Town-Crier Newspaper March 13. 2009

Landscaping Work, Code Crackdown Among Village Plans For Troubled Areas

By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report

The Wellington Village Council gave approval Tuesday for a simple landscaping project intended to hamper criminal activity at one end of White Pine Drive.

Benefit For Animal Rescue League

“Party for the Animals,” a fundraiser for the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, was held last Sunday at Pizza Fusion in Wellington. A cover charge and a portion of the food sales went to the league. Page 5

Ron Jarriel, Ryan Liang Win Seats On Groves Town Council

A lifelong community resident and a political newcomer were elected to the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday, each promising to put an end to a bitter rivalry that has threatened the existence of the town itself. Page 8

Features

Equine Appraisals: Do You Know What Your Horse Is Worth?

After learning how to research and determine a horse’s fair market value, Mary Nord received her certification as an equine appraiser through the American Society of Equine Appraisers in January 2008 and founded Flying Critters, her own equine appraisal service. Page 20

The southern end of the street ends in a cul-de-sac occupied by two clusters of townhouse units. A gap between two of the buildings allows pedestrian traffic to pass through to reach a wide stretch of open ground behind the units and Wellington Trace further south.

The council approved a plan to fill the gap with fencing and planted bougainvillea, referred to as “hostile vegetation” because of its stiff and thorny vines. Village staff estimates an expenditure of about $2,800, which will come from a fund used for neighborhood beautification projects.

Parks & Recreation Director Ivy Rosenberg told the council that village staff hopes the project, dubbed the Transitional Neighborhoods Pilot Project, would be the first of many such efforts in

the village. “We went out into the community and spoke with the residents to find out what they felt would help improve this area,” Rosenberg said. “The purpose of this pilot project is to deter youths from using this area as a cut-through, in hopes of reducing criminal activity.”

Rosenberg presented the council with two options: extending the fence between the buildings in question or building it farther out, near Wellington Trace. She said staff was recommending the former, as the latter option would require more fence to be built, require more maintenance and irrigation, and also a change in village code, as bougainvillea is not approved for planting along thoroughfares.

Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore raised concerns about the property owners or residents being able to access their own back yards, especially in regard to mowing both back and front yards. Rosenberg explained that a gate was included in the plans.

“If it’s going to be a locked

gate, the property owners would have the lock,” she said. “It’s meant to deter traffic and make it as difficult as possible, but I don’t think we can entirely eliminate it.”

Priore said the gate would offer a weak spot to intruders. “A gate is just for people to pay attention to the rules and regulations,” he said. “It’s going to get broken, it’s going to get jumped over. I think the whole area needs to be sealed so that there’s no access. Otherwise, we defeat the whole purpose of putting up the fencing and the landscaping.”

Rosenberg said that the village had the option of putting up a gateless barrier and assuming responsibility for maintaining the back side of it, but that would be a budget decision on the part of the council.

Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto suggested that the village also look at treating other potential passthrough areas on the cul-desac, as people would persist in seeking ways to cut through, but noted that the

See COUNCIL, page 2

150 On Hand To Support White Pine Initiatives

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

About 150 people crowded into a meeting room at the Wellington Community Center last Friday to meet with Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office representatives and village officials to discuss fighting crime in the village’s White Pine Drive/12th Fairway neighborhood. The village scheduled the meeting following a home invasion in the neighborhood last month in which a resident shot and killed an intruder.

Capt. Greg Richter, commander of the PBSO’s Wellington substation, said he was proud to see the impressive turnout, noting that it was the fifth community policing meeting inviting White Pine/ 12th Fairway residents, but

the first time more than five people had attended.

Richter noted that the White Pine/12th Fairway area is battling a widespread perception as a high-crime area, but the statistics tell a different story.

“Since Oct. 6, I think there have been 16 robberies in the entire Village of Wellington, most of which are your streetlevel ‘give me your iPod or I’ll beat you up’ type of robberies,” he said. “Out of these 16, one of them occurred in White Pine/12th Fairway.”

Of all the burglaries in Wellington, about five percent are in the White Pine/ 12th Fairway neighborhood, Richter said. “Is crime out of control in White Pine/12th Fairway? No, but there is a concern there, and if there is

a perception of crime, then there is certainly a concern to us, and we want to talk to you about what we’re doing about it,” he said.

One of the things the PBSO is doing is employing a community policing approach in the White Pine/12th Fairway area. A similar approach is being taken at other Wellington neighborhoods with safety concerns, such as the areas around Goldenrod Drive and Yarmouth Drive.

“We’re concentrating the lion’s share of our efforts with our community policing officers in the White Pine/12th Fairway, Goldenrod and Yarmouth,” Richter said.

Richter said the current offensive against crime in those neighborhoods involves strict law enforcement tools such

as narcotics enforcement, undercover police, and the violent crimes and gang task forces, Richter said.

“We are also partnering with the village,” Richter said. “When you talk about crime prevention, the police department is integrally involved with that, but we are not the only answer. We can’t do it by ourselves. We have 44 deputies to patrol this village, and we have almost 60,000 people. We can’t be everywhere, and that’s why it’s so important that we involve not only the Village of Wellington and its resources such as code enforcement and community leaders. The most important aspect of keeping crime off of the streets and out of your neighborhood is you folks. That’s very important to us.”

Richter said residents should expect to see more police on the streets. “Community policing comes in phases, and the first phase is strict enforcement, so please don’t criticize us for strictly enforcing the law,” he said.

The crackdown will also include code enforcement, Richter said. “If an area looks like it’s in disrepair, if an area looks like people don’t care about the property, people are going to treat it as such,” he said. “We have to keep those streets clean. We have to keep those yards clean. We have to keep those shrubs trimmed. We have to keep the houses painted.”

The PBSO is also focusing on landlords, Richter said, pointing out that a landlord licensing rule recently passed in the village makes landlords more responsible for their tenants. Landlords will also take the brunt of code enforcement violations.

“They are charging an unbelievable amount of money for this property, and yet they are not maintaining the property,” Richter said, adding that the village’s code enforcement division is committed to helping clean up the area. “We will be standing right there with them if they need us to assist in enforcing the codes.”

Community policing specialist Deputy Michael Leatherman said one of his jobs is to help set up Crime Watch programs in Wellington.

“Crime Watch does not belong to the Sheriff’s Office,” Leatherman said, explaining that Crime Watch groups are homeowner organizations or simply a group of people in a central location who elect a leader called a block captain who serves as the liaison between the group and the police. “It’s taking an old idea and putting a new spin on it.”

But Leatherman noted that in modern times, many people no longer know who their neighbors are. “If you don’t know everybody on your street, how do you know when a stranger comes in?”

Martha Webster Easily Keeps RPB Council Seat

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Incumbent Martha Webster easily won re-election to the Royal Palm Beach Village Council Seat 2 on Tuesday, widely outpolling political novice Demian Saenz in a low-turnout election. Webster, who was elected to fill a one-year vacancy in January 2008, earned her first full two-year term taking 564 votes (83.43 percent) to 112 votes (15.57 percent) for Saenz.

“I thought the margin of winning was very good,” Webster said. “I wasn’t sure about that. The 83 percent was nice. I was hopeful and it turned out very well.” Webster said there were no real surprises in the fairly low-profile election that saw no community debates and few clashes over issues. She said her goals are to

follow through on things the council has been working on, including development of Commons Park, formerly the Tradition Golf Course, and the Roebuck Road extension, which is still being contested by the City of West Palm Beach.

“The village has been consistent in its approach and fiscally sound,” Webster said. “We have the same things coming up. With the development of the park, I think everyone agrees with me that we need to proceed carefully. We know what we want, but we need to make sure that everything is going to fit within our budget. We’ll always be pursuing Roebuck Road.”

Webster said she shares the council’s position that Roebuck Road is an important component to relieve traffic See WEBSTER, page 7

A Purim carnival was held Sunday, March 8 at Congregation B’nai Avraham in the original Wellington Mall. Temple Beth Torah in Wellington held its annual Purim Spiel (Purim Play) on the same day. Pictured here, Max Weiss is dressed up for Purim at Congregation B’nai Avraham. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 7

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

On The Campaign Trail — Matt, Chris and Lauren Hanley and Taylor Braunworth campaign with Royal Palm Beach Councilwoman Martha Webster outside the Royal Palm Beach Recreation Center on Tuesday.

PHOTO BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

Council A Pilot Project

continued from page 1

property owners had stated their preference for a gate.

“I think this is all a learning experience for us, and it’s a very minimal investment into learning what can potentially work in neighborhoods to deter some of this activity,” she said. “I’m willing to take the $3,000 and invest it to see if this is something that actually deters that traffic.”

Priore suggested employing the more compact fencing plan offered in the first option, as offering the best protection for residents, and concentrating on the best choice of materials that would withstand damage.

Councilman Matt Willhite, one of several village officials who had visited the neighborhood earlier that day, returned to the idea of addressing one other potential cut-through area on the cul-de-sac, and Village Manager Paul Scholfield suggested a motion to approve a somewhat larger budget outlay with the intention of improving that area as well.

“The cost is relatively minimal, and assuming we can get permission from the owners, it is something I think we should do,” Schofield said.

“As Councilman Willhite said, we looked at that today, and it is a fairly obvious cutthrough point.”

Willhite made a motion to approve the item, giving staff the leeway to expand the work if the cooperation of the other property owners could be secured. Benacquisto seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.

Also Tuesday, the council approved the half-milliondollar launch of a major village program intended to stem the spread of crime and blight in declining village neighborhoods, including White Pine Drive and the 12th Fairway, as well as Goldenrod Drive/Hyacinth Place, Yarmouth Drive/Folkstone Circle and Montauk Drive/Westhampton Circle. All four are older village neighborhoods that feature a higher level of rental dwellings and multiple-unit buildings.

With the Safe Neighborhoods initiative, the village intends to devote more effort to code enforcement and law enforcement in those neighborhoods, as well as infrastructure improvements such as better lighting and community partnership programs.

Besides the assignment of two additional sheriff’s deputies and two code enforcement officers to those areas, the village also plans to bring in two neighborhood advocates to work with residents to improve their communities.

Schofield explained that the program is modeled on an effort underway for several years in blighted areas of Boston. “It was initially very successful, and then it started to fail, and they had to look at the reasons why it failed and reinvigorate it,” he said.

“So we have a program where we can look at their mistakes, and one of the key elements of that program that made it successful are the community advocates.”

PBSO

Crime Watch

continued from page 1 he asked. “How do you know if someone comes in who doesn’t belong? That is basically what a Crime Watch is. We’re not asking you to come to work for us. We’re not asking you to do anything that you don’t already do. When you walk your dog, carry your phone with you; that’s all we ask of you. If you’re up at 2 a.m. because you can’t sleep and you’re reading a book and you see someone walking down the street wearing a black hoodie and black clothing and looking in everybody’s house and checking car doors, pick up the phone and make a call. That’s what Crime Watch is. It’s a group of people taking care and taking the time to learn who their neighbors are.”

Addressing the audience, Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto expressed gratitude for the large turnout at the meeting. “We’ll have these

The wide-ranging program will also include such efforts as park development, beautification, reinstitution of neighborhood crime watch programs and the forging of closer relationships with housing programs in the county, in an attempt to prevent further defrauding of housing assistance programs.

Much of the funding for the initial outlay, drawn from other village programs, was available due to the fact that the village has left some 19 staff positions unfilled. He said he expects to request about $760,000 in next year’s budget to continue the program.

Schofield introduced the concept for the program to the council last month, as council members demanded a village action plan in the wake of a home invasion in a White Pine Drive home that ended in the fatal shooting of the intruder.

“It is time… to put boots on the ground in those areas, to get the neighborhood advocates out so that they are walking those areas every single night, so they get to know the residents, they get to know the problems,” Schofield said.

Benacquisto stressed the need for sustainability in the program and said she would be looking for more specifics on the limitations on the community advocates and their goals, as well as establishing their goals and evaluating their performance.

Schofield said he was already prepared to move people in the Building Division to work as code enforcement officers for the program, but he was seeking authorization to begin advertising to hire people to serve as community advocates, a selection process that would be more difficult.

“I don’t think they should be police officers, I don’t think they should be code enforcement officers,” he said. “We are looking for people who can actually get out in the neighborhoods, who can get to know people, who aren’t pushovers, who know how to organize community groups.”

Benacquisto asked Schofield to share a detailed job description as soon as one becomes available, and he replied that he would certainly be very careful to keep the council regularly informed, with a half-million-dollar program underway.

During public comment, White Pine Drive resident Pamela Gray, a citizen of Wellington since 1993, noted she had seen the changes in the village over the years, and that disheartening recent events had included a perception of cynicism on the part of police, the recent home invasion and the yearlong vacancy of a neighboring unit, which had attracted drug dealers and partying teens.

But Gray said she had found some new hope and inspiration in attending the village’s neighborhood meeting the previous Friday, and urged the council to help her neighborhood sustain its desire to reverse the downward trend.

“Let’s start now,” she said. “Let’s not let that fire that happened Friday die out. We don’t have the time.”

meetings as many times as we need to,” she said. “I know there are other places you could be, but when I saw all these people here, I was so proud.”

Councilman Matt Willhite said he shared the residents’ goal of safer neighborhoods and assured them that the village has made it a priority.

“I’ve been on the council a year,” he said. “I have a young family. I’m going to be here for a long time. We’re going to have regular HOA meetings. Hopefully, we’re going to put a half million dollars into this project for all these problem areas.” Benacquisto said the village, PBSO and residents can work together and do whatever it takes to take back the communities.

“I’ve lived here 15 years, and I’ve driven through your neighborhoods and thought, there has to be something we can do,” she said. “Our goal is to put it back into the wonderful, safe category you came here for. Thank you for coming. We will not let this issue go.”

RPB Council Approves Artwork For Anniversary Sculpture

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Royal Palm Beach Village Council approved plans for a glass-and-concrete sculpture at the southeast corner of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards last week, but noted that the utility poles at the site might hinder its appearance.

At the council’s March 5 meeting, artist Mark Fuller

presented plans for a landscaped mound 21 feet in diameter, encircled by bench seating and featuring five palm fronds made of stained glass and metal that rise from its center.

As the sculpture celebrates the village’s 50th anniversary taking place this year, Fuller said the fronds represent the five decades the village has been in existence.

Fuller, whose work can be found along PGA Blvd. and in other parts of his hometown of Palm Beach Gardens, displayed digital images with his proposed work superimposed on the corner, where the village’s offices and meeting hall are located.

Council members were enthusiastic about the artwork, to be done at a cost of $80,000, but shared Fuller’s

concern about utility poles at the intersection interfering with dynamics of the sculpture, the color of which would appear to change in the view of passers-by.

Mayor David Lodwick acknowledged that the poles would create visual clutter, but said moving them would likely be too expensive. “We know it would be a lot of money,” he said. “Honestly, we’re not going to spend, at least under this council, a half million to a million dollars of taxpayers’ money just to remove those poles.”

Lodwick asked if the sculpture might be moved farther back and closer to the royal palm trees on the property to get it away from the poles.

“Personally, I love the piece and what it represents. I think it’s beautiful,” he said. “I’m just worried that it gets lost in the poles. Sometimes moving it back a little might make it more visible.”

“I think that’s something that we need to go out and spot on the site,” Fuller said. “I placed these images digitally.”

Lodwick said the council was considering conceptual approval of the platform that evening, and that once done, discussion on the actual positioning could take place later.

Councilman David Swift

said he agreed with Fuller’s argument that the poles distract from the impact the work is intended to make.

“A lot of this is seeing the PGA stuff that you’ve done and some of the other pieces, but to me, the advantage of this whole thing is the color change with the materials,” Swift said. “I think the point you’re trying to make is the siting — as you move through the corner, your eye looks over there, and as you are moving, the color changes. It’s a really interesting thing.”

Village Manager David Farber said Fuller and village staff members could go out and look at the site for optimal placement.

Lodwick also asked about the hurricane resistance of the sculpture. “My day job is insurance, so I worry about what this thing will look like after the wind blows,” he said.

“It should look pretty much as it does here,” Fuller said, explaining that the delicatelooking palm fronds are actually designed to withstand 140 mph winds, but as an added layer of safety, hinges could also be installed at the base of each frond so that they could be unbolted and laid down if the situation warrants.

“I know PGA Blvd. withstood it just fine,” Lodwick

said. “If they’re wind-rated to 140, I don’t have a problem. If you could hinge them and that wouldn’t be a problem, it wouldn’t be a bad deal either to get them down and out of the wind.”

“I think entertaining the idea of giving a hinged base in addition would probably not be a bad idea,” Fuller agreed.

“I’m very pleased,” Lodwick said. “I think it will be a great addition to that corner as we continue to try and upgrade our community, to take the assets that we’ve been given from prior councils and continue to make our community better.” Farber said the work is to be ready for the village’s 50th anniversary celebration the second weekend in June. He said Fuller has also been commissioned to create another sculpture on the opposite corner of the intersection. The $50,000 piece will be paid for by CVS, which is building a pharmacy there.

“We will be back before you before too long to bring that idea to you,” Farber said. Vice Mayor Fred Pinto made a motion to accept the proposal, which was seconded by Councilman Matty Mattioli and passed unanimously.

More of Fuller’s work can be viewed on his web site at www.mtfuller.com.

Anniversary Artwork — (Above) Artist Mark Fuller with a scaled-down replica of how the artwork will look. (Left inset) How the artwork will look at the southeast corner of Okeechobee and Royal Palm Beach boulevards. RPB officials are concerned that the utility poles at the corner will distract from the artwork.

OUR OPINION

The Time For Campaigning Is Over, Now It’s Time To Govern

Just two years into its existence, the Town of Loxahatchee Groves is already well-versed in the art of contested elections. If the 2007 Groves election was about the town carving out its identity amid surrounding development interests, Tuesday’s election was about how Loxahatchee Groves will come to terms with itself… or rather, its two governing entities — the town council and the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District. Relations between the town and the district became bitter over the past year, made worse by harsh words spoken on the campaign trail. However, words that were meant as a rallying cry before March 10 can turn into bitter obstructionism if each side continues to see the other as the enemy. That is the wrong path to take during such a crucial time.

The election of Ron Jarriel and Ryan Liang adds two important voices to the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council. As an eight-year member of the LGWCD, Jarriel offers a viewpoint that is essential given the town’s current spat with the district. One viewpoint the council has lacked up until this point is that of the agricultural industry. Now, with the addition of Liang, a fruit grower, the council offers representation to a group that previously had no one.

Webster Thanks Voters

To the 563 Royal Palm Beach residents who came out to vote for me, thank you! I appreciate your confidence in my service to the village during this past year. To the 675 total voters who cast their vote in support of your local government, you are the true citizens of your community. You take seriously the responsibility of being a participant in democracy. You know there is no election too small, and your vote makes a difference.

I thank the many supporters and special volunteers who worked so hard to help in this successful election. I truly look forward to serving all the citizens of the Village of Royal Palm Beach during the next two years. It is an honor to be a member of the Royal Palm Beach Village Council and to work with the staff of one of the nation’s top ten best cities.

Martha Webster, Councilwoman Royal Palm Beach

Four-Year-Olds Do Not Belong With District

We citizens and taxpayers residing in Palm Beach County were led to believe that the class sizes in our public schools would be reduced in teacher/student ratio. It has always made sense to everyone that teacher-to-student ratios were an important factor governing how much our children learn. A teacher who has 20 children in a classroom would give more attention to each child compared to a teacher with 30-plus children in a classroom. Now is the perfect time because of a drop in enrollment to have fewer children in each classroom. However, it appears that the Palm Beach County School District is going to add another grade level to its elementary schools. This grade level is pre-kindergarten or four-year-olds. The four-year-olds have been the grade level taught in private preschools. This grade

level has always been paid by the parents whose children go to preschools. This means the public schools in Palm Beach County will do what they do best, overcrowd the fouryear-olds’ classrooms, resulting in higher teacher-to-child ratios and diminished learning for our precious fouryear-olds. Why is the Palm Beach County School District doing this? Why take on the responsibility that has been the responsibility of good preschools with low ratios and a safer environment for our children? In addition, the taxpayers will have to pay for a grade level that they’ve never had to pay for before. Leave the four-year-olds in preschools, where every state in our great country agrees that preschool education has resulted in the successful performance of children entering kindergarten in our public schools!

Frank Rizzo

Wellington Editor’s note: Mr. Rizzo is the owner of Loxahatchee Country Preschool.

Don’t

Connect

Madrid To SR 7

I oppose the connection of State Road 7 to Madrid Street into the LaMancha development. The residents met several years ago with [Royal Palm Beach] Mayor David Lodwick to discuss the traffic problems plaguing the development. Drivers outside of the development cut through on LaMancha Avenue and Ponce De Leon daily. I have lived here for 27 years. Our leaders to the east continuously approved the development of land to the west known today as The Acreage without thought or care to the impact on the local roads. I’ve sat at stop signs and traffic lights for 20 minutes at Ponce De Leon and Okeechobee Blvd. If you leave after 7:20 a.m. on LaMancha and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and go south, you will sit in traffic for four miles waiting to reach Okeechobee Blvd., while drivers from The Acreage make illegal left-hand turns into LaMancha to cut through to Okeechobee Blvd.

Although incumbent Vice Mayor Marge Herzog failed in her re-election bid, we expect she will continue to promote the Loxahatchee Groves community, whether through her position as president of the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association or any of the other community groups for which she volunteers her time. Similarly, we hope that candidate Ilene Rindom, who lost to Jarriel in her bid for Seat 1, will continue on as a Loxahatchee Groves activist.

Still, regardless of which candidates won or lost the election, Loxahatchee Groves voters can claim their own victory, having shown a 34-percent turnout rate on March 10 (unlike neighboring Royal Palm Beach, which saw less than six percent of its residents make the polls). Whatever the outcome, it was the will of the people that made it happen.

The council’s new makeup is one that’s representative of a broad swathe of Loxahatchee Groves. The ideas are there, and so is the political will to implement them. The question Groves residents must now answer is whether they want to come together as a community or continue to let the old divisions linger. The election is over; now is the time to govern.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

I’ve adjusted my routine so I can deliver our children to the various schools and daycares and still get to work on time. Concerns regarding the emergency vehicles reaching the residents of LaMancha are unfounded. The emergency services that have served our community for over 30 years continue to provide excellent service. At times, I have been the first responder on the road when an accident occurred, and the problem wasn’t road access, but the rude drivers who wouldn’t pull over. I don’t believe this would have been a subject of discussion if we lived in a subdivision of Madison Green or PortoSol. A gate and lock key pad does not make it a development. The county development plans do recognize LaMancha as a development, not a community open-access road. In conclusion, keep the traffic out of the LaMancha development.

Mary Ann Loftis Royal Palm Beach

Willhite Is The Voice Of Reason

Unfortunately, in our world today, the lonely voice of reason and caution is rarely given any thought. On the contrary, they are usually scorned, not given creditability and seem to be banished from any consideration by their peers or constituents. Their ideas are poohed-poohed, and they are accused of being out of touch at every turn. Remember General [John] Shalikashvili? He warned the country and the administration that the Iraq war would take five years at least and cost half a billion dollars. He was fired! He was out of touch. Guess maybe we should have listened. Remember Ron Paul from the presidential debates, warning us of dire economic conditions and a government that wasn’t paying attention? He wasn’t given the time of day. Maybe we should have listened.

Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite has been a voice for sound financial cau-

tion and looking at issues and their long-term effects instead of running full steam ahead without any substantiated data or information. While the mayor is running around wishing upon a star, thinking the stimulus package will save us, Matt is sounding the bell about more budget cuts, less personnel, reducing levels of service if Wellington does not find an extra million or two in a budget that has been decimated the last two years.

While [Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine] Priore and [Councilwoman Lizbeth] Benacquisto talk up a lavish new city hall at a multi-milliondollar price tag, Matt is sounding the alarm about positions not being filled, maintenance being reduced and a budget shortfall at the state, county and municipal level at unprecedented levels not seen in 40 years. And our new council appointee, Mr. Howard Coates? First thing he wants to do is give away a $20 million piece of property Wellington owns to Palm Beach Community College despite the huge shortfalls in our budget and even bigger cuts next year.

Matt Willhite is urging caution, common sense and fiscal prudence to all village actions this year and next. He is the lonely voice of reason on our council. Maybe we should listen? Keep up the good work, Matt, and keep speaking on the side of caution and more fiscal prudence. Hopefully the residents will wake up before it is too late.

Steve Haughn Wellington

Keep Golf Carts Off

Binks Roads

I have placed numerous complaints for many months about service vehicles and golf carts along Binks Forest Drive, and [Binks Forest Golf Course Superintendent] Tim Haines using his golf cart within our community. In fact, the village instructed me to call the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and speak

with Capt. [Greg] Richter, and I did. After he researched it, he was informed by the village, “we are a golf course community” and not to be concerned with the enforcement of unregistered and uninsured vehicles on public roads.

At Binks Forest, we are not a golf course community and have nothing to do with the golf course. When these vehicles are on public way (grass, tar paths, roads, sidewalks), they interfere with school walkers and bikers, joggers, baby walkers, dog walkers, kids, adults and even horses, but most of all, cars and traffic.

Other golf courses have to use service vehicles to maintain landscaping due to berms, fences, etc. This must continue but at Binks, it is all open and flat. There is no reason for them to be on public property, including gated communities, for they are open to the public and patrolled by our sheriff’s [deputies].

This village is placing our community and others at risk by allowing anyone to use unregistered and uninsured vehicles on public roads, even within gated communities, and must stop unauthorized vehicles ASAP. Our village can be held liable in the event of an accident.

Bart Novak Wellington

Unger: Letter Exaggerates

“Crime is rampant in Wellington,” and “homeowners are being forced to shoot and kill intruders/burglars,” and Wellington’s “infrastructure is collapsing,” are all direct quotes from Howard Sohn letter in last week’s TownCrier. Sounds like the old

Wild West! Now I have heard of not letting the truth get in the way of a good story, but these exaggerations are actually untruths (lying). Our village is a pretty safe place to live, one of the best in the county, and the shooting of one intruder out of 60,000 people would appear to be the exception. Sohn’s remarks are an insult to our hardworking police and our village. Since the letter was written to extol the virtues of Councilman Matt Willhite [who works for Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue], I wonder if one building was to burn down, would Mr. Sohn exclaim, “the village is burning down,” and direct it to fireman Willhite?

Enthusiastic support is fine, but not at the expense of the truth. Our council has been negotiating with Palm Beach Community College for quite a while, and certainly there are minimum requirements by our council for PBCC to meet. To suggest that only one person is protecting us is disingenuous at best. I respect rational debate, and there has been much (this is our democratic system), but “the sky is falling” type statements and the above quotes have nothing to do with the issue.

Lastly, I request that Mr. Sohn clarify and/or justify his statement: “council decisions motivated by reasons other than the best interests of the community, and its residents.” This is an accusation that should be explained by its author, unless of course it is more empty, sensational rhetoric, because it is bordering libel, if untrue. It appears to me that this type of discourse is inflammatory, and obviously the writer typically offers no solutions, and

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

The Town-Crier welcomes letters to the editor. Please keep letters brief (300 words). Submit letters, with contact name, address, and telephone number (anonymous letters will not be published), to The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414; fax them to (561) 793-6090 ; or you can e-mail them to letters@goTownCrier.com See LETTERS, page 20

Looking To Solve White Pines Woes? Send In The Seniors!

News item: The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is cracking down on crime, including subsidized housing fraud, in a central Wellington neighborhood around White Pine Drive and the 12th Fairway that has become ground zero for criminal activity in the village.

The problem came to a head recently when a school teacher was awakened by an armed intruder. The teacher managed to grab his own gun, got the drop on the home invader, and shot him to death. Turns out that the intruder was also a neighbor, which gives new meaning to the term “shop locally.”

The problem as described by law enforcement and village officials is a neighborhood of government-subsidized, low-income apartments and condos, which has attracted a criminal element. In addition, both renters and some landlords have been ripping off the Department of Housing & Urban Development. As an added attraction, the area has also reportedly become a favorite hangout for gangs. It seems that all these officials are looking at this as a crime problem. But they aren’t looking at the big picture like I am. I see it as an opportunity so vast that it’s hard to wrap

By Don Brown

my mind around it. What you have here is a neighborhood being taken over by criminals. You have some white-collar criminals, the gang-bangers, the drug dealers/buyers and other “bad actors,” as cops call them.

Wellington Village Manager Paul Schofield said recently that it will take several hundred thousand dollars, the help of community activists, more cops and ramped up code enforcement to fight the problem. He told the Wellington Village Council last month that it is his recommendation “that we simply take the position that it is our community and it is time to take it back.”

Here is a neighborhood in need of help. There are also a lot of other problems looking for solutions, and I think I have some ideas that will help.

Wellington has been looking for a senior citizens center for several years now without any success. With the state of the economy as it is now, it may be more many more years before they get one. I say let’s put one right smack dab in the middle of the White Pine neighborhood. I don’t mean a big building where all the seniors go to play bridge and make quilts. I’m talking about a senior patrol. Instead of spending all those “hundreds of thousands of dollars,” put some seniors in some of those condos and on the street. I’m a senior myself, and I have a lot of senior friends who can still wield a club. Plus 911 is only second best to the Senior Warning System, which preceded the Early Warning System. They see all, know all and tell all. Believe me, they know everything there is to know about their neighbors. That would be a much more cost-effective way to clean up the neighborhood. Besides, once a few seniors move in, they all come by. I say, rezone the entire area as a 55+ neighborhood, which will serve to get rid of the entire “undesirable element.”

Here’s another suggestion: Palm Beach County has been concerned for years about “affordable workforce housing.” Among those officials have said are most affected are Point

teachers, firefighters and law enforcement officers. How about spending some of those “several hundred thousand dollars” to subsidize police officers as an incentive to live in the White Pine area. For several hundred thousand dollars, dozens could live rent-free for at least a couple of years, more than enough time to end the crime problem. Heck, I’d rent a room out to a cop if he promises to park his squad car in my driveway. If White Pine becomes Cop Land, those drug dealers, gangbangers and “bad actors” will scat faster then you can blink.

I personally like the senior citizen idea. I know a lot of seniors whose 401-K retirement plans and stock investments have been decimated as a result of the economic crisis we are in. They are experiencing a lot of anger and would probably be eager to walk the streets of a neighborhood, club in hand, for the good of the community. Until I heard about the White Pine problem, I’d been scouting potential intersections and collecting pencils everywhere I can find them just in case I need to set up a corner business selling them. I’d much rather club some criminals and take back a neighborhood.

PHOTOS

Chair Rosa Durando spoke Thursday, March 5 during

pioneer Rachel

showing

video Sense of Wonder: Rachel Carson’s Love for the

Nancy Fried Tobin with Cashmere.

Kim Hall and Malaney. Carrie Kufta with Ella.

Andrea Ficocello with boxer Jessie and Nancy Mantell.Dog lovers relax on the Pizza Fusion patio.

Pizza Fusion General Manager Steve Mann. Laurie Horan and her daughter Amanda with Oscar, an Old English sheepdog.

Melissa Meeker addresses the audience before the film.

Rosa Durando speaks while Patricia Walker and Melissa Meeker look on.

PBSO Collars Wellington Golf Cart Thieves

By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report

MARCH 5 — Two Lake Worth men were arrested last Thursday and charged with grand theft for stealing two golf carts from a business in Wellington. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington responded to a golf cart store in reference to the theft, which amounted to $20,000 worth of stolen merchandise. After following several leads, the deputy conducted an investigation on two suspects, 22-year-old Dustin Dabney and 18-yearold Anthony Saadetdin. Dabney was charged with grand theft and possession of a stolen shotgun. Saadetdin was charged with grand theft. The golf carts were returned to the business.

MARCH 5 — A resident of Larch Way called the PBSO substation in Wellington last Thursday regarding a vandalism incident. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9:45 p.m. last Wednesday and 5:45 a.m. the following morning, someone threw a rock at the victim’s 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, smashing the rear window. There was no suspect information available at the time of the report.

MARCH 8 — A West Palm Beach woman was arrested early last Sunday morning following a traffic stop on State Road 7. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Wellington substation conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by 42-year-old Jamie Wilson. Upon making contact with Wilson, the deputy noticed a strong smell of alcohol on her breath, and Wilson refused roadside sobriety tests. The deputy then observed a marijuana pipe in plain view on the floor console. Wilson was placed under arrest and transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.

screen GPS, a green CD case, miscellaneous CDs, a silver makeup bag and makeup. The total amount of stolen property is valued at approximately $700. There were no witnesses, and no latent prints were obtained. A similar incident occurred on another street in LaMancha during the same timeframe. According to a separate PBSO report, sometime between 7 p.m. last Sunday and 7:30 a.m. the following morning, someone entered the victim’s unsecured vehicle and stole a GPS and a CD case containing miscellaneous CDs, valued at a total of approximately $800. There were no witnesses or latent prints reported.

MARCH 9 — A juvenile was arrested Monday in connection with the Feb. 27 theft of a boat in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, a relative of the boat owner saw the ten-foot aluminum boat in a canal behind Las Palmas Street occupied by three white males. A PBSO helicopter responded to the scene and located the boat near Santiago Street. A PBSO deputy made contact with one of the suspects, a juvenile who admitted to having been on the boat. The owner arrived at the location and positively identified his boat. The juvenile was placed under arrest and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center.

MARCH 9 — A resident of Yarmouth Court called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday night regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left her house at 4:30 p.m. and returned an hour later to discover it had been burglarized. Stolen from inside were a number of cameras, a laptop computer, miscellaneous items of jewelry, car keys, sunglasses and other valuable items. According to the report, the suspect attempted to steal a gun that was locked inside a case but was unsuccessful.

MARCH 9 — A resident of Monterey Way called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Monday in reference to a fire in a nature preserve. According to a PBSO report, the complainant said she saw a fire ensue by a nearby canal bank. The complainant also saw three white males running away from the fire and toward the back of her residence. Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue personnel responded and put the fire out, and no damage was reported. The suspects were gone by the time the PBSO arrived. A similar incident took place Tuesday afternoon outside a home on Orange Blvd. According to a PBSO report, witnesses observed two white male juveniles start a brush fire. The suspects were not identified.

MARCH 9 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched Monday morning to a home in LaMancha regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left her 2007 Chrysler minivan unlocked overnight last Sunday. When she returned to the vehicle at approximately 7:30 a.m. the following morning, she discovered that someone had gained entry, stealing a three-inch-

MARCH 11 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to the parking lot of the TGI Friday’s restaurant on State Road 7 regarding an attempted robbery. According to a PBSO report, the victim was leaning over her vehicle’s driver’s-side fender working on the engine when she heard a vehicle pull into a nearby parking spot. An unknown black male stepped out of the vehicle and asked the victim if she had a dollar. The victim turned to him and replied that she did not. According to the report, the victim continued working on the engine when she felt a punch on her right arm. The suspect then attempted to steal the victim’s cell phone but was unsuccessful. He proceeded See BLOTTER, page 20

Greenacres. Thomas is wanted as of 03/12/09. 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.

Wesner Jean Curtis Thomas

Last Sunday, Temple Beth Torah in Wellington held its annual Purim Spiel (Purim Play) based on events between the Jews and the villain Haman back in the days of King Ashaverus in Persia as recounted in the Book of Esther. The event was preceded by a reading of the Megillah (the Book of Esther) and followed by the Purim Carnival. This year, as in years past, there was a theme to the play, directed by Cantor Carrie Barry. The theme this year: “Disney World.”

Stein as “Estherelda” and Jordan Levy as “Mufahasverus.”

PURIM

A Purim carnival was held on Sunday, March 8 at Congregation B’nai Avraham in the original Wellington Mall. For more information about the congregation, call (561) 793-4347.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Ryan and

continued from page 1 congestion in Royal Palm Beach. She has been an ardent advocate of the road in the ongoing battle with West Palm Beach, which signed an agreement in 1994 to allow construction of the Roebuck Road extension in exchange for permission to build three large residential developments on the north side of Okeechobee Blvd. east of State Road 7. West Palm Beach later reneged on the deal after residents in those communities voiced opposition to the road, which would run on the north side of the developments, connecting the State Road 7 extension to Jog Road. In the latest battle, West Palm Beach deleted Roebuck Road from its comprehensive plan, but the Florida Department of Community Affairs told the city to put it back. At the Royal Palm Beach Village Council meeting March 5, Village Attorney Trela White said the city had put Roebuck Road back in its comp plan, but with language that White said gave West Palm Beach opportunities to continue its opposition to the road.

“I think we’re going to

Tree’s Wings & Ribs in

Palm

hosted an all-you-can-eat ribs and chicken night Wednesday to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Ten percent of sales from 5 to 8 p.m. were donated to the

For more information about the ACS, visit www.cancer.org.

have to face the facts that we’re going to have to watch that diligently,” Webster said. Webster added that she personally feels that the State Road 7 connection to Madrid Street should be open, but that the council should leave that decision to the people.

The long-awaited SR 7 extension is set to open from Okeechobee Road into The Acreage in a matter of weeks, according to county traffic engineers, but Royal Palm Beach has blocked plans to connect the roadway to Roy-

al Palm Beach’s LaMancha neighborhood at Madrid Street.

“It has been the position of a majority of the council not to open it,” Webster said, noting that there have been a number of letters in the newspapers both pro and con, and she feels that there should be public discussion. “It seems that as the road becomes closer to reality, people are scrutinizing it more and taking a bigger interest,” she added.

“My hope is that when that road opens, we may be able

to open the discussion up, and that people with pros and cons have the opportunity to come in and state that in public.”

Another of Webster’s goals includes continuation of the council’s progressively lower millage rate each year, which has been the pattern for more than a decade.

“That’s something we’d really like to be able to do, and so we’re all going to be looking at everything to be

sure that we can continue to do that, hopefully,” she said.

“I know that’s wishing for a whole lot in these times.”

Webster said she feels other issues and concerns are relatively minor. She said she was glad to see prompt response by staff to get on board with stimulus bill proposals after initial confusion when the Metropolitan Planning Organization made its request for proposals through the Palm Beach County

League of Cities. “There was the miscommunication on the stimulus funds,” Webster said. “We were diligent and got on it, rectified it and staff resolved that well, and we’re moving forward on that. Those are the kind of things we will always be careful about. There’s nothing currently on the table that we are concerned about. We are uniquely situated, and I think we’re very fortunate. I hope we stay that way.”

PHOTOS

Ethan Friedman and Jessica Galo.

Lauren Russack as Esther.Max and Sarah Charson.

Emma Jaffe.

Rabbi Stephen Pinsky and Cantor Carrie Barry.

Benay

David Fisher as the evil Haman.

Randy and Arlene Nitzky of Rita’s Italian Ice.

Julia Govier gets her face painted.

Michael and Elana Rosman Groves with their mother Donna.

Royal

Beach

ACS.

Louis Potter Jr. with his mother Lisa.

Event Chair Pam Araujo, Team Captain Candi Price, participant Janet Yates and Jenny Drozd of the ACS. Oliver and Eileen Salery.

Victory Party — (Above) Councilwoman Martha Webster celebrates at her home Tuesday night with supporters Rachel Calderon, Cindy Flores, Elizabeth Braunworth and Genevieve Webster. (Left) Webster is congratulated by Palm Beach County Commissioner Jess Santamaria.

Ron Jarriel, Ryan Liang Win Seats On Groves Town Council

By Don Brown and Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

A lifelong community resident and a political newcomer were elected to the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday, each promising to put an end to a bitter rivalry that has threatened the existence of the town itself. In what Groves political watchers proclaimed as a stunning victory, nurseryman Ryan Liang, 30, upset incumbent Vice Mayor Marge Herzog by a margin of 60.96 percent (420 votes) to 39.04 percent (269 votes). Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District Supervisor Ron Jarriel, 57, easily defeated community activist Ilene Rindom, taking 65.36 percent (451 votes) to Rindom’s 34.64 percent (239 votes).

Jarriel, who resigned his seat on the LGWCD board to run for a council seat, was considered the front-runner from the moment he filed for the council’s Seat 1 against Rindom, who was an unsuccessful candidate in the town’s first council election two years ago.

Liang was a political unknown when he decided to enter the Seat 3 fray against longtime Groves leader Herzog, but proved to be a tireless campaigner. While some observers (including Liang himself) were not surprised about his victory, they were surprised by the margin.

A main election issue was the sometimes sour relations between the town and the district. Last year, Herzog emerged as one of the council’s advocates for a quick takeover of the district by the town, a position that divided the community and prompted talk of dissolving the town. Rindom was endorsed by retiring Seat 1 Councilman Dave Autrey, who also advocated the demise of an independent LGWCD.

Political observers believe that the election of Jarriel and Liang will tip the balance of power on the council toward conciliation with the district and its supporters in the community. “I think the election is a great thing for Loxahatchee Groves,” Liang said. “Our residents don’t want the fighting. They want council members who will listen to them.”

While the Seat 1 race was low key, the Seat 3 campaign was rocky. Liang said his lowest point was a threat from a Herzog supporter to withdraw from the race or be exposed for a homestead exemption irregularity that indicated his home was outside the town. The information was sent to the Palm Beach Post, prompting Liang to explain that he had forgotten to withdraw the exemption when he moved to his parents’ property in the Groves. Liang also claimed that vandals used trucks to de-

stroy numerous election signs, including at least one at his parents’ home. “Those incidents just made me work harder,” Liang said. “I did a lot of walking to homes to show people that I wanted to know what their concerns were. I learned a lot doing that.”

Jarriel said he never had any doubt about the outcome of the election. “The most enjoyable part was the team I had working for me,” he said. “They made calls for me, walked door to door and volunteered in many other ways. I think people just wanted new management that can work together for a better community.”

Neither Herzog nor Rindom would rule out another run for the council in the future. Herzog said she had been looking forward to representing the town at the Palm Beach County League of Cities, but that despite the loss of her council seat, she would still have plenty to do, particularly her involvement with the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association, of which she is the current president.

But Herzog also blamed her downfall on a misinformation campaign orchestrated by her enemies. “They said it right from the beginning that they wanted to get rid of me,” she said. “All you have to do is spread lies, and you can’t fight lies.”

Rindom, at her home on election night, said she would continue to take an activist’s role in the community. “I still will be involved,” she said.

Rindom said she felt bad for her supporters. “I did everything I could do, but I guess it wasn’t what the residents of Loxahatchee wanted,” she said. “I feel like I let everyone who helped me down.”

While Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Susan Bucher said she was disappointed by low voter turnout in most municipalities, Loxahatchee Groves bucked the trend. A total of 690 voters — about 34 percent of the community’s 2,025 registered voters — showed up at the polls.

By contrast, only 5.7 percent of the registered voters in Royal Palm Beach bothered to vote Tuesday in an election that saw Councilwoman Martha Webster easily keep her seat by a lopsided margin over political newcomer Demian Saenz. Even the raw number of 675 voters was lower than that of Loxahatchee Groves, a community about an eighth the size of Royal Palm Beach.

Some 200 well-wishers for the winners attended a party at Boonies in Loxahatchee Groves to watch the returns come in. Herzog and a few of her supporters came by early in the evening but left

about the same time absentee vote counts were posted showing a lopsided early lead for Liang.

“The town wins this election,” said Councilman Dennis Lipp, who did not publicly endorse a candidate but wrote a letter to the TownCrier criticizing Herzog as an instigator in the rift between the town and the LGWCD.

Liang/Jarriel supporter

Toni Vorsteg, an unsuccessful candidate against Autrey in the election two years ago, attended the celebration to congratulate the winners. “The people will have a voice,” she said. “Now there is a chance for positive changes in Loxahatchee Groves.”

also present.

“This is the night the people got their town back,” Crawford said. “Now the council should focus on the town and our future.”

Nursery owner Elise Ryan, whose husband John is a LGWCD supervisor, said she was elated but

Darlene Crawford, who ran unsuccessfully against Mayor Dave Browning in the town’s initial council campaign, was

not surprised by the election’s outcome. Ryan worked for both candidates, and while most observers figured Jarriel had a lock on his seat, said she was one of only a few actually predicting a Liang victory. “It was a good step for Loxahatchee Groves,” she said. Election Winners — Loxahatchee Groves councilmenelect Ron Jarriel and Ryan Liang celebrate their election victories Tuesday night at Boonies. PHOTO BY DON BROWN/TOWN-CRIER

West Palm Beach Home & Garden Show Returns March 20-22

Instead of taking expensive vacations, research shows that more homeowners are opting for products that promote enjoyment close to home. One avenue for exploring new home improvement ideas is the West Palm Beach Home & Garden Show, which will be held March 20-22 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

The show will deliver more than 500 exhibitors under one roof. Guests can interact oneon-one with Karen Walden, founding editor of Ty Pennington at Home magazine and design consultant, who will be the headline speaker. Walden will focus on costsaving tips and easy, affordable projects with a “green” flair. During her presentation, she will ask the audience about their favorite colors and their biggest stumbling blocks while decorating. Local eco expert Bernadette Upton of Eco Decor will

teach homeowners how to detox their home one element at a time.

Additional show features include:

• Green & Gorgeous Ty Pennington Inspired Dining Room — Find out what makes this specially outfitted environmentally friendly room “green.” Designed by earth friendly interior designer Bernadette Upton and constructed by builder Brett Handler of Dreamstar Custom Homes, this space will feature all things green. Upton and Handler will be on hand to answer guests’ questions about how they can incorporate green elements into their homes.

• Let the Bidding Begin Who knows what great deals await guests at this live auction from 11 a.m. to the show’s close at 6 p.m. on Sunday? Everything from electronics and small appliances to furniture and more will be auctioned off. Items

TRUNK SHOW AT THE TACKERIA

The Tackeria equestrian shop in Wellington held a trunk show last Thursday featuring Oakcroft custom tack trunks and stable accessories. Guests enjoyed refreshments as they registered to win a free tack trunk. The Tackeria is located at 13501 South Shore Blvd., Suite 107. For more info., visit www.tackeria.com. Shown above are Elizabeth Niemi and Stoney Lake Equestrian dressage rider Jaimey Irwin, who is signing up for the raffle. PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

range from new, in-box to estate sale items. The pace is fast and the experience is fun.

• Ty Talks — Catch Pennington’s video on the Palm Beach Post Stage, where he will answer questions asked by homeowners.

• Ty Spies — As featured in Pennington’s magazine, this area will feature some of his favorite products and has been designed by students from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale.

• Good Stuff Galleria

Visitors can go to the Good Stuff Galleria to put tips they’ve learned into practice by choosing cash and carry merchandise that will immediately beautify their home. This all-new special section of the show floor is designed exclusively to showcase eyecatching take-home décor, art and other accessories to add to the shopping experience.

• Pet Pavilion and Doggie Fashion Show — Back by popular demand, the show

Wellington, FAU Plan For Development

The Village of Wellington is working in conjunction with Florida Atlantic University’s School of Urban & Regional Planning to develop goals, objectives and policies emphasizing “sustainable development” for the village.

The village’s Economic Development Initiative team expects to have recommended changes ready for council and public hearing review in late 2009. Approved changes would become part of the village’s comprehensive plan.

Sustainable development is “environmental, economic or community development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs,” explained Planning, Zoning & Building Director Marty Hodgkins.

The school will work with village staff to explore ways to ensure that a 21st-century

will feature an entertainmentpacked Doggie Fashion Show on Saturday at 2 p.m. Coordinated with local media representatives, judges will select the best-dressed pooches in the area to showcase new spring fashions down a runway just for them. The Pet Pavilion will feature pet-related vendors from dog trainers to pet boutiques.

• Wheel Estate Center — CJ’s RV Town, Great Time RVs and Motor Home Super Store are teaming together to display 15 recreational vehicles: five motor homes, five travel trailers and five folddown campers. Prices start at $8,000. Find out the most economical way you can vacation. Admission is $10 for adults, $4 for children ages six to 12, and free for five and younger. For information about discounts, or to buy tickets, visit www.florida homeshows.com or call (888) 254-0882, ext. 340.

Wellington continues to be a vibrant and healthy community for generations to come. A “greening” of local government practices will be one of the first changes residents can expect to see. The village has established its own internal “go green” team to shepherd in some of the initial changes. For more information about sustainable development within the Village of Wellington, call Project Manager Bill Nemser at (561) 753-2581.

Santamaria To Host Forum

March 18

County Commissioner Jess Santamaria will host a community forum on Wednesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. center court at the original Wellington Mall (12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). This will be an open discussion. Attendees may present any topic they wish (with up to five minutes maximum). Coffee and cookies will be

served. Anyone interested in submitting a forum topic for this month can call Santamaria’s office at (561) 355-6300.

Cub Scout Pancake Breakfast

Wellington’s Cub Scout Pack 125 will hold its annual Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, March 21 from 8 to 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church (12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). Tickets cost $6 for adults and $3 for children. For more information, call Lois Spatz at (561) 797-1056.

RPBHS Project Graduation Meeting

Road Cleanup

In Lox Groves

The Loxahatchee Groves Garden Club will participate in the Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful Adopt-aRoad program on Saturday, March 21. The group will meet at Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School and will do cleanup work on Okeechobee Blvd. from 8 to 11 a.m. Water and visors will be handed out as long as they are available. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves and a hat. The garden club will provide bags for the collection and grabbers to use for picking up items. Call Marge Herzog at (561) 791-9875 for additional information.

The next meeting of the 2009 Royal Palm Beach High School Project Graduation Committee is scheduled for Monday, March 16 at 7 p.m. at the school. Parents and guardians of students in the Class of 2010 are invited to learn what will need to be done for the next class to take over. The earlier the Class of 2010 gets together, the easier the transition. For more information, call Cheryl at (561) 723-8298 or Karen at (561) 371-8377.

&

Home Improvement Tips — TV’s Ty Pennington is the new spokesman for the West Palm Beach Home & Garden Show.

PHOTOS

The Mayberry gang with Sheriff’s Deputy Jose Rendon.

Pastor Frank Ingram receives an award for his dedication to keeping the spirit of Mayberry alive.

Barney Fife (David Browning) with Dorothy and Walter Danko of Loxahatchee.Barney performs a song with Doug Ingram.

The Mayberry gang on a Huey helicopter with Wayne Jackson, Curt Rich, Bill Jeczalik and Mike Carroll.

Gomer and Goober

Beach County Dog Fanciers Association

8 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds.

competed in this American Kennel Club-sanctioned event.

Best of Breed winner Versace with co-owner Herbert Moebius and handler Larry Cornelius.

Champion golden retriever Jagger with owners Pat Kopco and Mike Orloff.

Elbridge Gale Students Win Logo Contest

Elbridge Gale Elementary School students Camila Mendez-Roca, Carolina OrtizRivera and Keyvan Taghizadehasl have been notified that their entry to the 2009 Sunshine State TESOL Conference Theme and Logo Design Contest has been selected. Sunshine State TESOL is a professional organization dedicated to the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages. The logo design created by these students reflects the importance of preserving students’ culture and primary language. Also, these students chose the logo to emphasize the benefits of a culturally diverse classroom where students share and learn from each other.

The three students come from different countries: Bolivia, Iran and Puerto Rico.

Laura Corzo, who has been a teacher for 17 years — 11 of those working with English language learners — said that students’ rich cultural backgrounds play an important role in the classroom when utilized to enhance the learning. “I am very proud of these students’ accomplishments and how much English they have learned in a year,” she said.

The design the students submitted was selected to be used as the official logo of the 2009 Sunshine State TESOL Conference that will be held at the Biscayne Bay Marriott in Miami. The design will appear on the front of the conference program and other materials. The students will be recognized at the Sunshine State TESOL conference luncheon on April 17 and will receive a cash prize.

Polo Park NJHS Walks For Diabetes Foundation

On Saturday, March 7, members of the Polo Park Middle School National Junior Honor Society walked to help raise money for research to cure juvenile diabetes. A total of 48 members collected donations and raised $3,000 on behalf of the school. Everyone at Polo Park offers support and congratulations to the students and their new advisor Matt Besman and his assistants Leslie Benhardus and Allison Wood. In April, the group will be heading off to Melaleuca Elementary School to provide fun and good times for the young children of this Title I school.

H.L. Johnson’s SECME Students Shine

H.L. Johnson Elementary School’s SECME Club recently participated in the Palm Beach County School District’s annual Olympiad and came away winners. SECME stands for studies in Science, Engineering, Communications, Mathematics and Enrichment.

The H.L. Johnson team met for the competition on Feb. 28 at Freedom Shores Elementary School in Boynton Beach and placed third overall in the entire district. The school’s club sponsors

were teachers Jenny Birney, Wendy Elgersma and Janet Deker. Parent volunteer Stacey Marino also helped coach the teams.

Other awards won by the group include the H.L. Johnson students finishing in first place in the Team Brainbowl event and Johnathan Germain placing second overall in the district Mousetrap project.

The entire team’s efforts reflected this year’s theme “Thinking Outside the Box.”

Seminole Ridge High School Booster Club Looking For Nominees

The Seminole Ridge High School Athletic Booster Club Nominating Committee is now taking names of people interested in the following executive board positions for the 2009-10 school year: president, vice president, treasurer, secretary and three director positions.

The members of the nominating committee are Martha Hunton, Cindi Walker and Sue O’ Rielly.

The role of the nominating committee is to review all letters of interest and

suggest a slate of officers. If you are interested in any of the above positions, submit a letter addressed to the nominating committee and turn it in to the SRHS front office or via mail by May 8. Letters should include any information that will help the nominating committee make an informed decision. The voting of officers will take place at the committee’s May 13 meeting, which will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the school media center.

LGES Seeks Sponsors For Annual Carnival

The Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School PTO will host its annual carnival and silent auction on Friday, April 24. The carnival is a family activity that brings everyone from the school and community together for a day of fun.

The PTO is looking for community businesses to help sponsor the event. Some events planned for this year include obstacle courses, a laser tag maze, bumper cars, a bounce house, rock climbing wall, rascal rocket, bungee bounce, dunk tank, parachute ride, bulk candy store, white elephant sale, craft venders and a plant sale. The cost to sponsor one of these

events ranges from $150 to $600. In return for a sponsorship, the PTO will acknowledge each company the day of the carnival. Sponsors will also be allowed to provide fliers and business cards to participants. The PTO estimates more than 2,000 people attend each year.

The PTO can arrange to pick up items a business donates, or they can be mailed directly to: Loxahatchee Groves Elementary School, 16020 Okeechobee Blvd., Loxahatchee, FL 33470 c/o PTO.

For more information, call PTO President Shari Parisi at (561) 904-9238.

Bronco FCCLA Club Members Head To State Conference

Palm Beach Central High School’s FCCLA Club recently participated in the FCCLA District VIII Proficiency and STAR events competitions at Santaluces High School. The school would like to congratulate the following students: Melissa Sparks and Alex Cotrone, first place, Focus on Children (with a perfect score); Reed Jeschonek, first place, Job Interview (with a

perfect score); Kaitlin Crow, first place, National Programs in Action (with a score of 99 percent); Jamison Hudson, first place, Storytelling; Heather LaScala and Michelle Flores, first place, Interior Design; and Samantha Goldson and Wesnie Marcelin, first place, Life Event Planning. These nine students will compete at the FCCLA State Leadership Conference in Orlando March 25-28.

Top Designers — Carolina Ortiz-Rivera, Camila MendezRoca and Keyvan Taghizadehasl with teacher Laura Corzo.

SECME Champs — Brainbowl team members accepting the first-place trophy (L-R): Alex Deker, Dominique Tyson, Natascha Kempfe and Breanna Faller.

FCCLA Winners — (Front row, L-R) Samantha Goldson, Wesnie Marcelin, Kaitlin Crow, Reed Jeschonek, Michelle Flores and Heather LaScala; (back row) Alexandra Cotrone, Jamison Hudson, Melissa Sparks and Mrs. JeffAnne Pike.

Hawk JROTC Presents Colors At Game

On Feb.

28, the Seminole Ridge High School Army JROTC color guard presented the colors at Roger Dean Stadium to start the St. Louis Cardinals’ spring training home game against the Wash-

ington Nationals. SSG Carman, Florida Army National Guard Recruiting NCO, provided the opportunity. The game was one of several community events in which the cadets have taken

part since the establishment of the SRHS Army JROTC program at the beginning of the 2008-09 school year: the Hawk JROTC color guard presented the colors and the drill team performed at the Acreage Fall Festival in November, and the guard presented the colors in support of the Susan G. Komen Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser in January. In addition to presenting the colors for the fundraiser, several cadets volunteered their time to support the event throughout the day.

Other events the JROTC has supported include Royal Palm Beach Elementary School’s Veterans Day program, the SRHS Business Bash in October, the open house in September and the Hawk band’s Annual Family Fun Day in February.

The Seminole Ridge Army JROTC program currently has 115 Hawks enrolled, exceeding all expectations for a first-year program, and its students continue to improve each week through the dedication of instructor Major Samuel Smith. “Several of the cadets have volunteered and participated in every event since day one of the program,” Smith said. “The cadets in the program have represented Seminole Ridge with pride throughout the year.”

• SRHS Art News — Artwork by SRHS students is

currently on display in the show “Oh, the Humanity” at the Eg2 Gallery in downtown CityPlace. The show will continue through Sunday, April 12.

The following Hawk artists and their works are featured: Brianne Codner, The Choice is Yours ; Erika Kapalay, Brighter ; Jessica Persaud, Maelstrom; Lebron Rice, A Dubious Proposal ; Mike Schulz, Oh, the Humanity!; and Nicole Serrano, My Messterpiece Eg2 is located on South Rosemary Avenue and is open 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. “Oh, the Humanity” is free to the public.

Additionally, SRHS students have ten works of art on display in the lobby of the Palm Beach Post building (on Dixie Highway just south of Belvedere Road) through Wednesday, April 1.

The lobby is open to the public from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Student works featured are as follows: Schulz, Elements of Breathing ; Katie Aucoin, Prime Fishing; Brianne Codner, Remembering ; Alex Davis, Grail; Hannah Mannerstaadt, Blue Meanies ; Amy Minker, Reflection ; Kayla Molina, Atlas Shrugged — Again; Lebron Rice, Cacophony; Raj Rampersaad, Avocadoesque; and Natanya Robinson, Eggg

WHS Band Excels

The Wellington High School band program has earned several outstanding achievements during the month of February:

• On Feb. 6 and 7, 103 members of the WHS band performed in the Florida Bandmasters Association District Solo & Ensemble Assessment, held at Boca Raton High School. The band members earned 112 Superior medals in 33 events. Soloists earning Superior ratings were: freshmen Audrey Bridge, Jamie Fisher, Lindsay Flicker, Shea Koons and Ashley Yett; sophomores Kodi Mirabelli and Sidney Oser; junior Adam Miller; and seniors Jennifer Ackner, Kaitlin Dombrowski, Ted Karmelin, and Meagan Kovacs. Junior Carl Saville earned Superiors in two solos on different instruments. Ensembles earning Superior ratings were: Woodwind Quintet, Jazz Combo, Percussion Sextet, Saxophone Trio (two), Clarinet Trio, Percussion Ensemble (two), Flute Trio, Clarinet Quartet, Trumpet Trio (two), Woodwind Trio, Flute Quartet, Drum Duet, Tuba Quartet, French Horn Quartet, Brass Quartet, and the Majorette Ensemble. Nineteen of these events have qualified for the State Solo & Ensemble Assessment, to be held in Naples April 6-8.

• From Feb. 13-16, the Wolverine band’s Majorettes performed in the TwirlMania

International Baton Twirling Competition, held at Disney World in Orlando. The WHS Majorettes won the High School Classic Championship, and placed second or third in their remaining seven events.

• On Feb. 27, the WHS Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble performed in the Florida Bandmasters Association District Music Performance Assessment, held at Palm Beach Central High School. The Symphonic Band earned straight Excellent ratings. The Wind Ensemble, WHS’s most advanced band, earned straight Superior ratings. Senior Tommy Jacobs also earned a Superior rating in student conducting. Members of the band are now preparing for their invitational performance at the USS Missouri in Pearl Harbor. The band will perform at the dock of the ship, aboard which Japanese officials signed surrender papers ending World War II on Sept. 2, 1945. The music performed will include a tribute to all five branches of the United States Armed Services, as well as patriotic selections. The WHS band members wish to thank the Wellington and Palms West community members for their support and look forward to representing Florida during Hawaii’s celebration of the 50th anniversary of its statehood.

Color Guard — Members of the Seminole Ridge High School Army JROTC color guard present the colors at Roger Dean Stadium before a St. Louis Cardinals’ spring training game.

PACK 120 CAMPS OUT AT OKLAWAHA

The Boy Scouts of America Pack 120 of Royal Palm Beach recently enjoyed a campout at the Lake Oklawaha Campgrounds in Sebastian. The boys had a great time playing kickball, practicing archery, learning how to shoot BB guns and helping prepare meals. The scouts also held a fishing derby, during which some of the boys earned trophies for catching the biggest fish. (Right) Carl Mohr accepts the tackle box and trophy he won in the fishing derby.

(Below) Pack Leader Steve Whalen addresses the scouts after arriving at Camp Oklawaha.

Hoke Gets Honors College Scholarship

The Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College of Florida Atlantic University recently awarded an academic scholarship to Jordan Hoke of Loxahatchee. Hoke will graduate in May from Seminole Ridge High School. Located at FAU’s John D. MacArthur campus in Jupiter, the Wilkes Honors College is the first public honors college the country to be built from the ground up. The honors college offers

talented students the experiences of a small, residential liberal arts college combined with the vast resources of a comprehensive public university. For more information on FAU’s Wilkes Honors College, call (561) 799-8646 or visit www.honorscollege. edu.

For more information about Florida Atlantic University or its several campuses, visit www.fau.edu.

Parents Of Local Marine Visit American Legion Auxiliary Unit

Robert and Vickie McAdam recently attended the monthly meeting of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 367 held at Palms West Presbyterian Church in Loxahatchee Groves. The McAdams received a blue star banner to place in their window at home to signify that their son Nicholas is serving in the military.

Nicholas is presently stationed in Afghanistan with his Marine unit. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 367 learned about living experiences for modern-day soldiers, modern communication means used to keep in touch with home, and what the soldiers asked for that they missed while away from home.

The things that the soldiers asked for the most were cotton socks, beef jerky snacks, candy, deodorant, skin wipes and notes from home. You can make a donation for Nicholas by bringing your donation to the Forgotten Soldiers Outreach collection box located at the Air Force recruiting center in the KMart shopping plaza near the post office area. For more information

and Robert

discuss the Blue

program and (right) pose with members of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 367.

about the Blue Star Banner program offered by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 367, contact Marge Herzog at marge@herzog.ms.

JORDAN DAVIS BECOMES EAGLE SCOUT

Another scouting milestone was reached on Feb. 23 when Jordan Davis became Troop 111’s 11th Eagle Scout. Jordan’s Eagle Scout project was creating a “spiritual nature trail” behind Palms West Presbyterian Church in Loxahatchee Groves with the help and support of his troop and Crew 2111. Davis’ fellow scouts, friends and family will witness his Court of Honor on April 25. Pictured here is Davis (center) with Troop 111 leaders Jenni Morales, Jim Fandrey, Elam Patterson, Larry LaRosa, Amanda Pantone and David Pantone.

(Above) Vickie

McAdam

Star Banner

PACK 125 VISITS POLICE STATION

tour of the Lighthouse Point Police Station with Sergeant Christopher Oh and Officer Joe Esposito. Shown above are the Cub Scouts with Oh and Esposito.

Community Helps Barbara Forgash In Time Of Need

In early January, Wellington High School Vice Principal Barbara Forgash had a total hip replacement, which definitely made life as she knew it a series of new challenges, especially for her two three-year-old golden retrievers. Through the kindness of so many neighbors, WHS students and WHS dog-school handlers, five walks a day over the course of two months were organized by Tracy Bem, a special neighbor and dog sitter. The 6 a.m. shift and 9:30 p.m. shift were truly a challenge.

“The plan went smoothly,” Forgash said. “My girls made lots of new friends and neighbors, which was a learning experience for

them. So many people helped with every aspect of my life during the recovery, it was overwhelming — 19 out of 20 neighbors jumped through hoops backward to help us. You never realize how many super neighbors are out there and who your true friends really are until reality knocks on your door. Wellington is truly a great community!”

One thing’s for sure: Forgash has definitely learned a lesson about the importance of community. “In education, we all know it does take a village to grow a child,” she said. “Now I realize it takes many kind, considerate people to pull you through one of life’s challenges.”

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

Armory Art Center Luncheon A Success

The fifth annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon was held Tuesday, March 3 at Club Colette in Palm Beach with a sold-out crowd. Once again, guests looked stunning in hats of all shapes, sizes, designs and creativity in support of the Armory Art Center’s artist-in-residence program. The Alice in Wonderlandthemed luncheon was chaired this year by Jan Willinger and Nancy Lambrecht. Annie Falk and Marie Samuels were this year’s honorary chairs, and Paula Butler was the luncheon chair. Clothing designer Jackie Rogers and clothing diva Iris Apfel served as hat judges. Prizes included gift certificates from Anushka and Lily Holt, and a necklace from Sasha Lickle. Jackie Rogers presented a fabulous fashion show of her new spring line that had the rapt attention of the guests as stunning models paraded through

the event showing off Jackie’s amazing designs.

In addition, there was also a raffle with generous gifts donated by Tory Burch Revolve Clothing, Coach, a Linda Rossbach designer pin, Barbara Bennet Jewelry, Elizabeth Scokin Haute Hostess Aprons and a Nirit Dekel glass bead necklace. This year’s teapot auction exhibited a terrific selection of unique and creative teapots from around the country, as well as from many Armory students and teachers. It was well-received, with the auction raising more than $5,000 for the artist-in-residence program and approximately $75,000 in total. All in all, the Mad Hatter’s Luncheon was a stunning success and a bright light in the current dismal economy.

The money raised benefits artist-in-residence programs in ceramics, painting, draw-

ing, sculpture, printmaking and jewelry. As a result of funding raised by the event, the Armory Art Center is able to offer artists from all over the country and beyond an opportunity to be a part of the Armory’s programming. The artists-in-residence work at the Armory Art Center for

one year to evolve their portfolios. At the same time, the artists teach Armory students and learn from Armory faculty. Proceeds also benefit the faculty artist programming. For more information about the Armory Art Center, call (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org.

Parssi Photos On Display At CityPlace’s

During the summer of 2008, Wellington teenager Allison Parssi submitted a proposal to the Open Society Institute (OSI) in hopes of securing a coveted spot in that organization’s 16th annual photography exhibit “Moving Walls” in New York.

As it happened, Parssi had just finished reading The Story of My Life, a book written by Helen Keller and published in 1902. A passage from the book, which Parssi said “really stuck with me,” helped her decide upon the theme “Palm Beach: One County, Two Worlds.” The exhibit offers viewers a look at life in Palm Beach, and how it compares to life in Belle Glade.

Parssi set out to capture images that illustrated the great disparity between eastern and western Palm Beach County. She enlisted the help of her mother, who drove her between Palm Beach and Belle Glade to take hundreds of photographs, 40 of which she submitted to OSI. Unfortunately, Parssi re-

ceived the dreaded rejection letter several weeks later. Soon after, an opportunity arose to exhibit the photographs as part of a larger exhibit titled “Oh, the Humanity” at Eg2 Gallery in CityPlace. Located on the west side of South Rosemary Avenue between Hibiscus and Fern, the gallery provides exhibit space for student artists in Palm Beach County. The exhibit opened on Saturday, March 7 and runs through April 12.

The opening marked the first time a one-student exhibit was included as part of a larger exhibition at Eg2, and Parssi was given a large wall on which to display her work.

A total of 20 Parssi photographs are on display at the gallery, along with dozens of other works by area students.

“I was surprised at how the exhibit touched so many people,” said Parssi, who fielded questions and listened to comments from dozens of people during the opening reception. “People seemed to be drawn in by the photographs, and that’s what I was

Eg2

hoping would happen.”

“Palm Beach: One County, Two Worlds” explores the great disparity that exists between the eastern and westernmost regions of Palm Beach County. To the east is the Town of Palm Beach; on the western edge of the county is the City of Belle Glade. Parssi’s photographs offer side-by-side comparisons of things such as homes, auto-

mobiles, watercraft, fire stations and 18 other subjects that bring into focus the extremes that can be found in this one county we all call home.

“This project does not pass judgment in any way,” Parssi said. “Its intent, using photography as a medium, is to highlight the stark differences that exist between two parts of one Florida county.”

A discussion of common conditions of the foot and ankle, from tendon injuries to bunions, from ankle pain to heel problems.

Learn about the wide range of surgical and nonsurgical treatment options that help ensure a faster recovery and optimal outcomes.

A lecture by Jorge Acevedo, MD Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Fellowship-trained Foot and Ankle Specialist

Wednesday, March 25, 6:30 PM Wellington Regional Conference Center Refreshments will be served

CALL 561-798-9880 TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE.

Photo Realism — Wellington High School Principal Mario Crocetti with freshman photographer Allison Parssi.

Members Wellington Cub Scout Pack 125’s Den 7 were all smiles as they were treated to a

Armory artists Karen Hardin and Joan Derrick.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, March 14

• The Winter Equestrian Festival continues through March 29 with a series of weekly show jumping and dressage competitions at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, located at 14440 Pierson Road in Wellington. Shows run Wednesday through Sunday, culminating with a grand prix. For tickets, call (561) 793-5867 or visit www.equestriansport.com.

Legally Blonde: The Musical March 17-22. Tickets cost $25 to $88. For more info., call (561) 832-7469 or visit www.kravis.org. Wednesday, March 18

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will hold “Yoga for Kids” for ages five through nine on Wednesday, March 18 at 4 p.m. Join Yoga teacher Cora Rosen, founder of Moksha Yoga Studio, as she leads kids through playful yoga movements. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

• The Palm Beach Home Show will continue Saturday and Sunday, March 14 and 15 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center (650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). The show features more than 100,000 square feet of home design and remodeling products and services. Tickets cost $9 for adults and $4 for children ages four to 12. Call (800) 321-6164 for more info.

• The Palms West Chamber of Commerce will host the WestFest Land & Sea Festival on Saturday and Sunday, March 14 and 15 at Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.). Now in its 16th year, WestFest will feature national musical acts, local artists, food, amusements for children, crafters and much more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. General admission is $10, a two-day pass is $15 and a daily family four-pack is $30. Call (561) 790-6200 or visit www.palmswest.com for more info.

• The Cancer Caregivers Support Group meets the second Saturday of each month at 10 a.m., center court in the original Wellington Mall. For more information, call (561) 798-4110 or e-mail palmbeachcancer foundationinc@yahoo.com.

• The Palm Beach County Extension Service will offer a free workshop on making rain barrels at Grassy Waters Park (8264 Northlake Blvd., West Palm Beach) on Saturday, March 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. Participants will watch a presentation on how to construct different styles of rain barrels and receive a preconstructed rain barrel as part of the $50 registration fee. To pre-register, call (561) 804-4985.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Saturday Morning Story Times” on Saturday, March 14 at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. for ages two and up. Cuddle up in story time to hear stories about quilts. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Learn to Let Go of Your Clutter” on Saturday, March 14 at 2 p.m. for adults. Kathy Andio will offer practical decluttering tips. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Saturday Science Club: Renew, Reuse, Recycle!” on Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 p.m. for ages five to eight. Transform discarded items into toys. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. Sunday, March 15

• The Fourth Annual Shady Ladies Luncheon will be held Sunday, March 15 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. The luncheon will feature live and silent auctions offering celebrity sunglasses. Proceeds will benefit the Lupus Research Institute. For info., visit www. lupusresearchinstitute.org. Tuesday, March 17

• The Na’amat-Sharon Club of Royal Palm Beach will meet on Tuesday, March 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). The guest speaker will be Ron Kauffman, host of “Senior Lifestyles,” who will discuss his new book Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease. A light lunch will be served, followed by a short business meeting. For more info., call Annette Haber at (561) 793-1484.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “It’s a Little Bit of Blarney” on Tuesday, March 17 at 3:30 p.m. for ages five and up. Wear green and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with stories and crafts. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach) will present the South Florida premiere of

• The Palms West Republican Club will meet on Wednesday, March 18 at the Players Club restaurant (13410 South Shore Blvd., Wellington). Palm Beach County Republican Club Executive Committee Chairman Sid Dinerstein will discuss the future of the party nationally, in Florida and in Palm Beach County. A reception will be held at 6 p.m. with cash bar and snacks provided by the club. The main meeting will begin at 7 p.m. There is no charge to attend the meeting.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Socrates Café” on Wednesday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. for adults. The Society for Philosophical Inquiry initiated the concept for this discussion led by Marji Chapman. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. Thursday, March 19 • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Young Artists’ Series: Color Wheel” on Thursday, March 19 at 3:30 p.m. for ages five and up. Test your ability to mix paint colors using only the primary colors and create your own color wheel. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. Friday, March 20 • Rita’s Water Ice in Royal Palm Beach will host its first day of spring Italian ice giveaway “Spring Freever” on Friday, March 20 from noon to 10 p.m. Rita’s will offer free, ten-ounce cups of Italian ice to celebrate the start of spring. Visit www. ritasice.com for more information.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present its Discover the World Book Discussion Series on Friday, March 20 at 2 p.m. for adults. Barbara Harnick will lead a discussion of Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel García Márquez. Call (561) 7906070 for more info.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will hold a wine-andcheese reception on Friday, March 20 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for Loxahatchee artist Jim Houbrick, whose work is on display in the Whole Foods café. Houbrick is a 30-year resident of Palm Beach County who teaches art at Binks Forest Elementary School. For more info., call (561) 904-4000.

• The West Palm Beach Home & Garden Show will be held Friday, March 20 through Sunday, March 22 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The show will feature more than 500 exhibitors under one roof. Enjoy a great day out and gather ideas, investigate new products, learn from the professionals and meet home and garden celebrities. For more info., call (561) 791-2573 or visit www.southfloridahome show.com.

• The Palm Beach Fine Craft Show will take place Friday, March 20 through Sunday, March 22 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center (650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). The cost is $15 general admission, $13 for seniors, free for children under 12 and $10 each for groups of 10 or more. For more info., call (561) 267-2632 or visit www.craftsamerica shows.com. Saturday, March 21

• The Rotary Club of Wellington will present its Art of Giving Gala on Saturday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Armory Art Center (1700 Parker Avenue, West Palm Beach). There will be many artsy surprises throughout the evening. Tickets cost $175

NEW RENOVATIONS

Palms West Hospital opened its newly renovated and expanded physician’s dining room/lounge last week. The medical staff joined CEO Bland Eng for the ribbon cutting and then enjoyed breakfast including made-to-order omelets. The new dining room includes a larger serving and dining area, better lighting, a large-screen TV and computer work stations. Pictured above are (L-R) Dr. Roger Duncan, Dr. Diego Rubinowicz, Dr. Michael Chaparro, Dr. Marcos Kornstein, Dr. Claudio Ruiz, Eng and Dr. Xiaorong Dai; (back) COO Michael Patterson and CFO Joe Paul.

Realtors Partner With Junior Achievement

The Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB) presented a $5,000 contribution to Junior Achievement of Palm Beach County. The donation will help sponsor Junior Achievement’s middle school economics and personal finance program. The program reaches more than 2,000 eighth-grade students in 19 middle schools in Palm Beach County focusing on personal skills and interest, career options, and personal and family financial management, including home ownership.

“Realtors in Palm Beach County are dedicated to assisting in the efforts to educate, inform and inspire young people to understand and value free enterprise, business and economics to improve the quality of their

lives,” RAPB President Eric Sain said.

RAPB represents over 7,500 real estate professionals and is dedicated to preserving the vitality of Palm Beach County’s real estate market. RAPB supports the community through a variety of different organizations, including Habitat for Humanity and the Palm Beach County Mentor Center.

In addition to the financial contribution, Realtors volunteer their time to teach Junior Achievement’s economics and personal finance program in local middle schools. For more information on participating in any of Junior Achievement’s valuable programs, visit www.junior achievement.com or call Susanna Palomares at (561) 242-9468, ext. 206.

Business Networking Event At Players Club

The Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County will host its monthly business and educational networking event Thursday, March 19 at 6 p.m. at the Players Club bar and restaurant in Wellington (13410 South Shore Blvd.).

Special guest speakers will be James Cruz and Peter Ranta of Morgan Keegan & Company. A DJ will be on hand to provide music while chamber members and guests

dance the night away. Also, Thursday night is Ladies Night at the Players Club. The event is supported by the following businesses: Applied Advertising Solutions, Azteca America, Channel 48 WWHB, Citibank, Custom Cleaning & Management Services, Delicioso Cake & Pastries, Don Ramon restaurant, El Hispano newspaper, En USA newspaper, Havana restaurant, Jobing. com, PR Fiestas Patronales & Business Expo, NewsChan-

nel 5, Portada magazine, the PROCER Group, LaBovick & LaBovick Law Firm, Law Offices of Glinn Somera & Silva, Lesser Lesser Landy & Smith PLLC, Life Alliance Organ Recovery Agency, Luis A. Gonzalez Realty, Lytal Reiter Clark Fountain & Williams Trial Attorneys, MIA 92.1 FM, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Broward County, Healthy Mothers/ Healthy Babies Coalition of

Palm Beach County, Ray Vega Realty and 4Life.

Admission costs $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers, and includes one complimentary drink and hors d’ oeuvres. For more about the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, visit www.prh chamber.com or call (561) 889-6527. For more information about the Players Club, call (561) 795-0080 or visit www. playersclubrestaurant.com.

Chick-Fil-A, Fit2Run, LA Fitness Hold Operation Weight Loss

The Chick-fil-A restaurant in the Mall at Wellington Green created Operation Weight Loss, a month-long program that began on Jan. 12 to challenge ten local Chick-fil-A customers to lose weight. The contestants were encouraged to lose the weight in a healthy manner during the course of 30 days. The ten contestants collectively lost more than 67 pounds while competing in the contest, which was co-sponsored by

Fit2Run in the Mall at Wellington Green and LA Fitness in the Pointe at Wellington Green. Each contestant received free Chick-fil-A Chargrilled Chicken Garden Salads and Chick-fil-A Chargrilled and fruit salads from the restaurant during the challenge. LA Fitness provided a free 30day gym membership, and Fit2Run contributed discounts and free smoothies for the contestants. “I needed the motivation to

get myself back on track,” said challenge participant Jeanette Grant. “I thought the Operation Weight Loss competition would be an awesome opportunity, and I learned that Chick-fil-A is a fabulous place to eat healthy foods.”

The competition’s winner, Kimberly Palladino, lost 10.6 pounds. Palladino received a free three-month membership from LA Fitness, a $50 gift card from Fit2Run and $150 in gift

cards from Chick-fil-A to stay focused on her new healthy diet.

“I chose to be in this challenge because I knew I needed to lose weight, and I knew this would be the perfect opportunity,” Palladino said. “I learned that losing weight is important — it feels really good and makes you feel great about yourself.”

Franchise operator Rob Rabenecker said health and fitness is important to Chick-

fil-A. “Last year, the chain eliminated all artificial trans fat from the entire menu and introduced the Chargrilled and fruit salad, which has been a huge hit with customers and a major key to this weight loss challenge,” he said. “We hope that Operation Weight Loss spreads awareness about personal fitness and nutrition, even if you are short on time or working within a budget.” Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A Inc. is the nation’s second-

largest quick-service chicken restaurant chain (based on sales), with 1,428 restaurants in 38 states and Washington, D.C. as of year-end 2008. Chick-fil-A produced record sales in 2008 of $2.96 billion — a 12.17 percent overall increase and an 4.59 percent same-store sales gain that helped extend the chain’s streak of consecutive sales gains to 41 years. More information about Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com.

Contribution — Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches President Eric Sain presents Junior Achievement CEO Jim Gavrilos with a check while Realtors Association CEO Dr. Brian Paul looks on.

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Challenge Of The Americas Benefits Breast Cancer Research

The eighth annual Challenge of the Americas was held Saturday, March 7 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. Held as a benefit for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the event raised over $200,000.

Following Team International’s dressage quadrille win, the annual Challenge Gala got underway with an evening of dinner and dancing, sponsored by Hampton Green Farm. This year’s gala was held in the elegant Grand Marque tent at the International Polo Club and featured a sit-down dinner catered by Aaron’s Catering. Following the delicious meal, guests socialized and danced to the music of D.J. Jody McDonald of Miami.

Top riders and trainers of the dressage world attended the Challenge Gala, along with generous sponsors and supporters. Party goers not only enjoyed dinner and dancing, but also had the opportunity to bid on silent auction items including riding lessons offered by top dressage trainers such as Michael Barisone, Jane Hannigan and George Williams.

Challenge of the Americas Chair Mary Ross spoke during the dinner, expressing her gratitude for the great turn-

out. “I want everyone to know how much we appreciate you supporting this event,” she said. “This is such an important cause, and so many people have generously given their time to contribute to this special night. Thank you so, so much.”

Ross has had a personal experience with breast cancer, losing her mother to the disease. “This competition is dedicated to all those who face their own challenge in the fight against breast cancer,” Ross said. “We all need to work together and support breast cancer research. If we do, we will win the battle.”

Play for P.I.N.K. President Laura Lassman also spoke at the gala. Play for P.I.N.K. (prevention, immediate diagnosis, new technology, knowledge) is a grassroots organization dedicated to raising funds to fight breast cancer, by creating and promoting awareness of breast cancer through sporting and lifestyle events. They contribute 100 percent of all funds raised to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“We are so proud of Mary for supporting such a great cause,” Lassman said. “This year was absolutely incredible, and every year gets better. The money given goes to

160 of the best researchers throughout the United States to help find a cure for this disease that affects so many. You are giving money to one of the best foundations that ever existed.”

This year’s Challenge of the Americas and Challenge Gala could not have happened without the help and support of so many people.

Top dressage riders Susan Jaccoma, Pamela Goodrich, Jon Ingram, Jane Hannigan, Ashley Holzer and Courtney King-Dye all helped open the competition, performing with their talented horses.

The International Polo Club Palm Beach was the event’s presenting sponsor, with Purina Mills and Merrill Lynch sponsoring the individual teams.

The winning team, Team International, was made up of riders Marco Bernal, Patrick Burssens, Heather Bender, Shannon Dueck, Katherine Bateson-Chandler and Juan Matute. Team USA included Betsy Steiner, Pamela Goodrich, John Zopatti, James Koford, Chris Hickey and George Williams.

For more information about the Challenge of the Americas, visit its official web site at www.challenge oftheamericas.com.

PBCC Golf Classic At Binks Forest Golf Club

The Palm Beach Community College Foundation Annual Golf Classic will be held on Friday, April 17 at Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington, named by Golf Inc. magazine as one of the top five renovated golf courses in America.

The PBCC Golf Classic, a scramble format, includes a hole-in-one competition offering a 2009 Nissan Altima from Royal Palm Nissan, as well as Beat the Junior Golfer, with a foursomes outdriving local youth golfer Andre Wade on a parthree hole. Foursome sponsorships start at $2,000 and include golf, lunch, range balls, greens and cart fees, a special gift and the awards

reception held after the tournament; individual players pay $375.

“We are so proud to be at Binks Forest Golf Club, one of the finest golf courses in the region,” PBCC President Dennis Gallon said. “PBCC is extremely grateful to the sponsors and players who make this year’s Golf Classic possible. If not for the community’s generous support, we would not be able to meet our mission of providing open access to higher education at affordable costs.”

The tournament’s shotgun start begins at 1 p.m., and the awards reception begins at 6 p.m. or immediately after play. A raffle,

with prizes of $1,000 cash, a 52-inch flat-screen television and a laptop computer, will be held as part of the fundraising efforts. Tickets for the raffle are available by calling the PBCC Foundation office at (561) 8683450. The raffle is open to the community and participants need not be present to win.

Major sponsors of the PBCC Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic include 97.9 WRMF, Astorino Architects, Fastrack MCI, Hedrick Brothers Construction, Honda Classic Golf Exchange, Lotspeich, the Palm Beach Post , Pirtle Construction, Proforma Sunshine State, the Quan-

tum Group and Royal Palm Nissan.

“Despite these challenging economic times, the community has continued to demonstrate their support of PBCC,” said PBCC Foundation Executive Director Suellen Mann. “As the largest provider of higher education in Palm Beach County, we serve over 46,000 students annually. This event supports scholarships to students who would not have the opportunity to attend college.”

For more information on the PBCC Foundation Golf Classic, or to sign up, call (561) 868-3569. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Wellington Wrestlers Compete Across State

Cody Walker

The Wellington Wrestling Club sent team members to two different tournaments on Saturday, March 7.

Eighth grader Cody Walker finished with a 4-1 record and placed second at the Regional National Wrestling Tournament in Jacksonville.

Ten of the Wellington wrestlers traveled to Barron Collier High School in Naples, where they finished second out of 12 teams.

Capturing titles for Wellington were fifth grader Luke Ready (100 pounds) and sophomore Mikolaj Wilga (125).

Wrestlers also bringing home medals were secondplace finishers freshman Tim Skaryd (105), freshman Kevin Pascal (125) and sophomore Brandon Lustgarten (189), and third-place finishers freshmen Chris Burk (145) and Clint Haley (152).

The Wellington Wrestling Club meets for practice at Village Park on Pierson Road from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday and Wednesday (grades kindergarten through five), and Tuesday and Thursday (grades six through 12).

Call Coach Gray at (561) 827-8595 for more information about the team.

Wellington Swimmer Of The Week: Brandon Coleman

Palm Beach Central High School sophomore Brandon Coleman has been swimming for four years. He discovered his ability to swim at a summer camp. With his parents’ encouragement, Coleman joined the swim team at age 11. His determination to make it to the Junior Olympics is the driving force for Coleman’s daily two-and-a-half hour practices.

“The things that get me motivated to swim are wanting to get best times each time I race and wanting to qualify for the Junior Olympics,” Coleman said.

Lettering in two high schools, swimming a 100 fre-

estyle in under a minute and gaining a legal whip kick for breaststroke, Coleman has pushed himself to become a better swimmer. Coleman has qualified for the high school regional championship but hopes to qualify for the state competition when next season. “I know it will take a lot of work,” he said. Coleman’s impressive list of swimming accomplishments and goals hasn’t gotten in the way of his studies. He is in the top ten percent of his class and intends on going to college to attain a degree in marine biology. He also plans to swim for a college team.

Bunko Night At SRHS

The Seminole Ridge High School Hawks baseball team will present its Third Annual Bunko Night fundraiser Sunday, March 22 at 2:30 p.m. at Beef O’Brady’s restaurant in Royal Palm Beach. There

be

and

at (561) 906-6784 for more information.

WCS Baseball Team Getting Its Footing

The Wellington Christian School baseball team has been searching for consistency since the 2009 campaign kicked off. With a 5-2 record thus far in a rebuilding season, Coach Mike Drahos said the team is working hard at getting its chemistry flowing.

“In a transition season like ours, it’s a constant work in progress,” Drahos said. “We have a combination of very young players given very big opportunities, a few veteran players and some older players with very little experience. This young group of men are giving me everything they have.”

Last Monday started a busy week with a impressive 20-0 win at Zion Lutheran, in which the Eagles pounded out 21 hits. Bryan Clark led the offense with a five-forfive performance with five RBIs. Tyler Clark also contributed with a three-for-three day hitting a home run, triple and a double. Nick Potenza was four-for-five with three RBIs. Dan Roselli carried the load on the hill picking up the

win with eight strikeouts while allowing two scratch singles.

Last Thursday found the Eagles playing host to Trinity Christian as they hit a bump in the road. The Eagles’ bats could not answer Trinity’s 13-hit attack as Wellington fell 13-1. Pitcher Jacob Johnson stole the show. His 90-plus fastball was to much for the young Eagles to handle.

Last Saturday, the bats showed up again for the Eagles as they defeated Lake Worth Christian 9-2. Dan Roselli was dominating once again on the mound, picking up the win while striking out ten and allowing just two hits. Bryan Clark found some of that consistency, going threefor-three with four RBIs, while Roselli was also twofor-three with three RBIs. The Eagles traveled to Stuart on Tuesday to play Community Christian before finishing up the week Thursday against Yeshiva. Scores were not available by press time.

Wellington

Roller Hockey Player Of The Week: Aaron Thompson

The Wellington Roller Hockey League’s Player of the Week is seven-year-old Aaron Thompson, who plays forward for the Mighty Tykes Division’s Tampa Bay Lightning. His jersey number is 2, and he shoots right.

Thompson’s favorite professional hockey team is the Florida Panthers. His favorite video game is Spiderman III (Wii) and his favorite food is ice cream.

Thompson started playing roller hockey with the Wellington Roller Hockey Association at the age of six. He is one of the league’s most improved players. Thompson is tenacious on the puck and is one of the stron-

Aaron Thompson

Team International, sponsored by the Seley Parker Group of Merrill Lynch, on the field. PHOTO COURTESY SUSANJSTICKLE.COM

Tami Hoag, B.J. Meeks and Pablo Perez.Event Chair Mary Ross

Juan Matute with Juan Jr. John and Toy Wash of the International Polo Club.

The crowd watches from the stands at IPC.

Equine Appraisals: Do You Know What Your Horse Is Worth?

Mary Nord lives in Loxahatchee, far from her childhood home in the former Rhodesia where she grew up on a farm and learned to ride. After moving first to England, where she rode and worked with Thoroughbreds, Nord came to the U.S. where she worked at racetracks and rode in endurance competitions.

After learning how to research and determine a horse’s fair market value, she received her certification as an equine appraiser through the American Society of Equine Appraisers in January 2008 and founded Flying Critters, her own equine appraisal service.

An official estimate of a horse’s value is itself a valuable commodity, Nord explained. “This can come up if someone is donating a horse to a charity and needs to know the amount he can take for a tax write-off, for example,” she said. “Or if a horse is going to be insured or sold, if there’s a death or a divorce and a horse has to change hands — anytime you need to be able to legally prove what a given horse is worth at a given time, you need a certified equine appraiser.”

Determining fair market value starts with the purchase price, and increases if the horse does well in showing, competing or racing, or is bred to produce successful foals. Expensive training fees and stud fees can also be considered when determining a horse’s value. Nord said she did an appraisal of a Warmblood that had been imported from Ireland. When the group of horses arrived, somehow this horse’s papers had been lost. Nord had to research the horse’s breeding and determined that it was quite well bred from outstanding

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

German stock. She checked what related horses had sold for and was able to determine a fair price for the horse.

“I like doing the research and finding out about different breeds,” Nord said. “Sometimes the records are in different languages, like German, and then I have to try to find English translations.”

Nord has helped out when someone wanted to donate a horse to a program for handicapped children. In addition to researching the horse’s breed and age, she had to determine a fair value for a horse that would be totally safe for children and in traffic. “I have to take everything into consideration,” she said.

Commonly, equine appraisers are used when very expensive horses such as racehorses, dressage horses and jumpers change hands. “I work with a lot of insurance firms,” Nord said.

Nord gets many of her clients through referrals and word of mouth. She usually does about 20 appraisals a month. Those who have a lot of money and very expensive horses are still doing OK in the current economy, she said, but the business in mid-level horses

worth between $5,000 and $50,000 is not doing well.

“A lot of people are suddenly finding that it’s way too expensive to keep their horses in today’s tough times,” Nord said. “They can’t afford to keep them, and others can’t afford to buy them. There are a lot of great horses on the market right now that normally would never be offered for sale, and no one can afford them. It’s terribly sad for everyone, horses and people both.”

Nord said equine appraisers tend to charge standard fees reflecting the amount of time and research required. A typical fee for a horse being donated to a riding program is $250 to $350. If more work is required, the fee may increase to $500. Some very involved cases may entail hourly charges. If the appraiser has to testify in court, for instance in a divorce or farm liquidation case, additional fees for the court appearance can be charged. Sometimes horses are intentionally misrepresented by their owners. Before the availability of DNA testing, Nord said, some people would claim a colt was related to a famous stallion through mistaken breeding or other shenanigans. That’s a whole lot harder to do today, and Nord said there’s not too much of it.

“But people will still try to get away with things from time to time,” she said. “That’s human nature.”

Nord said she enjoys doing research and conferring with different people. “It’s a really interesting line of work,” she said. “I’m especially well suited to it. I have a strong background in horses and a good eye for con-

formation. I can look at a horse and tell if it’s put together well. I have a lot of sound working knowledge in terms of seeing if a horse is built correctly to be able to excel in a particular sport, such as jumping or dressage. I really like doing this job.”

For more information about Mary Nord and her appraisal service, visit www.flyingcritters. net.

LOCAL GIRL SCOUTS LEARN ABOUT ONLINE SAFETY AND AWARENESS

Cindy Marlow, a training specialist with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, spoke to western communities Girl Scouts last Friday at Palms West Presbyterian Church in Loxahatchee Groves. Marlow discussed the dangers involved with going online and how to be careful on the Internet. Marlow’s presentation included videos of children who had been taken by predators and survived. She advised the girls to be as circumspect as possible when giving out information, stressing the importance of not posting suggestive photos of themselves on the Internet. Marlow also told the girls not to meet with anyone they had met online, and if they were worried about someone who had contacted them online to speak to a trusted adult, parent or friend. For more information about the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, visit www.missingkids.com or call (800) THE-LOST.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Letters continued from page 4 therefore becomes part of the problem, not the solution.

There has been fair pro/con public discourse. Mr. Sohn’s letter does not fall into this category.

George Unger Wellington

The Council Procrastinates

Yet another Wellington Village Council meeting has been held with total silence regarding the noise standards ordinance. Not only was no action taken, but also no mention of it. And so the village will continue to operate with a moratorium on enforcement, at least so far as golf courses are concerned. (It is not clear, since there was no actual vote, whether the ordinance is being enforced on anyone else whose noise generation is excessive.) Since there will not be another council meeting until April 14, this situation will continue for at least another month. If I had to name one thing that the council does that irritates me, I would call it strategic procrastination. Almost invariably, when an issue arises that a vocal portion of the public disagrees with, the council puts the issue on the back burner until the attention of the public wanes. Then the issue surfaces, with little fanfare, and the council does what it wants before the vocal public notices it. The proposed new $15 million municipal complex is a good example. It first surfaced last September. There was little or no concrete information about actual costs or actual savings, no costbenefit analysis, no documentation of actual need. Many of us objected to the fact that the council voted to proceed in the face of horrible economic conditions (which have gotten worse). Since then, almost nothing has been said about the plans. It will finally show up again on the April 14 agenda, if I heard correctly. I hope the public will make themselves aware of what is about to happen. The council will probably treat it as a “done deal.”

Please ask your favorite council member to make information available well before April 14. Does anyone remember the supposed rebate of the

hurricane surcharge? Have you heard any more about it? Strategic procrastination. And then there is the issue of giving 60 or so acres of village property to Palm Beach Community College. That issue is at least a year old. Have you noticed how little the village has said about it? Again, it appears that the village is making use of strategic procrastination. Please insist that information be made available as to what, if anything, is being done. Phil Sexton Wellington

Lesser-Known Movies Worth The Honors

Editor’s note: The following letter is addressed to Town-Crier columnist Leonard Wechsler. Dear Mr. Wechsler: Your opinion column regarding the Oscars in the Feb. 28 issue seems ill-considered. That said, I’d like to opine in response. You are correct about the dwindling Academy Awards audience. You admit to being disinterested in most of the awards (as are many people) and go on to state that, “a bigger problem, however, is that the Academy continues its practice of nominating pictures and performers that almost no one has seen.” Why do you think do they do that? Ponder no further, Mr. Wechsler. As a Wellington resident and former longtime employee of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, I will tell you. Many films, particularly those not released by the major studios, lack the financial support to hire major stars and to fund huge promotional budgets and nationwide releases, and thus go unnoticed by the general public. Yet these films may often display a higher artistic quality than the well-attended blockbusters.

Wouldn’t you like to be informed that there are fine films, independent, small or foreign films, available to be enjoyed? The three nonblockbuster Best Picture nominees you mentioned, Frost/Nixon, Milk and The Reader, are excellent films, each for its own reason. Many smaller films come out in limited release in major cities, relying on word of mouth and good reviews to expand to national and world-

wide release. They inch their way into the public’s awareness and gradually climb to the top. The Academy wants you to know that there is a world of film out there, and much of it is better than the highly publicized films you generally hear and read about. The nominations are not based on elite themes, but on qualities of filmmaking.

You noted that audiences for the Academy Awards were increased the year that Titanic won Best Picture. While that is correct, do you really know why Titanic won best picture? It was a technically well-made, knock-youreyes-out film. It was costly, and that expense showed on the screen. It was undeniably a triumph of high-tech film work. The storyline, however, was merely a sappy romance on which to hang all the special effects.

And why it really won Best Picture? Two reasons. Aside from it being undeniably impressive, there’s another point to ponder. Many of the voting Academy members are working film industry people, and they tend to vote for the films produced by the companies that employ them. Titanic was the first and biggest film undertaking that was co-produced by two of the major studios, many special effects studios, and countless employees. Nevertheless, while it comprised a voting bloc larger than any other, and thus altered the voting process, no one denies the award-winning qualities of Titanic

You may find that a visit to the AMPAS web site may be very enjoyable and informative, and may make clear that your ideas of clearing a financial bar to be nominated potentially excludes many excellent films. Further, comparing paying film audiences to the audience of free television service is simply apples and oranges. Finally, the idea of nominating only films that are already popular, the mission of the People’s Choice Awards, tends to be based on the theory that promotional hype is more important than quality. In your case, I suppose you probably wouldn’t want to write columns based only on opinions with which everyone already agrees, for such columns would be pointless.

I’m pleased to have been able to inform you about just a little of the mission and the

processes of the academy, and hope that you will reconsider the value of acclaimed lesser-known films. After all, they may be lesser-known only because you haven’t considered them. Like the little hole-in-the-wall restaurant with the excellent food; if no one ever tells you about it, you’ll never take a chance and enjoy the fine fare.

Alan Weitzman Wellington

Keep Government Out Of Our Lives

This may seem insignificant to some of you, but I see it as a clear symptom that government does not believe that individuals are capable of making informed decisions about their lives and safety. Am I the only one who is annoyed by stop signs on every intersection, or having to stop at a red light in the middle of the night when the view distance is more than adequate to see the bright lights of the oncoming traffic? Am I the only one who was perturbed when Southern Blvd. was broadened to eight lanes having limited access, flyovers and the speed limit was 45 mph? Because if I am the only one who objects to moronic laws, then perhaps it is too late to hope that we will elect a government official with a brain. Doesn’t everyone question the limits of government control over their lives, or am I just a rebel who believes that most all people have a builtin safety mechanism that stops them from driving into the path of an oncoming semi? Before installing a stop sign at the intersection of Cindy Circle Lane and Cindy Drive [in Wellington], which is simply a closed loop, did the government official responsible for placing that sign there consider what their own experts say? “Most drivers are reasonable and prudent. But when confronted with unreasonable restrictions, they frequently violate them and develop a general contempt for all traffic controls — often with tragic results.”

Next time you cast your vote for someone who intends to run your life, stop, look and listen as you would in order to save your life at the intersection of two roads. If your government official is

as dumb as a box of rocks and is passing moronic laws, give him walking papers in the next election. See if he can find a job in this economy that he has created.

Frank Morelli Wellington

Listen To The People

On March 10, the voice of the people was heard loud and clear. The voters of Loxahatchee Groves elected Ron Jarriel and Ryan Liang to three-year terms.

While I was standing outside of our local polling place, I heard a variety of reasons why people came out to vote. Here a just a few: some wanted OGEM while others did not; some wanted to keep the water control district as is while others thought that a change was needed; some wanted more code enforcement while others wanted less; and some thought our town government was growing up too fast while others thought it wasn’t growing fast enough.

The complaint that I heard more than any other was that the people’s voice had fallen by the wayside and that a majority felt that they were silenced. They felt that some of the council members and candidates were not listening to the majority of the people but to the minority and special-interest groups. The backbone of Ron Jarriel’s and Ryan Liang’s campaigns were, to put it simply, “do what the people want.” It’s up to our elected town and water control district officials to represent the best interest of the people or the people will speak and speak loudly, as in our recent election. I am confident that our two new council members, along with the rest of the town council and the water control district supervisors, will work together to solve our current and future problems and put an end to the fighting that has divided our community. Good luck to all Grovers.

Frank Schiola

Loxahatchee Groves

The Acreage Horseman’s Association was about the local horseman and enjoyment in safe riding. The Acreage horse community jewel is Hamlin Park. Hamlin is an

enclosed, safe haven for a relaxed ride from speeding cars. The AHA had occasional horse shows for the benefit of local Acreage riders, most never competing before. They’d have fundraisers like Fall Fest for the whole community to participate in, not just horsemen. This was the case before the “new and improved” AHA. The new AHA mission statement states, “to raise awareness of safety issues… helmet safety... development of equestrian and rodeo grounds. Rodeos? In The Acreage? At Hamlin? There’s now a barrel racing saddle series with a jackpot (money up to $500) and four speed events. The barrel ring at Hamlin isn’t sufficient for a show of this size, so the allpurpose ring — the one with a sign stating “no speed events” — is now the new barrel ring. This ring is a flex fence, never used in barrel racing. Safety? Riders are not required to wear helmets. Safety? Concessions aren’t required licenses and/or permits. AHA promotes their shows on state barrel horse sites and will co-host an NBHA show in Indiantown. Is this for Acreage riders? I lose my only day to ride because the show is 7 a.m. to dusk. Children at the playground with horses tied to trees next to their heads. Safety? How is this the Acreage Horseman’s Association? It’s like putting a Major League Baseball team on tee-ball fields. Now that this show has swallowed up the all-purpose ring, where do the rest of us ride? Read your name... Acreage Horseman’s Association... and benefit The Acreage.

Kim Brown The Acreage

Blotter continued from page 6 to

Mary Nord with Tonkah's Toy Soldier

Girl Scouts listen to Cindy Marlow of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.Cindy Marlow tells the girls about online safety.

My Remodeling Ambitions Complicate My Life As A Writer

I am sitting here awash in dust because my husband Mark decided to move our bathroom door three feet to the right. I’m not complaining, because I too would rather see the sink than the throne when the door is ajar, but really, what a project!

In fact, it seems as if there’s a major new project lurking around every corner, and each of those projects works its way to Immediacy Level at the exact same moment I finish removing every last speck of dust generated by the previous project.

It reminds me of when I was a kid and my mother would complain, “every time I get the kitchen cleaned up, you decide to bake a cake!” Well, of course. Who wants to work in a messy kitchen?

I guess it’s the same thing with us. Got rid of the dust from adding a laundry room and decided to add some pour-in insulation.

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

Cleaned up all the insulation dust and decided to put cornices above the windows. Swept up the dust created when we drilled those things into the wall, and that’s when Mark decided to move the door. It wasn’t even the door. It started with the door. Then we decided that if we were going to see the sink, we would need a new vanity — with a marble top. The one we chose looked so good that we knew we’d also need

to upgrade the toilet. This necessitated moving the plumbing a little bit, so why not bash out the old tile and get new? The perfectly good shower stall? Out! I helped with the tile-bashing. (Because of my outwardly cheerful disposition, I have a lot of pent-up angst. You know what’s good for eliminating angst? A sledgehammer. Forget the Advil; give me an anvil.) Yet when I bashed out the old tile, quite a bit of the pourin insulation poured out. I just go in circles here! Dust is the only constant! But now I’m taking a break in the adjoining room. I have a column due, so I’m at my laptop — a unit so unhappy to be coated in residual tile dust that it is sounding less and less like a modern word-processing device and more and more like a Lionel train. I live in fear that it will grind to a halt, probably coughing up a big cloud of filth as it goes. It

will no doubt serve up this cough right after I type the last word to this column and right before I hit “save” — because that is how life works. But I am a trained professional — a wordsmith, if you will. So I plod on, the soothing sounds of a reciprocating saw cutting through wallboard lulling my thoughts into splinters. When Mark turns off the saw, big chunks of the wall fall onto the floor with a crash, then the bits bounce up and into the keyboard. Look! There goes a piece now! It has wedged itself down there between the P and the OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Heh, heh. Dooooooooooooooooooooooo nooooooooooooooooooooot be alarmed. I’m in charge here. Nooooooooooooooooooooo prooooooooooooblem. Just let me find my dustrag. It never ends.

‘The Watchmen’ Is My Kind Of Smart, Thought-Provoking Film

The Watchmen is a different kind of superhero movie. It might be more accurate to call it an anti-superhero movie. The superheroes, the watchmen of the title, are all very flawed, and with one exception, all too human.

The Comedian (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) is a U.S.-sponsored mercenary who cheerfully kills anyone who gets in his way, including the mother of his unborn child. He also attempts to brutally rape a female superhero, Silk Spectre (Carla Gugino) until interrupted by others.

An important note: despite having superheroes, this movie is definitely not for kids. It contains graphic violence and full-frontal male nudity (albeit of a computer-generated kind).

Based on an influential comic book series launched in 1986 and created by writer Alan Moore and artist Dave Gibbons, The Watchmen is set in an alternate reality where Rich-

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

ard Nixon is celebrating his fifth presidential term and the Cold War is raging. When the story was written, it was going on in the real world as well, and Moore and Gibbons saw no particular difference between the behavior of the Soviets and the American government. The movie reflects this quite well.

The main protagonist is Walter Kovacs (Jackie Earle Haley), who is the superhero vigilante Rorschach. He is unbending, paranoid and ferocious. After the death of the

Comedian, Rorschach decides to investigate and uncovers something much more far-ranging than a simple murder.

Moore brought up a lot of ideas in his graphic novel, and the producers clearly decided to use just about all of them in the film, which slowed the action and made the final version over two and a half hours long. Ironically, Moore is uncredited in the screen version by his own request and has vowed to never watch it because of his disgust with other films made from his work including The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and V for Vendetta. Having seen those films, I can’t really blame him.

But this film stays quite true to the original, probably a bit too close because it winds up with an outdated feel. The movie accurately reflects the ambivalence of the authors, who demonstrated their lack of faith in the public. The superheroes are very flawed. Ni-

Another Addition To The Family: Just Call Me

At 4:45 a.m. the other morning, my phone started to ring off the hook. Usually when you get a phone call at a time like that, it is not good news.

Before I picked up the phone, my mind flashed on my 92-year-young mother. There were no good thoughts going through my mind. When I picked up, my son Brian was on the other end. The only words out of his mouth were “it is time — we are ready to go.”

I was still in sleep mode, but I began to recall that his wife Allie was about a week late in having a baby. My son wanted my wife Sharon to get to his house ASAP to watch his two daughters, while he took Allie to the hospital. I watched in amazement as I saw my wife do something I have never seen her do before. She jumped out of bed in her PJs (the PJs were cute, I thought), grabbed her pock-

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

etbook and her car keys and ran out the front door.

I have known my wife for almost 39 years, and I have never seen her get ready to go anywhere so fast: less than two minutes from the time the phone rang ’til she was out the front door.

This was nothing near her normal morning routine. As the years go by, my wife needs more and more time to get ready to go to work. Years ago she would wake up about an hour

before she had to be there. Now she wakes up at least two hours before (yes, I am always woken by her, so I also get up two hours before I have to be at work). Of course, the finished product (my wife) is perfect by the time she walks out the door.

I don’t know if the world was ready to see the way she looked as she made her mad dash to my son’s house. A few minutes after my wife left, I decided I would go over myself and help my wife out with my granddaughters. I got a big surprise when I arrived at my son’s house. My wife and granddaughters were sound asleep. I figured they would be excited like I was, but that wasn’t the case. So I read the paper and made myself a cup of coffee, and then went to work.

At about 9:15 a.m., Brielle Kathryn Zimmerman made her entrance into our world weighing seven pounds and one ounce. And

teOwl II (Patrick Wilson), an über-geek who has revealed his identity, is shown as overweight and impotent until he puts on the old uniform to perform heroics.

The movie is brilliant, and the special effects are impressive. It follows closely the panels of the progenitor comic book stories. The characters are impressively detailed. It was an interesting film, one I will probably view several more times once it appears on DVD. I like “films of ideas,” and several issues still important in contemporary life have remained. However, the faithful adherence to a complex novel lengthened the picture, made it overcomplicated and lacking in many high notes.

For those who like science fiction, alternative history or simply movies that encourage thinking, it is a good, albeit overlong film. Just remember, this is one “comic book film” that kids should skip.

‘Octo-Grandpa’

she is beautiful, if I do say so myself. I don’t know what I have done to make the man upstairs so happy with me. I really am blessed. I do thank him for all he has done for me throughout my life. He made me the richest man on Planet Earth, in my opinion. He has given me eight wonderful grandchildren: four boys and four girls. I know I am the happiest person in the world.

I told my son Brian that now that he has three daughters, he better start saving his money to pay for all their weddings. He looked at me like I had gone nuts. He told me that when his daughters eventually do get married, the cost in each case would be shared by both the bride and the groom. What else would you expect the father of three daughters to say?

When my wife and I got married, we never thought we would have eight grandchildren. I guess somebody up there likes me.

SUMMER FUN FOR EVERYONE

Breakers West Summer Camp 2009

Calling all campers for a summer of a lifetime. Sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids will find something for everyone at Breakers West, where there is fun for all and all for fun.

Daily Golf, Tennis & Swimming Instruction

Basketball • Arts & Crafts • Soccer • Magic Shows

Cooking Classes • Wildlife Demonstrations • Science Projects

Friday’s Famous Family Cookout • And Much More…

Weekly sessions available June 8 through August 14, 2009.

8:45 a.m. –3:00 p.m. • Ages 5 – 14

For

or

Everglades Youth Conservation Camp

American Camping Association Accredited

Send Your Child for 5 Nights & 6 Days of Sleep-Away Camp. Boys & Girls Ages 8 -14

6 Fantastic Weeks of Camp Starting June 28

$325 - $420/Week

Environmental Education • Outdoor Adventure • Fishing • Hiking Archery • Canoeing • Swimming

Pine Jog Day Camp

9 Weeks of Full - Day Camp

June 8 - August 7 • 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks Provided Full Summer or Weekly Options

$25 - Registration Fee • $150 - $175/Week

Weekly Environmental Themes & Activities Low Student-to-Instructor Ratio

For More Information

Call 561-686-6600 or visit www.pinejog.fau.edu

GROWING ALLSTATE INSURANCE AGENCY IN WELLINGTON Looking for experienced Sales Help/Customer Service. 440 Lic. & Bilingual Preferred. Salary negotiable. Call 561-790-0558 or Fax resume 561-790-0566

SALES - CASH PAID, DAILY LEADS...LEADS... - Best Opportunity in America Today. Must have insurance license. Call (561) 6279558.

OR SILVER — Highest prices. Call Jim 386-9167

DIRT BIKE - 2001 KTM 640

ENDURO DUAL SPORT DIRT

BIKE - On/Off Road new tires motorcycle. $3,750(561) 758-2188

EQUESTRIAN COUNSELING SERVICES — Counseling for "Horse People" by a licensed professional therapist and "Horse person."Offering Traditional and Equine Assisted Therapy to help horse people overcome Anxiety, Depression, Relational Conflict, Addictions, Substance Abuse, Adjustment Disorders, Transitional Issues and more. www.sagrising.com/ ECS 561-791-8939

USED 2002 FORD F150 CREW CAB XLT — Clean, $11,984, 1-800876-6788

USED 1999 FORD EXPLORER SPORT — Great transportation $2,984 - 1-800-876-6788

USED 2008 CHEVY TAHOE — 3rd Seat, low miles, $27,984, 1-800876-6788

USED 2008 CADILLAC DTS — Deluxe package, roof, navigation, $31,984, 1-800-876-6788

USED 2009 CHEVY MALIBU LT — Leather, loaded, Save $$$ over new $22,984, 1-800-876-6788

USED 2008 CHEVY IMPALA $10,984 - 1-800-876-6788

PLATTNERS BELLE GLADE NEW AND USED VEHICLES CALL 1800-876-6788

2002 FORD F350 - Triton V10 engine, supercrew cab, toolbox, bedliner, towing package. Great condition. Must see, 93,000 miles. $7500.00 OBO. Call Will at 561236-4573

1998 DODGE RAM PICKUP TRUCK — Green 124,000 + miles 8 cylinder. big tires, hitch. $3,795 firm. 315-1508 1997 GREY SEBRING JXI CONVERTIBLE — new a/c, clean & well maintained. Engine & transmission in excellent condition and new top. Feel free to take it to a mechanic

This Saturday, March 14, 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Misc. Furniture & Household Items. In Sugar Pond Manor 13566 Exotica Lane (Corner of Cherry & Exotica Lanes)

This Saturday, March 14th 7:30

a.m. - Noon ANNUAL GARAGE & BAKE SALE - Palms West Presbyterian Church 13689 Okeechobee Blvd. (Loxahatchee Between E & F Rd)

USED 1997 CHEVY ¾ TON EXT. CAB PICK-UP $4,684 - 1-800-8766788

USED 2005 FORD FOCUS $5,984 1-800-876-6788

USED 2008 CHEVY MALIBU $10,984 - 1-800-876-6788

USED 2006 CADILLAC STS — Clean, must see! $24, 984 1-800876-6788

JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC. —Service & new installation

FPL independent participating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. "We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks" 561-798-3225. Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

SeaBreeze Air Systems, Inc. — for Air Conditioning and Heating Indoors and Outdoors. Let us heat your pool for year round enjoyment. Call 561-964-3817

MOBILE ACCOUNTANT - Bookkeeping, payroll taxes, we come to you, low rates. Call 561-714-7093 for free consultation.

ARE YOUR TREES READY FOR A HURRICANE? — Florida Arborists has highly trained professionals to provide superior and quality services. 561-568-7500

JJJ AUTOMOTIVE, INC. - "We're Looking Out For You!" Complete Auto repair, foreign & domestic. We'll beat any written estimate. Free Oil Change with any service. ASE & MITSUBISHI Certified Master. 561-309-9098. Lic. MV 52657

The only non-profit petting zoo in the area. — featuring parrots, mini horses, ponies, pony rides, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, and Llamas and more and farm club. 561-7922666

MEDICAL AND PROFESSIONAL BUILDING CLEANINGS SPECIALISTS — • Pressure Cleaning • Office Cleaning • Residential Cleaning • Parking Lot Maintenance • Concrete Coatings. Call for Free Evaluation. 561-714-3608

HOUSECLEANING - Reliable with long term clients. Over 12 years experience. References available. Karen 561-632-2271

AMERIKANA INC. — Commercial and residential cleaning services. Half price special for residential customers (You pay 3 cleanings and get the 4th for ½ off the regular price) 561-628-0653 CLASSIFIEDS

D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-3339433 or Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’dWell. & Palm Beach

COMPUTER REPAIR — We come to you! After hours and weekends services available. Spyware/ Adware/Virus Removal, Networking, Wireless, Backup Data, Upgrades. Call Anytime. 561-713-5276

MOBILE-TEC ON-SITE COM-

PUTER SERVICE — The computer experts that come to you! Hardware/ Software setup, support & troubleshooting www.mobiletec.net. 561-248-2611

STAFF PLUS — Looking to fill full and part-time positions in customer service. For more info. Call 1-888333-9903

HIGH QUALITY LAMINATE

FLOORING — at affordable prices. Hardwood floors. No deposit until delivery. Contractors welcome. Western Communities resident. Family owned and Operated. Licensed and Insured. Se Habla Español 561-568-6099

GUARDSMAN FURNITURE PRO — For all your furniture repair needs including finish repairs, structural repairs, upholstery services, chair regluing, antique repairs, kitchen cabinet refurbishing. 753-8689

XTREME CONSTRUCTION LLCSpecializing in all your construction needs. Kitchens/baths, remodels, tile, painting, plumbing, additions. Raymond M. Surdi/Owner-Contractor 561-252-9743

CAN FIX IT — build it, move it, plant it, and more. Call Bruce, 793-2494. TFN CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS, INC. — REMODEL & REPAIRS Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall, kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded/Insured U#19699. 791-9900 Cell: 370-5293

HANDYMAN SERVICES -No job too small or large. Prompt and professional service. Reasonable rates and Quality work. Licensed and ins. #CGC-032834. 561-202-7044

ANMAR CO. —James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-2488528

MCA CUSTOM WOODWORKING, INC. — “Make your home standout from the rest” Call us for all your home improvement needs. Kitchen & bathroom remodeling, custom wall units, design your home office, cabinetry, tile & drywall repair. Lic. #U-19564. Bonded & Ins. 561-7235836

WWW.GARABAR.COM Discount pricing. Remodeling & Repairs •Kitchens • Baths •Additions • Painting • Doors • Windows. No Deposit Until Permit • Credit Cards Accepted. 561-337-6798 Lic. #CCC1327252 & GC1510976

HOME INSPECTIONS — Mold inspections, air quality testing, US Building Inspectors mention this ad $20.00 Off. 561-784-8811

DAVID A. CLAUD, MS, LMHC, CAP - Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Addictions Professional. Caring for Individuals with Substance Use Problems, Anxiety & Depression, Life Adjustment Issues, and Stress Related Concerns. (561) 398-5132

ANIMAL PALACE — “Where Your Pets are Treated Like Royalty” — Pet sitting, dry baths/specialty shampoos. de-shedding treatments. All sizes/cats too! 561-3835000 or visit our website at www.animalpalacepetgrooming.com

Mold & Mildew Inspections — Air Quality Testing, leak detection. US building inspectors, mention this ad for discount. 561-784-8811

ARMENTO PAINTING & SONS, INC. –– Painting, Interior, Exterior. Pressure cleaning. Custom painting, faux art. Lic. No. U14736. 7988978. BD

JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING

INC. ––– Interior/Exterior, artistic faux finishing, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair, & roof painting/cleaning. Free est. Call 798-4964. Lic.#U18473

LET US AD A LITTLE COLOR TO YOUR LIFE — Residential/Commercial. Licensed • Bonded • Insured. Owner/Operator. Ask for Paul 561-309-8290.

COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Interior/Exterior, residential painting, over 20 years exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free estimates - Insured. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident.

PAINTING — HOME PAINTING Interior - Exterior. $1290 +tax up to 2500 sq. ft. (walls area) 561-674HOME(4663) Masterpiece Painting Contractors Inc. CC U#21111 Lic./ Ins.

CREATIVE PAINTING SYSTEMS, INC. — Interior • Exterior • Residential Specialists. WE DELIVER WHAT WE PROMISE. All work guaranteed. FREE ESTIMATES. Family owned & Operated. Over 23 years experience. Lic. #U-18337 • Bonded • Insured Owner/Operator George Born. 561-686-6701

BRITT PHOTOGRAPHY — Wedding invitation photos, Valentine photos, Special events. Steve 561317-5813

Waterheaters, garbage disposals, faucet repair & replacement service. New construction. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. Wellington Resident 25 years. 561-601-6458. Jeremy James Plumbing, Inc.

ELITE POOL CLEANING —"You dealt with the rest now deal with the best" All maintenance & repairs, salt chlorinator, heaters, leak detection. 561-791-5073. Inquire about 1 months free service.

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING — Established in 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.Call Butch 561-3096975 BD

GRIME STOPPERS - Pressure cleaning, commercial & residential, houses, driveways, patios, screen enclosures, sidewalks. References available.561-779-1081

AFFORDABLE PRESSURE CLEANING AND PAINTING Licensed and Insured Call 561-498-3227

PROPERTY CLEANOUT & MAINTENANCE SERVICE - Lawn Care/ Pressure Cleaning. Ins/Lic/Bonded Commercial/Residential. 561-3338388 Foreclosure Cleanout Solution Corp.

MINOR ROOF REPAIRS — Roof painting. Carpentry. License #U13677.967-5580.

ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207

WWW.GARABAR.COM — Now is the time for the Best Prices. Re-roof & Repairs. No Deposit Until Permit Credit cards accepted. Free Estimate. Call 561-337-6798 Lic.#CCC1327252 & CGC1510976

IDEAL ROOFING SYSTEMS — Residential/ Commercial • Licensed Bonded/Insured. New Construction Reroofs • Repairs • Roof Tile • Shingles Metal Roofs • Flat Decks Maintenance Contracts visit us at info@idealroofingsystems.com. Palm Beach/Broward Office: 561753-7663 Fax: 561-753-7696. St. Lucie/Indian River. Office: 772-2886440. Fax: 772-287-9008. 11101 S. Crown Way #6, Wellington, FL 33414. Lic. #CCC1326453

HORIZON ROOFING QUALITY

WORK & SERVICE — Free estimates, No Deposits. Pay upon completion, residential, commercial, reroofing, repairs, credit cards accepted.561-842-6120 or 561784-8072 Lic.#CCC1328598

JOHN’S SCREEN REPAIR SERVICE — Pool & patio rescreening. Stay tight,wrinkle-free,guaranteed! CRC1329708 798-3132.

Gutters, downspouts, vinyl/aluminum siding, windows & doors, aluminum railing. Screen enclosures (Repaired & Replaced), carports, porches, and patios. Lic. U17189. P&M Siding Contractors. 561-7919777

ROLL DOWN SHUTTERS — Accordion shutters, storm panels and rolling shutters...prices that can’t be beat. All shutters Systems, Inc. 8630955

AFFORDABLE HURRICANE PROTECTION — 2 - 4 wks. Installed Guaranteed! 10% deposit . Will get you started. All products, Dade County approved. We manufacture our own product. 561-568-6099, 772-342-8705 Lic. & Ins. CGC 1511213

CLASSIFIEDS 793-3576

CALL TODAY TO PLACE YOUR

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC —

Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004 Lic. #U17871

Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

INSTALLING TILE IN SOUTH FLORIDA FOR 25 YEARS — Free estimates, residential/commercial, bathroom remodeling, floors, walls, backsplashes, custom design GOLDEN TILE INSTALLATION 561-662-9258 WE DO IT ALL! — Stump Grinding Dead Pine Removal. All Phases of Tree Services. Lic. and Ins. 561373-6117

FCAT SPECIAL ONE FREE WEEK IN-HOME TUTORING — All subjects • Pre-K - Adult • SAT/ACT Study Skills • Reading 333-1980 ClubZtutoring.com America's Largest In-Home Tutoring Co.

PAPERHANGING & PAINTING BY DEBI — Professional Installation & Removal of Paper. Interior Painting, decorative finishes, clean & reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 26 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

WATER CONDITIONERS FROM

$499.00 —- Reverse osmosis units for the whole house. Mention this ad for equipment checkup and water analysis $19.99561-6896151