‘Chicken Whisperer’ Hosts Radio Show At Red Barn Feed
Andy Schneider of Atlanta
(a.k.a. the Chicken Whisperer) visited Red Barn Feed & Supply in Loxahatchee Groves last Thursday. Schneider, along with his wife Jennifer, was on hand to broadcast a live radio show. Page 7
Binks, Wanderers
Duel To A Draw
For the second year now, staff and management of the Binks Forest Golf Club took on their counterparts from the Wanderers Club at Wellington recently for the 2009 Wellington Cup, with Binks Forest Golf Club retaining the cup after the match ended in a draw. Page 9
a gourmet macaroni and cheese/wine
State Senate Special Election Heads Into The Home Stretch
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
Republican Joe Negron and Democrat Bill Ramos will face off in a special election Tuesday, Aug. 4 to find out which of them will fill the remainder of State Sen. Ken Pruitt’s term.
Pruitt, who recently resigned, represented District 28, which includes parts of Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties. In the western communities, most of Royal Palm Beach and The Acreage are in District 28.
Negron, an attorney and former state representative who lives in Stuart, narrowly lost a congressional race in 2006 to Democrat Tim Mahoney. Negron replaced Mark Foley as the Republican nominee after Foley resigned in disgrace amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Negron came close to winning the seat even though his
By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report
The Village of Wellington has taken the unusual step of partnering with the Town of Jupiter and two private nonprofit organizations to apply for federal grant money to stabilize declining neighborhoods.
The grants are available as part of $1.93 billion in stimulus funding allocated to the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development to assist in the redevelopment of abandoned and foreclosed homes and other residential properties.
The joint application, submitted in mid-July, is seeking approximately $11 million that would be shared between the two communities, Wellington’s Director of Operations Jim Barnes said Thursday. Wellington’s share of the money would supplement its
name did not even appear on the ballot.
Negron, 47, said he is not taking anything for granted. “I’ve worked very hard to build a strong grassroots campaign,” Negron told the Town-Crier on Thursday.
“We’re going to finish strong this weekend.”
Negron anticipates an 18to 20-percent voter turnout for the special election. He
Economic Development Initiative, a wide-ranging plan that includes redevelopment of some older neighborhoods as well as strategies to attract more sustainable economic activity to the village. The money can pay for demolition, redevelopment, purchase or land-banking of foreclosed or abandoned homes, and establishment of financing mechanisms for redevelopment of foreclosed properties.
The village is partnering with Jupiter because the two municipalities combined can claim the minimum number of units required to be eligible for a grant, and also because Jupiter and the two non-profits have had previous success in applying for such grants, Barnes said. He added that Wellington has only recently begun to experience the problem of declining neighborhoods.
said he thinks people will base their votes on who they believe can best deal with the current economic issues. “I think the primary issue in the campaign is which candidate best understands how our community is hurting right now and can effectively look out for ordinary citizens in Tallahassee,” Negron said.
One of his campaign issues
See DISTRICT 28, page 4
“This is our first venture into housing reinvestment, given that we’re a little bit newer municipality and given that we’re a mostly suburban community, we haven’t had those,” he said. “We’re just starting to approach the point where we’ve got those types of issues, problems and challenges. But Jupiter has had some success with those types of programs, as have the two non-profits.”
As Jupiter is handling the administrative work involved in the application, it will probably claim a slightly larger share of whatever grant amount is secured, Barnes said. The application seeks to rehabilitate a total of 100 housing units between the two municipalities.
Barnes said the village is competing against municipalities across the state for a share of the Neighborhood
See GRANT, page 16
By Mark Lioi
Town-Crier Staff Report
Wellington’s Safe Neighborhoods Initiative has made strides in reducing crime in the village’s White Pine Drive and 12th Fairway area, program representatives said this week, but work continues to make a lasting improvement on living conditions in the neighborhood.
The village initiated the half-million-dollar program in March to focus on its “transitional” neighborhoods, older areas that have seen a rise in crime and are showing signs of urban blight.
Employing a combination of increased law enforcement, code enforcement, infrastructure improvements and community outreach specialists, the village is first targeting the White Pine Drive/ 12th Fairway area, the scene of a deadly home invasion that took place in February.
The village converted an underutilized building at the nearby water treatment plant on Wellington Trace as headquarters for the program.
A small group of neighborhood residents met with program representatives Thursday at the Wellington Community Center. The meeting offered residents a chance to offer feedback on the program, get an update on its ongoing projects and hear about its future direction.
Meridith Tuckwood, a Wellington resident and one of the program’s neighborhood advocates, said a prime objectives of Safe Neighborhoods is to build trust among neighbors and return a sense of community to the area. That requires community input. “It’s not about what we need,” she said, “but what you need, because where I live and where you live may need different things.”
Roy DeMarco, a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office community policing specialist assigned to coordinate with Safe Neighborhoods in the White Pine Drive area, noted that the program Wellington has launched will likely set standards nationwide, as it is a proactive, rather than reactive approach.
DeMarco praised the hiring of Tuckwood as a liaison between law enforcement and the residents. “A lot of people feel more comfortable talking to a civilian than they do to a person in a uniform,” he said. “I think that’s going to help out a great deal.”
DeMarco added that Wellington’s progress in lowering crime rates in the White Pine Drive area in recent months has been accomplished in part by an aggressive police presence in the neighborhood, with deputies assigned there as a specific area of responsibility. He said some troublemakers have moved away simply because of an increased police presence, monitoring their activities. “They get tired of it and move,” he said.
The crackdown on fraudulent use of Section 8 housing benefits has also been successful in gradually getting “bad apples” out of the neighborhood, DeMarco said. The PBSO executed a search warrant on a White Pine Drive house last week that was a notorious neighborhood hangout and drugdealing spot.
“It was actually tied in to a home in The Acreage where we served a search warrant also, that tied in to a network for assault rifles in Miami,” he said. “So we’re in the process of getting them out; it’s baby steps.”
As law enforcement grad-
RPB Zoners Frown On Pool Enclosure Variance
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
The Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission turned down a request Tuesday to allow a pool screen to be mounted atop a wall around the edge of a property in the Madison Green community. Village planning staff recommended that the request be denied because the Madison Green development had been given less restrictive development regulations than other single-family communities in the village, explained Devel-
opment Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin.
Madison Green was granted seven-and-a-half-foot setbacks when it was developed, instead of the ten-foot setbacks required of other single-family residences in the village. Granting the variance would not adhere to the orderly development patterns established by the village, Erwin said, noting that granting a variance to the home of Philip and Elizabeth Shaffer on Arbor Lane would grant them rights not afforded other property owners.
“Staff does not object to [the Shaffers] having a screen enclosure, but it does object to having it on the property line,” Erwin said.
Elizabeth Shaffer said that due to the smaller setbacks, there is not enough space in her backyard to install a pool screen, adding that her 81year-old mother is diabetic and sensitive to insect bites and can’t go out by the pool at night because of mosquitoes.
“We have no screen, and we can’t enjoy our patio area,” Shaffer said, noting
that she has received consent from her neighbors for the screen enclosure to be mounted on top of the wall.
Commissioner Darrell Lange said that concessions had been made in the development approval, and he did not feel they should be compounded by granting the Shaffers a variance.
“I have to agree with staff that it does not meet the technical reasons for a variance,” Lange said.
Commissioner Leonard Urban said he has a screen around his pool and would
not have it any other way. Lange made a motion to deny the variance, which was seconded by Commission Alternate Tinu Peña. The motion passed 3-2 with Urban and Commissioner Richard Durr dissenting. Erwin said that the Shaffers had indicated to him that they would appeal a decision of denial to the Royal Palm Beach Village Council. In other business: • The commissioners approved a new, smaller 1,200square-foot model for
Wellington hosted
tasting
Lifesaver of Palm Beach County. Guests enjoyed the café’s tasty offerings as well as a silent auction and live entertainment. Pictured here is Project Lifesaver Executive Director Michelle Damone with Whole Foods Manager Jeff Figley and Marketing Specialist Lauren Belinsky. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 3
PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Cpl.
Judge Nelson Bailey was the guest speaker at last week’s meeting of the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association, where he entertained with stories of Old Florida. SEE STORY, PAGE 2 PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER
Joe NegronBill Ramos
Judge Bailey Regales With Old Florida Tales
By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report
Judge Nelson Bailey entertained members of Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association with tales of old Florida as the guest speaker at the association’s July 23 meeting.
Bailey, who presides over the West County Courthouse in Belle Glade, was an attorney with the Florida Department of Agriculture in 1969 and 1970, and an assistant attorney general from 1970 to 1973. But the bearded judge is well known outside the legal sphere as a storyteller, personifying a “Florida Cracker” or cowboy of the late 1800s, complete with dog and bullwhip, and telling tales about Florida’s rich history.
Much of Bailey’s storytelling material relates to Florida’s agricultural heritage. With agriculture still playing a vital role in the area, he noted that the reality of Palm Beach County is at odds with its image in the media.
“A lot of people don’t realize that Palm Beach County is the largest agriculturalproducing county east of the Mississippi River,” he said. “You mention Palm Beach County, and they think of the glitz and glitter of Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Jupiter.”
Bailey traces his active involvement in preserving Florida’s history to an event many years ago. He had read a newspaper feature about people who would take their horses along an old cattle trail across the state, starting in Bradenton and ending in Fort Pierce. What better way, he wondered, to learn about Florida’s history?
“I lived in Loxahatchee and thought it would be a neat idea that you could ride your horse clear across the State of
Judge Nelson Bailey with his bullwhip.
Florida,” Bailey said. “It was the old cattle trail that had been used in Spanish times. It was last used in 1939. We signed up for a ride that would take us clear across the State of Florida. You ride for six days, and you camp at cattle ranches, and you stop at other places for noonday meals. It gives you an intimate perspective on the State of Florida.”
Bailey said his most lifechanging experience on that first trip was his conversation with a 72-year-old man. The man told Bailey stories about a cattle drive from the north of Lake Okeechobee to the Georgia border, filled with intimate details about family members on the trail and how they had played tricks and jokes on each other. The event had taken place a century earlier.
“It was a story that had been passed down to him, and it had been told to him by his uncle who headed up the drive that supplied beef to the Confederate soldiers during the Civil War,” Bailey said.
Bailey noted that while people think of horses and cattle as part of the story of
See BAILEY, page 16
Chamber Debate Sparks Interest In 2010 Amendment
By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report
Wellington Chamber of Commerce members listened to arguments for and against the proposed Amendment 4, known as the “Hometown Democracy” amendment, during a debate Thursday at the Binks Forest Golf Club.
The amendment will appear on the November 2010 Florida ballot, and its impact on communities throughout that state is one of contention. If approved, Amendment 4 will mandate referenda for comprehensive plan amendments approved by counties and municipalities. Speaking for “Hometown Democracy” was environmental activist Jayne King, and speaking against it was Palm Beach Gardens Vice Mayor David Levy.
King said location of businesses, homes and amenities is important for economic growth. Palm Beach County, she said, needs to diversify its components to attract more businesses to the community.
“Locations are the main component of our comprehensive plan,” King said.
“Let’s look at the businesses in Palm Beach County. There are only ten private companies which employ over 2,000 people — one in manufacturing, one in office supply, some in business and tourism, and the remainder in medical.”
managed and out-of-control growth is defined as cancer. We need to take control of business, our water, our economy and our culture. There must be a balance.” But Levy said that if passed, Amendment 4 would add many extra items to the ballot that voters might not fully understand. “Comprehensive plans are huge, guiding, living documents,” he said. “We need to be able to change these documents. How many of you know what a capital improvement element is? That’s part of the comprehensive plan. That’s what we are going to be spending our money on.”
As an example, Levy noted that his city once rezoned something from a “professional office” to a “planned unit development,” due in part to the fact there was a large 150-year-old oak tree on the site and the “planned unit development” category offered more leeway to save the tree. He was concerned that if the item had been put out to a vote, it would have failed and the oak tree would have been cut down as the property was developed. Does every voter have time, he wondered, to be educated on every aspect of a 1,000page zoning change?
“That is what we elect our representatives to do, to represent us,” Levy said. “If you don’t like what they are doing, you need to remove them… ‘Hometown Democracy’ would bring us complete and utter chaos, and would stop the economic growth in the State of Florida.”
King said this shows that Florida should diversify its economy to offer more than tourism and medical facilities. “Our other large industry, agriculture, has been reduced and has been sold for housing,” she said. “Clearly, the growth-management plan put in place from the 1980s has not been followed. The residential developers influencing elected officials have frequently changed the comprehensive plan to the detriment of the business industry.”
King stressed that the aim of “Hometown Democracy” is not to stop growth, but to bring about smarter growth. “Growth is an essential part of nature,” she said. “If we don’t grow, we die. But un-
Wellington Chamber of Commerce President Diana Tashman, the debate’s moderator, relayed questions posed by members of the chamber’s Business & Economic Development Committee. The first was whether the amendment would be self-executing, or if the legislature would have to provide parameters should it pass.
“When we go to the ballot, we will be presented the 75word summary of what Amendment 4 is,” Levy said.
Whole
WHOLE FOODS MARKET HOSTS BENEFIT FOR PROJECT LIFESAVER
BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
PHOTOS
Lauren Belinsky of Whole Foods Market pins an autism ribbon on author Kristine Silva.
Southern Wine & Spirits’ Tony Ventura pours wine for Ann Fahmy (shown with her daughter Laila).
PBSO Col. Michael Gauger with his Chinese auction prizes.
PBSO Deputy Luis Ledbetter with K9 bloodhound Clue.
Ralph Damone, Lauren Belinsky and Michelle Damone with Elizabeth Lugo of the Mae Volen Senior Center.Michael and Alex Kleban learn about cheese from Randy Berman.
OUR OPINION
Inspector General Is Needed, But Office Must Have Teeth
Recent news of widespread public corruption in New Jersey might have been a moment of schadenfreude for the rest of the country. But for residents of Palm Beach County, who are eager to lose the nickname “Corruption County,” the appropriate feeling is empathy. And last week’s decision by the county commission to take a proactive stand against corruption was a step in the right direction.
The commissioners unanimously voted to create an ethics commission, ethics code and an office of the inspector general in an effort to curb the dubious practices that resulted in prison sentences for former commissioners Warren Newell, Tony Masilotti and Mary McCarty. The office of the inspector general would be first set up as a county department before being sent to the voters for approval to create an independent agency vested with the power to investigate government agencies countywide.
It was the right thing to do, although not supporting the idea would have been political suicide. The commissioners were basically pushed into voting for the proposal. Either they support the idea of ferreting out government corruption or further build public distrust and align themselves with the likes of their jailed former colleagues. However, like any idea that looks good on paper, the devil is in the details.
Outraged By Over-The-Top News Report
It is time to sit back and fully evaluate over-the-top reports in the news this week, incredibly suggesting that getting a suntan is now in the same risk category as cigarettes, arsenic and even plutonium. That’s ridiculous. Cigarettes, arsenic and plutonium all undermine our body’s natural functions. But getting a suntan is different — it is part of our body’s natural design.
Humans, like the rest of the planet, need sun exposure to survive and thrive. Ignored in much of that reporting were very important nuances that define humanity’s very important relationship with UV light and sunshine, specifically the following:
• Not one single study exists anywhere in the world implicating tanning in a nonburning fashion as a significant risk factor for permanent skin damage. Indeed, no study has ever been designed with protocol to ask this question.
• Melanoma is more common in people who work indoors than in those who work outdoors. Because this is true, the relationship between melanoma and sunlight cannot possibly be clear-cut. If it were a clear-cut relationship, outside workers would have higher incidence than inside workers.
• Melanoma most commonly appears on parts of the body that do not receive regular exposure to sunlight. Again, because this is true, the relationship between melanoma and sunlight cannot be clear-cut. If it were, melanomas would appear most often on parts of the body that receive the most sunlight.
• The sum of data does not
District 28
Negron vs. Ramos
continued from page 1 is fiscal conservatism. “People are hurting right now,” Negron said. “People have gone from full time to part time. People who own businesses aren’t taking salaries. Everyone is tightening their belt, and so I don’t think government should be immune from market conditions. Government needs to live within its means.”
Negron chaired the House Appropriations Committee when times were good, from 2004 to 2006. “Fortunately, when I was there, we put away a lot of money in reserves,” he said. “And when I left, we had more then $8 billion in reserves in Florida.” Protecting the environment is another important issue, Negron said. “I’m very encouraged with what we’re doing with the purchase of the U.S. Sugar land, and I want to make sure that stays on track,” he said. Another key issue is economic development. Negron gave credit to Pruitt for all the work he did in attracting the
substantively link indoor tanning equipment with an increased risk of melanoma. Indeed, 18 of 22 epidemiological studies ever conducted on this topic show no significant association, including the largest and most recent. This confounding information was conspicuously absent in what was spoon-fed to the media.
• Finally, consider the hypocrisy: the dermatology community still continues to use indoor tanning equipment in dermatology offices to treat psoriasis and other purely cosmetic disorders (a treatment called “phototherapy”). If what was widely reported last week was actually true, then the dermatology profession would be guilty of that which they accuse indoor tanning facilities — increasing women’s risk of melanoma in exchange for treating a nonlethal disease, which would violate the “never do harm” provision of a physician’s Hippocratic Oath. Saying that UV exposure is harmful and should be avoided is as wrong as saying that water causes drowning, and therefore we should avoid water. My indoor tanning business provides a valuable service in this community — teaching people the concepts of moderation and sunburn prevention as part of a practical, lifelong skincare regimen that respects their intelligence.
John Varvarigos Wellington
Editor’s note: Mr. Varvarigos is the owner of Tanism, a tanning salon in Wellington.
Kudos To Neighborhood Activist
As a resident of Pinewood East, I am taking this opportunity to extend a thank-you
biotech industry to Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast. “I think we’re still in the beginning stages,” he said, “but I think over the next 20 years, that’s going to take off and provide a lot of highpaying, high-education jobs.”
Negron, who is married with three children, said he is familiar with all parts of the district, having been born in West Palm Beach.
“I actually chaired the Palm Beach Legislative Delegation when I was in the House,” Negron said. “The Royal Palm Beach community is important to me, and as the state senator from that area, you want to be able to work with the entire delegation.”
Negron has raised more than $400,000 for his campaign, dwarfing the $31,000 raised by opponent Ramos. Ramos, 50, lives in Jensen Beach where he is a licensed mortgage broker. A former Marine, he is married with five children and two grandchildren. Ramos is active with the Democratic Party in Martin County. He has not held political office but ran unsuccessfully for the State House in 2006 and 2008. Ramos said he is running
At the meeting, commissioners referred to the position as an “independent auditor.” In our view, this is an attempt to downplay its importance. This position should be more than that, allowing whoever holds it to look at the way things are done and make sure they’re done in the right way. By relegating it to an auditor position — which brings up the image of someone who comes in after the fact to review numbers — we’d be stripping the office of the proactive influence it must have to seek out and defeat corruption.
We understand that the county commissioners might not like the idea of an independent constitutional office whose sole purpose is to keep on their heels. But they also don’t like being thought of as crooks, and county residents desperately want to feel safe trusting them. Whether the “Corruption County” moniker is deserved or not, there is a pressing need to repair Palm Beach County’s image. But this can only be achieved if the commissioners are serious about it. If they have nothing to hide, there shouldn’t be any problem. The county needs an inspector general position with actual teeth. The residents need to know if our government is operating on the up-and-up. There should be an independent officer on hand to let us know one way or the other. At this point, it is the only way to win back the public’s trust and repair the county’s damaged reputation.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
to Bob Brenman for his tireless efforts in making our neighborhood safer. For years, exiting our neighborhood has become more dangerous with the steady increase of traffic on Forest Hill Blvd. and its expansion. Around last Christmas, two of our residents were hospitalized after a serious accident.
Bob Brenman has devoted his time and energy into educating our local and county governments, and their busy employees, of this danger and of the need for a traffic light. Once it was approved, he could be found daily at the intersection, monitoring the contractors and ensuring that the job was done right. The traffic lights are now operational, and I breathe easier when my teenage son drives out of the neighborhood. Many thanks to Bob Brenman for directing his exceptional talents to the greater good. Lisa TenBrook Wellington
Doubting Healthcare Overhaul
I find it impossible to understand why some seniors have such unbounded enthusiasm for proposed healthcare legislation that is totally unknown. No one knows the final benefits, no one knows the final cost and no one knows how it will work. There are clues, and the seniors who support the legislation seem to choose to ignore them. For example, the administration has already decreased the benefits for seniors who have chosen Medicare Advantage insurance. The president has made no secret that he intends to cut them far more severely than he already has.
a small-scale, grassroots campaign. “We don’t have the money of the opposition, so, to quote a baseball phrase, we’ve played small ball, speaking to groups and getting the message out and showing the difference between us,” Ramos said.
“Based on every measure we can take, we’re doing well.”
Ramos said he is a strong education advocate, pointing out that in 2002 his opponent voted against raising Florida teachers’ salaries to the national average by 2010. Ramos said Negron also voted to reduce funding for pre-kindergarten education programs.
While Negron claims to support the environment, Ramos said the Florida League of Conservation Voters listed him 115th of 120 representatives when Negron was in office.
Regarding the economy, Ramos said middle-class salaries are needed more than the biotech advocated by Negron. “Middle-class people need to be able to earn between $40,000 and $70,000 in order to live reasonably, to be able to go to the movies on the weekend and buy pizza without hav-
Have the seniors who support this unknown legislation not heard administration officials talk of how expensive “end-of-life” care is? And how the cost needs to be cut drastically? Do these seniors not understand who will be targeted by cutting “end-oflife” care?
One of the president’s pet ideas is a bureau that will decide what medicine and procedures will be most economical in producing better “outcomes.” Outcomes will be measured, it is said, in terms of number of years of improved quality of life. So a 40-year-old needs a hip replacement and so does a 70year-old. Nobody believes that there is enough money to pay for all desirable procedures. There will be rationing. The president does not dare call it that, but he uses clear euphemisms. Thus, the 40-year-old, on the basis of the projected number of years of quality life, will get the hip replacement, and the 70-yearold may be given a wheelchair. Aside from the clear fact that the administration will reduce the benefits to seniors, there is also clear evidence that the legislation has little likelihood of reducing overall costs, nor of providing better healthcare. And then there are considerations for our children and grandchildren and their children and grandchildren. Part of the cost of the new programs is to be paid for by an increase in taxes on the “rich.” My father supported the 16th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the new federal income tax, in part because it was touted to be a “small tax on the rich.” It passed overwhelmingly in the Congress, as did the federal income tax that resulted. It was one percent on incomes of $3,000 (less deduc-
ing to budget in advance for it,” Ramos said.
With biotech, most of the jobs are six-figure salaries and many of the people filling them are brought from outside the state, Ramos said.
“We, as the little people, can only hope that we can pick up the little jobs here and there,” said Ramos, who considers himself one of the “regular people,” whose father worked with the New York Department of Corrections for 34 years before retiring and whose mother was a school cafeteria worker.
“I had my first full-time job when I was 12,” Ramos said. “I’m like 95 percent of the people out there. I am one of the regular working people who hope the government does the right thing by us.”
Ramos said he hopes to offer incentives to small and midsize companies that can offer middle class jobs.
“We have a green revolution that we’re barely noticing because we’re trying to hold on to the past so hard,” Ramos said. “I want to help small businesses, which are the heart and soul of our economy, recover and be the strength of our economy like it used to be.”
tions) and was a whopping seven percent on incomes above $500,000. (Obviously the dollar was worth a lot more then — at least 20 times more; $3,000 was at least $60,000.) Do we really expect that the tax on the “rich” to pay for healthcare will not grow in the same way that the federal income tax did?
I hope that seniors (as well as others) will learn as much as they can about the proposed legislation and let our senators and representatives know whether or not they support it.
Phil Sexton Wellington
A Phone Call Could Save A Child’s Life
I just heard about another baby found dead, left in a car all day long while the mother worked. I’d like to help stop this. I am a mother of two and know how sleep-deprived you can be in the first few years of a child’s life.
I would like to propose a policy/law for daycare facilities and babysitters that if a child is not dropped off by a certain time, the facility would call the mom or dad to check on the child. This could save lives without any additional costs to the facilities or the parents. It seems like it should be so easy to do for both the parents and the daycares. My son’s aftercare program at his school will call me within 15 minutes if he does not show up. Why can’t daycare facilities do the
same? If that woman’s daycare would have called, that child may still be alive today. What I propose is that when a child is signed up for daycare/childcare, the parent give an approximate time for drop-off, such as from 8 to 8:30 a.m. If the child has not arrived by 8:45 a.m. (15 to 30 minutes later), the parents should be called. I already spoke with my daughter’s daycare, and the director will try to implement the idea and will bring it up at the next meeting. Can we make others aware of this or make it mandatory?
Anne Crane Wellington
Turned Away On Holiday
This past Fourth of July, we went to our favorite spot to watch fireworks only to be turned away. For the past several years, we have been tailgating on 120th Avenue and Pierson Road in Wellington. We bring a cooler with some refreshments and bug spray, and sit in the back of my pickup truck to watch the beautiful fireworks display. Driving in and out was very easy, and many others enjoyed this perfect tailgating spot as well. This year we found our spot barricaded with yellow caution tape and a police escort ordering us to leave. We do not enjoy the crowds and traffic at the nearby Wellington Village Park. When so many appreciate a quiet tailgating spot, why outlaw it? If it works, please don’t fix it! Alan Tobin Loxahatchee Groves
The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words). Submit letters, with contact name, address, and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090 ; or you can e-mail them to letters@goTown Crier.com
Safe Signs Of Progress
continued from page 1 ually gets the bad element out, DeMarco said, the follow-up is to get better people to settle in the neighborhood in their place. Part of that problem is getting the cooperation of landlords, who are often absentee owners and happy to collect federal Section 8 checks as rent, whether legitimate or not.
The PBSO is looking into the legal ramifications of making landlords more accountable, DeMarco said.
“We need to get the landlords to take ownership and not just be looking for the dollars,” he said. “There’s a twofold problem when they’re renting to undesirables. Yeah, they’re getting the money, but they’re also bringing property values down.”
The Safe Neighborhoods representatives also stressed Crime Watch techniques that residents can employ, such as getting to know their neighbors, introducing themselves to newcomers, questioning strangers in the neighborhood
and reporting suspicious or criminal activities. Some residents expressed concern about possible retribution or intimidation as they become more proactive in the neighborhood.
Tuckwood and DeMarco stressed the nearby presence of the offices on Wellington Trace, and the anonymity of telephone and e-mail contact. Tuckwood, who is conducting a house-by-house survey of residents on White Pine Drive to assess their priorities and problems, urged residents to contact her with any concern.
“You live there; this is your home. We don’t want you to feel like, ‘Oh my God, I don’t know if I should get out of my car to bring my groceries in,’” she said. “That’s when you pick up the phone or come and see me, I can contact any of our officers. I can call and find out for you, because you need peace of mind. Who wants to live in fear? You don’t deserve to live in fear. And that’s what we’re here for.” For more information on the Safe Neighborhoods Initiative, call (561) 791-4796 or visit the village’s web site at www.ci.wellington.fl.us.
HISPANIC CHAMBER HOSTS NETWORKING EVENT AT PLAYERS CLUB
The Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for Palm Beach County held its monthly chamber business and educational networking event last Thursday at the Players Club in Wellington. The featured speakers were Gary Hines, senior vice president of the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, and Axium Marketing’s Sheila Zayas. Hines spoke about starting and maintaining a viable business in today’s economy. Zayas discussed how businesses can target consumers. For more information about the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, call (561) 889-6527 or visit www.prhchamber.com.
Judi Lauro, Norma Ulloa, Constanza Mejia and Erin Downey enjoy the evening.
MEMBERS OLD AND NEW ENJOY TEMPLE B’NAI JACOB OPEN HOUSE
B’nai
of Wellington held an open house last Sunday for the public to meet its
and leadership. Members renewed their memberships, new members applied and others registered for religious
Chamber members Sam Roman, James Cruz, Jose Rendon, Santos Arroyo and Sergio Casaine.
Teachers Susan Feldman and Anna Russack play a game with Marisa Feldman and Alyssa & Ryan Brander.
Sharon and Rabbi David Abrams with son Joshua.
PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
Temple
Jacob
rabbi, cantor
school, while everyone enjoyed light refreshments.
Marlene Charson and Amy Brander with new members Adam, Hope and Harry Saltzman.
Temple B’nai Jacob Sisterhood members
Andrea Cohan, Beverly Ziker, Dolores Albert, Ella Bender, Zan Liebowitz and Sharon Abrams.
Amy Brander shows new member Diane Sasscer a site plan for the planned synagogue. Mel Gross, Gerald Bank and Kenneth Scherzer.
Chamber President Santos Arroyo, Axium Marketing’s Sheila Zayas and BDB Senior VP Gary Hines.
Several Burglaries Reported In RPB And Wellington
By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report
JULY 22 — A traffic stop last Wednesday night in Royal Palm Beach led to the arrest of a Pahokee woman. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, deputies from the Royal Palm Beach substation were traveling westbound on Southern Blvd. in an unmarked vehicle when they observed a 2003 Ford F-250 with an improperly displayed decal, which was placed in the center of the Florida tag, above the oranges. The deputies further observed the driver and front-seat passenger not wearing their seat belts. A traffic stop was made, and it was revealed that the passenger, 22-year-old Melisa Marshall, had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court relating to a shoplifting charge. Marshall was placed under arrest and transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.
JULY 23 — A Versailles resident called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Thursday regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. on July 15 and 10 a.m. last Thursday, someone entered the victim’s 2007 Ford van and stole a bulletproof vest worth approximately $400 and a GPS unit worth approximately $200. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. The case is inactive pending further investigative leads.
JULY 23 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded last Thursday to a business on State Road 7 regarding a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 2 and 3:30 a.m., someone attempted to pry open the front door before entering the unlocked vacant office next door and breaking a hole through the drywall to gain entry to the business. The suspect then unlocked the front door and exited the building, returning a few minutes later to loose a television mounted to a wall, according to the report. The business is equipped with a surveillance camera, and the complainant said he would contact the security company to receive a copy of the
tape. There was no further information at the time of the report.
JULY 23 — Two Royal Palm Beach men were arrested on drug charges last Thursday following a traffic stop in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was traveling in an unmarked vehicle southbound on Sevilla Avenue when he observed a blue Ford pickup truck run a stop sign and proceed southbound on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. The deputy pulled over the vehicle at the Exxon gas station parking lot and made contact with the front-seat passenger, 21-year-old Mark Abu Zayden. A second deputy contacted the driver, 20year-old Brandon Sharp. Upon speaking with Abu Zayden, the deputy noticed a white powdery residue around his nose, according to the report. Abu Zayden was found to be in possession of marijuana, cocaine and drug paraphernalia. Sharp was found in possession of cocaine and oxycodone without a prescription. They were placed under arrest and taken to the county jail.
JULY 23 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched last Thursday night to a home in the Wellington Downs neighborhood regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 9 p.m. someone entered the victim’s vehicle and stole a laptop computer and GPS unit, valued at approximately $1,600 in total. The vehicle was not damaged in the burglary, and there was no suspect information available at the time of the report.
JULY 24 — Two juveniles were arrested last Friday in connection with a residential burglary in the Shoma Homes community in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, the victim called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on July 13 to report that her home had been burglarized. Stolen from inside were two Sony video game systems. An investigation identified two juveniles as the suspects, both Shoma Homes residents. They gave full confessions, and the
PBSO Seeks Help Locating Suspect In RPB Robbery
JULY 25 — The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a suspect in connection with last Saturday’s armed robbery at the BP gas station on Sansbury’s Way. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 5:30 a.m., a man entered the gas station and approached the clerk armed with a black handgun. The suspect forced the clerk to open the cash drawer and took an undis-
Louberti is wanted as of 7/30/09. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc. com.
Cynthia Cardenas
Alexi Louberti
Doctor: Determining ‘Cancer Cluster’ Will Not Be Easy
By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report
A local pediatric oncologist cautions that Acreage families should be patient as they await confirmation of a “cancer cluster” in the area.
The Palm Beach County Health Department was first alerted to several reports of cancerous brain tumors in The Acreage in May. An ongoing investigation, involving the county, state and the federal Centers for Disease Control, is collating data on cancer incidence in the northern part of The Acreage, and the research has widened to involve other types besides tumors of the brain and central nervous system.
Dr. Melissa Singer of Palm Beach Pediatric Hematology Oncology, a private practice on the Palms West Hospital campus, said the variety of cancers being reported makes identifying a high incidence rate difficult.
“It’s really all about epidemiology and statistics to see if it compares to a similar population,” Singer said Wednesday. “It’s a lengthy proposition to identify any type of cluster. I know the CDC is going to review the data, and it will be evaluated in a very systematic and thorough way before anyone can say anything.”
Singer said although some “cancer clusters” have been identified in the state, it’s typically very difficult to prove. “Just by chance, you can have more people with cancer in one area than another, but it’s something that’s hard to show, and it has to be taken very seriously in the way it’s evaluated,” she said.
Singer said she does not feel there is enough cause as yet for residents to be extremely concerned, because judging from what she has seen, the types of cancers occurring in The Acreage are
common in the victims’ age groups.
“Cancers are a lot more common in adults than in children,” Singer said. “Brain tumors are the second most common cancer in children. It doesn’t seem like we’re having a lot of unusual, strange types of diagnoses. I wouldn’t think people should be too alarmed until everything is really looked at properly. People just need to be patient to see what the state and the CDC say before any conclusions are reached.”
Officials have promised to update residents on the existence of a possible Acreage “cancer cluster” in August. Palm Beach County Health Department spokesman Tim O’Connor said Wednesday that data from The Acreage would be compared to state and federal levels and to other areas randomly selected of similar size. If cancer incidence in The Acreage is
deemed abnormally high, the next step is to attempt to identify potential causes.
“Should they determine that there is something unusual going on following this phase, it will help to point in the direction as to where the study will go from there, what we need to look at, what we need to test for,” O’Connor said. “That’s where the Florida Department of Environmental Protection will come into play, with us as well. We will look at air, land and water. It helps to pinpoint so you’re not doing just random tests.”
O’Connor said the goal of the health department is to come up with a scientific analysis that can lead to strong conclusions.
“Everybody is very dedicated to this, and hopefully we can come up with something scientifically, cause or not cause, to pinpoint and go forward with,” he said. “Ev-
erybody has really the best interests of those young people involved. We have to follow the protocol as best we know how.”
More information about the health department’s research is available at www. pbchd.com. Click the “Acreage Investigation” link.
Acreage resident Jennifer Dunsford, whose son was diagnosed with a benign tumor in 2008, has been a central figure in organizing Acreage residents on the issue.
Her sister Trisha Coats built a web site at www.the acreagecancerstudy.com to gather study information, forums, blogs, statistics, links and photo albums of affected families.
“People wanted to know if there was a place where they could go to see all the links and all the press,” Dunsford said. “It has been a place for everybody to come together.” Links on the site connect
to the Florida Department of Health and Palm Beach County Health Department web sites, as well as those of various centers and hospitals that specialize in cancer treatment.
“It has been really helpful,” Dunsford said. “We’ve got a lot of good feedback. People seem to like to have a place to go where they can talk with one another.”
Dunsford and other Acreage residents eagerly await word from health officials on whether their fears of a “cancer cluster” are valid.
Meanwhile, she said she has been impressed by the unity that has developed among families of Acreage cancer patients.
“We really have a good community out here,” Dunsford said. “We’re all banding together and supporting one another. We’re really waiting to see what the state has to say.”
ANNUAL KIDS CONSIGNMENT SALE OFFERS BARGAINS FOR PARENTS
The four-day mega-event South Florida Kids Consignment took place July 23-26 at the South Florida Fairgrounds. People brought in new and used items for sale, including clothes, toys, cribs, books, bikes and more. Other businesses were on hand, such as Costco Wholesale Club. Five percent of the sale’s total profits go to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. For more information about South Florida Kids Consignment, visit www.southfloridakidsconsignment.com. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER
with aunt Frances Giebner.Kara
THE ‘CHICKEN WHISPERER’ HOSTS RADIO SHOW AT RED BARN FEED
Andy Schneider of Atlanta (a.k.a. the Chicken Whisperer) visited Red Barn Feed & Supply in Loxahatchee Groves last Thursday. Schneider, along with his wife Jennifer, was on hand to broadcast a live radio show, chat with youngsters and their parents, and interact with some of the animals in the store, including the poultry and other birds. Andy Schneider is the host of the nationally syndicated show Backyard Poultry with the Chicken Whisperer The show discusses how to raise backyard poultry and live a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Denny’s Hosts Warped Tour After-Party In Royal Palm Beach
By Laura Hampson Town-Crier Staff Report
A shiny black tour bus waited outside the Denny’s restaurant in Royal Palm Beach last Saturday night as band members and their fans mingled inside. In celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Vans Warped Tour, Denny’s
is hosting 23 “Allnighter” parties across the country to connect bands and fans.
After the punk rock festival at the Cruzan Amphitheatre last Saturday, bands VersaEmerge, Breathe Carolina, Sing It Loud, Attack Attack! and TV/TV signed autographs and took pictures with
fans. The party half of the restaurant was decorated with streamers and packed with music lovers, many of whom had attended the concert all day. Several band members were eating the late-night snacks Denny’s is known for as fans visited their booths. Fans aren’t often always
able to hang out with band members after a show, organizers explained. The afterparties are meant to connect the musicians and their supporters. “The bands come out, and the kids come out,” Denny’s Allnighter coordinator Luis Mendoza said.
Ayden Vergin looks at some books.
Russell and Sarah Singson get their daughter Easter Stone a dress with a matching coat.
Twins Korbin and Keegan George find a game to keep busy while mom shops. Madison Giebner
Somers picked out pink shoes.
PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER
Schneider talks poultry.Schneider checks out some parrots in the store.
Youngsters listen as Andy Schneider does his radio show.
PHOTOS
Caleb Shomo of Attack Attack! with fan Andrea Mora.
Bridgette Krieger and Marybeth Hietapelto.
Valerie Kessler, Nicole Kessler and Andrea Mora.
Johnny Franck of Attack Attack! (center) talks to fans.
OPEN HOUSE AT KEYES REALTY
Keyes Realty in Wellington held an open house and firsttime homebuyers expo last Saturday at the firm’s office at 12012 South Shore Blvd. Various Realtors and personnel representing Keyes spoke. For more information about Keyes Realty, call (561) 967-4300 or visit www. keyes.com. (Above) Patrick Trindade of Keyes says a few words about the company. (Below) Director of Business Development Norman Spaulding speaks while Bill Tavernise listens.
PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER
CAFCI Annual Business Expo
Postponed
Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement
(CAFCI) has postponed its 14th Annual Business Expo scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. No new date has been determined.
Third Annual James Rivera Golf Tourney
The third annual James Ryan Rivera Muscular Dystrophy Golf Tournament will
be held Saturday, Oct. 24 at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington.
Registration begins at noon with a shotgun start 1:30 p.m.
The tournament follows a four-person team scramble format and will include contests for putting, longest drive, hole in one and closest to the pin, as well as team awards, dinner, door prizes, a raffle, and live and silent auctions.
Rivera was diagnosed in 2007 at the age of five with Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy, a genetic disease. Proceeds from the golf tournament will go to the Rivera family to help offset costs related to the illness. For more information
YOUTH EXPLOSION AT ROYAL PALM COVENANT
Royal
about the golf tournament, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit http:// home.jamesriverabenefit. com.
Tropepe League Of Cities VP
Engenuity Group Inc. recently announced that Vice President Lisa Tropepe was tapped as Second Vice President of the Palm Beach County League of Cities for 2009-10.
The nomination was celebrated at the 11th Annual Palm Beach County League of Cities Gala at the CityPlace Marriott. With her nomina-
tion, Tropepe is slated to be president of the Palm Beach County League of Cities for the 2011-12 term.
Engenuity Group is an engineering, surveying and GIS mapping firm with more than 30 years of experience in Palm Beach County. The firm is located in West Palm Beach and can be reached at (561) 655-1151.
For more information, visit the company’s web site at www.engenuitygroup.com.
Pure Thoughts Hosts Special Guest Aug. 7
Noted animal communicator Joan Ranquet will visit
a youth seminar on prescription drug abuse on Friday, July
The
was part of the
Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue in Loxahatchee on Friday, Aug. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. Wine and cheese will be served at 6 p.m. Ranquet has been practicing for more than 14 years and teaching for 11 years. She has been featured on the Today Show, Animal Planet, MSNBC and more. All proceeds will benefit Pure Thoughts. Tickets cost $25 and can be purchased from the Pure Thoughts web site at www. pthr.org.
Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue is located at 19181 Capet Creek Court. For more information, call (561) 847-5327 or (561) 7536555.
Pierce Hammock School News
Pierce Hammock Elementary School in The Acreage will sell school uniforms and student planners Monday, Aug. 3 through Thursday, Aug. 6 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. each day. On Friday, Aug. 14, Pierce Hammock will hold its “Red Carpet Premiere” from 3 to 5 p.m. Students are invited to meet their teachers, bring supplies, see their new classrooms, purchase uniforms and buy student planners. For more information, call Mary Gilbert at (561) 6334504.
Palm Covenant Church in Royal Palm Beach held
17 with support from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 9 substation.
seminar
church’s annual Youth Explosion event. Royal Palm Covenant Church is located at 660 Royal Palm Beach Blvd. For more info., call (561) 793-1077.
The PBSO’s Diane Smith with State Rep. Mark Pafford.
Jonathan Rose plays the drums.
Pastor Rev. Michael Rose says a few words.
RPB Councilwoman Martha Webster.Singer Carolyn Rose entertains the audience.
Binks Forest, Wanderers Duel To A Draw In 2009 Wellington Cup
For the second year now, staff and management of the Binks Forest Golf Club took on their counterparts from the Wanderers Club at Wellington recently for the 2009 Wellington Cup, with Binks Forest Golf Club retaining the cup after the match ended in a draw.
The Wellington Cup began in 2008 as a way for staff and management from both clubs to enjoy some friendly competition, all in the spirit of fellowship and building relationships.
“Binks Forest Golf Club was proud to host the Second Annual Wellington Cup,” said Terry Strongin, managing director of Aquila Binks Forest Development Company and owner of the Binks Forest Golf Club. “I think everyone from both clubs had a great time, and the competition was fierce, with the outcome of the match being decided on the 18th hole. We see this event continuing on and becoming a longstanding tradition of cooperation and friendly competition between the two top-tier golf clubs as we look forward to expanding the format in 2010 to include members from both clubs.”
The match once again pitted Binks Forest Head Golf Professional Wheeler Stewart against Wanderers Club Head Golf Professional Justin Thompson.
“The Wellington Cup was great fun again this year,” said Stewart, who served as head golf professional at the old Wellington Golf & Country Club, now the Wanderers Club. “The competition and camaraderie for the two facilities go hand in hand, and this day was a great way to accomplish it. Tim Haines, director of operations at Binks, and I built a good lead early on, but then gave it all back later in the match. Justin and Scott Davidson, course superintendent at Wanderers, played well on the back side and managed to put us out on number 16. I can say for myself that I look forward to the rubber match next year.”
While there were no cheering fans, some serious golf was played on this day as more than one participant has competed in a major PGA tour event. In this year’s Wellington Cup, there were eight players for each team, making up four two-person teams from each side.
During the event, there was some incredible shot making, as well as a couple of stray balls struck on the final approach coming into the 18th hole — one that hit the clubhouse and another that landed in the swimming pool, located about 50 yards from the green. Had relief been granted for the shot, Wanderers could have won the event, but
instead the shot was declared out of bounds by a rules official, and that ended Wanderers’ hope of a win.
“This is a great tournament that means more than just golf,” Wanderers Club President of Operations John Wash said. “It’s about camaraderie, support of each other’s club, and the unique and special lifestyle Wellington offers. I am excited to see the tournament grow into a Wellington tra-
dition that will continue on for years.”
Participants and their families were treated to a firstclass reception and formal dinner prepared by Chef Mark Adams at the newly renovated Binks Forest Golf Club clubhouse. The 2010 Wellington Cup will return to the Wanderers Club and will include members from each club who will have to qualify to compete on their respective club’s team.
Terry Strongin tees off on Binks hole #1.
Joe Maguire, Scott Davidson, John Wash and Brett Carman.
Wheeler Stewart and Justin Thompson.
RPB Rotary Club Awards Scholarships
During a July 23 meeting at the Village Golf Club, the Rotary Club of Royal Palm Beach awarded scholarships, welcomed new members and discussed local road projects with Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick. For more information about the Rotary Club, visit www.rpbrotary.org.
Donnelly
On Marist
Dean’s List
Christina Donnelly of Wellington was named to the Marist College dean’s list for the spring 2009 semester. Donnelly is a member of the Class of 2011 and is majoring in English/writing concentration.
Marist is an independent comprehensive liberal arts college with an enrollment of 4,300 full-time undergraduate students from 39 states and seven countries.
Established in 1929, Marist College offers 32 major fields of undergraduate study and 10 graduate degree programs. For more information, visit the school’s web site at www.marist.edu.
Juan Nelson Makes Hofstra Dean’s List
Juan Nelson II of Wellington has been named to the dean’s list at Hofstra University for the spring semester. Nelson is currently studying entrepreneurship at the school.
Located in Hempstead, N.Y., Hofstra University is a dynamic private institution where students can choose from approximately 150 undergraduate and more than 160 graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering, communication, education, health and human services, honors studies and law. For more information, visit www.hofstra.edu.
Dolph Joins Teach For America
Megan Dolph of Wellington recently joined Teach for America, the national corps of top recent college graduates who commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong advocates for educational equity. She will teach in Chicago.
Dolph is a 2005 graduate of Wellington High School and 2009 graduate of Emory University. She joins Teach for America’s incoming corps of 4,100 teachers, the largest in its 20-year history. With a record 35,000 applications for the 2009 corps, only 15
percent were accepted. These outstanding recent college graduates were selected for their leadership abilities and strong record of achievement. The 2009 incoming corps members earned an average undergraduate GPA of 3.6, and 89 percent held leadership positions as undergraduates.
For more information, visit www.teachforamerica.org.
Students Graduate Kaplan U
Kaplan University celebrated the graduation of its summer 2009 class during a live ceremony on July 25 in Chicago.
The following local students were awarded degrees: Travis-Jason Brown of Loxahatchee, Jacqueline Ellis of Royal Palm Beach and Marjorie Etienne of Royal Palm Beach.
Brown was awarded a certificate in information technology. Ellis was awarded a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Etienne was awarded an associate’s degree in business administration.
Award-winning actress America Ferrera, star of ABC’s popular series Ugly Betty , served as the commencement speaker.
“Education is the key to improving our economic standing and most importantly, our understanding of the world,” Ferrera told graduates during the ceremony, held in the Grand Ballroom at Chicago’s Navy Pier.
“With your degrees, knowledge and passion for learning, you are now going back into the world to better the lives of those around you. Your education has made it possible for you to do that.”
The Kaplan University summer 2009 class of more than 2,500 students earned their associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees completely online. Hundreds of them traveled from around the country and the world to attend the ceremony, meeting face-to-face for the first time.
Kaplan University offers more than 100 academic programs and currently serves more than 58,000 online and campus-based students. To learn more about Kaplan University, visit www.portal. kaplanuniversity.edu.
from Royal Palm Beach Cub Scout Pack 120 visited the International Game Fish Association Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, July 18. The scouts and their parents took the Tri-Rail to Dania and had a great time exploring the museum, playing a “virtual fishing” video game, and finding the answers to questions in a fishing “scavenger hunt.” The scouts who completed the scavenger hunt earned a fishing patch to add to their collections. The pack went to Chili’s for lunch afterward. Shown above, the Scouts pause for a group photo.
Mayor David Lodwick and Keith Jordano.
Club President Keith Jordano presents scholarship awards to Shawana Carter and Vitaly Kats.
MONDAY NIGHT MOVIES
Every Monday, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
West Palm Beach Public Library
View first-run blockbuster movies for free. Call 868-7701 for details.
LIVE MUSIC AT ROXY’S PUB
Every Tuesday, starting at 9 p.m. Roxy’s Pub, 309 Clematis St. Call 296-7699 for details.
PILATES MAT CLASSES
Every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
The Harriet Himmel Theater, CityPlace Open to all ages and fitness levels. Call 835-1408 for details.
LEARN TO DANCE THE ARGENTINE TANGO
Every Thursday, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. West Palm Beach Public Library Call 868-7701 for details.
CLEMATIS BY NIGHT
Every Thursday, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Centennial Square Call 822-1515 for details.
FREE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Every Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. CityPlace Plaza. Call 366-1000 for details.
DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN LIVE IT IN WEST PALM BEACH
FREE YOGA CLASSES
Every Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. West Palm Beach Public Library Call 868-7701 for details.
PREMIERE OF NOËL COWARD’S PRIVATE LIVES Show runs through August 16 Palm Beach Dramaworks, 322 Banyan Blvd. Call 514-4042 for details.
NATIONAL POETRY SLAM
Tuesday, August 4 – Saturday, August 8
Enjoy poetry readings and spoken-word performances at various Downtown hotspots during the National Poetry Slam, the largest team poetry contest in the world. The finals will be held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. For details, visit nationalpoetryslam.com
RESPECTABLE STREET’S 22ND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
Saturday, August 22, 6 p.m. – 1 a.m.
500 block of Clematis Street
Free block party featuring live music, dancing, laser light show, food and drinks, and more! Call 832-0706 for details.
SUNDAY AT THE MEYER
Sunday, August 23, 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Meyer Amphitheatre Free concert by Firewall. Call 822-1515 for details.
SUSHI CLASS AT THE LOUNGE
Tuesday, August 25, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The Lounge, 517 Clematis St.
Join Chef Sushi Jack as he teaches the basics of sushi making. The class costs $35 for new students; $25 for previous students. Call 655-9747 for details.
FLAVOR PALM BEACH KICK-OFF PARTY
Friday, August 28, 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Centennial Square
Flavor Palm Beach, the second annual Palm Beach County restaurant month, kicks off with a party in Centennial Square, featuring tastings from participating Flavor Palm Beach restaurants, along with live entertainment and more. Tickets are $15 in advance; $20 at the door; and $10 for Downtown residents and City employees. Call 833-8873 for details.
For a complete list of upcoming events, visit www.wpb.org/citycalendar.
Howard Coates Joins WPB Law Firm McDonald Hopkins
While many law firms are downsizing, McDonald Hopkins’ West Palm Beach office has announced the recent addition of three experienced attorneys — Howard Coates Jr., Mary April and Spencer Gollahon. Coates currently serves on the Wellington Village Council. “We believe that the addition of Howard K. Coates Jr. and his colleagues will be a strategic move in our marketplace,” said John Metzger, managing member of the
firm’s West Palm Beach office. “Before joining us, Howard maintained a very successful practice, focusing on the areas of commercial litigation, estate and probate, and general transactional work. Our new association presents many opportunities to better serve our clients, especially in Wellington, where Howard resides and is a member of the village council.”
“We are very excited about our association with
the McDonald Hopkins law firm,” Coates said. “We look forward to being part of a diverse commercial law firm with an entrepreneurial spirit that will benefit our clients.”
Coates, who joins McDonald Hopkins as a member, was the founder of the Coates Law Firm in Wellington. Coates has more than 20 years of commercial litigation experience. His background includes 10 years as leader of the Florida Litigation and
Dispute Resolution Department of the New York-based law firm of Proskauer Rose LLP, where he was a partner. Coates has tried and litigated many cases in state and federal courts throughout Florida as well as nationally. His legal background includes handling hundreds of cases in alternative dispute resolution forums (both as attorney and mediator), including the American Arbitration Association and the New York Stock Exchange.
Coates received his law degree from Yale University, and over the years has been involved in numerous professional, civic and community service activities. He currently serves on the boards of the Palm Beach County Legal Aid Society and the Wellington Boys & Girls Club. For more information about McDonald Hopkins, visit the firm’s web site at www.mcdonaldhopkins. com.
Idlewild Previews Furniture At President’s Circle Reception
Idlewild Furnishings in Wellington offered Wellington Chamber of Commerce members a private showing of its latest lines of furniture during a recent President’s Circle VIP reception. The reception was held for the chamber’s President’s Circle and Board of Directors.
“It was a wonderful evening, and it gave the chamber members a chance to be escorted through 6,000 square feet of exotic teak furniture,” said John Grimes, who owns Idlewild Furnishings with his wife Tara Lordi.
Idlewild Furnishings fea-
tures a beautiful showroom in Wellington and brings the exotic world of the British West Indies to America. The showroom offers customers a stunning tour of high-end furnishings, much of it unique and equestrian-related for home and barn.
“We find ancient teak that may be 500 years old and give it a new life by turning it into fabulous pieces such as a headboard, barn doors or a dining table,” Grimes said. “We offer original handcrafted designs as well as magnificent custom installa-
Business Planning
Academy Sept. 8
The Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s Business Planning Academy is a series of six workshops designed to help small businesses maximize their chance of success and minimize their risk of failure.
Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 8 and running for six consecutive Tuesdays through Oct. 13, the academy is being offered in conjunction with Palm Beach Atlantic University at the Wellington campus from 6 to 9 p.m.
The academy will provide participants with the tools, information and training necessary to develop a new business plan or optimize their current business plan.
“If you are an entrepreneur
looking to start a business, a current business owner, a business manager desiring performance improvement or an individual desiring to enhance your business knowledge, this program is custommade for you,” said Bob Bloom of Ink & Toner USA, the academy’s coordinator and moderator.
Enrollment is $100 for chamber members and $150 for non-members. Completion of the academy will earn $50 toward chamber membership renewal or new membership. Register online at www. palmswest.com or call the Palms West Chamber of Commerce at (561) 790-6200 for more information.
tions from solid, antique tropical teak.” Grimes said Idlewild is excited to now be offering a gift line, featuring items under $200 that are perfect for gifts, weddings and house warming presents. “We have picture frames, ice buckets, cheese trays and more that all make perfect presents,” he said.
For the equestrian set, Idlewild has it all — everything from doors, shutters, cabinets and benches to barn accessories. “We have customers who put Idlewild pieces in their barn or home
and love them so much that they come back and add more and more,” Grimes said. “We have had customers furnish their entire estate because they have fallen in love with our teak.”
Idlewild is committed to the use of recycled, ecofriendly teaks and bamboo products. The company is active in a number of global causes.
Idlewild Furnishings is located at 13501 South Shore Blvd., Suite 102. For more information, call (561) 7931970 or visit www.idlewild furnishings.com.
Dorfman Joins Boys & Girls Club Board
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Mobile Chiropractic recently announced the appointment of Dr. David Dorfman to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wellington Board of Directors.
Dorfman became involved in the Wellington club in December 2008 when he launched the successful Stuff the Bus toy drive. The toy drive visited local Palm Beach County retailers during November and December collecting hundreds of toys for children at the club. Dorfman plans to repeat the drive in 2009, as well as a school supply drive in August.
Dorfman is a member of the Florida Chiropractic Association, as well as a member of the American Chiropractic Association Council
of Sports Injuries and Physical Fitness. He is also a trustee member at the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches and a member of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission.
Dorfman received his bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology at the University of South Florida and his doctor of chiropractic degree from Life College of Chiropractic. Dorfman is married and he and his wife Lisa have two children adopted from China.
The Wellington Boys & Girls Club opened in 1987 through the combined efforts of the Youth Activities of Wellington Group, Corepoint Corporation, Palm Beach County and the Acme Improvement District. The orig-
inal site on 17 acres included two baseball fields, two outdoor basketball courts and a 3,500-square-foot building made possible in part through the generosity of the Alberto Vadia family. In 1998, the club was expanded to double its original capacity.
The club is currently in the midst of a capital and endowment campaign to build a new 21,000-square-foot clubhouse with a full-service gym and additional program space to serve the area’s growing need for services.
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County is to inspire and assist all young people, especially those is need, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and car-
Howard Coates
Dr. David Dorfman
Sneak Peak — John Wash, Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen and his wife Sherry, and Mike Nelson at a VIP reception at Idlewild Furnishings.
Health Markets — Philip Thibeaux is a local representative for Health Markets Health Insurance. For more info., call Thibeaux at (561) 389-1967 or e-mail him at philipthibeux@yahoo.com. Pictured above is Thibeaux with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
Gelato Stick — Located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 199-A inside the Mall at Wellington Green, Gelato Stick offers an assortment of Italian ice cream (gelato), Italian pastries and Italian cookies (biscotti). Gelato Stick also offers espresso and cappuccino. For more info., call (561) 932-1078 or visit www.gelatostick.com. Pictured above are Gelato Stick staff members with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
Kontiki Restaurant — Located at 13860 Wellington Trace, Suite 21-22, Kontiki’s unique, eclectic atmosphere offers the very best of Japanese and Thai cuisine. Kontiki hosts live music on select evenings and is available for parties. Call (561) 296-0404 for more info. Pictured above are Kontiki staff members with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
Pickup on Demand — Pickup on Demand is a local delivery company run by Allen Bernstein and Mark McGuire that specializes in small to medium-sized deliveries by appointment. With 25 years of experience, the company is able to move anything from a filing cabinet to a onebedroom apartment. For more info., call Allen or Mark at (561) 742-7392 or visit www.pickupondemand.com. Pictured above are Pickup on Demand staff members with Wellington Chamber of
ambassadors. Stallion Stones — Stallion Stones is dedicated to bringing glamour to both the horse and rider of all disciplines. The company is passionate about accentuating the beauty of every unique horse with handcrafted accessories using semiprecious stones and the highest quality of U.S.-made leather hides. For more info., call Stallion Stones at (561) 542-6079 or visit www.stallion stones.com. Pictured here are Stallion Stones staffers with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
New Businesses Coming To The Mall At Wellington Green
A popular, award-winning restaurant concept will open its first location in the Southeast when Joe’s American Bar & Grill comes to the Mall at Wellington Green later this year. With 14 locations and growing, Joe’s American Bar & Grill serves up casual American fare with a focus on quality, fun and flair. Owned and operated by the Back Bay Restaurant Group Inc., the parent company of the popular Abe & Louie’s
steakhouse in Boca Raton, Joe’s neighborhood feel makes for a comfortable and friendly atmosphere for traditional American cuisine, while its kitchen serves only the freshest quality ingredients in every dish. Favorite choices include fall-off-thebone ribs, juicy burgers with hand-cut fries, wood-fired pizza, succulent prime rib, rotisserie chicken, homemade soups, fresh signature salads and a tempting array of appetizers and desserts. An
extensive wine list complements the classic American menu.
Occupying 8,300 square feet in a completely remodeled space, Joe’s American Bar & Grill is set to open in November off the mall’s east entrance, across from the Food Court.
“We’re excited to have been selected as the only site in this part of the country to host Joe’s American Bar & Grill,” Marketing and Sponsorship Director Rachelle
Crain said. “It promises to be a great destination for dining and socializing.” Another form of relaxation and rejuvenation, Sleek MedSpa, will open its doors this fall in the Mall at Wellington Green.
Providing a full range of skin care, body and facial services in locations across the country, Sleek MedSpa professionals use state-of-the-art technology in the relaxing atmosphere and convenience of a medical spa. Services
offered include FDA-approved, non-surgical cosmetic procedures for men and women, including laser hair removal, Smartlipo, microdermabrasion, laser vein removal, photo facials, chemical peels, laser acne therapy, Botox and cosmetic fillers. Sleek MedSpa opens in late September, on the mall’s upper level, near Nordstrom. Also opened recently at the Mall at Wellington Green is American Apparel, a leading brand of fashionable basics for young metropolitan adults. From retro ’80s fashions to cotton staples in flattering cuts, American Apparel is currently the largest garment manufacturer in the United States and sells its “Made in USA” clothing in 19 countries around the world. The store is located on the mall’s lower level near Nordstrom. For more information about the Mall at Wellington Green, visit www.shop wellingtongreen.com.
Spices Thai and Sushi — Located at 11071 Southern Blvd., Suite 160 in the Southern Palm Crossing shopping center in Royal Palm Beach, Spices Thai and Sushi offers fresh sushi and Thai cuisine. For more info., call (561) 798-3877. Pictured above are Spices Thai and Sushi staff members with Wellington Chamber of Commerce ambassadors.
COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR
Saturday, Aug. 1
• Visit Barnes & Noble in Wellington (10500 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) for its weekly Storytime for Children on Saturdays at 10 a.m. Call Maryann Hanley at (561) 792-7710 for more information.
• Unity for Kids School (1325 North A Street, Lake Worth) will host an open house on Saturday, Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to noon. Parents will be able to meet the principal and staff. Refreshments will be provided. For info., call Sharon Green at (561) 358-5928.
• A Blood Drive will be held Saturday, Aug. 1 from noon to 4 p.m. in front of Rita’s Water Ice at Southern Palm Crossing on Southern Blvd. Rita’s, Foster’s Grille, Hurricane Grill & Wings and Shane’s Rib Shack will give away free coupons for food to all donors. Contact Arlene at (561) 951-3488 or ranritas@yahoo.com for more info.
day, Aug. 4-9. Broadway’s ultimate feel-good tale of love, laughter and friendship features 22 of ABBA’s timeless hits. Tickets cost $25 to $90 per person. For more info., call (561) 8327469 or visit www.kravis. org.
Wednesday, Aug. 5
• The Palm Coast Association of Health Underwriters will hold a meeting at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 5 at the Holiday Inn (7859 Lake Worth Road). Call (561) 968-5000 for more info.
Thursday, Aug. 6
• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host a Member Mixer on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Romeo’s Italian restaurant (13889 Wellington Trace). RSVP to (561) 792-6525.
Friday, Aug. 7
• The Western Executives will host its inaugural Salad Days on Saturday, Aug. 1 from 1 to 6 p.m. at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The event will raise money for the Farmworker Council. There will be plenty of food sampling, a best-salad competition, demonstrations by a local home brewers club, business expo/fair, a raffle and silent auction. Tickets cost $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Vendor applications can be e-mailed to westexec@earthlink.net. For more info., call (561) 7935509 or visit www.western executives.net/saladdays. htm.
Sunday, Aug. 2
• Pizzazz Hair Design will hold its annual “Pizzazz Gives Back Day” on Sunday, Aug. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Abacoa Plaza and Kobosko’s Crossing locations, donating 100 percent of the proceeds from all haircuts, color and spa services to Alzheimer’s Community Care. To participate, call one of the following locations to make an appointment: Pizzazz in Kobosko’s Crossing (9112 Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington) at (561) 793-7373 or Pizzazz in Abacoa Plaza (5500 Military Trail, Jupiter) at (561) 6277799.
Monday, Aug. 3
• Palms West Presbyterian Church (13689 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee Groves) will host Vacation Bible School “Bible Game Show Challenge” Monday, Aug. 3 through Friday, Aug. 7. Classes are for pre-K through eighth grade, and registration is $10 per child or $20 maximum per family. The church’s VBS mission project this year is to collect coins for the CROS Ministries’ food pantry. For more info., call Candi McCleod at (561) 795-1854 or e-mail rgm427bb@aol.com.
Tuesday, Aug. 4
• The Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross will host a Free Seminar for legal, social service and mental health professionals and other members of the community interested in learning more about the specific challenges faced by today’s veterans. The seminar will be held Tuesday, Aug. 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the chapter’s office (825 Fern Street, West Palm Beach). To register, call (561) 650-9143.
• On Tuesday, Aug. 4, the Temple Beth Torah Brotherhood will donate a 37-inch LCD TV to the VA Medical Center in West Palm Beach. The TV will be utilized in the waiting room of the VA Medical Center’s new audiology department, which is currently under construction. To make a donation to the brotherhood, call Barry Hirsch or Gregg Lowenstein at (561) 793-2700.
• The National Poetry Slam will be held at various locations in Palm Beach County Tuesday through Saturday, Aug. 4-8. The National Poetry Slam is the largest team performance poetry event in the world. The week will see daily contests happening at venues along Clematis Street and will culminate in a grand finale at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Visit www.nationalpoetry slam.com for more information.
• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will present Mamma Mia! Tuesday through Sun-
• The Lake Worth High School Class of 1979 will hold its 30-Year Reunion Weekend Friday through Sunday, Aug. 7-9 with a variety of events. For more info., call Candy Radder at (561) 313-5489.
• The Roots Cultural Festival will be held Friday through Sunday, Aug. 7-9 at Old School Square (51 North Swinton Ave., Delray Beach). The celebration of family, community and culture includes live entertainment, ethnic foods, arts and crafts, gospel performances and merchant areas. Call (561) 274-0365 or visit www.delrayrootsfestival.org for more info.
Saturday, Aug. 8
• W4CY Radio, in conjunction with Wild Orchids Café, will host the inaugural Royal Palm Music Festival on Saturday, Aug. 8 at Veterans Park in Royal Palm Beach. From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Aug. 8, well-known artists from all over the state will perform. Wild Orchids will offer reserved tables that will include the festival and food for $25. Those not planning on eating are encouraged to bring their own chairs and enjoy the sounds of the day. A $5 or more donation is suggested for those not choosing the reserved seating. Exhibitor tables and sponsorships are available. For more info., call Peter Wein at (561) 8274223 or visit www.royal palmfestival.com.
• The Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens (4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach) will hold its annual Bon Festival on Saturday, Aug. 8. Attendees will enjoy taiko drum performances, traditional Japanese folk dancing, a street fair, games, vendor booths, fireworks and a special departure of ancestors’ ceremony. Call (561) 495-0233 or visit www.morikami.org for more info.
• Christ Fellowship Church (corner of State Road 7 and Southern Blvd.) will host Community Heroes Night on Saturday, Aug. 8 at 7 p.m. Police and firefighters will be on hand to make citizens aware of all the resources that local law enforcement and firefighters use. There will also be interactive scenarios and presentations. Call (561) 799-7603, ext. 1520 for more info. • The Boca Raton Museum of Art (Mizner Park, 501 Plaza Real, Boca Raton) will host a Palm Beach County Centennial Celebration Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8 and 9 from noon to 5 p.m. In celebration of the county’s centennial, the museum will offer free admission to county residents. Call (561) 392-2500 or visit www. bocamuseum.org for more info.
Monday, Aug. 10
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host “Baby Story Time” on Mondays at 9:30 a.m. for ages under nine months and 11:15 a.m. for ages 10 to 18 months. Your baby will love the rhymes, finger plays, songs, books and toys. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.
• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Bookmaking, Encore!” on Monday, Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. for ages nine and up. If you missed the June or July classes, come learn how to create books in different styles. Call (561) 7906070 to pre-register. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. E-mail: news@gotowncrier.com.
Great Sporting Events Coming To PBC
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission Board of Directors has approved grants to ten sporting events expected to boost Palm Beach County tourism from October 2009 through July 2010. These sporting events are anticipated to generate a total of 23,900 room nights and an estimated $32 million in economic impact for Palm Beach County. Additionally, through three nationally televised golf tournaments — the ADT Skills Golf Challenge, the Allianz Golf Championship and the Honda Classic — Palm Beach County will generate approximately 3.6 million viewer impressions.
“The Palm Beach County Sports Commission is fortunate to be able to offer financial assistance to these ten events with our grant program,” said Patty Dent, sports commission president and BankAtlantic senior vice president. “Many times the grant dollars are the deciding factor on whether or not an event comes to Palm Beach County.”
Some of the events supported by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission are:
• The ADT Skills Golf Challenge — The made-forTV event is scheduled to take place Oct. 25-27 at the Breakers’ Ocean Golf Course. The event features four PGA Tour Professionals paired with four sport and entertainment celebrities who will compete in eight skill competitions: long drive, mid iron, greenside bunker, trouble shot, putting, chipping, short iron and pitch over the bunker. The event will air nationally on NBC on Dec. 26 and 27, from 4 to 6 p.m. The challenge is projected to generate over 400 room nights in Palm Beach County and create an economic impact of over $255,000.
• American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) Florida State Games — One of the largest soccer tournaments to take place in Florida, the boys and girls tournament will take place on Jan. 15-18, 2010 at Village Park in Wellington. Although it is a state championship, teams from the southeastern United States and overseas are expected to participate, generating over 700 room nights and $459,000 in economic impact. Between 100 and 140
teams will compete in divisions ranging from 10-U to 19-U.
• Delray Beach International Tennis Championship — This professional men’s tournament is one of only 14 ATP events in North America. The event will take place on Feb. 20-28 at the Delray Beach Tennis Center and is anticipated to bring 700 room nights and $3.5 million in economic impact to Palm Beach County. Past participants include Andy Roddick, Marty Fish, Jimmy Connors and Ivan Llendl. The nineday tournament is seen nationally and internationally in more than 100 countries. The main draw includes 32 world-class tennis players.
• Spring Fling — Spring Fling is the largest spring training event in the country for women’s collegiate and secondary prep school lacrosse. Teams travel during their spring break and conduct scrimmages and official NCAA contests throughout their week stay. The event will be held March 1-31, 2010, at several locations including Lake Lytal Park in West Palm Beach, Katz Fields in Royal Palm Beach
and Village Park in Wellington. This event will bring in over 2,000 room nights and $1.5 million in economic impact for the county.
• AYSO National Games
— One of the most prestigious soccer tournaments in the country, it will take place July 4-11, 2010 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. More than 200 teams and 3,500 athletes are expected to come from across the nation to compete in age division that range from 8-U to 18-U. The event will bring 10,500 room nights and over $8 million in economic impact to Palm Beach County.
The Palm Beach County Sports Commission is a private, not-for-profit organization contracted by Palm Beach County to promote and market the county as a sports and sports tourism destination. The commission brings sporting events and activities to the county, enhances economic impact, stimulates bed tax revenues (primarily during the off-season), and maximizes utilization of county facilities. For more information, visit www. palmbeachsports.com.
Wellington Warriors 11-U Team Wins In Orlando
Wellington Warriors 11-U — (front row,
Zack
The Wellington Warriors 11-U team recently capped off a great season. After winning the Florida Premier American League Division going 23-5, the Warriors headed north to Orlando for the AAU National Tournament at Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex.
The Warriors started the tournament by defeating the tough East Cobb Braves from Georgia 4-2. The Warriors then went on to lose their next couple of pool games placing them in the Classic bracket.
The Warriors then found lightning in a bottle as they went on to win their next four playoff games, including a victory over Virginia’s Upper Deck Predators 8-6 in an exciting championship game. The Predators had defeated the Warriors a few days earlier, but Warriors sought re-
demption. The Warriors had a 6-3 lead going into the top of the fifth, but the Predators rallied for three runs to tie the score.
The Warriors did not let those runs deter them, and they responded by scoring scored two runs in the bottom of the fifth to go on top 8-6.
The Warriors then closed out the sixth inning without allowing another Predators run. In the end, victory belonged to the Warriors.
The team also received second place for players’ sportsmanship, which they always take pride in. This championship took a team effort from the entire Warrior family, including the players’ parents.
For information about fall tryouts for the Wellington Warriors, call Jorge Ramos at (561) 346-0128.
Acreage Arsenal Wins Summer Invitational Soccer Tournament
The Acreage Arsenal U-12 soccer team traveled to Palm Coast July 25-26 for the Flagler Premier Summer Invitational Tournament and left the tournament as division champions.
Coached by John Forde and James Suarez, the team went undefeated and clinched first place. Their hard work really paid off as they showed impressive teamwork and skills.
The team would like to thank the Acreage communi-
Wellington Little League Registration
Registration for Wellington Little League baseball begins on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Village Park. Additional registration dates at Village Park are: Saturday, Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wellington Little League is for ages four and up. Visit the
ty and the Publix
on
for their
with a recent fundraiser that covered their tournament
and expenses. The Acreage Arsenal is part of the American Youth Soccer Organization Region 1521. Anyone interested in trying out for the Acreage Arsenal travel flex team in August or playing in the
and
league’s web site at www. wellingtonlittleleague.com for more information.
Register
For Fall Rec Leagues
Registrations are being accepted for Wellington’s fall soccer, girls softball and coed volleyball at Village Park and the Wellington Community Center. Ages range from four to 17. Registration will fill up quickly; register early. Stop by Village Park and check out all of the fall programming or register online. To get a sign-on ID and password, call (561) 791-4005.
L-R)
Retzler, Ryan Lopes, AJ Gallicchio, Domenic Lemongello, Jorge Ramos and Johnny Giordano; (second row) Jonathon Rosado, Will Butzbach, Triston McKenzie, James Vaughan, Anthony Maldonado and Matthew Sternola; (back row) coaches Jerry Gallicchio, Ovidio Maldonado, Jorge Ramos and Stan Mckenzie.
Soccer Champs — (Front row, L-R) Amanda Bier, Allison Murphy, Nikola Garic and Luis Febles; (second row) Daniel Hinds, Wyatt Murray and Jordan Suarez; (back row) Coach John Forde, Alex Breves DaSilva, David Atehortua, Alex Fertil, Skyler Donaldson and Coach James Suarez.
supermarket
Seminole Pratt Whitney Road
support
fees
Horse Lovers Turn Out For Fairgrounds Mustang Adoption
Sixty Mustangs were offered for adoption at the South Florida Fairgrounds last Friday and Saturday. The horses were divided into groups of six to eight per pen, older horses and younger ones separated. An eager crowd milled about during the preview time on Friday morning, noting size, age, friendliness and that indefinable “something” that lets you know you’ve found your horse — or that it has found you. The horses, feral animals removed from federal lands in western states, all looked to be in good flesh. None were skinny, and their hooves weren’t cracked or overgrown. They were dusty and muddy, and many had tangled manes, but they were “wild” horses, after all. A few of them couldn’t stop playing with the large rubber water troughs placed in each pen. There was a lot of splashing and spilling and rolling in the resulting mud. Some horses were so friendly you could reach through the bars and pet them. Others, more wary, hung back or moved away. Each horse wore a numbered tag around its neck. There was a sheet posted on the front of each pen, telling the horse’s age, sex and place of capture.
There were many knowledgeable people standing by to answer questions and offer help. Many of them had adopted Mustangs in the past and were members of the South Florida Mustang Club or affiliated with the Bureau of Land Management, which sponsored the adoption.
Tales From The Trails
By Ellen Rosenberg
Jenna Nelson of Redlands, Calif., a regular at Mustang adoptions, demonstrated how to start taming one. The mare she was working with was four years old. “I picked her because she was getting beat up by the other horses,” she said.
Nelson worked slowly and methodically, rewarding even the horse’s slightest reaction or try. Her goal, at this stage, was to get the horse to face her and look at her with both eyes, to tilt her nose toward her, and to be able to gently touch the horse’s nose with her dressage whip, all of which she accomplished.
“I don’t want perfect,” Nelson explained. “I want better.”
Acreage resident Ernestine McGugan, a member of the Mustang club, said she was there to promote the breed and to inform people. Five years ago she adopted “the meanest mare,” which was six years old and quite a handful. Within a month, she said, Cheyenne was tame and became the best horse she has ever owned.
Debate On 2010 Ballot
continued from page 2
“The legislature will have to do extensive amounts of clarification on that. That is the case on every amendment that has been passed. In this case, we will be looking at a lot of lawsuits.”
Bailey Tales Of Old Florida
continued from page 2 the American west, it was Florida where these animals were first introduced, during the earliest years of Spanish exploration. A 16th-century Spanish royal decree required ships to stop in Hispaniola, modern-day Haiti and the Dominican Republic, to collect livestock and carry it to the mainland.
“By Spanish law, you had to stop and purchase the horses, cattle and hogs you would drive with you, so you would have a meat supply with you when you were exploring,” Bailey said. “Of all the states,
Model
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Minto’s PortoSol development on Okeechobee Blvd. with a request that the agent come back with a report on whether it will be allowed adjacent to larger estate homes.
When PortoSol was annexed into the village, the council approved the development plan with 10 models to choose from on several different lot sizes, Erwin said.
Agent Brian Cheguis with Cotleur & Hearing said the new model will come in three styles with two types of landscaping, with the idea of appealing to potential buyers stressed by the economy.
Lange asked if the smaller model would be allowed in all parts of the development, including portions with lot sizes for estate-style homes. Cheguis said the smaller models are geared toward smaller lots in the development.
“The lot sizes would probably graduate to allow for certain models that would normally occur with one another,” Cheguis said, “but that’s not to say the small ones can’t appear here and there.”
Commission Chair Jackie Larson said she would not want to see a 1,200-squarefoot home adjacent to one that is 5,000 square feet.
“I have two other horses,” McGugan said.
“There’s no comparison. I love them all, but Cheyenne is just… more. I can’t really explain it. She’s awesome, just the best. I’ll never go back to having any other kind.”
Darlene Stevenson of Loxahatchee, another club member, was ready to help anyone who needed a hand. She was talking with fellow Loxahatchee resident Jerry Brevik, who was considering adopting a young horse for her granddaughters, Brianna and Brittaney.
Stevenson is licensed by the BLM to keep a Mustang for someone who doesn’t have the required 20-foot-wide pen and six-foot-high fencing, and she’s also experienced in training them.
“Mustangs are very, very forgiving,” Stevenson told Brevik. “You can make mistakes and kind of muddle through their training, and they come out fine.”
“I’ll have to talk to my husband,” Brevik told her.
On the whole, Stevenson was pleased with how the adoption was going. “Some of these horses will get a good home today,” she said.
Ines Diaz of Boynton Beach said she had heard about the adoption at the Silver Spur Tack Shop. She rides at a barn in Boynton, but doesn’t own her own horse. She thought this might be her chance to find one. She wouldn’t be able to keep it at the Boynton barn, but Stevenson offered to help her out with the initial training.
“I like these Mustangs because they’re sturdy and rugged,” Diaz said, studying the milling herds. The BLM’s James Hood was pleased with how things were going. He explained that the adoptions are purely on a first-come, firstserved basis. If you liked a horse, identified by a numbered tag around its neck, you signed up for it. When the adoptions started at 1 p.m., the first person signed up for that horse could take it home. If they weren’t there, the second person owned it, and so on. The cost: only $25 per horse.
Kyla Mott of Royal Palm Beach was definitely going to adopt. She owns four other horses, not Mustangs, mostly for her kids.
“This one’s going to be for me,” she said confidently. “I need one. These horses are wonderful. They rarely have any medical or hoof problems. I helped a friend train hers, and now I want one for me. What am I looking for? Oh, I know it when I see it. Color, conformation, attitude. See that mare over there? The roan one? Number 5960. She seems quiet. She’s the one who’ll be coming home with me.”
When the adoption was over, Hood and other BLM employees loaded up the horses that hadn’t been chosen for transport back to the holding facility in Alabama. This time, only ten went back.
“We did fairly well,” Hood said. “I was pleased. Out of the 60 Mustangs we brought, 50 got good homes.”
King said it would be up to county commissioners or other people in power to decide whether a comprehensive plan change goes for a vote. “It is not mandatory for it to go to a vote,” she said. “It’s up to the elected officials to decide whether they want to be adding a number of items to the ballot. I also think it’s unbelievable in a democratic society to think that people are not educated enough and won’t be able to understand this.”
Florida was the first to have cattle and horses.”
Raising cattle in Florida is in many ways much like it was when the Spanish did it, Bailey said, and the biggest problem is keeping track of the cattle when riding with them. He pointed to his dog Catch, a “cur” or herding dog, as the very thing to assist in that endeavor. Bailey recalled an experience he had while herding cattle with another man, when they were confronted by a stampede.
“I started to go out there, and the cows were stampeding,” Bailey said. “My friend told me to stop, and he turned to the dog next to him and he said, get ’em. They turn the cows into a circle. It’s called milling. They milled until
“I will bring more information to you,” Cheguis said, noting that the developer would like to put the new model on the market right away.
Durr made a motion to approve the new model, with a request that Minto to come to next meeting with a status report on the development, including whether the small model will be allowed on large lots. The motion carried 5-0.
• The commissioners also approved a request by Checkers drive-through restaurant in the Crossroads shopping center to repaint from its current white, peach and teal colors to the red, black and white displayed by most Checkers restaurants.
“Typically our colors are red, black and white,” explained Robert Allen, manager of the RPB Checkers.
Erwin said village staff recommended approval of the change, pointing out that the McDonald’s restaurant next door also features red, as does the Chevron gas station across the street.
Lange asked how Checkers wound up with peach and teal rather than the traditional colors.
Erwin explained that the restaurant was not developed as part of the shopping center.
“It was developed as an outparcel, so it came in after the rest of the plaza,” he said. “I’m assuming they presented it that way, or it was a con-
Tashman then asked what local comprehensive plans would look like in the future should the amendment pass. “I think we will see more long-range planning in our comprehensive plans,” King said. “We have seen the state gut some of our plans, such as what is going on in St. Pe-
they calmed down. We did not endanger a horse or a rider.”
Bailey stressed the importance of preserving history and a sense of place for future generations. “I would like each and every one of you to think of home,” he said. “Home could be New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Ohio or Cuba. Home is somewhere else. No matter how long you live here, that will be home. If you have children or grandchildren growing up here, they will think of home, and they will think of Florida. Don’t cheat them out of this multicolored quilt of history, and that sense of place that is home. Their home is Florida.”
dition for approval. It doesn’t match the center now.”
The building itself will remain white with red fascia and a black roof, Erwin said.
“I think we should approve it,” said Durr.
Larson said that although the present colors don’t match the rest of the center, she felt they blend in, where the proposed colors would not. “I think it looks rather gaudy there,” Larson said. “I don’t think it works with the surrounding properties.”
Durr made a motion to approve the change, which was seconded by Lange. The motion passed 3-2 with Urban and Larson opposed.
• The commissioners also approved sign changes in the Crossroads shopping center for Chase Bank, formerly Washington Mutual.
Lance Wilson with NW Sign Industries explained that Washington Mutual has been purchased by Chase, which is requesting the sign change. They plan to replace the existing monument sign with no change in size, replace the signs on the east and west elevation, put up new lane indicators on the drive-through, and replace the walkup and drive-through ATM machines.
Urban favored the sign changes but suggested that the landscaping be improved as a condition of approval.
Peña made a motion to approve the change with the landscaping condition, which passed 5-0.
tersburg. We have seen a demonstrated voter education on local budgets. ‘Hometown Democracy’ will actually strengthen local communities.”
Levy disagreed and said that the amendment would be a tool used by the state to step in and take away home rule, which goes against what municipalities have been set up to do. “This is something that concerns the Florida League of Cities greatly,” he said. “I believe that if you look at what’s going on with the state legislature, they have been trying to take away as much as they can from the local governments, and we’re fighting them.”
Another question was about St. Petersburg Beach and how the adoption of a similar measure in that community froze development activity.
Levy, in response, said that the freezes had a detrimental impact on St. Petersburg Beach, which would have derived a lot of good from some of the proposed projects on the table, blaming the standoff on a disagreement between a developer and the residents, with local elected officials unable to step in and make a decision. Levy said it is not a good idea to roll the dice with economic development in Florida. “This is going to open up lawsuits,” he said. “It will stop our economic development. Things like Scripps would not happen if we had ‘Hometown Democracy.’ We have spent a billion dollars of public funds to bring Scripps and the Max Planck Institute here. I don’t want to stop that.”
King said litigation will not occur if the rules are followed, noting that the St. Pe-
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continued from page 6 property was recovered. The juveniles were placed under arrest and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.
JULY 24 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home in Palm Beach Polo & Country Club last Friday in reference to a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between noon on June 13 and noon last Friday, someone stole three bicycles and a Coleman barbecue grill that were stored underneath the outside stairs. There was no additional information at the time of the report.
JULY 25 — Two Hollywood women were arrested for shoplifting last Saturday at the Dillard’s department store in the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, a store security officer observed 48-year-
tersburg Beach case hinged on following proper procedures. “The commissioners at that time did not want to put it on the ballot because they wanted to follow the proper procedures,” she said. “They wanted to follow proper procedures in the form of a public hearing. The residents challenged that. That particular issue has been on the ballot. There have been other issues that have passed without litigation. If you follow proper procedures, there will not be any litigation.”
Next, the debaters were questioned on ways to improve transparency and accountability by local officials regarding growth management and comprehensive planning.
King said it is necessary for both sides to work together, and that includes developers and residents. “Actual community members need to be involved,” King said. “This is the mission of ‘Hometown Democracy.’”
Levy said the current system does work, and the proof is that there are county commissioners and city commissioners sitting in jail for violations. “That shows the system actually works,” he said. “Everyone should be accountable. There was a New Jersey case where they charged some mayors, legislators and rabbis with corruption. We need to root it out. I’m very proud of my city. It’s very transparent. Our budgets are online. Our meetings are open. We listen to the public.”
The final question focused on how “Hometown Democracy” would influence the relationship between developers and elected officials.
Levy said the amendment
old Hilda Bazaes and 23year-old Barbara Bazaes select a total of 14 items from the juniors and contemporary departments and enter fitting rooms. When they exited, only nine of the items were visible. After passing all points of sale without attempting to pay for the hidden merchandise, the pair were apprehended, and the items were returned. The total value of stolen merchandise was $754. JULY 25 — Two women were arrested last Saturday for shoplifting at Icing by Claire’s in the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, 30-year-old Dierdre Dixon of West Palm Beach and 29-year-old Edtronda Simon of Lake Worth were observed placing miscellaneous jewelry items into Dixon’s purse before exiting the store without attempting to pay for them. Dixon and Simon ran from the store but were apprehend-
would open the floodgates to developers courting the local population without going through the strenuous approval process that a project currently requires.
“Each project is vetted by staff members,” Levy said. “It goes to planning and zoning, and the city council takes a cut at it. The public is allowed to participate. We have a policy in our city that the developers talk to residents. Amendment 4 will take that all away.”
King disagreed and said the amendment just adds one more step, which will bring about a more careful analysis of projects. “I think it’s important that you realize you are not eliminating what is going on,” she said. “You are adding to the process.”
Grant Seeking HUD Money
continued from page 1 Stabilization funding, and that it will be a while before the village knows if its application will get a favorable review from federal officials. In early June, Wellington applied on its own for $5 million in the first round of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which was in place before the 2008 stimulus package was approved, Barnes said. That application is being reviewed at the county level, and he said he expects word on the outcome sometime in August. This is not the first collaboration between Wellington and Jupiter, Barnes said. The two municipalities are also currently sharing information technology support services.
ed. The items, valued at a total of $405, were returned. Dixon and Simon were transported to the county jail.
JULY 29 — A Royal Palm Beach man was arrested on drug charges Wednesday night following a violationof-probation warrant investigation. According to a PBSO report, deputies from the Royal Palm Beach substation made contact with 22-yearold David Pawelczak, who was in a vehicle parked outside a private residence. As Pawelczak exited the vehicle, one of the deputies smelled marijuana emanating from inside, according to the report. Pawelczak told the deputy he was aware his driver’s license had been suspended. The deputy then placed Pawelczak under arrest and took him into custody without incident. A search of Pawelczak’s vehicle revealed .5 grams of marijuana. Pawelczak was transported to the county jail.
Fairgrounds attendees check out the Mustangs.Two of the Mustangs up for adoption last weekend.
Jenna Nelson works with a Mustang.
Don’t Like The French? Try Inviting Them Over Sometime
The summer my children were ages 15 and 17, we hosted a foreign exchange student from Paris for a month. We got Thomas by default, because during his plane ride from France, his host family discovered they wouldn’t be able to take him. They made some frantic calls, and by the time he landed, he was ours. Thomas was 16 at the time and had spent the previous summer in Minnesota, learning to play recreation department baseball with another family.
Not only did I know little about baseball, I was single with two teenagers. I had my reservations about how this was going to work out. Would he fight with my son, seduce my daughter, pout about the lack of baseball in his life? Was I supposed to make sure he attended classes? Help with his homework? Take him on museum tours? What? And I’d heard about the French — how they hate Americans, chain smoke, don’t use
Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER
deodorant. I steeled myself for the worst.
But Thomas fit in from the moment he got here. He had a ready smile and exquisite manners and a charming, self-deprecating personality. He always wanted to be “on the go,” which caused my children to love him immediately. If they wanted to go swimming, it was always, “I think we should take Thomas swimming.” We did more that summer than any other summer in our family’s history. School was never mentioned, and to this
day, I don’t know if he was supposed to be going or not. His paperwork had been sent to the original host family. Three weeks in, I managed to get the form I’d need if he ended up in the emergency room, but luckily, I never had to use it. Thomas embraced a “when in Rome” philosophy that seemed to work for everyone. My kids slept ’til noon, so Thomas did too. My kids wanted tacos once a week, so Thomas did too. My kids played “Dungeons & Dragons,” so Thomas did too. All three kids had a wonderful, irresponsible summer, probably their last. While I was at work, they also invented the game of “indoor baseball” using four throw pillows, one bolster and a wadded-up sock. I came home to find them darting around a dining room cleared of most of its furniture. The mom in me thought I should be angry, but the kid in me just wanted an atbat. (The kid in me won, eventually scoring a
double for my team. Whoo-hoo!) And Thomas, who was tall for his age, could easily have spanned two bases instead of running. Instead, he stayed in the spirit of the game, hysterically mincing his way from one pillow to the next as the “crowd” went wild. There was a spirit of fairness about him. One night I overheard Thomas on the phone, telling his mother, “Americans really know how to treat their children.” I didn’t know if I should be proud or worried. When Thomas got on the plane to leave, he was carrying a boogie board and a pair of inline skates. The souvenir “game sock” had been sentimentally tucked into his backpack. Over a decade later, he continues to keep in touch via e-mails and Facebook. He married a girl who works for the A&E network, and they recently bought a home in Miami. Say what you will, I like what I’ve seen of the French.
Government Shows Its Limitations With ‘Do Not Call’ List
I hate those automated phone calls I seem to receive on a regular basis. I clearly recall putting my phone on the federal “do not call” list, but that seems to have had a limited effect. I was pleased when the law originally passed, since it was one of the few federal laws that actually benefited me directly. But it seems a lot of companies pay no attention.
I get all sorts of calls, usually with a taped message. Among my regulars are: “We are the Moloch Loan Company. We can help you financially for a really small fee,” and “We are the Beelzebub Exterminators, and we just happen to have one of our trucks a few blocks from you. We have a special today…” We live in a world where politicians pass major bills without even reading them. After all, who needs to actually know where money is going if we’re spending only about a trillion dollars? Congress recently passed laws sending two major carmakers through bank-
‘I’ On CULTURE
By Leonard Wechsler
ruptcy. They sent money to starving bank officials. We currently have more czars than Russia ever had. If they can do all that, why are they unable to enforce the law so businesses do not annoy us?
While overseas a few weeks ago, I met someone whose company sets up the phone systems that use autodialing robots to make phone calls. When we pick up the phone and speak, the system recognizes it has a sucker (oops, a potential customer) and starts the
message. If we respond much at all, we finally get a human operator. I asked why I was receiving calls despite being on the list. He grinned. “If someone complains, they can be taken off a list. But not too many people complain. After all, that will take more time than the original call did.”
Maybe I actually got real answers because we were at a swimming pool. “It would not be that difficult to remove people from lists,” he said. “Just compare one list to another. But the don’t-call list is constantly changing, so it would have to be done a lot. Plus, what’s the real harm? A lot of companies know they won’t get that much criticism and very few headaches.”
The problem is that if Congress passes laws and they are not enforced, the entire government is being mocked. I do not ask the federal government for very much. Although I do receive Social Security, I did put a lot of mon-
ey into it over the years. I am old enough for Medicare and frankly, I find my coverage is not nearly as good as it was before I was aged into it. In other words, I am a grunt in the country, one of the regular people, essentially a source of funds for the powerful. We need an effective system to stop the calls. At first, I thought of some nice Old Testament kinds of punishment involving firstborn children, etc. But I am merciful as well as powerless. Perhaps the government could insist on having a real built-in control for these calls. Perhaps we could press the star button and get a dime for our time. Or it could report the company to the government. Perhaps we might have a “three strikes and you’re out of business” rule.
It’s the little things that count. If they can’t control the businesses that annoy us, why should we believe they could control the making of automobiles?
This Former Cop Gets A Look At Modern Law Enforcement
As a part of my job as a code compliance officer, in the last couple of weeks I did three “ride-alongs” with a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. Each time I rode with a different deputy. Rumor had it that once a deputy had me as his passenger, he would refuse to ride with me again. Because I am so loveable, I find that very hard to believe.
As a retired New York City cop, I thought I had done my last tour of duty in a patrol car many years ago. Boy, was I wrong. When I first found out I was to do the ridealong thing, I tried my best to get out of it. However, my best was not good enough.
Upon hearing the news of my upcoming adventure, my wife Sharon climbed up into the attic to get my bulletproof vest. At first I told her I wouldn’t need it — after all, this is Palm Beach County, Florida.
Wondering & Wandering
By Ernie Zimmerman
But then common sense settled in. I tried on a vest I hadn’t even seen in over 20 years. It was like greeting a long-lost friend. When I tried it on, I found one minor problem: it must have shrunk from the heat of the attic. I couldn’t get a shirt to fit over the vest (no, I didn’t gain any weight… OK, maybe I gained a little bit). I decided the vest would not go along on my ride. Sitting in the attic with my vest, my wife
found my old gun belt, all 22 pounds of it
(minus the gun). When I tried the gun belt on, I found it didn’t fit me any longer. A lot of strange things must be going on in my attic.
District 8’s roll call brought back a lot of memories. I learned real fast that cops are the same no matter where they work.
When the deputies found out I was a former NYC cop, I think they welcomed me with open arms. When I finally made it out to the patrol car, more memories started flooding my head. I asked the deputy if I could drive. The look he gave me was all the answer I required.
When I sat in the radio car, I felt like I had just gotten out of a time machine. In one word, the reason why I felt this way: computer
In my days on patrol (it seems like ancient history — OK, it is ancient history) we never heard of a computer. As I sat in the recorder’s (passenger) seat, I was amazed at what the
computer could do. One thing that blew my mind was that you can run a driver’s license through the computer (like a credit card) and all sorts of information pops up, including photos of the person the license belongs to. Being a cop today is a totally different job than it was 20 years ago (for the better). The way the deputies handled the computers, I started feeling my age. Maybe I started feeling my age because two of the deputies I rode with were younger than my kids. At least the third deputy was closer to my age. I am very happy to report that our deputies are very well trained in keeping us safe, whether we are on the road or in our homes. They are doing a great job. If any bad guys are reading this column, I advise you to think twice before committing a crime in the western communities. Remember, the computer has your number (and picture).
The Phantoms Recommend CityPlace Uncorked Aug. 6
Great food and wine and beautiful people await you at the Annual CityPlace Uncorked Downtown West Palm Beachís premier food and wine event, CityPlace Uncorked, returns to the Harriet Himmel Theater on Thursday, Aug. 6 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Presented by ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, the flavorful affair pairs some of the worldís premium wines, presented by Republic National Distributing Company, with an array of epicurean delights from a record number of CityPlace restaurants this year, including Blue Martini, Brewzzi, Carousel Can Can CafÈ; City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill, Il Bellagio, Kona Grill, Ovations! Catering, Ruthís Chris Steak House, Saitoís Japanese Steakhouse, Taverna Opa, Thai Jo, Wet Willieís and Wild Ginger Asian Bistro.
An artfully prepared dessert table will be another sweet feature with Starbucks coffee, fresh-baked pastries from Panera Bread and decadent treats from Mamma Che Buono and the Cheesecake Factory.
Proceeds from the silent auction at Uncorked will benefit West Palm 100, a non-profit social and civic organization of the areaís most prominent young professionals dedicated to supporting West Palm Beachís children, families and neighborhoods through donations of time and resources.
West Palm 100 members Shannon Fox and Katherine Kress are co-chairs, and Jennifer Sullivan and Jennifer Mahoney are the honorary chairs of the silent auction, which features items such as a one-night stay at Hotel Biba, tickets to a Palm Beach Dramaworks show, a gift certificate to Top of the Point, and a romantic dinner for two at the Chesterfield Hotel in Palm Beach, plus merchandise and gift cards from CityPlaceís shops and restaurants.
ìWe are looking forward to working with West Palm 100 for another extraordinary event this year,î CityPlace General Manager Ryan Hallihan said. ìThe evening is an incredible opportunity for guests to get a taste of CityPlaceís newest restaurants and longtime favorites,
all while we give back to the community at the same time.î
Republic National Distributing Company will offer samples of more than 100 varieties of wine at this yearís event, including top-rated selections that are sure to please both the novice and aficionado.
A limited number of tickets are available for CityPlace Uncorkedís newly upgraded VIP section, which offers early admission with an extra VIP hour, an exclusive sampling of fine wine, and food from Ruthís Chris Steak House and Ovations! Catering.
Also on the menu this year is live entertainment provided by B.B. King Pure Blues Band from the soon-to-be-famous restaurant opening at CityPlace this fall, and an outdoor cigar lounge provided by Lost City Cigars, which opens in August.
The CityPlace Uncorked afterhours party will be held at City Cellar immediately following the event at 10 p.m. After-party specials include $3 Van Gogh Vodka cocktails, $6 Van Gogh Vodka martinis, $3 glasses of selected wines and $5
pizzas. VIPs will receive a complimentary glass of Piper Heidsieck Champagne and a free pizza.
Sponsors include ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, Republic National Distributing Company, Cheney Brothers, Boca Raton magazine, Florida Table magazine and WRMF 97.9 FM.
Guests must be 21 or older. Tickets are $60 per person in advance
or $75 at the door. They can be purchased at ABC Fine Wine & Sprits, Brewzzi, City Cellar, CityPlace guest services or at www.complete ticketsolutions.com. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $100, available at www.complete ticketsolutions.com or by calling (866) 449-2489.
For more information, visit www. cityplaceuncorked.com.
Joe & Kathryn, the Phantoms, are featured writers for the Town-Crier newspaper, This Week Shopping Spree and www.YourNews.com... comments and recommendations are welcome at ThePhantomDiners@aol.com.
The exhibit ìThe Music Behind the Magic: Disney, 1928-Todayî is currently on display at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach.
The exhibit explores the integral role that music has played in every facet of Disneyís success, from animation and film to TV, radio and Broadway, as well as the record labelís key songs, composers and performers, and their impact on popular music and culture.
The exhibit narrative and design are geared for anyone old enough to enjoy the music of Disney. The exhibit is designed with a multigenerational audience in mind, and each major thematic section
combines Disneyís past and present so that its elements resonate with everyone from tots and teenagers to parents and grandparents.
ìThe Music Behind the Magic: Disney, 1928-Todayî was organized by the Experience Music Project in Seattle, Wash. The exhibit was made possible in part through the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Maurer. It will continue through Sept. 6.
The Norton Museum of Art is located at 1451 S. Olive Ave., West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 832-5196 or visit the museumís web site at www.norton.org.
Guests at last yearís CityPlace Uncorked.
A photo of the exhibit ìThe Music Behind the Magic: Disney, 1928-Today.î
TEEN COMMUNITY SERVICEHELP WANTED - Are you 14 and over? Looking for something meaningful to do this summer? Join us at the Good Earth Farm. JuneAugust 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Mon. - Fri. Call for more info. 792-2666.
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CLASSIFIED ADS 793-3576 GET RESULTS CALL TODAY!
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D. FRITZ ELECTRIC SINCE 1978
- Install, Repair. We do it all. Free Estimates. Call Ray today. 561-3125070.
GUARDSMAN FURNITURE PRO
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