Town-Crier Newspaper December 9, 2011

NEW STATE LAW WORRIES WHS PARENTS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

RPB TO ENACT STRICT FERTILIZER RULES SEE STORY, PAGE 7

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TOWN - CR IER WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

Your Community Newspaper

Volume 32, Number 49 December 9 - December 15, 2011

County Agrees To Fund Scaled Back Okee Landscaping

INSIDE Royal Palm Beach Hires Outside Firm To Track Homes In Foreclosure

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council decided last week to hire a third-par ty consultant to track troubled properties after village staff member s agreed that Federal Property Registration Corp could do the job better than keeping the work in house. Page 3

RPB Holiday Festival Of Lights At Vets Park

The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its annual Holiday Festival of Lights on Monday, Dec. 5 at Veterans Park. Attendees posed for photos with Santa and enjoyed youth performances. Page 5

County Redistricting Plan Leaves Ibis In Santamaria’s District 6

The Palm Beach County Commission gave preliminary approval to a redistricting plan Tuesday that keeps the Ibis Golf & Country Club in Commissioner Jess Santamaria’s District 6, despite pleas to move it to Commissioner Karen Marcus’s District 1. Page 7

Equestrian Education Initiative — (Front row, L-R) Wellington Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Carmine Priore, Mayor Darell Bowen, Councilman Howard Coates and Councilwoman Anne Gerwig; (back row) Polo Park Middle School Principal Scott Blake, Panther Run Elementary School Principal Pamela Strachan, Elbridge Gale Elementary School Principal Gail Pasterczyk, Wellington Landing Middle School Principal Blake Bennett, Mark and Katherine Bellissimo, Wellington Elementary School Principal Eugina Smith Feaman, New Horizons Elementary School Principal Betsy Cardozo, Binks Forest Elementary School Principal Michella Levy, Okeeheelee Middle School Principal David Samore and Wellington High School Academy Coordinator Jim Marshall.

PHOTO BY SUSAN LERNER/T OWN-CRIER

Initiative Seeks To Broaden Ties Between Equestrians, Schools

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report A new program launched by Wellington Equestrian Partners last week would allow local public school students an opportunity to immerse themselves in the equestrian world and take advantage of educational, employment

and scholarship opportunities in the industry.

Officials from 10 of Wellington’s public schools along with Wellington officials gathered Thursday, Dec. 1 at the White Horse Tavern to discuss ways to expand equestrian access for public school students.

FUN AT WINTERFEST

Pie-Baking Fun With Christian Homeschool Support Group Contest

Christian Homeschool Support of the Western Communities held a pie-baking contest for children as part of its monthly meeting Friday, Dec. 2 at the Citrus Grove Park in The Acreage. Page 12

OPINION Fund Education Properly

The recently enacted Florida Senate Bill 2120 reclassifies many high school core classes as non-core classes. Once again the legislature has used bureaucratic sleight of hand as an end run against the goals of voters who passed the Class Size Reduction Amendment.

It’s high time that Florida gets serious about education funding, and not continue falling further and further behind.

Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 13 OPINION ................................ 4 CRIME NEWS ........................ 6 NEWS BRIEFS .......................8 SCHOOLS .....................14 - 15 PEOPLE........................ 16 - 17 COLUMNS .................... 23 - 25 BUSINESS ...................27 - 29 ENTERTAINMENT ................30 SPORTS .......................35 - 37 CALENDAR...................39 - 39 CLASSIFIEDS ...............40 - 44 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Serving Palms West Since 1980

The holiday season kicked off Dec. 2 with the second annual Wellington WinterFest. The event featured a special performance by Wellington resident Vanilla Ice, as well as other holiday activities. Pictured here, Syierra Munsterteiger and Nicole Linn show the holiday spirit. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO B Y JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Equestrian Partners Managing Partner Mark Bellissimo said that the goal of the program is to give public school children access to the industry, whether as a rider, spectator or other participant.

“Our goal in setting up the meeting was to start a process that would break down the barriers that have separated the equestrian and non-equestrian worlds,” Bellissimo said. “While it is a large commitment of time and energy from all parties, I believe it is an important and worthy effort.”

Okeeheelee Middle School Principal David Samora pointed out that for several generations in Wellington, the equestrian world has been inaccessible to the general public.

“You have several generations of people who don’t see the equestrian world as theirs to participate in, because when it was first established, the people who ran it didn’t want it to be theirs,” Samora said. “But Mark [Bellissimo] wants to change that mentality. A great way to do that is by inviting the schools.”

Bellissimo said that some of the plans for the program involve getting the children exposure to the equestrian world by bringing them to events and events to them. Several ideas were presented and will See HORSES, page 18

Ken DeLaTorre Joins RPB Race

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Madison Green resident Ken DeLaTorre has announced plans to run for a seat on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council.

DeLaTorre filed a statement of candidacy last month to seek Seat 1 on the council. That’s the seat that has been vacant since the August resignation of David Swift.

Jeff Hmara, also a Madison Green resident, is seeking Seat 1 as well. Candidates have until mid-February to come forward.

The election will be held on March 13.

DeLaTorre moved to Madison Green with his wife and two daughters a year ago.

As a landscape and planning consultant and the owner of Design & Entitlement Consultants, DeLaTorre said he felt his skills could be an asset to the village.

“I think that I would be an asset to the village council because of my professional experience,” he said. “I do a lot of land planning work, so I deal with rezoning issues, land use issues and general growth management with regard to development.”

DeLaTorre, 37, said he has done work with municipalities throughout South Florida. “I’ve always done work with zoning departments and general government my entire career and figured, why not take the next step and go on the other side of the dais,” he said.

DeLaTorre holds a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1997.

“Throughout the years, I have been doing a lot more land planning work, and that’s primarily been the focus of my education,” he said. “Even in graduate school, my focus was in planning.”

After moving to Florida in 1998, DeLaTorre took a planning job in West Palm Beach. He founded his own firm in 2008.

“I’ve learned about growth and growth management issues,” he said. “Hopefully, when things pick up again, my experience with planning would just be an extra asset to the council, providing that kind of insight and having that kind of knowledge of land use and zoning in Florida with regard to growth management.”

DeLaTorre said he actually owns two small businesses, the land planning company and DEC Property Rentals. “It’s a fledgling company,” he said. “I own one house that I rent.”

Married six years, he has two daughters and is fluent in Spanish, having a Cuban father and a Dominican mother.

While DeLaTorre has not had See CANDIDATE, page 7

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission agreed Tuesday to partially finance landscaping on Okeechobee Blvd. that it had deleted at an earlier budget workshop after West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio promised to kick in $100,000.

The landscaping project was originally for $500,000, to be matched by the Florida Department of Transportation. The work complements the recently completed widening of Okeechobee from Florida’s Turnpike to State Road 7.

The commissioners agreed Tuesday to allocate $225,000, with most of the landscaping to be focused in front of the area’s residential communities.

Muoio was accompanied by other city officials and several hundred residents of the West Palm Beach communities along the north side of Okeechobee Blvd. The attendees strongly supported the landscaping.

Muoio also brought along a check for $176,834.20 as the first installment for improvements to Northlake Blvd. that had been promised to the county by the city.

“We’re working with you on Northlake, and I know that there was some concern that you hadn’t gotten a check yet for our North-

lake contribution,” Muoio said. “I bring that just to show you that we are coming here in good faith and we have full intention to cooperate fully on the Northlake Blvd. bridge.”

She added that the Okeechobee project could be trimmed if not all the money is available. “I do believe that we can address the scope,” she said. “We can make it smaller without compromising the value or the beauty of it.”

Muoio added that West Palm Beach is willing to contribute money to the Okeechobee project, and she was prepared to ask her city commission to allocate $100,000. “We can’t do that directly to FDOT; we have to do it through you,” she said.

Palm Beach County Engineer George Webb explained a conceptual sketch of what the project would look like if they reduced the financing from about $950,000 to about $450,000, which would require a $225,000 contribution by the county.

The plan would landscape four of the seven segments and let the other three segments remain Bahia grass.

“With what the mayor has put forth, maybe we can go to five medians, or maybe we can go to six,” Webb said. “With every dollar put forth, the state would be See LANDSCAPING, page 18

Do You Have What It Takes To Be An Idol?

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report If you think you’ve got what it takes to be Wellington’s next top singing or dancing sensation, you could take home $750 in prize money and the title “Wellington Idol” when the competition kicks off next month.

Wellington Idol, to be held at the WellingtonAmphitheater over several weekends in late January and early February, will give Wellington residents and students 8 or older a chance to shine.

Councilman Howard Coates, who championed the idea, wanted an event that could showcase community talent.

“When we built the amphitheater, one vision for it was a place to have community talent,” he said. “We have a great amphitheater, and nothing brings family out more than having someone from their family performing.”

The competition is open to amateur performers who live in Wellington or attend a Wellington school.

Singers, singing groups, dancers and dance troupes will have an opportunity to audition live in front of a panel of judges and an audience, just like popular television singing competitions.

“It builds on pop culture,” See IDOL, page 4

B&G CLUB GALA

The Wellington Boys & Girls Club held its 24th annual dinner dance and auction, themed “Le Cirque,” Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Wycliffe Golf & Countr y Club. Shown here are event cochairs Dr. Ronald and Bobbi Ackerman and Dr. Joshua and Amber Ackerman. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO B Y LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Butterfly House Opens On Wellington Regional Campus

Area officials join hospital staff members for the ribbon cutting.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Palm Beach County’s first rape victim treatment center, the Butterfly House, opened its doors with a Dec. 1 ceremony to christen its home on the Wellington Regional Medical Center campus.

The idea was spearheaded by State Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto (R-District 27). Soon after she was elected, Benacquisto met with officials from the Palm Beach County sheriff’s and state attorney’s offices and asked them what type of assistance is needed for victims of sexual assault.

“I wanted to know how these

services were coordinated with law-enforcement efforts to prosecute the individuals who were responsible for the crime,” said Benacquisto, herself a victim of sexual assault as a young woman.

Based on the information from the meetings, Benacquisto realized that there weren’t any centralized facilities for rape victims in the county. With assistance from Palm Beach County Victim Services, she helped design a facility where rape victims could receive specialized care in one central location, and that was the beginning of the Butterfly House.

The center offers rape victims

the opportunity to receive care from specially trained doctors, nurses and counselors who understand the needs of those who have been raped. “Other counties across the state have such facilities, and it became clear that it was something that was greatly needed in Palm Beach County,” Benacquisto recalled.

Before the Butterfly House opened, rape victims in Palm Beach County were sent to local hospitals, where they often would not receive the proper specialized assistance they needed.

Benacquisto worked with a task See BUTTERFLY, page 18

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Page 3

NEWS

State Law Has Wellington High School SAC Members Worried

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Concerned about a new state law that could fundamentally change the way high schools are financed, members of Wellington High School’s School Advisory Committee gathered state representatives and educational leaders last Thursday to discuss its ramifications.

Florida Senate Bill 2120, passed last May, will reclassify hundreds of core high school classes as extracurricular, as well as change the way other programs are financed.

Mitch Marcus, co-chair of the SAC’s Subcommittee on Core Curriculum, told attendees at the Dec. 1 meeting that previously, there were 800 classes designated as “core” classes for high school students.

Under the Class Size Reduction Amendment passed by voters in 2002, those classes had to be adequately financed and have no more than 25 students in each class.

The new law, however, reclassifies 600 of those classes as extracurricular, he said.

“Rather than provide funding for the 800 classes,” Marcus said, “they reclassified 600 of them and said, ‘Look, now we have perfect funding for all the core classes.’”

Many of those classes will include Advanced Placement classes, some foreign language classes and other specialty programs, explained Sharon Mullen, cochair of the Subcommittee on Core Curriculum.

“Any course that a student might receive college credit for would be classified as extracurricular,” she said, “even if they were taking that course to satisfy a requirement to graduate high school.”

Once SAC members learned this, Mar-

cus said, they grew concerned. “We understood it, but we couldn’t believe it was really happening,” he said. “It didn’t seem right to us.”

So members sent out invitations to all local state representatives and senators, as well as school board members and Palm Beach County School District staff to discuss the issue and bring awareness to the community.

Attending were state representatives Joseph Abruzzo (D-District 85) and Mark Pafford (D-District 88), school board members Marcia Andrews and Chuck Shaw, Assistant Superintendent Janis Andrews and Chief Financial Officer Michael Burke.

Reclassifying the core classes, Marcus said, bypasses the Class Size Reduction Amendment.

“Right now there is no cap, theoretically, on how many children can be in any of those classes that are not in the remaining 200 core classes,” he explained.

Abruzzo told the audience that he has continuously voted against the state budget because of cuts in education — an issue that has divided the house along party lines.

“It’s embarrassing how much education has been cut by the legislature,” he said.

He noted that Florida ranks among the lowest in student funding and graduation rates.

“When it comes to per-student funding, we are 41st in the nation,” Abruzzo said. “We are dead last when it comes to per-one-thousand funding. For our graduation rate, we are ranked 44th. We obviously have a monumental problem.”

Abruzzo noted that it was the decision of the voters to limit class sizes but that the legislature has not been willing to put

Speakers included state representativ es Mark Paf ford and Joe Abruzzo, and School Board Member Marcia Andrews. the money forward. “The legislature has done everything it can to undo the will of the voters,” he said. “What occurred was the redefining of core courses so that they can start packing classes again.”

Pafford agreed, noting that financing has continuously been cut from education.

“The [Florida] Constitution requires that we provide adequate funding for education,” he said. “It’s very clear. But that has not occurred.”

This is a problem, he said, that would seep into the private sector when there is not an educated work force in Florida.

“At some point, the private sector is going to demand from the state that we begin educating children,” Pafford said.

“That’s going to be the trigger where you’ll begin to see a change in education.”

Andrews encouraged those in attendance to become advocates for public education and push for change.

“It’s going to take all of us working together to make it happen for our children,” she said. “We have a role to play as an advocate for public education.”

Pafford and Abruzzo agreed, pointing to the success in the vetoing of Senate Bill 6 in 2010, which was thanks to an outcry from the community. “[Abruzzo] and I were on the floor for Senate Bill 6 and it was 1 or 2 a.m., and we were all watching Facebook,” Pafford said. “It was impressive because when we’re in Tallahassee, we have maybe a quarter of the people in this room in the galley. We can get away with murder.

Continue to use those type of social networking tools, because it helps us feel that we have someone at our back.”

Mitch Marcus explains the law.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Pafford said that residents should contact their legislators to let them know their opinions on the issues. “I need to know where you stand,” he said. “You have to be angry enough to make sure you communicate that.”

Abruzzo agreed, noting that the movement against SB 6 prompted former Gov. Charlie Crist’s veto.

“The people came out in such strong force that those issues died,” he said. “If we get that type of movement on some of these key education issues, history shows it will pass.”

SAC members agreed to continue an open dialogue with legislators and the community in hopes of bringing change.

For more information about Wellington High School’s School Advisory Committee, e-mail sac_meeting@sent.com.

Royal Palm Hires Outside Firm To Track Homes In Foreclosure

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council decided last week to hire a third-party consultant to track troubled properties after village staff members agreed that Federal Property Registration Corp could do the job better than keeping the work in house.

At a meeting Dec. 1, Village Manager Ray Liggins noted that council members had previously directed staff to bring back a proposal from FPRC. Liggins said there had been some confusion at the time over the number of actual foreclosure filings that Royal Palm Beach staff members were finding in the

records and what the company was finding.

“It was a significant difference, and the difference was in the time frame. They were going back much further, a couple of years more than we were going back,” Liggins said, adding that FPRC has a good reputation for tracking foreclosures. “They have developed a process to scrub that data and do it in a very efficient manner.”

Community Development Director Rob Hill thanked the council for giving his staff a threemonth opportunity to see if it could handle the foreclosure tracking itself.

“Since our last meeting, we did

have the opportunity to meet with the Federal group here and reevaluate the actual numbers of foreclosures that are out there within our community,” Hill said. “I think we would be better served with this kind of service.”

Hill said he agreed with the terms of the contact, including a provision that FPRC will collectively notify the owners and mortgagees of the properties that are in default and would continue to provide registration of those properties electronically.

“They will accept all expenses involved with that process as it comes through,” Hill said. “They would investigate and report and take corrective actions monthly,

which would also include a compilation of the properties that they have noticed, so we can track the progress of the registrations and also measure the number of distressed homes within the village.”

Hill added that FPRC also provides a web site that allows people to provide their registrations online.

Liggins said the company would collect $75 for each registration from the $150 fee, and that if the village raised the fee, the company’s fee would go up proportionally.

FPRC representative Tom Darnell attended the meeting to answer questions about his firm.

“One of the great things that we

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do offer is the ability to leverage best practices with other communities that we work with, which is now about 25 communities in Florida, Georgia and Pennsylvania,” he said. “We learn constantly from other parties out there that are dealing with similar issues that we’re all dealing with because of the foreclosure crisis.”

Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas asked whether there had been any legal challenges raised against his company about registration procedures in any of those communities, and Darnell said there had not.

“When we first started, it’s been a little over two years now, there were a lot of concerns about that,”

Darnell said. “Even the banks that we communicated with on a regular basis thought they might move in that direction. They have since seen the value that we bring to them. They consider us their partners also, as a collaborator between our government partners and themselves.”

Councilman Fred Pinto said he favored hiring the company. “I guess we have gone full circle with this,” he said. “It was a learning process, as long as you are solid and comfortable with this, Rob.” “I am,” Hill said.

Pinto made a motion to contract with FPRC, which carried 4-0.

Page 4 December 9 - December 15, 2011

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OUR OPINION

It’s Time Florida Properly Funded The State’s Educational System At last week’s meeting of Wellington High School’s SchoolAdvisory Committee, SAC members met with local legislators and Palm Beach County School Board members to voice their concerns regarding the recently enacted Florida Senate Bill 2120, which reclassifies many high school core classes as non-core classes. These include courses that fall under the classification of “career education, and courses that may result in college credit.” This includes Advanced Placement classes, which are important to the success of our students as well as our schools, in light of the state’s school grading system.

The legislature has once again used bureaucratic sleight of hand as an end run around the goals of voters who passed the Class Size Reduction Amendment in 2002. The legislature has decided the continuing costs of reducing class size should come not from other areas of the budget, but from education funding. In the past, cuts to education usually were aimed at the non-core classes, those considered extracurricular, such as the arts. Although that was always a controversial topic for schools activists, the thought of de-funding core classes was not even a concern. But now, with three-quarters of current core classes not receiving their full funding, the days of worrying about saving music class and art history seem like the good old days.

The news out of Tallahassee, however, is not all bad. Gov. Rick Scott this week proposed adding an extra $1 billion to the education budget. Though further details of his plans weren’t released, we’re happy to hear that Gov. Scott wants Florida to do a better job in education.

Unfortunately, we’ve got a long way to go. The state has already made significant cuts to education over the years, and an extra billion won’t go as far as it should. It’s too early to tell whether Scott’s proposal would have a serious impact or if it’s a case of too little, too late.

The legislature knew what the costs would be when the Class Size Reduction Amendment passed in 2002, yet it failed to plan accordingly. Lawmakers ignored these costs during good times and cried poverty during bad times, and then made tweaks to them to make the most difficult portions go away.

As State Rep. Joe Abruzzo pointed out at the SAC meeting, Florida ranks 41st in the nation in per-student funding and 44th in the number of students who graduate high school. If Tallahassee keeps regarding education as an expensive burden, rather than the crucial investment that it is, Florida will continue to be at the bottom of its class. It’s high time that Florida gets serious about education funding, and not continue falling further and further behind.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Coates: I Voted Against Inspector General Lawsuit It is unfortunate that I am somehow being presented as having been in favor of suing the Palm Beach County Inspector General.

I am the only one on the Wellington Village Council who objected to joining the suit and expressly voted against it.

I expressed my objection and refusal to join in on the consensus of council both at the agenda review and the council meeting the next day. When the issue came up during the council meeting, I expressly indicated my objection and was merely attempting to explain to the community what the supposed purpose of the lawsuit was.

Unfortunately, I was only quoted on my explanation of what I was told by the village’s attorney as to the purpose of the lawsuit and not the fact that I objected to joining the lawsuit to begin with.

If the whole story would have been presented, it would have been clear that I expressed strong support for the Office of the Inspector General and its mandate, and was against joining the lawsuit! The only confusion that existed was that caused by pulling a quote out of context. I hope this clarifies once and for all my position on this issue.

Howard Coates Wellington Councilman

Margolis: Lawsuit Insults Voters Palm Beach County voters overwhelmingly voted to support the creation of the Office of the Inspector General. Why did they do this? It was because they were tired of the corruption that exemplified their county and their cities. But many obstacles were thrown in front of the office by the Palm Beach County League of Cities and the 15 municipalities that entered into a lawsuit to weaken the office. All smoke and mirrors, and quite insulting!

What are they afraid of? I can tell you. The inspector general’s office can look backward at any allegation that comes to their attention. The Ethics Commission, on the other hand, can only look forward from June 1. And the inquiries and allegations keep coming in. Wellington is No. 4 on the

list of municipalities with the greatest number of inquiries, about 120, as Inspector General Sheryl Steckler commented on.

The residents of Wellington should mandate that the village remove itself from the lawsuit. Fill the council chambers, e-mail the council, and let your voices be heard! It’s our village!

Bob Margolis Wellington Editor’s note: Mr. Margolis is a former member of the Wellington Village Council.

Beware Cement And Incinerators West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio objects to the extensions of State Road 7 and Jog Road; she is concerned about vehicle emissions and the impact on the city’s water catchment area.

Me? I’m more concerned about emissions from the existing and proposed incinerators that border this area, as well as pollution with mercury coming from cement plants in Palm Beach County as more likely sources of contamination of West Palm’s water catchment area. There are more; check the web. Perhaps the City of West Palm needs to think more seriously about other sources for their public water supply.

Muoio should not stand in the way of the extensions of SR 7 or Jog Road. It is of interest to note that the U.S. House voted in October to delay cement pollution rules.

Patricia M.Abbott Royal Palm Beach

Drop The IG Suit On Nov. 29, the Wellington Village Council held a regular meeting. The topic of the Palm Beach County Inspector General came up. Our village set a line budget of $72,000 knowing we have to pay our share to the county. Yet, our village attorney engaged in a lawsuit not to pay and that our county should pay. Still, the taxpayers voted 72 percent to pay for this, regardless of where and how monies flowed. Nothing was the best thing for Wellington to do. Let the others fight it out at no cost to the taxpayers.

One of the five speakers asked: Was this item on an agenda? How and when was this voted on to file? Many other questions came up and went unanswered. A coun-

cil member asked staff: How much is this costing our village in the ongoing investigations? It was said we have three full-time employees working with the inspector general on at least four or more investigations...

I have a question: How much will this litigation cost Wellington taxpayers, $150,000? When I spoke, I stated that if it was not for the council and staff, there would be no investigation. True or false?

You decide. Our village has big shoulders, so no one can look over them. Still claiming transparency — this is a smoke screen to the public.

At closing, our attorney and council made comments criticizing speakers for false statements. In fact, it was the other way around.

Speakers asked for a point of order and rightfully asked. Then our mayor requested for sheriff’s assistance to remove disorderly people. I say if you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen, Mr. Mayor.

All of 15 people in attendance and our mayor felt threatened by two elderly people asking for a point of order. The people have a right to get answers. The problem is Wellington never gives answers to residents. The Village of Wellington must withdraw from the inspector general lawsuit.

Bart Novack Wellington

Don’t Derail The Inspector General The actions by 15 cities is simply unacceptable. Their lawsuit seems to lack merit, and regardless of the outcome, it should be seen for what it is. It is obvious that these detractors will stop at nothing in their attempt to derail the inspector general. What will they think of next?

The actions of these detractors desecrates common decency. Their actions are unacceptable and reeks of ulterior motives. What will they think of next?

We, the voters, must not lose sight of the fact that it was our mandate; 72 percent of us voted for transparency and open government. We wanted a “watch dog.” We wanted to shed the label of “Corruption County.”

If these 15 cities had our best interests at heart, they would not continue their futile attempt to delay or derail the inspector general

by withholding funds. The money currently being withheld by these 15 cities (shame on you, Wellington and Palm Beach Gardens) should be held in a special account and paid with interest to the inspector general at the end of the lawsuit, which borders on frivolous.

I am encouraged by the support being shown to the inspector general by the Town-Crier, the voters of Palm Beach County and especially our county commissioner, Jess Santamaria, who has worked tirelessly for transparency and open government.

Litigation only means delay. The actions of these cities should be seen for what they really are: obstructive. These type of actions are outrageous and indefensible.

What are the consequences? We will not forget. We, the voters of Palm Beach County, have the luxury of fair and unbiased reporting in the Town-Crier (keep up the good work) and other news outlets. With that in mind, I say to the fickle 15: We, the people, have spoken in favor of the inspector general. Respect the mandate.

Don’t insult our intelligence. Live with it.

Karl Witter The Acreage

WinterFest A Great Success The Wellington Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce another smashing success! WinterFest with Vanilla Ice 2011 drew record-breaking crowds and thrilled the audience with the best of performers, emcees and many surprises.

Presented by the International Polo Club Palm Beach, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington, it provided a lineup of holiday performances, a visit from Santa and snow! Local celebrity musical sensation, philanthropist and DIY Network television star Vanilla Ice performed his iconic “Ice Ice Baby.” Our very own incoming president and presenting sponsor, John Wash, was a hit onstage, providing the audience with many laughs and holiday cheer. Several local dignitaries, including Mayor Darell Bowen, NewsChannel 5 anchor Roxanne Stein and Chamber President Michael Stone, kicked off this timehonored event as well as the annual tree-lighting ceremony.

Chaired by Dr. Randy Laurich of the Wellness Experience and Victor Connor of the Connor Financial Group, this event is the most anticipated holiday event of the season. Their exceptional hard work and dedication to this event allow us to celebrate its success...

Family-friendly events such as a reading of the ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Mayor Bowen, a visit from Santa courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter and a salute to the troops allowed participation from the children and the families and made everyone an integral part of the festivities.

The chamber wishes to thank our sponsors, without whom we could not host such a spectacular event: John Wash and the International Polo Club Palm Beach (presenting sponsor); Equestrian Sport Productions (platinum sponsor); the Wellness Experience, Prescriptions Plus Inc. and My Community Pharmacy (gold sponsors); Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance (silver sponsor); Wellington Regional Medical Center, Security Self Storage and Iberia Bank (hospitality sponsors).

A very special thank-you to Capt. Jay Hart and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Joe Piconcelli, Meridith Tuckwood, the Town-Crier, Around Wellington and Marcella Mirande-Ketcham.

Our WinterFest sponsors were Ambassador Pest Management, Japan Karate-Do Genbu-Kai of Florida, Perfect Smile Dentistry and Waterstone of Wellington/Vista Lago. Our exceptional vendors were ADT Home Health Security Services, Al Paglia, All About Me Massage, the Alzheimer’s Association of Southeast Florida, Ambassador Pest Management, Biba NY, Big Lock Mobile Kitchen, BJ Events Blooming with Autism, Chappy’s Food Court, Chickfil-A, Wellington, Cobblestone Chiropractic & Wellness, Coca Liza-Francis Jewelry, Costco Wholesale, Devcon Security, Diabetic Support Program, Equestrian Sport Productions, Glasses at

a Discount, Gulfstream Cooling, Horizon Pool & Patio, Iberia Bank, IGT Graphics, International Polo Club Palm Beach, Japan Karate-Do Genbu Kai of Florida, JC Western Wear, Lewis J. Moskowitz LMHC, Loco Lights, M&M Medical Enterprises, Melody Creates, My Community Pharmacy, Paws 4 Liberty and Vinceremos, Perfect Smile Dentistry, Security Self Storage, Stonewood Grill, TD Bank, the Ice King of Wellington, the Wellness Experience, Ultra Cleaners, W4CY Radio, Waterstone of Wellington and Vista Lago, Wellington Christian School, the Wellington Equestrian Preservation Alliance and Wellington Regional Medical Center.

Our performers could not have been more phenomenal! The talents of our local superstars are amazing. If you have not heard or seen of the following, please make it a point to check them out. Thank you to Mallory Blue, Melinda Elena, Lexi Luca, Taylor Renee, Meghan Ritmiller, Emily Sall, the U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard, Donna Tucci’s School of Dance, Rocky Dance Studio and “Elvis,” and a very special thank you to Fonda Cash!

Our local superstar Vanilla Ice astounds us each year. His spirit of giving and dedication to our community is outstanding. His efforts and those of his team (Frank, Wes and Chuck) make this event possible. Each is to be commended and thanked for their generosity and for giving back to Wellington. The chamber is grateful to have the privilege of working with them!

The chamber salutes all the exhibitors, sponsors, the International Polo Club Palm Beach and our gracious venue host Wellington for making their contribution to Wellington’s unique lifestyle, its economy and this spectacular event. Thanks to all for attending.

We look forward to seeing you all next year. Happy holidays!

Michela Perillo-Green Executive Director, Wellington Chamber of Commerce

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

OPINION

Beware The Long-Term Health Consequences Of Food Additives Despite the progress we have made over the past couple of decades, there remains an unhealthy over-consumption of processed foods (added sodium, fats and sugars), which can lead to heart disease, diabetes and stroke, according to an ever-growing list of nutritional pundits.

Sweeteners such as saccharine, aspartame and high-fructose corn

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin syrup lead the manufacturers’ assault on our taste buds to fill the body’s craving for sweets. Sac-

charine is known to cause bladder cancer in laboratory animals.

High-fructose corn syrup seems to be everywhere, from cereals to salad dressing and cookies. It is even sometimes added to bread and rolls. And it is accused as a major source of America’s obesity problem. Aspartame was discovered to cause cancer in rats. A study of 1,900 rodents linked the

sweetener with high rates of lymphoma, leukemia and several related cancers.

Preservatives, including nitrates and nitrites, sodium benzoate and sulfur dioxide, keep meat from becoming rancid, and prevent brown spots and rotting in produce. Benefits include eliminating bacterial growth, but the serious downside is they destroy valuable vitamins.

As an aside, more and more studies conclude that vitamin D is essential for good health. It can prevent cancer and heart disease and help the body’s immune system battle colds and the flu. A Harvard study tells us that 60 percent of Americans suffer from a vitamin D deficiency. Thus, it becomes important not to forget fortified milk, sardines and “good ingredi-

ent” cereals… or take a vitamin D supplement.

In conclusion, try to eat foods in their natural state. Here’s an easy reminder: Processing a whole potato with the skin into instant mashed potatoes removes the fiber, some of the vitamins, and it adds a significant amount of sodium to the food. Remember the potato, and try harder to eat right!

plained. “Then we’ll narrow it down to the top 24 on Jan. 27 and 28, and then the top 12 on Feb. 10 and 11.”

An overall winner will take home the grand prize of $750, Piconcelli said, and runners-up — one from each age group — will receive $250.

“The acts will also get great exposure,” he added.

Coates said he’d like to see it become an annual competition

and encouraged residents to come out and audition, as well as come out to watch and support all the great talent.

“The more the merrier,” he said.

“The more people who audition, the stronger the event will be. I’d like to encourage anyone and everyone to come out, audition, or come and watch.”

For more information, or to download an application, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

NEWS Idol

Wellington Competition

continued from page 1 Coates said. “It’s something a little different. We have a lot of opportunities for young people who are athletically inclined, so this will give an opportunity for young people and adults who are artistically inclined to get recognition.”

Cultural Programs & Facilities Manager Joe Piconcelli explained that the performers would be separated by age group: ages 8-12, 1317, and 18 and older. Groups will be sorted by the oldest person in the group.

Initially, 100 acts will be invited to audition in front of a panel of judges, he explained. It will be narrowed down to 24 acts (eight in each age group) for the semi-finals and then 12 acts (four in each age

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group) for the finals.

“The auditions will be live at the amphitheater,” Piconcelli said. “It will be a great event that we hope will bring the community out.”

Registration is $20 for individuals and $40 for groups. Applications will be taken through Dec. 21 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) and Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) during normal business hours.

Additional registration days will be held Jan. 4 and 5 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Jan. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Applications must include a portrait photograph, proof of birth date and a CD or DVD of the performance labeled with each performer ’s name, title of the piece, address, phone number and date of birth.

“We’ll hold live auditions on Jan. 20, 21 and 22,” Piconcelli ex-

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December 9 - December 15, 2011

Page 5

NEWS

SECOND ANNUAL WINTERFEST KICKS OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN WELLINGTON

The holiday season kicked off with the second annual WinterFest on Friday, Dec. 2 at the Wellington Am phitheater. Presented by the Village of Wellington and the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, the event featured entertainment by local performers, including a special performance by Wellington resident Vanilla Ice, as well as other holiday activities, including the lighting of Wellington’s Christmas tree. SEE VIDEO FROM THIS EVENT AT WWW.GOTO WNCRIER.COM PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

WPTV Anchor Roxanne Stein, Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen and Vanilla Ice on stage.

Yvonne and Julian Gibson-Serrette with Lorraine and Dr. Randy Laurich of the Wellness Experience.

Christopher, James and Monica Hoffman.

Event host John Wash, Mayor Darell Bowen and Wellington Chamber President Michael Stone.

Wellington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michela Perillo-Green with PBSO Cpl. Alex Nunes and Wellington Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator Meridith Tuckwood.

Chris Tognacci, T.J. Aubuchon, Mike Moore, PBSO Capt. Jay Hart, Meridith Tuckwood and Daryl Boyd.

ROYAL PALM BEACH PRESENTS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT VETERANS PARK The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its annual Holiday Festival of Lights on Monday, Dec. 5 at Veterans Park. In addition to the lighting of the 30-foot tree, attendees posed for photos with Santa and enjoyed youth performances.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Santa Claus was on hand to pose for pictures.

Youngsters perform holiday music for the audience.

RPB Mayor Matty Mattioli and Councilwoman Martha Webst er.

Page 6

December 9 - December 15, 2011

The Town-Crier

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CRIME NEWS

Two Arrested After Assault In RPB

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report DEC. 5 — Two men were arrested early Monday morning following a robbery on Sparrow Drive. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, the victim called the Royal Palm Beach substation after he was robbed at gunpoint and beaten with a baton. The deputy canvassed the area and observed a white male walking along the road who matched the victim’s description of one of the suspects. He was later identified as 28-year-old Philip Guderyon of West Palm Beach.

According to the report, the deputy commanded Guderyon several times to stop, but he did not.

According to the report, the deputy drew his gun and commanded Guderyon to stop, which prompted him to turn around and approach the deputy in an aggressive manner. When Guderyon came close enough, the deputy attempted to restrain him, but he resisted. A second deputy arrived on scene, and they were able to get Guderyon handcuffed and subdued. According to the report, the deputy found a black extendable baton and pill bottle in the grass near where he observed Guderyon. The victim identified Guderyon as one of the men who had robbed him. The second man, 29-year-old Michael Drain of Royal Palm Beach, was located in the area during a traffic stop and identified by the victim. Both were arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail. Guderyon was charged with two counts of battery and resisting arrest, while Drain was charged with armed robbery and battery with a deadly weapon.

••• DEC. 2 — A resident of the Victoria Groves community called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Friday to report a burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left Sunday, July 3 and returned home last Thursday to find his home had been burglarized. Someone removed a 42-inch Sony television, a Sony DVD player and miscellaneous quilts. According to the report, there were no signs of forced entry, however the perpetrator(s) might have lifted a sliding glass door off its track. The stolen items were valued at approximately $6,200. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 3 — A Royal Palm Beach woman’s stolen laptop computer was recovered last Friday when a computer technician discovered it did not belong to the suspect who brought it in for repair. According to the report, the victim’s blue Acer laptop was stolen from her home and a black female brought it into a computer repair shop in West Palm Beach to have the pass code reset. According to the report, the computer technician was able to get into the computer and discover the victim’s identity. The suspect was caught on video surveillance cameras.

DEC. 5 — A resident of Murcott Blvd. called the PBSO’sAcreage/Loxahatchee substation Monday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between midnight and 6 a.m., someone entered the victim’s property and stole two dirt bike helmets from her open porch. The stolen items were valued at approximately $500. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 5 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded Monday to a home on Folkestone Circle regarding a stolen vehicle attempt. According to

the report, the victim left her van unlocked in the driveway last Sunday and sometime between 11 p.m. and 6:15 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the van, broke the steering column, started the van and left it running with the door open. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) left a hammer, a bandana and a plastic tea bottle in the van. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 5 — A resident of Sugar Pond Manor called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left her car in the Wellington Marketplace plaza at approximately 8 p.m. last Sunday night because she lost her keys somewhere in the parking lot. When she returned to the car at 6 p.m. Monday, she discovered that all four of her doors were unlocked and $75 cash and a white backpack had been stolen. The deputy believed the perpetrator(s) may have used her keys to get in to the car.

There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 5 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched Monday to a home in Palm Beach Point regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 3 p.m. last Friday and 9 p.m. Monday, someone entered the property and stole a Honda ATV from the patio. The victim said the perpetrator(s) may have come from a gate located along a canal on the south side of the home.

There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 6 — An employee of Radio Shack called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Tuesday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 1:45 p.m., an unknown white male between 18 and 25 years old entered the store and took the employee’s Samsung phone from behind the counter and put it in his pocket, then exited the store. According to the report, the employee was able to trace his phone to a home off Lake Worth Road. The phone was valued at approximately $700. Video surveillance footage of the incident was available.

DEC. 6 — A resident of Sag Harbor called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday to report a burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left home on Monday at approximately 9 a.m., leaving her rear sliding glass door unlocked. When she arrived home at approximately 2 p.m. the following afternoon, she discovered several electronic items missing. The perpetrator(s) stole two black iPhone 4s phones, a Google tablet and an Apple TV box.

The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,520. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 7 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched Wednesday to a home on 53rd Road North regarding a vehicle theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. Tuesday and 6:30 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s gated property and removed a green 1999 Dodge Durango from her garage. The deputy found several areas of disturbed dirt and believes the vehicle was pushed out to the roadway. According to the report, the victim said the vehicle was unlocked with the keys in the ignition. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Fantasia Cook is a black female, 5’4” tall and weighing 180 lbs., with black hair and brown eyes. Her date of birth is 01/ 01/88. Cook is wanted for violation of probation on a charge of grand theft (felony) and violation of probation on charges of no, improper or expired driver’s license, and failure to maintain insurance (traffic).

Her occupation is cashier. Her last known address was Shaker Cir cle in Wellington.

Cook is wanted as of 12/08/1 1.

• Daniel Oberti is a white male, 6’0” tall and weighing 225 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. His date of birth is 09/01/54.

Oberti is wanted for fraudulent use of personal identification inf ormation. His occupation is unknown. His last known address was Milpond Court in Greenacres. Ober ti is wanted as of 12/08/11.

Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stopper s at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Fantasia Cook

Daniel Oberti

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

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December 9 - December 15, 2011

Page 7

NEWS

New, Stricter Rules Will Govern Fertilizer Use In Royal Palm Beach

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Landscape workers in Royal Palm Beach will have to be certified to apply fertilizer under an ordinance that received preliminary approval by the Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week.

The new registration procedure is part of an effort to reduce the discharge of nutrients into the C51 Basin, which includes the canal system in Royal Palm Beach.

The so-called fertilizer friendly-use ordinance was adopted in order to comply with a state statute requiring any municipality located along a nutrient-impaired watershed to adopt Florida’s model ordinance for fertilizer use in urban landscapes, according to RPB Public Works Director Paul Webster.

The ordinance regulates the use of fertilizers by any applicator in the village and requires proper training for commercial and institutional fertilizer applicators, along with licensing requirements.

Municipalities have until March 2013 to adopt the new state regulations.

Webster said the ordinance is designed to minimize the effect of fertilizer on water bodies. “Nutrients enter into urban runoff from many areas,” Webster said. “They enter through the right-of-way landscaped areas, recreational facilities, landscaped areas along water bodies, golf courses, and residential and commercial landscaped areas.”

The resulting nutrients in runoff can result in algae blooms, reduce light penetration, clogged water intake systems and less oxygen in the water. Aside from killing fish and other marine wildlife, too many nutrients can also cause odor issues and degrade real-estate values, Webster said.

“Any local government that is within a watershed of a nutrientimpaired water body is required to adopt as a minimum the Florida [Department of Environmental Protection] model ordinance,

and this ordinance that we have prepared for you meets those requirements,” Webster said.

The C-51 Basin has been determined to be impaired by chlorophyll-A, as well as nitrogen and phosphorus. There is also a dissolved oxygen deficiency at the north end of the M-1 Canal.

A total of 26 Palm Beach County municipalities are allowed to discharge into nutrient-impaired water bodies, including the C-51, and all will be required to adopt similar ordinances.

The ordinance establishes prohibited application periods, identifies fertilizer-free zones and specifies allowable application rates and methods.

By 2014, all commercial and institutional applicators must complete a six-hour training program in best management practices for the protection of water resources offered by the DEP through the Florida/Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service.

“All businesses that apply fer-

tilizer to turf or landscape plants shall provide proof of completion of that training program to the village prior to the business owner obtaining their business tax receipt annually,” Webster said. “After Dec. 31, 2013, all commercial applicators of fertilizer operating within the village shall have and carry in their possession at all times when applying fertilizer, evidence of certification.”

Application will be prohibited during times of forecast heavy rainfall or saturated soil, Webster said. Fertilizer also cannot be applied in fertilizer-free zones, within 10 feet of any pond, stream, water body, lake, canal or wetland, or within 3 feet if a deflector shield or drop spreader is used.

Allowable application rates are provided by Florida Statutes and vary by plant and turf types and are found on the labels of fertilizer bags. “The emphasis there is you have to follow the label,” Webster said, adding that special rules apply to golf courses and that

fertilizer applied to impervious surfaces must be removed immediately and must not be swept, flushed or blown into stormwater drains.

“There are only a few exceptions to this,” he said. “There are agricultural exemptions, farm operations, scientific research and others… To my knowledge, we have no land or property here in the village that meets those exemptions.”

Additional information regarding the ordinance can be found at www.stormwaterandme.org.

RPB Attorney Brad Biggs said the intent of the ordinance is to get applicators to comply with statutes. “It’s a current and relevant topic,” Biggs said. “The nice thing about doing this early, because I think we’re ahead of the curve, is that we can tell people to make sure that next year that you’re going to have to have this to get your business tax receipt and by April 2013, you are going to have to have everybody trained.”

Village Manager Ray Liggins said the ordinance should have a positive effect on water bodies in the village. “Once everybody is educated on this ordinance and gets the training, people don’t usually have a problem complying with ordinances like this,” he said.

“It really will have the biggest bang for the buck when it relates to your canals.”

Liggins said that Wellington has had its ordinance on the books for a while and that, as a result, most of local garden supply stores already stock fertilizers that comply with the statutes.

Councilman Fred Pinto asked who gets cited if an applicator violates the standards. Community Development Director Rob Hill, whose code officers will enforce the ordinance, said ultimately the responsibility falls on the homeowner, but Webster said the applicator is the one who will be cited if he intentionally applies fertilizer in violation of the ordinance.

Merger Plan, Major Events Highlight Year At Palms West Chamber

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Palms West Chamber of Commerce CEO Jaene Miranda offered a retrospective of the past year at Monday’s holiday luncheon at Breakers West Country Club, highlighting the chamber’s imminent merger with its counterpart in Lake Worth.

Miranda said it is becoming a challenge to recap the year ’s events and activities because there are so many, in addition to numerous new happenings to add to the list.

“Probably the most interesting thing that is happening within the chamber is our intent to merge with the Greater Lake Worth Chamber of Commerce,” Miranda said. “D-Day, that’s decision day, is Jan. 12. Right now, we are going through due diligence, with both chambers getting to know each other and getting a chance to look at each other’s books and really understanding the benefits of what will happen when we come together.”

Miranda cited greater strength on advocacy issues and expanded networking opportunities, with a 50 percent growth

as a result of the merger. “We’re really excited about that and, of course, the overall improvement in staff support,” she said.

The chamber has spent a lot of time researching the possible merger, Miranda said. “We have a lot of our committees that are active and involved,” she said. “Lake Worth also has a five-member transition team.”

She said the transition will result in a completely new name and look for the merged chamber. The unveiling will be Jan. 23.

Other accomplishments were the second year and strong growth of the Young Professionals Group headed by chamber staffer Jessica Clasby. “They move around town, and they have a lot of fun wherever they’re at,” Miranda said.

The chamber’s medical committee, headed by Dr. Jeffrey Bishop, has expanded its mixers from quarterly to about eight meetings a year and has a greatly increased medical membership, Miranda said, explaining that the committee is important because medical interests make

up a large portion of the local economy.

A new equestrian committee is just getting started. “We had a few meetings, and we are getting ready to have our first mixer for that committee, and we are really excited about where that is heading,” Miranda said.

The chamber produces many major events all year round.

“You participate in our events because it is a marketing tool,” Miranda said. “You get your name out there to people you really want to reach out to. We do nine signature events that help our membership connect not only to the community but other sponsors and businesses that are involved in the events.”

The Florida Green, Energy & Climate Conference, sponsored by the chamber, continues to grow. “This last year, we celebrated its second year, adding the initiative of the 100 Cities Summit,” Miranda said. “We actually had 85 cities represented from around the state that we underwrote through a grant program. We had local, state and national officials attend.

It’s a really effective program helping us

move forward in the State of Florida. We are really proud to be sponsors and producers of this event.”

The Royal Palm Art & Music Festival is another event that has been tremendously successful. “We started that a couple of years ago in Royal Palm Beach, and last year was another great year,” Miranda said. “For those of you who love great street paintings and love a great day of fun, it’s free to the public, it’s a great event and we thank all our local officials for their support of this initiative. It’s one of the few festivals that close down a street for more than one day.”

Miranda also invited attendees to gather along Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington this Sunday, Dec. 11 for the 1 p.m. kickoff of the annual Western Communities Holiday Parade, which has grown to be one of the largest holiday events in South Florida. “It’s our opportunity again to get out into the community, and this event is also free to the public,” she said.

Information about other events produced by the Palms West Chamber can be found at www.palmswest.com.

Palms West Chamber CEO Jaene Miranda discusses the year’s accomplishments.

PHOTO BY R ON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

County Redistricting Plan Leaves Ibis In Santamaria’s District 6

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach County Commission gave preliminary approval to a redistricting plan Tuesday that keeps the Ibis Golf & Country Club in Commissioner Jess Santamaria’s District 6, despite pleas to move it to Commissioner Karen Marcus’s District 1.

Ibis, a development that has been annexed into the City of West Palm Beach, lies immediately east of The Acreage, which is in unincorporated Palm Beach County, adjacent to the West Palm Beach Water Catchment Area.

While Ibis leaders have said that their community would fit better with the character of District 1, some opponents to the idea have said it is a single-issue change intended only for Ibis residents to increase their political sway to oppose the completion of State Road 7 on the east side of their community.

Last month, Deputy County Administrator Verdenia Baker presented four redistricting models that reflected population changes in the 2010 Census. The county gained 189,000 residents, going from 1.131 million to 1.32 million, a population increase of 16.7 percent. At that meeting, the commissioners tentatively adopted a model that did not reflect the Ibis move, but said they wanted residents to have the opportunity to give input.

At this week’s meeting, Ibis resident Sal Faso reiterated a request he had made several months ago to move Ibis to District 1. Faso said he represented the North County Neighborhood Coalition.

“We exist in northern Palm Beach County in Commissioner Karen Marcus’s district,” Faso said. “I mean no offense to Commissioner Santamaria, and I’m certainly not here to patronize Commissioner Marcus. What we’re trying to do is come to reason with regard to what is the right thing to do for the citizens within the respective community.”

Faso pointed out that he had made the initial request May 3 and the request was placed in Option 3. The commissioners, however, selected Option 4. “We seemed to meet all the eight criteria that were spelled out, so there’s no issue of compliance whatsoever,” he said.

“What I’m here to do is appeal to your sense of reason. What we’re really talking about is a quality of life. We’re not here to talk about politics.”

Faso said Ibis is more a part of northern Palm Beach County, although it is technically in West Palm Beach.

“We spend our time in north Palm Beach,” he said. “We go to hospitals, we’ve got doctors, we have our friends, our children go to school in north Palm Beach. We pay significant taxes. We did an economic impact analysis. We

spend $750 million in District 1.”

He said Ibis is also part of an organization with peer communities in the nine-community North County Neighborhood Coalition.

“We have a commonality of interests,” Faso said. “We get together monthly; we’ve had several of the staff members of the county come to our meetings.”

Santamaria said he had had numerous meetings with Faso over the past several years and he had no problem with Ibis moving out of the district.

Candidate

DeLaTorre

continued from page 1 much interaction with village officials, he expressed a desire to get involved. “We’re not moving. I have my two daughters here, so I have a vested interest just to make sure that the community continues to be a nice, family-oriented, safe community that my kids can grow up in,” he said.

DeLaTorre said that when his second daughter was born, they needed more space and looked in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach to find a new home. “My wife is a schoolteacher, she teaches second grade and schools are very important to us,” he said. “Wellington and Royal Palm both have very high-rated schools.”

DeLaTorre said he is aware that

“Sal, you and I have met on numerous occasions, and I have been to your community on numerous occasions, and there is absolutely no reason for you to start your statement with an apology, because we agree with what you said,” Santamaria said. “I am in 100 percent agreement that you belong to a different district. It really belongs in District 1.”

Commissioner Steven Abrams asked whether changing Ibis to District 1 would create a domino effect on population balance in the

districts. Baker said there are roughly 2,900 residents in Ibis.

She said the population deviation for the four models presented was less than 1 percent.

“If you moved it around and actually only impacted two districts, you would go from 0.8 percent deviation now to 2.43 percent,” Baker said. “That’s a significant deviation.”

Marcus said she felt Ibis is a wonderful community but that if they change the configuration, it would create other problems.

The commissioners generally agreed that moving Ibis would be problematic, but spent far more time discussing whether to move Phil Foster Park and Peanut Island from District 1 to District 7, at Commissioner Priscilla Taylor’s request, who said District 7 is severely underrepresented for parks.

Marcus made a motion to put Phil Foster Park in District 7 but keep Peanut Island in District 1.

The motion carried 4-3, with Burt Aaronson, Taylor and Abrams dissenting.

Royal Palm Beach High School has had some issues in the past but was impressed that it went from a D to a B within a year.

“Between what the new principal is doing and the programs they’re trying to get established over there, that high school has the potential to be a tremendous asset to the community,” he said.

He said he looks forward to seeing the engineering magnet being developed there. “Later on, my daughter might decide she wants to be an engineer, and that could be a huge positive for her education,” he said.

DeLaTorre said there is nothing specific about village government that he is looking to correct or improve, reiterating that his skills would benefit the village. “What I would like to see in the future is just smart, balanced growth,” he

said. “There should ter and stronger.” be a good balance beDeLaTorre said he tween residential, thinks sometimes commercial and probgovernment officials ably the most imporforget that they’re tant thing, which is there to be public sereconomic developvants. ment. You can’t have “They are put in rooftops without havthat position to do ing places for people what’s in the best into work.” terest of the public,” He said it has been he said. “You can nevinteresting to see what er lose focus of that.” the village and other In other village racKen DeLaTorre municipalities have es, Felicia Matula has done to rekindle economic filed to run for mayor against ingrowth. “I think that’s a key com- cumbent Matty Mattioli, who has ponent of a balanced, healthy mu- also filed to seek re-election. Seat nicipality,” he said, “to have smart 3 incumbent Richard Valuntas is growth and attract economic en- also seeking re-election, and regines and job opportunities for mained unopposed as of Monday. people. If you’ve got great schools Actual qualifying for the ballot and great places for people to begins at noon Jan. 31 and ends at work, the community just gets bet- noon Feb. 14.

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NEWS BRIEFS Annual Holiday Horsefest Dec. 11 In WPB

Crafty Ladies — Marcia Isaacs, Judy Blackman, Belle Klein, Mildred Oberon, Lynn Klinger, Sharon Simon, Norma Yaver, Diana Treitler, Sharon Chesler, Iris Bauman, Louise Ruskin, Judy Nussbaum, Lisa Gentry, Roz Owitz, Judy Brainin, Paula Friedman and Sheila Avruch.

Crafty Ladies Bring Some Holiday Joy To Palm Beach County Twenty-three women entered the Lantana office of Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies of Palm Beach County, arms filled with bundles of baby clothes, baby items and hand knitted blankets.

These 23 women call themselves the Crafty Ladies, and they have a mission: to help those less fortunate by sharing their love of knitting and donating the results.

There they were met by more than 30 pregnant women and families as the Crafty Ladies presented much-needed baby items to these families, and together they shared the gift-giving joy of the holiday season.

“You can’t begin to imagine the

joy on the faces and in the hearts of all these women, those giving and those receiving,” said Rhonda Seriani, marketing director of Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies.

“The diversity, but yet a commonality so heartwarming.”

Crafty Ladies was started over 10 years ago. They meet every Thursday morning and share projects and learn from each other.

Wanting to give to the community, they decided to make the blankets and donate to community organizations and hospitals.

For additional information about Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies of Palm Beach County, call (561) 665-4500.

The horses are coming to the waterfront! The City of West Palm Beach and Equestrian Sport Productions are teaming up to create an afternoon of equestrian excitement at the Meyer Amphitheater in downtown West Palm Beach.

The festivities will take place Sunday, Dec. 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.

Holiday Horsefest at the Meyer will be a great afternoon out for the entire family to enjoy and will be sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Activities throughout the day will include a carnival, live music, pony rides, face painting and sky divers, all in conjunction with an exciting equestrian competition in which Olympic riders and horses will race around the amphitheater to compete over impressive obstacles. Even Santa Claus will partake in the excitement, so don’t forget to bring your camera for pictures on Santa’s lap.

The City of West Palm Beach and Equestrian Sport Productions are making the event free to the public, and entertainment for all ages will be offered. Food and beverage options will be available for purchase at the event.

Another exciting event happening throughout the day will be the drawing for the charities that have applied to participate in the 2012 FTI Consulting Great Charity Challenge presented by Fidelity Investments. The 2012 FTI Great Charity Challenge is a relay-style equestrian jumping competition in which 32 equestrian teams will be

paired randomly with 32 charities that serve Palm Beach County to compete for a combined $1.5 million. Holiday Horsefest at the Meyer will feature celebrity guests on hand as well as the random drawing of the charities, including West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio and Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen.

For more information about the event, call Equestrian Sport Productions at (561) 793-5867 or visit www.equestriansport.com.

new 4,000-square-foot building located on Southern Blvd., just west of Palms West Hospital, that is the home of the Palms West Community Foundation and the Palms West Chamber of Commerce. To buy a raffle ticket, call Maureen Gross at (561) 790-6200 or visit www.palmswest.com.

P.W. Community Foundation Car Raffle Dec. 11

Major League Baseball umpire and local resident Angel Hernandez is hosting the second annual Miracle League Gala & Golf on Jan. 6-7 at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington. The public is invited and encouraged to participate.

The event is raising money to construct a baseball field that will support a Miracle League program in the western communities. The Miracle League is a not-for-profit organization that provides an opportunity for disabled children to play baseball, America’s national pastime, in an organized and safe environment.

The Miracle League program provides disabled children the ability to participate with a “buddy” who can assist them in fielding, throwing and hitting. The field requires a special turf and foundation so that wheelchairs and other aids can be used. The estimated cost to build such a field is $300,000.

“There is nothing more rewarding then seeing these children smile and laugh when they play a game that they see their healthy

Santa Claus is coming to town… will he have a shiny, new car in his sleigh for you?

Perhaps, if you have purchased your $20 raffle ticket from the Palms West Community Foundation. The winning ticket for a brand-new car, valued at $30,000 MSRP will be drawn by Santa himself on the afternoon of Dec. 11, following the 28th annual Palms West Holiday Parade in Wellington.

The winner will get to stroll the showrooms of Royal Palm Auto Mall and select any car of their choice — a Toyota, a Mazda or a Nissan — valued at $30,000 or less. And if the winner selects a car that costs a little bit more than $30,000, the dealership will work with them to finance the difference.

The Palms West Community Foundation will use proceeds from the sale of the raffle tickets to offset some of the costs of the

Major League Baseball At Binks Jan. 6-7

friends, brothers and sisters playing,” Hernandez said. “Just the fact that they can say, ‘I can do this!’ is amazing.”

Tickets are $100 per person for the gala on Friday night, Jan. 6.

Food, entertainment and both a silent and live auction will occur.

Several one-of-a-kind items provided by Major League Baseball will be available in the auction as well as other collectible items.

The following day, Saturday, Jan. 7 at noon, golfers will play an 18-hole scramble event. The cost per player is $150. One can buy a combo ticket that includes the gala and golf event for $225.

Last year, more than 20 celebrities participated in the inaugural event. This year another contingent of former and current MLB players are expected, as well as many of the MLB umpires.

For more information on how you can become a sponsor, gala or golf attendee, visit www.angels miracleleague.com and download the entry form, or call Bob Still at (561) 670-8489.

Kidscape Park Reopens Jan. 7 The Indian Trail Improvement District will hold a grand reopening celebration for Kidscape Park (15970 74th St. North, The Acreage) on Saturday, Jan. 7 at 9:30 a.m. There will be a ribbon cutting and sign dedication for the newly redesigned park. Festivities will include refreshments, face painting, a clown, magic tricks and more. For more information, call the ITID office at (561) 793-0874 or visit www.indiantrail.com.

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NEWS

WELLINGTON BOYS & GIRLS CLUB HOSTS ANNUAL DINNER DANCE AT WYCLIFFE

The Wellington Boys & Girls Club held its 24th annual dinner dance and auction, themed “Le Cirque,” Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. A black-tie gala, the dinner dance is known for kicking off the busy Wellington social season.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Boys & Girls Club supporters from Palms West Hospital.

Sherif f Ric Bradshaw with his wife Dorothy.

Dr. Sergio Guerreiro and his wife Beth with Elisa and Patrick Connor.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County CEO Mary O’Connor with Palms West Chamber CEO Jaene Miranda.

Schmedrick the Clown entertains guests.

Dr. Isaac Halfon, Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, Dr. Michael Mikoljczak and Dr. Jef frey Bishop.

Julie Kime, Sherry and Wellington Mayor Darell Bo wen, Juan and Carmen Cocuy, and John Kime.

POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE BRINGS STATE YOUTH BOXING TOURNAMENT TO RPB The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League hosted the Florida Silver Gloves State Boxing Cham pionship Dec. 23 at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center. Young boxers from across the state came to compete in the tournament, which was separated by age and weight. Guests were also treated to demonstrations by professional and champion athletes.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Christian Maragh takes a hit from Brian Gonzales.

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Zachary Bram guards.

Jayson Santana connects with Zachar y Bram.

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NEWS

CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL SUPPORT GROUP PIE-BAKING FUN IN THE ACREAGE

Christian Homeschool Support of the Western Communities held a pie-baking contest for children as part of its monthly meeting Friday, Dec. 2 at the Citrus Grove Park in The Acreage. Twenty-one children participated by baking their own pies, and were judged based on age group and taste. For info., visit http://chsboard.tripod.com or call (561) 753-4750.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

The contestants gather for a group photo.

Cathy Hamilton serves the judges pie.

Tie-breaking judge Pastor Jim Sims of Grace Fellowship Church Acreage Campus.

Judges Joyce Hamilton and Jodie Quintero, owner of Upper Crust Pie in Lake Worth.

Abigale and Adeline MacIntosh, Matthew and Andrew Wright, and Hailie Robertson.

Judges Sheela Blanchette and Stanley Smelt.

AREA CHILDREN GATHER FOR STORY TIME AT SCOTT’S PLACE IN WELLINGTON Story Time at Scott’s Place Playground w as held Saturday, Dec. 3 featuring stories about holidays around the world. Cambridge School Assistant Director Sara Purvis was the guest reader, and guests got to take home a holiday treat. For more info., visit www. wellingtonfl.gov.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/T OWN-CRIER

Wellington Volunteer Coordinator Kimberly Henghold with Cambridge School Assistant Director Sara Purvis.

Children listen to holiday stories.

Sara Purvis reads Ten on the Sled to the children.

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NEWS

WOMEN OF THE WESTERN COMMUNITIES PARTY BENEFITS HARMONY HOUSE

The Women of the Western Communities held its holiday party Thur sday, Dec. 1 at the Madison Green Golf Club. Scouts from Girl Scout Brownie Troop 20511 presented the group with toys and baby supplies they collected for Harmony House. In addition to dinner, Hoffman’s Chocolates President Fred Meltzer w as the guest speaker, and there was a Chinese auction. For more info, contact Mair Armand at mair@wwc-fl.com or call (561) 635-0011.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Women of the Western Communities board member Susan D’Andrea and co-presidents Laurie Piel and Stacy Kaufman receive gifts from Scout Leader Vanessa Esser y and Girl Scout Brownie Troop 20511.

Mair Armand with Fred Meltzer of Hoffman’s Chocolates.

Board members Maureen Gross and Selena Smith.

Co-presidents Laurie Piel and Stacy K aufman with Girl Scout Brownie Troop 20511 Scout leader Vanessa Essery.

Jennifer and Lori Korzeniowski.

Terri Priore and Michelle Haines examine the Chinese auction items.

Christmas In Yesteryear Village Runs Two Weekends At Fairgrounds Santa’s not the only one busily preparing for Christmas. Historic Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds is readying for a simpler time when Christmas was celebrated with strolling carolers, choral groups, gingerbread houses and a fresh cup of hot chocolate or apple cider. For two big weekends in December, Yesteryear Village volunteers will present “Christmas in Yesteryear Village,” a celebration of Christmas reminiscent of a bygone era, sponsored by Publix.

More than a dozen local high school and middle school carolers, choruses, bands and hand bell units are scheduled to entertain

with favorite holiday standards.

Palm Beach Central, Seminole Ridge, Lake Worth, John I. Leonard, Jupiter, Park Vista, Spanish River and Dwyer high schools are just some of the schools participating in the six-day event spread over the next two weekends.

Need a little further push to get into the Christmas spirit? Come see an amazingly decorated 30foot Christmas tree. Check out over 20 historic buildings festooned in Christmas lights and garland. Vote for your favorite Christmas tree in a tree-trimming competition. Yesteryear Village will have the tasty treats together

with many other delicious and special holiday food offerings.

As you mosey through Christmas in Yesteryear Village, capture and feel the distinctive holiday atmosphere in the air. It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

Jubilant carolers and community choral groups sing your favorite Christmas tunes.

Shop special holiday crafters and be sure to browse the General Store for gift-giving. Bring the kids and grandchildren for rides and children’s games. Both Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there.

Christmas in Yesteryear Village will take place Friday through

Sunday on both weekends of Dec. 9-11 and Dec. 16-18 from 5 to 9 p.m. each evening. Admission is $7 for adults, and children age 5 and under are admitted free. Parking is free.

If you purchase an advance admission ticket to January’s South Florida Fair at any Publix supermarket in Palm Beach County, you’ll receive a free admission ticket to Christmas in the Village.

Yesteryear Village is at the South Florida Fairgrounds on Southern Blvd., one mile west of Florida’s Turnpike.

For additional information, visit www.southfloridafair.com or call (561) 793-0333.

Attendees stroll through Christmas in Yesteryear Village

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SCHOOL NEWS

Seminole Ridge High Announces Pathfinder Nominees For 2012 Seminole Ridge High School has announced its 2012 Palm Beach Post Pathfinder Award nominees, each of whom will represent the school in their respective categories at the annual Pathfinder Awards ceremony this spring. The awards offer superlative seniors in Palm Beach and Martin counties the opportunity to be recognized publicly and financially for their academic and service achievements. The categories and nominees are as follows: Academic Excellence, Rachel Hand; Art, Ronit Liberman; Business, Robert Botkin; Communications, Courtney Byrd; Community Involvement, Cassidy Heitman; Computer Science, Jesse Pentz; Drama, Kristin Medvetz; Foreign Language, Herman Castro; Forensics and Speech, Cash Galko; History and Political Science, Julia Frate; Literature, Taylor Godfrey; Mathematics, Michael Canlas; Music (Instrumental), Michelle Bohl; Music (Vocal), Joel Iglesias; Reach for Excellence, Patrick Eden; Science, Tyler Bertolami; Sports, Cayla Amatulli; and Technical/Vocational/Agricultural, Thomas Cox. • Hawk Advanced Placement Scholars — Twenty Hawk students have earned Advanced

Placement Scholar Awards from the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams. These students have at least one more year in which to complete college-level work and possibly earn a higher-level AP Scholar Award.

Hawk senior Cassidy Heitman qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of the exams. Hawk seniors Tyler Bertolami and Qwynn Burch qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.

Several Hawk seniors qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP exams with scores of 3 or higher. AP Scholars are Evan Colosi, Jordy Dickinson, Alexander Fah-Sang, Cash Galko, Sam Hargesheimer, Melissa LaRosa, Ronit Liberman, Helen Ortiz, Jonathan Pavicic, Katelyn Ramos, Devon Redmond, Summer Roque and Patricia Serrano.

Also among Hawk AP Scholars are several sophomores or juniors, including Jessica Bruckner,

PBCHS CLUB COLLECTS ITEMS FOR THE POOR

As part of National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Month, members of Palm Beach Central High School’s service club Students for the Poor collected hygiene items and compiled 49 bags to be distributed to homeless students in the district. “Part of what makes the world a wonderful place is when people treat other people with respect,” sponsor Brittany Bilous said. “Once we become aware of those in poverty and value those individuals as equal members of our society, only then can we reach out to give them the respect they deserve as human beings.” Shown here are: (front row, L-R) Andrew Bromberg, Daulton Eastering and Meria Bedran; (back row) Amber Satriano, Fiorella Maza, Cynthia Phan, Gabriel Borges, Jacky Avendano and Manuela Guerrero.

(Front row, L-R) Grethel Bot, Aileen Roblero and Jessica Bruckner; (back row) Ale xander Fah-Sang, LGES Principal Richard Myerson, Assistant Principal Judy Jones and Herman Castro.

Quentin Gouveia, Danielle Parks, Mark Vernon and Samantha Weigt.

• Honor Society Does Double Service — The SRHS Spanish National Honor Society, following its recent school supply drive, donated 17 backpacks full of supplies to Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School. The society also took a weekend morning recently to perform a roadside cleanup along Orange Blvd. with represen-

tatives from the Indian Trail Improvement District.

• Choral Students Excel At Assessments — SRHS choral students took part Nov. 18 in the Florida Vocal Association district solo and ensemble assessments at Santaluces High School, receiving several Superior and Excellent ratings. Soloists Sidney ClarkeLeclerique, Joel Iglesias and Alexis Rizzolo, and the men’s ensemble, advanced women’s en-

Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Ralph Bair with Spanish National Honor Society members. semble and varsity show choir all received Superior ratings and will advance to the state level assessment in the spring. Vanessa Engelhardt also received a Superior on a special category solo. The following singers received an Excellent rating: soloists Vanessa Engelhardt and Gabriella Thomas, the beginning women’s ensemble, chamber ensemble, and both men’s and women’s varsity show choirs.

• Financial Aid Info Night — The SRHS guidance department will hold financial aid information night Monday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Dr. Lynne McGee Auditorium. Junior and senior students and their parents are invited. The event will cover topics such as completing college and financial aid application paperwork, applying for scholarships, dual enrollment and early admission programs, and online resources.

WPMS Honors Its Students Of The Month Western Pines Middle School Principal Robert Hatcher has announced the students of the month for November. These students were selected by their languagearts teachers for their scholastic excellence as well as their positive character traits in and out of the classroom.

Christian Hernandez is the sixth grade’s student of the month. His teachers consider him “the sweetest, most caring and most respectful young man to come across in a long time.”

He cares about everyone’s welfare in his class, always making sure that everyone is comfortable and has everything that he or she needs. Hernandez’s teachers note that he is very quiet, kind and soft-spoken, and doesn’t bother anyone and always get his work done on time.

Teachers feel that his character is a shining example of what every student should strive for.

Megan Keen has been chosen as seventh grade’s student of the

month. Keen has really begun to come into her own this year, according to her teachers. She now volunteers to read aloud and actively participates in classroom activities, giving her all to each assignment. In addition to earning higher grades in the first nineweek period, Keen has taken time and effort to improve her writing.

Her hard work and dedication to her academics make her a role model among Western Pines students.

In the eighth grade, the November student of the month is Chance Rockett. His teachers consider him to be a diligent student who puts effort into every assignment.

Rockett shows an interest in learning and a talent for drawing. Always prepared for class with materials and a smile, he brings a positive attitude daily and shows the utmost respect to both teachers and students. Rockett treats others kindly and fairly and is always ready to offer a helping hand.

Students Of The Month — Chance Rockett, Christian Hernandez and Megan Keen with Principal Robert Hatcher.

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SCHOOL NEWS

CYPRESS TRAILS TAKES PART IN HUNGER & HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS WEEK

During National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week, Cypress Trails Elementary School’s after-school program and art department sponsored a project to contribute money to a local shelter.

“Empty Bowls” is a nationwide project that provides support for food banks, soup kitchens and other organizations that fight hunger. The bowls will be fired in a kiln and available for pickup Wednesday, Dec. 14 during Cub Club’s annual light show. The Royal Palm Beach High School Student Council helped with the project as well. Shown here, participants work on their bowls.

Berean Christian Local School Principals Receive ICAT Award School Thanksgiving Food Drive A Success

The Berean Christian School Bulldogs celebrated this Thanksgiving by hosting their annual food drive.

Sponsored by the National Honor Society, the event asks students to collect and bring in canned foods to be donated to needy families in the community.

This year, the Bulldogs collected 1,430 pounds of food for local charities. The drive culminated with Harvest Day festivi-

ties or ganized by parent and National Honor Society volunteers to allow the elementary school students to share fall-related activities. Through the drive and Harvest Day programs, Berean students remember the things for which they are grateful and give thanks by giving back.

For more information about Berean Christian School and its student activities, visit www. bereanwpb.org.

The Immunization Compliance Achievement Test (ICAT) Award is given to the local schools for high rates of required school immunizations. Seven public schools achieved 100 percent for on-site compliance for the 2010-11 school year.

The Palm Beach County Health Department honored Golden Grove Elementary School Principal Kathryn Koerner and New Horizons Elementary School Principal Elizabeth Cardozo, as well as the principals of Meadow Park Elementary School; John F. Kennedy, Omni and Pahokee middle schools; and the Dreyfoos School of the Arts at the school

district principals meeting.

“Immunizations have made once deadly and devastating childhood illnesses preventable,” said Dr. Marsha Fishbane, the health department’s community and school health director. “Working closely with the School District of Palm Beach County staff and Palm Beach County Health Care District school nurses ensures that students have received the required immunizations for the safety of our community.”

Palm Beach County Health Department health centers offer vaccination services. For more information, call (800) 810-1225 or visit www.pbchd.com.

Elizabeth Cardozo

Kathryn Koerner

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Quantum House, St. Mary’s And Junior League Enjoy ‘Reunion’

Quadruplets Cameron, Avery, Brendon and Lindsay Fulton, and their mother Catherine enjoy Icees.

Quantum House Family Reunion Committee members gather with event volunteers.

Quantum House teamed up with two of its biggest partners to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a one-of-a-kind family reunion.

The event took place Nov. 5.

Since opening its doors in 2001, Quantum House has served thousands of families from Palm Beach County and across the globe. Many of these families and their children were also patients at St. Mary’s Medical Center’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). As a founding member of Quantum House, the Junior League of the Palm Beaches assisted with the planning and producing of the exciting celebration, which brought hundreds of folks together.

Food, games, music, storytelling, cookie decorating and the Quantum House putting green were all part of the fun. Families enjoyed visits from the West Palm Beach Police Department Canine Unit, Riviera Beach Police Department Mobile Command Unit, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, Mae Mae the therapy dog, the Sweets Foundation Icee Truck and the Roger Dean mascot. Sponsors included JetBlue and St. Mary’s Medical Center. The loyal volunteers of the Singer Island Kiwanis operated the grills and prepared a delicious lunch for everyone.

Upon leaving the fun-filled afternoon, guests visited the candy bar.

Outstanding volunteers were also recognized at the event, and the Sandy Grossman Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Meg Scholp of Palm

Beach Gardens. The Outstanding Corporate Volunteer went to TBC Corporation, and Outstanding Student Volunteer was awarded to Suncoast High School’s Key Club.

The Junior League of the Palm Beaches is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. It reaches out to women of all races, religions and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and commitment to voluntarism. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Currently, the league has more than 700 members. For more information, visit www.jlpb.org.

Quantum House, a nonprofit hospital hospitality house, is the only facility of its kind between Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. It provides lodging for more than

Meg Scholp accepts the Sandy Grossman Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award.

500 family members each year while their child is receiving treatments for serious medical conditions in Palm Beach County. For more info., call (561) 494-0515 or visit www.quantumhouse.org.

Jeremy Poblano Graduates Air Force Basic Training Air Force Airman Jeremy J. Poblano has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Poblano completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force.

Poblano is the son of Rachel Poblano of Royal Palm Beach and grandson of Gloria Poblano of Wellington. He is a 2009 graduate of Royal Palm Beach High School.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Wellington G-Star Student Julia Carlin Wins Short Film Competition

Julia Carlin

Life can throw out many obstacles, but for Julia Carlin, her short film on life gave her tremendous triumph.

Julia Carlin, 15, of Wellington, is a freshman at the G-Star School of the Arts, where she studies motion pictures and broadcasting. GStar is the largest film, TV production and acting high school in the nation.

Each year, G-Star hosts the GShorts Short Film Competition, which features short films under five minutes long and based on a given theme.

This year’s overall first-place winner stood out among her competitors, not only winning first place in addition to best screenplay and best visual ef-

fects, but was the only student who wrote, directed, produced and edited her film, and was the first freshman to ever win the competition.

Carlin’s film The Colors Inside the Cocoon is based on the internal struggles of a young girl dealing with bulimia. She said the film was an exaggeration of what she was dealing with at the time as well as what she had witnessed other girls her age struggling with.

The film was also inspired by a quote from actress Blake Lively: “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it turned into a butterfly.”

“I just felt like it’s what a lot of girls’ lives revolves around at this age,” Carlin said.

When she was announced as the winner, Carlin said she was overwhelmed with accomplishment.

“It made me feel that I can do anything I put my mind to,” she said.

“It was bigger motivation than anything else because the movie I made meant something to people.”

Carlin went up against all upperclassman in the competition, and while each group was required to have at least one freshman, she was the only one in her group and worked alone on her project.

The students had 30 days to develop a story, write a script, audition actors, shoot and edit the film. Carlin, who is also part of the International Baccalaureate

program, said the project wasn’t easy and brought about numerous obstacles.

“I was the only person in my group working on it and am also in IB and had no one to help me,” she said.

While editing her video, Carlin said she almost lost her entire project because she used the wrong editing machine. “When I would film, I would have to use my own judgments, and seniors who have gone through four years had training that I haven’t had yet,” she said.

Carlin sees this accomplishment as a stepping stone to achieve bigger and better things. She said she wants to produce, edit and direct a student film her senior year, a

very prestigious honor at G-Star as only one senior a year is picked.

Carlin’s biggest support system is her family, she said. “Even when I thought [my film] wasn’t good enough, [my family] would say, ‘It’s amazing and you’re going to win!’” she said.

Completely self-taught, Carlin made her first film when she was 10 years old, according to her sister, Alexa.

“The rate that she progressed with her video-making skills was remarkable,” Alexa said. “She has this huge passion for something that she was innately born to do.”

Carlin said she wants to graduate high school and attend a prestigious film college.

— Angela Ribbler

ArtiGras Selects Steering Committee For 2012 Fine Arts Festival Organizers of the 2012 ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival have announced the steering committee for the 27th edition of the festival, which will be held Feb. 18-20 at Abacoa in Jupiter.

Leading all the committees is ArtiGras Event Chair Mike Mitrione, a board member and shareholder at Gunster. Joining Mitrione on the steering committee are Barbara and Brian Cottrell, chairs emeritus; Connie Christman and Samantha Conde, ArtiKids; Alishia Parenteau, artist relations; Beth Kelso, community relations; Hannah Bright and Stephanie Mitrione, concessions; Amy Works, finance; Skip Miller and Jeff Fee, hospitality; Barbara Patti, information; Sherra Sewell, marketing; Elle Morrison, merchandise; Troy

Holloway, parking; Rebecca Seelig, public relations; Heidi Reiff, risk management; Dan Ganzel, security; Rudy Chacon, site operations; and Karen Farruggia, volunteers.

The steering committee guides more than 1,200 volunteers who will make the 2012 ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival the best experience for the more than 125,000 patrons who are expected to attend the festival.

Festival hours for ArtiGras are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20. The outdoor arts event showcases a juried exhibition of outstanding fine art along with activities which include live entertainment, artist demonstra-

tions, interactive art activities for all ages, a youth art competition and the opportunity to meet more than 250 of the top artists from around the world.

General admission tickets to ArtiGras are available online at www.artigras.org for the advance ticket price of $6. Advance tickets will also be available starting Jan. 4 at the Gardens Mall information desk, the Maltz Jupiter Theatre and Roger Dean Stadium.

Admission at the gate is $10, with children 12 and under admitted free of charge.

For patrons who want to take their art experience to the next level, ArtiGras Patron Society memberships are available for as low as $100 for a single, $150 for a double and $300 for a family. In

addition to being recognized in the ArtiGras Official Program, ArtiGras Patron Society members also enjoy VIP festival access and parking the entire weekend, VIP keepsake credentials, access to the VIP tent where they can partake in a gourmet lunches and complimentary beverages, a complimentary 2012 ArtiGras commemorative poster, invitations to special ArtiGras events including Red, White & Zin and the exclusive “meet the artist” event at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, and an original work of art by homegrown artist Devin Howell.

For additional information, visit www.artigras.org or contact the Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce at (561) 748-3946.

The 2012 ArtiGras Steering Committee — (Front row, L-R) Barbara Patti, Rebecca Seelig, Stewart Auville, Alishia Parenteau and Elle Morrison; (back row) Hannah Bright, Barbara Cottrell, Brian Cottrell, Suzanne Neve, Troy Holloway, Dan Ganzel, Karen Farruggia, Connie Christman and Samantha Conde.

Benefit Event Breaks Records For Lourdes-Noreen McKeen Residence

Event co-chairs Dr. Richard and Veronica Bauer.

Sister Mary Anne Dennehy and Charlie Henderson.

PHOTOS BY CORBY KAYE

It was a “divine” evening Nov. 18 as the Carmelite Sisters hosted the sixth annual Flower of Carmel Benefit to support the Lourdes-Noreen McKeen Residence.

A record number of board members, supporters and residents of the nonprofit retirement community attended the elegant dinner dance at the Beach Club in Palm Beach to help raise funds for planned renovations to the waterfront facility and the programs and services offered there.

Veronica and Dr. Richard C.

Bauer served as co-chairs for this year’s annual fundraiser, and Cathy Flagg and Charlie Henderson were the honorary chairs.

“This was one of the most successful years in the event’s history, which speaks volumes about the overwhelming support and commitment we have from the community,” Veronica Bauer said. “It was a privilege to have so many guests with us that have been touched by the organization’s personal warmth and compassion. As a board member and longtime supporter of Lourdes-Noreen McKeen, I take

great pride in the fact that every resident is treated like a member of the family and is shown the type of love and care that they would receive at home.”

In addition to the chairmen, notable guests at the benefit included Lourdes-Noreen McKeen Residence Administrator Sister Mary Anne Dennehy; President Sister Anthony Veilleux; Vice President James Daly and his wife, Denise; Meg and Jack Toner; board member Martin Purcell and his wife, Connie; Sarah and Frank Olson; Jamie and Scott Murray; and Mary and Bob Simses.

Lourdes-Noreen McKeen Residence, located along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach, offers independent and assisted-living accommodations, as well as skilled nursing and short-term rehab care.

Founded in 1960 by the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, the facility is committed to providing the very best care and an unmatched nurturing environment to their residents.

For more information about the Lourdes-Noreen McKeen Residence, call (561) 655-8544 or visit www.lourdesmckeen.org.

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NEWS Butterfly

Safe Place For Rape Victims

continued from page 1 force made up of county officials to get the financing for the facility. Money came from the county and the Florida Department of Health, amounting to $316,000 for the first year and $286,000 for the following two years.

“We were very successful and appreciative to have received the funding, which is allocated in a very open and transparent way for the facility,” she said. “Then we set about making the facility a reality.”

The 400-square-foot center will offer an area where rape victims can feel comfortable enough to divulge information and evidence collected after the crime. “It’s a small facility, but it will provide a very warm, safe and welcoming environment,” Benacquisto said.

“We want the victim to feel like she or he is in a place where what happens to her (or him) moving forward is cared very much about.”

Victims will also receive counseling to help heal with the aftermath of the assault. “We will see them through the entire healing process to help them move past what has occurred,” she said.

The facility will use the collected DNA evidence for testing, and all information collected will be stored and used to prosecute offenders.

“It’s going to be a very comprehensive approach to the collection of evidence, which involves making sure that testimony is videotaped and recorded,” Benacquisto said. “It will have the best prac-

Landscaping

Okeechobee Compromise

continued from page 1 willing to match up to the full amount.”

However, time is of the essence, because the financing agreement with FDOT expires Dec. 31.

Muoio said her city has already approved a memorandum of understanding to do the maintenance, at a cost of $50,000 to $75,000 a year, if the landscaping is approved.

Commissioner Burt Aaronson asked, “What you’re telling me is that you want to scale back the project and the county would put in $225,000?”

Webb explained, “The mayor doesn’t want to scale back the project. She would as soon go ahead with the whole project, but Commissioner [Priscilla] Taylor and I had a discussion, and she asked, ‘Could we not cut back on the project in some fashion?’What we have just talked about is staff’s work to address that and come up with a proposal.”

Aaronson said he would be willing to support the proposal, with the county’s $225,000, the city’s $100,000 and the FDOT match that would result in total funding of $650,000.

Aaronson made a motion seconded by Taylor to approve the proposal, but pointed out that communities in his district had come together to enhance roadway beautification projects.

Commissioner Karen Marcus asked if they were going to pick and choose who gets the landscaping, and Muoio said a committee had been appointed to work that out.

Webb said 60 to 70 percent of the expense will be for pumps and irrigation. “There are some native plants that are drought-resistant, but there is landscaping in front of every community on the north side,” he said.

Commissioner Jess Santamaria said he opposed dropping the project last month because he is a

Horses

Education Initiative

continued from page 1 be launched in the upcoming months.

Wellington Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Carmine Priore said that a key goal that came out of the meeting was simply to provide exposure for the children. “Our biggest goal and our biggest need is to provide exposure for our residents to the programs being offered,” he said.

“We need to get the children interested in the equestrian world.”

One of the biggest initiatives will be to link each of the 12 Wellington public schools to one of the 12 weeks of the Winter Equestrian Festival.

The weeklong events would give the school an opportunity for on-site fundraising such as a bake sale or raffle to raise money, Bellissimo said, as well as showcase student talents.

tices for collecting evidence to provide for the best opportunity for prosecution.”

Specialized nurses will run the facility and will be the ones collecting the evidence and information, as well as to decide the types of assistance each victim will need. “Palm Beach County Victim Services will be a huge part of that,” Benacquisto said. “They do incredible work and will assist victims in moving forward.”

Benacquisto hopes that the Butterfly House will be a sanctuary for victims of rape, especially since rape is one of the most underreported, most difficult-to-investigate crimes.

“For anyone who is a victim of sexual assault, I’m hoping that they please seek assistance, provide the most information possible for the prosecution of the offender, and get the best care and counseling that they need to heal,” she said.

The senator herself came up with the name Butterfly House.

“There were many different names everyone came up with, but the board voted on it and agreed on Butterfly House,” she said.

The name symbolizes a victim as a butterfly leaving a cocoon.

“As the butterfly leaves the cocoon, the victim will be able to realize her or his value, beauty and importance, and spread their wings again,” Benacquisto said.

If a victim of sexual assault does not get the proper assistance needed after an assault, it can be detrimental to them, Benacquisto said, adding that they often end up holding the pain inside.

“When people don’t get the assistance that they need, that hurt and sadness that they have can manifest itself in other ways, and can create other problems,” she said. strong proponent of landscaping.

“I was extremely disappointed, and today I am still partially disappointed because we are giving up $350,000 of landscaping,” Santamaria said. “To me it’s important. You really never spend too much money on landscaping.”

Commissioner Paulette Burdick said that if the city is willing to contribute $100,000, the county should put forward $400,000 so it can finish the entire project. “It’s shortsighted of us to landscape part of it and not the rest,” Burdick said, pointing out that it would be leveraging an equal amount from the state.

Burdick offered an amendment that the county allocate $400,000 as long as the city guarantees $100,000 and get the rest of the money from FDOT to finish the project. Santamaria seconded the motion.

Aaronson said he would not support financing of the full amount. “I have a district, and all the other commissioners have a district,” he said. “The fact is we stripped the engineering department, including money to fund filling potholes. I will not support the $400,000.”

Commissioner Steven Abrams also said he would not support $400,000, pointing to the engineering department cuts. “All the districts in the county are suffering and sharing expenses,” he said.

Commission Chair Shelley Vana agreed. “Compromise is good, but at the end of the day, we have to build on the success we have,” she said. “With the original motion, everybody gets a little and we go home and say we did something good for our community.”

Muoio said she would like to see $400,000 but would settle for less.

The amendment failed 4-3, with Taylor, Aaronson, Vana and Abrams opposed.

The commissioners then voted on the main motion to accept $100,000 from the city and put in $225,000 to do the scaled down landscaping project. That motion carried unanimously.

“We would highlight the school and the unique talents of its community,” he said. “This would include having a national anthem singer, performance artists in music or dance, or art exhibits.”

Another way to showcase the students’ artistic talents, Bellissimo said, is that the schools could take part in an art competition decorating a life-sized fiberglass horse.

“It will be judged by a panel from the combined community and will include an Olympic equestrian athlete,” he said.

On Sunday, Jan. 29, Wellington Equestrian Partners will host “Wellington Family Day” at its stadium facility on the corner of Pierson Road and South Shore Blvd., where families can come out and enjoy carnival rides, horse exhibitions, pony rides and a petting zoo, as well as local performers and equestrian competitions.

To give students the ultimate hands-on experience, Wellington Equestrian Partners will also im-

State Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto and Sandra Reynolds in front of the entrance t o the Butterfly House.

Jennifer Dritt and Dave Aronberg.

Marsha Israel, Sandra Reynolds, Melissa McKinlay and Dr. David Soria.

Dr. Jeffrey and Charlene Bishop.

PHOTOS BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER SEE VIDEO FROM THE BUTTERFLY HOUSE OPENING AT WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

NEWS BRIEFS Wellington Chamber Lunch Set For Dec. 14 The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon Wednesday, Dec. 14 at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Drive).

There is no featured keynote speaker. Instead, each attendee will get an opportunity to present a 30-second commercial on their business, organization, service, etc., with a twist at the end. It is a fun and interactive way for chamber members to get to know each other. There will be food and festivities as well.

Registration will take place at 11:30 a.m., with the program starting at noon. The cost is $20 for chamber members with RSVP, $25 for members at the door and $30 for nonmembers.

For more information, call (561) 792-2525 or visit www.wellingtonchamber.com.

distributed in advance to ensure seating. Both evenings’ productions will be followed by the fourth annual fellowship Taste of Christmas reception.

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church is located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 7935712 or visit www.stpetersumc.org.

JCC Hosts Two Fun Events For Jewish Families

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church invites the community to join in The Nativity Experience, which celebrates the wonder of the Christmas story through drama and music.

This special event will take place Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17 and 18 at 7 p.m.

Last April, the Music and Worship Ministry at St. Peter’s presented The Passion Experience for Easter.

The church had near capacity attendance for both presentations of The Passion Experience and expects the same for The Nativity Experience.

This will be a perfect opportunity to invite your friends, neighbors and coworkers to come and share in this moving presentation.

Tickets are free but are being

While most establishments will be closed on Dec. 25 for Christmas, the Jewish Community Center of the Palm Beaches invites the community to two fun, familyfriendly events planned in Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens.

• Chopsticks With Ken Krimstein — Join Ken Krimstein, author of Kvetch As Kvetch Can, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Talay Thai in Palm Beach Gardens for an afternoon of food and laughter. He will entertain guests with quips from his book, which is filled with humorous anecdotes centered around Jewish traditions about food, family, holidays, culture and of course, guilt. Admission costs $36 ($42 after Dec. 15). The price includes dinner. For more information, call Melissa Engelberg at (561) 712-5226 or e-mail melissae@jcconline.com. Register online at www.jcconline.com/ books.

• Latkes On the Lanes — From 3 to 5 p.m., head to Jupiter Lanes bowling alley for a latketasting competition, the Great Dreidle Spin-Off (sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County) and a fun day of bowling. The clergy will light the sixth candle of Hanukkah. For the latke competition, participants should bring 100 of their most delicious latkes to be considered.

A local chef will select the winner of the latke-tasting competition.

Admission is $10 for adults and

plement after-school riding programs that will be the basis for an interscholastic riding team in Wellington.

Wellington Councilwoman Anne Gerwig said she was glad to see students have an opportunity to get involved.

“It’s not just bringing the equestrian community into the schools,” she said. “It’s giving students an opportunity to get involved in the equestrian community.”

But more than just introducing students to the equestrian world, the program would provide opportunities for high school students to get hands-on experience in the industry, whether in riding, training, public relations, medical sciences or any other aspect.

Jim Marshall, magnet coordinator at Wellington High School, said that the school’s equine preveterinary program is a natural fit, but that he’d like to see other programs take advantage of the opportunity.

Marshall noted that a student

wouldn’t have to ride or even know a lot about horses to take advantage of the industry, which employs people in all types of jobs to support the shows and the animals.

“We have a marketing academy that is unique to Palm Beach County,” he said. “I’d love to bridge the academy with Equestrian Sport Productions so students could get hands-on experience.

It’s a neat link.”

But Marshall also said that Wellington is uniquely poised to provide education for those who want to work specifically with horses.

“I’d love to develop an academy geared toward kids who want to go into the nuts and bolts of the equestrian industry,” he said. “Prevet is just the start of it. We could include training, farriers and all the other sub-parts that make it all work.”

Priore agreed, noting that students who might not be stellar at academics have many opportuni-

‘The Nativity Experience’ At St. Peter’s

$8 for children ages 8 to 16. Includes unlimited bowling and shoe rental. Sponsor a lane for $250. For more information, call Rachel Fox at (561) 712-5279 or e-mail rachelf@jcconline.com.

Register online at www.jcconline. com/north.

The mission of the JCC of the Greater Palm Beaches is to help create a strong Jewish community by providing high quality programs close to where people live that connect people to Jewish life.

The JCC is a partner agency of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. For more information, visit www.jcconline.com.

Forest Hill Blvd., ending at Wellington’s town center and amphitheater. In an effort to provide a safe procession for the parade, Forest Hill Blvd. will be closed from the north intersection at Wellington Trace to South Shore Blvd. beginning at 12:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Cultural Programs & Facilities Manager Joe Piconcelli at (561) 791-4756.

Citizens Justice Academy Starts In January

Wellington and the Palms West Chamber of Commerce invites the community to celebrate on Sunday, Dec. 11 with the Holiday Fun Park, Holiday Mile Run/Walk and the 28th annual Western Communities Holiday Parade.

Holiday Fun Park activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

There will be music, bounce houses, food and exhibit booths.

Then, lace up your running shoes for the Holiday Mile Run/ Walk beginning at 12:45 p.m. at Forest Hill Blvd. and Country Club Drive. Pre-registration costs $15 for adults and $10 for children age 12 and under. The race application is available at www.palmswest.com. For more information, call (561) 791-2069.

The parade begins at 1 p.m., featuring floats, marching bands, clowns, dance troupes, costumed characters and more. Wellington resident and news anchor Jim Sackett, who is retiring from WPTV after 33 years, will serve as the parade’s grand marshal.

The parade route begins at Wellington Trace and continues down

The Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission is now taking applications for its 23rd Citizens Justice Academy. The 10week program runs from Jan. 12 through March 15. Classes are held on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m.

This exciting, free program is open to citizens residing in Palm Beach County who wish to learn more about the criminal justice system. Participants will learn about local law enforcement efforts, including PBSO Special Operations. They will tour the Main Detention Center, the Palm Beach County Courthouse and the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Most of the program is classroom lectures with interactive presenters and question-and-answer sessions. Guest lecturers will include local, state and federal law enforcement officers and administrators.

The first month of classes will be held at the West Palm Beach Police Department, 600 Banyan Street, in the first floor community room. Additional classes take place in other locations around the county.

The academy is limited to the first 50 enrollees due to space limitations. For more information, visit www.pbcgov.com/criminal justice. Registration closes Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 5 p.m. Call (561) 355-4943 for more information.

ties for a good job in Wellington because of the industry.

“We can encourage those individuals to pursue vocational experience,” he said. “There are many opportunities in the industry for good quality jobs.”

Councilman Howard Coates said that the greater community might not even be aware of all the opportunities for good jobs.

“We know about the shows themselves,” he said. “But people don’t necessarily know about the opportunities the equestrian industry presents. We need to introduce students and parents to the community and also show them the employment opportunities within the industry.”

Scott Blake, principal at Polo Park Middle School, noted that Wellington students are fortunate to have these opportunities nearby.

“I am looking forward to infusing the equestrian information into our curriculum,” he said, “as well as giving our students firsthand

experience of the many facets that are open to them right here in their own back yards.”

Gerwig pointed out that often workers are brought in during the season to support the shows, but that Wellington could provide that work force instead. “We can investigate getting the schools to understand the working aspects of the horse show,” she said. “There are job opportunities, and we can get local people involved.”

Coates agreed. “The young people of today are the people out there tomorrow looking for jobs,” he said.

Bellissimo said that while some of the initiatives would start immediately, others would take time.

“This is the start of a long-term working partnership,” he said.

“While in the short term it is focused on children, we hope it will expand to all residents of Wellington, so that everyone can benefit from the recreational and professional opportunities that this environment has to offer.”

Holiday Parade In Wellington On Dec. 11

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Cowboy Bob, Part 2: Gabe Earns A New Lease On Life

Bob Faath’s reputation for helping troubled horses led Lindsey Vanderwerf to trust him with her horse Gabe, whose behavior had become a problem. Now, Vanderwerf’s feelings toward Gabe have changed, and she is confident to work with him around the pen.

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RPBHS Basketball Defeats Seminole Ridge 74-41

The Royal Palm Beach boys varsity basketball team defeated Seminole Ridge High School 74-41 at a home game Friday, Dec. 2. Though both teams made a strong effort, the Wildcats jumped out to an early lead and never looked back.

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Shopping Spree A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business Re/Max Prestige’s New Wellington Office Is The Group’s Third Location

Re/Max Prestige has opened a new office in Wellington. Owner Rose Faroni has been in the real estate business for over 20 years and recently decided to make Wellington the home of the third Re/ Max Prestige location in Palm Beach County. Other Re/Max Prestige locations are in downtown West Palm Beach and in Royal Palm Beach. Faroni decided to open up a third location in Wellington because of her close connection to the community. Page 27

Sports P.B. Central Girls Basketball Squad Tops Jupiter 53-43

The Palm Beach Central High School girls varsity basketball team defeated the Jupiter High School Warriors 53-43 at a home game Thursday, Dec. 1. During the first period of play, the Lady Broncos darted off to a 19-7 lead. They never gave up their lead throughout the game. Page 35

THIS WEEK’S INDEX COLUMNS & FEATURES ...................... 23-25 BUSINESS NEWS ................................. 27-29 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ..................... 30 SPORTS & RECREATION ...................... 35-37 COMMUNITY CALENDAR .................... 38-39 CLASSIFIEDS ....................................... 40-44

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FEATURES

Cowboy Bob, Part 2: Gabe Earns A New Lease On Life Bob Faath, often called Cowboy Bob, was born in Lovett, Texas, and traveled around a lot. He has lived in Jupiter Farms for the past 16 years. “The nickname follows me,” he said.

“Sometimes people think it’s a bad thing — cowboys can have the reputation of being rough on horses, but that’s the opposite of what I do. I love starting colts and working with troubled horses.”

It was this reputation that brought Lindsey Vanderwerf and her horse Gabe to his establishment.

“Gabe had sticky feet,” Bob said. “He didn’t want to move forward, so he’d go up instead. He had no respect for people. After just a little work, his feet freed up nicely and he started listening and following a feel. I worked on his manners in a way that made sense to him. I never hit him, but if he went to bite me, he’d run into my hand or arm. I wasn’t doing anything; it was all him.”

Bob never makes a horse do something. “I make it uncomfortable for him not to do something, so doing it becomes his idea,” he explained. “I give a horse three offers to do something I’m asking. The first offer’s a suggestion, the second’s more firm and the third gets it done no matter what it takes. A smart horse soon figures out to do it before the third ask.”

Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/ HorseTalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg Eventually, it was time to climb aboard.

“This is only the fourth time Gabe’s been ridden, so we’ll see how it goes,” Bob said.

“It may not be pretty, but I always expect the best.”

Lindsey brought Gabe into the round pen.

Bob was already in there with Buster, his welltrained 7-year-old PMU horse. He’d ridden Buster just a little, mostly at the walk, and mostly not even using the reins of his bosal.

He left Buster standing as he tacked Gabe up and worked him a bit on the ground, backing him up and yielding his hindquarters.

“You don’t have to run a horse around a lot to warm him up,” Bob commented.

When he mounted Gabe, Lindsey led Buster out. For the first few minutes, Bob let Gabe walk where he wanted, then he started asking for a little more — turning each way, crossing puddles, backing a step or two.

“I don’t want to use my legs or feet too much. I want him to respect them, not fear them,” he said. “Pretty soon we’re working together. Little steps now lead to many good things later on. You don’t want a young horse

Cowboy Bob Faath rides Gabe. getting frustrated or bored. I teach him to respond, not react.”

Bob explained that horses want a job. Giving a horse a job he likes is a great thing. He has put packs on horses and brought them to the local Publix and carried the groceries back

home. Horses used to have lots of jobs — moving cattle, bringing in the crops. Now, they stand around in little rooms for hours on end.

“Shows can be a good goal for riders, but See ROSENBERG, page 25

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FEATURES

If I’m Bored In The Run-Up To Christmas, It’s My Fault!

I’m a little bit bored, and it’s my own fault.

I wanted to minimize holiday stress by getting an early start, so I basically decorated the house for Christmas in between trick-or-treaters. I’d hear the doorbell, rush to the door, throw candy into the bags and return to the living room, where I was draping garland. The house looks beautiful, but I can’t remember what the kids’ costumes looked like.

I also trotted out every recipe I’d ever collected for freeze-then-bake cookie dough and spent a week in the kitchen concocting them all. My freezer is now stuffed with rolls of cookie dough, which, if I’d quit eating it, would be ready to go at a moment’s notice.

I’ve gained 10 pounds.

I did all my holiday shopping in 24 hours, starting at midnight on Turkey Day. The Get your Sonic Boomer humor every day!

Follow Deborah Welky on Twitter at twitter.com/TheSonicBoomer. On Facebook, stop by “The Sonic Boomer” page and click the “Like” button.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER Thanksgiving leftovers suffered in the rush, but it was great fun to buy everyone’s presents at once. Unfortunately, now I’m receiving their wish lists. Uh-oh.

The point is, I have attained my goal of a stress-free holiday, and I don’t like it. I prefer the “hustle and bustle” even though, these days, it’s more like “trample and squash.”

But there’s hope.

There’s always the possibility of a longlost relative showing up a day or two before Christmas.

Even though I will sigh to my husband as if I am in some way put out by this, my heart will

be singing — a valid excuse to be a part of the trample and squash!

I will immediately grab my green sweater (something I have worn with red earrings at least once every shopping season since 2002) and rush out to buy more presents, more food and another set of Santa pajamas.

I will be sure to get to the store during peak hours so I’ll have to winnow my way through the throng and negotiate for a shopping cart.

I will get overheated because of the sweater and have to find a place to sit down. While I’m sitting there, I will admire the store’s decorations and complain about the repetitiveness of their Christmas carols. When I’ve regained my strength, I will roll my eyes when I see the length of the lines and comment to the person next to me about all the impulse buys lined up near the cash register. Then I will buy some peppermint sticks and nonpareils to help get me through the day. I won’t have enough money and will have to charge it.

When I get home, I’ll collapse in a heap on the couch for five minutes until I must drag

myself upstairs to wrap everything. I’ll sigh again because I just had everything put away nice and neat, and now this. The gift wrap will be too transparent, and I’ll have to double it up. Then I’ll discover I’m out of tape, so I’ll have to run to the drugstore. While I’m there, I’ll buy next year’s Christmas cards at half price because, of course, mine were sent out on Nov. 25.

Upon my return to the house, I’ll have to dig through my closet to find a stocking for this unexpected relative to hang and make sure there are stocking stuffers on hand for him.

I’ll have to make extra mashed potatoes for dinner and slice up some of my frozen cookies for baking.

After dinner, there will be a mound of dishes and baking pans. The relative will come into the kitchen to help clean up, and I will scoot him out of there so he can sit in the living room with a glass of wine.

I will catch my reflection in the toaster, and I will look like a frazzled mess...

Now that’s more like it!

‘My Week With Marilyn’ Is A Truly Wonderful Experience My Week With Marilyn is a movie of distinct pleasures. It is a drama, but one of inconsequential nature, filled with brilliant performances and lovely, witty lines. Taken from a memoir of filmaker Colin Clark about the first film he worked on, The Prince and the Showgirl, where he was essentially a gofer (“gofer this, gofer that”), it focuses on his very shortterm relationship with troubled Marilyn Monroe (Michelle Williams).

Marilyn had been asked to join Sir Lawrence Olivier (Kenneth Branagh) for the movie. To complicate matters, his wife, Vivien Leigh (Julia Ormont), had been brilliant starring in a production of the show in London. Olivier was the consummate professional; Monroe a neurotic mess. From the start, she was late and uncertain of her lines, while backed to the hilt by her sycophantic entourage, including business manager Milton Greene (Dominic Cooper), who provided drugs at will, and Paula Strasberg (Zoë Wanamaker) who constantly tells her she is the greatest actress ever. At one point, Strasberg actually drops to her knees in worship. Her new husband, Arthur Miller (Dougray Scott), deserts her, giving meager excuses and leaving her vulnerable.

Clark (Eddie Redmayne) is the third assistant director, a family friend of the Oliviers (his fa-

Rosenberg

Cowboy Bob, Part 2

continued from page 23 too often the ego of the humans get in the way of what’s best for the horses,” he said.

“Horses don’t have egos. I’m glad to help people prepare for shows, even though I’m not big on showing myself. I hate to see horses have to drill and do the same routine day after day. Horses enjoy trails and trying new things. You don’t want to bore a horse to death.”

Cowboy Bob hosts clinics three or four times

ther was Sir Kenneth Clark, famed art historian), who winds up in the middle of the mess.

Olivier, brusque to the point of rudeness, expects cast members to be punctual and know their lines. Monroe is always late and has trouble getting to understand her character particularly through her method acting, which Olivier despises. “It’s a light comedy,” he says in despair. “How deep does she have to get?”

Marilyn was, of course, the ultimate seducer. She seduced the world. While many movie stars had better craft, she was able to dominate, to light up the screen. She made fewer than a dozen movies, yet she is remembered as the ultimate sex symbol. She lit up the screen. In this movie, she easily seduces young Colin, although it seems the affair is never fully consummated. One British observ-

er, commenting on the memoir the film used as its base, wrote that “he let down the British Empire.”

Michelle Williams gives the performance of a career. She becomes the many different Marilyns: the despairing waif who tells Colin that he’s “the first boy I kissed who’s younger than me,” the terrified actress afraid of failure, the fun-filled woman trying to just have a good time, the actual actress (she does a wonderful job replaying some of Marilyn’s scenes from the movies) as well as the sex symbol who knows exactly what she is about. At one point, upon being confronted by a small crowd, she whispers to Colin, “I’ll become me,” and instantly turns into the sex symbol.

In this movie, we seem to ride along on the roller coaster of her emotions. When she’s down and miserable, we also suffer. When she is up and happy, we feel good. Williams somehow manages to be our Marilyn, strange, wild, messed up and, ultimately, fabulous. It is a brilliant performance, already being proclaimed as one that will be carefully considered for the Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actress.

Everyone performs well. Redmayne is a real find, able to play opposite many excep-

tional actors. Branagh is excellent in what had to be a tough role: Marilyn’s polar opposite. He is shown as cranky and unfeeling, although Marilyn’s problems were enough to drive any director crazy. One of the best lines of a well-written script (by Adrian Hodges) is that, “Marilyn is a movie star hoping that working with Olivier would make her a great actress, and Olivier is a great actor hoping that working with Marilyn would make him a movie star. Both will be disappointed.”

Every actor performed well. Dame Judi Dench gives a superb performance as kindly Dame Sybil Thorndyke, a consummate professional who took the time to support Marilyn. Emma Watson is very good as Lucy, a wardrobe girl whom Colin deserts for Marilyn. Wanamaker is a bit over the top but adds some great comic relief as the person whom Olivier and probably everyone else on that production blames for Monroe’s erratic behavior.

This is a wonderfully well-done movie, one that most of us who have enjoyed Marilyn’s work can appreciate. The strong cast supports Williams enough that it allows what seems to be “the real Marilyn” to emerge. It is a wonderful experience.

a year. In the past they’ve been large, with up to 23 attendees, but this year he’s thinking of doing some smaller, private clinics limited to six participants. The clinics teach good basic horsemanship and handling a horse during commotions while keeping his mind focused on the rider.

“Clinics give you good ideas. It doesn’t matter what discipline you ride,” Bob said.

“Dressage, reining, jumping — you always need good horsemanship. A good rider can move a horse as easy as possible without pulling on reins. Follow the horse’s feet. How easy can you back that horse? Turns on the forehand can really keep you out of trouble.”

If the owner doesn’t understand the horse,

the horse isn’t going to get helped, he explained.

“You have to look at things from the horse’s perspective — what’s he seeing? What’s he feeling?” Bob said. “The horse is the most important thing to me, giving them the best life they can have. It’s not about me or anything else. It’s all about the horse.”

Soon Lindsey was back in the ring, riding Buster, and then they were joined by a third horse and rider. Gabe remained calm and relaxed. They passed head to head, took turns leading and following, and Gabe even wound a figure 8 around the other two standing horses. Then they all walked out of the round pen and wandered a bit around the grounds.

“By next week, I hope to be doing a lot of that at the trot,” Bob said. “Then we’ll go out on the trails.”

The horses got untacked and put up.

“My feelings toward Gabe have changed now,” Lindsey said. “I’m confident enough to work with him in the round pen. His mind has changed from being dominant to submissive. He’s so much happier. My goal used to be to get a halter on him. Now I’m absolutely thrilled that I’ll be riding him for the first time next week. This is a dream come true.”

You can contact Cowboy Bob at (561) 7625229 or visit www.trailsuntraveled.com for more information.

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

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BUSINESS NEWS

Re/Max Prestige of Wellington real estate agents with owner Rose Faroni (right) outside the new office in Wellington.

PHOTO BY JESSICA GREGOIRE/TOWN-CRIER

Re/Max Prestige’s New Wellington Office Is The Group’s Third Location

By Jessica Gregoire Town-Crier Staff Report Re/Max Prestige has opened a new office in Wellington. Owner Rose Faroni has been in the real estate business for over 20 years and recently decided to make Wellington the home of the third Re/Max Prestige location in Palm Beach County.

Other Re/Max Prestige locations are on Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach — which has been open for 10 years — and on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach.

Faroni decided to open up a third location in Wellington because of her close connection to the community.

“I use to lived in Wellington years ago, so I’m familiar with the community, and I’ve watched how much this town has grown,” she said. “And I’ve had agents come to me throughout the years saying, ‘You know if you open an office in Wellington, I will come.’”

Although the housing market has bottomed out over the past few years, Faroni believes things are beginning to improve. “I think the economy is leveling out,” she said.

Despite the difficult economy and housing market, Faroni and her agents are eager to continue to grow and provide the best service available to its clients.

“The past few years have been tough for many of us, but the opportunity presented itself to open another location, and here we are,” she said.

Re/Max is an internationally known real estate franchise that focuses on its agents’ needs. For Faroni, this model is what attracted her to Re/Max. “There is no other real estate company that provides the services and support that Re/Max does for real estate agents,” she said. “They’re known worldwide, and there is no other greater company to be a part of.”

A full-service real estate agency, Re/Max Prestige has 50 agents working across the three locations. Its services include closings through its title company, the Closing Source, and financing through Element Funding by Gus Pasquale.

“We have an attorney in our Royal Palm office who helps people with their short sales,” Faroni noted. “His name is Brian Fischer, and he rents an office from us, and assists all the agents with their short sales.”

Re/Max Prestige offers listings from the western communities and across Florida. Clients are able to search on www.remax.com for available listings.

“Through this system, the customer is assigned to the agent which the listing is listed under,” Faroni said. “Everything gets distributed evenly throughout the agents, and it works pretty well.”

When clients initially meet with an agent, they sit and discuss their needs and wants.

“Our agents are experienced and know exactly what to ask clients,” Faroni said. “The best resource the agent has is listening, because we need to find out as much information we can for real estate.”

For buyers, agents must first pre-qualify them for a loan before they are able to go out and view a house. “But for sellers, it’s easy because they know they are going to be working with experienced agents who are going to advertise their house in the right places,” Faroni said.

Re/Max Prestige lists and sells all types of property, from residential to equestrian. “If it’s priced right for what its worth in the current market, then it will sell,” she said.

Re/Max Prestige is located at 12789 Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 2A, Wellington. The Royal Palm Beach office is located at 1402 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. For more information, visit www.remax-prestige-wpb-fl.com or call (561) 318-6588.

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Bank Of America Grant Helps Expand Parent Support Program Thanks to a grant from Bank of America Charitable Foundation Inc., the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County will be able to expand an evidence-based parenting program that is quickly growing in popularity.

The $7,500 received from Bank of America will allow the council to add seminars and parenting tip sheets to the Triple P program, increasing its reach to parents in the community. The program served approximately 1,000 families from October 2010 to July 2011.

Triple P is a multi-level parenting and family support intervention program recognizing that all families are different and therefore require varying levels of help and formats in which to receive the help.

Triple P has been implemented successfully in 20 countries.

“The Children’s Services Council thanks Bank of America for recognizing the critical importance and, at times challenges, of parenting and its effect on the child’s future,” Children’s Services Council CEO Tana Ebbole said. “We believe

Bank of America has made a wise investment in the future of our county’s children, and one which will derive a strong return on their investment.”

“Bank of America is proud to partner with the Children’s Services Council in support of the Triple P program. Active engagement in youth-centric programs continues to be our No. 1 priority at Bank of America,” said Fab Brumley, Palm Beach County market president for Bank of America. “We firmly believe that helping our children succeed is the best way we can help our communities grow stronger.”

The Children’s Services Council is an independent district created by Palm Beach County voters. The council is designed specifically to meet the needs of children and their families. To do this, the council provides leadership, funding and research on behalf of the county’s children so they are born healthy, grow up safe, ready to learn when they enter school and reading on grade level by the end of third grade.

For info., visit www.cscpbc.org.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Molina Healthcare Offers Free Flu Shots To Area Residents

On Saturday, Nov. 12, Molina Healthcare of Florida held a free flu shot event at its new West Palm Beach clinic, which is slated to fully open in January. With flu season upon us, Molina Healthcare provided the most effective weapon against the flu: free vaccines to those in the West Palm Beach area.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that everyone older than 6 months get vaccinated. The flu is a major national killer and causes almost 36,000 deaths every year. Molina Healthcare encourages its members to get the flu vaccine, and on Nov. 12, provided a free flu shot to all community members who attended the event.

“Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent the flu,” said Dr. Mark Bloom, chief medical officer at Molina Healthcare of Florida.

“We are pleased that so many members of the West Palm Beach community protected their health by taking advantage of the free flu shot event at our clinic.”

The new Molina Medical Clinic is located at 944 Military Trail in West Palm Beach.

In addition to free flu vaccines,

Molina Healthcare handed out prizes and health information to families in attendance.

Molina’s giant cat mascot, Dr. Cleo, was on hand for entertainment, and kids also enjoyed free face painting. Several families even walked away with free Thanksgiving turkeys and other holiday food supplies.

Molina Healthcare Inc. provides quality and cost-ef fective Medicaid-related soA Molina Healthcare staff member lutions to meet the delivers free flu shots on Nov. 12. healthcare needs of low-income families and individu- provides business processing and als and to assist state agencies in information technology administratheir administration of the Medic- tive services to Medicaid agencies aid program. Its licensed health in Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, New plans in California, Florida, Michi- Jersey and West Virginia, and drug gan, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, rebate administration services in Texas, Utah, Washington and Wis- Florida.

More information about Molina consin currently serve approximately 1.7 million members, and subsid- Healthcare is available at www. iary Molina Medicaid Solutions molinahealthcare.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Health Care District Welcomes Three New Board Members The board of the Health Care District of Palm Beach County welcomed its newest members at the district’s regular monthly meetings on Nov. 9 and Oct. 11.

Nancy Banner, an attorney from Palm Beach Gardens, fills the seat held by former Board Vice Chair Patrick J. DiSalvo. Philip H. Ward III, an attorney from Jupiter, succeeds former chairman Jonathan Satter. Both were appointed by Florida Gov. Rick Scott on Oct. 13 and sworn in by newly elected Chairman Benjamin Frank on Nov. 11.

Brian Lohmann, supervisor of accounting at the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida, was sworn in at the district’s board meeting on Oct. 11 and fills the seat formerly held by Dr. Effie C. Grear.

“I am honored to welcome each of these new commissioners to our board,” Frank said. “The depth of their business experience and community involvement will serve the district well as we move forward in meeting the healthcare needs of the residents of Palm Beach County.”

Banner has been a real estate attorney with Nancy C. Banner PA since 2004. In 2003, she served as general counsel to the Office of the

Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller. Previously, Banner practiced with Holland and Knight from 1999 to 2002. She serves on the board of directors for the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches, a post she has held since 2001, as well as public television station WXEL’s Garnet Society. Banner received a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers College and her law degree from Seton Hall Law School. She holds a master’s degree in environmental sciences from Rutgers University.

Ward is president and managing partner of Ward Damon PA, which he co-founded in 1987. Previously he practiced with Cohen, Scherer and Cohn. From 1980 to 1984, Ward served as legislative counsel and assistant to U.S. Sen. Warren B. Rudman of New Hampshire.

Ward is a former chairman of the Palm Beach Business Development Board and the InternetCoast TriCounty Economic Development Council, former director of the Forum Club of Palm Beach County, as well as the Economic Council of Palm Beach County. Ward is also a member of the BIZPAC Board of Trustees and a member of Northpac. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College and a law degree from the

Nancy Banner

Brian Lohmann

Philip H. Ward III

University of Miami School of Law. Banner and Ward join Lohmann as the newest members of the board.

Lohmann, who was appointed by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, represents the Glades communities.

Since 2008, Lohmann has been supervisor of accounting at the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida in Belle Glade. Previously he spent three years with Pioneer Growers Cooperative, after 16 years as owner of B.R. Lohmann Inc. He

holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Florida. Lohmann chairs the district’s finance committee.

“We look forward to the guidance and input of our new commissioners as the district continues to meet the growing challenge of providing access to healthcare in our community,” said Dr. Ronald J. Wiewora, the district’s chief executive officer and chief medical officer.

The Health Care District of

Palm Beach County provides health coverage programs for uninsured residents, a nationally recognized trauma system, dedicated nurses in nearly 170 public schools, a pharmacy operation, a long-term skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, and acute care hospital services at Lakeside Medical Center, the county’s only public hospital, serving the rural western Palm Beach County communities along the southeastern shore of Lake Okeechobee.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway Revival Of ‘Hair’ Jan. 10-15 At Kravis Center The 2009 Tony Award–winning musical revival Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical will run Jan. 10-15 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts for a limited engagement.

With a score including such enduring musical numbers as “Let the Sun Shine In,” Aquarius,” “Hair” and “Good Morning Starshine,” Hair depicts the birth of a cultural movement in the ’60s and ’70s that changed America forever. The musical follows a group of hopeful, free-spirited young people who advocate a lifestyle of pacifism and free-love in a society riddled with intolerance and brutality during the Vietnam War. As the characters explore sexual identity, challenge racism, experiment with drugs and burn draft cards, the show resonates with an irresistible message of hope more than 40 years after it first opened on Broadway.

Hair won the 2009 Tony Award for Best Musical Revival as well as

the Drama Desk, Drama League and Outer Critics Circle awards for Outstanding Revival of a Musical. Hair was also nominated for an additional seven Tony Awards, including Best Direction, Best Choreography, Best Costume Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Sound Design.

The cast recording was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album.

Directed by Diane Paulus and choreographed by Karole Armitage, Hair features a book and lyrics by Gerome Ragni and James Rado, and music by Galt MacDermot.

The New York Times wrote, “Diane Paulus’s thrilling, emotionally rich production delivers intense, unadulterated joy.” Time Out New York wrote, “Hair speaks to a whole new generation!” And The Washington Post called it “Irresistible… the best version yet!”

The Hair National Tour is produced by the Public Theater (Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director; Joey Par-

nes, Interim Executive Director), Nederlander Productions Inc., Carl Moellenberg/Wenlarbar Productions, Rebecca Gold/Myla Lerner, Rick Costello, Joy Newman & David Schumeister, Paul G. Rice/Paul Bartz, Debbie Bisno, Christopher Hart Productions, John Pinckard, Terry Schnuck, Joey Parnes and by special arrangement with Elizabeth Ireland McCann.

While many find this show suitable for young adults (13 and older), parental discretion is advised.

There is a dimly lit 20-second scene with nudity that is non-sexual in nature.

Kravis On Broadway is sponsored by Debbie and Ron Kochman of Kochman & Ziska PLC. Showtimes for Hair are Tuesday, Jan. 10 through Saturday, Jan. 14 at 8 p.m., with matinee performances on Wednesday, Jan. 11 and Sunday, Jan. 15 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices start at $25. To purchase tickets, visit the Kravis Center box office at 701

Hair cast members perform one of their many musical numbers.

PHOTO B Y JOAN MARCUS

Okeechobee Blvd. in downtown West Palm Beach, the show’s web page at www.kravis.org/hair, or call (561) 832-7469 or (800) 572-8471, or all Ticketmaster outlets. Group

orders of 20 or more may be placed by calling (561) 651-4438 or (561) 651-4304, or at all Ticketmaster outlets. Additional information can be found at www.hairontour.com.

The Phantom Recommends Bahamas Celebration Short Cruises Short cruises are in, and the two-night Bahamas cruise is the way to go!

The fun begins from the moment you come on board and never stops!

The two-night cruise on the Bahamas Celebration sailing out of the Port of Palm Beach was my 20th cruise and perhaps one of my best.

And considering I did not have to travel to Fort Lauderdale or Miami, it was without a doubt the most convenient — and there is on-site parking.

Celebration Cruise Line offers two-night Bahamas cruises from Palm Beach, with the option to add two or four nights at the four-star Grand Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort in Freeport, Bahamas. You’ll love your Bahamas cruise on the beautiful Bahamas Celebration.

I live within walking distance from the port and often watch the Bahamas Celebration set sail every other night. It is a beautiful site to behold, waving from my balcony at the Marina Grande. Now being on board, I was able to wave to my neighbors. Boarding starts at noon, and the ship sails at 6 p.m., but the fun begins at one minute past noon.

Warning: This is not a relaxing cruise; those are reserved for the longer trips. This is fun, fun, fun from beginning to end, and everybody is on the same page.

I was surprised to see so many non-Floridians on board. Almost everyone I met was from across the U.S. They added this cruise to their vacation plans, and most included the optional two-night stay at the

Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort in Freeport, which I plan to do on my next sailing.

Accommodations are a bargain, whichever you choose, ranging from the very inexpensive, starting at only $109 for a small inside cabin, to a relatively inexpensive 16’x16’ luxury suite with balcony for only $339. However, the most popular are the ocean view large cabins for only $179. Nevertheless, for the amount of time you will spend in your cabin, anything goes.

There is so much to do and everything is planned to your maximum nonstop enjoyment. There are four restaurants, a complete casino, a luxury spa, lounges and nightclub with live great entertainment, music and dancing, and a variety of activities for all ages, from 3 to 103, all starting at only $109 per person, including all meals, entertainment and accommodations — and all only minutes away!

Bring the kids, for there is plenty to do. The ship has three separate daily schedules of activities for children. Junior cruisers (ages 3-9) get together in the Island Coconut Club, while their older counterparts (ages 10 to 13) have the Club Wave for their activities. Teenagers (14 to 17) get their own area in the Open Water Club. When looking for yours, most likely you will find them enjoying the 180-foot waterslide on the stern of the ship.

If you like shore excursions, then you will love what the Bahamas Celebration has to offer starting at $37; spending the day at the Grand

Celebration is the only cruise line in South Florida that offers a two-night Bahamas cruise.

Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort, you also can try glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, a city tour or the “Ultimate Eco-Tour on Horseback.” There you’ll ride through the endangered pine forest, emerging onto the beach with an opportunity to ride out in the waves on your stead.

I must give a lot of credit to the crew members and their smiling faces. They will make sure you are going to have the best two days and night for a long time to come. Their enthusiasm is contagious, resulting

in putting everyone on nonstop party mode.

The entertainment was excellent, the food was delicious, and the daily activities were nonstop, with something for everyone and every age. In other words… wow, what a deal and what a perfect escape from reality!

What I like most about writing my reviews is it helps me recall the fun I had experiencing a restaurant, a Broadway show, travel to a foreign country or a cruise. Sometimes it makes me want to do it all over

again… like now. Hope to see you on board!

Still looking for what to get that special person for Christmas that you can also enjoy? Then consider a two-day cruise on the Bahamas Celebration. Better yet, add the two nights at the Grand Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort. You can thank me later!

For reservations or further information, call (800) 3143-7735 or visit www.bahamascelebration.com.

Please tell them that the Phantom highly recommended you call!

Joe Nasuti, the Phantom, is a featured writer for the Town-Crier, Forever Young and www.yournews.com. Comments & recommendations are welcome at thephantomdiners@aol.com.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

RPBHS Basketball Team Defeats Seminole Ridge 74-41

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach boys varsity basketball team defeated Seminole Ridge High School 74-41 at a home game Friday, Dec. 2.

Though both teams made a strong effort, the Wildcats jumped out to an early lead with baskets by Stephon Gordon and Ivenor Rosier.

The Hawks would not reclaim the lead.

With only a few minutes left in the first quarter, Royal Palm Beach had doubled Seminole Ridge’s score to finish 19-7.

In the second quarter, both teams fought hard, but the Wildcats con-

tinued to dominate. Halfway through the quarter, the score was 33-13 with baskets from Buckinson Levasseur, C.J. Hammond and Gordon for the Wildcats.

Baskets from Nick Knights, Luke Miller, Shawn Smith, Darian Williams and Antwan Washington for the Hawks finished the half 43-22.

In the third quarter, the Wildcats continued to put points on the board while Seminole Ridge fought to keep up. Royal Palm Beach put up an additional 18 points to Seminole Ridge’s 13 to make the score 6135.

Ultimately, the Wildcats held on to their lead to win 74-41. Gordon

Hawk Nick Knights guards Wildcat Ivenor Rosier.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

led Royal Palm Beach with 18 points, while Rosier added 13 points. For the Hawks, Smith led with 11 points.

Royal Palm Beach traveled to Palm Beach Central High School on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and came away with a 77-58 victory. The Wildcats will travel to Atlantic High School on Friday, Dec. 9 for a 7:30 p.m. game.

On Tuesday, Seminole Ridge defeated Boynton Beach 45-34. The Hawks hosted John I. Leonard on Thursday, Dec. 8, but results were not available at press time. They next host Park Vista on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m.

The Hawks’ Antwan Washington runs the ball around Ivenor Rosier.

RPB’s Christian Cromartie puts in a basket.

Wildcat Kervens Charles pushes past Luke Miller.

Bronco Girls Basketball Squad Takes Down Jupiter 53-43

Palm Beach Central’s Devin Gray lunges to win the ball from Jupiter’s Jamie Higgins and Sharonda Thomas.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Bronco Mariah-Cauhryn Smelser shoots over Jupiter players.

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach Central High School girls varsity basketball team defeated the Jupiter High School Warriors 53-43 at a home game Thursday, Dec. 1.

During the first period of play, the Lady Broncos darted off to a 19-7 lead. Jupiter rallied in the second, outscoring Palm Beach Central 126, but the Lady Broncos never gave up their lead throughout the game.

The Warriors clawed back at

times, cutting the Palm Beach Central lead to six, but could never muster enough offense to overtake the strong Bronco defense. Bronco freshman forward Crystal Primm put up 14 points and two 3-pointers. Senior center Lexus Love had 18 rebounds and 12 points. Senior guard Ashante Doby added 8 points.

Freshman guard Devin Gray had one 3-pointer.

The Lady Broncos are 4-0 on the season, and currently ranked fifth in Palm Beach County.

Bronco Devin Gray challenges Elizabeth Bolchoz for the ball.

Bronco guar d Crystal Primm looks to pass.

Bronco Ashante Doby advances up the cour t against Jupiter.

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YOUNG LOCAL NINJAS RECEIVE NEW BELTS

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Six ninjas from Genbu-Kai Karate School in Royal Palm Beach tested and advanced to their next belt ranks Nov. 6. The ninjas have a total of eight belt levels to test through before they are ready for the junior karate class. Ninjas are taught eight basic skill levels: focus, teamwork, control, balance, memory, discipline, fitness and coordination. Ninja classes are offered for children from 4 to 6 years old, which prepares the youngsters for advancement into the junior karate program. Sho wn above are (L-R) Harrison A dams, Andrew Biancardi, Gabriela Ha, Sensei Keith Moore, Nino Guzzo, Zoey Norotsky and Jacob Gar tner. They live in the western communities and are between the ages of 5 and 7.

Berean Student Wins Gold Medal At Pan-American Games

Berean Christian School eighthgrader Carolyna Puentes took first place and the gold medal in judo at the Pan-American Games competition, held in November in BuenosAires, Argentina.

Out of the competitors of all 42 countries invited, Puentes was the only one to throw all of her opponents with a perfect score; her competitor from Brazil, ranked No. 1 for the last 15 years, was one of those she threw in less than one minute.

Judo is a Japanese martial art that, similar to wrestling, involves grappling and throwing one’s opponent during a timed match.

A resident of West Palm Beach, Puentes travels daily in season to train with her club Ki-its-uai in Coral Springs. Having trained since she was 5 years old, Puentes reached a new high in her Judo career when she earned a spot on the United States’ national team by placing first in her weight class nationally. She then traveled to Argentina to compete in the Pan-American Games and earned the U.S. a gold medal by defeating Chile, Brazil and Argentina in matches held over the two-day span of the games.

Carolyna Puentes proudly represents the United States at the Pan-American Games competition in Argentina.

Puentes’ performance was not just that of a champion; it also showed that with hard work one can overcome. She had been forced out of training for three weeks due to an injury, but through physical therapy and dedication, she proved that

anything is possible. Berean is proud of Puentes’ performance and congratulates her and her family for this great accomplishment. For more information about Berean and its students’ accomplishments, visit www.bereanwpb.org.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Local Martial Arts Student Wins Jiu Jitsu World Championship Eric Alequin, a 21-year-old West Palm Beach resident, recently won the Medium Heavy Weight Division at the BJJ Nogi World Championship, a Brazilian jiu jitsu competition held at California State University in Long Beach, Calif.

Alequin is a member of Team Nogueira, headed by

instructor Walt Bloise.

Throughout his training, he has been mentored by another member of Team Nogueira: Nick Tortora, a professional trainer who focused on Alequin’s mental strength in addition to his physical strength. Tortora, who runs the Wellington martial arts studio the Training Experi-

SRHS Hawk Battalion Raider Team Competes The Seminole Ridge High School Hawk Battalion Raider team recently traveled to South Fork High School to take part in a regional competition.

Cadet captain Devon Redmond led the varsity male team of Sergio Burgos, David Evens, Joey Evens, Lucas Freire, Corbett Pervenecki, James Petelle and Gary Poe; cadet first lieutenant Justin Kaufman led the varsity mixed team of Jason Bagnall, Alexandria Bonilla, Justin Kirkland, Cody Papula, Mario Pereira, Shyanne Rocky

and Alexandria Thornton.

Teams competed against 40 other teams from 19 schools in five strenuous events: a 3-mile run, a 1-mile cross country rescue (with a simulated casualty and 240 pounds of extra weight), a physical fitness test of pushups and situps, an academic first aid and orienteering test, and the construction and crossing of a one-rope bridge.

The varsity male team brought home a regional trophy for the first time in school history, taking second place in the 3-mile run.

ence, also provides training services to equestrians wanting to gain a physical and mental competitive edge.

Known as Balanced Equestrian Strength Training, or BEST, Tortora’s equestrian strength training has benefited top international riders.

“I am thrilled that Eric won this tournament. The BJJ Nogi World Championships is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world for Brazilian jiu jitsu,” Tortora said. “I have competed my entire life and I understand the physical and mental strains of competition, and worked with Eric to overcome his own specific obstacles. Eric’s success is phenomenal, and I am extremely proud of him.”

Alequin has been participating in martial arts for three years and said Tortora is his trainer but has also become a good friend. “The difference between Nick and any other trainer I have worked with is that Nick not only focuses on the physical aspect of training, but he also focuses on the mental aspect, which in my

opinion is the most important,” Alequin said. “Since working with Nick, I have become more successful in every aspect of my life.”

Alequin competed in the purple belt division at the world championships, which has a weight limit of 188.8 pounds. “This was my fourth time to compete in this tournament. I won third place last year and am very excited that I won this year,” Alequin said. “I owe much of my success to Nick and want to thank him for all of his help.

Nick strives to see others succeed. If anyone wants to make a positive change in their life, Nick is the guy that can help you do it.”

In addition to working with martial arts students, Tortora also focuses on an equestrian strength training program for Wellington’s equestrian set, and his clients include famous riders such as McLain Ward and Caroline Roffman.

Tortora helps riders become stronger, giving them an edge up on the competition and helping each rider move to the next level. “I have devel-

Eric Alequin (center) on the medal podium at the 2011 BJJ Nogi World Jiu Jitsu Championships.

PHOTO COUR TESY NICK TORTORA

oped a great program for equestrians that makes them stronger both mentally and physically. It is called BEST and stands for Balanced Equestrian Strength Training,” Tortora said, adding that he is sponsoring an award for dressage riders on the winter dressage circuit in Wellington. “I’m sponsoring the BEST Rider Award throughout the season, and the winner receives a certificate for a half-hour consultation and a one-hour training session with me at the Training Experience.”

Tortora also helps competitors, whether riders or martial arts students, develop their mind-body connection.

“As a competitor, the mindbody connection is extremely important. I help riders get in control of their thoughts and that translates into becoming a stronger competitor,” he said. “Our mind is a tool for us and we should be controlling it, not letting it control us.”

For additional information on Tortora, call (561) 2512724 or e-mail him at train wpb@gmail.com.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, Dec. 10 • Buckler’s Craft Fair will return Dec. 1011 to the South Florida Fairgrounds (9067 Southern Blvd.). Call (386) 860-0092 or visit www.bucklercraftfair.com for more info.

• Visit the Wellington Green Market on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• Good Earth Farm (2141 B Road, Loxahatchee Groves) will host a “Monster Garage Sale” on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help feed the animals. There will be mini-massages, clothes, horsey things and more. The cafe will be open, and there will be pony rides for the kids. Call Nancy at (561) 792-2666 or Reenie at (561) 727-6001 for more info.

• Frontier Elementary School and Osceola Creek Middle School will host a Winter Wonderland Carnival on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be games, face painting, food, vendor booths, entertainment, cotton candy, snow cones and more. Space is available for $50 per booth.

Contact Dawn at (561) 422-2502 or Tina at (561) 904-9900 for more info.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will feature “How to Host a Healthy Holiday Party” on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Samples will be provided. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Anime Club” for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 3 p.m. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Classic Car Show on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 5 p.m., followed by a concert titled “A Journey Through Film Music” at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own seating. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will feature “Holiday Full Moon Stroll” on Saturday, Dec. 10 fr om 5 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy an evening stroll along the garden’s winding paths. For more info, call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts.org.

• Actress and author Nancy Stafford will be the guest speaker at the Women’s Christmas Dinner on Saturday, Dec. 10 at First Baptist Church of Royal Palm Beach (10701 Okeechobee Blvd., Royal Palm Beach). The event will begin at 6:30 p.m.

For info., call the church at (561) 793-2475.

• The Marshall Foundation will host the sixth annual River of Grass Gala on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). For more info., call (561) 233-9004 or visit www.art marshall.com.

• A Pink Christmas Party will take place Saturday, Dec. 10 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Mijas Tex Mex in the Shoppes at Ibis (10130 Northlake Blvd., West Palm Beach). Join in the fight against breast cancer and have some holiday fun. For more info., Keith Shivers at (561) 333-4200.

Sunday, Dec. 11 • The 28th annual Western Communities Holiday Parade will take place Sunday, Dec. 11, along with the Holiday Fun Park at the Wellington Amphitheater and Holiday Mile Run/Walk. The Holiday Mile Run/Walk will be at 12:45 p.m. The parade begins at 1 p.m., starting at Wellington Trace, continuing down Forest Hill Blvd. and ending at the Wellington Amphitheater. For more info., visit www.palmswest.com.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will feature “Meet, Greet & Taste” Sunday, Dec. 11 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. featuring Sheri Heilman of FoxyRock Vineyards. Call (561) 904-4000 for info.

Monday, Dec. 12 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “What the Chelm! Tales” for adults Monday, Dec. 12 at 2:30 p.m.

Marjorie Gottlieb Wolfe tells stories of Chelm, a mythical place where the residents are happy but considered foolish to the outside world. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.

• The Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Board of Supervisors will meet Monday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the district office (101 West D Road). Call (561) 793-0884 for more info.

Tuesday, Dec. 13 • Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School will host its second annual Career Day on Tuesday, Dec. 13. The event will feature Jeff Heinz of Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, local children’s author V.R. Duin, representatives from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, local veterans, Swank Specialty Produce and many parents of students. For more info., call (561) 904-9200, ext. 5.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Noodle Story Time” for ages 3 to 5 on Tuesday, Dec. 13 See CALENDAR, page 39

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR CALENDAR, continued from page 38 at 11 a.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Na’amat USA, Sharon Chapter, Royal Palm Beach, invites members and friends to its annual Hanukkah party Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Ike Reeves, “Mr. Versatility,” will present big band sounds, sponsored by Todd Rosenblatt of Gold Buying Solutions. Call Gloria Terminello at (561) 798-2882 to RSVP • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will host a beginners’ bird walk Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. at Peaceful Waters Sanctuary in the southeast corner of Village Park (11700 Pierson Road, Wellington). Meet at the beginning of the boardwalk. For more info., contact Linda Humphries at (561) 742-7791 or hlindaase@aol.com.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Simple Seasonal Origami” for age 8 and up Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 4 p.m.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Anime Grab Bag” for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at the municipal complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).

Call (561) 791-4000 or visit www.wellington fl.gov for more info.

• The Young Professionals of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host a holiday networking party Tuesday, Dec. 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Carrabba’s Italian Grill (11141 Southern Blvd., Royal Palm Beach). For more info., contact Jessica Clasby at jessica@palmswest.com or call (561) 790-6200.

Wednesday, Dec. 14 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Checker Challenge” for age 6 and up Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m.

Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors will meet Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the district office (13476 61st St. North). Call (561) 7930874 or visit www.indiantrail.com for info.

• The Order Sons of Italy in America (OSIA) Loggia Michelangelo Lodge #2864 will host a potluck Christmas dinner and meeting Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center.

Guests are invited to a fun-filled evening of homemade Italian food, music and singing,

and with camaraderie in the holiday spirit.

The cost is $10 per person. RSVP to Vince Porpora at (561) 478-0543 or Bob Lenna at (561) 243-3226. Ever yone is expected to bring a toy for Toys for Tots.

Thursday, Dec. 15 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “From Head to Toe Story Time” for ages 2 to 3 on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 11 a.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Meet the Authors: Pamela Acheson & Richard Myers” on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. The authors will discuss A Year in Palm Beac h: Life in an Alternate Universe, a book chronicling an ordinary couple’s year in an extraordinary town. A book signing will follow. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Card Making” for ages 8 to 12 on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m. Learn how to make cards to give to friends and family. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Introduction to Irish Dancing” for children on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. and at 6:45 p.m. for adults. Marie Marzi of the Aranmore Academy of Irish Dance will guide dancers through beginner steps based on traditional dance forms. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach Village Council will meet Thursday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall (1050 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.).

For more info., call (561) 790-5100 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com.

Friday, Dec. 16 • The Wellington Amphitheat er (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will present a free screening of the movie Deck the Halls on Friday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Bring your own seating. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host “Mom’s Morning Escape” and “Goddard School Arts & Crafts Corner” for children Friday, Dec. 16 from 9 to 11 a.m. Moms will receive a free minimassage, coffee or tea, and a muffin while children participate in the crafts corner.

There is no charge, but pre-registration is required by calling (561) 904-4000.

Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. Email: news@gotowncrier.com.

December 9 - December 15, 2011

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HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER — in W ellington needs EXAM PREP COORDINAT OR Bachelors Degree- Demonstrate Solid Performance on SAT and ACT (either verbal or math sections) Available to work evenings and Saturdays. Also needed: EXAM PREP TUTORS Now Hiring SAT/ACT Preparation T utors.

Must have a 4 year degree preferably in Mathmetics or English. Be available to tutor on Saturdays.

Please e-mail resume to:marlenegiraud@hlcwellington.com

PART-TIME MEDICAL OFFICE — computer skills & good organizational skills a plus. File room, posting charts & front desk work. Hours are Flexible. Call between 10 am & 4pm Monday - Friday 561-236-4557

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED — 14 years and over for community service. Have fun with animals & kids 792-2666 WELLINGTON CAB HIRING — part-time dispatcher. Dispatcher experience, computer literate, telephone etiquette. Pro-active self starter individual looking for career. Some days - mostly nights & weekends. 561-333-0181 ENTRY LEVEL RECEPTIONIST — Computer literate. Heavy phones & filing. Fax resume 561333-2680

HOUSE FOR SALE — 3 bedroom/2 bath home, 10.5 plus acres, also approved to be sub-divided into 4 parcels. Horse Lover’s Dream.

Wellington Little Ranches. 12033 Acme Road Just Reduced Please call Julie Poof, 561-222-0601or rent $3500/monthly

WINDOW INSTALLERS WANTED Subcontractors only.

Top Pay. No Brokers. Call Matt 561-714-8490 Lic. & ins.

QUALIFIED PIZZA DRIVERS — Over 21 experienced delivery person apply in person 601 RPB Blvd.

Pizzano’s P. T. PERSONAL/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NEEDED — Searching for highly organized, creative & energetic individual as a personal & admininistrative assistant. Knowledge of Microsof t Office, flexible hours and can work from home. 561-512-4514 or Execucoach360@Gmail.com

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT — Efficiency, fully furnished, full kitchen & bath,TV, cable, Washer/Dryer, all utilities included. One person, No Pets, No Smokers. Short Term Lease $800 Per Month. 1st & Security call 561-790-0857 or 561-6320464

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JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new inst allation 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

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COMPUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/ Software setup, support & troubleshooting w w w.mobiletec.ne t.

561-248-2611 D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-3331923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

STOP SCRATCHING AND GNAWING Promote healing & hair growth.

Stamp out ITCHAMACALLITTS! Shampoo with HAPPY JACK itch.

No More apply Skin balm add Tonekote to diet. Goldcoast Feed 793-4607 www.kennelvax.com

DRIVEWAYS — Free estimates.

A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

THIS SATURDA Y DEC. 10TH, 8 A.M. TO 12 P.M. — Variety of items. 15840 Meadow Wood Drive.

HOUSECLEANING — 20 yrs experience. Excellent local references.

Shopping available. 561-572-1782 I WILL CLEAN YOUR HOUSE OR APARTMENT — Reasonable rates, excellent references call Roxanne at 561-693-8163 HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

NOT FOR PROFIT — Government Corporation Issued and Gtd. Call me for a free quote. Marc Piven, Agent 561-635-1168 Auto & Commercial Available.

BOB CAVANAGH ALLSTATE INSURANCE Auto • Home • Life • Renters • Motorcycle • RV • Golfcart • Boat Serving the Western Communities for 24 years Call for a quote 798-3056, or visit our website. www.allstateagencies.com/ rCavanagh

MOLD & MILDEW INSPECTIONS Air Quality Testing, leak detection.

US building inspectors, mention this ad for discount. 561-784-8811.

State of Fl. Lic. & Ins. #MRSA1796

RJA PAINTING & DECORATING, INC. — Interior Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial.Lic. #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561793-5455 561-662-7102 J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established in 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 visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — All Types of Home Repairs & Improvements. No job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 yrs of satisfied customers. See me on Angies List. Tom (561) 801-2010 or (954) 444-3178 Serving Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets / countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 7919900 or 628-9215

ANMAR CO.—James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back!

Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528

HOME INSPECTIONS — Windstorm Mitigation Inspections, Mold Inspections, Air Quality Testing.

State of Florida Lic. & Ins. #HI2147 US Building Inspectors 561-7848811

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. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident \ JEREMY JAMES PLUMBING — Licensed plumber, legitimate estimate. Water heaters, new construction. CFC1426242. Bonded Insured. CFC1426242. 561-601-6458

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 at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS DON HARTMANN ROOFING — Roof painting, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580 ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763.

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING 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 RC0067207 ROBERT CHERRY ROOFING INC Reroofing - Repair Waterproofing 561-791-2612 or 954-741-4580 State Lic.& Ins. #CCC-1326048 JOHN C. BEALE BUILDING & ROOFING — Additions, remodeling, roof rep airs & replacements, screened porches. Licensed & Insured. Call for Free Estimates. 561798-6448 ccc1326383 ccc1250306

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

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & p atio rescreening.

Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed!

CRC1329708 call us 798-3132. www.poolscreenrepair.com

ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985.

U-17189 561-791-9777 TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 793-3576 FOR INFO.

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 SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980.

Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258

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

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