Town-Crier Newspaper March 18, 2016

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SCHOOL DISTRICT UNVEILS BIG PLANS SEE STORY, PAGE 3

EQUESTRIAN PANEL VOICES CONCERNS SEE STORY, PAGE 7

THE

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

Your Community Newspaper

Volume 37, Number 12 March 18 - March 24, 2016

Serving Palms West Since 1980

Gerwig, Drahos Win Big In Wellington

INSIDE

Wellington Chamber Honors ‘Outstanding Citizen’ Roxanne Stein

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce honored local newswoman Roxanne Stein with its Outstanding Citizen of the Year award on Wednesday, March 16 at a luncheon that also featured the installation of the chamber’s 2016-17 executive board and board members. Page 3

Wellington Mayor-Elect Anne Gerwig celebrates with supporters Tuesday night.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

WHS Students Raise More Than $42,000 At Dance Marathon

Wellington High School held its Dance Marathon event on Friday, March 11 to raise money for the University of Florida’s Dance Marathon program that helps sick children at Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville. Wellington students surpassed their original fundraising goal of $25,000 and raised $42,223.52. Page 7

Local Children Enjoy Easter Egg Hunt At Community Of Hope

Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves held its annual egg hunt Saturday, March 12 with popcorn, sno-cones, an inflatable slide, an obstacle course, a petting zoo, carnival games and separate egg hunts for various ages. Page 9

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council will have a new face on the dais following election results Tuesday. Challenger Selena Smith narrowly defeated incumbent Vice Mayor Richard Valuntas 51.2 percent (3,372 votes) to 48.8 percent (3,215 votes) in the race for Seat 3. Councilman Fred Pinto will take control of the gavel from retiring Mayor Matty Mattioli. Pinto defeated former Councilwoman Martha Webster in the mayoral race, taking 59.9 percent (4,167 votes) to Webster’s 40.1 percent (2,793 votes). Councilman Jeff Hmara easily retained Seat 1, defeating challenger Lenore White 63.7 percent (4,210 votes) to 36.3 percent (2,394 votes). Smith, who ran unsuccessfully in 2012 against Hmara, thanked

Valuntas for his service on the council and to the village. “I know I have big shoes to fill,” she told the Town-Crier on Wednesday. “I look forward to being a part of the village’s future, and I’m excited for the opportunity.” Smith said she wants to continue her past work for local businesses to make sure that they thrive. “I also want to work with our senior population, as far as their next phase and what we can do to make sure that they remain members of the village,” she said, explaining that those are points that she has been working on for the past several years. Smith also wants to make sure that there is controlled growth in the village. Pinto said that going forward, he plans to earn the trust placed in him. “I want to express my gratitude

for your support,” Pinto told supporters at Madison Green’s MarBar Grille after the results came in. “I’ve never seen so many people coming together in one force with one result. This has been an interesting campaign, to say the least.” Pinto told the Town-Crier that he was happy with the decisive victory. “Obviously, I’m elated,” Pinto said, adding that a clear majority of voters rejected a campaign that he said was based on attacks and distortions. “I talked to a lot of people, and they know that things have been going in the right direction, and I’ve been doing a good job for them,” he said. “They’ve substantiated my trust in them. They are intelligent and aware of all these falsehoods that were being perpetrated.” Pinto said he thinks the dynamic See ROYAL PALM, page 4

B&G CLUB GREAT FUTURES POLO

Relay For Life Gets The Community Involved In Fighting Cancer

DEPARTMENT INDEX NEWS................................. 3 - 9 OPINION.................................. 4 NEWS BRIEFS......................... 6 PEOPLE................................. 13 SCHOOLS.......................14 - 15 COLUMNS...................... 16, 23 BUSINESS......................24 - 25 SPORTS..........................31 - 33 CALENDAR............................ 36 CLASSIFIEDS.................37 - 40 Visit Us On The Web At WWW.GOTOWNCRIER.COM

percent) to 5,980 votes (39.3 percent) for incumbent Mayor Bob Margolis. In the race for Seat 1, Drahos took 8,010 votes (55.5 percent) to unseat Vice Mayor John Greene, who garnered 6,420 votes (44.5 percent). Wellington voters also approved all three ballot questions put before them. Question 1, which adds protections for the Equestrian Preserve Area, passed 65 percent to 35 percent. Question 2, which changes the makeup of the Election Canvassing Board, passed 69 percent to 31 percent. Question 3, which forbids hotel and apartment See WELLINGTON, page 17

Pinto Elected RPB Mayor; Smith Unseats Valuntas

OPINION There are a number of different organizations and associations dedicated to raising both awareness of and funding to cure cancer. And the next few weeks are filled with such efforts, as area groups participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life program. Fighting cancer is a noble cause, and the Relay for Life is an inspiring way to tackle such a somber issue. We encourage the community to go out and support these important local events. Page 4

By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington voters brought change to the Wellington Village Council on Tuesday, promoting Councilwoman Anne Gerwig to mayor and electing Planning, Zoning & Adjustment Board Member Michael Drahos to the dais. A record number of voters cast ballots — more than 15,000 in an election that took place at the same time as Florida’s presidential primary. According to unofficial returns from the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections Office, Gerwig took 9,227 votes (60.7

Great Futures Polo Day to benefit the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington took place Sunday, March 13, starting with a celebrity polo match at the Grand Champions Polo Club, followed by brunch at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Shown here are John Walsh, Jaene Miranda and Nacho Figueras. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 19 PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

ITID Hears Report On GL Talks

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors heard an update Wednesday on recent work by staff with GL Homes to minimize impacts of the planned development on The Acreage, and perhaps even derive some benefits from the 3,900-home community planned to the west. Attorney Marty Perry, who represents ITID, outlined issues that he and staff members have been discussing with GL Homes for its Indian Trail Groves project.

“After discussing this full procedure with the Minto West project, dealing with GL was really pleasant. The atmosphere was much easier from the standpoint of trying to work out a resolution of issues that we feel need to be addressed,” Perry said. “We’re trying to develop an understanding with GL that essentially will establish a framework for a continuing relationship.” As part of that, Perry said they discussed having the GL Homes project become a unit of development within ITID.

“That has been received fairly well,” he said. “The details are yet to be worked out, but we have discussed that the activation will be at or near the beginning of the project.” Perry said the most important thing that they’ve been working on is drainage improvements. “GL has offered to dedicate 640 acres for an impoundment reservoir,” he said. “We’ve had discussions on that, including that it be [done with] a special warranty deed, which they are comfortable See GL HOMES, page 17

Councilman Jeff Hmara (left) and Mayor-Elect Fred Pinto (right) celebrate their victories with retiring Mayor Matty Mattioli.

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

McLendon Defeats Rockett; Browning Stays On Lox Council By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Challenger Todd McLendon defeated incumbent Councilman Jim Rockett for Seat 2 on the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on Tuesday, March 15, while Mayor Dave Browning retained his Seat 4, defeating challenger Thais Gonzalez. McLendon won by a margin of 55.3 percent (489 votes) to Rockett’s 44.7 percent (395 votes), and Browning won by 65.1 percent (578 votes) to Gonzalez’s 34.9 percent (310 votes). McLendon said the win was particularly gratifying after he narrowly lost to Rockett three years ago. “It’s fantastic,” he said. “It feels better winning this time after the loss last time. They say you don’t appreciate winning unless you lose. There’s 395 people who didn’t vote for me, and I hope I exceed their expectations, and next time they vote for me.” With McLendon on the council, he said he thinks proceedings won’t be as divisive as in the past, and hopes that Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel, who supported Rockett in the election, will be willing to work with him as a team. “I hope that is what happens,” McClendon said. “I hope that he can put his personal differences aside and work as a council to get things going for Loxahatchee Groves, and I think he’ll do that.”

He said there are small charter issues that need to be addressed. “It doesn’t say that it’s mandatory to put together a town charter committee, but I think it’s time to do that and try to iron out some of these small flaws in the town charter, and move on from there in fixing the comp plan to preserve and protect Loxahatchee Groves, which is what the original intention was with incorporation,” McLendon said. “There’s definitely some mistakes made along the way, which is to be expected with a new town. I hope we can start fixing those mistakes and learn from them moving forward.” McClendon said that a longterm solution to road maintenance is needed. “I think a majority of the people are fed up with the dirt roads,” he said. “They’re fed up with the drainage. We need to think seriously about fixing those issues. It’s not cost-effective to grade these roads like the water control district did for 100 years. It’s more likely going to cost more money moving forward having a private contractor do it.” He believes that the long-term goal should be to improve the roads. “It’s going to cost us more up front, but in the long run, it’s going to be worth it,” McLendon said. He hopes that the council can keep Underwood Management See LOX VOTE, page 17

Elbridge Gale ‘Pi Day’ Raises Money To Fight Cancer By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report Elbridge Gale Elementary School students (gently) smashed plates full of whipped cream into the faces of teachers and administrators (some are parents, too) in a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on Friday, March 11. “This is the second year that we’ve done this,” said Nicole Martinez, guidance counselor at the Wellington school. “We all rally to support this cause.” Events such as “Pi Day” help to brighten the future of what has been a dark past. School support for the fight against leukemia began when student Sebastian

Sarmiento was diagnosed in 2007. He died two years later. Current first-grader Andrew Dawson recently finished the maintenance phase of his chemotherapy treatments for the disease and is in remission. “We are raising this money for kids like Andrew,” Martinez said. “All of the students are very supportive of this fundraiser.” Pi Day, along with the Pasta for Pennies program, which is presented by Olive Garden, help raise money for the LLS and bring the school together. Last year, Elbridge Gale students raised more than $17,500. This year, the school has set a goal of $25,000 and is already more

than halfway there, with about $13,000 raised and the mid-April deadline looming. The school’s older students set up lemonade stands, hand out fliers and go door-to-door, with parents for security, Martinez said. She gave the students credit for their hard work in reaching the school’s goals. Students donated $10 for the chance to get the adults — clad in goggles, smocks, ponchos and even nose plugs — smeared with whipped cream donated by Chick-fil-A. For $20, students were able to go after Assistant Principal Chad Phillips. And, for the biggest donors, a $30 donation See PI DAY, page 7

Assistant Principal Chad Phillips get pied by his daughter, Colbie.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER


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March 18 - March 24, 2016

www.gotowncrier.com

The Town-Crier

Over 4,000 intelligent Royal Palm Beach voters reject the MALICIOUS LIES of Martha Webster, Lenore White and Dave Swift During the March 15, 2016 Election BIG LIE #1: Majority of Royal Palm Beach residents opposed the RaceTrac application. Of the approximately sixty (60) persons in white shirts with “No” letters, about forty (40) were the owners and employees of nearby gas stations and convenience stores who did not want a popular competitor with low gasoline prices. Most of these employees do not live in Royal Palm Beach. THE TRUTH:

Over 1,000 Royal Palm Beach residents signed a petition strongly supporting the RaceTrac application. The March 15, 2016 Royal Palm Beach elections has proved conclusively that the overwhelming great majority of Royal Palm Beach residents support this RaceTrac gas station on the northwest corner of Southern Blvd. and Royal Palm Beach Blvd., and the rest don’t care at all.

BIG LIE #2: The RaceTrac gas station would hurt small business owners in the immediate vicinity. THE TRUTH: Over 95% small businesses in the immediate vicinity signed a petition strongly supporting the RaceTrac application, confirming that RaceTrac gasoline station & convenient store would help improve their business.

BIG LIE #3: “The RaceTrac would devastate home values in Royal Palm Beach”. THE TRUTH:

Callaway & Price, one of the most reputable professional appraisers in Florida for over forty (40) years, after thorough investigation and research, concluded that “RaceTrac would have no negative impact on Royal Palm Beach homes and will continue to increase in value together with all comparable homes.”

BIG LIE #4: “Jess Santamaria, as a county Commissioner voted to deny a RaceTrac application at the northwest corner of Lantana Road and Haverhill Road”. THE TRUTH: “Jess Santamaria, together with four (4) other County Commissioners, on August 22, 2013, voted to approve this RaceTrac application”.

BIG LIE #5: Dave Swift in his Town-Crier “Letter to the Editor” (dated January 29, 2016) described Jess Santamaria as the largest landowner in Royal Palm Beach. THE TRUTH:

All of Jess Santamaria’s properties would all fit inside the Super Walmart in Royal Palm Beach! There are many much larger property owners in Royal Palm Beach. Dave Swift and Martha Webster have always tried to project me as the “big bad developer” taking advantage of “poor small Davids and Marthas”.

Eventually, TRUTH always overcomes LIES and DECEPTION by liars! - Sponsored by Jess Santamaria -


The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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NEWS

Wellington Chamber Honors ‘Outstanding Citizen’ Roxanne Stein By Julie Unger Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Chamber of Commerce honored local newswoman Roxanne Stein with its Outstanding Citizen of the Year award on Wednesday, March 16 at a luncheon that also featured the installation of the chamber’s 2016-17 executive board and board members. County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay and Wellington Mayor-Elect Anne Gerwig swore in President Debbie Crompton, Immediate Past President Johnny Meier, Vice President Tiffany Rodriguez, Treasurer Dale Grimm, Secretary Stuart Hack and board members Michael Ferreira, Blanca Greenstein, Dr. Randy Laurich and Roxanne Stein. McKinlay presented Meier with a certificate of appreciation for his service as president of the chamber. “Under your leadership, the chamber has grown its membership base and has provided programming to give its members a competitive advantage to thrive in business and maintain the quality of life that makes Wellington one of the most desirable places to live, work and play,” she said. McKinlay also congratulated Crompton for her hard work on behalf of the chamber. Michela Green, executive director of the chamber, presented Meier with the traditional chamber jacket. “Personally, it has been a joy and a privilege, and I’ve loved working with him,” Green said.

Meier served as the president for 2015-16, working to advance the chamber, helping to make Wellington’s business community prosper. “We saw substantial growth in our membership,” he said. “We have been able to offer businesses of all sizes a value and tools to increase their success.” The chamber’s two biggest events, Flavors 2015 and Winterfest 2015, saw tremendous growth, Meier said. Flavors 2016 will take place Friday, April 8 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The chamber also presented its first ColorFest run and hosted a candidates forum, along with many business classes, luncheons and networking events. “I am proud to call each and every one of you a member and an associate and look forward to working with each of you in the future,” Meier said. “Let’s keep up this momentum.” Crompton said that she is proud to lead the chamber during its 20th anniversary, announcing that she is working to create and implement a mobile app for the chamber. “I want to focus on providing all members with fingertip access to the chamber through this app that will not only keep everyone knowledgeable about what is going on, but provide an avenue for engagement,” she said. Crompton set forth a goal of doubling the participation in ColorFest and growing the Women of the Wellington Chamber’s 30 Women 30 Nights campaign. “This year, I am committed to

listening to all ideas with an open mind so as to grow and support a chamber that is full and rich with many ideas,” she said. “I am very proud to have been given the opportunity to represent the chamber in this leadership position and will do everything in my power to make sure that we have a successful and rewarding year.” Attorney Blanca Greenstein, of Greenstein & Associates, sponsored the luncheon and introduced WPTV-News Channel 5’s Roxanne Stein, the chamber’s 2016 Outstanding Citizen of the Year. Stein and husband Steve Moss have lived in Wellington for almost 20 years. She can often be found around the community in riding clothes — she competes locally with her horse Eternity — or even gym clothes. “I had a dream as a kid to be in television, and I was really lucky. I wanted to do big market news, and I got to do it at a very, very young age,” Stein said. Stein said that she was honored and humbled to be recognized by her local chamber. “It goes beyond words to express how much I appreciate this recognition. You’ll never know. I love being a citizen of the Village of Wellington. I’ve never lived anywhere longer than five years, and next year it will be 20 years that I’ve lived in Wellington. As I always like to say, I do live in paradise,” she said. It has been amazing to watch the village grow and mature during the last two decades since incorporation, Stein said.

“The village is lucky to have a chamber that has supported it every step of the way,” she said. “We are a small town, but we have a cosmopolitan vibe. We have beautiful weather, A-rated schools, we have dog parks, people parks, golf courses, tennis courts, wildlife, malls, hospitals, restaurants and the Aero Club. You name it, and everything is within a 10-minute drive. You can’t talk about Wellington without mentioning its lifeblood — its world-class equestrian facilities and events.” The sense of community in Wellington, she said, takes a partnership between government, residents and businesses. “We are family, and we are friends. We are Wellington,” Stein said.

Honoree Roxanne Stein with County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay and Mayor-Elect Anne Gerwig.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Dr. Randy Laurich, Councilman John McGovern, Mayor-Elect Anne Gerwig, Councilman-Elect Michael Napoleone, Tiffany Rodriguez, Stuart Hack, Roxanne Stein, Debbie Crompton, County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay, Blanca Greenstein, Johnny Meier and Dale Grimm.

School District Rep Reports On Launch Of New Strategic Plan

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Mark Howard, chief of performance accountability for the Palm Beach County School District, reported on Superintendent Dr. Robert Avossa’s recently enacted strategic plan at the Royal Palm Beach Education Advisory Board meeting Monday, March 7. “This has been a really historic week for the school district,” Howard said. “You’ve probably watched the transformation of the district with Dr. Avossa, the energy that has been brought into the system and the community. This past week, our school board passed our five-year strategic plan, and last Friday we had a community kick-

off event with nearly 500 people to launch our strategic plan.” He said that with Avossa’s arrival last June, the district went through an analysis phase where Avossa held listening tours and community events with more than 18,000 people participating, including community members, teachers, parents, students and district officials. “We also did a series of surveys and other electronic informationgathering, really for Dr. Avossa and others to get the input of the community on what the strengths, what the weaknesses, what the opportunities were for our school system,” Howard said. “All that input was gathered and put into a

strategy development phase. Now we’re in the action planning phase, and it’s an exciting time as the work is about to begin.” He said that the mission plan for the school district envisions a dynamic, collaborative multicultural community where education and lifelong learning are valued and supported, and all learners reach their highest potential to succeed in the global economy. It seeks to achieve that plan by providing a world-class education with excellence and equity to empower each student to reach that highest potential with effective staff to foster the knowledge, skills and ethics required for responsible citizenship and productive careers.

“As a result of all this unprecedented input, we identified these four long-term outcomes, which I think are pretty monumental,” Howard said. They are to increase reading on grade level by grade three; ensure high school readiness through academic achievement, behavior and engagement; increase the high school graduation rate; and foster post-graduate success, including high school scholars, dualenrollment degrees and industry certifications, college enrollment and military enlistment. “We will drive that improvement through four strategic themes that organize the work: effective and relevant instruction to meet the

needs of all students, a positive and supportive school climate, a highperformance culture and talent development,” Howard said. “By driving through these four strategic development themes, we will be able to reach these long-term outcomes.” Howard said that the themes will be addressed through specific objectives defined from documented needs, and that the objectives will be improved through strategic initiatives designed with principal, teacher and student input and phased in over a three-year period. “The board has adopted what we feel is a pretty ambitious goal for each one of those long-term outcomes,” he said.

Howard pointed out that reading on grade level by grade three was part of the statewide reading assessment that now also includes a writing component. He said that currently, only 50.5 percent of third-grade children are reading at grade level. “Obviously, that’s completely unacceptable,” Howard said. “Our philosophy is that we can’t improve something unless we shine the light on it. Even though we’re an A-rated district, this is an area where we have lagged behind the state.” He added that third grade reading levels set the course for future academic success. “These students See ED BOARD, page 17

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March 18 - March 24, 2016

The Town-Crier

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OUR OPINION

Relay For Life Gets The Community Involved In Fighting Cancer Half of all men, and one-third of all women, will develop some form of cancer in their lifetimes. But cancer doesn’t only affect those diagnosed with the disease. Many people know someone battling the disease, and many serve as caregivers. There are a number of different organizations and associations dedicated to raising both awareness of and funding to cure cancer. And the next few weeks are filled with such efforts, as area groups participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life program. Relay for Life is generally an overnight community fundraising walk that celebrates survivors, honors those lost and inspires hope, all while raising money for cancer research and support. The event began in the mid-1980s in Tacoma, Wash., when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours and 83 miles around Baker Stadium at the University of Puget Sound. Friends donated $25 to run or walk for 30 minutes with him, raising a total $27,000 for the local American Cancer Society office. The experience sparked a passion in Klatt, and he organized the first team relay event. Today, thousands of relays are held across the United States, raising billions of dollars across three decades; it is estimated that more than $5 billion has been raised to date. The event brings out teams who raise money and then walk the track, with one person from each team walking or running around the clock. Each year, more than 5,000 Relay for Life events are held across the United States and in 20 countries around the world. Starting in April, for three consecutive weekends, area residents and groups will be walking miles and raising much-needed dollars. In Royal Palm Beach, the Relay for Life starts on Saturday, April 2 at 4 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach High School (10600 Okeechobee Blvd.). This year’s theme is “Paint Your World Purple: Stomp Out Cancer and Round Up a Cure.” The Royal Palm Beach Relay for Life has already

raised more than $18,000. For more information, or to get involved, visit www.relayforlife.org/ royalpalmbeachfl. The following weekend, on Saturday, April 9, is the Acreage/Loxahatchee Relay for Life at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave North). The event, which has already raised more than $22,000, starts at 11 a.m. To register, visit www.relayforlife.org/acreagefl or call Aversis Concepcion at (561) 650-0145. Wrapping up the western communities trilogy is the Wellington Relay for Life, taking place at Palm Beach Central High School (8499 Forest Hill Blvd.) on Saturday, April 16 from 3 p.m. until midnight. That event has already raised more than $8,000. For more information, e-mail lisa.hafer@cancer.org or call (561) 635-4084. The family-friendly event typically passes time with music and festivities, but also pays homage to those who live with cancer every day — from survivors to caregivers. It’s a special event that brings the community together, and the funds raised go to help fund research, to help cancer patients afford accommodations while in treatment, to fund programs to get patients to and from their doctors, and other services. Fighting cancer is a noble cause, and the Relay for Life is an inspiring way to tackle such a somber issue. We encourage the community to go out and support these important local events. Even if you can’t join a team, stop by and have some food, play some games and support the teams’ efforts. For more information, or to sign up, visit www.relayforlife.org and search for your local event. Or visit the organization’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/relayforlife, where you can also find information on relays and even register to participate.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR A Few Of My Proclamations To Consider

When I read the Feb. 26 Palm Beach Post article regarding the “Meatless Monday” proclamation, I didn’t know whether to laugh out loud or slam my head against a wall. Given only I would hear the former and the latter would be painful and in light of current healthcare costs, expensive, I decided, instead, to craft constructive “proclamations” for the Board of County Commissioners to consider. How about these: • “Hold developers to what they are approved for when they buy land and submit development

applications for huge density and intensity increases” Monday • “Save the Ag Reserve” Tuesday • “Support farmers and farming instead of developers and development” Wednesday • “Protect existing residents from urban-like towns being built in rural and exurban areas” Thursday • “Make developers pay for their impacts in full instead of taxing residents in perpetuity” Friday • “Stop rewriting the comp plan to accommodate developers” Saturday • “Put a stake in overdevelopment” Sunday My proclamations, too, are intended “for the good and welfare of our residents” (as Commissioner Paulette Burdick said). Will

my proclamations be embraced and, more importantly, acted on accordingly? Given the commissioners’ track record regarding Minto West/ Westlake, I prognosticate yet another painful stake (GL Homes) driven in each of my proclamations… and in the hearts and wallets of every resident in the western communities, especially The Acreage/Loxahatchee. Prove me wrong. Please. Jean Edwards The Acreage

A Letter Of Apology To America

It seems that lately you have been accused of not being as great

as ever. Well, let me assure you, this is just not so. If you have lost your status and appeal, why are people from all over the world willing to risk everything to cross your borders? Why are so many trying to become citizens and showing their gratitude with tears of joy? Why are you still recognized as the one true hope of freedom and justice for the world? Why are so many countries trying to copy and follow anything American? True, you are not perfect, but then who is? Still, you are the best that there is in this world. Besides, what bothers so many Americans is the source of the accusation. It comes from one who considers himself “great.” It comes from one who owes all he has to you. It comes from one who

disrespects too much of what you are to the world. It comes from one who has employed a “pied piper” mentality that has sucked in so many weak minds. This has been the only weakness that really can be seen. Therefore, you are as great as ever and your fellow Americans are proud to hold you up and salute you here and all over the world. Kay Brown Wellington

For The Record The headline on an article published last week about the upcoming Wellington Garden Club Garden Tour had the date incorrect. The date of the Garden Tour is Saturday, April 9. The Town-Crier regrets whatever confusion this might have caused.

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

OPINION

Tighten Up Now On Drug Company Rip-Offs Like ‘Mandatory Excesses’

Health insurers waste some $3 billion yearly buying cancer medicines, much of which is discarded because the drug companies in the United States make available many of these medications in vials that contain far too much medicine for most patients. The excess is then thrown out. How do we know? Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center just published a

Footloose and... By Jules W. Rabin

new research study on the waste and eye-popping manufacturer profits. And yet in Europe, where the

government often takes a heavy hand to control abuses, the medicinal vials are sold in three sizes to prevent the waste. (Some non-cancer medicines also use the “waste” factor to grab the profits.) For example, Velcade, a drug for treating multiple myeloma and lymphoma, produced by Takeda Corp., is estimated to have 30 percent of its profits accrue from discarded waste.

Figure some $309 million in current, U.S.-sized medicine gets reduced by $261 million if there were a vial 2.5 milligrams rather than the standard 3.5 milligram that the U.S. has to work with. Sloan Kettering researchers preach that nurses, who generally inject the drug, would save patients thousands of dollars by minimizing waste. Yes, many smaller patients pay

huge amounts for medicine they never receive. “Rising drug prices have been a concern for many years, and high initial prices and subsequent increases are an industry-wide phenomenon. The last 10 cancer drugs approved before July 2015 have an annual price of $190,217, and major drug companies routinely increase the prices of big sellers 10 percent or more each

year. This is, of course, far above the rate of inflation,” said Christopher Kelly a spokesman for the Food & Drug Administration. The drug industry explains that high prices are needed to fund research. Well, industry leaders like Pfizer and Merck spend just 17 percent of their revenue to find new drugs. Why bother… just throw away the “mandatory excesses!”

NEWS

Account Set Up To Raise Money For Owners Of Horses That Died In Barn Fire

A barn fire claimed the lives of 12 horses at the South Florida Training Center early Wednesday morning. A single barn containing 23 horses was engulfed in flames, but 11 were rescued. Two have been taken to a local equine hospital in critical condition. “This is just devastating,” farm

Royal Palm

Pinto, Hmara & Smith

continued from page 1 on the council will change with the presence of a new member, but that he’s glad there will be a female member. “I’m not happy that Richard Valuntas lost, but it turned out the way it turned out,” he said. “We have to keep moving forward and get Selena up to speed. I think it

owner Sam Stathis said. It was his barn that caught fire. Horses were also stabled in the barn for trainers Roman Lopez and Thomas Haughton. “I am sick with grief over the horses that have lost their lives,” Stathis said. “The fire department did all they could and saved many of the horses.”

Two firefighters were taken to an area hospital to be treated for injuries. The fire was first reported around midnight and a full investigation into the cause is underway. Located on State Road 7 south of Wellington, the South Florida Training Center is a Standardbred harness racing facility and home

to nearly 500 horses. The single barn was the only one affected by the fire. Stathis, owner of the South Florida Training Center, also owns Stathis Enterprises and is the founder of the World Chariot Racing Federation. A horse racing online radio program, Post Time with Mike

and Mike, has set up a GoFundMe account to help the horsemen and the training center. The group will split all funds raised through the site between trainers Roman Lopez and Thomas Haughton to help offset their costs. Anyone wishing to donate to the fund can do so at www.gofundme. com/southfltrainingctr or by visit-

ing www.posttimewithmikeandmike.com. “The early outpouring of concern from so many people this morning is tremendous,” Stathis said. “I am financially fine, but hope that everyone could support this fundraising for Roman and Tommy. They have lost everything.”

will be a learning experience for her. She’s smart, and I think as she grows and learns what our role in government is, and what we’re trying to do here in the village, we will move forward with that.” Pinto said he looks forward to continuing the work on ongoing projects, including plans for a senior living facility, explaining that requests for proposals were scheduled for review this week. “We’ll see what we get, and we’ll go from there,” he said. “We’ll see what the proposals look like.” With the village nearing build-

out, Pinto said he looks forward to working with developers of the recently annexed former Acme Ranches property south of Southern Blvd. “They wanted to be part of the village, and they are looking at some projects in developing that area,” he said. “I don’t know how many years that will take, but one of the things is where the light is at 103rd Street there will be a new, nice bridge built there to give access to that area back there.” As the results came in Tuesday, Hmara thanked everyone for all of their hard work.

“I can’t tell you how pleased I am with the cooperation and effort that everybody put in,” he said. “I’d like to think we are not done yet with that aspect of it, but I will tell you as a bipartisan, we work together to make something happen. The only way we’re going to do it is keep doing what we did in preparation for this election. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with you all.” Hmara said that the future will bring great things to Royal Palm Beach. “We’re headed in a positive direction, and I’m looking forward to

more of that collaboration, more of that friendship and getting to know every one of you even better than I did in this campaign,” he said. Valuntas said that the lesson he learned was that it was not to his advantage not having a clear party affiliation in an election held during a presidential primary. “If you don’t have a party, you don’t have much of a chance, and I was the only one in the election without a party,” he said. “I think that’s why I ended up on the short end of the stick.” Valuntas said that he will continue to be active in the community.

“I may be done for now, but I’m not done,” he said. Valuntas said that he might consider applying for the council’s now-vacant Seat 4, left open by Pinto’s promotion to mayor. Pinto said that he has heard the suggestion of appointing Valuntas to Seat 4, but stressed that the council will follow the procedure that has been set up. Any Royal Palm Beach resident interested in being appointed to the vacant seat must get an application in by Friday, March 25. Applications can be found at www.royalpalmbeach.com.

Fred Pinto takes the call from Royal Palm Beach Village Clerk Diane DiSanto declaring him the new mayor.

Dawn Loucas, Gus Samios, Selena and Marya Smith, and Athena and Paul Loucas wait for returns to come in. BARRY S. MANNING DAWN RIVERA JOSHUA I. MANNING Executive Editor Publisher General Manager

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TOWN-CRIER Your Community Newspaper Serving The Palms West Communities For 36 Years Published Weekly By Newspaper Publishers, Inc. The Original Wellington Mall

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

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Jeff Hmara (right) celebrates with grandaughters Amanda, Ashley and Amber Bastin, wife Carolyn Hmara and daughter Sharon Bastin. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414-4758. Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Town-Crier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414-4758. Founded In 1980 By Bob Markey Sr. Copyright 2016, Newspaper Publishers Inc. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising.

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March 18 - March 24, 2016

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NEWS

GALA AT IPC BENEFITS GRANDMA’S PLACE AT ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH An Evening of Great Expectations benefiting Grandma’s Place and St. David-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church outreach programs was held Friday, March 11 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. There were silent and live auctions. A DJ from Parisi Events kept the music coming as guests danced the night away. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Father Steven and Erin Thomas; Zoe Bailey; Jory, Bradley, Lucy and Brett Everhardt; and Candy Thomas.

Jill Elisofom and Michele Poole.

Rohan and Yvonne Wolliston.

Diana Firestone, Tal and Carolyn Tribble, Bert Firestone and Kathy Moore.

Grandma’s Place Treasurer Michele Poole, auctioneer Neil Saffer, WPBF Channel 25 News Anchor Tiffany Kenney and Grandma’s Place Executive Director Roxanne Jacobs.

Jim Verocchi, Carol Chapuis, Dr. Jeffrey and Charlene Bishop, and Andrea Enterlein.

Irene Oknewski makes a silent auction bid.

Sue and Mike Riddle.

SONS OF ITALY CELEBRATE FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH AT RPB CULTURAL CENTER

Sons of Italy Michelangelo Lodge #2864 celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph with an Italian supper on Monday, March 14 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. A short meeting was held and plans for future fundraising events were discussed. New members were welcome. The Sons of Italy meet the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. On April 11 there will be a pizza party at 6:30 p.m. to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Admission is $12 a person and includes pizza, beverage and dessert. RSVP by April 5 to Pat Divivo at (561) 249-1298 or Sam Pittaro at (561) 412-8684. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Sam Pittaro, Frank Melillo and Pat Devivo serve dinner.

Sons of Italy board members Louis Lanfilis, Sam Pittaro, Pat Devivo, Mike Cacioppo, and Louise and Frank Melillo.

LOXAHATCHEE GROVES WATER CONTROL DISTRICT NOTIFICATION OF JUNE 27, 2016 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ELECTION Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District (District) announces two seats on the District’s Board of Supervisors are up for election on June 27, 2016 and results will be announced at the Annual Landowners Meeting scheduled for 7:30 pm on June 27, 2016. Interested candidates must file a NOTIFICATION OF CANDIDACY form which can be obtained at the District office located at 101 West “D” Road, Loxahatchee, Florida or printed from the District’s web site at lgwcd.org. To qualify for the June 27, 2016 District election, interested candidates must complete the NOTIFICATION OF CANDIDACY form and submit on or before March 29, 2016 to Susan Bucher, Supervisor of Elections, Palm Beach County, Florida, Post Office Box 22309, West Palm Beach, Florida, 33416. District landowners can obtain a VOTING PROXY form at the District office or on the District’s web site at lgwcd.org.

Nick and Sue Marino.

New member Christopher Santoro with Pat Devivo.


Page 6

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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NEWS BRIEFS PBSO Seeks Info On Fatal HitAnd-Run In RPB

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is looking for information regarding a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred Friday, Feb. 26 on Heron Parkway in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, victim Sonia Belalcazar, 66, was walking her dogs when she was struck by a vehicle at approximately 7:28 p.m. The vehicle then fled the scene. Belalcazar was transported to Palms West Hospital, where she died from her injuries a short time later. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Investigator Troy Snelgrove with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Vehicle Homicide Unit at (561) 681-4536.

Knights Of Columbus Golf Tourney April 2

The Knights of Columbus of Our Lady Queen of the Apostles

Council #12376 will hold its 17th annual golf tournament at the Village Golf Club (122 Country Club Drive, Royal Palm Beach) on Saturday, April 2. The cost to play is $90 per person, which also includes dinner and a goody bag. Trophies will be awarded. The event is open to everyone. Reserve your spot by calling Jim Bezick at (561) 512-5235.

New Meeting Place For RPB’s Covenant Church

After serving the community for more than 53 years at its location at 660 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Royal Palm Covenant Church is relocating. Beginning on Sunday, March 20, morning worship services will be held at the Regal Cinemas (1003 State Road 7, Royal Palm Beach). Sunday School will begin at 9 a.m. with the worship service at 10 a.m. The Royal Palm Covenant Church Food Pantry has been relocated to 650 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Suite 9, in the Royal Plaza. Food distribution will remain on

Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more info., call (561) 7931077.

Wellington Conducting Golf Cart Use Survey

The Village of Wellington invites residents to participate in an online survey in an effort to gain insight and a better understanding of how often and in what capacity residents are using golf carts in the community. Survey information will be used to provide recommendations regarding potential improvements that might accommodate lowspeed vehicle usage around the village. All responses to the survey are anonymous. Take a few minutes to complete the survey online on www.wellingtonfl.gov or at https:// golfcart.surveyanalytics.com.

Ag Camp At Fairgrounds

The South Florida Fair will again offer its popular “ag-ucation” camp program for youth ages

8 to 12. The spring program will take place March 21-25, while the summer program will take place June 13-17. During the five-day program, children will learn about the different aspects of South Florida’s agricultural community. Working with farm animals, harvesting a garden, learning about grooming and animal care, farm field trips and a visit to a dairy are just a few of the activities. The cost is $175 per child for the weeklong program. It includes a daily morning and afternoon snack, bus transportation to field trips and all materials needed to facilitate the learning experience. Participants will report to the South Florida Fairgrounds each morning at 8 a.m. and be picked up no later than 5 p.m. Space in the program is limited. For more info., call (561) 790-5229.

Mimosas & Mallets Brunch At IPC April 3

The third annual Mimosas & Mallets brunch, a benefit for the Hospice of Palm Beach County

Foundation and Hospice by the Sea Foundation, will take place Sunday, April 3, at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. The event begins at 12:45 p.m. with a champagne brunch served field-side at the exclusive, members-only Mallet Grille Patio. Guests will then take their seats for the opening match of the 112th U.S. Open Championship. The champagne divot stomp at halftime and the trophy presentation at the end of the match will complete the experience. “We’re thankful for the continued support of the polo community and Palm Beach Illustrated for making this event a success,” said Greg Leach, president of the Hospice of Palm Beach County Foundation and Hospice by the Sea Foundation. “Attendees can enjoy a great day of championship polo and know that they are helping to fund much-needed services for hospice patients and their family members.” The foundations are the philanthropic arms of Hospice of Palm Beach County and Hospice by the Sea organizations. Tickets are $150 per person and can be pur-

chased by calling (561) 494-6888 or by visiting www.hpbcf.org.

Vote For Gene Nardi In Football Photo Contest

Gene Nardi, the Town-Crier’s sports writer and photographer, has made it into the final round of the Friday Night Football Magazine Florida Photographer of the Year 2016 contest. The magazine is going to feature a high school football photographer and is letting fans choose who will be featured. Photographers from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas submitted entries, and fans are being asked to choose their favorite from the finalists. Voting is now open, and will run through April 15. Nardi, who has long been covering sports in the western communities, is being honored for a photograph of Wellington High School receiver Ahmmon Richards leaping for a touchdown catch against William T. Dwyer High School. Visit www. fnfmagazine.com/poty/fl-poty to vote for Nardi’s photo.

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NEWS

Wellington Staff Fields Questions From Equestrian Committee By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington Equestrian Preserve Committee discussed a number of projects last week at members’ request, as well as how items get on the agenda and when meetings are called. At the March 9 meeting, Growth Management Director Robert Basehart said agenda items come from a number of sources, including from private developers if there is an application ready to go forward. Meetings are quarterly, or more often if deemed necessary by the committee or village officials. “If development activity is strong and applications are submitted every month and they’re… ready to move forward on a monthly basis, then you would have a monthly meeting,” he said. He said that the committee will also meet as quickly as possible if

Pi Day

Raising Money For LLS

continued from page 1 gave students a chance to go after Principal Gail Pasterczyk. Last year, the school raised about $3,000 at Pi Day. This year, almost $5,000 was raised. Almost half of the school’s students participated this year, up from 30 percent last year. “I think the kids who didn’t do it last year and got to see everyone else having fun made sure that they were a part of it this year,” Martinez said. Phillips’ daughter attends the school and created her own personal fundraising web site. For Pi Day, he said, she couldn’t decide which teacher to hit with a pie. Eventually, she chose her dad, who was a good sport about getting messy.

there is an item it needs to review. Vice Chair Michael Whitlow, who was presiding, said he was surprised when their last quarterly meeting was canceled because there were no agenda items. He asked whether members of the committee can call a meeting if they have items they want discussed. Basehart said they can. “There are a number of issues we all have,” Whitlow said. Basehart added that the committee cannot meet without an agenda. “It’s a public meeting, and the meeting has to be noticed,” he said. The next scheduled meeting is in three months, although an application has been made to amend the bed and breakfast code, which could require meeting sooner. Wellington Projects Manager Mike O’Dell said he had nothing to offer immediately, although some projects are currently at staff level.

Committee Member Houston Meigs said that he thought the panel’s role is changing. “The old issue of development has matured and there’s less of it,” he said. “Some of these other sort of operational things that we’ve talked about and planned about deserve a regular update because they will probably be more important to what this committee looks at and tries to influence.” Meigs said items should have cycles of review — more than at the recommendation of approval level. Basehart pointed out that O’Dell had brought several projects before the committee two or three times as work progressed, made presentations and requested input. “We’ll continue to do that,” Basehart said. Committee Member Richard Ellis asked why large projects such as the master plan are not brought to the committee on a more regu-

“I don’t think that they enjoy too many other things as much as they look forward to Pi Day,” Pasterczyk said. “I love to see the smiles on their faces that this brings, and the laughter. There’s just nothing like it.” The parents have been supportive of the school and its endeavors. “We just finished our big school PTO fundraiser, and to be able to bring in this much money right after a huge fundraiser is phenomenal,” Pasterczyk said. Stacy Hewitt, campaign manager for school and youth programs at the local LLS chapter, is thrilled with the hard work that everyone at the school has contributed to help fight cancer. “It’s really great because the school has been affected twice by students with blood cancer. One student passed away many years ago, and they have a survivor, Andrew, who is in first grade,” Hewitt said. “The kids are raising awareness, they are showing support for friends, and there are students who

have parents and grandparents who have been affected. So, it’s a really great way for them to show compassion toward others.” The school, she said, was the top fundraising school in Florida last year, and the goal is to do that again. When the school reaches its goal, it will be connected with an LLS-funded research portfolio, where the school will be given a plaque and updates as researchers work to find cures to help survivors. “It’s kind of like the research is in their honor,” Hewitt said. To facilitate the fundraising efforts, the school will also be holding chess tournaments, a parent date night, and, during spring break, many students are doing community service projects and their own fundraisers. The school’s top student fundraiser is fifth-grader Jaidyn Brody. With a personal cumulative goal of raising $15,000, Brody has raised about $4,000 this school year alone, bringing her total to approximately $9,000.

lar basis, and O’Dell said that the master plan is currently at a staff review level. “There are plenty of things that we are working on,” O’Dell said. “If you have specific items on those subjects that we’ve been talking about and want to bring them forward, such as our meeting tonight, we can put together a meeting and we’ll talk about it.” Giving a bridle trail update, O’Dell said that it has been adopted into the village’s comp plan, but there are still sections of the plan, including the Pierson Road trail, that are both public and private. “Our discussions with the private sector have stopped,” he said, although the village has raised some private sections with fill that were heavily damaged by rain. O’Dell added that the village is also trying to widen portions of the Pierson Road trail, although

they are hampered by limited right of way. He added that the village has received a $400,000 grant to build a crossing to connect two trails that stop at the C-15 Canal, as well as a culvert crossing at the C-10 Canal. O’Dell said golf carts can now be made street-legal in the Equestrian Preserve Area, which will likely reduce their traffic on the bridle trails. “We continue to struggle with the use of golf carts on the bridle trails,” he said. “What we are looking at is creating a multi-use pathway system, at least in the Equestrian Preserve Area.” Meigs said it is hard to imagine where a multi-use path would go, given the limited easement in many areas. O’Dell said that it would require a commitment by landowners to allow more right of way. “We can put the plans togeth-

Assistant Principal Chad Phillips, guidance counselor Nicole Martinez, Principal Gail Pasterczyk and Stacy Hewitt of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with leukemia survivor Andrew Dawson.

PHOTO BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

The top fundraising students will have the opportunity to celebrate at Olive Garden, Hewitt said, noting that the Wellington Olive Garden lost a staff member

to cancer a few years ago. To donate to LLS on behalf of Elbridge Gale Elementary School, visit www.studentseries.org/pb and search for Elbridge Gale.

er and move all of these things forward, but if we do not get the cooperation of these communities to back these kinds of things, then it won’t go anywhere,” he said. Whitlow asked about the status of turn lanes planned for 40th Street South and 120th Avenue South, and O’Dell said that the developer responsible for 40th Street plans to start work after the season is over. Basehart said the conditions of approval require that they finish the work by October, and the project is out to bid now. A bid has been accepted on the Saddle Trail paving project, which is scheduled to start May 15, O’Dell said. “The project is estimated at $4.8 million, including the installation of water mains, which is substantially below the original estimate of $8 million,” he said, adding that it is expected to be finished by November. O’Dell said much information has been collected from the public on the master plan. “Some of the concerns include the economic development, or a strategy for that; a best management plan; lot sizes; traffic performance standards; the widening of Lake Worth Road; an equestrian overpass, which we have talked about on a number of occasions; and the ag classification and its exemptions,” he said. “Those things are continuing to move, and researching all those things that we have heard from the public.” Several members expressed concerns about the widening of Lake Worth Road and the potential completion of paving on Flying Cow Road, which they felt would provide a cut-through for anticipated traffic from developments planned west of the village. O’Dell said that Wellington staff has considered that potential and will be taking steps to make State Road 80/Southern Blvd. the preferred alternative.

WHS STUDENTS RAISE MORE THAN $42,000 AT DANCE MARATHON BENEFIT

Wellington High School held its Dance Marathon event on Friday, March 11 to raise money for the University of Florida’s Dance Marathon program that helps sick children at Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville. Wellington students surpassed their original fundraising goal of $25,000 and raised $42,223.52. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Colorful characters Max Lopez, Isa Torregrosa, Jeff Hollister, Brendan Boudreau, Britton Walker and Jose Acuna.

Organizers Melissa Varvarigos, Jake Anders, Brendan Boudreau, Principal Mario Crocetti and Sam Weingart.

Diego Vallecillo, Renee Bram and Nicole Kraemer.

Nnandi Jean-Francois, Sierra Vitale and Sierra Reyes.

For video game hour, Kayla Anschuetz, Katie Wallace and Megan Blum dressed up as Princess Peach.

Jabir Chowdhury, Linda Dill, Kayla Munsterteiger and Savannah Arrieta.

Student Government Association members at Dance Marathon.


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March 18 - March 24, 2016

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NEWS

WELLINGTON’S TEMPLE B’NAI JACOB CELEBRATES JEWISH HOLIDAY OF PURIM Temple B’nai Jacob of Wellington held a Purim Carnival on Sunday, March 13. The event featured school children in a presentation of “Little Shop of Torahs,” led by Cantor Sharon Leibovici. After the play, children enjoyed an afternoon of games and crafts. Temple B’nai Jacob of Wellington is located at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 6, in the original Wellington Mall. For more information, visit www.templebnaijacob.com. PHOTOS BY JOSHUA MANNING/TOWN-CRIER

Religious school students during “Little Shop of Torahs.”

Andrea Cohan thanks Cantor Sharon Leibovici.

Jasper Hu-Manning sings his part during the show.

Ben, Rachel and Emily Chalker with dad Steve at the craft table.

Alan Cohan and Morry Silverman.

Temple choir members (front row) Lenore Glickman, Dolly Morrissey and Helene Schilian; and (back row) Barbara Marcus, Holly Grossman and Roz Jacobs.

Ken DeLisi as the narrator.

Michael and Zoe Bruck.

SPRING MUSIC JAM AT SOUTH FLORIDA FAIRGROUNDS’ YESTERYEAR VILLAGE

Yesteryear Village at the South Florida Fairgrounds held its Spring Music Jam from Friday, March 11 through Sunday, March 13. The event celebrated country, bluegrass and Southern rock music. The lineup included award-winning country singer/songwriter John Anderson, southern rockers Georgia Satellites and the popular Leroy Van Dyke Country Gold Tour with Leroy Van Dyke, T. Graham Brown and T.G. Sheppard. The event also featured vendors, old-fashioned games for kids, food and beverages.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Bruce and Mary Tobiassen, Hank and Roseann Clements, and Maryanne and Mike Sharp.

T. Graham Brown sings for the crowd.

Singers Kelly Lang and T.G. Shepherd sign autographs.

Steve Barnard with Desmond Gonzalez on a 1924 American LaFrance fire truck.

Gina Sauber of the Corbett House talks about alligator scutes.


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March 18 - March 24, 2016

Page 9

NEWS

LOCAL CHILDREN ENJOY EASTER EGG HUNT AT COMMUNITY OF HOPE CHURCH Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves held its annual egg hunt Saturday, March 12 with popcorn, sno-cones, an inflatable slide, an obstacle course, a petting zoo, carnival games and separate egg hunts for various ages. For more info., visit www. communityofhope.church. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Brendan, Elise, Carson, Trent and Ashley Rubenstein.

Angie Rinehart and Flora Lopez look over eggs.

Jayden Paneto enjoys the egg hunt.

Jericho Rios plays with the bunnies.

Jill West puts a temporary tattoo on Victoria Gomez.

William and Breann Arthur with their egg collections.

Kids enjoy the egg hunt.

LOCAL BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP CELEBRATES ITS 16TH BIRTHDAY

Your Bosom Buddies II celebrated its 16th birthday Thursday, March 10 at Palms West Hospital. The monthly breast cancer support group meets the second Thursday of every month from 7 to 9 p.m. The group began in 2000 with nine people and has grown to approximately 500. For more information, visit www.yourbosombuddies2.org. PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Board members Marie Phillips, Pat Linton, Linda Ireland, Linda Burrowes, Tee Franzoso, Lorna Johnson, Abbe Felton and Donna Gray.

Dr. Kathleen Minnick and Linda Ireland with items donated to Your Bosom Buddies II for patients.

Tee Franzoso and Linda Burrowes

Members of Your Bosom Buddies II celebrate the group’s milestone.


Page 10 March 18 - March 24, 2016

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DAVE SWIFT & MARTHA WEBSTER’S CONTINUOUS DISTORTION OF FACTS AND FALSE STATEMENTS

March 18 - March 24, 2016 Page 11

100% FALSE STATEMENTS

(I)

Martha Webster and her blind associates have repeatedly stated that “Jess Santamaria, as a County Commissioner, voted to deny/oppose a RaceTrac application at the NW corner of Lantana Road and Haverhill Road – this Martha Webster statement is another 100% false statement! The truth is that Jess Santamaria, as County Commissioner, on August 22, 2013 voted to approve this RaceTrac application (also required earlier rezoning from “residential” to “community commercial”) together with four other County Commissioners, resulting in “5 yes votes” and “one no vote”, (with Shelly Vana absent). I will be providing Webster and Swift and the Town-Crier, copies of the official resolution approving the zoning application, identifying how each commissioner voted, properly signed by the office of Sharon R. Bock, Clerk & Controller. When anyone makes a serious accusation, that person should provide valid verifiable proof! Based on past similar accusations, Martha Webster often makes wild false statements, expecting that most readers will accept her word without verifying. Most readers of newspapers don’t have the time or the interest to verify the truth or falsehood! That’s how Martha gets away with her false statements!

(IV) In Dave Swift’s Town-Crier Letter to the Editor, Swift claims that Royal Palm Beach won the Saratoga lawsuit, wherein then Mayor Masilotti, together with Swift and other Council members voted to allow 300 zero lot line homes be built on the projected golf course in the original approved Master Plan of the Saratoga Development. (a) Royal Professional Builders, who filed the lawsuit was paid $450,000 by the developer of Madison Green, who also agreed to void the unanimous Council that is approval of the 300 homes on the golf course land, and then build the beautiful Madison Green Golf Course now in existence; (b) How is it possible that the one who filed the lawsuit (Plaintiff) to keep the golf course and prevent Royal Palm Beach’s approval to allow the developer (both defendants) building 300 homes on the golf course land lose the lawsuit? Royal Professional Builders was the one who received $450,000 from the defendant! (c) The 300 homes (approved by Masilotti, Swift, etc.) were built! (d) The beautiful golf course now exists

(II) Dave Swift in his Town-Crier “Letter to the Editor” dated January 29-February 4, 2016 described Jess Santamaria as “… the largest landowner in town”, which again is 100% false! Santamaria and partners have total combined land holdings of 34 acres with 200,000 square feet of commercial buildings. There are many commercial developments that are much larger – the ALDI Center alone has over 70 acres and 635,000 square feet of buildings. All of Santamaria’s commercial buildings (200,000 square feet) could easily fit inside the 227,000 square feet of the Super WalMart! Royal Palm Beach has over 1,300 acres of commercial/industrial zoned land with over 3 million square feet of buildings. (Data from Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning). Shame on you Dave Swift, after 29 years on the Village Council you are one thousand percent (1,000%) wrong! Optimistically, Jess Santamaria might be fortunate to have a fraction of 1% of the commercial buildings in Royal Palm Beach! During the over 40 years of Jess Santamaria’s business involvement in Palm Beach County and Royal Palm Beach, Jess has always complied with 100% of government laws and ordinances, and not once has he asked or needed a single concession from State, County or Municipal governments!

(V) Martha Webster and Dave Swift claim that insisting on the 12 gasoline pumps (instead of the 20 pumps in the RaceTrac application) was also a legal motion and good for the community.

Some mediocre individuals, who have not accomplished much during their lifetime, attempt to elevate themselves by putting down a high profile successful person. This appears to be what Martha Webster and Dave Swift are doing

The problem is that the application was for 20 pumps, (not 12 pumps). Because RaceTrac is known for low prices, more cars buy gasoline at RaceTrac stations, thus if there are only 12 pumps, the cars queueing will be much longer, perhaps 8 to 9 cars deep. Not good for the customers and the increased line of cars on both Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Southern Blvd.

(III) Martha Webster, Swift and their blind followers have repeatedly attempted to make the Palm Beach Post and the public think that majority of Village residents were opposed to RaceTrac with the 60 persons wearing white T-shirts with “no” during the first public Council meeting at Village Hall. Because “pictures are worth a thousand words”, the pictures below is proof that the majority of the 60 persona with white “No” shirts were employees and owners of the competing gas stations and convenient stores in the surrounding area, who do not want the competition of the low gasoline prices of RaceTrac. Sorry Webster and Swift – you will not be able to deceive our Village residents – over 1,000 true Village residents signed a petition supporting RaceTrac, an overwhelming support for the RaceTrac gasoline station!

How Many Are Owners & Employees of Competing Gas Stations & Convenience Stores?

(e) Swift now says that the plaintiff/Royal Professional Builders lost the lawsuit?! That is Swift logic - another example of Swift’s distortion of facts!

(a) If 12 pumps are legal and good, why not ask for 10 pumps? (b) How about 6 pumps? (c) 2 pumps?

With 20 pumps, cars loading gas will move in and out much faster – the customers are happier and less cars are lined up on the main road. From the outside, there is no difference in appearance, whether there are 12 or 20 pumps; the size of the convenience store building is the same. The public benefits from the lower prices. RaceTrac provided “competent expert testimony” in every area required. Dave Swift and Martha Webster presented volumes of personal “opinions” and zero “competent expert testimony” as required by County and Village rules. (VI) Martha has been walking door to door alarming homeowners, saying “RaceTrac will drastically reduce your home value”. The most reputable professional appraiser for the past 40 years “Callaway & Price”, after a thorough research of comparable gas stations concluded that “there would be no adverse effect on homes values in Royal Palm Beach”. What is Martha Webster’s professional training and experience in appraising homes? Zero experience! another 100% false statement.

Dave Swift, Flip-Flopper? When Martha Webster campaigned against Tinu Peña for the Village Council in 2008, David Swift endorsed Tinu Peña, a newcomer and first time candidate, because he did not like Martha’s divisiveness even then. In the January 28 – February 4, 2016 Town-Crier, David Swift “endorsed Martha Webster for Royal Palm Beach Mayor”, stating “what I have learned is that we both share the same concerns…” Let’s see what Dave Swift “in his own words” has said of Martha when he campaigned against her: (a) Palm Beach Post (December 10, 2012) Martha Webster is “divisive” and “difficult to work with”. …she wants to be the center of controversy.” (b) In Dave Swift’s handout during his campaign, he writes: “Martha Webster actually voted to allow commercial development on the water treatment plant property … a plan that would threaten the $35 Million deal with Lennar Homes” (Town-Crier Candidate Forum 2/17/15). (c) “Martha Webster attempted to weaken the Office of Inspector General, making it harder for the IG to investigate local government.” (Sun Sentinel, February 24, 2011) (d) “Martha Webster has failed to bring people together to solve problems and has repeatedly filed unnecessary ethic charges against her fellow Council/persons.” (Palm Beach Post, January 18, 2011).

Will we ever trust Martha Webster & Dave Swift to tell the Truth after all their past false statements and blatant distortion of facts?! - Sponsored by Jess Santamaria -


Page 10 March 18 - March 24, 2016

(I)

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DAVE SWIFT & MARTHA WEBSTER’S CONTINUOUS DISTORTION OF FACTS AND FALSE STATEMENTS

March 18 - March 24, 2016 Page 11

100% FALSE STATEMENTS

Martha Webster and her blind associates have repeatedly stated that “Jess Santamaria, as a County Commissioner, voted to deny/oppose a RaceTrac application at the NW corner of Lantana Road and Haverhill Road – this Martha Webster statement is another 100% false statement! The truth is that Jess Santamaria, as County Commissioner, on August 22, 2013 voted to approve this RaceTrac application (also required earlier rezoning from “residential” to “community commercial”) together with four other County Commissioners, resulting in “5 yes votes” and “one no vote”, (with Shelly Vana absent). I will be providing Webster and Swift and the Town-Crier, copies of the official resolution approving the zoning application, identifying how each commissioner voted, properly signed by the office of Sharon R. Bock, Clerk & Controller. When anyone makes a serious accusation, that person should provide valid verifiable proof! Based on past similar accusations, Martha Webster often makes wild false statements, expecting that most readers will accept her word without verifying. Most readers of newspapers don’t have the time or the interest to verify the truth or falsehood! That’s how Martha gets away with her false statements!

(II) Dave Swift in his Town-Crier “Letter to the Editor” dated January 29-February 4, 2016 described Jess Santamaria as “… the largest landowner in town”, which again is 100% false! Santamaria and partners have total combined land holdings of 34 acres with 200,000 square feet of commercial buildings. There are many commercial developments that are much larger – the ALDI Center alone has over 70 acres and 635,000 square feet of buildings. All of Santamaria’s commercial buildings (200,000 square feet) could easily fit inside the 227,000 square feet of the Super WalMart! Royal Palm Beach has over 1,300 acres of commercial/industrial zoned land with over 3 million square feet of buildings. (Data from Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning). Shame on you Dave Swift, after 29 years on the Village Council you are one thousand percent (1,000%) wrong! Optimistically, Jess Santamaria might be fortunate to have a fraction of 1% of the commercial buildings in Royal Palm Beach! During the over 40 years of Jess Santamaria’s business involvement in Palm Beach County and Royal Palm Beach, Jess has always complied with 100% of government laws and ordinances, and not once has he asked or needed a single concession from State, County or Municipal governments! Some mediocre individuals, who have not accomplished much during their lifetime, attempt to elevate themselves by putting down a high profile successful person. This appears to be what Martha Webster and Dave Swift are doing (III) Martha Webster, Swift and their blind followers have repeatedly attempted to make the Palm Beach Post and the public think that majority of Village residents were opposed to RaceTrac with the 60 persons wearing white T-shirts with “no” during the first public Council meeting at Village Hall. Because “pictures are worth a thousand words”, the pictures below is proof that the majority of the 60 persona with white “No” shirts were employees and owners of the competing gas stations and convenient stores in the surrounding area, who do not want the competition of the low gasoline prices of RaceTrac. Sorry Webster and Swift – you will not be able to deceive our Village residents – over 1,000 true Village residents signed a petition supporting RaceTrac, an overwhelming support for the RaceTrac gasoline station!

How Many Are Owners & Employees of Competing Gas Stations & Convenience Stores?

(IV) In Dave Swift’s Town-Crier Letter to the Editor, Swift claims that Royal Palm Beach won the Saratoga lawsuit, wherein then Mayor Masilotti, together with Swift and other Council members voted to allow 300 zero lot line homes be built on the projected golf course in the original approved Master Plan of the Saratoga Development. (a) Royal Professional Builders, who filed the lawsuit was paid $450,000 by the developer of Madison Green, who also agreed to void the unanimous Council that is approval of the 300 homes on the golf course land, and then build the beautiful Madison Green Golf Course now in existence; (b) How is it possible that the one who filed the lawsuit (Plaintiff) to keep the golf course and prevent Royal Palm Beach’s approval to allow the developer (both defendants) building 300 homes on the golf course land lose the lawsuit? Royal Professional Builders was the one who received $450,000 from the defendant! (c) The 300 homes (approved by Masilotti, Swift, etc.) were built! (d) The beautiful golf course now exists (e) Swift now says that the plaintiff/Royal Professional Builders lost the lawsuit?! That is Swift logic - another example of Swift’s distortion of facts! (V) Martha Webster and Dave Swift claim that insisting on the 12 gasoline pumps (instead of the 20 pumps in the RaceTrac application) was also a legal motion and good for the community. (a) If 12 pumps are legal and good, why not ask for 10 pumps? (b) How about 6 pumps? (c) 2 pumps? The problem is that the application was for 20 pumps, (not 12 pumps). Because RaceTrac is known for low prices, more cars buy gasoline at RaceTrac stations, thus if there are only 12 pumps, the cars queueing will be much longer, perhaps 8 to 9 cars deep. Not good for the customers and the increased line of cars on both Royal Palm Beach Blvd. and Southern Blvd. With 20 pumps, cars loading gas will move in and out much faster – the customers are happier and less cars are lined up on the main road. From the outside, there is no difference in appearance, whether there are 12 or 20 pumps; the size of the convenience store building is the same. The public benefits from the lower prices. RaceTrac provided “competent expert testimony” in every area required. Dave Swift and Martha Webster presented volumes of personal “opinions” and zero “competent expert testimony” as required by County and Village rules. (VI) Martha has been walking door to door alarming homeowners, saying “RaceTrac will drastically reduce your home value”. The most reputable professional appraiser for the past 40 years “Callaway & Price”, after a thorough research of comparable gas stations concluded that “there would be no adverse effect on homes values in Royal Palm Beach”. What is Martha Webster’s professional training and experience in appraising homes? Zero experience! another 100% false statement.

Dave Swift, Flip-Flopper? When Martha Webster campaigned against Tinu Peña for the Village Council in 2008, David Swift endorsed Tinu Peña, a newcomer and first time candidate, because he did not like Martha’s divisiveness even then. In the January 28 – February 4, 2016 Town-Crier, David Swift “endorsed Martha Webster for Royal Palm Beach Mayor”, stating “what I have learned is that we both share the same concerns…” Let’s see what Dave Swift “in his own words” has said of Martha when he campaigned against her: (a) Palm Beach Post (December 10, 2012) Martha Webster is “divisive” and “difficult to work with”. …she wants to be the center of controversy.” (b) In Dave Swift’s handout during his campaign, he writes: “Martha Webster actually voted to allow commercial development on the water treatment plant property … a plan that would threaten the $35 Million deal with Lennar Homes” (Town-Crier Candidate Forum 2/17/15). (c) “Martha Webster attempted to weaken the Office of Inspector General, making it harder for the IG to investigate local government.” (Sun Sentinel, February 24, 2011) (d) “Martha Webster has failed to bring people together to solve problems and has repeatedly filed unnecessary ethic charges against her fellow Council/persons.” (Palm Beach Post, January 18, 2011).

Will we ever trust Martha Webster & Dave Swift to tell the Truth after all their past false statements and blatant distortion of facts?! - Sponsored by Jess Santamaria -


Page 12

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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Winter Equestrian Festival at the PALM BEACH INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN CENTER World-Class Show Jumping & Entertainment for the Whole Family! Main Grounds at PBIEC • 3400 Equestrian Club Drive Wellington, FL 33414 www.pbiec.com (561) 793-JUMP Premier Seating call (561) 784-1120

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PALMS WEST PEOPLE

March 18 - March 24, 2016

Page 13

Michael Ferreira Returns As Chairman For Wellington Chamber’s Flavors 2016 Participants in the 13th annual Ocean to Lake hiking event.

Hikers Backpack Ocean To Lake At Annual Event

The 13th annual Lake to Ocean Backpacking Trip took place in over Valentine’s Day weekend in February. Couples, spouses and significant others crossed all or part of the Ocean To Lake Hiking Trail (OTLHT) and 13 made it through six days and 63 miles. El Niño made it a wet and tough march, but, as Lorraine Thomas told the support crew, “I loved every step of it.” Water could be thigh deep as they trekked to the next camp site. They set out from the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) trailhead, through the DuPuis and Corbett wildlife management areas, beside Riverside Park and through Jonathan Dickinson State Park. It ended at Hobe Sound Beach. Joining leader Fred Davis and the end “sweeps” Jeff Andrews, Ryan Lusk, and Rick Byrnes were Jean Pierre Arnud, Bill Detzner, Pat Given, Charles Noe,

Mary McKinley, Beth Tobin, Judy Steinbicer, John Luka and George Mudge. Those who did part of the trail during the hike were Wayne Vassello, Cassandra Cooper, Doug Dodd, Bill Herr, Hannah Campbell, Alec Hutchinson, Pam Pinder, Alana Hoffman, Stacey Figueroa and Walter Keller. Congratulations to all for taking the challenge. Appreciation for support goes to Scott Lunsford for his shuttle drivers and Roy Moore for blazing marks around Cypress Creek. Also to the South Florida Water Management District’s Bijaya Kattel, Dan Cotter and Ken Quigley for the pitcher pump at loop 4 with permission to camp the C-18 canal, the Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Dave Sweetay for help completing trail maintenance and a water drop at Little Gopher. Finally, to Janice Kerber for a dry morning at the youth camp.

Area UPS Drivers Named To Circle Of Honor Three local UPS drivers were inducted recently into UPS’s Circle of Honor for achieving 25 years of accident-free driving. Joseph Schuatz of Loxahatchee, Fitzgerald Foster of Royal Palm Beach and Larry Graves of Wellington, along with 87 other drivers from Florida, are among 1,613 newly inducted into the company’s honorary organization. Globally, 8,703 active UPS drivers are members of the Circle of Honor. Collectively they’ve racked up more than 245,000 years and more than 5.3 billion safe miles during their careers. That’s enough miles to travel to

Mars and back 19 times. Florida boasts 499 active Circle of Honor drivers with a combined 14,081 years of accident-free driving. Ginny Odom of Orlando is the state’s senior-most safe driver, with 41 years of accident-free driving under her belt. There are 5,385 total UPS drivers in Florida. “My thanks go to all of them for their dedication and focus, and for the countless lives they’ve saved,” said David Ruiz, president of the UPS Florida District. “Their attention to detail has kept them safe and has helped improve public safety.”

With a vast background of producing food and wine events throughout South Florida for the digital media world, Mike Ferreira will once again chair the Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s Flavors 2016 Food & Wine Festival at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Friday, April 8. Ferreira is the creator and executive producer of ChukkerTV. com, which live streams polo coverage worldwide, and has been on the food scene for years with his company Phase 7 Digital Media Network, which has covered most of South Florida’s food scene. His video series On Location covered restaurants and chefs serving up some of the most delicious food around, including the 2013 Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival with the Food Network’s top chefs, SOBE Seafood Fest 2013, the Miami Burger Cook-off and the Boca Food & Wine Festival. Now in its 13th year, Flavors is

a signature event of the Wellington Chamber, as well as the premier food and wine tasting event in western Palm Beach County. “I’m excited to be part of Flavors for its 13th year and having the opportunity to contribute toward its growth,” Ferreira said. “Getting to experience food and wine events all over the country, it’s a treat having Flavors in our back yard.” Ferreira has been featured in the Palm Beach Post and Wellington The Magazine, in addition to several technology, software and digital media journals and web sites. In January 2014, the entrepreneur founded Chukker.TV, which has become a leader in polo broadcasting. The independent media company produces content for the Internet and television, operates instant replay and develops stateof-the art technology. In addition, Ferreira implemented a system where umpires can hold an iPad device and watch the

Michael Ferreira of Chukker.TV will chair this year’s Flavors 2016 Food & Wine Festival on April 8. game in real-time and ask to return 2016-17 Wellington Chamber of to any part of the game without in- Commerce board member. Visit www.wellingtonchamber. terrupting any on-going challenges com to learn more about Flavors or live broadcasts. Ferreira is also an incoming 2016.

‘First Lady’ Janne Rumbough Saluted With Global Dressage Visionary Award “Wellington’s First Lady of Dressage” Janne Rumbough was recently honored for her continued dedication to dressage as a rider, owner and longtime supporter of the sport. Carol Cohen, an Engel & Völkers real estate advisor, honored Rumbough with the Global Dressage Visionary Award. “I am so proud to give Janne this award,” Cohen said. “My daughter and I came to Wellington in 1998, and we both vividly remember Janne helping us figure out what we needed to get started in the sport of dressage.” Rumbough, originally from Denmark, has been a staple in the local dressage community since long before it could have been considered a dressage community. “I have always loved to ride dressage, so when I first came here to Palm Beach, I immediately looked for horses in the area,” she said. “In the early 1970s, the only riding available was at the Delray Country Club with Colleen Blunt, so I went there.” After a few years passed, Rumbough was able to move her horses

back to Palm Beach County and help organize the first dressage show ever held in Wellington. “We had to pay a Prix St. George rider to come down from New York because there simply wasn’t anyone here,” Rumbough said. “So to look at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival now and see all the people coming here from all over the world is really special.” The Global Dressage Visionary Award was established by Cohen to recognize dressage enthusiasts who have put an incredible amount of effort into the growth and promotion of dressage, especially in Wellington. This award distinguishes people who have followed through on their unique vision to make their beloved sport prominent in the world. Rumbough is widely acknowledged for not only being a Grand Prix level rider herself, but also for owning top-level horses competed by other dressage professionals. “I am so honored to receive the Global Dressage Visionary Award, and I would really like to dedicate this award to all the people who

Carol Cohen presents Janne Rumbough with the Global Dressage Visionary Award. have been involved with dressage Dressage Festival to help young in Wellington,” Rumbough said. riders get experience in the main Cohen is a sponsor of the 2016 arena. Adequan Global Dressage Festival The Grand Finale Leadline and presents the Global Dressage Exhibition will be held March 18 Visionary Award to recipients like at 5 p.m. before the Grand Prix Rumbough. She has also been Freestyle class. To enter your instrumental in forming a leadline child in the event, contact Cohen class at the 2016 Adequan Global at cfcohen55@gmail.com.


Page 14

March 18 - March 24, 2016

WELLINGTON EL VISITS THE PALM BEACH ZOO

On Friday, Feb. 26, the Wellington Elementary School kindergarten students took a trip to the Palm Beach Zoo. It was a fun and educational experience. The children loved exploring the different animals that they had learned about in class. The kindergarten teachers and students got to enjoy the 23 acres of lush, tropical habitat with more than 700 animals. Shown above is Stephanie Morrison’s kindergarten class.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Hawk Battalion Holds Annual Military Ball The Seminole Ridge JROTC Hawk Battalion held its annual Military Ball on Feb. 12 at the Binks Forest Golf Club. This year’s guest speaker was United States Deputy Surgeon General Rear Admiral Sylvia Trent-Adams. Everyone was excited to be there to meet her and to listen to her address the cadets. Each one of the JROTC seniors entered under a saber arch, and senior officer Alyssa Laux announced what each has planned after their graduation. The JROTC color guard posted the colors to begin the ball, and after Trent-Adams gave her address, retired the colors to end the formal part of the event, and the dancing began. Every member of the Hawk Battalion enjoyed an excellent evening. Hawk Musicians Earn High Ratings — Musicians in the symphonic band and the wind ensemble participated March 9 in the annual Florida Bandmasters’ Music Performance Assessment,

earning ratings in the two highest categories across the board. Performers are graded against a stringent rubric, with all scores published statewide. The symphonic band received “Superior” in sight reading and mixed scores of “Superior” and “Excellent” to earn an overall “Excellent” rating, while the wind ensemble received “Superior” scores across the board. Choristers Advance to State Assessments — The Florida Vocal Association rated Seminole Ridge choral students in district high school music assessments March 4-5 at Palm Beach Gardens High School. Students in the combined women’s chorus, and those in the Thaymris mixed chorale, received an overall “Superior” rating, qualifying them for state assessments in April. Students in the men’s chorus, and those in the chamber choir, received an overall “Excellent” rating. Hawks Honored for Volunteer Service — Seminole Ridge sophomore Riley Bresnahan and senior

Seminole Ridge color guard cadets Ryan Bedell, Adrian Fernandez, Nicholas Rockwood and Matthew Guinaugh. Samantha Gott have received the munity Awards on behalf of PresPresident’s Volunteer Service ident Barack Obama, recognizes Award for their participation in Americans who have volunteered a variety of community service significant amounts of time to activities. The award, presented serve their communities and their by the Prudential Spirit of Com- country.

WES PRE-K STUDENTS BECOME JUNIOR SHERIFFS

The WLMS cheerleaders perform during Super STARRR Day.

‘Super STARRR Day’ At Wellington Landings Wellington Landings Middle School celebrated Super STARRR Day on Feb. 4. STARRR stands for Students and Teachers are Respectful, Responsible and Resilient. Superstar students and everyday heroes were recognized for the good choices they consistently make. Many students also showcased their talents in the assembly. Lessons on Super STARRR Day fo-

cused on respect and compassion, encouraging students to continue to demonstrate these important qualities every day. Combining Literacy Week with Super STARRR Day, many classes participated in a door-decorating contest that focused on encouraging students to “Be That One” and display compassion by being kind, helpful or doing a good deed for others.

There’s some new junior sheriffs in town! On Thursday, March 3, Wellington Deputy Dwayne Brown visited pre-K students at Wellington Elementary School. Brown spoke to the students about the role of a police officer and how to stay safe. The deputy showed the students the tools on his belt and explained what they were used for. Brown also spoke about bicycle safety and the importance of wearing a bicycle helmet when riding a bicycle. The students asked many questions. He then took them outside to see his car. The kids were wide-eyed as they each got a turn and climbed into the back seat of the patrol car, noticing the gadgets everywhere. When they were finished, Brown pronounced each of them “junior deputy sheriffs” and gave them a gold badge. (Above) Deputy Dwayne Brown with pre-K students. (Right) Deputy Dwayne Brown with early childhood professional Lori Lopez and assistant Carol Zeoli.


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SCHOOL NEWS

Successful Science And Mathematics Fair At Frontier Elementary School

This year’s Frontier Elementary School Science & Mathematics Fair was a huge success. More than 400 science and mathematics projects were displayed at Frontier’s Science & Mathematics Fair Open House, held on Feb. 23. Thanks to all parents, family, friends and students who came out to see the amazing experiments. Special thanks to this year’s judges, members of the Seminole Ridge High School National Honor Society. The Frontier family is proud of the hard work and effort displayed during this year’s science fair. Frontier will be represented at

the Palm Beach County Science & Mathematics Fair, to be held May 11-12 at the South Florida Fairgrounds, with many students, classes and groups. First grade individual awards were given to science students Corinne Westhoff, Zoe Hawkins and Leah Marina, and math students Olivia Madzi and Maryanne Specker. Second grade individual awards were given to science students Micah Johnson and Lindsay Nevarez, and math student Josie Molodowitz. Third grade individual awards were given to science students Christian Noble, Reagan Bresna-

Frontier Elementary School Science Fair winners.

han, Sydney Bass, Dylan Hansom, Alex Bouker and Ayden LaDuke, and math student Holden Eppolito. Fourth grade individual awards were given to science students Savannah Edworthy, Jaci Dulany, Natalie Jurado, Kylie Ledbetter and Cristina King. Fifth grade individual awards were given to science students Anthony Marino, Chase Grube, Gabriel Williams, Elias Regalado, Andrew Reakes, Carter Johnson and Leanna Beck, and math stu-

important to my family,” said Jacobs Family Foundation Board Member Louis Jacobs. “We’re proud to provide this scholarship money to Palm Beach Atlantic, and especially proud that it will be used to help individuals who face life challenges that otherwise might have ended their pursuit of a college degree.” Five to eight students per semester will be able to achieve their educational goals thanks to the scholarships provided by the Jacobs Family Foundation. For more information about the foundation and Palm Beach Atlantic University programs and classes, call (561) 803-2122.

Page 15

DR. SEUSS DAY FUN AT PANTHER RUN

dents Julia Taylor, Hunter Gallardo and Antonio Caputo. The kindergarten math class award went to Debbie Cano’s class, and the science award went to Debbie Foreman’s class. The first grade science class award went to Michelle O’Sullivan’s class, while the second grade science class award went to Rosa Cabrera’s class. The fourth/fifth grade team math award went to Olga Vidal’s team. Kindergarten students at Panther Run have been celebrating the life and work of Dr. Seuss for the past two weeks. As a culminating activity, administrators Pamela Strachan and Edilia De La Vega were invited as guests of honor to read the children The Cat in the Hat. The students were then treated to special themed snacks. Laura Jacobs organized the event with help from room moms. (Above) Administrators read Dr. Seuss’ stories. (Below) Adults also got into the Dr. Seuss spirit.

Frontier Elementary School Mathematics Fair winners.

Jacobs Family Will Give Scholarships To PBAU Students Thanks to the Jacobs Family Foundation, Wellington residents seeking to complete college or pursue graduate degrees are getting a helping hand with their finances. The foundation has provided scholarships totaling $30,000 over three years for Wellington residents attending Palm Beach Atlantic University’s campus on State Road 7. To qualify, Wellington residents with financial need must be enrolled in the university’s bachelor’s or graduate programs offered by the MacArthur School of Leadership. “Education has always been

March 18 - March 24, 2016

NHES DANCERS VISIT THE HORSE SHOW

Lou Jacobs, Palm Beach Atlantic University President William M.B. Fleming Jr. and Charlie Jacobs.

The New Horizons Elementary School Flamenco Dancers did an outstanding job recently performing at Saturday Night Lights at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The 17 girls practice weekly and perform at local festivals and events under the direction of Betty Baez, Erin Santiago and Astrid Anduze. Shown above are the dancers performing at Saturday Night Lights.


Page 16

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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FEATURES

When Chatting With Skippy, Things Can Get Lost In Translation

Three-year-old Skippy came home from school all excited yesterday because the teacher had showed them how to make a leopard trap. Huh? I mean, I know they’ve been studying jungle animals — there has been a lot of tiger talk around the house and his box of plastic animals has been pressed into service again — but isn’t the topic of trapping going too far? Is that something we really want to encourage? Yet I know that teachers of the very young often get misunderstood in translation. When my own son was five, he told me that his kindergarten teacher

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER had told him that his head was like a watermelon. So when I went to pick him up the next day, I asked for “Ol’ watermelon-head.” “Oh, no, no, no!” the teacher quickly

rushed to clarify. “We were discussing dinosaurs, and I said that the brontosaurus has a brain the size of a walnut. I said, ‘If that is so, what size brain do you think Charlie has?’ and one of the children said, ‘A watermelon!’ I think they meant it as a compliment, actually.” Oh. That’s different. So yesterday, upon hearing that my grandson was being taught to trap leopards, I had to take a step back and try to get the facts. No need to call the World Wildlife Federation just yet. “What did the trap look like?” I asked Skippy.

“It a box up on two sticks and when the leopard goes in the box — smack (he claps his hands together ferociously) — it caught!” Hmm. Could work. “Did the teacher actually make one?” “Uh-huh!” (Skippy clearly loves this teacher.) “And did she catch a leopard?” (Sadly) “Uh-uh. We go outside, and when we come back (brightening), cookies!” “There were cookies under the trap?” “And money with words on it!” “Money?”

“And green footprints all around!” Green footprints? Oh! “Leprechaun footprints?” “Yes! I told you! Leopard footprints!” I didn’t straighten him out. Maybe next year. Because I don’t think a teacher who attempts to trap a small, bearded mythological man is nearly as impressive as a teacher who tries to lure a full-grown leopard into the classroom for the edification of her students. Let Mrs. Rudman enjoy her status as a fearless adventurer for awhile. To inspire a bit of awe in those you lead is a good thing.

I Generally Don’t Like Animated Films, But ‘Zootopia’ Is Special

I went to see Zootopia because I was certain it could not be as good as most of the critics have said. I am not a huge fan of animated features. In this case, however, they were correct. It is a wonderful, sly movie, officially a take-off on political correctness but, underneath, it’s a buddy comedy detective story. And, I might add, one that works well. Yes, it is for the kids, but there were a lot of childless adults like myself in the theater. The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is brilliantly set out. Comprising habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, as well as Rodentville, it’s a place where animals from every environment live together peacefully. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough predators is not easy. Chief of Police Bogo (Idris Elba), a Cape buffalo, has no use for her and assigns her

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler to traffic duty, as a meter maid. She, of course, wants more and winds up pushing herself into a “missing mammals” case with orders to solve it in 48 hours or quit the force. She teams up with con artist fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), and the two go on a hunt that takes them to a variety of places, all of which are created brilliantly. Watching Judy rush from the center of town where she is tiny right into Rodentville, where she is a giant, was a fabulous transition. Eventually they wind up dealing with arctic shrew gangster “Mr.

Big” (Maurice LaMarche) in a hilarious send-up of The Godfather. Judy and Nick find 14 kidnapped predator mammals and become heroes, but then Judy makes a mess of everything by being politically incorrect. Eventually, things work out as she and Nick figure out the real story and pull a bit of a con game to make things right. Directors Byron Howard, Rich Moore and Jared Bush keep things moving fast. One of the best things about the movie are the delightful characters inhabiting the world. Judy’s parents (Bonnie Hunt and Don Lake) are convinced that the best thing she could do would be to try nothing new. Mayor Leodore Lionheart (J.K. Simmons), a lion, has being a self-righteous politician down perfectly. The mayor’s assistant, a sheep named Bellwether (Jenny Slate), is very funny as she is clearly terrified by all the predators around her while she tries to work. I also liked Police Sergeant Clawhauser (Nate

Torrence), some sort of feline species, but a perfect caricature of an old, fat desk sergeant. The politically correct element was handled really well. In general, I hate the concept, since if something is correct, it is right. When politically correct, it often means that it is somehow wrong while everyone says it is right. But the filmmakers get around this problem by using it on one hand and knocking it down on the other. Judy wants to get ahead, but her 275 siblings want to be carrot farmers. No one trusts foxes, though no one seems to have trouble with lions with guns. There are a few scenes that are absolutely priceless. At one point, Nick takes Judy to a health spa where a ditzy yak (Tommy Chong) brings them into the “meditation area” where all the animals are naked. Watching an elephant doing yoga positions while naked (but not anatomically correct) was hysterical.

I also, as a former New Yorker, loved the scene in the Department of Motor Vehicles where all the employees were sloths, barely moving while everyone waited in long lines. It is weird that some of our more interesting views of the human condition use animals. This has been true since Aesop’s fables, but also recent books like Watership Down and, one of the true greats, Animal Farm. Watching as somehow biology or ideology can be ignored or twisted seems fanciful when done by animals. There is little doubt that the producers of this film really want us to be able to forget our differences and work things out together. In the real world, that is not at all easy to do. In the movie world, however, all seems to be going well, particularly in Zootopia. It is the best movie I have seen so far in 2016, and not only for kids. This film is one reason I love movies.

THE WESTERN BUSINESS ALLIANCE

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The Western Business Alliance is an alliance of businesses committed to strengthening and supporting our members through economic growth, education, and community awareness. Join now and see for yourself. www.TheWesternBusinessAlliance.com 561.600.3820

March 31st Luncheon

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Professional Family Eyecare Eyes are important indicators of overall health, and comprehensive eye care goes beyond a prescription for glasses or contact lenses. At Professional Family Eyecare, we take the time to get to know you, your eye care history, and your vision needs. Our optometrist provides the expert care, advice, options, and follow up you need whether you are a new patient or an existing one. T To learn more visit, www.pfeyecare.com.

Binks Forest Golf Club Robert Avossa, Ed.D. will be speaking to TWBA members and guests at the March 31st luncheon to be held at Binks Forest Golf Club. Thank you Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air for sponsoring this event. Dr. Avossa was named Superintendent of the School District of Palm Beach County in June of 2015. Prior to joining the School District of Palm Beach County, Avossa served as Superintendent of the Fulton County Schools from June 2011 through June 2015. Avossa has dedicated his entire career to ensuring that every child is given an opportunity to succeed in college and a career of their choice.

Welcome New and Renewing TWBA Members Catania Family Style Restaurant ............... Brian Scotto CSI Palm Beach ........................................ Marc Melnick Floridian Community Bank ...................... Joanne Dee Hi-Tech Plumbing & Air ............................ Jathynia Garcia Lion Country Safari .................................. Jennifer Berthiaume Mario The Baker ..................................... Kevin Puebla

Meade-Johnson International, Inc. .......... Joey J. Johnson NRI Institute of Health Sciences ............... M. Daniel Splain Organo Gold ........................................... Pastor Michael Rose Palms West Monthly ............................... Robert Harris Pharus Group, LLC. .................................. Chris Morhardt Prestia|Holtz P.A. ................................... Thomas Prestia

Professional Family Eyecare ..................... Dr. Jolene Reiter Sea Breeze Air Systems, Inc...................... Nancy Cook Self Discovery Life Mastery ...................... Barbara Socher Sharp Shopper Magazine ......................... Barbara Chaiken WIN Home Inspection Wellington ............ Bethany Cordi Your Computer Guy, Inc. .......................... Dave O’Keefe


The Town-Crier

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March 18 - March 24, 2016

Page 17

NEWS

Coca-Cola Edges Out Flexjet With 11-9 Win In Gold Cup Action Last Sunday’s USPA Gold Cup match featured Melissa Ganzi of Flexjet and Gillian Johnston of Coca-Cola, the only two women competing in the prestigious, 26-goal tournament at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. Both teams led an aggressive charge to advance in play toward winning the USPA Gold Cup. Julio Arellano of Coca-Cola scored a team-high of six goals to earn Most Valuable Player honors. Johnston and Miguel Astrada added two goals each, and Sugar Erskine scored one goal for Coca-Cola. Flexjet’s Tincho Merlos scored seven goals, and his brother, Sebastian Merlos, along with Nic Roldan, each added a goal. Arellano’s horse, Got Milk, was named Best Playing Pony.

With the star power of polo icon Nacho Figueras and America’s Most Wanted host John Walsh, the Great Futures Polo Brunch was a sellout fundraiser benefiting the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington. Figueras and Walsh chaired the event with more than 300 sponsors and guests. A silent auction included some incredible jewelry, exquisite equestrian art, trips, polo lessons and more. The highest goal polo played in North America will feature the USPA Gold Cup for two more weeks, with the final match set for Sunday, March 27. The U.S. Open Polo Championship continues the 26-goal matches and will be played on four consecutive Sundays through April 24. Be sure to

Alissa Lowenstein, Sara Densen, Beth Wayne and Diana Vota.

Wellington

Gerwig & Drahos

continued from page 1 projects in the Equestrian Preserve Area, passed 59 percent to 41 percent. The candidates held watch parties with their supporters at local restaurants as the results rolled in. Gerwig was at Lindburgers Restaurant, while Drahos was at the Grille Fashion Cuisine. Margolis and Greene were at Suri West. The Town-Crier caught up with Gerwig and Drahos on Wednesday to discuss their new positions. “It’s exciting. It’s wonderful,” Gerwig said. Thrilled with the outcome of the election, she is relieved that the emotional campaign is complete. Gerwig said that she is ready to hit the ground running and reshape the atmosphere in Wellington. “I want to set a new tone for Wellington, for how we work with each other, how we work with staff and how the public perceives us. My desire is for us to have a better tone and a more relaxed attitude; one where we can work together,” she said. “I’d like to see us step back and do some things that we used to do. We had a volunteer coordinator position where we really used a lot of our local residents and engaged them in volunteer ways that helped the community. I’d like to see us work on that again.” Gerwig thanked the many people who have helped her along

with way, particularly former Councilman Dr. Carmine Priore, who encouraged her to become involved with the League of Cities and participate in training courses at the Institute for Elected Municipal Officials. “He always encouraged me to find out everything I could about city government, what the goals are,” she said. “He really did help point me in the right direction to learn how to do this job better and to work together with other municipalities.” Her family has also been very supportive, campaigning with and for her, and helping create campaign material. “It’s great to have a family that is behind what you’re doing, and my husband has been completely behind me the whole time,” Gerwig said. She also received an overwhelming amount of support from friends, as well as the community. “I just want to thank everybody for the amazing community-wide support that I got,” she said. “It’s unbelievable to have 9,227 people vote for you. It’s an incredible feeling. I’m honored to have gotten through this and had it so well-received.” Coming up on Saturday, March 19 is Wellington’s 20th anniversary celebration, with fireworks, a history of Wellington, a trapeze, bounce houses and more at Village Park from 5 to 10 p.m. Gerwig is looking forward to the event and the turning over of a new leaf in the village. “It’s going to be all positive for Wellington,”

get in on the polo action before the season ends. The International Polo Club Palm Beach is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. Polo matches are open

to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating. Tickets start at $30. For ticketing and sponsorship information, call (561) 204-5687 or visit www. internationalpoloclub.com.

Coca-Cola and Flexjet in action on the field.

John Walsh, Neil Hirsch, Jaene Miranda, Nacho Figueras and John Wash.

Brett and Adriane Motherwell with Laura Sachs and Jordan Fisher.

The victorious Coca-Cola team during the awards ceremony.

she said. “We can celebrate where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going.” Drahos is excited for his future on the council. “This is something that we worked on for a good six months to try and get to the finish line, and we did. We put on a campaign that I’m very proud of. Clearly our message resonated well with the residents, and I’m looking forward to going to work,” he said. “It’s a long sixmonth process. I don’t think it has quite sunk in yet that it’s over.” Drahos is glad that all of the hard work paid off. “It’s clearly a commitment, and its one I’m really proud of, and one I’m really proud that I did,” he said. “I’m looking forward to now doing the job that I’ve been campaigning for.” Drahos’ first order of business is to work on restoring credibility to the council and reassuring Wellington residents that the council is working for the best interest of the entire community, he said. “The first issue that is going to come up is appointing someone to fill the vacant seat,” he said, referring to the seat Gerwig left in order to run for mayor. “So the first thing I want to accomplish is making sure we pick somebody who is the right fit, who has the right approach, and who can be open-minded and fair.” As the newest member of the council, he is also looking forward to working with Gerwig and councilmen Michael Napoleone and John McGovern.

“I think we’re going to be a good, productive group that will handle our job professionally and get the job done and do what we think is best for the community,” Drahos said. “I’m excited about what this council can do. I think we have a very talented group, and I think we’re going to work well together.”

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Ed Board

Strategic Plan

continued from page 3 are in a perpetual cycle of remediation, they’re behind and they struggle to get on grade level,” Howard said. “Sometimes they are retained, and it leads to discipline issues and all kinds of other negative outcomes.” Although the district is one of the highest-performing urban districts in the state, the performance for some of the subgroups leaves a lot to be desired, Howard said.

That will be an area of great focus. The goal will be to remediate low achievers at grade three to have them at proper reading and math levels by grade eight when they enter high school. The district will also look at student absences, which have been shown to correlate strongly with graduation. “This is another point that we will be monitoring and developing initiatives around,” Howard said. They also found a strong correlation with suspensions and graduation: 86 percent of students with no suspensions graduated, 59 percent of students with one

suspension graduated, 48 percent of students with two suspensions graduated, and 33 percent of students with three or more suspensions graduated. “While we know that suspensions are not the cause of a student not graduating, we certainly know that it is a symptom of the other issues that students are struggling with in their lives,” Howard said. On March 28, Avossa will host a community launch event for the strategic plan at Royal Palm Beach High School. Details of the strategic plan are available at www.palmbeach schools.org/strategicplan.

Looking forward to Saturday’s 20th anniversary festivities, Drahos is excited to share the event with his family as a new member of the council. “It’s an exciting time for Wellington,” he said. “To be able to celebrate that with my family as a member of the council is almost surreal. For me, it’s an

exciting time from a professional standpoint, but also, I think the community as a whole has shown a tremendous amount of interest in its future direction… Everything seems to be coming together at the right time, and I think people are extremely optimistic about where we’re going as a community.”

Lox Vote

McLendon & Browning

continued from page 1 Services Group on board as the town management firm. Underwood has had a contentious relationship with Rockett. “I’m hoping to get some things accomplished that had not been before,” he said, explaining that all the roads need to get turned over to the town from the Loxahatchee Groves Water Control District. “We need to get all the ULDCs [Uniform Land Development Codes] straightened out. We need to get a code enforcement company back on board so we can enforce those codes.” Browning said he was happy to win a fourth term in his council seat. He said he would be willing to serve again as mayor if he is appointed by the council. He said the biggest change on the council will be support for the management team. “Todd has already expressed that he is supportive of Underwood Management, and you know that I am,” Browning said. “I think that will be the most obvious. I think there will be a little less contention.” Browning said he believes that his re-election confirms the direction that the town has been taking. “I think people appreciate what I bring to the table, the calming factor and the experience,” he said. The mayor said the council has a lot of things in the works, including the B Road paving project. “I think the people, for the most part, like what we’re doing,” Browning said. Browning said that the council has dedicated about $1 million to improve the roads, which he

GL Homes (Above) Councilman-Elect Michael Drahos celebrates with his family (L-R) Kathy and Mike Drahos, Michael and Nathalie Drahos with daughters Julia and Sophia, and John and Imilse Lovell. (Left) Alan, Anne and Jessica Gerwig with Jessica’s fiancé, Jordan Chusid.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

Reports To ITID Board

continued from page 1 with. The details are going to need to be worked out, because they do want some restrictions on it. In the event that it’s not used for a reservoir or water management purposes, they want it to revert back to them. They have, however, been amenable to our discussion of utilization of that for some other purposes, including recreation, if that’s something that the board desires.” The reservoir is not currently shown on the plan, but Perry said that the exact location will be shown on a future plan. ITID and GL Homes are in early discussions of interconnectivity to the district’s internal drainage system. “We haven’t gotten very far on that, but we have discussed it,” Perry said. Roadway improvements and traffic management are probably the most important discussions, he said. Access to the project, which is west of Seminole Pratt Whitney Road, will be limited to

Todd McLendon outside the polls Tuesday.

Mayor Dave Browning campaigns with his wife, Sharyn.

PHOTOS BY RON BUKLEY/TOWN-CRIER

thinks is the residents’ priority currently. “I think that’s going to be the next thing,” he said. “When we do that, I think there will be a lot of people pleased with that, so that seems to me to be the top issue right now.” He said the council will be

working with Palm Beach County to control the widening of Okeechobee Blvd. and come up with a design that will protect the town and its residents. “I’ve got some ideas that we need some narrow lanes,” Browning said. “We want to keep it as underused as we can.”

Hamlin Blvd., Orange Blvd. and 60th Street North. “We have discussed with them their cooperation with us and to persuade County Engineer George Webb that 60th street be named the east/west access way between this project and the Minto project to State Road 7,” Perry said. “[Webb] has resisted that in the past, but they agreed to cooperate with us in attempts to get him to change his position on that.” Discussion is ongoing regarding upgrades to Hamlin and Orange boulevards, although specifics have not yet been reached. “We have also discussed traffic calming on all of the streets between Seminole Pratt and the project,” Perry said, adding that they have discussed an overall traffic plan as well. Perry noted that GL Homes is just one piece of the development pie. “Right now, we’re looking at this project being the third of four major projects that immediately impact the district,” he said. “Avenir basically has been approved. They’re awaiting final approval, but I think that’s going to be done

shortly. Minto West has been approved, and I think it’s fairly certain that this project will be approved.” All this development requires a look at the entire road system, Perry said, adding that they should talk to Palm Tran representatives about bus transportation. “You’ve got an enormous population out here, we’re a large area, and Palm Tran ought to be involved right now in terms of future planning for transit out here,” he said. There has also been some discussion of a signage plan for the roads for people to find their way. GL Homes has a recreational trail system set up for its project and has discussed interconnectivity to trails outside the project, as well as parking locations for horse trailers. The GL Homes project is set to be reviewed by the Palm Beach County Commission for transmission approval on April 12 to be sent to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. If given preliminary approval, it will return to the county commission for final approval in June or July, Perry said.


March 18 - March 24, 2016

EST. 2003

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Western Academy does not discriminate in admissions on the basis of race, color, national origin or disability.


The Town-Crier

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March 18 - March 24, 2016

Page 19

NEWS

GREAT FUTURES POLO DAY RAISES MONEY FOR LOCAL BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

Great Futures Polo Day to benefit the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club in Wellington took place Sunday, March 13, starting with a celebrity polo match at the Grand Champions Polo Club with honorary chairs Nacho Figueras and John Walsh, followed by brunch at the International Polo Club Palm Beach with co-chairs Marc and Melissa Ganzi and Ray and Terrie Mooney.

PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER

Boys & Girls Club kids with Jaene Miranda, John Walsh, Neil Hirsch, Nacho Figueras and Melissa Ganzi.

Sponsor Neil Hirsch with Juan Olivera, Martin Pepa, Juan Bollini and Joe DiMenna of the Equuleus team, the eventual winners.

Boys & Girls Club member Juan Ariza with Kenda Peterson, director of the Wellington Club

John Walsh addresses luncheon attendees.

Jaene Miranda, Kristen Kearney, Julie Kime, Reed Kellner, Neil Hirsch, Kenda Peterson, Ron Herman, Todd Barron and Robyn Mishkin.

Keith Williams and Nicole Dina.

Brandon Phillips, Debra and Todd Barron.

Todd Barron auctions off the jersey worn during the game and signed by Nacho Figueras. Riley Ganzi is recognized as MVP.

Joe DiMenna, Melissa Ganzi, Riley Ganzi and Martin Pepa.

Nacho Figueras signs a polo mallet.

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Brandon Phillips signs shirts for club members.

Chris Stuart and Tammy Salinas-Bentley.


Page 20

March 18 - March 24, 2016

The Town-Crier

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THE SPORT OF Palm Beach

See and be seen at the world-class International Polo Club every Sunday for high-goal polo. Polo ponies, fierce competitors, enthusiastic crowds. Game on! For ticket options or brunch reservations, please visit:

InternationalPoloClub.com

Every Sunday – January 3-April 24, 2016 Brunch at 2 p.m. at The Pavilion Polo Match at 3 p.m. 3667 120th Avenue South | Wellington, Florida 33414 Photo by LILA PHOTO

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Visit WEF For Plenty Of Shopping Options And More

It’s a little late in the season, but there are still two weeks left to take advantage of all that the Winter Equestrian Festival has to offer. Even if you’re not into watching the shows, there are many other avenues to explore — including plenty of great shopping opportunities. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 23

Business

Central Palm Beach County Chamber To Host Investor Panel For Student Startups

The Central Palm Beach County Community Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, will host its Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Investor Panel on March 30. YEA! is an afterschool program that transforms students into confident entrepreneurs and CEOs. At the Investor Panel, students will have five minutes to present their business plans to judges. Page 25

Sports

SRHS Opens Flag Football Season With A Shutout

On March 10, the Seminole Ridge High School girls flag football team opened its season traveling to play rival Palm Beach Central High School, and the Hawks shut out the Broncos 34-0. The game was close during the first quarter, but the Hawks (10) got on the board early to take a 6-0 lead. Page 31

THIS WEEK’S INDEX TAILS FROM THE TRAILS............................. 23 BUSINESS NEWS....................................24-25 SPORTS & RECREATION.........................31-33 COMMUNITY CALENDAR............................. 36 CLASSIFIEDS..........................................37-40

Page 21

WHS Retains Lacrosse Outback Cup With OT Win

The Wellington High School boys lacrosse squad traveled to take on host Palm Beach Central High School in the annual Rivals Outback Cup game on Friday, March 11. The cup will remain at Wellington High School another year, after the Wolverines won 12-11 in overtime. Page 31

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

INSIDE

March 18 - March 24, 2016

Shopping Spree


Page 22

March 18 - March 24, 2016

The Town-Crier

www.gotowncrier.com

WELCOME TO THE WINTER EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL

held at the Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center

JANUARY 13 - APRIL 3, 2016 Join Us Every Wednesday through Sunday to Experience Equestrian Sport at Its Best! Watch The Equestrian Action Visit WEF during the day from Wednesday through Sunday, take in the exciting scene of several thousand horses and riders competing in 12 arenas. Stroll the grounds at your leisure, grab a bite to eat and shop till you drop at our unique boutiques, art galleries, jewelers, high-end fashion and so much more.

Grab a Bite to Eat A variety of Food Vendors are located throughout the property, including: •

Coliano’s Pizza

Tito’s Tacos: Margaritas, Tacos, Burritos, Chips, Salsa

Tiki Hut: Grilled Chicken, Variety Burgers, Grilled Fish, Salads

Oli’s Fashion Cuisine: in the Vendor Village

Take a Lunch & Tour See the world-renowned equestrian competition, vendors, stables and various venues that Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has to offer, followed by a catered lunch with your group.Your tour will allow you to explore twelve of the competition rings, the stabling area where horses prepare for competition, and a stroll through Vendor Village.The tour will be both exciting and informative, and there is a good chance you will see some Olympic riders gearing up for competition! Equestrian Lunch & Tours are available by appointment Wednesday through Sunday during the WEF season.

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

Children’s Activities Entertainers, live band, balloon artists, face painters, bounce houses... and more!

The Suites If you want to watch the Winter Equestrian Festival in style, host a corporate event, or entertain friends and family, reserve your Suite today! With upscale decor and dining, these ringside seats for up to 22 people are available and offer a full buffet and premium bar options. Reserve a whole suite, a table, or individual seats. Contact 561.784.1110 for more information or to make reservations. Reference Palms West This Week to receive a discount!

VENDOR VILLAGE

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Tato’s Turner & Co Vander Moore Designs Inc. Voltaire Design Fine Saddlery WEF Official Boutique BARNS 3 & 4 Dandy Products Farmvet Inc. RC Saddle & Tack Repair

Trunks and Stable Equipment SportFot USA Inc. INTERNATIONAL ARENA WARM UP Animo USA Bruno Delgrange Custom Saddles Equisafe LLC

HUNTER HILL Advantage Biosciences C Jones Silver Housewares BARN 5 Cross Gate Gallery Woody’s Shoe Repair Josey’s Laundry Service Danny & Ron’s Dog Rescue Elizabeth Parker RING 6 Designs Amberway Equine Fab Finds by Sarah Solutions Illustrated Properties Horse Gym USA® Realtor RINGS 9 & 10 Butet Saumur Saddles Just FUR Fun – Goodies Devoucoux Custom for Dogs Olive and Bette’s Saddles & Tack Pinnell Custom Leather Inc. GPA Helmets HealthFactories GmbH Sarm Hippique & McGuinn Farms Inc. Pariani Tack

BRIDGE DECKS BIBA of NY Boutique Kingsland Equestrian Swatches & Rags Fine Menswear WEF Official Boutique INTERNATIONAL SHOPPES Douglas Elliman Real Estate Equiline Equestrian Fashion Hunt LTD Karina Brez Jewelry Keyes Art Consulting Lugano Diamonds Maybach Icons of Luxury

Wear in Good Health Zadeh – Men’s Jewelry PLACES TO EAT INTERNATIONAL ARENA Tito’s Tacos Tiki Hut VENDOR ROW Harry’s Lemonade Loopy’s Crepe Café Coliano’s Pizza Oasis Café RINGS 9 & 10 Professional Concessions Magadelena’s Mexican Food Muddy Paw Coffee Nathalie’s Café

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FEATURES

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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Visit WEF For Plenty Of Shopping Options And Much More It’s a little late in the season, but there are still two weeks left to take advantage of all that the Winter Equestrian Festival has to offer. Even if you’re not into watching the shows, there are many other avenues to explore. The whole family can enjoy a day out around the carousel, which, by the way, is free. On Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons there’s a petting zoo, face painting and other amusements. Even if you can’t afford them, there are gorgeous saddles to drool over and try sitting upon. Sarm Hippique & Pariani offers handmade Italian saddles and tack. Other makers include Hermes, Bruno Delgrange, Voltaire, Antares Sellier France, CWD Custom Saddles and Devoucoux Custom Saddles & Tack. Beval Saddlery carries a fine selection of new and used saddles. One of the more innovative saddlers is Maybach, located in the International Shoppes section. Each saddle is custom-made in Germany. The tree is a patented, thin wooden tree with carbon fiber inserts. They use a special measuring system to digitize the horse’s back, and the tree is made to measure. The rider’s anatomy is similarly gauged. Everything is customized — leather colors, knee rolls, flaps, whatever. They also offer bridles, halters, girths, pads, stirrups and gloves. Speaking of tack in general, there is lots of Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/Horse TalkFL.

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg that available as well: C.M. Hadfields Saddlery, Kocher Tack Shop, Tack ’N’ Rider, Fox Run Saddlery and, one of my favorites, Equine Tack & Nutritionals, located at the far end of Vendor Village. This double-wide trailer stocks nearly anything you might need and, unlike some stores on the show grounds, Equine Tack has prices definitely competitive with local tack shops. The place is crammed with every conceivable supplement and first aid item: hoof dressings, fly sprays, halters, lead ropes, bridles, a great selection of bits, spurs and straps, stirrups and leathers, gloves, sponges, buckets, brushes and curry combs, plus sheets, blankets and horse treats. If you’re more interested in outfitting yourself rather than your horse, there’s a lot to look at. Awesome Artifacts has horse-themed belt buckles, jewelry, riding tops and hair bows. Just Fur Fun has fancy dog collars and leashes, dog mugs and bandanas, as well as embellished spurs and brow bands. Peng Bags shows off a lovely and unique collection of one-of-akind leather purses, belts and extremely cute dog-shaped luggage tags.

A saddle on display at the Maybach store. There’s also a ton of jewelry of all sorts, shapes of animal heads. There are rabbit, fox many horse-themed, of course. Whether and horse earrings, parrot bracelets of pink you’re looking for rings, bracelets, necklaces tourmaline and turquoise, and cat, lion, snowy or earrings, you’ll have more than enough owl and bear pendants of petrified palm tree. varieties to compare and try on. My favorite, an aquamarine Labrador head Some of the more unusual pieces can be pendant set in gold and backed with mother found at Hunt LTD in the International Shop- of pearl, was a cool $3,500. pes. In addition to clothing and accessories, There are tons of shops offering show owner Diane Griswold Johnston displays shirts, breeches, coats (some stretch and cases of hand-carved gem stones in the See ROSENBERG, page 33


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BUSINESS NEWS

‘Team Tanner’ At Keller Williams Supports Autism Walk

Agents from the Keller Williams Realty office in Wellington came out in record numbers to the Meyer Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach on Sunday, March 6 to participate in the 2016 Palm Beach Autism Speaks Walk. The event raised critically needed money used for research and to increase awareness of autism — a disorder that affects one out of every 68 children in the United States today. For the past seven years, the agents at the Keller Williams Wellington office have participated in the Autism Walk in support of their broker, Nancy Jennings, and her family. Tanner, one of Jennings’ grandsons, has been diagnosed with

autism, so everyone is aware of the deep impact that this diagnosis can have on the whole family. Keller Williams’ team is named “Team Tanner,” and over the years, it has grown into one of the event’s largest teams. This year, more than 70 agents participated, and they are on track to raise over $8,000. “It is so heartwarming for me and my family to see the support of all of the agents,” Jennings said. “When I see the sea of red T-shirts as we walk up Flagler Drive, I realize what a special place Keller Williams Wellington is to work. They are my second family.” Keller Williams Realty is located at 12008 South Shore Blvd., Suite 201, in Wellington.

More than 70 agents from the Keller Williams Realty office in Wellington comprised Team Tanner, named for the grandson of broker Nancy Jennings, in the Palm Beach Autism Speaks Walk 2016.

Royal Palm Beach Native Brings At-Home Blood Testing To South Florida

CHEKD, the world’s first on-demand home blood testing service, launched this week in South Florida, encouraging users to skip the long lab wait times and opt for affordable, customized test panels conveniently delivered and administered by trained healthcare practitioners. Marking a new era of health empowerment, CHEKD users can order online from a wide variety of FDA-certified and CLIA-tests,

and get their blood drawn from the comfort of their own home, office or even a cozy coffee shop. The blood draw takes 10 minutes or less. The Uber-style health tech service offers no hidden fees and requires no medical insurance on the user’s end. From hormone imbalances and vitamin deficiencies, to overall heart, brain and metabolism function, CHEKD offers a blood test for any health concern one might have.

“We took a service previously only available to professional athletes, celebrities and elite society, and made it accessible to everyday people who deserve to know the status of their own health,” said Royal Palm Beach-born founder and CEO Dr. Aaron Grossman, who thought up the idea during his final semester of medical school at the University of Florida College of Medicine. Returning from residency inter-

views to find his home destroyed in a fire, Grossman decided to skip residency to pursue CHEKD, determined to create a platform that empowered people of all socioeconomic backgrounds to take control of their health. “The current flawed healthcare system has no real interest in making you healthier,” he said. “That’s why we created CHEKD.” Grossman said he has witnessed firsthand the problems in the insur-

ance and lab-testing industries. “CHEKD is for people who want to keep score of their health,” he said. “It’s for people who want to know exactly what stands in the way of their full physical, mental and sexual potential.” CHEKD’s plan is to make affordable, on-demand blood testing available to 80 percent of the U.S. population by the end of 2016. Learn more at www.chekd.com.

Calling all sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids for a summer of fun at Breakers West Country Club. Daily Golf, Tennis, Basketball & Swimming Arts & Crafts | Magic Shows | Science Projects Wildlife Demonstrations | Family Cookouts Theme Weeks | Family Activity Center & More

AGES 4-14 June 6 – August 19 Monday – Friday 8:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. After-care is available.

To register, call 561-422-4915.

1550 Flagler Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL 33411 breakerswestclub.com


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BUSINESS NEWS

March 18 - March 24, 2016

Page 25

Central Chamber To Host Investor Panel For Student Startups

The Central Palm Beach County Community Foundation, the nonprofit arm of the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce, will host its Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Investor Panel on Wednesday, March 30. YEA! is an afterschool program that transforms local middle and high school students into confident entrepreneurs and CEOs. Throughout the rigorous, sev-

en-month program, students brainstorm and form enterprises, register companies with governmental agencies and, by the end, actually launch their own businesses or social movements. Students have been working on their business plans since October and have received guidance from business mentors across a variety of industries. At the Investor Panel, students

will have five minutes to present their finalized business plans to a panel of judges and are seeking real financing to cover their first three months of startup costs. Judges will hear from each business and then proceed to score each presentation in a private deliberation room. The panel will have $10,000 to distribute among the businesses. In addition, judges will select the top business to move on to the re-

gional competition taking place in Rochester, N.Y. “None of this would be possible without the support of all of our generous donors, especially the co-presenting sponsors of our YEA! program, Florida Power & Light and the Palm Beach County School District,” Chamber CEO Mary Lou Bedford said. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.

The Keiser University Flagship Campus (off Military Trail) is hosting the event. Light refreshments and networking with the young entrepreneurs will begin at 5 p.m. and the event will start at 6. It is a family-friendly environment, and parents are encouraged to bring their children and start shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs. Visit www.cpbchamber.com to register.

Families First Opens Wellington Office For Abuse Prevention Program

(L-R) Mary Mitchell, director of Child First; Julie Swindler, CEO of Families First; Dan Ferraresi of the Batchelor Foundation; and Samantha Whiteman, Families First development director.

Families First of Palm Beach County formally opened its doors to its new child abuse prevention program, Child First, with an open house attended by Wellington officials, neighboring businesses, board members and other agency officials on Thursday, Feb. 25. Families First, now in its 26th year of providing services that prevent child abuse and strengthen families, is one of three local nonprofits to receive funding to operate Child First. Child First is a national, evidence-based program started in Connecticut that is achieving outstanding results in helping vulnerable young children and their families overcome the devastating impact of trauma and chronic stress. Trained professionals work with families in

their homes, providing therapies and connecting them with other needed services. Families First serves families in the western communities. The Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County brought Child First to this area — the first time services have been provided outside Connecticut. To date, the program’s results include a 64 percent decrease in maternal depression and mental health issues, a 42 percent decrease in child aggressive and defiant behaviors, and a 68 percent decrease in child language problems. Child First’s cost-effective intervention is projected to prevent the need for physical and psychiatric hospitalization, foster care, special education and incarceration.

Serving Palm Beach County since 1990, Families First provides child abuse prevention, health, housing and behavioral health services for families whose life circumstances affect child and family health and stability. Many of the families served by Families First struggle with domestic violence, homelessness, drug or alcohol abuse, mental or physical health issues, or just a change in circumstance that has left them unable to cope. With eight programs, Families First helps clients build on their strengths and designs individualized plans to meet each family’s specific needs. Learn more about Families First at www.familiesfirstpbc.org.


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#1 Education Place offers Summer Academic and Enrichment camps to help students improve, maintain or acquire new academic skills in small teacher-led groups. Campers have the opportunity to choose enrichment camps such as Chess Camp conducted by USA Chess, Video Game Creation Camp presented by Active Learning Systems, Scratch Programming Language by Lifelong Kindergarten group at the MIT Media Lab, Armory Art Camp by the Armory Art Center and more. Additionally, #1 Education Place is offering Spanish and Robotics camps. One-week sessions run from June 5 to Aug. 12. For more information and rates, call (561) 201-4531 or visit 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 23. The Armory Art Center’s Summer Art Camp is a great way for children in grades 1 through 12 to experience a broad range of art projects. The camp will run from June 6 until Aug. 12. Each of the 10 weeks has a different theme. Experienced and vetted art instructors will provide campers with exciting, hands-on activities. All art materials are included with tuition. The Armory Art Center is located at 1700 Parker Ave. in West Palm Beach. For more information, call (561) 832-1776 or visit www.armoryart.org/ youthartcamp. Art Cellar Summer Camp is providing social and interactive art lessons, providing stepby-step instruction in a fun atmosphere for all ages during its summer camp, where young artists will learn to color outside the lines. Geared toward ages 7 to 12, nonstop art fun is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours and sibling discounts available. Young artists will paint, craft, learn about art history, play art-related games, have creative free time and more for only $55 a day or $220 for the week. Spots are limited. For more information, or to register a young artist, call (561) 792-2272 or visit www.facebook.com/artcellarwellington or www.artcellarwellington.com. Breakers West Summer Camp 2016 is calling all campers for a summer of fun. Sports-minded, adventure-seeking, nature-loving kids, ages 4-14, will find something for everyone at Breakers West Country Club this summer. Enjoy golf, tennis, basketball, swimming, wildlife demonstrations, magic shows, arts & crafts, science projects, themed weeks, Family Activity Center fun and much more. Camp runs Monday through Friday, from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 6 to Aug. 19. Lunch is included, and all campers receive a special camp backpack, T-shirt and water bottle. After-care is also available. For more information, or to register for camp, call (561) 422-4915.


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Casperey Stables Horse Camp is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages 7 to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts and crafts, and outdoor games, campers find little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures that each child receives individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks and during the summer. Each two-week session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days. Casperey Stables has a weekly swim party and ends each session with a horse show and family barbecue. To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 792-4990 or visit www.caspereystables.com. Engineering for Kids is holding an Engineering/Science Summer Camp for children ages 6 to 14 where they will have a blast while learning in a fun, supportive environment. Children will be able to solve Minecraft engineering challenges, battle robots, build and launch rockets, race dragsters, create their own sailboat and more as they learn the science behind it all. Camp takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with extended hours available. There are multiple Palm Beach County locations. Register early, since camps fill up quickly. For more information, visit www. engineeringforkids.com/palmbeach or e-mail palmbeach@engineeringforkids.net. The Goddard School is a trusted name among parents and families for more than 27 years, with its safe classroom, nurturing environment and age-appropriate exploration and discovery opportunities. The school’s summer camp incorporates its F.L.EX (fun, learning experience) Learning Program and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) learning into exciting, one-of-a-kind and fun experience every day for children. Children ages 1 to 7 will enjoy the five different themes presented during camp, which runs from June 6 to Aug. 12 at 2665 State Road 7 in Wellington. To register, or for more information, call (561) 333-2020 or visit www.goddardschool.com/wellingtonfl. High Touch High Tech & Joey’s Outback Adventures in Wellington have partnered to bring the “Hottest Camps in Town” to children this summer. High Touch High Tech, the proud leader in science education for the last 20 years, brings science to life with hands-on experiments for children. Each day will be a new adventure, from interacting with real animals to launching rockets and panning for gems. The camp offers affordable pricing, experiments with lots of cool take-home projects, arts and crafts, and awesome physical activities in Joey’s amazing indoor playground. The camp taps into a children’s natural curiosity and provides them with safe and fun activities to help them learn about the world around them. Expect awesome fun as campers make slime, erupt volcanoes, make ice cream and more. For more information, or to register, call (561)792-3785 or visit www.sciencemadefunsfl.net.

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The Lake Worth Playhouse is holding a summer camp where campers learn acting, voice, dance and stage movement through daily activities and rehearsals, which culminate in full-scale productions of popular musicals. Campers will be engaged in studio-style rehearsals for music, dance and production. Campers 12+ will also participate in behind-the-scenes roles and other theatre-related education at the Lake Worth Playhouse, located at 713 Lake Ave. in Lake Worth. For more information, call (561) 586-6410 or visit www.lakeworthplayhouse.org. Lion Country Safari will hold its popular summer day camp again in 2016. Each day at Safari Day Camp is filled with fun, adventure and hands-on learning. Campers ages 6 to13 experience wildlife and wild places, become a zoo keeper for a day, swim, play games, make crafts and enjoy behind-the-scenes activities at Lion Country Safari. Camp sessions run Monday through Friday from June 13 through Aug. 12. Tuition includes daily lunch and snack, a T-shirt, a water bottle and a cap. Camp spots fill up quickly. Register online at www.lioncountrysafari.com or call (561) 793-1084, ext. 2127 for info. The Little Place and The Little Place Too, Wellington’s premier nationally accredited childcare centers for more than 37 years, offer childcare for children up to 8 years old. The Little Place offers a quality, caring environment for children age 6 months to 5 years old. Staff works hand-in-hand with local elementary schools to help each child develop, to promote vital academic skills and to reinforce positive social interaction. For children ages 3 to 5, activities include utilizing tablets in the classroom with interactive programs that introduce basic math, reading and other skills. With exciting activities and outings, elementary-age children are kept busy with educational activities and playtime. For more information, or to register, call either the 1040 Wellington Trace location at (561) 793-5860 or the 2995 Greenbriar Blvd. location at (561) 790-0808. St. David’s Episcopal School, conveniently located on Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington, is offering an onsite summer camp for children 3 to 8 years old. Camp activities include water play, outside play, movie day, Bible stories, games and music. The theme this summer is “Journey through Imagination.” Campers will explore through the mind’s eye of authors of well-known children’s books and ignite creativity with special crafts and activities. Camp takes place Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and costs either $30 per day or $125 per week. For more information, or to register, call (561) 793-1272 or visit www.stdavidsepiscopalschool.com.


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Temple Beth Torah’s Leonie Arguetty Preschool is holding a “Summer of Fun” enrichment camp for children 2 to 6 years old. Children will enjoy a variety of fun activities that will make them smile, while promoting learning and social development. Activities include art, gymnastics, computers, sports, nature, cooking, water play and enjoying the preschool’s state-of-the-art playground. Children are sure to love the weekly entertainment, including High Touch High Tech, storytellers and animal shows. All of this takes place in a loving and nurturing environment. Camp is available for eight weeks, with full-time and part-time participation available. Temple Beth Torah is also now enrolling for 2016-17 preschool classes. For more information, or to register, call Sandy at (561) 793-2649 or e-mail psdirector@templebethtorah.net.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

March 18 - March 24, 2016

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Wolverines Retain Lacrosse Outback Cup With OT Win

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School boys lacrosse squad traveled to take on host Palm Beach Central High School in the annual Rivals Outback Cup game on Friday, March 11. The cup will remain at Wellington High School another year, after the Wolverines won 12-11 in overtime. Wellington won the cup by one goal last year, 9-8. The four-time district champions did not find it easy against a relentless, never-saydie Bronco squad. The lead changed sides twice during regulation play. Felipe Caro and Logan Rogers quickly put the Wolverines (6-7) up

Palm Beach Central’s Tyler Thomasson tries to get around the Wolverines’ Kevin Wright.

with a 2-0 lead. Wellington held on to a tight 3-2 lead going into the second period. Austin Cavallo and Matt Liermann kept the Broncos within a goal by each contributing scores. Both teams peppered shots at the net, but it was Wellington that maintained a 5-2 lead midway through the second period. The Broncos then rallied with four unanswered goals and took their first lead of the game, 6-5. Four different players scored in the second period for the Broncos: Liermann, Cavallo, Tyler Tomasson and Kevin Hagerty. With two minutes left in the first half, Caro drove one into the net off a See LACROSSE, page 33

The Wellington High School lacrosse team celebrates with the Rivals Outback Cup trophy.

Tyler Etten advances the ball for the Wolverines.

Felipe Caro scores for Wellington. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

Sem Ridge Opens Flag Football Season With Shutout

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report On Thursday, March 10, the Seminole Ridge High School girls flag football team opened its season traveling to play rival Palm Beach Central High School, and the Hawks shut out the Broncos 34-0.

The game was close during the first quarter, but the Hawks (1-0) got on the board early to take a 6-0 lead. The Broncos (0-2) were able to settle down on defense and contained Seminole Ridge for the remainder of the first quarter. The Broncos’ reign on defense was brief. The Hawks

Hawk receiver Yazmin Salguero avoids the Palm Beach Central defenders and runs in for the score.

struck again midway through the second quarter. Medeline Harding hit Yazmin Salguero for a 62-yard touchdown pass. The point after gave the Hawks a 13-0 lead. The Broncos began a drive in an effort to get on the board before the end of the first half. However,

the drive was cut short. With two minutes left, Harding jumped on a Bronco pass and returned the interception 26 yards for the score to extend the Hawks’ lead to 20-0 to close out the half. Seminole Ridge started its first possession of the second half firing

Kristi Kemper advances the ball down the sideline for the Hawks.

on all cylinders and drove 80 yards for another score. Harding capped the drive with a 6-yard pass to Salguero. The point after extended the Hawk lead to 27-0. Palm Beach Central could not crack the tough Hawk defense. The See GIRLS FLAG, page 32

Seminole Ridge’s Ashley Hollandsworth gets a first down after Palm Beach Central’s Lauren Mills gets the pull. PHOTOS BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER


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SPORTS & RECREATION

Wizards Host Family Rugby Day In The Acreage

Mark Habib, Jeremiah Ware, Michael Stone, Liam Grey, Carlos Castillo and Dave Rimes at the Family Rugby Day event.

Girls Flag

With the help of the Acreage Athletic League and its president, Carlos Castillo, the Wizards Ruby Club held a Family Rugby Day on Saturday, March 12 at Acreage Community Park. It was a special day because the Wizards were able to present a plaque as a token of appreciation to Michael Stone, president of Equestrian Sport Productions, who runs the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, for continued financial support. Castillo, on behalf of the

AAL, was also recognized for giving the Wizards a home to practice and compete. Without support from ESP and the AAL, the Wizards would not be the first youth rugby club in northern Palm Beach County and thrive the way it has since 2015. At the festival, attendees had a blast as they watched parents play against their children in touch rugby, although some kids could not resist

the chance to tackle a dad or two. The festival took place over three hours, and the Wizards look forward to hosting a similar event next year. The Wizards currently have top teams in the U12, U14 and U16 divisions, and look to do well at the upcoming state tournament. The state tournament will be held again at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on April 30.

WRESTLERS PLACE FIFTH

Easy Win For Hawks

continued from page 31 Broncos were continuously forced into a punt situation. The Hawks put up another score with two minutes left in the game, and closed out their season opener with the 34-0 victory. Harding threw for three touchdowns and had a pick-six. Salguero recorded two scores. The Hawks improved to 1-0 on the season, while the Broncos fell to 0-2. (Right) Palm Beach Central’s Katrina Desorbo avoids the flag pull and tries to move the ball up field. PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER

In competition March 4–5 at the state wrestling championships, Seminole Ridge High School placed in the top quartile of the more than 80 schools represented, better than any other county team its size, and the best in school history. Wrestlers Francisco Farr (120 lbs.) and Jarrod Smiley (152 lbs.) brought home medals, placing fifth in their weight classes. Shown above are (L-R) coach Chad Chieffalo, Jarrod Smiley, head coach Andrew Bradbury and Francisco Farr.


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Rosenberg

Shopping Fun At WEF

continued from page 23 water-repellent), helmets and boots. Some shops stock ready-to-wear, and some deal in custom-made, such as Fabbri and La Mundial. Each year I marvel at the variety of colors, styles and exotic leathers in the Der Dau tent. This year, Tucci Boots opened a shop at WEF for the first time. “We offer both ready-to-wear and

Phoebe Backman gets measured for her new Tucci boots by Dylan Thomas.

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SPORTS & RECREATION custom boots,” said co-owner Kim Harker of New Star Farm. “Business has been steady. We pride ourselves on great customer service. We’re the only Tucci store in the U.S., offering boots handmade in Italy for a reasonable price. Off-the-shelf boots go for $985, and custom pairs for $1,500. We also have a unique product, leather half-chaps which zip up the back like boots and snap to the front of Tucci paddock boots. They look like tall show boots. The chaps and paddock boots together go for $650.” Rider Phoebe Backman, of Avon, Conn., was getting measured for a custom pair of Tucci boots. She rides in the equitation and jumper classes. “I needed a new pair of show boots,” she said. “Tucci sponsors my barn, North Run, so I decided to check them out. I think they’re really great and will last a long time. I’m having my initials done on the outside heels.” Salesperson Dylan Thomas took eight different measurements of each leg. Sharon Lynn Campbell had a tent filled with her greeting cards and ceramics. She does full-size commission oil portraits of horses and dogs, then also makes greeting cards of them. Friend and customer Sue stopped by to visit. “I love

Sharon’s work,” she said. “She has done both of my horses and my dog, Paris. See?” She showed me the greeting cards. “I have the large originals at home,” Sue added. And in case you’re looking for some other big-ticket items, you can

Lacrosse

WHS Win In Overtime

continued from page 31 pass from Tyler Etten to tie the game at 6-6. Neither team could grab the lead before the whistle. The second half did not disappoint, as both teams continued with strong offensive play. Wellington quickly reclaimed the lead 7-6 with a goal from Brendon Fonts. Both the Wolverines and the Broncos went goal-for-goal, but Wellington grasped to a one-goal lead 8-7. With only 10 seconds left to play in the third period, Rogers came up big to extend the Wolverine lead to 9-7. Palm Beach Central struck just minutes into the fourth period. Anthony Ierulli cut into the margin with his goal to bring the score to 9-8. Wellington drove in two more goals, and it appeared that the team would coast to victory with an 11-8 lead,

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check out the horse treadmills, such as the TheraPlate therapy machine and the Horse Gym water treadmills and cold saltwater spas. So yes, you can visit WEF and watch the exciting jumpers, or marvel at those automatic flying changes in the hunter rings, or

shake your head in wonder at the dressage movements, but you can also find anything and everything for the fashionable horse or rider, and enough fun artifacts to accessorize your house or barn. But there are only two weeks left, so get moving!

but the Broncos would not let go. Palm Beach Central cut through the Wolverine defense like a hot knife through butter and sunk in three unanswered goals, with the most crucial coming from Thomasson. With 11 seconds remaining, he launched a missile from about 24 yards out that scorched the back of the net to tie the game 11-11. The score sent the game into overtime. In traditional dramatic fashion, minutes into the overtime period,

Caro drove in the winning goal to give the Wolverines the 12-11 victory and their second-consecutive Rivals Outback Cup win. Caro had four goals for the Wolverines, and Cavallo also had four goals for the Broncos. Palm Beach Central played Boca Raton High School and Wellington had games against Cardinal Newman and Ponte Vedra high schools this week, but results were not available by press time.

Palm Beach Central’s Austin Cavallo dives for the shot and the goal against Wellington goalie Jake Denton.

PHOTO BY GENE NARDI/TOWN-CRIER


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BURGERFI_WELLINGTON

$3 OFF

WITH PURCHASE OF $15 OR MORE.*

*Valid at this location only. Coupon required at time of purchase. limit one coupon per customer. Not to be used with any other coupons or offers. Offer not valid with gift card or alcohol purchases. Void where prohibited. state sales tax applicable. cash value 1/100¢. Offer valid until 03.31.16. Not valid for online orders. @2016 all burgerfi franchised locations are independently owned and operated.

$2 OFF

WITH PURCHASE OF $10 OR MORE.*

*Valid at this location only. Coupon required at time of purchase. limit one coupon per customer. Not to be used with any other coupons or offers. Offer not valid with gift card or alcohol purchases. Void where prohibited. state sales tax applicable. cash value 1/100¢. Offer valid until 03.31.16. Not valid for online orders. @2016 all burgerfi franchised locations are independently owned and operated.

WELLINGTON 12836 FOREST HILL BLVD. WELLINGTON, FL 33414 561.612.7853 SUN - THURS 11AM - 10PM FRI - SAT 11AM -11PM ©2016 BURGERFI International, LLC. BURGERFI® and the BURGERFI® logo are registered trademarks of Restaurant Development Group, LLC. BURGERFI system consists of restaurants owned by BURGERFI International, LLC. affiliates, and BURGERFI franchisees. All BURGERFI franchised locations are independently owned and operated.

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If you liked Campagnolo’s...

You’ll love Arrabiatas!

March 18 - March 24, 2016

EARLY MENU $13.95

Page 35

must be seated by 5:30 p.m.

APPETIZERS (SELECT ONE) Caesar Salad, Mixed Greens, Pasta Fagioli, or Minestrone ENTRÉES (SELECT ONE) Chicken Marsala/Chicken Francese Eggplant Parmigiana/Eggplant Rollatini Chicken Parmigiana/Sausage & Peppers Pork Chop/Veal Parmigiana Zuppa Di Mussels/Sole/Tilapia

Chef Jimmy & Chef Brian (formerly from Campagnolo) still bringing you the authentic flavor of Italy You’ll recognize the great taste... like back in the old neighborhood.

~ Fish may be prepared either Oreganata, Luciano, Francese, or Grilled ~

Cannoli or Chocolate Cake Hot Coffee or Hot Tea with Dessert LUNCH SPECIALS 11 am - 4 pm Daily $5.50 and Up

PLEASE NO SUBSTITUTIONS/NO COUPONS

Happy Hour Daily Everyday Until 7 pm

Aberdeen Plaza

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

arrabiatas.net •

Tel: 561.336.3862 Fax: 561.336.3865

/Arrabiatas Restaurant Of Boynton Beach

HOURS

Sunday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Friday & Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm

Ask about our Homemade & Specialty Desserts


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March 18 - March 24, 2016

Saturday, March 19 • The Loxahatchee Chapter of the Florida Trail Association will hold a four-mile stroll in Okeeheelee Park (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) on Saturday, March 19 at 7:30 a.m. Contact Daisy at (561) 439-5780 for more info. • The Green Market at Wellington will be held Saturday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Visit www.greenmarketatwellington.com for more info. • Wellington will celebrate its 20th Anniversary on Saturday, March 19 beginning with free pool admission along with games and giveaways at the Wellington Aquatics Complex (12072 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The celebration continues at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) from 5 to 10 p.m. with live music, bounce houses, face painting, jugglers, fire breathers, costumed characters, bingo, games and more. The event will conclude with a fireworks show beginning at 9:15 p.m. For more info., visit www. wellingtonfl.gov/20th. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center will host a Deer & Raptor Walk for all ages on Saturday, March 19 at 10:30 a.m. Go on a tour of the deer and raptor compounds and learn about these unique critters. Call (561) 233-1400 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host an Acoustic Java Jam for adults on Saturday, March 19 at 2 p.m. Experience a caffeinated collection of local talent or bring your acoustic instruments and jam out. Coffee will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • Dance Arts Conservatory (11120 South Crown Way, Suites 3 and 4, Wellington) will present School House Rock Live! Jr. on Saturday, March 19 at 5 and 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 20 at 1 and 3 p.m. Visit www.danceartsconservatory. com for more info. • Saturday Night Lights at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center will feature the $130,000 Horseware Ireland Grand Prix CSI3* on Saturday, March 19 starting at 5 p.m. For more info., visit www.pbiec.com or call (561) 793-JUMP. • The Wellington Seniors Club will host a Saturday Night Lights dinner at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center Special Events Pavilion on Saturday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 784-0119 or e-mail tamainfl@comcast.net for more info. • Pet Haven Rescue, a nonprofit, cage-free animal sanctuary, will host its second annual benefit at the Palm Beach Polo Tennis House on Saturday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. “Rolling the Dice for Dogs” will be a fun-filled evening of gambling, live artists, music, food and drinks. All proceeds will help unwanted, abused and neglected animals find new homes. Tickets can be purchased at www.pethavenrescue.org. For more info., call (786) 728-7387. Sunday, March 20 • Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue will host its

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

second annual Four Paws 5K Run Walk at John Prince Park in Lake Worth on Sunday, March 20. Registration begins at 6 a.m. For more info., visit www.justinbartlettanimalrescue.org. • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, March 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Park (1036 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.). Visit www.rpbgreenmarket. com for more info. • The sixth annual Tyler’s Team Charity Poker Classic will take place Sunday, March 20 at the Palm Beach Kennel Club. The Texas Hold ’Em fundraiser will offer players a great day of camaraderie and poker while supporting a worthy cause that helps to keep kids in youth sports. Visit www.tylermclellanfoundation.org or call Kevin McLellan at (561) 215-3717 for more info. • Connect Church West will hold a free community Easter Egg Hunt at Acreage Community Park on Sunday, March 20 with registration beginning at 12:30 p.m. For more info., e-mail info@connectchurchwest.com. • The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will continue the 2016 polo season on Sunday, March 20 with the USPA Gold Cup. For more info., visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Read Together Palm Beach County: Book Chat for adults Sunday, March 20 at 2 p.m. Staff will lead a discussion of Chris Bohjalian’s The Light in the Ruins. Bring along your favorite works of Italian-themed fiction or nonfiction to share with the group. Light refreshments will be served. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. Monday, March 21 • Wellington’s Community Services Department has partnered with Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue to host a Free Water Safety Informational Session on Monday, March 21 at 9 a.m. at the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club (1080 Wellington Trace). Call (561) 791-4764 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Family Finger Painting Fun for ages 6 and up on Monday, March 21 at 2 p.m. Dress to get messy. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Kids Wii U Gaming & More for ages 7 to 12 on Monday, March 21 at 2:30 p.m. Play some of your favorite Wii U and board games. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host its Chess Club for Adults on Monday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. Chess fans will practice strategy skills with other players. Basic game knowledge is required. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Mid-County Democratic Club will meet Monday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at Tree’s Wings & Ribs (603 Royal Palm Beach Blvd.) with a legislative update from State Sen. Joseph Abruzzo. For more info., e-mail stevenlicari@hotmail.com.

Tuesday, March 22 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Spring Break Indoor Olympics for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, March 22 at 2 p.m. This sports spectacular will feature wacky games and challenges. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host its “Under Construction” Lego Crew for ages 7 to 12 on Tuesday, March 22 at 2:30 p.m. Use Lego bricks to make fantastic creations. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Frankentoys Return for ages 10 and up Tuesday, March 22 at 4 p.m. The monsters are falling to pieces and it’s up to you to rebuild them. Use old toys, low-temp glue guns and your imagination to create a one-of-a-kind creature to keep. Materials will be provided. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Anime Nation for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, March 22 at 6 p.m. View new anime titles. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 7906070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Gamerz Nite for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, March 22 at 6:30 p.m. Join a game of Mafia, Uno or Yu-Gi-Oh, play Super Smash Bros. or Mario Kart, or try a new board game or card game. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for more info. • The national tour of the new musical comedy Bullets Over Broadway will make its local premiere from Tuesday, March 22 through Sunday, March 27 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts as a part of the Kravis on Broadway series. Visit www.kravis.org for more info. Wednesday, March 23 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Pirates & Mermaids for ages 4 to 7 on Wednesday, March 23 at 11 a.m. Splash into a morning you’ll treasure full of undersea tales, songs and games. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Kinder-Science for ages 6 and 7 on Wednesday, March 23 at 2 p.m. Unleash your inner scientist with a class full of fun experiments designed for younger science explorers. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Roll Out the Craft Creations for ages 7 to 11 on Wednesday, March 23 at 2:30 p.m. Snip, cut, paint and decorate cardboard tube rolls to make one-of-a-kind crafts. Dress to get messy. All materials will be provided. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Bead Bracelet Bash for ages 8 and up Wednesday, March 23 at 4 p.m. Make a bead bracelet to keep or share with a friend. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register.

The Town-Crier • Wellington will hold a Neighborhood Watch Meeting for the Aero Club on Wednesday, March 23 at 6 p.m. Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov for info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Gluten Free: Is It Right for Me?” for adults on Wednesday, March 23 at 6 p.m., Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Agent Ada Medina-Solorzano will explain what gluten is and who needs a gluten-free diet. Call (561) 6814100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Writers Reading Open Mic for adults on Wednesday, March 23 at 6 p.m. Bring a sample of your own writing to read. The preferred length about 10 minutes and of a family-friendly subject matter. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Teen Cartoon Trivia Tea Party for ages 12 and up on Wednesday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. How well do you know your cartoons from Disney to Cartoon Network to classic and new Japanese anime? Test your knowledge and your teamwork. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. Thursday, March 24 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “It’s a Craft Bonanza!” for ages 2 and up on Thursday, March 24 at 10:30 a.m. Make as many crafts as you want with the supplies from the craft closet. Call (561) 7906030 to pre-register. • The YWCA of Palm Beach County’s Brown Bag Lunch Series continues Thursday, March 24 at noon, at the YWCA Corporate Office (1016 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach). Speakers are Greg Quattlebaum and Susannah Stowers of Quattlebaum Funeral, Cremation & Event Center, who will discuss what is going on in the funeral industry. RSVP to Carol Henry at (561) 640-0050, ext. 134, or chenry@ywcapbc.org. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host Craftapalooza for ages 2 to 8 on Thursday, March 24 at 3 p.m. Create multiple crafts from the library’s fun selections. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “Spring, Happy Spring!” for ages 5 to 8 on Thursday, March 24 at 4 p.m. Welcome springtime and new beginnings with books, songs, crafts and lots of fun. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host food trucks on Thursday, March 24 at 5 p.m. with a free concert featuring the Rough Shot Band at 6:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 for more info. Friday, March 25 • Royal Palm Beach will host a Food Truck Invasion and Free Movie Night with The Martian on Friday, March 25 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Call (561) 790-5149 or visit www. royalpalmbeach.com for more info. Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 33, Wellington, FL 33414 or e-mail news@gotowncrier.com.


The Town-Crier

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT CLEAR ENGLISH SPEAKING CNA — 56 years old, seeks long term 7 day live in with Sweet Lady. Clean level 2 background check, 7 years experience. Excellent reference 561-502-9776. EMPLOYMENT WANTED — BOOKKEEPER/ PERSONAL ASSISTANT. References worked on Palm Beach. 30 years. FT/PT. 561-827-9700.

EMPLOYMENT

CWP & GOV

Salesperson Come work for the BEST! #1 JD Dealership needs a salesperson to sell new and used CWP agricultural and turf equipment to new and existing customers. Base Plus Salary. Excellent Benefits, matching 401K. email dpadron@evergladesfarmequipment.com

AG Equipment Salesperson Come work for the BEST! #1 JD Dealership needs a salesperson to sell new and used agricultural and turf equipment to new and existing customers. Base plus commission. Excellent benefits, matching 401K. email dpadron@evergladesfarmequipment.com

PART-TIME ACCOUNTANT ASSISTANT — Part time, flexible, assistant to accountant. Must be organized self-starter, computer literate (Excel, MS Word), to answer phones, do filing, do scheduling. Must be willing to learn new tasks. Royal Palm Beach.REFERENCES WILL BE CHECKED.Respond to arnoldsachs1@att.net No phone calls. PART TIME, FLEXIBLE LEGAL SECRETARY/ASSISTANT. — Computer Literate (WordPerfect). Answer phones, schedule hearings, filing, assist with document preparation, etc. ONLY APPLICANTS WITH SOME EXPERIENCE WILL BE CONSIDERED. REFERENCES WILL BE CHECKED. Respond to j.a.abrams@att.net No phone calls. H A I R S A L O N — Booth rental available or commission with some clientele. Great environment. Looking for stylist. Must be reliable. Cell 615-630-4244 DRIVER’S WANTED — Airport Transportation FT/PT retirees welcome. 5 6 1 - 3 3 3 - 0 1 8 1 W e l l i n g t o n To w n c a r. MARKETING DIRECTOR (WELLINGTON, FL) SOUGHT BY EQUESTRIAN BUSINESS — with experience in managing digital marketing campaigns to establish brand loyalty among Latin American consumers. Must also have experience preparing budgets and evaluating the profitability of proposed marketing plans. No Travel or Language Required. Integrated Marketing MA+6 months. Send resumes by postal mail only to: Franklin Hoet, Vice-President, Mission Farms of Wellington Inc., 13412 57th Pl S, Wellington, FL 33449.

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

A/C AND REFRIGERATION

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

JOHN C. HUNTON AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION, INC.—Service & new installation FPL independent participating contractor. Lic. CAC 057272 Ins. “We are proud supporters of the Seminole Ridge Hawks” 561-798-3225. Family Owned & Operated since 1996. Credit Cards Accepted

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

DRIVEWAY REPAIR D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. Lic.& Ins. 100045062 561-667-7716

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

LAWN SERVICE YELLOWHAMMER LAWN SERVICE — Serving Loxahatchee, Acreage and Loxahatchee Groves ONLY High quality, affordable yard maintenance. NO CONTRACTS! Locally owned and operated. 561-320-1118

LOCKSMITH C.K.s L O C K & S E C U R I T Y 561-7329418 Full Service Security Since 1960 — Service and installation of locks, safes, camera’s alarms, monitoring, duplication of keys, car remotes and so much more.

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit our website at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. Residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-578-2873. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

PET CARE PRODUCTS HAPPY JACK LIQUIVIC ® 2x— Recognized safe & effective againist hook & roundworms by US CVM. Grand Prix 561-792-2853 Kennelvax.com

PET DOCTOR - MOBILE/HOME CARE TIRED OF HOLDING YOUR CAT IN THE WAITING ROOM? — Call Critter Home Care and Stay Home Dr. Don Denoff. 561-517-8705

PRESSURE CLEANING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www.jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com

ROOFING ROBERT G. HARTMANN ROOFING — Specializing in repairs. Free estimates, Bonded,insured. Lic. #CCC 058317 Ph: 561-790-0763. ROOFING REPAIRS RE-ROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC-0067207 NEIL O’NEAL JR. ROOFING — Roofing & Reroofing. Family owned and operated. Residential/Commercial. Wood Replacement, Roof Coatings, Solar Vents, Skylights & Roof Ventilation. 561-656-4945 Lic. & Insured CCC1330208.Free Estimates

SECURITY SECURITY — American owned local security company in business 30 plus years. Protection by officers drug tested. 40 hour course. Licensed & Insured. 561-848-2600

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

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete repair of all types of systems. Owner Operated. Michael 561-964-6004Lic.#U17871 Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

TRAIL RIDES TRAIL RIDES AT THE GOOD EARTH FARM — You get a 20 min. lesson on what to do before you go on your trek in the woods, then you go with your experienced trail boss. We can serve up to 3 people. Kids have to be at least 10 years old. Everyone has to wear some kind of boot that covers the ankle and has a heel. We have the helmets. Cost is 75$ each for a 1.5 hour experience and a personalized trail ride, walking (trotting in the ring only) at the end you wash your horse. 561-792-2666

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

\

WALLPAPERING

PAPERHANGING BY DEBI — Professional Installation,Removal. Repair of Paper. Neat, Clean & Reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 30 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263

PLUMBING

WEBSITE DESIGN

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

SWAMPLY IS AN ECO-FRIENDLY DIGITAL AGENCY — handling all of your web design, development, and hosting needs. Free consultation. www.swamply.co

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606

March 18 - March 24, 2016 Page 37

FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE

BOWFLEX EXERCISE EQUIPMENT — Bowflex 2lb to 20lb weights for $40. Bowflex adjustale bench $50.00, Recumbent Bike for $40.00, Manual Treadmill $75.00.All Excellent condition. Call 561-333-4806.

105 ACRES RPB/ACREAGE

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS *NEW* ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP — Every Thursday 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Leo and Anne Albert Alzheimer’s Care and Service Center at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, 1925 Birkdale Drive, Wellington. Contact Maria Alma, RN 561-331-6576.

LAND FOR SALE

$6,000,000.00 PRIMA PROPERTIES 561-575-1440 REAL ESATE - RENTAL WANTED L O O K I N G TO R E N T — 1 bedroom/1 bath in Loxahatchee or the Acreage. For long term lease. Guest House, studio, or condo. Please call 954-821-7564


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PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

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The Town-Crier

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE


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March 18 - March 24, 2016 Page 39

HERE’S MY CARD


Page 40 March 18 - March 24, 2016

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The Town-Crier

HERE’S MY CARD

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE


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March 18 - March 24, 2016

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March 18 - March 24, 2016

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The Town-Crier


The Town-Crier

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March 18 - March 24, 2016 Page 43

GREATNESS STARTS

HERE

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NET PROFICIENCY GROWTH IN READING, MATH, WRITING AND SCIENCE IS ALMOST

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CHARTER SCHOOLS USA


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