Town-Crier Newspaper December 30, 2016

RPB RACETRAC PROJECT GETS STARTED SEE STORY, PAGE 3

MORE TRANSPARENCY IN RPB CODE SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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Bacon & Bourbon Fest Planning Move From Delray To Wellington

Volume 37, Number 50 December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Serving Palms West Since 1980

TOY DRIVE HEADS TO THE HOSPITAL

The Wellington Village Council recently approved a co-sponsorship request for the Bacon & Bourbon Fest produced by Delray Beach Arts Inc. to be held March 23-24, 2018. Page 3

Holiday Play ‘Dear Santa’ On Stage At Wellington Elementary

Wellington Elementary School presented “Dear Santa,” a play performed and produced by the school’s fine arts academy and musical theater group. The musical, which the students performed on Dec. 20 and 21, was about a family that rediscovers the true meaning of Christmas — after the family members tried to text, tweet and Skype their wishes to Santa. Page 5

Chabad Of Royal Palm Celebrates Jewish Holiday Of Chanukah

Chabad of Royal Palm Beach celebrated the third night of Chanukah on Monday, Dec. 26 with a grand menorah lighting at sundown. Entertainment for children was provided by the Danny Grant Variety Show before the menorah lighting, and singing and music by Benji Fafael were enjoyed after. Volunteers served traditional Chanukah foods, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and donuts, and a raffle was held. Page 10

OPINION As Funding Battle Drags On, The OIG Remains Short-Staffed

More than six years after the creation of the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General, the political infighting between Palm Beach County and more than a dozen municipalities over its funding remains a bitter feud with no resolve in sight. As we have maintained for the past decade, it is crucially important that Palm Beach County have a fully funded and robust Office of the Inspector General. Further, we believe there needs to be a buy-in on both the county and municipal levels. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS...............................3 - 10 OPINION.................................. 4 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 6 PEOPLE................................. 11 SCHOOLS...................... 12 - 13 COLUMNS.......................14, 21 BUSINESS..................... 22 - 23 SPORTS..........................27 - 29 CALENDAR............................ 30 CLASSIFIEDS.................31 - 34 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

As part of Wellington’s eighth annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, Santa delivered presents to children at Palms West Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 22. The toys were donated by businesses, faith-based organizations and residents throughout Wellington as part of the annual toy drive.

Shown here, the members of the Wellington Village Council and volunteers from the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue met up with hospital officials to help Santa give out presents. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 17

Career Prep, LinkedIn Courses Coming To Community Center

By Shayna Tanen Town-Crier Staff Report Career consultant Carol Horner will offer four career-related courses at the Wellington Community Center starting in January.

The courses are: “Career Exploration,” for people 15 or older, which helps them explore career options; “Job Readiness,” which helps people 16 to 22 years old find internships and get ahead in the job market; “Using LinkedIn to Energize Your Job Search,” designed to teach people over 18 everything about the business-oriented social media site LinkedIn; and “Job Search,” which is recommended for people 18 or older and helps them navigate job searches and prepare for interviews.

“What we wanted to do was to be able to take the experiences that we had and pass them along to people,” Horner said about her and her business partner, Benton Howie, who will join Horner in teaching the courses.

Horner wants to help people understand the perspective of job recruiters in order to help them make career decisions and get the careers they want.

Much of Horner’s 25 years working in human resources involved hiring job candidates, she said. She worked in Boca Raton for most of her career and moved to Wellington — where she now works from a home office — four years ago. She is the co-creator of careerzing.com and conducts career consulting mostly through video conferences, as well as teaching workshops on college campuses.

Dinesh Lalchan met Horner at Palm Beach State College and attended her job readiness course there.

“The reason I found a job was because she taught us how to sell ourselves,” he said.

Lalchan said that before Horner’s class, he had job interviews that did not go well. He is now a

sales associate and merchandiser at a Home Depot, and he attributes this to Horner’s class.

Horner noted that people will browse the internet for career tips and miss out on important information that they might not have been searching for.

“People will search out what they think that they need, and they’ll miss that piece that they really need,” she said.

Horner has taught her classes and segments of them at nearby colleges and at the Boca Raton Community Center, but this is the first time she is teaching them at the Wellington Community Center.

Chris O’Connor, program coordinator for the Wellington Community Center, said he wants to offer programs that are beneficial to the public. “This is definitely beneficial for people in the long run,” he said.

Courses range from $75 to $100 See CLASSES, page 4

Wellington Board OKs Design For New Restaurant Near Mall

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington’s Architectural Review Board approved the signage, exterior elevations, colors and materials for the planned Kaluz Restaurant near the Mall at Wellington Green on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Kaluz will be located along Forest Hill Blvd. in the location previously occupied by the Buca di Beppo restaurant, which closed in 2015.

“The existing building will be demolished and rebuilt in a similar footprint,” said Kelly Ferraiolo, associate planner with the Village of Wellington.

The proposed building is one story high, with outdoor patio space and a covered porte-cochère.

The proposed architecture is not the Mediterranean style common in the Wellington Green area. The renderings incorporate earth tone colors, windows for natural lighting, tower elements, decorative

An artist’s rendering of the planned Kaluz Restaurant.

tiling around a waterfall and more, she said.

Stone, coping, wood cladding, earth tones, glass tile and metal panels are proposed outdoor materials.

The applicant, Arka Grill Company West LLC, requested that the primary and secondary wall signs be equal in size, deviating from the previously established sizes.

“Staff supports the request for additional height for the primary wall sign because the sign will be compatible with the height and unique design of the façades,” Ferraiolo said. “Staff supports the request for the secondary elevation wall sign to be equal in size of the primary wall sign as it faces Forest Hill Blvd., and a smaller sign would not look proportionate to the façade.”

The applicant is proposing to modify the existing single tenant monument sign on Forest Hill Blvd., which staff supports.

“I think it looks great. I think it See KALUZ, page 15

Appellate Court Ruling A Blow For County In OIG Case

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Fourth District Court of Appeal issued an opinion Dec. 21 reversing the trial court’s judgment in favor of Palm Beach County’s ability to charge municipalities to support the cost of maintaining the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General.

The appellate opinion found that the county charging the municipalities violated their right of sovereign immunity and constituted an unlawful tax.

The appeal was made by 13 Palm Beach County municipalities against the county and Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock.

Local municipalities, including Loxahatchee Groves, Royal Palm Beach and Wellington, were not parties in the lawsuit, which began

in 2010 when voters approved a referendum by a 72 percent vote to include municipalities under the inspector general’s oversight. Wellington was party to the lawsuit initially but later withdrew.

Inspector General John Carey said his office has not been receiving the money from the municipalities, and as a result has been operating at a staff level of 23, rather than the 40 that was budgeted to serve the needs of both the county and its 39 municipalities.

“It has been a long-going court issue since the office has been in existence,” Carey told the TownCrier on Wednesday. “Recently, the circuit just ruled in favor of the cities.”

Carey stressed that the case is See OIG RULING, page 15

HOLIDAY TIME AT THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington gave out toys to club members on Wednesday, Dec. 21. Kids got to pick out a toy, and there was also a raffle, courtesy of club benefactor Neil Hirsch. Kids also enjoyed dancing, face painting and refreshments. Shown here, Elisa Donegal picks out a gift. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 16 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RPB Rec Board To Oversee Village Surtax Spending

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved a resolution earlier this month designating its Recreation Advisory Board as the Village Infrastructure Surtax Citizen Oversight Committee for local projects.

The committee will oversee expenditures from the 1-cent surtax approved by voters Nov. 8.

The local governmental infrastructure surtax will be used by Palm Beach County, the School District of Palm Beach County and the 39 county municipalities to finance planning, reconstruction and improvement of needed infrastructure.

The language included the requirement that all participating governments have an independent oversight committee review surtax expenditures. Communities can create an oversight committee or utilize one created by the Palm

Beach County League of Cities.

The Royal Palm Beach Recreation Advisory Board currently reviews and makes recommendations to the council on recreation infrastructure and capital projects.

At the Dec. 15 meeting, Village Attorney Jennifer Ashton said that a citizen oversight committee is a requirement of the referendum.

“The ordinance actually says that any city, county or school district must have an oversight committee to make sure that you’re spending your money in accordance with three things: one, in the state statute that defines infrastructure; two, ballot language that was approved by the voters; and three, that it agrees with an interlocal agreement with the county,” Ashton said.

She explained that the county left it largely to the discretion of the municipalities to decide whether they wanted to create their See SURTAX, page 15

‘Equestrians Got Talent’ Ready For Third Hit Season

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report With the arrival of equestrian season comes a very special equestrian contest that doesn’t involve horses: the American Equestrians Got Talent fundraiser that benefits the United States Equestrian Federation High Performance Programs through the United States Equestrian Team Foundation.

The competition, spearheaded

by U.S. Dressage Team Chef d’Equipe Robert Dover, debuted in 2015. This year’s honorary chair is P.J. Rizvi.

From the first audition, Wednesday, Jan. 11, to the last audition on Wednesday, March 8, equestrians and those related to the equestrian industry will take to the stage at

the Wellington Community Center’s Grande Ballroom (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) showing off their skills — singing, dancing, juggling, twirling and more.

“We’re very excited about it.

The new ballroom at the community center is totally beautiful and 100 percent under cover. It’s such a great venue, and we’re really excited to have it for the nine audition weeks,” Dover said.

The AEGT grand finale will return to the Adequan Global Dressage Festival grounds on Sunday, March 19.

Aaron Menitoff and Julie Larson of Wellington Hospitality Group will cater a gourmet dinner prior to the show at 6 p.m.

Individual dinner tickets are

$60 for one night and $450 for the nine auditions. Standing room tickets for individuals for one night are $10. A table for 10 for one night is $600 and $4,500 for all nine auditions. Additional tickets are available for purchase for beverages, wine, beer and spirits.

Limited tickets are available. For reservations, call Patty Scott at (917) 318-0425.

After dinner, the show will begin, which will be live-streamed courtesy of The Chronicle of the Horse. Each week’s winner will receive a $1,000 prize and will compete in the March 19 finale.

“I have the DJ that I’ve had the last two years, and lighting people.

It’s going to be an awesome event, See AEGT, page 4

Event organizer Robert Dover with last year’s winner, David Willis.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

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December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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NEWS

Bacon & Bourbon Fest Planning Move From Delray To Wellington

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council recently approved a co-sponsorship request for the Bacon & Bourbon Fest produced by Delray Beach Arts Inc. to be held March 23-24, 2018.

Nancy Stewart-Franczak made a presentation on behalf of Delray Beach Arts Inc. at the council’s Nov. 8 meeting.

“We’re proposing the event for 2018 primarily because of the amount of time it takes to redesign and move an event, and come out and introduce ourselves to new partners in your area,” StewartFranczak said.

The 2018 event will be the third Bacon & Bourbon Fest. It is planned for the area surrounding the Wellington Amphitheater.

“We are an international awardwinning event,” Stewart-Franczak said. “In two years, we have brought home nine international and six state awards. We are also a fundraiser for local nonprofit organizations. We are staffed by local nonprofits that man various areas of our events. Some of them are

based on percentage of proceeds, some of them are based on hourly rates and some of them are based on man-hours.”

The event provides a private security team that supplements local law enforcement requirements.

“They have worked with us for 18 years,” Stewart-Franczak said.

“We supplement all requirements for all of our events. Regardless of the police requirements, we supplement with private security.”

The event also has a trash and recycling management team made up of staff supervised by a Boy Scout troop leader.

“We typically do not use parks and recreation in any way in the communities that we work,” she said. “We do our own cleanup and our own trash removal.”

The event builds custom façades for its Bacon Street food area.

“We have the tents, but we try to dress up the facades of our food line with our custom façades,” Stewart-Franczak said.

Street food offerings include roasted bourbon BBQ pork and bacon sandwiches, bacon ice cream sundaes, bourbon and caramel

sauce, and a bacon bar featuring chocolate peanut covered, caramel almond, barbeque or pecan rosemary dipped bacon.

“We’re into kind of crazy food and entertainment, so you’re going to find wacky things,” StewartFranczak said. “Our big hit is our chocolate-dipped bacon. The first time we ran this, we got killed because we ran out in 45 minutes.

We underestimated the popularity of chocolate bacon.”

The Bourbon Street Bars feature an eclectic selection of specialty cocktails featuring bourbon.

“We partner with our liquor sponsor, Republic National. They will be joining us here,” she said.

“These are custom bars that they build with tap systems. The specialty drinks that we do, we have a variety of flavors that come out of a tap system, and then we also have a wide variety of bourbon and whiskey.”

The event also does pairing seminars and full dining experiences.

“These are areas that we bring in different representatives from the bourbon companies, and we pair

Royal Palm Beach RaceTrac Station Begins Construction

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Construction is now underway on the RaceTrac gas station at the corner of Royal Palm Beach and Southern boulevards, which received council approval in January 2016.

“It’s moving along,” said Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins, who explained that the developer had until mid-January to start the project. “They did get a [demolition] permit, and they got their permit from the county, so they’re moving ahead with work on the site, which should get them vested.”

Liggins added that Gov. Rick Scott signed an executive order in October after Hurricane Matthew that granted emergency site plan extensions another six months.

“They’re out there aggressively working on it,” Liggins told the Town-Crier on Tuesday. “They are starting with their water and sewer improvements, and they’re

going to tear that old bank building down.”

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved the station after several meetings that resulted in postponements, and several public input meetings at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center where large groups of sharply divided residents spoke for and against the project.

Those opposing the station said it was inappropriate and too large for the location, at a southern entrance to the village.

As a last-minute concession, representatives of the Wantman Group, applying for the approval, agreed to install 16 pumps, reserving the option to add another four pumps if they could show that there were not enough pumps to serve the traffic flow.

As with other RaceTrac locations, the site will feature a convenience store with a selection of prepared foods, beverages and sundries geared for travelers, but with design concessions recommended by village staff in order

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to avoid variances.

The station will replace a nearby gas station that was torn down during the widening of Southern Blvd.

10 years ago.

At the time of the approval, Liggins said that the station has appropriate zoning, but did require a special exception, as did the previous gas station that was torn down.

When the developer first applied, the request included six variances, such as a canopy all the way across the front that would require reduced landscaping, which village staff said they would not approve. Eventually the developer got the plan to fit on the site without variances.

The plan received approval from the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission. After several meetings and postponements resulting from public opposition, the council finally approved the scaled back gas station 4-1, with Councilman David Swift opposed.

Swift had made a motion to allow only 12 pumps, which failed.

them with restaurants, and they are paired with four different varieties of bourbon and four appetizer portions, and then our dining experiences are four-course, sit-down events. Some of them we cater, and some we have restaurants work with us,” she said.

Live music, entertainment and games are also featured, including a “pig race.”

“They were arcade games, but they were real popular,” StewartFranczak said.

Councilman Michael Napoleone said he was excited to see the event moving to Wellington.

“When I saw you guys were going to leave Delray, I reached out and had a meeting to see if we had a possibility to bring you to Wellington,” Napoleone said. “I’m glad you met with our staff, and it seems like we’re on track to get this thing going for 2018.”

Councilman Michael Drahos

asked how the nonprofits are chosen and whether Wellington charities would be involved.

Stewart-Franczak said that she will attempt to get local nonprofits involved.

“A lot of the organizations that we have work all of our events with us, but when we go into the community, we meet with the various churches and local nonprofit organizations, and it’s a little more difficult than you would imagine because there is quite a specific requirement, a lot of man-hours, a lot of volunteers, so we put them in based on how many people they can commit to us, and their hours, and they have to have adult supervision,” she said.

Vice Mayor John McGovern asked for examples of the charities they are working with now, and Stewart-Franczak said they include the Boy Scouts, the At-

lantic High School Eagle-ettes, the Caring Kitchen, church groups and more.

“Our model was to work with arts- or education-related [organizations] in a really broad sense,” she said. “That was our passion when we started our event, but usually we just go into the community and people come to us.”

She stressed that there would be ample opportunity for local organizations to volunteer, but there are some areas where they depend on experienced volunteers, such as cashiers.

Stewart-Franczak said Delray Beach has sharply raised its cost, which is why many of the events are moving away. She added that her company also sponsors the Delray Beach Garlic Fest, now called the South Florida Garlic Fest, which is moving to John Prince Park in Lake Worth in February 2017.

Jeff Hmara: TCRPC Frowns On Delray Linton Groves Project

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council recently recommended abandonment of the Delray Linton Groves project, formerly known as Iota Carol.

The project, located near The Acreage, recently got initial county approval for 1,030 residential units and approximately 100,000 square feet of commercial space on the 1,288-acre parcel.

Royal Palm Beach Councilman Jeff Hmara, the village’s liaison to the TCRPC, reported on the recommendation of denial at the Dec. 15 meeting of the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

The Palm Beach County Commission approved a comp plan amendment requested by Delray Linton Groves for transmittal to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity on Oct. 27.

The approval is one of several large developments given the OK by the county commission in recent years. The commissioners approved transmittal of the Delray Linton Groves project by a 4-2 vote, with commissioners Paulette Burdick and Melissa McKinlay dissenting, and Commissioner Hal Valeche absent.

The plan changes the land’s designation from one unit per 10 acres to “western communities residential,” a newly created designation that would allow the developer up to one unit per 1.25 acres. That’s similar to The Acreage, but would increase the current 129 allowed units to 1,030 units.

The site, 2 miles west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and north of 60th Street North, is almost completely surrounded by GL Homes’ 4,872-acre Indian Trail Groves project, which was approved in September for a similar density, allowing the development of up to 3,897 homes and 350,000 square feet of commercial use.

“The amendment being addressed was the county’s decision to approve [an] increase in property density out there,” Hmara said. “Staff actually took a very firm stand on that from the point of view of the capacity of the road system here. We know we’ve had this discussion over the past years of the capacity of Westlake and GL Homes and others. This time around, though, it seemed that their recommendation was a lot stronger than it has been in the past.”

According to the TCRPC re-

port, Delray Linton Groves is inconsistent with several of its goals related to transportation, energy, economic development, housing and redevelopment. Of particular concern, the proposal has significant adverse impacts on the regional roadway network, including Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, Northlake Blvd., Orange Blvd., 60th Street North, Persimmon Blvd. and Okeechobee Blvd.

TCRPC was also concerned that the attempt to balance land uses and obtain other public benefits, including the provision of recreational amenities, potential regional drainage solutions, and retaining some agriculture, will occur at a disproportionate and unmitigated expense to the road network.

The report added that the project has the potential to adversely impact the quality of life in the area in future years, and the county should abandon the Delray Linton Groves amendment, because it will exacerbate existing traffic problems and add to the backlog of needed road improvements.

“It seems that this recommendation was a lot stronger than in the past,” Hmara said. “It was stated See TCRPC, page 15

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OUR OPINION

As Funding Battle Drags On, The OIG Remains Short-Staffed

More than six years after the creation of the Palm Beach County Office of the Inspector General, the political infighting between Palm Beach County and more than a dozen municipalities over its funding remains a bitter feud with no resolve in sight. The latest salvo came last week, when the Fourth District Court of Appeal ruled that Palm Beach County’s municipalities do not have to pay to fund the county office, a decision which overturned a prior lower court ruling. But hold on to your hats, because the Florida Supreme Court is still waiting in the wings, and that’s where the next legal argument will likely be heard.

This is a conundrum with many years of history behind it. In 2010, county voters overwhelmingly, with 72 percent approval, backed the creation of an independent Office of the Inspector General, which was intended to provide oversight not only to the county government, but also to local municipal governments.

According to the county’s charter, the inspector general oversees all municipalities within the county. Fifteen cities filed a lawsuit and have refused to pay the costs required, tying up funding for the office, which has spent years trying to meet its charter obligation with half the necessary staffing. Meanwhile, Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock has placed a hold on funds paid by municipalities until the lawsuit is resolved, which means communities like Royal Palm Beach — which is not party to the lawsuit — have had money held in escrow for years. Two communities, including Wellington, have since dropped out of the lawsuit.

At issue is how the OIG should be funded. The municipalities’ position is that the Board of County Commissioners adopted a policy where the county, in its sole discretion, decides the OIG’s budget and issues invoices to each municipality

representing the percentage each owes to offset the OIG’s expenses. (The county created a municipal funding mechanism that charged vendors 0.25 percent of the cost of the contract to fund the OIG office. The exact method has not been used before.) The lawsuit challenges the county’s authority to make financial decisions regarding a countywide service and then send municipalities invoices to pay the cost of the service. While the result of the lawsuit has been to hamstring the finances of the inspector general, the municipalities stress that their lawsuit only contests the manner in which the office is funded and does not challenge any other aspect of the OIG program.

The county’s position is that the OIG was created and empowered by the vote of residents across the county, and that sans financial payments from those communities, is providing a free service for the 39 Palm Beach County municipalities. County officials contend that the tax was levied by the voters upon themselves during the 2010 enabling referendum when 72 percent of county voters favored the creation of the Office of the Inspector General, included significant majorities in each and every county municipality.

The irony here is that the funding mechanism was originally agreed to by the municipalities, and was only challenged once it was implemented. As we have maintained for the past decade, it is crucially important that Palm Beach County have a fully funded and robust Office of the Inspector General. Further, we believe there needs to be a buy-in on both the county and municipal levels. One of the standards of the OIG is government transparency, and this applies to all levels of government. Everyone needs to contribute.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Beware Acreage/ Loxahatchee Incorporation

Concerning “incorporation” of our community, and the article that ran in the Town-Crier on Dec. 16.

First, a snip from the article... “If The Acreage were to incorporate, it would draw about $15 million in revenue, with only about $10 million to spend, and no ad valorem tax in its first years.”

OK, so in the first year, no ad valorem tax is assessed. What about every year thereafter? Does this mean only in the first year there is some imaginary $5 million in excess revenue? Please contemplate a few things, if not many more.

Incorporation means a double-layer of “local,” “state” and “federal” government. A municipality must provide for every entity that already exists under the county, state and federal government, as well as funding for all of that. What might and does that mean?

Contemplate, for example, the need as a new “municipality” for providing services such as fire, sheriff, planning, zoning, transportation, code enforcement, roads, affordable housing, commercial development, industrial development, condominiums, apartments, education, senior living, environmental, water, sewer, flooding, transportation, garbage collection, assisted living, drug/ alcohol facilities, etc. You name it in government, and when you incorporate as a “government,” you must provide it. This is why taxes go up, and you only need to look at Loxahatchee Groves as an example.

That extra $5 million the first year, when you don’t need to assess, quickly is gobbled up. What you sought to protect is quickly gobbled up as well.

Contemplate the Acreage/Loxahatchee community today. Every road is private. Once you “incorporate,” every road becomes public.

Ask Loxahatchee Groves.

Think about the Acreage/Loxahatchee community today, and realize that we already pay to the Indian Trail Improvement District a huge amount of taxes as property owners for maintaining roads, drainage and parks (and parks should never have been added, but now will also be a responsibility of the new municipality). Is PLAN suggesting eliminating ITID, or will we have three layers of “local” government?

Contemplate “homestead” law in the State of Florida. Once you become a municipality, only a half-acre is protected as “homestead” in the State of Florida. This means, for our 1.5-acre community, absent grandfathering, 1 acre is unprotected from exemption from lawsuits, taxation and even bankruptcy protection if you seek it, as even famous president-elects are wont to do.

Contemplate Loxahatchee Groves as an example of a community that incorporated to keep itself rural, when suddenly rural meant creating commercial and more. Check out its board, which is approving commercial even in corridors it said would remain “rural,” paving where it said it wouldn’t, and adding traffic lights.

Before you get fooled by a group that claims it will give you autonomy, protection, and sav-

ings; consider what the ultimate “consequences” of creating a new “government” might be. It might be more than you considered; way more than you considered, and much more life-altering.

Rather than preserving, protecting and creating autonomy, it might instead offer a “new” municipality that might deliver the exact opposite.

Patricia D. Curry The Acreage

The Truth About Motorcycle Helmets

We’ve all heard time and again, over and over, that motorcycle helmets save lives. Unfortunately, this is not entirely true. The truth is that motorcycle helmets are designed to reduce the net impact on a rider’s skull by about 20 mph.

What this means is that a helmet impact of under 20 mph is highly survivable. However, impacts over 20 mph are less and less survivable as the speed increases.

According to the Department of Highway Safety, in 2015, the number of Florida motorcycle fatalities where the riders were wearing helmets vastly exceeded the number of fatalities without helmets. While this isn’t saying that helmets are useless, it is saying that there are other factors besides wearing a helmet that contribute to a motorcycle fatality.

Now if you have ever watched MotoGP racing on TV, you probably have seen motorcycles wipe out on the track at 180 mph and then the helmeted rider gets up, brushes himself off and walks

away. So what gives? If helmets only protect to 20 mph, why is it that a crash on the track at 180 mph is so easily survivable? The answer is that the helmet impact speed on the track was not 180 mph, it was actually only about 10 mph. This is the speed a rider gets from falling off the motorcycle a distance to the ground of about 6 feet. Remember, it’s the collision speed and not necessarily the forward speed that matters.

Conversely, take the case of a motorcyclist riding at 45 mph and a car doesn’t see him and pulls into his path trying to make a left turn.

In this case, the impact speed is the same as the forward speed. A helmet impact speed of 45 mph is not easily survivable.

You might have guessed by now that I ride a motorcycle. I choose to wear a helmet just because.

However, it’s difficult for older riders to find a reasonably priced, good-fitting helmet because the majority of them are designed for young kids. So, adults with larger heads either have to pay $600 for a properly sized helmet or do without. Ever wonder why some bikers have a reputation for being mean? Try wearing a helmet that is 6 sizes too small and see if you don’t get a little testy.

The reason I am writing this is that a new Florida bill (HB 6009/2017) by Representative Don Hahnfeldt of Sumter County is trying to make helmets mandatory for motorcycle riders. While under the guise of “motorcycle safety,” it’s actually a “punish bikers” law. As stated above, while many riders, such as myself, prefer to wear a helmet, it simply isn’t practical for all riders. Hahnfeldt

knows that not all riders can afford properly fitted helmets or may have other reasons why a helmet is not feasible, yet he persists in pushing a mandatory helmet law with no exceptions.

Other “punish the bikers” laws are already on the books. For example, if you pop a wheelie on a motorcycle, this carries the highest civil penalty of $5,000 for the third offense plus a 10-year license suspension. The first offense is only $1,000. Compare that to the fine for drunk driving in a car, which is only $500 for the first offense and $1,000 for the second. Is there anyone that seriously believes that popping a wheelie (something that can only be done by a highly skilled rider) is more dangerous than drunk driving? Why then is the penalty for popping a wheelie, even an accidental one, double that of driving drunk in a car? Answer: It’s the lawmakers’ way of punishing bikers.

When I took my required motorcycle course to get my license, the instructor calmly told the students that, “If you wear a helmet, you cannot be killed on a motorcycle.”

Unfortunately, that statement is an outright lie. Even though Florida

does not require helmets, more riders in 2015 died while wearing a helmet than without. When you hear a news report of a young motorcyclist who hit the guard rail at 240 mph and ground himself into pink slime, you can be assured of two things: a) he was wearing a helmet; and b) he didn’t think he could be killed.

Even still, I encourage all riders to wear a helmet if they can, but we don’t need another “punish the bikers” law making it mandatory.

Dennis Hawkins The Acreage

For The Record

Due to incorrect information provided to the Town-Crier, several of the Wellington Holiday Parade winners noted in the Dec. 16 issue were incorrect.

The winners in the Performing Group category were KemKids (first) and Solid Gold Twirlers (second). The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor.

Please keep letters brief (300 words suggested).

Submit letters, with contact name, address and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

NEWS

RPB Parks & Recreation Department Winter Youth Activities

The Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation department welcomes everyone, residents and non-residents, to participate in RPB village-run programs and activities this winter.

• Register now for a two-week Winter Break Youth Camp for boys and girls, ages 6-12 years old.

Camp is being held at Commons Park in Royal Palm Beach through Jan. 6. Camp hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Royal Palm Beach

resident fee is $245 for two weeks.

The non-resident fee is $270 for two weeks.

• Register now for a 20-hour VPK Prep: Adventures in Learning class led by a certified teacher in the early childhood classroom at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Classes prepare preschoolers (ages 3-5 years old) for VPK and kindergarten. Classes are held twice a week in the mornings, from 10

a.m. to noon. Classes will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from Jan. 9 through Feb. 8, or on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Jan. 10 through Feb. 9. The session fee for residents is $135; the fee for non-residents is $160.

• Register now for Youth Dance Classes at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center, which are offered in 7-week sessions and are open to dancers ages 2 -13 years old. Ballet, tap and

jazz classes are available Monday through Thursday starting Jan. 10. Morning and afternoon classes are available. Resident fees range from $100 to $265; non-resident fees range from $120 to $290.

• Registration has begun at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center for Baton, Poms & Ribbon Classes being held at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Classes are open to grades

Talent Competition

den talents is a fun experience, Wirth said.

Auditions will take place Wednesdays, Jan. 11, Jan. 18, Feb. 1, Feb. 8, Feb. 15, Feb. 22, March 1 and March 8, as well as Tuesday, Jan. 24.

Wirth is looking forward to bringing the excitement of the event to the community.

The March 19 finale will be at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival show grounds in Wellington, with catering by White Horse Catering. When the top competitors display their unique talents in front of friends, family and the community, the equestrian voted most talented will receive a grand prize of $10,000, sponsored by Dover and Robert Ross PA, luxury equestrian Real-

tor for Keller Williams.

“I’m looking forward to the fact that we’re having a Grammy Award winner open our first night, and judge as well… The name of the group is Jackie Boyz. That’s exciting. All the way through, we’re going to have great judges,” Dover said. “I’m very hopeful that we’ll have superstar entertainers coming out to try out for the $1,000 that they would win each week if they win, and a chance for $10,000 if they win the finale.

I think it’s going to be bigger, better, more fun and hopefully more successful for our cause.”

Award-winning actress Alfre Woodard was one of the celebrity judges last year. Wirth is looking forward to the 2017 celebrity judge lineup.

Those interested in auditioning — the entire equestrian community, including riders, grooms and others involved in any discipline — are asked to sign up in advance.

Contact Dover at rdover2@aol. com or (561) 758-6186 to set up rehearsal times the day of the audition. If time permits, performers who have not registered will be able to compete.

Current sponsors include the Van Kampen Boyer Molinari Foundation, Cherry Knoll Farm, the Dutta Corp., EQ Media, Gardner Bloemers CFP, the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, Hannah & Friends and Matt Johnson of Engel & Völkers.

For sponsorship information, contact Wirth at carrie@eqmedia. agency.

AEGT

continued from page 1 all under cover on that second floor at the Wellington Community Center,” Dover said. “I think it’s just wonderful.”

Carrie Wirth of EQ Media is looking forward to seeing the show.

“Every year there’s such fantastic talent that comes out to compete,” she said. “Last year, it was David Willis who won the finale.

He was just fantastic.”

The combination of amateur and professional competitors, as well as riders, grooms and stable managers, showing off their hid-

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

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EDITORIAL STAFF/ Chris Felker • Denise Fleischman • Paul Gaba • Gene Nardi

THE

TOWN-CRIER Your Community Newspaper Serving The Palms West Communities For 36 Years Published Weekly By Newspaper Publishers, Inc. The Original Wellington Mall

Wellington, Florida 33414 Phone: (561) 793-7606 Classified Ads: (561) 793-3576 World Wide Web: http://www.goTownCrier.com E-Mail Address: news@goTownCrier.com

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Kindergarten through grade six on Wednesdays, from 6 to 6:45 p.m. for seven weeks. Dates of the next session are Jan. 11 through Feb. 22. The fee for residents is $58;

the fee for non-residents is $73.

Pre-registration is required for all activities. Call (561) 790-5124 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com for more information.

County To Host Class For Caregivers Feeling stressed as a caregiver?

The Palm Beach County Division of Senior Services is facilitating a series titled “Powerful Tools for Caregivers.” Classes will be held on Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 11 through Feb. 15, at the North County Senior Center, located at 5217 Northlake Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens. Class times are 10 to 11:30 a.m.

The program is free, but class size is limited and pre-registration is required. For more information, or to register, call (561) 355-4913.

“Powerful Tools for Caregivers” is an educational series designed to

Classes

Starting In January

continued from page 1 for early registration and $94 to $125 if you do not register in advance. The first course is the “Job Search” class, with the earliest

provide caregivers with the tools needed to take care of themselves while caring for a family member or friend, whether that person lives nearby or far away. The goal is to help caregivers thrive and provide better care to their care receivers.

This program helps caregivers reduce stress, improve self-confidence, communicate feelings better, balance their lives, increase their ability to make tough decisions and locate helpful resources.

Classes consist of six sessions held once a week for 90 minutes.

Participants will receive a resource book, The Caregiver Help Book. dates of Jan. 17 and Jan. 19 (two days for one course) and Jan. 21 (one day for one course).

To learn more about the courses, contact Horner at (561) 756-4251 or e-mail carol.horner@careerzing.com. To register for courses, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/webtrac or call the Wellington Community Center at (561) 753-2484.

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The Town-Crier

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December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 5

NEWS

HOLIDAY PLAY ‘DEAR SANTA’ ON STAGE AT WELLINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Wellington Elementary School presented “Dear Santa,” a play performed and produced by the school’s fine arts academy and musical theater group. The musical, which the students performed on Dec. 20 and 21, was about a family that rediscovers the true meaning PHOTOS BY SHAYNA TANEN/TOWN-CRIER of Christmas — after the family members tried to text, tweet and Skype their wishes to Santa.

Isaac Kantor (Dad), Dakota Delgardio (Linda), Olivia Quinlan (Molly), Kennedy Smith (Josephine) and Meghan Shea (Supermom).

Singers in the chorus pull out their ties during the song “Anything But a Tie.”

Payson Tharp (front right) sings “I Need Some Wheels.”

Hula dancers during the “Getting Away for Christmas” song.

Isaac Kantor sings “Anything But a Tie.”

Olivia Quinlan sings her solo “Sincerely Christmas.”

Kennedy Smith and the puppies during “A Puppy for Christmas.”

Dancers during “Holiday Dance Revolution.”

Santa, played by Patrick Herod, pays a surprise visit.

Alec Bermudez and Leyla Colman as Grandpa Fred and Grandma Eunice.

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Meghan Shea (center) sings “Getting Away for Christmas.”

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Page 6

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

The Town-Crier

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NEWS BRIEFS Tickets Now On Sale For Father Daughter Dance

Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and all blends of families are invited to take part in Wellington’s annual Father Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 4.

The theme for the evening is “Sweet Dreams in Candy Land.” It will be a night of delight designed for daughters ages 5 to 14, and includes dancing, dinner, games and pictures. Each couple will receive a keepsake to cherish the memories of this fun evening.

The Father Daughter Dance will take place in the Village Park gymnasium, located at 11700 Pierson Road, from 6 to 9 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale through Thursday, Feb. 2, or until sold out, and can be purchased at Village Park or the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The cost is $50 per resident couple and $62.50 per non-resident couple. Additional tickets can also be purchased for $20 per resident and $25 per non-resident.

This event is partially sponsored

by Simon Orthodontics. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available.

This event is expected to sell out, so purchase tickets early. For more info., call (561) 753-2484.

Genealogical Society Meeting

The Genealogical Society of Palm Beach County will meet Saturday, Jan. 14 at 1:30 p.m. in the meeting room of the Palm Beach County Main Library on Summit Blvd.

The group will discuss methods to “Break Down Brick Walls” as you research your ancestors.

Even the most experienced family researcher gets stuck from time to time. Learn how to break down those barriers, whether by use of new technology or through old school methods.

The genealogy library, located inside the library on Summit Blvd., will be open after the meeting until 4 p.m. Stop by for individual research and consultation.

For more information, call (561) 616-3455 or e-mail ancestry@ gensocofpbc.org.

college degree with a dual major in illustration and commercial art. After graduation, she moved to South Florida, where she has worked for many years as a graphic artist for the Sun-Sentinel. She also teaches at Old School Square in Delray Beach and does local workshops and demos.

Mediums used by LaFogg-Docherty include pastel, oils and acrylics, and may involve an under painting for added luminosity and atmosphere. Each medium requires different procedures.

With pastels, it involves washes of color and turpentine. In oils, she blocks out colors. With acrylics, she builds on layers going from light to dark.

LaFogg-Docherty had two solo shows in 2015 at the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Everglades National Park’s Ernest F. Coe Gallery. She has received many national and local awards. She has also illustrated two children’s books.

“Looking at my paintings today, many people think they are photographs,” she said. “I take it as a compliment since I’m a photorealistic painter. My quest has been exciting and rewarding.”

Wellington Art Society To Meet On Jan. 11

The Wellington Art Society will feature longtime member Deborah LaFogg-Docherty as the first demonstrator of 2017. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at the Wellington Community Center on Forest Hill Blvd. The meet-and-greet will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by a member spotlight, a brief meeting and a unique art raffle.

LaFogg-Docherty is well known for her great love of nature. She gives people a glimpse of how animals live in the wild.

Her quest for nature has taken her from the Everglades National Park to Denali National Park in Alaska.

LaFogg-Docherty grew up on a farm in Connecticut, surrounded by nature, and began drawing as a child, copying her mother’s paintings of Bambi, Flower and Thumper on her bedroom wall.

Her parents quickly provided her with coloring books, paints and crayons to encourage her creativity.

LaFogg-Docherty earned her

My last 2 sales in Greenview Shores have raised the bar for the neighborhood.

If you are thinking about selling your home, call me direct at 561-324-8914 to see how I can help you achieve the best possible price for your home! s

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RPB Sunshine League Taking Registrations

The Royal Palm Beach Parks & Recreation Department will offer a fun, non-competitive baseball league for youth ages 5 through young adult with special needs called the Royal Palm Beach Sunshine League. The league’s opening date is Feb. 10. The fee is $20 for Royal Palm Beach residents and $25 for non-residents.

Players’ siblings are also invited to play. The league fee includes a uniform top. Compassionate coaches are needed. Register at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center at 100 Sweet Bay Lane, or at www.royalpalmbeach.com. For more info., call (561) 790-5124.

Musical Comedy Group Olé Jan. 12 At Dolly Hand

Paul Morocco, Guillermo de Endaya and Marcial Heredia perform together in one of the most zany, unpredictable and spectacular shows in the world, and they’re bringing it to the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center on Thursday, Jan. 12.

Olé is a wonderful celebration of music and comedy, full of surreal invention and fun. It has all the exhilarating sounds from the rhythms of flamenco to salsa, swing, blues, jazz and pop. Three Latin machos, full of fire, fight for their pride while playing, spinning and throwing their Spanish guitars.

Olé has been touring the world for 25 years. Dolly Hand is proud to present them on their first North American tour.

The Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center is located on Palm Beach State College’s Belle Glade Campus at 1977 College Drive. For more info., call the box office at (561) 993-1160 or visit www. dollyhand.org.

“My posture has improved, I’ve seen strength gains, and we both sleep better. We wish we would’ve started this years ago, but it’s never too late. And our trainer Lynette has made the entire experience special.”

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The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit charitable organization 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.

For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

- Regis Wenham with her husband, former Wellington Mayor Tom Wenham

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Womens League Shabbat!

Please Join Us! Friday and Saturday, January 20 & 21, 2017 Join the wonderful women of Temple B’nai Jacob Women’s League as they lead us for Shabbat services on: Friday, January 20, at 7:00 PM Saturday, January 21, at 9:00 AM As always, Women’s League will provide an Oneg and Kiddush after services!

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The Western Business Alliance, Inc. A new era in building business relationships.

INAUGURAL AWARD LUNCHEON The Western Business Alliance will host its

THE WESTERN BUSINESS ALLIANCE

The Western Business Alliance is an alliance of businesses committed to strengthening and supporting our members through economic growth, education, and community awareness.

Join now and see for yourself. www.TheWesternBusinessAlliance.com 561.600.3820

In loving memory of Ron Tomchin

inaugural Award luncheon at

Mayacoo Lakes Country Club in Royal Palm Beach on Friday, February 10th, starting at 11:30 AM. Purchase your sponsorship today and maximize your exposure in all of our planned promotions.

For more information on registration, sponsorships and nominations, please visit www.TWBAlliance.com/awards

Our pet care rewards membership offers you savings while earning rewards and supporting the Veterinary Care Foundation with each visit!

The Western Business Alliance co-founder and Chairman

Ron Tomchin served as webmaster and board member of many organizations including : Rotary District 6930, Rotary Club of Royal Palm Beach, My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust, Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County, Inc., Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, Western Community Business Associates. and the IT Academy Advisory Board of Palm Beach Central High School. Ron also brought us all together as a co-founder and Chairman of The Western Business Alliance. Thank you Ron, we miss you.

Welcome New and Renewing TWBA Members

Barry’s Jewelry Spa................................................................Natalie Stolbach

Keane Telecom Solutions, Inc.......................................................Lynne Keane

Palms West Monthly .............................................................. ....Robert Harris

Bell Business Forms ................................................................ ............Ken Bell

Kelk Phillips, P.A. .........................................................................Zach Phillips

PBC School District Choice and Career Options ........................Dr. Peter Licata

CJR Fine Arts & Frame ............................................................ ........Jack Rosen

Law Offices Of Leonard F. Baer, PLLC ...........................................Leonard Baer

Print It Plus..................................................................................David Leland

Keller Williams Realty Wellington..................................Don & Maureen Gross

NRI Institute of Health Sciences ..................................................Daniel Splain

R2 Innovative Technologies.....................................................Rich Schoenfeld

Evergreen Insurance Agency ......................................................Maggie Zeller

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. ..................................................................Eric Willer

Renaissance Charter School at Palms West ............................. ..Steven Epstein

Hill Audio Visual ..................................................................... ............Tom Hill

Palm Beach Live Work Play ..................................................... ...........Tim Byrd

RPB Technologies, LLC..................................................................Ron Tomchin

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 7

NEWS

RPB Code Changes Will Improve Transparency And Enforcement

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report At the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission on Monday, Dec. 19, Royal Palm Beach Village Attorney Jennifer Ashton explained the purpose of several proposed amendments to the code of ordinances intended to improve transparency and enforcement.

“It amends the types of public notices that are required before a Planning & Zoning Commission meeting,” Ashton said. “The list was limited. We are adding more items that need to be advertised.

Most specifically, we are adding that site plans need to be advertised. The thought process is everything else is advertised, so the

public should get a full picture of what is coming before you.”

A second change gives the Planning & Zoning Commission advisory authority over all landscape waivers and sign variances.

“As of right now, when a site plan comes before you, this body has to assume that the landscape waivers and sign variances have already been granted. Now you will have an opportunity to review those things and make recommendations to the council on both of those items,” she said.

Ashton said there are also changes to make the code applicable to different types of structures.

“This board is going to be providing recommendations to the council and give architectural

and aesthetic review on all developments in the village except for single-family developments under three units, so now it is consistent throughout the ordinance,” she said.

Commission Chair Jackie Larson favored the changes.

“We need all the transparency we can get,” she said. “I think we do a fairly good job in advertising, anyway, and still we get people saying, ‘I didn’t know that was coming.’You can only do so much, but at least we’re doing one more step. The public deserves the right to know what’s going on.”

Commissioner Richard Becher made a motion to recommend approval of amendments on public notice of site plans, preliminary

plats, sign variances and landscape waivers, which carried 5-0.

In other business, the commission recommended approval of an ordinance that would amend the code to rename the village’s Technical Review Committee process as the technical staff review process.

Ashton said as long as she has been with the village, the TRC has never functioned as a committee.

“It was a misnomer. It should have never been called [a committee], and it actually lended some public confusion, thinking that those meetings were open to the public, which they are not,” she said. “We are renaming the actual staff review process to make it consistent with what it actually does.”

Another amendment stipulates what happens when a violation of a condition of approval is ignored.

“You’re having, especially recently, some issues with property owners violating conditions of approval that were in their site plans, and our code didn’t give us a specific remedy for that,” Ashton said. “Now there’s a specific remedy. There are multiple remedies, actually. It can result in a code enforcement proceeding. It can result in a building official taking action, possibly revoking a permit or certificate of occupancy, or it can result in the most dramatic cases with legal action. So, we are giving the village specific remedies in the event we have a violator.”

As with the previous ordinance,

the second ordinance also expands the types of public notices that are done prior to village council meetings. “Now we are going to be doing the 10-day legal ad and the 300-foot notices for site plans, which we were not doing before,” Ashton said.

It also provides that there will be an automatic withdrawal of land development applications due to inactivity.

“One of the problems we have been having is that people will be cited for a code enforcement violation, and their remedy is to go get a variance for architectural approval or whatever it will be,” she said. “They will file a TRC application, then they won’t do See RPB ZONING, page 15

Max Pedraza Glides From Football Star To Hockey Whirlwind

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Nine-year-old Max Pedraza’s trophy case is filling up quickly.

Not only does The Acreage resident have trophies from his 2013, 2014 and 2015 Acreage Tackle Football League championship games, he recently added another large trophy to his collection. Only this time, instead of running on a field, he has been flying across the ice. His second sport is ice hockey.

“I was watching the players on TV and thought it would be a cool sport,” Max said. “I was watching the Panthers.”

In the 11U Squirts division, Max is one of the Jets. On Saturday, Dec. 17, the Jets, the underdogs seeded last, played against the firstseed Dolphins, and scrapped their way to a 1-0 win. The next day, they defeated the second-seeded Bills 5-0 to become the 11U division champions. His teammates come from all over the area.

Max — a left- or right-winger — wasn’t sure if they’d win or lose, but the team played their hearts out. Their goalie blocked 45 shots in the Saturday game. It

felt “awesome” to win, Max said.

His father, Rick Pedraza, is very proud.

“Max said to me a few days after the game, ‘Dad, when there was 5 seconds left on the clock, I realized we had won the championship and I was going to add a hockey trophy to my football trophies.’

As his dad, it was crystal clear to me that he grew up a lot in those 5 seconds. He realized the power of dreams, when we discussed his football titles and dreamed of adding a hockey title. The power of dreams — that dreams come true if you follow them through,” Rick said.

What’s special about Max’s wins is that not only did he switch from football to hockey, his teams won four consecutive championships.

It all started several years ago.

At Acreage Community Park, Gary Holmes coached Max for three seasons. In 2014, Max took to the ice and skated in Mosquito and Mite leagues, as well as taking on a season of Pond Hockey. In 2016, he moved up to the Squirt league, with coach Steve Sagas.

“Max is a very dedicated, re-

sponsible and committed kid. He routinely gets up at 5 a.m. to head to the rink for private lessons along with any stick-and-puck sessions he can attend,” his mother Trish Pedraza said. “Every weekend consists of early practice on Saturdays and hockey games on Sunday. In addition, he attends music lessons every week and band practice to learn the keyboard. Through all this, he maintains a consistent high honor roll at the Renaissance Charter School at Palms West.”

Hockey, Rick explained, isn’t the most popular sport in the area.

Many kids in The Acreage play baseball. However, Rick’s father was a racecar driver, so baseball wasn’t big in his household.

Up until this year, Max, who has been on skates since he was 6 years old, competed in both hockey and football, but chose to focus on hockey this season. For enjoyment, he reads, practices his keyboard, plays video games, shoots his pucks outside for practice and watches NASCAR racing, where he is a Kyle Busch fan, Trish said.

Playing sports runs in the family.

Max’s twin sister has completed

her first year in figure skating and played a season of roller hockey.

She won the division and the Super Bowl during the 2013 flag football season, Trish said. In addition, she participated in both baton and cheerleading, and her teams won first place in both. She also is an honor roll student.

“I am a very proud mom. I had my heart in my hand during that hockey championship game of Max’s,” she said. “He knew that once the fourth goal was made with two minutes remaining, they were going to win the cup. At the last few seconds, the coach’s son scored the fifth goal and the buzzer went off. All the boys went crazy celebrating.”

It has been a long season, she said. “But it has all been worth it to see Max achieve so much,” Trish said. “We are taking a bit of a break, but plan on doing it all over again in a few months.”

Max is looking forward to trying out for the spring travel hockey team, which he hopes to make.

“I love it,” he said. “The best thing about ice hockey is that I feel free on the ice when I skate.”

Max Pedraza surrounded by his football trophies and his new hockey trophy.

WELLINGTON TOY DRIVE CULMINATES WITH EVENT AT ST. PETER’S CHURCH

Wellington’s Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, sponsored by Interfaith and the Village of Wellington, gave out toys at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church on Thursday, Dec. 22. Families with a total of 378 kids signed up for toys. Each child received two big toys and one small toy. There was free gift wrapping and arts and crafts to keep the kids busy while adults shopped the tables. Interfaith community PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER churches and temples come together to help kids in Wellington with programs throughout the year.

Interfaith council members Deb Childers and Melissa Boix, Interfaith chair Shelly Albright, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and Councilman Michael Drahos.

Volunteer shopping assistant Jason Phan with Kathleen Keane and Angelika Vetter.

Ellie Nesiba and Linda Hardy wrap gifts.

Julie Dimaiwat with volunteer shopping assistant PBSO Deputy Jennifer Baker.

Volunteer shopping assistant PBSO Deputy Scott Poritz with Paddy Minier.

Volunteer shopping assistants Councilman Michael Drahos and Councilwoman Tanya Siskind with Cherie Beitzner.

Page 8

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Diners enjoying great food and drinks.

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Ribbon cutting at the grand reopening.

Live entertainment on weekends.

The New “Cheers” Bar in Wellington Is Fun, Fun, Fun With Great Food!

BY JOE NASUTI

Make plans to enjoy what many of your neighbors have already discovered — the White Elephant Bar & Grill.

Brisket, Margarita Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza and Buffalo Chicken Pizza.

Located in the original Wellington Mall, this is the new happening place to be any night of the week, inside at the “Cheers” bar or outside at the cheerful patio bar.

Saturdays is College Football Day, at The White Elephant one of the “Original University of Miami” Bars. The Football fun continues with NFL Sundays. Watch your favorite team on one of their 12 screens. White Elephant features a bike event every third Sunday of the month.

Whether it’s Ladies, Karaoke and DJ Thursday, Live Entertainment Friday and Saturday, there is always something to do at the White Elephant.

Don Patel, one of the partner owners, is not a stranger to the restaurant industry. We are truly fortunate that he has brought his talent for making everyone happy to our backyard.

We came for the food, and we were not disappointed. In fact, we were impressed! The menu is a collage of American and international fare. What caught my eye was the Curry Shrimp Risotto, which combines three of my favorites perfectly. This Indian-spiced shrimp with a curry cream sauce over risotto is not to be missed.

Other specials include Fish & Chips, the Rib Eye and the popular Pan-Seared Salmon.

One of the house signature dishes, the salmon, was perhaps the best I’ve ever tasted!

The jumbo Chicken Wings are fried to perfection. The Beef Brisket was our table favorite for the evening. Pizza lovers will also love the White Elephant’s pizza choices, such as

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY! $20 Cover Includes

Party Bag • Champagne Toast at Midnight Midnight Buffett with Appetizers

Coming soon are more theme nights, along with Hookah on the outside patio bar. Soca Sundays, with the best of Reggae & Soca, Paint Night Monday, Poker Wednesday and Ladies Night Thursday. Ladies drink free from 9 to 11 p.m. Thursday nights with domestic and wells for only $5, and select top shelf specials.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert; White Elephant Bar & Grill features a variety of delicious desserts, the perfect way to end your dining experience!

So, if you are looking for some fun and good food tonight or any night, head to the White Elephant Bar & Grill and tell them that the Phantom Diners recommended a visit.

The White Elephant Bar & Grill is also a great place for you to host a special occasion, party or business function.

The White Elephant Bar & Grill is open Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m., Sundays from 1 p.m. to late, Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to late, Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and is closed on Tuesdays.

For more information, call (561) 469-1109 or visit www.whiteelephantwellington.com.

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12794 W. Forest Hill Boulevard, Suite 20 • Wellington, Florida 33414 Reservations Call: (561) 469-1109

whiteelephantwellington.com

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Page 9

Page 10

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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NEWS

CHABAD OF ROYAL PALM BEACH CELEBRATES JEWISH HOLIDAY OF CHANUKAH Chabad of Royal Palm Beach celebrated the third night of Chanukah on Monday, Dec. 26 with a grand menorah lighting at sundown.

Entertainment for children was provided by the Danny Grant Variety Show before the menorah lighting, and singing and music by Benji Fafael were enjoyed after. Volunteers served traditional Chanukah foods, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and donuts, and a raffle was held. To learn more about events at Chabad of Royal Palm Beach, call (561) 225-1766 or visit www.jewishroyalpalm.com.

PHOTOS BY SHAYNA TANEN/TOWN-CRIER

Entertainer Danny Grant and Bob Marchessault dance during Grant’s variety show.

Three-year-old Menachem Schtroks celebrates the festival of lights with a donut.

Michele Elek serves latkes, a traditional Chanukah food.

Danielle Masi gives away Chanukah-themed goody bags.

Rabbi Zevi Schtroks lights the big menorah.

Benji Fafael provides entertainment after the menorah lighting.

Esther Glauberson and Anita Gordon sell raffle tickets.

Hospital Staffers Collect Frogs To Replace Missing Stuffed Animal

By Shayna Tanen asked the directors of the hospital Town-Crier Staff Report to help replace Lily’s frog.

When Lily Gumbinner’s horse “I’ve just had him for a really tripped and fell on her hip, she long time, so that’s why he’s spewent to Palms West Hospital for cial,” Lily explained. surgery. When the 14-year-old left Pace coordinated for Lily and the hospital in early December, her her father, Joshua Gumbinner, to health was with her, but she was visit the hospital last Friday, but he missing something: the stuffed an- didn’t say why. When Lily and her imal she’s had since birth, Froggy. father arrived and saw a dozen toy That’s why on Friday, Dec. 23, frogs at the hospital just for Lily, Palms West Director of Environ- they were surprised and happy. mental Services Michael Pace “I thought it was cool that they coordinated a surprise for Lily. were able to do that, since they “We were on a mission to recov- couldn’t find the actual Froggy,” er her green frog because it meant Lily said. a lot to her,” Pace said.

Though new toys can’t replace Pace notified the hospital’s laun- Froggy, Lily said that she will dry of the Town missing frog, he ad_Layout said, fondly remember Wellington Crier Senior 1 11/23/16 8:22the PMsurprise Page 1 that and when it never showed up, he the hospital coordinated for her.

Lily Gumbinner packs up the stuffed animals that Palms West directors collected for her.

Lily Gumbinner and her father, Joshua Gumbinner.

PHOTOS BY SHANYA TANEN/TOWN-CRIER

Got Care? Bethesda Health Urgent Care!

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Christmas Cantata At St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church held a two-night Christmas Cantata, Dec. 17 and 18, that drew several hundred people to the church at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington.

“Behold This Child” featured the St. Peter’s choir under the direction of Ann Petersen with soloists Kathy Siena, Ali Rolph, Anna Leah Morrow, Debbie Douglas, Drew Persenaire, Kyle Houck and Don Marshall.

The Rev. Mark Caldwell, senior pastor, welcomed everyone to the church before the program. David Boyer narrated the cantata with Barbara Thompson on organ and piano, and Copeland Davis on keyboard. Joey Sigley and Julie Hausmann handled the lighting.

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 11

ST. MICHAEL CHURCH SENDS GIFTS TO KIDS IN BELLE GLADE

St. Peter’s Christmas Cantata performers sing “Behold This Child.”

KEMKIDS DANCE STUDIO WINS BEST PERFORMING GROUP IN ANNUAL WELLINGTON HOLIDAY PARADE

KemKids Dance Studio recently won Best Performing Group at the 2016 Wellington Holiday Parade. It was the studio’s third time winning in the parade. For more info., visit www.kemkids.com.

Members of St. Michael Lutheran Church in Wellington supported the students of PEPPI Headstart in Belle Glade by donating 80 Angel Tree gifts to the children there. The gifts were delivered on Monday, Dec. 19 by three members of the church. Each child’s gift was composed of a toy and book of the child’s choosing, and appropriately sized clothing. It is an annual event that the church’s congregation has embraced as part of its outreach programs.

Shown above are (L-R) Vernon Thornton, council representative of St. Michael’s Outreach; Darrell Bowen; Terrisha Atkins, PEPPI staff member; Nancy Gerace; and Shirley Coney, director of the PEPPI program.

WELLINGTON NATIONAL GOLF CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY The Wellington National Golf Club hosted a holiday party on Sunday, Dec. 11. The party featured live caroling from the Dreyfoos School of the Arts choir, and Santa Claus also made an appearance. Visit www.wellingtonnationalgolfclub.com to learn more about club activities.

Dreyfoos School of the Arts choir with Santa.

Julie Larson-Menitoff and Aaron Menitoff with Santa aboard a Wellington National golf cart.

The Simpson family with Santa.

Pets Are Family, Too!

By Randall S. Dugal, D.V.M.

BRUSHING DOGS Dog brushing is a great bonding experience, and it keeps fur healthy and shiny. Regular grooming is also an excellent way to keep track of any lumps or bumps, cuts, hot spots, or ticks. While it’s best to start a grooming regime as early in life as possible, dogs of any age can become accustomed to the luxury of a good brushing.

Match the type of grooming implement to the type of dog fur being brushed. A pin brush should be used weekly on long-haired breeds.

Use a rubber brush or hound mat on a short-haired dog once every few weeks. Wiry dogs need a slicker brush and metal comb. Ask the veterinarian for tips and techniques of dog grooming.

Always brush your pet’s coat in the direction the coat grows.

Be gentle or you may damage the coat by pulling and stretching hairs until they tangle and break. Take the time to untangle any snarls just as you would if your comb got stuck in your child’s hair. Please call COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH at 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies pertaining to your pet’s health. We are located at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., ¼ mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

P.S. Regular brushing helps keep the couch and clothing clean.

Hello and Happy Holiday from Wheels of Wellington

R

achel Bridge and I climb up Sugarloaf Mountain in Clermont Florida on Sunday, November 20, 2016 during the Horrible 100 ride.

Sugarloaf Mountain at 312 feet above sea level is the highest point on the geographic Florida peninsula. The temperature at the start of the ride was a cool 45 degrees, that explains the arm and leg warmers.

Page 12

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

EMERALD COVE MIDDLE STUDENTS COMPETE AT REGIONAL SCIENCE FAIR

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SCHOOL NEWS

WELLINGTON LANDINGS RINGERS AND SINGERS BRING HOLIDAY CHEER THROUGH PERFORMING

Wellington Landings Middle School held its annual Winter Arts Festival at Wellington High School on Dec. 6, featuring the chorus and handbells ensembles.

The singers and ringers showcased their talents and performed an entertaining holiday concert.

Shown right, the handbells students perform. Shown below, the chorus members sing.

Rows of engaging display boards lined the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center on Dec. 15 as hundreds of young scientists and engineers competed in the Palm Beach County Regional Science & Engineering Fair. Emerald Cove Middle School held its school science fair in October and was proud to submit 16 top-quality projects to the prestigious event. Some of the categories included chemistry, engineering, physics, biomedical, computer and the environmental sciences.

LOX GROVES DONATES BLANKETS FOR BABIES PBSC To Introduce Drumline With Auditions Soon

Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School staff donated bags full of blankets as part of the Bryan’s Blankets program. These blankets will be given to the pediatric units at St. Mary’s and Palms West hospitals, as well as the maternity ward at Wellington Regional Medical Center. Shown above are Jenny and Bryan Holland with Principal Richard Myerson.

Palm Beach State College leaders are aiming to raise the volume of the school’s spirit with the launch of a new drumline next year.

The Palm Beach State College Drumline will bring high energy and high quality performances to college sporting events and commencement ceremonies, as well as community events and local schools.

“These groups are at the forefront of most colleges and universities, and we want to bring that same recognition, excitement and entertainment to Palm Beach State,” said Eric Levy, the group’s newly appointed director.

Initially, the drumline, which will include snare, bass and tenor drums, as well as cymbals, will be comprised of eight to 20 students with plans to add more members and instrumentation in the future.

Auditions will be held Jan. 26-27 for the inaugural group.

In the meantime, interested stu-

dents can visit the drumline’s web site at www.palmbeachstate.edu/ drumline. Students can also go to the Humanities Building, Room 202, on the Lake Worth campus through Jan. 5 to complete a registration form and take home an information packet to prepare for the auditions.

The official drumline group will be formed in January. However, to give the PBSC community a preview of what the drumline will sound like, a pre-audition performance was held at the morning and afternoon commencement ceremonies Dec. 20.

With the support of the Humanities Department and PBSC administration, the school has already invested in more than $25,000 worth of equipment.

The drumline is currently open to all students, and while previous experience is preferred, it is not a requirement for some of the spots available. For those who are interested in auditioning, training

sessions will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 10, 12, 17, 19 and 24.

At the sessions, students will learn techniques, concepts and basic methods, as well as what to expect at auditions. Levy said these sessions will be a great way for both experienced and inexperienced drummers to learn more about how drumlines work and get prepared for auditions.

“I encourage students who are interested to come to as many training sessions as they can,” Levy said. “They will be very informative but also fun, and are great opportunities for students to meet other students they might end up auditioning with.”

Over the coming weeks, more information about the group, director and auditions will be released online. With a multi-year plan in place, the college is looking to grow the Palm Beach State Drumline each year and ultimately to see the group play on a national level.

Levy has taught drums through-

out the southeastern region and won various local and state awards and championship titles. Along with competitive achievements, he has designed and run musical groups for several professional sports teams and also performed and taught groups for various festivals, TV commercials and other events.

He participated in Super Bowl XLIV, performed at the Nike AllStar Games on two occasions and presented a seminar on the health benefits of a marching percussion at the National Association of Music Merchants. Internationally, he is an in-demand percussion clinician who currently teaches throughout southern Asia. Most recently, he co-authored a new fivepart series of percussion method books that will be published next month.

Serving 48,000 students annually, Palm Beach State College is the largest institution of higher education in Palm Beach County.

ONE DAY ONLY !! JANUARY 1, 2017 • $0 Enrollment

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Promotion is only valid for new Individual Annual Memberships. Promotion is only available on January 1, 2017 until the close of business. Promotion cannot be combined with any other membership promotion. $39+tax is for 1st month dues. Certain restrictions apply.

12799 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington, FL 33414 • 561 - 795 - 2823

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SCHOOL NEWS

WESTERN ACADEMY HELPS PBSO TO BRING HOLIDAY CHEER TO LOCAL FAMILIES IN NEED

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 13

POLO PARK STUDENT EXCELS IN GEOMETRY

Western Academy Charter School in Royal Palm Beach donated a van full of toys to Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 9 to help bring holiday cheer to those who need it most. The school also adopted a family and worked with the PBSO and the West Palm Beach Police Department to deliver those gifts. The PBSO thanks Western Academy for helping make a positive difference in the community. Shown below, Western Academy Charter School students present donated toys to PBSO District 9. Shown right, top and bottom, PBSO and West Palm Beach Police Department officials deliver gifts to families during the holidays.

Congratulations to Christina Cordell, an eighth-grade geometry student at Polo Park Middle School in Wellington, for being among the November winners of Math Nation. Cordell earned the prize for having the most Karma Points on the Geometry Wall. She won by helping other students in the State of Florida solve geometry problems. Cordell showed them the first step or directed them to a video that explained the related concept.

Mardi Gras Fest At St. Clare Catholic School Jan. 26-29

Western Pines NJHS Lays Wreaths At The South Florida National Cemetery

Western Pines National Junior Honor Society students at the South Florida National Cemetery.

On Saturday, Dec. 17, Wreaths Across America took place at the South Florida National Cemetery.

Hundreds of volunteers placed wreaths at the grave sites of nearly 20,000 veterans who are buried there.

More than 30 members of the Western Pines Middle School National Junior Honor Society volunteered at this civic event.

David Davis, one of the teachers at Western Pines, volunteered and shared the story of his father, Don, who is laid to rest at the cemetery.

Don Davis was a major in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his valor.

St. Clare Catholic School’s signature fundraising event, Mardi Gras, is fast approaching. It will be held from Thursday, Jan. 26 through Sunday, Jan. 29.

Mardi Gras 2017 celebrates 26 years of fun and fundraising for the school. The much-anticipated festival, will take place on St. Clare Catholic School grounds, located at 821 Prosperity Farms Road in North Palm Beach. The entire community is invited to experience this fun-filled event.

Mardi Gras is St. Clare Catholic School’s signature event. This family-friendly carnival began in 1991 and has been attended by thousands of people over the years. The St. Clare campus is brilliantly transformed from green open fields to an amazing array of rides, midway games and vendors.

Several local bands will grace the stage each night. New rides have been added to the festival, and live entertainment will provide nonstop fun to this exciting four-day event. With all of the new

changes coming to Mardi Gras, many old favorites will be back as well. The putting competition is always a crowd pleaser. The Knights of Columbus world-famous cannoli will be available, and the grade level game booths will be jumping and hopping as usual.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Every dollar raised will go to benefit the children of St. Clare Catholic School and assist in funding the innovative technology in St. Clare’s state-of-the-art media center.

Mardi Gras 2017 takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26; noon to 11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 and Saturday, Jan. 28; and from 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29.

Discounted ride tickets can be purchased at St. Clare Catholic School before Jan. 25. Admission is free. Food, game and ride tickets can be purchased at the event.

For more information, call (561) 282-8968.

Page 14

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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FEATURES

I Eagerly Await My New Year’s Visit To The Jekyll Island Club

This weekend, Mark and I are at the Jekyll Island Club, former winter playground of the former power players of this country and their families. Financiers, railroad barons and manufacturers of that fabulous invention indoor plumbing all sought to escape icy New York winters by taking the train to Georgia and turning their attention to billiards, hunting and golf.

Morgan, Vanderbilt, Crane and more all packed up their families and servants and came south to their multi-room “cottages,” which are now featured on a tram tour amongst smaller dwellings that have been converted into adorable little shops.

Mark and I found this place by accident.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER I was on a business trip, which brought me to the large meeting room of a chain hotel located on the island when, on the final day, we decided to explore a bit. We discovered a pier, a few seafood restaurants, a small water park, a miniature golf course and then, rising from the woods like Oz

from a field of poppies, we spotted it — the Jekyll Island Club.

Now a posh hotel, the club retains most of its original architecture and landscaping together with a staff well-versed in the club’s history. We stayed a night, came back again, and eventually got married there. I was smitten from the moment I looked out my bedroom window onto a lawn where quiet, white-clad people were engaged in a morning game of croquet.

Honestly, croquet! At first I assumed it was mere staging (having spent way too many weekends at Walt Disney World) but, no, they were actually playing the game, laughing discreetly and patting each other on the back.

This weekend, we are here for New Year’s Eve. We’ve come here before to kick off a New Year in grand fashion, so we know what to expect.

First, we will sample hors d’eouvres from tables that line the perimeter of the drawing room. (At least I think it’s a drawing room. It has a massive fireplace with a boar’s head above it, floors of heart pine, staircases of cypress. On New Year’s, it will also sport two bars. I call it the drawing room because I am inescapably drawn to it.)

We will only eat the tiniest sampling of each offering because, when the doors to the main dining room open, we have seven full courses of real cuisine ahead of us. If

you watch the Food Network, you know the pride and pleasure an experienced chef takes in dinking with your food. The Jekyll Island Hotel & Club is renowned for the highest level of dinking.

A band will play — not a DJ, don’t even whisper the word — and they will play songs from a bygone era while black and white balloons sway gently overhead (no metallics, no holograms, no strobe lights — I mean, please, we are talking high class here).

When coffee is served, a delectable little dessert will be served alongside it. It will be a cake of some kind layered in whipped cream and fruit and dripped with fudge See WELKY, page 15

The Protection Against ‘Fake News’ Is Multiple News Sources The new catchphrase in the news these day is “fake news.” Many media stars warn against it. But, unfortunately, it does not always mean “news that has not happened” but often news that the media folk, of one political stripe or another, do not want you to know. And it is done by all sides, taking many forms.

One example of this was the recent focus on the Electoral College. News people spent countless minutes (and in the case of the cable news stations, hours) discussing how Donald Trump might be overthrown there. Talking heads discussed how it might be done. Celebrities led a social media charge begging and even threatening Republican electors.

These people never mentioned that only once in American history has more than one elector turned away from their pledged candidate. As a result, many people were shocked when Clinton actually lost five votes while Trump lost two. By

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler the way, just about no one brought up the possibility that Clinton could lose votes and certainly did not point out that in some states it was not possible to even do so. She would have lost several more votes if a few rebel electors had not been tossed out.

And we eventually heard the line that she “lost more votes than any candidate since 1872,” without an explanation of that election. For those who hated social studies, Ulysses S. Grant was running for re-election as a Republican. A group of reform Republicans nominated Horace

Greeley as a third-party candidate, but then the Democrats also nominated him. Grant won easily. But Greeley died in between the election and the meeting of the Electoral College, so his electoral votes were scattered. In other words, it was a very rare situation, and there was no real change in the outcome of the election. But the media fanned the flames to get more interest.

Both sides pushed fake news during the election. Conservative sources made it seem like Clinton was one step from death. Any time one of her staff touched her, it was to “steady the clearly very ill candidate.” On the liberal side, sources connected a small fringe, neo-Nazi group (they actually scream “heil Hitler” at their tiny rallies) with a source like Breitbart. com, a pro-Israel conservative site run

by Orthodox Jews. Why was all of this done? Well, what better way to mess up the Democrats than to portray the lead candidate as being on her last legs, and

combining two groups that are natural enemies smears a key Trump adviser and plays well with liberals?

The problem with trying to define what is fake is that it depends on what political beliefs you have. In Germany right now, the government is concerned that its immigration policy and the increase in crime that has accompanied it could lead to “manipulation of the people.” In other words, people might get really ticked off if someone they knew was attacked. So they are now working to make certain that only the news that the government believes is true can be heard.

We have the same problem in this country. Keep in mind that most of the news is pretty straightforward. People generally do not try to play these games with local news. But on the national front, there is concern. Facebook has selected groups to flag “fake news.” But the censors are all from one side of the debate. And Face-

Rotary is looking to add a few good spokes to our Rotary Wheel.

Join us at one of our weekly meetings Wellington Rotary

Royal Palm Beach Rotary

For additional information call Joanne Dee 561-333-5773

For additional information call Evelyn Flores 561-308-6978

Meets Thursdays - 12:15 p.m.

The Wanderer’s Club

Meets Thursdays - 7:30 a.m.

The Wild West Diner

Make lasting friendships. Enjoy good fellowship.

book, along with Twitter, is already being sued by the families of victims of the Pulse attack in Orlando for allowing terrorists to organize using their media operations.

It will be very difficult to defend against similar lawsuits if it can be shown these companies are not merely conduits for everything but have chosen to limit at least some points of view.

How do you avoid being taken in? The best way is to use the internet to check sources from all sides. I read stories from the far left ranging to the far right. I can easily dismiss many of them. But in some cases, there are links to more objective sources that help me make decisions. I do not claim omniscience; I was surprised at the election results this year. But not as surprised as the “experts” on television.

Sources on both the right and left were presenting warning signs. Read and learn and, as a former president once said, “Trust but verify.”

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NEWS BRIEF

Wellington Garden Club To Meet On Jan. 3 At New Community Center

The Wellington Garden Club will meet Tuesday, Jan. 3 in the Lakeview Room at the new Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

A light breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by a business meeting at 10:30 a.m. and a program at 11:30 a.m. on “Our Pollinators: Butterflies and Bees,” presented

by Teri Jabour.

Jabour, who has lived in Florida for 41 years, has worked at the Nature Conservancy’s Blowing Rocks Preserve on Jupiter

Kaluz

OK For New Restaurant

continued from page 1 looks very nice,” Board Member Roger Grave de Peralta said.

There is currently a Kaluz location in Fort Lauderdale. Located on the water, it is an upscale restaurant serving New American cuisine.

Board Member Ron Shamash thanked the applicant for bringing the restaurant to Wellington.

“Thank you for coming to Wellington,” he said, noting that the Fort Lauderdale location looks nice. “We really welcome this in Wellington. I’d like to see more like this. The design is beautiful.”

Shamash made a motion to approve the requests, which passed unanimously, 7-0.

The board also discussed a change request for exterior elevations and signage with technical deviations for the First Bank of the Palm Beaches location in the Wellington Plaza, located at the

OIG Ruling

Appellate Court Setback

continued from page 1 between the municipalities and the county.

“It’s not the cities against the inspector general,” he said. “It’s a matter of funding. Every level, from the start to the appeals process, they emphasized to the judges that they are not against the concept, the jurisdiction, the authorities or the oversight of the IG. It’s about how the office is paid for.”

He said that his office will continue to do its job, no matter what lawsuits are underway.

“I don’t pay attention particularly to what cities are involved in the lawsuit or what cities are paying,” he said. “There are some cities that are paying voluntarily to the county, according to the original charter, and there are some cities that aren’t.”

Carey said that he and his staff will continue to do the job fairly, without any consideration of which jurisdictions are party to the lawsuit.

However, Carey is disappointed in the result of the appeal, since his office will continue to operate with reduced funding.

“That’s a matter for the court to decide,” he said. “My disappointment is in how we continue to function at half-staff. We continue to function at this reduced level, not fulfilling completely what the citizens voted for. We continue to do our job with the resources we have to guard our taxpayer dollars, to be the independent watchdog for the citizens of Palm Beach County.

Island, and has been program coordinator at the Grassy Waters Preserve.

Jabour is currently president of the Atala Chapter of the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), and a master gardener with the Palm Beach County Extension Service. She is active in butterfly surveys, conservation and butterfly gardens.

Guests are welcome, but seating is limited. RSVP to Doreen Baxter at doreenspot@comcast.net or (561) 793-6013.

www.gotowncrier.com

OBITUARY

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 15

Community Leader Ronald Tomchin Dies At Age 74

An active member of the western communities, Ronald Tomchin (July 13, 1942 - Dec. 21, 2016), passed away Wednesday, Dec. 21 at age 74, leaving behind Elaine Tomchin, his wife of 51 years, and daughters Kelley Shinkevich (Mike) and Jackie Pertusiello (George), along with grandchildren T.J., Emily, Katie, Sam, Justin and Meghan, great-grandchildren Mia and Masen, and furbabies Brandy and Chloe.

“He was a man who kept his commitments. He was a man of integrity who kept his promises,” daughters Kelley and Jackie said at his funeral.

Tomchin served as a board

member and webmaster for many local organizations, including Rotary District 6930, the Rotary Club of Royal Palm Beach, My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust, Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County Inc., the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, the Western Communities Business Associates and the IT Academic Advisory Board of Palm Beach Central High School.

He was a co-founder and the chairman of the Western Business Alliance.

The family asks that any donations in his honor be made to My Brother’s/Sister’s Keeper Charitable Trust.

Ronald Tomchin

NEWS

Surtax

corner of Wellington Trace and Forest Hill Blvd.

The 33-foot-high bank, with a drive-through, will be constructed of textured stucco and plank lap siding. Various external features such as windows, textures, tower features and more will complement the building design. There will be a bike rack, bench and trash receptacle at the entrance.

Four thank-you signs and three directional signs are requested; staff supports six signs and recommends removing one of the signs, Ferraiolo said.

The applicant proposed an additional freestanding monument sign and additional lines of copy on the sign, both of which staff supports.

Staff offered specific conditions regarding the height, length and sign area of various signs.

Board Vice Chair Tom Wenham requested rumble strips or a hump at the exits toward Forest Hill Blvd., and suggested that the trash receptacle be moved.

Wenham also asked for stop signs at the exits.

Agent Robert Kuoppala of

Kuoppala & Associates PA, noted that there are stop signs, they just weren’t noted on the information presented to the board. Kuoppala agreed to adding a hump or rumble strips at the exit of the building and moving the trash receptacle.

Complying with the rest of staff’s recommendations, Kuoppala said, is not a problem.

Grave de Peralta and Board Member Damon Robling asked about the drive-through height, as well as an exterior column.

Bank drive-throughs are typically 10 feet, 6 inches, rather than the planned 14 feet, which seems out of scale, Grave de Peralta said.

Board Chair Kimberly Sundook asked Kuoppala to return at the next meeting on Jan. 18 with diagrams from other projects with 14-foot drive-throughs and clarification from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue regarding height requirements for a drive-through.

A motion to postpone decisions on the First Bank of the Palm Beaches project passed unanimously.

continued from page 1 own committee or use one created by the League of Cities.

“When we were talking about whether we were going to have a separate advisory board for this purpose, or if we were going to use an existing advisory board, we thought that the Recreation Advisory Board looks at recreation infrastructure projects, so they do have some history doing this type of thing,” Ashton said. “That’s why the resolution in front of you appoints the Recreation Advisory Board as your oversight committee.”

“So, to use a military term, what we are doing is giving an existing board additional duties,” Mayor Fred Pinto said.

Councilwoman Selena Smith, who is liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board, said she has spoken with the board’s chairman and he told her they welcome the op-

I tell folks that even if it’s just me, I’m going to do my job, to do what the citizens of Palm Beach County expect and want and demanded of their government.”

Carey looks forward to one day having a fully staffed office. He pointed out that the appellate court opinion in effect requested an appeal to the Florida Supreme Court because the decision potentially could affect the framework of how municipalities and counties interact throughout the state.

“They sent the question themselves to the Florida Supreme Court because it was such an important issue,” Carey said, explaining that the opinion asked whether municipal sovereign immunity bars a county from charging municipalities for a countywide inspector general program implemented pursuant to a voter-approved referendum requiring the establishment by ordinance, applicable to the county and all municipalities approving the referendum, to be funded by the county commission and all other government entities subject to the authority of the inspector general.

“This, no doubt, will not be the end of this. The Florida Supreme Court now has the option to whether they want to take on that question, and answer that question,” Carey said. “There’s probably more to follow on this.”

Royal Palm Beach Village Manager Ray Liggins said that the village had agreed to pay its share of the cost on the condition that the county repay the village if it lost the lawsuit.

“They gave us their agreement, and we approved their agreement on one condition, that is if they lost the lawsuit, they would have to pay us back,” Liggins said. “They were

unwilling to sign an agreement that had that clause in it.”

Liggins said that the village made one payment, and Bock put the money in escrow and did not send another bill out. He added that the county used a municipal funding mechanism that charged vendors 0.25 percent of the cost of the contract to fund the inspector general’s office, which had never been used before.

“The county chose to use an unprecedented funding source,” Liggins said. “They had a plethora of other funding sources. They chose a very different, new ap-

proach that was controversial, and they lost, so the ball is back in the county’s court. What are they going to do?”

Liggins pointed out that county jurisdiction does not stop at the municipal boundaries.

“The county has options to charge residents and voters within each of the cities, and the unincorporated areas,” he said. “The services that are identified that the IG will provide are all part of that ordinance, and all that is good.

Instead, the county chose a neverbefore-tested method that crossed the lines of existing laws.”

TCRPC

Delray Linton

continued from page 3 at the meeting that there is an estimated need for $400 million of road improvements that are unfunded and unplanned. Some of the developers say those needs are overstated.”

The planning council also recommended approval of seven comp plan amendments from municipalities, including the Town of Loxahatchee Groves and the villages of Royal Palm Beach and Wellington.

The Loxahatchee Groves amendment is proposed in response to a request from an applicant to convert two parcels to commercial use, totaling 15.62 acres on the east side of B Road, about a quarter-mile north of Southern Blvd. The existing land use of the property is rural residential 5, which allows one unit per 5 acres. Adjacent land uses are the approved 90.32-acre Grove Town Center Multiple Land Use Planned

RPB Board Oversight

Unit Development to the east and south; a wholesale nursery to the north; and the Palm Beach State College campus on the west side of B Road.

The Royal Palm Beach amendments include text changes to reflect changes in state requirements since the last time the comprehensive plan was updated.

The amendments revise policies to indicate that the village shall utilize the dispute resolution process established by the TCRPC when level-of-service issues cannot be resolved by the village and a service provider, and bring intergovernmental disputes on planning and growth management issues to closure in a timely manner.

The Wellington amendment was initiated by the petitioner of the proposed 64.38-acre Village Lake Center mixed use project, which currently has a residential home use.

The Village Lake Center project, located on State Road 7, includes several uses, including restaurants, daycare, retail, hotel, multifamily housing and an assisted-living facility.

portunity. Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara said he was glad that Smith had asked whether the members were interested in taking on additional responsibilities.

“I trust some thought was given to whether or not folks do bring that ability,” Hmara said. “I heard you talk about the rec infrastructure as a basis for that, and there are issues that do come up that have to be addressed by the Recreation Advisory Board. It’s an important function.”

Village Manager Ray Liggins said Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio presents the recreation capital budget every year.

“They meet eight times a year, and he does updates on the budget at every meeting, so this will be continuing that process,” Liggins said. “A lot of the parks and recreation projects will be funded with this, along with a few other projects for them to discuss. We see this as very little change to what they’re currently doing, with these few added responsibilities as far as reports, certifying money that was spent in the previous year in accordance with the rules, and

RPB Zoning

Changes To Code

continued from page 7 anything. They won’t come to the meetings. They won’t finish their applications. They’re using it as a way to delay the code enforcement process, so we needed something in there to say if you don’t do anything, your application is going to be automatically withdrawn and you’re going right back to code enforcement.”

The amendments also provide an expiration for architectural approvals that are granted by the Planning & Zoning Commission if they are not utilized within one year.

“You’ll see throughout our code that site plan variances and landscape waivers all have to be used within a one-year time frame, or they expire. There is an opportunity to get extensions, but the applicant has to ask for those,” she said. “We have nothing similar with architectural approvals [granted by the Planning & Zoning Commission]. We were running into a situation where these

Welky

My Plans For New Year’s

continued from page 14 and, on top, there will be a handcrafted chocolate filigree something-or-other sticking straight up. I will be breathless at the sight of it.

Of course, I won’t have room

that the money we’re proposing to spend in the next year is done in accordance with the rules of the sales tax.”

Recchio said the advisory board goes through proposed capital budgets that it wants to bring forward, and reviews the progress of those projects after the budgeting process.

“During the course of the year, I’m always giving them updates of where we are now in the stages of each project, so it’s not really going to change anything,” Recchio said.

Hmara asked whether the projects to be reviewed will only be local ones, and Liggins said the wording is for village projects only.

“The council has not approved the list to be used for the sales tax,” Liggins said. “We will prepare one in preparing our capital budget, and we will get the council’s approval of that.”

Ashton added that municipalities are free to amend their lists as needs change.

Smith made a motion to approve the resolution, which carried 5-0. architectural approvals would be out there indefinitely, and they weren’t being utilized… We just wanted to clarify that architectural approvals granted will have the same expiration of one year that all other approvals have.”

Larson also liked this amendment.

“Consistency is good,” she said.

“The one thing I was curious on was that I know there have been loopholes in the code enforcement that have been frustrating both for staff and for both sides.

The way I read this is it’s mostly for commercial issues. Does it extend to residential code enforcement issues also, to close up those loopholes?”

Ashton said they have had issues in residential neighborhoods where people have built structures within setbacks that they get cited by code enforcement and violators come in and do the bare minimum, pay a fee and let it sit.

“The more recent examples have been commercial, but there are a few that are residential as well,” Ashton said.

Commissioner Michael Axelberd made a motion to recommend approval, which carried 5-0. for it, but it will be gently and lovingly placed into a pristine white box where, at breakfast, I will sit demurely by my window and nibble at it whilst listening to the centuries-old sound of wooden mallets hitting wooden croquet balls.

Then I will try to take all of this magic with me right into the New Year.

Even though I know, in my heart, it is only going to last to the on-ramp of I-95.

Page 16

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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The Town-Crier

NEWS

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB KIDS IN WELLINGTON GET PLENTY OF CHRISTMAS TOYS

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington gave out toys to club members on Wednesday, Dec. 21. Kids got to pick out a toy, and there was also a raffle, courtesy of club benefactor Neil Hirsch. Kids also enjoyed dancing, face painting and refreshments.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Maria Becker, Nicole Hessen, John Darrah, Neil Hirsch, PBSO Chief Deputy Mike Gauger, Shelley Goodman and Club Director Kenda Peterson.

Jolene Ruozzo and Katherine Sierra receive raffle prizes from Boys & Girls Clubs of PBC CEO Jaene Miranda.

Club Director Kenda Peterson picks a winning ticket from a basket held by Neil Hirsch.

Jahvon Jaramillo, Austin Dykes, Matthew Colon and Erin Wimberly with their raffle prizes.

Maria Becker, Lidy Mata and Phyllis Gauger give out cookies.

Valentina Vecino, Victor Diaz, Daniel Goncaldes and Raven Callaway with their raffle prizes.

Corianna Brown gets her face painted by Lauren Mishkin.

LION COUNTRY SAFARI CHIMPS ENJOY THEIR ANNUAL PRESENTS FROM SANTA

Santa delivered presents to the chimpanzees at Lion Country Safari on Thursday, Dec. 22. Eighteen chimps on three islands received gifts from Santa provided by Chimpanzoo members, including hay, clothes, spices, food, seeds and peanuts. Produce such as mangos, grapes and bananas are chimp favorites. This is the only opportunity throughout the entire year that guests can get out of their PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER vehicles by the chimp preserve to watch the primates receive their gifts.

Jennifer Berthiaume, Tina Cloutier-Barbour, Santa, Becca Hull, Kristie Bellesen, Christina Kontos and Jordan Harris.

Becca Hull and Santa throw gift boxes to the chimps.

Chimps Little Mama, Janice (in the back), Gin, Higgy, Irene and Cooper love their gifts.

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December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 17

NEWS

TOY DRIVE BRINGS HOLIDAY CHEER TO CHILDREN AT PALMS WEST HOSPITAL

As part of the eighth annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, Santa delivered presents to children at Palms West Hospital on Thursday, Dec. 22. The members of the Wellington Village Council and volunteers from the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue met up with hospital officials to help Santa give out presents. The toys were donated by businesses, faith-based organiPHOTOS BY SHAYNA TANEN/TOWN-CRIER zations and residents throughout Wellington as part of the annual toy drive.

The Wellington Village Council with Santa: Councilman Michael Napoleone, Vice Mayor John McGovern, Santa, Councilman Michael Drahos, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind and Mayor Anne Gerwig.

Palms West Hospital officials with Santa: CFO Steven Burroughs, COO Lorna Kernizan, Santa, CEO Eric Goldman and Director of Physician Sales & Support Claudia Mallory.

Eight-month-old Ronaya Blanc receives a gift from Santa.

Capt. Rolando Silva, Deputy Jen Baker, Capt. Daniel Moreira, Chief Mike Arena, Driver Suzanne Martinetti, Paramedic Tim Dellinger, Deputy Scott Poritz and Deputy Martin Casarez.

Santa gives Sarah Gilbert a present with Sarah’s mother, Lisbet Callard (left), and Sarah’s grandmother, Maria Leon (right).

Desirae Aber Mendes wished for — and received — a Barbie doll for Christmas.

Geovani Cowan gets a Beanie Baby and a Hot Wheels set from Santa.

JustWorld Gala Returns To Wellington’s Belle Herbe Farm Jan. 13

JustWorld International will hold its 14th annual JustWorld Gala, presented by the Palm Beach Masters, on Friday, Jan. 13 at Belle Herbe Farm in Wellington.

Friday the 13th is a day that often brings with it superstition.

But JustWorld is turning the luck around, bringing a fun, positive atmosphere to the day through a fundraiser that helps thousands of children around the world through partner projects.

The lively atmosphere will be brought to life through food, drinks and specialty entertainment created for the evening by Dazzle Creative Events. JustWorld is thrilled to announce that the Palm

Beach Masters, a new, stand-alone international show jumping competition and leg of the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping North American League, will be joining as the presenting sponsor. JustWorld is also excited to reveal that Bolay will be the official catering sponsor of the evening, providing signature, high-quality ingredients and preparing all of the delicious food for the passed hors d’oeuvres, delectable tasting stations and desserts, while guests will enjoy an open bar sponsored by Seahorse Fashion Cuisine, Tito’s Vodka and Fernando Cellars.

Through the equestrian community, members of JustWorld Inter-

national work together to break the cycle of poverty and help children around the world become positive leaders in their communities. Hundreds of people from more than 40 different countries have joined the JustWorld community with the intention of improving children’s lives. Currently, JustWorld International has partners in three countries: Cambodia, Guatemala and Honduras. In total, JustWorld is supporting more than 6,500 children this year alone, focusing on education, nutrition, health and hygiene, and leadership and cultural development programs.

Each year, JustWorld International hosts its gala to celebrate

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and applaud the positive change the organization and its supporters are making in the lives of children who need it most. The JustWorld Gala attracts some of the equestrian industry’s top riders, trainers, owners and supporters, as well as important members of the Wellington community.

New JustWorld sponsors include Engel & Völkers joining as real estate sponsor, Rice Show Stables as entertainment sponsor and Horseware Ireland as sponsor of the fun photo booth, allowing guests to capture a night to be remembered.

The festive night will host a series of fundraising events that

will directly benefit JustWorld’s projects, including a silent auction and a live auction. The auction items will be sure to amaze the crowd and out-do last year.

For more information regarding the 14th annual JustWorld Gala, presented by the Palm Beach Masters, corporate sponsorship opportunities or auction donations, e-mail jwinfo@justworldinternational.org or call (561) 333-9391.

To purchase tickets and tables online, visit http://gala.justworldinternational.org.

If you are unable to attend the event, consider making a donation to JustWorld International in commemoration of its 14th year

of supporting children in need.

Donations can be made online at www.justworldinternational.org.

JustWorld International is devoted to breaking the cycle of poverty by funding local partners around the world helping children thrive.

JustWorld is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization in the United States and a registered Association 1901 in France. Tax-deductible donations are accepted in Switzerland, and JustWorld’s supporters can send their donations to Fondation Philanthropia, a Swiss public-benefit umbrella foundation. JustWorld International has no political or religious affiliation.

Page 18

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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The Town-Crier

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Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm Is An Equine Oasis

Many horse-related properties and business in Palm Beach County have changed or disappeared over the years, which makes Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm doubly enjoyable. It has been there, in the same location and offering the same great services, since 1991. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 21

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

24 Selected For All-Area Football Honors

Twenty-four local football players recently made The Town-Crier’s first-ever All-Area Team. Players from Seminole Ridge, Wellington, Royal Palm Beach and Palm Beach Central high schools were selected by their coaches for the honor. Page 27

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Jordan Naftal Joins The Team At The New Wellington National Golf Club

The Wellington National Golf club recently welcomed Jordan Naftal to its team as director of food and beverage. Since opening in August, the golf and country club has exceeded its initial goals, including selling out founding level memberships. With the help of his team, including chef Enrique Noble who also came from Jordan’s Bistro, Naftal will manage the food and beverage operations at Wellington National. Page 22

Sports

living at its finest. come see for yourself.

Wildcats Fall Short 67-60 In Rematch With P.B. Lakes

On Dec. 22, the Royal Palm Beach High School basketball team hosted rival Palm Beach Lakes High School in a rematch and fell to the Rams 67-60 in a thriller.

The Wildcats were unable to go unbeaten in the series against the visiting Rams after topping Palm Beach Lakes 83-70 earlier in the season. Page 27

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 21 BUSINESS NEWS................................... 22-23 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................27-29 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 30 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................31-34

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Page 20

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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FEATURES

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 21

Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm Is An 8-Acre Equine Oasis

Many horse-related properties and business in Palm Beach County have changed or disappeared over the years, which makes Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm doubly enjoyable. It has been there, in the same location and offering the same great services, since 1991.

“I bought the first three acres back then,” owner Nongae Johnson recalled. “It was a hobby farm surrounded by small houses. The other five acres became available when the owner was caught flying in marijuana. He lost all his possessions under the RICO Act, and I was lucky enough to buy the property from the Elks Lodge, which had gotten it after the seizure. We’ve done quite a lot of work and renovations since then.”

As for the unusual name, Nongae laughs as she recounts her father’s long-held but unrealized ambition to write a book called “Johnson’s Folly.”

“A folly is some ridiculous expenditure,” Nongae explained. “And doesn’t that perfectly describe owning a horse farm?”

Located at 14052 52nd Avenue South in Delray Beach, Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm sits between Interstate 95 and Florida’s Turnpike — 30 minutes to the Wellington show grounds and 3 miles west of downtown Delray Beach. The business offers boarding and lessons in hunter/jumper, dressage and western for riders of all ages and levels of experience.

Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL.

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg There’s a lot packed into those 8 acres: 34 12-foot-by-12-foot stalls, two round pens, a covered arena, a full jump course arena with lights, three dressage arenas (two with mirrors), lots of turnout paddocks, wash racks, tack rooms, and a quarter-mile horse run and large turnout. “It’s all very organized,” Nongae said. “No wasted space.”

Standard full board includes daily turnout in private paddocks, hay three times daily, grain twice daily, and bran mash on Wednesdays and Sundays, automatic water basins and periodic stall cleaning throughout the day.

Lessons are available on your own horse or on seasoned, safe, school horses. “We’re dedicated to our students and always practice safe horsemanship. We offer private and group lessons for both children and adults in all the different disciplines, beginner through advanced. Natural Horsemanship is also a favorite at our farm and helps build a good relationship with your horse,” Nongae said.

Other offerings include summer camp, birthday party packages and Pony Club Camp, for ages 4 and up, offered every Saturday

Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm owner Nongae Johnson relaxing at the barn. from 9 a.m. to noon. Campers participate “I like how on top of everything they are. in a half-hour riding lesson and other horse They always keep an eye on the horses. It’s activities such as grooming, saddling, bathing very personalized. They’ll text me if they see and feeding. that Bob looks a little off or not quite right.

Karen Barsky boards her four miniature Everyone is nice to everyone else, so I enjoy horses at Johnson’s Folly. “I live five minutes the relaxed atmosphere. It doesn’t matter that away, so it’s super-convenient,” she said. “I I ride western and someone else might ride love how organized everything is. This is a dressage. No one is exclusive or competitive.” terrific barn.”

Debbie Mantel has kept her horse, Rocky, Elaine Oliver keeps her horse, Bob, there as with Nongae for the past three years. “I used well. “I’ve been here a few years,” she said.

See ROSENBERG, page 29

Page 22

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

The Town-Crier

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BUSINESS NEWS

Jordan Naftal Joins The Team At Wellington National

The Wellington National Golf club recently welcomed Jordan Naftal to its team as director of food and beverage. Since opening in August, the premier golf and country club has exceeded its initial goals, including selling out the founding level membership and hosting prestigious charity golf tournaments.

With the help of his team, including Chef Enrique Noble who also came from Jordan’s Bistro, Naftal will manage the food and beverage operations at Wellington National, including operating both the wine bar and Champions Bistro, which is expected to be completed in early 2017. Full-service catering for member and non-member events will also be offered through the Wellington National team.

“I am thrilled and honored to be

taking on the food and beverage operations of Wellington National, and believe we can do amazing things here,” Naftal said. “The potential for this beautiful space is limitless, and I am excited about continuing to serve some of our guests we have come to know over the past four years at Jordan’s. My passion for food and beverages is fueled by the guests we serve.”

Members who dine at the Wellington National Golf Club can look forward to an outstanding menu that relies on only the freshest ingredients and will rotate frequently.

“We are thrilled to be able to announce that Chef Jordan and his team have come on board at Wellington National,” founding partners Chip Smith and Doug Marty said.

“He brings with him an unmatched

reputation of excellence and professionalism, and we think he will establish our restaurants as standout dining venues in the Wellington community.”

Wellington Hospitality Group will continue to be present at Wellington National by hosting private events at the golf and country club. The group will also be available to cater and plan events for individuals and organizations throughout the area.

The Wellington National Golf & Country Club is well on its way to becoming the go-to golf and event venue of Wellington and Palm Beach County. For more information on membership, contact Julie Pickens at julie@wellingtonnationalgolf.com. To learn more about dining and catering services, e-mail chef@wellingtonnationalgolf.com.

Wellington National partner Doug Marty with Jordan Naftal.

Wellington Chamber Honors Mazza As Medical & Wellness Professional

The Medical & Wellness Committee of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce has honored Dr. Lori Mazza as its Medical & Wellness Professional of the Month.

Mazza graduated as valedictorian from Nova Southeastern University in 1995. Her education included a four-month rotation at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, where she was trained under some

of the top ophthalmologists in the country. Then she completed a oneyear residency in ocular disease at Aran and Holbrook Eye Associates in Miami. She is an active member of the Palm Beach County Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association.

Vision Source Family Vision Center in Wellington is a full scope,

state-of-the-art optometric practice providing the highest quality vision care to children and adults in a friendly, comfortable and professional atmosphere. “It is our mission to exceed expectations, to provide excellence in vision care services and products, to remain at the technological forefront of our profession, and to inspire confidence by educating our patients,” Mazza said.

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Family Vision Center also specializes in vision therapy for patients who have lazy eye, developmental issues or perceptual problems.

Vision Source Family Vision Center is located at 3175 State Road 7 in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 439-2020 or visit www. visionsource-fvcenter.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 23

USPA Launching Global Polo Network With ChukkerTV

The United States Polo Association (USPA) has entered a threeyear partnership with ChukkerTV to be the live-stream provider for the USPA Polo Network at www. uspolo.org.

The USPA will live-stream approximately 140 games in 2017, including the 113th U.S. Open Polo Championship and all Florida highgoal tournaments, the East Coast Open, the Pacific Coast Open, the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship, the U.S. Open Arena Polo Championship, the National Youth Tournament Series, Men’s and Women’s National Intercollegiate Championships, the International Intercollegiate Challenge Cup, the Townsend Cup, the USPA Interna-

tional Cup and the National Twenty Goal.

ChukkerTV was the first to introduce state-of-the-art live-streaming for polo in January 2014 at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington. It was well-received for its cutting-edge technology and ability to promote the sport to a wider audience. ChukkerTV played a significant role in implementing instant replay for polo and was the first to bring live and on-demand polo into living rooms around the world, helping to expand the sport’s exposure.

“ChukkerTV has been an innovator in live-streaming and built out a network that is robust and reliable.

The U.S. Polo Association is excited

to partner with ChukkerTV to deliver our new digital platform, USPA Polo Network, so that our members can enjoy watching polo anywhere, on their mobile devices via our new app, or at home on their TV through AppleTV, Roku and Android TV,” said Joe Meyer, chairman of the United States Polo Association.

“More importantly, we believe this partnership will allow the USPA to expand our magnificent sport and introduce polo to more potential players, partners and sponsors.”

The USPA Polo Network will be available at www.uspolo.org in early 2017. Polo fans will be able to watch live games, past games on demand and weekly special-interest shows. This content will include

The 60, The Legacy Series, Top 10 Plays of the Week and ProProfiles.

The shows will feature weekly highlights of USPA tournament results around the country, as well as key USPA content with a focus on member clubs, USPA members and professionals.

The USPA and ChukkerTV also will collaborate to create a USPA Polo Network app. Polo fans will be able to download the app to watch the sport easily and uninterrupted.

“It has been a great privilege to partner and work with the USPA over the last three years in bringing live polo to polo fans and enthusiasts around the globe,” said Mike Ferreira, ChukkerTV’s executive producer. “We are excited to continue

that partnership, grow the audience and help the USPA and its members enjoy the best digital polo content anytime, anywhere.”

This partnership between the USPA and ChukkerTV will increase the exposure for polo globally. The combined social media efforts will showcase polo from a thrilling perspective through instant video clips during the live stream along with player interviews, vignettes and game updates.

Founded in 1890, the USPA is the national governing body for the sport of polo. USPA has almost 300 member clubs, with thousands of individual members, and oversees 40 national tournaments. For more information, visit www.uspolo.org.

U.S. Olympic Committee Recognizes Paralympic Sport Club

U.S. Paralympics, a division of the United States Olympic Committee, officially recognized the Paralympic Sport Club Palm Beach County, located in the CMAA Therapeutic Recreation Complex in Lake Worth, as a bronze level club as part of the Paralympic Sport Club Excellence Program.

“Paralympic sport clubs are critical not only for the development of athletes, but also for the growth

of the Paralympic movement in the United States,” said Rick Adams, chief of Paralympic sport and National Governing Body organizational development. “We are grateful for the investment these Paralympic sports clubs have made in their communities, and we are proud to honor their commitment to excellence in supporting future Paralympic athletes.”

The multi-tier excellence program

has benchmarks at the bronze, silver and gold levels to give participating clubs a blueprint for transitioning from a basic provider (bronze level) to an elite provider (gold level) of Paralympic programming.

“For many years, our Therapeutic Recreation Section has been recognized as a national leader in providing programs for persons with disabilities,” Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Director Eric

Call said. “Hosting a local level Paralympic sports club and being recognized for excellence at the bronze level is a tribute to our very talented and supportive staff that I am extremely proud of.”

All participating clubs must start at the bronze level before moving to the silver and gold levels. “Being recognized as a home for Paralympic sports in our community is rewarding in itself, but also achieving the

bronze level club status with U.S. Paralympics sets our standards even higher to offer better quality sport programming for people with physical disabilities,” said Daniella Robbins, adapted sports coordinator and recreation specialist with the county.

For more information about the Paralympic Sport Club Palm Beach County, contact Robbins at (561) 966-7083 or e-mail drobbins@ pbcgov.org.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 27

24 Athletes Selected For All-Area Football Recognition

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report Twenty-four football players from the western communities recently made The Town-Crier’s first-ever All-Area Team. The high schools represented were Seminole Ridge, Wellington, Royal Palm Beach and Palm Beach Central, and the players were selected by their respective coaches for their performances on and off the field.

SEMINOLE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL For Seminole Ridge, Javen Miles (defensive end) was a key player, demonstrating consistency and filling a leadership role for the Hawks’ line. He recorded five sacks and had multiple tackles for losses. Dyllon Lyons (offensive line/defensive line) was a dual role player on both sides of the ball. He played an integral role on third-down situations, pressuring quarterbacks into making bad decisions. He was also menacing during goal-line stands for the Hawks.

Kristen Gonzalez (running back) was known as one of the hardest-working players on the field, who finished the season with 956 yards rushing. Nick Plesca (running back/linebacker), at 6-foot-4, was the anchor of the run support for the Hawks and finished with 85 tackles and five sacks on defense. Michael Fonteccio (offensive line) was a

two-year varsity player and was the most versatile on the offensive line, able to play every position. Diamond Blair linebacker/running back) was the undisputed leader of the Hawks defense. He led the defense with 93 tackles and three sacks. Blair also had a game high of 12 tackles against Park Vista High School.

WELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL For Wellington, Sage ChenYoung (wide receiver/cornerback) was one of the most productive receivers for the Wolverines, reeling in 47 catches for 840 yards and seven touchdowns. He recorded 44 tackles on defense, 25 solo; 19 assists; seven pass deflections; three interceptions; and a fumble recovery for a touchdown. He had a kick return average of 35 yards and is an ESPN Top 63 player. Patrick Mark (defensive end) tallied 100 tackles on the season, with 46 solo, and 54 assists. He recorded four pass deflections plus three interceptions for 50 yards, and his quickness anchored the Wolverine defensive line.

Logan Robinson (kicker/punter) was a 2015 Lou Groza nominee and won the coveted award in 2016.

He kicked four field goals, scoring all the points for the Wolverines in their district title win over Palm Beach Gardens High School this season. Robinson made 10 of 14

(Front row, l-r) Logan Robinson, Geremy Cineus, Robby DeJean, Michael Garofolo, Michael Fonteccio, Nick Plesca, Javen Miles and Tyler Jolley; and (back row) Nick Carroccio, Patrick Mark, Ben Panitz, Ben Schmickle, Kristen Gonzalez, Isaac Adonis, Diamond Blair and Sage Chen-Young.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

field goals with a season long of 47 yards, recorded 15 touchbacks, was 5-of-6 for onside kicks and recorded a 43-yard punt average. Tyler Jolly (linebacker/tight end) totaled 40 tackles on the season and one sack.

He also recorded eight tackles for losses and an interception for 14 yards. Jolly recorded two catches for eight yards and a touchdown as a tight end for Wellington’s offense.

Isaac Adonis (linebacker) col-

lected 75 tackles, 23 solo, and 52 assists for the Wellington defense.

He recorded two sacks, eight tackles for losses, a pass deflection, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and an interception. He anchored the Wolverine defensive line. Ben Schmickle (quarterback) completed 165 of 290 passes for a staggering 2,558 yards and 23 touchdowns. He finished with a 56.90 percent completion rate and was the leader of the

Wolverine offensive unit. Schmickle played a key role through the season, helping his team reach the postseason for the third straight year and a district championship.

ROYAL PALM BEACH HIGH SCHOOL For Royal Palm Beach, Voshon Jackson (running back) was the workhorse for the Wildcats’ offensive run attack. He plowed his way See ALL-AREA, page 28

Wildcats Fall Short 67-60 In Rematch With P.B. Lakes

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report On Thursday, Dec. 22, the Royal Palm Beach High School basketball team hosted rival Palm Beach Lakes High School in a rematch and fell to the Rams 67-60 in a thriller.

The Wildcats were unable to go unbeaten in the series against the

visiting Rams. Royal Palm Beach topped Palm Beach Lakes 83-70 earlier in the season. Both teams came into the contest ranked in the top 10, with Palm Beach Lakes in the No. 7 spot and Royal Palm Beach rounding out the group at No. 10.

The game’s lead changed hands three times during the first period,

indicating that it would be a battle.

Palm Beach Lakes jumped out early, scoring a quick six. The Wildcats finally settled down and clawed back, closing the deficit to 8-5. They continued to channel the energy into playing aggressive defense, which forced several Palm Beach Lakes turnovers.

Royal Palm Beach’s Shaquille Peters goes for a layup under the boards.

Jordan Samuels moves the ball up court for the Wildcats.

The Wildcats’ Leonard Thorpe makes a jump shot against the Rams.

Royal Palm Beach took advantage and captured a 10-8 lead five minutes into the game. Wildcat point guard Jordan Samuels came up big by securing a turnover and quickly dumped five points into the net to lift Royal Palm Beach up 12-8. The rally forced the Rams to call a time-out.

That pause in the action proved

beneficial for the Rams. Standout guard Ty Hands quickly propelled the Rams into reclaiming the lead with a pair of the three-pointers to go up 18-12.

Royal Palm Beach was able to keep pace with the Rams but seemed to be a step behind, and See WILDCATS, page 29

Royal Palm Beach’s Jordan Samuels battles with a Rams player for possession.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Page 28

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

SPORTS & RECREATION

Palm Beach County Golf Facilities Receive National Recognitions

The John Prince Golf Learning Center, the Osprey Point Golf Course, the Okeeheelee Golf Course and the Park Ridge Golf Course have all been awarded Top 50 honors by the Golf Range Association of America (GRAA) in its yearly ranking of the best practice ranges in the United States.

The John Prince Golf Learning Center, located in Lake Worth,

All-Area

Local Football Stars

continued from page 27 to a total of 1,024 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on the season. Devonte Gillens (linebacker) was instrumental in anchoring the Wildcat defense, with 85 tackles this year. Miguel Scott (offensive tackle) graded out at over 80 percent on the season, anchoring the offensive line for Royal Palm Beach.

Rashad Johnson (defensive back/ wide receiver) played a dual role for the Wildcats on both sides of the ball. He proved to be a nightmare for opposing receivers through the season. At receiver, he boasted over

was recognized as one of the Top 50 Stand-Alone Ranges, which marked the fifth-straight year that the GRAA has honored the facility with the award after naming it the “Best New Range in the United States” in 2007. The John Prince Golf Learning Center has both grass and mat hitting stations on its lighted 280-yard driving range. The range also includes 16,000 square feet of

putting green, as well as a chipping green with green-side bunkers.

Additionally, the facility has a fully stocked golf shop and three regulation holes to allow golfers to further hone their skills.

Osprey Point, which is in Boca Raton, was named to the Top 50 Public Ranges for the second-straight year. Osprey Point features a double-ended 300-yard driving range

an 18-yard average per reception and was a key component for the Wildcats’ passing attack. Jacob Baptiste (wide receiver) was the leading receiver for the Wildcats, with 20 catches and five touchdowns. Trey Gilbert (linebacker) anchored the Royal Palm Beach defensive front with 50 tackles and six quarterback sacks.

PALM BEACH CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL For Palm Beach Central, Anthony Wynds (running back) rushed for a career high of 2,006 yards on 273 carries and 16 touchdowns. His numbers led the county and were among the best in the state. Wynds was also the Sun-Sentinel Palm Beach County Player of the Year. He was selected to play in the coveted Blue Gray All-American game in Dallas.

Ben Panitz (linebacker) anchored the defense with 101 tackles through the season, recorded two interceptions and had two sacks. Geremy Cineus (defensive line) led the Bronco defense with 109 tackles and had two pass deflections. He was the driving force on the Bronco defensive line.

Mike Garofolo (offensive line) was the leader of the offensive line for the Broncos and was a big part in the success of the Palm Beach Central rushing attack. Garofolo is also an Air Force commit and was a Sun-Sentinel Palm Beach County first team selection. Robby DeJean (offensive line) was another key contributor. He led the line in pancake blocks. Nick Carroccio (nose guard) totaled 11 tackles for losses and recorded six quarterback sacks for the Bronco defense.

with grass hitting stations on both ends. Additionally, the range features more than 28,000 square feet of greens with two practice putting greens and two chipping greens.

Okeeheelee and Park Ridge each were recognized as Top 50 Public Ranges for the first time.

Okeeheelee’s range features a double-ended 300-yard driving range with both grass and mat hitting stations. The practice area also features 30,000 square feet of putting green, as well as a chipping green and green-side bunkers.

Park Ridge’s practice area, which was renovated in 2014, encompasses a 330-yard double-ended driving range with chipping greens on each end. Each of the chipping greens features green-side bunkers and multiple target holes. A

10,000-square-foot putting green also features multiple target holes.

In order to receive recognition by the GRAA, golf facilities must present an application that highlights not only a wide range of amenities, but one that also shows a wide variety of available programming that benefits all levels of skill and promotes the growth of the game of golf. The GRAA recognizes the top 50 facilities in three categories — StandAlone, Public and Private — with the winners listed in the December issue of Golf Range Magazine.

John Prince, Osprey Point, Okeeheelee and Park Ridge are owned and operated by the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department. For additional information on Palm Beach County public golf courses, visit www.pbcgolf.com.

The Okeeheelee Golf Course was among the Top 50 Public Ranges.

The Town-Crier

Wildcats

Loss To Palm Beach Lakes

continued from page 27 went into halftime down by nine, 31-22. Hands shook the rafters of the gymnasium when he shot a three-pointer at the buzzer from near midcourt. That score would give the

Rosenberg

Johnson’s Folly Farm

continued from page 21 to ride hunter jumpers, but after I had two knee replacement surgeries I switched to dressage,” she said. “I never want to give up riding, and Nongae helped me find special stirrups which aid my knees, and also special reins which work despite the arthritis in my hands. She also taught my horse to accept my mounting from the off-side, because one of my knees doesn’t bend too well. All of this to help me keep riding.”

Debbie is very grateful for all the help offered by the barn.

“When I was home recuperating from my surgery for eight weeks, I didn’t worry one second about

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SPORTS & RECREATION Rams continued momentum going into the second half.

The Wildcats had to play catchup, being down by as much as 12 during the second half. Palm Beach Lakes connected with accurate passing and increased its accuracy at the net. Going into the fourth period, the Wildcats were down 50-38. Royal Palm Beach created several opportunities but could not finish under the boards.

Royal Palm Beach rallied late in

the fourth, putting together enough offense to close the gap to 64-60, with Samuels and Christian Crespo leading the charge. The Wildcats forced several Palm Beach Lakes turnovers and took advantage by turning them into points.

But the Rams were able to do enough to quell the Wildcat comeback by extending their lead, and eventually taking the contest, 67-60.

With the loss, Royal Palm Beach

Rocky. I was very confident that he was well taken care of,” she said. “Everyone is knowledgeable and professional. The wonderful, friendly atmosphere brings out the best in everyone.”

Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm also offers therapeutic programs and is a member of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH), a nonprofit formed to promote equine-assisted activities and therapies for individuals with special needs.

They’re a host barn for Horses Healing Hearts, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to bettering the lives of children of alcoholics and substance abusers through equine experiential learning.

Founded by Liz Olszewski in 2009, Horses Healing Hearts helps children raised with addiction in

their home by working with horses.

They teach empowerment plus life-coping skills, and help clients build self-confidence by learning about horse care and riding. Nongae enjoys being affiliated with such a fine program and enjoys giving back.

“We’re kind of a special barn,” Nongae said. “Even though we’re almost in the middle of the city, we retain a comfortable country feel, very private and personal. There’s no drama, no cliques. Everyone is relaxed and friendly and willing to help or just stop to chat. We do a little of everything.”

To learn more about Johnson’s Folly Horse Farm, call (561) 4996383 or visit www.johnsonsfolly. com. To find out more about Horses Healing Hearts, visit www.hhhusa. org.

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

fell to 8-4 on the season and split the series with the Rams. For the Wildcats, Samuels put up a career

Page 29

high of 20 points, Crespo recorded 12 points and Jules Jasmin had 10 points.

Royal Palm Beach’s Jules Jasmin leaps up and takes a shot over the Palm Beach Lakes defense.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Page 30

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Saturday, Dec. 31 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hold a trail maintenance in Okeeheelee Park on Saturday, Dec. 31 at 7:30 a.m. Call Paul Cummings at (561) 963-9906 for more info.

• Ring in the New Year like never before at the Palm Beach Zoo’s fourth annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration with your furry, feathered and scaly friends on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join in a children’s dance party in the Fountain Plaza. This event is included with regular zoo admission. Visit www.palmbeachzoo.org for more info.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present 42nd Street on stage on Saturday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. Visit www.kravis.org for more info.

• CAFCI will hold its 27th annual New Year’s Eve Gala at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m.

This semi-formal affair will feature a buffet with cuisine from Chef G, door prizes, dancing and a 50/50 raffle. The evening will culminate with a midnight champagne toast to ring in 2017.

Tickets are $50. RSVP to Dennis Wright at (561) 653-1586, Lawrence Logan at (561) 791-0162, Junette Powell at (561) 346-2353 or the CAFCI hotline at (561) 790-4002. Tickets are also available online at www.cafcipbc.org.

Sunday, Jan. 1 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hike in the Sandhill Crane Tract on Sunday, Jan. 1 at 8 a.m. Hikers will meet at the gate on the north side of the Beeline Highway, 5 miles northwest of Northlake Blvd. Wear sturdy footwear and a hat. A hiking stick is recommended. Bring water and a snack. Call Bea at (561) 644-0777 for more info.

• The International Polo Club Palm Beach will open the 2017 winter polo season with the Herbie Pennell Cup Final on Sunday, Jan. 1. For more info., visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will meet on Sunday, Jan. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Okeeheelee Park Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). The program will be by Megan Harris of the River Center. Call Margaret Brabham at (561) 324-3543 for more info.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present a Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert with the Strauss Symphony of America on Sunday, Jan. 1 at 8 p.m., featuring conductor Christoph Campestrini, soprano Monika Rebholz, tenor Franz Gürtelschmied, dancers from the Kiev City Ballet and international champion ballroom dancers. Visit www.kravis.org for more info.

Monday, Jan. 2 • A free Vacation Bible School will be co-sponsored by Westlake Baptist Church and Avenir Baptist Church from Monday, Jan. 2 through Friday, Jan. 6 at the Hamlin House Community Center (14893 89th Place North in The Acreage).

To pre-register, call (561) 814-2724 or e-mail westlakebaptistcongregation@gmail.com.

www.gotowncrier.com

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

• The Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service will offer Smart Steps: Embrace the Journey during the month of January. The Smart Steps program helps remarried and re-partnered families adjust to lifestyle changes.

Topics covered include parenting in a stepfamily, strengthening the couple, legal and financial issues, and managing multiple households. The program will be held Tuesdays, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 6 p.m. at the Cooperative Extension Service Office (559 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach). Attendees must register by Monday, Jan. 2 at www.smartcouples.org. For more info., call (561) 233-1742.

Tuesday, Jan. 3 • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present Wiesenthal, written by and starring Tom Dugan and directed by Jenny Sullivan, from Tuesday, Jan. 3 through Sunday, Jan. 8. The play tells the riveting true story of Holocaust survivor and Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will host Kickstart Your Writing Ability with lecturer Julie Gilbert of the Writers’ Academy on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 1:30 p.m. Gilbert will show you how to unlock your muse. Visit www.kravis. org for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Kids Wii U Gaming & More for ages 7 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

Come and play some of your favorite Wii U and board games with your friends. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Science Squad: Animal Families for kindergarten through second grade on Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m. through January. Discover a new animal family every week in January through a mixture of activities, experiments and observations. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• State Sen. Bobby Powell Jr. (D- District 30) will host a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Powell will be joined by State Rep. Matt Willhite (D-District 86). For more info., visit www.flsenate.gov/senators/s30.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host a Pizza Chat for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 6:30 p.m. Chat with the group about a book, movie, game, anime or show that you loved or hated, while enjoying pizza and drinks.

Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Wonders of the Night Sky: Telescope Viewing Session for adults on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. Encounter numerous celestial wonders with a presentation and telescope viewing provided by the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches.

Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will meet Tuesday, Jan 3 at 7 p.m. at the FAU Pine Jog Environmental Education Center (6301 Summit Blvd.). The program, “Getting to Know Pine Jog,”

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561-793-7000 www.royalpalmvc.com

will feature Ray Coleman and Lauren Butcher of Pine Jog. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Wonders of the Night Sky: Telescope Viewing Session for adults on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. Join the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches and learn about constellations as you stargaze from sunset to 8:30 p.m. outside, if the skies are clear. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Wednesday, Jan. 4 • American Legion Auxiliary Unit #367 of Royal Palm Beach will meet Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 10 a.m. at the Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves). For more info., call Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875 or Joan Shewmake at (561) 792-2317.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host a Dungeons & Dragons Marathon for ages 12 and up on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a marathon adventure in the world of Dungeons & Dragons with fellow wizards and warriors. Pizza and snacks will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Village of Wellington will hold a Neighborhood Watch Meeting in Olympia’s Scribner Village and Bryden Village neighborhoods on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 6:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Thursday, Jan. 5 • The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will host Sexual Healing: An Intimate Conversation with Dr. Ruth Westheimer interviewed by Steven Caras on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 11:30 a.m. Visit www.kravis.org for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Lego Bricks for ages 5 to 12 on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m. Build, imagine and create with Lego bricks. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Village of Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, Jan. 5 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• The Women of the Western Communities will meet Thursday, Jan. 5 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington. The mix and mingle happy hour begins at 6 p.m. Be sure to arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. to check in and be seated. The guest speaker will be Mary Cauthen from the YWCA Harmony House. The monthly donation for Harmony House is non-perishable food. For more info., e-mail Mair Armand at mair@wwc-fl. com or call (561) 635-0011, or visit www.women ofthewesterncommunities.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

The Town-Crier • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Acreage Branch Fantasy Football End-of-Season Bash for ages 16 and up on Thursday, Jan. 5 at 6:30 p.m. Spend an evening recognizing the victors and sharing the highlights of the library’s second Fantasy Football season.

Learn how to get involved next season. Refreshments will be served. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts will present Louise Pitre in Chasing Rainbows: The Music of Judy Garland on Thursday, Jan. 5 and Friday, Jan. 6 at 7:30 p.m. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

Friday, Jan. 6 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host New Year’s Bingo for ages 6 to 11 on Friday, Jan. 6 at 11 a.m. Play a few games of old-fashioned bingo and win awesome prizes.

Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Game Time for ages 8 to 12 on Friday, Jan. 6 at 3:30 p.m. Have a blast indoors with new and favorite board games, card games and video games, as well as snacks. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host its RPB Kids Coloring Club for ages 2 and up on Friday, Jan. 6 at 3:30 p.m. Children are invited to enjoy a relaxing hour of coloring. Color your favorite characters, designs and more. Worksheets and coloring sheets will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club will host its 29th annual Wellington Dinner Dance, themed “Passport to Paradise,” on Friday, Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, with proceeds helping the club serve more Wellington children in 2017. For more info., contact Christine Galenski at (561) 683-3287 or cgalenski@bgcpbc.org.

• The Village of Wellington will host a free screening of the movie Ice Age: Collision Course on Friday, Jan. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Saturday, Jan. 7 • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will walk STA-1E in western Wellington on Saturday, Jan. 7 and Sunday, Jan. 15 from 7:30 a.m. to noon. Pre-register at www.auduboneverglades. org.

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will walk in John Prince Park (2520 Lake Worth Road) on Saturday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 a.m. Contact Paul Cummings at (561) 963-9906 for more info.

• The Green Market at Wellington will be held Saturday, Jan. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.

The Town-Crier

EMPLOYMENT WANTED HOME HEALTH AIDE AVAILABLE — Experienced Home Health Aide seeks new position. Flexible hours, full time or part 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.

SEEKING POSITION: Companion to elderly person, non-medical position, college educated. Please call 561-324-5807.

SEEKING POSITION: Highly extroverted outgoing women with exemplary customer service skills looking for P/T job: anything from receptionist to hostess to server to pet sitter. Call Lily 561-215-4724.

EMPLOYMENT MAKE $2000 A WEEK— Sales exp a plus, great networking skills, valid drivers license. Mature and or retired candidates are encouraged to apply. Join our team call Mark 561-352-0298.

PA R T- T I M E C L A S S R O O M T E A C H ER — 3-5 year olds. CDA/40 hours - 6 hours per week - $13 per hour. Call 561856-5202. Royal Palm Beach Location.

CHILDCARE TEACHER ASSISTANT — Looking for teacher assistant, experience preferred please. Hours are (8 a.m. - 2 p.m. ) or (2 p.m. - 6 p.m. ) This facility is located in Western Communities. Call (561) 793-5860 SECRETARY FOR SMALL ACCOUNTING OFFICE — heavy phones, client contact, filing, preparing documents. Must know Word. Excel a plus. Please fax resume to: (561)333-2680.

LEGAL SECRETARY/PARALEGAL-MATURE — part to full time for solo practitioner, small office, heavy phones, client contact, scheduling, preparing documents, etc. Must be experienced. Timeslips, ProDocs, Word Perfect or Word. Probate, estate planning, guardianship and Medicaid planning.Please fax resume to (561)333-2680. References required.

FRONT DESK CLERK PERSON — with good verbal/written communication skills and the motivation to provide good customer service. Flexible schedule needed (mainly night shift, weekends and holidays) Experience preferred, but we will train the right motivated person. Royal Palm/Wellington/Acreage residents will save on gas and travel time. To Apply : E-mail or Fax Resume to: info@royalinnhotel.com 561-795-1502 or Apply in person HOUSEKEEPER — Responsible for cleaning guest rooms in a timely and thorough manner. Experience and fluency in English is preferred. Must be able to work weekends and/or holidays. To Apply : E-mail or Fax Resume to: info@royalinnhotel.com 561-795-1502 or Apply in person

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES FREE ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOP IN MIAMI AREA — Learn a proven formula for building a lucrative online business from scratch! No experience, technical or sales skill required! Register for your FREE ticket jennifergibat.com/miami.

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-7606 FOR MORE INFO.

www.gotowncrier.com

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017 Page 31

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY FOR SALE

HOME FOR SALE - WELLINGTON

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

PAINTING

FOR SALE 32+ ACRES OF FUNCTIONAL HORSE TERRAIN - LOXAHATCHEE GROVES — E Rd. NORTH OF OKEECHOBEE. Cleared, beautiful and private. 54 stables outfitted for private usage or income. Seller financing available. Call Boris - Remax Prestige 561-313-5636

SPACIOUS WELLINGTON 3/2.5/1.5 TOWNHOUSE with possible 4th bedroom — Over 2000 sq. ft. under air. Walk to shopping! Buy owner. 561-742-0125

A BEACON HAVEN ASSISTED LIVING A Beacon Haven Assisted Living Facility Wellington, Florida 33414. www.abeaconhaven.com ylawrence@abeaconhaven.com 561-513-9493. Cell 561-596-9726

PALERMO WALL COVERING AND PAINTING — Specializing in commercial/residential,interior/exterior wall covering and painting, drywall repair, pressure cleaning.

30 years experience. All work guaranteed.

Lic. & Ins. Free Estimates. 561-389-2178

20 BEAUTIFUL ACRES — Dry cleared and ready for barns, stables, a ranch or just a home of your design. Call Boris Carrazana Remax Prestige 561-313-5636

GET RESULTS

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

LOST & FOUND LOST GOLD BRACELET IN LOXAHATCHEE AREA ON THURSDAY, DEC. 15th.

REWARD

561-795-9610

BOOKKEEPER WANTED WELLINGTON AREA

Part Time, experienced in Quickbooks, flexible hours.

Please fax resume to 561-793-1470 or email to: wellingtoncompany.bookkeeper@gmail.com

A/C AND REFRIGERATION

PET DOCTOR - MOBILE/HOME CARE

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

TIRED OF HOLDING YOUR CAT IN THE WAITING ROOM? — Call Critter Home Care and Stay Home Dr. Don Denoff. 561-517-8705

AUTO BODY REPAIR JOHNNY V'S MOBILE SCRATCH & DENT REPAIR — 561-252-8295 Residential & Commercial Fixmypaint.com

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE WE CLEAN OFFICES & PRIVATE HOMES — Licensed & Insured. Call for an estimate and to schedule your apartment. Discount for Central Palm Beach County Chamber members and to all new clients for first cleaning. 561-385-8243 Lic. #2012-25277 CLEANING LADY — I can help get your house cleaner than ever! Try me once and you will not be disappointed! 561-657-0420 Patrycja PRO CLEAN PLUS — Full home cleaning. Pet and house sitting plus more.

Years of experience, reliable with excellent references. Call text 561-7794149 or email mgrady62@gmail.com

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

Li c.& Ins. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 6 1 -6 6 7 - 7 7 1 6

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

LOCKSHOP & SECURITY CENTER

WELLINGTON Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

Advertising Sales Representative

Wanted

Call Today...

Start Tomorrow 561-793-7606

CK'S LOCKSHOP & SECURITY CENTER.— Since 1960. Keys - Locks-Safes-Decorative/ Commercial Hardware-Access Control Systems-Card & Key Fobs -Medco. High Security Locks-Alarms/Monitoring/Surveillance Camera Systems 561-732-9418

MOBILE AUTO DENT REPAIR MOBILE AUTO DENT REPAIR — I can fix your dings, creases and larger dents without painting. Reliable/Convenient.

Owner Operated. Satisfaction Guaranteed! 561-662-0513. Palmbeachdents.com

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. Residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-578-2873. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

PLACE YOUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AD HERE CALL 793-3576

PEST CONTROL DELUXE LAWN AND PEST MANAGEMENT Lawn Pests, Weeds, Rodents and Interior Pests. Since 1991. Good Communicators. Call (561)795­-7045

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

ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207 NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated.

Residential/Commercial. Wood Replacement, Roof Coatings, Solar Vents, Skylights & Roof Ventilation. 561-656-4945 Lic. & Insured CCC1330208.Free Estimates

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

SECURITY SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years.

Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

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

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

TILE & FLOORING INSTALLATION PERFECT TILE & FLOORING INC. — We Specialize in ceramic, stone, and porcelain tile installation. We also do wood, laminate, and vinyl plank flooring installation.

We service all of Palm Beach County and some of the surrounding area's. We are locally owned and operated with 15 years of experience. We do kitchens, bathrooms, showers and floors. No job too big no job to small. We do it all. Free estimates anytime. Please call 561-512-1104 or 561672-8334 to schedule your estimate today.

WALLPAPERING PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper.

Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience.

No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 561-793-7606

Page 32 December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

PRO CLEAN PLUS when getting the service you expect really matters

• Full Home & Office Cleaning Service • Laundry Service • Pet and House Sitting • Errands and Shopping • Organizing • Party Hosting

561-779-4149

mgrady62@gmail.com weekly, bi-weekly, monthly or one time custom cleaning service

www.deluxelawnandpest.com

LAWN WEEDS BOTHERING YOU? LET US HELP. 561-795-7045

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 33

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

www.deluxelawnandpest.com

Mobile Auto Dent Repair Owner/Operated 3101 Okeechobee Boulevard

Matt 561.662.0513

West Palm Beach, Florida 33409

palmbeachdents.com

Fax 561.615.3397

Direct 561.615.3265

Ira Kaskel Client Advisor

Cell 516.770.4653 ikaskel@schumacherauto.com www.schumacherauto.com

10% Discount if you mention this ad

RAT PROBLEM? NO PROBLEM FOR US. 561-795-7045

HERE’S MY CARD Residential Commercial

Knockdown Textures Interior - Exterior Carpentry Repairs

W.H. BROWN,LLC PAINTING

Free Estimates

Ph: (561) 649-5086 Cell: (561) 313-0409

Drywall Repairs

Lic. #U-16274 Bonded Insured Wallpaper Removal

Lisa Lander

Loan Originator 30 Years Experience NMLS: 1517608

Wellington Branch

13889 Wellington Trace Suite #A2 Wellington, FL 33414 NMLS: 3446

P: 561-469-2306 C: 561-307-6650 F: 561-423-9257 LLander@GoldStarFinancial.com www.yourlocallender.com

PEREZ BROTHERS

MOVING & STORAGE

Local, Long Distance and International

Weekly Trips To New York, New England, Chicago, Colorado...

Also Texas, PR, Canada, California & All The U.S. ICC #MC232743 PBC #MOI-0018

24 HRS / 7 DAYS

5% Discount with this ad

561-798-4002 1-800-330-7460

WEST PALM BEACH

www.perezmoving.com

Page 34 December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

HERE’S MY CARD

Solid Rock Paving Co., LLC Paving • Excavating • Concrete • Seal Coating Industrial • Commerical • Residential

Stanley Mitchell Estimator

Lic # U19973

Email: srockpave@aol.com www.solidrockpavingco.com

Office: 561-333-5281 Cell: 561-351-7520 Fax: 561-333-9865

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 561-793-7606

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

Page 35

Ring in the New Year With Us!

We are open New Years Eve & New Years

Early Menu $13.95 must be seated by 5:15 p.m. (Excludes Holidays) APPETIZERS (SELECT ONE)

Caesar Salad, Mixed Greens, Pasta Fagioli, or Minestrone ENTRÉES (SELECT ONE)

Lunch Specials

Chicken Marsala/Chicken Francese Eggplant Parmigiana/Eggplant Rollatini Chicken Parmigiana/Sausage & Peppers Pork Chop/Veal Parmigiana Zuppa Di Mussels/Sole/Tilapia

11 am - 4 pm Daily - $5.50 and Up

Happy Hour Monday thru Thursday 11:00 a.m. - 7 pm

~ Fish may be prepared either Oreganata, Luciano, Francese, or Grilled ~

DESSERT (SELECT ONE)

Cannoli or Chocolate Cake Hours Sunday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Friday & Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm Lunch Served Everyday 11 am - 4 pm

Hot Coffee or Hot Tea with Dessert Please NO Substitutions/NO Coupons

Aberdeen Plaza

8260 Jog Road, Boynton Beach, FL (on Jog Road South of LeChalet on the east side of the road)

Tel: 561.336.3862 Fax: 561.336.3865 arrabiatas.net •

/Arrabiatas Restaurant Of Boynton Beach

ACCEPTING Reservations for: New Years Eve • New Years Day

Page 36

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

www.gotowncrier.com

The Town-Crier

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

There’s only one thing better than the delectable aroma of fresh, homemade Italian cuisine...

It’s the taste!

PASTA DINNERS (Individual)

CHOICE OF: MINESTRONE SOUP, PASTA FAGIOLI, HOUSE SALAD OR CAESAR SALAD

RIGATONI BOLOGNESE..................... 14.95 RIGATONI ALA VODKA ...................... 14.95 RIGATONI SUNDAY SAUCE ............... 15.95 RIGATONI FLORENTINA ................... 15.95 RIGATONI ESCAROLE & BEANS ...... 14.95 PENNE PRIMA...................................... 14.95 PENNE POMODORO ........................... 14.95 PENNE BROCCOLI .............................. 14.95 w/ garlic & oil

PENNE BROCCOLI RABE ................. 15.95 SPINACH RAVIOLI .............................. 15.95 RAVIOLI .............................................. 14.95 BAKED RAVIOLI ................................ 15.95 BAKED ZITI .......................................... 14.95

MEAT LASAGNA.................................. 14.95 FETTUCCINE ALFREDO..................... 14.95 SPAGHETTI CARBONARA................. 14.95 SPAGHETTI & MEATBALLS............... 14.95 SHRIMP MARINARA ............................19.95 SHRIMP SCAMPI ..................................19.95 SHRIMP BROCCOLI RABE .................19.95 CALAMARI MARINARA...................... 18.95 SEAFOOD POSILLIPO .........................19.95 SCUNGILLI MARINARA.......................19.95 LINGUINI .............................................. 18.95

Now Featuring our NEW Individual Menu!

with RED or WHITE CLAM SAUCE

FRUTTI DI MARE ................................ 22.95 RIGATONI LEX ..................................... 14.95

Prepared Fresh to order!

ENTREES

Served Family Style or as

(Individual)

CHOICE OF: MINESTRONE SOUP, PASTA FAGIOLI,HOUSE SALAD OR CAESAR SALAD CHOICE OF: BROCCOLI, POTATOES, SIDE OF FRENCH FRIES, ROASTED VEGETABLES, PASTA SIDE WITH MEAT OR TOMATO SAUCE

CHICKEN ............................................ 16.95

CHICKEN ROLLATINI........................... 18.95

VEAL .....................................................19.95

EGGPLANT ROLLATINI ...................... 15.95 EGGPLANT PARMIGANA.................... 15.95 CACCIATORE ........................................ 19.95

Choice of: Marsala, Piccata, Francese, Pizzaiolo, Milanese, Parmigana or Piard Choice of: Marsala, Piccata, Francese, Pizzaiolo, Milanese, Parmigana or Piard

CHICKEN VERDI ..................................18.95 A touch of tomato sauce topped w/ broccoli & mozzarella

VEAL VERDI .........................................18.95 A touch of tomato sauce topped w/ broccoli & mozzarella

CHICKEN SORRENTINO ....................18.95 Light tomato sauce w/ a touch of cream, peas, eggplant, prosciutto & mozzarella

VEAL SORRENTINO .......................... 21.95 Light tomato sauce w/ a touch of cream, peas, eggplant, prosciutto & mozzarella

CHICKEN PORTOBELLO.................. 18.95 Portobello mushrooms w/ fresh spinach in brown sauce topped w/ mozzarella

VEAL PORTOBELLO......................... 21.95 Portobello mushrooms w/ fresh spinach in brown sauce topped w/ mozzarella

Individual Selections!

Stuffed w/ sauteed spinach, prosciutto w/ mozzarella in a marsala mushroom sauce

Half roasted chicken w/ mushrooms, peppers & onions in marinara sauce

BONELESS CACCIATORE ................. 21.95

Half roasted chicken w/ mushrooms, peppers & onions in marinara sauce

CHICKEN CAMPAGNOLO ..................21.95 Boneless chicken breast w/ potatoes, peppers, onions & sausage in garlic white wine sauce

Large 16” Cheese Pizza $8.99 Pick up and Cash only

CHICKEN SCARPARIELLO ................19.95 Half roasted chicken w/ potatoes, pepper onions & sausage in garlic white wine sauce

Happy Hour Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Beer Specials House Wines $5 Svedka Martini’s $6

SHRIMP SICILIANA ............................ 19.95 Shrimp in garlic white wine & lemon sauce w/ fresh basil

SHRIMP ............................................... 19.95 Choice of: Francese, Oreganata or Parmigana

We are open for New Years Eve & New Years

IN THE MARKETPLACE AT WYCLIFFE 4115 State Road 7 • Wellington (Facing Lake Worth Rd.)

561-355-5900

Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to close.

Page 37

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December 30, 2016 - January 5, 2017

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The Town-Crier