Town-Crier Newspaper January 31, 2014

WELLINGTON FINALIZES ‘PUPPY MILL’ BAN SEE STORY, PAGE 3

A PIXAR-THEMED HOMECOMING AT WCS SEE PHOTOS, PAGE 12

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

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INSIDE Indian Trail Board Retains Marty Perry As Land-Use Attorney

Volume 35, Number 5 January 31 - February 6, 2014

ART SOCIETY HOSTS JURIED SHOW

The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed to hire attorney Marty Perry as its landuse attorney last week to help the district work on strategies to address the influx of planned nearby development. At a Jan. 23 meeting, ITID Engineer Jay Foy expressed a need for a specialist in land-use planning and recommended Perry. Page 3

Ultima Fitness Hosts Let’s Move Campaign

Ultima Fitness in Wellington hosted a boot camp for the public as an opportunity to log minutes for the Palm Healthcare Foundation’s “Let’s Move: Commit to Change” campaign.

Page 9

Howlin’ Hoedown Raises Money For Local Rescue Group

The Howlin’ Hoedown 2014, benefiting A Second Chance Puppies & Kittens Rescue, took place Saturday, Jan. 25 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The event featured a silent and live auction, line dancing, an Asado dinner catered by Aaron’s Catering and more. Page 12

OPINION Wellington Made Right Fluoride Decision In 1999, But Not In 2014

This week, members of the Wellington Village Council made an unfortunate error that could cost residents not only money, but also their health. When the council voted 3-2 to stop adding fluoride to Wellington’s water supply, they put the desires of a small, fringe minority over scientific fact, and might have doomed many residents to costly tooth decay and mounting dental bills. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS ............................. 3 - 12 OPINION .................................4 CRIME NEWS .........................6 NEWS BRIEFS........................ 8 PEOPLE ............................... 13 SCHOOLS .....................14 - 15 COLUMNS .....................16, 23 BUSINESS .................... 24 - 25 CALENDAR .......................... 28 SPORTS ........................ 29 - 31 CLASSIFIEDS ................ 31 - 35 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Wellington Art Society hosted its eighth annual juried art show “ArtFest on the Green” on Saturday, Jan. 25 and Sunday, Jan. 26 at the Wellington Amphitheater. Shown here are Adrianne Hetherington and Leslie Pfeiffer of the Wellington Art Society with Best of Show award-winning artist Deborah LaFogg (center). MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 9 PHOTO BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Council Decides To Stop Fluoridating Village Water

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council voted Tuesday to stop adding fluoride to the village’s water.

The vote divided the council 32, with Mayor Bob Margolis and Councilwoman Anne Gerwig dissenting. Vice Mayor Howard Coates, Councilman Matt Willhite and Councilman John Greene said they wanted to give residents the choice of whether or not to ingest fluoride.

“I will defend to the death people’s right to choose what chemicals go in their bodies,” Coates said. “Especially when I believe the sole basis for those chemicals being put in [the water] is for medical purposes.”

The fluoride issue arose earlier this month when some council members asked to review the fluoridation decision first made 15 years ago.

The issue of fluoride in public drinking water has long divided communities across the country since the idea was first introduced in the 1940s. Fluoridation has been supported by many major health organizations in the United States, including the Centers for Disease

Control & Prevention, the American Medical Association and the American Dental Association.

Proponents argue that adding fluoride to the water is beneficial for teeth and helps reach populations that do not regularly receive dental care.

Other organizations have opposed fluoride, claiming it could have unintended consequences, introduces unnecessary additives into the water and is unnecessary in affluent communities where the population typically can afford dental care.

Village Engineer Bill Riebe explained the history of Wellington’s fluoridation. In 1999, the council approved an ordinance to introduce fluoride into the village’s water supply. Fluoridation began Aug. 21, 2000.

“We’ve not had any incidents with fluoridation,” he said. “We have not received any reports of adverse health effects from the medical community, the public health community or any of those organizations, or from any individuals in the Village of Wellington.

We are not aware of any issues with fluoridating the water.”

Riebe said the council was

tasked with deciding whether fluoridation is necessary in Wellington. “There’s ongoing debate,” he said. “This has been a controversial issue since [fluoride] was brought to the U.S. in the 1940s.

The major health organizations... seem to be in support of continuing to fluoridate drinking water. On the flip side, there are groups and individuals who do not want fluoridation for a variety of reasons.”

Representatives from both sides of the issue were out in full force to plead their cases.

Palm Beach County Health Department Dental Director Philippe Bilger, who is a dentist, said that fluoride is needed in the water supply to help prevent tooth decay in all populations, no matter the socioeconomic level.

“I’m very much in favor of fluoridation to prevent tooth decay in persons of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds,” he said.

His sentiments were shared by other medical professionals, including about a dozen dental hygiene students from Palm Beach State College, who showed up for a firsthand lesson in public policy.

Dr. Robert Rotella, a dentist and See FLUORIDE, page 18

PBSO Hails Successful Cleanup Of Lox Shopping Center Issues

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Members of the Palm Beach County Sheriff ’s Office announced last week that they have cleared up issues with illegal drinking, littering and loitering at the A&G Market and Palms West Plaza shopping centers on Southern Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves.

Speaking at the Jan. 23 meeting of the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association, PBSO District 15 Commander Lt. David Combs said he hopes the effort will be the end of ongoing problems in the area.

“We’ve had problems with some of our residents drinking a little bit too much and behaving badly,” Combs said. “We promised what we thought was the best possible

solution, and do it the right way, and do it one time.”

At first, conflicting legal jurisdictions caused confusion. Combs said Palm Beach County, the PBSO and Loxahatchee Groves town legal staff had to work through the existing ordinances so that there were no conflicts.

“In a big town, this would be a little problem,” he said. “In a little town with one plaza, this is a big problem. You can’t always find ways to solve problems, but you can find ways to treat a problem and control it,” Combs said.

He then introduced Deputy Nigel Pruitt, who took the lead in the Palms West Plaza Action Plan, which involved the work of many officers, several of whom were at the meeting.

“I couldn’t be prouder of all of you, because we took a problem, and we analyzed it thoroughly, and came up with a solution that’s legal,” Combs said. “I think the business owners in the plaza are going to be thrilled.”

Pruitt said most of the issues involved substance abuse, but that there were also problems with how some tenant businesses maintained their property and conducted business.

In the process of implementing the plan, some businesses were found to be selling counterfeit merchandise and alcohol they were not authorized to sell. Some of the stores were serving food in unsanitary conditions, Pruitt said.

In analyzing the situation, the See LGLA, page 7

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Wellington Agrees To Reimburse Fees From Defense Of Ethics Complaints

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Village of Wellington will pay more than $21,000 in legal fees stemming from the defense of Mayor Bob Margolis and Councilman John Greene before the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics last year.

Council members voted Tuesday to approve the repayment of legal fees, but some council members asked for village staff to look at policies to limit costs in the future.

The vote was 4-0 on two measures — one for each council member. Margolis and Greene did not take part in the discussion or vote on their respective agenda item.

Council members were concerned about the cost, but didn’t want to dissuade anyone from running for office because they might have to pay legal fees out of

pocket if accused of wrongdoing as an elected official.

“The chilling effect is true,” Councilwoman Anne Gerwig said.

“People won’t run for office if they feel they aren’t able to defend themselves.”

Last year, several ethics complaints were filed accusing Margolis and Greene of wrongdoing.

Village Attorney Laurie Cohen noted that neither council member was found guilty.

“In both of those complaints, although there was an initial finding of probable cause in the first case, the ethics commission found that the violation was unintentional and issued a letter of instruction,” Cohen said. “In the second case, they did not find any evidence of wrongdoing.”

Margolis hired the law firm of Messer Caparello P.A. and inSee LEGAL FEES, page 4

WCS FUNDRAISER

Wellington Christian School held a fundraiser Saturday, Jan. 25 to benefit its high school, which could close if fundraising goals are not met. The event featured performances from The Voice’s Michaela Paige, Emily Brooke and Roscoe Martinez, as well as bounce houses, food, games and more. Shown here are Danielle Madsen of 88.1 Way-FM with WCS seniors Justen Hunter and Megan Kadel. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Acreage Residents Speak Out At ITID’s Minto West Meeting

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors held a public input meeting with Minto West representatives Monday to respond to questions about its request for up to 6,500 homes and about 1.4 million square feet of commercial uses on the former Callery-Judge Grove property.

The meeting, attended by about 50 residents, had been arranged by the ITID board after Minto West representatives gave a presentation to the board last month without public input.

Minto Communities Florida recently purchased the 3,900-acre property for $51 million. The land, located off Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, has a future land-use approval for up to 2,996 homes and up to 235,000 square feet of nonresidential uses.

Minto is requesting the necessary land-use changes to more than double the number of homes and greatly expand the allotted

commercial space. Land planner Don Hearing with the firm Cotleur & Hearing, representing Minto West, gave an overview of the project.

“I know that there may be some of you in the audience who are supportive, and there are some of you who have a lot of concerns,” he said. “We can walk you through the project so that you can have a better understanding.

Perhaps you have some ideas that you can share with us. The more of that dialogue that we enter into, the better off we will be and the better the project will be in the long term.”

Hearing said Minto has a web site, www.mintoinfo.com, where people can provide comments, learn more about the project and find out about future meetings.

“Our goal is to bring together a project that will be the heart and focus of the western communities, provide some identity to it, and also create some regional sustainSee MINTO WEST, page 18

RPB Zoners OK Signs For New Biotest Plasma Center

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval Tuesday for new signs at the Biotest Plasma Center, located at 100 Business Parkway in the Royal Palm Beach Business Park.

The building, which was previously shared by Capital Lighting and Zoo Health Club, is at the northwest corner of Business Parkway and State Road 7. The company, which collects and processes blood plasma products, will be taking over the entire building.

“It’s being converted over to a Biotest Plasma Center,” Site Plan Coordinator Kevin Erwin explained.

Erwin said the company is seeking approval for its red signs and a registered trademark, to replace Capital Lighting’s blue signs.

Biotest Plasma Center agent Jack Glover, with Signsations, said Zoo Health Club’s sign will also be taken down, since the fitness facility has applied for a new location on State Road 7.

Commission Vice Chair Richard Becher welcomed the company to the community.

“The colors are very attractive.

I have no problem with the colors,” Becher said. “The signs are very nice, and especially since it’s a freestanding building and on Business Parkway, which does not have any requirements for signage.”

Becher asked whether the applicant would install some landscaping around the monument sign, but said he wasn’t proposing it as a condition for approval.

“I’m not talking about a lot of stuff, just to make it look nice since it’s right on State Road 7,” he said.

“It’s nice to have another business that’s not specifically dependent

upon the residents of this village.

I welcome you.”

Commission Alternate Felicia Matula asked about what the company does. Company representative Ahmed Kaboudan said Biotest processes plasma for various medical purposes.

“We collect plasma that goes into further manufacturing of other injectable products, like liver transplants to prevent the liver from getting reinfected,” he said.

“We do have a lot of these products out on the market. We are based out of Germany.”

Kaboudan said the Royal Palm Beach location will be primarily for

the collection of plasma, and that the company’s manufacturing plants are in Boca Raton and Germany.

Commission Chair Jackie Larson agreed with Becher’s comment about landscaping, and Kaboudan said the company already plans to improve the look.

Larson asked whether the use is acceptable for that area, and Erwin confirmed that it is.

Kaboudan said the center anticipates about 300 donations a day.

“It’s a fully automated process where it separates the plasma, See BIOTEST, page 18

Page 2

January 31 - February 6, 2014

The Town-Crier

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WESTERN COMMUNITIES’ RESIDENTS VISIT WORLD FAMOUS “MAX PLANCK” FLORIDA Jess Santamaria charters a large bus for tour by residents At his regular monthly community forum at the original Wellington Mall last November, County Commissioner Jess Santamaria invited all those in attendance to join him in a very special tour of world-renowned Max Planck Scientific Research Institute, home to 17 Nobel Laureates. Many of those in attendance took Jess up on the offer and showed up at 2 p.m. sharp at the main entrance of the original Wellington Mall on Jan. 21, where a spacious and comfortable air conditioned bus was waiting to take them to the Max Planck tour in Jupiter.

Upon arrival in Jupiter, the group from the western communities was warmly greeted by Chief Operating Officer Dr. Matthias Haury, Vice President Advancement Barbara Noble and Director of Donors Stephanie Langlais.

At the start of the tour, Ms. Langlais gave an overview of the Max Planck Institute in Germany and Max Planck Florida. “Max Planck Florida is the first institute outside of Europe, where there are more than 80 institutes, credited for 17 Nobel Laureates, and named for the father of Quantum Theory, Max Planck. The 100,000-square-foot Jupiter facility specializes in neuroscience, or brain research, to better understand how the brain works.

This will lead to better understanding and research cures for Alzheimer’s, Autism, Parkinson’s and many others conditions.

Dr. Haury continued the tour, explaining the electron microscopy facility, a technology that does not exist anywhere else in the world. “We have a scanning electron microscope that can image brain as small as 13 nanometers. (One human hair measures 13 microns). This machine is so sophisticated that it slices the samples and scans them so that our scientists can reconstruct a 3D image and track individual neurons.”

When Jess Santamaria first met with Dr. Peter Grauss, President of Max Planck (Germany), in his county office in 2009, Jess was very impressed with the medical and health related successes of Max Planck, and the excitement of having such a great institute right here in our backyard, that within ten minutes, Jess decided he wanted to be the first in Florida to personally offer $100,000 of his county salary to Max Planck Florida and be party of even “one millionth of a fraction of future Max Planck Florida’s health discoveries that will benefit all of humankind, including our great, great, great grandchildren! These are the type of activities that we should all support,” Jess said.

Everyone who participated in this exciting biotech facility tour considered it a truly memorable experience. Jess is planning a tour of the Scripps facility later this year.

Some of the western communities residents who were excited to tour the world famous Max Planck facility.

A spacious, air conditioned bus waits to bring western communities residents to Jupiter.

All aboard the bus to Max Planck in Jupiter.

Upon arrival, Mayor Mattioli and friends at the entrance to the Max Planck building.

Dr. Matthias Haury, Chief Operating Officer (l), and Barbara Noble, Vice President For Advancement (r), welcomes Jess Santamaria to Max Planck.

Part of the audience attentively watching a video presentation.

Stephanie Langlais, Director of Major Donors, gives an introduction.

“Are we going to be able to see the entire building?”

“A truly great experience seeing the laboratories where many future scientific discoveries will benefit all of humankind.”

A portion of the 100,000-square-foot building.

The Town-Crier

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 3

NEWS

Indian Trail Board Retains Marty Perry As Land-Use Attorney

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors unanimously agreed to hire attorney Marty Perry as its land-use attorney last week to help the district work on strategies to address the influx of planned nearby development.

At a Jan. 23 meeting, ITID Engineer Jay Foy expressed a need for a specialist in land-use planning and recommended Perry.

ITID President Carol Jacobs said all supervisors had been advised before the meeting about a proposed engagement letter for Perry to join ITID’s legal staff to work with Foy on land-use issues.

“We’re being invaded from all over, so we really need to put our money in this area,” Jacobs said.

Foy explained that an attorney specializing in land use is necessary since developers are proposing a great deal of construction along ITID’s borders now that the economy is recovering.

Aside from the Minto West project, Foy said that there is also the Avenir proposal for the former Vavrus Ranch property and the GL Homes land to the west, which is getting ready to put forward a development plan, “The board expressed interest in knowing, ‘What is our position?’ The generalized question is, ‘What can we do? When can we enter this process?’ The attorneys and engineers got together and discussed this, and it became obvious to us that something was missing to properly advise you as to the process of comp plans and zoning processes,” Foy said. “You didn’t have a full team to properly advise you.”

Initially, Foy considered hiring a planner, but the team decided a land-use attorney would be a better idea. “So, we came up with the land-use attorney that most of us have heard of if not dealt with, Martin Perry,” Foy said. “He’s got an excellent reputation. We contacted him and found out he did

not have a conflict of interest. You can always do nothing, [but] that is not what we advise you to do.”

Foy added that it is important for ITID to have a strong voice in the process before approvals are granted and permits are issued.

ITID Attorney Mary Viator said that she and her firm are more oriented toward general special district issues. “We do have knowledge about these issues, but as part of our discussions, we want to have the best team in place to make sure all the interests of the district are represented,” she said.

“We strongly urge retaining a landuse attorney who would be able to advise the district.”

Viator said ITID needs to have a person representing the district’s interests on the ground floor when discussions are taking place to make sure the best interests of the district are represented. She added that Perry offered a fee package considerably below his normal rate.

Jacobs asked for a consensus

of the board to hire Perry. “I suggest we hire Mr. Perry right away, because every day is critical, and a month has gone by already,” she said.

“I think it’s very important that we move along on this,” Supervisor Ralph Bair said, explaining that many of the development sites are directly adjacent to district land.

After the board agreed to hire Perry, Foy said the team would discuss the scope of work immediately and come back to the board with a proposed budget.

In other business, the board received and filed the initial portion of a forensic audit report but decided not to continue with the second and more costly phase of the audit, and instead to keep the report open for subsequent review for the next two years.

The initial report, which cost about $30,000, had found 20 areas where the district could be vulnerable to misuse of funds or property.

Viator said there are more options available to the board, but

Wellington Finalizes Ban On ‘Puppy Mills’

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Pet stores will no longer be able to sell “puppy mill” pets in Wellington after members of the Wellington Village Council gave final approval Tuesday to an ordinance to ban the direct sale of dogs and cats in stores.

Instead, pet stores will be encouraged to display and adopt out animals from verified rescue groups.

In a unanimous vote, council members passed the second reading of the ordinance. It drew support from rescue groups and animal lovers, who showed up wearing shirts emblazoned with their mantra, “Adopt, don’t shop!”

Village Attorney Laurie Cohen noted that at the council’s request, the revised ordinance also provided more stringent rules with updated definitions.

“This not only prohibits the sale of dogs and cats, it prohibits the operation of puppy and kitten mills in the village,” she said.

Under the new rules, a property is considered a puppy or kitten mill if it is a commercial breeding operation that meets several criteria, including having more than 20 puppies under 12 weeks

or kittens under 16 weeks kept at a single time, not performing health testing for hereditary traits, not offering guarantees of more than one year on the health of the animals, not keeping records of the parent animals and having more than eight dogs or kittens in a single cage or kennel area.

Additionally, properties could be classified as a puppy mill if a female animal is bred every cycle or more than five times. “The properties would have to meet multiple criteria to be considered a puppy or kitten mill,” Cohen said.

She said she compiled the definition from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and other humane societies, as well as county ordinances.

“We have not had any negative comments on this ordinance as we’ve drafted it,” she said.

Councilwoman Anne Gerwig noted that Wellington has many large farms where having 20 dogs would not be completely unheard of, but Vice Mayor Howard Coates said a puppy mill would be defined by its operations, not just its size or having multiple animals. “This doesn’t tie it to a particular size or acreage,” Coates said.

Gerwig said she wanted to

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protect legitimate breeding operations. “So you could have 40 puppies as long as you didn’t have any of these other issues,” she said.

“I really think the conditions at a puppy mill are what define it, and I don’t see anything here to address those conditions.”

Cohen said by regulating the number of times an animal can be bred and giving a minimum size enclosure for them to be kept in, it will prevent some of the terrible conditions puppy mills subject animals to. “I think we’ve addressed it as best we can,” Cohen said.

Mayor Bob Margolis said he had seen firsthand the effects of a dog being bred in a puppy mill.

“My first dog was the product of a puppy mill,” he said. “We bought it at a pet store, and, lo and behold, a week later the puppy developed so many illnesses. The pet store owner said to bring it back, but you can’t just bring it back. You have fallen in love with that dog.”

Though his story has a happy ending — Margolis noted that his dog recovered and lived a long, happy life — he said that many animals do not survive.

“We’re being proactive in preventing this problem,” he said.

“There aren’t any pet stores currently operating this way, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be proactive. I think this is a good idea.”

During public comment, rescue volunteers, pet lovers and professionals in the animal industry praised council members for the ban.

Equestrian Georgina Bloomberg said that rescuing animals has been her passion.

“There is a chain that exists, and unfortunately the dogs being put down in pounds every day are the last link of that chain,” she said. “You, sitting here, have an opportunity to break this chain.

By allowing pet stores to sell dogs, you’re creating a need for puppy mills. Having been on puppy mill raids myself, I can tell you that no animal should be subjected to those conditions. There is no such thing as a humane puppy mill.”

Resident Lorrie Browne, who pushed for the ban, thanked council members for listening. “I thank you not only for taking up the issue, but for closing any loopholes so that this cycle [of puppy mills] can’t even begin,” she said.

Councilman John Greene made a motion to approve the ordinance, which passed unanimously.

that it was her understanding that the vulnerabilities raised in the report, such as staff reviews and use of district credit cards, are already being addressed. She said the report would still be open to further review by the board, even if no further action were taken that evening.

Supervisor Gary Dunkley, who had initiated the forensic audit, said he would like the audit to go forward. “I want to make sure these problem areas are taken care of by management, and if there is something that’s highlighted, I would like the opportunity to look into it,” he said.

Supervisor Jennifer Hager also wanted the full forensic audit.

Jacobs, who had advocated for the forensic audit largely due to what she considered questionable construction and fuel costs, said she saw that most of her areas of concern had been addressed in the initial report.

ITID Manager Jim Shallman said he thought all the concerns

raised in the report, including human resources, computer software issues, fuel and accountability for tools and equipment, were being fixed by staff.

Supervisor Michelle Damone pointed out that many of the issues arose when ITID’s staff went through a large turnover several months ago. “Since then, Mr. Shallman has staffed the district appropriately,” Damone said.

“There’s not anything in here that tells us we need to spend another $60,000. We spend $55,000 annually on our regular audit.”

Damone said that when she spoke to the forensic audit team, they told her there was nothing of significance. “It’s our irresponsibility to allow people to assume that there is some financial risk here,” she said. “It’s irresponsible for us not to display confidence.”

While Damone initially wanted to receive and file the report, keeping it open for one year, Dunkley asked to keep the report open for two years, and the board agreed.

Wellington Chamber To Honor ‘Vanilla Ice’ At Feb. 26 Luncheon

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will honor local resident and international celebrity Rob “Vanilla Ice” Van Winkle as its Outstanding Citizen of the Year on Wednesday, Feb. 26.

The Outstanding Citizen of the Year award is awarded to a Wellington resident who displays outstanding service to the community and its residents, making Wellington a fantastic place to work, live and play.

Each year since 2010, Van Winkle and his team have outdone themselves to draw more than 6,000 people to Winterfest. His spirit of giving and dedication to the community is outstanding.

Residing in Wellington for more than a decade, Van Winkle also contributes to several local charities, including Toys for Tots, the Make-a-Wish Foundation and Little Smiles.

His DIY Network show The Vanilla Ice Project is filmed locally, exposing audiences from all over the world to the Village of Wellington, showcasing beautiful homes.

Rob Van Winkle Tickets to the luncheon will sell out. The event will be held Feb. 26 at the Wanderers Club in Wellington. Registration is at 11:30 a.m., with the luncheon beginning promptly at noon.

Tickets are $25 for chamber members and $35 for guests.

Walk-ins will not be admitted.

For more info., call the chamber at (561) 792-6525 or reserve online at www.wellingtonchamber.com.

Page 4

January 31 - February 6, 2014

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

OUR OPINION

Wellington Made Correct Decision In 1999, But Not In 2014

This week, members of the Wellington Village Council made an unfortunate error that could cost residents not only money, but also their health. When the council voted 3-2 to stop adding fluoride to Wellington’s water supply, they put the desires of a small, fringe minority over scientific fact, and might have doomed many residents to costly tooth decay and mounting dental bills.

Water fluoridation is a controversial issue across the nation and has been since it was introduced in the 1940s. Wellington voted to begin fluoridation in 1999 after a long debate and began adding fluoride to the water in 2000. Though both sides are incredibly passionate on the issue, only one side has the support of most health officials and many scientific studies to back it up. Unfortunately, this time Wellington made the wrong choice, choosing conspiracy theories over facts and studies. Fluoridation of the water supply is important to reduce tooth decay and dental diseases that could lead to permanent damage.

This issue is most important for our children. Although Wellington has many affluent areas, it also has communities with poorer families. Considering that social programs such as Medicare or Florida KidCare — which many families rely on — do not offer full dental coverage in all their plans, too many children will go without seeing a dentist until they are older.

Even children who have access to dental care aren’t always the most diligent about brushing and flossing, and having the extra exposure to fluoride through drinking water can make a large difference between healthy teeth and dental diseases.

Do The Math On Minto West

Editor’s note: The following letter was sent to the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners. A copy was sent to the Town-Crier for publication.

Dear Commissioners: There was a disturbing bit of news recently. That is, the State Attorney General’s Office ruled that it cannot comment on the Town of Loxahatchee Groves’ request to have a ruling on what “surrounding” means in the Ag-Enclave legislation. The reason given was that it is not in the purview of Loxahatchee Groves to ask, since Minto West is under county jurisdiction.

Given that, I request that you, as our representatives of Palm Beach County government, ask the State Attorney General for a ruling on this matter.

This is an urgent matter, as you hopefully realize. Callery-Judge Grove was approved for 2,996 units, and that is what Minto bought. Now they want to go to 6,500 units and a lot more commercial, industrial, etc. This is ridiculous and extremely out of character for the rural and “ex-urban” communities that surround this property.

As I tell my students, do the math! I did. They actually should receive only 2,303 units. Additionally, as plans come forward, any and all acreage that is used for non-residential should be subtracted from the acreage calculation for allowable units. Those units should not be transferred but should disappear forever.

I thank you for your time and

It can even help adults who have regular access to dental care. A 2013 study done by the University of North Carolina and published in the Journal of Dental Research found that fluoride in drinking water helps prevent tooth decay in adults, whether or not they were exposed to fluoride as children. With Wellington’s large senior population, many whom are on Medicare and don’t have dental coverage, water fluoridation is just as important to keep their teeth healthy, and studies show it works.

More than 204 million people in the U.S. ingest fluoride in their water supply, while about 100 million lack that access. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by about 25 percent over a person’s lifetime.

Communities across the country continue to add fluoride to water because it works. Fluoride was added to water in the 1940s after studies found that communities with naturally occurring fluoride in the water supply had less tooth decay than those without. Since then, this crucial public policy has helped millions of people maintain healthy teeth.

It is unfortunate that some members of the Wellington Village Council were swayed by conspiracy theories and conjecture rather than the professional opinions of medical doctors and health officials from throughout the area, many whom see first-hand the benefits of water fluoridation every day.

We hope council members will reconsider, and that residents will take this issue seriously and push for fluoridation once again.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR consideration. Minto West is a travesty, nothing less!

Bill Louda Loxahatchee Groves

Look Forward, Not Backward

I was highly impressed with the Town-Crier’s New Year’s issue where the resolutions for Wellington were printed out. Especially the resolution that wanted our community leaders, business community, council persons and residents to work together to create a new positive vision for our outstanding community. Stay away from the dysfunction and the inability to act that is on display in Washington and Tallahassee.

Our local government affects our lives, our families, our homes and our jobs every day. The Village of Wellington should be a priority to all of us.

Moving forward to resolve our equestrian issues, addressing infrastructure issues, keeping costs and budgets down, moving forward on the consolidation of a Town Center by buying the adjacent business complex and addressing the Wellington Community Center/Tennis Center with a positive plan — this shows me that the council can move forward and have a vision of what our community should look like decades from now. Kudos to the residents, business community, staff and the council for being proactive and forward looking.

Recently though, some residents have expressed an interest to not move forward with some of the recommendations and projects.

I respect their opinion, and their

right to state it in letters and at council meetings. Being a resident for 22 years, I understand the resistance to change and what it brings.

But a good friend of mine, Charlie Lynn, always told me, “You can’t stop change, only direct it, and direct it in a way that makes the most people happy.” I miss him.

Most of those opposed to the Wellington Community Center/ Tennis Center project are highly uninformed and against change for change’s sake. Buildings are initially designed for a specific purpose, as the present community center was designed as a sales office for Corepoint Inc. The bottom level was a parking garage. Since then, over the last 30 years, it has been a clubhouse, a restaurant, a fitness club, a storage facility, village council chambers and a makeshift community center. The lower level concrete has deteriorated so much that the re-bar is corroding and deteriorating, which is extremely serious to structural integrity.

The tennis center has much of the original fencing, court material, irrigation system and lighting from decades ago. Being in the business for years, tennis courts are replaced every 15 to 20 years at the latest, not 30. Most court contractors will highly recommend not to re-condition courts that old, or put replacements over a previous court in place that long.

The current tennis site is inadequate for current play at peak times, and the court quality is average at best. In addition, parking is nonexistent and cannot accommodate any event that is happening at the amphitheater, pool, community center or tennis

courts, let alone everyday events.

Let’s stop kicking the can down the road and move forward. If you put your head in the sand for another 3 to 5 years, it will cost double the current estimate to build similar facilities that are now proposed. How is that being fiscally conservative? Give our staff time to negotiate a lower cost for the project, and build in a longer time frame that will not pose any economic hardship on the village or residents, and move forward with a positive vision and plan.

My advice to those opposed: suck it up and drive the extra 10 minutes to the new tennis site for the benefit of the next generation, and Councilman Coates, we know this is an election year, but don’t use this issue as a debate point in your campaign. You will lose.

Steve Haughn Wellington

Support For Minto West

I am writing in support of Minto West. During Tropical Storm Isaac in 2012, my entire property flooded, and it looked like a lake all around my house. It was such a mess for two weeks. I would have never been able to get off my property if I didn’t own a Ford Expedition. I’m all for Minto coming into this area to help fix the drainage issues and create jobs. Can we make it happen sooner? I want to work here near my home. Right now, we have to travel so far for medical services, a job, shopping or recreation.

We pay all these property taxes, and what do we have to show for

it? Nothing. It’s time that our area realizes that these are much-needed services that we’re already paying taxes for. I’ve heard the statements from both sides and did my homework. I see the value in what Minto is planning. We’ll still be able to have horses, chickens, and gardens on our property, and everyone will benefit from the new community they’ll create. I trust that Minto will be a good neighbor.

I’m saying yes to our future!

Gillian Samad The Acreage

our nation. Although the U.S. military engagement in Afghanistan is winding down, our country is still spending almost as much on war as we spent at the height of the Cold War or Vietnam.

I hope our U.S. Senators, Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio, will work in the next two years to support further cuts in the Pentagon budget and additional investments to meet the needs of our struggling communities at home.

Morley Schloss Loxahatchee Groves

Stop Spending Money On War

Kudos To RPB Substation

I’m glad to see our elected leaders in Washington have approved a plan to allow the federal government to spend money through 2014. I was particularly pleased to see that Congress has restored some money for Head Start and other investments in the health of our communities and has refused to give the Pentagon all the money that it was asking for.

Congress now has an opportunity to use the regular legislative process to debate and pass a budget that reflects the moral priorities of

On Friday, Jan. 24, I was a victim of a theft. After acquiring information about my stolen property, I went to the Royal Palm Beach substation. I was immediately helped by officers Cory Oliver and Sgt. Hughes. They were professional and dedicated officers who treated me with dignity and respect. Officer Oliver and his partner K. Scott were able to retrieve my stolen property. Hats off to our local law enforcement!

Maureen Witkowski Wellington

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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

NEWS

Wellington Art Society’s Pat Kaufman To Be Featured At Whole Foods Pat Kaufman is the featured artist at this month’s Whole Foods Market Gallery (2635 State Road 7, Wellington). An opening reception is set for Friday, Feb. 7 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The Whole Foods Market Gallery is in the large café, lined with windows which offer nice natural lighting — a perfect setting to display art.

Whole Foods will provide music, hot and cold appetizers, and drinks. A $5 donation is requested, which will benefit the Wellington

Legal Fees

Council Members Reimbursed

continued from page 1 curred $52,825 in legal fees.

According to a staff report, Wellington’s insurance policy covered $31,990, leaving a balance of $20,835.

Greene hired the same firm, costing him $18,886 in fees. The insurance paid $17,582, leaving $1,304 unpaid.

Gerwig said she was in favor of reimbursing the legal fees, but wanted to discuss a policy to limit costs in the future. She noted that Wellington residents would be paying threefold: through taxes to the ethics commission, through the insurance payment and now through reimbursement.

“My problem isn’t with covering this, it’s with the fact that

Art Society’s Scholarship Fund.

An award-winning, self-taught watercolor artist, Kaufman is known for her bright, tropical, Key West-style of paintings. She lives in one of the historical districts of Delray Beach with her son Trey, a disabled veteran.

“I am inspired by the wonder of color,” she said. “The transparency and spontaneity of watercolors gives life to my paintings. Here in Florida, and other places I have visited, there is so much color all around you. When I observe the

trees blowing in the breeze, the sunlight dancing off the leaves or the light shining through blossom petals, it inspires me to paint them and see if I can capture this dance of light.”

Kaufman is an accomplished artist whose work has been displayed at Delray Beach City Hall, the American Orchid Society, Cadillac Headquarters and the Cornell Museum. She is a member of the Palm Beach Watercolor Society, the Delray Art League, Artists of Palm Beach County

and the Wellington Art Society.

For more information, visit www. patkaufmanart.com.

Founded in 1981, the Wellington Art Society is open to artists of all mediums and patrons of the arts, providing both local and regional artists the platform to share their work, learn more about their craft and serve the community through their art. The Wellington Art Society is open to any resident in Palm Beach County.

For more information, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

we’ve paid for this three different ways,” Gerwig said. “I’d like to have, in the future, a way we can limit the cost — maybe some guidelines. This is a significant amount of money that our insurance didn’t cover.”

Cohen said that a policy could be drafted. Gerwig said although it may not be necessary, it would be a good discussion to have.

“This is a unique situation,” Gerwig said. “I couldn’t imagine these circumstances happening again in the future. But at the same time, I’d like to protect us from excessive charges.”

Councilman Matt Willhite said he wouldn’t want to preclude elected officials from having their legal fees completely covered in the future.

“If you say we’ll only cover up to a certain amount, the person filing complaints could file more to raise the cost,” he said. “I won’t allow any elected official sitting here to have their decisions borne on

scare tactics or financial burdens caused by someone filing multiple complaints. I’m not going to create a policy that could burden a future council member.”

Though Willhite was concerned about the cost, he wanted to be fair to all elected officials. “I don’t want to burden future councils with a policy that handcuffs them,” he said.

Gerwig noted that the council could create guidelines for elected officials to follow. She noted the insurance only covers up to $25,000 per claim.

“Maybe they wouldn’t be able to get the lawyer from Washington who is an expert in their issue,” she said. “I don’t want to limit them, but I want to be fair. I don’t know at what point we would allow them to hire anyone under any condition.”

Willhite noted that elected officials must hire someone to defend themselves and cannot use the village attorney to save money.

“If that’s the case, I’m not going to restrict a council member from making a decision that they know is the right decision to defend them,” he said. “If they don’t get that attorney and the Commission on Ethics finds them guilty, there are penalties. How would it help to have an elected official removed from office because they couldn’t hire an attorney with the experience to represent them?”

Gerwig asked if there was a point at which the council felt elected officials should seek legal advice. “If it’s when there is probable cause, then maybe we could provide representation,” she said.

Cohen said the elected official would need representation by the time the commission found a complaint legally sufficient. “By the time there is probable cause, you’re already in a hearing,” Cohen said. “I would certainly advise someone to get an attorney the moment they know a complaint has been filed, because you might

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The artwork of Whole Foods featured artist Pat Kaufman. be able to head off that finding of legal sufficiency.”

During discussion of the Margolis case, Greene said he didn’t want to see ethics complaints used as a form of political persuasion.

“I think when anyone is sitting in this position and they see the abuse of the Commission on Ethics from those who may have a different point of view, they recognize how that process is being manipulated,” he said. “It is a burden on taxpayers. I think there’s a malicious attempt to create a chilling effect and keep people from seeking office.”

Coates said he believes an official should be reimbursed if they successfully defend their position.

He asked Cohen whether the fact that Margolis received a letter of instruction means that he was not successful in his defense.

“I am not going to improve reimbursement for ethics complaints that are not successfully defended,” Coates said.

Cohen said there was no finding of guilt.

“It was a letter of instruction rather than an actual finding of guilt,” she said. “Clearly there was no penalty imposed, there was no finding of real wrongdoing; it was inadvertent and unintentional. I would consider that successful.”

Coates said he would support reimbursement, but agreed with Gerwig that Wellington needs to develop a policy.

“I think we need to define what ‘successfully defended’ means,” he said. “Although I know some of you are against a policy that provides amounts, we do have a duty to the taxpayer to not engage in policies that create open-ended liabilities. We are doing that, to some extent, when we approve these things without them being in the budget and without foreknowledge of what they are going to cost.”

Willhite suggested having a workshop on the issue.

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Page 5

NEWS

WELLINGTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL FUNDRAISER AIMS TO SAVE HIGH SCHOOL

Wellington Christian School held a fundraiser Saturday, Jan. 25 to benefit its high school, which could close if fundraising goals are not met. The event featured performances from The Voice’s Michaela Paige, Emily Brooke and Roscoe Martinez, as well as bounce houses, food, games and more. For more info., visit www.wellingtonchristian.org.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

88.1 Way-FM’s Danielle Madsen with Michaela Paige, Justen Hunter, Megan Kadel and Lainie Guthrie.

Parent Teacher Foundation volunteers Sue Kull, Nathalie Drahos and Robin Johnson sell raffle tickets.

Dr. Tim Sansbury (center) with Taylor Hall and Kaden Connolly.

Wellington’s Emily Brooke performs.

Jade Guderyon and John Stanley build crafts with help from Bethany Stanley.

Debra Lyn and Roscoe Martinez.

WELLINGTON SENIORS CLUB MEMBERS ENJOY EQUESTRIAN LUNCH AT PBIEC

Wellington Seniors Club members attended a luncheon Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. It was chilly day, but seniors enjoyed the $34,000 G&C Farm 1.45m.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Estelle Rubin, Jackie Spinelli, Sandy Anderson and Maryann Boomhower.

Howard Trager and Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo.

Stefano and Maria Anatra with her 100-year-old mother, Catarina Italia.

Page 6

January 31 - February 6, 2014

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CRIME NEWS

Law Offices of Henry N. Portner J.D., L.L.M. in Taxation Member FL, GA, SC, PA, NJ, and CO Bars

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Man Arrested After Fight Over Cigarettes

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report JAN. 26 — A Wellington man was arrested last Sunday afternoon on charges of vehicle burglary after he was caught trying to steal cigarettes from a vehicle at a gas station on South Shore Blvd. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, at approximately 2:45 p.m., a deputy from the Wellington PBSO substation was dispatched to the gas station after a witness called to report a fight. According to the report, the deputy arrived and observed two men fighting. The deputy separated them, and the victim said that the other man, 32-year-old Brian Warner, had entered the victim’s car without permission and attempted to steal some cigarettes.

Warner told the deputy that he went in the car, “just to get some cigarettes.” Warner was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where he was charged with burglary to an unoccupied structure.

••• JAN. 22 — A resident of C Road called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Wednesday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., someone removed the victim’s mailbox from outside her home.

The victim claimed that this is the fourth such incident, and the mailbox had been found previously in the canal across from her home.

The stolen mailbox was valued at approximately $50. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

JAN. 24 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called to a home on Hawthorne Place last Friday evening regarding a vehicle burglary.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., someone smashed the driver’s side rear window of the vehicle. A witness told the victim that the damage had been caused by a tow truck driver and gave the victim the company name.

According to the report, the victim made contact with the driver, who said he would pay for it. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

JAN. 25 — A resident of Sugar Pond Manor called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Saturday morning to report a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 7 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., someone pried open the latch to the victim’s truck camper top, causing approximately $1,000

in damage to the doors. Once inside, the perpetrator(s) stole several tools from the back of the truck. The stolen tools, including a demolition saw and a welder, were valued at approximately $1,800. According to the report, the victim saw a suspicious tan sedan backing out of her driveway when she walked out to her truck.

By the time she got in her truck, the vehicle was gone. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

JAN. 26 — A juvenile was arrested last Sunday afternoon on charges of theft following an incident at the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called to the mall after the juvenile was observed stealing a white iPhone 4 from another juvenile. The phone, valued at approximately $250, was recovered and returned to the victim. The juvenile was arrested and taken to the Juvenile Assessment Center, where he was charged with theft.

JAN. 26 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched to Palms West Hospital last Sunday morning regarding a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2:30 and 5:30 a.m., someone stole the victim’s blue 2000 Dodge Durango from the employee parking lot on the south side of the hospital. According to the report, there was also an attempted theft of a Dodge Ram at a nearby parking lot, which could be related. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

JAN. 27 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched Monday morning to a home on North Road regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. last Sunday and 5:45 a.m. the following morning, someone cut a hole in the victim’s wire fence and pushed his golf cart into the neighbor’s yard. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) then pushed the cart up to the victim’s fence, cut a hole in the fence and removed the golf cart seat and batteries. According to the report, the victim discovered a pocket flashlight in his neighbor’s yard that could belong to the perpetrator(s).

The stolen items were valued at approximately $1,075. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

JAN. 27 — A resident of Sunset Blvd. called the PBSO’s Acreage/ See BLOTTER, page 18

PBSO Seeks Information About RPB Bank Robbery

JAN. 23 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in locating a suspect in a bank robbery case.

According to a PBSO report, on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 1:23 p.m., an unknown suspect entered the BB&T bank located at 151 S. State Road 7 in Royal Palm Beach and passed the teller a note that said, “Give me all your large bills, no dye pack, and I have a gun.” According to the report, no weapon was seen.

The suspect is described as a black male between 30 and 35 years old, approximately 6’, heavy set, with a groomed beard and wearing a green ball cap, sunglasses with green tint, a gray

long-sleeve shirt, blue jeans and clear latex gloves.

Anyone who can identify this suspect or has information regarding the robbery is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Andrew Brushway is a white male, 6’ tall and weighing 160 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his left arm. His date of birth is 06/13/83. Brushway is wanted for violation of probation for burglary of a structure and grand theft. His last known address was 83rd Lane North in The Acreage. He is wanted as of 01/23/14.

• Eluterio Aguirre, alias Teyo, is a white male, 5’11” tall and weighing 195 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. He has multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 07/15/93. Aguirre is wanted for violation of probation for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon causing bodily harm and failure to appear on charges of driving with a suspended license. His last known address was Cocoanut Drive in Pahokee. His occupation is in construction He is wanted as of 01/23/14.

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.

Andrew Brushway

Eluterio Aguirre

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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January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 7

NEWS

Royal Palm Youth Football, Soccer Report Successful Seasons

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Royal Palm Beach’s youth football and soccer leagues reported successful seasons at a Recreation Advisory Board meeting Monday.

Mike Wallace, president of Wildcats Pop Warner Football, said the league’s competitive football and cheerleading teams had several league firsts, although the number of participants in both programs has dropped.

The league had $10,000 in the bank at the finish of the past season. “We are extremely solvent, which is outstanding for us,” Wallace said.

The league fielded seven teams with 180 players. “That’s down slightly from the past,” he said.

“Cheerleading was down significantly.”

All four playoff-eligible football teams went to post-season play. “That has never happened in the history of the Wildcats,

so we’re extremely proud of that,” Wallace said. “Our Junior Midget team went to the playoffs, and they actually won the Treasure Coast Football Conference.

We’ve never done that before.”

The league had three cheer teams, two of which were noncompetitive. The competitive Midgets team took first place in the Treasure Coast Football Conference cheer competition in their age group for the first time, and also won the overall competition.

The team went on to regional competition, where it also took first place. At nationals, it took third. “[These are] things that the Wildcats have never done before, so we’re extremely proud of our kids,” Wallace said.

Wallace pointed out that the Pop Warner program requires the participants to do well in school.

“Our kids are student-athletes, and they are students first,” he said.

Wallace said the league has had

issues with the lights and field maintenance at Seminole Palms Park. The fields are owned by the county but maintained by the village. The fields are also heavily used by other athletic leagues during the week.

He said that before practice and games, he frequently has to fill potholes in the fields. “That becomes very dangerous to a kid when he’s running,” Wallace said.

Parks & Recreation Director Lou Recchio said the fields are difficult to maintain because of the heavy daily use by other people and organizations. “It’s not going to be an easy task, but we’ll do whatever we can,” Recchio said.

Wallace also asked whether an additional field could be made available at night.

Board Member Sean Fitzpatrick asked whether an additional field could be lighted, and Recchio said he has a lease agreement with the county for use of the

IPC President John Wash and mascot Chukker with students from Wellington’s elementary schools.

fields and that he tried to pursue grant money to light an additional field. The grant is not allowed if the village does not own the field, but the county has indicated that it might have grant money for lights.

Board Chair Shenoy Raghuraj asked Recchio whether he could reach out to area schools, which have several of the fields during the day, and see if they could allocate one for the league. Recchio said that might work.

Royal Palm Beach Strikers Soccer President Mal Hasan said that his league also had a successful fall season.

“We have gone through the past three years, which will be six seasons, where our numbers continue to increase,” Hasan said.

For the spring season, the league tried something different and allowed teams that register by Jan. 15 to request their own practice times. “From what we have been able to see, our numbers so

far are what they were for the end of the fall season, and we still have three weeks for registration, which means this will be another record-setting season,” he said.

Hasan added that the recent restructuring of the program has enabled it to focus more on the younger age groups. “We offer a recreation program, a recreation all-star program and a competitive program,” he said.

The league eliminated the competitive program from 13-yearolds and up so that it can concentrate on ages under 9 through under 12. “We’d like our competitive teams to be created and built from our recreation program,” Hasan said. “The days of bringing in outside teams from other clubs or going out club shopping — those days are over. If you are not involved with our program, or you are not from our village, we really don’t have an interest in you being a part of our competitive program.”

He said board members had discussed increasing the age divisions for recreational soccer because high school-age boys who want to continue to play must go to other clubs.

“They have no option but to go elsewhere,” Hasan said. “I’m a boys soccer coach over at Royal Palm Beach High School. I conduct my practices, and it’s a little heartbreaking seeing all the kids on the practice field in competing clubs’ uniforms simply because they don’t have a place to play over here.”

The league, which has about 700 participants, currently has about $35,000 in its savings account, about $40,000 in its recreational account and $12,000 in its competitive account.

“Things are going well financially, and it allows us to continue to upgrade our equipment, and to continue to provide good-quality uniforms and trophies for all the participants,” Hasan said.

The polo pros with the younger players during the “trophy presentation” ceremony.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

Fourth-Grade Polo Day Delights Local Youth While Teaching Sport

Championship Field at the International Polo Club Palm Beach resonated in shouts, giggles and whoops on the annual FourthGrade Polo Day held Jan. 21.

Championship Field is usually reserved only for Sunday highgoal polo competition on the perfectly graded and manicured lawn that measures nine times larger than a football field. However, Fourth-Grade Polo Day is an exception.

The day is all about the children

LGLA

Shopping Plaza Cleanup

continued from page 1 team met with business owners, patrons and members of the community to assess what the common issues were. Security vulnerabilities were at the top of the list.

“Everybody, whether they’re in their home or going into a business, wants to feel safe,” Pruitt said. “We want to ensure that everyone is safe, not only the customers, but the business owners as well.”

He recommended that business owners install security cameras and better alarm systems, and use more protective building materials. Bulletproof windows or “ballistic paneling” is not effective if the area underneath the window and the door are not secure, Pruitt said. “Drywall won’t stop a bullet,

who participate in an educational morning designed to teach local youth about a sport that dominates Wellington during the winter polo season. Five elementary schools participated: Panther Run, New Horizons, Binks Forest, Equestrian Trails and Wellington.

Four of the world’s top professional polo players — Luis Escobar, Mariano Aguerre, Michele Dorignac and Matias Magrini — gave instruction on the game, from selecting the ideal polo pony

to wielding a mallet and mastering three basic shots: the back shot, the neck shot and the tail shot.

The professionals, and their children, ages 5 to 11, played a two-chukker exhibition match for the students. The box seats in the stadium, normally reserved for members, were filled with fourth graders digging into their complimentary goody bags for treats and cheering on the players as they charged down the field.

During the halftime divot stomp,

which by tradition usually includes complimentary champagne, juice boxes were provided to the children. The trophy presentation was highlighted with ice cream bars for everyone.

IPC has hosted its annual Fourth-Grade Polo Day since 2002, sharing the excitement of the sport with local youth in an ongoing effort to grow the sport of polo. Enthusiasm for the game continues to grow in the United States, with the United States

Polo Association’s current roster exceeding 4,500 members, many of whom are female players. Over 250 clubs, and intercollegiate and interscholastic schools, are registered with the USPA. IPC is committed to the support and growth of junior players, assuring a bright future for the sport.

IPC hosts the largest field of high-goal polo teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States. The 2014 season opened Sunday, Jan. 5, and

and it won’t stop a fist or a good boot,” he said.

Pruitt added that a contracted security company or dedicated deputy might be a worthwhile investment, given the wide area that a limited number of District 15 deputies have to cover.

A big problem in the plaza has been robbery of pedestrians outside the businesses, he said. “The bad guys see a victim coming,” Pruitt explained. “They look for prey. They are looking for somebody susceptible. A good number of the people victimized were targeted because they were impaired or intoxicated.”

Many of the businesses that cash checks did not require sufficient identification, he said, and littering has been a common issue throughout the area. “I’m always tripping over beer bottles,” Pruitt said. “These are your businesses, and this is your community. If you see it on the ground, pick it up.”

He recommended that owners have one of their employees go

out with a garbage bag and collect litter. He also noted that the plaza was short of trash cans and that businesses with trash cans were not emptying them. Further, the trash bin in the plaza was too small and frequently overflowing, and he suggested that it be emptied more frequently.

Much of the lighting in the plaza was inoperable, which enabled much of the undesirable behavior, and Pruitt spoke to the landlord about getting the lights working.

Public indecency offenses, such as urinating in public, were also an issue. In investigating that situation, Pruitt discovered that problem can also be attributed to structural problems with the plaza — lack of cleanliness of the restrooms, lack of signage where the restrooms were and limited access.

“Some of the businesses do not have public restrooms,” he said.

“If you have a sign, chances are they will go to the restroom, but if it is not clean, they won’t use it.”

Beverage offenses were a preva-

lent issue, largely because there are four places where alcohol can be purchased. “We can’t say that it comes as a surprise that there is litter and people under the influence wandering about,” Pruitt said.

He pointed out that none of the businesses have licenses for outside consumption, except Boonies in its patio area, but that a great deal of outdoor consumption was going on.

Pruitt said strict enforcement of those regulations has prevented people from loitering around intoxicated and reduced littering.

They also had food stores with tables outside remove the tables.

Substance abuse has been a problem, which is being addressed in part by an organization based in the plaza called the Billy Bob Club, a 12-step group that addresses both substance and alcohol abuse.

“It has been willing to provide the literature and resources available to our targeted audience, providing meetings in a multilingual

format,” Pruitt said, adding that he has directed some of the regular loiterers to the program.

After meetings with business owners, talking to loiterers and making changes in the plaza, the PBSO began enforcement, which resulted in more than a dozen arrests for open container violations, public intoxication or indecent exposure.

The deputies also began enforcement of business violations in the plaza. They brought in the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation to make sure businesses were operating within the constraints of their license.

“Our intention with the inspector was to educate people and try to give them one more opportunity [to obey the law],” Pruitt said.

Since the enforcement began, he has talked to 15 random people, 13 of whom said they thought the plan had a positive effect.

Pruitt added that calls for service have gone up since the imple-

concludes with the Maserati U.S. Open Polo Championship final on Sunday, April 20.

Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating that includes elegant grandstand viewing, field tailgating, lawn seating, field-side champagne brunch and exclusive sponsor boxes. Tickets start at $10. For more information, or to book a special event yearround, call (561) 204-5687 or visit www.internationalpoloclub.com.

Deputy Nigel Pruitt mentation of the plan, and that he thinks that is because people have increased confidence that the PBSO will respond.

“I want you to continue calling, because when you call, I will come,” he said.

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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NEWS BRIEFS Volunteers Donate Time To Keep PBC Clean

Volunteers with the Palm Beach County Department of Environmental Resources Management (ERM) donated 3,306 labor hours in 2013 to help preserve Palm Beach County’s environment.

More than 1,000 volunteers worked on 85 habitat restoration projects in county-owned natural areas and restoration areas. They removed 41,931 pounds of trash and invasive exotic vegetation from wooded areas, scrublands, and along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Worth Lagoon. The trash varied from beer bottles and soda cans to a small metal replica of the Liberty Bell and a bathroom sink.

Volunteers also planted 4,440 native trees, shrubs and grasses at restoration projects and collected 1,400 red mangrove seeds for 2014 wetland restoration projects, cleared 1,000 feet of hiking trail at Cypress Creek Natural Area, and built six mini kiosks to house information posters about habitat restoration projects.

ERM’s volunteer program is

a valuable tool that offers land managers a large supply of energetic workers who help protect the county’s natural treasures. For more info., visit www.pbcgov. com/erm.

Puerto Rican Event At The Fair

Last year marked the first year that the South Florida Fair — in partnership with JetBlue and the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for Palm Beach County — hosted a celebration of Puerto Rican heritage.

The event was so successful that fair organizers have planned something similar this year. The Fiesta de Pueblo Puerto Rico, “Carnaval Latino” with Baby Rasta & Gringo, will begin at 2 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 1 in the Coca-Cola Party Pavilion.

The event is free with fair admission and will include music by internationally acclaimed singers and traditional Puerto Rican foods and crafts.

Santos Arroyo, founder and CEO of the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Palm Beach County, noted that there are more than 200,000 Puerto Ricans in South

Florida and 35,000 in Palm Beach County. “We expect a great turnout and an enthusiastic crowd,” Arroyo said. “It will be a fun event, as well as an opportunity to educate attendees about the beauty of our island and the business opportunities between Florida and Puerto Rico.”

During the event, JetBlue Airways will promote direct flights from Palm Beach International Airport to San Juan, Puerto Rico by giving away a pair of airline tickets. The headline entertainment for the event is the Baby Rasta y Gringoa Reggaeton duo from Puerto Rico, famous for their track “El Carnaval.”

For more about the event, visit www.prhchamber.com or call Arroyo at (561) 889-6527. For more about the fair, call (561) 793-0333 or visit www.southfloridafair.com.

School District New Vendor Orientation

The School District of Palm Beach County’s Purchasing Department will be conducting a seminar to provide information on how to become a new vendor and

conduct business with the school district. A new vendor orientation session will take place Monday, Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. in the board room at the district’s administrative offices at 3300 Forest Hill Blvd. in West Palm Beach.

To take advantage of this opportunity, RSVP by Feb. 7 to bids@palmbeachschools.org and include the following information: your company name, the type of service or product you offer and the name of person(s) attending.

For more info., contact Director of Purchasing Sharon Swan at sharon.swan@palmbeachschools. org or (561) 434-8214.

FLARA Meeting Set For Feb. 3

The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans’ western communities chapter will meet Monday Feb. 3 at 1 p.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church on Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. FLARA is an active group working to translate progressive ideas into legislation.

The subject of the meeting will be gathering ideas to support the Palm Beach County Health Care District in lieu of the state legislature’s decision not to accept federal funding

to expand Medicaid in Florida.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

For more info., call Nancy Tanner (561) 793-9677.

Hands-Only CPR Training Feb. 8

When seconds count, someone may be counting on a nearby friend, relative, neighbor or resident to provide hands-only CPR. Hands-only CPR classes teach civilians how to provide medical help to cardiac arrest victims before professional medical responders arrive.

Residents can receive free hands-only CPR training in 30-minute sessions to be offered at 19 fire stations throughout Palm Beach County on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 9 a.m.

The sessions will be taught by students from the Palm Beach County School District medical magnet program, along with the Palm Beach State College paramedic students. Participants should wear comfortable clothes.

Local stations offering this course are Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Station #30 at 9610 Stribling Way in Wellington and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue

Station #28 at 1040 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach.

WHS Seeks Sponsors For Dance Marathon

Wellington High School is hosting its second annual Dance Marathon on Friday, March 7 to raise money for the Shands Hospital for Children in Gainesville. Students will be dancing and standing from 4 to 11 p.m. in the gymnasium.

A nationwide movement, Dance Marathon is an event where students dance and stand to raise money and awareness for children who cannot. The money raised is given to a Children’s Miracle Network hospital to help supply sick children with the care and equipment they need.

In 2013, WHS students raised $11,710.39. This year, the students hope to raise even more. To learn more, or to become a sponsor, visit www.helpmakemiracles.org, click on “Find A Dance Marathon” and type “Wellington” into the search box. For more info., contact 2014 WHS Dance Marathon Chair Kelsie Boudreau at (561) 906-2706 or boudreau.kelsie2@gmail.com.

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Page 9

NEWS

‘ARTFEST ON THE GREEN’ BRINGS TALENT TO WELLINGTON AMPHITHEATER

The Wellington Art Society hosted its eighth annual juried art show “ArtFest on the Green” on Saturday, Jan. 25 and Sunday, Jan. 26 at the Wellington Amphitheater. Proceeds from the event will go toward the Wellington Art Society’s Scholarship Fund and other PHOTOS BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER community programs. For more info., visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

Leslie Pfeiffer, award-winning artist Patricia Astudillo and Mayor Bob Margolis.

Nina Mangiola, honorable mention winner Tito Mangiola and Leonarda Mangiola.

Adrianne Hetherington, award-winning Nikon Legend artist Nancy Brown and Leslie Pfeiffer

Artist Barbara Rush with her equestrian paintings.

Artist Sharon Segal shows off her artwork.

Artist Michael Kuseske won an award for his work.

WELLINGTON’S ULTIMA FITNESS HOSTS LET’S MOVE CAMPAIGN BOOT CAMP

Ultima Fitness in Wellington hosted a boot camp for the public as an opportunity to log minutes for the Palm Healthcare Foundation’s “Let’s Move: Commit to Change” campaign. Reggie D from X102.3 hosted the boot camp. For more info., visit www.ultimafitness.com.

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Zumba group members with group instructor Jerrell Banks (front center).

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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NEWS

HOWLIN’ HOEDOWN AT IPC RAISES MONEY FOR A SECOND CHANCE RESCUE

The Howlin’ Hoedown 2014, benefiting A Second Chance Puppies & Kittens Rescue, took place Saturday, Jan. 25 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The event featured a silent and live auction, line dancing, an Asado dinner catered by Aaron’s PHOTOS BY DAMON WEBB/TOWN-CRIER Catering and more. For more info., visit www.asecondchancerescue.org.

A Second Chance Puppies & Kittens Rescue President Gemma Ford with Event Chair Hope Barron.

A Second Chance Rescue supporters enjoy the night.

Stacy Herig, Kevin Kochersberger and Barbara Richardson

Aaron Menitoff and Julie Larson check out the adoptable puppies.

Howlin’ Hoedown committee members Maureen Gross, Hope Barron, Allyson Samiljan, Julie Tannehill and Maggie Zeller.

Ron Davis and Luis Rodriguez.

Julie Young of JX3 Events.

WELLINGTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL’S PIXAR-THEMED HOMECOMING PARADE

Wellington Christian School held its homecoming parade Thursday, Jan. 23. Each high school class built a float based on one of Disney’s Pixar movies. First-place winners were the seniors with Toy Story, second place went to the sophomores with Monsters University, third place was the junior class with Up and fourth place went to the freshmen class for Finding Nemo. For more info., visit PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER www.wellingtonchristian.org.

The freshman class with its Finding Nemo float.

The sophomores earned second place with Monsters University.

The Up float by the junior class.

First-place winners were the senior class with Toy Story.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Abi Kattel Memorial Foundation Hosts 5K Run Runners came out on a cool and sunny Saturday morning for the sixth annual Abi Kattel Memorial Foundation Run for Education on Jan. 18, held every year during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend at Okeeheelee Park, winding around the lake and providing the runners and walkers with a view. This year’s race involved runners and walkers. Taking home the overall race win was Brian Michaelson, who finished in 21 minutes, 4 seconds. Karinne Mitchell was the first female to cross the line.

The foundation was founded by the family of the late Abi Kattel.

Bijaya and Archana Kattel, Abi’s parents, and numerous volunteers, make sure that everything goes off without a hitch. Proceeds

from the run go directly to the scholarships and events of the foundation, which also holds “feed the homeless” and blood drives every holiday season. Recent and past scholarship recipients were among participants.

“This being the sixth year we’ve been able to hold this run just really speaks to the popularity and support the run has been able to gather,” Bijaya Kattel said. “We have some runners who are joining us again for the sixth time, and just as many that have come out for the first time and plan to return next year.

The Abi Kattel Memorial Foundation is a charitable nonprofit organization based in Wellington.

Founded in 2006, the purpose of

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WELLINGTON ART DISPLAY OPENS

Abi Kattel Memorial Foundation at the event. the foundation is to draw light to and encourage a student’s pursuit, regardless of financial ability.

“We want to help give children every opportunity to succeed,”

Archana Kattel said.

For full race results, more information about the foundation, or to donate, visit www.abikattel foundation.org.

TKA Underwriting Party Supports ‘Mane Event’

The red carpet was rolled out for guests at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Saturday, Jan. 18 for the King’s Academy’s underwriting party to support the 2014 Mane Event Dinner & Auction.

The evening, hosted by the Maguire family, featured guest appearances by famous movie characters, a photo booth and themed food stations.

The King’s Academy’s honors choir, His People, provided entertainment with songs from the upcoming spring musical produc-

January 31 - February 6, 2014

tion of The Phantom of the Opera, and the Swingin’ King’s Jazz Band performed movie themed crowd favorites.

The underwriting party event brought in more than $140,000 to support the school and underwrite the auction.

The King’s Academy Mane Event, a Star-Studded Premiere, is set for Saturday, March 1 at the National Croquet Center. Tickets are $125.

For more information, call the TKA Development Office at (561) 686-4244.

Wellington’s ninth annual Art In Public Places Program is on display at three Wellington municipal locations. The Wellington Community Center, the Village Park gymnasium and the Safe Neighborhoods office will be showcasing the artwork until August 2014. The public is invited to view the artwork during normal business hours. Art In Public Places is a collaborative effort between the Wellington Art Society and the Village of Wellington. Shown here are Leslie Pfeiffer, Mika Berlic, Candra Conner, Susan Oakes, Councilwoman Anne Gerwig and Donna Donelan.

MARTHA WEBSTER CAMPAIGN KICKOFF

Burggraaf Releases Her Eighth Children’s Book

Author and middle school teacher Deborah Burggraaf has has once again teamed up with illustrator Matt Lumsden to release her eighth book, The Noodle Club.

The Noodle Club follows Burggraaf’s seventh book, Flutternutter, which received two silver medal awards for Best Children’s Picture Book and Best Cover Design at the Florida Authors and Publishers Association 2013 President’s Banquet in September.

The Noodle Club is a tale about retirees in Florida who meet daily in the swimming pool with their Styrofoam noodles and develop long-lasting friendships.

Children ages 10 and up will enjoy splashing into the pool with the “golden oldies,” as they float away each day celebrating the joy of friendship.

Event hosts Joe and Ashley Maguire and family.

Deborah Burggraaf Lumsden brings the reader into the gleaming swimming pool, as well as the on-going festivities in the clubhouse.

Parents, educators, adults and children alike will welcome the activities available at www.dburgg. com.

Royal Palm Beach mayoral candidate Martha Webster held a campaign kickoff party Tuesday, Jan. 21 at Carrabba’s in Royal Palm Beach. (Above) Webster (right) with Michael Sexton and Dr. Laura Tindall.

(Right) Richard and Barbara Hedman with Webster.

Monbleau Finishes Air Force Basic

John and Andrea Powell with Jeanie and Dr. Jorge Acevedo.

Air Force Airman 1st Class Brandon A. Monbleau graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas. The airman 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. Monbleau is the son of Ronald Monbleau of Wellington.

He is a 2013 graduate of Forest Hill High School.

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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SCHOOL NEWS

BINKS FOREST STUDENT TKA Students Visit Puerto Rico On Mission secondary students from elementary school called Iglesia COUNCIL GIVES BACK theFifteen King’s Academy returned Metodista Emanuel. They played recently from a four-day mission trip to Puerto Rico.

The trip was led by TKA Spanish teachers Fatima and Robert Silva, who say they enjoy taking students on trips like this because it, “exposes them to parts of the world that are foreign to them and immerses them in another culture and language. It is also wonderful to be able to give back and serve the community there.”

The team partnered with Robinson High School, a 110-yearold private school in San Juan.

Students had the opportunity to serve by painting and cleaning the auditorium at Iglesia Metodista Barrio Obrero in Santurce.

They also spent a day ministering to the children at a small

Binks Forest Elementary School has an active and giving student council. In November, the student council collected multiple carloads of food items for their annual Thanksgiving Food for Families drive. The food benefited many local families in the community.

In December, they collected hundreds of toys to donate to their sister school, Gove Elementary School in Belle Glade. The toy drive is also an annual student council event. Pictured here is the 2013-14 student council with representatives from the third grade through the fifth grade.

NEW HORIZONS HONORS CHARACTER COUNTS STUDENT RECIPIENTS

Each month, New Horizons Elementary School students focus on a different Character Pillar, including caring, trustworthy, respect, kindness, responsibility, fairness, tolerance, citizenship and loyalty. Students learn how to demonstrate each trait and practice it throughout the month. Teachers choose two students each month to receive the school’s Character Counts award. Pictured here are guidance counselor Lynne Bray, second grade teacher Deb Hansen and PTA parent Melanie Stepp with Hansens’ fall student recipients.

and sang songs to the children and provided the school with more than $300 worth of school supplies.

After serving, the students spent their final day enjoying the beauty of Puerto Rico. A kayaking trip in a lagoon with luminescent algae was beautiful.

They also enjoyed a 5-hour forest hike that included investigating caves and zip lining. Of course, the group explored Old San Juan and savored the delicious Puerto Rican food.

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. For more info, visit www.tka.net.

TKA students during their mission trip to Puerto Rico.

Miami Dolphins Help Cypress Trails Get Fit

Cypress Trails Elementary School students participated in a fun and exciting event sponsored by the Miami Dolphins on Wednesday, Jan. 22.

The Miami Dolphins Junior Training Camp is a free grassroots program emphasizing education, physical fitness and positive choices for kids.

Boys and girls of all grade

levels rotated through six stations featuring both offensive and defensive football drills. Some of the students also had the opportunity to learn and perform a cheer routine taught by a current Miami Dolphins cheerleader.

Cypress Trails thanks the Miami Dolphins organization, as well as all the parents who came out to volunteer.

Polo Park Students Learn Programming

Last month, more than 100 seventh-grade and eighth-grade students at Polo Park Middle School participated in the Code. org “Hour of Code” program.

Code.org is a nonprofit organization with the goal of introducing students, especially underrepresented populations such as women and people of color, to computer programming.

All of the students spent a minimum of one class period learning the basics of coding by navigating through a series of game-based modules that one student described as being “like puzzles.” The students were so successful in the introductory course that many of them went on to complete additional coursework at home, and 18 students completed the entire 20-hour course.

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18 students were among the first 1,000 classes in the country to complete the program, their teacher, Ryan Smith, was awarded a $1,000 donorschoose.org credit.

Smith’s students will now be taking the skills developed in the coding program and applying them to a variety of projects directly related to the middle school science curriculum. With the help of grants provided by Florida Power & Light and the Air Force Association, students will be constructing and programming solar-powered water fountains for their school garden and a water bottle rocket equipped with an altitude tracking computer.

The students are excited to put their skills to the test and are planning on spending extra time outside of the classroom working on the projects.

Cypress Trails students take part in the junior training camp.

SRHS CADETS INDUCTED INTO HONOR SOCIETY

The Seminole Ridge High School Hawk Battalion inducted a new batch of cadets into the National Military Honor Society of Scabbard and Blade, I Company, 1st Regiment on Wednesday, Jan. 15. Congratulations to inductees Austin Bowling, Paige Brevell, Justin Fitts, Michael Garrity, Brooke Gaster, Alexander Harre, Andrew Harre, Benjamin Hoffman, Alyssa Laux, Elizabeth Outten, Cody Papula, Daniel Parent, Dustin Reinhardt, Alec Wasko and Daniel Wrye.

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Page 15

SCHOOL NEWS

Osceola Creek Honors Scholar-Athletes WES LITERACY NIGHT AT Osceola Creek Middle School recently announced the recipients of its Scholar-Athlete Award for December.

The award is sponsored by

the School Police and honors varsity athletes who also excel in academics, effort, behavior and school spirit, and serve as role models for others. This month’s

Principal Nicole Daly, Tristan Howell and Nalani Starcher with School Police Officer Sandy Molenda.

honorees carry high grade point averages and play varsity sports.

December’s honorees are both eighth graders.

Girls volleyball honored Nalani Starcher, 13. “Nalani is an outstanding athlete as well as student,” coach Shayne Sanderford said. “This is her first year playing volleyball, and she was one of our starting setters. She is also an amazing young lady who will succeed in anything she does.

She will be a great addition to any sports team, and I am very proud to have had her on my team.”

Starcher is carrying a 5.13 GPA and has perfect attendance. In addition to volleyball, she is also a member of the school’s track and soccer teams, and is a member of the Coach for Kids club. She has been honored with the Principal’s Award and was the Female Athlete of the Year as a seventh grader. She

wants to stay in Florida for college and is leaning toward FSU or FAU, followed by a career as a pediatric dentist.

Tristan Howell was honored by the boys soccer team. “Tristan is a huge part of our team,” coach Tony Bugeja said. “Tristan is a positive role model to everyone around him. He will truly be missed as part of the Osceola Creek Soccer Program.”

Howell carries a 3.25 GPA and is also a member of Osceola Creek’s track team. He is undecided on a career, but wants to attend the University of Florida.

Supporting the program are Subway, Domino’s Pizza and Burger King, located at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Orange Blvd., and Dairy Queen at Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Okeechobee Blvd., which donated free food coupons.

WES Chorus Club Stages Holiday Show The Wellington Elementary School Chorus Club, under the direction of music teacher and chorus director Dave Morrison, performed the premiere of the holiday show, “Holly and the Ivy League” on Dec. 18.

The show was repeated the following day at two different times, so the entire school could see it.

There was amazing acting and (Left) The Wellington Elementary School Chorus Club production of “Holly and the Ivy League.”

singing, along with vibrant stage settings.

The school’s chorus club worked hard, meeting three to four times a week to rehearse the holiday production. It took hard work, dedication and commitment by the third, fourth and fifth graders to make the stage production a great success.

The club will begin meeting again in the beginning of February to work on different songs for various events and concerts, as well as a spring show.

WELLINGTON LIBRARY

Wellington Elementary School held its first Literacy Night at the Wellington library on Wednesday, Jan. 15. More than 300 people attended. There were scavenger hunts throughout the library, opportunities to sign up for a library card, as well as literacy information tables with ideas and activities for parents to do at home.

Shown here, families enjoy the children’s section of the library.

SPELLING BEE WINNERS

Binks Forest Elementary School held its spelling bee on Wednesday, Jan. 22. The top spellers from the school are, in third place, Trieu-Vy Truong; second place, Alexa Pamatat; and first place, Ashley Kulberg. Pictured here are Truong, Kulberg and Pamatat with their awards.

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Wellington The Magazine Indulge Contest Nominee Name: _________________________________ Nominee Contact Number: ________________________ Nominee Email: ____________________________________ Submitted By: ___________________________________ Contact Number: ___________________________________ Mail to: Wellington The Magazine Indulge Yourself Contest, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., #31, Wellington, FL 33414

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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FEATURES

Our Holidays Are Over, But Chinese New Year Is Just Beginning

Happy Chinese New Year! (Or, more correctly, “Gong hey fat choy!”)

Yes, just when you thought every single seasonal celebration had ended, your Chinese friends and neighbors start hanging red lanterns and setting off fireworks. What is this madness?

I’ll tell you what. Centuries ago, a rumor started that the beast Nian spent the first day of the new year eating crops, livestock and, unfortunately, children. So villagers put food out in the hopes that the mythical creature would eat that instead.

They also decided that Nian was afraid of fire (understandable) and of the color red (less understandable, but worth a try when the survival of one’s children is at stake). So fireworks are gathered, red lanterns are hung and tots are dressed in red. (British soldiers, who dressed in

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER red with a big red X across their chests, would caution against this, but that’s their business.)

Once everything is safely decorated in red, the Chinese New Year can continue.

As with most celebrations, food plays a huge part. The New Year’s Eve dinner kicks off a 15-day party that is considered a family reunion of sorts. Those who no longer live at home are expected to

return, and places are set for deceased ancestors as well. Fish and dumplings are two of the highlights, as they mean prosperity (ask any Chinese restaurant owner).

Many Chinese stay up that night, both to fend off Nian and to see who is getting good luck (all you have to do is be the first person to set off fireworks at midnight).

Temporary New Year’s markets are set up to attract those short on bottle rockets, lanterns, red clothing, food, candy or red envelopes.

Red envelopes?

For the unmarried, the Chinese New Year brings both good luck and prosperity, as tradition requires their elders to give them red packets (lai see — not to be confused with “lazy”) filled with money — anything from one to several

thousand Yuan. One Yuan currently equals 19 cents, so you can see where this money not only keeps the young healthy and suppresses evil, but probably acts as a powerful deterrent for those considering marriage.

Prior to the festival, everyone and everything is thoroughly cleaned, but all cleaning supplies and brooms are hidden away before the party starts lest good fortune is swept away. Guests bring trays of oranges and tangerines, dried fruit, flowers, plants and wishes for the new year written on red paper. Tofu is strictly avoided, as the color white represents misfortune, death and a rather bland favor (just kidding about that last one — tofu is the chameleon of foods).

The second day of the celebration signifies the universal birthday of all

dogs and, right behind the honoring of the dogs, comes the honoring of the parents-in-law on days three and four.

(The universal birthday of human beings doesn’t show up until day seven.)

On day five, everyone stays home awaiting the god of wealth and, perhaps to help cope with disappointment, the following five days are set aside for temple visits in which people pray for wealth and health.

The whole celebration began with the new moon and it ends with the full moon.

A lantern festival nighttime parade is held to wrap things up and, this year, to usher in the Year of the Horse.

Those crazy Chinese — dressing in red, giving presents of money, hosting parades and dinners. What do they think this is... Christmas?

Our TV Shows Are Finally Catching Up To Real-Life Relationships

The geniuses behind our television series have finally begun to live in the 21st century. If you actually do believe they are geniuses, go watch the now highly honored Brooklyn Nine Nine if you dare.

When you consider the fact that creating any scripted TV show costs millions of dollars to enlist the expertise of hundreds of highly paid folk, we may judge the results. This, however, is not a jeremiad against quality but a grudging admission that they might finally have gotten sex right. Of course, cable seems to have gone far beyond the norm. A minor character on HBO’s True Detective last week actually made certain there was not a single square inch of her body not on display.

But regular TV is different. For a long time, it was clear that the TV geniuses re-

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler ally believed that there was no such thing as human sexuality. When Lucy gave birth on I Love Lucy, using her condition as part of the show, it was a first… a recognition that married people might actually have sex (shudder) and that babies could be a result. Even after that, Rob and Laura Petrie, stars of The Dick Van Dyke Show, slept in separate twin beds… just like

“most young, attractive married couples.”

Marlo Thomas’ character in That Girl remained virginal, although it might have been because her boyfriend was a wuss.

It was an article of faith on all the doctor shows over the next 20 years that if one of the hunky male doctors (not many female ones at that time) got interested in a woman, she was either a) planning to go to the other end of the world, b) somehow entangled with someone else despite all the emotional stress, or, more typically, c) was going to die.

Then came Moonlighting and a paradigm shift. David and Maddie were two very attractive, unmarried characters, who had a real attraction. After many years of finding ways to prevent them from ever getting together, they finally did... and the

writers could never figure out what to do with them afterward. Ross and Rachel on Friends spent 10 years not quite avoiding each other, but they finally get together at the finale of the show. After all, why change a formula?

Soap operas were (and are) the exception to all of this. People on these shows tend to flit from one lover to another. Meredith and Derek started Grey’s Anatomy in bed, finishing a one-night stand, and went on from there. Just about every performer has been with at least a handful of lovers at one point or another, but no one expects characters on these shows to be more faithful than a mink in heat.

But things do change, even if a generation behind the public. Booth and Brennan on Bones actually began their relationship

with a heavy-duty embrace (shown in a later episode) but spent several years providing the inspiration for Cirque du Soleil by their acrobatics and contortions to avoid having sex. When it finally happened, it slipped by really fast. A friend was murdered in front of them, she spent the night on the couch at his apartment but was upset and came in to cry on his shoulder, eventually winding up next to him, and we found out the next day that they had finally gotten together — and she was pregnant the next episode. Yet the show went on, now different.

On Castle, the stars (Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic) went through some of the same things and waited four seasons to finally get together, but built on it. It See WECHSLER, page 18

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Page 17

NEWS

Valiente Defeats Tonkawa To Win Joe Barry Memorial Cup At IPC The Valiente team of Bob Jornayvaz, Santi Torres, Sapo Caset and Roberto Zedda came out on top of a see-saw battle with Tonkawa last Sunday afternoon in the final match of the 20-goal 2014 Joe Barry Memorial Cup Tournament at the International Polo Club Palm Beach.

A rash of penalties in the sixth chukker turned a neck-and-neck game into a five-goal rout by Valiente over Tonkawa, made up of Jeff Hildebrand, Gonzalito Pieres, Rodrigo Andrade and Tomas Alberdi.

Goals were hard to come by in the opening chukker of play, with Valiente’s Torres scoring the first goal of the match at the 4:14 mark for a 1-0 lead. Teammates Zedda and Caset followed up with single

goals of their own, while Tonkawa was unable to get their attack on track, trailing 3-0.

Pieres finally got Tonkawa on the scoreboard in the second chukker by way of a pair of penalty conversions, but Valiente continued to lead. Torres scored the final goal of the chukker, to put Valiente on top of a 4-2 score.

The two teams traded goals in the third, with Caset scoring twice for Valiente, and Pieres and Andrade picking up goals for Tonkawa. At the end of the first half, Valiente was in front by two goals, 6-4.

When play resumed, Valiente captain Jornayvaz found himself on the receiving end of a beautifully placed pass from Caset and burned it through the goalposts

for a 7-4 Valiente lead. Pieres then responded with four consecutive goals (three on penalty shots) for Tonkawa’s first lead of the day, 8-7. Valiente answered back, as Caset made good on two penalty shots to close the chukker. Valiente was back in the lead, but by one goal, 9-8.

Horse races up and down the field continued into the fifth chukker, but neither team was able to break through to score. Defense continued to rule the day in the opening minutes of the sixth chukker, until Caset scored from the field for a 10-8 edge. Torres made it 11-8 on his third goal of the day, and that was when the wheels came off the Tonkawa wagon. Three consecutive technical fouls were converted into two

more goals for Valiente. The game ended with Valiente celebrating a 13-8 victory.

Caset led all scoring with eight goals, four on penalty shots. Torres scored three times, while Jornayvaz and Zedda each added a goal for the win. Pieres led the Tonkawa attack with seven goals, six on penalty shots. Andrade scored the other goal.

Valiente’s Santi Torres was named MVP, while Rodrigo Andrade’s Quiosquero was honored as Best Playing Pony.

Earlier in the day, Orchard Hill (Steve Van Andel, Lucas Criado, Facundo Pieres and Marcos Alberdi) outlasted Flight Options (Melissa Ganzi, Freddie Mannix, Miguel Astrada and Juan Bollini), 12-10, in a fast-moving contest

that decided the 2014 Bobby Barry Cup title.

Pieres scored the first goal of the game in the opening minute of play on a 200-yard run down the field that culminated in a 70-yard shot through the posts for a 1-0 Orchard Hill lead.

A minute later, Astrada tied it up for Flight Options, 1-1, with a 40-yard penalty conversion for a goal. Bollini gave the lead back to Flight Options with a goal from the field.

Second chukker play saw Bollini score to move Flight Options in front, 3-1. Astrada added two more goals, and Flight Options’ lead continued to grow, 5-2. Orchard Hill got a single penalty goal from Caset.

Orchard Hill took control of the

game in the third period, scoring three times while holding Flight Options scoreless. Pieres opened the chukker with a penalty goal, followed by a goal from the field

by Criado. Another goal from Pieres ended the first half in a 5-5 tie.

When play resumed, Mannix got Flight Options back on the scoreboard with a goal from the field for a 6-5 lead. Pieres scored twice to quickly regain the lead, 7-6. Astrada knotted up the score again, 7-7, with the conversion of a safety. Pieres and Alberdi each added a goal to end the chukker with Orchard Hill still on top, 9-7.

Flight Options scored on a pair of goals from Astrada to tie it up 9-9, while the team’s defense did See POLO, page 18

ANOTHER WEEK OF NEW YORK-THEMED FUN AT THE 2014 SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR The 2014 South Florida Fair continues its New York-themed run through Sunday, Feb. 2. Attendees enjoyed rides, food, exhibitions, performances and other fun activities, as well as the nod to New York in the Expo Center and throughout the fairgrounds. For more info., visit www.southfloridafair.com or call (561) 793-0333.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The High Voltage Street Breakz team shows off its skills.

Paso Fino Luna (aka Silly Filly) with owner Ruth Phillips.

Andra Karp, Irmagard Letourneau and Connie Kilgore.

Animal Care & Control volunteer MaryEllen Kielmann with Abby, who is petted by Tiffany Pinto and Erin Fitzgerald.

Gator Boys Jimmy Riffle, Andy Riffle and Scott Cohen with Hercules.

Debbie Hulen gave Erin Hitchens the cake she won in a cake walk.

Page 18

January 31 - February 6, 2014

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OBITUARY

Salvatore ‘Father Sam’ Profeta Dies At Age 92

Father Salvatore Profeta, or “Father Sam,” as he was affectionately known, died Jan. 23 at age 92.

A longtime Wellington resident, Father Sam was assigned early on after ordination to Florida State University in Tallahassee as the school’s Catholic chaplain.

He loved working with college-age students in helping them cope with the stress of college life and helped keep them on the “straight and narrow path” of Christian brotherhood.

After many years working with students, Father Sam was assigned to the Diocese of Miami to become a regular parish priest in Hollywood and other Catholic churches in Broward County. It was at this time of his life he had a vision to help the poor of the world.

Father Sam had a special love to assist

and reach out to the poor and less fortunate, regardless of sexual orientation, skin color or ethnic background.

Father Sam prayed to Mary Madonna of Christ, and during a vision, decided to bring Mary to all in the world as a “beacon of hope” for the poor.

His vision told him to create a statue of Mary Madonna of the Poor, and through volunteer help from his parishes and local generous friends, he found a foundry in Pennsylvania to create the white cement statue for all to pray to for helping the poor.

In the mid-1980s, Father Sam took his statue to Vatican City for review and approval. The Pope and the Holy See approved his statue and allowed him to send it to whoever wanted it on display.

Using volunteers from his church, his

nonprofit foundation solicited funds for statues, delivery systems and brochures publishing his ideas. This became the famous Mary Madonna of the Poor Ministry.

Today, more than 35 years after his statue was sent at no charge to thousands of churches and other places, Mary can be seen in gardens, home yards, church grounds, affluent churches and poor churches around the world. She is widely seen on display in Europe, South America, Asia, North America, Latin America, Australia and elsewhere.

Father Sam’s 92-year legacy speaks for itself. Locally, in Wellington, his statue can be seen on the grounds of St. Rita Catholic Church along the sidewalk of the Parish Hall, to the left of the main entrance.

Salvatore ‘Father Sam’ Profeta

NEWS BRIEF

Feb. 7 Kids Cancer Foundation Wine Tasting Benefit

The CityPlace Wine Club will host a wine tasting on Friday, Feb. 7 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the CityPlace South Tower (500 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) to benefit the Kids Cancer Foundation. The event is sponsored by Once a Month Charity.

The Wine Tasting will include Old World and New World wines, cheese pairings, and hot and cold appetizers. There will be a silent auction and a food drive, where attendees can purchase food items for donation to the families of children treated at Palms West Hospital.

Admission is a $25 donation. To learn more and RSVP, visit www.cityplacewineclub.com.

NEWS

SOUTH FLORIDA FAIR AWARDS $33,500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO 14 STUDENTS

The South Florida Fair’s annual scholarship presentation was held Wednesday, Jan. 22 on the Coca-Cola Stage at the fairgrounds.

Winners received between $1,000 and $6,000 each. Recipients included Royal Palm Beach residents Sabrina Fields, who attends PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER Palm Beach Central High School, and Nathalie Canate, who attends Suncoast High School.

The Fair Scholarship Committee with recipients.

Fluoride

Removed From Water

continued from page 1 Wellington resident, said that the CDC strongly supports water fluoridation, especially for children.

“Tooth decay affects more children in the United States than any other infectious disease,” he said.

“Untreated tooth decay causes pain and infections that could lead to problems eating, speaking, playing and learning.”

But several Wellington residents asked council members to let them decide how much fluoride their children ingest.

Some council members pointed to this as evidence that a majority of residents were against the practice, but Margolis noted that

Biotest

Sign OK For New Biz

continued from page 1 which is the water portion, and the red cells are returned back to the donor,” he said, explaining that the donors are in and out in about 90 minutes.

Larson said 300 trips per day would probably be a substantial increase, but Erwin said the applicant was only asking for sign approval, and that, besides the signs, the new tenant was doing just interior redesign, with no additional approval required.

Minto West

Residents Speak Out

continued from page 1 ability,” Hearing said. “The area out here in The Acreage has been historically underserved by services, so we want to create an area out here that not only our residents will love, but something that the community will embrace and find great value in.”

Hearing said there probably will be an increase in traffic, but the goal is to shorten those traffic trips.

“We want to internalize them,” he said. “If we just go build 2,996 homes today, which we could do very easily — Minto has done it many, many times — 100 percent of the cars going in and out of the communities are going to be driving to West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Wellington for services.”

Hearing said Minto is attempting to put together a balanced development program that will be more sustainable in the long term, adding that the developer is required by the county and the state to follow “New Urbanist” principles that provide employment, shopping and walkable communities that minimize vehicular travel.

Minto Vice President John Carter said the proposed design with a 900,000-square-foot employment center would create about 3,100 jobs.

“The intent of the design isn’t to have a job for each and every resident who moves into this community,” Carter said. “There may be, in fact, individuals like me who live in northern Palm

Sabrina Fields receives her scholarship from South Florida Fair Chairman Craig Elmore

only about 20 residents had written to council members on the issue.

“I have heard more about the community center and the tennis center than I am hearing about fluoride in the water,” he said. “To sit here and say residents don’t want it is untrue.”

Resident Tracey Powers said she is against putting “a drug” in Wellington’s water system. She said her son developed issues at a young age when she was told to add fluoride to his vitamins.

“It says on toothpaste and other items that fluoride is a drug, and if you swallow more than the amount of a pea, you should call poison control,” she said. “There are hundreds of scientific studies... that say fluoride reduces IQs in children.

The American Dental Association found that high levels of fluoride results in fluorosis.”

Powers asserted that fluoride was brought to the public by companies looking to cast off toxic waste. “I don’t deny that topical fluoride might have some benefits, but for a government to forcibly put it in our water and have everyone drink it is ridiculous,” she said.

Though the medical community refuted claims that fluoride causes harm, Coates worried that evidence could arise in the future proving fluoride is dangerous in drinking water.

“We have newfound scientific discoveries every day,” he said.

“We may discover that fluoridation for the past 65 years has been causing a lot of these unexplained illnesses we see in this country.”

Willhite wasn’t convinced that adding fluoride to the water benefits the community.

“When I take my kids to the

dentist, they don’t ask me where I live to know if there is fluoride in my water,” he said. “How do you know that the fluoride they are ingesting is benefiting them? You don’t see them all the time.”

Willhite said he contacted several fluoride companies to ask for evidence that fluoride is beneficial but did not receive any responses.

“None of them wanted to talk about it because none of the suppliers want to weigh in whether or not I should put it in my water,” he said.

Willhite asked Village Manager Paul Schofield for his opinion on fluoridation. Schofield said his professional and personal opinions were at odds.

“My professional opinion is that there is a preponderance of evidence that says fluoridation has public health benefits,” he said.

“Fortunately, they’re right there at the end, which is good, because that poor road has quite a bit of traffic as it is,” Larson said.

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

In other business, the commission approved an application by the Enclave multifamily residential development to modify its existing monument sign after it was discovered that part of the sign was within a Wellington easement.

Erwin said the applicant plans to move a portion of the entry sign about 20 feet so it will not encroach into Wellington.

“It wasn’t caught initially when they proposed the sign,” Erwin said. “Wellington discovered it after the fact, and the only way to remedy the situation was to move the sign.”

Jan Polson with Cotleur & Hearing, representing the Enclave, said the sign had been built and was ready for final approval by the building department.

“The Village of Wellington piped up and said, ‘Hey, we have an easement there,’” Polson said.

“It has been demolished, except for the tower feature, and the architect went in and redesigned it.

We wouldn’t be before you today if that had not happened. It has

been sitting out there demolished with the tower, waiting for this hearing to come along so it can get approval and revise the building permit and rebuild it.”

Commissioner Joseph Boyle said the confusion was unfortunate. “I wish the Village of Wellington had made their objection known a lot sooner, and we wouldn’t have had to go through this,” he said.

Polson said Wellington only discovered it when workers visited there.

“I don’t know that anybody knew it was there,” she said. “They may have even been surprised by it.”

Beach County, but my job will be elsewhere in the county.”

Hearing said Minto West retains Callery-Judge Grove’s water discharge permit of 2 inches per day, which it would not need in its entirety because of extensive planned water retention areas.

The developer would be willing to share those discharge rights with ITID, which is currently limited to a quarter-inch of drainage per day.

He added that the design of Minto West provides a 400-foot average buffer zone, which is increased by a development plan that puts denser uses along Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and less dense uses along the outer edges. “We’re designing this so that around the perimeter, about 600 feet, the average density is going to be around 1.5 or 1.7 units per acre,” he said.

“We’re trying to be very conscious about transitioning our density.”

He said transportation has been an issue in The Acreage, where road development has not kept up with construction. “This area has been neglected in many ways, and there are opportunities to collaborate on a regional transportation network,” he said.

Resident Andrew Robinson asked whether Minto is planning on making connections to 60th Street and Persimmon Blvd., and whether it is supporting the State Road 7 connection to Northlake Blvd., and Hearing said it would.

“The State Road 7 connection is something that is critical to mobility in Palm Beach County,” Hearing said. “I think anybody who lives in the western area here recognizes that.”

Resident Lillian Cole said Acreage residents are happy with their

rural lifestyle the way it is, and objected to Minto West representatives’ contention that greater lifestyle diversity in the area is desirable.

“I’m listening to this, and I’m insulted,” Cole said. “You seem to think you have the answers to all of our problems. We don’t see them as problems. Our roads are not problems. Our lack of diversity is our lifestyle out here.”

Hearing said the project is not intended to disrupt surrounding residents’ lifestyles.

“There is no way that we would want to insult you,” Hearing said.

“There are some things that are lacking from an infrastructure standpoint. We think that if we work together, we can solve some of those. We think that the surrounding area is wonderful.”

Hearing said the proposed project would bring services, education, entertainment and jobs closer to residents and, in many cases, reduce travel time and distance.

“Our project will provide greater diversity in there, and we wouldn’t expect you to be forced to come in and do your shopping there or buy a home here,” he said. “Those who are interested in Minto West will buy a home here and come here, and the surrounding areas will provide great support. We believe that the surrounding communities are a great asset.”

Conversely, Hearing said the Minto West project is intended to be an asset to the surrounding communities. “We are trying to create something that you would be proud of,” he said. “I can tell you that, with 2,900 homes, everyone will be driving somewhere else to work.”

Former Supervisor Mike Erickson agreed with Minto’s contentions that some of the traffic needed to be contained within the development, but thought that 2,996 homes would be sufficient if the non-commercial allotment were increased.

Hearing said that Minto had to create a development that would make non-commercial enterprises want to locate there. “It might not be self-supporting until the 35year period that it is built out,” he said. “You can ask any investment banker to come out and build, they’re not going to come. You need something that they perceive is of great value and great benefit for them to come.”

Carter said that Minto is trying to create a development that would have “critical mass,” with a residential component that would support the non-commercial aspect. He added that the Seminole Improvement District, which governs the Minto West area, has great bargaining power to entice investors into the project.

“One of the great opportunities we have here is to use the Seminole Improvement District, which has well-articulated powers, more so than what the Indian Trail Improvement District has,” he said.

Key to the financial end of the project is the ability to issue infrastructure bonds. “We’re looking at using those powers to leverage the ability to get bond financing over the next 30 years to support the $50 million in road impact fees and 15 miles of buffers,” Carter said.

“The residential count is important because that bond financing debt is carried by the residential side, not by the commercial side.”

Co-Chair Annis Manning, honorees Sabrina Fields and Nathalie Canate, and Scholarship Committee Chair Becky Isiminger.

“My personal opinion is that if we were not already fluoridating, I would not recommend that you do it.”

Greene said he has been researching the issue and found that several products, including toothpaste and dental floss, provide fluoride.

“If fluoridation of our water was the only way we could get fluoride into our bodies to prevent tooth decay, I would support it,” he said. “What if 10 years from now we discover this practice of fluoridating water was not in the best interest of the public? I don’t see any harm in stopping this, because there are so many other sources of fluoride.”

Gerwig noted that the public drinking water is heavily treated with other processes besides fluoride.

“There is a lot that goes into making sure we have a safe drinking-water supply,” she said.

“Right now, all the information I have that is based on science says we are doing something beneficial [by fluoridating the drinking water]. I’m looking to

Polo

Sunday Action

continued from page 17 the rest. Orchard Hill was unable to score in the fifth chukker.

Astrada gave Flight Options the lead, once again, on a goal from the field, but the balance of the sixth chukker belonged to Orchard Hill.

Pieres converted a penalty shot for the 10-10 tie at the 5:02 mark. It was then nearly four minutes of scoreless play before Criado took a pass from Pieres and raced down

Blotter

my health professionals to make this decision.”

Margolis also said he had to stand behind the scientific evidence. “The science is there,” he said. “The CDC has said there is an additional 25 percent decrease in cavities when putting fluoride in the water. That’s the facts.”

Further, Margolis said that when times are tough, families and those with financial difficulties will forgo costly trips to the dentist.

“There is no question in my mind that fluoride is beneficial to kids and to seniors who can’t afford to go to dentists,” he said.

“You can decide based on your feelings, but I am deciding based on the science and evidence. And there is a very beneficial reason for fluoride to be in the drinking water.”

But his arguments fell on deaf ears. Willhite made a motion to remove fluoride from the water.

Coates seconded the motion, which passed 3-2 with Margolis and Gerwig opposed.

Riebe said Wellington would stop adding fluoride to its water supply beginning Wednesday. the field to score, 11-10. Criado stretched the Orchard Hill lead to two goals with his second goal of the chukker, sealing the 12-10 victory.

Pieres led all scoring with eight goals and was named MVP. Criado’s Chiruza received Best Playing Pony honors.

Polo season continues this weekend at IPC with the 20-goal Ylvisaker Cup. IPC is located at 3667 120th Ave. South in Wellington.

For tickets, call (561) 282-5334 or visit www.internationalpolo club.com.

continued from page 6 Loxahatchee substation Monday afternoon to report a case of fraud.

According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 p.m. last Friday and 3 p.m. last Sunday, someone made five fraudulent charges to the victim’s debit card.

The victim checked his bank account Monday and discovered that the charges were made at a Sam’s Club store in Miami totaling $222.52. The victim told the PBSO that he did not know how his card had been compromised but noted that he had had a suspicious incident at a gas station on Okeechobee Blvd. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

JAN. 27 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Monday to a vacant property on D Road regarding a fire. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 6 p.m., a witness observed a large tiki hut on fire. The witness also observed a black scooter with a bad muffler driven by an unknown male turn around in front of his house. The witness then observed smoke, ran to his truck and called Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. The suspect was described as a white male in his 20s, approximately 220 lbs., with a beard, wearing a black helmet with a bubble mask. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

TV Imitates Real Life

show was immensely strengthened as the actresses demonstrated how nerdy they could be. Watching Sheldon and Amy interact is a treat. He was created largely as a weird genius type who almost certainly would never date. Amy, with her own very weird agenda, is a complete match. Watching them, I am reminded of the old joke about how porcupines mate: very carefully.

We have moved to a new age, more understanding and accepting of our sexuality. It is nice to know that our entertainments have now grown up as well. We can have real people and they can have real lives, albeit less explicit than on the premium channels.

Wechsler

continued from page 16 has changed the show; no more sexual tension. Yet the show is still successful with the two leads bickering in a different way, a way that most couples will easily recognize.

Comedies have done better. I recently began to watch The Big Bang Theory, first in reruns and then the new shows, and watched as in the beginning it was a simple show about a group of nerdy boys who barely could function with women at all. Over time, most wound up with women, and the

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

EquestrianSportProdTCRD1_31.indd 1

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1/23/14 10:39 AM

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Successful IEA Show At The Jim Brandon Center

The cool weather and overcast skies did nothing to dampen the spirits at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association show held Jan. 4-5 at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. The IEA’s mission is to introduce students in middle school and high school to equestrian sports. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 21

PBCHS Boys Soccer Team Wins Runner-Up Title

The Palm Beach Central High School boys varsity soccer team entered the District 11-5A playoff tournament last week as the second seed in the tournament and walked away as the district runner-up after falling to top-seeded Boca Raton High School 5-2 in the championship match. Page 29

Shopping Spree A Town-Crier Publication

inside

Business

Whitney Buchanan Named New Catering Director At Wanderers Club In Wellington

As the new director of catering at the Wanderers Club in Wellington, Whitney Buchanan brings a creative blend of business savvy and professional acumen to all aspects of hospitality, special events and banquet operations. “We’re proud to welcome Whitney Buchanan to our team,” General Manager Justin Thompson said. Page 24

Sports

WHS Basketball Boys Defeat Rival PBCHS 51-36

The Wellington High School boys varsity basketball squad traveled to crosstown rival Palm Beach Central High School on Jan. 24, defeating the Broncos 51-36 before a capacity crowd. Both teams traded scores early, but it was the Wolverines that settled into a more consistent rhythm. Page 29

THIS WEEK’S index Tails from the Trails............................. 23 BUSINESS NEWS....................................24-25 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 28 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................29-31 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................31-35

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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welcome to tHe fti consulting winter equestrian festival held at the Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center

January 8 - March 30, 2014 Join Us Every Wednesday through Sunday to Experience Equestrian Sport at Its Best!

Watch Horses and Riders Compete in a Variety of Settings and Enjoy a Day at PBIEC.

Shop Around the Show Grounds You are invited to shop in a variety of locations throughout the PBIEC, including the Vendor Village, Hunter Hill, and The Bridge Deck, the outdoor courtyard oasis filled with exquisite shops and boutiques offering fashion, jewelry, home design, fine art, photography, horseware and more.

Visit a new Vendor area each week!

Grab a Bite to Eat A variety of Food Vendors are located throughout the property, including: Tito’s Tacos: Margaritas, Tacos, Burritos, Chips, Salsa Tiki Hut: Grilled Chicken, Variety Burgers, Grilled Fish, Salads Olis Fashion Cuisine: in the Vendor Village

HUNTER HILL

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Take a Lunch & Tour See the world-renowned equestrian competition, vendors, stables and various venues that Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has to offer, followed by a catered lunch with your group. Equestrian Lunch & Tours are available by appointment Wednesday through Sunday during the WEF season.

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 23

Successful Interscholastic Horse Show At Jim Brandon

The cool weather and overcast skies did nothing to dampen the spirits at the Interscholastic Equestrian Association show. With the show taking place during the Jan. 4-5 weekend at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, the covered arena dispelled any worries about rain. The parking lot and stalls were filled, and hopeful riders, along with their friends, families and teammates, kept up a cheerful hubbub, erupting in applause as each class ended and ribbons were handed out.

The Interscholastic Equestrian Association was established in 2002 with just 200 participants. Its mission is introducing students in middle school and high school to equestrian sports, and promoting and improving the quality of equestrian competition and instruction in Western riding, hunt seat and saddle seat.

Today, the IEA has more than 8,000 members in 32 states across North America. It’s an affiliate of the National Reining Horse Association, the United States Equestrian Federation, the United States Hunter Jumper Association and the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association.

Heidi Lengyel of Wellington cares deeply and passionately about the IEA. She was the show’s manager and is also the Zone 4-5 regional chair. Her Wall Street Farm is home to one of the largest IEA teams in the country, with 28 members.

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

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg “I’ve been involved with the IEA for five years,” Lengyel said. “When I moved to Wellington, there were tons of riding opportunities for kids, but most of it was at private, expensive barns. The IEA levels the playing field and allows kids from all kinds of socioeconomic backgrounds to enjoy the wonderful experience of showing.”

The problem for many families with horsestruck children is that owning and showing horses gets real expensive, real fast. The IEA offers the perfect solution. No one owns or rides their own horse. All they need is their own show attire.

A weekend of IEA showing can cost $200, including all coaching and entrance fees.

Weekly riding lessons typically run $35 to 50.

If families can’t afford it, they can apply to the IEA for a grant and to programs such as the IEA Financial Assistance Program. Students can also earn scholarships toward their college education through awards in competition and sportsmanship.

Teams practice weekly at their home barns on team horses. There are mounts and classes

Heidi Lengyel in the show office. for all levels of riders. When a barn hosts a show, they invite other teams and provide horses, which are randomly chosen by each rider just before the class. Scores are based on horsemanship and equitation.

This show at Jim Brandon was co-hosted by Wall Street Farm and the Vero Beach Equestrian Team. There were 50 horses, 17 from Wall Street Farm, the rest brought by other teams to make sure there would be enough

Kasey Joyner and Marina Garber. mounts. Competing teams included Bay County, Hillside Hunter Jumpers, American Heritage, International Equestrian Center, Carrollwood Day School, Carriage Hill Farms, Southern Oaks, Riverbend, Fairwin Farm, Claudia Heath Farm, Kimberden, Childs Play Farm, Millpond, Vero Beach and Pennington.

“I like that you can’t go out and buy your ride,” Lengyel said. “A few minutes before See ROSENBERG, page 31

Page 24

January 31 - February 6, 2014

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Business News

Buchanan Named Director Of Hessen Honored As ‘Leader In Law’ Catering At Wanderers Club As the new director of catering at the Wanderers Club in Wellington, Whitney Buchanan brings a creative blend of business savvy and professional acumen to all aspects of hospitality, special events and banquet operations.

Buchanan is responsible for spearheading prestigious special events, including weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, golf tournaments and charity fundraisers. She will also lead the charge in promoting the premier country club’s once private catering services and spaces to the public.

After graduating from East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C., with a degree in hospitality management, Buchanan relocated to South Florida, where she began her hospitality career at PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, and later at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington as its director of catering.

“We’re proud to welcome Whitney Buchanan to our team,” said Justin Thompson, general manager of the Wanderers Club.

“Her expertise greatly enhances our ability to exceed expectations for guests who plan meetings and social events, as well as dine at the country club.”

Named after the winning team of the first United States Open Polo Championship, the Wanderers Club is a classic pairing of golf and polo. It is an exclusive golf club located in the heart of Wellington’s equestrian community. Only recently has the private club

Wender, Hedler & Hessen P.A. is proud to her professional work, she spends countless announce that partner and shareholder Nicole hours supporting a number of philanthropic Hessen has been selected as a “Leader in organizations across Palm Beach County.

Law” by Lifestyle Media Group. Hessen took Additionally, she serves as event co-chair of home the prize in the Labor and Employment the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion, Attorney of the Year category for her work on Diversity Committee chair for the Bench Bar behalf of injured workers.

Conference and a member of the Workers’ Hessen, a Wellington resident, was also a Compensation Practice Committee for the finalist in the personal injury field, Palm Beach County Bar. She is and Wender, Hedler & Hessen was also a Florida Bar SCOPE Mentor a finalist for law firm of the year and is a volunteer with the Pace in the category of firms with fewer Center for Girls of Palm Beach than 25 attorneys.

County, among other affiliations.

The award was judged based on Hessen is the incoming presioutstanding litigation, advocacy, dent of the Florida Association of counseling and advancements to Women’s Lawyers for the 2014-15 the legal profession. term.

Hessen, an active member of her For more information about community, has been representing Wender, Hedler & Hessen P.A., injured workers in Palm Beach visit www.injuredworkersonly.

County since 2004. In addition to com or call (561) 246-6666.

Nicole Hessen

Wellington’s Petrone Technology Group Wins Award At CEA Show

Whitney Buchanan allowed nonmembers to host special events at its facility.

The Wanderers Club is located at 1900 Aero Club Drive in Wellington. For more information, call (561) 795-3501 or visit www. wanderersclubwellington.com.

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Wellington-based Petrone Technology Group was recently honored by the Consumer Electronics Association at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas for the “2014 Luxury Home of the Year Mark of Excellence” award.

The awards were presented by CEA’s TechHome Division and focused on the best of products and installations. Systems inte-

grators, manufacturers and distributors compete yearly to be chosen for this prestigious recognition. A stand-out in the $150,000 to $300,000 category, Petrone Technology Group won “Luxury Home of the Year between $150,000-$300,000.”

For more information about Petrone Technology Group, call (561) 557-3789 or visit www.petronetechnologygroup.com.

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Business News

Page 25

Local Chiropractor Visits Boys & Girls Club In Wellington

Dr. Max Cohen presented his “Raising Healthy Families” workshop to the parents and children at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington on Wednesday, Jan. 22.

The workshop is designed to help participants recognize the downfall of the standard American diet and how to create wholesome, invigorating youth and a healthy, successful future.

At the workshop, Cohen presented the club with a Vita-Mix high-quality, commercial-grade blender so the club

children can make healthy smoothies after school.

Cohen is a Boys & Girls Club alum and currently sits on the board of the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club. He is the owner and clinic director of MaxHealth Chiropractic in Wellington.

For a small donation to the Boys & Girls Club, Cohen will offer his entire first-day services completely free. Call to schedule your appointment (561) 249-0373.

For more information, visit www.maxhealthchiropractic. com.

Dr. Max Cohen and Jenn Cohen with children Blake and Nolan donate a Vita-Mix blender to the club’s LaTricia Jenkins and Kenda Peterson.

Dr. Max Cohen talks to the club children about making healthy food choices.

Clerk Offers Domestic Partner Insurance Benefit To Employees

Employees who cover their domestic partners through the Palm Beach County Clerk’s Office health insurance plans will receive federal tax relief on these insurance premiums, under a new policy signed this month by Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock.

Under the Domestic Partner Tax Equity Policy, employees with qualified domestic partners who are enrolled in the clerk’s health, dental or vision plans will have their pay

grossed up to offset the additional federal taxes paid on these insurance premiums. Federal tax laws treat those insurance benefits as additional income for the employee, and are subject to additional income tax burden.

Married employees, whose spouses and children are covered by the clerk’s health, dental and vision insurance plans, are not subject to the same tax burden.

“This is a fairness issue,” Bock

said. “I want to ensure our employees are treated equally. That means employees with domestic partners should not have to pay more for their insurance coverage than their married colleagues who cover their spouses’ health insurance.”

Bock enacted the policy in collaboration with the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and

gender expression. The clerk’s office joins other government agencies — including Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Tax Collector’s Office and the Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office — in reimbursing employees or offering stipends to offset the tax burden for employees.

“It is critical that we work with governments and businesses to make them aware of these issues, and enact policies that eliminate

inequalities in the workplace,” said Rand Hoch, president of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council.

Many of the clerk’s employees who will be affected by the policy are in opposite-sex domestic partnerships. The Clerk’s office began offering domestic partner benefits to employees in 2004.

For more information, visit www. mypalmbeachclerk.com or call (561) 355-2996.

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January 31 - February 6, 2014

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561-798-2228

12020 S. Shore Blvd. #400 • Wellington, FL 33414 (Located in the Shoppes of Chancellor next to CR Chicks)

Mon-Fri 8am - 7pm • Sat: 9am - 3pm

Page 28

January 31 - February 6, 2014

Saturday, Feb. 1 • The 2014 South Florida Fair continues through Feb. 2. For more info., visit www.southfloridafair.com or call (561) 793-0333.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will hold a Car Pool Tour around Storm Water Treatment Area 1-E managed by South Florida Water Management District on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 7:45 a.m. Call Linda at (561) 742-7791 or visit www. auduboneverglades.org for info.

• The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Call (561) 2835856 for more info.

• Royal Palm Beach will hold its annual Kids Yard Sale on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Park. Items ranging from infants goods, clothing, toys and kids athletic gear will be available. For more info., call (561) 790-5149.

• The Clematis District will host Fresh Fest on Saturday, Feb. 1 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Meyer Amphitheater in downtown West Palm Beach. For more info., e-mail sevynproductions@ gmail.com or visit www.sofreshfest.com.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Acoustic Java Jam on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent. Coffee will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Anime Club for ages 12 to 17 on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Can You See Groundhog’s Shadow?” for ages 3 to 8 on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 3 p.m. Read stories about groundhogs and play with shadows.

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

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Graphic Novels: Then and Now for ages 12 and up Saturday, Feb. 1 at 3 p.m. Discuss American comic books and Japanese manga. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Wellington’s Father Daughter Dance will take place Saturday, Feb. 1 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). Call (561) 753-2484 for more info.

• The American Cancer Society will host “The Main Event” on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach. The gala will deliver a “one-two punch” with a boxing theme.

The evening will feature a special guest appearance from boxing champion Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini. For more information, call Michelle Jaminet at (561) 655-3449.

Sunday, Feb. 2 • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, Feb. 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.shopgreenmarkets.com or call (561) 929-0237.

• The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, Feb. 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons

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community calendar

Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com.

• The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will continue its 2014 season Sunday, Feb. 2 with the Ylvisaker Cup. For tickets, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

Monday, Feb. 3 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Are You Ready to Lego?” for ages 3 to 6 on Monday, Feb. 3 at 3:30 p.m.

Create the tallest tower of blocks you can. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info.

• The Cultural Council of Palm Beach County will host Culture & Cocktails on Monday, Feb. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Colony Hotel (155 Hammon Ave, Palm Beach), focusing on the latest trends in interior design. For more info., visit www. palmbeachculture.com or call (561) 471-2901.

• The Palm Beach Symphony will present “Tubes & Pipes” on Monday, Feb. 3 at 7:30 p.m. at Bethesda-By-The-Sea Episcopal Church in Palm Beach highlighted by a new work by composer Nico Muhly to celebrate the symphony’s 40th anniversary season. For more info., call (561) 655-2657 or visit www.palmbeachsymphony.org.

Tuesday, Feb. 4 • The American International Fine Art Fair, now celebrating its 18th season, will take place Tuesday through Sunday, Feb. 4–9 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. For more info., call (239) 949-5411 or visit www.ifae.com.

• The Palm Beach County Commission will meet Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 9:30 a.m. in the government center’s Jane M. Thompson Memorial Chambers (301 N. Olive Ave., Sixth Floor, West Palm Beach). For info., visit www.pbcgov.com.

• Hair Cuttery (2655 S. State Road 7, Suite 800, Wellington) will host Share-A-Haircut to benefit the homeless. For every adult or child who purchases a haircut on Tuesday or Wednesday, Feb. 4-5, a free haircut certificate will be donated to a homeless person. Call (561) 795-4190 or visit www.haircuttery.com for more info.

• Palm Beach Dramaworks will host theater poster designer Frank Verlizzo on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Don & Ann Brown Theatre (201 Clematis St.). For ticket info., call the box office at (561) 514-4042 or visit www. palmbeachdramaworks.org.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Rubber Band Wristbands for ages 7 to 17 on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Scherenschnitte for Your Valentine on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. Explore this Pennsylvania Dutch folk art with scissors, paper and paste to make lacy creations for decorating cards and gifts. Bring a pair of scissors, other supplies will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The annual Western Communities Football League election will take place Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. at the Village Park gymnasium on

Pierson Road. All current members of the WCFL are eligible to attend, vote and run. Call (561) 723-2877 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host By-Hook-or-By-Crook Crochet Club for ages 9 and up Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

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

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature a Wonders of the Night Sky telescope viewing session for adults Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. with the Astronomical Society of the Palm Beaches. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Palm Beach Pops will present a tribute concert for the late Maestro Bob Lappin on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach.

Proceeds will benefit Palm Beach Pops’ Music & You In-School Youth Education Program. Call (561) 832-7469 for more info.

Wednesday, Feb. 5 • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Forum Breakfast on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 7:30 a.m. at the Wanderers Club (1900 Aero Club Drive, Wellington). For more info., call Maritza Rivera at (561) 578-4817 or e-mail maritza@cpbchamber.com.

• The Audubon Society of the Everglades will walk the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach) on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 7:30 a.m.

Meet at the Marsh Trail. Entry fee to the refuge is $5 per car. Visit www.auduboneverglades.org for more info.

• American Legion Auxiliary Unit #367 will meet Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. at the Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves). For more info., call Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Not Your Grandma’s Bingo for ages 5 and up Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 3:30 p.m. Create your own card and see if luck is on your side. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host American Girl: Saige for ages 6 to 12 on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 4 p.m. Explore the world and art of New Mexican Saige Copeland. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Japanese Anime and Culture Club for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host the Engine 2 Challenge on Wednesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 and March 5 at 6:30 p.m. Join in fun cooking classes, sample different nutrient-dense recipes and discuss ways to support a healthy body. There is no charge. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

Thursday, Feb. 6 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature Winter Olympic Fun for ages 3 to 14 on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

The Town-Crier • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host the adult program Scherenschnitte for Your Valentine on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 2:30 p.m. Explore this Pennsylvania Dutch folk art using scissors, paper and paste to make lacy creations for decorating cards and gifts. Bring a pair of scissors; other supplies will be provided.

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

• Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, Feb. 6 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host My Vegan Valentine on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Asking a vegan to be your valentine this year? Not sure where to start? Learn at this free class. Call (561) 9044000 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature a Writers’ Critique Workshop for adults Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Share, offer and accept constructive criticism to improve fiction, nonfiction or poetry. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach Village Council will meet Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall (1050 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). Call (561) 7905100 or visit www.royalpalmbeach.com for info.

Friday, Feb. 7 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Moonlight Stories with Orisirisi African Folklore for all ages Friday, Feb. 7 at 3 p.m., with African tales, drumming, dance, songs and audience participation. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will host a Burgers and Beer-B-Q on Friday, Feb. 7 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a burger, slaw and beer for only $6.99. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.

• The Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center’s 27th Annual Dinner & Auction will take place at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington on Friday, Feb. 7 starting at 6:30 p.m.

For more info., call (561) 792-9900 or visit www. vinceremos.org.

• Whole Foods Market in Wellington (2635 State Road 7) will celebrate local artist Pat Kaufman on Friday, Feb. 7 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Participants will enjoy live music, a wine and cheese tasting, as well as a walk with Kaufman, who will discuss her art on display. A $5 donation per person will benefit the Wellington Art Society Scholarship Fund. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of The Wolverine on Friday, Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www.wellingtonfl. gov for more info.

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

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Sports & Recreation

January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 29

Wellington Basketball Boys Defeat Rival PBCHS 51-36

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School boys varsity basketball squad traveled to crosstown rival Palm Beach Central High School on Friday, Jan. 24, defeating the Broncos 51-36 before a capacity crowd.

Both teams traded scores early and were deadlocked 4-4, but not for long. It was the Wolverines that settled into a more consistent rhythm and commanded a 14-8 lead going into the second quarter.

Wellington (12-10) extended its

lead midway through the second quarter to 21-8. The Broncos clawed back, winning some rebounds, to close the gap within 9 points at 2415 at the end of the first half.

The Broncos (8-14) had a strong third quarter, winning some turnovers and coming within 4 points of the Wolverine lead at 34-30.

In the final period, Wellington kicked it in high gear on both sides of the ball. The Wolverines limited the Broncos to just 6 points and put up a game-high 17 points on offense for the 51-36 win.

Bronco guard Javierre Betts tries to move the ball up the court.

Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

Danny Prud’Homme put up 17 points and four 3-point baskets to lead the Wolverines. Wellington’s Alex Dieudonne added 13 points.

Javierre Betts tallied 20 points for Palm Beach Central.

The Broncos hosted Glades Central High School on Wednesday, Jan. 29, but results were not available at press time. They travel next to Park Vista High School on Friday, Jan. 31 for a 7:30 p.m. game.

Meanwhile, Wellington hosts West Boca Raton High School on Friday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m.

Wolverine Alex Dieudonne tries to get by Bronco Javierre Betts.

Palm Beach Central’s Michael Shakes and Wellington’s Daniel Prud’Homme jump for the ball.

PBCHS Boys Soccer Team Wins District Runner-Up Title

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Palm Beach Central High School boys varsity soccer team entered the District 11-5A playoff tournament last week as the second seed in the tournament and walked away as the district runner-up after falling to top-seeded Boca Raton

High School 5-2 in the championship match at John I. Leonard High School on Friday, Jan. 24.

The Broncos (17-4-1) first had to get through seventh-seeded Wellington High School on Tuesday, Jan. 21, shutting out the Wolverines 5-0.

Palm Beach Central advanced to take on Royal Palm Beach High

Palm Beach Central’s Luis Alvarez and Royal Palm Beach’s Julian Lopez battle for the ball.

Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

School in their semifinal match on Wednesday, Jan. 22. The Wildcats had shut out Spanish River 2-0 to face the Broncos.

Aly Cadet scored two goals for the Broncos against Royal Palm Beach. Eight minutes into the game, Cadet took a cross from Vincent Knuttson and found the back of the net for a 1-0 advantage.

The Broncos held the 1-0 lead at the half. In the 50th minute, Royal Palm Beach’s Ojay Nichol grabbed the equalizer, after a Bronco foul.

A free kick by Daniel Sanchez sent the ball into the penalty area, and Nichol punched it in from the left side. Cadet scored his second goal minutes later to regain the lead and eventually a 2-1 win.

The victory sent the Broncos into the finals against top seed Boca Raton (20-1-2) last Friday night.

Palm Beach Central wasted no time in getting on the board, scoring twice within the first three minutes of the match.

Jethro Pierre pressured the Bobcat defense and put one just inside the near post for an early 1-0 lead. Shortly after, Frank Matos pressured the Boca keeper after a mishandled ball and drove it in for the 2-0 advantage.

Palm Beach Central’s Cameron Caldwell tries to settle the ball from Boca’s Gustavo Fernandez.

The Broncos continued the pres- title 5-2 for the 12th straight time. sure and played well defensively, Both teams qualified for the regional until Boca broke through in the tournament. final minutes of the first half to tie Palm Beach Central earned the the game 2-2. district runner-up title and travThe Broncos would not find the eled to Parkland to play Marjory back of the net the rest of the match. Stoneman Douglas High School on Boca managed three more goals in Thursday night. Results were not the second half to clinch the district available by press time.

Page 30

January 31 - February 6, 2014

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sports & recreation

Wellington Offering SMILE Soccer Program Sem Ridge Cheerleaders The program caters to player fitness and social skills.

Wellington is offering a new soccer program. SMILE (Soccer Mentoring and Individual Learning Experience) Soccer is specifically designed to meet the special needs of children with disabilities who want to participate in an organized sport within a safe and positive environment.

development rather than competition. It provides an opportunity for children, ages 8 to 14, to develop a sense of belonging both on and off the field. The program teaches the values of teamwork, trust and building a positive team spirit, and helps children improve self-esteem,

The cost to register is $40 per child. Those who are interested in registering may do so at Village Park at 11700 Pierson Road during normal business hours. For more information, call the Wellington Parks & Recreation Department at (561) 791-4005.

Headed To State Tourney

Seminole Ridge High School’s cheerleading squad placed first in the large non-tumbling division at the 2014 Florida High School Athletic Association Competitive Cheerleading Regional Compe-

Arsenal U12 Win Big

Weightlifters Shine

AYSO Region 1521 congratulates the U12 Boys Acreage Arsenal soccer team for taking first place in their division at the AYSO State Games in Wellington. This team has been invited to participate in AYSO National Games in California this summer and is currently looking for sponsors and donations. To help the team go to nationals, contact Kelli Shipe at kellishipe@bellsouth.net. (Front row) Travis Puskas, Jake Pennypacker and Joey Shipe; (back row) coach Damien Sankar, Austin Stone, Calil Anderson, Tyler Andrade, Danny Argento, Britney Rodriquez, Jake Quintavalle, Jonathan Fleck, Matthew Sankar, coach Joe Shipe and Region 1521 Commissioner Lisa Seltzer. Not Pictured: Sam Martinelli.

Royal Palm Beach High School’s Brianne Cook placed second in her weight division at the weightlifting district meet at Seminole Ridge High School to qualify for her third state tournament. Joining her will be first timers senior Jshanna Perry and freshman Leterria Akins.

Overall, the Wildcats placed fourth in the team division. The FHSAA Girls’ Weightlifting State Tournament will be held in Kissimmee on Feb. 8. Shown here are Brieanna Bellin, Jshanna Perry, Brianne Cook, Bayley Cook, Flurina Doer and Leterria Akins.

tition. The competition was held Jan. 25 at Dillard High School in Broward County.

Since 2011, Seminole Ridge’s competition cheerleading team has been under the direction of Tamara Licavoli.

This year, Seminole Ridge was one of 16 squads that competed at the regional competition. The Hawks beat the second place team by 17 points. This the first time in the history of the school that the squad has placed first at regionals.

Other local teams competing in the non-tumbling division were Royal Palm Beach High School, John I. Leonard High School and Suncoast High School. The majority of the competitors were from Broward County.

The cheerleaders are now gearing up the state championship on Saturday, Feb. 1.

In 2013, the squad was named state runner-up in the large non-tumbling division, and the team is looking to take home the state title this year.

The competition can be viewed live from the FHSAA web site for those interested in cheering along the Seminole Ridge team.

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sports & recreation

January 31 - February 6, 2014

Page 31

Royal Palm Bassmasters Fish On Lake Okeechobee

The Royal Palm Bass- fish weighing 6 lbs., 9 oz. bass weighing 7 lbs., 1 oz. masters held its monthly and partner Roxanne RickThe Royal Palm Bassfishing tournament Jan. 12 enbach (co-angler) with masters meet on the second on Lake Okeechobee out of five fish weighing 7 lbs., 15 Thursday of each month at Okeechobee City at the Lock oz., for a team weight of 14 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm 7 boat ramp. lbs., 8 oz.

Beach Recreation Center at First place was won by the Third place was awarded 100 Sweet Bay Lane. team of Punk Duff (boater) to the team of Bill Latham The club is now accepting with five fish weighing 12 (boater) with one fish weigh- applications for new boaters lbs., 9 oz. and partner Dede ing 15 oz. and partner Jason and non-boater members.

Duff (co-angler) with five Moore (co-angler) with four Come and check out the fun fish weighing 10 lbs., 6 oz., fish weighing 12 lbs., 8 oz., you’ve been missing. for a team weight of 22 lbs., for a team weight of 14 lbs., For more about the Royal 11 oz.

14 oz.

Palm Bassmasters, e-mail Second place was awardThe big fish of the tourney rpbassmasters@gmail.com ed to the team of Rick Rick- was caught by guest fisher- or visit www.royalpalmbass Dede Duff Punk Duff Roxanne Rickenbach enbach (boater) with five man Jason Moore. It was a masters.org.

Send sports news items to: The Town-Crier Newspaper, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. Fax: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@goTownCrier.com.

Rosenberg

IEA Show At Jim Brandon

continued from page 23 your class, you pick a horse’s name.

You’re not allowed to practice at all if it’s a flat class, but you can take two warm-up jumps if it’s an over fences class. It can be humbling.

I love the team spirit. It’s not just about competing and winning. It’s very refreshing to see all the kids help one another and get along.”

New members are accepted onto teams from August through mid-November. Membership runs $45 per year. Members can compete in only five shows per year, and earn points, which can then qualify them for regional, zone and national finals. Wall Street Farm has had riders attend the national finals the past four years.

Marina Garber, 16, of Loxahatchee, has been with the Wall Street Farm IEA team for three years. “I like Heidi a lot,” she said.

“She’s our coach and trainer and best friend all in one. The team is

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

really close. It’s a great program, and it looks good on a college application.”

Kasey Joyner, 18, of Greenacres, is another member. “I’ve been riding with them for three years,” she said.

“I’ve met a lot of new friends. It’s also a great learning experience, because you get to ride a lot of different horses.”

Jackie George is the Zone 4, Region 5 consultant and also affiliated with the Millpond team in Coconut Creek, which has 26 members. She brought 12 riders and four horses

to the show. “The IEA gives kids without horses the opportunity to compete in an otherwise very expensive sport,” she said. “It promotes sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Instead of showing being all about me and my horse against everyone else, these kids root for each other and pull for the team.”

Christina Clark is the coach of the Vero Beach Equestrian Team and owner of Atlantic Crossing Stables. She brought 13 riders and three horses. She said the show was well-run and that everyone enjoyed

the facility. Alexa Frye, a 14-yearold team member, had just watched her younger sister, Olivia, place third in her class. “I like being part of a team and riding all kinds of different horses,” she said. “Also, you have somewhere to go. You start junior varsity in middle school, then move up to varsity in high school, then the IHSA in college. It’s a great introduction to riding, and even better because it’s a team sport.”

For more information, call Lengyel at (561) 628-0973 or visit www.rideiea.org.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A/C AND REFRIGERATION 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

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

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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.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

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

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

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

HURRICANE SHUTTERS HURRICANE SHUTTERS P&M CONTRACTORS — ACCORDION SHUTTERS Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

PAINTING

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FOR RENT - GREENACRES

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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.

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

SHUTTERS/PANELS

COSTA RICA RENTALS ENCHANTMENT OF COSTA RICA — is less than 3 hours away. Home, Villa’s & Condo Rentals in Popular beachside area’s. for info visit www.bahiaculebra.com email:info@bahiaculebra.com . Local agent number 561.628.7177

OFFICE SPACE LAW OFFICE TO SHARE: — Royal Palm/ Wellington. Two furnished executive offices plus two secretarial work stations, use of conference room, reception, kitchen. Utilities included. $1,450 month. 561-793-1200, ext.

1 or 561-386-7307

FOR SALE

AUTOMOBILES 2009 HONDA ODYSSEY — 5 Door EX-L, 46,500 miles, Mocha Metalic. Great condition too many extras to list! With power roof, doors, seats & rear door. Roof rack, backup camera, heated seats, new Michelin tires and new battery. $17,900 call 561-333-0791 2013 FORD TAURUS SEL — 15,300 miles, white platinum metallic Tri-Coat. Only one year old, new condition with too many extras to list. Full navigation and large back up camera with sensors. Power moon roof, seats, doors and leather seats. Sync voice system 19” Aluminum Wheels. Push button start with remote. $20,900 Call 561-333-0791

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY MAKE MONEY LOSING WEIGHT! — Look and Feel Younger! Dr. approved. Earn Free Products. 20% discount. Limited offer! www. wholeness.zealforlife.com.1-866-393-6663

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

Call 561-333-0181. Full-Time Part-Time.

DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus!

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

Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488 PT/FT SALES HELP WANTED — For local flooring store expanding. Sales experience a plus. Will train the right person.

561-333-2306 buyithere7@gmail.com CABINET INSTALLER NEEDED FOR KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING — Experienced in all remodeling phasesmust have tools, truck and Florida Drivers License.Must pass background check Email resume to: Kevin@Rhodesremodeling.com HEL P WANT ED: HAI RDRESSER w/ following — For family style salon. Flexible hours, commission or chair rental. 561-3138763. Call Valerie. Royal Palm Beach.

PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE CALL 793-3576 TODAY FOR MORE INFO

FOR SALE FINE CHINA & SILVERWARE WITH CHEST — Service for 12.

Really beautiful. Best offer 561-790-5653 FURNITURE FOR SALE — Yamaha Baby Grand w/disk Lavier System. $5,000.Country French Dining Table w/6 chairs. $1500.

French love seat $300. Secretary $600.

Chinese and other antiques. 561-795-0533

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

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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

PLUMBING

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Pool. Gated upscale - Golf Country Club.

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

Please fax resume to 561-791-0952

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

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

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

HOUSE FOR SALE - WEST PALM BEACH

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ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

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TRIPLE QUALITY PAINTING, INC. — The finest materials, service & price. Painting Exterior & Interior, Pressure Cleaning, Roof, & Patios, Roof Cleaning, Wood Repair & Faux Finishes Lic. # U21140 7 5 4 - 2 4 5 - 0 8 5 9 o r 5 6 1 - 5 5 7 - 3 11 3

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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

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

REAL ESTATE

January 31 - February 6, 2014 Page 35

TILE / CERAMICS

TREE SERVICE

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

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

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY

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

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