

“There’s still a lot of information that we don’t have,” Alonso said. “There’s still a lot of plans See VIRUS, page 14

Lox Council Gives Manager Titcomb A Favorable Review

Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic Held At Wellington Promenade

Partnering with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and Building Up Sports Academy, the Village of Wellington hosted the 30th annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic on Saturday, Dec. 12 at Wellington’s Town Center Promenade. Page 23 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS...............................3 - 18 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 7 SPORTS......................... 21 - 23 PEOPLE................................. 25 BUSINESS............................. 27 COLUMNS............................. 28 CLASSIFIEDS................ 29 - 30 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council gave Town Manager Jamie Titcomb a glowing evaluation on Tuesday, Dec. 15. However, no salary increase was granted — at his request.

Human Relations Attorney Lara Donlon said the evaluation was unique in that the council had not been through an evaluation process for the town manager recently.

She explained that each council member had met with Titcomb individually before filling out their evaluation forms, which had been approved at a recent meeting.

“The final performance evaluation score is 3.67, which is above the midpoint of satisfactory,” Donlon said. “I did receive some feedback that it could have been tailored a little bit better to reflect this particular town and this particular position.”

She said she could come back with a revised form if the council wished.

“I also wanted to point out that this was a contractual process,” Donlon said. “Mr. Titcomb has not made any request for a change in his salary, but it is my obligation to share with you, so that you make a conscious decision, that the contract does allow for that because he did reach the satisfactory rating under the contract.”

Mayor Lisa El-Ramey said she felt the evaluation form was too generic and not tailored to fit town needs or reflected his management of the town’s budget adequately.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia said she felt Titcomb has done a good job, considering the situation he came into in early 2019.

“I feel that Mr. Titcomb walked into a hornet’s nest,” Maniglia said. “I don’t believe there would have been anybody else to handle

the situation with the grace and the calm he did. We were in turmoil, and we had a lot of hostility, and they were not pounding at the door to take this job.”

Maniglia added that she felt the evaluation could have been more personal, rather than rating his performance criteria from one to five.

“I feel he’s done a great job considering what he’s had to work with,” she said.

Councilwoman Laura Danowski said she did not answer the question asking how he interacted with staff.

“As a council person… there is a line between council and staff,” Danowski said. “We are not privy to nor should we be influencing staff, so that’s why I did not fill it out.”

Donlon said she would adjust the evaluation form according to council members’ comments, See TITCOMB, page 14

Wellington Branch Library Closing For Renovations

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington branch of the Palm Beach County Library System, located at 1951 Royal Fern Drive, is closing for nearly a year of renovations starting Thursday, Dec. 31 at 5 p.m. The $4.2 million project should be completed with the library ready to re-open in the latter part of 2021.

The extensive renovations, including the air conditioning chiller replacement, will encompass new lighting, new fixtures and flooring, construction of new interior spaces, fresh painting, design services, and the selection and installation of new furniture.

The goal of the project is to help residents of Wellington and users of the library, through the upgrades and refurbishments, appreciate and utilize the resource as the library continues its ongoing mission to connect communities, inspire thought and enrich lives.

The Wellington branch is one of 17 locations of the Palm Beach

County Library System, expected to serve some 141,000 residents and school students in the area over the next decade.

Offering materials in a wide variety of formats to suit the needs of the public, the library carries books in hard copy, paperback and e-books, some in large print, downloadable and audio versions.

A range of magazines and research sources are also available. There is a formidable collection of DVDs and music CDs, frequent cultural events and musical performances, as well as computer classes and community meeting space. The branch provides professional research specialists, online and outreach services, and resources on a variety of topics.

Wellington Branch Manager Margaret Barry is excited to see the building get much-needed upgrades.

“The project includes some basic upgrades that are needed, like the chiller for the air conditioner, See LIBRARY, page 14

HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE

Families and friends gathered at Wellington’s Town Center Promenade on Saturday, Dec. 12 to enjoy brightly lit boats decked out for the festive season in the annual Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Wellington. Captivating an enthralled audience, the marine crafts sported Christmas lights and jolly passengers as they circled the lake. Shown above, mother and daughter Melanie and Macey Leiba enjoy the boat parade.

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY MEREDITH BURROW/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Council Inks Contract With Jim Barnes To Serve As New Manager

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report After a long meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 8, the Wellington Village Council was in a good mood when it got to the agenda item accepting a contract to hire Deputy Village Manager Jim Barnes to replace retiring Village Manager Paul Schofield, who will leave his post next month.

Village Attorney Laurie Cohen noted that Councilman John McGovern had been charged to act as point man for the council to meet with Barnes to hash out a two-year contract.

“Both parties have stated that they are satisfied with the terms of the contract,” Cohen said.

The council’s consensus was to

seek an approximately two-year contract that did not coincide with the village attorney’s contract or the next election cycle. At the previous meeting, Mayor Anne Gerwig explained that a two-year term would give Barnes time to get comfortable in the role and also give the council time to reevaluate the situation after the first two years.

McGovern said at the Dec. 8 meeting that he negotiated a two-year contract that gives a seven-month separation between the end of the contracts between the attorney and village manager.

“In the 25-year history of Wellington, there have been just two village managers,” said McGovSee BARNES, page 14

ITID Discusses Additional Traffic Calming Options

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors held a traffic calming workshop on Wednesday, Dec. 9 in response to increased cut-through traffic and anticipated Palm Beach County road improvements in coming years.

“We seem to meet resistance on some of the issues with stop signs and traffic control approvals from the county, so we are looking at other alternatives, because we know in the coming years, there are a number of road construction projects going on,” ITID Executive Director Burgess Hanson said.

On the table for road construction by the county and state are Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, Northlake Blvd., Orange Blvd., Coconut Blvd. and Southern Blvd., as well as the State Road 7 extension.

“Our fear, my fear with staff is that our district roadways will become inundated with cut-through traffic,” Hanson said. “Cut-through traffic equals upset drivers who tend to speed and drive radically and not pay attention to stop signs and get lost because they’re not used to the grid system out here.

So, this is why we’re bringing this forward tonight, and why

we’re putting our priority on traffic calming.”

ITID President Betty Argue said the board has been discussing traffic calming since 2013.

“We’ve adopted a number of different concepts and ideas, and we’ve spent a significant amount of time the past year working on a mobility plan,” Argue said. “Looking at the traffic calming plan, my understanding is that it’s not any different than what we’ve been discussing in the mobility plan.

It’s just taking one piece out and looking at what we can do now, rather than waiting.”

Joe Capra with Captec Engineering said the purpose of traffic

calming is to increase traffic safety by reducing the speed of vehicular and cut-through traffic.

“Basically, what you did was put in speed humps,” Capra said, explaining that the district began with speed humps placed on 162nd and 120th avenues in 2005, and along Banyan, Grapeview and Avocado boulevards in 2009.

Since then, ITID has installed similar speed humps and other calming devices in other areas that were prone to accidents, speeding and cut-through traffic.

In 2017, ITID conducted a traffic calming pilot project on 140th Avenue North between Citrus Grove Blvd. and Orange Blvd.

using speed cushions, radar signs, traffic circles and a Seminole-style speed hump that was accepted by Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue.

“In the past, we’ve shown you different traffic calming alternatives,” he said. “Some of these are very expensive, from roundabouts and circles to raised medians and surface treatments. Other alternatives are chicanes and bulb-outs.

Many of these have been mentioned in the mobility plan.”

Capra said less expensive alternatives are road markings to give the impression of traffic calming.

“You also use the rumble strips out here, which have been effecSee CALMING, page 14

Page 2

December 18 - December 30, 2020

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Jess & Victoria Santamaria and Family

Chris,Jess,Victoria, Max,Elle,Sophia,Vince, Lisa, Michelle Cerbe, Isabella,Piper

We thank all our new & old friends and neighbors in the Western Communities over the past 40 years.

It has been a privilege knowing and serving you, and we hope to continue serving you for many more years.

May God Continue To Bless You With Peace, Good Health, Good Friends and Keep You Safe Through 2021 and Beyond.

Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah!

Feliz Navidad! Happy Kwanzaa!

Happy Holidays To All!

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The Town-Crier

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

Page 3

NEWS

Wellington Council Approves Master Plan For Lotis On SR 7

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council granted a series of approvals Tuesday, Dec. 8 to the Lotis Wellington project on State Road 7. The Lotis discussion took up the bulk of the three-hour meeting.

The four-parcel property includes three that were approved for mixed use in 2006 for a larger project, and one parcel that was purchased by the property owner in 2016 and more recently annexed into the village. That parcel already received its first hearing on the new zoning.

The four parcels are located on the west wide of SR 7 about one-half mile north of Forest Hill Blvd., directly abutting Wellington Regional Medical Center. The medical complex parking lot will provide access to the site.

The four parcels encompass more than 64 acres, of which some 28 acres will be a lake that is being enlarged and sculpted to remove a dangerous drop-off at its edge.

The lake will also be surrounded

by a walking and biking path and greenway.

Comments by residents of the nearby Black Diamond community seemed to show there is some confusion about where the property is located. The Lotis Wellington development is on a former sand quarry that has a 49-acre privately held parcel of wetland area that is between Black Diamond and the Lotis development. None of the future land use regulations, rezoning or master plan amendments relate to the parcel that abuts Black Diamond.

Nonetheless, the developer has agreed to put a fence around the property on the west side and the north side to further separate the developments. Should the neighbors want it, a gate will be placed into the development on the west side to allow entry to the greenway and path.

The future land use and the rezoning for mixed use were covered initially by Planning, Zoning & Building Director Tim Stillings, presenting the proposal

as recommended for approval. In almost every case, the requested criteria were less than what the village allows.

This was followed by a presentation from Brian Terry of Insite Studio Inc., agent for the applicant, Lotis Wellington LLC, and John Markey, the owner and developer.

Since the land use and rezoning were the second public hearings on the topic, the applicant focused on the master plan, which only requires one hearing.

“This has been a group effort [with staff] to come up with the project at this community, and we have discussed the master plan for the conditional usage of the property,” said Terry, who apologized for what he called “an overly thorough presentation of the project.”

“We are bringing forward a project of higher quality and value to the community than what was originally approved in 2006,” Terry said.

He noted that the previous mixuse project sat undeveloped until its permits expired. Those permits

are no longer available, but the Florida Department of Transportation permit for a traffic signal was able to be legally resurrected and is an approved part of the plan.

Terry noted that the property has very little undisturbed land.

“It is a fully impacted piece of property. There is no habitat on the property,” he explained, describing some Cypress dome wetlands that are being preserved as part of the recreation area on the northwest side of the lake. “All the wetlands on the property have been mitigated.”

The expanded lake is designed to control additional runoff from the development within its own borders. It includes the walkway all the way around the lake that totals 1.3 miles, along with a dog park that is open to the public.

The entire project will allow a mixed-use consisting of approximately 49,000 square feet of restaurant and retail, 2,500 square feet of a financial institution with a drive-through along SR 7, 40,000 square feet of medical offices,

16,700 square feet of professional/ general office, a congregate living facility, an independent living facility, 191 multi-family rental units, a daycare facility for children, and 28 acres of open space including the lake, dog park and greenway.

The congregate living facility is a type three with 150 independent living units and 110 assisted living beds, and the daycare facility is for up to 210 children.

A variance was necessary for having 103 fewer parking spaces than the required 1,600. That was mostly due to the congregate living facility, which is expected to need 1.35 parking places per bed as compared to the 2.25 parking spaces in the standards. The residential area and the CLF will each be separated by fencing to keep cars and pedestrians segregated from those areas.

While Black Diamond residents raised concerns about water volume and possible runoff, Village Manager Paul Schofield said that the development, with its larger

lake plan, will need to meet Wellington’s requirements and the South Florida Water Management District’s requirements before they can get building permits. It was also pointed out that the commercial aspects of the development were required to be finished before a certificate of occupancy could be applied for on the residential portion.

Other public comments included concerns over the height of the buildings of three and four stories.

It was pointed out that there is more than 100 feet of landscaping and green area between those buildings and neighbors.

Village officials noted that privacy for the Black Diamond community was addressed by fencing and landscaping. The impact on schools was addressed with fees and age limitations.

“I want to point out you’ve been working with staff for a very long time, and you have taken their direction very well,” Mayor Anne Gerwig said after seeing all the See LOTIS, page 14

Foundation Delivers Holiday Cheer Thanks To Generous Donors

This time of the year, the Wellington Community Foundation goes into overdrive trying to make sure that Wellington children in need receive a special package under their tree to open on Christmas morning.

Teaming up once again with Back to Basics and local elementary school principals to identify students, foundation members went gift shopping starting in

November and began wrapping presents that include the basics: underwear, socks, sneakers and an age-appropriate toy for each child on the list.

On Wednesday, Dec. 16, foundation representatives delivered all of the presents for distribution, including to Principal Dana Pallaria at New Horizons Elementary School and Principal Michella Levy at Binks Forest Elementary

Principal Michella Levy with WCF board members Tom Wenham, Maggie Zeller and Jim Sackett at Binks Forest Elementary School.

School. They were elated to once again see the foundation cars pull up with the gift packages. “This year, more than ever, the need is great,” Levy said.

The Wellington Community Foundation also partnered with Wellington Cares and Wellington Florist to deliver holiday cheer to well-deserving seniors this holiday season. Poinsettias adorned with holiday décor will be delivered

to Wellington Cares participants again this year thanks to the generous support of Wellington Florist.

“It is our pleasure to work with the foundation. We have been so blessed and want to share that with the community, which has been supporting us since 1991,” owner J.P. Varvarigos said.

Joining the foundation to receive the beautiful arrangements and coordinate the army of vol-

unteers is Director of Operations Diane Gutman of Wellington Cares. She noted that the seniors look forward to the special attention each year, and it really touches their hearts. Some do not have family and may only receive this gift for the holiday season.

Both of these initiatives were made possible by the generous donations received on behalf of seniors, children and veterans

Jim Sackett, Assistant Principal Orlando Mastrapa, Tom Wenham, Maggie Zeller, Principal Dana Pallaria, Katie Gundlach, Dara Harris and Connie Leonardi at New Horizons Elementary School.

each year by the foundation. The Wellington Community Foundation looks forward to continuing its efforts in 2021 and expanding on existing programs and creating new ones.

To learn more about the programs, volunteering or how to make a donation that directly benefits people in Wellington, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

Diane Gutman, Tom Wenham, Maggie Zeller, J.P. Varvarigos, Melinda Varvarigos and Jim Sackett with plants from Wellington Florist.

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

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NEWS

Wellington Zoning Board Supports New Senior Living Facility

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board approved a new congregate living facility in the community on Wednesday, Dec. 9 before reviewing several elements of the village’s comprehensive plan, which is undergoing a major update.

Hibiscus Palace is a new senior living facility proposed for a .34acre site located at 13931 Morning Glory Drive at the corner of Greenview Shores Blvd. It requires a conditional use approval to operate as a Type 2(B) CLF. Senior Planner Damian Newell said that the facility could have a maximum of 21 residents.

“The applicant will be doing interior and exterior modifications, adding windows and fire alarms and sprinklers, and a generator for backup power,” Newell said.

The site meets the minimum

standards for the required number of parking spaces, but the code calls for the facility to be 500 feet from the nearest single-family home, and the building is only 400 feet away from a single-family home across the street. The facility requires village approval for the shorter distance.

Traffic is not expected to be a significant issue. Newell said that the residents are not allowed to have cars, the staff carpools and they stagger the visiting hours.

Applicant Guy Yiftach said that this would be the fifth location in Palm Beach County, they have been in business for more than five years and they have never had a parking problem.

“I think it’s great that you have a generator, but if there was an emergency where you have to have other people there, where do they park?” Board Member Ron Herman asked.

“We take parking very seriously, and we have ample space all the time,” Yiftach replied. “If there was an emergency where we had to have more cars, we would just have someone move their car and block in another staff member’s car.”

Only two residents commented on the matter. One was concerned about parking near the busy corner and the other that it was currently a safe neighborhood, and that might be impacted by the facility.

Newell reaffirmed that the minimum age of residents is 65 years old and that the facility meets the minimum parking requirements.

He showed an aerial view of the parking lot revealing that it is large enough to accommodate more cars than what are marked as spaces.

Newell said that there would be no need to resort to parking along the street, which is not permitted.

The motion passed 4-2 with

Herman and Board Member Maureen Martinez dissenting. It now goes to the Wellington Village Council for approval.

Planning, Zoning & Building Director Tim Stillings was up next with an eraser and ample patience to write when getting the board’s input for the housing and neighborhoods element and the public facilities element of Wellington’s comp plan update.

The plan is required by Florida Statutes. It provides the principles, guidelines, standards and strategies for the future economic, social, physical, environmental and fiscal development of the area over the next 10 to 20 years.

“We are bringing the supplements to you in installments to give you time to digest them and comment on the plan that will go before the council to be approved,” said Stillings, who has been making the rounds to several village

Equestrian Poker Ride Jan. 10 Will Benefit Lox Groves Scholarship Fund

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The second annual Equestrian Poker Ride to benefit the Loxahatchee Groves Scholarship Fund will take place on Sunday, Jan. 10.

Riders will assemble at C Road just north of Southern Blvd.

“It’s a dead-end, dirt road,” said organizer Councilman Robert Shorr, who explained that there is lots of space on the side to park horse trailers. “It’s a trail head for a new trail. We’ll meet at 8:30 a.m. and be in the saddle by 9:30 a.m.

We’ll have a barbecue afterward.”

Riders in a poker ride pay an entry fee and collect cards at five different stops on the ride, and the winning hand gets a prize of two tickets to the South Florida Fair, Shorr said.

The ride will go through Loxahatchee Groves Park, the trail behind Loxahatchee Groves Commons/Publix shopping center via the new trail on the north end of Groves Town Center where the Aldi grocery store is nearing completion.

“They have that 300-foot easement that they put a new

trail through there,” Shorr said.

“There’s trails there that people don’t even know are there. We’re using this as some public relations or our trails system. We’re going to have a lot of riders not from our town, some people from The Acreage, come over.”

The trail ride is to raise money for the Town of Loxahatchee Groves Scholarship Fund.

“Last year, we had 18 horses,” Shorr said. “We will have five stops where you draw cards for a five-card hand, and there will be refreshments at each stop.”

He is looking for sponsors for the card stops.

“Last year, we had Big Dog [Ranch Rescue] set up a table, we had the fire station and we had one at somebody’s house,” Shorr said.

“Our landowners group set up one at the park. I’d like to talk to Aldi and have them set up a table.”

He explained that riders do not have to get off their horse to draw a card.

“A person walks around with a deck of cards, and they just pull it, and they have water and different refreshments there,” Shorr said.

boards and committees with the elements that relate to each of their areas of interest.

Stillings said that the guidelines for the provision of housing for all current and anticipated future residences are based on data and analysis of housing needs and projections. “The Village of Wellington has no substandard housing,” he noted.

Martinez asked about golf course redevelopment. “What type of residential units would there be on such a property?” she asked.

“It would be on a case-by-case basis and would have to be compatible with the existing neighborhoods,” Stillings replied.

Martinez was not comfortable with the topic being included in the comp plan.

“I don’t see why we are specifically mentioning golf course redevelopment,” she said. “Wouldn’t that be the same as it would be to redevelop any land?”

Stillings replied that golf courses are a form of development.

“While the golf course might not be active, it is considered to have been developed,” he said.

This led to a lengthy discussion of land, infill development and golf courses.

“Infill development is when you have development all around the property in question,” Stillings said.

The board worked hard to get the wording perfect, spending a fair amount of time on extensive discussions about such things as the difference between the words “vacant” and “infill,” or if one encompasses the other.

“I’m concerned that the plan seems to give a greenlight to the development of golf courses,”

Board Member Adam Rabin said.

Stillings said that any golf course project would need to go through multiple rounds of public hearings.

“I don’t want to get into the weeds on specifics and details,” he cautioned. “Golf courses are zoned commercial recreational, which is a golf course and nothing else.

They would have to go through a master plan change to develop anything else.”

The board came up with a list of changes to the housing and neighborhoods element.

“There has to be consensus among the board for each of the changes, or the board would have to vote on each specific change if there was not agreement,” Village Attorney Laurie Cohen said.

Martinez motioned that the ordinance be adopted with the specific changes, which she enumerated, that were agreed to by consensus.

The motion passed unanimously.

The public facilities element went faster.

“It is currently referred to as the infrastructure element and includes sanitary sewer, drainage, transportation, public buildings, internet availability and related items,” Stillings said.

There was a discussion about adding more lighting to streets and pathways for safety considerations, and it was added to the plan.

“The situation is that the village pays to install and maintain the lighting, but it belongs to FPL,” Stillings said. “I have never seen them deny approval to place lighting.”

With the addition of the lighting objective, that element was also approved unanimously.

Wellington Officials Gather Public Input On New Draft Golf Cart Ordinance At Neighborhood Watch Meeting

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington sought public input on its new golf cart ordinance during a presentation by Assistant Planning, Zoning & Building Director Michael O’Dell at a virtual neighborhood watch meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 9.

Now that more 12-foot pathways are being completed or widened from their current eight-foot width, O’Dell and village staff have been charged by the Wellington Village Council to make the rounds of public meetings, including stops at several village advisory boards. Staff is expecting to present the input gleaned from these conversations to the council next spring.

O’Dell explained that the sidewalk along Forest Hill Blvd. is

only five feet wide with no room to widen it. “So, currently, that will not be part of the areas where residents can operate golf carts,” he said.

The presentation included a poll asking if the participants in the virtual meeting owned a golf cart, if they thought the minimum age for operating a golf cart should be 14 years or 16 years, if they lived in a development with a homeowners’ or property owners’ association, if they support registration of golf carts and if they have a neighborhood watch group in their neighborhood.

State law makes it legal to use golf carts on local streets that have a posted speed limit of less than 25 mph, within HOAs, on a golf course or private property. Golf carts have been a source of internal

transportation for local equestrians for many years.

If a golf cart is street legal, it is considered a very different vehicle.

Those can be on any roadway with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less, must be driven by a licensed driver, have a license plate and must meet other motor vehicle requirements. These vehicles are not allowed on the pathways because they are actually considered a slow-moving car.

Wellington is developing regulations to allow traditional golf carts to be used on its pathways.

It has already done an engineering study, and the ordinance recommends the maximum speed on pathways not exceed 15 mph; drivers must be licensed and at least 16 years old; occupancy limitations must be followed; and

the carts must have a Wellington registration sticker, which requires certain safety equipment and the signature of the owner of the golf cart acknowledging that they understand the rules.

O’Dell said that staff looked at a number of Florida municipalities.

“We wanted to try and see how people are utilizing golf carts and the regulations they have,” he said, explaining that Wellington is a unique community. “We are in a position to have considerations for what will work best for the people in the village.”

Harold Harper with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said that they are trying to come up with regulations to allow golf carts to be used within the community correctly and legally.

“The village wants to have an

ordinance that clarifies what can be done legally and then educate the residents and get compliance,” he said, explaining that currently a child driving a golf cart on the roadway could be arrested, along with their parents, but the PBSO has been lenient so far. “This is a small way to make life that much better and allow people to enjoy your community by riding around in golf carts.”

O’Dell said that golf carts will not be allowed on school property.

“However, the village is trying to widen the pathways so that students can be dropped off or picked up at the schools,” he said.

PBSO Sgt. Matthew DeJoy pointed out that the goal of the regulations is to lay out the rules for what people are already doing and then get compliance through

education and enforcement.

“This will lead us to the path of making it possible for people to enjoy the village and allow them to use the golf carts as they would like to within the legal boundaries, so you can drive the golf cart in a responsible manner,’ DeJoy said.

O’Dell explained that the regulations will go a long way to clarifying a long-unclear situation.

“We have to adopt these [uniform] regulations in order to allow people to operate golf carts on the roadways and paths, which currently they cannot legally do,” he said.

There were few suggestions or input. Most questions from the virtual attendees were on how the plan will be implemented, the fees, fines, decal registration requirements and the like.

Latest Groves Town Center Plans Raise Lox Council Concerns

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council heard a status report Tuesday, Dec. 15 on the Groves Town Center project at the northwest corner of Southern Blvd. and B Road. The update had been requested by council members.

Planning Consultant Jim Fleischmann said a site at the southwest corner of the 90-acre larger site has been approved for a Wawa gas station and convenience store, an Aldi grocery store and a Chase bank.

“Since the approval, Chase Bank has backed out, and at this point, they don’t have a replacement tenant for that parcel,” Fleischmann said. “Aldi is currently under construction and is nearing its request for a certificate of occupancy.”

Wawa has an approved infrastructure permit but has not yet submitted a building permit application, he said.

No uses have been approved yet for the parcel to the east of the Aldi/Wawa site, but Heartland Dental and Culver’s Restaurant have submitted site plan applications. Other potential users that have talked to staff include a car wash and a tire store, which would complete that site, Fleischmann said.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia said she was not fond of a tire store or a car wash that could not serve equestrian vehicles.

“We’re trying to look different than Military Trail,” Maniglia said. “We need to bring things that benefit our community. Having the same thing that’s less than a mile down the road is not benefiting our community.”

Councilman Robert Shorr did not have a problem with the car wash and tire store. “We need tires in our town,” he said.

Fleischmann also updated the council on tree clearing at the site, explaining that the western portion had fewer trees because it once was a pasture. The much more tree-laden eastern portion is also scheduled for clearing, but all native trees would be mitigated or moved. The town has issued permits for the clearing, he said.

“Mitigation for that permit took the form of a cash payment to the town in the amount of $76,625,” he said.

A permit was also issued by the town for the clearing of the equestrian trail along the northern edge of the site and along the south side of Collecting Canal, but the most intensive clearing took place with the creation of six stormwater retention ponds that were dug prematurely, he said.

“This permit was issued after the fact,” Fleischmann said.

“Fortunately, they had done a tree survey as part of the master plan approval back in 2018, so we did have an inventory of the trees that were taken. Most of the trees that

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were taken were Australian pines, which are nonnative species.”

Council members were concerned about the kind of foliage that will be planted in the retention area, as well as along the buffers of

the site. There were also questions about an equestrian bridge scheduled to be built, connecting the trail on the site to trails to the north.

Fleischmann said the town’s Roadways, Equestrian, Trails &

Greenway Committee toured the trail before Thanksgiving and made recommendations for improvements.

Matthew Barnes, representing the developer, said he would

come back to the council with an improved design for the site that would give a better representation of the landscaping plans, as well as incorporating direction from the council.

OPINION

WINTERFEST LIVE FROM YOUR RIDE WITH VANILLA ICE A SMASHING SUCCESS The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce another smashing success! A re-imagined outdoor drive-in concept, Winterfest with Vanilla Ice 2020 was presented by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, the Village of Wellington, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center and Schumacher Automotive. Local celebrity musical sensation, philanthropist and DIY Network television star Vanilla Ice performed his iconic celebrated musical hits to an appreciative crowd.

Winterfest is one of the most anticipated holiday events of the season. The exceptional hard work and dedication of sponsors, vendors and the professionals at the Village of Wellington allow us to celebrate the success of this event.

This event cannot happen without the outstanding, talented and professional staff and leadership at the Village of Wellington.

Thank you, Wellington Mayor Anne Gerwig, the Wellington Village Council, Paul Schofield and Jim Barnes for allowing us this partnership. Thank you to Michelle Garvey, Rick Feebles, Brian Bigbie and Ian Williams, as well as their support staff on site and the so many others who make this event possible. Each has so many individual gifts and talents; collaboratively they are among the very best, if not the best event professionals in the industry.

The chamber wishes to thank our sponsors, without whom we could not host such a spectacular event: Host Venue and Community Partner, the Village of Wellington; Presenting Sponsors, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Health Specialty Center Wellington and Schumacher Automotive; Ken Adams Children’s Row Sponsors, Jess Santamaria, the original Wellington Mall and the Royal Inn; Swag Bag Sponsor, Hack Tax and Accounting Services LLC; and

BARRY S. MANNING DAWN RIVERA JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor Publisher General Manager RON BUKLEY Senior Editor

STEPHANIE RODRIGUEZ Art & Production Manager

EDITORIAL STAFF/ Meredith Burow • Erin Davisson • Denis Eirikis Denise Fleischman • Mike May • Callie Sharkey • M. Dennis Taylor CONTRIBUTORS/ Jules Rabin • Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Joetta Palumbo STAFF/ Yolanda Cernicky • Shanta Daibee • Jill Kaskel • Carol Lieberman • Anna Talbot

Hospitality Sponsor, the Hampton Inn & Suites Wellington.

Our performers could not have been more phenomenal! The talents of our local superstars are amazing. If you have not heard or seen of the following, please make it a point to check them out.

They are exquisite, each on their own. Thank you to our Master of Ceremonies DJ Johnny Quest, Tom Blake, School of Rock and Alex Shaw. Thank you to our exceptional volunteers from Palm Beach Central High School and Wellington High School.

A very special thank you to Josh Green, Kara Martin, Susan Moguel and Jane Garifo-Springer for their time, talents and diligence. I also thank the Wellington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and our President Lisa Banionis for her leadership, as well as Mayor Anne Gerwig, Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind and Councilman John McGovern for joining us!

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. Each is to be commended and thanked for their generosity and for giving back to Wellington. The chamber is grateful to have the privilege of working with them.

The chamber salutes our village leadership, sponsors, performers and, of course, our attendees for making their contribution to Wellington’s unique lifestyle, its economy and this spectacular event. And to each 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

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NEWS

EXPANDED BOAT PARADE BRINGS THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT TO LAKE WELLINGTON

Families and friends gathered at Wellington’s Town Center Promenade on Saturday, Dec. 12 to enjoy brightly lit boats decked out for the festive season in the annual Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Wellington. Captivating an enthralled audience, the marine crafts sported Christmas lights and jolly passengers as they circled the lake. Approximately 30 decorated boats cruised in the parade, which was organized by Jack Brownson.

PHOTOS BY MEREDITH BUROW/TOWN-CRIER

Meghan, Harry and Brooklyn Fredlund with Tommy Butler and dogs Pipes and Olympia.

Mr. Grinch steals the spotlight of this holiday water vehicle.

Santa’s sleigh glides along the lake atop this festive boat.

Olaf the snowman and enormous Christmas presents adorn this multi-colored craft.

Jairo Bacuylima and Paola Zablah with children Nicolas, Alessandro and Adrian.

Fabian, Christina, Gabriel, Fabian Jr. and Raquelle Florez with Michelle Randolph, Mike Stevens and dogs Spicey and Lulu.

One-year-old Ezra VanWeelden plays in Christmas lights.

Wellington Aquatics Complex lifeguards and event workers Lexie Tipmore and Nolan Sanchez.

Siblings Page, Michael Jean and John Thomas Burow.

Siblings Mathias and Anabella Gonzalez.

Friends Randall Barrett and Jan Shoobridge.

Ashley Grimes with Brody and Chris Halks.

Dustin and Diane Vogt with daughter Delilah.

Christian, Joesiah and Mar’kayla with their mother Twyla Green.

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NEWS

RPB Woman Helps Organization Rescue Golden Retrievers

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach resident Kristine Minerva loves golden retrievers and learned of Golden Rescue South Florida when she became a foster parent for the rescues of the breed years ago.

Over the past two years, she has become the organization’s coordinator for rescuing golden retrievers from China and bringing them to South Florida.

“Golden Rescue South Florida has been around for more than 20 years,” explained Minerva of the group dedicated to helping golden retrievers find good homes.

“We receive information about golden retrievers rescued in China, and I work with the contacts over there to get them brought into this country,” said Minerva, adding that the group just completed its first set of 20 goldens. “We received inquiries from all over the country. We have been able to find good homes for all of them that we brought in for the first go-round right here in Florida.”

Minerva helps with transport, fostering and adoption. She inter-

views all of the adopters to ensure that the dog’s new home will be the right fit, and that the adopter has the right accommodations for the breed.

“I get all of the government paperwork together,” Minerva said.

“Just flying them from China to Miami is a process.”

China is just one international location for Golden Rescue South Florida. The nonprofit organization has brought in dogs from Turkey and many dogs from Puerto Rico, as well as working with rescue groups and animal shelters in South Florida.

However, it is not common to find the breed in shelters. “Golden owners seem to be pretty responsible,” Minerva said, adding that some people are forced to surrender dogs due to personal situations.

Minerva said that the organization works with golden retrievers, as well as goldendoodles, which are a mix between a golden retriever and a poodle, the latter being a pretty sought-after pet because they don’t shed.

“Golden retrievers shed a lot,

especially during their shedding season, and when they are mixed with a poodle, they don’t shed,” Minerva said.

Minerva is passionate about rescuing golden retrievers from China due to the conditions in the country for the animals. “China is really huge in consuming dog meat, and even purebred dogs are raised for it,” she explained.

The group is working to rescue as many animals as they can from the gruesome fate of winding up in slaughterhouses and meat markets.

Golden Rescue South Florida is always looking for donations because it costs some $2,600 per dog to rescue from China. They are also on the lookout for foster parents for the dogs, as the organization has no kennel facility.

“We are always looking for more resources and for welcoming homes to foster or adopt goldens, so they can blossom into the dogs that they can be,” Minerva said.

Because many of the animals come from other countries, adopters find some interesting things when the first get their new pet.

Rescued golden retrievers, including Dot Dot (center) with a black beauty mark on her head.

For one thing, they may not under- when the new family is planning To learn more about Golden stand English commands at first. to sleep,” Minerva said.

Rescue South Florida, visit www.

It also takes some time for dogs But these are all things that are goldenrescuesouthflorida.com or to get used to the new time zone easily overcome with a new lov- e-mail Kristine Minerva at krisschedule. “They may want to play ing family. tinegoldenrescue@outlook.com.

PBC Planning Commission Supports Eventual Road Widenings

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Planning Commission voted Friday, Dec. 11 to recommend transmission of several county-initiated amendments to its thoroughfare identification map (TIM) that affect parts of the western communities.

The changes include the widening of the 60th Street North easement along the M Canal from 80 feet to 100 feet between 120th Avenue North and 140th Avenue North, the addition of an 80-foot roadway segment from Southern Blvd. to the future extension of

Okeechobee Blvd. about two miles west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, and widening Northlake Blvd. from 120 feet to 142 feet between the end of the proposed State Road 7 extension to the east end of the current 240-foot right of way on Northlake Blvd.

The TIM is a long-range plan included in the county’s comprehensive plan to identify future roadway needs for state, county and municipal roadways.

Roadway Production Engineer Morton Rose said the 60th Street segment is immediately south of the M Canal, which supplies water to the City of West Palm Beach.

“The 80-foot section is for five lanes,” Rose said. “We aren’t able to construct the five lanes within the existing 80 feet because of the proximity of the canal. One of the requirements of the City of West Palm Beach is that because of the importance of this canal, a buffer be provided.”

Rose pointed out that the portion of 60th Street North is residential on the south side. “That is where the additional 20 feet is going to be coming from,” he said.

The planned connection from the proposed Okeechobee Blvd. to Southern Blvd. does not exist now, he said, explaining that the

connection would alleviate traffic blockage in the event of a traffic incident in that area, such as a recent force main failure that occurred at the southern end of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road that shut down the road for most of the day.

The section of Northlake Blvd. proposed for widening is a major thoroughfare, he said. “The current 120 feet supports six lanes. Based on future traffic projections, this segment would need to be widened to eight lanes eventually,” Rose said.

County staff said that if the proposed amendments are approved by the Palm Beach County

Commission, the work would be done over the next five to 25 years as needed and are not currently funded in the county’s five-year program.

During public comment, Loxahatchee Groves Mayor Lisa El-Ramey pointed out that the proposed Okeechobee Blvd. to Southern Blvd. connection is through an active area of agriculture and horse farms. “It’s interesting that the county sees this as an undeveloped portion of the county,” El-Ramey said. “It’s actually the home of an industry. That industry is the number-one industry in the county, and that’s agriculture. Horses need

land and agriculture needs land.”

Indian Trail Improvement District President Betty Argue said adding easements to the TIM provides developers a tool to apply for more development and pointed out that ITID is not notified of many proposed traffic improvements that affect it.

After discussion by commission members, Commissioner David Dinin made a motion to recommend approval of the amendments, which carried 10-1 with Commissioner Edwin Ferguson objecting. The proposed amendments will go before the county commission to consider on Jan. 25.

Indian Trail Considers Millings To Upgrade District’s Dirt Roads

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report In a workshop on Wednesday, Dec. 9, the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors discussed a cost-saving plan to stabilize dirt roads with recycled asphalt millings.

Operations & Maintenance Director Jason Lester pointed out several advantages to millings, including cost effectiveness, reduced dust and better-defined edges. ITID’s existing 19 miles of milled surfaces have shown a 10- to 15-year lifespan before resurfacing is needed, he said, as

opposed to rock that needs periodic grading.

Lester estimated the 10-year cost of millings-treated roads would be about $5.1 million for the 289 miles of district roads, compared to $20.5 million for dirt roads due to the lower cost of millings and reduced need of depth of covering. He explained that 6.5 inches of FDOT-approved road rock is equivalent to 5 inches of millings.

“You have to apply more quality rock than you have to for millings,” he explained.

The 10-year cost for a quarter

mile of dirt road is $10,428 compared to $7,744 for a millings road, and the 10-year maintenance cost is $13,200 for dirt compared to $3,291 for millings, he said.

“One thing I haven’t captured is the cost of our guys constantly in the swales scooping out the sediment, clearing out the pipes of the dirt that has migrated to the swales,” Lester said.

ITID President Betty Argue said she felt the district’s policy of requiring residents to petition for millings was standing in the way of getting the roads done.

“Personally, I think we should

take those qualifications away, and if somebody who is doing the petition wants their road milled, build the road,” Argue said.

Lester said millings should be readily available due to the state’s five-year turnpike resurfacing project, along with the many ongoing road projects in South Florida, and the likelihood of the U.S. Congress passing a large infrastructure bill.

He proposed that property owners be sent notices two months in advance, and response must be received 30 days in advance if they object to millings. If 51 percent or

more of owners on a road object to millings, it would not be done.

He also noted that the district has received very few complaints about flooding or washouts on the milled roads.

For equestrians who may object to walking their horses on a milled road, he said the district has worked with the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council to create miles of multipurpose trails separated from roadways that avoid crossing roads. Most of the proposed trails are located on canal banks and boundary easements.

Lester said the work could be done in-house by the two existing road crews over 15 years, or in a shorter time by adding one or more crews.

Argue favored implementing some sort of millings plan in the district.

“In order to maintain the level that we’re at, which is actually not satisfactory for the board or the community, we’re not getting enough material on the roads right now,” she said. “We’re not creating an optimum based on the traffic, and we’re not addressing those issues long-term.”

2021 Legislative Session Will Be Different Due To The Virus

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County’s legislative team presented an ambitious list of hopeful goals next year in Tallahassee to the Palm Beach County Commission on Tuesday, Dec. 15, accompanied by a caveat that the legislature will be more concerned about pandemic issues than anything else.

Director of Intergovernmental Relations & Community Engagement Ed Chase said that the county takes part in weekly conference calls with the state regarding COVID-19 and other issues.

“Our delegation is extremely informed and engaged on all things virus related,” Chase said.

“Overall, we want to make sure that continued local testing is successful. We want to make sure that farmworker testing does continue.

We want to assure an equitable vaccine distribution, and we want to make sure that our eligible distribution facilities in Palm Beach County can be used as vaccination locations.”

Chase said he is watching for passage of the next Heroes Act that will ensure an equitable distribution of funds that belong to

the state, local governments and businesses.

On the economic development front, he noted that Commissioner Melissa McKinlay has engaged staff on the Glades Regional Master Plan with improvements on affordable housing, stormwater upgrades and mitigation of muck soils, which is one of the reasons construction is so expensive in that area.

County staff will continue to work with local chambers of commerce and the Economic Council of Palm Beach County to support full funding of the job growth grant

fund, Enterprise Florida and Visit Florida, Chase said.

Assistant County Administrator Todd Bonlarron said that county staff will continue to support the treatment of opioid use and addiction disorders, with an emphasis on youth services and expectant mothers. They will also support the efforts of State Attorney Dave Aronberg and Assistant State Attorney Alan Johnson with the Sober Homes Task Force and pending legislation that they are working on regarding fine collections, background screening of owners and uniform fire standards for facilities.

Bonlarron said affordable housing has been one of the top priorities of the county for years.

“We were unfortunate that it was vetoed last year,” he said. “It was replaced with some CARES funding, but we’re going to continue to work on making sure that’s funded.”

Staff will also continue to work on statewide homelessness programs, as well as additional funding for the county’s homeless resource facilities.

“This is going to be a very different session than what we’ve experienced in the past,” Bonlar-

ron said. “Palm Beach County Days is not going to be the same as we know it. Walking through the halls of Tallahassee and catching members on the fly is going to be done a little bit differently.

We’re not exactly sure what this session is going to bring in terms of those communications, those interactions, but our lobby team is prepared for it.”

He said the legislature is still in the process of figuring out how to conduct business.

“We hope that we can bring home a lot of successes in the 2021 legislative year,” Bonlarron said.

NEWS BRIEFS senting national parks. She has recently participated in a benefit for La Ola Children’s Home in Mexico in which she is giving one of her paintings to the person who gives the largest donation to this tax-deductible charity.

Enjoy her art on her web site at www.lauriesnowhein.com or www.fine artamerica.com, where you can purchase her work directly. Follow her art and videos on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

For more information about the Wellington Art Society, visit www. wellingtonartsociety.org.

Art Society To Feature Laurie Snow Hein

The Wellington Art Society will feature a presentation by awardwinning, local artist Laurie Snow Hein on Wednesday, Jan. 13.

The meeting and presentation will take place through the Wellington Art Society’s virtual Zoom link, which is distributed via e-mail to all members. A meetand-greet will begin at 7 p.m., followed by a member spotlight and brief meeting. The event will conclude with Hein’s presentation on her journey as an artist and how she used marketing strategies to further her career. The public is invited. RSVP to presidentofwas@ gmail.com.

Hein has been painting since kindergarten when she first picked up a paintbrush. In her teens, she studied with an accomplished illustrator, Graham Ingels, and attended a year at Columbus College of Art & Design on scholarship.

Although she painted portrait commissions and taught art classes when she married, it was not until she turned 40 with six children that it became necessary to support her family on her artistic talents alone.

Working 30 years as a professional teacher, licensed artist, illustrator and exhibitor at the

Artist Laurie Snow Hein will be featured on Jan. 13. top art festival circuits, Hein also taught workshops around the country and in Europe. She has won many awards, but it is the joy of teaching and the enthusiasm of her students and clients that is most meaningful.

Hein is an accomplished portrait artist, also well known for Florida landscapes, beaches, oceans, botanicals and birds. “My passion is driven by the desire to create realistic expressions depicting the divine beauty of God’s creations,” she said.

Traveling is a passion for Hein.

In 2019, she traveled across the U.S. on a 90-day trip, starting a new collection of artwork repre-

Wellington To Celebrate 25 Years With Fireworks

Jan. 1, 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of incorporation for the Village of Wellington. In an effort to take preventative measures against COVID-19 by avoiding large gatherings, Wellington will mark the occasion with a Zambelli fireworks display.

The display will take place at 8 p.m., launching from the Wellington Green Park, adjacent to the Mall at Wellington Green. The park will be closed to the public, but residents visiting the mall can enjoy the fireworks from dining es-

tablishments or their car. Residents should remain in or immediately adjacent to their vehicle and observe CDC safety guidelines while watching the fireworks display.

A video, featuring music accompanying the fireworks display, will be streamed live starting at 8 p.m. on WellingtonTV Online or watched live on WellingtonTV (Comcast Channel 18 and AT&T Uverse 99).

Follow these important rules if watching the display in person: If you are outside of your vehicle, wear your mask. Follow all social distancing and CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of COVID-19. No tailgating, alcohol, personal fireworks or pets are allowed.

To learn more about this event, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/celebrate25.

Slide Retrofit Gets Underway

Beginning on Friday, Dec. 18, the Wellington Aquatics Complex will be closing its water slides for surface refinishing. The project is expected to be completed on Sunday, Jan. 17, weather permitting.

During this time, the slides, spray ground and baby pool will be closed. The water aerobics and dive team programs will remain as scheduled, and the pool will

remain open to the public for lap swimming. Regularly scheduled use of the facilities is expected to resume on Tuesday, Jan. 19.

For more info., call (561) 7914770 or visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/aquatics.

Brampton Cove Park Closing For Improvements

Wellington recently announced the temporary closure of Brampton Cove Park at 13446 Northumberland Circle beginning on Monday, Jan. 4.

Construction crews will be installing a new playground structure and pavilion. The entire park, including the playground, will remain closed during construction.

The park will re-open for public use, weather permitting, in late February.

Polo Brunch Is Back At IPC

Brunch is back at the International Polo Club Palm Beach for the 2021 polo season, and the first Sunday match is just around the corner on Jan. 3.

You can enjoy an exciting afternoon of polo with delicious cuisine from the best seats in the

Raise a glass to 2021 with Sunday brunch at IPC. house. Want to treat your friends and family to Sunday brunch at IPC but aren’t sure which weekend you want to attend? Purchase a gift certificate that you can use for any Sunday.

Facial coverings must be worn by all persons when entering, exiting and moving throughout indoor and public common areas. Masks can only be removed when seated at a designated seat/table while eating and drinking.

To make your brunch reservations, call (561) 838-3409.

Page 8

December 18 - December 31, 2020

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NEWS

CHAMBER’S WELLINGTON WINTERFEST FEATURES EVENING OF DRIVE-IN FUN

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce welcomed the holiday season with Wellington Winterfest “Live from your Ride” on Saturday, Dec. 5 featuring Vanilla Ice, along with School of Rock, Alex Shaw and DJ Johnny Quest.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Headliner Vanilla Ice takes the stage.

Alan and Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Michella Levy and Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind.

Emilia and Councilman John McGovern with Village Manager Paul Schofield.

Katrina, Nelson and Sabrina Morales wait to hear Vanilla Ice.

Stuart Hack, Diann Hack, Hollis Pernick and Heshie Pernick.

John Danegelis and Beth Butcher enjoy the music.

Alex Shaw performs.

Sponsor Schumacher Automotive’s Marlo Massey, Michael Doyle, Miranda Grace Massey, Hercules and Daris Marshall.

School of Rock entertains the crowd.

Tom Blake sings the national anthem.

DJ Johnny Quest rocks the stage.

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Page 10

December 18 - December 31, 2020

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The

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December 18 - December 31, 2020 Page 11

Conveniently Located at the Corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace.

PRIVATE SCHOOL

NEWSPAPER & MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS

PRIVATE SCHOOL

United States Post Office

#1 Education Place 753-6563

Town-Crier Newspaper & Wellington The Magazine

Wellington Collegiate Academy 701-3462

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

RESTAURANT

U.S. POST OFFICE

(GRADES 1 -12)

793-7606

PEDIATRICIAN

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Raja Indian Cuisine 855-2765

Dr. Rosa Fernandez, M.D. 793-3232

Dr. Steven Miller, DDS 798-8023

CHILDREN’S PRE-SCHOOL

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BICYCLE SALES & REPAIR

Children’s House of Wellington 790-3748

Dr. Michael Harris 204-3242

Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce 790-6200

Wheels of Wellington 795-3038

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING COMPANY

GENERAL INSURANCE

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SYNAGOGUE

Advanced Imaging Specialists 800-354-6868

Allstate Insurance 798-0230

Children’s Pediatric Dentistry 793-7515

Temple B’nai Jacob 793-4347 www.templebnaijacob.com

ENGINEERING SERVICES

MORTGAGE BROKER

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

BOOT & SHOE REPAIR

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Sunvest Mortgage Group 337-4848

Edward Jones & Co. 798-6184

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CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

aja Indian Cuisine Patio Bar & Lounge

FirstService Residential 795-7767

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Alan Gerwig & Associates, Inc. 792-9000

Animal Medical Clinic 798-2900

State Farm Insurance 790-0303

MARTIAL ARTS

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Woody’s of Wellington 798-1440

Villari’s Studios of Self Defense 792-1100

South Shore Title, Inc. 798-9092

Glamorous Nail Spa 422-8882

Taylor Chiropractic Center 793-5050

SURVEYOR

GENERAL INSURANCE

EQUINE INSURANCE

JEWELER

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AeroGear Telemetry 223-2590

Spillane & Zahul, CPAs 790-1488

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Maguire Law Chartered 687-8100

Barron & Kogan, CPAs 795-4448

JDC Development 790-4471

Chris Barker Insurance 242-3603

Marshall & Sterling Insurance 318-5604

Wellington Jewelry 798-6110

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

COMPUTER SERVICE & REPAIR

CUSTOM BOOTS & SHOES

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Dunamis Capital Consulting 313-0535

PC Pros of Wellington 420-0554

La Mundial 459-1629

Tom Wenham, Inc. 333-9843

Nutinfits 795-3278

Zoila’s Cafe 707-6860

Leasing Information Call Chris Santamaria 793-4500

Page 10

December 18 - December 31, 2020

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The

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December 18 - December 31, 2020 Page 11

Conveniently Located at the Corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace.

PRIVATE SCHOOL

NEWSPAPER & MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS

PRIVATE SCHOOL

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#1 Education Place 753-6563

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Wellington Collegiate Academy 701-3462

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

RESTAURANT

U.S. POST OFFICE

(GRADES 1 -12)

793-7606

PEDIATRICIAN

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Raja Indian Cuisine 855-2765

Dr. Rosa Fernandez, M.D. 793-3232

Dr. Steven Miller, DDS 798-8023

CHILDREN’S PRE-SCHOOL

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BICYCLE SALES & REPAIR

Children’s House of Wellington 790-3748

Dr. Michael Harris 204-3242

Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce 790-6200

Wheels of Wellington 795-3038

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING COMPANY

GENERAL INSURANCE

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SYNAGOGUE

Advanced Imaging Specialists 800-354-6868

Allstate Insurance 798-0230

Children’s Pediatric Dentistry 793-7515

Temple B’nai Jacob 793-4347 www.templebnaijacob.com

ENGINEERING SERVICES

MORTGAGE BROKER

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

BOOT & SHOE REPAIR

RJ Behar & Company 333-7201

Sunvest Mortgage Group 337-4848

Edward Jones & Co. 798-6184

ATTORNEY

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

aja Indian Cuisine Patio Bar & Lounge

FirstService Residential 795-7767

Wellington Mall Center Court CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

ENGINEERING SERVICES

VETERINARIAN

Alan Gerwig & Associates, Inc. 792-9000

Animal Medical Clinic 798-2900

State Farm Insurance 790-0303

MARTIAL ARTS

TITLE INSURANCE

NAIL SALON

CHIROPRACTOR

Woody’s of Wellington 798-1440

Villari’s Studios of Self Defense 792-1100

South Shore Title, Inc. 798-9092

Glamorous Nail Spa 422-8882

Taylor Chiropractic Center 793-5050

SURVEYOR

GENERAL INSURANCE

EQUINE INSURANCE

JEWELER

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

AEROSPACE COMPONENT SALES

www.therapyofwellington.com 444-7230

Andrea Rusher, LCSW

AeroGear Telemetry 223-2590

Spillane & Zahul, CPAs 790-1488

INSURANCE BROKER

Personal service, business expertise and a friendly environment

www.barronkogan.com

Maguire Law Chartered 687-8100

Barron & Kogan, CPAs 795-4448

JDC Development 790-4471

Chris Barker Insurance 242-3603

Marshall & Sterling Insurance 318-5604

Wellington Jewelry 798-6110

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

COMPUTER SERVICE & REPAIR

CUSTOM BOOTS & SHOES

WELLINGTON COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

MEN & LADIES ALTERATIONS

COFFEE, PASTRIES, SANDWICHES, ETC.

Dunamis Capital Consulting 313-0535

PC Pros of Wellington 420-0554

La Mundial 459-1629

Tom Wenham, Inc. 333-9843

Nutinfits 795-3278

Zoila’s Cafe 707-6860

Leasing Information Call Chris Santamaria 793-4500

Page 12

December 18 - December 31, 2020

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Multiple Sclerosis: Importance of Correct Diagnosis The cause of multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unknown, even though there Buse Sengul, MD has been Multiple Sclerosis Specialist extensive Cleveland Clinic Florida research over the years. We do know that it’s an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (CNS), which acts as the body’s messenger system. Myelin, the protective covering of the nerves, helps in the transmission of impulses (messages) between the brain and other parts of the body. MS causes damage to the myelin, interfering with normal nerve function.

There is no ‘standard’ set of symptoms, since MS affects everyone differently.

However, common symptoms include numbness or tingling in various parts of the body, weakness of one or more parts of the body, walking difficulties, dizziness, fatigue, visual blurring, and occasionally double vision. Severity of symptoms may also vary.

“For some, symptoms are minor and have been ignored, but for others they are extreme,” said Buse Sengul, MD, a Cleveland Clinic Florida MS specialist who see patients at Cleveland Clinic Florida’s West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens locations. It’s really a spectrum that ranges from mild to severe.

It’s not uncommon for there to be periods of time when things are relatively stable, followed by a stint when new symptoms occur or old symptoms worsen.

This relatively rapid worsening is referred to as an exacerbation, and typically lasts at least 24 hours, but may stretch out for days or weeks.

“MS is a complex disease, and can be extremely unpredictable,” said Dr. Sengul.

The same symptoms can also be present in other disorders. And, other conditions may mimic MS by showing areas of abnormality, just like MS, in results from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests.

“Brain tumors, Lyme disease, Lupus and other autoimmune conditions can imitate MS, so it’s critical to rule out other diseases prior to confirming the diagnosis of MS,” said Dr. Sengul. There is no single, definitive test that can be used. Over time, experts have developed a set of diagnosis criteria including MRI, as well as a series of other tests.

Cleveland Clinic Florida neurologists are helping educate both physicians and patients about the disease. Dr. Sengul continued, “Careful consideration, knowledge of the most recent research, and retesting are part of our process to confirm a diagnosis of MS.”

frequency and severity of exacerbations and prevent long term disability. There are also other medications and strategies to manage symptoms.

Avoiding misdiagnosis is also critical, as this can lead to the wrong treatment which may actually be harmful. By getting a second opinion you can not only confirm the correct diagnosis, you can also become informed about your treatment options.

Dr. Sengul encourages people who suspect they may have MS to seek care by a specialist. And, if you’ve already been diagnosed but aren’t improving, then it may be time to seek a second opinion.

“At Cleveland Clinic Florida, a multidisciplinary approach it taken, including specialists in diagnosis, prevention and longterm recovery,” said Dr. Sengul. The goal is to reduce disease progression, manage symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

To schedule an in-person or virtual visit with Dr. Sengul or another specialist within Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Neurosciences Institute, call 877.463.2010 or visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Neuro.

Early diagnosis is important, as permanent neurologic damage can occur even in the earliest stages. While there is no cure for MS, treatment includes “diseasemodifying” drugs that help decrease

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

Page 13

NEWS

HEALTHY PARTNERS CELEBRATES NEW ROYAL PALM BEACH MEDICAL OFFICE

Healthy Partners held a ribbon cutting at the firm’s new Royal Palm Beach office on Thursday, Dec. 3. The new medical office is located at the southwest corner of Royal Palm Beach and Okeechobee boulevards.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Dr. Ashley DeBay cuts the ribbon to open the new office Healthy Partners medical office in Royal Palm Beach.

PharmCo-Rx Provider Support Specialist Aaron Clayton.

Elvis tribute artist Matt Stone performs.

Humana Market Director Brett Jennings, Dr. Ashley DeBay and Humana Market Manager Kenneth Szilagyi.

Office Manager Janae Luisi with patient Hillary Nicholson.

Healthy Partners Medical Director Dr. William Stechshulte and Partner Dr. Ashley DeBay.

Lorna and Joey Johnson.

Roland and Barbara Mills get ready to take a tour.

SCALED BACK TREE-LIGHTING EVENT AT ROYAL PALM BEACH COMMONS PARK

On Friday, Dec. 11, the Village of Royal Palm Beach hosted a scaled-back Christmas tree-lighting ceremony at Commons Park. Standing 40 feet tall, the tree is beautifully decorated with bows and a star, surrounded by dreidels. The evening also included a movie and food trucks. Attendees enjoyed free hot chocolate and candy canes.

PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON/TOWN-CRIER

Catherine Labott at the Palms West Charter School booth.

The tree is lit to welcome the holiday season.

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Event & Facilities Manager Sylvio Pierrelouis at the tree.

Neslie Similien, Rochelle Wright and Gabrielle Byrd at the Royal Palm Beach booth.

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Council Groups 2 and 4 will be up for election for a term of two years each. Candidates may qualify for either of these seats during the period from 8:00 a.m. January 4, 2021 to 5:00 p.m. January 12, 2021, at the office of the Village Clerk located at 1050 Royal Palm Beach Boulevard, Royal Palm Beach, Florida.

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Con la presente se notifica que el Village of Royal Palm Beach, Florida, llevará a cabo la Elección Municipal, el martes, 9 de marzo de 2021.

Los Grupos 2 y 4 del Consejo serán elegidos por un período de dos años cada uno. Los candidatos pueden calificar para cualquiera de estos puestos durante el período de las 8:00 a.m. del 4 de enero de 2021 hasta las 5:00 p.m. del 12 de enero de 2021, en la oficina de la Secretaria de La Villa localizada en el 1050 Royal Palm Beach Boulevard, Royal Palm Beach, Florida.

Aviso dado por Diane DiSanto, MMC, Secretaria de La Villa.

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Page 14

December 18 - December 31, 2020

NEWS

Library

Closing For Renovations

continued from page 1 the new flooring and carpeting, and the upgraded lighting,” she said.

Barry said that the new design repurposes some of the existing space.

“We’re going to be moving some things around inside, moving some of the computer spaces for the public computer users,” she

said. “There will be an additional room in which to study, and the copy center will become a media lab. The main library has a creation station, and this will be similar.”

While the library will continue to meet the needs of the public seeking traditional services in traditional formats, there is also a growing need to serve those seeking new technology.

“The media lab has a green screen [for videos] and different technologies for the public to use in creating projects with digital editing,” Barry explained. “It is very

A conceptual rendering of the new entrance and member services area of the renovated library once it re-opens.

Titcomb

No Raise This Year

continued from page 1 suggesting that the next evaluation might be better served if it were timed closer to budget preparations when goals have been identified by the council.

Councilman Robert Shorr made a motion to receive and file the

Barnes

New Village Manager

continued from page 1 ern, calling the agreement a “starter contract.”

“This contract has us sitting in a very good place for future growth for Mr. Barnes and for the village,” he said. “I think this is a contract that is good. I felt like through this entire process, Mr. Barnes was a full partner, and this is good for both parties.”

Councilman Michael Drahos thanked both McGovern and Barnes for their efforts.

“I think both of you worked diligently to have this completed before the end of the year,” he said.

“The way I look at this, we got our

evaluation. “I don’t want to see the attorney spending any more town dollars on redoing this process,” Shorr said. “There’s room at the bottom for comment if you want.

I wrote a lot of comments.”

Vice Mayor Marge Herzog said she felt Titcomb deserved a raise in light of his performance, but considering the town’s current financial position, she preferred to recommend a raise in the future.

Maniglia said Titcomb is on

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exciting. It is very 21st century.”

The library will apply new information technology based on the Wellington community’s needs as indicated by feedback from library members, and at the same time strive toward national benchmarks for services.

Barry said that the new design will move things around, re-purpose some shelving, and add durable, rubberized flooring in the children’s area, meeting room and conference room.

“They will be redoing the member services area, and the service points will be changing, combining the checkout member services, so it has a new, changed look that is visible immediately when you walk in,” Barry said. “They have done everything for the library users first and foremost. All the work, everything is within the public areas. There is no new work being done for the back of the house.”

The last renovation was done almost 14 years ago, in 2007. Due to its heavy use over the years, the building was in need of renovations. The $4.2 million has come through saving surplus money from each annual budget into the the low end of managers’ salaries and recommended giving him a 3 percent increase.

Titcomb thanked Maniglia for her suggestion but declined.

“Thank you for allowing me to be here and serve,” he said. “I’m going to respectfully decline that you take any action on a change or increase. I don’t think the timing is right.”

Shorr’s motion to receive and file the evaluation carried 5-0.

guy and, fortunately, we Good natured ribbing did it internally.” ranged from Barnes teasCouncilman Michael ing that he had negotiatNapoleone agreed. “I ed better on that item, to think we identified right McGovern explaining away that you were the that the monthly stipend one to fill the shoes of included reimbursement Mr. Schofield,” he said. for insurance and that “The plan is for you to with prices of new cars be here well beyond the as they are now, the Jim Barnes two-year contract.” amount was in alignment Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind of the high end of other managers remarked that the village was for- in similarly sized communities. tunate that Barnes was already on “Well, I’m not going to comthe team and available. “I’m glad plain for that amount of money, you were there to step in,” she said. it just seemed like a lot,” said “I hope we have you long-term at Gerwig, who added that she keeps the village.” her cars a long time.

Gerwig posed the only query The motion to approve the conto the contract with a brief ques- tract passed unanimously amid the tioning that Barnes would receive council members thanking Barnes an $800 per month car allowance, and welcoming him to his new while Schofield had gotten $600. position.

capital improvement budget to fund this go-round of renovations and upgrades.

“When it is all finished, and you first walk in the door and see all the changes, upgrades and renovations that have been made, I hope the public sees that we are adapting to 21st-century library users, and I think they will see it immediately upon walking in,” Barry said.

While the Wellington branch is closed, members are encouraged to visit one of the other nearby locations: Royal Palm Beach at 500 Civic Center Way, Greenacres at 3750 Jog Road, the Main Library at 3650 Summit Blvd. and the Okeechobee Blvd. branch at 5689 Okeechobee Blvd.

The bookmobile will visit the Wellington Amphitheater near the Wellington Community Center on Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. while the branch is closed. Any materials borrowed prior to the closing of the Wellington branch should be returned to one of the nearby locations. Members are also encouraged to use the wide range of electronic resources and services available through www. pbclibrary.org.

Lotis

Council Approval

continued from page 3 renderings. “It is growing on me.”

Councilman Michael Napoleone said that it is a well-crafted mixed-use project.

“I understand that every project is going to create more traffic, but I think you minimize some of the intensity that you could’ve asked for here, and I thank you for that,” he said.

Councilman Michael Drahos noted that he doesn’t usually like mixed-use projects. “I thought it was a very intelligently designed project that has a lot of thought that went into it,” he said. “At the end of the day, there is always resistance, but this one is well thought out. We’re on a 64-acre piece of property and 28 acres is lake and greenway.”

Councilman John McGovern agreed that it is was a well-designed development. “I think this is a good project that is been made better by working with staff,” he said.

Vice Mayor Tanya Siskind also had praise for Lotis. “I like this project also. I like the green space,” she said, stressing that the

JoAnn Abrams ATTORNEY AT LAW

Virus

Vaccine Update

continued from page 1 we still have to do. We had lots of coverage yesterday about the nurses who received the vaccine.

The governor was at Tampa General and saw the vaccine come through.”

As those hospitals vaccinate their staff and get more vaccines, they will start to distribute it to

Calming

other counties. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities who registered to receive help will start receiving vaccinations as soon as next week, Alonso said, giving credit to scientists worldwide who have worked cooperatively to develop the vaccines.

“Everybody across the globe has been working on this,” she said.

More information about COVID-19 in Palm Beach County is available at www.pbcgov.com/ coronavirus.

continued from page 1 tive,” he said. “What I’m trying to get to is the Seminole-style speed table. It has been pretty much acceptable for the speeds that we are looking for. This is also an adopted traffic calming device that Palm Beach County recommends, so we’re trying to stay consistent with some of the comments we’ve

received from them in the past.”

He pointed out that ITID received a $1 million Florida Department of Transportation grant in 2015 for traffic calming projects and may be eligible for a second grant.

Capra proposed to remove 44 original-style speed humps and to install 63 Seminole-style speed tables as shown in the district’s mobility plan over the next two years at an estimated cost of $800,000, which will be determined by the board at a future meeting.

number of residential units is well under the number permitted by village code.

During the meeting, Markey, the owner, stipulated that the dog park would be maintained by the developer and that cameras would be placed within the park that would be viewed by security.

The Lotis Wellington project approvals passed unanimously with the conditions added by staff in its recommendations.

In other business: • The council approved a text amendment to repeal and replace the Capital Improvements Element of Wellington’s Comprehensive Plan and to adopt the Five-Year Capital Improvements Plan.

Stillings explained that this is required by law and includes the optional elements, such as the Equestrian Preserve Area that is unique to the community.

“The first portion of the comprehensive plan that has been making its way through committees for their input was presented to the council for a first reading,” Stillings said.

The comp plan is the macro view of where the village plans to go in the next 10 to 20 years.

“To update the process, we are taking bite-size chunks to all the committees for the portions that

are relevant to them,” Stillings said. “The Capital Improvements Element addresses the services and facilities that the village provides directly and anticipates such services and facilities that will be required by future demand, and it also provides effective and timely construction and funding.”

Overall, the comp plan will be revised and reorganized in its goals, objectives and policies, giving it a new look, Stillings said.

“It definitely looks fresher,” Gerwig said. “I like the look and the way this is presented.”

• The council also approved a housekeeping measure adopting the Florida Building Code Seventh Edition (2020) that is required by state law about every three years to keep the village code consistent with that of the state. The only changes permitted by the law are local administrative requirements, which allow for the tailoring of conditions specific to Wellington.

Building Official Jacek Tomasik explained the few changes made between the editions. “We have the latest and greatest of the codes by adopting the newest codes,” he said. “This brings the village upto-date with the State of Florida.”

Drahos took the opportunity to congratulate Tomasik on his 20th anniversary with the village.

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NEWS

Buddy Bench Installed At New Horizons Elementary School

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report New Horizons Elementary School, with support from the Rotary Club of Wellington, is the most recent addition to the growing Buddy Ambassadors program.

The school held a ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 9, during which 69 students were presented with patches and certificates, signifying their appointments as Buddy Ambassadors.

“We are very excited to have the Buddy Bench here at New Horizons,” said Principal Dana Pallaria, who then spoke of two students lost in a tragic accident

last year. “Skyler and Tristan [Prestano] were exemplar students here, and we felt this was a good way to incorporate the Buddy Bench here, as well as a memory of our two boys.”

The Buddy Bench will be located in a high-traffic area near water fountains and fields where students play — a prime spot for the children to practice what they have learned.

“The Rotary Club has already funded and built Buddy Benches for each remaining elementary school in Wellington,” Rotary Club President David Berns said.

The program got underway last year, but due to the pandemic, not

all of them have been delivered.

“They are in storage and awaiting placement,” Program Chair Larry Kemp said.

Loverly Sheridan, author of Be a Buddy, Not a Bully and director of the Buddy Bench and Buddy Ambassadors program, was on hand to speak with the children about the importance of inclusion.

While some staff and students were able to attend the ceremony in person, the entire school was able to watch both from their classrooms and virtually from home.

Visit www.buddyambassadors. com to learn more about the Buddy Bench program.

Principal Dana Pallaria presents a plaque in memory of students Tristan and Skyler Prestano to Mary and David Peat. PHOTOS BY CALLIE SHARKEY/TOWN-CRIER

The Rotary Club of Wellington’s Larry Kemp, Caroline Pena and Don Gross with author Loverly Sheridan at the Buddy Bench.

The new Buddy Bench will be placed in a high-traffic area near the school’s playground.

Author Loverly Sheridan shares with students how to “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully.”

Rotarian Larry Kemp places a Buddy Ambassador pin on New Horizons student Velmando Williams.

Larry Kemp and Loverly Sheridan act out a scenario utilizing the new Buddy Bench.

Students Cosmo Thomas and Atticus Collins show off their leadership certificates.

Harriet Pugh Harriet Pugh (Keville), long time resident of Wellington, FL and York Beach, ME passed away on Tuesday, December 1, 2020.

Harriet had a happy childhood in Lowell, MA, with her parents Thomas and Mildred Keville (both deceased) and her brother Thomas. She attended St. Patrick High School and the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education.

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After college, Harriet taught school in Chelmsford, MA, and then for the Department of Defense in Germany, where she met her husband, Mike, an army officer. They married in 1964.

She thoroughly enjoyed the adventuresome army lifestyle, seeing new places and meeting new people and personalizing each of their many homes. Her greatest happiness however, was rearing her two precious sons, Michael and Eric. It was a joy for her to be active in their lives and she glowed with pride at being their Mom. Harriet returned to teaching when the boys became school age. She taught in Texas, Colorado, Alabama, Massachusetts and Florida.

After her husband’s military retirement, he became the CEO of Palms West Hospital and the family moved to Wellington, Florida. Harriet taught kindergarten at Wellington Elementary from the mid-1980s until the mid-1990s.

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Harriet traveled near and far throughout her life, and when full retirement came, traveling the world still remained a great source of pleasure for both Harriet and Mike. She only missed one state (Alaska) and one continent (Antarctica).

York Beach Maine was a magical summer haven for Harriet’s family since childhood. She and Mike enjoyed their summer home in York from June to October, and their grandchildren are the 5th generation to find the same pleasures in beautiful York Beach Maine.

Throughout her life Harriet enjoyed volunteering for numerous organizations: Alabama Space and Rocket Center, Hospice of the Palm Beaches, Red Cross, Missing and Exploited Children, church-related charities and events, needs in the schools, tutoring and military events.

She is survived by her husband Mike, her son Michael (Sabina), her son Eric (Adrianne), and her 8 beautiful grandchildren, Mia, Max, Michael, Jake, Logan, Dylan, Cassius and Saylor. She also leaves behind her brother and sister-in-law, Thomas and Marie Keville, and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves her sister and brother-in-law, Teri and Joe Perez and so many wonderful friends both near and far.

Her funeral services were held virtually earlier this month on Wednesday, December 9th followed by a private burial at South Florida National Cemetery.

If you wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made online to Stray No More http://www.straynomore.org/ or donation checks can be sent to support teachers at Wellington Elementary School (Please make checks out to Wellington Elementary School and send to this address – 19902 SE Gallberry Dr., Jupiter, FL 33458.

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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 12, 2021 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 12, 2021.

Finalists must be available for interviews on Saturday, April 3, 2021. The scholarship committee of the Education Advisory Board will make the final determination. Winners will be announced in May and the scholarships will be awarded at the Village Council meeting on Thursday, May 20, 2021.

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NEWS

INDIAN TRAIL DEDICATES ACREAGE COMMUNITY PARK SOUTHERN EXPANSION

The Indian Trail Improvement District held a grand opening celebration for the Acreage Community Park southern expansion on Saturday, Dec. 5. The event was preceded by a holiday parade and was highlighted with the dedication of the new amphitheater, children’s playground and the Garden of Hope. The Hall & Oates tribute band H2O entertained attendees, and food trucks were available.

PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

ITID supervisors participate in a ribbon cutting for the park’s new amphitheater.

Garden of Hope founder Tracy Newfield with her daughter Jessica, a cancer survivor.

Britany Stratzel with her dog Baby.

A trackless train ride around the athletic track was available for children.

ITID Assistant Executive Director Rob Robinson helps raise the flag.

Santa visits with Santos, Adriana and Victoria Ayllon.

Kelly Watson helps a customer at the Garden of Hope booth.

Food trucks were available for anyone who was hungry.

Dixie Thiery (center) with Shelby Hatcher (left) and Janie Hopkins (right) at the ALA booth.

ITID Supervisor Joni Martin with her daughter Brittany.

Andrea McElwee October 8, 1944 – December 1, 2020

Andrea McElwee was born in Ithaca New York on October 8th, 1944 and died on December 1st, 2020 in the Villages, Florida of complications related to a stroke. She was the middle child of five: Jane, William Andrew, Andrea, Katherine Roberta, and Martin Congdon McElwee.

Andrea attended schools in Ithaca and graduated from Cascadilla School in 1962. She attended and graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in Louisville in 1966 and majored in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Education.

She taught in Ohio briefly and then worked 33 years for the School District of Palm Beach County (Belle Glade Elementary and Cypress Trails Elementary).

Andrea is preceded in death by her parents Barbara Congdon McElwee (1974) and Andrew William McElwee (2001), both of Ithaca NY. She is also preceded in death by her sister Jane McElwee Decker (2019 and her husband Thomas Decker 2015) of Holden Beach NC. She is survived by her siblings William (Aloma) of Ithaca NY, Katherine of Ukiah CA, and Martin of Ithaca NY. She is also survived by her daughter Rebecca Nafus, her children Andrew and Lauren, and their children: Kailee, Abigayle Declyn and Jamesen all of whom live on Long Island N.Y. Per Andrea’s request, there are no services planned and anyone who wants to contribute in her memory should do so with a charity of their choice.

Garden of Hope founder Tracy Newfield gets hugs from friends after the ribbon cutting.

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SPORTS NEWS, PAGE 21-23 • PALMS WEST PEOPLE, PAGES 25 • BUSINESS NEWS, PAGE 27 • COLUMNS, PAGE 28 • CLASSIFIEDS, PAGES 29 & 30

FEATURES

Wellington Wolverines Boys Basketball Team Has Lofty Goals

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School boys varsity basketball team has one primary goal this season — a March trip to the state finals in Lakeland.

That’s not an unrealistic goal for a program that has reached the state final four in Lakeland four times over the past six seasons.

The highlight of the last six years was, of course, the state championship won by the 2014-15 Wolverine squad.

Will this year’s Wolverine cagers earn a trip to Lakeland and finish the season as Class 7A state champs? That remains to be seen.

Wellington head coach Matt Colin is cautiously optimistic about his team’s chances this year of making a deep postseason run.

“I like our current team. It’s a good group of players,” said Colin, who is entering his 14th season as the head basketball coach at Wellington High School. “We have an interesting blend of returning players and those who were on the JV team last year who are now trying to figure things out.”

Colin is committed to lofty goals for his team for the 2020-21 season. He wouldn’t have it any other

way. “For many of our younger players, it’s baptism by fire,” Colin said. “Because of COVID-19, we didn’t have the chance to practice this summer in order to build chemistry and tinker with how we play the game.”

Clearly, Wellington appears to be gelling quickly, as it won its first three games in convincing fashion.

This included a 74-55 win against Lake Worth High School on Dec. 9, an 80-53 victory over Atlantic High School on Dec. 11 and a 7659 triumph over Suncoast High School on Dec. 15.

This year’s roster features 13 players who have a big role to play in both practice and in games.

Senior Isiah Perez is a “jack of all trades and a high-energy player,” Colin said.

Junior Brenden Williams, the younger brother of former Wellington basketball standout B.B. Williams, is like “lightening in a bottle,” Colin explained. Williams is a new member of Wellington’s starting five.

Senior Elijah Andrews is long and lean — 6-foot-2 and just 155 pounds. Andrews is “a very smart, heady player who is starting to blossom,” Colin noted.

Junior Zayin Humber is one

WHS head coach Matt Colin wears a mask while coaching games.

of the taller players on the team at 6-foot-4. According to Colin, Humber spent the off season improving his fitness and skill level.

“Zayin is now more agile and has a good set of hands,” Colin said. “He’s now a great dribbler, especially for a power forward.”

Senior Jordan Johnson is one of the top players for the Wolverines.

“Jordan is a phenomenal player,” Colin said. “He has amazing raw strength and is very good about getting to the rim to score.”

Senior point guard Will Van Hook is a very intelligent and crafty player. “Will is a very heady point guard,” Colin said. “He makes all the right plays.”

Senior Christopher Walker is one of the Wolverines’ key players in every game. Whether Walker is playing as either a guard or a forward, his job is to score points.

Colin expects double digits in every game from Walker.

“Christopher is a three-year starter, is very coachable, and his size (6-foot-6) allows him to be a dominant player on the court,” Colin explained.

Walker has a basketball playing future after his high school career comes to an end. He will be play-

ing next year at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Junior Brandon Walters is one of the players who has made the transition from the junior varsity to the varsity squad.

“Brandon is now learning the speed of varsity basketball,” Colin said. “He has lots of energy.”

Junior forward Daryl Brown has a specific role on the team. “Daryl is one of our high-energy post players who loves to rebound,” Colin said.

This season, senior Trey Perry is healthy and happy to be a part of the team.

“Trey was on the team as a freshman and a sophomore, but he was injured all of last year as a junior,” Colin explained. “He’s one of my smartest players who brings lots of experience to the team.”

Junior Terell Edwards uses his height (6-foot-5) to his advantage.

“Terell is our starting center who brings great effort to every game,” Colin said. “His motor doesn’t stop working. He is very long, which allows him to grab a number of rebounds.”

According to Colin, senior Osvaldo Pelaez is one of his most physical players.

“Osvaldo is a big guy who is

Isiah Perez inbounds the ball during the game against Atlantic.

Trey Perry shoots a free throw against Atlantic. strong, tough and smart,” he said.

Michael Bram — whose nickname is “Bear” — is a popular player with both his teammates and the fans in the stands. “Michael is a fan favorite,” Colin said.

“He is the shortest player on the team, but he is a skilled guard who has a knack for scoring.”

During a normal year, the Wolverines play 25 regular-season games, but because of COVID-19 restrictions, the number of regularseason games has been capped at 15.

PHOTOS BY MIKE MAY/TOWN-CRIER

“With fewer games, we will get more practice time, which we need,” Colin said.

The Wolverines are usually busy playing games during the holidays, but it’s not business as usual this year. “We normally play in two Christmas tournaments, but not this year,” Colin noted.

With a 3-0 start, it’s so far so good for this year’s basketballplaying Wolverines.

Only time will tell if the young squad makes it to the state finals in Lakeland.

The Wellington High School boys basketball team practices social distancing while sitting on the sidelines.

Wellington High School Boys Soccer Team Honors Senior Leaders

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report The cornerstone of a successful high school athletic team is usually senior leadership. Teams that fare well often have a group of strong and seasoned senior leaders on the squad who lead by example in both practices and games.

That is especially the case for the Wellington High School varsity boys soccer team, which has eight seniors on its current roster.

They were honored Monday, Dec. 14 in a senior night home game against William T. Dwyer High School.

Even though the current soccer season started just a few weeks ago, the decision to stage senior night early was made as a way to guarantee that it would not become a COVID-19 casualty in January should the pandemic cut the season short.

“With eight seniors, we wanted to make sure that they had a chance to enjoy a senior night experience,” Wellington High School boys varsity soccer coach Chris Carrera said.

He had strong words of praise for his eight senior leaders.

Midfielder Juan Adarme has made great strides in his two years on the varsity squad.

“Juan is one of the best midfielders we have had in a long time,”

Carrera said. “He can play the ball on the defensive end as well as the offensive end.”

Martin Blanca is one of the team’s goal scorers and has been scoring on the varsity squad for three years.

“With his speed and determination, he has always been a nightmare for the other team’s defense,” Carrera explained. “He’s always putting the pressure on the defense and trying to shoot on target and score.”

In many respects, Jordan Mor is probably the most physical player on the team.

“Jordan is one of the strongest players on the field,” Carrera said.

“He fights for every ball and is always trying to make plays for the defense and the offense.”

Gabriel Oquendo, who plays in the midfield and as a striker, represents the heart and soul of the team.

“Not only on the field, but he is a big motivator off the field,” Carrera noted. “His intensity is contagious, and it brings everyone’s level up.”

Martin Rivera is one of Wellington’s strongest defenders. “Martin is one of my strongest pillars in the defense,” Carrera said. “His confidence and sense of play has helped our team tremendously,” Alexander Machin is playing

his first year of varsity soccer as a senior, but he is very comfortable in the highly competitive environment.

“Alexander has a great touch and vision on the field,” Carrera explained. “He is very positive and brings great energy to the team.”

Tyler Miller, a four-year member of the varsity squad and a team captain, can play on offense and defense.

“As a striker, he is very goaloriented and is fighting for the ball all the time,” Carrera explained. “As a center back, he

WHS soccer players (L-R) Juan Adarme, Alexander Machin, Zachary Marks and Gabriel Oquendo. provides the team with tranquility Carrera said. “The team knows match against Dwyer 3-2. Carrera in the back.” that if we have to play the ball credits his strong and seasoned Finally, the team’s starting goal- back, he will be able to pass the senior leaders on the team for that victory and for many wins keeper is senior Zachary Marks. ball in a safe way.”

“Zachary is a solid goalkeeper,” Wellington won its senior night to follow.

Wellington Wins Award From The Literacy Coalition

By M. Dennis Taylor Town-Crier Staff Report The Village of Wellington was recognized this month for winning the large community Read for the Record award for the most readers taking part in this year’s competition.

Literacy Coalition CEO Kristin Calder visited the Tuesday, Dec. 8 meeting of the Wellington Village Council to present the award — a basket of books for the community — for reaching the most students during the October virtual reading of the book Evelyn

Del Ray Is Moving Away.

“This year, it was based not just on quantity because of COVID-19 but also on quality of the presentation,” Calder explained, adding that Wellington’s staff members rose to the occasion with outsidethe-box thinking. “There were so many unique and clever ways that Wellington presented the material.”

(Right) Literacy Coalition CEO Kristin Calder presents the basket of books to the Wellington Village Council.

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Page 23

NEWS

CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY FISHING CLASSIC HELD AT WELLINGTON PROMENADE

Partnering with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and Building Up Sports Academy, the Village of Wellington hosted the 30th annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic on Saturday, Dec. 12 at Wellington’s Town Center Promenade. Casting their lines into Lake Wellington, approximately 40 children competed to catch and release the most “valuable” fish based on a point system.

Young angler Tanner Gilchrist won the competition after reeling in a 14-inch largemouth bass.

PHOTOS BY MEREDITH BUROW/TOWN-CRIER

Event emcee David Aagaard hands out fossilized tiger shark teeth.

Competition winner Tanner Gilchrist with his father, James Gilchrist.

Siblings Sara, Eva and Felipe Sparber with their father, Vincent.

Friends Victoria Jarvis and Sofia Uribe.

Charlie Saltalamacchia, 5, with her father, Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

Siblings Olivia and Liam Oliveira with their mother, Laura Cherepy.

Competitors Chloe Norwood and Sara Sparber.

10-year-old Eva Sparber.

11-year-old Taylor Burke.

11-year-old Louis Cuomo.

Siblings Sofia and Valentino Uribe.

Wyatt Norwood shows off his new shark tooth.

11-year-old Justin Gilchrist.

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

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NEWS

KIDS CANCER FOUNDATION HOSTS GOLF TOURNEY AT WELLINGTON NATIONAL

The Kids Cancer Foundation held its 14th annual Kids Cancer Foundation Golf Tournament in memory of Jenna McCann at the Wellington National Golf Club on Friday, Dec. 4. Following the tournament, golfers were treated to an outdoor lunch served by the club’s staff. Cancer survivor Aiden Candales and his mother Barbi Candales spoke about the cancer journey they’ve endured. The lunch was followed by a raffle drawing for 64-inch television and a silent auction. All proceeds went directly to the Kids Cancer Foundation and its mission to provide hope and support to local children and families battling childhood cancer. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Aiden Candales and Barbara Candales.

Steve Hansen and Frank O’Boyle.

Second place winners Brian Stitt, Craig Dobbs and Dan Silverstein with Michelle O’Boyle, Aiden Candales and Jonathan Resnick.

Michelle O’Boyle, Aiden Candales and Jonathan Resnick with first place winner Aaron Ferraris.

TV raffle winner Jeff McDonald with Jonathan Resnick, Aiden Candales and Michelle O’Boyle.

Bassmasters Hold End-Of-Year Tourney

The Royal Palm Bassmasters held an end-of-the-year Classic Bass Fishing Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13 on Lake Toho in Kissimmee.

First place was won by Paul Schrein and James Wilkinson with a two-day total of 10 fish weighing 30.03 pounds. Second place was awarded to Kiel Carr and Guy Bartels with 10 fish weighing 21.56 pounds. Bill Latham took third place with nine fish weighing 18.13 pounds.

COVID-19 precautions were observed during launch and weigh-in. The big fish on day one was 5.63 pounds, caught by Rick Rickenbach. Day two big fish was caught by the team of Paul Schrein and James Wilkinson, weighing 4.08 pounds.

The Royal Palm Bassmasters meet on the second Thursday of

Paul Schrein and James Wilkinson each month at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center, located at 100 Sweet Bay Lane. The club is now accepting applications for new teams. Come and check out the fun you’ve been missing.

Kiel Carr and Guy Bartels For more information about the Royal Palm Bassmasters, e-mail rpbassmasters@gmail.com, find the group on Facebook page @ Royal Palm Bassmasters or call (561) 644-6269.

Kids Cancer Foundation supporters gather at the golf tournament.

Robert Barbuto, Chris Zeller, Stewart Mann and Frank Dowling.

Shawn Langlois, A.J. Benik, Mike Litrento and Wes Brown.

Wellington Plans Kwanzaa Celebration With A Virtual Cultural Experience

The Village of Wellington will host its first Kwanzaa Celebration and Virtual Cultural Experience to bring recognition and awareness of Kwanzaa from Saturday, Dec. 26 through Friday, Jan. 1. This celebration of life, family, community and culture is a partnership between Freedom Fighters 4 Justice and the Village of Wellington.

Wellington invites residents to tune to WellingtonTV (Comcast 18, AT&T Uverse 99) and visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/kwanzaa beginning on Dec. 26 to view pre-recorded videos about the culture significance of Kwanzaa.

Community members and leaders from all walks of life will come together in celebration of African-American culture and traditions. The village will also

share the videos via social media.

Genee Tinsley, founder of Freedom Fighters 4 Justice, will provide an overview of Kwanzaa, including information on the daily Kinara lighting: Day 1: Unity (Umoja) Day 2: Self Determination (Kujichagulia) Day 3: Collective Work & Responsibility (Ujima) Day 4: Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa) Day 5: Purpose (Nia) Day 6: Creativity (Kuumba) Day 7: Faith (Imani) There will be special performances by local musicians and much more.

For more information on performers, vendors and literature featured in the celebration, visit the

Dr. Patricia Forsythe, V.M.D.

Freedom Fighters 4 Justice web site at www.4freedom4justice.org.

Wellington residents are also invited to stop by the Kinara display at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd) throughout December.

Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture held from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, culminating in gift-giving and a feast of faith, called Karamu Ya Imani. It was created by Maulana Karenga and first celebrated in 1966.

The name Kwanzaa is derived from “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili.

Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but celebrations often include songs, dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading and a large traditional meal.

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

Page 25

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Community Comes Together To Help Local Foster Family

By Melanie Kopacz Town-Crier Staff Report A family in The Acreage that has fostered dozens of medically fragile children in their home for nearly 20 years is now on the receiving end this holiday season, thanks to the generosity of the community.

Sal and Sav Forbes’ family home illuminated the night sky with a lighting reveal on Tuesday, Dec. 8, complete with lawn inflatables as a gift from Simon Electric of Lake Worth, along with a fully decorated Christmas tree from Premier Family Health in Wellington.

The Forbes family has most recently been caring of five medically fragile foster children, as well as three children of their own. They adopted their 11-yearold son Seth after fostering him.

He underwent several cranial surgeries.

It’s this selflessness that the Forbes’ have shown that led them to be the recipients of an event led by Mom’s Club of Wellington founder Aimee Stern to help a local family in need this holiday season.

“To see the faces of the family light up in awe was incredible, and

watching their youngest son, Seth, get so excited seeing the house lit up made my 2020,” Stern said.

In addition to the decorations, Simon Electric also donated $300 to the family to help them pay for their power bill, due to the additional lights. Stern is also collecting presents for them, including gift cards for gas and meals for long distance doctors’ trips. A wheelchair ramp is also on their wish list for their 12-year-old foster son.

If you’d like to help, contact Stern at poutymouthpr@hotmail. com.

WELLINGTON ROTARY PROVIDES GIFTS FOR ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

For the last several years, the Rotary Club of Wellington has adopted 165 children at Benoist Farms Elementary School working with the nonprofit Back to Basics. Club members shop for sneakers, socks, underwear and toys for the children, then they wrap the gifts and package them to be delivered to the school. The gifts were delivered earlier this month to Principal Ruthann Miller.

Loxahatchee Teen Set To Soar As One Of The Nation’s First Female Eagle Scouts

Seth, Sal and Sav Forbes were touched to have been chosen to receive the donated tree and house lighting.

Event organizer Aimee Stern of the Mom’s Club of Wellington with Seth Forbes in front of the decorated tree donated by Premier Family Health.

The Forbes family home lights up the night.

AnnaLyn Cooper of Loxahatchee made history on Dec. 2 when she became one of the nation’s first female Eagle Scouts — a prestigious achievement attained by some of the country’s most noteworthy figures. Cooper is among hundreds of young women who will make up the inaugural class of female Eagle Scouts and the first to earn the rank in southeast Florida’s Gulf Stream Council.

“Earning the rank of Eagle Scout takes hard work and perseverance, and we are honored to recognize AnnaLyn for this significant accomplishment,” said Terrence Hamilton, scout executive and CEO of the Gulf Stream Council. “Along the journey to Eagle Scout, young people gain new skills, learn to overcome obstacles and demonstrate leadership among their peers and in their communities. These benefits are invaluable for everyone, and we are thrilled that they are now available to even more youth.”

Young women have been part of scouting for decades in co-ed programs offered by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), including Sea Scouts, Venturing, Exploring and

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AnnaLyn Cooper, 18, completed her Eagle Scout Board of Review on Dec. 2, making her the first female Eagle Scout in the Gulf Stream Council and one of the first in the nation.

STEM Scouts. The BSA expanded that legacy further in recent years by welcoming girls into Cub Scouts and then into Scouts BSA

last February. Scouts BSA is the program for youth ages 11 to 17 previously known as Boy Scouts.

Since then, tens of thousands of young women have joined the organization’s most iconic program.

“I have had to prove myself to others every step of my scouting journey,” Cooper said. “Not only am I among the first females to join a Scouts BSA troop, but as an Eagle Scout, I consider it my responsibility to be a role model to younger girls and uphold the scouting principles.”

Eagle Scout is the program’s highest rank, which only about 6 percent of Scouts achieve on average. To earn it, an individual has to take on leadership roles within their troop and their community; earn a minimum of 21 merit badges that cover a broad range of topics; and they must research, organize and complete a large community service project.

Cooper’s Eagle Scout Project benefited local nonprofit Horses That Help, an organization dedicated to helping at-risk, foster and special needs children by teaching horsemanship skills, at the same time rehabilitating horses that have been neglected or abused.

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MANAGING PET CARE COSTS Advancements in veterinary medicine have translated into more treatment options for a variety of animal injuries and illnesses. The downside is that these options can be financially prohibitive for many pet owners. If your pet requires expensive care that you cannot afford, ask your vet about a payment plan so you can avoid paying it all up front. Contact your local shelter to inquire about veterinary assistance programs. If you have a specific breed, contact its National Club to ask about veterinary financial assistance. Because treatments are expensive, the best approach is to practice preventive care. Have your pet spayed or neutered, keep vaccinations up to date, and keep pets safely confined or leashed to prevent accidents and illnesses.

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Page 26

December 18 - December 31, 2020

The Town-Crier

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December 18 - December 31, 2020 Page 27

BUSINESS NEWS

Bowen Realty Helps Out With Toys And Food In addition to collecting toys for children in the Glades, this year Bowen Realty also donated $3,500 to help feed those in need.

The toy drive is coordinated with Margaret Strachan from Pahokee. “We have been collecting toys for about 10 years now, but this year, we decided to forgo our annual holiday party and use those

funds to help feed the hungry,” said Darell Bowen, broker at Bowen Realty and a longtime Wellington resident.

Bowen Realty and its agents donated $1,000 to the South Florida Sanctuary, $2,000 to the Palm Beach County Food Bank and $500 to the Treasure Coast Food Bank.

Darell and Sherry Bowen with Margaret Strachan.

Next ABWA Meeting Set For Jan. 13

Some of the many toys donated this season.

Judy Cruz of the Treasure Coast Food Bank with Bowen Realty manager John Slivon.

The Northern Palm Beach Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will meet Wednesday, Jan. 13 at 6 p.m. To RSVP, or for more information, contact Professional Development Chair Loretta Remy at (561) 3173227 or loretta.spalady@gmail. com.

The meeting typically takes place at the Embassy Suites Hotel (4350 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens) with networking starting at 6 p.m. The cost is typically $25 through Sunday, Jan. 9 and $30 after. If the meeting occurs at the hotel, use www.paypal.me/abwanorthernpalmbch to pay or pay at the door. Due to the pandemic, the meeting will likely take place via Zoom. If so, upon registration, login details will be shared, and

there will be no cost to participate.

The January speaker is Jennifer Ally on “Inner Alignment for Creating a New World in the New Year.” Ally is a national award-winning author and “higher consciousness” consultant. She will teach people how to manage mental and emotional energy to thrive in spite of circumstances, as well as how to become balanced in order to be an effective and joyful creator.

The mission of the American Business Women’s Association is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally and professionally.

For more info., visit https:// northernpalmbeach.abwa.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Partners With Macy’s On Holiday Shopping Program

There was a very special holiday shopping experience recently for members of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties, thanks to Macy’s.

The exciting event, which has become a tradition, took place locally at the Wellington Green, Boynton Beach, Gardens and Boca Town Center Macy’s stores, as well as Treasure Coast Square.

On Dec. 6, Wellington Senior Director & Store Manager Leslie Adametz, along with store associates, welcomed little brothers and little sisters to a VIP shopping experience before the store opened. They were able to social

distance while enjoying snacks and receiving goody bags and a gift card.

Staff colleagues helped the youth pick out gifts. The youngsters made their selections thoughtfully, and many chose something for parents or siblings, rather than for themselves. They enjoyed finalizing their purchases at cash registers themselves.

Along with Adamatz, Geoff Leiberman worked as coordinator for the regional event.

To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties, visit www. mentorbig.org.

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Macy’s Wellington Green Store Manager Leslie Adametz with Cor tney McMenamin and Samantha Reitz.

“Little Brother” Evan sends his letter to the North Pole using the Macy’s Make A Wish mailbox.

(L-R) Paco Velez, president and CEO Feeding South Florida; Rob Teston, CEO of Farm Credit of Florida; and Ashley Layson, chief marketing officer of Farm Credit of Florida.

Farm Credit Of Florida Helps Feed Floridians

Farm Credit of Florida, headquartered in Royal Palm Beach, recently donated $10,000 to the Farmers Feeding Florida program, a produce recovery initiative of Feeding Florida that works with farmers and packers throughout the state to rescue and distribute produce to food banks.

This program is needed now more than ever in these difficult times, especially with the USDA Corona Food Assistance Program (CFAP) funding set to expire in late December.

“During trying times like this, the importance of agriculture’s role to feed those in our state and around the world is never more clear,” said Robert Teston, CEO of Farm Credit of Florida. “We are happy to support Farmers Feeding Florida so more produce can make it from the farm to the people that need it.”

Farm Credit of Florida held a special November fundraiser where the firm welcomed its representatives and social media following to say what they were thankful for. As a result of large participation, the association would gift Farmers Feeding Florida with a holiday donation.

“At a time when COVID-19 has hit the state’s agriculture industry and working-class Floridians, this donation allows us to help both growers and families who find themselves increasingly going to food banks for support,” said

Robin Safley, executive director of Feeding Florida.

Farmers Feeding Florida’s produce recovery program works alongside farmers throughout the state to protect, rescue and distribute healthy and cosmetically blemished produce that can assist with the burden. This donation helps offset out-of-pocket costs for needed materials and allows farmers to donate truckloads full of produce to food banks, who in turn can provide healthy, nutritious produce to food insecure Floridians.

“Florida farmers take feeding our state and country very seriously. The partnership we have with the Feeding Florida program makes sure that those who are less fortunate have their needs met,” said Paul Allen with R.C. Hatton Farms. “Farmers are givers, and the Farmers Feeding Florida gives us an avenue to show that we are givers.”

During the pandemic, CFAP provided many food banks with fresh food from various growers and farmers. This additional support came at a critical time, when food insecurity in Florida jumped from 2.8 million to 3.6 million people. With that program’s expiration date this month, but the need in Florida still as high, the Farmers Feeding Florida program will be more important than ever.

Donations to this program can be made at www.feedingflorida. org.

WELLINGTON ART SOCIETY

Presents

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Virtual Exhibit 1 Nov. 2020 - 4 Jan. 2021 Featuring 25 artists and 81 original artworks by WAS members Stained Glass | Photography | Painting Mixed Media | Drawing

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View at: www.WellingtonartSociety.org The Wellington Art Society is a non-profit charitable organization In its 38th year. It is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, allowing both local and regional artists to display their art work in local galleries, interact with other artists and serve the community through their art.

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

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FEATURES

Santa Will Not Let A Pesky Pandemic Ruin Christmas For Kids

’Twas the night before Christmas, In the worst year remembered.

The Covid had ruined things From March through December.

Deborah Welky is

“He won’t social-distance, ‘Cuz he’ll get here so late.

But, OK, put Clorox, Alongside his plate.”

Had vowed to keep Christmas From Covid’s dark touch.

The children they knew, Would NOT be affected.

The children they knew Would NOT be dejected.

Events had been canceled, And restaurants dozed.

The stores were all hurting, The movies were closed.

The Sonic BOOMER

“And, yes, he wears gloves.

And no, he feels fine.

You know what? Please Hand me that bottle of wine.”

Families and friends, Had to stay far apart.

Or wear masks that made them Look more like Black Bart.

That Santa was coming, No matter the bind.

Yes, things were quite different That year — 2020, The news had been gruesome, And had frightened many.

So parents were trying To soothe each kid’s mind,

“He’ll be here exactly As he is expected.

And, no, little Tommy, He is not infected.”

And Santa, we hear, Worked especially hard, To make sure no joy was Allowed to be marred.

“That Covid won’t ruin The kids’ Christmas, y’hear?”

He grumbled to elves, Who let loose a cheer.

But parents and aunties, And uncles and such,

He piled extra presents Up high in his sleigh, “I’ll make SURE the children Have fun Christmas Day!” When inside the houses, He stacked gifts just right, Overloaded the stockings, And worked late that night.

Yet I heard him exclaim As he drove out of sight, “Merry Christmas to all and To all — no more fright!”

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE SONIC BOOMER!

2020 Is On The Way Out... And Good Riddance To A Nasty Year

This is the last column of 2020. The next one is out on the first day of 2021 and, frankly, I will be glad to be finished with this year. Who would have believed what a mess we’re been living through?

There have been some gains. In those first few weeks, essentially speaking to no one in person except my wife, I gained a greater appreciation for her and all she puts up with having to live with me. We wound up cooking more; after all, many restaurants were closed. And I have to thank the staff at my local Publix. They opened early for seniors, were always polite and friendly even early in the morning, and provided paper products whenever available as we came in.

We lost some restaurants, but our favorite local, Bimini Twist on Okeechobee Blvd., started doing takeout as soon as it was possible and tossed in some bottles of pretty good wine to sweeten the deal.

And the food was great… as usual. A new

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler Mexican restaurant, Papichulo, opened on State Road 7 and is wonderful. I even found Dough Dough Donuts in the Crossroads Center at Royal Palm Beach and Okeechobee — not only great fresh donuts, but the best hot dogs I have ever eaten. Try them!

Of course, we have taken losses. Friends have died. I lost my precious niece Carla up in New York. People have had their plans so disrupted that we wind up out of touch.

Even worse, we have lost some of our

freedom. Yes, I wear a mask whenever I go out and expect to meet people. I even carry one in my pocket when I take my Lexi out to walk her because I might meet people. I do not like wearing a mask; it is hard to breathe and my glasses never sit quite right. But I do like the idea of not passing away suddenly or helping spread the virus, so I wear it.

I also enjoy the folly of those people who are surprised that there are some who ignore the rules. Why should we be surprised? We live in a country where stop signs and blinker lights are considered advisories at best. No one has a problem much with going at a green light, except for those people who are looking at the screens of their phones and/or texting.

Red lights stop most of us, but not all. And yellow lights mean step on the gas, hoping that you’ll beat the red but not worrying too much. We are and always have been a nation of individualists, even in crises.

Of course, one of the problems going along with this is that the people issuing many of the rules pay no attention to them in their own lives. The mayor of Chicago, after closing down beauty salons, had her own hair done. The governor of New York recently warned against having anyone over for Thanksgiving and then had photos of his elderly mother coming to dinner.

The list goes on and on. The mayor of Denver took some time to warn residents not to drive to other people’s homes over Thanksgiving before getting on an airplane to visit his family in Mississippi.

Several California politicians have been photographed eating at outdoor restaurants in between the time they ordered them closed and the time the ruling went into effect.

I have no problem with giving up some rights temporarily in a crisis. Good citizenship demands it. But many of the rules have been arbitrary. It is OK to

stand on line (with social distancing) ins a store but not, even with that same social distancing, in a church or synagogue.

Social gatherings of more than a handful of people are forbidden but large groups demonstrating for something the people in charge like somehow, according to the so-called experts, does not create a problem.

I would feel far better if a) I was certain that some of the rights curtailed were being done so temporarily, and b) if the people promulgating the rules joined us in following them. We are being told we are all in this together. Why shouldn’t our leaders be held to the same standards as the rest of us? Many of our leaders clearly feel they should not be held to a higher standard than the rest of us, but to be considered above all rules.

As George Orwell put it, “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

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Page 30 December 18 - December 31, 2020

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Home Improvement 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

Insurance ALL COUNTY INSURANCE — 561-4710513 If you need Commercial and General liability; Rental and Vacant property; Business/ Work Vehicles Auto Insurance Payroll/Work Comp AnthonyA@allcountyinsurance.com

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Painting J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, Chemical Roof Cleaning, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified -pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/ owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473

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Sprinkler Systems AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael Office: 561-964-6004 Cell: 561236-8595 Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

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Town-Crier Classifieds Call 561-793-7606

Town-Crier Classifieds Call 561-793-7606

St. Jude’s Novena May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St.Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, help of the hopeless, pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 times a day by the 8th day, your prayer will be answered.

It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you, St Jude for granting my

SL etition.

Fictitious Name Notice Legal Notice No. 690 Notice Under Fictitious Name Florida Statute 865.09 Public notice is hereby given that the undersigned desires to engage in business under the fictitious name of:

Umbrella Brainstorms Located at:

P.O. Box 4127 WPB, FL, 33402

County of Palm Beach, Florida and intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations State of Florida, forthwith

Alexis Martinez

Publish:Town-Crier Newspaper

Date: 12-18-20

Fictitious Name Notice Legal Notice No. 691 Notice Under Fictitious Name Florida Statute 865.09 Public notice is hereby given that the undersigned desires to engage in business under the fictitious name of:

HITCH CO Located at:

164 Alcazar St. Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411

County of Palm Beach, Florida and intends to register said name with the Division of Corporations State of Florida, forthwith

Christopher Hitchcock

Publish:Town-Crier Newspaper

Date: 12-18-20

Seeking Employment HOME HEALTH AIDE AVAILABLE — Experienced Home Health Aide seeks new position. Flexible hours, full time, day or night. I am a Licensed CNA who has worked as a home health aide and also as a nanny. I have many years of experience taking care of the elderly at home. Price negotiable, references provided upon request. Call Pat at (561) 294-1423.

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Page 31

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December 18 - December 31, 2020

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