Town-Crier newspaper January 2, 2015

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS HIGHLIGHT WEF RPB ZONERS OK NEW GRANDVIEW TREES SEE STORY, PAGE 4 SEE STORY, PAGE 7 THE

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

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2015 Shaping Up To Be A Busy Polo Season At Grand Champions

Volume 36, Number 1 January 2 - January 8, 2015

Serving Palms West Since 1980

WELLINGTON TOY DRIVE A SUCCESS

The Grand Champions Polo Club is looking forward to an exciting season utilizing its very own Chukker.TV station, where games can be viewed live, on instant replay or on demand from anywhere in the world.

“We have a full range of goal levels, we’ll be playing from sixgoal to 16-goal,” owner Melissa Ganzi said. Page 3

Erickson Hopes To Be Positive Influence On Planning Commission

Former Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Mike Erickson has been appointed to the Palm Beach County Planning Commission, where he hopes to help shape policy on future development in the western communities. Page 4

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The Village of Wellington’s Hometown Holiday Toy Drive was a great success. On Monday, Dec. 22, eligible parents were able to peruse donated toys at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church to find the perfect gifts for the approximately 300 children in the community who otherwise might have gone without this holiday season. Shown here, are Scott Campbell (left) and Meridith Tuckwood (right) from the Village of Wellington with Cynthia Jackson, Sheryl Beach and Pastor Emily Denmark McGee at St. Peter’s. STORY & MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 3 PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Second Leg Of SR 7 Extension To Open With Ceremony Jan. 7

Popular Wellington Green Market Open Saturdays Until April

The Wellington Green Market took place Saturday, Dec. 27 at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Vendors offered fresh produce, baked goods, plants, clothing and more. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April.

Page 9

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report A ribbon cutting for the State Road 7 extension from Persimmon Blvd. to 60th Street, then west to Royal Palm Beach Blvd., set for Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 10 a.m., will be another major step toward the ultimate goal of connecting SR 7 with Northlake Blvd.

The ceremony will take place at the road’s Persimmon Blvd. connection.

The extension has been financed completely by the county thus far, including the previous connection from Okeechobee Blvd. to Persimmon. The final leg, from 60th Street to Northlake, has been allocated state and federal funding,

but the project remains tied up in litigation.

“The county has followed through completely on its commitments to connect State Road 7 to Northlake Blvd.,” said Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Michelle Damone, who has served as SR 7 liaison for the Western Communities Council.

All of the western communities have shown overall support for the project, including financing a lobbyist through the Western Communities Council to try to assure that the final state-funded leg is finished.

“The opening of 60th is another victory,” Damone said, explaining that it will help disperse traffic in

Higher State Grade For RPBHS Thrills Principal, Village

By Chris Felker Town-Crier Staff Report Some good news for Royal Palm Beach High School was announced in December: its annual grade from the state rose from last year’s disappointing C to an above-average B grade.

At the Royal Palm Beach Village Council meeting Dec. 18, Councilman Jeff Hmara was excited to share the news.

He had met the previous night with school district administrators and Palm Beach County School Board Member Marcia Andrews in a long-sought gathering to discuss ways to support the community’s high school.

“We worked through Area 5 Superintendent Dr. Frank Rodriguez and Marcia Andrews to get it set up. It took quite a while to pull that off,” Hmara said, noting the need for patience in getting things done.

“If you stay at it, you can make it happen.”

Director of Planning Kris Garrison took the lead in the Dec. 17 discussion, Hmara said.

“We were talking about a number of issues that Royal Palm Beach High School has had in the past, some of which they’ve made

progress on, as evidenced by the B letter grade,” he said. “But others still need work, and basically some of those are appearance issues.

So we were talking about the need for additional attention, and oftentimes that manifests itself in resources, money in particular.”

He hopes the timing of the school’s receiving a better grade from the state will bolster the behind-the-scenes efforts to improve its programs, appearance and reputation.

Principal Jesus Armas, too, extolled the value of patience in a bulletin posted on the RPBHS web site.

“What pleases me most about this grade is that it was achieved the right way and built to last,” he noted. “We have been patient in furthering our vision by establishing a strong infrastructure, providing the proper professional development for our staff, and creating a culture of respect and excellence on our campus.”

The principal credited a team effort.

“We are fortunate to have strong leadership at the district level from Superintendent Wayne Gent and See RPBHS, page 7

The Acreage and ease the pressure on Orange Grove and Persimmon boulevards. “It puts us one step closer to Northlake Blvd.”

Damone said she expects a response on financing for 60th to Northlake by Jan. 5, explaining that the Florida Department of Transportation anticipates further resistance from the City of West Palm Beach.

“The funding is still in place; the construction is supposed to begin in 2016,” she said. “FDOT recommended on Dec. 8 to the [Palm Beach County] Metropolitan Planning Organization to shift funding to the expansion and widening of the southern portion that exists See SR 7 PROJECT, page 4

Local Singers Get Ready For Their ‘American Idol’ Debuts New Arboretum Lets Homeowners View Native Landscaping The new arboretum is located near the Wellington Dog Park on Greenbriar Blvd.

Fair’s Entertainment To Include Foghat, Elvis Show And More

The 2015 edition of the South Florida Fair — running Jan. 16 through Feb. 1 — will offer a collective blend of country crooning, rock ’n’ roll, Christian and alternative music, all together in one place. Along with a round of the Elvis Extravaganza National Competition, fairgoers will see a whole lotta shakin’, rattlin’ and rollin’ going on.

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By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report With the arrival of 2015 comes a new season of American Idol.

Familiar faces and voices will be coming through during the Season 14 two-night, three-hour premiere on Wednesday, Jan. 7 and Thursday, Jan. 8 on Fox. On Wednesday night, viewers will see 16-year-old Emily Brooke, who lives in Wellington and attends Wellington High School. A sophomore, Brooke is already is an accomplished singer, songwriter and guitarist.

American Idol has been an influential show for Brooke. “I’ve wanted to audition for forever, because I’ve always watched the show growing up,” she said.

When she turned 15, the stars aligned, and she auditioned in Nashville. She always wanted to know what it would be like to be on the show, and here was her chance.

There is a great deal that goes on behind the scenes that doesn’t make the special audition episodes, and that includes the two preliminary auditions, first with

the producers and then with the executive producers, before the big test with the celebrity judges.

Brooke sang Blown Away by Carrie Underwood for celebrity judges Harry Connick Jr., Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban.

“It was so cool meeting them,” she said. “I walked into the room, and it was so surreal and crazy.”

Once reality sunk in, that they were indeed real and in the room with her, it was time to perform.

“I was a little bit nervous because I know Harry is… one of the tougher judges, so I was worried about what he was going to say, but I was mostly excited,” she recalled.

Just 16, Brooke is in awe at her success so far. “It feels so amazing,” she said. “I just can’t believe that. There are so many talented people there, and at my age, I was able to make it as far as I am. It has been absolutely incredible.”

One thing Brooke is looking forward to, beyond advancing, is getting feedback.

“I’m most excited to see how America thinks I did,” she said.

“It’s cool when you perform for

people and then hear their feedback, because you’d like to be better.”

Brooke will have to wait and see what happens after the auditions air, but she has already made one good friend in fellow Floridian Hector Montenegro from Royal Palm Beach, whom she met while they were in Nashville.

This isn’t Montenegro’s first try at American Idol, but he has learned a great deal since he first auditioned at age 15. Now 24, he feels comfortable in his artistry.

He attended Royal Palm Beach High School, yet moved to Kentucky recently to be closer to Nashville. As soon as he saw online that the auditions were going to be close by, he decided it was time to try again.

“Getting past the first set of producers was super exciting for me,” Montenegro said. “I tried out for American Idol once before, so when I went in this time, I went in with very low expectations, since last time I went in with very high expectations.”

Getting past the first set of audiSee IDOL, page 19

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington has planted an area where residents can see firsthand the native species that are desirable for planting in their own yards in place of detrimental exotic plants that can often be found overgrown and crowding out native landscaping.

Wellington’s arboretum, located near the Wellington Dog Park on Greenbriar Blvd., has approximately 30 Florida-native plants that are well-suited to the climate and are both drought-resistant and slow-growing. That way, they don’t come to dominate the landscape and require less maintenance.

Brian Hopper, operations supervisor in charge of landscaping and forestry for the village, said the arboretum has been open for about four months.

“We wanted to make sure that

the word got put out there sufficiently so that everyone would know about it,” Hopper said.

“There’s a good mix of plants and trees. There’s hardwood trees, palms and also shrubs. The intent behind it was to have a one-stop shop where residents can go and view different plants and trees that are available for their own yards.”

The shrubs on display are of particular interest.

“We decided to include a lot of shrubs,” Hopper said, “because everyone is having such issues with their ficus hedges. We wanted to show some different options instead. If people choose to replace their ficus hedges, some of these other shrubs would be smart choices for them.”

Ficus is a fast-growing plant that requires frequent pruning. It has a horizontal root system that tends to get into irrigation systems and See ARBORETUM, page 19

2015 Season Kicks Off Sunday At Wellington’s IPC

The world’s best polo action returns to IPC this weekend.

PHOTO BY DAVID LOMINSKA

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The 2015 season kicks off this weekend at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, launching 16 weeks of field action that features the world’s top polo players.

The season’s opening tournament is the Herbie Pennell Cup. While preliminary matches start Friday, Jan. 2, the official opening day is Sunday, Jan. 4, which will feature the tournament finals amid all the pomp and circumstance that goes along with Sunday polo in Wellington.

The gates open for stadium lawn seating, bleacher seats and select box seats Sunday at 1 p.m., and the doors open for Sunday brunch at the Pavilion at 2 p.m., where guests will be treated to a delectable experience created by

International Polo Club Catering Powered by Aaron’s Catering.

The match begins at 3 p.m., after Broadway stars Ann Hampton Callaway and Liz Callaway perform the National Anthem and Oscar-winning actress Tatum O’Neal does the ceremonial coin toss.

High-performance exotic and classic cars will be on display at the Supercar Horsepower Show, which can be visited throughout the afternoon.

IPC President John Wash promises that 2015 will be the best polo season ever.

“Every year, we have been able to take the entire polo experience up a notch,” Wash said. “Our executive team puts in long days brainstorming new ideas and juggling the hundreds of details that

go into making IPC the world’s premier polo destination.”

After the Herbie Pennell Cup is the 20-goal Joe Barry Memorial Cup, the Ylvisaker Cup and the Iglehart Cup before the 26-goal games begin in March and April.

“We couldn’t be more proud to be the home of the most prestigious tournaments in North America, the USPA C.V. Whitney Cup, the Piaget USPA Gold Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship,” Wash said.

This year’s brunch features the theme “Taste of Italy” and follows the culinary delights that caterers Aaron and Julie Menitoff experienced recently while touring Italy.

In addition to the seemingly never-ending brunch featuring a rotating menu of 80 favorite dishes, there will also be interactive

stations where guests can explore Italy through its cuisine. There is a charcuterie and cheese station, a brick oven gourmet flatbread station and a gelateria station.

Whether guests indulge in handstretched and seasoned mozzarella and buratta, custom-made pizza with exotic ingredients or handmade gelato with an array of toppings, as well as miniature specialty deserts, there is something to satiate every culinary desire.

Joining the exclusive Veuve Clicquot Airstream Lounge is the Beerstream Lounge, new to the 2015 season, featuring a customized experience for craft beer enthusiasts.

Whether in the Pavilion, the grandstands, the sidelines or the tailgate spots, guests are invited to See IPC POLO, page 19

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NEWS

2015 Shaping Up To Be A Busy Polo Season At Grand Champions

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Grand Champions Polo Club is looking forward to an exciting season utilizing its very own Chukker.TV station, where games can be viewed live, on instant replay or on demand from anywhere in the world.

“We have a full range of goal levels, we’ll be playing from sixgoal to 16-goal,” owner Melissa Ganzi said. “We have a ton of teams interested and playing in all levels, but the majority of our teams are entered in the 12-goal level, so that’s going to be a really competitive level of polo.”

The club, located at the corner of Lake Worth Road and South Shore Blvd., will continue with its 3 p.m. Saturday games, which will be streamed live on Chukker.TV. “We’re currently the only club in America, if not the world, to

offer instant replay, especially for all levels of polo, so we’re excited about that,” Ganzi said. “It’s something that’s new to the sport.

Grand Champions was the first club to implement instant replay, and we’ll continue to host it, so we’re excited about that.”

Chukker.TV is a web site that features player interviews in addition to streaming games and special events. It began with Grand Champions but has expanded to cover games at other venues.

Another innovation Grand Champions is featuring is its newest focus: polo on demand.

“Besides all of the levels of polo that we offer, if somebody wants to come and have a polo experience, we can set that up,” Ganzi explained.

For example, she said, if you’re visiting Florida for a few weeks, Grand Champions can create a

custom polo experience. “Anything that you can dream up, we can do it for you,” she said. “It’s creating tailor-made polo experiences for people of all ages.”

Traveling, especially to Florida, provides the perfect opportunity to do something such as follow a dream, Ganzi said, noting that both their Florida and Aspen, Colo., clubs offer the custom experience.

Through traveling, Ganzi noticed that many hotels and resorts offer tailor-made experiences with golf, swimming or tennis, but the concept is new to polo.

“We are in a unique situation,” she said, because Grand Champions has staff and professionals working year-round, as well as horses that excel at the beginning level, the professional level and every level in between. “We’re trying to expand what the norms are in polo. We’ve taken our club

to the next level by having the infrastructure that we have.”

The United States Polo Association recently named Ganzi as the Florida Circuit Governor, which adds another layer of prestige to Grand Champions.

“I feel really fortunate and proud and honored to represent a circuit in the United States Polo Association that has every level of polo,” she said.

Grand Champions’ 2015 season begins with the Limited Edition 12 Goal Series, the Aspen Valley Cup and Metropolitan Cup in January, followed by the USPA Sieber Memorial Trophy, the $50,000 National 12 Goal Tournament, the USPA Cyril R. Harrison Trophy and the Halo Polo Trophy in February.

March holds the Top Pony 12 Goal Series, the Limited Edition 8 Goal Series, the USPA Regional

President’s Cup, the Madelon Bourdieu Memorial and the Santa Rita Abierto. Finishing off the season in April is the Museum of Polo & Hall Of Fame Challenge Cup, the USPA Association Cup, Las Acacias and the John T. Oxley Memorial Trophy.

While Ganzi looks forward to all of the tournaments, one that is extremely competitive, she said, is the $50,000 National 12 Goal Tournament, because it is a singleelimination tournament where every round is essentially a final.

In addition to the various special events hosted at Grand Champions during the season, Ganzi is excited about the Great Futures Boys & Girls Club Polo Day, which takes place Sunday, March 15 at Grand Champions and the International Polo Club Palm Beach. The day serves as a way to further introduce polo to the

community and benefits the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington.

“We feel privileged that [they] wanted to hold it at our fields again this year. It was such a great day. The kids from the Boys & Girls Club — there were so many of them — they lined the fields and they really were cheering the teams on,” Ganzi said. “It was quite exciting.”

As it has previously, Grand Champions will also be hosting two tournaments in conjunction with the Polo Training Foundation, the Joanna Monaco Memorial on Jan. 19 and the Buzz Welker Memorial on March 16.

Learn more about the Grand Champions Polo Club by calling (561) 644-5050 or visiting www. grandchampionspoloclub.org. For more about the upcoming season, visit www.chukker.tv.

Wellington Toy Drive Makes Holiday Time Brighter For Hundreds

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Village of Wellington’s holiday programs — the Hometown Holiday Food Drive and the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive — were great successes in their sixth years.

Through generous donations provided by the community, more than 130 families were able to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal on the table, and more than 300 children were treated with gifts this holiday season.

On the Friday before Christmas, the toy drive brought smiles to the faces of young hospital patients.

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office representatives Candi Price, Deputy Scott Poritz and Deputy Jason Horowitz were joined by Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue representatives Chief Ken Sehres, Jorge Garcia, R.J. Afanador and Capt. John Garrow, Meridith Tuckwood from Wellington’s Community Services Department, Councilwoman Anne Gerwig, Pastor Jay Carrero, Gregg Harr, Es Medrano Meyer, Palms West Hospital Pediatric Director Cathryn Hinton and Santa Claus from the Mall at Wellington Green.

Smiles were seen all around as

St. Peter’s teen volunteers with Pastor Emily Denmark McGee.

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the children were given toys and had the opportunity to meet Santa Claus.

On Monday, Dec. 22, eligible parents were able to peruse donated toys at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church to find the perfect gifts for the approximately 300 children in the community who otherwise might have gone without this holiday season.

The outpouring of community support enabled organizers to give boxes of additional toys to HomeSafe, the Children’s Hospital at Palms West and the Kids Cancer Foundation. The extra toys, Tuckwood explained, are given to the

children throughout the year who are sick or struggling.

“We have a very, very generous community that is always there to help,” Tuckwood said.

You can put one gift in the toy bin, she explained, and think it doesn’t mean anything. “But it does,” she said. “Because of you and everyone else like you, doing the same thing, we were able to do this.”

At least 1,000 toys were donated, ensuring that many children would have a happier holiday. To learn more about these programs, or how to make a donation, call (561) 791-4000.

Alex and Ron Gibbs assist families with their chosen toys.

Volunteers at St. Peter’s with Pastor Emily Denmark McGee.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

One-year-old Caden Spears with a new toy.

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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NEWS

Erickson Hopes To Be Positive Influence On Planning Commission

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Former Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Mike Erickson has been appointed to the Palm Beach County Planning Commission, where he hopes to help shape policy on future development in the western communities.

“Commissioner [Melissa] McKinlay asked me to sit on the planning commission or the zoning board, and I told her I’d be happy to sit on the planning commission because I think I can make a difference out here in our community,” Erickson told the Town-Crier on Tuesday. “I firmly supported her during her campaign, and I think she was the best candidate out there. I think we can finally maybe see some progress. The progress can be both positive and negative, but I hope to influence the negative into positive as much as I can.”

For example, Erickson said that Minto West will affect the western communities in undesirable ways,

but it also has potentially positive aspects.

“Even with the approach to Minto West, there are a lot of positives that are going to come from Minto West for the community,” he said, listing “the community center, equestrian trails and connectivity through the community” among those positives.

“We can concentrate on the negatives, but the reality is that it has been approved and it’s moving forward,” he said. “Obviously, each person has a different perspective on things.”

Erickson said he believes in looking at both sides and weighing the return for the community.

“I hope that I can influence the process and the planning process, one, to start properly planning it,” he said. “Hopefully, we can get a comprehensive approach to what’s left, and, two, if you go through the process and you’re willing to have discussions with the developer, there’s a lot more positive things you can get from it.”

Erickson said increased traffic will be the negative impact that will be the most difficult to look at positively, but that everyone will still have to work together to accommodate the traffic in the best way possible, and look for innovative ways to deal with it.

“With my past six or seven years being active in the community, I think I can bring a lot to the table, and obviously Commissioner McKinlay thought that, too,” he said. “I’ve always been a big proponent of transportation solutions, a big proponent of minimizing the impacts of things and trying to find a positive out of stuff, and that’s what I’m going to continue to do. Hopefully I can do that in the position she has put me in.”

He said the first round of considerations for the board in 2015 will be not only developer requests but also proposed map and text changes by staff.

“One of the things they are looking at is the non-residential aspects in the county, and they’re

proactively reviewing that right now, such as light industrial…

That’s one of the things that’s really a missing element in our community specifically. How can we go about creating the proper comp plan amendments and text amendments that give us more of an opportunity to create jobs in the non-residential sections that have been designated in the county? I think that’s a positive review that’s going forward that we’ll be talking about and the county will be reviewing.”

Another item under review is to have the State Road 7 extension end at Northlake Blvd. rather than its current projected continuation eventually to the Beeline Highway. “In 2015 Round One they’re removing, or putting into conservation, the original section north of Northlake to the Beeline,” he said, explaining that it was a condition the Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission required as part of the approval of the SR 7 extension to Northlake Blvd.

“They made some comments

about State Road 7 getting to Northlake, and one of the things they don’t want to see is it going through the natural area north of Northlake, so that’s being removed from the maps in this round,” he said, explaining that the action will take care of what has already been negotiated by county staff as part of getting the SR 7 extension to Northlake.

Erickson said he envisions that the biggest advantage to his membership on the planning body will be to have knowledge of issues early in the process.

“We’ll have that knowledge and information pretty much before it goes in front of any boards, and we can be a little more proactive at a planning level for the community, instead of just having to come up there and do public comment after the fact of what has been planned,” he said.

His most serious concern is transportation planning. “I hope that I can get involved in that,” Erickson said, explaining that he is much more interested in

Mike Erickson planning than zoning. “Zoning is really kind of after the fact. Forward thinking, forward planning is really what I like. To review things and see if they are according to zoning laws, that really didn’t excite me too much, but I think from a planning aspect, that is really what I’ve always been about.”

Nations Cup, 5* Events, World Cup Qualifiers Highlight 2015 WEF Equestrian Sport Productions looks forward to hosting the 36th annual Winter Equestrian Festival this season at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

The largest and longest-running horse show circuit in the world, WEF offers unrivaled opportunities for international show jumpers, awarding more than $8 million in prize money, with $4 million to international jumper divisions and 47 FEI World Ranking classes throughout the circuit. This year’s 12-week competition runs Jan. 7 through March 29.

Highlights of the 2015 festival include four weeks of CSI 5* competition with two FEI World Cup qualifying events. The $372,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix CSI-W 5*, presented by Fidelity Investments, will be the highlight event during week four

on Saturday, Jan. 31. The $372,000 FEI World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix CSI-W 5*, presented by Douglas Elliman, will be featured during week nine on Saturday, March 7. During week 7, the CSI 5* grand prix is the $372,000 Suncast Grand Prix on Saturday, Feb. 21. Week 12 concludes the circuit with the featured $500,000 Rolex Grand Prix CSI 5*.

The popular FEI Nations Cup returns on Friday, Feb. 27, during week eight’s CSIO 4* competition. This exciting team competition brings horses and riders from around the globe to compete on Wellington’s international stage in an impressive night of top sport.

The Nations Cup will feature even more prize money this year with an increase up to $100,000.

Featured classes will be held on the beautiful grass jumping field at the Palm Beach International

Equestrian Center Stadium. Some of the exciting events scheduled for this year include the $127,000 Ariat Grand Prix CSI 3* on Sunday, Feb. 8; the $25,000 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series Speed class, $34,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Series class and the $50,000 Equestrian Sotheby’s Jumper Derby on Sunday, Feb. 15; and the $50,000 Artisan Farms Under 25 Grand Prix Series Final and $85,000 Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Classic on Sunday, March 22.

The PBIEC Stadium will also once again host the $85,000 Salamander Hotels & Resorts Grand Prix CSI 3* in the intimate setting of its International Ring on Friday, Feb. 13. Home to the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, the Stadium provides a nice change of venue for horses and riders throughout the circuit.

The Suncast 1.50m Championship Jumper Series and Ruby et Violette WEF Challenge Cup Series each provide increased prize money and more opportunities for international riders to earn valuable world ranking points each week throughout the winter as well.

WEF has proven to be a valuable training ground for both riders and horses, as the last three FEI World Cup champions, the last three Olympic gold medal teams and many of the top performers at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games all competed at WEF in preparation for these championship events. This year’s bronze medal show jumping team from the United States and individual bronze medalist Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, Kent Farrington and Lucy Davis are all WEF regulars and will return with their top

The International Arena at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

horses in 2015. WEF also provides a great training ground for young horses. Top riders are known to bring along some of the world’s

most promising future stars.

For more information, visit www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-JUMP.

SWEETS FOUNDATION, PBSO JOIN UP TO HOST FUN SUPER SANTA DAY EVENT

The Sweets Foundation held its Super Santa Day at the National Guard armory last month. The event was a collaboration between the Sweets Foundation, a local charity devoted to Palm Beach County causes, and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, benefiting children living in Palm Beach County Housing Authority communities. More than 300 children attended and got to visit with Santa and receive presents. In addition, families had a day of fun including a story time, a balloon twister, face painter, arts and crafts, physical fitness activities, free food and drinks, cookie decorating, a video game truck as well as education presentations.

Kids enjoy their balloon creations.

Sweets Foundation board members Brian Shenkman, Jessica Clasby, Ken Shenkman and George Zocchi.

Attendees got a chance to meet Santa Claus.

Sweets Foundation directors and volunteers gather with PBSO deputies.

SR 7 Project

Extended To 60th Street

continued from page 1 now. The Metropolitan Planning Organization objected to that because that would have delayed the Northlake portion to 2020.”

She said the Western Communities Council is in the process of supporting the MPO and will be filing its own objections to the funding shift later this month.

Overall, Damone credits the county with its support of the extension through the financing and

construction thus far, and working with ITID to reach compromises, even when it was difficult at times to work with a contentious and divided board.

“The dedication that Palm Beach County has shown to all of the western communities for the extension of State Road 7 to 60th Street is the county’s foresight.

The road exists today because of the compromises made back in 2000,” she said, explaining that the county moved the road west from the original alignment to avoid cutting directly through the Pond Cypress Natural Area in order to avoid any environmental issues.

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From 60th Street, the FDOT alignment will cut back east to the original route, which runs between the Ibis community and West Palm Beach’s Grassy Waters Preserve.

“That road is environmentally compatible,” she said. “They built a beautiful, environmentally compatible road. The county has stepped up, and they have definitely shown the commitment to the western communities.”

County Engineer George Webb said the second leg is a major accomplishment in light of the travails the road has seen.

“When the entire first phase was envisioned, we had connections at

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Orange Grove and Persimmon,” Webb said. “We knew that that was not going to be all the connections, and that 60th Street was also going to be there as well.”

Webb said that when the county sought a permit from ITID for connections to Orange Grove and Persimmon boulevards, the ITID board was very concerned about the county’s ability to follow through on its commitment to make a connection to 60th Street.

“I reassured them on multiple occasions that it was the county’s full intent that we would continue that project the additional mile to the north and make an improved,

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Volunteer coordinators Joe and Beth Kaplan.

The face painting station was very popular. paved 60th Street, because 60th Street at the time was shellrock,” Webb said.

Webb said he is very proud of the county’s ability to follow through on that commitment.

“We did exactly what we said we were going to do,” he said.

“I’m very happy, particularly for the residents on Persimmon, because I’m not sure that the residents on Orange Grove are going to have that much change in traffic, but the traffic on Persimmon should significantly change with the new roadway. The residents have had to put up with a lot of traffic over the last few years.”

The new 1-mile segment from Persimmon to 60th has two lanes, and the three-quarter-mile 60th Street connection to Royal Palm Beach Blvd. has a total of three, including a center turn lane.

Both segments were designed

by KF Group Consultants and constructed under a county contract with J.W. Cheatham. The total project cost was $9 million.

Construction of 60th Street North from 120th Avenue North to Royal Palm Beach Blvd., and the replacement of the existing Royal Palm Beach Blvd. bridge over the M Canal, is scheduled to begin next spring.

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Page 5

NEWS

DOG LOVERS VISIT JIM BRANDON EQUESTRIAN CENTER FOR AGILITY TRIAL

Tailwaggers Learning Center hosted an AKC Agility Trial from Saturday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 30 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. Owners take dogs through a timed obstacle course of tunnels, jumps, weave poles and more. It’s a great way for an owner to bond with their dog. For more information on classes, visit Tailwaggers Learning Center at www.tailwaggers.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Barbara Sheedy with Flyer and Phyllis Dobrick with Ranger wait to compete.

Stevi Quick gives bearded collie Sasha a canine sports massage.

Shelli Wagner with Sparkle, a Papillon puppy.

Russ Pellegrino with Bungee, who won the Master Standard Agility title.

Bill Becker takes Romeo over a jump.

Koti sits up for owner Linda Fox.

Jahaira Perez with Luna.

SUNDAY GREEN MARKET BRINGS CROWDS TO ACREAGE COMMUNITY PARK

The Acreage Green Market is held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Acreage Community Park. It features homemade, handmade and home-grown goods and produce. For more information, visit www.acreagegreenmarket.com or call (561) 723-3898.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

towncrier - NY.pdf 1 and 12/3/2014 3:47:03 PM with green market Mike Watkins Sixto Costa organizer Sandra Love Semande and Maggie.

Jennifer Walker of Southwest Florida Produce refills the berries.

Aiden and Thomas Sperring have fun at the playground.

David Bates of DR Bates Liners & Gallons with fresh herbs.

Page 6

January 2 - January 8, 2015

The Town-Crier

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CRIME NEWS

Grinch Steals Tree, Gifts From Home In Royal Palm Beach

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report DEC. 23 — A deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a home in La Mancha last Tuesday morning regarding a residential burglary.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. last Monday and 6 a.m. last Tuesday, someone broke a window at the rear of the home and removed a Sony PlayStation 4, a Nintendo Wii, baby clothing, two boxes of diapers, a perfume set, a Toshiba laptop, a Christmas tree and nine pairs of Nike Air Jordan sneakers, valued at approximately $2,100.

The items were mostly gifts for the victim’s six children. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

••• DEC. 19 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called Friday, Dec. 19 to the BB&T Bank branch on Southern Blvd. regarding a robbery. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 9:15 a.m., an unknown male entered the bank wearing blue jeans, a black hooded sweatshirt, a tan face cover and sunglasses. According to the report, he pointed a black revolver at a bank teller and demanded money. The suspect left the bank with an unknown amount of money and fled in a silver Dodge four-door vehicle that was waiting nearby.

DEC. 21 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to Royal Palm Beach Veterans Park last Sunday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2:50 and 3:20 p.m., the victim was taking pictures at the park when someone smashed the driver’s-side window of the victim’s rented 2013 Mazda5 and stole her purse. Approximately $150 in damage was done to the vehicle. According to the report, the victim left her purse, containing her identification cards, medical information and a credit card, on the passenger floorboard inside the locked vehicle.

DEC. 21 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a storage facility on Fox Trail Road last Sunday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2:15 and 4:16 p.m., the victim parked by the storage facility. According to the report, when the victim returned, she noticed that the rear passenger-side door of her 2007 Toyota Camry had been broken into, and the victim’s luggage, dress shoes, jewelry and perfume, valued at approximately $1,365, were missing.

DEC. 22 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach

substation was called to the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center last Monday regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 5 and 6 p.m., the victim left his backpack in the bleachers while he played basketball in the gym, and upon his return, noticed that his white Samsung Galaxy S3 phone, valued at $200, was missing. According to the report, the victim noticed children near the bag, but did not know them or see them take anything from his bag.

DEC. 23 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to the Village Golf Club on Country Club Drive last Tuesday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim was in the golf club between 12:45 and 1 p.m., and upon returning to the vehicle, noticed that the left rear window of her 2013 Kia SUV had been smashed. According to the report, the victim’s Apple iPhone 5, Guess purse and Guess wallet, valued at approximately $700, were removed from the vehicle, as well as earrings, two passports, $20 cash, bank cards, license, Poochie and DKNY glasses, a Steve Madden bag and more. According to the report, the victim contacted her bank, PNC, and discovered that her bank card had been used for a transaction of more than $200 at a Publix supermarket on Northlake Blvd. in West Palm Beach.

According to the report, the card was quickly canceled. Fingerprints were taken from the vehicle, but there were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 23 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Royal Palm Beach substation was called to a preschool on Okeechobee Blvd. last Tuesday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim parked her 2005 Mercury Mountaineer at the facility. According to the report, another vehicle parked next to the victim’s car and left shortly thereafter. The victim, upon returning to her vehicle less than five minutes later, discovered that someone had smashed her front right passenger window and removed the victim’s black Kate Spade purse, Samsung Galaxy Note 3, $200 cash, cosmetics, lip filler Botox with needles and a Kate Spade wallet. The vehicle was processed for fingerprints and DNA evidence. A video camera captured the incident.

DEC. 23 — A resident of Royal Ascot Estates contacted the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Tuesday regarding a stolen tag. According to a PBSO report, the victim last noticed the tag on her vehicle at 3 p.m. last Monday, and discovered it missing See BLOTTER, page 19

Three Juveniles Arrested After Stealing Weapons From Walmart

DEC. 27 — Three juveniles who stole weapons from the Walmart store in Royal Palm Beach were quickly nabbed by Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies, thanks to the store’s loss prevention personnel.

Loss prevention officers noticed three juveniles, ages 12, 13 and 16, casing the Walmart store at approximately 4:20 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 27.

The store personnel immediately notified PBSO dispatch and locked down the store. Deputies responded and took position

around the perimeter of the store.

All three juveniles, armed with weapons, fled the store and found deputies awaiting them. The 16-year-old fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by the K-9 unit. The other two juveniles were apprehended without incident.

All three were transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center for processing. Each will be charged with retail grand theft, and the 16-year-old will also be charged with resisting arrest. A female adult was detained, but not arrested.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Heidi Gould is a white female, 5’6” tall and weighing 100 lbs., with blonde hair, blue eyes and multiple tattoos. Her date of birth is 04/21/82. Gould is wanted on felony charges for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, resisting a police officer, leaving the scene of a crash involving damage, and driving with a suspended, canceled or revoked license. She is also wanted for multiple traffic warrants. Her last known addresses were Rambling Drive in Wellington and Waterway Village Court in Greenacres. She is wanted as of 12/24/14.

• Taylor Netter is a white male, 5’11” tall and weighing 160 lbs., with brown hair and green eyes. His date of birth is 01/17/90.

Netter is wanted on felony charges for robbery and aggravated battery. His last known address was Thornridge Lane in Royal Palm Beach. He is wanted as of 12/24/14.

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

Heidi Gould

Taylor Netter

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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Page 7

NEWS

RPB Zoners OK Replacement Of Canopy Trees In Grandview

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission last week recommended that the village approve a request by Grandview at Crestwood to replace 81 mahogany and buttonwood trees with foxtail palms.

At the Dec. 23 meeting, Site Plan Coordinator Kevin Erwin said Grandview at Crestwood, located behind the Crestwood Square shopping plaza, was siteplanned in the 1990s, and the applicant was seeking architectural approval to remove those trees, which are within narrow landscape islands throughout the community.

“The applicant is proposing to replace the trees being removed with foxtail palms,” Erwin said.

“The existing trees were planted in areas which were much too small to accommodate proper growth habits, and they are also causing damage to the driveways and walkways, which require costly repairs.”

Erwin said some of the tree

islands are narrower than 3 feet.

“These are very large trees,” he said. “Mahoganies have a very large canopy, and green buttonwoods can get very sizable as well.”

He said the homeowners’ association had provided a notice to the Grandview at Crestwood residents informing them of the annual meeting when the proposed tree removal was to be discussed, and only one resident objected to the removal.

The applicant had supplied a landscape removal and replacement plan for the commission’s review.

Erwin also noted that the spaces where the trees have been planted would not meet the minimum standards for parallel divider strips under the current village code, nor would even be required.

“It should also be noted that this site plan was approved many, many years ago,” he said. “It probably was not a good idea to put these types of trees in these types of locations. Therefore, staff is recommending approval.

We think the palm trees will have a better opportunity to grow and flourish in such a small area.”

Thomas Menzel, president of the Grandview at Crestwood Homeowners’ Association, said the HOA had replaced more than 40 driveways.

“It has cost us more than $40,000 in driveway repairs, and within a year, the roots have come back and caused more damage,” Menzel said. “It has just been a nightmare for the community.”

He asked for approval of the application to replace the trees before they continue with driveway repair and replacement.

Erwin also pointed out that any shrubbery material that is disturbed during the replacement will also be replaced.

Landscaper Luis Espino of Florida Green requested permission for the replacement palms to be about 6 or 7 feet in height, but Erwin said the minimum permitted height would be 14 feet.

Espino asked permission that the replacement palms be adonidias, also known as Christmas palms,

because they are easier to locate at those heights and have smaller root balls than foxtails.

Erwin said the foxtail palms would have a larger head and provide a bit more shade than an adonidia and suggested three adonidias in lieu of one foxtail.

Commissioner Joseph Boyle asked whether the replacement palms met the village’s mitigation requirements, and Erwin said the foxtails would be an acceptable replacement as long as they meet the minimum planting height of 14 feet, clarifying that the minimum height of 14 feet would be to the top of the fronds rather than the trunk.

Menzel said the community was aware that the foxtail palms would not provide as much canopy but also would not destroy the driveways.

Erwin added that the application should probably remain with the foxtails because that is what was discussed at the HOA meeting.

Commissioner June Perrin said she hated to lose the mature trees,

but understood the circumstances.

“It goes to show you that it’s always very important when you’re doing landscaping to plan for the present and the future,” she said.

Commissioner Michael Axelberd said his community of Royal Estates also had issues where trees were pulling up driveways and sidewalks.

“We were afraid it was going to pull up the roads, which it probably would have,” he said.

Axelberd also pointed out that one community wound up paying a six-figure settlement to a pedestrian who had tripped over a sidewalk that had been pulled up by a root system.

“I applaud you for taking action because you’re mitigating damages,” he said. “Not only that, but during hurricanes, mahoganies are a fall hazard.”

Axelberd made a motion to approve the application, which carried 5-0.

In other business, the commission gave architectural approval of wall signs for Home Away from Home at RPG Regal.

Erwin said the request was for the farthest back of five buildings in the RPG complex, where the proposed childcare center will be located.

“The applicant is seeking wallsign approval for a proposed childcare center located at 1013 N. State Road 7,” Erwin said.

The site is zoned general commercial, and the applicant is proposing to use a modified version of its trademark for the proposed wall sign without ruling behind the sign, which staff felt made it less busy. Staff had recommended approval.

Perrin made a motion to approve the application, which carried 5-0.

The commission also gave architectural approval to the Mid County Veterinary Hospital at 11368 Okeechobee Blvd. to replace its roof. Erwin said the applicant wanted to replace its tile roof with a metal one.

Commissioner Felicia Matula made a motion to approve the application, which also carried unanimously.

Trump Invitational Returns To Mar-a-Lago Club This Weekend

The third annual Trump Invitational, presented by Rolex, will be held Sunday, Jan. 4 at the beautiful Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach.

In addition to world-class show jumping alongside the Intracoastal Waterway, there will be a red carpet entrance, Perrier-Jouët champagne and a poolside welcome reception presented by Suncast and Carol Sollak of Engel & Völkers.

A VIP experience borders the ring and looks out over the water, making the Trump Invitational one of the most unique show jumping events in the world.

Several luxury items will also be featured in this year’s live auction.

The $125,000 Trump Invitational Grand Prix will showcase 35 of the world’s top riders in an FEI world ranking competition, including number-two ranked rider Kent Farrington, two-time Olympic gold medalists Beezie Madden and McLain Ward, Olympic gold medalist Laura Kraut, top show jumper Georgina Bloomberg and up-and-coming star Jessica Springsteen.

The co-chairs for the event are Paige Bellissimo, Ivanka Trump and Georgina Bloomberg.

The event will benefit the 2015 Great Charity Challenge, presented by Fidelity Investments, which has raised more than $6.2

million over the last five years for more than 100 Palm Beach County charities. It will also serve as the kickoff party for the 2015 Winter Equestrian Festival, the 12-week circuit that opens at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Jan. 7.

The Trump Invitational is the only equestrian event ever to be held on Palm Beach Island and is hosted at the Mar-a-Lago Club, the former Marjorie Merriweather Post estate built in 1924 and purchased and restored by Donald Trump in 1985. It is one of the most magnificent mansions in the world and is designated a U.S National Landmark.

MEMORIAL DEDICATION AT TEMPLE BETH TORAH IN WELLINGTON

Members of #Hineini, the teen program at Temple Beth Torah in Wellington, planted an orange tree in memory of Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israel Defense Forces soldier who was killed last summer during Operation Protective Edge.

Hadar means “citrus” in Hebrew. The teens planted small flowering plants around the tree and decorated white rocks, which were also placed in the garden. A formal dedication of the memorial garden was held Monday, Dec. 22.

Special guests were teenagers from the area who spent last summer in Israel and the Israeli teenagers they visited. Members of Goldin’s family were also present for the special dedication. Shani and Nir Boneh, volunteer Shlichim from the Israel & Global Initiatives Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, worked closely with Meredith Hirschberg, interim director of education at Temple Beth Torah to create the events. The religious school at Temple Beth Torah has many projects in place that continue to strengthen the bond between Israeli students and students in the school. Learn more at www.templebethtorah.net.

Rolex returns as the presenting sponsor, and additional sponsors include Suncast, Land Rover, Carol Sollak of Engel & Völkers, Perrier-Jouët, Rosenbaum Mollengarden and Horseshoe Trail Farm.

Following the grand prix is a special invitational junior/amateur jumper class that will highlight some of the top junior and amateur riders in the sport.

Tables are still available. For table information, contact Kathleen LaMour at kathleen@equestriansport.com or call (561) 784-1106.

Visit www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-5867 for more information about the event.

RPBHS

Raising The Grade

continued from page 1 School Board Member Marcia Andrews,” he continued. “We are grateful for the support that we received from Area Superintendent Ian Saltzman and Area Director Joe DePasquale, from the Royal Palm Beach Village Council and the Education Advisory Board, and from our parents and community members. We are proud of the work done by our leadership team, our instructional support team and our non-instructional staff. We are, however, most proud of our classroom teachers and students, who are on the front line of where the learning truly occurs.”

Hmara said he thought Armas was being a little modest.

“While Principal Armas is quick to give credit to the team, without his leadership, I don’t think we would have seen these changes.

He has done a remarkable job in the four-plus years he has been over there,” Hmara said at the Dec. 18 meeting. “One of the keys is to make sure that he gets the support and resources necessary to continue this.”

Armas was happy about the better grade, but told the Town-Crier that it was no Christmas present.

“I’m certainly very pleased with the fact that we moved up.

It has been an effort that has been ongoing. We feel that we’ve gone about handling the school grades appropriately,” he said, noting that Florida Department of Education changes made it tougher for schools to move up. “Last year, the FDOE upped the threshold numbers to earn letter grades, making it more difficult to earn an A. Under

Last year’s Trump Invitational Grand Prix winners Kent Farrington and Blue Angel.

PHOTO BY SPORTFOT

the old point system, our 1,097 points would have been an A. For this school year, there will be even more changes to school grading because of different tests and a different scoring method.

“So, while we don’t know how grades will be affected this year or in the future,” Armas said, “we do know that the work that we are currently doing is real and exceptional.”

While some have focused recently on the school’s imperfect appearance, Armas dismissed those criticisms as somewhat superficial.

“I think that a school is not determined by its brick and mortar.

A school is what it is based on its faculty and staff and student body, and the support it receives from its community. While yes, the place could use some sprucing up as far as a paint job or a new marquee, that does not in any way determine who we are or what we are,” he said. “I think anybody who harps on that as a way to shine negative light on a school is, frankly, just reaching for reasons to bring out negative things. We have a lot of good things that are happening on our campus on a daily basis.”

Armas noted the additions of several choice programs at RPBHS, although a request for an International Baccalaureate program is on hold for now.

“We have brought in some programs, such as the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Academy,” he said. “We have upped our other academies by adding computer gaming, for example, as another academy.

Having an IB program would be nice, but it’s not an end-all. We think it would be a good program because our community wants it.”

For his part, Hmara plans to continue pushing for more improvements, and referred again to the Dec. 17 meeting that he thinks was very productive.

“We have had the offering of an International Baccalaureate program to RPBHS, but because of a shortage of funds, that IB program won’t be coming in the foreseeable future,” Hmara said. “So we talked about how important it would be to continue adding those choice programs so we can keep local students.

About a third of those who live in the Royal Palm Beach area go to other high schools for a variety of reasons.”

Hmara would also like to get a Junior ROTC program established at the school. “I’ve seen the results of other Junior ROTC programs at Seminole Ridge and Palm Beach Gardens high schools, and I think it has a remarkably positive impact on the student body,” he said.

Hmara was effusive in his praise for Armas. “I think he’s an outstanding leader and has provided the stability and perseverance we needed, combined with some nice choice programs,” he said.

Armas said that he will continue working hard to meet the community’s high expectations.

“While there may be some people who may not be happy with the paint job or anything else, a strong majority of the students who walk across our stage are very happy with their educational experience,” he said. “And the things that I hear on a daily basis from parents are all positive. The community is behind us. We believe that the things that we have here on our campus have been built to last now, and we see nothing but great things continuing forward for Royal Palm Beach High School.”

Page 8

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Wellington Seeks AfterSchool Tutors

Wellington’s Community Services Department is in need of volunteers to tutor neighborhood youth in grades K-12. Tutors are needed in math, reading, writing, English, social studies and science.

Tutoring sessions will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Community Services Office (1092 Wellington Trace) beginning Jan. 26. If you are interested in volunteering, call (561) 791-4764.

Law Enforcement Unity Rally Jan. 2

Wellington invites residents to show their support for law enforcement personnel by attending a unity rally hosted by Palm Beach County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay and Indian Trail Improvement District Supervisor Michelle Damone Friday, Jan. 2 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater.

The rally will include a peace-

NEWS BRIEFS ful candlelight ceremony. Candles will be supplied at the event.

Wellington Mayor Bob Margolis plans to attend in order to show support and gratitude for public safety personnel who willingly answer the call of duty, even in the face of danger.

“Here at the Village of Wellington, we take pride in our local heroes who dedicate their lives to the safety and protection of others,” Margolis said. “Please join us at the unity rally, to show them and their families that we care.”

The event will end with a moment of silence in honor of those lost in the line of duty.

auditions should contact the office to arrange an alternate time. Adults and male dancers are encouraged to attend. High-level dancers may be asked to dance en pointe.

The audition will consist of a master class given by Melissa Waters and will include a classical barre and the execution of various technical steps for the student to perform. The cost of the audition is $10.

Auditions will be held at Dance Arts Conservatory (12260 Fortune Circle, Suite J1, Wellington).

RSVP by e-mail at info@wellingtonballettheatre.org or by calling (561) 296-1880.

‘Alice In Wonderland’ Auditions Jan. 3

FLARA Meeting Set For Jan. 5

Wellington Ballet Theatre is holding auditions for its spring performance of Alice in Wonderland.

Auditions will be held Saturday, Jan. 3. Audition times are 4 p.m. for ages eight and under. The audition time for dancers nine and over will be held at 5 p.m. All levels are eligible to audition.

Those unable to attend the Jan. 3

The Western Communities chapter of the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans will meet Monday, Jan. 5 at St Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) from 1 to 3 p.m.

Dr. Richard Palermo, an expert on assisted dying, will present his widely acclaimed talk on the subject. Unique among such experts,

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6/17/14 11:07 AM

he was directly involved in two successful family episodes of assisted dying.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For more info., call Nancy Tanner at (561) 793-9677.

Tu B’Shevat Seder and celebration of Rosh Chodesh Shevat.

The suggested donation is $10 for nonmembers and $5 for members.

RSVP to Helene at (561) 512-7172 or e-mail coolmama18@hotmail. com.

After-Hours Networking Event Jan. 8

DEP Honors Wellington

Celebrate the new year with the Wellington Chamber of Commerce at a special after-hours networking event at the Art Cellar (10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 150, Wellington) on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sip, taste and create your own masterpiece.

Everyone gets to take home their creation. To reserve your space, contact info@wellingtonchamber. com or (561) 792-6525.

Hadassah Meeting Jan. 21

Join Shulamit Hadassah on Wednesday, Jan 21 at 7 p.m. at the community room of Palm Beach County Fire-Station #30 (9910 Stribling Way, Wellington) for a

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Water Resource Management has honored the Village of Wellington with the 2014 Plant Operations Excellence Award.

Each year, the Florida DEP presents awards to wastewater and drinking water facilities throughout the state that demonstrate excellence in operation, maintenance, innovative treatment, waste reduction and pollution prevention, recycling and other special achievements.

The Village of Wellington’s Water Reclamation Facility employs the latest in automation technology to increase efficiency. Since its expansion in 2012, the facility now handles more than 6 million gallons of water per day. This ex-

pansion also included added aeration systems, a clarifier, digesters, a dryer and increased capacity for the reuse system.

The award will be presented at a ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 11, in Tamarac.

For more information, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

Chamber Women’s Group Event Jan. 15

The Women of the Wellington Chamber will host a special event Thursday, Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. at the India Grill + Bar, located at 650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.

The event is sponsored by BMP Tax & Accounting, and the program is titled “Take Control of Your Financial Life! Protecting Prosperity: Smart Women Making Sound Financial Decisions.”

The gathering will offer tips to help make your financial life less intimidating.

Reservations are required for the event. RSVP to Sherron Permashwar by calling (561) 306-0775 or via e-mail to sherron@bmptaxcpa. com.

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

Page 9

NEWS

POPULAR WELLINGTON GREEN MARKET OPEN EVERY SATURDAY UNTIL APRIL

The Wellington Green Market took place Saturday, Dec. 27 at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Vendors offered fresh produce, baked goods, plants, clothing and more. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through April. For more info., call Peter Robinson at (561) 283-5856 or visit www.wellingtongreenmarket.com. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Monica Sechler visits with Chef Vicki Einhorn at the homemade Welli Jelli and Jamz booth.

Leslie Pfeiffer peruses the eggplants.

Jane and Ashley Aversano look over scented soaps by Kim Charles.

Christina Waters of Christy’s Bakery with crumb buns.

Tiki Kiti & Poni Rescue’s Dana Caplan with Taz.

Hetheru Ramut of Adorn Handmade Clothing & Acessories.

Marley Cannon holds rooster Pipi for Andrew, Amy and Ethan Kushner to see.

WELLINGTON AQUATICS COMPLEX HOSTS RED CROSS LIFEGUARD CLASSES

American Red Cross lifeguard certification classes were held Dec. 19-23 at the Wellington Aquatics Complex. The classes taught the basics on how to recognize and respond to water emergencies and provide care until EMS arrives. For more information about PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER classes at the Wellington Aquatics Complex, call (561) 791-4770.

Alexander Refowich, lead lifeguard Theodore Etter and Kahlil Wehmeyer stabilize “victim” Kimberly Caulfield’s head.

Yatri Wehmeyer, Dean Smith and Maddie Beauvien work on “victim” Andre Schneider.

Lifeguard certification class participants.

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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Tuesday - Tacos & Tequila Wednesday - Trivia & Wine-a-Little $15 Bottles of Wine Thursday - Karaoke & Drink Specials Friday - Live Entertainment & $5.00 Martini’s Saturday - Jimmy Sunday - Food & Beer Specials, Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork, Beef Stroganoff, Ba Shrimp & Grits and Fried Pickles

THE ALL AMERICAN BAR & GRILL Seafood, Salads, Grazing & Lite Grazing Dinner: 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

New restaurant in Wellington All new menu, all new decor, all new friendly attitude, and a whole bunch of good times just waiting to happen.

(561) 469-1109

whiteelephantwellington.com 12794 West Forest Hill Boulevard Ste 20 Wellington, Florida 33414

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The Perfect Match Polo and Brunch

Experience the energy of world-class polo and brunch at the International Polo Club. Delicious food, champagne, celebrity sightings, music, fashion and, of course, polo.

Every Sunday at 3 p.m. through April 19 The Pavilion opens at 2 p.m.

Join us at The Pavilion for the after-party from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For ticket options, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687.

3667 120th Avenue South Wellington, Florida 33414

Photography by LILA PHOTO

57527_IPC_TownCrier_FP_Ad.indd 1

12/17/14 10:45 AM

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Ambassadors Named For 2015 Kravis Gala Ambassadors have been named for the 2015 Kravis Center Gala, honoring several local women as select representatives to the annual event, which this year will feature the world-renowned Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra on Sunday, Feb. 8.

The 2015 Kravis Center Gala ambassadors are Lori Gendelman, Marianne Gold, Andrea Kosoy, Shelley Menin, Denise Meyer and Susan Miller.

Monika Preston will chair the event, Kathryn Vecellio is honorary chair, and Cameron Preston, Angela Vecellio and Tara Vecellio are vice chairs.

For more than 20 years, the not-for-profit Kravis Center for the Performing Arts has helped students of all ages fuel their imaginations and expand their

lives through comprehensive arts education programs.

Gala sponsors include Dr. Nettie Birnbach, the Breakers Palm Beach, Stephen Brown and Jamie Stern, Sanford and Isanne Fisher, Alec and Miriam Flamm, Diane and Bruce Halle, Harless & Associates, Jim and Irene Karp, Henni and John Kessler, the Leonard and Norma Klorfine Foundation, Dorothy and Sidney Kohl, Ingrid and David Kosowsky, the Jack and Goldie Wolfe Miller Fund, Jane Mitchell, Neiman Marcus, Monika and John Preston, Sabadell Bank & Trust, SBA Communications Corporation, Laurie Silvers and Mitchell Rubenstein, Kathryn and Leo Vecellio, and Lois Silverman Yashar and Dr. James Yashar.

For info., visit www.kravis.org/ gala or call (561) 651-4320.

Marshall Foundation CEO Mark Pafford, with Gala Honorary Chairs Matt and Thais Piotrowski and Board President Michael Davis aboard the Lady Windridge for the River of Grass Gala.

Lori Gendelman, Shelley Menin, Susan Miller and Marianne Gold.

St. Hilaire Named Development Director At The Center For Creative Education

Cecilia St. Hilaire

As the Center for Creative Education (CCE) enters its 20th anniversary year of providing arts integration services to Palm Beach County students, Wellington resident Cecilia St. Hilaire has joined the organization as director of development.

St. Hilaire will be responsible for all aspects of a comprehensive donor program, including fundraising, event management, donor data management, board member development and donor communications for the West Palm Beach-based nonprofit. She recently served as director of development, operations and finance for Opportunity Inc. for nine years.

Since its inception, approxi-

mately 150,000 children have experienced CCE’s method of merging art with academics to bring learning to life, engaging children in hands-on, project-based education. CCE teaching artists use the arts as a vehicle to help students gain greater understanding of science, math, literacy and other areas of learning. Traditionally CCE works with disadvantaged students at school sites all over Palm Beach County, providing after-school and in school programming to many students considered “at risk.”

In addition, the organization is hired by private and independent schools to provide arts integrated instruction.

In addition to her professional

role, St. Hilaire volunteers as a long-standing commissioner of the Westgate CRA, a member of the West Palm Beach Rotary Club, the Planned Giving Council of the Palm Beaches, the Northwood Renaissance marketing committee and the Circles Guiding Coalition of Palm Beach County.

A native of the Caribbean island of Dominica, she currently divides her time between homes in Wellington and Lighthouse Point.

For information on programming, classes in its Northwood Village headquarters, to participate in events or make a donation to benefit at-risk school programs, visit www.cceflorida.org or call (561) 805-9927.

Deborah Burggraaf Introduces Her Eighth Book

Local author Deborah Burggraaf, the 2013 and 2014 Florida Authors & Publishers Association (FAPA) Silver Medal recipient, has just announced the release of her new book, Resilient Red. Burggraaf has teamed up once again with Chicago illustrator Matt Lumsden to create a vividly illustrated, inspirational book for children that teaches them how to prepare for any storm in life that they may encounter. The enjoyable lessons will help children build their confidence and self-esteem.

The central characters in Resilient Red are a family of ants and a family of humans consisting of a father, mother and two children.

The lead character and storyteller is the adorable and wise, Resilient Red. He gives simple, easy to follow advice as the storm approaches.

The story takes place in South Florida, where Tropical Storm Isaac pounded the area with relentless wind and rain in 2012. The red ants were among the insects and animals that weathered the storm.

Children are encouraged to listen to their parents, remain calm and prepare for the storm, gather the needed supplies, and of course, don’t forget the family dog. They are also encouraged to adapt to the changed environment following the storm and, when safe, begin the cleanup. The book will hold the attention of children because it’s entertaining, and parents because it is informative. It builds confidence in children as each page is read.

Parents, teachers and children will also love the age-specific

River Of Grass Gala Cruises Intracoastal

Guests attending the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades River of Grass Gala held Dec. 6 couldn’t decide which was more fun — the pre-boarding party at the dock or the spectacular full moon, holiday lights cruise aboard the 170-foot Lady Windridge yacht.

The annual Marshall Foundation fundraiser supports the restoration and preservation of the greater Everglades ecosystem and its historic “River of Grass” through science-based education and outreach programs the organization provides throughout Palm Beach County.

The evening began with a pre-boarding party at the City of West Palm Beach waterfront docks, with a champagne toast.

Guests boarded the Lady Windridge for the cocktail reception, which quickly gravitated to the open, top deck to see the full moon and lights along the Intracoastal Waterway. Dinner, an awards presentation and live auction followed, then entertainment and dancing.

“It was a beautiful evening,” said Bonnie Lazar, chair of the River of Grass Gala and a Marshall Foundation board member.

“The support we received was overwhelming.”

The honorary chairs for the event were Thais and Matt Piotrowski and Bernadette and Bob Shalhoub. Nathaniel P. Reed was honored and received the Champion of the Everglades Award from Marshall Foundation Chair John Marshall. Reed is one of Florida’s most influential environmental advocates. He served six Florida governors and two presidents in many positions and was instrumental in passing important legislation regarding the preservation of South Florida’s environment.

Also honored was Pine Jog Elementary School, which received the second annual Josette George Kaufman Leadership Award.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by Monique McCall and Jeff Taylor.

For more information about the foundation, call (561) 233-9004 or visit www.artmarshall.org.

Souza Completes Air Force Training

The cover of Resilient Red. learning activities available at Burggraaf’s web site, which can be found at www.dburgg.com.

Air Force Airman Michael J. Souza recently graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas. Souza 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.

Souza is the son of Gary Souza of Greenacres and Yvette Viggiani of Lake Worth, stepson of James Viggiani of Lake Worth, and grandson of Madeline Viggiani of Boynton Beach. He is a 2013 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School.

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SCHOOL NEWS

TOP SPELLERS AT NEW HORIZONS

WES BARNES & NOBLE FUNDRAISER A SUCCESS

New Horizons Elementary School recently chose its top spellers.

Winning third, fourth and fifth graders from class spelling contests gathered to compete in the annual New Horizons spelling bee.

Top spellers Mariam Uddin and Andrew Martinez received a year’s subscription to the online Encyclopedia Britannica. They will compete in the district spelling bee sponsored by the Kiwanis Club and Scripps Newspapers. Pictured here with teacher sponsor Jennifer Schuler and Principal Betsy Cardozo are spelling bee contestants, including winners Andrew Martinez and Mariam Uddin.

Wellington Kids Travel To Robotics Competition

RPBES GARDEN CLUB COLLECTS PLASTIC CAPS FOR CAPS FOR LOVE

On Monday, Dec. 1, Wellington Elementary School participated in Barnes & Noble Night. Staff, students, friends and families attended the event. The chorus performed holiday songs, classes put on shows, readings were presented and cookies were decorated. A percentage of sales was donated to Wellington Elementary School’s Media Department to help buy books for the Media Center.

(Left) Media Specialist Cathy West with Principal Dr. Maria Vaughan.

(Right) Fourth grade student Halle Schwartz leads the chorus in a holiday song.

The Ninja Cheetahs, a Wellington team of third through fifth graders, participated in a First Lego League (FLL) competition in Stuart on Dec. 13.

The team prepared for several months to learn about Lego Mindstorms robotics and teamwork.

The Ninja Cheetahs also created a YouTube channel to show other kids how to use Scratch, a programming language designed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The Ninja Cheetahs included a smaller team of kids in kindergarten through second grade.

The younger kids participated in Jr. FLL, a related competition, to talk about what they learned about sea turtles. They received a trophy for teamwork. The junior

team includes Victoria Boxold, Christopher De Armas, Angelo Guaglione and Elizabeth Boxold.

All of the team members are looking forward to participating in a robotics sumo-wrestling competition in the spring and their second FLL season next August. The team includes Andrew Valdez, Aidan Guaglione, Michael Pitts, Alexander De Armas, Andy Boxold, Alex Guaglione and Ian Weil.

The Ninja Cheetahs thank their parents for attending each meeting; coaches David Boxold, Rosa Pitts and Michael Weil; Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue for providing a meeting location; and Florida Power & Light for program funding.

The Ninja Cheetahs is a special interest 4-H club coordinated by

The Ninja Cheetas team and junior team with parents. the Palm Beach County Extension contact ninjacheetahs@gmail.

Service. For more information, com.

WHS Announces Its Pathfinder Award Nominees

The Smile Garden Club at Royal Palm Beach Elementary School suggested that the school participate in a school-wide collection of plastic caps. The lids are donated to St. Michael Lutheran Church and then are donated to the organization Caps For Love. They send the plastic to a recycling center. The money earned is used to purchase or refurbish wheelchairs for handicapped children.

This year, a previous garden club member decided she was going to collect caps on her own. She gathered, cleaned and counted 1,400 lids to add to the school’s collection.

Wellington High School recently announced its 2015 Pathfinder nominees.

The names and categories of the nominees are: Brett Gileau, academic excellence; Cole Popper, art; Ariana Cohen, business; Gabrielle Harris, communications; Ashley Anne James, community involvement; Austin Sasko, computer science; Kaitlin PaulHus, drama; Molly Stout, foreign language; Michael Leatherman, forensics/speech; Katherine Munden, history/political science; Brianna Battle, literature; Paolo Dumancas, mathematics; Zachary Landress, music/instrumental; Lara Tessler, music/vocal; Alyssa Schnirel, Reach for Excellence; Joshua Batista, science; Brockton

Boretti, sports; and Elliot Dion, technical/vocational.

WHS Earns ‘A’ Grade — In a year when the percentage of Florida high schools earning grades of A dropped from 48 percent to 36 percent, Palm Beach County high schools reversed that trend by increasing the percentage of A graded high schools from 46 percent to 56 percent. Wellington High School is one of those A graded high schools.

The data recently released by the state indicates that WHS increased its graduation rate by seven percentage points to 89 percent. This was the second largest increase in graduation rate in the county. In the area of performance in college level courses/exams, WHS earned

almost a perfect score with 99 out of 100 points.

Congratulations To The Step Team — Congratulations to the Wellington Blue Diamonds competition step team. They recently took first place at Universal Studios, beating out an all-boys team that will be appearing on America’s Got Talent this season.

Bright Futures Scholarship — The application for Bright Futures is now available at www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org. All students who wish to be considered for this scholarship must fill out the application online in order to receive the scholarship. Students should do this now even if they are still trying to bring test scores up.

All test scores for early evaluation

will be accepted if the student tests

by Jan. 31. The second evaluation will take place after the June test.

Students may track their eligibility on www.flvc.org.

FCCLA Needs Help — The WHS Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) group is seeking donations to support area homeless shelters.

Items needed include new or gently used winter clothing for children and adults, men’s clothing of all types, backpacks and tote bags, non-perishable food, kitchen utensils, dishes, cups, silverware, shower curtains, household cleaning items and more.

The FCCLA will be accepting donations in Room 5-102 through mid-January.

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FEATURES

January Is When I Make My Resolutions... Then Break Them!

You know what I love about Jan. 2? I love that by then I’m over and done with my resolutions.

Oh, I make them. I start thinking about how to improve life for myself about Dec. 26, after my third piece of coffee cake. By about 11 a.m. on that day after Christmas, the gritty, unnerving sound of a legion of toys with fresh batteries has permeated my cerebral cortex and started the slow aural drilling that means my brain is just about ready to ooze out of my ears. It is then that I vow to take walks (loooong walks, out of the house), eat less, drink less and not take up smoking after all.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER While the gleeful sounds of childhood laughter do nothing to prevent my urge to take all said toys and hurl them through the front window, I vow to get a grip on my emotions — to become a kinder, gentler

person with whom tots love to share their joy, not the impatient, snarling monster I have become since those darling little gifts were unwrapped.

What is it about people without children that drives them to buy a drum set for a toddler? A music box that plays just a tad off-key? DVDs with annoying theme songs that said child will want to watch over and over and over again? Is it pure innocence, or an act of revenge? What have I ever done to hurt them?

But on Dec. 26, I vow to become this new person who harbors no resentment, so I try to convince myself that the child

loves the toy, that the toy was given to the child, and that the toy is making said child very, very happy. Not everything is about me, I tell myself, which is a bit of a lie because that very sentence contains the words “me,” “myself” and “I” within a four-word span.

But by year’s end, I have done what most thinking, reasoning, self-improvement-oriented people attempt annually, and that is to take stock of my life and vow — not wish, whim or promise — to upgrade myself.

By the evening of Dec. 26, I came up with a bunch of resolutions with the aim

of making myself a better fit for society.

(Do not throw toys. Do not the unplug TV set in the middle of Frozen. Stop sobbing uncontrollably.) I even wrote them down.

Unfortunately, because it was not yet the new year, I had plenty of time for revisions. On Dec. 27, I decided sobbing was OK. It’s a natural release of emotion brought on by extenuating circumstances, and one really needs to let loose once in a while. So that came off the list.

And I am proud to say that I made it all the way until Dec. 30 before the first See WELKY, page 19

‘The Interview’ Is A Truly Horrible Movie, But You Should See It

The new film The Interview is the worst film that you should absolutely see. By this time, most people know about how someone (our government blames the North Koreans) hacked Sony and got the company initially to yank it from a scheduled opening on Christmas Day. Then, word came out Christmas Eve that it would be available to stream online. Then, a select group of theaters did host a Christmas debut. I saw it on streaming video.

Frankly, it is adolescent and generally silly. At the same time, it is vitally important as an example of why we should always support freedom of speech.

Two TV journalists, useless producer Aaron Rapoport (Seth Rogen) and ditzy celebrity talk-show host Dave Skylark (James Franco) actually request and get an exclusive interview with Kim Jongun (Randall Park) in North Korea. The CIA, ignoring the fact the two men are idiots, hire them to assassinate the leader, which, of course, they manage to screw

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler up. Instead, they do something even more damaging to the Pyongyang regime. In an interview televised not only internationally but even in North Korea, they expose Kim as an insecure and murderous fraud, a cosmic joke. He is nothing like he is pretending to be; neither the leader of happy people nor a brilliant, dangerous opponent. He is a clown.

The two reporters wind up running for their lives, along with their official “watchdog” Sook (Diana Bang), in a tank given to Kim’s grandfather, founding dictator Kim Il-Sung, by Stalin. Skylark is such a boob

that he tells the North Korean that in the U.S., we pronounce the name “Stallone.”

There are plenty of cheap jokes, some at the expense of the North Koreans, others typical locker room-style jests common in these movies. One of my favorites is having the North Koreans deny their leader has a rectum because they claim he doesn’t need one. Of course, the language is coarser than that. Most of the jokes are old, and only some are funny. If you are a teenage boy, you will probably laugh more than anyone else.

The cast is mostly wasted. Rogen and Franco are sort of funny but do nothing with their characters. Bang is attractive and comes across as pleasant. The best of the performers is Park as target Kim Jong-un. He comes across as dumb but somehow as sweetly nutty as Skylark.

The two even have a bit of a bromance discussing their fondness for Katy Perry.

Lizzy Caplan as the lead CIA agent also plays it over the top.

The reason the movie is important is that it stands for so many things that never get heard. We live in a world where the free press too often is too timid to present the truth. When the chief political correspondent for American outlet Politico, Mike Allen, has to apologize to former President Bill Clinton for asking tough questions in an interview, we begin to recognize how hard it is for anyone to get the truth. And this is in the United States, where Allen would not be arrested for being contentious. We need to be tough on leaders.

They get a lot of perks and get to make decisions that affect all of us. Deciding that we cannot offer criticism legitimately removes a lot of our freedom. We have already lost it on some college campuses that now offer very small “free speech” areas where those who hold positions that are unpopular may speak. Hey, you millionaire college presidents, we should be living in a free speech country!

It is bad enough that the FBI named

North Korea as being behind the extortion involved in this film and that many do not believe this; however, a group of computer hackers claims that it played a major role, working to take down the production company in the interest of freedom. And somehow they are doing it for the largest national prison on the planet. What a world!

Now, I repeat, this is a poor movie. The lead characters are essentially sad sacks (although having watched a couple of reality shows, they seem not that different), and it is really hard to care about them. I would laugh at the idea that the CIA would even use people like that if it weren’t for the fact that our top “intelligence agency” already has done just that.

But you should see the movie if only to stand up against extortion in the name of a “freedom” that imprisons everyone. If our own institutions fall down on the job, we might just need some of that backbone ourselves.

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CALLING ALL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS WITH TIES TO THE WELLINGTON COMMUNIT Y

Are you part of a nonprofit organization with ties to the Wellington community? We want to hear from you! Kicking off our “Wellington Gives” campaign with our January 2015 issue, Wellington The Magazine will be featuring a different nonprofit organization’s mission and cause each month. We want to partner with local organizations and help them achieve their goals by sharing their histories, missions and impact they have on the community. The criteria for submitting organizations is simple: they must be registered nonprofit organizations with an active 501(c)3 status, and have an office in Wellington, have a board member or other organization official live in Wellington or hold a major fundraiser within Wellington. If you are part of an organization that meets the criteria, or know one that is, submit a nomination today! Only 12 nonprofits will be selected and featured in this series, so submit your nomination today!

Visit www.wellingtonthemagazine.com and look for the “Teamwork” icon (pictured above), click on it and complete the submission form — it’s that easy!

C O M I N G TO G E T H E R TO C R E AT E A B E T T E R C O M M U N I T Y

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NEWS

County Food Bank Launches Nutrition Driven Mobile Program

The Palm Beach County Food Bank took a major step in addressing hunger and nutrition needs in Palm Beach County with the Dec. 17 launch of its Nutrition Driven program. Community leaders gathered at the Center for Philanthropy in West Palm Beach to witness the unveiling of the new program.

Palm Beach County Food Bank Executive Director Perry Borman announced that the Nutrition

Driven Program will enable the nonprofit agency to achieve its mission by increasing the amount of healthy, fresh food distributed directly to residents in their own neighborhoods; educating partner agencies and recipients about good eating habits and food preparation techniques through a core nutrition educational curriculum; and supporting broader efforts in the community related to increasing healthier eating, improving diabe-

tes prevention, reducing childhood obesity and promoting the use of local agricultural products.

One of the most important aspects of the program is the eight-module healthy eating education program, to be provided through a partnership with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences.

The IFAS Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program will educate families about the benefits

Laurie George, Perry Borman, Britnye Underwood and Brian McIver.

PHOTO BY CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY

Arboretum

View Native Trees And Shrubs

of healthy eating and how poor eating choices can contribute to chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

To make sure that the information is provided in a culturally competent manner, paraprofessionals familiar with the cultural norms of the communities to be served by Nutrition Driven will provide the nutrition education and will assist in the food distribution.

“Nutrition Driven increases the scope and impact of our fight against hunger and food insecurity by delivering healthy, nutritious food to communities with limited resources,” Borman said. “The Nutrition Driven team includes a trained professional to educate recipients and to teach them how to prepare healthy recipes with fresh, locally grown food.”

Nutrition Driven will travel to underserved communities, delivering its services in partnership with host partner sites located in Title I school areas (where 60 percent or more of the students’ families have incomes at or below the national poverty level) and food deserts where there are few or no major food stores offering a variety of affordable fresh and healthy foods.

Community & School Health Division Director of the Palm Beach County Health Department Dr. Marsha Fishbane said that the need for Nutrition Driven is great.

“Foods that are high in salt and

in groups of three along fences, so visitors can get an idea of what they would look like as a hedge.

“They all have markers saying what each of them are and how big they get,” Hopper said.

They include coco plum, myrsine, Simpson’s stopper and Spanish stopper, to name a few.

The numerous trees include live oak, gumbo limbo, royal palm, pigeon plum, green buttonwood, bald cypress and slash pine.

Undesirable plants and trees that the village would like to see phased out include invasive exotics such as ear-leaf acacia, which tends to grow quickly and has an invasive root system and soft, brittle limbs that break off easily in a storm. A more desirable replacement might be a live oak, Hopper said.

Schefflera and bischofia are other species that have turned out to be too aggressive for many South Florida landscapes, Hopper said.

The project was initiated by the village to promote better and easier-to-maintain landscapes.

“It was a project that the Wellington Tree Board was in great support of and had wanted to see done for a little while,” Hopper said. “We were able to make it happen.”

Wellington’s Planning & Zoning Department can advise residents as to what plantings meet village code, but Hopper recommended a landscaping architect if residents need aesthetic advice.

He also pointed out that the village is not requiring the removal of any existing landscaping, only giving advice and support for those wishing to make changes and/or upgrades.

Hopper recommended the University of Florida’s numerous web sites as reference for plant types.

“It’s a great resource,” he said.

“They have hundreds of fact sheets on trees.”

The arboretum is located at 2965 Greenbriar Blvd. near Aero Club Drive, at the rear of the Wellington Dog Park’s parking lot. Learn more by visiting www. wellingtonfl.gov.

2015 Season Opener

charge down the field with their sights set on the ball. Control of that ball means everything, and the battle for the ball creates an exciting, fast-paced game as horse and rider work toward their common objective.

“These fields are looking fantastic right now, which should guarantee a great season,” Director of Polo Operations Jimmy Newman said.

For those too young to enjoy the game, there are plenty of attention-grabbing activities available at the Kids’ Fun Zone, which is

open during the entire 16-week polo season. At only $10 per child, the fenced-in area features bounce houses, a rock climbing wall, face painting, an inflatable slide, an obstacle course, crafts, games, snacks and more.

There is plenty to see and enjoy during the game, as luxury brands align themselves with the prestigious club, where IPC is the see-and-be-seen epicenter for the polo community.

Engel & Völkers, leading international real estate advisors, is one of the newest sponsors to

align itself with IPC as the field sponsor.

At halftime, guests are invited on the field for the divot stomp and champagne. After the match, many stay for the awards ceremony and later to meet the players. Still later, the drapes at the Pavilion close and disco lights turn on for the after-party.

The International Polo Club Palm Beach is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington.

To learn more, visit www.inter nationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

Tune In Jan. 7 & 8

more exciting,” Montenegro said.

“The executive producers definitely hit me as a shock as well. Those first two rounds were like a dream come true for me. The first one, I was like ‘wow,’ and the second one I was almost in disbelief a little bit.”

Montenegro’s experience with the celebrity judges was much like Brooke’s.

“Meeting the celebrity judges was very, very unreal,” he said.

“When I first walked into the room, it was almost like they were fake because they were sitting there and they were not moving.”

After realizing that he wasn’t

being pranked, reality began to set in. “It was just so crazy,” he said. “These are people we see on TV and people we idolize. To be sitting in front of them, the emotions are kind of raw — you don’t really know how to feel or how to act because you’ve never really been around people of this status. It was a very gut-wrenching experience.”

When Montenegro first tried out, at 15 years old in 2005, he made it past the first set of producers but didn’t make it past the executive producers to audition for the celebrity judges.

“When I tried out last time, I

was still very young and didn’t really know what I wanted at that point,” he said. “My voice hadn’t fully developed yet. From 15 to 24, I’ve had a lot of experience as a street artist and playing local gigs.”

For his auditions, he sang Too Close by Alex Clare and If It Will Rain by Bruno Mars.

Tune in next Wednesday and Thursday to watch these talented local artists perform on the national stage. To learn more about Brooke, visit www.emily brookemusic.com. To learn more about Montenegro, visit www. youtube.com/user/hairprep2012.

continued from page 1 destroy sidewalks and driveways, Hopper said.

“They want to ultimately be very large, so that’s why people have to trim them so frequently,” he said. “A ficus hedge wants to be a ficus tree, so you constantly have to battle them back. There are some other options out there that don’t grow quite as fast… so you just kind of have to nip them back a little bit to keep them in check.”

Also, ficus in Wellington has been hit hard by the invasion of the ficus whitefly, which has left some hedges around the community in disrepair.

The village has several shrub varieties at the arboretum, all planted

IPC Polo

continued from page 1 watch the 3 p.m. matches that take place each Sunday on the lush Engel & Völkers field.

Tickets start at just $10, making experiencing the thrill of a polo match available regardless of budget concerns.

Teams of horses and riders will

Idol

continued from page 1 tions was unexpected, but thrilling.

“It kind of caught me off guard,” he said. “Of course, there’s always that hope that we make it through, but I went in there thinking that I wasn’t going to make it through, so that if it wasn’t going to happen, I wasn’t going to let myself down.”

His audition will air Thursday, Jan. 8.

“As each day gets closer to the season premiere, it gets more and

saturated fat and excess sugars are generally more accessible and affordable, but there is a higher price to pay with health problems such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease often associated with this type of diet,” she said. “This is an important societal issue that Nutrition Driven is designed to address.”

Statistics show that 36 percent of first through fifth graders in Palm Beach County are overweight or obese, while Florida’s obesity rate for Baby Boomers is 30.7 percent. The obesity rate for seniors in Florida is 22.9 percent, while the young adult obesity rate in Florida is 14.6 percent.

“Nutrition Driven will help the

Audition Workshop In Wellington On Jan. 5 Wellington Children’s Theatre is offering an audition workshop especially suited to young actors between ages 10 and 18 on Monday, Jan. 5, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Dance All Night Studio (13889 Wellington Trace, Wellington).

The workshop will be taught

by Beverly Blanchette, the retired dean of theater at the Dreyfoos School of the Arts.

Blanchette will offer participants guidance and practice in the specific audition requirements for performing arts schools, colleges/ conservatories, film, television and more. Students preparing for Bak and Dreyfoos admissions will receive instruction in every facet of those auditions, including: cold readings, acting exercises, improvisation, monologue performance, redirection, movement and song performance. Whether auditioning now, in the future, or you simply want to learn more about starting

Blotter

All trees and shrubs in the arboretum are clearly marked.

Palm Beach County Food Bank achieve its goal to not only help more people survive by feeding them, but to help them thrive by teaching them how to choose healthy foods on a limited income,” Borman said.

From a centralized location in Lantana, the Palm Beach County Food Bank rescues, collects and distributes food at no cost to more than 100 agencies that take on the daily responsibility of feeding the hungry. During the 2013-14 fiscal year, the Palm County Food Bank provided nearly 5 million pounds of food that was distributed to at least 80,000 individuals. For more info., visit www.pbcfoodbank.org or call (561) 670-2518.

continued from page 6 at 3:40 p.m. last Tuesday. According to the report, there was no damage to the vehicle, and the victim did not observe anyone near her car. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

DEC. 27 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on 95th Lane North in The Acreage last Saturday morning regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9:30 p.m. last Friday night and 6:30 a.m. Saturday, someone entered the victim’s unlocked 2012 Toyota RAV 4 and stole a Dell laptop, valued at $1,500, and two bottles of vodka, along with $40 in change.

DEC. 28 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called to a home in the Palm Beach Polo community Sunday evening regarding a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim, a resident who travels between Florida and New York, returned to the home on Dec. 26 and noticed that many items were missing. According to the report, when the resident was away, plumbing work was done to the home.

Beverly Blanchette a career in the performing arts, this is the workshop for you.

For more info., contact Karen Braunstein at (561) 223-1928 or karen@wellingtonchildrens theatre.com.

DEC. 28 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called by a home in Channing Villas on Sunday regarding the delayed report of a theft. According to a PBSO report, around 3 a.m. last Tuesday, the victim’s former roommate was observed walking out of the residence with a black object. According to the report, the victim’s black Xbox, valued at $589, was later discovered to be missing.

DEC. 28 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called to a home on Avocado Blvd. in The Acreage on Sunday afternoon regarding a case of vandalism. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. last Friday and 3 p.m. Sunday, someone smashed the rear window of a 1984 silver Mercedes parked on the driveway.

DEC. 29 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Wellington substation was called Monday morning to the Best Buy store on State Road 7 regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between last Friday and Sunday, someone entered the employee room’s unlocked lockers and accessed the victim’s purse, removing $200.

Welky

Making Resolutions

continued from page 16 whirring little toy bounced down the front steps.

On Dec. 31, the TV came unplugged, but that was an accident.

I tripped. And on Jan. 1, my hangover made it easy to give up coffee cake.

One good night’s sleep later, it was all behind me — the temper tantrums, the crying, the tripping,

the overeating. I managed to roll out of bed with a smile on my face.

It truly was a brand new year!

It lay stretched out before me like 364 empty pages of opportunity, good friends and good times.

I put on my most cheerful outfit and flung the door open wide. I breathed in the air of the future, rich and ripe with delightful surprises at every turn. I felt good.

I felt better than good. I felt celebratory.

It was time for a few pieces of coffee cake!

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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NEWS

Fair’s Entertainment To Include Foghat, Elvis Show And More The 2015 edition of the South Florida Fair — running Jan. 16 through Feb. 1 — will offer a collective blend of country crooning, rock ’n’ roll, Christian and alternative music, all together in one place. Along with a round of the Elvis Extravaganza National Competition, fairgoers will see a whole lotta shakin’, rattlin’ and rollin’ going on. It’s all part of the lineup on the 2015 South Florida Fair’s Coca-Cola Stage.

Kicking off the national entertainment and playing the two central songs “Words” and “Made” from its sixth studio album Made, Hawk Nelson will take the stage on Sunday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.

The band members believe fan involvement is crucial and hope to broaden their demographic reach with more mature themes and challenging lyrics.

Also on Sunday, Jan. 18, Christian band Sanctus Real follows at 8 p.m. Together for 16 years, the band has remained sure and steady in writing songs that reflect the complex journey of faith.

Sanctus Real continually shines a light on struggles with songs like “I’m Not Alright,” “Don’t Give Up” and “We Need Each Other,” which have emerged as encouraging anthems of hope and healing.

The band will be featuring songs from its latest album Run. Taking the stage on Tuesday, Jan. 20 will be Show Dog Universal recording artist Josh Thompson. His debut album Way Out

Here has launched a trio of hits, including the top 10 singles “Beer on the Table,” “Won’t Be Lonely Long” and the title track “Way Out Here,” establishing Thompson as a formidable young talent.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21, alternative band Hinder takes the stage to perform hits from its popular albums Extreme Behavior, Take it to the Limit, All American Nightmare and Welcome to the Freakshow. According to the band, “We don’t want to be stuck in a rut with one type of sound or formula. We have every element covered.”

On Thursday, Jan. 22, hundreds of motorcyclists will enter the fairgrounds on bikes to parade around the perimeter to celebrate the Annual Bike Night, which will culminate with a concert by Foghat, the internationally known band that has been on the rock ’n’ roll and blues scene since 1971.

That year, four unpretentious young Brits released their first LP, Foghat, producing the hit singles “I Just Want to Make Love to You” and “What a Shame.”

LPs to follow were Energized and Rock and Roll Outlaws. The 1975 album Fool for the City went platinum, yielding the Top 40 trademark hit “Slow Ride.”

The group has been together for 43 years, with Roger Earl on the drums throughout. The band’s latest single “Boogie Train,” was released in 2014, and Foghat is currently working on yet another

CD. The band still tours relentlessly, feeding band members’ love to play, which is evident in the passion and enthusiasm on display during live performances.

On Monday, Jan. 26 at 2 p.m., the ever popular Leroy Van Dyke Country Gold Tour will take to the stage. This year’s ensemble features Eddy Raven, Jimmy Fortune and Moe Bandy. Van Dyke himself is internationally known as an extraordinary entertainer, recording artist, radio and television star, actor, auctioneer and veteran of the Nevada circuit.

On Tuesday, Jan. 27, alternative group Puddle of Mudd takes the stage at 8 p.m. A California rock band defined by a spirit of carefree wanderlust, the group has an innate chemistry that resonates throughout its latest album Volume 4: Songs in the Key of Love and Hate. Puddle of Mudd earned Billboard’s No. 1 Mainstream Rock Song of 2008 (“Psycho”), as well as No. 2 Rock Band of the Year.

On Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 8 p.m., American country music duo Dan + Shay will be the leading attraction. Produced by Warner Bros. Records Nashville, the duo debuted with the hit single “19 You + Me” and received a 2014 Academy of Country Music Awards Vocal Duo of the Year nomination. A recently released album, Where It All Began, became Billboard’s No. 1 album on the 2014 country charts. Dan

Smyers and Shay Mooney opened for Blake Shelton’s 2014 Ten Times Crazier Tour.

On Thursday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m., the next to the final round of the Elvis Extravaganza National Competition takes place. The contest will feature a variety of Elvis impersonators competing for cash, prizes and a spot in the national finals set for Feb. 13-15 at the Florida State Fair in Tampa.

The show is backed by the Extravaganza Show Band, horns and singers. Visit www.elviscontest. com for details.

General seating is free with a fair admission ticket. Reserved seating is also available for $10 for all concerts, which is in addition to the fair admission ticket, and are only available online at www.southfloridafair.com.

Advance discount tickets are on sale now at all Palm Beach County Publix supermarkets.

Adult admission, 12 and older is $10 in advance and $15 at gate.

A child’s admission, under 12, is $5 in advance and $8 at the gate.

Children age 5 and younger are admitted free, while seniors 60 and older pay $7 in advance and $9 at the gate.

The South Florida Fair, located at 9067 Southern Blvd., is produced by the South Florida Fair/ Palm Beach County Expositions, a nonprofit organization. For more information, call (561) 7930333 or visit www.southflorida fair.com.

South Florida Fair entertainment includes: (above left) Dan + Shay, (above right) Josh Tompson and (below) Puddle of Mudd.

GOOD EARTH FARM IN LOXAHATCHEE GROVES HOSTS WEEKLY PETTING ZOO

Good Earth Farm welcomed guests on Sunday, Dec. 28 to its children’s petting zoo. The event takes place every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes pony rides, food, a vegetable stand and more. Good Earth Farm is located at 2141 B Road in Loxahatchee Groves. Call (561) 792-2666 for more information.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Sofia Marano on Snowflake, with her mother Marilyn and sister Talia.

Pinky is brushed by Lena Shulman as Nichole Pangerl looks on.

Moses Rodriguez, owner of Honeybee’s Farmers Market, sells Lucy Ruiz some cilantro as Michaela Goodrich looks on.

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January 8 - March 28, 2015

The Stadium at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 13500 South Shore Blvd. | Wellington, FL 33414 www.globaldressagefestival.com | 561.793.5867 EquestrianSportProdTCRD1_2.indd 1

12/29/14 9:42 AM

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Mary Last Of Hands On Equine Enjoys Helping Horses

Mary Last is not a cold-weather person. Originally from Ohio, she moved to South Florida after high school. She has lived in The Acreage for more than 20 years. In 2008, she left the corporate world to start down a different path. She founded Hands On Equine Services.

Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Wellington Wrestlers Take Home 10 Medals

The Wellington Wrestling Club competed in the Sunshine Invitational at Cardinal Gibbons High School on Dec. 27. Champions were Quentin McCauley, Ashtinn Townsend and Londinn Townsend, while second-place finishers were Jesse Weinberg, Gian Ortiz, Donovan Ortiz and Jareth Buccilli. Page 31

Shopping Spree

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

Business

Bellissimo Group Agrees To Acquire Colorado Horse Park

Sports South Florida Fair Hosts Annual 5K Race At Okeeheelee

On Saturday, Dec. 27, the South Florida Fair celebrated its fourth annual 5K race at Okeeheelee Park.

The event drew runners from as far away as Pennsylvania. More than 400 runners competed, from ages 5 to 80. The race is staged each year to promote the annual South Florida Fair. Page 29

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 25 BUSINESS NEWS....................................26-27 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................29-31 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 32 CLASSIFIEDS......................................... 33-36

8

$

Wellington resident Mark Bellissimo recently announced that a new partnership has been formed and has signed a contract to acquire the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, Colo. The 148-acre facility was founded by Helen Krieble in 1992 and is the largest horse park west of the Mississippi River. It hosts more than 40 events per year. Page 26

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FEATURES

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Page 25

Mary Last Of Hands On Equine Enjoys Helping Horses

Mary Last is not a cold-weather person.

Originally from Ohio, she moved to South Florida after high school. She has lived in The Acreage for more than 20 years, gradually watching many of her horse-owning friends move to North Florida.

“It has gotten pretty built up and citified around here,” she said. “We’re slowly losing our little bit of country.”

But she and her horse and small donkey hang in there. Horses are where Mary’s true passions lie. In 2008, she left the corporate world (although she still does some private bookkeeping) to start down a different path.

She founded Hands On Equine Services.

“I wanted to give back to horses,” she said.

“They give so much of their heart and soul to us. I offer a variety of services. I didn’t want to be pigeonholed into just one category.”

One of the main services Mary provides is equine massage. She was certified in 2004 and is constantly working on updating and adding new techniques. Now Mary is working on earning her certification in the Masterson Method, which she describes as more of a light body touch rather than deep pressure.

“People don’t realize how much massage can help horses,” she explained. “Horses are masters at compensating for their injuries.

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

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg As prey animals, they’re genetically programmed to hide pain or discomfort, as that makes them vulnerable.”

Mary puts the horse in charge when she works. “When I work with a horse, he dictates the session. I follow his lead and do what he allows and where he directs me,” she said. “I take the time it takes. If it’s an old, entrenched injury, it’s probably going to take more than one session to alleviate the problem. Seeing the tension finally go is my reward.”

Mary also offers horse care and pet sitting. “I naturally fell into that. Horse owners always need backup for vacations or emergencies. I do all the usual stuff — feeding, mucking out, turning out, whatever’s needed.

It’s good to have someone who knows what they’re doing and can watch out for potential problems.”

Mary can also help novice horse owners who aren’t quite sure what they’re doing to learn the basics of natural horsemanship. “I can assist them in general ways to do things, or with specific training tips,” she said.

She’s a strong believer in giving back to

the horse community, having volunteered to massage the horses at Healing Horse Therapy Center in Loxahatchee Groves. “The therapy horses always overcompensate for their riders. They do such an important job, that I wanted to reward them and help them feel better,” Mary said.

Mary attended one of the center’s open houses this past fall, where she met founder and Executive Director Maurette Hanson.

“We got to talking, and she was very interested in our work,” Maurette said. “I was absolutely thrilled to have her come and work on the horses. We started with Eve, a very special, steady, nurturing mare who does everything kindly and willingly.”

Mary visits the facility every Friday morning.

“Her work’s amazing. Eve relaxes completely. She has improved tremendously.

She is more fluid and clearly feels a lot better. Mary is going to start on Denver next, a gentle gelding. I know it’ll help him a lot, too,” Maurette said. “Mary is a very in-tune, sensitive person, calm and respectful of the horse. She always waits for the horse to invite her in, especially if there is a sensitive or painful area. Horses love that. I’ve watched her work on Eve out in the pasture. The ponies come and stand nearby, absorbing the calm energy, and relaxing, too. I can’t recommend Mary highly enough.”

Christine Gregory is the barn manager at Trails End Farm in Palm City. She has watched Mary work on various horses.

Mary Last of Hands On Equine Services works with a client.

“Mary is a pleasure to work with,” Christine said. “She is very knowledgeable. It’s amazing how much the horses improve after her sessions. She is really in tune with them and gets right to their problem areas. She is also good with owners, who can sometimes See ROSENBERG, page 31

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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BUSINESS NEWS

Bellissimo Group Agrees To Acquire Colorado Horse Park

Wellington resident Mark Bellissimo recently announced that a new partnership has been formed and has signed a contract to acquire the Colorado Horse Park in Parker, Colo.

The 148-acre facility was founded

by Helen Krieble in 1992 and is the largest horse park west of the Mississippi River. It hosts more than 40 events per year, has 11 competition arenas, 100 boarding stalls, an RV park, two covered arenas, 300 permanent stalls and enough portable stalls for 1,000-plus competing horses.

The partnership is also contracted to acquire an additional 47 acres zoned residential adjacent to the horse park.

CHP’s “Summer in the Rockies” series is one of the most prominent

hunter/jumper equestrian circuits in the United States, spanning six weeks. CHP hosts all types of equestrian events, including eventing and dressage competitions, and has hosted the North American Young Rider Championships three times.

In addition, CHP has a long-term contract on 276 contiguous acres, which hosts a cross-country course designed by eventing Olympian David O’Connor.

“Helen has been one of the great visionaries in equestrian sport and has done an amazing job in creating the Colorado Horse Park. Her passion for the facility and her impact on the community over 23 years is inspirational. We are honored to continue Helen’s legacy,” Bellissimo said.

Krieble was pleased by the purchase agreement. “I am thrilled that Mark and his partners have contracted to acquire the horse park. It has been my passion for 23 years, and I am confident that it will be in good hands,” she said. “It was important to me that the horse park was kept intact. The contract includes the purchase of an additional 47 acres that abuts the horse park. I believe that this will ensure CHP has the ability to operate effectively and preserves the area from future residential development. This is a great day for Colorado equestrians, residents and businesses.”

The partnership, to be named Colorado Equestrian Partners, includes Mark and Katherine Bellissimo, Roger and Jennifer Smith, Howard

and Gwen Dvorkin, Lisa Lourie, and Diana and Jenji Mercer. They are also partners in the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, which operates the world-renowned Winter Equestrian Festival and the Global Dressage Festival in Wellington, as well as the newly established Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, N.C. WEF is the world’s largest and longest-running equestrian festival, which runs over 12 weeks, hosts participants from all 50 states and 33 countries, and awards more than $8 million in prize money. The GDF is the world’s largest dressage competition, including seven CDI competitions during the winter.

“We are excited about the future of equestrian sport, and we believe

the CHP facility can be a significant central hub to serve all disciplines and to continue to develop the hunter/jumper, dressage and the eventing disciplines, as well as a catalyst to develop the next generation of horses and riders,” Bellissimo said. “Colorado has a great equestrian tradition, and we hope to cultivate that market, as well as bring new riders into the sport. We contemplate great investments in the park over the next few years, and making it one of the premier facilities in the world.”

Consistent with its other facilities, the partners will be developing philanthropic initiatives and outreach programs to work with community schools to raise awareness of the opportunities in horse sports.

Christy Chis Joins Eau Palm Beach Spa Skin Care Team

Esthetician Christy Chis

Top models in Manhattan are rumored to be booking flights to Palm Beach in record numbers. While they’ve always headed south for the sunshine, now they are coming to see Wellington resident Christy Chis — a former esthetician with Mario Badescu in New York and recent transplant to Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. A longtime facial specialist at the renowned MB Salon, Chis cultivated

a following from such recognizable beauties as Heidi Klum and Naomi Campbell. “I am very honest with my clients and take time to learn their needs and wants,” Chis said.

“And I only use the very best products. Once they follow my direction, my clients see results. I focus on giving them tremendous value.”

Romanian-born like her mentor, Chis studied beauty in her native country before coming to the U.S.

“In Europe, we undergo extensive training and education, studying anatomy, nutrition and biology before ever training with clients,” she said. “I focused my studies on skin care, and then moved to New York to receive my license there.”

Chis spent 20 years at Mario Badescu before heading to Florida. A happy experience with Eau Palm Beach led her to return to the award-winning Manalapan property.

“My daughter was married here three years ago,” she said.

“Christy is a wonderful addition to our team,” said Catherine Warren, Spa and Leisure Director at Eau Palm Beach. “As we enter party season in the Palm Beaches, we know that Christy will be helping everyone look their most refreshed, best self.”

Learn more by visiting www. eaupalmbeach.com or calling (561) 533-6000.

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BUSINESS NEWS

‘Earl Stewart On Cars’ Returns To Air On 900 The Talk Radio

Earl and Nancy Stewart have brought back their popular live call-in show that answers listeners’ questions about car buying and servicing issues.

After a 13-month hiatus, the dynamic duo’s Earl Stewart on Cars show, which aired for seven years, began airing again on JVC Broadcasting’s 900 AM “The Talk” starting Dec. 16. The show will be on twice weekly — live Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and rebroadcast on Sundays at the same time.

The show’s geographic reach will also be enhanced, since the new 900 AM has 10 times the power of the previous Seaview radio station. The new signal reaches north to Vero Beach, south to Pompano Beach and west to Fort Myers.

“Nancy and I would like to thank the new owners of Seaview Radio, John Caracciolo and Vic Canales, for allowing former Seaview and current JVC General Manager Chet Tart to reinstate our show and expand the hours and frequency,” Stewart said.

The show will add a new dimension with Rick Kearney, a certified diagnostic master auto technician, on hand to answer technical car

Rick Kearney (left) is a new addition to Earl and Nancy Stewart’s show on 900 AM, a radio station that has improved its reach. repair questions. “Rick knows virtu- with the radio audience. The toll-free ally everything about the mechanics call-in line is (877) 960-9960. of automobiles. He can answer all of Earl Stewart will also soon offer your questions about problems you consumer reports on cars during have with your car or truck, how morning and afternoon drive times . to be avoid being ripped off by a “We’re delighted to have the all mechanic or service department, and new Earl Stewart on Cars show how best to economically service back on the air,” Tart said. your vehicle,” Stewart said.

The show can also be streamed Listeners are encouraged to call in online at www.900thetalk.com. For with questions and to also share their more info., visit www.earlstewart purchasing experience, good or bad, oncars.com.

January 2 - January 8, 2015

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Grandma’s Place Shelter For Children In RPB Taps New Executive Director The board of directors of Grandma’s Place, based in Royal Palm Beach, has appointed Roxanne Jacobs as the agency’s executive director.

Jacobs brings a new level of expertise to the emergency foster shelter. She has more than 30 years of fundraising, executive management and nonprofit financial experience.

Jacobs was promoted from her previous position as director of development/chief financial officer. Prior to her appointment at Grandma’s Place, she was director of development for 13 years at Palm Beach Habilitation Center. She is an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has earned the CFRE designation.

Jacobs will work with the Grandma’s Place board to develop a strategic plan and raise support to maintain and strengthen the services the agency provides to children who have suffered abuse. Jacobs has a passion for the well-being of children and strives to make a positive impact in their lives.

“Roxanne brings many years of commitment and success in the Palm Beach County not-for-profit

community to those in need of help.

We are delighted to have Roxanne lead the wonderful staff at Grandma’s Place who care for the children placed with us,” Grandma’s Place Board Chair Karen Vaughan said.

Grandma’s Place is a nonprofit emergency foster shelter in Royal Palm Beach that serves all of Palm Beach County. The agency helps children from infants through 12 years old who have been removed by the courts from their own homes due to abuse or neglect.

Grandma’s Place provides a loving and nurturing homelike environment, and welcomes all children, including those with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol effects or profoundly delayed. The goal of the program is to reunify children with their families or assist with finding them a suitable foster or adoptive home.

Grandma’s Place is the only agency in Palm Beach County accepting emergency cases for infants to 7-year-olds. Visit www.grandmasplacepb.org or call (561) 753-2226 to learn about the emergency shelter, make a donation or volunteer.

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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SPORTS & RECREATION

January 2, 2015 - January 8, 2015

Page 29

South Florida Fair Hosts Annual 5K Race At Okeeheelee

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report On Saturday, Dec. 27, the South Florida Fair celebrated its fourth annual 5K race at Okeeheelee Park.

The event drew runners from as far away as Pennsylvania.

More than 400 runners competed, from ages 5 to 80, in various divisions.

The race is staged each year to promote the annual fair at the South Florida Fairgrounds, which opens Friday, Jan. 16.

The competition has grown in popularity each year since its inception.

“The race is a fun way to kick off the fair each year, which is in its 103rd year,” South Florida Fair Race

Director Iva Grady said. “On Jan. 17, we’ll also have a kids’ one-mile race event inside the fair.”

Each year, the fair has a theme, and this year it is Las Vegas.

All participants who finished the race received medals, and awards were given out to division winners.

“We had 16 overall divisions for men and women, from under 9 to 70 and over,” Grady said.

At the conclusion of the race, the event staff provided snacks for the participants, including fruit, baked goods, water and juice, to help the runners recover after the race.

The morning was warm and humid, and runners looked forward to rehydrating after the race while enjoying a little snack.

Nearly 400 runners sprint off the starting line as the race kicks off.

(Left) First-place overall male runner Wilho Hautala crosses the finish line with a time of 16:34. (Right) First-place overall female runner Alexandra Bull nears the race’s end, finishing in 19:30.

(Above) Runners of all ages fill the streets of Okeeheelee Park, attempting to pass one another in the early stages of the race.

(Above) 11-year old Mason Mook and 15-year old Kyle Olesen both from Jupiter race for the finish line. Mook placed second in his age division with a 22:38 time, and Olesen placed 8th in his division finishing at 22:37. (Left) Runners line up after the race to grab a bite to eat.

PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

SPORTS & RECREATION

RPB Strikers Soccer Scores On Value, Community Focus The push for better training in youth sports often comes with a hefty price tag and a shortage of fun.

However, as the Royal Palm Beach Strikers show, youth soccer can be affordable and enjoyable without sacrificing quality. Embracing the needs of the families it serves, the club has been able to keep costs low thanks to committed volunteers and strong sponsor support.

This season, the Royal Palm Beach Strikers have added three additional competitive teams to the youth soccer club, bringing the total to seven. The U-12 boys competitive team, led by Club President Mal Hasan, is currently ranked No. 5 in the state. That team has won five tournaments so far this season.

But more than trophies and standings, Hasan said the best thing the club does is provide a program where everyone feels at home. “We have three levels depending on how into soccer a kid is,” Hasan said.

“We offer competitive and recreational soccer divisions. Our better recreational players are invited to participate in our all-star division.

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We really try to provide something for kids of all ability levels who love soccer.”

The Strikers’ focus on making soccer a game for all youth has earned parents’ appreciation. Rick and Vicki Dempsey have two sons who play soccer with the club. As they see it, the club scores big on putting children’s best interests first.

“The Royal Palm Beach Strikers soccer league provides a fun and family enriched environment for kids to learn soccer,” the Dempseys said. “We have personally enjoyed being a part of the Strikers family.”

The goodwill the Strikers have built up with parents has helped the club tap volunteer energy to fill coaching and board positions. “It’s a great place to be,” Strikers AllStar Coordinator Ali Munley said.

“Being a part of what we do here is incredible.”

Registration for the club’s recreational spring season will be open throughout January. To register, visit www.royalpalmbeachstrikers.com.

For more information, call (561) 324-0708.

Martial Arts School Spreads Holiday Cheer At Royal Manor Nursing Home

On Wednesday, Dec. 17, the young men and women of Villari’s Academy of Martial Arts, under the direction of Ken Smith, visited the residents of Royal Manor Nursing Home in Royal Palm Beach.

The residents and staff members of Royal Manor made for an enthusiastic audience as the young martial artists sang Christmas carols.

In fact, the singers moved around to several different locations within the facility over the course of an hour to spread the holiday cheer.

The response from the residents was overwhelmingly appreciated.

Some residents were very happy to sing along, and some residents even requested some additional Christmas favorites be sung. The young team of singers, along with their coaches, was up to the task and fulfilled all requests to everyone’s enjoyment.

Master Instructor Ken Smith, who runs the Royal Palm Beach martial arts school, said that his goal is to teach the youngsters about being supportive and caring to everyone in the community.

“To sing at the Royal Manor is another way our school and students can support our surrounding community in an enjoyable way,”

Martial Art Singers at Royal Manor — (Front row) Aidan Suttan, Lexie Soucy, Brea Campbell, Gianni Giordano and Hannah Barra; (back row) Gia Giordano, Leslie Vanaman, Elana Knox, Danny Giordano, Anthony Vitale and Eddie Stuart.

Smith said. “Everyone wins. The students learn more about community service, and the residents always enjoy visitors and performances, especially at this time of year.”

Other coaches at Villari’s Academy in Royal Palm Beach also share their time selflessly in support of the young leadership team. They

include Katie Bowen, Matt Evers, Romulo Frederick and Stacy Psaros.

Smith thanks this unsung group for their tireless dedication in donating their time for the advanced learning of their students.

“These coaches are terrific in recognizing and developing the creativity each student brings to the table for the benefit of others,” he said.

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SPORTS & RECREATION Rosenberg

Mary Last Of Hands On Equine

continued from page 25 be a little hard to please. That’s a nice plus for me.”

Christine added that Mary has a

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Page 31

way of bringing out the best in both horses and people.

“Horses love massages,” Mary agreed. “They’re just like us. They want their stress, pain and tension gone. Massage helps specific injuries, but it also improves the whole horse. There’s no disadvantage.”

For more info., call Mary Last at (561) 644-4903 or visit www. handsonequineservices.com.

Front row: Tori Brown, coach Travis Gray, Ashtinn Townsend, Tyler Gray, Ivan Townsend, Londinn Townsend, Gian Ortiz and Quentin McCauley; back row: coach Pincus, coach Ortiz, Chakiris Townsend, Ryan Feinberg, Donovan Ortiz, Jesse Weinberg, Jareth Buccilli, coach Popper and coach Radcliff.

Wellington Wrestlers Take Home 10 Medals

Therapy horses Eve and Denver participating in the Sibling Bonding Program at Healing Horse Therapy Center.

The Wellington Wrestling Club competed in the Sunshine Invitational at Cardinal Gibbons High School on Saturday, Dec. 27 and brought home 10 medals.

Champions were Quentin McCauley, Ashtinn Townsend and Londinn Townsend. Second-place

finishers were Jesse Weinberg, Gian Ortiz, Donovan Ortiz and Jareth Buccilli. Third-place finishers were Cameryn Townsend, Chakiris Townsend and Ryan Feinberg.

The Wellington Wrestling Club resumes practice after the holiday break on Wednesday, Jan. 7. Prac-

tices are held at Wellington’s Village Park from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. for beginners, and 6:30 to 8 p.m. for the advanced travel team.

For more information, contact coach Travis Gray at (561) 827-8595 or travis.gray@palmbeachschools. org.

Page 32

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Saturday, Jan. 3 • The popular West Palm Beach Antiques Festival will return to the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center from Friday, Jan. 2 through Sunday, Jan. 4. Visit www.wpbaf.com for more information.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold its Christmas Bird Count all day Saturday, Jan. 3. Experienced birders are especially needed. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Jan. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 283-5856 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “It’s a Craft Bonanza” for ages 2 and up Saturday, Jan. 3 at 10:30 a.m.

Drop in and make as many crafts as you want with the supplies from the craft closet. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Acoustic Java Jam for adults Saturday, Jan. 3 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent, or bring your acoustic instruments and jam out with coffee provided by the Friends of the Library. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Crafts for Kids for ages 3 to 7 on Saturday, Jan. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Michael Feinstein Conducts the Kravis Center Pops Orchestra with selections from Feinstein’s songbook Saturday, Jan. 3 at 8 p.m. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org.

Sunday, Jan. 4 • The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will open the 2015 polo season on Sunday, Jan. 4 with the Herbie Pennell Cup. For more info., visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will host a Bird Walk at Stormwater Treatment Area 1E on Sunday, Jan. 4 at 7:45 a.m. Contact Linda (561) 742-7791 or asetripinfo@gmail. com to register. Visit www.auduboneverglades. org for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Jan. 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park.

For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com or call (561) 792-9260.

• The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Jan. 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.acreagegreenmarket.com or call (561) 723-3898.

• The Good Earth Farm Children’s Petting Zoo on B Road in Loxahatchee Groves is open every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the end of March. The nonprofit sanctuary rescues large farm animals and has an area for smaller

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

children to touch and learn about the farm. The cost is $16 for kids 6 months to 90 pounds and $12 everybody else. Call (561) 792-2666 for more info.

• The Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea (141 South Country Road, Palm Beach) will take place Sunday, Jan. 4 with performances at 2 and 4:30 p.m. With more than 160 cast members, the performance is a re-enactment of the Christmas and Epiphany story. For more info., visit www. bbts.org or call (561) 655-4554.

Monday, Jan. 5 • The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, Jan. 5 in the Greenview Room at the Wellington Community Center with a business meeting at 10:30 a.m., followed by lunch at 11:30 a.m. and a program on “Elegance in Floral Design” presented by Petal Harvill, a master floral designer and owner of Petal Designs. Guests are welcome, but seating is limited. RSVP to Carol Coleman at (561) 792-2290. For more info., visit www.wellingtongardenclub.org.

• The Cultural Council of Palm Beach County (601 Lake Ave., Lake Worth) will host a luncheon with art collector Ambassador Nancy Brinker on Monday, Jan. 5 at 11:30 a.m. Visit www. palmbeachculture.com for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Tweets, Beaks and Feathers for ages 7 to 17 on Monday, Jan. 5 at 2 p.m.

Celebrate National Bird Day by learning about state and national birds. Show your artistic side by making an origami bird. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Palm Beach Symphony will present “Zukunftsmusik: Music of the Future” at the Desantis Family Chapel (300 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) on Monday, Jan. 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Visit www.palmbeachsymphony.org for more info.

Tuesday, Jan. 6 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Game Day for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 3 p.m. Bring a friend for Wii gaming and board game fun. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Pokémon League for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 5 p.m. Bring DS or Pokémon cards and get ready to battle, trade and make new friends. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Gamerz Nite for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Play Smash Bros., Mario Kart or other Wii games, or try a new board game.

Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Acreage Branch Fantasy Football League End-of-Season Bash for adults Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold its monthly meeting and lecture Tuesday, Jan. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Pine Jog Environmental

Education Center (6301 Summit Blvd.). Ecologist Gregg Braun will speak about Bird Island, Florida’s newest critical bird area. The meeting is free and open to the public. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

Wednesday, Jan. 7 • The 36th annual Winter Equestrian Festival will begin Wednesday, Jan. 7 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

The largest and longest-running horse show circuit in the world, the 12-week competition will close Sunday, March 29 after awarding more than $8 million in prize money. For more info., visit www.equestriansport.com or call (561) 793-JUMP. • The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a bird walk at the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach) on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 a.m. Visit www.auduboneverglades. org for more info.

• Palm Beach County will open the State Road 7 Extension from Persimmon Blvd. north to 60th Street, and then continuing west on 60th Street to Royal Palm Beach Blvd. with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 10 a.m. For more info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• American Legion Auxiliary Unit #367 of Royal Palm Beach will meet Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 10 a.m. at Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves). For more info., call Marge Herzog at (561)791-9875.

• The Palm Coast Association of Health Underwriters will meet Wednesday, Jan. 7 at the Embassy Suites Hotel (1601 Belvedere Road, West Palm Beach). Networking will be from 11:30 a.m. to noon followed by a luncheon featuring Doug Dencker of Invisus and Erisa Trey Tomkins of Admin America. Continuing education about employer reporting requirements will take place from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. RSVP by Tuesday, Jan. 6.

For more info., e-mail pcahu@pcahu.org.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Craft-a-Palooza for ages 2 and up Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 3:30 p.m. Celebrate winter with multiple crafts available, and take home everything you make. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host American Girl: McKenna for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 4 p.m. Learn to believe in yourself, encourage others and respect differences between people through McKenna’s adventures. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Club Pokémon for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Jan. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Bring your DS or Pokémon cards to battle, trade and make new friends. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

Thursday, Jan. 8 • KidzArt in West Palm Beach will hold winter art classes at Monkey Joe’s (6250 Lantana Road, Bay 18, Lake Worth) beginning Thursday, Jan. 8. To register, visit www.wpb.kidzart.com or call (561) 267-4349.

The Town-Crier • Registration closes Thursday, Jan. 8 for the Palm Beach County Criminal Justice Commission’s 26th annual Citizen’s Criminal Justice Academy. The 11-week program begins on Monday, Jan. 12. Visit www.pbcgov.org/criminaljustice/academy to register. Call (561) 355-4943 for more info.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a Food Truck Invasion on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host an After-Hours Networking Event on Thursday, Jan. 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Art Cellar (10660 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 150).

Call (561) 793-6525 to RSVP. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults Thursday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve fiction, nonfiction and poetry in a supportive atmosphere. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Friday, Jan. 9 • The Florida Department of Elder Affairs’ SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) Program is looking for senior volunteers to become certified Medicare counselors and volunteer leaders. Registration closes Friday, Jan. 9 for a class held Tuesday, Jan. 27 through Thursday, Jan. 29. For more info., call Samantha Howell at (561) 684-5885 or visit www.floridashine.org.

• The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Academy 1-2-3 on Friday, Jan. 9 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the chamber office (13901 Southern Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves) Visit www.cpbchamber.com for more info.

• The Alliance Francophone of the Palm Beaches will feature French actor Yann Lerat from Cannes on Friday, Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. at the Lake Worth Playhouse (713 Lake Ave., Lake Worth). Five short films featuring Lerat will be shown. Visit www.francopb.org for more info.

• Clay-Glass-Metal-Stone Gallery (15 South J St., Lake Worth) will feature Vandy: Where the Wild Things Are on Friday, Jan. 9 from 6 to 10 p.m. with a papier mache panoply of creatures, visual puns and social commentary. Call (215) 205-9441 or e-mail joyce@flamingoclaystudio. org for more info.

• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County will host its 27th annual Wellington Dinner Dance on Friday, Jan. 9 at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club (1080 Wellington Trace, Wellington) from 7 to 11 p.m. For more info., contact Melissa Mulvihill at (561) 6833287 or mmulvihill@bgcpbc.org, or visit www. bgcpbc.org.

• The Wellington Amphitheater will host a free screening of The Maze Runner on Friday, Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for info.

Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.

The Town-Crier

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

EMPLOYMENT

A/C AND REFRIGERATION

PET SITTING

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

BEST IN THE WEST PET SITTING — your house or mine in 1 1/2 acres. Fenced in yard. Day, Week, Monthly. Former Animal C r u e l t y O ff i c e r. 5 6 1 - 2 1 5 - 4 7 2 4

PLUMBING

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER IN WELLINGTON — Now hiring certified teachers.$10-$15/hour. Call 561-594-1920 E-mail: MarleneGiraud@hlcwellington.com

CLEANING - HOME/OFFICE

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

DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!

— Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account.

Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488

PRESSURE CLEANING

T E A C H I N G A S S I S TA N T N E E D ED — 2PM - 6PM Monday - Friday. Experience Preferred. 561-793-5860

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

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

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

L i c.& Ins. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

ERRANDS PICKUP GROCERIES HOME AND PET SUPPLIES — Kitchen organizing wait for appointments in your home, etc.

References available. 561-707-2834

FLOORING C O M P L E T E F L O O R I N G R E M O VA L ! B E S T R AT E S ! A L L T Y P E S O F FLOORS! — Your local flooring store and more. www.buyithereflooring.com 561-333-2306 buyithere7@gmail.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS 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 CRC1327426 561-248-8528

HOUSECLEANING EXPERIENCED — reliable local references. Pet sitting available. Call Charlene 561-572-1782

LAWN SERVICE YELLOWHAMMER LAWN SERVICE — High Quality, affordable yard maintenance serving the Loxahatchee area. NO CONTRACTS!.

Locally Owned & Operated. 561-320-1118

NEW FLOORING BUY IT HERE FLOORING — Kitchen and Bath. Now available. Complete one stop shopping. Stop on By! Pike Road - Between Southern and Belvedere. West Palm Beach - Open 7 Days!!! 561-333-2300

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit ourwebsite at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS 793-7606

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.

Interior & Exterior painting.

Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

ROOFING 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 RC-0067207

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

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

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

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

BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours.

Please fax resume to 561-791-0952

January 2 - January 8, 2015

Page 33

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

EXPERIENCED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN — Minimum of 3 years experience required! Looking for honest, dependable team player. Email resume to drp@thecourtyardanimalhospital.com

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT HOUSEKEEPING — Detail orientated, experienced, reliable, trustworthy housekeeper, seeks full time/part time position additional duties laundry, ironing, loving pet care, shopping, running errands, etc. references furnished upon request, Florida resident over 20 years, born in Maine call 561-324-5166 or 561-656-1777.

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL NOTICE

FOR RENT - GREENACRES ROOMMATE TO SHARE — 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment - Purdy & Jog Road. $550 per month.

Looking for under 35 years old. 954-296-3748

TENNESSEE LAND FOR SALE TENNESSEE LAND — 12 Acres for sale in Equestrian neighborhood with 3 miles of riding trails. Call Dixon Te a m K e l l e r W i l l i a m s 4 2 3 - 8 8 3 - 0 6 5 6

TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS TIRES/AUTO REPAIRS— Located behind Al Packer West off Southern Blvd. Tires for autos, trucks and commercial vehicles. 561-790-7228.

587 105 Ave. N. Unit 28, Royal Palm Beach.

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

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

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

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

WATER TREATMENT NEED A NEW WATER SYSTEM! — Let us come out and give you an estimate. Call Mike 561-792-5400

OFFICE SPACE LAW OFFICE TO SHARE: ROYAL PALM BEACH/WELLINGTON Fully furnished executive office $550 per month additional secretarial office $200. Incudes all utilities, use of copier/scanner, use of conference room, reception, kitchen, file cabinets, 561793-1200 ext. 1

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 561-793-7606

Page 34 January 2 - January 8, 2015

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HERE’S MY CARD

561-308-4774 www.deborahrassocounseling.com

Lic & Insured CFC057392, CAC1817688

SEPTIC & DRAINFIELD SPECIALISTS

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE CALL 793-7606

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Page 36 January 2 - January 8, 2015

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

New Location!

New Showroom!

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE!

561-333-2306 TOLL FREE: 855-808-8555

WE DO NOT SELL CHEAP FLOORING CHEAPER

WE SELL THE BEST FOR LESS! 766 Pike Road • West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Between Southern Blvd. & Belvedere)

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January 2 - January 8, 2015

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Featuring a $10,000 Welcome Stake and USEF Computer List Grand Prix at all Holiday Series shows.

Holiday & Horses CSI2*-W November 26-30, 2014 Premier (AA) 5* Jumper Rated Closing Date - November 19th

Year End Awards Show December 6-7, 2014 Regional 2 (C) 4* Jumper Rated Closing Date - November 28th

Holiday Festival I

December 12-14, 2014 National (A) 4* Jumper Rated Closing Date - December 5th

Holiday Festival II

December 16-18, 2014 National (A) 4* Jumper Rated Closing Date - December 8th

Holiday Festival III

December 19-21, 2014 National (A) 4* Jumper Rated Closing Date - December 12th

Holiday Finale

December 31 - January 4, 2015 Premier (AA) 5* Jumper Rated Closing Date - December 22nd

Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 3400 Equestrian Club Drive | Wellington, Florida 33414 | 561.793.JUMP (5867) www.equestriansport.com

EquestrianSportProdFall_PWTW11_21_14.indd 1

10/27/14 3:04 PM