Town-Crier Newspaper July 15, 2022

FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANT TO PBSC SEE STORY, PAGE 3

MEET THE ITID SEAT 1 CANDIDATES SEE STORY, PAGE 4

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

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Volume 43, Number 14 July 15 - July 28, 2022

Serving Palms West Since 1980

FAMILY FISHING ON THE FOURTH

Page 23 Westlake Staff Plans To Keep Tax Rate Same, But Mayor Seeks Cut

Westlake City Council members are being asked by staff to keep Westlake’s ad valorem tax rate at 5.125 mills for one more year, but Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor wants to see a decrease, even if only a small one.

Page 3

Lox Council Kills Okee Overlay, Pans ‘Mobility Hubs’ On The Roadway

The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council agreed Tuesday, July 5 that while some changes may be needed along Okeechobee Blvd., the ones being suggested by town staff did not fit the bill.

At the meeting, the council voted unanimously to kill the longdiscussed Okeechobee Blvd. overlay plan, and also asked for major changes to staff’s recommendations regarding how to spend grant money awarded by the Solid Waste Authority for beautification projects on the roadway. Page 7

Fun Time On July Fourth At Wellington Festivities

The Village of Wellington hosted its Fourth of July celebration Monday, July 4 at Village Park on Pierson Road. The event included bounce houses, food trucks, bingo, face painting and more. The Long Run Band, an Eagles tribute group, performed for the crowd leading up to a spectacular fireworks display.

Page 18

Independence Day brought young fishing enthusiasts to Royal Palm Commons Park to participate in the 30th annual Ed Singleton Memorial Fourth of July Family Fishing Tournament. More than 40 participants registered for the competition, and more than 100 fish were weighed in and tallied. Shown above are tournament participants gathered for the awards ceremony.

MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5 PHOTO BY CALLIE SHARKEY/TOWN-CRIER

Three Seek Democratic Nod For District 6 Seat On Palm Beach County Commission

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report With term-limited County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay stepping down this year, three candidates are vying in next month’s Democratic primary for the Palm Beach County Commission in District 6.

Michelle Oyola McGovern, former state director for U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson; former Palm Beach County employee Sylvia Sharps; and State Rep. Matt Willhite (DDistrict 86) are seeking the seat.

The winner of the primary will face off against Realtor Sara Baxter, the Republican nominee, in the

general election. Baxter does not face a primary challenge.

District 6 includes the western communities, along with the Glades area. While the election will be held Tuesday, Aug. 23, mail-in voting gets underway this month.

Michelle Oyola McGovern — A Palm Beach County native with a Puerto Rican heritage, McGovern attended local schools and graduated from Florida Atlantic University. She is the wife of Wellington Councilman John McGovern and mother to teenage daughters Emilia and Victoria.

“I will be first Latina elected to serve on the Palm Beach County

Commission, so I am very proud of that,” she said.

McGovern worked for U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson for 18 years as his state director and now works in the healthcare industry. She is proud of her service working locally on issues ranging from advocacy in the Glades to her role on the Wellington Education Committee.

“I believe that I have the best experience and connections in this community to serve it,” she said.

McGovern said that her accomplishments have benefited many people across the region.

“The Keely Spinelli grants is See DISTRICT 6, page 14

Wellington Council Hears Presentation On $128.5 Million Proposed Budget

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Village Council set its preliminary tax and assessment rates on Tuesday, July 12 after hearing an overview of the village’s proposed $128.5 million budget for fiscal year 2022-23.

The preliminary tax rate of 2.47 mills is unchanged from last year. Known as the TRIM (truth in millage) rate, it can go down as the budget process continues but cannot be raised. The Acme Improvement District’s drainage assessment is also unchanged at $230 per unit.

However, the annual fees for solid waste collection, which got its preliminary approval last month, is up $49 for the year based on the village’s new solid waste vendor contract, while the average water bill is projected to go up about $2.42 per month.

The village also approved the annual Saddle Trail Improvement assessment, which is unchanged in year 7 of that 15-year neighborhood project.

All the TRIM items were approved unanimously.

Deputy Village Manager Tanya Quickel, joined remotely by Budget Director Christine Wadleigh, presented the preliminary budget for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1.

“In looking at the total proposed budget, Wellington continues its commitment to stable budgeting for sustainability,” Quickel said.

The total proposed budget is $128.5 million, which is $5.5 million less than the current year’s budget of $134 million, due primarily to less money planned for capital improvement projects.

“However, we are still budgeting almost $24 million in new capital project funds while maintaining the same millage and Acme assessment rates,” Quickel said.

Property taxes will provide an estimated $24 million in revenue.

Due to a 12.7 percent increase in the village’s taxable value, that is $2.6 million more next year than in the current year.

“This is the 10th consecutive year of increased property values,” Quickel noted, adding that there is also a significant increase in permits and fees, which is driven by increases in the building department. “The economy remains a major factor in the preparation of this year’s budget given the influences from inflation, supply chain issues, labor hiring and retention challenges, and affordable housing and rising rents.”

The decreases in capital projects are offset by increases in maintenance expenses and personnel costs.

“Our recommendation is to remain at the stable millage rate of 2.47 mills,” Quickel told the council. “Homeowners may still see an increase in their tax bill if their property values have increased.”

For homesteaded properties, which are capped at a 3 percent increase, the average Wellington property tax will go up $33. The increase for non-homesteaded property averages $111.

Quickel said that the proposed budget continues Wellington’s standard of providing high service levels while also maintaining infrastructure.

The preliminary budget funds 244 full-time governmental positions, 90,669 part-time hours, four supplemental positions and two interns. In the enterprise funds, the budget funds 66 full-time positions, nine supplemental positions and one intern.

“This is the start of the process, not the end of it,” Councilman John McGovern said. “We are setting the ceiling, not the floor.”

He noted that it was the fourth year in a row that the tax rate will be 2.47 mills. “That rate was agreed to by the council as a See WELLINGTON, page 4

FOURTH OF JULY SPECTACULAR Michelle Oyola McGovern

Wellington Resident Jason Bagwell Is A Green Grass Guru

Wellington resident Jason Bagwell has a green thumb, and it’s on display 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 12 months a year. Bagwell’s ability to nurture blossoming trees, shrubs, flowers and grass is his professional pride and joy.

Page 21 DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS...............................3 - 18 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 7 SPORTS......................... 21 - 23 PEOPLE..........................24 - 25 SCHOOLS.............................. 26 BUSINESS............................. 27 COLUMNS............................. 28 CLASSIFIEDS................ 29 - 30 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

Sylvia Sharps

Matt Willhite

Draft $85.6 Million RPB Budget Would Keep Tax Rate Unchanged

By Callie Sharkey Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council heard a presentation on an $85.6 million village budget for fiscal year 2022-23 on Thursday, July 7. The budget would be funded by a property tax rate of 1.92 mills, which is unchanged from the current year.

Village staff provided an overview of the proposed budget for the next fiscal year, including introductory information on various capital projects and programs.

“The primary intent of the budget is to establish an action,

operation and financial plan for the delivery of village services and facilities,” Village Manager Ray Liggins said. “The preparation of the budget is consistent with our vision and mission — being a hometown community providing services and facilities creating an aesthetically pleasing and active community. We are proposing the 1.92 tax rate remain the same. This will be the 26th year that the tax has been the same or less than the previous year.”

Liggins also explained that the budget for this past year was balanced using state and local

fiscal recovery funds under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Those funds cannot be used to build reserves, but it did help the village in not having to use its reserves to fund projects.

Royal Palm Beach received more than $20 million in American Rescue Plan funds, which must be designated by Dec. 31, 2024, and spent by Dec. 31, 2026.

The total budget for the fiscal year that starts Oct. 1 is $85,593,453. General operating expenses make up 34 percent of the budget. Stormwater is 2 See RPB COUNCIL, page 4

The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its day-long Fourth of July Spectacular on Monday, July 4 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. The day included food, fun, bounce houses, face painting, vendors, live music, a military tribute and a spectacular fireworks display. Shown above, Jay and Helen Strauss enjoy the musical entertainment. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 16 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington Actress Stars In New Disney TV Show

Kayden Muller-Janssen of Wellington stars at Hartley on The Villains of Valley View.

PHOTO BY JUSTIN STEPHENS/DISNEY

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Last month, Disney released a new show, The Villains of Valley View, starring Wellington’s own Kayden Muller-Janssen as Hartley, the best friend and next-door neighbor of teen supervillain Amy. The show debuted on the Disney Channel and is now also streaming on Disney+.

As Muller-Janssen’s Disney debut, and breakout role, this couldn’t be described as anything other than a dream come true.

“I’m still processing it,” she said. “It has been my dream since I was a kid — and having the opportunity to work on this show and work with such an established cast… it was really intimidating at first.”

But, Muller-Janssen said, everyone has been friendly, supportive and helpful — and she has made some lasting friendships along the way.

Shooting the first season flew by, she added, and now she gets to see herself on screen.

“I worked so hard for six years to get here,” she said. “It’s very fulfilling. My heart is full right now.”

Muller-Janssen shares the stage with cast members Isabella Pappas, Malachi Barton, Reed Horstmann, Lucy Davis, James Patrick Stuart, Patricia Belcher and many more in this family-friendly show about supervillains who have to blend in while living in a small town in Texas.

Hartley reminds Muller-Janssen

of a slightly younger version of herself.

“This big, bubbly brightness to really counter all the crazy evilness that’s going on with the family.

I think I really took that when it came to playing Hartley,” she said.

“She’s a really interesting character because she’s naïve, but at the same time, she’s not.”

As the season progresses, Muller-Janssen said, Hartley grows and evolves.

“Everybody’s really going to fall in love with her character, just like I did,” Muller-Janssen said.

If the two met in real life, they’d likely become friends, she said, because Hartley is a true friend.

Her favorite villain on the show would be Amy’s brother Colby, played by Barton.

If she could have one superpower of her own, it would be telekinesis.

Growing up, Wizards of Waverly Place and Hannah Montana were some of Muller-Janssen’s favorite Disney shows.

“They just hit different,” she said. “I don’t know what it is about them. They were just great shows.”

And now the talented actress from Wellington is making history as Hartley. At only 20 years old, she is well on her way to a thriving acting and singing career.

Muller-Janssen wears many hats. She’s also a skilled equestrian and a talented singer-songwriter.

Landing on the No. 1 spot on Radio Disney was her debut single “Kiss Kiss Baby,” which also was See KAYDEN, page 14

Page 2

July 15 - July 28, 2022

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July 15 - July 28, 2022

Page 3

NEWS

Westlake Staff Plans To Keep Tax Rate Same, But Mayor Seeks Cut

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report Westlake City Council members are being asked by staff to keep Westlake’s ad valorem tax rate at 5.125 mills for one more year, but Mayor JohnPaul O’Connor wants to see a decrease, even if only a small one.

“It might be 5.124, but we are not going to keep the millage the same,” O’Connor said during the Tuesday, July 5 council meeting.

“The number will not be 5.125. It’s going to be lower.”

Since the city’s inception in 2016, Westlake has had the same 5.125-mill tax rate, which allowed the community to grow with a large financial assist — often in the millions — from developer Minto

Communities USA. Minto, which owns most of the land in the 6.5 square miles of Westlake, agreed to help support the city until 2021.

That agreement was extended to the 2023 budget year, but City Manager Kenneth Cassel said he and Minto are hoping Westlake can soon stand on its own.

Cassel said the city must retain the rate of 5.125 mills to cover items and expenses “that are perceived to be necessary for next year without coming up short.”

Later, he said that by doing so, “we should be able to break even.

We’re really close.”

Minto is prepared to kick in up to $535,000 to the 2023 budget, if necessary, said Cassel, but if the council lowers the tax rate, the

developer may see that as a selfimposed shortage. “That could create an issue,” he explained.

Cassel said that developments coming online over the next year will make future budgets easier.

“I recommend holding it at 5.125 because the commercial [property taxes] haven’t hit for this upcoming budget year,” he told the council, referring to several large commercial developments underway or near commencement along Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. “Next year, we’ll pick up Publix. We’ll pick up the storage units and some other commercial.

This will give us more flexibility to lower taxes.”

If the millage rate remains at 5.125, the average Westlake

Foundation Awards $10,000 Grant To PBSC

The Wellington Community Foundation recently awarded students at Palm Beach State College with assistance of $10,000.

The funding will go specifically for Wellington resident veterans who will be attending during the upcoming school year.

These students participate in the Veterans for Success program, which enables veterans to attend

college, and assists with tuition and educated-related expenses.

“This grant is directly in line with the foundation’s mission, and we are happy to assist the men and women who served to protect our country further their education,” WCF Chair Tom Wenham said.

This is the third consecutive year that the Wellington Community Foundation has partnered

with PBSC to provide scholarships to these PBSC students.

The Wellington Community Foundation is a charitable nonprofit organization committed to helping Wellington seniors, children and veterans by improving their quality of life. To learn more about the foundation, or to get involved, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org.

The Wellington Community Foundation presents Palm Beach State College officials with a check for $10,000. (L-R) PBSC Veterans Services Manager Luis Torres, WCF Board Member Dr. Gordon Johnson, PBSC Corporate Partnership Director Ana Thomas, WCF Board Member Pam Tahan, WCF Chair Tom Wenham and WCF Vice Chair Maria Becker.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

homeowner with an assessed value of $350,000 and a $50,000 homestead exemption would pay approximately $1,537 in city taxes.

That does not include taxes levied by other Palm Beach County taxing authorities. The 5.125-mill tax rate is near the middle of the pack among the county’s 39 municipalities.

The council will hold a budget workshop on July 26, and the first of two public hearings on the budget will be held Sept. 9.

“I’m going to challenge the staff. Between now and the workshop, and when we actually have to adopt the budget, we have to trim some fat and get that number down,” O’Connor said. “How much down? I don’t know. We’ll work on that together.”

Cassel said later that this is all part of the process and that he looks forward to working with council members on the budget.

“This is the magic line we all have to tap dance through to be good stewards of what we have, and to be able to provide what the community is looking for,” he said.

In other business: • The council heard a series of positive reports regarding FourthFest, the first major event hosted by the City of Westlake. An estimated 5,000 people attended the July 4 party and fireworks show with parking for 3,000 cars and 1,000 golf carts. “Every food truck sold out,” O’Connor said.

No injuries or serious incidents were reported by Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue or the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

Council members and Cassel thanked staff and volunteers for making it happen.

“Overall, it went off very well,” Cassel said. “It was a great event, and I’m thrilled and happy with everyone who worked on it.”

“For our first event, we knocked it out of the park,” said O’Connor, who championed the celebration and helped raise some $75,000 in sponsorships. “We didn’t start small. We went huge.”

However, it was too big and too noisy for nearby Loxahatchee resident Connie Gray. Gray, a bird breeder, has lived on 62nd Road North since 2009.

“My windows shook for over 20 minutes,” she said. “I’m pretty upset about this. It impacted not only my home, but my business.”

Gray said that two of her birds died as a result of the event.

“I just can’t have this. This is my livelihood,” she said. “I hope you can do something about it in the future.”

• The council approved the site plan and signage for the James Business Park on Persimmon Blvd. behind the incoming Publix shopping center parcel on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road.

The initial build on the 9.2-acre site will be a 145,643-square-foot multiuse building with numerous loading bays in the rear. An e-commerce company that ships outdoor home and garden products and pool supplies now located in West Palm Beach is expected to occupy much of the building, which is zoned for light industrial use.

A second phase could add a 10,103-square-foot building to the south of the first. The council also approved 14,564 square feet of outdoor storage at the facility.

• The council approved the final reading of an ordinance establishing provisions for special events, including definitions, requirements, signage, the sale or service of alcoholic beverages, providing for batch applications and regulating garage sales. For the most part,

only four special events per year will be permitted for any business or group. However, those wishing to host more events can apply to the council for a waiver.

• The council approved the final reading of an ordinance requiring city-issued golf cart registration stickers be located on the left side of the windshield or the left front quarter panel.

• The council approved installation of a four-way stop sign at the corner of Persimmon Blvd. and Ilex Way, which has been the site of two recent accidents. The signs will take about four to six weeks to install, Cassel said, adding that as the area grows, the intersection is likely to have stoplights.

• Finally, the council approved the annual special assessment for residential solid waste services.

The fee for fiscal year 2022-23 will be $280.60, Cassel said, noting that the fee is increasing by a few cents. The contract with Advanced Disposal Services/Solid Waste Southeast Inc. runs out in the end of the 2024 fiscal year, and by then, Westlake should be large enough that a better deal can be sought, he said.

WELLINGTON SALUTES SHANNON LAROCQUE

On Tuesday, July 12, the Wellington Village Council presented a special proclamation recognizing Shannon LaRocque on her retirement as the village’s utilities director. A longtime Wellington resident, LaRocque joined the village in 2016 from Palm Beach County, where she served as assistant county administrator. She brought her vision and commitment to her profession to Wellington and has made sure that the Utilities Department remains the best it can be and will continue to deliver safe and reliable water for the next two decades and beyond. During her time with Wellington, LaRocque oversaw major investments and improvement into the village’s water and wastewater utilities.

PHOTO COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

THOSE WE TRUST ENDORSE MICHELLE

“

“ I trust Michelle Oyola McGovern to serve as our next Palm Beach County Commissioner for District 6.

Lois Frankel

U.S. Congresswoman

Mom.

There is no one more prepared to serve our community than Michelle Oyola McGovern.

”

Melissa McKinlay

Our current Palm Beach County District 6 Commissioner

A Mom on a Mission

Public Servant.

”

Michelle's Priorities

Democrat Michelle Oyola McGovern is a mom and action-oriented public servant. As State Director for U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, on the PTA, or in the community, Michelle brings people together, listens to their problems and finds targeted solutions to actually resolve them.

Now she is bringing that experience to the County Commission.

Advocate.

PROTECT ACCESS TO ABORTION

PRIORITIZE GUN SAFETY

IMPROVE TRAFFIC AND MANAGE GROWTH

PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT AND WATER

KEEP OUR NEIGHBORHOODS AND STREETS SAFE

MAKE HOUSING MORE AFFORDABLE

Michelle Oyola McGovern with her two daughters and husband, John.

VoteMichelleMcGovern.com � MOM@VoteMichelleMcGovern.com /VoteMichelleMcGovern /MOMcGovern

Election Day is Tuesday, August 23rd. Vote Michelle Oyola McGovern.

Paid by Michelle Oyola McGovern, Democrat, for County Commission

Page 4

July 15 - July 28, 2022

The Town-Crier

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NEWS

Indian Trail Seat 1 Supervisor Candidates Share Their Views

By Louis Hillary Park Town-Crier Staff Report In advance of the Tuesday, Aug. 23 primary election, the Town-Crier has reached out to the nine candidates seeking one of the three available seats on the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors.

This issue, we are focusing on the candidates for ITID Seat 1.

They are looking to replace incumbent Supervisor Jennifer Hager, who is not seeking re-election after 12 years on the board.

The responses of the three Seat 1 candidates — Elizabeth Accomando, who lives on Carol Street in Santa Rosa Groves; Orange Blvd. resident Benjamin Beerman; and Jerrad Jablonski of 61st Place North — are presented here. This is the first attempt at public office for all three candidates.

The non-partisan primary will be held Tuesday, Aug. 23 with mail-in voting getting underway this month. The two top vote-getters advance to the Nov. 8 general election, unless a candidate gets more than 50 percent of the primary vote and is elected outright.

ELIZABETH ACCOMANDO Background: Accomando moved from Long Island, New York, to Florida in 1991 and into the Indian Trail area in 2013. With a background as an insurance adjuster and business owner, she is founder and secretary/treasurer of Barky Pines Animal Rescue & Sanctuary. She was a prime supporter of the push to activate her rural neighborhood of Santa Rosa Groves into the district and was a member of the ITID’s Feasibility and Charter Review Committee.

She is married with no children.

Why did you get into the race? Being part of the Santa Rosa Groves activation effort and the charter committee, “gave me good insight into the process and how the district works,” Accomando said. “I’m passionate about preserving the community the way it is… Growth is inevitable, but it needs to be slowed down. I have the heart and fortitude to see it through.”

What would be your top three priorities? Number one, she said,

RPB Council

$85.6 Million Budget

continued from page 1 percent and reserves make up 18 percent. The remaining 46 percent of the budget is set aside for capital projects.

Property values are projected to rise 13.1 percent, which increases the village’s total taxable value by $445 million from $3.386 billion to $3.831 billion. This means that while maintaining the 1.92-mill tax rate, the village will take in more revenue than last year due to increasing property values.

However, tax increases for homesteaded properties are capped at 3 percent.

“Excluding county-subsidized services, Royal Palm Beach residents pay the lowest municipal

Wellington

Budget Overview

continued from page 1 five-year flat number,” McGovern explained.

Mayor Anne Gerwig said that she was pleased with the budget given the challenging economy.

“There is uncertainty in a lot of these numbers now,” she said.

“Normally I try to get this number down a bit, but I think the uncertainly out there is something that we are all realizing.”

Quickel agreed, noting that price increases from village contracts are coming before the council on a regular basis.

“With the continued inflation, it is a challenging environment,” she said.

Councilwoman Tanya Siskind called the proposed spending plan “a very good, solid budget, especially in light of the cost of everything going up.”

Councilman Michael Napoleone added that unnecessary

“is protecting our roads. That’s critical… The growth [in traffic] is not coming from inside the community. Our roads are being used at cut-throughs.”

Number two, she said, “would be drainage. We need to have a good, functioning infrastructure…

Protocols need to be put into place” to make sure the swales are clear, and the canals are not impeded.

Number three, she said, would be “keep our parks safe for the kids. We need more security at the parks… and improved maintenance. It’s important that the parks are functioning properly.”

Should the Acreage Athletic League enjoy a near monopoly on youth sports in ITID? “I have no skin in the game,” Accomando said. “But it needs to be all about the kids… There’s nothing wrong with competition [among leagues] as long as it keeps kids playing in the district… The district should not be involved in running any sports or events… or even mediating these sorts of issues.”

Do you favor Palm Beach County’s plan to five-lane Coconut Blvd. from 60th Street North to Northlake? “I would not be for five-laning it,” Accomando said.

“It will funnel too much traffic through a residential neighborhood. There’s something like 400 ingresses and egresses along that stretch of Coconut. It wouldn’t be safe.” She added that State Road 7 from 60th Street to Northlake “definitely should be finished” before there is any consideration of expanding Coconut.

What can be done to deal with the long-delayed completion of the Corbett levee? “Our homes are everything. They have to be protected,” she said reflecting on the high water that swamped much of the district during Hurricane Isaac in 2012. Without the proper infrastructure, “it’s bound to happen again.”

Are you for or against incorporation? While some saw the FCR Committee’s work as an unsuccessful effort to push incorporation, Accomando said it really was an effort to let the residents of the area decide, and that she thinks that still is what should happen.

“Give us the right to vote. Let our

community decide our future…

I’m for self-governance, for home rule, for keeping our community the way it is… [But] the district is not sustainable as it is. In five to 10 years, we’ll be our own city, or we’ll be part of another city.”

In closing… Accomando said, “I came from Broward. I saw what happened there… I have no agenda other than keeping the community the way it is for as long as possible… I have a vested interest in doing that [because] I plan to die here.”

BENJAMIN BEERMAN Background: Beerman is a Maryland native who moved to the ITID area seven years ago with wife Melanie. They have two children. Beerman has a background in property management for public and private facilities of all sizes.

Why did you get into the race?

He said he wants to bring greater transparency to the activities of the board and the overall management of the district. He believes his background dealing with intricacies of public and private property management, including their finances, would be an asset. “I’ve handled a number of challenging, difficult tasks and with success,” Beerman said.

What would be your top three priorities? Number one, he said, would be representing the wishes of the people of the district.

Number two, he said would be making sure that the district maintains a safe and functional roads and drainage infrastructure.

“There are a number of projects in the works,” Beerman noted.

“We’ll have to see which ones are the most important.”

Number three, he said, is proper maintenance of the district’s parks.

Should the Acreage Athletic League enjoy a near monopoly on youth sports in ITID? “The parks are important to district residents. They need to be maintained to a level that the residents can enjoy… Looking at how they are being used is something that could be looked at in the future… [But] as long as a group goes through the district’s process to obtain an SPA [service provider agreement], fills out all the forms, has all the proper

Elizabeth Accomando

Benjamin Beerman

Jerrad Jablonski

insurance and so on, I don’t feel one group should be favored over another.”

Do you favor Palm Beach County’s plan to five-lane Coconut Blvd. from 60th Street North to Northlake? Beerman said it appears that the county is looking to use Coconut as an alternative to pushing State Road 7 through to Northlake Blvd. “It’s probably not something I’d support… putting a five-lane in a residential area,” he said. “Not until all efforts on State Road 7 are exhausted. I want to see the State Road 7 extension brought though to Northlake.”

What can be done to deal with the long-delayed completion of the Corbett levee? Beerman noted that the project has been a “work in progress” for a while but is primarily the responsibility of the South Florida Water Management District. “One of my goals is to maintain our relationships and keep communication open between [ITID and the SFWMD].

It’s important to our residents.”

Are you for or against incorporation? “After having all of the facts presented to them, I think it is best left to the majority of residents to decide,” Beerman said. “I’ll support what the people want. My job is to represent them and not my personal views.”

In closing… Beerman said he would bring greater transparency to the office and to the board and serve with honesty, integrity and an open-door policy. While ITID

faces challenges, he said he believes many of them can be overcome by building “relationships and rapport” other governmental entities. “I want to keep and maintain the feel [the community] has had for a number of years,” he said.

Number three, he said, is to support more community events such as green markets.

Should the Acreage Athletic League enjoy a near monopoly on youth sports in ITID? “I have no issue with the [AAL],” said Jablonski, whose son plays AAL football. “On the other hand, I don’t necessarily think one league should run all the sports. People should have the choice.”

Do you favor Palm Beach County’s plan to five-lane Coconut Blvd. from 60th Street North to Northlake? Jablonski said that before even considering expanding Coconut, State Road 7 should be pushed through to Northlake.

What can be done to deal with the long-delayed completion of the Corbett levee? Jablonski said flooding issues have improved over the years, but he is not familiar enough with the Corbett levee situation to comment.

Are you for or against incorporation? Jablonski said he does not like the idea of more government, which would mean “lots more regulations. I grew up here when it was all dirt roads… [but] the community is definitely growing at a high rate. I mean, just look at the traffic… It’s a fine line. But I’m old school. I like it how it is. I don’t want to disrupt the community.”

In closing… Jablonski said, “No doubt, it will be a huge learning process for me. But I will give it my full attention and best effort.”

tax per person of all Palm Beach County municipalities,” Liggins said. “This year’s budget increases the level of service in Parks & Recreation, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Engineering with the addition of a full-time public relations specialist, a public art professional, and a community service aide and a part-time intern in Engineering.”

The 8.47 percent increase for Parks & Recreation will help bring back programs for senior citizens that were paused due to COVID-19. Three vacant general maintenance worker positions were deleted, with the work outsourced.

The village’s stormwater budget increased by 11.2 percent due to fuel, personnel services and maintenance contract increases.

The department is going to bid out street sweeping in an attempt to avoid significant increases. The Public Works Department request-

ed a 4.7 percent increase also due to maintenance contracts and fuel increases.

Councilwoman Selena Samios proposed the addition of a partnership with Discover the Palm Beaches. She negotiated an introductory rate of $500 for the first year instead of the regular $1,000 fee, and the council agreed to add it into the general operating costs.

In other business: • Prior to the budget meeting, the council held a brief regular meeting made up mostly of consent agenda items.

They were all unanimously approved, with a clarification on an item regarding the village’s contract with solid waste vendor WastePro. “This is a second five-year renewal with WastePro. Republic won [the contract] five years ago.

When they lost the county job, they couldn’t service our job.

WastePro took over the remaining

three years,” Liggins said. “We typically will renew the second five years unless there are significant customer services issues.

[WastePro] was not willing to do it at that same price, so we renegotiated. It is a significant increase, but when we look at what everyone else bid, we do not think we can do better.”

• Resident Danielle Underwood also addressed the council regarding a potentially dangerous intersection near H.L. Johnson Elementary School, at Ponce de Leon Street and Sevilla Avenue.

Underwood was in a car accident with her daughter in the vehicle on May 31. She explained there is a significant blind spot for drivers coming from Valencia Street and requested that the village look into placing a four-way stop sign in the area for safety.

Mayor Fred Pinto instructed village staff to follow up on her concerns.

PBSC Earns Reaccreditation

cost-cutting could harm Wellington’s quality of life.

“For most people, it’s not going to move the needle much, but it will keep the level of service in the village what we all expect it to be,” he said of the preliminary budget.

“Of your total tax bill, Wellington and Acme are only 16 percent. It’s a very small sliver.”

Vice Mayor Michael Drahos congratulated his fellow council members on implementing and sticking to a stable budgeting policy.

“Tonight’s vote of 2.47 mills is the manifestation of long-term conservative fiscal management,” he said. “We told the residents that we would hold at 2.47 mills, and we have been true to our word.

Because of that, we are in a very strong position.”

Wellington’s budget workshop on Monday, Aug. 8 will include a deeper focus on capital projects.

However, at the meeting, Quickel broke capital projects up into one-time projects, ongoing infrastructure replacement and utility projects.

One-time projects include: Public Safety Annex, $3 million; Wellington Community Center Improvements, $100,000; Greenview Shores Bike Lanes (grant match), $250,000; Section 24 Preserve (grant match), $500,000; Olympia Park Courts, $600,000; Community Park Renovations, $1.5 million; and Aquatics Complex Replacement, $3.4 million.

Ongoing infrastructure replacements include: Acme R&R Fund, $795,000; Neighborhood Parks, $320,000; Neighborhood Pipe Lining, $510,000; Park Improvements, $325,000; Technology Investment, $300,000; Multiuse Pathways, $380,000; Traffic Engineering, $75,000; Athletic Fields, $1.2 million; Streetscapes, $510,000; and Turn Lanes, $120,000.

Utilities projects include: Communications & Tech Investment, $60,000; Water Supply Improvements, $500,000; Water Treatment System, $4 million; Water Repump & Storage, $200,000; Force Main Wastewater System, $1 million; Water Reclamation

Facility, $3.55 million; and Reuse System Improvements, $350,000.

As the budget process continues, Wellington invites all its residents to take part in the Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget Challenge, which is available through Aug. 15.

The budget challenge helps Wellington set its funding priorities for the next fiscal year and helps staff create a balanced budget that reflects the needs of the community.

The survey allows residents to make decisions about how much support certain services should receive, such as law enforcement, roadway enhancements, recreational/cultural facilities, parks programming, customer service and more.

Take the budget challenge by visiting www.wellingtonfl.gov/ budgetchallenge.

Additional preliminary budget approvals will be made at the Aug. 9 council meeting, followed by two budget public hearings on Sept. 6 and Sept. 21 before the budget is finalized.

THE

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

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EDITORIAL STAFF/ Erin Davisson • Denise Fleischman Melanie Kopacz • Mike May • Louis Hillary Park • Callie Sharkey CONTRIBUTORS/ Leonard Wechsler • Deborah Welky ADVERTISING/ Betty Buglio • Evie Edwards • Joetta Palumbo STAFF/ Yolanda Cernicky • Shanta Daibee • Jill Kaskel • Carol Lieberman

JERRAD JABLONSKI Background: Since 2015, Jablonski and his wife Ashley have owned Jabrewski’s Pizza Company in the Acreage Shopping Center on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road. He also is the owner of a valet parking company and of a parking code enforcement business. Jablonski was born in Palm Beach County. His family moved to The Acreage in 1990. He graduated from Royal Palm Beach High School before attending what was then Palm Beach Community College. He and his wife have an 11-year-old son.

Why did you get into the race? “I’ve wanted to be more a part of the community,” Jablonski said. “From going to some [board] meetings, I believe there are things I can do to improve the community.”

If elected, what would be your top three priorities? Number one, he said, is build better parks, maintain them better and offer more diverse sports for residents to enjoy.

Number two, he said, would be to push back against expansion of roads to suit the needs of non-residents.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has reaffirmed Palm Beach State College’s accreditation for an additional 10 years.

The SACSCOC Board of Trustees voted to approve the reaffirmation at its recent meeting. The decision followed an extensive process that included a virtual site visit in October 2021 by an on-site committee of higher education experts and leaders.

During the two-day visit, the committee held more than 35 interviews with individuals and groups across PBSC to review the college’s programs, policies and processes.

The SACSCOC reviewed institutional integrity, curriculum,

facilities, faculty, student services, budgets and financial aid to see how it measured up to their 84 standards covering mission, educational programs, faculty, governing board, student achievement, academic services, administration, institutional planning and financial resources.

PBSC President Ava Parker said the reaffirmation exemplifies the college’s longstanding tradition as a leading institution of higher education in Palm Beach County.

“This reaffirmation of accreditation is the result of the commitment of our faculty and staff to teaching and learning excellence, and PBSC’s mission of transforming lives and strengthening our community,” Parker said.

Town Center Construction Work Brings Park And Road Closures

Construction continues on the Wellington Town Center project, located at 12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd. Construction of the new parking area between Village Hall and the Wellington Community Center is well underway.

This month, the contractor started working on the next phase of the project, which includes the expansion of the Wellington Amphitheater, renovations and expansion to Scott’s Place Playground, and the addition of green space in the adjacent area.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2023.

A portion of Town Center Drive remains closed to facilitate construction. Crews have installed a temporary construction gate to mark the road closure. The Wellington Aquatics Complex, the Wellington Community Center

and the Town Center Promenade remain open and accessible via Ken Adams Way. Starting in July, events typically hosted at the Wellington Amphitheater, including the Thursday food truck events and Saturday concert series, will be relocated to Village Park at 11700 Pierson Road. For future updates on July and August events relocated to Village Park, visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/events.

Scott’s Place Playground closed to the public on July 5. The park will remain closed throughout the duration of the Town Center project. Visit www.wellingtonfl. gov/parks to find other nearby parks and recreation facilities. The Wellington Community Center, the Town Center Promenade and the Wellington Aquatics Complex remain open during construction.

For The Record

In the article “RPB Council Takes First Step In Creating New Zoning Category,” published July 1, the category under consideration is actually classified as a land use category and should have been referred to as such. The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

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NEWS

ROYAL PALM BASSMASTERS PRESENT ANNUAL YOUTH FISHING TOURNAMENT

Independence Day brought young fishing enthusiasts to Royal Palm Commons Park on Monday, July 4 to participate in the 30th annual Ed Singleton Memorial Fourth of July Family Fishing Tournament.

More than 40 participants registered for the competition, and more than 100 fish were weighed in and tallied across five age groups — Small Fry (Under 6), Child (7 to 9), Junior (10 to 12), Teen (13 to 15) and Parent/Child — and two categories (bass and other fish). Kids took home trophies, new fishing poles, lures and tackle boxes. The “big fish” winners of the day were Abigail Dovey with a 3.83-pound tilapia and Tommy Baldridge with a 3.23-pound bass.

PHOTOS BY CALLIE SHARKEY/TOWN-CRIER

Gabe Hamilton weighs-in his fourth fish of the day.

Dalton Weaver took first place in the 6 and under bass category (0.64 pounds).

Third place in the other fish category for 7- to 9-year-olds went to Josiah Schartner (4.77 pounds).

Second place in the bass category for 7- to 9-year-olds went to Ryan Grant (1.95 pounds).

Franco Alegria took third for other fish 10- to 12-year-olds (1.49 pounds).

Marcus Wilson took second for other fish 10- to 12-year-olds (2.33 pounds).

Gabe Hamilton won first for other fish 10to 12-year-olds (2.54 pounds).

Ellie Schartner won first place in the other fish category for 13- to 15-year-olds (2.38 pounds).

Nash Mumma took third place in the bass category for 13to 15-year-olds (1.08 pounds).

Lincoln Belanger took second place in the bass category for 13- to 15-year-olds (2.33 pounds).

Lea Smith took first place in the bass category for 10to 12-year-olds (4.89 pounds).

Rachel Dennard won second in the other fish category for 7- to 9-year-olds.

Jovi Diaz won first for bass in the 13- to 15-year-old group (3.06 pounds).

Liam Battles accepted the first-place trophy for the parent/child team division for bass.

Many of the fishing tournament participants gather for the awards ceremony.

Royal Palm Bassmasters President Phil Northrop welcomes families.

Tournament winners with their trophies.

Rachel Dennard shows off her fish with father Jeremy and brother Malakai.

Waylon examines his winning bass with dad Dan Burack and grandpa Guy Bartels.

The winner in the other Riley Weaver won third fish category for 7- to in the bass category 9-year-olds was Abigail for 7- to 9-year-olds Dovey (6.10 pounds).

(1.74 pounds).

You

Care

Can Count On

When it comes to your family’s health, you can count on our dedication to deliver compassionate, quality care every time. Wellington Regional is here with award-winning services, including cardiovascular, maternity and Level III NICU, emergency medicine, an Accredited Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI and Resuscitation by the American College of Cardiology, an Accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV, an Accredited Bariatric Center of Excellence by MBSAQIP and much more.

To learn more about hospital services, visit wellingtonregional.com or call 561-798-9880 to find a provider.

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. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 22635902-1023646 6/22

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NEWS

Lox Council Kills Overlay, Pans ‘Mobility Hubs’ On Okeechobee

By Joshua Manning Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council agreed Tuesday, July 5 that while some changes may be needed along Okeechobee Blvd., the ones being suggested by town staff did not fit the bill.

At the meeting, the council voted unanimously to kill the long-discussed Okeechobee Blvd. overlay plan, and also asked for major changes to staff’s recommendations regarding how to spend grant money awarded by the Solid Waste Authority for beautification projects on the roadway.

First up was a discussion about the SWA’s Blighted and Distressed Property Clean-Up and Beautification Grant Program, through which the town was awarded $331,875. The money will be used for new entry signs at key town locations, as well as Okeechobee Blvd. intersection enhancements.

The town must provide 25 percent matching funds, which will be through in-kind services done by the Public Works Department.

The timeline is tight to get the project done, however, since the money is supposed to be spent by Sept. 30. While the five planned entry signs are not controversial, the intersection improvements have been a sticking point, with some council members even wanting to turn down the grant money.

Regarding the entry signs, the council did not like the green color suggested by staff and asked that the brown tones and imagery of the existing sign at Okeechobee Blvd. and Folsom Road be picked up for the new signs, along with some degree of public input before the sign design is finalized.

“These signs say nothing about

us,” Vice Mayor Laura Danowski said. “We can do a way better job on these signs.”

More controversial were the planned “mobility hubs” along Okeechobee Blvd. at the five lettered roads. While these were originally planned to include shelters and benches, that idea was removed previously by the council, which is wary of the sites becoming gathering places for migrant workers.

The design pitched by town staff at the July 5 meeting included concrete slabs with trash containers, lighted bollards and bike racks located on the south side of Okeechobee, east of the lettered roads, as far south as possible while still in the right-of-way. This will allow them to possibly survive any future widening of the road by Palm Beach County.

Councilwoman Phillis Maniglia did not feel that the mobility hubs provide any benefit to the town, particularly after the council majority’s decision recently to turn down a grant through the Transportation Planning Agency for other work on the roadway.

“The TPA grant would have benefited our taxpayers,” she said.

“Who does this project benefit?

Whose bicycles are sitting there?

It’s not the kids who go to school, they belong to the migrant workers. The trash wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for the migrant workers illegally being picked up along the road.”

She called the mobility hubs “a nicer place for the migrant workers to hang out.”

Councilwoman Marianne Miles believes that the large garbage cans will lead to illegal dumping and was concerned about spending

money on Okeechobee, which is a county road, not a town road.

“Do we want to put the money into something we don’t desperately need right now?” she asked.

“I am not in favor of spending all of this money and getting bike racks and glorified trash cans.”

As council members questioned the garbage cans and the lighting, Town Manager Francine Ramaglia reminded them that the grant was through the SWA and has rules attached to it.

“The purpose of this grant was for beautification and to combat blight,” she said. “Part of blight is crime. The idea of having the lighting is to prevent crime… If we are thinking of not accepting this grant, we need to do it sooner, rather than later.”

She added that the town will be doing landscaping and beautification of these areas as part of its inkind contribution with the hopes to starting an adopt-a-street program with local nurseries to keep the intersections looking their best.

“Nobody really likes the look that is currently there, and that’s what we were trying to address,” Ramaglia said.

Danowski said that she wants to continue with the grant but wants more options.

“I would prefer bus stops than pretty trash containers. I would prefer a mechanized crossing device,” she said. “I appreciate the work you have done to get us free money. I just can’t get behind fancy trash receptacles. There must be a happy compromise that will gets us our money and benefits the residents.”

During public comment, resident Paul Coleman expressed concerns about the mobility hubs.

“Anything that will make this town nicer, I’m for. But we should not be spending town money on county property,” he said.

Cassie Suchy wanted to see more equestrian elements included.

Maniglia said that the primary problem in that area is that it has become a gathering spot for migrant workers. She wants to see them off the roadways and in a centralized location, such as one of the local churches.

“Get rid of the garbage cans, get rid of the bike racks and make the sheriff’s office do its job,” she said. “We have nine churches on Okeechobee Blvd., and one of them should be able to take care of these guys who need jobs.”

Danowski agreed that it would be a good idea to try to negotiate with some of the churches to provide a safer location for the pickup and drop-off of workers.

Mayor Robert Shorr asked if the town can move forward quickly with the signs and continue to work on the Okeechobee Blvd. concepts. Ramaglia said that she could pose that question to the SWA. Maniglia made a motion to turn down the grant, but it died for the lack of a second.

Danowski then made a motion that encompassed several of the ideas discussed, including eliminating the mobility hubs and incorporating the idea of solarpowered crossings on the north and south sides of Okeechobee, to incorporate license plate readers to curtail crime, to make bigger signs to prevent loitering, and to negotiate with churches for the pickup and drop-off of laborers.

Danowski’s motion passed 3-2

with Maniglia and Councilwoman Marge Herzog opposed.

Also at the meeting, the council drove the final nail into the coffin of the long-discussed Okeechobee Blvd. Overlay, which was designed to add legal, limited nonresidential uses to the Okeechobee Blvd. corridor.

Technically, the discussion was the second reading of an ordinance that was continued from a meeting in September 2021, when the council sent the overlay plan back to staff for further refinements and public input.

After staff and committee meetings, public input sessions were held recently with most attendees opposed to any changes bringing additional commercial uses to Okeechobee Blvd.

Ramaglia said that the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council hosted two listening sessions, where members of the public were invited to give their opinions on the overlay. The TCRPC wrote a report with suggestions to make the plan more palatable, such as revisiting how “low-impact, nonresidential” is characterized and to strengthen the use of the Rural Vista architectural guidelines, as well as include more rules to limit light pollution.

Town Planning Consultant Jim Fleischmann said that the ordinance includes comprehensive plan map amendments and text amendments that set strict limits on setbacks and floor-area ratios on the non-residential uses.

Public comments at the meeting opposed any additional commercial use on Okeechobee Blvd.

“At the last public input meeting, every speaker opposed this overlay,” Sunsport Gardens resi-

dent Morley Schloss said. “No one spoke in favor of it. Our board of directors met and discussed the overlay and unanimously opposed any additional commercial on Okeechobee.”

Coleman also opposed the overlay.

“We haven’t built out the commercial on Southern Blvd., and now we’re talking about commercial on Okeechobee,” he said.

“During the most recent election, it was resounding across the board, no commercial on Okeechobee. I don’t even understand why we are still here discussing this.”

Suchy took aim at Fleischmann and suggested that the town needs changes in its planning staff.

“He was hired to develop our town. He is the single, common thread woven throughout this whole disaster,” she said. “You should vote this down, and after you vote this down, correct the staffing situation and hire a town planner to promote our town vision of staying rural.”

Virginia Standish said that commercial use should stay on Southern Blvd.

“The lack of control of development on Southern Blvd. gives many of us no confidence in what would happen on Okeechobee Blvd.,” she said.

The overlay needed four votes to pass, and it was clear from the start of council comments that was unlikely.

Hoping for a quick end to the discussion, Maniglia, a vocal opponent of the plan, made a motion to approve the overlay, which was seconded by Herzog.

Miles noted that there are existing businesses on Okeechobee See OVERLAY, page 14

WELLINGTON ROTARIANS BRING FOOD BAGS TO LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Members of the Wellington Rotary Club visited the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington on Friday, July 1 with food to feed 250 families as part of the Rotary’s Pay it Forward project.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

(Seated) Maggie Zeller, Herta Suess and Joan Imperatore; and (standing) Walter Imperatore, Scott Armand, Tom Carreras, Maria Cruz, George Kinoshita and Mike Nicodema.

Maggie Zeller and Maria Cruz.

Vladimir Barner is happy to receive a free Chick-fil-A meal.

Chauntel Baker, Jordan Baker and PBSO Deputy Jennifer Baker.

Sandra Goodson with Colton and Trey Goodson.

Gio and Leo Rathmann with Dylan Wiggins.

Wellington Rotary Club members Mike Nicodema, Maggie Zeller, Walter Imperatore, Scott Armand, Maria Cruz, Tom Carreras, Joan Imperatore and George Kinoshita with interns Brielle Mineley and Hermione Williams.

Jayden Melendez, Megan Melendez, Annalee Gonzalez and Mariana Gonzalez.

Maria Cruz and Tom Carreras give food to Diamond Gutierrez and Jeanette Contreras.

NEWS BRIEFS St. David’s To Host Island Dinner Dance

Put on your best Island casual wear and dancing shoes and join St. David’s in-the-Pines Episcopal Church for a Caribbean-themed evening of dinner, dancing and fun on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 6 to 11 p.m. The event will be held at the parish center at St. Rita Catholic Church and will feature live music

by Kool Vibes, door prizes, a 50/50 raffle, a cash bar and more.

Tickets are $75 per person and are available for purchase at the St. David’s Church office or by calling (561) 793-1976. No tickets will be sold at the door.

“This will be a fun event for couples and singles alike and is a great opportunity to experience some Island fun without leaving town. From the Island-themed food and band, to various Island cocktails, you won’t want to miss out on this evening of fun and entertainment,” said Father Steven Thomas, the rector at St. David’s.

For more information about the event and event pricing, contact Laurie Cohen at (561) 252-9828 or visit the church’s web site at www. saintdavidsinthepines.org.

Second Annual Dog Days Of Summer 5K

Barky Pines Animal Rescue &

Sanctuary will host its second annual Dog Days of Summer 5K on Saturday, July 23 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, located at 11600 Poinciana Blvd.

The race start is 7:30 a.m. with check-in beginning at 6:30 a.m.

Early check-in information will be sent to all registered participants.

Race options offered are chip timed, fun run, run or walk with your dog. Saylor Physical Therapy will be guiding a pre- and post-run stretch, and Nomad Mobile Fitness will be doing the warm-ups.

Race sponsors include Pet Supplies Plus Royal Palm Beach, Bornheimer Farms Loxahatchee, Saylor Physical Therapy Jupiter and Nomad Mobile Fitness Loxahatchee In addition, there will be vendors, raffles and a pet costume contest, with DJ Riz getting the crowd going all morning long.

There is still time to sign up and help Barky Pines save even more lives.

For more info., visit https:// runsignup.com/Race/FL/RoyalPalmBeach/PuppyLove5kDogDaysofSummer.

Acreage Library To Host Author Michael Patrick O’Neill July 15

On Friday, July 15 at 2:30 p.m., the Palm Beach County

Library System will host a “Meet the Author” event with awardwinning photographer, author and FAA-certified drone pilot Michael Patrick O’Neill.

The event will be held at the Acreage branch library at 15801 Orange Blvd.

Born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil, O’Neill specializes in marine wildlife and environmental issues.

He lives in Palm Beach Gardens, and for the last 27 years has traveled extensively worldwide photographing diverse aquatic animals, habitats and man’s impact on them.

O’Neill has written and photographed eight non-fiction marine life books designed to encourage school children to read, write, and become involved in science and conservation.

When not making photographs or writing, O’Neill is on the lecture circuit promoting a greater appreciation for the natural world, especially the oceans and their inhabitants. He has presented to more than 500,000 kids in more than 400 schools in the U.S. in the last 17 years.

O’Neill’s images have appeared in hundreds of publications worldwide and have won the most prestigious competitions, including World Press Photo, Wildlife Photographer of the Year and Pictures of the Year.

Preregister for this free event at http://events.pbclibrary.org/ node/28028.

Wellington Amphitheater Events Moved To Village Park

Starting this month, events typically hosted at the Wellington Amphitheater, including the Thursday food truck events and Saturday concert series, will be relocated to Village Park at 11700 Pierson Road.

The temporary change in location is due to ongoing construction at Wellington’s Town Center, as part of the Town Center Phase 2 project.

For future updates on July and August events relocated to Village Park, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/ events.

Wellington Completes Urban Forestry Master Plan

The Village of Wellington has completed an urban forestry master plan for the village. The report was completed with assistance from the Urban and Community Forestry Program through a $7,500 grant.

The project’s main objective was to contract with specialists to develop an urban forestry master plan for the village. The master plan is based on data obtained from the inventory completed in 2020

and includes a current description of the urban forest, a vision for the future urban forest, a strategic plan, an implementation plan and a monitoring plan.

The village engaged a local firm to finalize the urban forestry master plan and is extremely grateful for the technical and financial assistance provided by the U.S. Forest Service, the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and the Florida Forest Service.

Water Reclamation Facility Operations Team, along with supporting divisions, including Regulatory Compliance, Technology Services and Plant Maintenance for their dedication and commitment to excellence.

High Marks For Wellington Water Facility

The Crisis Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Replacement Program, through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), is working to assist low-income Palm Beach County homeowners in need of replacing their home’s HVAC system, with assistance up to $15,000. This money can be used to replace their home cooling system.

Clients must be income-eligible, live in Pam Beach County, and are required to show that they are in a crisis situation.

Completed applications must show one or more of the following: the HVAC system no longer cools; the HVAC unit is 10 years or older; proof of high energy bills; and/or proof of a life-threatening environment via a doctor’s statement.

For program guidelines and to apply for assistance, visit www. utilityassistancepbc.org or call (561) 355-4792.

Wellington is proud to report that its Water Reclamation Facility has once again received the mark of “full compliance” from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The facility received its annual inspection report in June.

This distinction reflects Wellington’s forward-thinking initiatives and commitment to continually improving the treatment process and protecting water resources.

Wellington’s Water Reclamation Facility has received numerous industry awards and accolades, including the Domestic Wastewater Plant Operations Excellence Award from FDEP. These awards exemplify the dedication and professionalism of the facility’s personnel.

The village congratulates its

PBC Offers HVAC Program For Low-Income Residents

Page 8

July 15 - July 28, 2022

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NEWS

ROYAL PALM SENIORS ENJOY ICE CREAM SOCIAL AT THE CULTURAL CENTER

Royal Palm Beach seniors enjoyed an Ice Cream Social to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday on Thursday, June 30 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. There was a light lunch served, followed by plenty of ice cream and toppings. Dick Carmine provided entertainment, and guests were presented with American flags.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Patty McFarland, Barbara Jackson, Carolyn Hmara, Rhonda Ninfo, Francine Bryant, Mehr Ghezelayagh, Jenny Yin and Olivia Abel are celebrating birthdays in June and July.

Dick Carmine sings patriotic songs as seniors march around the room.

Birthday girl Carolyn Hmara with Councilman Jeff Hmara.

Shakeera Thomas addresses the attendees.

Ruby Anderson, Gloria Legister, Beatrice Crooks and Barbara Fuller.

Sandy Rubin, Muriel Guttenplan, Wilma Fink and Rhonda Ninfo.

Barbara Fuller, Beatrice Crooks and Marie Seinfeld.

Barbara Searls, Jenny Lopez and Patty McFarland.

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Attendees wave flags to celebrate Independence Day.

Dick Carmine sings on stage.

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VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH PUBLIC NOTICE The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has a vacancy for one seat on the Education Advisory Board. The Education Advisory Board meets on the second Monday of the month eight months out of the year, with one special meeting in April of each year for scholarship interviews. All meetings are held in the Village Meeting Hall. Board Members shall meet the following qualifications at the time of their appointment and throughout the course of their service: they must be a Village resident; have a background in education and experience in the field of education; be a member of a parent teacher organization, parent teacher association, school advisory council or other similar organization associated with or sponsored by the school district or a public or charter school located within the Village; or be a parent/legal guardian of a child currently enrolled in a Village public or charter school. Those ineligible to serve on the Board are: employees of the Palm Beach County School District; employees of an organization funded by the School District (e.g. charter school employee); or employees of a charter management organization or charter education management organization. If you would like to volunteer your service and expertise on this local government Board, go to the Village’s website at COMMISSION/BOARD APPLICATION. Return the completed application to the Village Clerk’s office no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 9, 2022 for Council consideration at its August 18, 2022 meeting.

If further information is desired, please call the Village Clerk at (561) 790-5102.

By: Diane DiSanto, MMC, Village Clerk

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Page 11

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NEWS

ROYAL PALM BEACH MAYOR’S GOLF TOURNAMENT HELD AT MADISON GREEN

The Royal Palm Beach Mayor’s Fourth of July Golf Tournament was held Monday, July 4 at the Madison Green Country Club. The event featured 19 foursomes and raised money for the Royal Palm Beach Scholarship Fund, which awards 10 scholarships to high school seniors each year.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Bill Stenger, Mayor Fred Pinto, Nick Fabra, Vice Mayor Selena Samios and Director of Golf Scott Stowell with the second-place award.

Longest drive winner Bryce Weidner with Fred Pinto and Selena Samios.

Vice Mayor Selena Samios, Golf Pro J.P. Begley, Mayor Fred Pinto and Village Manager Ray Liggins.

Brendon Pendergrass with 50/50 raffle winner Mayda Muniz.

Bill Stenger, Kyle Blake, Rich Wishart and Nick Fabra.

FIRE TRUCK ROLLBACK CEREMONY

On Wednesday, July 6 Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue held the official Rollback Ceremony for its new truck serving the western communities. The ceremony is a 150-year firefighter tradition to bless and dedicate a new truck by manually rolling it into its station. This vehicle is the tallest and heaviest in the fleet. Its ladder can extend 10 stories high, swing 360 degrees and hose 2,000 gallons a minute.

Housed at Station 29 on Belvedere Road in Royal Palm Beach, it will serve Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, The Acreage, Loxahatchee Groves and Westlake, as well as travel wherever it is needed.

VILLAGE OF ROYAL PALM BEACH PUBLIC NOTICE

The Village of Royal Palm Beach currently has a vacancy for one (1) alternate member on the Planning and Zoning Commission with the term expiring in March of 2025. The Commission 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, go to the Village’s website at COMMISSION/BOARD APPLICATION and return the completed application to the Village Clerk’s office no later than August 9, 2022 for Council consideration at its August 18th meeting.

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

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Scott Stowell, Mayor Fred Pinto, Austin Duran, Lincoln Bohn, Jerry Bohn, Logan Stachkunas and Vice Mayor Selena Samios with the first-place award.

Brayden Aleff, Davon Calvan, Roland Tyson and Jaron Eaton.

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Roar Into Summer At Wellington Green With Jurassic Camp At Palm Beach Museum Of Natural History

Who wants to pet a real dinosaur? Now through Aug. 5, kids over age five are invited to become junior paleontologists, geologists and archaeologists at Jurassic Camp at the Palm Beach Museum of Natural History.

Tucked inside the Mall at Wellington Green, kids enjoy hands-on, STEAM-based multidisciplinary learning, games and activities, from identifying Ice Age fossils and Native American artifacts, to taking selfies with “Cheryll,” the museum’s 68-million-year-old Triceratops. It is the only actual dinosaur skeleton in South Florida.

Kids also take field trips around the mall, from technology workshops at Apple, cuddly bear customization at Build-A-Bear Workshop, cooking classes at California Pizza Kitchen and more.

Camp registration is $30, and weekly fees are $250. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

For more information, contact Director of Education Shana Campbell at (561) 275-6233,

e-mail education@pbmnh.org or visit www.pbmnh.org.

The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History’s Jurassic Camp is located in the Mall at Wellington Green at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 172.

There are a variety of activities for Jurassic Camp participants.

Page 14

July 15 - July 28, 2022

The Town-Crier

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NEWS

District 6

Three Seek Dem Nod

continued from page 1 one. When I served on the Wellington Education Committee, it was my idea to bring back these education grants that help support Wellington schools,” she said, also noting her work bringing the Butterfly House rape treatment center to Wellington Regional Medical Center. “I helped identify federal funding to get that started.”

McGovern also pointed to her work in the Glades to minimize the impact of FEMA flood maps on insurance rates.

“I went to Washington with local elected officials on behalf of Sen. Nelson,” she said. “I sat across the table from FEMA officials in order to get that changed.

My role in each of these were both in my official capacity and in my spare time working in this community to bring about change.”

She believes that affordability in housing and public safety are key issues in this race.

“But I also feel that people are paying attention to women’s reproductive health issues and gun safety,” McGovern said. “While I can’t change those laws, I can do everything I can to support people here in our community, which I am already doing as chair of the Palm Beach County Advisory Commission on Women.”

McGovern has big plans for her work over the next four years on the county commission.

“I feel that there are real challenges ahead of us when it comes to creating more affordable housing opportunities. With that comes real challenges in transportation needs. I hope to bring a voice

Kayden

New Disney Show ‘The Villains Of Valley View’

continued from page 1 a top 5 most-requested video on Music Choice, along with another of her songs, “Walk.” Recently, Muller-Janssen released another single, “No Baby.”

Her album is coming out in October and will feature songs close to her heart.

of reason to that, and I hope to bring successes,” she said. “I will focus on supporting women who make most of the decisions when it comes to their families and the community. Any opportunity I have to help support our women, I am going to do.”

She added that Palm Beach County will see many changes in the coming years.

“I think the biggest change is the influx of people moving here, so we will have to be very mindful in how we manage that in every way, when it comes to housing, transportation and safety,” McGovern said.

She noted that she has more than 50 endorsements in this race, including support from McKinlay, the current county commissioner.

“I am honored for the support I have gotten in this race, which is pretty broad based,” McGovern said. “I am really proud of all of the public service to the community I have done in the past, and I look forward to continuing to serve my community in the future as Palm Beach County’s first Latina commissioner.”

For more information about McGovern’s campaign, visit www. votemichellemcgovern.com.

Sylvia Sharps — After growing up in Daytona Beach, Sharps moved to Palm Beach County in 2000. She is a resident of Royal Palm Beach who previously worked for the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department as a grant writer.

“I have 31 years in public service and volunteering in the community,” Sharps said. “I have worked in the federal government with two congress people. I am also a 30-year grant writer. I worked on the Lake Region Water Treatment Plant. It was my largest project. It

was a $58 million project, and I successfully secured $33 million in funding.”

During her six years working for the county, Sharps said she secured more than $100 million in grant funding.

“With my experience, I feel that I am more than qualified to be a great representative for District 6,” she said. “I am also not allergic to learning.”

Sharps said that being a county commissioner should not be about political connections, but rather serving the residents.

“People have to be considered when you are making decisions that will affect their lives,” she said. “I know that people are frustrated because decisions are being made without their input.”

Sharps also wants to work with young people to get them involved. “We have to be willing to let the baton go. That’s why term limits are so important,” she said. “I believe that I am not only the most qualified individual, I am the best choice for the residents.”

Sharps added that she is a domestic violence survivor who works to support domestic violence victims through a nonprofit that she founded. She also works with a program that feeds the homeless in West Palm Beach.

“I would like to see more county programs regarding domestic violence and homelessness,” she said.

Key issues for Sharps are skyrocketing rents and the lack of affordable housing. She also is concerned about public safety and supports additional public transportation. “More transportation options are needed so that everybody doesn’t have to drive to work,” Sharps said. “We only have so much road space.”

Over the next four years, she

would like to add more programs to combat domestic violence and work with landlord and real estate associations to find a cure for rising rents. “We should be working with other counties that have already found solutions for those problems. It is not necessary to reinvent the wheel,” Sharps said.

She looks to the Lake Region Treatment Plant project as her most important public work and is also proud of all the children that she has mentored. “My legacy is the children I have worked with who are now teachers in the community,” Sharps said.

Managing growth is a key topic for the county, she said.

“We are growing as a county.

Everybody is talking about the amount of people who are moving here, but nobody is talking about the empty houses and empty plaza, and utilizing those places as resources for homelessness,” Sharps said.

Sharps previously ran for the Palm Beach County Commission in District 2 four years ago, losing the Democratic primary to Gregg Weiss, who is now the incumbent.

She realizes that she is running this time in a race with two better-funded politicians. Nevertheless, she said she is a better choice for residents seeking change.

“Just because I do not have a lot of people giving me money, many do not take me seriously, but I am the ‘Peopletician.’ Don’t elect the norm, try electing the unique, and that is me. Don’t underestimate the power of the people’s vote.”

To learn more about Sharps’ campaign, visit www.sylviasharps. com.

Matt Willhite — Willhite has been the area’s representative in Tallahassee for the past six years.

Prior to that, he served eight years

“Some of the songs that are going to be there are songs that I’ve created over the years and that have a really close, personal meaning to me and a story behind them,” she said. “I’m super excited for people to hear that.”

During her break, Muller-Janssen is excited to be spending time with friends and family in Wellington, where she grew her roots.

“I’m happy to be coming back home, and I’m just happy that I got to have this opportunity,” she said.

As a child, Muller-Janssen and her sister participated in sports like golf, tennis and soccer, but

theater and performing is where she shined.

Through her time at an art school, Muller-Janssen had the opportunity to participate in a showcase camp in Los Angeles, where she worked on acting sessions with casting directors. “I ended up getting my agent, and that’s kind of how it started off,” she explained.

Muller-Janssen already showed an affinity for acting and singing, but it truly became a career at that point.

The majority of her schooling took place at #1 Education Place in Wellington, where Muller-Janssen

was able to juggle her acting and singing commitments with her schoolwork. “I love that school,” she said.

Muller-Janssen is known around Wellington’s equestrian community as the daughter of internationally renowned dressage trainer Kerensa Muller and Dutch equestrian Olympian Sjef Janssen.

Episodes of The Villains of Valley View are available on Disney+ as well as www.disneynow.com.

To follow Muller-Janssen, find her on social media at www. instagram.com/kaydenmuller and www.twitter.com/kaydenmuller.

on the Wellington Village Council.

Married for 21 years to his wife Alexis, they have two teenage sons, Luke and Mark.

Willhite works as a captain with Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue.

“I am leaving Tallahassee one term early to run for this open seat,” he said. “I have been a county employee almost 27 years. I’m at Station 20 in Wellington. My wife has worked for the county in the engineering department for 21 years. I think we know the county pretty well.”

Willhite noted that he is the only veteran in the race.

“I served eight years as a Navy corpsman with a Marine unit,” he said. “In 2008, I ran for the Wellington Village Council. I served as a vice mayor and councilman. We built an amazing array of buildings, and everything was done pay as you go, so we had no debt.”

After leaving the council, he won a state house seat in 2016.

He is currently on the Democratic leadership team. “I am fairly well engaged with the 42-member Democratic caucus,” he said.

Willhite said he chose to run for the District 6 seat to continue his public service closer to home.

“My boys are now coming of age, and I wanted to be here to be closer to them,” he said. “Having worked for the county 27 years, I am very excited to be running for this seat.”

Regarding his top accomplishments, Willhite cited an array of laws that he worked to pass in Tallahassee.

“I passed a statewide workers’ comp benefit for PTSD for all first responders,” he said, adding that he has also worked to combat veteran suicide and help people get the prescription drugs they need.

He is also proud of working on gun safety legislation passed after the Parkland shooting.

“The Marjorie Stoneman Douglas bill was a forward-thinking gun law,” he said. “Everyone has to be 21 to buy a gun in the State of Florida, and our red flag laws were included.”

He called attention to items he supported for the local area.

“Wellington is the only municipality that has a fireworks restriction for its equestrian areas.

I passed that several years ago, and now everyone wants it,” he said. “I just got $25 million on the house side for the new Palm Beach State College dental school right here in Loxahatchee Groves.”

He is proud of his work getting

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continued from page 7 Blvd., and code enforcement alone with not solve that issue.

“We can change lots of stuff, but what is not going to change is that Okeechobee will one day be widened,” she said.

Mayor Robert Shorr said that there are things that can be changed to make the overlay better, “but I don’t want to go through and make all these changes and it being all for naught.”

He called the vote, and Maniglia’s motion to approve the ordinance failed unanimously, 5-0.

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the Patriot Memorial built. “I spearheaded the building of the Patriot Memorial,” Willhite said.

“Now it is an amazing landmark for our community.”

Key issues in this race include being tougher on gun violence and protecting children in schools.

“Protecting a woman’s right to choose, and women’s reproductive rights, is very important,” he said.

“I think housing and insurance issues is one of the biggest issues locally.”

He said the county needs to do a better job keeping up with roads and drainage systems, as well as keeping up with the demand for water. Dealing with the housing crisis will be a key focus for Willhite.

“I hope to assist people with home affordability. Make affordable housing units available rather than just overdevelopment,” he said. “Our farmers also need support because a lot of the food that goes on our table comes from right here in this district.”

He is a supporter of “smart growth.”

“We need to redevelop many things rather than developing. It’s not always about the tax base, it’s about the quality of life,” he said.

Willhite stressed that his current campaign is not about money and endorsements.

“I have first responders supporting me, and I will take them any day over developers,” he said.

“I have been on the ballot seven times so far and been elected seven times. People obviously think that I have the best of intentions, and I look out for them. In the time that we are in, experience matters.”

To learn more about Willhite’s campaign, visit www.mattwillhite. com.

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NEWS

ROYAL PALM BEACH HOSTS JULY FOURTH SPECTACULAR AT COMMONS PARK

The Village of Royal Palm Beach held its day-long Fourth of July Spectacular on Monday, July 4 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. The day included food, fun, bounce houses, face painting, vendors, live music, a military tribute and a spectacular fireworks display.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

The American Legion Post 367 Color Guard during the military tribute.

A Bee Gees tribute band performs on stage.

Robb and Pam Robinson.

Fireworks light up the sky over Commons Park.

Jennifer Makowski of Homemade Holiday & More with a wreath she made.

(Front) Councilwoman Jan Rodusky, Councilman Richard Valuntas, Carolyn and Councilman Jeff Hmara; and (back) Michelle McGovern, Annaliese Tancos, Victoria McGovern and Morgan Cintron.

Betania Pinckney of Innovative Solutions with handmade soaps.

Unified Dream’s veterans and friends, including founder Jake Hampu and Councilman Jeff Hmara.

Councilwoman Jan Rodusky, Mayor Fred Pinto and Councilman Jeff Hmara greet residents on stage.

56 Ace performs on stage.

Gene and Jackie Klusmeier.

Vinette Tracy, Lisa Joseph, Gloy George and Trevor George.

Christopher Nolan and Allendys Gonnell.

Twins Kathrine Vernet and Kathline Vernet enjoy snow cones.

Shining Horse Farm & Sanctuary President Leanne Witt, Devin Martin with Cooper, who is up for adoption.

(Front) Gabrielle Heelan and Brianna Coffey with Diesel, and (back) Darlene Heelan and Tasha Coffey.

Jordyn Diaz with River and Reign.

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Page 17

Page 18

July 15 - July 28, 2022

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NEWS

PEOPLE ENJOY FUN TIME ON JULY FOURTH AT VILLAGE PARK IN WELLINGTON

The Village of Wellington hosted its annual Fourth of July celebration on Monday, July 4 at Village Park on Pierson Road. The event included bounce houses, food trucks, bingo, face painting and more. The Long Run Band, an Eagles tribute group, performed for the crowd on stage during the evening hours leading up to a spectacular fireworks display.

PHOTOS BY ERIN DAVISSON AND COURTESY THE VILLAGE OF WELLINGTON

A crane lifts the American flag over the stage.

Shelly Albright, Vice Mayor Michael Drahos, Julia and Sophia Drahos, Councilman John McGovern and Emilia McGovern.

Wellington’s Branden Miller at the park.

James Smith, Michelle Garvey, Steve Martinetti and Ian Williams.

A goat looks for friends at the petting zoo.

Crazy Games entertain the children.

The gathered crowd watches fireworks over Village Park.

Amara, Luke and Mayor Anne Gerwig.

The Long Run Band performs on stage.

The bounce houses were popular with children.

There were plenty of food trucks on hand for snacks.

Uncle Sam visits with attendees.

Residents take a break from the heat in the bingo room.

Julia, Sophia and Vice Mayor Michael Drahos.

A Fourth of July banner was a popular photo spot.

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Dear Neighbors:

rolled out. It is called m the Wellington Community Foundation has recently I am writing to share with you an exciting new progra g with this initiative in 2022. helpin with me Former Mayor Tom Wenham, has tasked “Friends of the Foundation.” The Foundation's Chair, What is the Foundation and why should you care? most deserving in our 501c3 organization that helps the most vulnerable and The Wellington Community Foundation is a grassroots that operates with ization organ r eighbo ping-n or-hel neighb a is ns. At its core, it community: our children, our seniors, and our vetera a group, they are the as , Indeed . penny and the Executive Director are not paid a extremely low overhead. The Chair, all Board members, . works good many they know well the Foundation’s biggest donors supporting the organization. After all, What are those good works?

They have included: dignity — instead of being s so they can “age in place” in our community, with • Helping seniors with home repairs and modification warehoused somewhere. on par with all their peers. ing school children so they can begin the school year • Providing high-quality backpacks to hundreds of deserv ise find. otherw can hands avoiding the potential for mischief that idle • Sending hundreds of children to summer camp and our wonderful by helped be and r Cente Riding peutic attend Vinceremos Thera • Sponsoring children with special needs so they can equestrian community. into civilian life.

State College, so they can more easily transition back • Helping veterans with school expenses at Palm Beach • Supporting a local food bank. ise often forgotten.

• Providing birthday packages for seniors, who are otherw the world, it can and does make works. While your humble Foundation cannot change This is just a sample of the Foundation’s many good who need a helping hand. a world of change to some of our vulnerable neighbors causes? become a true leader in supporting these wonderful So, how do you become a Friend of the Foundation and Foundation and unity Comm gton on. Checks made payable to the Wellin To become a Friend for a year requires a $1,000 donati dation.org/friendsityfoun mmun gtonco /wellin https:/ : online with a credit card here in our mailed to the address above. You can also easily donate right stays penny is a wise investment in our community, and every of-the-foundation. Each Friend’s generous donation community, helping our neighbors who need us most.

What do you receive in return? ber. A plaque that you are a annual Red, White, and Blue event, held each Novem Each Friend will receive two personalized tickets to our ing articles planned for The at the Red, White, and Blue event, as well as in upcom Foundation Friend. All Friends will also be recognized will be respected. ition recogn such the wishes of anyone who does not want Town-Crier and Wellington The Magazine. Obviously, are a true leader in helping es is the wonderful deep-down feeling of knowing you That said, the most meaningful thing each Friend receiv make our great community an even better place. urge you not to delay and ing Friends of the Foundation for the First year? I would Would you please consider becoming one of the Found Thank you. become a Friend today. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Mickey Smith Chair, Friends of the Foundation 12794 Forest Hill Boulevard, Suite 19F Wellington,FL 33414 | (561) 333-9843 www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org

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SPORTS, PAGES 21-23 • PEOPLE, PAGES 24-25 • SCHOOLS, PAGE 26 • BUSINESS, PAGE 27 • COLUMNS, PAGE 28 • CLASSIFIEDS, PAGES 29-30

SPORTS & RECREATION

New League Expands Local Youth Flag Football Opportunities

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Another youth flag football program is coming to the western communities starting this fall. The Breakthru Athletic League, a nonprofit organization, is bringing an NFL Flag chapter of five-on-five flag football to the greater Acreage/Loxahatchee area.

According to Breakthru Athletic League President Chris Harris, NFL Flag is currently the fastestgrowing flag football program in the United States.

“We have an all-boys league and an all-girls league for ages 4 to 17,” Harris said. “Our registration ends on Aug. 14. The registration fee is $125 per person with a sibling discount available.”

The opening day of the fall 2022 season for the Breakthru Athletic League is Saturday, Sept.

10. The season includes eight regular-season games with a “super bowl” tournament at the end of the season.

According to Harris, the players will meet three times per week at Western Pines Middle School, located at 5949 140th Avenue

North. On Mondays, all athletes in the league will meet for a series of group football skills and conditioning training sessions. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, athletes will meet with their specific team and coach for an organized practice.

On Saturdays, teams will play competitive games.

Harris’ wife, Samantha Harris, is the president of the girls division. She has been playing flag football since 2000, has coached girls flag football at Seminole Ridge High School for 11 years, and has coached recreation and travel teams as well.

“Samantha has assembled a board of directors who have a positive mindset,” Chris Harris said. “Her board features a group of individuals who are looking to grow the sport.”

The president of the boys division is Bill Basso. He is a local firefighter who has served as a league president and coach for youth baseball in the western communities.

“Bill has put together an experienced board of directors group that is excited to see an all-boys

flag football league in the area for the first time,” Harris said.

The emergence of this local NFL-backed youth flag football chapter in the western communities is a reflection of the growth and popularity of flag football across the U.S. and overseas. Flag football — for men and women — is one of the medal sports at the World Games now taking place (July 7-17) in Birmingham, Alabama. Besides the U.S., other countries with flag football teams include Mexico, Austria, Brazil, Panama, Japan, France, Italy, Denmark and Germany.

According to Troy Vincent, the NFL’s executive vice president of football operations, NFL Flag has more than half a million participants and 1,640 active leagues, prompting six states to certify girls high school flag football as a varsity sport.

“More than 20 other states are either showing interest or already in the process of launching pilot programs,” added Vincent, who was drafted by the Miami Dolphins with the seventh overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft.

The Breakthru Athletic League will offer flag football programs for both boys and girls.

“It’s a very exciting time for the League includes Lakeside Cot- Farm Agent Robert LaPeter, AMS sport,” Harris said. “Between the tages, East Coast Painting and Palm Beach, Elite Power SoluWorld Games and the National Waterproofing, Jabrewski’s Pizza tions, Oil Change Services Inc. and Association of Intercollegiate Company, Green Gorilla Print Dick’s Sporting Goods.

To learn more about the BreakAthletics (NAIA), which sanctions House, Jordano Insurance Group, flag football for women, the future Tru Skillz Academy, Goals 4 Girls thru Athletic League, call Chris is looking good for flag football.” WPB, Sassy Stitches Embroidery, Harris at (561) 596-4196 or visit The list of local league sponsors D1 Training Royal Palm Beach, www.breakthruathleticleague. to date for the Breakthru Athletic Elite Detailing & Coatings, State com.

Wellington Resident Jason Bagwell Is A Green Grass Guru

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington resident Jason Bagwell has a green thumb, and it’s on display 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 12 months a year. Bagwell’s ability to nurture blossoming trees, shrubs, flowers and grass is his professional pride and joy.

Bagwell works as the director of golf course maintenance at the Gleneagles Country Club in Delray Beach.

At Gleneagles, Bagwell is not only responsible for maintaining one 18-hole golf course. He and his crew maintain two 18-hole, championship layouts — the Victory course and the Legends course.

Bagwell’s professional abilities are not taken for granted.

“He is extremely well-regarded for his expertise in the area of golf course maintenance and keeping the playing conditions pristine,” Gleneagles Director of Golf Joe DeMino said. “He is, most of all, a professional all the way around and understands the art of keeping the golf courses in perfect

Jason Bagwell at Gleneagles with his dog Daisy.

condition, which he certainly does masterfully at Gleneagles.”

Bagwell doesn’t do it alone.

Besides a talented and capable group of assistants who fertilize the two courses, cut the grass, trim the bushes, prune the trees and rake the sand bunkers, he is often joined by a two-year-old pug named Daisy.

For Bagwell, his four-legged, furry companion is one of his best friends.

“I bring her to work when time allows,” Bagwell said. “She has learned course etiquette and loves to visit with members and staff.

Daisy is a very loyal dog, therefore, she is a very good listener.

She started learning using a training collar. Now, she understands a few simple commands that work well on and off the golf course.”

For the last 12 years, Gleneagles has been Bagwell’s professional home. He has had a successful stint at Gleneagles because it takes a team effort to keep two championship golf courses in top-notch condition 12 months a year.

“It takes a great staff and a membership that supports all the

agronomic programs during the off season,” Bagwell said.

Some people believe that the work of maintaining a golf course 12 months a year in South Florida, where there’s usually plenty of rain and more than enough sunshine, wouldn’t be that challenging of a job, but Mother Nature presents Bagwell with a daily challenge.

“Delray Beach is considered to be in a sub-tropical region, making extreme heat, humidity and lots of rain the norm,” Bagwell said.

“We have Bermuda grass on the golf courses, and it thrives in these extreme conditions. The challenge is keeping up with its rapid growth during the summer months.”

And from time to time, a hurricane comes rolling through the area, “Hurricanes are very unpredictable. Each year, we trim all the trees on property prior to hurricane season,” Bagwell said. “When we have a hurricane on the radar, we closely monitor the predicted path.

The size and path of an approaching hurricane will determine how we prepare. For anything less than a Category 1, we will simply bring

in all accessories, remove all wind screens from the tennis court, and secure all loss items. For hurricanes Category 1 or higher, we will put up or close shutters on all windows, open flood gates and hope for the best.”

According to Bagwell, the key to navigating a hurricane is to be ready for its arrival.

“We are always prepared for hurricanes, especially as the hurricane season progresses,” Bagwell said. “We are currently trimming all trees on property, which is a big undertaking. This process will take two high-lift booms, one chipper and truck, and approximately 10 workers four weeks to complete.”

While surviving a hurricane presents its own challenge, getting not one but two golf courses open for play again after a storm blows through the area is another daunting task.

“Immediately after a hurricane passes, everyone wants to play golf,” Bagwell said. “We can clean up after a hurricane faster than expected. Depending on how long there is a power loss, we can See BAGWELL, page 23

Wellington’s Ryan Bruno Earns A Spot On The U.S. National Team

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Longtime Wellington resident and current Stanford University student-athlete Ryan Bruno has been rewarded for a standout season with Stanford’s baseball team.

Bruno — who just completed his sophomore season at Stanford and helped propel the team to a berth in the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska — has earned a spot on the 26-man USA Baseball Collegiate National Team, following a five-game intrasquad series that served as a tryout during the national team training camp in Cary, North Carolina.

The USA Baseball Collegiate National Team represented the U.S. at Honkbalweek Haarlem from July 8 to July 15 at Pim Mulier Stadium in The Netherlands.

The USA Baseball Collegiate National Team is led by University of Mississippi head baseball coach Mike Bianco, who capped his 24th season leading Ole Miss to its first-ever College World Se-

ries title in June. Bianco is joined on staff by Xan Barksdale, Drew Bianco (Louisiana State University), Scott Brown (Vanderbilt University), Cliff Godwin (East Carolina University) and Josh Holliday (Oklahoma State University).

“As I sat with the 51 players that we invited to Cary, I told them what a tremendous honor this is because you are 51 of the best amateur baseball players in the United States of America,” Bianco said. “To narrow it down nearly in half is quite a task. We shared with all of them, as honestly and candidly as we could, that there are players who will go home who will play in the big leagues and be All-Americans next year.”

Fortunately, Bruno was one of the players selected for the team.

During the national team camp, Bruno made two pitching appearances, where he struck out three and allowed just one hit and a walk over two innings of work.

At Stanford this past season, Bruno — whose twin brother Jaden is also on the Stanford team — made a team-best 30 appearances for the Cardinal, compiling a 6-1 record with a 2.72 ERA over 39.67 innings. Bruno had one save and struck out 71 batters (16.11 strikeouts per nine innings) while limiting opponents to a .150 batting average.

Seventeen different colleges and universities are represented on the current 2022 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team roster, with Bruno serving as the only representative from the Pac-12 Conference.

Team USA has competed at Honkbalweek Haarlem five times since 2000. During that time, the U.S. has earned four gold medals (2000, 2002, 2008 and 2014) and one bronze medal (2012).

The team traveled to The Netherlands on Wednesday, July 6 in order to begin play on Saturday, July 9. Team USA opened against Japan and followed with games

against Italy, Cuba, The Netherlands and Curacao to complete group play.

In its opening game against Japan on July 9, the U.S. squad fell 1-0 in extra innings in a game dominated by pitching. The U.S. squad bounced back with a victory in its second game when it defeated Italy 9-0 on Sunday, July 10. Bruno played a key role in the game as he and three other teammates combined for a five-hit shutout against the Italians.

On Monday, July 11, the U.S. posted an impressive 2-0 shutout win against Cuba. U.S. pitchers Tanner Hall and Teddy McGraw combined to limit the Cubans to just four hits in the U.S. victory.

On Tuesday, July 12, the U.S. improved its record in the tournament to 3-1 with a convincing, mercy-rule 10-0 victory over The Netherlands.

To check on further tournament results for the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team in this competition, visit www.usabaseball.com.

Ryan Bruno on the mound for Stanford University.

PHOTO COURTESY STANFORD UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

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SPORTS & RECREATION

Zuchowski Preps For Collegiate Swimming Career At Stanford

By Mike May Town-Crier Staff Report Local swimming sensation Joshua Zuchowski — a 2022 graduate from the King’s Academy where he was the salutatorian of his senior class with a 4.63 GPA — continues to get fitter and faster in the swimming pool as he prepares to continue his academic studies and competitive swimming career at Stanford University in California.

In addition to being an incoming freshman on Stanford’s swimming team, Zuchowski is also a member of the USA Junior National Team.

In April, he qualified to represent

the United States at the Junior Pan Pacific Championships in Hawaii, which will be held Aug. 24-27.

“For nearly a decade, one of Josh’s goals was to represent his country in swimming, and it’s going to happen,” said Jonathan Zuchowski, Joshua’s father and swim coach.

As for upcoming meets, Joshua and 18 of his teammates with the Flood Aquatics Swim Team will be competing July 22-24 at the Senior Championships in Coral Springs.

“This is a training meet for Josh,” Jonathan said.

After the meet in Coral Springs,

Joshua will pack his bags and head west.

“On July 25, we leave for Senior Nationals in Irvine, California,” Jonathan said. “He will only swim a couple of events and begin to taper down for Junior Nationals the following week.”

The Junior Nationals will be a key week for Joshua. “He will try to swim fast in preparation for Pan Pacs,” Jonathan said.

On Aug. 8, Joshua will return home to Palm Beach County and will train for another two weeks before traveling to Honolulu, Hawaii, with Team USA for the Junior Pan Pacific Championships.

Swimmer and TKA graduate Joshua Zuchowski wearing his Team USA Swimming shirt.

According to Joshua, he will swim the 200-meter individual medley, 100-meter backstroke, 200-meter backstroke and another event that has yet to be decided.

After the Junior Pan Pacific Championships, Joshua will return home for a week of rest and down time. He will then pack his belongings for college at Stanford.

“He leaves on Sept. 6 for Stanford, his physical is on Sept. 7, and then he starts training with his new collegiate teammates on Sept.

9,” Jonathan said. “School begins around Sept. 23.”

To stay in tip-top shape, Joshua is swimming 40,000 yards per week. The distance of his practice sessions are between 3,000 and 8,000 yards per workout. He has eight training sessions each week.

“I enjoy training in a 25-yard pool and competing in a 50 meterpool,” Joshua explained.

In college, it’s expected that he will focus on three main events: the 200-yard individual medley, the 200-yard backstroke and the 100-yard backstroke. His favorite events are the 200-yard and 200-meter backstroke.

In the classroom, Joshua will major in economics at Stanford.

As a high school student at TKA, Joshua had an outstanding competitive swimming career. In all, he was a four-time Florida state champion in the 100-yard backstroke and a three-time Florida state champion in the 200-yard individual medley. He was also a member of the school’s 200-yard medley relay team, which won a state title in 2019, when Joshua was a sophomore. With eight state championships next to his name, Joshua is the most decorated student-athlete in TKA’s history.

When he made his commitment to Stanford, he was the second-ranked boys high school swimming recruit in the U.S. According to Joshua, who committed to Stanford on July 8, 2021, his choice of Stanford, coached by Dan Schemmel, was an easy one to make.

“I always wanted to attend a college in California with a strong academic program and a top-10 swim program,” Joshua explained.

While Joshua is excited about attending Stanford, he knows the transition from living at home for high school to living away at college will not be easy.

“I’m going to miss dinners at home with my family, time with

Bagwell

Green Grass Guru

continued from page 21 have the courses open within a few days.”

Prior to his arrival at Gleneagles, Bagwell learned his trade at another golf course in South Florida.

my family and time with my dog,” Joshua said.

In early June, The Palm Beach Post named him as the Top Male High School Swimmer of the Year in Palm Beach County for the 2021-22 school year as well as the Top Overall Male High School Athlete of the Year in Palm Beach County for the 2021-22 school year.

In addition to representing Stanford, Joshua will also keep one eye on the calendar, specifically the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials in 2024, where the U.S. will assemble its Olympic swimming team for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. His goal is to earn a spot on the 2024 U.S. Olympic swim team.

“I worked at the Westview Country Club in Miami for 10 years,” Bagwell said. “It was an old course, which was established in 1922, and was an old Al Capone hangout.”

In addition to being able to take care of two golf courses, he is an accomplished golfer who sports a 4.9 handicap while swinging his TaylorMade clubs and Ecco golf shoes.

New Athletic Director At Cardinal Newman High School

Cardinal Newman High School recently announced the appointment of Reilly Campbell as the school’s new athletic director.

Campbell brings varied experiences in school athletics and education from Catholic and college preparatory schools and will also serve as head boys basketball coach.

Campbell joins Cardinal Newman from the Atlanta International School in Georgia, where he has served as athletic director since 2019. Before that, Campbell was athletic director and head basketball coach at Notre Dame Academy in Duluth, Georgia. He has

spent more than a decade coaching athletics and has taught middle through high school grades, including many AP courses.

“Reilly’s energy and passion for athletics and developing young people ‘boy, mind and spirit’ made him an ideal candidate,” President Brother Thomas Zoppo said. “He embodies the core values of Cardinal Newman and the athletic department, and I am confident he will make an instant connection with our student-athletes and serve as an exemplary role model for them.”

Campbell is originally from

Jacksonville, and he earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management from Florida State University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of New England.

“I am excited to have been given the opportunity to lead the athletic department at Cardinal Newman High School, as well as the boys basketball team,” Campbell said. “The Cardinal Newman athletic program has a rich history that I am honored to be part of. I look forward to building on the past and helping to create new legacies.”

Reilly Campbell

Jason Bagwell operates one of his mowers at the Gleneagles Country Club in Delray Beach.

PHOTO COURTESY GLENEAGLES COUNTRY CLUB

Register for the Armory Art Center’s Summer Art Experience from May 31 through July 29. Classes are available for ages 6 to 17. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with early and after care available. Each week will feature different themes. Come create, learn and mix for an exciting week filled with high-quality art education, art excursions that complement weekly themes and techniques, hands-on exploration of various creative, diverse techniques, and opportunities to sharpen skills and tap new interests. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place in West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org.

Summer is made for adventure at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium. Perfect for young scientists ages 5 to 12, each week of camp offers hands-on exploration of a variety of STEM topics. Days are packed with interactive lessons, laboratories, themed crafts and outdoor activities led by expert science educators. Themes include MinecraftEDU, Marine Biology, Astronomy and much more.

Camps are offered in two great locations at the Cox Science Center in West Palm Beach and the STEM Studio in Jupiter. Register at www.coxsciencecenter.org/ camps.

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

CAFCI Presents Student Assistance Awards To Four Graduating Seniors

On Saturday, June 11, Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement in Florida Inc. (CAFCI) held its 29th annual Student Assistance Fund Award Ceremony at a well-attended virtual event on Zoom. Mistress of Ceremonies Leonie Escoffer kept the audience engaged throughout the evening in her usual entertaining fashion.

CAFCI congratulates the four outstanding Palm Beach County high school seniors who received Student Assistance Fund awards in the amount of $1,500 each

for educational excellence and exemplary community and civic service recognition: Kate Deviney (Florida State University), Naomi Francisco (the University of South Florida), Wole Senat (Florida State University) and Elizabeth Wilson (the University of Florida). Deviney also received CAFCI’s Junior Citizen Award in the amount of $500.

Keynote speaker Judge Bradley Harper delivered a passionate, motivating speech encouraging the students to keep their heart in

the right place, and look and pray to God each and every day as they embark on their college career and beyond.

The theme “Empowering Youth & Investing in Our Future” was not lost on the attendees, as every speaker acknowledged the educational and personal challenges faced by the students, who had to maintain academic excellence while trying to navigate new learning modalities in a virtual environment during the pandemic.

Local songstress Samara Lewis opened the ceremony with the national anthem, followed by CAFCI President Dennis Wright, who congratulated the students and recognized local dignitaries. Committee Member Marva Wilks introduced the committee and recognized the sponsors and donors.

The students received inspiring messages of congratulations and encouragement from Royal Palm Beach Mayor Fred Pinto and School Board Member Marcia

Andrews. This was followed by a video with thank you messages from the current recipients and congratulatory messages, enthusiastic support and valuable advice from past recipients. Past recipients Leevens Cherisma (2018) and Brandon Boyd (2014) attended the ceremony and delivered words of encouragement and tips and tools for successful transition to college life.

CAFCI thanks the Student Assistance Fund Committee, including Doreen Baker, Lavern

Blackwood, Leonie Escoffery, Doreen Grayson, Alpha McDonald, Marva Wilks, and co-chaired

by Junette Powell and Nadine White-Boyd.

CAFCI is proud to have donated more than $231,500 to 225 Palm Beach County high school seniors over the past 29 years.

The link to the awards ceremony on the CAFCI Student Assistance Fund page is www.cafcipbc.org/ studentassistanceprogram and the direct link is www.youtube.com/ watch?v=rdeqSmv7Hr0.

Laura King’s Sponsorship Continues At ESP Summer Horse Show Circuit

Darragh Kenny won the $25,000 Laura King The Power To Win Welcome Grand Prix at ESP Spring 2022 with Summit Dynamics Hypnosis coach Billie Jean Pizzuti and her daughter Alyssa presenting.

Life coach, author and rider Laura King has made “The Power to Win” synonymous with achievement. Her dedication to helping riders and horses find their best path forward by using her self-hypnosis work has helped equestrians across the globe.

King has continued to show her dedication by nurturing a relationship between “The Power To Win” and the Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) hunter jumper circuits at Wellington International. During this past Spring Series, ESP offered a $25,000 Power To Win Grand Prix. King will continue to show support with sponsorships throughout the ESP Summer Series.

During ESP Spring 1, the power to win was clearly in the hands of Ireland’s Darragh Kenny, riding

Local Students Named 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently announced the 58th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing 161 high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. Among the honorees were Wellington residents Miles Kai Wang and Kailey Rose Worontsoff, both students at the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts.

“Our 2022 Presidential Scholars represent the best of America, and remind us that when empowered by education, there are no limits to what our young people can achieve,” Cardona said. “Today, I join President Biden to celebrate a class of scholars whose pursuit of knowledge, generosity of spirit, and exceptional talents bring our

nation tremendous pride. Throughout one of the most trying periods in our nation’s history and amid our recovery from the pandemic, our students have once again demonstrated their strength and that they have so much to contribute to our country. Thanks to them, I know America’s future is bright.”

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as a demonstrated commitment to community service and leadership.

Of the 3.7 million students graduating from high school this year, more than 5,000 candidates qualified for the 2022 awards

determined by outstanding performance on the College Board SAT or ACT exams or through nominations made by chief state school officers, other partner recognition organizations and YoungArts, the National Foundation for the Advancement of Artists.

Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored more than 7,900 of the nation’s top-performing students.

The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts.

In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

his Olympic partner Heathman Farm LLC’s grey Holsteiner stallion VDL Cartello. The duo thrilled audiences with a decisive double clear finish (35.972) over fellow countryman Paul O’Shea riding Sexy Beast, along with 43 other contenders in the $25,000 Laura King The Power To Win Welcome Grand Prix.

“My aim is to hopefully go to the World Championships with him,” Kenny explained, “as well as simply staying focused and trying to produce the best results possible.”

This was a resonant statement for King, who incorporates Neuro Linguistic Programming as a tool for reprogramming clients’ thought processes.

“There is no such thing as failure; what you think is what you

get,” she said. “The fastest way to excellence is to find someone already doing it and do what they do.”

For equestrians, this can include watching the performances of riders in any of “The Power To Win” classes that King supports, not only the Welcome Grand Prix but also the ESP Spring 1.20m Open Jumper classes under the covered arena at Equestrian Village, where Sophia Choti on Jabanix, Juan Carlos Garcia on Quentin VA and Kelli Cruciotti on Crescendo Z found their fastest routes to excellence and headed straight for the podium.

“The Power to Win teaches how to access the power of your subconscious mind to overcome blocks and produce the changes you want,” King said.

Now that the ESP 2022 Summer Series has begun, King is again sponsoring the 1.20m open jumper class at Wellington International, formally known as the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

“The Power To Win” kicked off the Summer Series with two winners: German Camargo riding Ophelia at the ESP June 1 horse show and Carlo Graziani riding Funkmaster Flex at the ESP June 2 horse show.

Laura King’s Power to Win online course includes an e-book, audio book and subliminal positive affirmations. It is a personal coaching companion to complement your training while quieting the storm so you can focus on your personal best. Learn more at www. thepowertowin.com.

Amy Considine Joins Grandma’s Place Board Of Directors

Grandma’s Place President Joan O’Connell recently announced the appointment of Amy Considine to the Royal Palm Beach nonprofit’s board of directors.

Considine lives in Wellington and works for Keller Williams Realty and is the founder of Considine Homes. She is in the top 2 percent of Realtors and has received a Gold Status Award from Keller Williams.

Considine is a founding member and multiple past-president of BNI Summit, an international marketing group, in Palm Beach County and has received dozens of awards from them.

“I have a kind and integri-

ty-filled heart, and I would love to put my energy toward Grandma’s Place,” Considine said. “I like to get out there, socialize and make things happen… all for the good. I am kind yet vocal and love working for a cause.”

Grandma’s Place, a nonprofit located in Royal Palm Beach, serves as an emergency shelter for abused and neglected foster children, provides free respite care and summer camp for children with special needs up to the age of 12 and training for caregivers and parents.

For more information, visit www.grandmasplacepb.org or call (561) 753-2226.

Amy Considine

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Page 25

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

American Legion Post 390 Hosts Blood Drive At Community Center

Rain did not dampen the spirits of Wellington’s American Legion Post 390 on Saturday, July 2 when the group held its inaugural blood drive at the Wellington Community Center.

Of the 14 military veterans from the Korean War to the Gulf War on Terrorism, plus one member’s friend, Post 390 surpassed the

minimum goal of donors by four.

The donor service specialists and recruiter from oneblood.org were grateful for the service of Post 390 to call in the troops to make what appeared to be an unsuccessful event into one of their best days. Legionnaire Anthony Tahan even did a “double red cell” donation.

Bill Bartels, Ernie Zimmerman, Bob Wigersma, Fred Quan and David Roman.

Anthony Tahan (double red cell), Shauna Ramsey and Sandi Clarke.

James Sparrow, Anthony Tahan, John Shwiner, Jay Froehlich, Ernie Zimmerman, Bob Nappi, Jim Napuli and Barry Bausch.

Recruiter Emily Rodriguez and donor service specialists Elaine Lee and Shauna Ramsey.

South Florida Fair Names New Officers And Hall Of Fame Members The South Florida Fair recently held its annual meeting and announced a new slate of officers.

Former Palm Beach County Administrator Bob Weisman has been named the new chairman.

Joining Weisman are Vice Chair Becky Isiminger, Treasurer Theresa LePore, Secretary Paul Allen, Immediate Past Chair Dennis Grady, President & CEO Victoria Chouris and General Counsel/ Assistant Secretary Lance Fuchs.

Three new directors also were named: Jessica Clasby, senior director of public relations for the Florida Sugar Cane League; Todd Bonlarron, assistant county administrator; and Bill Johnson, retired director of Palm Beach County Emergency Management.

Glenn Jergensen, who has served as the executive director of the Tourist Development Council for eight years, was named a trustee. Patrick Franklin, president and CEO of the Urban League of Palm Beach County, and Robert Shorr of Accurate Farms and the mayor of Loxahatchee Groves, were also named as trustees.

During the meeting, the fair announced its new inductees into the South Florida Fair Hall of Fame, which was established in 2004 as a means of honoring those who have greatly contributed to the success

of the nonprofit organization.

Rick Vymlatil, a former employee since the early 1980s and president and CEO of the South Florida Fair from 2004 to 2019, was named in the Leadership category. During his tenure with the fair, he demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and provided strategic direction.

Life trustee Annis Manning Franklin was inducted in the Lead-

ership category. Her commitment, involvement and general passion for the South Florida Fair began long before becoming a member of the board of directors. Many aspects of the fair, including vendor relations, have improved because of her involvement.

The Fair’s Hall of Fame Committee also instituted an honored volunteer award to individuals who have volunteered a minimum

of 10 years and go above and beyond during the course of the year, especially at fair time. Volunteers Bernadette Caccetta and Terry Schultz were both honored.

Additional volunteers who were recognized were Cheyenne Tavares, who was given an agriculture award; Donna Blackwelll received a guest services award; and a Yesteryear Village award went to Brenda Kilgore.

Hall of Fame Committee Chair Sam Ellington inducted volunteers Bernadette Caccetta and Terry Schultz.

Former South Florida Fair President & CEO Rick Vymlatil and Life Trustee Annis Manning Franklin were inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Cheyenne Tavares, a South Florida Fair volunteer, was given an Agriculture Award.

PHOTOS BY SIENNA HUEBNER

JoAnn Abrams

Pets Are Family, Too!

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ATTORNEY AT LAW

RABIES When people think of rabies, some regard it as something from the past that doesn’t occur any more. However, nothing could be further from the truth. While rare, rabies still crops up occasionally, and it is a dangerous virus. Animals, including domestic animals, can carry the infection and pass it to humans through a scratch or bite. It’s essential to know that if you have a cat living or spending a fair amount of time outdoors, it could be susceptible to contracting rabies. Skunks, coyotes, raccoons, and foxes are all common carriers, and if any of these animals are living in the area, cats are easy targets. It’s best to get your domestic animals vaccinated against the rabies virus.

Make sure vaccinations for rabies and other serious hazards become a routine part of your pet’s complete health care program.

We’ll be glad to write out for you a complete schedule of all the shots your pet should have. Preventive care is a big part of our practice at COMMUNITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL OF ROYAL PALM BEACH, where we also provide compassionate medical, surgical, and dental care. Conveniently located 1/4 mile east of Royal Palm Beach Blvd., at 11462 Okeechobee Blvd., we offer complete, state-of-the-art health care services for small pets of all kinds. Please call 798-5508 for appointments or emergencies. OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. P.S. Without treatment, rabies can be fatal.

New board members Bill Johnson, Todd Bonlarron and Jessica Clasby.

A Naturally Occurring Retirement Community

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Call 561-568-8818 or visit Wellingtoncares.org Wellington Cares, is a 501 (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 26

July 15 - July 28, 2022

The Town-Crier

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SCHOOL NEWS

PBSC Receives $3 Million In Federal Grants To Continue, Expand Upward Bound Program

U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel recently announced that $3 million in grant funding has been awarded to Palm Beach State College by the U.S. Department of Education to expand the Upward Bound TRIO college readiness program.

A portion of the funding will enable PBSC to launch an Upward Bound TRIO program in the Glades to serve Pahokee and Glades Central high schools. This will mark the first Upward Bound

TRIO program for high school students in the Glades region.

“Although we know that not everyone has to go to college to be successful in life, we know from experience that there are benefits to earning a college degree,” Frankel said to high school students, administrators, parents and PBSC officials on hand for the announcement.

She referenced a Georgetown University study that reports col-

Syla Alcin, director of Upward Bound, PBSC President Ava Parker and U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel celebrate the news of the Upward Bound grants with students in the program.

Dress For Success Supports Teachers

Dress for Success Palm Beaches (DFSPB) is offering local female teachers an unbeatable back-toschool bargain: a free top-to-bottom workplace outfit.

Committed to the empowerment of women, the nonprofit is hosting its second annual Teacher Appreciation Shopping Experience, which pairs a DFSPB personal stylist with those educators who are looking to give their work wardrobe an added look.

Reservations are required for the individual pampering appointments that will be available Tuesday, July 26; Friday, July 29; Saturday, July 30; Tuesday, Aug. 2; and Wednesday, Aug. 5 at the DFSPB boutique at 2459 S. Congress Avenue, Suite 204.

Appoints are available at the Belle Glade branch, located at 1089 S. Main Street, on Monday, July 25; Wednesday, July 27; Monday Aug. 1; and Wednesday, Aug. 3.

“The tireless dedication our teachers have shown on the frontlines, especially throughout the pandemic, is deserving of this recognition and our gratitude,” DFSPB Executive Director Joe Ann Fletcher said. “Our Dress for Success racks and bins are brimming with clothing, handbags, jewelry, makeup and other accessories generously donated by members of the community, and, while our priority is servicing women who are preparing for job interviews or about to begin a new job, we want to share this abundance with the workforce of teachers who play such a vital role in the welfare of our kids and families. It’s small thanks for the gigantic job they do.”

To reserve an appointment, teachers should call (561) 2493898.

For more information visit, www.dressforsuccesspb.org.

lege graduates earn $1 million more over the lifetime of their careers.

“This Upward Bound program gives young people a real opportunity to reach their full potential, so I’m very pleased to have Palm Beach State not only continue their program but add to their program with this $3 million over five years,” Frankel said.

Upward Bound is one of the eight U.S. Department of Education-funded TRIO programs, including seven designed to help individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds get on the path to higher education and finish.

“What’s special to us about having this TRIO grant is that we can serve more students,’’ PBSC President Ava Parker said. “We can expand our services out to the Glades. If we just help a few, it’s great, but it’s so much better when we can help more students.”

Upward Bound participants receive tutoring and academic and career counseling, and they participate in social, cultural and educational activities, including field trips and college tours. Students enter the program in the ninth or

10th grade and continue until high school graduation. Upward Bound staff is charged with tracking the success of students for six years after high school graduation.

Upward Bound Program Director Syla Alcin said that in the 202021 school year, 100 percent of the seniors served achieved proficient level on state assessments in reading/language arts and math. More than 90 percent of participants continued in school for the next academic year or graduated with a high school diploma, and 52 percent enrolled in a program of postsecondary education.

“Those are great achievements that could not happen if we did not have the support of those programs and the community,” Alcin said.

In addition to Upward Bound, PBSC also operates Student Support Services, Talent Search and Educational Opportunity Centers TRIO programs.

Melyne Cineas, a rising senior at G-Star High School, who first entered the Upward Bound TRIO program when she was at Lake Worth High School, said she has been on college tours, received assistance with scholarship ap-

U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel (center) with Upward Bound Director Syla Alcin, students Kevin Alvarado Escobar and Melyne Cineas, and PBSC President Ava Parker. plications, attended workshops, academically and gain experiences gained college readiness skills, and that he may not have otherwise has participated in other activities, received. “From being in this including a trip to Atlanta where program, I have gained the trust of she toured the state universities. people that I never thought I would “I love TRIO Upward Bound. It’s have met,” he said. like a second family. It’s a second The most recent grant will support system. My advisor and provide $286,527 a year to serve my peers have helped me to be 60 students at Glades Central and a great person and be ready for Pahokee high schools. The first college,” she said. grant provides $312,480 a year for Kevin Alvarado Escobar, an the original program established incoming senior at Palm Beach at PBSC in 1999. It will serve 65 Lakes High School, said the pro- students from John I. Leonard and gram has helped him improve Palm Beach Lakes high schools.

Lorie Graham Named New Director Of Literacy Coalition’s Literacy AmeriCorps

Lorie Graham has joined the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County as the new Literacy AmeriCorps director. The Literacy Coalition coordinates the Literacy AmeriCorps program and recruits, trains and supervises up to 40 members annually.

Literacy AmeriCorps members receive a stipend of $24,000 for contributing 1,700 hours of service in tutoring, mentoring and participating in meaningful community service projects.

Prior to joining the coalition, Graham spent eight years teaching secondary level English for the School District of Palm Beach County. She also has experience in the nonprofit sector. After graduating from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and public relations, Graham worked for Catholic Life Insurance as a senior communications specialist and then joined the

Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach as a marketing and public relations senior associate.

In addition to her diverse professional background, Graham holds professional certifications in the areas of change management, project management essentials and corporate training.

“We’re excited that Lorie has joined our team,” said Kristin Calder, CEO of the Literacy Coalition. “Her wealth of varied experience in education, nonprofit management and communications makes her the perfect fit for this job.”

In her new role, Graham’s immediate focus is on recruiting more Literacy AmeriCorps members. These recruits work 35 to 42 hours a week providing vital services to help ensure students and adults in Palm Beach County succeed in school and life. Literacy AmeriCorps opportunities

include serving as high school graduation coaches for students at risk of dropping out; tutoring elementary school students who are behind grade-level reading; teaching adults at family literacy centers; instructing English education programs; and tutoring at library programs serving adults and children.

Literacy AmeriCorps members participate in ongoing training and professional development throughout the service year. These opportunities include service leadership, team building, tutor training, career assessment and planning, diversity training, disaster preparedness, community service project planning and more.

Members are also eligible for health insurance, forbearance of qualified student loans, four weeks of personal time off, and an education award of up to $6,495 after successfully completing the

Lorie Graham AmeriCorps program.

To learn more about the Literacy AmeriCorps program, visit www. literacypbc.org/literacy-impact/ literacy-americorps.

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Page 27

BUSINESS NEWS

The Mall At Wellington Green Welcomes New Store Openings

Four new retail and culinary destinations are joining the more than 160 stores at the Mall at Wellington Green. Comfortia, Keywa’s, Med Plate and Maha Town add to the robust offerings in apparel, health and beauty, and more at this lifestyle destination in Wellington.

Comfortia — Since opening on June 1, the 1,148-square-foot Comfortia has become Wellington’s ultimate destination for foot and body wellness. Guests can pick from bestselling orthopedic and fitness products, including

orthotic sports shoes, digital body massagers and a complimentary foot scanner that creates custom insoles in less than 15 minutes.

For more information, call (561) 333-8000 or visit www.facebook. com/comfortiastore.

K e y w a ’s — T h e n e w, 400-square-foot sweet tooth hotspot, which opened June 10, serves up smoothies, boba teas, waffles, and sweet and savory crêpes, like the ham and cheese America or kid-friendly Chocó, loaded with M&Ms, brownie bites, vanilla ice cream, chocolate

Make your feet happy with a visit to Comfortia.

and caramel syrups. For more information, call (561) 808-9796.

Med Plate — Med Plate, restaurateur Raymond Ibrahim’s 774-square-foot fast-casual eatery opened on May 10 and serves authentic Mediterranean mainstays with Old World flavors ranging from tossed Greek salads and stuffed grape leaves to satay platters and its signature, 10-ounce churrasco skirt steak grilled to piquant perfection. Delivery is available through Door Dash.

For more information, call (754) 551-1426.

Keywa’s serves up crepes, smoothies and more.

Maha Town — Celebrations are worth commemorating in dynamic ways, said Maha Town owner Harry Rodriguez. The Venezuelan entrepreneur launched his 5,800-square-foot Wellington outpost July 9, showcasing fresh floral arrangements, balloon bouquets, custom backdrops and personalized gift giving. For more information, call (561) 891-4496 or visit www.themahashop.com.

Mall hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Mall at Wellington

Enjoy authentic Mediterranean mainstays at Med Plate.

Raising Cane’s Will Make Its Palm Beach County Debut In Royal Palm Beach This Fall

Whether exploring the majestic natural area or relaxing at one of the many parks, there’s one thing that will soon complete a perfect day out in Royal Palm Beach — Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers.

Raising Cane’s is set to make its Royal Palm Beach debut at 100 N. State Road 7 this fall. The new restaurant will serve Raising Cane’s One Love craveable chicken finger meals through its double kitchen, multi-lane drive-through and on its outdoor patio.

In preparation for its grand opening, Raising Cane’s will be hiring more than 150 local crewmembers in the weeks ahead.

The new restaurant will hire for multiple positions ranging from crew to management level.

Starting pay for crew is $15 per hour with the potential to earn an additional monthly bonus. When Royal Palm Beach’s Raising

Cane’s opens, it will be one of the first in Florida.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to continue our growth in Florida and can’t wait to bring ‘Caniacs’ in Royal Palm Beach their very own Raising Cane’s!” Area Leader of Restaurants Jon Wantz said. “We’re also excited to bring more than 150 great new jobs to the community. And that number will continue to rise because we have plans for additional growth in the area.”

At Raising Cane’s, it all starts with 100 percent premium white meat chicken tenderloins that are marinated, hand-battered and cooked to order. The menu is also renowned for its craveable (some say addictive) secret-recipe Cane’s sauce, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, Texas toast, freshly brewed sweet tea and freshsqueezed lemonade.

Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.

For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit www.shopwellingtongreen.com.

The Mall at Wellington Green is a 1.2-million-square-foot, two-level regional shopping destination, and it features more than 160 stores.

The Mall at Wellington Green is managed by Spinoso Real Estate Group. Since 2009, Spinoso has

taken a creative, entrepreneurial approach to real estate development and management, delivering and sustaining successful projects across a wide range of property types and across the country.

Spinoso’s robust portfolio includes work on hundreds of enclosed shopping malls, lifestyle centers and large-scale retail projects from coast to coast. For more information, visit www. spinosoreg.com.

Palms West Hospital Honors Two Staff Members With Awards

HCA Florida Palms West Hospital recently recognized two of its outstanding healthcare heroes with its bimonthly awards that honor nurses and support staff.

This month’s Daisy winner is nurse Samantha Melendez.

Melendez’s professionalism and dedication were recognized in her nomination by patients and patient family members.

“I think Samantha should be considered for this special honor due to her professionalism, caring and overall attitude about her job, coworkers and the patients she served,” the nomination said.

“Samantha is an amazing asset to your facility, and we’d all be better off if we had more nurses like her.” “[There are] not enough words to express how professional, compassionate caring nurse she was with my concerns,” added a second nomination. “Samantha has been amazing with our family.”

This month’s BEE winner is

Katherine Theodore from the Food and Nutrition Services department.

In her nomination by a colleague, Theodore’s service was most notable.

“She is always very helpful and very pleasant no matter how busy she is. She goes above and beyond to meet your needs,” according to her nomination. “She’s the best!

We always look forward to our break times with Katherine working in the cafeteria. I’ve never seen her mad, and she’ll always ask, ‘How’s your day going?’”

The Daisy Award is a nationally recognized distinction that honors “the super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day,” according to the Daisy Foundation.

The BEE (Beyond Exceptional Expectations) Award is also a nationally recognized award that recognizes team members outside of nursing for going above and beyond to care for patients, visitors and each other.

Samantha Melendez

Katherine Theodore

You can enjoy a tasty Raising Cane’s chicken finger meal in Royal Palm Beach later this year.

Raising Cane’s is the nation’s fastest-growing chicken finger concept, rapidly approaching 700 restaurants in more than 35 states

and Guam, as it opens 100 new restaurants across 10 new markets in 2022. More information is available at www.raisingcanes.com.

Page 28

July 15 - July 28, 2022

The Town-Crier

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FEATURES

Nature Taunts Me, Yet We Spend 30 Minutes Together Every Day In just a few minutes, I will leave the cozy comfort of my home behind and head out into the misty, muggy morning. Why? I don’t know. It’s nice in here. The air is cool. The floor is even. There are no gnats.

Yet I will don my beat-up sneakers, take a deep breath and head out into the world to commune for a full half hour with (shudder) nature. Oh, it’s not nature’s fault.

Nature is there, despite man’s best efforts to air-condition it, cover it in concrete and relegate it into plats. We’ve transplanted its trees and zapped its bugs, yet it perseveres.

I just don’t see why I have to be out in it.

Well, actually I do. Every six months, my doctor reminds me to walk for 30 minutes every day, and I want to do everything she says, so, when I ultimately keel over,

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER I’ll have someone to blame. She is aware of this and, like many people, dismisses my concerns.

“You do realize the time it takes to do this?” I ask her, huffily.

“Yes. Half an hour,” she retorts, blithely wrapping a blood pressure cuff around my arm.

“I mean, annually!” I protest. “It takes 182 hours a year. That’s just over a week of my life!”

“You calculated this?” She pumps the blood pressure cuff until my anxiety rises sufficiently, then stops. The blood pressure cuff wheezes.

I echo its sentiments and nod. “If I live another 30 years...”

“You wish.”

I roll my eyes. “If I live another 30 years, I’d better get an extra 30 weeks of life tacked onto the end.”

“I’ll make a note of it.” She scribbles something onto my chart, but I suspect it’s not, “Give patient an extra 30 weeks of life.”

“Okay, you’re done,” she says crisply,

handing me my paperwork. “See you in six months. Keep up the good work.”

“There’s no need to be sarcastic!” I yell down the hallway.

But I head home remotely glad that she said I was doing a good job. I mean, if both she and I work at this, I could conceivably live as long as I was meant to.

When I open my door, I am met with a consoling rush of cool air and the beckoning presence of my refrigerator, stocked with ice cream bars (for the grandchildren) and refreshing juice (for me.).

I flop onto the couch, unwrap an ice cream bar and stare out into nature through a protective window. Nature taunts me.

I eat my ice cream bar as slowly as humanly possible, guilt rising within me. I

put on my sneakers and slam the door behind me. I stride around the block twice as quickly as possible, trying to make a half an hour go faster. The birds are singing.

The sun is shining. Blah, blah, blah.

Finally, I’m back. I’m a wretched, sweaty mess. I flop back onto the couch, turn on the TV. “Dr. Phil” is talking about the importance of taking care of oneself.

Will this nagging never stop?

Slowly, I come to my senses. I get up, go to my calendar and make a little checkmark. I walked for a full half hour, and this is what I get for it — a little checkmark.

But it makes me happy. Seeing 30 little checkmarks every month sends joy coursing through my veins. Perhaps that will help add 30 weeks to my life.

‘Thor: Love And Thunder’ Is A Fun Movie For People Of All Ages

I’ve been looking forward to Thor: Love and Thunder since I first heard about it.

Thor: Ragnarok was one of my Marvel favorites, a film that managed to take the Hulk and Thor and make them funny.

The new movie also is funny, although it works a bit too hard. But it is still a fun experience. I took my grandkids, and we all had a great time.

Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is trying to live a life of peace and contemplation, disturbed mostly by trying to settle major confrontations along with his Guardians of the Galaxy comrades when he suddenly hears from Sif (a tragically underutilized Jaimie Alexander) of a new force in the universe, Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale). We first see Bale with his little daughter begging the gods on his driedout planet for help, watching her die, and then finding out the gods there thought it was a great joke. Somehow a nasty sword

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler that can kill gods winds up in his hands, and he starts a campaign to kill them all throughout the universe.

That leads us to Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). Remember Thor’s first human girlfriend? She’s now famous and not doing well in her battle with cancer. She travels to New Asgard, comes near the broken Mjolnir hammer, and it joins together and turns her into Mighty Thor, complete with blonde hair and great muscles. She and Thor fight off Gorr, but he kidnaps all the

kids there. Thor, Mighty Thor, Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and Thor’s rock body Korg (Taika Waititi, who is also the director) join forces to fight Gorr. After a disappointing trip to the “Home of the Gods,” led by a dissolute Zeus (Russell Crowe), they go off to battle. Of course, we know the good guys will win, but there are interesting twists along the way.

There has been some controversy with the film, but besides a couple of quick lines that most kids won’t even notice (my grandsons certainly didn’t), the film plays out like the other movies in this collection, just funnier than most. There is a quick scene with a nude Thor, which manages to actually be funny.

The cast is really good. Hemsworth has turned into possibly the best comic actor in the Marvel movies. He manages to be heroic, sort of godly, but also very human. He has many tender moments and

makes them work, perhaps even better than the action scenes, a major reason for the popularity of his Thor films. His scenes with his former weapon, Mjolnir and then dealing with the jealousy of his new battleax, Stormbreaker, are hysterical.

Somehow two inanimate objects take on complex personalities of their own.

Portman does a nice job, both as sick Jane and Mighty Thor. The part could have been used simply to set off Thor’s modes, but Portman makes her fascinating, sensitive and real. Thompson has some great lines and manages to make her relatively small part interesting. The CGI character Korg, voiced by Waititi, also has great lines.

Bale, however, is so strong as Gorr that he sets the film on its ear. He is more anti-hero than villain. He has good reason to hate the gods, and his ferocity is awesome.

He is more fearsome than even Thanos.

That may be because anti-heroes like Gorr (and Erik Killmonger in Black Panther) have clear reasons behind their actions, but a lot of it is brilliant acting. And Bale, essentially unrecognizable in the makeup of the character, is incredibly strong. Despite violent killings, the kidnapping of children and attempts on our heroes’ lives, we actually feel bad for him.

The film tries to jam a few too many themes inside itself, and that makes it less than perfect. But this is a really fun picture, one that pretty much everyone will enjoy.

That has been a problem, by the way, with some critics. They wind up loving some small-scale movies that attempt very little and are often not interesting while holding the big budget films to almost impossible standards.

Forget those people. If you like fun action films, this is certainly one you will enjoy.

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NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated. Residential/ Commercial. Wood Replacement, Roof Coatings, Solar Vents, Skylights & Roof Ventilation. 561-6564945 Lic. & Insured CCC1330208.Free Estimates

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Home Improvement 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

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Legal Notice No. 739 Notice Under Fictitious Name Florida Statute 865.09 Public notice is hereby given that the undersigned desires to engage in business under the fictitious name of:

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Page 31

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