Town-Crier Newspaper July 14, 2017

QUASI MODO TO BE CAST IN BRONZE SEE STORY, PAGE 3

MANURE WOES LINGER IN WELLINGTON SEE STORY, PAGE 4

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Lox Planners Seek Changes To Vegetation Control Ordinance

Volume 38, Number 28 July 14 - July 20, 2017

Serving Palms West Since 1980

COUNCIL, KIWANIS VISIT B&G CLUB

The Loxahatchee Groves Planning & Zoning Committee recommended approval of amendments to the Unified Land Development Code on Tuesday, July 11 that would control overgrowth from private property onto roads. However, the committee’s recommendation was not exactly what the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council and town staff had drafted for approval. Page 3

1990 World Champion Of Public Speaking Visits Toastmasters

The RiverWalk Toastmasters presented a special evening with 1990 World Champion of Public Speaking David Brooks on Saturday, July 8 at the Ideal School in Royal Palm Beach.

Page 8

American Muslim Alliance Eid Reunion And Interfaith Dinner

The American Muslim Alliance of Florida held its annual Eid Reunion and Interfaith Dinner on Sunday, July 9 at the original Wellington Mall. The evening included a scholarship awards ceremony and a questionand-answer session with local imams that drew many questions from the guests. Page 9

OPINION Newly Signed State Law Aimed At Opioid Crisis A Good Start

It took much longer than it should have, but the Florida Legislature finally passed, and Gov. Rick Scott signed into law, tougher penalties aimed at combating Florida’s opioid epidemic. It’s a start, but only addresses part of the problem.

The legislation increases penalties for dealers caught selling synthetic drugs like fentanyl, a cheap and potent painkiller largely responsible for the surge in overdoses in Florida over the last few years. Page 4 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS................................. 3 - 9 OPINION.................................. 4 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 6 COLUMNS...................... 11, 19 PEOPLE................................. 12 SCHOOLS.............................. 13 BUSINESS..................... 20 - 21 SPORTS......................... 23 - 25 CALENDAR............................ 26 CLASSIFIEDS.................27 - 30 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club held a luncheon organized by Program Coordinator Anthony “Mr. T.” Talton on Monday, July 3. The luncheon was made possible with the partnership of Kiwanis of Wellington and the Wellington Village Council. Shown above, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, Mayor Anne Gerwig and Community Services Director Paulette Edwards smile as the they serve lunch at the Boys & Girls Club. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 8 PHOTO BY JACK LOWENSTEIN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Sets Budget TRIM Rate, Seeks Input From Public

By Paul L. Gaba Town-Crier Staff Report It will be 10 weeks before Wellington’s budget for fiscal year 2017-18 becomes official, but the basic numbers were set at the Tuesday, July 11 meeting of the Wellington Village Council.

The budget figures were presented by Director of Administrative & Financial Services Tanya Quickel, and when all was said and done, Mayor Anne Gerwig, Vice Mayor John McGovern and Councilwoman Tanya Siskind approved the Truth in Millage (TRIM) rates proposed by Wellington’s staff 3-0.

Councilmen Michael Napoleone and Michael Drahos were not in attendance.

Using a PowerPoint presentation, Quickel laid out the preliminary numbers, which forecast a $110.4 million budget. This is a $20.8 million increase from the current year, primarily due to specific multi-year capital improvement projects.

These include $3.5 million in projects using money from the 1-cent sales surtax approved by voters last year, $9.6 million to renew water reclamation and water treatment facilities, and $4.5 million due to increases in personnel and operation costs.

Total revenues are projected to increase by approximately $6.3 million. The most significant increases include additional ad

valorem tax revenue of $1.18 million at a 2.43 millage rate, and $3.8 million in intergovernmental revenue from the 1-cent sales surtax, half-cent sales tax, state revenue sharing, gas taxes and community development block grant funds.

Utility revenues are projected to increase by $500,000 due to a 2.5 percent rate index on user water and wastewater rates.

The overall tax rate is actually decreasing by 0.01 mill, but revenues will be higher due to increases in property values. The 7.7 percent increase in the 2017 taxable value to $8.03 billion provides ad valorem tax revenues — at the 2.43 millage rate — of See WELL BUDGET, page 14

Royal Palm Council Approves Changes For Cypress Key

By Jack Lowenstein Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council last week approved two text amendments regarding the Cypress Key mixed-use development on Southern Blvd.

One was a comprehensive plan text amendment, while the other was a zoning text amendment, both making changes to the village’s mixed-use development (MXD) land use district and zoning category. Cypress Key is the only property in the village with an MXD designation.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity sent a letter to village staff accepting the comprehensive plan amendment in the form it was received.

“It identified no comments related to important state resources and facilities within the agency’s authorized scope of review that would be adversely impacted by the amendment,” Planning & Zoning Director Bradford O’Brien said at the Thursday, July 6 meeting. “The village has also received [no comments] about potential adverse impacts about this petition from any other review agencies.”

The comp plan amendment,

requested by Cypress Key’s developer, did not change from its first approval at the May 18 council meeting, adding institutional uses to the office use category and letting institutional uses be counted toward the floor area ratio (FAR) requirement.

The commercial portion of the mixed-use development includes institutional, restaurant with drivethrough, office and retail uses. The residential component is already under construction.

Councilman Jeff Hmara made a motion to give final approval to the comprehensive plan text amendment, seconded by Councilwoman Jan Rodusky. It passed unanimously.

The zoning text amendment was given a new preliminary reading because of an update to the request by the developer’s agent, Urban Design Kilday Studios. It proposed separation of drive-throughs by a minimum of 475 feet from the nearest single-family home.

Councilwoman Selena Smith wanted to know the distinction regarding the distance between the drive-through and single-family homes versus the drive-through and residential areas.

“Aren’t there home dwellings that are close that are not singlefamily, that are multi-family?”

Smith asked. “Why did we use that terminology just for singlefamily?”

Village Attorney Jennifer Ashton explained that town homes are more urban in nature, with the expectation they would be closer to commercial areas, so the focus was on single-family homes.

“The town homes are so close to the commercial area in that parcel that you would be looking at a distance of 70 to 100 feet to accommodate the town homes and their locations,” Ashton said.

“And, the discussion at the last council meeting was focusing on the single-family homes, because you do expect a little bit more buffer for those types of uses.”

Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas, who lives in the area and voted against the previous reading of the zoning amendment in May, supported the change to the distance that would be set between drive-throughs and single-family homes in the area.

“I would like to commend the applicant for coming back with a See CYPRESS KEY, page 4

More PBSO Services Could Bring Higher Taxes In Lox Groves

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Property owners in Loxahatchee Groves are likely to see a significant tax increase in fiscal year 2017-18 due to an increase in their public safety services and the accompanying cost from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

The town’s budget is up for adoption of the Truth in Millage (TRIM) rate at the Tuesday, July 18 meeting of the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council. The approval will include the solid waste assessment and preliminary property tax rate.

The PBSO’s cost for services will go from about $294,000 to $610,000 annually, resulting in the tax rate jumping from the current rate of 1.4718 mills to about 2.4 mills.

Added PBSO services will include full-time deputies with trucks assigned to the town, which has not had a deputy as-

signed specifically to the town in the past.

In May, the council approved a resolution accepting the rate increase after a presentation by PBSO Maj. Tony Araujo, who said the town has been paying about a 2 percent increase in services per year for the past 10 years, which has carried the cost from about $250,000 per year initially to $294,000 the past year.

Town Manager Bill Underwood said the town got a very good deal in the past, but the added services will make up for the increased cost.

“With the college coming in and the new shopping center coming in, and the possibility of other things, and the town has approved other projects that have not come to fruition, the sheriff felt as though it should be a more equitable cost for the town, so they moved from the $294,000 range to $610,000,” See LOX PBSO, page 14

A NOTE TO OUR READERS

As we prepare for the busy fall and winter season, the TownCrier will be taking our mid-summer hiatus the final week in July and the first week in August. After the issue of Friday, July 21, the Town-Crier will not publish on Friday, July 28 or Friday, Aug. 4. We will resume our normal weekly publishing schedule on Friday, Aug. 11. Our office will continue operating during this time period, and news updates will be available online. This brief hiatus will not affect the schedule of the Town-Crier’s sister publication, Wellington The Magazine.

Loxahatchee Man Giving Away Hybrid Flowering Trees

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report There’s a flowering tree project taking place in Loxahatchee’s White Fences community, and Adam Pollak is the mastermind behind the idea.

In what is officially called the White Fences Floss Silk Project, Pollak is creating hybrid crosses of floss silk (Ceiba speciosa) trees and distributing them free of charge for people to plant.

“Part of my project is, I’m taking flowers from completely different-looking trees, I’ll handpollinate them to get a cross of the two, and then the offspring will hopefully have cool characteristics

of the two parent flowers,” he said.

The fast-growing floss silk trees — they grow between 5 and 8 feet a year — bloom in about three years. They are drought-tolerant, on the Palm Beach County Preferred Tree List, and flower from September through December.

And, they have small spikes on them.

During the winter, the trees lose their flowers and leaves, but they do not look bare and desolate. The branches and trunk remain green.

“Even without leaves, the tree can still photosynthesize, which is a unique adaptation it has, so it can build up energy in the winter See FLOSS SILK, page 7

Adam Pollak has hundreds of flowering floss silk trees to give away.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Indian Trail’s Community Garden A Blooming Success

Jennifer Casia and Jessica Lindhorst tend to ITID’s garden.

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Community Garden at the Indian Trail Improvement District’s Hamlin Park has become a mecca for residents desiring to grow their own produce.

Participants will gather this Saturday, July 15 at 10 a.m. at Hamlin House (14893 89th Place North) for a monthly meeting. The meetings feature a different professional horticulturist each month.

ITID Supervisor Gary Dunkley has watched his pet project blossom from an idea to standingroom-only classes. Meanwhile, the community garden is lush with vegetables and produce grown by Acreage residents, who wish to get away from buying commercial produce.

“The community garden has been going on for three years,” Dunkley said. “One of the reasons I established a community garden is because it’s an inexpensive way of ITID working with the community.”

Dunkley personally participates in the community garden and brings his grandchildren to plant seeds and nurture plants. He said Acreage residents are unique in that most have plenty of property and a great climate to garden, if they know the tricks for growing produce in South Florida.

“We’re having a professional come in and spend a couple of hours,” he said. “We started a garden out there. We have a place to get hands-on experience in how to do irrigation, what type of soil

to use, how to box it in — all that kind of stuff. This is something that’s a no-brainer. It’s not going to cost the district any money.”

Part of his initiative to start a community garden was out of frustration from losing plants that he was trying to grow on his own property.

“I planted about 30 fruit trees, and I think only 10 survived,” he explained.

The monthly meetings fill the gap between the desire to garden and knowing how to actually do it.

“Once a month, we offer classes free to all of our residents,” Dunkley said. “We teach them how to plant, what you plant, because there are different zones — I didn’t See ITID GARDEN, page 14

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

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Page 3

NEWS

Lox Planners Seek Changes To Vegetation Control Ordinance

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Planning & Zoning Committee recommended approval of amendments to the Unified Land Development Code on Tuesday, July 11 that would control overgrowth from private property onto roads.

However, the committee’s recommendation was not exactly what the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council and town staff had drafted for approval. The draft ordinance addresses only five invasive, exotic species, but the committee recommended that all plants be included.

The board also recommended deletion of a proposed requirement that landowners who do not keep plants trimmed could be required to cut them back 10 feet.

Planning consultant Jim Fleischmann explained that the council had determined encroachment of invasive plant species into the town rights of way negatively affect public roads and directed town staff to prepare an ordinance requiring property owners adjacent to public roads to keep such invasive plants on their property and off adjacent roads.

The draft ordinance makes two amendments to the ULDC to address clearance from public roads, stating that all property owners within the town are prohibited from allowing invasive, nonnative vegetation on their property from impacting any public road within the town and are responsible for maintaining invasive vegetation so that it does not grow onto a public road.

The second amendment requires that a property owner allowing the intrusion of invasive vegetation on a town public roadway would be required at all times in the future to keep it at least 10 feet from the edge of the graded portion of any paved or graded public road.

“There’s two provisions, one that requires property owners to not allow invasive, nonnative species to encroach into the roadway, and number two, if they’re found in violation of that provision, the town can require that they cut back those species 10 feet from the edge of the road,” Fleischmann said. “So, there’s a provision and a penalty.”

During public comment, Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Supervisor Karen Piesley said she liked the ordinance, but

asked why only invasive vegetation was included.

Fleischmann explained that the council’s direction was to address invasive nonnative vegetation.

There is a definition of that in the town’s ULDC, which refers to the Florida Statutes definition, which lists five species: paperbark melaleuca, Brazilian pepper, Australian pine, suckering Australian pine and cat claw mimosa.

He agreed that the list is limited, but thought the council wanted to get something in place that is enforceable, and that those five species covered most of the concerns.

Committee Member Robin Crawford said acacia trees are also a nonnative plant that is very invasive, but added that he would not want an ordinance that would require the trimming back of live

oak trees that might grow over and provide a canopy for the road.

Committee Member Grace Joyce asked whether the goal is to protect public safety, where plants create a line-of-sight hazard.

“We have no sidewalks in the town, and when folks are walking down the road, if any type of vegetation is too far into the right of way, it doesn’t allow for a safe place for people to walk, ride a horse, jog or whatever when a car is coming down the road,” Joyce said. “Folks should be responsible for the stuff that’s growing into the right of way from their property, regardless of what it is.”

Fleischmann said he had not gone through the code specifically to see if plants in rights of way could be defined as a public safety issue, but thought the coun-

cil did not want to address any species except the five that were defined at this time. He did not recommend imposing a penalty on property owners who might have more desirable plants in the right of way.

Joyce also asked whether the penalty would be enforced through the same process as other violations, where a sworn affidavit would have to be signed at the office in order for it to be enforced.

Town Manager Bill Underwood said that would probably be the case.

Underwood added that the town sends letters on a regular basis reminding residents to trim their hedges.

“Most people are pretty cooperative,” he said. “We want to get See LOX BOARD, page 14

‘World’s Ugliest Dog,’ Quasi Modo, To Be Immortalized In Bronze

By Randa Griffin Town-Crier Staff Report As a way to commemorate the “World’s Ugliest Dog,” owners Michael Carroll and his wife, Dr. Ginnie Sayre, have commissioned an artist to cast their award-winning dog, Quasi Modo, in bronze.

Since Quasi, a Loxahatchee Groves resident, won the 2015 World’s Ugliest Dog competition, she has turned into a minor celebrity, with her owners at the front of her fan club. Now, they’ve decided to let Quasi live on forever through two bronze sculptures.

Quasi is a mixed-breed dog born with her spine fused together.

She’s also missing two vertebrae, which shortens the length of her body and gives her the appearance

of having a hump back — hence her name.

Carroll and Sayre rescued Quasi Modo when she was just a year old and have been caring for her ever since. According to Carroll, Quasi was the perfect fit for their home.

“My wife’s a veterinarian, so her whole life is caring for animals.

Quasi’s 12 now, and she’s in really great shape,” Carroll said.

In 2014, after persuasion from their friends, the couple decided to enter Quasi into the annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest in Petaluma, Calif. She did well, but didn’t take the top prize. However, Quasi and her owners were determined to return the following year.

In 2015, Quasi reentered into the competition and won first place,

Quasi Modo poses for the artist.

receiving a 6-foot-tall trophy, cash prize and the title “Ugliest Dog in the World.”

“She was a huge hit,” Carroll said. “People from all over the world were calling in during the competition, saying, ‘We want Quasi Modo!’”

After she won the competition, Quasi and her owners made appearances on various television and talk shows, including Good Morning America, Fox & Friends and Jimmy Kimmel Live. “That was something. We definitely had our five minutes of fame with Quasi Modo,” Carroll said.

Now, two years after the competition, Quasi’s owners have decided to immortalize her by commissioning two bronze statues of her in perfect likeness.

Todd Frahm of Stone Cloud Studio in Asheville, N.C., is the artist in charge of portraying Quasi. He started by creating two life-size clay sculptures of her based on photographs he received from Carroll, and is now working on perfecting the sculptures while visiting with Quasi in person.

“Quasi has a lot of unique characteristics that pictures can’t really pull out,” Carroll said. “Some things you have to see in person.”

One of the statues will portray Quasi standing, and the other will portray her while sitting on her back legs to show every angle of her unique physique.

Frahm plans to spend more than 30 hours at the family’s ranch,

Todd Frahm works on one of the clay sculptures that will help create the bronze artwork.

PHOTOS BY RANDA GRIFFIN/TOWN-CRIER

watching and sculpting Quasi, so he gets every detail perfect. “It’s definitely one of the more unique things I’ve worked on,” he said.

Still held as a local celebrity, Quasi is enjoying her time at her family’s ranch in Loxahatchee Groves. Other animals roam around the ranch, such as roosters, pigs and other dogs, but Carroll

said Quasi is definitely the alpha animal. “No matter what size or how dangerous the other animals may be, they always give Quasi her space,” he said.

Carroll and Sayre say that Quasi has had a great impact on their lives. “We’re going to miss her when she’s gone,” Carroll said.

“She has meant so much to Ginnie

and me, and we want to immortalize her, so bronze was the only way to go.”

Although she won the title “World Ugliest Dog,” Quasi Modo is nothing but loved by those who get to know her. “She’s not an ugly dog, she’s a very unique dog,” Frahm said. “She’s actually really cute and friendly.”

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

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OUR OPINION

Newly Signed State Law Aimed At Opioid Crisis A Good Start

It took much longer than it should have, but the Florida Legislature finally passed, and Gov. Rick Scott signed into law, tougher penalties aimed at combating Florida’s opioid epidemic.

It’s a start, but only addresses part of the problem.

The legislation, officially signed last month, increases penalties for dealers caught selling synthetic drugs like fentanyl, a cheap and potent painkiller largely responsible for the surge in overdoses in Florida over the last few years. Under the new law, drug dealers could face murder charges if their customers overdose and die using fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that South Florida drug dealers have mixed into heroin.

Starting this fall, judges will be required to sentence people possessing 4 grams of fentanyl to a minimum of three years in prison. Individuals with 14 grams face 15 years in prison, while those with 28 grams will get a minimum of 25 years in prison.

County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay has been pushing hard for such legislation to be passed. Not long before Gov. Scott was ceremoniously signing the bill into law here in Palm Beach County this week, McKinlay received the Florida Association of Counties’ Marlene Young Presidential Advocacy Award, which is presented to a county elected official who has shown extraordinary leadership. FAC President Kathy Bryant said the recognition was in large part due to McKinlay’s tireless push to not only create tougher penalties for opioids, but to get more and better funding from the state and federal governments.

McKinlay was among the first public officials in the state to lobby Gov. Scott for action, and in April helped persuade the county commission to adopt an initial $3 million plan to address the crisis. In May, after four years of drastic increases in opioid-related deaths, Gov. Scott finally declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency. The new law allows

Don’t Mistake The Bible For Science

This short note is in response to Mr. Sweetwood’s letter from last week (Climate Change Is A Scam).

Simply put, Mr. Sweetwood is confusing the Bible for science, a common occurrence amongst a lot of man-made climate change deniers. Evolution, astronomy, physics and geology/geography are among other sciences, where, at times, the Bible is confused for science. A shame, but it happens.

Andrew Rosen Wellington

Leave Fireworks To The Pros

I write this letter on this sunny Fourth of July afternoon. I anticipate with dread the torturous night ahead for my dogs. Year after year, the yahoos explode their fireworks well past midnight while my rescue dogs shiver and shake with panic at each distant pop. There is no consoling them.

It irks me that law enforcement turns a blind eye toward those who ignore the laws prohibiting the personal use of exploding fireworks.

It’s also ridiculous that fireworks are openly marketed to the general public all over Palm Beach County under the auspices that they are to be used only to scare away birds from crops. How ridiculous is that?

Here in Wellington, residents are routinely cited if they paint their mailbox the wrong color or allow their sidewalk to mildew. Yet, our

local sheriff totally ignores the illegal use of fireworks. The only folks who seem to be shielded from the war zone are those in the elite equestrian communities.

Wellington always posts huge A-frame signs warning against the use of fireworks in equestrian developments. In my opinion, such warning signs should be posted throughout the entire Village of Wellington to ensure that this same consideration is extended to all households with animals.

Most municipalities offer free fireworks displays in designated public areas. I’m sick and tired of thoughtless people and selective law enforcement.

Elliott Krakow Wellington

Healthcare Is Not Like Other Industries

Recent posts (and politicians) recommend that America’s health insurance needs should be turned over to the competitive free market. However, they forget one crucial fact: Health insurance is not a business like making cars or toasters. Those makers increase their profits by offering a better product. But health insurers make their profit by not supplying its product. In fact, insurers go out of their way to try to collect premiums and never pay a claim. If there is competition, it will be to sign up only the young and healthy, leaving the older and sick to fend for themselves.

How then should health insur-

Florida to tap more than $54 million in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services grant money to pay for prevention, treatment and recovery services.

The real questions now are: (a) is it enough funding to stem the tide and (b) can any amount of money achieve this goal? Perhaps the answer to both questions is no, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction.

Florida has been a leader, nationally, in terms of opioid overdoses. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the state accounted for 12 percent of the 33,000 people nationwide who died in 2015 from opioid overdoses.

This is the second recent major drug-addiction-related initiative with direct ties to Palm Beach County. There have been nearly 30 arrests in the past few months of individuals who have been breaking the law while running illegal “sober homes.”

So-called “sober homes” are intended to be supportive transitional environments for individuals preparing to face the world during recovery from alcohol and drug addiction. In 2015, the state passed a law requiring recovery residences and their administrators to be certified.

At the time, sober homes were unregulated, so the state was not even sure how many there were. Far too many of them do not provide the services recovering addicts need, using the addicts instead as an easy source of revenue.

Last year, Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg began a task force consisting of prosecutors and law enforcement to study abuses in the industry and find solutions. The result has been a crackdown on such abuse, which has direct ties to the opioid situation.

We are pleased to see this situation is being dealt with at the local and state levels, and hope this start brings us closer to the end of this nightmare.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

ance be organized? Think of disease as a public enemy, like crime, fire or foreign aggressors. Government supplies protection against all these hazards, and pays for it through taxes. Healthcare should be no different. A modest tax increase across the entire population, far less costly than current insurance premiums, would support the effort, especially if the insurer, a public entity, did not need to fund costly marketing campaigns, pay exorbitant executive salaries and return a profit to shareholders.

Medicare’s administrative costs are about 3 percent compared to 15 to 20 percent for private insurers. This concept makes sense for almost all the developed nations in the world... except us. Time to catch up.

Jay Schleifer Wellington

Letter Raises More Questions

I was kind of disappointed in the conversion therapy point of view by Jeannine Kreiger (Conversion Therapy Ban Is Discriminatory, July 7), because it left more questions than answers.

The writer uses NARTH (National Association for Research Therapy for Homosexuals) as a source, but never mentions that NARTH considers homosexuality a “mental disorder,” and often teams up with fundamentalist Christian organizations and LDS, and that fits well with the states that allow conversion therapy. It seems a bit delineated by religion. The states

that outlaw conversion therapy have fewer fundamentalist citizens and vice versa.

Because certain states don’t ban it, counties and cities have taken up the task. Also, I might note, many, many countries ban the practice.

Ms. Kreiger leaves out the statements by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), of which NARTH was a member, stating that “NARTH created an environment in which prejudice and discrimination can flourish,” and in 2009 made a declaration telling clients to “avoid reparative therapy.” NARTH is no longer a member of the APA, and one of its executives is serving an 18-month sentence for being a con-man, and they have lost their tax-exempt status. Also, I could not find her quote, “there is no negative proof from conversion therapy.”

Prior treatments for this “mental disorder” included ice pick therapy, chemical castration, electric shock to hands and genitals, social skills training, psychological training and (note) spiritual training. The president of NARTH lectured and spoke to causation of homosexuality being “inadequate parenting” and that it didn’t fulfill “God’s intention.” This exudes gross simplification and certainly has no place in our society, and our innocent children sent to therapy by confused/disappointed and religious custom, parental belief systems, should cease.

Ms. Kreiger states that our elected leaders are not “health experts,” but neither are they construction, public safety, zoning, education or public works experts. No, they

rely on experts, and we elect them to use their judgement in our behalf. Experts advise our elected officials, and so, too, is it here with children’s safety and well-being.

She also states, “If people want to live out their religious convictions, but are banned from doing so, that’s religious discrimination.”

I would suggest, enlisting quackery and pain is not in the realm of freedoms allowed, especially to innocent children. The fact that she uses “religious freedom” as an excuse or reason, bespeaks lots of that determination, for indeed anti-gay is discrimination (exacting horrific treatment) despite her denial, and re-programming, brainwashing by its very nature, is wrong.

The APA, she states, says there is “no negative proof from conversion therapy.” Why then have most of the previous therapies been outlawed, and why does almost every medical/psychiatric association, starting with the AMA, state it is not innocuous, as it can lead to trauma and further confusion, depression and some suicides? I would suggest that religious customs be stopped from initiating all traumatic cures, including for homosexuality, and that any group using unorthodox methodology prove their worth.

Prove “no harm,” the medical

standard, because psychiatric experts say that this old custom, religious-oriented conversion therapy should be stopped. It reminds me of exorcisms.

As with all forms of persecution, racism, sexism, homophobia, etc., they should be extirpated, and we know that there will always be excuses for maintaining these persecutions, and they will always claim loss of freedom/rights, and finally, there will always be those who must be dragged kicking and screaming into the 21-century.

This is about children brought by parents to be converted, brainwashed, indoctrinated against something that may be questionable/depressing/shocking to the parents, but let there be no mistake about the possibility of injury to these innocents, indeed it is the parents who might need therapy, inclusive of education.

Look to the political affiliation of Mayor Anne Gerwig, and that is part and parcel to the issue in my opinion: the party of election obstacles for minorities, the party allowing for women’s inequality for same job/same pay, and the party against equal rights for gays, as recent history so blatantly shows, or it’s just a coincidence. I believe not!

George P. Unger Wellington

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words suggested). Submit letters, with contact name, address and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414; or you can e-mail letters@goTownCrier.com.

NEWS

No Easy Solutions For Wellington’s Equestrian Waste Issue

By Paul L. Gaba Town-Crier Staff Report Another equestrian season has come and gone, but a heavy issue remains an unsolved byproduct in Wellington: What to do with all that waste?

“It’s an issue that has been around the village for years, and it’s very important for the Equestrian Preserve Committee to focus on,” said longtime resident and businessman Joseph Scarpa, who was commissioned by the committee to look into ways of dealing with the 26,000-loads-peryear issue.

Scarpa addressed the Equestrian Preserve Committee at its Wednesday, July 5 meeting, with the result being that after years of discussion and research, Wellington still has no long-term answer to dealing with tons and tons of horse manure.

“I have looked at virtually every technology and business model proposed, including some technologies that have not been proposed to the village, including what they’re trying to do in Europe and Asia,” Scarpa said. “No one has found a solution to handling these mass volumes we are producing in our area.”

However, Wellington is far from alone in this problem, he noted.

“Chesapeake Bay is overrun with this problem,” Scarpa said.

“There are places in Texas, Massachusetts, anywhere there’s a large concentration of horses. This is not a problem unique to Wellington.

And if there were a way to handle

this, somebody would have come up with an efficient way already.”

Wellington’s Strategic Planning Department Project Manager Michael O’Dell noted that part of Wellington’s problem is the uniqueness of its issue, as compared with other areas nationally and around the world.

“Other parts of the U.S. have waste material 365 days a year, such as pig, chicken, horse, etc.,” O’Dell said. “We are hurt by this being really a seasonal issue, plus the volume of waste, plus not having one type of technology that works here.”

Officials estimate there’s a 70 percent difference between seasonal and non-seasonal tonnage, in terms of horse waste/bedding created.

“Basically, it goes from more than they can handle for four to five months, to not enough to keep factory doors open the rest of the year,’” Scarpa said. “Based upon researching this, and talking to some of the biggest haulers in Wellington, about 26 thousand loads a year are being hauled out of the area.”

Much of that is ending up at U.S. Sugar in Clewiston, as well as other destinations village officials do not know about. There is also likely illegal dumping of livestock waste in other communities, Scarpa said.

Scarpa said existing systems can deal with livestock waste on a small scale. These include systems that separate waste from bedding, and burning horse waste

at the county incinerator, or similar waste-to-energy facilities. But, Scarpa said, issues abound, no matter what options are reviewed.

“The Solid Waste Authority doesn’t want this stuff,” Scarpa said. “They’ve been reducing their cost per tonnage, but haulers are not bringing it there, because it still costs them more money to drop off at the SWA than to bring it out to U.S. Sugar.”

Part of the problem is the SWA charges haulers by tonnage, and if the waste load is full of moisture, it becomes much heavier (and, thus, more expensive) for haulers.

Another part of the problem, Scarpa said, is that the SWA is further restricted by state ordinances, which dictate only a certain percentage of the material can be accepted — essentially, 10 percent of the gross weight in waste product.

Ultimately, Scarpa said, the topic is a municipal issue that needs to be addressed by the village as a whole.

“This cannot be solved by various business proposals that in my view do not work,” Scarpa said.

“Not one of them work. Every one that has been proposed to the village, its success has been dependent on the byproduct of whatever is being sold. That’s the equation, and going to a private company is not going to work, because the several that have proposed ideas are either now out of business or in reorganization.”

He added that the Wellington Village Council’s view is that “the problem has been solved” because

waste is being shipped to U.S. Sugar. “The council is not invested in this in any way; they believe it’s an issue between the farms and the haulers,” Scarpa said. “But they’re wrong; it’s still an issue.”

O’Dell said Scarpa’s report to the committee brought a unique perspective to the issue, particularly whether a waste-processing company can make money.

“If you’re going to engage a business that can enter into the

Cypress Key

Changes Approved

continued from page 1 change that I do think is a change for the better,” he said. “I still don’t think that this is something that should be in this, or that the ordinance should be changed to accommodate this, but I can count, and last time, a proposal that, in my opinion, was worse, was approved 4-1, so I do appreciate the applicant working with the people in the community and for putting this, one of my main concerns, to rest with the 475-foot buffer.”

Hmara brought up a previous discussion about the number of drive-throughs in the Cypress Key project. “One of the concerns that I think we discussed at the last council meeting about this was the number of drive-throughs that could be permitted,” Hmara said.

Ashton said there is only one drive-through in the revised site

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marketplace, they have to be able to make money,” O’Dell told the Town-Crier. “The committee will probably do a rewrite of its plan of action, and Scarpa’s report is really important to them.”

O’Dell added that the situation may have become more of a problem since the village first looked into constructing some sort of operation five years ago, because of both the growth of the equine community, and pressure

from area farmers against various composting methods.

Further, the Florida Right to Farm Act prevents local governments from limiting the activity of farms, which includes telling a horse stable owner where manure may or may not be disposed of properly.

“This is a billion-dollar industry, and we don’t want to jeopardize either the farming industry or the equestrian industry,” O’Dell said.

plan. The applicant did submit a variance request for a second drive-through, but it was voluntarily removed from the proposal before the July 6 meeting.

Hmara made a motion to approve the zoning text amendment, seconded by Rodusky. It also passed unanimously.

In other business, the council took action to extend a moratorium on the acceptance of applications involving small cell or micro-wireless communications facilities from July 31 until Sept. 30. The Florida Legislature recently passed House Bill 687, which Ashton said will force the village to make certain updates to its code. The bill was signed by Gov. Rick Scott.

“As Councilman Hmara mentioned, this was one of the really bad things that happened to municipal home rule this year,” Ashton said. “We are going to have to substantially rewrite our code to address it. We’ve essentially lost authority to regulate wireless communications facilities within our

rights of way, if they’re the small cell or microcell type.”

A full presentation on a revised ordinance will come back to the council, explaining the changes in the law. Last week’s action only extended the existing moratorium from July 31 to Sept. 30. “That way we can have sufficient time to rewrite the code,” Ashton said.

Mayor Fred Pinto asked the attorney whether she believed she’d be able to “protect the interest of the citizens” regarding the new changes at the state level.

“The way that I’m reading the code, we have the ability, when we get an application in, to enter into what they’re calling a negotiation phase, where maybe we have some ability to say, ‘OK, not here, but maybe move them over here because of health, safety and welfare issues,’” Ashton said. “But, other than that, we do not have much control.”

Hmara made a motion to approve the extended moratorium, which passed unanimously.

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NEWS

27TH ANNUAL FOURTH OF JULY FISHING TOURNAMENT IN ROYAL PALM BEACH The 27th annual Red, White & Blue Fourth of July Family Fishing Tournament was hosted by the Royal Palm Bassmasters on Tuesday, July 4 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Participants were divided by age groups and prizes were awarded to the largest bass and other fish caught in each division. Dozens of raffle prizes were given away thanks to the event’s main sponsor, Bass Pro Shops.

PHOTOS BY RANDA GRIFFIN/TOWN-CRIER

Participants in the tournament’s child and small fry age group.

Ellie Schartner holding her first place trophy for the largest bass in her division and new fishing pole.

Shawn O’Sullivan holding his trophy and new fishing bag.

First-place winner Baylee Arnold with her trophy and new fishing pole.

First place winner Brody Williams with prizes.

Pam Shetka and daughter Gabi show off her new trophy and hat.

Second place winner Frankie Loffredo with her new reel and trophy.

Members of the Royal Palm Bass Masters at the event.

Jeff Schultz with his prize for catching the biggest bass of the tournament.

Raffle winner Trent O’Connor shows off his prize.

BACIO BACIO BRIDAL SALON TAKES PART IN ‘OPERATION WEDDING GOWN’

Bacio Bacio Bridal Salon is celebrating with Brides Across America from July 6 through July 15 for the annual “Operation Wedding Gown” giveaway. Wedding gowns were donated by participating salons and given to qualifying military brides. Military brides can find out how to qualify and register at www.bridesacrossamerica.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Deborah Paige assists U.S. Navy E5 Evelyn Christie with a dress.

Sara Abbott, fiancé of Marine Cpl. Andrew Spragg.

Yurianne Andrade, fiancé of Army E4 Carlos Pastren.

FAMILY PRACTICE • PRIMARY CARE

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Classes are held weekly for grades K-2, and twice weekly for grades 3-7.

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Page 6

July 14 - July 20, 2017

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NEWS BRIEFS Democratic Club To Meet July 17

The Mid-County Democratic Club will meet Monday, July 17 at 7 p.m. at Tree’s Wings & Ribs (603 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Beach). The meeting will feature Carly Cass of Planned Parenthood.

July 15 Car Wash For Amber’s Animal Outreach

A car wash benefiting Amber’s Animal Outreach and Lucy’s heartworm treatment will take place Saturday, July 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McDonald’s restaurant at 15880 Orange Blvd. in The Acreage. For more info., call (561) 449-5491 or visit www. aaodog.org.

Santa Spending Summer With Kids In Hospital

To escape the cold weather of the North Pole, Santa Claus will

be spending part of his summer vacation visiting the Children’s Hospital at Palms West and Palm Beach Children’s Hospital in July.

Santa’s visit is courtesy of the Believe in Santa Foundation, and he will be able to spend quality time with each hospitalized child in an effort to brighten their day.

He’ll be visiting with each child, posing for photos, and, of course, delivering presents.

The first event will be Friday, July 28 at 9:30 a.m. at the Children’s Hospital at Palms West, where Santa Claus will visit each child in their hospital room. The visit is expected to last about two hours at the hospital, located at 13001 Southern Blvd.

At 1:45 p.m., Santa will head to the Palm Beach Children’s Hospital at 901 45th Street in West Palm Beach. He will attend the hospital’s annual Christmas in July Party, and then visit the rooms of children unable to attend the party.

Santa’s visits will no doubt have some doing a double-take as “Tropical Santa” spends time in South Florida.

“With summer temperatures averaging around 32 degrees Fahrenheit at the North Pole, it’s pretty

safe to say that South Florida is the perfect place for Santa to spend time,” said Keith Carson, president of the Believe in Santa Foundation.

“We’re lucky that Santa helps our organization help children in need any time of year with visits due to a child living in poverty, being the victim of a crime, a disaster survivor, hospitalized, terminally ill, or the child of one of our brave military servicemen or women.”

The Believe in Santa Foundation is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization focused on improving the lives of children. To learn more, visit www.believeinsanta. com.

Club (190 Atlantis Blvd.). This important and informative event will begin at 11:30 a.m. The cost to attend is $35. Advance registration is required at www.lwvpbc.org or by calling Estelle Friedman at (561) 968-4123.

concerns and discuss neighborhood issues.

If you live in the Wiltshire Village neighborhood and would like to receive a visit from the Walk & Talk team, call (561) 791-4796.

Grand Opening Of Dental Office

McKinlay Earns FAC Designation

LWV To Host Opiate Crisis Discussion

Wellington Officials To Visit Wiltshire Village

Following two successful issue meetings this month that attracted dozens of concerned citizens, the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County is inviting the public to the next Hot Topic Luncheon to discuss another serious subject, “Palm Beach County’s Opiate and Sober Home Crisis,” on Wednesday, July 19 at the Atlantis Country

Big Smiles Dentistry (3935 Jog Road, Greenacres) will hold its grand opening on Thursday, July 27 from 5 to 8 p.m. with refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, music and a raffle. For more info., call (561) 530-3325.

On Tuesday, July 18, Wellington’s Community Services Department will conduct a Walk & Talk in the Wiltshire Village neighborhood.

Neighborhood advocates, code compliance officers and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies will be in the community from 4 to 6 p.m. to hear residents’

The Florida Association of Counties (FAC) recently presented Palm Beach County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay with the Certified County Commissioner (CCC) designation following completion of a comprehensive study program developed by the association.

McKinlay received the designation with 10 other county commissioners during an awards ceremony held at the FAC’s annual conference.

“I am committed to being the best public servant I can be, so it was important to me to earn this designation,” McKinlay said.

CCC certification is not a requirement to serve as a county commissioner in Florida. However, county commissioners may voluntarily enroll in the program

and complete a series of courses totaling 45 hours. The coursework is designed to provide information and enhance skills relevant to a commissioner’s duties and responsibilities as an elected official.

“This certification provides our citizen electorate with valuable tools to assist them in their public service,” FAC Executive Director Ginger Delegal said. “The more than 400 graduates of this program have shown an exceptional commitment to serving Florida’s counties.”

The program coursework covers a variety of topics, such as ethics and Sunshine Law, county government roles and responsibilities, county government structure and authority, financial management, negotiation skills, economic development and effective communication. Completion of all coursework averages 12 to 18 months.

For more than 85 years, the Florida Association of Counties has represented the diverse interests of Florida’s counties, emphasizing the importance of protecting home rule — the concept that government closest to the people governs best.

Since 1986

COMFORTABLE MISERY

It is in our human nature to avoid discomfort, which is a huge reason why we avoid exercising. However, in reality we live in discomfort daily. One day I came across one of my Facebook friend’s post, “Weight Loss Goals: To be able to clip my toenails and breathe at the same time”. This made me laugh but it also made me think about how many people find it difficult to do basic everyday things like put socks and shoes on, walk upstairs, or just walk from the car to the office. They are uncomfortable but they are comfortable enough to not make a change. There is a term for this, Comfortable Misery. It is a situation that you don’t like, but one to which you have grown accustomed to. Dr. Dan Johnston from the website, “Self Growth” states, “The problem is that trying to get out of comfortable misery is frightening. You could make a change, but then what? You’re tempted by the hope that things could get better, but paralyzed by the fear that they could get worse…….If I change I might create something more miserable………Maybe it is better to stay like I am.

At least I know I can tolerate it.”

I want to challenge you today to do something out of the realm of your Comfortable Misery. It might be purposely engaging in an activity that makes you feel out of breath or work up a good sweat. I guarantee you that once you push through these uncomfortable first steps, you will find that it was not so bad after all! Taking the time to read this article is a good step. It is “uncomfortable” to hear the truth and yet you are still reading. Now what will be your next uncomfortable first step that will lead you to being “fit”?

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Pets Are Family, Too!

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

TO DECLAW OR NOT TO DECLAW

Declawing cats is a controversial topic. Some people are in favor of it, while others are staunchly opposed to the procedure. Where do the experts sit? Somewhere in the middle. Some cats need to be declawed for a medical reason, such as a tumor on the pad of their foot.

Other cats might belong to owners who are immuno-compromised, and declawing can be a way of ensuring that cat and human remain together. Aside from those important reasons, declawing for cosmetics or convenience is simply not a very good idea. Cats are born with claws, and barring extraordinary circumstances, they should keep them. Talk to the veterinarian about behavior modification techniques in cats that scratch too much.

Before you decide to declaw your cat, keep in mind that declawing is not like a manicure. It is serious surgery. Because your cat’s claw is closely adhered to the bone it is is a painful surgery with a painful recovery period. At COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH, our goal is to provide the best medical care for your dog or cat and offer pet owners all the support and information they need to provide lifelong care for their animals. We are located ¼ mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd. Please call 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies.

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A Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Save The Date

3rd Annual Luncheon

will be Friday, October 6th at Wanderers Club

This year’s keynote speaker is

Dr. Leonard Hock, Jr., DO, MACOI, CMD Chief Medical Officer of Trustbridge Palliative Care and Advanced Illness Management

Are you a Wellington resident 65 or older who requires non-medical assistance?

We Help Wellington Seniors For Free.

Call 561-568-8818 or visit www.WellingtonCaresOrg.com

Wellington Cares, is a 50 I ( c) 3 community based not-for-profit organization committed to coordinating volunteers of all ages serving in a time exchange format to enable persons age 65 or older who require assistance to remain in their home with the support of the Wellington community residents and local organizations.

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Page 7

NEWS

New Festive Cuts Owners Invite Community To Remodeled Salon

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Whether you’re looking to have your hair cut, blown-out, colored or highlighted, Festive Cuts Beauty Salon in Royal Palm Beach is there to help.

Under new ownership, Festive Cuts’ offerings are bigger and better than ever. Terry and Steve Wilson took over the salon on May 15 and have since done a complete makeover and remodel, while keeping stylists and adding additional ones.

“We’ve upgraded everything,” Steve said.

Terry was formerly a client at Festive Cuts, and now, they’re the owners.

Terry was having her hair done when she heard from the previous owner that he was looking to sell.

She mentioned the idea to Steve.

“The more we looked into it, the more we realized that this would be a great investment opportunity,” Steve said. “We live a mile away.

I’ve lived in Royal Palm Beach for 28 years.”

What’s unique about the couple is that this is their introduction to salon ownership.

“We’re real estate investors,”

Steve said. “We do house flips. I retired about four years ago and was bored, and we started doing house flipping.”

The house flipping market has been changing, and not for the better, he explained, so they were looking for a new project.

Since they purchased Festive Cuts, they’ve redone the salon using a neutral color scheme of gray, black, silver and white, redoing the floors, painting, changing the style stations, chairs, shampoo bowls, tile work and even the bathroom.

Clients will also have the benefit of a new, high-end line of products called Artego.

“It’s a great product,” Steve said, noting that it makes hair shiny, and all of their clients have been happy with it. “It’s an Italian product mainly available in highend salons.”

Steve was quick to note that although upgrades have been made to the salon, they are keeping the prices the same, even offering summer specials, such as $10 cuts for kids and $5 off a service for firefighters, police officers and county workers — including Village of Royal Palm Beach employees.

Steve is a retired fire-rescue worker and wants to continue specials for fellow first responders.

Additionally, if you are donating your hair, the cut is at no charge.

Some of the many services offered include styling, blow-outs, keratin treatments, braids, up-dos and, really, just about anything you can think of.

“We ask our clients to come in, sit with our stylists, let them evaluate your hair, and then discuss what your needs are, what you want, and get a recommendation on what your stylist thinks would be best for your hair,” Steve said.

Everyone has a different skin tone, face shape and hair type, so the salon’s professional stylists work with you to make your new look as flattering as possible, Terry said.

“We’re not going to give you something that’s not right for you,” she explained.

Terry, who has tried many salons in the past, emphasized that Festive Cuts is a judgment-free zone. “We’re not here to judge anybody,” she said. “Everyone’s beautiful in their own way… We want to make you feel good when you walk out of here. We want

you to look in the mirror and feel like, ‘Wow!’ You don’t have to be a beauty queen to come in here.”

The stylists at Festive Cuts are able to do difficult processes, such as reversing the damage of harsh well water on hair. Before and after photos are being posted and shared on social media and the salon’s web site so potential clients can see just what the stylists can do. They are able to expertly style men’s, women’s and children’s hair.

To make things easy for existing salon clients, in addition to keeping all scheduled appointments, the new owners have kept the same phone number. A new web site is in the works, but they can be found through e-mailing festivecutsbeautysalon@gmail.com, calling (561) 204-9229 or finding them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ festivecutsbeautysalon.

The Wilsons are also looking forward to getting involved in the community. They have taken the salon on location for wedding events, and are working with local schools for prom, homecoming and other special events to help prepare students for photos.

“There isn’t anything we won’t get involved in,” Terry said. “We

Steve and Terry Wilson recently took over Festive Cuts Salon.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

want to show the community support.”

Festive Cuts is located at 1120 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., near Jon Smith Subs in the Crossroads Plaza at the corner of Royal Palm

Beach and Okeechobee boulevards. The salon is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Walk-ins and appointments are welcome.

RPB Council Examines 2017-18 Spending Plan At Budget Workshop

By Jack Lowenstein Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council held a budget workshop Thursday, July 8 to examine the village’s proposed $49 million spending plan for fiscal year 2017-18.

Of the $49 million, the general fund represents 48 percent, while capital projects take up 31 percent.

Reserves make up 19 percent, and the village’s stormwater utility makes up the remaining 2 percent.

Notable new additions include new capital improvement funds, including $2.6 million from the new 1-cent sales surtax passed last year by county voters.

“We also have the capital account created in the storm utility,” Village Manager Ray Liggins said.

“We are proposing raising the rates in that storm utility 50 cents over what we’re operating on, and with the remainder of that 50 cents, putting it into capital.”

That works out to an increase from $4 to $4.50.

Floss Silk

Lox Man Giving Away Trees

continued from page 1 while leafless, so that in the spring, it can push out even more growth,” Pollak said.

Floss silk trees produce avocado-like seed pods that open in March. The fluff in the pods is called kapok, and before synthetic polyesters and nylon were invented, the trees were commercially valuable because the fluff would be used for life jackets, mattresses, pillows and more, he added.

“I just want to verify, the reason we created these two new capital funds is for accounting purposes to have a place to put the money from the sales tax, and... since we’ve had the stormwater utility for a while, why are we now just creating them?” Councilman Jeff Hmara asked.

Finance Director Stan Hochman said the village didn’t have enough money previously.

“So, without the money, there was no need for a fund because there was nothing to account for,” Hmara said, and Hochman agreed.

The total proposed village property tax rate remains at 1.92 mills.

“Looking at the ad valorem tax overview, first of all, that 1.92 is something we’ve had for quite a few years,” Hmara said.

Hochman said that the rate has held steady for nearly 10 years.

“However, what you see is a difference from the year-to-year with the same tax rate being consistent, but the value of property increas-

ing, which means you’ve got to dig a little deeper in your pocket when it comes time to pay that bill,” Hmara noted.

Liggins said the change due to property values is different for everybody.

“It depends on your homestead exemptions,” he said. “The way the state law is, if you have a homesteaded property, it can’t go up more than 2 percent or the cost of living [increase]. The cost of living, I believe, is under two percent.”

Mayor Fred Pinto said it’s 1.6 percent.

“So, 1.6 is the maximum,” Liggins said, adding that property taxes only fund part of the budget.

Liggns said there isn’t one answer for every property owner in the village regarding property taxes, and Hochman said the 7.4 percent in total property valuation is an average itself.

“Some people could have had a 10 percent increase,” Hochman

said. “Others could have had a 2 percent increase, depending on the variations.”

The budget is split between the general fund and capital projects.

The general fund, which finances day-to-day government, makes up about 50 percent of the proposed budget, close to $24 million. Expenditures come in at 42 percent for personal services, 40 percent for contractual services, 15 percent for other charges and services, and three percent for commodities.

The budget proposes merit adjustments at an average of 3.5 percent for all employees, a costof-living adjustment of 1.7 percent and medical insurance increases based on market projections.

No new staff positions are added, but two new internship positions under administration and engineering are included.

The stormwater utility fund is proposed at more than $950,000.

The majority of the revenue lies

Pollak takes great care in marking the hand-pollinated trees to keep track of the flowers that bloom. Two white flowers with a recessive pink gene might produce a pink flower. Dominant and recessive traits show up differently with various pollinations.

Excel spreadsheets and Google Maps document the types of trees, where they were planted and when, what sort of tree they produce and other details that Pollak meticulously collects.

Floss silk trees produce a great variety of flower shapes and colors, and have been used in South Florida dating back as far as the 1920s.

“As far as flowering trees go, it’s

probably one of the best flowering trees for our area, along with the Tabebuias and the royal poincianas,” he said.

The flowers, however, offer a large variety of colors, patterns, shapes and varying levels of fragrance.

Bees are attracted to the pollen, making them great bee-friendly flowers. The tree is not toxic to animals, which tend to enjoy the leaves.

Each pod contains approximately 200 seeds. Pollak is growing two of each cross at his farm and then distributing 10 into the local community.

Each of those 10, he said, will have different flower outcomes.

Pollak started the program three years ago and has distributed more than 400 trees in the past two years. He has several hundred available, which he is looking to give out and have people grow in their yards.

The trees grow in tiers of three branches. After growing upward, the tree spreads its canopy out and produces a great deal of shade.

Pollak is growing them in special containers that allow the tree’s tap root to grow down, rather than circling in a container.

Flowering trees fascinate Pollak, who grew up in Coral Springs and saw flowers on bushes and

The floss silk tree produces many colorful flowers. small plants, but not on trees. For ricanes well, he said, and are ing and take well to fertilizer the last few years, he has been underutilized in the area. and mulch. They cannot tolerate involved in the Tropical FlowerWhile many of his trees have glyphosate (RoundUp), however. ing Tree Society and is currently been distributed in Loxahatchee All Pollak asks, after the tree serving as its vice president.

Groves and The Acreage, when flowers, is for a close-up phoThe White Fences Floss Silk pruned, they are appropriate for tograph of the flower, and if the Project, not affiliated with the lots in Wellington and Royal Palm flower is different from those he Tropical Flowering Tree Society, Beach. He even has a few in the already has, a cutting for grafting. is allowing Pollak to learn about corner, blocked off to protect the To learn more, or to talk to the floss silk tree, produce varia- horses from the spikes, on horse Pollak about becoming part of tions, and bring shade and color pastures, to provide the horses the project, call or text (561) 790to the area. shade from the strong Florida sun. 6406, or e-mail whitefencesfl@ Silk floss trees withstand hurThe trees are free for the ask- gmail.com.

The floss silk tree has small spikes on its trunk.

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under the stormwater utility fee (87 percent), and then 6 percent for reserves and 7 percent for the newly added fund. For 2018, $65,000 is proposed to make drainage improvements at Camellia Park, which will total $365,000 for its five-year plan.

The capital improvement projects make up the other half of the proposed total budget, at more than $24 million.

Under recreation facilities, a carryover of more than $72,000 is proposed to provide access to kayak launches for members of the public through requirements for the Americans with Disabilities Act. Commons Park is getting a proposed $10,000 for its parking lot expansion.

The beautification fund will provide a proposed $100,000 for accent and lighting improvements at Veterans Park. Under the impact fees fund, $150,000 is proposed to facilitate village-wide traffic calming. Under the sales surtax

fund, $950,000 is proposed for phase two of the RV/boat parking project.

There is $375,000 proposed for sports and lighting replacement at Marcelo Park on fields two and three. Other enhancements and replacements under parks and recreation include $150,000 for Commons and Robiner parks, $100,000 at the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center, $200,000 at Penzance Park, $250,000 for the Commons Sporting Center, $110,000 for the Seminole Palms Park athletic field and $300,000 at Camellia Park.

Under the general capital fund, $550,000 in 2018 is proposed for the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center expansion. The project totals more than $1.4 million under parks and recreation for the general capital fund.

The tax rate will be discussed in further detail at next council meeting, and a formal budget hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 7.

Page 8

July 14 - July 20, 2017

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NEWS

1990 WORLD CHAMPION OF PUBLIC SPEAKING VISITS LOCAL TOASTMASTERS

The RiverWalk Toastmasters presented a special evening with 1990 World Champion of Public Speaking David Brooks on Saturday, July 8 at the Ideal School in Royal Palm Beach. For more information about the RiverWalk Toastmasters, visit www.riverwalk.toastmastersclubs.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

RiverWalk Toastmaster President Orlando Zuniga, District Director Chim Francisco, Henry Ferguson, Treasurer Cindy Beckles, keynote speaker David Brooks and Division D Director Kathy Frazier.

Curt Rapp leads an inspirational moment.

Monique McCray-Jackson and Doris Mendez-Weeks.

1990 World Champion of Public Speaking David Brooks addresses members of the RiverWalk Toastmasters.

Motivational Speaker Daniella Brooks, Motivational Speaker Monique McCray-Jackson, Brad Johnson and District 47 International Speech Champion Lawrence Paustian.

The Table Topics Expert Panel of David Brooks, Lydia Harris, Cindy Beckles and Kathy Frazier.

Myrna Brooks, door prize winner Lois Margolin and Orlando Zuniga.

WELLINGTON COUNCIL, KIWANIS MEMBERS VISIT THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

The Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club held a luncheon organized by Program Coordinator Anthony “Mr. T.” Talton on Monday, July 3. The luncheon was made possible with the partnership of Kiwanis of Wellington and the Wellington Village Council. This event was a way to give the kids a full meal before they went home for the day.

PHOTOS BY JACK LOWENSTEIN/TOWN-CRIER

Mayor Anne Gerwig, Councilman Michael Drahos, Councilwoman Tanya Siskind, Councilman Michael Napoleone with Christopher Napoleone, and Vice Mayor John McGovern with Emilia McGovern.

Members of Kiwanis of Wellington visit the Boys & Girls Club.

Anthony “Mr. T” Talton with kids at the Boys & Girls Club.

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NEWS

AMERICAN MUSLIM ALLIANCE HOSTS EID REUNION AND INTERFAITH DINNER

The American Muslim Alliance of Florida held its annual Eid Reunion and Interfaith Dinner on Sunday, July 9 at the original Wellington Mall. The evening included a scholarship awards ceremony and a question-and-answer session with local imams that drew many questions from the guests. Learn more at www.americanmuslimalliance.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Sayed Hashem, American Muslim Alliance President Mohammed Osman Chowdhury and Imran Aziz with scholarship recipients.

Sayed Hashem, Deputy Consul General of Israel Guy Gilady and American Muslim Alliance of Florida President Mohammed Osman Chowdhury.

Rhaina Michel receives her scholarship from PBSO Chief Deputy Mike Gauger.

Ambreen Murad sings the national anthem.

Imam Zakaria, Rabbi Nason Goldstein, Imam Mohamed Ismail and Ibraheem Lunat.

St. Mark’s Church Rector Father Jim Cook, the Reverend Peggy Tuttle and John Tuttle.

Scholarship recipient Baikisu Ariori, with her father Olatati Ariori and Abby Ghanie.

Noemi McGregor, Betzy Rega, Alex Garcia, Florence Fidell, Jeremy Zubkoff and Adriana Gonzalez.

Minto Breaks Ground On First Homes In Westlake Community

Home construction is underway in Westlake for the very first time since it became Palm Beach County’s newest municipality last summer.

Minto Communities has begun building six model homes in the 3,800-acre master-planned community which shares the same name as the new municipality.

The fully furnished model homes are expected to be completed this fall to coincide with the Westlake sales center grand opening.

The models under construction come from both the Cypress and Indigo collections of one-story and two-story single-family homes.

The Cypress Collection will be built on 50-foot home sites consisting of 14 unique floor

plans ranging from 1,483 to 4,025 square feet under air. The residences offer two to five bedrooms. The Indigo Collection features larger single-family homes designed for 65-foot homes sites.

There are 11 floor plans ranging in size from 2,410 to 4,443 square feet under air. This collection offers between two and six bedrooms.

Key features of the Cypress and Indigo collection homes include innovative designs with open floor plans, indoor-outdoor living spaces and the latest lifestyle technologies. Flexible room options are designed to meet the lifestyle desires and space requirements of individual homebuyers. Every Minto home includes a wide array of premium features.

Minto plans to start building several inventory homes over the next couple of months.

“We are excited to get our first homes underway and watch our vision for Westlake start to take shape,” said Mike Belmont, president of Minto Communities USA. “We can’t wait until the models are finished so buyers can get a full appreciation for the unique homes and lifestyle we are planning for this special part of Palm Beach County.”

The Westlake sales center is also under construction and will feature interactive displays, a full interior design center, café and children’s playroom.

Located in central Palm Beach County, Westlake blends residential, commercial, recreational and

natural elements into a vibrant new city. The town center will be a comprehensive retail district with a blend of national and local retailers, wide sidewalks and public spaces that host a lively calendar of programming and events. The community will feature an aquatics center with a lagoon-style pool, lazy river, tower slide and splash pad, plus an adult pool with swim lanes and shade cabanas. Expansive recreational lawns offer spaces for picnics, lawn games and events.

Additional amenities include an adventure playground, dog park, sports courts and multi-purpose building.

Minto Communities is also making improvements to the area’s infrastructure. The builder

is spending $25 million to expand and beautify Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. Minto has also donated 4.5 acres of land to Palm Beach

County for a new high-tech fire station.

For more information, visit www.mintousa.com.

An aerial photo of construction on six model homes in Westlake.

“We wouldn’t go anywhere else when it comes to our family’s healthcare.”

When Cherie and Jason Lee had their twin boys in 2010, they chose Wellington Regional Medical Center as their hospital.

The experience was second to none. That’s why when Cherie was expecting another baby last year, Wellington Regional was their hospital again.

“We didn’t consider giving birth at any other hospital. There wasn’t a single detail of care that was overlooked. I just knew my family was the team’s priority every step of the way,” the mother of three said.

The Birthing Center at Wellington Regional Medical Center delivers comprehensive care for women and infants in a family-focused environment. Dedicated obstetricians, neonatologists and nurses are on hand 24-hours a day to help ensure every mother and baby gets the individualized care they need. With private, newly renovated labor, delivery and recovery rooms, it is the perfect setting to welcome a new baby. And with the only Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in the western community, advanced care is only steps away, allowing mothers and babies to stay close to each other so critical bonding can occur.

We can’t describe a more ideal experience.

That’s why Wellington Regional is our hospital! ~ Cherie Lee, Wellington Regional Medical Center Patient

See why the Lee family calls Wellington Regional THEIR HOSPITAL at wellingtonregional.com/myhospital Facebook “f ” Logo

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Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Wellington Regional Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.. 170492

Page 10

July 14 - July 20, 2017

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Page 11

FEATURES

A Week With The Grandkids Was Like A Whole Lifetime Of Fun I experienced an entire summer in just one week and, I have to tell you, it was great.

My daughter Jennifer invited Mark and I to accompany them on the family vacation to Disney World. Disneyholic that I am, I naturally jumped at the chance. I even offered to watch the kids for a long weekend so Jen and her hubby could celebrate their 10th anniversary — which isn’t until next month, but close enough.

I had a blast.

The first order of business was Tess’s appointment to meet Cinderella. Tess had a Cinderella-themed birthday party last year and has carried a torch for the prin-

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER cess ever since. Upon first setting eyes upon her, Tess pointed, gasped, covered her mouth with both hands and stared at her in awe. She then shyly sang her a five-word song she’d written, “Cinderella, Cinderella. You’re my favorite!” In response, Cinderella gave her a heartfelt

hug, which sent Tessie promptly over the moon.

The pool at the resort was the big attraction for four-year-old Skippy. He bobbled, he swam, he bounced, he splashed and he hung with the older boys who taught him how to do a cannonball. The next day, he did it again... and again. The multi-billion-dollar Disney entertainment complex just down the road was a mere interruption of his pool time.

Back at home, we tried to keep the magic going with an inflatable pool, a hose and a hefty supply of water balloons.

You’d think the kids would’ve turned up their noses at this meager attempt, but water is water. We couldn’t get them

out of the pool, the hose was running constantly, and Mark had to change clothes several times due to unexpected water balloon attacks — accompanied by diabolical laughter any super-villain would have envied.

Speaking of super-villains, we watched movies, ate popcorn and went to McDonald’s. Did you know that the “M” handles of a Happy Meal box make excellent glasses when the box is worn upside-down on one’s head? It’s true!

We took the kids to a park, too. There, the sandbox was the big attraction. People kindly drop off their kids’ old sand toys, so there is an ever-changing selection of pails, shovels, dump trucks and

front-end loaders. Because shovels seem to be the toy that is always at a premium, I brought two vintage metal shovels with us, the kind that dig so well but are also so easily repurposed as weaponry. Don’t blame me. These are the toys we had back in the day. My childhood doubled as “Survival of the Fittest.”

By the time we returned the kids to their parents, chock full of watermelon and barbecue, Mark and I felt we’d done it all. We were exhausted, beat and broke.

We dragged our weary bodies back to the car as the children waved merrily from their front porch. Then they turned to their parents and energetically chirped, “Let’s do something!”

Great Cast Makes ‘Homecoming’ The Best ‘Spider-Man’ Ever

The new Spider-Man: Homecoming is a terrific summer film. Yes, it is the sixth in the series, but it is by far the best and freshest. It is fun, down to earth and actually grapples with some real issues.

I really liked Wonder Woman, and this is possibly better, although by a whisker.

Director Jon Watts keeps the film grounded in real life. While some of the superheroes fight for all of mankind, to preserve life on Earth, Spidey deals with life as a wannabee Avenger, who is also a 10th-grader in Queens. In the past, Spidey swung from tall Manhattan skyscrapers.

Here he deals with the elevated subway running down Queens Blvd.

Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland) is a brilliant kid taking advanced courses, but mostly waiting to hear from his mentor Tony Stark/Ironman about his next mission. Stark assigns flunky Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau) to take the calls and, after being annoyed by the constant calls,

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler he simply puts off the boy. In the meantime, the kid just goes out and tries to do good in the neighborhood, occasionally screwing up, as when he arrests a man for breaking into his own car while the alarm Spidey set off disturbs the neighborhood.

But then Spider-Man sees a group of men breaking into a bank and discovers that they have incredible weapons. It turns out they were the weapons used by the aliens in Avenger 2. Adrian Toomes (Michael Keaton), the man who was supposed to clean up the mess, had been

pushed off the contract by Tony Stark’s company. He was in financial trouble, and Toomes stayed afloat by selling a few of the weapons to criminals. He also created his own flying suit and called himself Vulture. Spider-Man goes after him and is not wildly effective, still learning his own powers.

In the meantime, Peter tries to survive at school. He is crazy over senior Liz (Laura Harrier), the leader of his Academic Decathlon team, but at first gets nowhere, despite her crush on Spider-Man. His best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) discovers his big secret and becomes, also not very effectively, his wingman. There are a few staged scenes, most really good, that eventually lead to the final confrontation.

What makes the film shine is the great cast. The most recent two actors who played Spider-Man (Toby Maguire and Andrew Garfield) were both far older

than the part, and the scripts had to be adjusted. Tom Holland was 19 when he first played the part and was 20 when he played this role. He looks and behaves like the 15-year-old he is supposed to be. He is likable and vulnerable, and that works well.

Keaton is exceptional as the villain.

He is far more a person, a real one, than the typical Marvel Universe villain, and his explanations for why he does what he does are effective. After all, Tony Stark used alien tech and made money from it.

Why shouldn’t he?

The rest of the cast was excellent.

Batalon as the friend was both funny and likable, often stealing scenes. Harrier came across as intelligent and interesting.

Favreau managed to take a part designed for a clown and turn his character into a real person, able to show his motivations.

Marisa Tomei as Aunt May was funny as a woman who could not understand why

every man around seemed to fall for her.

And, of course, Robert Downey Jr. is always amazing as Stark. For a change, he was more bewildered mentor, seeming at a total loss in terms of dealing with a teenager, than superhero.

Being well-grounded in reality was a real plus for this film. Yes, Spidey has superpowers and Ironman and Vulture have their fancy suits (and it should be mentioned that Spider-Man’s “new and improved” suit provides some great laughs), but instead of make-believe cities and large numbers of other mutants, we have real people. Peter’s problems in terms of relationships, his real work at trying to be a normal kid while saving others, provide laughs and real warmth.

This is a charming film, well worth the cost of tickets. It may turn out to be the biggest movie of the summer but, more importantly, you are very likely to enjoy it.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has a vacancy for an alternate member on the Planning and Zoning Commission which meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. All meetings are held in the Village Meeting Hall. If you are a resident of Royal Palm Beach and would like to volunteer your service and expertise on this local government Board, pick up an application at the Village Clerk’s office or download it from the Village’s website at http://fl-royalpalmbeach.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/5207. Return the completed application to the Village Clerk’s office no later than August 9, 2017 for Council consideration at its August 17th meeting.

If further information is desired, please call the Village Clerk at 790-5102.

By: Diane DiSanto, MMC, Village Clerk Publish: Town-Crier Newspaper: June 23, 2017 July 14, 2017

THE WESTERN BUSINESS ALLIANCE

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

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Wellington National Golf Club This is a FREE event for all TWBA members and first time guests!

There are two $50.00 Sponsorship opportunities available for this event. Take advantage of this great opportunity!

For more information and to sign up, log on to TheWesternBusinessAlliance.com

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

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

BUSINESS OVER BREAKFAST Our next Breakfast is July 18th at 8:00 A.M. at Mel’s Way Bistro.

No Fee to attend. Just show up.

Buy your own coffee or Breakfast and connect with other TWBA members as you grow together in a relaxed and enjoyable environment.

(First time guests are welcome) We meet on the First Tuesday of the month at Wild West Diner and the Third Tuesday at Mel’s Way Bistro.

Mel’s Way Bistro 3536 Via Poinciana Dr., Lake Worth FL 33467 Phone: 561.530.7947

Welcome New and Renewing TWBA Members Advocare Independent Distributor...................................................John Carroll

Mel's Way Bistro........................................................................Melanie Magari

Roth Farms, Inc. ..................................................................................Rick Roth

Gourmet Deli House......................................................................Boris Brodsky

Minuteman Press.........................................................................Leonard Grant

Royal Palm Dental Associates...........................................David Goldberg D.D.S.

Health Source of Royal Palm Beach...................................Dr. Sandra Hernandez

Palm Beach Aquatics Inc...................................................................John Natale

Royal Palm Events.............................................................................David Case

Hilary's Restaurant ........................................................................Mary Rakoff

Pet & House Watch -Plus..................................Eric Gordon (Personal concierge)

Velocity Community Credit Union..............................................Maria Pumarejo

Marriott International....................................................................Jennifer Dott

Poinciana Golf Club..................................................................Frederic Paquet

Wellington Community Foundation, Inc..............................Thomas M. Wenham

Meade-Johnson International, Inc..............................................Joey J. Johnson

Professional Family Eyecare......................................................Dr. Jolene Reiter

Wellington National Golf Club.........................................................Julie Pickens

Page 12

July 14 - July 20, 2017

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Wellington Resident Honored At WPB Fourth On Flagler As ‘Hometown Hero’

The local Hustle Hard CrossFit team headed to the CrossFit Games include (L-R) Pamela Tambini-Soero, Pierre Soero, Danielle Szpindor, Eric Cardona, Laura Herrera and Ian Daniel.

Hustle Hard CrossFit Team To Compete At International Games

The CrossFit Games is an international competition to find the fittest individual, team (six people, three men and three women), and master athletes in the world. Every year, there is a five-week online qualifying process where the top teams in each region move on to regionals and then compete for a spot in the CrossFit Games.

Hustle Hard CrossFit is the only team this year to qualify out of the Southeast Region (Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and Georgia) and is headed to the CrossFit Games for the third time.

They will compete against 39 other

teams across the world to find the fittest. The competition will be aired on ESPN and live streamed online via ESPN3, YouTube and Facebook. The games are being held in Madison, Wis. On July 8, in support of Danielle Szpindor, a Wellington resident and head CrossFit instructor at CrossFit Wellington, the fitness center held a fundraising workout to raise the $12,000 needed to offset the major expenses for the six participating athletes.

To support the team, visit www. gofundme.com/team-hustlehard-crossfit-games-17.

Brendan Quinn Graduates From Hartwick College

Brendan J. Quinn of Loxahatchee recently graduated from Hartwick College in New York.

Hartwick is a private liberal arts and sciences college of 1,500

students, located in Oneonta, N.Y., in the northern foothills of the Catskill Mountains. Its expansive curriculum emphasizes an experiential approach to the liberal arts.

RPB Student On Mercer University Dean’s List

Mercer University in Georgia recently announced the Dean’s List for the spring 2017 semester.

Mpho Molapo, a junior from Royal Palm Beach in the Eugene W. Stetson School of Business

and Economics, was named to the Dean’s List. Inclusion on the Dean’s List requires students to meet rigorous grade-point-average standards specific to the college or school within the university.

Before the night sky illuminated with red, white and blue, patriotism was already on full display at 4th on Flagler in downtown West Palm Beach.

The 29th annual celebration included a Military Honor Ceremony prior to the fireworks extravaganza over the Intracoastal Waterway. The special ceremony included a tribute to all branches of the military, a capella performances, the unfurling of a three-story American flag on the side of the Esplanade Grande building and the presentation of the local Hometown Hero award. This year’s Hometown Hero award went to Sophia Eccleston, a U.S. Army veteran who lives in Wellington.

“Our Independence Day celebration has great appeal to our diverse community,” said Mary Pinak, community events manager for the City of West Palm Beach Department of Parks and Recreation. “We have flags, food, fireworks and even human foosball — but we are most proud to

say that our celebration truly has meaning. We often hear that the Military Honor Ceremony is what draws many of our guests. We couldn’t be prouder to continue this special component of our programming.”

Eccleston joined the U.S. Army in 1995 and was assigned to the 95th Military Police Battalion in Heidelberg, Germany as a logistics specialist. She was later transferred to Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Ga., where she was assigned to the 224th Military Intelligence Battalion. There she served the remainder of her time until she was honorably discharged in 1998.

Today, she is an external affairs manager for Florida Power & Light Company in Palm Beach County. She is responsible for building and managing relationships with local elected officials and key community stakeholders on behalf of FPL. Prior to joining the external affairs department, she worked as a solar developer and advanced three large-scale

solar projects located in Desoto, Manatee and Charlotte counties.

“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by my local community — especially on a day that has so much meaning,” Eccleston said.

“I am proud to have served in the military and am truly grateful for the acknowledgement.”

In addition to her military service, Eccleston currently serves her local community as a board member for Gulfstream Goodwill Industries, the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County, the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches, the Palm Beach County Homeless Advisory Board, the Florida Women’s Business Center, the Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce.

She is also a trustee member with the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce and a member of Impact 100 of Palm Beach County. She is a former board member for the National Society of Arts and Letters Florida East Coast Chapter and

Sophia Eccleston the Wounded Veteran Relief Fund.

Eccleston earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Armstrong State University in Georgia and an MBA from American Intercontinental University in Illinois. She is also an alumna of Leadership Palm Beach County.

She has a son who is a junior at George Mason University.

Patriotism On Display In Pinewood Grove Residents Laura and Tim Menard hopped on a golf cart last week in Wellington’s Pinewood Grove community and put American flags in front of everyone’s mailbox. Then, they put a flag in front of all of the trees lining the entrance to the community to help make it the most patriotic in Wellington.

Why did they do this? Because Laura was “expressing my love for this country and building community within Pinewood Grove.”

She grew up in Wellington in the 1980s, when everyone knew their neighbors, Laura recalled.

“We helped each other in time of need, and I always felt that I was part of something bigger

than my family,” she said. “With a single mom working full time, my sisters and I learned the true meaning of the term, ‘It takes a village.’ When I moved to Pinewood Grove four years ago, I knew my family would experience something similar. To foster and help develop the sense of community here, we’ve hosted a block party, distribute annual calendars, invite neighbors to join the neighborhood web site hosted

by Next Door and are working on a business owner directory to provide to all homeowners.”

After the flags were distributed, Laura was thanked by neighbors for giving the community some flair with this patriotic surprise.

Laura and Tim Menard decorate Pinewood Grove.

Forum Club Announces 2017-18 Board Of Directors The Forum Club of the Palm Beaches recently announced its 2017-18 Board of Directors. The Forum Club, based in Palm Beach County, is Florida’s largest nonpartisan political and public affairs organization.

“As members of the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, we have a unique opportunity to

hear from extraordinary speakers whose words and actions affect the world in which we live,” said Tony Pirozzi, Forum Club board president. “The board plays a critical role in helping the organization attract and recruit national thought leaders to Palm Beach County, and we look forward to guiding the Forum Club as it selects the

individuals and topics that will be presented in this next season of the organization’s impressive history.”

The 2017-18 Forum Club Executive Board is comprised of President Tony Pirozzi, President-Elect Barbara Suflas Noble, Vice President Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson and Secretary/ Treasurer Harvey E. Oyer III.

They are joined by the 2017-18 Forum Club Board: Alex Bigelow, John Bowers, David Buchalter, Pam Cahoon, Ed Chase, Joseph P. Chase, Kalinthia Dillard, Samantha Feuer, Mathew Forrest, Mariano Garcia, Rick Gonzalez, Brad Hurlburt, Michelle McGovern, Jeri Muoio, Patrick Rooney Jr. and Neil Schiller.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Dreyfoos Debate Team Wins Top Honors At National Tournament

(Front row) Michael Wang, Anjelica Abraham and Emily Minsky; and (back row) Alex Gordon, Jack Yan, Javier Mora, Michael Bole, Matt Nadel, Kyle Ahern, Ariel Gordon, Kevin Ahern and Chiara Caen.

The Dreyfoos School of the Arts speech and debate team recently received major recognition at the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) National Tournament in Birmingham, Ala. Matthew Nadel, who will be attending Yale University in the fall, was named national champion in the category of Informative Speaking.

In addition, Dreyfoos was recognized as one of the top schools in the nation, receiving the Speech School of Excellence Award. Angela Anyzeski, Dreyfoos speech and debate head coach, was awarded her fourth diamond by the NSDA, now having more than 10,000 points.

Other honors earned by Drey-

foos students included Alexander Gordon, a finalist in Congressional Debate, Senate; Michael Bole, semifinalist in Congressional Debate, House; Jake Perl qualified as an octo-finalist in Original Oratory; Jack Yan qualified as a quarter-finalist in International Extemporaneous Speaking; and Michael Wang qualified as an octo-finalist in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking and was honored as a four-time NSDA tournament qualifier.

Funding for a portion of the students’ travel expenses to the national tournament was provided by the Dreyfoos School of the Arts Foundation. For more information about the foundation, visit www. soafi.org or call (561) 805-6298.

PBSC Awarded Grant To Continue Upward Bound

Palm Beach State College has been awarded another five-year $1.35 million federal grant to continue its Upward Bound program that helps steer high school students on the path to higher education.

The college will receive $270,375 a year for the program that serves 65 participants per year from John I. Leonard, Lake Worth and Palm Beach Lakes high schools. Upward Bound is one of the programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. It

targets low-income and first-generation college students. Students enter the program in the ninth or 10th grade and continue until high school graduation. The Upward Bound staff is charged with tracking the success of students for six years after high school graduation.

“I’m very excited that we have another opportunity to roll up our sleeves and serve deserving students by helping them enroll in a college of their choice,’’ said Jim Culver, Upward Bound director. “Palm Beach State College

provides an excellent platform for me to continue serving in this capacity.”

Upward Bound includes an academic year and a six-week summer component that offers students tutoring, instruction in English, math, science and foreign language, guest speakers on such topics as time management and test-taking strategies, cultural field trips and college visits.

Culver said 75 percent of the participants enroll in a college or university.

Federal programs such as this one are designed to help students overcome class, social and cultural barriers to higher education.

Palm Beach State College first received funding to launch Upward Bound in 1999, and the grant has been renewed four times, twice for four years and twice for five years.

Culver applauded Maureen Capp, the college’s resource and grant development director. “We all have to work together to get it, and we did it,’’ he said.

July 14 - July 20, 2017

Page 13

NEW HORIZONS STUDENTS TAKE PART IN BEACH CLEANUP

New Horizons Elementary School promotes citizenship and environmental awareness to its students. As a culminating activity, first graders and their families met on June 11 at Lake Worth beach to conduct a beach cleanup. First grade teacher and organizer Carolina Marin plans to have future beach cleanups involving more students and parents from the school. Shown above are Marin with her beach cleanup volunteers.

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Oxbridge Academy Debate Team Takes Home Multiple Trophies From National Competition

The Oxbridge Academy debate team recently competed with more than 3,500 top debaters at the 2017 Nationals Tournament hosted by the National Speech and Debate Association in Birmingham, Ala. After four days of competition, the team brought home several awards, paying off months of preparation.

Senior Terrell Seabrooks was named the 2017 national champion in Congressional Debate.

It was Terrell’s third appearance in NSDA Nationals in the final round of Congressional Debate, and this time he came home with a first-place trophy and a scholarship prize to apply to his college of choice.

“Terrell is one of the best con-

gressional debaters this country has ever seen,” debate coach David Childree said. “His arguments are tightly constructed with detailed evidence and examples, and he speaks in a logical and compelling way during debate rounds.”

Juniors Alyson Brusie and Robbie Linck also competed and brought home trophies, winning eighth place in Public Forum Debate. Junior Harrison Koeppel also competed in Extemporaneous Speaking and Impromptu Speaking. The combined success of these four students earned Oxbridge a School of Excellence Trophy, putting Oxbridge among the top 20 debate schools in the nation.

The Oxbridge Academy is a

Oxbridge debate team members Alyson Brusie, Robbie Linck, Terrell Seabrooks and Harrison Koeppel. private college preparatory high 12. For more info., visit www. school, serving grades 9 through oapb.org or call (561) 972-9600.

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Wellington Elementary School recently had a visit from author Cori Putman Oakes (shown above). The third, fourth and fifth grade students heard the author of Dinosaur Boy, The Veil and Witch Town speak about her books, the art of writing and the trials and tribulations of her life. Putman Oakes answered the children’s questions and was happy to be at the school.

Page 14

July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

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NEWS

Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League Offering Free Cat Spay/Neuter During July The Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League will be offering free cat surgeries for the month of July.

This valuable service is open to domestic cats belonging to all residents of Palm Beach County, and free roaming cats. Limited space is available. Visit www.peggyadams. org/schedule-an-appointment to

ITID Garden

Monthly Meetings

continued from page 1 even know that — and there’s different seasonal plantings.”

They also have experts in different plant diseases, which also, unfortunately, are plentiful in South Florida.

“There’s so many different things, and it’s a community activity that everyone will benefit from,” Dunkley said.

Each month, Community Garden Coordinator Howie Zusel, a master gardener himself, has an expert in different agricultural categories give lectures or demonstrations.

Saturday’s speaker will be Mark Young, president of the Palm Beach County chapter of the Rare Fruit Council International.

“Mark is a resident of The Acreage and has more than 110 rare fruit trees on his property out here,” Zusel said. “He is a very successful gardener. I have a great deal of respect for him, so I invited him out to speak at the upcoming meeting.”

Lox PBSO

New 10-Year Contract

continued from page 1 Underwood told the Town-Crier on Tuesday.

He said the town will have an on-duty deputy available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Although we had deputies

Well Budget

Council Sets TRIM

continued from page 1 $1.18 million more than the current year. The revenue value of each 0.1 mill is $763,000 in 2018, compared with $709,000 in 2017.

Using an averaged assessed value of $307,500 at the proposed 2.43 millage rate, homesteaded village property taxes would increase by $15 from the prior year.

Non-homesteaded village property taxes would increase by $53 from the prior year.

Curbside and container solid waste costs will remain unchanged in 2017-18, but there will be a 2.5 percent utility user rate increase (an increase of $1.48 per average bill).

The budget also includes the second year of the 15-year Saddle Trail Debt Service program, which Quickel said will be $1,720.54 per acre for those properties.

Capital projects in the proposed 2018 budget include: South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road intersection improvements ($477,000), water and wastewater facility renewals and systemwide renewals and replacements ($19.7 million), expansion of multi-use paths and bike lanes ($300,000), improvements to the neighborhood trails system ($300,000), streetscape improvements and village signage ($600,000), surface water management infrastructure improvements ($800,000), Acme drainage renewal ($740,000), replacement of the Peaceful Waters boardwalk ($400,000) and the rebuilding of

complete the online application.

Domestic cats must have an appointment, while free roaming community cats must arrive in a covered trap between 8 and 9 a.m.

Additional to the complimentary spay/neuter, each cat will be given the FVRCP+CH vaccine, rabies vaccine and a microchip.

Palm Beach County Ordinance 98-22 requires cats to be spayed or neutered and micro-chipped by four months of age unless medically contraindicated.

All programs at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League support the Countdown 2 Zero goal of saving all adoptable animals in

Zusel anticipates a full room for the Hamlin House meeting, explaining that the last meeting was standing room only.

“We can’t wait to hear what he has to say,” Zusel said. “I’ve heard him speak many times. He’s excellent.”

Zusel received his master gardener certification from the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Services (IFAS) at the Mounts Botanical Gardens in West Palm Beach. He works closely with two other master gardeners who live in The Acreage, Jennifer Casia and Jessica Lindhorst, who worked together to get the community garden going in The Acreage.

Zusel said he is very involved with different garden groups and is trying to foster more interest in The Acreage community.

“A lot of people come to the classes to learn so that they can go home and grow things in their own yard,” he said. “The community garden promotes healthy eating.

We don’t use any pesticides or chemicals or things like that. It’s natural and organic, and we’re trying to promote that out here in The Acreage.”

Zusel said some of the biggest challenges for budding gardeners in South Florida revolve around learning to plant the right plants in the right place at the right time of year, as well as getting good plant stock.

“You can’t walk into a chain store and get plants that haven’t been treated with pesticides,” he said. “It’s not healthy, and it’s not good for the environment.

We promote natural gardening and native plants. You can’t take something that’s going to grow in the north and expect it to grow here in South Florida. Florida gardening is entirely different, and we’re sharing that with our neighbors.”

Zusel’s personal garden was featured in the 2016 Connoisseurs Garden Tour as one of the eight best gardens in Palm Beach County.

He said people have a wide array of gardening questions, from mysterious substances appearing on the leaves of their plants to what and where to plant.

“If we don’t know, we can find out,” he said. “We use the Master Gardener Help Desk. The extension agents are always very helpful to us.”

Visit www.itidgarden.com for more information about the

community garden. For questions about gardening, visit www.

mounts.org/gardens-gardening/ ask-a-master-gardener.

available, we did not have one assigned to the town. The budget is for five officers, which is needed in order to provide 24-hour-a-day service seven days a week,” he said, explaining that the transition will be incremental.

He said the deputies will be offered a dedicated office at Loxahatchee Groves Town Hall.

“We will increase the millage rate to accommodate the increase

in the sheriff’s contract of roughly $316,000,” Underwood said.

He pointed out that an increase of that amount to accommodate the extra expense will require a unanimous vote by the council at its final budget adoption meeting in September, which is part of the TRIM legislation. If the council cannot approve the budget with the increased millage rate, it must operate off the old millage rate.

Underwood pointed out that the council could fund the PBSO increase, or it has the option of creating its own police department, and the PBSO has offered to assist if it goes that route.

Underwood said having deputies assigned to the town will enable the PBSO to do more as far as speed and through-truck enforcement on major roads.

“We have not been able to get

Wellington Community Park ($2.4 million in sales surtax revenue).

Siskind said the renewal and replacement of water and wastewater facilities is a large expense, but one that was expected and planned for. She noted that safe drinking water is crucial to the residents and businesses in Wellington.

In addition, Siskind supported the rebuilding of Wellington Community Park on South Shore Blvd.

McGovern also liked what he saw in the draft budget.

“This is not the most exciting budget I’ve ever seen, but it’s a very public safety-focused budget,” he said. “This budget particularly focuses on various aspects of safety — both the common aspect of funding two additional sheriff’s deputies specifically for Wellington, but also fulfilling Wellington’s long-term commitment to overall public safety by following our ‘pay as you go’ budgetary concept and coming forward with a significant investment in public utilities.”

The budget will make sure that Wellington’s facilities remain state-of-the-art, he said.

“There are a lot of municipalities that cannot do, and have not done, these kind of infrastructure repairs,” McGovern said. “They are confronted with delaying, and putting off, those types of repairs or improvements, or bonding them and committing the future of their municipality to paying for it. We don’t have to do either of those things.”

Quickel noted that Wellington needed to set its tax rates in order to send them to Palm Beach County by July 20.

“The TRIM (Truth in Millage)

rate is the rate used on notices our property owners will receive in late August or early September,” Quickel said. “All the taxing authorities in Palm Beach County will be listed. What you’re doing tonight is approving the rate for Wellington.”

Even though the proposed rate has been set, it could potentially be decreased before the budget is approved, but it cannot be increased.

During her presentation, Quickel said that Wellington’s budget process involved an analysis of service business priorities, policy review and the creation of business plans for all of Wellington’s departments.

What was presented “is basically what the staff has come up with after meeting with and discussing things with the council,” Gerwig said. “As we come together, we can compare notes before the final budget is approved.”

Gerwig called it a good framework that is fairly noncontroversial, adding that each council member had ideas that were included and other ideas that were not part of the presented budget.

“There are other things I wanted to see in there, and I guess I’ll have to convince them,” she said.

Gerwig noted that some of her ideas are “longer-range than next year,” such as her dream of a performing arts center in Wellington.

The July 11 meeting was the first of many that will take place before the end of September. The next budget workshop is set for Aug. 7. By law, the deadline to adopt the final budget is Sept. 30.

But residents with questions, concerns or comments on the

proposed budget are invited to give their input. Public outreach to gain input from residents and stakeholders will take place through community forums, lobby surveys and the Budget Challenge online survey, which can be found at www.wellingtonfl.gov/survey.

“We look at the Budget Challenge, and at comments we receive as part of the budget process,” Gerwig said. “If people can’t come to the meetings, this is a way for them to give us their ideas.”

McGovern invited residents to review the items and participate.

“It’s something we all take very seriously,” he said. “We look at the responses, and who responded, and the comments at the end of the survey. This is our chance to get direct feedback on specifics of the proposed budget.”

Siskind encouraged residents to not only take the Budget Challenge over the next month (it’s available online until Aug. 15), but to email council members with their concerns as well. “We’re always looking beyond the upcoming budget, and it’s never too early to plan for the future,” she said.

McGovern said village residents and non-residents who work in Wellington should take the online budget survey.

“The survey is an exercise in prioritizing community goals and needs, both short-term and longterm,” McGovern said. “There’s a lot of ‘rate this’ importance to you questions… Budgeting is a longterm forecast. Some of that may be of an immediate need, and some of it is notification of upcoming needs, so we can start to plan and budget for it.”

much accomplished in that regard without having a dedicated employee,” he said. “I believe we will get improved law enforcement services.”

Underwood said the town negotiated for about three months on the new PBSO contract before the approval of the new 10-year contract in May. “This is a significant change,” Underwood said at the May meeting.

During discussion of the contract, Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel stipulated that he would like a 4x4 pickup truck, rather than a squad car, assigned to the town.

Araujo said that every officer assigned to the town would have a pickup truck.

Jarriel said he was glad that the town would have five deputies who will get to know the town and its residents.

“They’re going to get to know where our problems lie,” he said.

“Most of us know that the crime is getting worse here in Loxahatchee Groves, especially stealing. They’re doing it at night, and it’s costing the residents. The residents have to decide if it’s worth the [$316,000] more to have a dedicated police officer. I personally feel it’s worth it.”

Jarriel added that the council

could offer a break in solid waste pickup to residents as an incentive.

Araujo also pointed out that the contract provides much more than just the street deputies.

Councilman Ryan Liang said he thought that if and when the cost of police reaches $1 million, the town should consider having its own police department.

“I think that’s the tipping point where the cost is roughly the same, although the PBSO does offer more services that our own police won’t offer,” Liang said. “At the same time, we don’t necessarily need all those extras, and we would be paying the PBSO to do those services anyway.”

Araujo said the PBSO would be glad to help the town start its own police department if it chose to.

“I would recommend you do a very thorough study of what the first-tier, second-tier and third-tier costs are,” he said.

Araujo said he thought the PBSO has carried the town for 10 years, but there is a lot of growth in Loxahatchee Groves that should be addressed from an enforcement standpoint.

“The citizens want staying power,” he said. “I heard traffic mentioned three times tonight.

That requires staying power.”

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

Join us at one of our weekly meetings Wellington Rotary Meets Thursdays - 12:15 p.m.

The Wanderer’s Club

For additional information call Don Gross 561-723-8461

Royal Palm Beach Rotary Meets Thursdays - 7:30 a.m.

The Wild West Diner

For additional information call Evelyn Flores 561-308-6978

Make lasting friendships. Enjoy good fellowship.

Palm Beach County. Peggy Adams partners with Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control in these efforts. In doing so, Peggy Adams serves as the lead private shelter in the Countdown 2 Zero adoption event. The 2017 event will be Saturday, Sept. 9 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center.

The mission of the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League is to provide shelter to lost, homeless and unwanted animals; to provide spay and neuter and other medical services for companion animals; to care for, protect and find quality homes for homeless and neglected companion

animals; and to advocate animal welfare, community involvement and education to further the bond between people and animals. The Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League’s adoption center is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For info., call (561) 686-3663 or visit www.peggyadams.org.

Master gardeners volunteer their time to keep the ITID Community Garden looking its best.

Lox Board

Keeping Trees Trimmed

continued from page 3 rid of the peppers because they are invasive.”

Committee members also discussed whether the 10-foot setback penalty was overreach, which could negatively impact some desirable growth in rights of way.

Committee Member Veronica Close made a motion to recommend that the council consider an ordinance regarding removal of vegetation along public roads in the town, and that it be all veg-

etation, not just invasive exotics.

She also recommended that the 10-foot setback penalty not be imposed due to the possible negative effects on fencing and hedges in the town.

Fleischmann pointed out that the ordinance only addresses nonnative exotics. Close said she understood, but she wanted the council to consider all plants.

“If the purpose of this ordinance is for the safety of people traveling on the road, it doesn’t matter what kind of vegetation is blocking them, so that’s why my motion includes a recommendation to be all vegetation,” Close said.

Her motion carried 4-0, with Committee Member William Ford absent.

Please Welcome our NEW Sales and Special Events Specialist...

Randy Soto

The Chamber is thrilled to announce Randy Soto as our newest Wellington Chamber Family Member!

Randy was Born in Manhattan, New York and has been living in South Florida for 20 years.

Randy has been a resident of Wellington since 2013.

He attended University of Central Florida from 2002-2005. UCF is where Randy developed a passion for coaching and mentoring.

Randy has been coaching basketball in South Florida since 2007 and is currently the Head Coach for the girls Varsity Program at Wellington HS. For the last 7 years Randy has served as a volunteer Coach and worked closely with the Wellington Wolves basketball program under Chris Fratalia.

Professionally Randy has a background in Sales and account management. He was successful in growing his business and managing key accounts across Palm Beach and Martin County. Randy is also a Certified EMT for the state of Florida and currently attending Coral Springs Fire Academy.

Randy has 2 children Caleb 8 and Gianna 4 both attend Wellington Schools.

The Town-Crier

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

Page 15

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The Town-Crier

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‘Horseshoer’ Brennan Continues Family Tradition

In the 1970s, Ellen Rosenberg used a farrier named Billy Brennan back in her New York days. Fast forward to 2017, and she bumps into a farrier — he prefers “horseshoer” — named Billy Brennan while visiting a local farm. It is Billy Brennan III, son of her old acquaintance. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 19

July 14 - July 20, 2017

Special July 4 Events At Wellington National

The Fourth of July Summer Scramble and Barbecue Event was held at Wellington National Golf Club last week. It was a dual event for club members. In the morning, teams participated in the Fourth of July Golf Scramble. From 12 to 4 p.m., Wellington National hosted a poolside barbecue. Page 24

Shopping Spree

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION Tapas Bar, Restaurant & Catering

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Business

‘640 The Hurricane’ Hits The Local Airwaves, Replacing Fox Sports 640

VAN DELL JEWELER’S ANNIVERSARY

Alpha Media West Palm Beach recently changed WMEN from Fox Sports 640 to “640 The Hurricane.”

The station will still be an all-sports Fox affiliate, but carry more edge and attitude. “640 The Hurricane” is also the new radio home for the Miami Hurricanes.

The Hurricanes will join a play-by-play lineup that features the New York Yankees, Florida Panthers and weekly NFL games. Page 20

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PBSO Deputies Lead A Day Of Fun Events At B&G Club

FRIDAY, JULY 14th 10:00am til 6:00pm

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies from Wellington visited the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club on July 7 to host a field day and career day at the club, engaging with the children and teaching them about the PBSO’s work. Several club members received awards at the event. Page 23

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Page 18 July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

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CENTANNI CAFÉ Italian Restaurant

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WE’VE MOVED! CENTANNI CAFÉ is now located in Wellington’s Village Walk community. Fidel Alvarez is serving up his popular Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner, featuring salads, subs, pizza, pasta, chicken, veal and desserts at very reasonable prices. Village Walk is a gated community, but non-residents can dine in or take food to go by just calling the restaurant for entry. Free delivery is available through Delivery Dudes, and catering is also available. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant is closed Mondays.

Located in the Village Walk Community Non-Village Walk Residents - Reservations Only

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2540 Village Walk Circle • Wellington OPEN 11am - 9pm Daily | Closed Monday | Catering Available

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www.bangkokjamrpb.com Open 7 Days Mon.-Fri. Lunch 11:30am -3pm Dinner 5-10pm Sat.-Sun. Dinner 5-10pm

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

July 14 - July 20, 2017

FEATURES

Page 19

‘Horseshoer’ Billy Brennan Continues A Family Tradition I’ve always been able to remember events in my life with great clarity, replaying many of them as if I was watching a movie. Big events and small, important and ordinary — especially the day one of my all-time dreams came true: buying my first horse.

I had worked and saved for years, building my bank account up to an incredible (for me) $1,000. It was 1971, I was in my second year of college, living at home with my mother and commuting daily to C.W. Post College on Long Island, which happened to have a stable on the grounds. By the time I had bought the horse for $600, paid $50 for shipping, $50 for the first month’s board (outside in a shelter-less pen), and bought some brushes, a halter and lead (blue nylon) and a bridle, I had $50 left.

I borrowed saddles from the riding school or rode bareback.

When it came time for my horse to get shod, mom paid the $30. “This is a gift for the new horse,” she told me. “Don’t ask me for even one more penny. This is your horse. You have to pay for everything else.”

I did, working all sorts of jobs to keep him. But that’s not what this story is about.

It’s about the man who shod my horse, along with virtually every other horse in that barn.

He and his crew would arrive, put four horses in the crossties, and get down to work. One man (and they were all men back then) pulled Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL.

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg off old shoes. One man trimmed hooves. One man shaped new shoes or adjusted old ones, while another nailed them on. It was a veritable assembly line of shoeing, and in no time, all the horses were done and the crew had packed up and left.

The farrier’s name was Billy Brennan. Now comes the small world part.

Fast forward to 2017. I was at a local barn, interviewing the owner, and we had found out we both grew up on Long Island. We began recalling the names of barns, owners, riders and horses, when she mentioned, “You should talk to the horseshoer working on my horses.”

I had noticed him when I arrived, and now we walked back and shook hands. His name?

Billy Brennan III, the son of the man I had known back in New York.

“My family were snow birds, originally,” he said. “I started helping my dad when I was little, 12 or 13. I always wanted to be just like him. I couldn’t concentrate on school, so I quit at 16 and worked with him full-time. He had a lot of guys working for him, but I was the best at pulling shoes and finishing feet. I

“Horseshoer” Billy Brennan at work. never regretted my decision. I was making good money and loved what I was doing, being outside with horses all day. We worked a lot of barns, and there were some cute girls at those barns. We did a lot of hunters, jumpers and tons of polo horses. I’m lucky that I have a strong back. Dad always said a good farrier needs a strong back.”

Join AYSO 1521 Soccer this coming Fall Season!

Located at Samuel Friedland Park, 18500 Hamlin Boulevard, Loxahatchee, Florida 33470.

In person registration is available on July 22 from 10am to 1:30pm and August 19 from 10am to 1pm in the Acreage Library located at 15801 Orange Blvd, Loxahatchee.

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Billy’s family sold their New York home and moved to South Florida permanently in 1980. They had been doing so many polo ponies in the winter that it made sense to follow the work. Billy calls himself a “horseshoer,” rather than farrier. He cautions against trying to do too much to change a horse’s natural hoof, See ROSENBERG, page 25

Page 20

July 14 - July 20, 2017

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The Town-Crier

BUSINESS NEWS

‘640 The Hurricane’ BANK OF AMERICA STUDENT LEADERS Hits The Airwaves HEAD TO SUMMIT IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Alpha Media West Palm Beach recently changed WMEN from Fox Sports 640 to “640 The Hurricane.”

The station will still be an all-sports Fox affiliate, but carry more edge and attitude.

“640 The Hurricane” is also the new radio home for the Miami Hurricanes. The Hurricanes will join a play-by-play lineup that features the New York Yankees, Florida Panthers and weekly NFL games. In addition to the play-by-play, the station will offer top-notch talent, including Dan Patrick, Colin Cowherd and Doug Gottlieb.

“640 The Hurricane is like a Cat 5 storm that will whip up the South Florida market with relevant and entertaining content,” Alpha Media West Palm Beach SVP/Market Manager Elizabeth Hamma said.

“It’s a station designed for the passionate sports fan.”

The station plans to offer a unique sports talk format. “With big brands and big names, we will be the fan’s evacuation route from boring sports talk radio. 640 The Hurricane will give the sports format a much-needed edge in the market,” WMEN Program Director Paul Mason said.

Hair Cuttery’s Share-A-Haircut Returns Hair Cuttery will be conducting its annual Share-A-Haircut program benefiting underprivileged children as they head back to school.

From Aug. 1 to Aug. 15, for every child up to age 18 who purchases a haircut at one of Hair Cuttery’s nearly 900 salons, one free haircut certificate will be donated to a disadvantaged child in the community.

“It is important for every child to begin the new school year with a sense of confidence and excite-

ment,” CEO Dennis Ratner said.

“While a back-to-school haircut may seem like a basic necessity to most, for some it’s a luxury. Our Share-A-Haircut program ensures that children, regardless of their financial circumstances, will look and feel good about themselves as they get ready to start the new school year.”

To find Hair Cuttery locations in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, visit www.haircuttery.com.

Bank of America’s 2017 Palm Beach County Student Leaders recently traveled to Washington, D.C., for a leadership summit. The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is a prestigious internship where five students in the county are selected each year due to their commitment to community work and leadership potential. Shown above, Miles Franklin, Emily Dixon, De-Shaunah Dixon, Maria Haro and Chikaodinaka Nwosu were selected as this year’s honorees and are participating in an eight-week paid internship at Communities in Schools of Palm Beach County. On July 10, the students joined 200 students from around the country at the leadership summit in Washington, D.C., where they are meeting with members of Congress and learning about diversity, nonprofit work and building leadership skills.

The Town-Crier

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

BUSINESS NEWS

Page 21

Big Plans For Equestria Horse Park At White Fences Equestria International Brands has rebranded the Equestrian Estates at White Fences, which is now known as Equestria Horse Park at White Fences.

The horse park has a rich history in Palm Beach County, hosting the Palm Beach Derby since 1999. In 2000, the horse park hosted the Olympic Section Trials to qualify riders to represent the United States Equestrian Team in Sydney, Australia. Four USET members and one alternate went on to represent the U.S. and receive the bronze medal.

Equestria International Brands will offer upscale alternatives in real estate options. Private equestrian estate packages include a residence, barn and covered, all-weather arena with wide-ranging acreage options.

Club Equestria, the first of its kind gated condominium equestrian communities in sanctuary horse park settings, will offer four-, six- and eight-stall private hamlets (barns), including air conditioned tack rooms, half/full baths, kitchenettes and laundry with many other options and configurations. All hamlets also include private paddocks.

Many Club Equestria locations will include multiple indoor, covered and all-weather arenas, each with footing by Premier Equestrian.

Owners will enjoy turf fields, eventing courses and access to the trail system. All Club Equestria locations will have 24-hour security. The hamlet purchase options allow for single owner purchase, investment or fractional ownership. Equestria International Brands will also offer the Equestria Inn & Suites and Equestria Oaks brands of condo/hotel extended-stay properties worldwide.

Equestria Horse Park at White Fences is one of three Club Equestria locations being designed and created in Florida markets. The others are in Ocala and Jacksonville. Other U.S. locations include Arizona, California, Colorado, Kentucky, Montana, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington.

The official launch of Equestria International Brands is scheduled for September 2018. Equestria Horse Park at White Fences’ scheduled completion date is September 2019.

A construction moratorium will be in place from Oct. 15, 2017 through April 15, 2018.

Equestria Horse Park at White Fences is now offering 2017-18 winter season temporary stabling options with full and dry-stall stabling accommodating approximately 150 horses. Convenient trailering drop

The entrance to the newly rebranded Equestria Horse Park at White Fences in Loxahatchee. off and loading areas are plentiful, as well as trailer parking. Amenities include four dressage arenas and one 150-foot by 300-foot hunter/ jumper all-weather arena resurfaced

by Premier Equestrian.

Equestria Horse Park at White Fences offers a sanctuary, coun-

try-like, calming atmosphere with direct access to the miles of western Palm Beach County trail systems.

Schooling shows and top trainers will be boarding and offering training symposiums throughout the winter season.

Special seasonal pricing packages

and pre-construction pricing will be offered on all hamlet sales exclusively for winter boarding clients prior to the grand opening, with early booking specials prior to Aug. 1.

For more information and bookings, contact Carl Ragosta at (732) 684-8071 or cragosta@wdgint.com.

Page 22

July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

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Voted Best Breakfast in the West 12 Years!

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The Town-Crier

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

SPORTS & RECREATION

Page 23

PBSO DEPUTIES LEAD A DAY OF FUN EVENTS AT BOYS & GIRLS CLUB Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputies from Wellington visited the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club on Friday, July 7 to host a field day and career day at the club, engaging with the children and teaching them about the work that the PBSO does every day. Several club members received awards for different activities they participated in during the day’s events.

PHOTOS BY JACK LOWENSTEIN/TOWN-CRIER

Deputy Casey Lussier prepares for a tug of war with club kids.

Sophia Bena, Keenan Libecca, Landon Earl, Daman Anireve, Melanie Ona and Daniel Herrera.

Victoria Martinez, Deputy Scott Poritz and B&G Club Director Kenda Peterson.

Deon Williams bounces on a ball.

Thomas Santos, Ian Smikle, Garrens Catul Jr. and Arlen Ferrer with their medals.

Oriean Eells, Isiah Cesareo, Deputy Roy Gonzalez, Kemuel Lopez and Trent Cutter.

Gracie Price asks Deputy Scott Poritz a question.

PBSO deputies and Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club members gather in the gymnasium.

Thomas and Layla Santos.

Manrique Avreu sits on a PBSO motorcycle.

Thomas Santos, Arlen Ferrer, counselor Antonino Brown, Jonathan Mazzeo and Xavier Wingoer.

Page 24

July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

SPORTS & RECREATION

WELLINGTON NATIONAL HOSTS SPECIAL EVENTS FOR FOURTH OF JULY HOLIDAY

The Fourth of July Summer Scramble and Barbecue Event was held at Wellington National Golf Club on Tuesday, July 4. It was a dual event for Wellington National members. In the morning, several teams participated in the Fourth of July Golf Scramble that began with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Awards and prize money went to the top team. From 12 to 4 p.m., Wellington National hosted a poolside barbecue event. The barbecue was fully catered by Jordan Naftal and his team at Wellington National and featured a large water slide for children and their families to enjoy.

Children enjoy the special holiday water slide.

Golfers Alan Cooke, Dean Vocaturo, Joe Dymkowski and Mark Elie.

Wellington National Golf Club staff sporting holiday attire.

Wellington Interior Design Center

75% Off Selected Items All Floor Samples, Artwork, & Lighting must go to make room for Fall Inventory.

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The Town-Crier

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July 14 - July 20, 2017

SPORTS & RECREATION

COUNTY’S REC DEPARTMENT HONORED

Rosenberg

‘Horseshoer’ Billy Brennan

continued from page 19 explaining that it is best to keep things simple and make the horse comfortable. “Every hoof is different,” he said. “The horse lets you know what it needs.”

Billy tries to keep to the lessons his father taught him.

“I don’t do as many horses now as I used to, but there’s still enough work to keep me busy,” Billy said. “I think there are more horses in Wellington each winter than anywhere else in the country. I don’t do a lot of show horses. I prefer the year-round owners, mostly backyard horses and a few polo ponies. I charge reasonable rates, and I show up on time, like my dad. He built his business on being dependable.”

Kim Krogmann-Breier, owner of La Petite Cheval Farm, has been a client of Billy’s since her family moved to the area in 1994.

“No one else does our horses,” At the Palm Beach County Commission meeting on July 11, Commissioner Dave Kerner presented a proclamation declaring July 2017 as Park & Recreation Month in Palm Beach County. County recreation officials were on hand for the presentation ceremony. Shown above are: (L-R) Public Relations Specialist Bibi Baksh, Golf Operations Supervisor Bethany King, Interim Facility Manager Derrick Easley, Commissioner Kerner, Department Director Eric Call, Administrative Assistant Gladys Whigham, Park Ranger Mahboob Morshed and Assistant Department Director Jennifer Cirillo.

Summer Menu $ 1895

10% CASH DISCOUNT

CAESAR SALAD, HOUSE SALAD, PASTA FAGIOLI, OR MINESTRONE

Eggplant Parmigiana with pasta Eggplant Rollatini with pasta Chicken Parmigiana with pasta Chicken Francese with pasta Chicken Marsala with pasta Veal Parmigiana with pasta Veal Milanese with pasta Shrimp Parmigiana over pasta Shrimp Marinara over pasta Zuppa di Mussels over pasta Sole with Broccoli or Potatoes

she said. “He’s very honest and has a good eye for a horse’s foot. He has seen it all and knows what he is doing. He shows up on time and does a great job. One time we got in a rescue horse with terrible feet, which hadn’t been done in years and had chronic abscesses. Billy worked out a plan that reduced the abscesses and had the feet shaped normally.

I’d recommend him to anyone who wants a quality, reliable, honest horseshoer.”

Billy finished trimming the horse he was working on and straightened up with a smile. “Horses and the horse community have been very good to us over the years,” he said.

“Carrying on dad’s work is very special.”

Billy and his family live in The Acreage. His wife is a real estate broker, and none of their four daughters are farriers. The line stops with him. Billy’s dad passed a few years back, but I’m sure he’s looking on, proud of the son who wanted to be just like him.

To contact Billy Brennan, call (561) 301-8984.

“Horseshoer” Billy Brennan explained that it is best to keep things simple and make the horse comfortable. “Every hoof is different,” Brennan said. “The horse lets you know what it needs.”

Summer Happy Hour All Day Every Day

Beer Specials ~ House Wines $5 ~ Svedka Martini’s $6

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Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to close.

IN THE MARKETPLACE AT WYCLIFFE 4115 State Road 7 • Wellington • (Facing Lake Worth Rd.)

561-355-5900

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Pick up and Cash only

~Fish may be prepared either Oreganata, Luciano, Francese, or Grilled~ ~Pasta Sides are Linguini or Angel Hair with meat sauce or tomato sauce~

Prepared Fresh to order.

Page 25

Page 26

July 14 - July 20, 2017

Saturday, July 15 • VSTAR Entertainment will present Paw Patrol Live on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

• The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will walk in Okeeheelee Park South (7500 Forest Hill Blvd.) on Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 a.m. Call Margaret at (561) 324-3543 for more info.

• The Palm Beach County Thrift Store (2455 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach) will hold its monthly auction on Saturday, July 15 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.pbcgov.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Pet Party for ages 2 to 6 on Saturday, July 15 at 11 a.m. Gather around for stories, songs and a craft featuring pet pals. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Norton Museum of Art (1451 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach) will celebrate Bastille Day on Saturday, July 15 from noon to 5 p.m. as part of its French Connections exhibition on display through Aug. 13. Visit www.norton.org for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host an Acoustic Java Jam for adults on Saturday, July 15 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent or bring your acoustic instruments and jam out. Coffee will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free concert with Cash & Friends on Saturday, July 15 at 8:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

Sunday, July 16 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Cat Castles for adults on Sunday, July 16 at 1 p.m. Want to make your four-legged friends happy? Build and decorate a cardboard cat castle or make handmade dog toys. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

Monday, July 17 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “It’s Slime Time!” for ages 7 to 12 on Monday, July 17 at 2:30 p.m. Explore and experiment with solids and liquids while making slime to take home. Use simple recipes to create a variety of colors and textures. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Make a Dragon for ages 5 to 10 on Monday, July 17 at 3 p.m. Use craft supplies to create your own dragon. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Glass Magnets for adults on Monday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. Create little magnets using glass gems and paper. Materials will be provided.

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

Tuesday, July 18 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Draw Your Diary Day for all ages on Tuesday, July 18 at 2 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of bookmaking, comic drawing, and

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

other awesome activities and games. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Art for Adults: Watercolor Open Studio for ages 16 and up on Tuesday, July 18 at 2 p.m. Dive in and create your own original watercolor masterpiece. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Stitching Starters Beginning Crochet for ages 10 and up on Tuesday, July 18 at 2:30 p.m. Learn the basics of crocheting or, if you know how to crochet already, bring your projects to work on. Bring a size H, I, J or K hook and a skein of worsted weight yarn. Participants must be able to work independently. Materials will not be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a Paper Airplane Contest for ages 5 to 12 on Tuesday, July 18 at 2:30 p.m. Create a paper airplane and see how far it can fly. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Anime Otaku Club for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, July 18 at 6:30 p.m. Hang out, watch anime, eat snacks and talk with friends and fans about all the coolest shows from Japan.

Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Kretzer Piano Music Foundation’s popular Music for the Mind Concert Series will return with the Irwin Solomon Jazz Quartet on Tuesday, July 18 at 7 p.m. in the Harriet Himmel Theater at CityPlace in West Palm Beach. For more info., visit www.kretzerpiano.com/kpmf.

Wednesday, July 19 • The 23rd annual Kids Fitness Festival of the Palm Beaches will take place on Wednesday, July 19 and Thursday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Visit www.palmbeachsports.com for more info.

• The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County will hold its Hot Topic Luncheon on the opiate and sober home crisis on Wednesday, July 19 at 11:30 a.m. at the Atlantis Country Club.

Guest speakers include Chief Assistant State Attorney Al Johnson and Palm Beach Post reporter Christine Stapleton. Advance registration is required at www.lwvpbc.org or by calling Estelle Friedman at (561) 968-4123.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Building Fun for ages 8 and up on Wednesdays, July 19 and July 26 at 1 p.m. Get hands-on with engineering as attendees work in teams using a variety of materials. Test each design to see what works best. Call (561) 6814100 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Storytelling: I’ll Tell You Mine, If You’ll Tell Me Yours” for adults on Wednesday, July 19 at 2 p.m. Explore the art of storytelling.

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

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Cutting the Cord: Alternatives to Cable & Satellite TV” for adults on Wednesday, July 19

at 2:30 p.m. Discover cost-saving ways to break away from your current provider. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Build a Magical World with Brent Gregory for all ages on Wednesday, July 19 at 2:30 p.m. Celebrate the summer with amazing magic, audience participation, music and more. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Dragon Eggs for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, July 19 at 6 p.m. Do you want a pet dragon? Do the next best thing and create your own dragon egg using paint, thumb tacks, and a Styrofoam egg. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• Wellington officials and PBSO deputies will hold a Neighborhood Watch Meeting in Guilford Villas on Wednesday, July 19 at 6 p.m. Call (561) 791-4764 for more info.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Coloring Club for adults on Wednesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Color for fun and relaxation with other coloring enthusiasts. Coloring pages and materials will be provided, or bring your own coloring book to work on. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Tai Chi for adults on Wednesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Bring water and wear sneakers or securely fastened shoes. For those who cannot stand for long periods, an alternative form can be done while seated. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Pizza Book Club featuring Con Academy

by Joe Schreiber for ages 12 and up on Wednesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Read the book and eat pizza during a discussion of what it really takes to get to the top. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host a Writers Reading Open Mic for ages 18 and up on Wednesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. Writers are invited to share their work in this open mic event, or come just to listen. The preferred reading length is no more than five minutes of a family-friendly subject matter. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Shulamit Hadasssah will hold a movie night Wednesday, July 19 at 7 p.m. at a local home to watch Enemies, A Love Story. A $5 donation is requested. To RSVP, call (561) 512-3172 or e-mail coolmama18@hotmail.com.

Thursday, July 20 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host a Rock Painting Festival for all ages on Thursday, July 20 at 9:30 a.m.

Create beautifully painted rocks to keep or hide in the community. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• Wellington Regional Medical Center will host a seminar on Fall Prevention on Thursday, July 20 at 11:30 a.m. at the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call Meredith Tuckwood at (561) 753-2476.

The Town-Crier • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host its Cookie Book Club for ages 8 to 12 on Thursday, July 20 at 4 p.m. Grab a copy of the book Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry. Read it, and then eat cookies and share your thoughts.

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

• The Wellington Art Society will host an artists’ reception on Thursday, July 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd). Artists selected to participate in the rotating gallery exhibit will be recognized. The public is invited to attend and enjoy the local art on display. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

• Wellington will host a Food Truck Invasion at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) on Thursday, July 20 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. with a free Jimi Hendrix tribute concert at 6:30 p.m. For info., visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

• The Western Business Alliance will hold a Business After Hours Networking event Thursday, July 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Wellington National Golf Club. For more info., visit www.thewesternbusinessalliance.com.

• Join hostesses Lisa Banionis and Fiamma Stein and the Women of the Wellington Chamber for Sultry Summer Nights, an evening of dining, cocktails, philanthropy and networking, on Thursday, July 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. fireside at the 7th Chukker bar and restaurant at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. To RSVP, call (561) 792-6525.

Friday, July 21 • MNM Productions will present the musical Company from Friday, July 21 through Sunday, Aug. 6 in the Marshall E. Rinker Sr. Playhouse at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. For more info., visit www.kravis.org.

• The Royal Palm Beach Senior Expo will return to the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center on Friday, July 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Exhibitors will be on hand with helpful product and service information for the senior community. Admission and parking are free. For more info., visit www. royalpalmbeach.com or call (561) 790-5149.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Self-Defense for Teens for ages 12 to 17 on Friday, July 21 at 2:30 p.m.

Participants are to wear closed-toe shoes and loose-fitting clothing. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register.

• The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Toddler Art Time on Friday, July 21 at 3:30 or 4:30 p.m. Bring the little ones to this experiential art class designed just for tiny artists. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info.

• The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of the movie Alice Through the Looking Glass on Friday, July 21 at 8:30 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl. gov for more info.

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

The Town-Crier

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

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

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

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

www.gotowncrier.com

VACATION GETAWAY

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A/C AND REFRIGERATION

ROOFING

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

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

NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated.

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

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

AUTO BODY REPAIR

SCREENING

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

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

PLACE YOUR REAL ESTATE AD HERE CALL 793-7606

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

DRIVEWAY REPAIR

EMPLOYMENT WANTED

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

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT— CNA/HHA mature, experienced in all areas. Palm Beach Local References. English speaking only. Seeking Full-Time/Part-Time. Call 561-632-0464

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE FOR SALE - WELLINGTON SPACIOUS LIVING IN SPANISH STYLE COURTYARD HOUSE ON CUL-DE-SAC — in prestigious Wycliffe Golf & Country Club. Split bedroom floor plan, 4 bd. 4 ba. overlooking courtyard/pool with view of lake/ golf course. $425,000.00 Sold as is. Seller motivated. Wendy G. Perlman 561-818-3398 wgperlman@gmail.com

LOT FOR SALE - ACREAGE/LOXAHATCHEE A C R E A G E / L O X A H AT C H E E L O T — Cleared, ready to build already with house pad, conveniently located. $82,700. Halina Sledz, Broker, Ameron Realty. Call/Text 561-596-9727

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ST. AUGUSTINE FLORIDA

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

Li c.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

S T. A U G U S T I N E D I R E C T O C E A N VACATION — 3 Bedroom/2 1/2 Baths, 3 Pools, Washer/Dryer in apartment. 10 Minutes from Old City! Sept. 15-23rd. Video festiva.com/oceangate.php $1,000 561254-5576

HOUSEKEEPER Responsible for cleaning guest rooms in a timely and thorough manner. Experience and fluency in English is preferred. Must be able to work weekends and/or holidays. To Apply : E-mail or Fax Resume to: info@royalinnhotel.com 561-795-1502 or Apply in person

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

July 14 - July 20, 2017 Page 27

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

SEPTIC SYSTEM REPAIR

WALLPAPERING

DANNY'S SEPTIC — Commercial/Residential. Drainfields, Lift Stations, Grease Trap Pumping, Drain Cleaning. Licensed/Insured.

SA0031137 SR0111696. 561-689-1555

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

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

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

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

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

SHOE REPAIR EXPERT SHOE & BOOT REPAIRS — Also hand bags & belts. Woody's 12794 Forest Hill Blvd. #3. Wellington. Behind Checker's in the mall. 561-798-1440

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

LIGHTING THOMAS McDEVITT ELECTRIC INC.— Commercial /Residential. We install our own products. Light bulbs • Lighting Fixtures • Speciality Bulbs • Recessed Lighting • Ballast Replacement • Landscape Lights. 561-503-7290 Lic. #EC13007161

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

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

RIDING INSTRUCTION R E N O W N E D T R A I N E R / "R" JUDGE — Available year round, travel surrounding areas to you by appointment. George Wallace 561-632-6644

ROOFING

WELLINGTON Bringing You The Best Of Wellington Since 2004

THE MAGAZINE

Advertising Sales Representative

Wanted

Call Today...

Start Tomorrow

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

ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207

561-793-7606

Page 28 July 14 - July 20, 2017

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

WHITE

Commercial & Residential

GLOVES

• • • • •

cleaning service

Patrycja Jaskolski (561) 657-0420 piwanska@yahoo.com

3101 Fairlane Farms Road. Bay 7 Wellington, FL 33411 twmcdevittelectric@gmail.com Insured & Bonded

Homes | Apartments | Offices

Expert Shoe & Boot Repairs

Commercial/Residential

Handbags & Belts

• Drain Fields • Lift Stations • Septic Tanks • Grease Trap Pumping • Drain Cleaning

(561) (561)

689-1555 West Palm Beach 357-9292 Fax

Since 1987

12794 Forest Hill Blvd. #3 Wellington (Behind Checker’s in Mall)

Panel Changes Landscape Lighting Parking Lot Lighting Recessed Lighting Under Cabinet Lighting VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!

References, Experience, Professional Service

561-798-1440

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

dannysseptic@comcast.net dannys-septic.com

4704 Dolphin Drive Lake Worth, FL 33463

Laura Camhi Owner SA0031137 • SR0111696

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-7606 FOR MORE INFO

Is your roof leaking?

Are you hurricane ready?

Call us for all your roofing needs!

Licensed & Insured

Re-Roofing & Repairs

Lic.#057261

July 14 - July 20, 2017 Page 29

ENTERPRISES INC.

561-741-8919

Riding Instructions Renowned Trainer

“R” Judge Available Year Round, Travel Surrounding Areas To You By Appointment.

George Wallace

561-632-6644

HERE’S MY CARD Residential Commercial

Knockdown Textures Interior - Exterior Carpentry Repairs

W.H. BROWN,LLC PAINTING

Free Estimates

Lic. #U-16274 Bonded Insured Wallpaper Removal

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

Drywall Repairs

Protect Your Pet Mosquito Season is here!

Dr. Maria Esvel Yanguas - DVM Practicing Medicine From The Heart

561.600.8406 • Fax: 561.600.8407 AFTER HOURS CALL 561-307-1770

14579 Southern Blvd., Loxahatchee, FL 33470 www.loxvet.com • lgvc60@yahoo.com

Ace Handyman & Remodeling Inc. Residential | Commerical | Equestrian

Handyman • Fencing • Painting

WE DO IT ALL! 561.951.8769 | DUSTIN Licensed and Insured

PRO CLEAN PLUS

when getting the service you expect really matters • Full Home & Office Cleaning Service • Laundry Service • Pet and House Sitting • Errands and Shopping • Organizing • Party Hosting

561-779-4149

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

Page 30

July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

HERE’S MY CARD

Bottled Water Home and Office Delivery

Available Locally in Palm Beach County. Call Today!

Can be converted to Guest Quarters, Mother-in-Law suite, Office, College Students, Starter Home

Deluxe Lofted Barn Cabin with Optional 3x3 Windows

FREE DELIVERY & FREE SETUP!*

“Better Water, Makes Better Coffee, Makes Better Sense!”

*Within a 50 mile radius of dealer

Shedheads143@gmail.com

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-7606 FOR MORE INFO

Medicare Solutions

Elisa Lamar

Licensed Sales Agent

7600 Corporate Center Dr. Miami, FL 33126

Direct: 754.263.7841 Office: 828.337.9601 Fax: 754.263.7841 lamare@peoplepc.com FL License #A313776

JL Water & Coffee Services, Inc. Office: 561-996-3525 Cell: 561-985-3336 Joey@jlwaterandcoffee.com

Joey Lakatos President

www.jlwaterandcoffee.com

NC.

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

July 14 - July 20, 2017

Page 31

Is Your Roof

Hurricane Ready?

Call us for all your Roofing Needs!

Lic.# 057261

Licensed & Insured

RE-ROOFING AND REPAIRS

Refer A Friend

JOEWARDROOFING.COM joewardroofing561@gmail.com

JUPITER:

561-741-8919 | MIAMI: 305-233-6316 | FAX: 561-741-2113

Still bringing you the authentic flavor of Italy.

You’ll recognize the great taste...like back in the old neighborhood.

Summer Menu $18.95 10% Cash Discount

Lunch Specials

11 am - 4 pm Daily - $5.50 and Up

Happy Hour Daily Everyday Until 7 pm Sunday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Lunch Served Everyday 11 am - 4 pm

HOURS

Friday & Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm Happy Hour Daily Everyday Until 7 pm

CAESAR SALAD, HOUSE SALAD, PASTA FAGIOLI, OR MINESTRONE ENTRÉES (SELECT ONE) Eggplant Parmigiana with pasta Pork Chop Milanese with pasta Eggplant Rollatini with pasta Shrimp Parmigiana over pasta Chicken Parmigiana with pasta Shrimp Marinara over pasta Chicken Francese with pasta Zuppa di Mussels over pasta Chicken Marsala with pasta Sole with broccoli or potatoes Veal Parmigiana with pasta Tilapia with Broccoli or potatoes ~ Fish may be prepared either oreganata, luciano, francese, or grilled~ ~ Pasta sides are Linguini or Angel Hair with meat sauce or tomato sauce~

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

DESSERT (SELECT ONE) Cannoli or Chocolate Cake ~ Hot Coffee or Hot Tea with Dessert No substitutions

Early Menu still available

$13.95 must be seated by 5:15 p.m. (Excludes Holidays)

arrabiatas.net •

Tel: 561.336.3862 Fax: 561.336.3865

/Arrabiatas Restaurant Of Boynton Beach

Please No Substitutions/NO Coupons

Page 32

July 14 - July 20, 2017

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

WE WILL MEET OR BEAT ANY OTHER LIQUOR STORE’S LOCALLY ADVERTISED PRICES! Offer valid only when presenting local competitors print ad

Wellington

11878 W. Forest Hill Blvd., #40 (Town Square)

561-790-2432

VODKA

Svedka Vodka ............................$19.99 1.75L Three Olives Vodka ....................$24.99 1.75L Skyy Vodka ...............................$22.99 1.75L Platinum Vodka .........................$19.99 1.75L Pinnacle Vodka (Regular) ............$17.99 1.75L Pinnacle Vodka (All Flavors) ........$19.99 1.75L Tito’s Vodka ............................$31.99 1.75L Ketel One Vodka .....................$39.99 1.75L Stoli Vodka ................................$26.99 1.75L Ciroc Vodka ............................$29.99 750ML Chopin Vodka .........................$27.99 750ML Skol Vodka ...............................$12.99 1.75L Grey Goose Vodka....................$26.99 750ML Grey Goose Vodka....................$39.99 1L Grey Goose Vodka....................$49.99 1.75L Absolute Vodka ......................$31.99 1.75L

GIN

Seagrams Gin ............................$19.99 1.75L Beefeater Gin ...........................$26.99 1.75L Tanqueray Gin ............................$35.99 1.75L Bombay Sapphire Gin .................$35.99 1.75L

TEQUILA Jose Cuervo...............................$33.99 1800 Tequila (Silver/Reposado) ..$29.99 Espolon (Light/Dark)...................$29.99 Sauza Tequila (Light/Dark) ..........$29.99 Patron Silver .............................$39.99 Partido Blanco Tequila ...............$35.99

LIQUORS

1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 1.75L 750ML

Bailey’s Irish Cream ...................$19.99 750ML Kahlua ......................................$35.99 1.75L



Stuart

Wellington

13860 Wellington Trace (The Courtyard Shops)

561-429-3569

5899 Southeast Fed. Hwy D-1 (Coves Center)



SCOTCH/WHISKEY

772-283-9900

BUDWEISER

12 PACK Dewars Scotch Whisky ..............$29.99 1.75L CANS/BOTTLES J.W. Red Label Scotch ...............$29.99 1.75L $10.99 Chivas Regal .............................$49.99 1.75L Cluny Blended Scotch ...............$19.99 1.75L Clan MacGregor Rare Blended ...$19.99 1.75L J&B Scotch ...............................$33.99 1.75L MILLER Ballentine’s Scotch ...................$25.99 1.75L LITE Seagram’s VO............................$24.99 1.75L 12 PACK Jameson’s Irish Whiskey ............$43.99 1.75L CANS/BOTTLES Courvoisier VS Cognac...............$19.99 750ML $10.99 Crown Royal ..............................$39.99 1.75L Canadian Club ...........................$19.99 1.75L VICTORIA Glenlivet 12 yrs. ........................$79.99 1.75L BEER Wild Turkey Honey Liquor ...........$19.99 750ML 12 PACK Jaegermeister............................$19.99 750ML CANS/BOTTLES Jim Beam Red Stag ...................$19.99 750ML $14.99 Jim Beam .................................$24.99 1.75L

RUM

Captain Morgan Rum .................$21.99 1.75L Bacardi Rum (Light & Dark) ........$19.99 1.75L Brugal Anejo Rum ......................$37.99 1.75L Appleton Rum............................$25.99 1.75L Ron Rico (Light & Dark) .............$15.99 1.75L Mount Gay Rum .........................$39.99 1.75L Don Q Rum (Light & Dark) ..........$21.99 1.75L Sailor Jerry Rum ........................$26.99 1.75L Malibu Rum ..............................$19.99 1.75L Admiral Nelson 80 Rum .............$16.99 1.75L Cruzan Rum (Light & Dark) .........$18.99 1.75L Ron Zacapa Rum ......................$39.99 1.75L

STOP IN AND SHOP WE CARRY A WIDE VARIETY OF FINE WINES ALWAYS AT

LOWEST PRICES!

These prices good with this ad only. Good thru 07/31/2017. Photos are for illustrative purposes only. We are not responsible for Typographical errors.