Town-Crier Newspaper March 26, 2010

Local Groups Big Winners At Great Charity Challenge

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

The Boys & Girls Club of Wellington and the Wellington Community Foundation were among the big winners on Saturday, March 20 when 24 charities received a portion of more than $500,000 in prize money award-

ed during the inaugural FTI Great Charity Challenge at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center.

“The outstanding level of enthusiasm from all the participants — riders, sponsors and the charities — was fantastic,” Equestrian Sport Productions CEO Mark Bellissimo said. “I’m confident it will become the premier event in Wellington.”

Taking home first place and $150,000 was the Step By Step Foundation. Second place went to the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington, which received $125,000 after an extra donation from Edward Kochetova. Third place went to the Wellington Community Foundation, which received $50,000.

The remaining charities split the pot, with each guaranteed at least $10,000. The event was part of the 2010 FTI Winter Equestrian Festival’s Saturday Night Lights series and featured a three-person relay race with each of the 24 teams assigned to a local charity.

Olympic and world-class riders competed on teams

with amateur riders to ride the fastest time over a show-jumping course.

Riding for the Step By Step Foundation were Olympian Margie Engle with Christina Kelly and Jennifer Waxman. The team of Juan and Luis Larrazabala, anchored by Olympian Pablo Barnes, represented the Boys & Girls Club of Wellington. Hallie Buttenwieser, Olivia Fry Weeks and Olympian Rodrigo Pessoa represented the Wellington Community Foundation.

Sponsors donated $15,000 to sponsor a team and a charity, and Equestrian Sport Productions donated all ticket proceeds for a total of $560,000 given away that night.

“We’re thrilled, obviously,” said Mary O’Connor, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. “We were jumping up and down with excitement.”

The timing couldn’t have been better for the club, which has just been approved to build a facility near Wellington’s old water treatment plant on Wellington Trace.

“We’re putting these funds toward our capital campaign,” she said. “The money will certainly help us a lot. On behalf of the

Rev. John Mangrum, ‘The Soul Of Wellington,’ Dies At Age 87

By Ron Bukley

Town-Crier Staff Report

The Rev. John Mangrum, a Wellington pioneer and founder of St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church, died Thursday, March 18. He was 87.

community during its formative years. From his role as founder of St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church to Acme Improvement District supervisor and Town-Crier columnist, he will be greatly missed. Page 4

Mangrum, who wrote the longrunning “Johnny the Stroller” column in the Town-Crier and was also a member of the Acme Improvement District Board of Supervisors, moved to a West Boca retirement community in the 1990s.

“Father Mangrum was truly the soul of Wellington,” said former Wellington Mayor Kathy Foster, who was an Acme Improvement District supervisor with Mangrum in the 1980s.

Foster noted that she and Mangrum were among the first publicly elected supervisors of the Acme Improvement District, which was Wellington’s pre-incorporation government.

Mangrum first took a seat on the Acme board in 1981, as a developer-appointed representative of the growing residential population.

In 1989, the state ordered Acme to open three of the five seats for public election, Foster recalled. Mangrum and Foster, along with attorney Michael McDonough, won the seats.

Mangrum bridged the gap from spiritual leader to political leader, having an impact on everyone he met, Foster said. “His tremendous sense of humor, his sense of family and community, and his sense of giving back were really inspirational to everyone,” she said.

Known as the “priest of polo,” Foster said Mangrum attended polo matches at Palm Beach Polo & Country Club from its opening in 1979 to the day that he retired to Boca Raton. “I don’t think he ever missed a polo match,” Foster said. “He always gave the invocation with appropriate comments for the day’s events, for the celebrities attending, as well as a plug for Wellington.”

Mangrum was also the founder of a western communities ecumenical group that brought together most of the area’s religious leaders, Foster said.

“They shared churches, facili-

Gerwig Elected To Wellington Council

By Lauren Miró and Carol Porter

Town-Crier Staff Report

Anne Gerwig claimed a seat on the Wellington Village Council with a runoff election victory Tuesday, March 23.

Gerwig, a longtime Wellington community activist, defeated retired Wellington employee Ernie Zimmerman.

More than 3,000 voters returned to the polls two weeks after an election that saw Mayor Darell Bowen win another term. In the first round of balloting March 9, Gerwig was the top vote getter in a three-way race, but did not get more than 50 percent of the vote, setting up Tuesday’s runoff with Zimmerman.

In the runoff, Gerwig took 1,707 votes (55.7 percent) to Zimmerman’s 1,356 votes (44.3 percent). After the polls closed, Gerwig

supporters gathered at the Gypsy’s Horse to await poll results. Early returns showed Gerwig ahead on absentee ballots, and the candidate was cautiously optimistic. Around 9:30 p.m., the results came in giving Gerwig a hardwon victory. As everyone cheered, Gerwig began hugging family members and supporters, first her husband Alan, then others who had helped her walk Wellington’s neighborhoods for weeks. “I must have knocked on a thousand doors,” Gerwig said. “We did Sugar Pond. We did Olympia. We did Grand Isles. We did all of them. That’s what you need to do to talk to potential voters. We did a lot of that.” Gerwig said she was thrilled with her support network, saying that she could not have accomplished her victory without them.

ties. They shared services,” she said. “If one denomination of a church or synagogue needed a larger facility for special services, John made sure that whoever had a facility, shared it with the others. He was truly the ecumenical leader of the community. He put all the faiths together. He welcomed every new religious leader who came to the community. He set the tone of an international

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Royal Palm Beach Mayor Matty Mattioli took the oath of office at the Royal Palm Beach Village Council’s organizational meeting

village clerk, and Stanley Hochman remains village treasurer. Councilman Fred Pinto was appointed council liaison officer for the Education Advisory Board, Mattioli was reappointed as liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission, and Valuntas will take over as liaison to the Recreation Advisory Board. Until recently, Valuntas chaired the Recreation Advisory Board. Additionally, Mattioli returned as liaison to the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and Webster remained the village’s delegate to the Palm Beach County League of Cities. Webster also was appointed to the Western Communities Council. In other business, the council unanimously approved a $500,000 grant from the Palm

Beach Metropolitan Planning Organization for new bike paths, inline draining and curbing along La Mancha Avenue. The bike paths will connect H.L.

Blvd. improvements, Assistant

Manager Ray Liggins said. “We thought we were going to lose the grant altogether because of the overlap,” he said. “Obviously we were going to take the stimulus funding of $2.4 million over this half a million dollars.” Instead, the village was able to

(center)

Hostetler

Boys

Big Check —

Dana Brooks and Samuel Wooley, dressed as a pirate, cheer on YMCA rider Beezie Madden. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

See CHARITY, page 7

Rev. John Mangrum

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

RPB’s David Lodwick Looks Forward To Life As A Private Citizen

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

After 12 years as mayor of Royal Palm Beach, private citizen David Lodwick said his newfound freedom will be bittersweet.

Matty Mattioli was sworn in as the village’s new mayor on Thursday, March 18. The next day, Lodwick sat down with the Town-Crier to reflect on the next stage of his life.

“More time for family, more time to have some fun, a little less stress in my life and maybe now I can walk through

the aisles of Publix without stopping,” Lodwick said. However, he was quick to point out how much he enjoyed the job.

“At the same time, it has been a pleasure,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed my time on the council, but it’s time. It’s time for new ideas and new visions, and I think we’ve taken the city a long way from where we started. You always want to leave it better than when we started, and I’m confident that we’ve done that.” Lodwick, who announced his decision not to seek re-election late last year, said

he believes the council’s greatest accomplishment during his tenure was changing the image of the village.

“We now have a voice, I believe, that’s become respected throughout the county and hopefully throughout the state,” he said. “We have created a business model where the taxpayers know they are going to get value for their tax dollar, a high level of services without being charged a whole lot of money. We have built a council that works together. We function as a team. We didn’t always agree on every issue, but we worked together to make it better.”

Making the village better, Lodwick said, included improving every park in the community, improving roads and drainage, merging police and fire protection with the county and selling the village’s water utility to the county at a profit in the face of costly improvements.

“Merging police and fire were controversial at the time,” he said. “As you look back, we’ve improved safety. We improved the cost structure, but most importantly, we improved safety, and that is the job of a city council.”

He hopes the newly reconstituted council keeps the team aspect of the job in mind. “I’ll miss being a part of that team, the head of that team, but I’m not going away,” Lodwick said. “I’ll still be around and be a voice and have an opinion.”

With Village Manager David Farber out ill, Lodwick said the transition has been difficult from an emotional standpoint but not from a managerial standpoint, with 10-year Assistant Village Manager Ray Liggins running day-to-day operations.

“Mr. Liggins has stepped up without missing a beat as far as the functioning of the city,” Lodwick said. “As far as from a personal transition, very difficult for me, not near as difficult as for Dave [Farber] and his family, but very difficult. We’d planned to do some things on a personal level because we’ve been partners for 15 years. Certainly the 11-plus years as mayor, we’ve been tied at the hip. The good news is he’s doing better every day now. He’s going to be healthy. We’ll have time for that when he’s all better.”

Lodwick said change in how the council operates will be inevitable.

“As you change members, the personalities and dynamics do change from council to council,” he said. “It will be interesting to see how this council evolves.”

Rather than attend the council meeting on March 18 when Mattioli and new Councilman Richard Valuntas were sworn in, Lodwick took his wife to dinner.

“It was not my time to be part of that,” Lodwick said. “It was their time… and you don’t need someone to detract from that.”

Lodwick said he will remain active with local homeowners’ associations and churches. He also plans to work closely with the Florida League of Cities.

“I don’t see myself asking to be on boards,” he said. “That’s a good opportunity for people to learn about the community and serve.”

Lodwick said he has no future political ambitions but has been flattered that people have asked him about some possibilities. “This is not part of a plan to say I’ll

disappear 30 days and say ‘I’m running for X,’” he said. “Certainly, I’ve been asked about doing something downtown, but at this point, my immediate future is to take a break.”

Although he doesn’t consider himself a good fit for the Palm Beach County School Board, he said he would be willing to work with a qualified candidate, especially on issues with Royal Palm Beach High School.

Lodwick said he hopes the council carries on the vision for the development of Royal Palm Beach Commons Park, a project that Lodwick initiated with a controversial proposal for the village to buy the former Tradition Golf Course. “We have the money to do it,” he said. “I see no reason it can’t continue or won’t.”

If Lodwick could give the new mayor any advice, he said it would be something his father told him. “God gave us two ears and one mouth. Try to listen more than we talk,” he said. “It’s advice I try to follow myself. I’m not saying I didn’t struggle with it.”

The other advice he would give would be to be thorough. “Make sure you get all the information before you decide the path you want to go down,” he said.

Lodwick said he has a personal expectation that the council can disagree, but after a vote is taken, all the members should buy into it. “We can run civil meetings but stay on point and get our job done,” he said. “We can have differing opinions, but when we walk out, it should be as a team. When you lose a vote four to one, you don’t go out advocating your position. You go out advocating the council’s position.”

Former Royal Palm Beach Mayor David Lodwick chats with the Town-Crier on Friday, March 19, his first day as a private citizen. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

OUR OPINION

Rev. John Mangrum Will Be Deeply Missed By All Who Knew Him

It was less than two months ago that Wellington saw the passing of one of its early visionaries, Bill Ylvisaker, a man known for his tremendous contributions to the sport of polo. Now Wellington is mourning the loss of yet another pioneer, Father John Mangrum, founder of St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church, who died March 18 at the age of 87. His civic-minded generosity helped give rise to a large part of Wellington’s religious community as well as ensuring that the overall community developed into more than just a collection of homes.

As the founder of St. David’s, Mangrum established one of the western communities’ oldest churches. However, more important than that were Mangrum’s efforts to help other religious groups take foot in Wellington, whether just to offer them advice or to provide them with a space to hold services and meetings. And as another example of Mangrum working to unify the local religious community, he founded a local ecumenical group that included other religious leaders from the area.

Mangrum penned his Town-Crier column “Johnny the Stroller” during Wellington’s formative years. He used it as a way to offer a weekly snapshot of life in Wellington, writing about what he saw, whether it was an event or an individual — anything that would further develop the idea that Wellington is a living, breathing community.

Despite having a full plate with his work in the religious sector and weekly literary musings, Mangrum found the time to go beyond that, into the realm of local politics. He was the community’s first representative on the Acme Improvement District Board of

Letter Unfair To Hammond

Editor’s note: The following is in response to Laura Danowski’s letter “Don’t Use Our Money To Fix Violations” published March 12.

I am writing this letter to educate Ms. Danowski on the facts and the fiction.

Fact: Mr. Bill Hammond was requested to speak at the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council meeting by members of the town council due to his expertise in the local real estate market.

Fact: An abandoned house draws rodents and invites vandalism, not to mention devaluing the surrounding properties.

Fact: This is a town problem since abandoned houses over time pose a risk to public health and safety due to stored or illegally dumped trash as well as a fire hazard.

Fact: The owners, which in most cases are financial institutions, do care about liens because all liens must be settled before any funds are disbursed to the seller of the property. This is not my opinion, it’s the law.

Fact: If the town spends money on any abandoned property, the town can lien the property and charge interest. In your letter, you accuse Mr. Hammond of inappropriate actions when there were none. In your letter you say, “let the owners fix them up.” Well, my dear lady, the owners are usually the banks, and let me tell you, if they aren’t forced to spend it, they’re not. The only things that you were correct on in your letter is that you spelled Mr. Hammond’s name correctly and that he is a Realtor and longtime figure in the community. I have known Bill Hammond since I moved to Loxahatchee Groves. In fact, he sold me my house. Mr. Hammond is the broker/owner of a real estate office that has been in the Groves for 38 years. Mr. Hammond is a gentleman of integrity and honesty. I don’t need to elaborate on that issue because anyone who knows Bill Hammond would agree. After I read this item in the Town-Crier, I called Bill and asked him if he had any plans to sell his home. His reply was no. The facts are the facts, and the fiction… is

Supervisors, the governing body that preceded the Wellington Village Council back in the pre-incorporation days. He was appointed to the board before popular elections were held, and when the voting method changed, his position didn’t; Mangrum was among the first Acme supervisors elected to the board, and in the late 1980s, became its president. That title was one that he also held with the Wellington Rotary Club, of which Mangrum was a charter member. He was also a founding member of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and the Wellington Boys & Girls Club, as well as board member, volunteer and founder of several other organizations.

Our experience with Mangrum was common for most people who knew him, as we found him to be a very affable (and humorous) personality. The Town-Crier honored Mangrum 10 years ago with a community service award. When we interviewed him, Mangrum asserted that all he did for Wellington in its formative years was just in a day’s work to him. “It was the great Henry Pitt Van Dusen who said that the minister is the duly accredited friend of the whole community,” he explained. “That idea has governed my whole life. In Wellington, that is what I was, and that is why you are here talking to me today.”

His self-stated goal was to create a “strong, family-based community.” Despite the many obstacles that come with decades of growth and development, we’d say that Mangrum was pretty successful in achieving his goal. And for that, the entire Wellington community should be grateful.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Ms. Danowski’s letter to the editor.

Frank Schiola Loxahatchee Groves

Kudos To J&B Pressure Cleaning

When a merchant fails to deliver a satisfactory product or service to me, I make every effort to get the situation rectified and to make others aware of the problem. However, I recently realized that I fail to praise those who exceed expectations. So I want to partially rectify this by offering praise to both you, the Town-Crier and to Butch of J&B Pressure Cleaning. In the nearly 14 years that I have lived in Wellington, I have needed the service of a pressure cleaner at least a half dozen times. Each time I sought recommendations, checked references and selected a vendor. The quality of work varied considerably, but the problem is that even when I found a good craftsman, a few years later when I needed him again, he was no longer in business.

So when I needed work done again recently, I consulted the business directory section of the Town-Crier. The ad for J&B Pressure Cleaning has appeared on a regular basis, was neat and professional looking, so I called Butch. He personally answered on the first ring, came for an estimate the same day, provided a thorough and detailed estimate, and explained various options and how he planned to do the job. Even though he was working on other jobs that day, he was neat and presentable, and his equipment looked modern and well maintained. So I booked him to do the work. He not only did everything that he promised, but he was also prompt, courteous and careful. He and his assistant provided outstanding service, and I thank the Town-Crier for providing an appropriate venue for him to advertise, and for Butch for providing a needed service in a quality way. Butch has been doing pressure cleaning in Wellington for many years, and I sure hope that he is still here in a few years when I’m sure I’ll need him again.

Roy Rosner

Wellington

Crist Continues Big Spending

The State of Florida has found yet another way to borrow money. Gov. Charlie Crist supports a bill (HB 1169) which would cost the state to borrow $85 million and cost the state $100 million in revenue. According to Crist, the money is to be used for an inland port that is not likely to be built since the environmentalists are strongly opposed to it. There are currently more than a million Floridians out of work. Voters are not able to make the connection between the present economic disaster and past government policies that at the time produced political patronage, but in the long run have disastrous

consequences. This is one of those times.

This welfare bill (HB 1169) is just another scheme of Gov. Crist, the big-spending Republican in Tallahassee, who wants to go to Washington.

The fact is that Gov. Crist has cost Floridians billions in wasteful spending, which now requires the state to go with hat in hand looking for corporate welfare from the insurance industry that it regulates. It seems to me that asking the insurance industry for a handout presents an ethical issue. A vote for Marco Rubio is a vote to eliminate one more out-ofcontrol senator in Washington, D.C.

Frank Morelli Wellington

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

Indian Trail Preparing Referendum Or Proxy Vote On Public Water NEWS

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Many Acreage residents attending the Indian Trail Improvement District Board of Supervisors meeting Thursday, March 18 said they would like to have public water but did not think they could afford it. During a workshop session before the public meeting, county officials said the cost would be $14,000 to $17,000 per home — likely paid in $124 to $149 monthly payments until retired — if residents vote for county water in a referendum that ITID is considering holding.

Others said their well water suits their needs just fine.

Resident Robin Blakeman said she supported a referendum but was afraid that the recent scare over a possible cancer cluster in The Acreage and residents’ fear

60th Street SR 7 Extension

continued from page 1 the roadway through the swale, with turn lanes to the homes, he said. Continuing west to Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Jackson said the county wants to keep the road open during construction.

“There was discussion about putting a large diameter culvert similar to the ones we’ve done at Mandarin, Coconut and Avocado,” Jackson said. “They have chosen not to do that. They want to replace a bridge with a bridge. They really don’t want to get into closing the road and working on maintaining traffic around it.”

The new bridge will be shifted slightly to the east over the M Canal. The old bridge will eventually be demolished, Jackson said. Jackson said a signal will be installed at 60th and Royal Palm

that the cause is in the water would skew results, although no correlation has been found by health officials.

“Most residents would like water but cannot afford to pay,” Blakeman said, adding that she favored state or federal assistance, which County Commissioner Jess Santamaria advocated during the workshop.

Resident Michael Martin said he was happy with his well water. “I drink the water, cook in it and wash the dogs in it. I’m perfectly fine,” he said. “Why do I have to pay for water I get for free? Those who want water, let them hook up. I don’t want to pay.”

ITID President Michelle Damone said the decision will be made by residents either by referendum or proxy ballot. She said the board will work out the details within 30 to 60 days.

Beach Blvd., and visibility also will be improved.

“If you pull up to 60th right now and try to look to the north and look up over that bridge, it’s a very terrible sight distance,” he said. “All of this will be corrected. The road will be raised; the bridge will be flat. You’ll be able to see across and all sight-distance issues will be dealt with.”

North and west of that intersection, the roads will be tapered to the size of the two-lane roads there. A small amount of condemnation will be necessary for tapering the roads, Jackson said. The plans for 60th Street are about 65 percent done, and the plans for the extension are about 95 percent done, Jackson said. The State Road 7 extension eventually will run west of Ibis to Northlake Blvd., Jackson said.

ITID President Michelle Damone said the goal is to get the road all the way to Northlake Blvd. on its original alignment east of Ibis. She noted that the Florida Department of Transportation will

“You have every right to not have water,” Damone said. “There are people here who want it. We are going out of our way to see that nobody has to hook up to water. If you are in the majority, you don’t have to pay for it.”

Resident Karla Craft said she has invested in two wells, and both are bad. She also asked about a lien mentioned by county officials during the workshop that would be placed on homes if residents approved water hookup. ITID Attorney Mary Viator explained that it would be a bond lien, rather than a judgment lien.

Resident David Morrison said he lives near “ground zero” of the cancer cluster near the Dunsford family, whose son had a cancerous brain tumor. The Dunsfords, who pushed health officials to begin a cancer cluster investigation last year, reportedly have left the

return this spring for more hearings on the extension. Residents of Ibis have been preparing objections to the completion of the extension.

“Considering the condition here in The Acreage, with all the national and local attention that we’re getting on the designation of the cancer cluster, they think our hands are quite tied and we’re quite busy with other issues,” Damone said. “They are over there in Ibis being extremely active in advocating for that road not to connect to the reliever road, the State Road 7 that’s already connected to the east of their property near Ibis.”

Damone said ITID is more than capable of dealing with more than one issue at a time, and that the SR 7 extension to Northlake remains a priority.

“We need to remind them that we might be handling our own issues over here, but we can handle more than one issue,” she said. “We need to advocate as a community to get that road con-

area. “My neighbor started the investigation, and they have left and we’re left holding the bag,” Morrison said.

He suggested delaying a referendum until testing by health officials is complete. “I was told I would get results from the department of health a week ago yesterday, and I still don’t have results,” Morrison said. “I wouldn’t consider water until we have results. I think we are putting the cart before the horse.”

Resident Lillian McGann opposed public water. “It’s a major investment without waiting for the results of studies,” McGann said. “If it is the water, then we should make a decision. With my salary, I just can’t afford it.” McGann noted that she had her own water testing done by a friend who has access to a lab. “My water is very good,” she said.

nected all the way.”

Damone said ITID will make an interest form available soon designed to measure interest in the SR 7 extension to Northlake.

“We need to remind Ibis that

Resident Ingrid Sievert said she is happy with her well water that she treats with a system she built herself. “I don’t have a filter, I don’t have salt,” Siebert said. “I have an aeration tank I built for $50. I am not sick. I have wonderful water.”

Resident Karen Mascair said she felt it was no coincidence that the county made presentations on water hookups before testing was complete. “This isn’t just an Acreage issue, it’s a Florida issue,” she said. “They need our money; tomorrow they’re going to need our water.”

Damone said getting a complete census will help determine whether The Acreage is in a cancer cluster or not statistically. “If our population is larger, 46,000 is all we need not to be in a cancer cluster,” Damone said.

although they’re our neighbors, we are quite large and quite populated over here, and these are agreements that were made in the original developer’s agreement,” Damone said. “They might tell

“My water is great,” Sommer said. “I’m not going to spend my money because someone has a fear.”

Damone said the district has received about 400 water interest forms and is tabulating the results to see if there is enough interest to hold a referendum and/or proxy ballot. The district is also in contact with the Supervisor of Elections Office to figure the logistics of proxy balloting and a referendum, she said.

Resident Bob Sommer, who said he has a degree in environmental economics, cast doubt on the county’s ability to supply The Acreage with water without additional plants and wells if a vote should favor hookup. He said he had asked the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department that question and had not received a satisfactory answer.

you it’s an environmental issue, but they developed on 363 acres of pristine jurisdictional wetland acres and they didn’t care then about snail kites, but today they care about snail kites.”

Temple B’nai Jacob’s ‘Strawberry Seder’ Celebrates Passover

About 25 children of Temple B’nai Jacob members and numerous non-members from the western communities enjoyed a Strawberry Seder on Sunday, March 21 in preparation for the upcoming Passover holiday.

The interactive experience with singing, dancing, musical instruments and a symbolic “parting of the Red Sea” represented by watery-blue fabric highlighted the hour-long program.

The program, led by “Miss

Emily” Aronoff, started with the children, each wearing a slave head-dress made of t-shirts, seated on black cloth “desert” squares. Aronoff took the children through the order of the Passover story, starting with the baby Moses in the basket, to the Jews’ time in slavery, to the parting of the sea, and culminating in a Seder featuring fresh strawberries, oranges, grapes and juice.

“Passover is about family, and teaching our families about the

Jews’ journey from slavery to freedom,” said Andrea Cohan, principal of the B’nai Jacob religious school. “We are so happy to have Miss Emily join Rabbi [David] Abrams and our youngest B’nai Jacob family members and their friends experience a child-friendly journey to freedom. We are so grateful to Dr. Shana and Brad Chase and their children, Josie and Oliver, for sponsoring this event for the community.”

The children’s comments

ranged from “I liked the dancing and the strawberries” (Logan Finkel, age 3) to “The most fun was the music!” (Aliyah Pike).

Emily Casper, 5, said, “I like the Seder with all of my cousins,” and Max Charson, 3, commented, “I like the Matzo pizza.”

Temple B’nai Jacob is located in the original Wellington Mall at the corner of Forest Hill Blvd. and Wellington Trace. For more information, call (561) 793-4347 or visit www.templebnaijacob.com.

2010 DRESSAGE UNDER THE STARS SERIES CONCLUDES AT THE PLAYERS CLUB

Rabbi David Abrams with his son Joshua.

The judges: national champion four-in-hand driver Chester Weber, equestrian photographer Susan Stickle and United States Dressage Federation President George Williams.

Children sing along with musician Emily Aronoff.

Championship winner Tami Hoag.

Country Milestone ridden by Jackie Brooks.

Emily Aronoff sings a Bible song for the kids.

2010 Top Shelf Dressage Under the Stars Series concluded Wednesday, March 17 at the Players Club in Wellington. The

Aronoff created head coverings

In Royal Palm Beach

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

PBSO report, the victim had seen his chainsaw in his garage around 4 p.m. last Tuesday. Sometime between then and 8:30 a.m. last Wednesday, someone stole the chainsaw, valued at approximately $179. The victim said he had forgotten to close his garage door, which is how the suspect(s) got inside. There was no other property reported stolen and no one entered the home. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 21 — A woman was the victim of a robbery last Sunday evening in the Village Royale shopping center on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation responded to the plaza after the victim and her son were robbed walking out of the Winn-Dixie supermarket. The victim said a white male walked up to her and grabbed her purse. She struggled with the suspect, but he overpowered her and took the purse. He fled in a 1980s model Chevy S-10 pickup truck. The suspect was last seen on Royal Palm Beach Blvd. A short time later, the victim was notified that the suspect had used her credit card at the gas station in the Publix plaza on Seminole Pratt Whitney Road in The Acreage. Surveillance video was taken at the gas station and turned over to the PBSO.

• • •

MARCH 18 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Sugar Pond Manor last Thursday afternoon in response to a residential burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., someone entered the home through an unlocked front door and stole several electronics items, then fled through the rear door. A neighbor said her dog was barking out of control around noon, though she didn’t see anything. The stolen items were valued at approximately $700. DNA evidence was taken at the scene, but there were no suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center on Pierson Road last Friday morning in response to a burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6 p.m. last Thursday and 7:30 a.m. the following morning, someone stole three brown leather bridles from the victim’s tack room. The tack room does not have locks, and the victim didn’t know who would have taken the bridles. The stolen items were valued at approximately $900. There were no cameras in the area, and there were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded to a home in Palm Beach Point East last Friday morning regarding a vehicle theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 p.m. last Thursday and 8:30 a.m. the following morning, someone stole two rental golf carts from the property. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 19 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach responded to a home on Sparrow Drive last Friday evening regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 6:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., someone took the victim’s dirt bike from his screened-in patio. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report.

MARCH 20 — A resident of Huntington Woods called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Saturday to report a delayed theft. According to a

MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched to a home on 47th Road North last Saturday afternoon regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4 p.m. last Friday and 3 p.m. last Saturday, someone stole a pressure washer and trailer with a lawnmower inside. The two victims said they had secured the pressure washer and trailer, and one victim said he returned home to find that the cable lock had been slit. The stolen items were valued at approximately $4,570. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 20 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington responded last Saturday to a home in Bedford Mews in reference to a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 8:15 a.m. the victim parked her 1997 Toyota 4Runner in front of a home where a yard sale was taking place. The victim said she locked the vehicle but left the windows down. According to the report, someone entered the vehicle and stole the victim’s purse, which was stored behind the driver’s seat. Inside the purse were five miscellaneous credit cards and a voter registration card.

MARCH 21 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched last Sunday to the parking lot of the Regal Cinemas on State Road 7 in reference to a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, the deputy met with the victim, who said at approximately 2:45 p.m. she parked her 2007 Acura, locked it and activated the alarm. When she returned at approximately 5 p.m., the victim discovered that someone had broken the left rear window, entered the vehicle and stole a brief case from the back seat area. Inside were two children’s books and a personal calendar. Also, $2 worth of change was stolen from the center console. There was no suspect information available at the time of the report.

MARCH 22 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation responded to the intersection of Okeechobee Blvd. and B Road in Loxahatchee Groves on Monday regarding a vehicle theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim was driving home from work at approximately 7 p.m. when the oil light of his white Ford F-350 turned on. The victim pulled over at the intersection and locked his vehicle before walking to his sister’s house on C Road. When his brother-in-law returned home later, they returned with oil for the truck, and discovered it was gone. The victim still had the keys, and the deputy could not locate tire tracks due to heavy construction in the area. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives:

• Randall Cleveland is a black

Wellington’s Samantha Elphick Releases Her Latest Book, ‘UNtamed’

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

Wellington author Samantha Elphick has released UNtamed, a sequel to UNbridled, and the second book in her Trilogy of Youth. It centers on Danny Salvaggio, who is fighting forest fires in the mountains of Montana and Wyoming, all while fighting his own sexuality.

“I was inspired by my daughter’s struggle to come out as a gay person,” Elphick said. “Kids try to hide it, they’re afraid. This story is about a boy who works with strong and tough men while denying his feelings.”

Elphick is no stranger to touching on sensitive issues — UNbridled dealt with the suicide of a female polo player. But by writing about these issues, she hopes to reach out to others who face them each day, she said.

“I wanted to touch people’s lives with these problems,” she said. “People still experience horror when they think of coming out. I honestly thought she [my daughter] was going to tell me she was

pregnant [when she came out]. But I love my daughter just the way she is.”

No matter what issue Elphick tackles, there is one common thread to her stories: horses.

In UNtamed, Salvaggio bonds with a young polo pony, rescued from a fiery death and kicked out of the farm’s breeding program.

The horse sparks an unusual and traumatic chain of events that forces Salvaggio to come to terms with himself.

“My stories will always have horses in them,” she said. “You have to know what you’re writing about, and horses are what I know.”

Elphick’s family had introduced her to steeplechasing at a young age, and as she got older she came to love polo.

Elphick, originally from Australia, moved to Wellington in 1994 and purchased a 60-acre polo ranch, from which she operated a bed and breakfast before selling it eight years later.

Her love for polo inspired her to write a biography about female

polo player Deborah Couples, who had greatly influenced her life. But when Couples committed suicide in 2001, Elphick’s focus turned.

“I always had a fascination with writing because I wanted to express myself,” she said. “I think in writing we are able to do that.”

Using a similar, fictional tragedy as a setup for her first novel, Elphick’s books explore the lives of three boys who find the dead body of a female polo player.

“Each book has shown how these boys have grown and changed,” Elphick said. “I believe you can’t live life without the lessons you learn by facing adversity. The last book in the series will finish when they reach middle age because I think that middle age is when you really know who you are. And that makes it the greatest time of your life.”

The third book in the series, due out next year, takes place on the polo fields of Australia — homage to Elphick’s origins.

“I loved when the book went to Australia,” she said. “I loved writing about my own country.”

Elphick next hopes to write crime novels set in and based on the truth behind the glamorous and often corrupt horse world, she said.

“I’m not holding anything back,” she said. “It will be an unscripted exposé. There are so many things that get covered up in the horse world, especially if you’re wealthy.”

Although she is a self-published author, Elphick hopes that her stories will reach out to a broad audience and cause them to think about the issues facing youth today.

“I think the message for everyone that reads my books is to confront your beliefs,” Elphick said.

UNtamed and UNbridled are available at www.samantha elphick.net for $16.70 and $19.50 in soft cover, or for $23.50 and $28.25 hard cover. UNtamed also may be ordered through Barnes & Noble.

‘My stories will always have horses in them. You have to know what you’re writing about, and horses are what I know.’

Samantha Elphick, Author of UNtamed and UNbridled

RPB Zoners Think ‘Pill Mill’ Ordinance Should Be More Restrictive

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Members of the Royal Palm Beach Planning & Zoning Commission registered concerns Tuesday, March 23 that a proposed ordinance to control so-called “pill mills” might not go far enough in controlling pain pill abusers.

Convening as the Local Planning Agency, commissioners approved an ordinance scheduled to go before the Royal Palm Beach Village Council on April 1 with concerns, including that a 72-hour allotment on the dispensing of pain pills might not be restrictive enough.

The ordinance provides a new definition for clinics in the village code and adopts additional regulations for clinics dispensing controlled substances, and provides guidelines on how many pills can be prescribed and how often a prescription can be renewed. The definition includes any doctor’s office, dentist or other medical practice that dispenses controlled drugs, said Development Review Coordinator Kevin Erwin.

Some legitimate clinics do dispense medication, and the ordinance as written allows clinics to dispense 72 hours worth of medication on site. “We’re limiting the days’ worth of medication they can prescribe,” Erwin said.

Commission Chairwoman Jackie Larson said she has been hard-pressed to distinguish between “pill mills” and walk-in pain clinics doing an honest business.

“I would hate to squelch legiti-

Charity $500,000 Given Away

continued from page 1 & Girls Club, and all the charities really, I’m just so appreciative of all the sponsors. Everyone made an incredible commitment to all the charities that night.” For Liliane Stransky of the Step By Step Foundation, the amazement still hadn’t worn off days later.

“We’re still celebrating,” she said. “We’re still in shock. I slept with the check in my bed the first night.”

The foundation focuses on enhancing the lives of underprivileged children by supporting health, nutrition, water, education and other programs that substantially affect the human rights and development of children.

The foundation is building a school in Haiti, and plans to use the money to finish the school and help the surrounding village become sustainable.

“We’re naming the school in honor of [Mark] Bellissimo,” Stransky said. “I’ve renamed them [Mark and Katherine Bellissimo] ‘the Dream Catchers’ because what they did that night was so amazing. I really can’t describe to you in words how grateful we are. It means a lot. Not only for us, not only for the foundation, but for all the children in Haiti.”

The event also helped introduce the community to equestrian events, O’Connor said.

“Because I wasn’t familiar with equestrian events, I didn’t know

mate businesses, because I understand they have taken great burden off our emergency rooms,” Larson said. “It’s the ones dispensing at the sites that we’re trying to capture. Do the patients have to return to the clinic to get more medication?”

Erwin explained that the patients would get a prescription at that clinic to be filled at a regular pharmacy.

“It’s the ones that are dispensing that we’re trying to capture with this,” he said. “Obviously, we’re not going to restrict anyone from going to a pharmacy and getting a 30-day supply, but they need a prescription from a doctor that can’t be filled at the clinic itself.”

Commission Alternate Barbara Powell asked if the village’s ordinance was as stringent as neighboring communities. “I know Wellington is going through the same thing,” Powell said. “Is this following consistent language with what other communities are adopting?”

Erwin said the ordinance was strict, but added, “Seventy-two hours is a very full amount of dosage.” Powell said she was not aware that pain clinics actually distributed medication.

Commissioner Genevieve Lambiase said 72 hours is too long. “I think it should be, ‘Here’s a script, go to the pharmacy.’ This is one of the reasons we’re having these problems, because people are pill seeking,” she said. “They go from clinic to clinic to

what to expect,” she said. “But I really enjoyed watching the event and learning how to keep score.”

Bellissimo already is starting to plan next year’s event.

“We’re going to start looking for charities next month,” he said. “We’ve already pre-selected some of them based on ticket sales. Then we’ll select the remaining charities randomly.”

Charities interested in being included can e-mail wefcharity@ hotmail.com for more information.

Bellissimo is confident that there will be more community involvement next year.

“I’m confident we’ll be able to raise $1 million,” he said. “I had five families approach me afterward and tell me they wanted to be involved next year.”

But Bellissimo said he plans to change a few things, especially the distribution of money. Instead of giving most of the money to the top three teams, he hopes to give a larger payout to the top 10 teams. Additionally, he hopes to include dressage and polo riders, with fundraising events focused around the individual sports.

“I want to make this a unifying event,” he said. “All the riders really loved being a part of it, and we want to involve the entire equestrian community next year.”

Ultimately he hopes to make the Great Charity Challenge a defining event for Wellington and the equestrian community.

“I’m so inspired by the event and the chance to give back to the community,” he said. “I really think I’m on to something.”

‘I’m confident we’ll be able to raise $1 million. I had five families approach me afterward and tell me they wanted to be involved next year.’

clinic to clinic. They’re getting three days’ supply from every clinic they go to.”

Erwin pointed out that the patients also have to pay a fee for a doctor’s visit to receive the pills. “Hopefully, you’re not that badly hooked that you go from clinic to clinic for a three-day supply,” he said.

Powell said she did not like the idea of pain clinics having controlled substances on-site. “I guess this is a new phenomenon in my world,” she said. “I didn’t know that that existed. I’m very uncomfortable with allowing any controlled substances on-site.”

Erwin said it is legal under state law for them to hold and dispense drugs.

“Doctors can issue and fill prescriptions if they choose to,” he said. “We’re trying to maintain a good balance because we don’t want to restrict people who go in for stitches or something and need to take something as soon as they’re done. We want people to have access because they might not be able to get to the pharmacy right away.”

Commission Alternate Tinu Peña noted that the ordinance would allow the filling of a prescription only one time. “I think that kind of ties it down as far as revisiting over and over,” she said.

Lambiase asked how the village will enforce the ordinance, and Erwin said the pain clinics are responsible for maintaining records regarding the number of visits by patients.

“My point is that some of these pill seekers will go to a place and say I have a bad back; can I get some Percocet, and the doctor will give him or her a 72-hour emergency supply of Percocet, and then a week or four days later they come back and say, ‘I fell and hurt my leg. I need some Percocet.’ So, they’re going to get another 72hour supply.”

Erwin said doctors should monitor the dispensing of controlled substances more closely than that.

“If they are coming back three or four times...” Erwin said.

“Unfortunately, some of them aren’t,” Lambiase replied. “That’s why ordinances like this have to be passed.”

Erwin said the clinics must maintain a log, and law enforcement can go through the log to look for patterns of repeat pain patients, but Larson said logs were used during a recent drug enforcement sting that involved numerous repeat pain clinic users.

“I think your first clue would be you drive by and you’ve got a long line of people waiting for the doors to open,” Larson said. “I think that was the first clue in town.”

She questioned why, with the presence of 24-hour pharmacies, pain clinics need to dispense drugs at all. Powell said she felt a 72-hour prescription was extravagant, and

Lambiase agreed, pointing out that a patient can have a prescription filled within an hour at a regular pharmacy. “It can be a deterrent to pill seekers and, believe me, there are a lot of them out there,” Lambiase said.

Peña made a motion to approve the ordinance registering concerns including the 72-hour allowance for prescriptions, its consistency with neighboring ordinances and what constitutes a one-time allowance for the dispensing of controlled substances. The motion further asked that the ordinance come back to the commission for review before its final council reading. Powell seconded the motion, which carried 4-0.

‘National Start! Walking Day’ April 7

Wednesday, April 7 is “National Start! Walking Day.” The American Heart Association calls on all Palm Beach County residents to take a 30-minute walk for heart health and for employees to take a 30-minute break from the daily grind to hold a team rally and walk.

The “Start!” year-round movement is presented nationally by Subway and locally by Boca Raton Community Hospital. “Start!” is the American Heart Association’s national initiative that champions walking because it has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity.

Workplaces have proven to be important environments to foster a culture for exercise as Americans

now work 164 more hours per year than 20 years ago, and jobs have become increasingly sedentary. In January, the American Heart Association defined the seven key factors to ideal cardiovascular health. Physical activity is one of those factors, but only 15 percent of American adults achieve the association’s recommended levels of moderate aerobic exercise (150 or more minutes per week). The “Start!” initiative encourages all Americans to get started on a regular walking program as a way to achieve their physical activity goals and to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease by as much as 30 percent.

According to the American Heart Association, for every one hour of walking, you could gain two hours of life expectancy. The premier fundraising and educational event, the Start! Heart Walk of the Palm Beaches, will be held Saturday, Oct. 2 at the Meyer Amphitheatre in downtown West Palm Beach. For more information about the event, visit www.palmbeachheartwalk.org or call (561) 615-3888.

Nearly 67 percent of Americans are overweight and are at risk for heart complications from sedentary lives. Walking just 30 minutes a day can make a big difference in their cardiovascular health. For additional details, visit www. startwalkingnow.org.

Author Samantha Elphick

Mark Bellissimo

Margie Engle, riding for the Step By Step Foundation, clears a jump. Engle and her teammates went on to take first place.

Hannah Bentz, Laura Newbery, and Lillian and Emma Burris of Children, Hope & Horses pose in front of their jump.

Roger and Jennifer Smith with Katherine and Mark Bellissimo.

Vinceremos supporters cheer on their team.

Riders Christina Kelly and Jennifer Waxman, along with Olym-

pian Margie Engle and Katherine and Mark Bellissimo, present a $150,000 check to Step By Step Foundation representatives.

RPBHS LANDSCAPING PROJECT COMPLETED

Grassy Waters Wine & Dine On The Boardwalk

More than 400 guests are expected to enjoy a beautiful evening of great food, wines, musicians and friends on Wednesday, March 31 at the second annual Grassy Waters Preserve Nonprofit Wine & Dine on the Boardwalk.

Guests are invited to meander along the boardwalk among one of Palm Beach County’s greatest natural treasures, sipping wine from local merchants and enjoying food from the area’s best restaurants, such as Café Chardonnay, Talay Thai, Ironwood Grille, Zuccarelli’s, III Forks, Cantina Laredo, Hobo’s, Tuxedo Gourmet, Whole Foods Market, Hurricanes and more.

There will be a variety of musicians of all ages performing throughout the boardwalk, art exhibits from the Audubon Centennial Edition and unusual vendors culminating with a Chinese auction, before you return to your valet parked car to find a gift awaiting you.

It’s not the traditional fundraising experience, but a night to have fun in a beautiful setting with environmentally proactive sponsors such as the B&W Waste to Energy Team, FPL, Solid Waste Authority and the Merchant Strategy all supporting the educational and recreational programs at the Grassy Waters Preserve. Guests are invited to wine and dine on the boardwalk from 5:30 to 9 p.m. to raise funds for the nonprofit orga-

nization. The money will be used to benefit environmental education and recreation programs, and to help with transportation for students to the preserve.

Palm Beach Aggregates has again funded Grassy Waters’ annual scholarship awards, under the direction of company president Enrique Tomeu and vice president Carlos Arruza, both members of the non-profit Grassy Waters Preserve Board of Directors. A total of $7,500 in scholarships will be awarded to three Palm Beach County high school seniors pursuing careers in environmental issues, with an internship with B&W for the summer.

Proceeds from the event will benefit environmental education and recreation at Grassy Waters Preserve. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowable by the IRS.

Tickets can be purchased at a discount in advance online for $60, at the door for $65, or $100 per couple in advance. To purchase tickets, visit www.grassy waterspreserve.com or call (561) 371-7818.

Community Of Hope To Host Groundbreaking

Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves will celebrate the groundbreaking of its first-ever worship facility on Sunday, April 11. Festivities will begin at 10 a.m. with an outdoor worship service on the church’s 25 acres of prop-

erty located at the northwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and E Road. Following that will be a picnic and plenty of fun family-oriented activities, including an Easter egg hunt, face painting, crafts, a cake walk, a petting zoo, Frisbee golf, volleyball, horseshoes and football.

Community of Hope Church began 13 years ago in the home of Dale Locke, who still serves as the senior pastor. The church, which presently meets in the Royal Palm Beach High School auditorium, received final approval for its new building from the Loxahatchee Groves Town Council on March 2 and has begun clearing trees. Church representatives hope the building will be completed in time to celebrate Christmas in their new church home.

For more information about Community of Hope Church in Loxahatchee Groves, call the church office at (561) 753-8883 or visit its web site at www. communityofhope.org.

Wellington Art Society Arts & Crafts Exhibit

The Wellington Art Society will present “Hot Art, Cool Place” on Saturday, April 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. The free indoor fine arts and crafts exhibit and sale will celebrate all things spring in a French market atmosphere. More than 30 artists from

paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewelry and other fine crafts. In addition to the diverse works of the participating artists, “Hot Art, Cool Place” will feature baked goods, beverages and other refreshments for sale in the “Arte Café,”

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

PINE JOG CENTER ‘GREEN GALA’ EVENT HONORS ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

The Pine Jog Environmental Center hosted its Green Gala on Saturday, March 20, celebrating 50 years of excellence in environmen-

tal education. The event included a number of awards and an auction hosted by Bob Nichols. The event had a retro, 1960s-style theme, and everyone dressed accordingly. For more info., visit www.pinejog.org.

Wellington Egg Hunt April 3 At Village Park

Wellington will host its 2010 Egg Hunt for children ages 1 to 10 on Saturday, April 3 at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road). This event will take place on the baseball and softball fields, located at the southeast quadrant of the park.

The event begins promptly at 10 a.m. with the following age groups: ages 2 and under, 3 to 4, 5 to 7 and 8 to 10.

The event will conclude with a “Best Bonnet” contest to be held immediately following the egg hunt. Homemade bonnets and hats will be judged in the areas of Most Creative, Best Use of Eggs and Best of Wellington. The village encourages everyone to arrive early as there may be heavy traffic. The first age group will begin promptly at 10 a.m.

For more information, call (561) 791-4005.

Walk To Defeat

ALS March 27

At Carlin Park

On Saturday, March 27, hundreds will gather at Carlin Park in Jupiter to join in a fight to find a cure for a deadly illness. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, progressively paralyzes its victims, attacking nerve cells and pathways in the brain or spinal cord. ALS has no known cause or

cure, but Palm Beach County residents are rallying together to change that.

Wheelchair-bound patients along with their families and friends will make a 1.8-mile trek in the Walk to Defeat ALS, hoping their steps will make a difference for ALS patients living in Palm Beach County. Many who walk have a loved one who is still fighting the deadly disease. Others walk in memory of a loved one who has lost the battle. Many people, without any personal connection, still walk out of a simple concern for those who are suffering with the disease.

With only two to five years to live, these patients have an urgent need, and the community is stepping in to fill it by walking for those who can’t. The Walk to Defeat ALS is the ALS Association’s signature event in which all funds directly support cutting-edge research and patient care. Last year, these events raised more than $950,000 around the State of Florida. For additional information about the walk, call (888) 2571717 or register online at www. walktodefeatals.org.

Veterans Open House In Wellington

The Village of Wellington and American Legion Post 390 cordially invite all veterans to attend the Veterans Open House on Thursday, May 20 at the Welling-

ton Community Center’s Grand Cypress room. The open house will provide awareness to veterans in the community that American Legion Post 390 serves, and there will be guest speakers discussing services offered to veterans. The open house will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. For more information about American Legion Wellington Post 390, contact Keith Ullman at (561) 317-0774 or e-mail ka.ullman@yahoo.com.

Pioneer Family Farmstead Day

March 27

Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation will host the annual Pioneer Family Farmstead Day, featuring a historic gas engine and tractor show, on Saturday, March 27 at Riverbend Park in Jupiter.

This free family-oriented event will feature a demonstration of historic gas engines and tractors by the Florida Fly Wheeler Club and Riverbend Park’s 1930 sawmill. Plan for a day of fun that includes feeding the farm animals, riding a pony and playing old-time games. Spread a blanket under the shade of the oaks and enjoy toetappin’ music by South Florida folk musicians. Pack a picnic lunch or feast on the fine vittles provided by Boy Scout Troop 109. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Comfortable shoes and lawn chairs are recommended. For more information, call JoAnna at (561) 966-6686

Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Riverbend Park is located at 9060 Indiantown Road. For the latest on leisure opportunities available through the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department, visit www.pbcparks. com.

Fair Housing Law Symposium April 22-23 In WPB

To help raise public awareness of local, state and national fair housing laws’ success in eliminating housing discrimination, the Palm Beach County Office of Equal Opportunity and the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County will present a two-day Fair Housing Law Symposium set for April 22 and 23 at the West Palm Beach Marriott.

Florida Supreme Court Justice James E.C. Perry will give the keynote address during a luncheon on Friday, April 23. Prior to his appointment to the Florida Supreme Court, Justice Perry served as a judge in the 18th Judicial Circuit and was chief judge from 2003 to 2005.

The keynote speaker at the Thursday, April 22 luncheon will be Elisabeth Omilami, daughter of civil rights activist Dr. Hosea Williams and State Rep. Juanita T. Williams. Omilami and her husband Afemo are directors of the Atlanta-based nonprofit Hosea Feed the Hungry. She is an actress and playwright, having appeared

in numerous television shows and movies, including The Blind Side

The Fair Housing Law Symposium will be presented by nationally recognized members of the John Marshall Law School Fair Housing Law Clinic in Chicago.

Professors Michael Seng, Allison Bethel and Damian Ortiz will present an extensive training program on cutting-edge issues related to fair housing law and enforcement. Michael Allen, of the civil rights law firm Relman & Dane in Washington, D.C., will conclude the symposium with a presentation on litigation under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The symposium is intended for attorneys, judges, and real estate and fair housing professionals. It will include coverage of the Fair Housing Act, prohibited practices and theories of liability, rights of persons with disabilities, remedies, attorneys’ fees, and the relationship between fair housing laws and other statutes.

The event will take place Thursday and Friday, April 22 and 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the West Palm Beach Marriott (1001 Okeechobee Blvd.). Admission to the sessions and luncheon are free, but pre-registration is required. The deadline to register is April 15. April marks the 42nd anniversary of the federal fair housing law, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, familial status and handicap, and encouraging fair housing opportuni-

ties for all citizens. Additionally, Palm Beach County’s fair housing ordinance prohibits discrimination based on age, marital status, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. For more information, contact Pamela Guerrier at (561) 3552558 or pguerrie@pbcgov.org.

Holocaust

Remembrance

Event

April 11

MorseLife Inc., Tradition of the Palm Beaches, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and the Jewish Family and Children’s Service will host a Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) event on Sunday, April 11 at Tradition of the Palm Beaches (4920 Loring Drive, West Palm Beach). The event will feature Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger, author of the memoir A German Life which tells the story of being the son of a decorated World War II German tank commander, and how his relationship with his parents was overshadowed and forever changed by the Holocaust and its aftermath. Wollschlaeger converted to Judaism and emigrated to Israel, served in the Israel Defense Forces, and now lives in Miami and is a practicing family physician and author.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, or to RSVP, call (561) 687-5749.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Herb Bryant and Kellie Leighton.

County Commissioner Jeff Koons, who was honored as the Environmental Visionary of the Year, with Cliff Hertz.

Bob Diffenderfer and School Board Member Bill Graham.

GEM, JEWELRY & BEAD SHOW RETURNS TO THE AMERICRAFT EXPO

PHOTOS

The Gem, Jewelry & Bead Show and Sale took place Saturday and Sunday, March 20 and 21 at the Americraft Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds. Vendors offered a variety of gems, jewelry, crystals, minerals and beads, and there were rare minerals, fossils and even some giant shark’s teeth on exhibit.

The Wellington Seniors Club presented “A Night With Elvis” on Sunday, March 21 at the Wellington Community Center. Russell Brooks performed an Elvis Presley tribute show while guests enjoyed a buffet dinner catered by the Binks Forest Golf Club and additional music by DJ Bob Flaster.

Eileen and George Kuhnel with Sylvia and Don Harden.John and Sunny Meyer with Ingrid and Bill Biegler.

Event Committee members Joan Kahler, Tony and Mary Alfalla, Howard Trager, Estelle Rubin, and Helen and Bob Prior.

Anita and Sam Nebb (seated) with Bob Markey II and Bob Markey Sr. Elvis with Mina Anafi. Russell Brooks performs as Elvis Presley.

Mirla Kremer displays her jewelry.Ingrid Kosowsky looks at pearls at the Chen & Associates booth.Lori Barry looks over a necklace made by Leah Zinke.

WELLINGTON BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP HOSTS ITS PINK RIBBON GALA

at the Binks Forest Golf Club. The

bosombuddiesii.org.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Caroline Young and Dr. Allan Pillersdorf.

Dr. Sue Yang and Dr. Abraham Yang.Raela Phillips performs “I Am Here.”

Teresa Franzoso and J. Amanayea Abraham.

Dr. Douglas Freedman, Shari Zipp, Dr. Sharon Haas and Dr. Anna Ostrovsky. Cancer survivors gather for a group photograph.

Adolfo Cambiaso Powers Crab Orchard To Gold Cup Title At IPC

Ten-goaler Adolfo Cambiaso scored five goals to lead Crab Orchard to a 12-7 victory over Las Monjitas in the championship match of the 26-goal Piaget Gold Cup on Sunday, March 21 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. Julio Arellano added four goals for Crab Orchard, which put the game away with four consecutive goals in the fourth chukker to take a 10-3 lead. Crab Orchard also won the Gold Cup in 2007. Javier Novillo Astrada led Las Monjitas with four goals. The game drew a crowd of more than 5,000 people, including Academy Award-winning actor and polo player Tommy Lee Jones and Burn Notice TV star Jeffrey Donovan. The U.S. Open Championship begins Sunday with Orchard

Beezie Madden Rides Coral Reef Via Volo To Big Victory At WEF

Beezie Madden and her new horse Coral Reef Via Volo won the $75,000 Equine Couture/TuffRider Grand Prix, CSI 2*, in the 10th week of the FTI Winter Equestrian Festival at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington.

Madden and Via Volo had the only double clear round to defeat Ashlee Bond and Cadett 7. Katie Monahan Prudent of France, on Sassicaia II, finished third.

Schuyler Riley rode Navalo de Poheton to a fourth-place finish.

Alan Wade of Ireland was the course designer for the class, which had 41 entries.

It was the first victory for the pairing of Madden and Via Volo, a 12-year-old Warmblood. They had shown together three times before they entered the WEG Selection Trials in WEF’s seventh and eighth weeks.

“It was nice to see her sail around today and be happy,” Madden said. “This week I did three low classes and got to know her a little bit. She went right into here and was great. It proved I was ready for a test with her, and it was a great confidence builder.”

Via Volo used to show in the grand prix classes with Alison Robitaille and was purchased by Gwendolyn Meyer and Coral Reef Ranch.

Madden said Via Volo’s strengths are “her scope and her jumping ability. She’s a mighty little horse. She’s probably under 16 hands, but she has a huge stride and huge scope. I think all of her life, her rideability has been getting better and better, and then switching riders probably set it back just a little. Now we’re getting to know each other, and the rideability is coming back. Hope-

fully it’ll just continue to improve.”

Richard Spooner and his mount Lady Like won the $8,000 Sentient Jet 1.45m timed first round Wednesday, March 17. Second place went to Lauren Hough and Prezioso S, and third place was awarded to Laura Kraut and Tortola.

Spooner returned to the winner’s circle Thursday aboard Ace in the $30,000 WEF Challenge Cup Round Ten. Hough and Prezioso S were again second, and third place went to Alexander Hufenstuhl of Germany aboard Lacapo 4.

Medium Junior and AmateurOwner Jumper competition was featured Friday, March 19. Christina Kelly piloted Alderbaran II to victory in the Reist Industries Medium Junior Jumpers. Tori Corts and Tao Te King earned the

blue ribbon in the Medium Amateur-Owner Jumpers. Just behind Corts for second place were Taylor Harris and her mount Candilla. Elizabeth Bates and Gianina 9 were third.

The Masters Jumpers division highlighted Saturday’s competition. Sally Slater and her mount Loose Lucy finished first in 57.974 seconds. Olivia Fry Weeks on Ronan was second, and third place went to Laura Chad and Coimbra 5.

Laura Kraut on Olmifon D’As finished first in Sunday’s $25,000 Suncast 1.50m Classic. The second-place honors went to Ian Millar of Canada aboard Dryden. Marley Goodman rode Blue Sky Van De Olmenhoeve to third place.

In the Hunter division, Louise Serio added a tricolor to her list for the season, this time in the Equisport Agency Pre-Green

Hunter 3 & 4 Year Olds with Paisley Park. Paisley Park won both over fences classes on Wednesday, as well as the under saddle on Thursday. He also placed second over fences to earn 36 points for the championship. On Sunday, March 21, Madelyn Keck won for the second time this circuit in the Large Green Pony Hunters aboard Just My Style. The reserve championship was awarded to Allison Toffolon and Christina Lin’s Mapleside Dolcetto.

Keck, from Suffolk, N.J., celebrated her 12th birthday Saturday. She has been catch riding Just My Style throughout the circuit, and normally trains with Brian Walker.

Dressage made its return with the opening class in the Dressage Classic, the FEI Grand Prix CDI 3*. Canada’s Belinda Trussell and

Anton won the class with a score of 70.638 percent. Todd Flettrich and Otto were second with 68.723 percent. “He’s getting better and better,” Trussell said of Anton. “This is my highest grand prix score. To reach that 70 percent is great.” The next evening, Trussell and Anton were victorious once again in the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle CDI 3*, again finishing ahead of Flettrich and Otto. The WEF Dressage Classic concluded with the FEI Grand Prix Special CDI 3*. Denmark’s Lars Petersen, who lives in Wellington, won the class on Beemer with a score of 70.750 percent. Shawna Harding and her own Come On III were second with 69.625 percent. For full results, visit www. shownet.biz or www.equestrian sport.com.

(Above left) Crab Orchard’s Adolfo Cambiaso. (Above right) Crab Orchard’s Hilario Ulloa battles with Facundo Pieres

RPBHS Students Qualify For NCFL Nationals

The Royal Palm Beach High School speech and debate team qualified 10 students to the National Catholic Forensic League’s Grand National Championships. The NCFL national tournament will be held during Memorial Day weekend in Omaha, Neb.

The qualification process requires attendance of six local Palm Beach County tournaments throughout the season, ending with the qualifier, which took place this month at Palm Beach Lakes High School. In Duo Interpretation of Literature, Natasha Jean-Pierre and Julie Marcelus placed first, Bryan Piverotto and Jordan Roe placed second, and Keion Jones and Marco Lopez placed third. In Dramatic Performance, Yvonne Goode placed first and Luis Hernandez was first alternate. In Original Oratory, Bastion Pieri placed fourth. In Oral Interpretation, Eleanor Romano placed sixth. In Extemporaneous Speaking, Julianne Trebing placed sixth. The varsity team continues on to the two biggest national

events at the end of year and season. In addition to RPBHS, other area schools were represented at the Grand National. The Public Forum Debate team of David Sleeth and Kayla Molina placed first overall at the qualifier and will represent Seminole Ridge High School in Omaha. The team went undefeated in six debate rounds on the topic of whether using affirmative action to promote equal opportunity in the U.S. is justified. In Lincoln Douglas Debate, the top four spots were taken by debaters from Palm Beach Central and Wellington high schools. PBCHS debaters Alexis Bravo and Ford Filer placed first and third, with Bravo going 6-0; Wellington’s Alex Hernicz and Jack Townsend placed second and fourth, respectively. All argued whether in the United States, the principle of jury nullification is a just check on government. Wellington also had first alternate in LD, Ryan Kennedy. Wellington also qualified the Public Forum debate team of John

The RPBHS speech and debate team with Speech and Debate Director Dario Camara (right).

Cassel and Rachel Ganon, as well as Donna Sothen in Oral Interpretation. Sothen presented both the Dr. Seuss classic “Yertle the Turtle” and the prose selection “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” by Judith Viorst.

In addition, six area students from Suncoast will be in Omaha:

Danielle Davis (Royal Palm Beach) and Andres Ramirez (Royal Palm Beach) in Student Congress, Ashley Estimable (Royal Palm Beach) and Neil Decenteco (Royal Palm Beach) in Original Oratory, Jessie Wang (Wellington) in Oral Interpretation, and Christian Chessman (Loxahatchee) in Public Forum Debate.

SRHS Business Students Earn National Slot

Business students at Seminole Ridge High School did very well in competition at the recent state conference of the Business Professionals of America (BPA). Hawk winners included: Jessica Arnold, first place, Graphic Design, and third place, Medical Office; Danielle Bellamy, third place, Entrepreneur, and sixth place, Food and Nutrition; Sara Bonaccorsi, first place, Economics, and second place, Financial Math; Alexis Fitzgerald, second place, Hospitality; and Matt Wolff, sixth place, Recruiting Poster.

In addition, Fitzgerald received a $1,000 scholarship to Johnson & Wales University. These students qualify to compete at the national BPA conference in May in California. The school thanks digital design teachers Manny Moya and Rob Schwarz for their technology assistance.

• NHS Offers Service Opportunities — The Seminole Ridge National Honor Society chapter has “adopted” a U.S. Marine Corps weapons company and is looking for help in supplying them with much-needed items. Anyone interested can drop items off in

room 5-102 by Friday, April 16 and earn a maximum of five service hours for 10 donated items. Bring your community service log with you when you donate. The Marine Corps needs: t-shirts, medium and large; boxers, medium and large; white crew socks (sizes 9 to 12); mechanics’ gloves; AA and AAA batteries; stationery and pens; pre-sweetened flavored beverage mixes (small sizes preferably); canned pop-top items such as Beefaroni, spaghetti, ravioli and Chunky soups; beef jerky; bagged or canned nuts such as pistachios, cashews, almonds and peanuts; body wash liquid (no pump dispensers); toothbrushes; and chapstick. The NHS thanks everyone for their support of the U.S. Marines. In addition, the society is coordinating an environmental shoerecycling program with the assistance of the HOPE and environmental science classes. It’s called “Shoes for the Cure.” What is it a cure for? Several things, including overflowing landfills, the pollution from generating plastics and U.S. dependence on foreign imports.

NHS will place bins in PE lock-

er rooms and in selected classrooms around the school (5-102, 5-116 and 4-107) for students to drop off their pairs of shoes, earning one community service hour per pair. Shawna Ahmad, Lindy May, Brad Weissman and SRHS physical education teachers will sign student logs for the hours until Wednesday, April 28, when the drive concludes. The donated shoes can be in good shape or terrible — it doesn’t matter. Some will be broken up for recycling by Florida Shoe Recyclers; others will go to charity and from there to people who need them. Either way, you help to keep landfills from filling up with shoes.

• Chorus to Perform at Carnegie Hall — The Seminole Ridge choral groups will perform at Carnegie Hall — yes, that Carnegie Hall — March 26-30 as part of Manhattan Concert Productions’ National Festival Chorus. For their musical weekend, the Seminole Ridge choral groups will join high schools from Colorado, Missouri and New York, along with Florida schools from Bradenton, Crestview, Lake Worth and Miami. The performances allow young people

from around the country an opportunity to demonstrate their talents and to promote artistic standards for choral literature.

• Hawk Battalion to Hold Family Night, Military Ball — The Seminole Ridge Army JROTC battalion will hold two inaugural events in April: a battalion awards night Monday, April 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the auditorium, and a formal military ball Friday, April 16 from 5:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Binks Forest Golf Club in Wellington.

Hawk battalion officers LTC Hans Hunt and MSG Margarita Bonner cordially invite all cadets and their families to attend the first Army JROTC awards night.

For more info., contact Hunt at (561) 422-2620 or hans.hunt @palmbeach.k12.fl.us, or Bonner at (561) 422-2747 or margarita. bonner@palmbeach.k12.fl.us.

• Personal Check Cutoff Date April 9 — SRHS would like to inform parents that Friday, April 9 is the cutoff date for the school to accept personal checks for this school year. Seminole Ridge will continue to accept bank checks and money orders after the April 9 date.

The girls on the Palm Beach Central High School Winter Guard team earned the No. 1 spot with a Superior rating at the South Florida Winter Guard Association competition held March 13 at Santaluces High School. Their performance “Aha!” put the girls in the Scholastic A class alongside some of the top-ranked schools in the state. Championships will be held Saturday, March 27. Pictured above are the Winter Guard girls with director Daniel Helton.

Western Pines Honors Students Of The Month

Once again, Western Pines

been

by

Sixth-grader Shane Reilly is an excellent student. He is very conscientious in every aspect of his work. Shane is a friendly young man, well behaved and reliable, and overall is an excellent member of the class.

chosen seventh-grader, is a dynamic student who is eager to learn and a leader in the class. Bailee can always be counted on in class discussions and seems to keep her fellow students focused and on track.

Finally, from the eighth grade class, is Jacqueline Campos. She is an excellent writer, having been nominated to represent Western Pines in the districtwide “Do the Write Thing” essay contest. Jacqueline is a very personable, cooperative and able young lady.

Golden Grove Hosts Annual Jump Rope For Heart

On Thursday Feb. 25, students at Golden Grove Elementary School jumped rope to raise funds for the American Heart Association. One goal was to raise awareness and promote healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. The money raised will be used to help with cardiovascular disease research and public and professional education programs.

A total of 665 students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade, their teachers, many other members of staff and volunteers participated in the event. The students jumped at the chance to help fight heart disease and stroke, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 3 killers, respectively.

Heart disease and heart defects have touched the lives of many Golden Grove students and faculty this year. They were glad to do what they could to promote heart wellness at Golden Grove through educating students on how to maintain a healthy heart.

Physical education teacher Cathlene Lake coordinated the event and promoted it by infusing it into the curriculum. She incorporated health lessons into her daily sessions with the students, and created visuals to better enable the students to comprehend the importance of maintaining a healthy heart. Golden Grove had set a goal this year to collect $6,000. Lake waited patiently to get the final count after the event.

“It takes a lot of time when you raise that much money,” said Michelle Cooper, senior youth

market director of the American Heart Association. “The school should really be so proud of this amazing accomplishment.”

The results were finally in and the goal was surpassed. The school collected $6,572. Through its six years of participation, the school has collected a total of $65,276.

With the school not only reaching but surpassing its goal, it meant that Lake would get “slimed” by the student who had collected the most money, and the class with 100-percent participation would be invited to attend the sliming ceremony. The sliming will be done by fifth-grader Griffin Yohn and is scheduled to take place on April 22. Based on the students’ collection, they will receive thank-you gifts ranging from bookmarkers and stickers to Walkaroo stilts.

“Certainly, it was Ms. Lake’s efforts and enthusiasm that made this JRFH campaign so successful,” Principal Kathryn Koerner said. “Her spirit gave our Gators the energy they needed to jump over her original goal. Such tremendous results in this trying economy are not only amazing, but a credit to our generous Golden Grove community.”

Jump Rope for Heart is cosponsored by the American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. Jump Rope for Heart has been teaching kids the importance of heart health for 31 years.

Golden Grove students “jump rope for heart.”

Physical education teacher Cathlene Lake (left) and volunteers with a thank-you card for Subway.

Middle School Principal Robert Hatcher is proud to present the Students of the Month. These students have

selected

their language arts teachers as students who represent the best at Western Pines.

Bailee Machado, this month’s

Students of the Month — Shane Reilly, Bailee Machado and Jacqueline Campos with Principal Robert Hatcher.

PACK 120 SCOUTS HOST CARNIVAL-THEMED PACK MEETING IN ROYAL PALM

Royal Palm Beach Cub Scout Pack 120 hosted a carnival-themed pack meeting on Monday, March 15 at the Harvin Center. The scouts and their siblings enjoyed playing carnival games, including target shooting, a catapult game and a beanbag toss. Some scouts received patches for completing a five-mile hike during a recent camping trip. In addition, Pack 120 welcomed Jacob Bell as a new member. (Above) Brayden Reece and Damian Lopez play a catapult game. (Below) Kathy Reece helps scouts and siblings play a target-shooting game.

Armory Art Center Luncheon A ‘Mad’ Success

Honorary chairs Annie Falk and Marie Samuels, along with event chair Nancy Lambrecht, embraced the excitement surrounding the release of Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland movie and created a must-see event of their own. The sold-out, sixth annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon at Club Colette in Palm Beach raised more than $85,000 for artist-in-residence programming at the Armory Art Center in ceramics, painting and drawing, sculpture, printmaking and jewelry.

Guests wore their wildest, yet stylish hats and were judged by Palm Beach’s well-known clothing diva Iris Apfel while bidding on one-of-a-kind crafted teapots by both local and internationally renowned artists.

Sponsors for the event included Paula Butler, Denise McCann,

Joan and Chester Luby, Mary Montgomery, Annie Falk, Marie Samuels, Linda and Donald Silpe and Nancy Lambrecht.

Guests included Petra Levin, Karen Swanson, Tiffany Cloutier, Julie Rudolph, Meike Van Waveren, Martha Gschwend and Mia Matthews.

The Armory Art Center is a notfor-profit community-based visual arts center providing opportunities for individual growth, self-expression, increased awareness and appreciation of the arts through participation in studio, exhibition, lecture and other educational programs. The center seeks to educate, enrich and engage a diverse population through the “experience of art.” For more information on the Armory Art Center, call (561) 832-1776 or visit www. armoryart.org.

Bret O. Baynham, MD

Most Scoliosis is a congenital condition. This means that is present from birth. Neuromuscular scoliosis is caused by abnormal muscles or nerves. It is common in people with medical conditions such as spinal bifida or cerebral palsy. Afflictions such as these may cause paralysis. Degenerative scoliosis is a result of a trauma, injury or illness. It may also be caused by osteoporosis, the thinning of the bones, or as a result from a previous back surgery. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common form of this disease. It has no specific cause and is thought to be hereditary.

Scoliosis, an un-natural curvature of the spine, is known to affect up to 3% of youths before the age of sixteen. Most scoliosis is not severe enough to require a surgical solution, however, other treatments are available to reduce the pain and halt the further curvature of the spine.

A normal spine has a natural curve at the neck and at the bottom. However, when viewed from the front, it appears straight. Scoliosis causes the spine to curve to the side. When viewed from the back, the spine of a person with scoliosis has a curve to the right or left.

A small percentage of those under sixteen have a form of scoliosis. The good news is that less than 0.1% of the cases are severe enough to require a surgical solution. Girls are more likely affected than boys. Idiopathic scoliosis in ages 10 16 can be caused by what we commonly call a growth spurt. This condition does not usually continue into adulthood.

In young adults, most cases are discovered during a school physical or by a parent. There are some clues to look for such as uneven shoulders, a protruding shoulder blade or an uneven waist. X-rays are used to confirm the diagnosis.

The goal of treatment for scoliosis is to keep the curve from getting worse. In children with a curve less than 25%, regular visits to a specialist will help keep track of the progression of the curve. Often, no other treatment is required.

In cases where the spinal curve is 25 40%, the treatment of choice is a back brace. This is most necessary in adolescents who will grow for another two or more years. The brace will help to halt the progression of the curve.

Non-surgical treatments may include pain relieving drugs such as aspirin. Regular exercise is also helpful in reducing pain.

In cases where the curve exceeds 50%, surgery may be recommended. During this procedure, metallic implants are used to correct some of the curve and to hold it in the proper position. The surgery joins the vertebrae together. This is usually referred to as spinal fusion. A bone graft will then have time to take effect and form a rigid fusion in the curved area. In children, it is important to wait until the child is at least 10 12 years of age, as the surgery will stop the growth of the spine in this area. The rest of the spine will, however, continue to grow at a normal rate.

As with all surgery, recovery time depends on many factors such as age, overall physical condition and the severity of the scoliosis. Your doctor and care givers will design a recovery and exercise program especially for you. They will advise you when your child can return to normal activities.

For more information about scoliosis or other orthopedic problems, contact Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute has three convenient locations at PBOI Palm Beach Gardens, 3401 PGA Blvd. Suite 500, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, PBOI Jupiter outpatient Center, 2055 Military

Annie Falk, Marie Samuels, Iris Apfel and Nancy Lambrecht.

Sandra Krakoff, Jan Willinger and Linda Rosbach.

Muriel Kaplan with Linda and Tracy Silpe.

Biscoglio’s Floral Designs Chosen For Norton Event

Wellington Garden Club member Christine Biscoglio has been chosen to submit a floral design for the Norton Museum of Art’s event “Art in Bloom: Art and Flowers in Harmony,” taking place now through March 28. Her arrangement will accompany Mary Cassatt’s 1907 Portrait of Helen Choate Sears “I have always been drawn to the vivid colors and textures used in impressionistic art,” Biscoglio

said. “Mary Cassatt’s portrait incorporates smooth hat ribbons with a bold textured background. This contrast will inspire my design.” A member of the club for three years, Biscoglio’s artistic eye has won her multiple awards in the club’s “Post Time” flower show. She is presently studying to become a flower show judge through the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs.

Three Complete Navy Basic Training

Navy Seaman recruits Brandon Restivo, Hyun Park and Andriana Yzaguirre recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Restivo completed a variety of training, which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations.” This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. Battle Stations is designed to galvanize the basic

warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Its distinctly Navy flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a sailor.

Restivo is the son of Suzanne Restivo of Wellington and John Restivo of West Palm Beach, and a 2009 graduate of Palm Beach Central High School. Park is the son of Youn and Sang Lee of Loxahatchee. Yzaguirre is the daughter of Sharon Yzaguirre and Andres Yzaguirrre of Wellington. She graduated from Glades Day High School in 2003 and Florida Atlantic University in 2009.

RPB Scouts Attend Crossover Ceremony

Royal Palm Beach Cub Scout Pack 120 held a special campout March 5-7 at Tanah Keeta’s rugged Clear Lake campsite in Tequesta.

The occasion was Crossover, a ceremony that recognizes the accomplishments of the oldest Webelos scouts (fifth-graders) and celebrates their transition from cub scouts to boy scouts.

The Order of the Arrow scouts, dressed in Native American regalia, led the graduating Webelos across a ceremonial bridge so that

leaders from troops 111 and 143 could receive their newest members.

The scouts who crossed over are Christopher Rice, Daniel Cabrera, Carl Mohr, Sam Brown and Andrew Lange (to Troop 111), and Sheridan Aikey and Dylan Green (to Troop 143).

Earlier in the day, many Pack 120 Cub Scouts of all ages trekked the five-mile Mike Machek trail, a challenging journey through different South Florida ecosystems.

Mounts Hosts Spring Benefit And Auction

Michael Zimmerman, president of the board of directors of the Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden, welcomed more than 130 supporters at the nonprofit organization’s 12th annual spring benefit and auction. Under the theme “Enchanted Garden,” the event was held March 14 at Mounts Botanical Garden in West Palm Beach.

In addition to mouth-dropping, eye-popping “horticultural performance art” by DiVine, a live jazz trio and barefoot fairies, the event also included the awarding of the organization’s annual Friend of the Garden Awards to the Esther B. O’Keeffe Foundation, the Junior League of the Palm Beaches and Palm Beach County Commissioner Jeff Koons.

The O’Keeffe Foundation and the Junior League each received a permanent bench in the garden — complete with identifying plaque — where people can sit and admire the natural beauty around them. In honor of Koons, Mounts will soon plant a new tree in the garden.

“All three of this year’s award winners have proven to be true friends of Mounts Botanical Garden, and generous in both their time and support,” Zimmerman said. “The Esther B. O’Keefe Foundation has given Mounts more than $200,000 for capital projects in the garden; the Junior League of the Palm Beaches has repeatedly partnered with us, particularly on programs for children; and not only has he been a strong political and community supporter, but Jeff Koons even comes out

occasionally to help us pull weeds.”

Guests enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction of beautiful and uncommon plants, garden art, and exciting dining and entertainment packages.

Leslie Mann chaired the organizing committee for the 12th annual spring benefit with special help from Barbara Cook, Sarah Macintyre Goldstein, Stormi Bivin, Paton White, Beverly Miller, Kathy Vaughan and Joy Ford Le.

Located at 531 N. Military Trail, Mounts Botanical Garden is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The suggested donation for entry is $5 per person. For more information, call (561) 233-1757 or visit www. mounts.org.

Webelos scouts Christopher Rice, Daniel Cabrera and Andrew Lange (with his brother Jared) stand on the Crossover bridge.

Carl Mohr hikes the five-mile Mike Machek trail.

Bunky Witham, Kathy Vaughan and Cathy Macintyre.

Allen Sistrunk and Bob Eigelberger.

Scott Peiffer, Maura Koons and Graham Anderson.

Journalist, Author Howard Fineman Talks Politics At Forum Club

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Speaking two days before President Barack Obama’s historic healthcare reform package was approved, Newsweek senior Washington correspondent and NBC/MSNBC news analyst Howard Fineman brought his views of Capitol Hill to the March 19 luncheon at the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches.

“Greetings from America’s largest theme park,” Fineman said in his opening comments, referring to himself as a “sort of bit player” on the scene.

Fineman, who first began working in the Washington bureau for the Louisville Courier-Journal in 1978, is author of the book 13 American Arguments: Enduring Debates that Define and Inspire

Our Country

“The gist of the book is that, as a country, we were born and bred to argue,” Fineman said. “We’ve been arguing about the same things over and over again, which is not a bad thing. The fact that we never settle the argument is the whole point. Because it’s the energy, the tension, the friction caused by these creative arguments that keeps us whole and

Gerwig VOW Runoff

continued from page 1

said. “There were so many emails. There was so much support. I just cannot believe it.”

Despite the village’s history of frontrunners losing in runoff elections, Gerwig said the hard work by her and her supporters paid off. “I’m very excited,” she said. “A lot more voters came out than I even expected.”

For the runoff, Gerwig worked to expand her outreach efforts.

“I got a lot more friends involved in my campaign this time,” she said. “Looking back, I should have done that originally. I thought that I would be imposing, but they were more than happy to come out and help me.”

Meanwhile, Zimmerman and his supporters gathered at Lutina’s Pizza on South Shore Blvd. to await the results. Although he was disappointed by the loss, Zimmerman said he learned a lot from the campaign.

“It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done — not physically, but mentally,” he said. “I was getting up every day at 6 or 7 a.m. and was out campaigning until 10 or 11 p.m., and around 2 o’clock each morning, I’d wake up to think about what I would do for the following day. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep since this started.” But he knows he’ll be getting a good night’s sleep from now on, because even before the results were in, Zimmerman had come to terms with winning or losing, he said.

Mangrum

Dies At Age 87

continued from page 1 and ecumenical community for all of us to follow.”

The funeral was Tuesday at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Delray Beach, where Mangrum had been an active participant until a few years ago, said St. Paul’s rector, the Rev. William Stokes.

When Mangrum retired as rector at St. David’s-in-the-Pines in 1991, he became chaplain at Bishop Gray Inn, which is now The Crossings nursing home in Lake Worth. But he affiliated himself with St. Paul’s Church and assisted there, Stokes said.

“He was helping out on a regular basis at St. Paul’s,” Stokes said. “He did some interim work at St. Benedict’s in Pompano. He would bounce around, but he really considered this his church.” Mangrum was an assistant priest when Stokes was appointed rector Jan. 1, 1999. “I was thankful because I had this wonderful senior priest who was retired, and he was gracious enough to attend staff meetings with me and do home communions for me and take weekday services and things like that, so I was really quite grateful,” Stokes recalled. “He did that up until a few years ago.”

Stokes said Mangrum felt religious leaders also should serve as community leaders.

“He felt very strongly about the role of the priest being involved in the community, in which they were a part and did their ministry,” Stokes said. The Rev. Steven Thomas took over as rector at St. David’s after Mangrum retired and said Mangrum remained available to help ease the transition. “I couldn’t have had a better supporter,” Thomas said.

Thomas said he knew Man-

keeps us free. We make progress sometimes painfully, and often with great difficulty.”

Fineman said Obama made a mistake by turning the whole issue of healthcare over to Congress.

“Barack Obama and company basically turned this whole thing over to Congress and said, ‘you guys decide. I will be the moral authority, and I will pound the table and say this is a moral necessity and a fiscal necessity, and you guys design it any way you want,’” Fineman said.

One of the questions directed at Fineman came from a group of communications students from the Dreyfoos School of the Arts on how the electronic era was affecting the exchange of information. They wanted to know what he would tell new journalism students about the news process.

“The first thing I would tell them is stop looking at your laptop and go talk to people face to face,” Fineman said. “We’re living more and more of our lives online. I had to teach myself more and more about reporting in the virtual world and using social networking sites to get information. I think that anyone who wants to

“I resolved to accept what the people want,” he said. “I wanted to win, but if the people decide not to have me, they deserve the government they voted for.”

Although he didn’t win this time around, Zimmerman said he did well enough to consider running again.

“I wouldn’t change anything we did in the campaign,” he said. “We didn’t have a machine backing us. It was a strictly grassroots campaign, and we did everything we could do.”

To prepare for her swearing-in at the council’s next meeting, Gerwig said she plans to meet with Village Manager Paul Schofield.

“I just need to get up to speed on what’s been going on since we last spoke,” she said.

And although Gerwig has a few ideas for things she hopes to tackle, she wants to be sure to send them through staff to get feedback and keep from overlapping ideas.

“I want to make sure anything I want to do is implemented through the proper channels,” she said. “I have things I would like to do, but I want to make sure I don’t ruffle anyone’s feathers.”

As for upcoming challenges, she is preparing to tackle the budget — something she knows will be tough.

“It’s pretty critical,” she said.

“And it’s getting tighter and tighter. It’s something that is going to be hard, but we have to deal with it.”

Gerwig will replace Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto, who is leaving due to term limits. Benacquisto is currently seeking a seat in the Florida State Senate.

grum when Thomas was a teacher at St. Andrew’s School in Boca Raton and head of the religious department where he presided over 450 high school students.

“Among all the speakers I had there, Father Mangrum was one of three who got standing ovations,” he recalled.

Mangrum also played cello with several area orchestras and was an avid baseball fan. He was a spring training chaplain for several teams, including the Atlanta Braves, the Cincinnati Reds and the Montreal Expos. Mangrum once said he developed his interests from his father, who was a minor-league baseball player, and his mother, who was a concert violinist and soloist for John Philip Sousa, for whom Mangrum was named. He also ran the Diocese of Southeast Florida youth camp in Avon Park in the 1950s and 1960s, Thomas said.

RPB Grant $500,000 For La Mancha

continued from page 1 change the limits of the grant to cover only the portion on La Mancha Avenue. The money will be used to construct five-foot onstreet bike paths on the existing road, improve the drainage and add flat curbing, Liggins said.

The item was a late addition to the meeting agenda because the approval from the MPO had come in only the day before, and the organization needed a decision by April 1, meaning the council had to decide on it that night.

Swift said he supported the measure but was concerned about whether residents would agree with the decision.

“A number of years ago the council was going to widen the

be a journalist and a reporter needs to go there… get out there and see it face to face. The other part of my advice is to read. Read as much history as you can get your hands on.”

Fineman also said that the demise of the old “dead tree newspaper” brand of journalism has been prematurely reported, and that print publications are going to be around for a lot longer than people think.

“The newsrooms, if there are still newsrooms,” Fineman said, “have to be jointly dedicated to feeding the dead tree publications but also about all day feeding the web. There are some newspapers that do very well online, such as The New York Times, The Washington Post and others. There will always be newspapers, but they might look more like magazines than newsprint.”

Fineman also was asked about the coverage of Obama. Fineman answered that the president had overestimated his historic run.

“The fact is that the campaign of and the election of the first African-American president, if you know any history, was a huge deal,” Fineman said. “In addition

to that was the fact that a whole generation of younger people were brought into politics by President Obama in a way that Ronald Reagan brought a whole bunch of conservative kids into politics.”

However, Fineman noted, Obama needs to reevaluate how he does the job.

“He has missed the true explainer function of the presidency,” Fineman said. “He [mistook] the notion that his election was proof of change in America and that was what he ran on. It doesn’t work that way. Change is incremental, and it’s hard and it’s detail-oriented.”

Yet Fineman warned listeners not to count Obama out.

“If Obama were a stock, and I were a stockbroker, I would say buy,” he said. “Some people think Obama is like Jimmy Carter. It’s way too early to say anything like that. He will probably lose a lot in the midterms. When the Democrats lost in the midterms in 1994, Newt Gingrich came in, and that gave Bill Clinton someone to run against, and Clinton got re-elected. It’s way too soon to say.” For more information about the Forum Club, visit www.forum clubpalmbeach.org.

One of Thomas’ favorite stories about Mangrum centers around a picture hanging at St. David’s. In the photo, Mangrum is standing with the Prince of Wales when he came to Wellington to play polo, Thomas said. The late Rabbi Sam Silver, who had a radio show and was father of former State Rep. Barry Silver, was attending St. David’s once, saw the picture and asked, ‘Who’s that guy standing with Father Mangrum?’”

Mangrum put his wit and wisdom to good use penning the longrunning “Johnny the Stroller” column in the Town-Crier. He regularly visited and gave his opinion of events in the community. His stated goal was to help Wellington develop a sense of community. In 2000, the Town-Crier honored Mangrum with a community service award. Several years later, the Village of Wellington honored Mangrum by placing his

sidewalks up there and we got a lot of flack from residents,” he said. “So I would suggest that we hold a workshop with the residents to see what they want. What the acting village manager is recommending makes a lot of sense, but we just need to make sure our residents agree.”

Although Liggins said he understood Swift’s desire to include residents, he worried that they could lose the money if the council did not make a decision that night.

“We’re on a tight schedule,” he said. “Between now and when construction starts, we could hold a meeting to show residents the work that will be going on, but if there are objections and you decide that you didn’t want to do the project, we’d just cancel it and give the money back. We would not do the inline drainage or the on-street bike paths. It would just die.”

Swift wondered if the drainage

name on a founder’s plaque next to people such as A.W. “Bink” Glisson and Guerry Stribling. Mangrum was born May 22, 1922 in Grand Rapids, Mich. to Melvin and Mary Gailey Mangrum. After serving in Okinawa during World War II, Mangrum was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army as a captain and continued in the U.S. Air Force Reserves until 1955. He earned a master’s of divinity degree from Berkeley Divinity School at Yale in 1949 and was ordained an Episcopal priest on Jan. 6, 1950. Mangrum married Shirley Renton Stahelin on May 26, 1956. His beloved wife died in 2001. Mangrum’s initial church placements were in his native Michigan, but he arrived in Florida in 1955, serving at a number of churches before his arrival at St. David’s. He continued his education with studies at Nashotah Theological Seminary and re-

would improve the often-flooded driveways in the neighborhood, and Liggins said it would.

“That’s something that will be a big benefit to many people,” Swift said. “But at the same time, you have to make sure people are comfortable with it.”

He also asked whether the funding could be used to add sidewalks to areas of La Mancha that don’t currently have them, but Liggins said that it would not be approved.

Webster also expressed concern about losing the funding.

“I certainly don’t want to lose this funding,” she said. “If this project becomes undoable, we lose this funding, which we could have placed where we have some other needs. I hate to see us losing funding when it will solve a number of problems.”

Liggins said that the village would contact all residents who will be affected by the construction to inform them of the project and request feedback.

ceived four honorary doctorates from the University of Tampa, El Shaddai, Evangelical Methodist Reformed and Geneva Theological.

Mangrum worked with Boys & Girls Clubs and was a founding board member of Growing Together. He was active in the Elks, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Rotary, Kiwanis and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

He is survived by his sister, Marjorie Brisebois of Michigan, and surrogate son, Guy Diffenbaugh of Jacksonville.

A Requiem Mass was celebrated Tuesday, March 23 at St. Paul’s with the Right Rev. Calvin Schofield Jr. presiding.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be sent to St.

Newsweek Washington correspondent Howard Fineman

Alan and Anne Gerwig on election night.

Chris Gillette and Brian Zimmerman support their candidates outside Wellington Presbyterian Church on Tuesday.

Supporters of Ernie Zimmerman gather at Lutina’s Pizza.

Ernie Zimmerman gets support from his granddaughters.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER AND LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Attorney Richard Valuntas takes the oath of office to become a Royal Palm Beach councilman. PHOTO BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Mangrum in 2000 with his wife Shirley, who died in 2001. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 188 S. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444. Arrangements were by Tillman Funeral Home.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN AND LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Jessie Lee of Loxahatchee works on his chalk drawing

Pat Evans and Jackie Larson with Jesse, Mick and Ellie.

The “Living Statue” Randy Orwig.

College Planning Masters owner David Eisenson with Jessica Gentile, Carly and Robin Eisenson, Nicole Kelleher and Amanda Marquardt.

Angela and Tom Westhouse with Mylo.

Cheyenne Hall and Brianna Strickland ride the bumper cars.

The band Brass Evolution performs.

Palm Beach Gastroenterology Consultants nurse Stacey Parsons, Dr. Vikran Tarugu and Dr. Krishna Tripuraneni.

John Pagan and Nelene Rivera.

RPB Councilwoman Martha Webster won the “Battle of the Burgs” burger making contest. Shown here are (L-R) David Unversaw of sponsor Republic Services, master of ceremonies Andrew Burr, Webster and Joanne Stanley of Republic Services.

USPA PIAGET GOLD CUP FINALS SEES RECORD

“The 2010 Palm Beach Polo Season has welcomed the largest crowds since IPC’s inception in 2004, confirmation that polo at IPC is attracting scores of new fans from Miami to Jupiter.” “The USPA Piaget Gold Cup Final was a true illustration of polo’s appeal throughout South Florida.” said John Wash, President of Operations for IPC.

“I was both excited and proud to see over five thousand spectators on hand for the championship game,” “It was like the old days at Palm Beach Polo and Country Club. I am so pleased that Piaget has taken such an active part in this great game.” - Mr. Yves G. Piaget.

photography by: LILA PHOTO

Using Horses To Promote Children’s Literacy

Shelly LeConte of Lake Worth has found the perfect way to blend two of her loves: horses and helping children read. It began when she volunteered as a 4-H mom and became acquainted with the Black Stallion Literacy Foundation. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 27

10-0 Win Over Forest Hill Puts Wellington High School Baseball Team In First Place

With a 10-0 victory against the Forest Hill Falcons on March 19, the Wellington High School baseball team brought its record to 12-0 and moved the Wolverines into first place in the district. Josh Hyber’s Column, Page 41

A TOWN-CRIER PUBLICATION

BUSINESS

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning Celebrates Three Decades On April 1

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. is a family-owned business founded in 1980 and now celebrating its 30th anniversary in Palm Beach County. The company will host a 30th anniversary celebration on Thursday, April 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its Royal Palm Beach office (200 Business Park Way, Suite A). The public is invited to join in celebrating the milestone and register to win a free air conditioning system. Page 35

Spor ts

Broncos Defeat Wildcats 9-3 In Baseball

The Palm Beach Central High Schools boys varsity baseball team defeated Royal Palm Beach High School 9-3 at home on Tuesday, March 23 in the second round of the National Grand Slam Tournament. Page 41

Shelly LeConte And The Black Stallion Literacy Foundation

Shelly LeConte of Lake Worth has found the perfect way to blend two of her loves: horses and helping children read. It began when she volunteered as a 4-H mom and became acquainted with the Black Stallion Literacy Foundation in July 2009.

“They knew I had a horse, so they called and asked if I could bring him to the Boys & Girls Club on 45th Street in West Palm Beach,” she recalled. “I loaded up Charisma, my gelding, and off we went. Watching those little kids who’d never been around horses before loving on my horse — I was hooked.”

The foundation offered LeConte a job, and now she is the South Florida coordinator. The program was conceived in 1999 by Walter Farley’s son, Tim Farley, and Mark Miller, owner of the Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in Orlando. The nonprofit group started serving children in 2000, meshing early reading with many children’s love of horses. It provides an unusual approach, motivating kids to read and providing them with a handson experience related to the Walter Farley horse books. The foundation has had an impact on more than 400,000 children nationwide.

There are two separate parts to the program. One, geared toward first-graders, involves introducing them to horses. LeConte brings Charisma and her black pony, which correspond to the characters Big Red and Little Black in the book, Little Black, a Pony, by Walter Farley.

“The teacher reads them the book, and then

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

tells them there’s a surprise,” LeConte said. “She brings them outside, and I have the horses hidden around the corner of a building. She has the children call, ‘Big Red! Little Black!’ and then I bring them out. We have safety barriers set up, but the kids can come over to pet the horses and learn about them. We also set up hay bales with saddles on them so the kids can sit in them and pretend to ride.”

LeConte said it allows children to relate reading a story to learning about real things. It emphasizes the importance of reading. The children each get a copy of Little Black, a Pony, so they can learn to read it by themselves.

About a month later, the classes are taken on a field trip to a horse-related facility. LeConte has taken classes to the Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center, Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue and Horses & the Handicapped. The children get to meet the horse, and they also rotate through learning centers that have informative flash cards and include hands-on experiences about equine feed and nutrition, hoof care, tack and equipment, and reading to a horse.

“It’s a lot of fun, fun, fun, for the kids and for us,” LeConte said. “I don’t know who enjoys it more, the kids or the adults.”

The second program is designed for fourthgraders. Children get their own copy of The Black Stallion by Farley. Teachers get a multidisciplinary curriculum guide, which helps

them incorporate the book into reading, art, social studies, writing and music classes. There’s a study guide for each chapter, a list of resources, and a copy of Francis Ford Coppola’s film of the novel. Students then get to visit the traveling unit of the Arabian Nights See LECONTE, page 28

Students from Pierce Hammock Elementary School visit Pure Thoughts Horse & Foal Rescue through the Black Stallion Literacy Foundation.

Rag Rugs Had A Point In Colonial Days... Not So Much Today

I recently had some free time — imagine! — so I picked up an old craft I used to do, making rag rugs.

In colonial days they used whatever fabric they had, tearing it into strips to weave into something that would cover the dirt floors of their log cabins. I use old t-shirts because they stretch more than regular fabric, and I need that kind of forgiveness.

I start out with shirts the family has thrown into the rag bag but usually end up raiding their dresser drawers for shirts in the colors I need. This causes some stress in the household, but I maintain that any shirt I bought, I own. Never mind that I gave it to them as a birthday gift last year, it has the exact shade of blue I want.

They need to sacrifice for my art.

To begin, cut each r-shirt into big long

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

strips. If you start cutting at the hem, it’s almost like peeling an orange. Roll all these strips into balls, like yarn, and you’re ready to go.

Make a single loop of fabric and then thread another loop through it, then another and another until you have a little chain. When it eventually occurs to you that you’re going to have a chain instead of a rug, you take your

next loop through the side of an existing loop before you go forward. Keeping the chain connected to the center is somewhat crucial. You can do this looping with your fingers, but I suggest coughing up $2 for a latch hook, which makes it much easier.

It’s fun to watch your little circle get bigger and bigger. But be careful! If you don’t add enough loops along the way — if, say, you’re watching “Celebrity Apprentice” at the same time — you will glance down at your work during the commercial and realize you’ve turned your rug into a bowl. You have to add extra loops, you lazy slob!

OK, I don’t mean you’re a lazy slob, just the unnamed person who’s watching TV instead of concentrating on a time-honored craft handed down through the ages by women who weren’t distracted by an argument be-

tween Poison rocker Bret Michaels and Sinbad the Comedian. (Sinbad was so wrong.) At any rate, to get that rug flat again, simply tear out those last 800 loops and do them over. Now keep doing this, like an insane person whiling away time in an asylum, for hours and hours and days and days until you’ve used up every t-shirt in the house and you have a five-foot round rug that’s really slippery and doesn’t go with your décor at all. Success!

Send the rug to your mother, who will wonder why, at your age, you’re still presenting her with Girl Scout projects. But your mother will thank you and display the rug proudly and tell her friends about it because you’re her kid so she has to. Boosted by this encouragement, you will start another one for her.

When you can uncrimp your hand, that is.

School Angst On The Silver Screen In ‘Diary Of A Wimpy Kid’

We went to see Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and I admit I felt more than a twinge of trepidation. Like most of us, I hated middle school, and the last thing I wanted on a lovely day was to relive its stresses. But my wife, who has students of appropriate age, tells me that the kids love the books. So we took the plunge.

The books, as well as the movie, describe the hell that is middle school. You have boys who are under five feet tall sitting next to sixfooters. You have girls still wearing undershirts next to those who are really developed. The kids are in all different phases of puberty, or to quote their teachers using the technical term, “going bonkers.” And, of course, this is the place where kids start to get sorted out into the groups that will bless or haunt them throughout their lives. Some will be big shots, some will be in the middle of the popular cliques and some will be outsiders. For some, middle school is the time that simply puts the seal of affirmation on their popularity and for others it marks them forever.

The books, written by Jeff Kinney, are filled with stick-figured cartoons that reflect the crazy time and all of the seemingly minor crises affecting a kid who is not cut out to be one of the popular ones. Kinney wanted the movie to reflect the books, but they are different enough as media that everything had to be more dramatic, played for broader effect.

The part of the narrator Greg (Zachary Gordon) is central to the success of carrying off the film, and the young actor does very well. His best friend Rowley (Robert Capron) manages to steal the movie from him, but the part is a lot flashier. In the movie, as in the book, the two good friends begin to move away from each other as Greg decides to shed his very inappropriate friend in a bid to win greater acceptance.

He learns, as most of us do, that being a fake has its own problems. Greg only wants to be “cool,” while Rowley simply wants to be himself. As a result, Greg discovers that no one is interested in a “cool Greg” and Rowley, with all of his flaws, becomes more popular.

The main joke centers around the “cheese touch,” a curse handed down against whoev-

‘I’

On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

er is the last to touch a piece of cheese left on the playground long ago. Anyone who touches it becomes a pariah. And of such are ruined lives.

The jokes are cute and many of the bits are priceless, particularly to those who have lived through middle school not only as ourselves but through our children. Of course, there are the usual jokes demonstrating the absolute stupidity of parents (a t-shirt that shows Rowley and his mother together with the line that she loves him, a parent ruining the cool im-

LeConte

Literacy Program

continued from page 27 show. “Right now, the Arabian Nights show is scheduled for the Davie Arena in Broward on May 20,” LeConte said. “We’re looking for a venue to hold it here in Palm Beach County. We need a covered arena that can seat 2,000. The Jim Brandon Center would be great. We just need someone to donate bleachers.”

LeConte has completed the program at Pierce Hammock Elementary School in The Acreage, Belle Glade Elementary School and various Boys & Girls Clubs in Palm Beach County. She contacts as many schools and teachers as she can, sending them an e-mail flier that details the program.

“The cost is $10 per child, and schools can opt to have one class or the whole grade participate,” she said. “There’s no minimum or maximum. This is a really fantastic way to get kids excited about reading.”

For more information, call LeConte at (561) 357-8729, or visit www.bslf-online.org.

age Greg wants) and the absolute evil of older brothers.

There are a lot of scenes that do ring true, however, as kids try to find their place in the world. The wrestling scene where Greg, facing a girl who is taller and stronger, wails in despair, “Where do I grab her?” could stand as a perfect example of the utter ineptitude of boys of that age trying to deal with girls. Of course, there probably is no answer to the question at just about any age.

The movie is cute, a lot of fun. If you have children or grandchildren of the approximate age of those in the movie, particularly if they are already fans of the book, they will get a real kick out of seeing the film. The audience, made up mostly of kids, loved the movie. It does not work as well as the books, which were designed to be read, with kids’ minds filling in the details, rather than having them presented in full.

Even better, if they have not yet gotten into

‘If you have children or grandchildren of the approximate age of those in the movie, particularly if they are already fans of the book, they will get a real kick out of seeing the film.’

the books, have them read through the four books that have been published. My wife reports that her students love the books. They manage to be fun to read as well as not particularly difficult, a rare combination. We can probably expect several more movies as well. They probably will not be brilliant, as this is not, but they provide a charming look at a pivotal time in all our lives.

The goal of the Black Stallion Literacy Foundation is to get elementary school children interested in reading.

Academy for Child Enrichment — In the heart of Royal Palm Beach, the Academy for Child Enrichment offers free all day VPK. Infants through after-school day and night care, 6:30 a.m. to midnight (Monday through Friday), meals included. Qualified staff. Se habla Espanol. Special rates for all registration. The Academy for Child Enrichment is located at 700 Camellia Drive in Royal Palm Beach. Call (561) 798-3452 or visit www.smallworldpbc.com for info. Armory Art Center — The Armory Art Center is excited to bring a series of theme-based sessions to elementary school children for this year’s summer camp. Experienced instructors have developed projects relating to the themes of each week. Activities are age-appropriate and focus on your child’s artistic and creative development. One-week sessions run from June 7 through Aug. 6. Extended care is available. For more information, call (561) 832-1776 or visit at www.ArmoryArt.org.

Breakers West Summer Camp — Enjoy the summer of a lifetime! Breakers West Summer Camp offers something for everyone.Campers, ages five to 14, are invited to join the Breakers West counselors for daily swimming instruction, as well golf, tennis, basketball and soccer play. Campers will also enjoy arts & crafts, cooking classes, wildlife demonstrations, science experiments, magic shows and much more. Breakers West Summer Camp is available Monday through Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. from June 7 through Aug. 13 (excluding July 5-9). Weekly sessions are $300 per camper, per week, with a one-time registration fee of $35, which includes a camp essentials gift bag. Discounts are available to families registering multiple children and/or for multiple sessions. This summer, Breakers West is also pleased to offer sessions for professional golf and tennis instruction and after care. Space is limited, so don’t wait to reserve your place at Breakers West Summer Camp 2010. For more information, or to register, call (561) 653-6333.

Casperey Stables Horse Camp — Casperey Stables is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages seven to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts & crafts and outdoor games, campers find little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures your child will receive 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 BBQ. Call soon — this small, quality program fills quickly! To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 7924990 or visit www.caspereystables.com.

Everglades Youth Conservation Camp — Make the Florida Everglades your child’s backyard this summer. The Everglades Youth Conservation Camp (EYCC) is located in the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in western Palm Beach County. The residential summer camp program is for campers eight to 14 years old. The EYCC also offers a junior counselor program. Also, the FAU/Pine Jog Summer Day Camp is the perfect balance of environmental education, arts, culture, sports and outdoor fun. Pine Jog will be offering a full summer program for children who have completed grades K-5. Visit www.pinejog.fau.edu for more information on either program.

Loxahatchee Country Preschool — The Loxahatchee Country Preschool has been here for 20 years and provides a safe environment with small ratios for summer campers, which means children are well supervised. Throughout the summer, the camp program offers arts and crafts, field trips (which the management team attends), swimming lessons in the school’s swimming pool, Spanish lessons, movies, a bounce house, golf, bowling and more in-house activities. A free pizza lunch will be provided on Fridays. It’s a safe environment while providing an excellent educational program! In a letter sent to the school, the Kings Academy wrote, “What preschools are better prepared for Kings? Loxahatchee Country Preschool was mentioned with enthusiasm!” Call (561) 790-1780 for more information.

Movement Arts Dance Academy Movement Arts will be holding seven weeks of fun-filled summer camp. Weekly themed mini camps for ages three to five will run the weeks of June 14, July 19 and July 26. Students will have fun with arts & crafts and games in addition to learning several styles of dance. Full day camps for ages six to 11 will be held from June 21 through July 16. Classes will include ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop and more. A performance will be held at the end of each twoweek session. The studio is conveniently located on State Road 7 just south of Okeechobee Blvd. For more information, call (561) 792-9757 or visit www.movementartsdanceacademy.com.

Noah’s Ark — Noah’s Ark is located on Okeechobee Blvd in Loxahatchee Groves. They offer free all-day VPK. Lower rates and special registration for fall. Meals are included. Noah’s Ark offers care for infants and preschool children as well as after-school care. Se habla Espanol. Conveniently located at 14563 Okeechobee Blvd. between Royal Palm Beach and Loxahatchee Groves elementary schools. Call (561) 753-6624 for more info.

Scuba Works — This summer, your child (ages eight to 16) can spend a week with Scuba Works and earn a PADI Jr. Open Water Certification, a PADI Jr. Advanced Open Water Certification or a PADI Master Seal Team Certification. Student divers will attend classes on SCUBA diving and Reef Check, an underwater environmentalist course, spend time in the pool and dive two days in the ocean! The courses run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The courses are taught by PADI five-star certified instructors and are limited to 12 student divers per session. Student divers will need a mask, fins and snorkel. For more info., call (561) 575-DIVE or visit www.scubaworks.com. Temple Beth Zion Preschool — Temple Beth Zion is where children of all faiths learn and play together. The preschool offers a fun-filled summer program in a safe, loving environment. The ratios are small and the staff is dedicated and caring. TBZ has a strong academic program with small classes during the school year. Registration is now open for the summer and for fall sessions of preschool and religious school. The school is APPLE accredited and offers free VPK pre-kindergarten with no hidden fees. Temple Beth Zion is located at 129 Sparrow Drive in Royal Palm Beach. Call (561) 798-3737 for more information.

The Camp at St. David’s — The Camp at St. David’s is designed for young children ages three to eight and summer VPK is also available. This year’s theme is “Under the Sea” and each week, campers will investigate creatures that live in God’s oceans. Activities include Bible stories, crafts, water play, music and movie day. Camp runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Sign up for two days or five days, one week or the whole summer. For more info., call (561) 793-1272.

Lynn Roberts To Perform With Palm Beach Pops April 2-8

Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops will light up the stage swinging in “Big Bands & All That Jazz” in April featuring music from the big band era as well as all-time jazz favorites. An indelible member of the Pops family, world-famous female big band singer Lynn Roberts rejoins Lappin on stage for an arousing evening of lively music featuring songs from the classic big bands including Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Lionel Hampton, Count Basie and Harry James. The dynamic mix of a big band within the full orchestra creates a kaleidoscope of incredible music produced by the famous swing orchestras, the talented singers and song writers of that era.

The performance schedule for “Big Bands & All That Jazz” is as follows:

• April 2-3 at 8 p.m. at Dreyfoos Hall in the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. Tickets cost $29 to $89.

• April 5-7 at 8 p.m. at Florida Atlantic University’s Carole and Barry Kaye Performing Arts Auditorium in Boca Raton. Tickets cost $29 to $69.

• April 8 at 8 p.m. at the Palm Beach State College Eissey Campus Theatre in Palm Beach Gardens. Tickets cost $75 to $85. Roberts is one of the few stars in music to have bridged the decades. Her dedication and success have provided a legacy of an endless flow of wonderful music, from the big band era to the present. It takes only one short session with her to convince anyone that Roberts is a great singer, and one of the super songbirds of all time.

Roberts started her exciting career with Charlie Spivak at the age of 15. Roberts, a.k.a. the “Songbird,” spent one year with Spivak, a year with Vincent Lopez, five years with Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, 10 years with Benny Goodman and four years with Harry James. She also shared the spotlight with Sammy Kay on the ABC show Music from Manhattan. Her career momentum led her to stellar performances throughout the U.S., Europe, Japan and Israel. Roberts has the distinction of being the only girl singer to have sung with all these superstar band leaders.

Back in the ’60s, Roberts worked with another student of the legendary Tommy Dorsey — Doc Severensen. They were studio performers in New York City at the time; Roberts singing commercials and

Severensen blowing his trumpet in the background. Like Roberts, Severensen paid his dues in those recording studios, and they became friends. After his retirement from The Tonight Show , Severensen toured the world with his big band, and he chose Roberts as his featured singer. They are still performing with symphonies here and abroad.

In recent years, Roberts has been deluged with requests for special appearances at jazz festivals on major cruise lines and television specials. The Songbird is still going strong and singing better than ever, as apparent on her recently released CD I’ll Never Stop Loving You, a collection of love songs that pull the heartstrings.

For tickets, call (561) 832-7677 or visit www.palmbeachpops.org/ bigbands.

SunFest Announces National Headliners; Tickets On Sale

The organizers of SunFest have announced several national acts scheduled to appear at the 28th annual event being held April 28 to May 2 along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach.

National acts scheduled to perform include Weezer, ZZ Top, Shinedown, Ben Harper and Relentless7, Patti LaBelle, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Flaming Lips, Rise Against, the B-52s, Damian Marley, Nas, Five for Fighting, Flogging

Molly, Sister Hazel, Better than Ezra, Marcus Miller, Classic Albums Live and the Charlie Daniels Band.

“We’ve put together a diverse and exciting lineup,” SunFest Executive Director Paul Jamieson said. “We know our fans feel the setting is as important as the music. One of the magic ingredients that makes SunFest unique is the waterfront setting. We are looking forward to bringing festival-goers out to experience the

festival in a whole new way. I don’t believe there is a more spectacular place to enjoy a music festival than the new West Palm Beach waterfront.”

More entertainment announcements will be made as they are confirmed. Reserved seats for national headline performances are now on sale to the public.

The purchase of reserved seats is available now to Club SunFest members.

Opening night will feature Weezer along with new music talent. Between the social networking sites, video web sites and Internet radio stations, there are more outlets for music than ever. SunFest is looking for bands or artists they may not have heard of, that might not be signed to a major label (or any label at all), but are growing in popularity on personal MP3 players. New Music Night has been a popular addition to the fes-

tival since it started three years ago.

SunFest is asking fans to submit names of up-and-coming acts they would like to see appear on stage. Submissions are being accepted online at www.sunfest.com/new music.

Save $10 on opening night courtesy of the Palm Beach County Health Department when you buy an advance ticket online. For details visit the New Music web page.

The Phantoms Recommend The Office Restaurant In Delray

The latest episode of The Office is brought to you by David Manero

The Office is the latest and one of the best additions to the dining scene since Vic & Angelo’s opened its doors in Delray and Palm Beach Gardens. These trendy eateries are all the brainchild of renowned restaurateur David Manero, formerly of Gotham City Restaurant and Sopra in Delray Beach. Over the past few years, Atlantic Avenue has been acclaimed one of the best “restaurant rows” in the Palm Beaches, now with the addition of the Office, downtown Delray’s bragging rights have increased yet again!

Located at the former Louie Louie Too in Delray Beach, the Office is where the best of the Southwest meets California and New York steaks. The décor was designed by Lynn Manero, David’s wife and the owner of Lynn Interior Designs. Lynn’s concept included adding a 58-foot inside/outside bar, an inviting fireplace, vintage brass mailboxes that double as wine lockers, and interior touches of unique lighting and beautiful whimsical glass art and lots of books on a library shelf setting. To complete the theme, Lynn added red walls, saddle-brown seating, cowhide chairs and mirrors everywhere, so no matter where you are seated, you can see the goings

on at this very happening place.

Despite the Office’s ambitions and a “multi-million-dollar” design, the good news is the menu prices fall on the more affordable side of the dining spectrum, another credit to Manero being in touch with today’s economy. Executive Chef Larry LaVelley, along with Chef de Cuisine Francy Deskin, spearheads the culinary efforts at both the Office and Vic & Angelo’s.

We will start with the libations at the Office, where 45 boutique beers are on tap; also, 40 wines by the glass, along with 200 wines by the bottle and a nice selection of innovative cocktails, are available. Wine selections are from $9 to $25 a glass and bottles start at $19. Special handcrafted cocktails ($12 to $14) are a must-try; we tried the Avenue Cocktail, a tasty combination of Absolute vanilla vodka, Van Gogh cherry vodka, muddled strawberries, fresh lime juice and pineapple. Very refreshing.

Some of the starters are Maine lobster tacos served with black bean mango salsa, or try the delicious red chili pork soft tacos with pineapple or the popular cheddar jalapeño cornbread. Go green with various salads, made with local fresh produce. The house salad is heaped with organic greens, Spanish

Mahon cheese, candied walnuts and drizzled with pear balsamic vinaigrette. We also tried the egg-less Caesar salad, crisp with a light dressing. It went down effortlessly.

Like any restaurant, you the public determine what you like best, and the Office is No. 1 for the best burgers and veggie burgers! The burgers are made of an 80/20 ratio with a special sauce they won’t divulge. But the preparation is what makes the texture just right. Prime Office cheeseburger ($14) is wonderful, the Florida blue crab burger ($25) is marvelous, and the house-made veggie burger ($12) is incredible, a Quinoa-lentil patty with caramelized onions, cheddar cheese served on a whole wheat bun. We will definitely be back for more.

However, we don’t want to steer you wrong (steer… that’s a play on fresh beef), the Office has much more to offer than just burgers! There is a daily special every day of the week. Friday is English ale-battered fish and chips, Saturday is wood-grilled ribeye steak with Portobello mushroom, and Sunday is buttermilk fried chicken with collard greens. Menu selections to suit any palate include braised short ribs ($19), whole yellow snapper (mp), medallions of pork tenderloins ($18) and their signature roasted garlic-stuffed beef

tenderloin ($35). All entrées are accompanied with specially selected sides to further enhance your entrée, such as butter beans, risotto, roasted parsnips, crispy zucchini, shoestring fries and Asian veggies. We also highly recommend adding to your meal the soup of the day ($5), and their very special mac and cheese ($8). Very good.

Desserts are Bananas Foster, key lime crème brulee and their No. 1 favorite, red velvet chocolate cupcake, all $9… so enjoy! Finally, the key to their success is David and Larry’s attention to detail, using only the best meats, the freshest fish, and organic, when possible, vegetables from the best local suppliers. It is evident in the quality and quantity of the food they so proudly serve. That’s why the Office, as well as Vic & Angelo’s and DeVito’s in South Beach, Miami are all winners — they offer some of the best cuisine throughout South Florida!

The Office is open daily for lunch and dinner starting at 11:30 a.m. Give them a try and tell them the Phantoms highly recommend the great eatery! Seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis; therefore, no reservations. The Office is located at 201 E. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 276-3600.

Lynn Roberts

Easter

ComeenjoyabountifulfamilyorientedEasterfeastatWhiteHorseTavern!

Brunchmenuincludes:RoastedRackofLambwithMint-DemiSauce,SeafoodSelections, CarvingStationfeaturingPrimeRibwithNatural-AjuorCreamyHorseradish,RoastedLegofLamb, OmeletteStation,Mimosa,BloodyMaryBar,AssortedDessert,justtolistafew.

Adult:$45.95andChild12andunder$21.95 (includesgratuity)

Brunchservedfrom11:00AM-3:00PM• TakeapicturewiththeEasterBunny. Callimmediatelyforyourseatingarrangementasourcapacityislimited.561-333-1150

Note:BloodyMaryBarisadditional WhiteHorseTavernwillbeservingbruncheverySundaythereafter.

Mother’sDay

Mother’sdayisfastapproaching!

CelebrateandtreatyourmothertoamajesticMother’sDayBrunchatWhiteHorseTavern

Choicesinclude:OmeletteStation,BakedHamwithRaisinSauce,CarvingStationfeaturingPrimeRibwith NaturalAjuorCreamyHorseradishAssortedDessertandSalad,Mimosa,BloodyMaryBar,tolistafew.

Adult:$45.95andChild12andunder$21.95 (includesgratuity)

Allmotherswillreceiveacomplimentaryglassofwineandarose. Callimmediatelyforyourseatingarrangementasourcapacityislimited.561-333-1150

BloodyMaryBarisadditional

OntheGroundsoftheWorldRenowned2010FTIWinterEquestrianFestival

LoungeMenuNowAvailable

OPENAT5:00PMWEDNESDAY-SUNDAY

ComplimentaryValetParking

ReservationsSuggested 561-333-1150

3401EquestrianClubRoad•Wellington,Florida WELLINGTON’SBEST KEPTSECRET

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning Celebrates Three Decades On April 1

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. is a family-owned business founded in 1980 and now celebrating its 30th anniversary in Palm Beach County. The company will host a 30th anniversary celebration on Thursday, April 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its Royal Palm Beach office (200 Business Park Way, Suite A). The public is invited to join in celebrating the milestone and register to win a free, high-efficiency Carrier air conditioning system, including installation. The winner does not have to be present. To register prior to the event, visit www.bradleyair.com.

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-line air conditioning service company, offering heating, air conditioning, ventilation, refrigeration and ice machine services. Services include but are not limited to residential and commercial systems, chilled water systems and routine maintenance to complete air conditioning system replacements. The company currently employs 17 full-time staff and technicians.

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning is a member in good standing, having an A-plus rating with the Better Business Bureau, an MVP Program member with the Consumer Affairs Division of Palm Beach County, member of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. The company has good working relationships with many contractors and local businesses in Palm Beach County; however, customers are the core of Bradley’s business and an integral part of the company’s success.

Projects and service work include: Delray Toyota, Earl Stewart Toyota, Sawgrass Infinity and Dodge, PGA of America, the Binks Forest Golf Club, Mayacoo Lakes Country Club, the Fountains Country Club, and res-

taurants such as Morton’s Steakhouse, Kee Grille in Juno and Boca Raton, Jetty’s in Jupiter and the Players Club in Wellington. Bradley projects also include Office Depot, PetSmart, the CityPlace Towers, the federal building in West Palm Beach and the Palm Beach County courthouse.

The company has worked directly for the Village of Wellington, Village of Royal Palm Beach and Palm Beach County. Hospital projects include work at Wellington Regional Medical Center, Good Samaritan Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center, Raulerson Hospital, Glades General Hospital, Cedar Hospital in Miami and the Pahokee Dementia Center. School projects include Palm Beach Atlantic University, Palm Beach State College, Broward Community College and Florida Atlantic University.

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning owner and founder Bob Bradley has lived in the western communities for more than 30 years with his wife Sharon and son Bobby. He has coached youth baseball in Wellington, Okeeheelee and Lake Lytal, and has helped coach the Wellington High School baseball team since 1996. “Many changes have occurred during our 30 years in Palm Beach County and the western communities,” Bob Bradley said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed our customers and the work we have completed during that period. The most rewarding part of owning this business is that we have served customers from one generation to the next. I would like to thank all of our present and future customers for contributing to the success of our business.”

For more information about Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., call the office at (561) 793-7497 or visit the company’s web site at www.bradleyair.com.

Bradley Heating & Air Conditioning owner Bob Bradley (right) with his son Bobby.

WELLINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOSTS RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Hair Market — The Hair Market is a state-of-the-art salon that offers high-quality products, accessories and styling tools for men and women. It is located at 12160 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 383-7222 or visit www.myhairmarket.com. Shown above are Hair Market staff members with Mayor Darell Bowen and Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Moe’s Southwest Grill — With its popular greeting “Welcome to Moe’s!” and pop-culture-inspired menu and atmosphere, Moe’s Southwest Grill is a fun and engaging fast-casual concept serving a wide variety of fresh, madeto-order southwest fare. Moe’s is located at 2605 State Road 7 in Wellington. For more info., call (561) 7925712 or visit www.moes.com. Shown above are Moe’s Southwest Grill staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

JJJ Automotive — JJJ Automotive offers auto repairs and service. The business is located at 600 Royal Commerce Road, Suite E, in Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 204-2855 or visit. Shown above are JJJ Automotive staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Smart for Life Weight Management — The Smart for Life cookie diet makes losing weight and keeping it off a lifestyle you can live with. The store is located at 11903 Southern Blvd., Suite 108, Royal Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 792-2000 or visit www.smartforlife.com. Shown above are Smart for Life staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

My Whole Pet Market — Located at 10323 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach, My Whole Pet Market offers a wide selection of foods, treats and products for your pets and for all your pet-care needs. From dog treats to horse feed, the store has products for a variety of animals in the many stages of their lives. For more info., call (561) 790-6612 or visit www.mywholepetmarket. com. Shown above are My Whole Pet Market staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Sushi Yama Siam — Sushi Yama Siam is located at 12785 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 8G in the Wellington Plaza. Set in an elegant, peaceful atmosphere, the restaurant offers Japanese and Thai cuisine. For more info., call (561) 798-4288. Shown above are Sushi Yama Siam staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

A Piece of Cake by Elena — Located at 9108 W. Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington, A Piece of Cake by Elena makes custom cakes for any and all occasions. For more info., call (561) 333-5212 or visit www.apocbyelena.com.

Shown above are A Piece of Cake by Elena staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

I’m Greek Today — Located at 11051 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach, I’m Greek Today is the only Greek restaurant in the western communities. It features an authentic Greek menu created with a strong emphasis on one of the world’s healthiest Mediterranean diets. For more info., call (561) 333-4233 or visit www.imgreek today.com. Shown above are I’m Greek Today staff members with Wellington Chamber ambassadors.

Chamber’s Flavors Event Returns April 9

Wellington’s finest dining establishments will offer up their tastiest samplings at Flavors of Wellington on Friday, April 9 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Now in its seventh year, the tasting event is considered the Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s “signature event” and will take place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Attendees will enjoy an evening of dining and dancing to Music Masters International with a stunning backdrop of equestrian

events in the arena. Celebrity judges will include NewsChannel 5’s Roxanne Stein, Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen; Equestrian Sport Productions President Michael Stone, FPL’s Carmine Priore III, Col. Allen West and Miss Florida Gold Coast Outstanding Teen Aubrey West.

Tickets cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door. VIP reserved tables begin at $250. For more information, call the chamber at (561) 792-6525.

Home Sales Event At Wellington View

National luxury home builder

Toll Brothers will host a “Dream Home Sales Event” Saturday, March 27 through Saturday, April 3 at its communities throughout Florida. In southeast Florida, these communities include Jupiter Country Club, Ocean’s Edge at Singer Island, Azura, Frenchman’s Reserve and Wellington View.

“Spring is a popular time to purchase a new home, and our Dream Home Sales Event offers an amazing opportunity for homebuyers to enjoy substantial savings and add special options to their dream home at no additional cost,” said Ronald Blum, senior vice president of Toll Brothers’ Southeast Florida Division. “This limited-time offer should not be missed.”

During this special event, an array of upgraded option packages will be available at no additional cost with the purchase of any new Toll Brothers single-family home, townhome, carriage home or condominium residence in Southeast Florida. Additionally, buyers can expect significant savings when purchasing a home during this event, including flexible incentive dollars to use toward customizing their home.

Option packages will vary by

community and include a variety of features such as upgraded countertops, flooring, cabinetry and appliance packages. Also available are energy-saving options like upgraded thermostats and windows as well as outdoor living options such as an outdoor kitchen, paver patio and landscape upgrades.

Wellington View, located just north of Forest Hill Blvd. on Sansbury’s Way/Lyons Road, features single-family homes priced from the mid-$300,000s. The sales center is located at 761 Edgebrook Lane. For

more info., call (561) 304-3131. For more information, visit www. tollbrothersflorida.com.

Toll Brothers is a Fortune 1000 company that was founded in 1967 and became a public company in 1986. The company operates nationwide and has won all three of the industry’s most coveted awards: America’s Best Builder from the National Association of Home Builders, the National Housing Quality Award, and Builder of the Year. For more information, visit www.tollbrothers.com.

Shenkman Named President Of Estate Planning Council

Local attorney Benjamin P. Shenkman was recently named president of the Palms West Estate Planning Council.

Formed in 2007, the Palms West Estate Planning Council provides educational and networking opportunities to estate planning professionals in the western communities.

Members include attorneys, accountants, life insurance agents and financial advisors.

Shenkman is a partner in the Wellington law firm of Gonzalez & Shenkman P.L., which handles commercial and residential real estate matters, estate planning and administration, and business transactions. In addition, Shenkman is a trustee with the Palms West Chamber of Commerce.

The Gonzalez & Shenkman office is located at 12008 South Shore Blvd., Suite 107. For more information, call (561) 227-1575 or visit www.gslawfirm.com.

Benjamin Shenkman

Wellington View is one of the Toll Brothers communities included in the Dream Home Sales Event March 27 through April 3.

Broncos Defeat Wildcats 9-3 In National Grand Slam Tourney

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report

The Palm Beach Central High Schools boys varsity baseball team defeated Royal Palm Beach High School 9-3 at home on Tuesday, March 23 in the second round of the National Grand Slam Tournament.

“We just wanted to come out and play a solid game, good defense and good hitting,” Broncos coach Scott Benedict said. “We’re really preparing for tomorrow’s game against the No. 1 team [in the tournament], so that’s where our head was at.”

The victory extended the Broncos’ winning streak to 10 and kept them undefeated in the district.

The Broncos (10-3) scored four runs in the second inning. After Ian Hangenmiller doubled, Kevin Berges singled to drive in Hangenmill-

er. Joey Stark made it 3-0 with a bases-loaded single, and the final run of the inning scored when the Royal Palm Beach catcher dropped a throw to the plate trying to get Alex Hernandez.

Berges and Alex Anagnostu had run-scoring singles in the fourth inning to make it 6-0.

The Broncos’ final three runs came in the bottom of the sixth inning on a run-scoring single by Stark and a two-run single by Dexter Price.

The Wildcats (4-7) scored all their runs in the seventh inning. Chris Barr drove in the first run with a single, and Austin Perez made it 9-3 with a two-run single.

“I’ve played enough baseball to know it’s never over,” Royal Palm Beach coach Doug Marcello said.

“I’m proud of my guys; they didn’t give up.”

Benedict was pleased with the performance of pitcher Mitch Blakeney. “Mitch pitched a really great game today,” Benedict said. “He may have lost his concentration a bit there in the last inning, but overall he pitched a great game.”

The Broncos played Bishop Gorman High School of Las Vegas, Nev. on Wednesday, March 24, but results were not available at press time.

Win Over Forest Hill Puts WHS Baseball Team In First Place Wolverine Watch

With a 10-0 victory against the Forest Hill Falcons on March 19, the Wellington High School baseball team brought its record to 12-0 and moved into first place in the district.

Wolverines pitcher Julian Ovalle (2-0) pitched a gem. With a Dontrelle Willis-like leg kick, the left-hander struck out eight batters and allowed only one hit. In the top of the fourth, he struck out the side. “I pitched well because I prepare myself for it,” he said. As opposed to their victory on March 13, when the Wolverines scored the majority of their runs in one inning, the Wolverines spaced out their offensive output. In the bottom of the first, Forest Hill pitcher Mike Puntiel retired only one of the first seven batters. With the bases loaded, junior catcher Alex Tannone drew a walk to force in the first run.

Senior left fielder Paul Conti then hit a sacrifice fly to deep left field to score Andrew

By Josh Hyber

Istler for a 2-0 lead. The Wolverines had four walks and only one hit in the inning. With Ovalle continuing to set down the Falcons, the Wolverines added to their lead in the fourth. Senior first baseman T.J. Malone doubled to lead off the inning. With Malone on third and junior right fielder Zach Turturici on second, Istler hit a double to make it 3-0.

The following batter was senior Joe Barbera. The third baseman hit a drive that car-

ried all the way to the warning track in left field. The double scored Istler and Turturici, and Barbera reached third on the errant throw.

Barbera scored on a wild pitch moments later, giving the Wolverines a 6-0 lead.

Ovalle, who compares his pitch selection to Boston Red Sox ace Josh Beckett, was taken out in the fifth for Travis Holloway. “He [Julian] has worked hard every day, and it’s paying off,” Tannone said. “He’s coming around again and is throwing hard.”

Holloway, who threw a no-hitter against the Falcons on Feb. 23, escaped the fifth inning easily, and struck out one. As for Holloway’s role as a starter and reliever, coach Scott Riddle said each pitcher will have to be ready.

“We have our No. 1 guy set, but after that we have five pitchers who have the potential to start against any team we play,” he said.

“All of our pitchers are going to need the reliever mentality this season.”

In the bottom of the fifth, the Wolverines put their final touches on the win, scoring four more runs. In high school baseball, if a team is leading by 10 or more runs, the game is called. With runners on first and second, junior Mitch Morales hit a long single to score Conti, who was on second. Malone then hit a two-run double.

“It felt great,” said Malone, who has played on a rotating basis with fellow senior Mike Fields. “I do what I can when my number is called.”

With Malone on second base, Turturici hit a single to drive in Malone and end the game.

The Wolverines (12-0) played William T. Dwyer on Tuesday, March 23. Wellington is currently on a six-game road trip, highlighted by games March 29 at Winter Springs High School in Orlando and March 30 at Lake Highland Prep in Orlando.

PHOTOS BY LAUREN MIRÓ/TOWN-CRIER

Brandon Thomasson dives back to first base.

Pitcher Chris Barr winds up.

Julian Landron steps up to bat.

Joey Stark slides in to third base under Christian Benhart.

ExclusiveAmenities

Member Benefits at BreakersWest

Seminole Ridge Girls Lacrosse Team Finishes Rebuilding Year

The Seminole Ridge High School girls lacrosse program comes to the end of a rebuilding year this month.

With only three seniors graduating and 24 of the 29 players hoping to return, head coach Ken Larson hopes that the Seminole Ridge program will become a district power in the 201011 season.

Lacrosse, both girls and

boys, is not only the fastest growing sport in the country, but also the No. 1 collegiate scholarship sport in America.

Larson is actively searching for available field space in the Acreage/Loxahatchee area to hold developmental and advanced lacrosse clinics and to build interest in this increasingly popular sport.

For additional information, contact Larson at (561) 3139500 or e-mail landshark lax10@aol.com.

SRHS Girls Lacrosse — (Right) The 2009-10 Seminole Ridge girls lacrosse team, including team captains Alex Auchter and Lydia Keller and coach Ken Larson.

Cats Gymnastics Excels At Mardi Gras Competition In Stuart

The gymnasts from Cats Gymnastics of Wellington recently competed in the Winter Mardi Gras competition in Stuart.

In Level 2, Angela Lares scored a 9.3 on vault and 9.3 on beam. Alexandra Lares scored a 9.350 on vault and 9.150 on beam. Stephanie Katz scored a 9.350 for her vault.

For the Level 3 team, Faith Campagnoulo scored a 9.0 on vault and 9.0 on beam, earning her fourth place all around. Bianca Sileo placed first on vault, first on floor

and second on bars, earning her second place all around. Sidney Glaubrecht placed first on bars with a 9.325 and first on vault. Samantha Baez scored a 9.050 for her bar routine.

For the Level 4 team, Isabella Padilla placed fourth on vault, second on bars, first on beam and first on floor, earning her first place all around. Sophia Ringvald placed fourth on bars, second on beam, second on floor and first on vault, earning her second place all around. Gabriella Hernan-

dez placed third on vault, third on beam and second on floor, earning her third place all around. Mia Frozini placed fourth on beam and second on vault. Alexia Moraes scored a 9.050 for her amazing vault. Together these athletes brought home the first-place team trophy.

For the Level 5 team, Michela Arbocco placed second on bars and first on beam, earning her second place all around. Rayven Glaubrecht placed second on beam, first on vault, first on floor and

first place all around. Angela Chandler placed third for her vault.

In Level 7, Vanessa Vergara scored an 8.6 for her floor routine and a 8.550 for her vault.

The girls worked hard to prepare for the competitions with instruction from their coaches Margarita Martinez, Felipe Restrepo and Mario Restrepo.

For more information about this award-winning team, call (561) 795-3393 or visit www.catsgymnastics. com.

The Cats gymnasts with their awards.

SPORTS & RECREATION

Strong Showing For Muay Thai Academy

The team from Bowon Muay Thai Academy of Wellington has done it again. The team earned two victories in the “First Strike” amateur kickboxing and muay thai event on Saturday, March 13.

Divita Company of Pompano Beach hosted this competition in order to establish local pride for the new Divita Company Muay Thai Champion Belt. The main event of the evening featured M.J. Holland, with a current record of 7-2, and title holder of an IKF amateur belt. It was a sold-out event, and in the ninth bout, team Bowon Muay Thai received its first victory with Danielle “the Pirate” Trembley winning by unanimous decision and remaining undefeated at 2-0. For the final featured fight of the night, which lasted five rounds, team Bowon

Muay Thai earned its second victory, and Holland became the new Divita Company Muay Thai Champion.

Bowon Muay Thai Academy has many talented amateur fighters as well as upand-coming future pro fighters. Bowon also offers children and beginner programs that focus on building selfdiscipline, self-confidence, self-defense and overall physical fitness.

Bowon Muay Thai Academy focuses on training the traditional techniques of muay thai (Thai kickboxing), which is known as “the art of eight limbs.”

Bowon Muay Thai Academy is located at 3132 Fortune Way, Suite D7, in Wellington Commerce Park. For more information, call (561) 629-7161 or visit the academy’s web site at www.bowon muaythai.com.

MAJOR MARLINS STOP STORM 17-10

The Palm Beach Little League Major Marlins recently battled the tough Greenacres Majors Storm. The Marlins fought from an 8-2 ball game to win 17-10. The offense was led by Christian Hodges’ two doubles, a double from Justin Caprio, a double and two out-of-the-park home runs by Richie Cotromano, and all other teammates reaching base. The Marlins defense was led by Richie Cotromano with seven strikeouts, and Christopher Casas coming in to close with two strikeouts. The Greenacres Storm’s Panama Mendez also had an outof-the-park home run. It was an exciting game from start to finish. The Palm Beach Little League Marlins advance their record to 4-0 for the season. Shown above are: (front row, L-R) coach Louis Bonavilla, Jeremy Raymond, Logan Thomas, Christopher Casas, Tyler Hannan, Brian Bonavilla and coach Vince Casas; (back row) Richie Cotromano, Johnny Caprio, Joey Schergen, Justin Caprio, Christian Hodges and manager Rick Raymond.

M.J. Holland (center) with Ervis Koci and Kru Alan Bowonthamachakr.

Danielle “the Pirate” Trembley (right) is declared the winner by unanimous decision.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, March 27

• The 25th Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show will continue through Sunday, March 27 on Flagler Drive along the Intracoastal Waterway in West Palm Beach. Admission for adults is $12 online and $14 at the gate. For children six to 15, the cost is $3 online and $5 at the gate. All children under six will be admitted free. For more info., visit www.showmanagement. com or call (800) 940-7642.

• The Wellington Ironhorse Motorcycle Ride is set for Saturday, March 27. The ride is free and open to all motorcycle enthusiasts in the area; riders are responsible for their own meals and beverages. Pre-register at Wellington Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) or the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Registration will be accepted the day of the ride. Riders will meet at 9 a.m. at the community center for a ride around Lake Okeechobee. Departure will be at 10 a.m. Call (561) 791-4733 for more info.

• Mounts Botanical Garden (531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach) will host a Class on Terrariums and Indoor Gardening on Saturday, March 27 from 9 a.m. to noon. The fee is $45 for members and $55 for non-members. All supplies are included in the registration fee, and other plants will be available for purchase. For more info., call (561) 233-1757 or visit www.mounts. org.

(561) 793-1976 or visit www.saint davidsinthepines.org. For more info., call (561) 719-6054.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host an Easter Cooking Class on Saturday, March 27 at 2 p.m. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

• Palm Beach Zoo Chief Veterinarian Dr. Michele Miller will make an audio/video presentation on the various functions of a zoo veterinarian on Saturday, March 27 at 2 p.m. at the Okeeheelee Nature Center (1175 Forest Hill Blvd.). A $5 donation will benefit the zoo and the nature center. Contact Jack Wright jackwright561@yahoo.com for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will feature “Meet Two Authors: J.M. LeDuc and Diane A.S. Stuckartmon” on Saturday, March 27 at 2:30 p.m. for adults. Chat, ask questions and get the scoop on LeDuc’s thriller Cursed Blessing and Stuckart’s mystery A Bolt from the Blue. A book signing will follow. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6070.

• The new Acreage Flag Football League is holding sign-ups for the fall season. There will be age groups ranging from five to 18 years old. Most divisions are co-ed, with new all-boys and all-girls divisions for ages 9 and 10. Practice begins July 12 and games begin Aug. 14. Sign-ups are being held at Acreage Community Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following Saturdays: March 27, April 17, May 1 and May 22. The cost is $105 per player, with a $5 discount for additional siblings. For more info., visit www.acreage flagfootball.com.

• The Village of Royal Palm Beach will feature a “Fantastic Evening of Comedy, Magic and Music” on Saturday, March 27 at 7 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). The event will feature performances by Jeff Laub, Michael Rapposelli and Mitchell J. Davie. Tickets cost $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more info., call (561) 790-5149 or register online at www.royalpalmbeach.com.

Sunday, March 28

• Temple Beth Torah (900 Big Blue Trace, Wellington) will host the Lifelong Learning class “Two Rabbis, One Book” on Sunday, March 28 at 7 p.m. Participants will discuss Rabbi David Wolpe’s book Why Faith Matters. RSVP to (561) 793-2700.

Monday, March 29

• St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church will host its second annual Golf Tournament & Dinner Dance on Saturday, March 27 at the Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington). For $100, participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf, refreshments, a reception, dinner and dancing. The day begins at 11:30 a.m. with registration and lunch, followed by a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Snacks and beverages will be provided on the course. To register, call

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host “Kids Spring Break Cooking Camp” on Monday, March 29 through April 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost will be $165 per child for ages five and a half to 16. Space is limited to the first 20 children. Registration forms are available at the customer service desk. Call (561) 904-4000 for more info.

• Whole Foods Market (2635 State Road 7, Wellington) will host a free seminar with Brendan Brazier, author of Thrive: The Vegan Nutrition Guide, on Monday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Brazier is an Ironman triath-

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

CALENDAR, continued from page 46 lete and one of only a few professional athletes in the world whose diet is 100-percent plant-based. Space is limited. Call (561) 904-4000 to pre-register.

Tuesday, March 30

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature “Bricks & Books” on Tuesday, March 30 at 3:30 p.m. for ages 8 to 12. Work together to build towering structures with construction bricks and sample the beginning of an audio book. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6030.

Wednesday, March 31

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will feature Board Games on Wednesday, March 31 at 3:30 p.m. for ages five to nine. To pre-register, call (561) 790-6030.

• The Western Executives will meet Wednesday, March 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Joe’s American Bar & Grill in the Mall at Wellington Green. This social mixer is open to all business owners and/or executives. Admission costs $10 and includes free appetizers, specially priced drinks, raffle prizes, networking and a business card exchange. Call (561) 793-5509 or www. westernexecutives.net for more info.

• The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will celebrate Florida’s History Month on Wednesday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m. for adults. Journey through Florida’s rich history with Jim Wiggins, author of the book Glimpses of Florida’s Past. To preregister, call (561) 790-6030.

Friday, April 2

• Grace Fellowship Church in The Acreage will host a Good Friday Sunrise Service on Friday, April 2 at 75th Road North and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road just north of Publix. Worship in one of two informal services at 6 and 7 a.m. Call Pastor Jim Sims at (561) 333-4222, ext. 244 for more info.

Saturday, April 3

• Registration for the upcoming season of Acreage Tackle Football will take place at Acreage Community Park April 3, 10 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and April 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. The $180 registration fee includes a game jersey with the player’s name on the back, game pants, belt and matching socks. There is a $5 per child discount for parents who register more than one child. Visit www.acreageyouthfootball.com for more info.

• Grace Fellowship Church in The Acreage will host an Easter Egg Hunt & Barbe-

cue on Saturday, April 3 on the church property (75th Road North and Seminole Pratt Whitney Road just north of Publix). The Easter egg hunt will start at 10 a.m. followed by the barbecue at 11 a.m. Call Pastor Jim Sims at (561) 333-4222, ext. 244 for info.

• The Inaugural International Gay Polo Tournament will be held Saturday, April 3 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Grand Champions Polo Club at the corner of Lake Worth Road and South Shore Blvd. Call (561) 868-1807 or visit www.gaypolo.com for tickets or info. Sunday, April 4

• Grace Fellowship Church in The Acreage will hold its Easter Sunday Celebration on Sunday, April 4 in the Seminole Ridge High School auditorium. Enjoy an Easter breakfast from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. and stay for worship services at 9 or 10:45 a.m. Call (561) 333-4222, ext. 244 for more info. Monday, April 5

• The Wellington Garden Club will meet Monday, April 5 at the Wellington Community Center (12165 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). The luncheon and business meeting will start at 11:30 a.m. with the program following at 1 p.m. The featured speaker will be Joanne Williams, a widely traveled, published and accomplished freelance photographer specializing in wildlife and nature. The public is invited. A light lunch will be served. Seating is limited. RSVP to (561) 793-6013 or (561) 798-9217.

Thursday, April 8

• Students from nine Palm Beach County high schools and over 60 local environmental professionals will come together for the Palm Beach County Envirothon on Thursday, April 8 from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge (10216 Lee Road, Boynton Beach) sponsored by the Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District. Call (561) 734-8303 for more info. Friday, April 9

• The Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s signature event Flavors of Wellington will take place on Friday, April 9 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Attendees will enjoy an evening of dining and dancing to the 20piece stage band Music Masters International as well as the opportunity to sample fare from more than 25 local eateries. For sponsorship, advertising or ticket info., call (561) 792-6525.

Send calendar items to: The Town-Crier, 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414. FAX: (561) 793-6090. Email: news@gotowncrier.com.

ALUMINUM WHEELS - F150 5 Bolt Pattern, other parts 561-6708221

LEAD PRESCHOOL TEACHERSMust have 45 hr. certificate & current CDA a plus. 3 year old & VPK Teacher needed Full Time. 561793-5641

SALES CULLIGAN WATER — is hiring Palm Beach County Commercial Sales Reps Call 847-4301417or Jim.Olsen@culligan.com

ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISM12 month training/action program in the U.S./Caribbean Assist Community to improve economy and install inexpensive /clean energy supplies.510-734-6777 Anthony@ccgtg.org www.IICDmichigan.org

VOLUNTEER AT AN ANIMAL SANCTUARY HORSE FARM - 14 and up, community Service. (561) 792-2666

TEACHERS/TUTORS P/T Flexible Hrs. Great Pay. MATH • STUDY SKILLS SAT/ACT

Certification/Experience Required Fax: 828-8128

Email:tutorking@wpb3331980.com

WORK FROM HOME - No experience necessary. Send $5.00 and self addressed stamped envelope to: M.A. Fernald P.O. Box 211932, RPB, FL 33421

WANTED: SERIOUS PEOPLE

Work from anywhere 24/7 up to $1,500 - $5,000 P/T/F/T complete info & training www.DOTHISBIZ.com

SENIOR GARDENER - Palm Beach area employer seeks experienced horticulturist for large private estate. Qualified candidates will have related experience in a similar position, long-term intent and verifiable references. Certification/degree in arboriculture or botany preferred. Duties include; performing tree assessments, diagnosing plant health problems, managing vendor contracts. Must have working knowledge of CAD/CAM technology. General schedule Monday through Friday. Compensation package commensurate with experience. Please send resume to: pknmichaels@gmail.com

DRIVERS WANTED - FT/PT for Wellington Cab/Wellington Limo. Retirees welcome. Call 333-0181

ADDITIONS, ROOFING, PATIOS & REMODELING - Cell 561-202-7036 561-798-6448 Licensed & Insured. CBC 1250306 CCC1326386

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

A/C SALES & SERVICE — New, used, scratch & dent. If you used anyone but Glover’s A/C, you probably paid too much! U10163. 7937388

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

WELLINGTON BARN BUILDER— Repairs/remodeler.Get an expert that can do it right! EUROPEAN QUALITY AT AN affordable price. 30 years experience, licensed and insured. Homes, condos, bath, kitchens, additions, small stuff. Call 561-723-5837 561-792-2666. ALAN TOBIN CONSTRUCTION, INC. CGC1513577

23 PEOPLE NEEDED TO LOSE 5100 POUNDS! DR. RECOMMENDED! GUARANTEED! 1-888221-8314 www.hanlean.com

ON FARM STUDIO APARTMENT— Tile/AC,separate bath $450 monthly. Ref. required. 966-8791

ROOM FOR RENT — Prof. "Male or Female" Furnished Bedroom-use of all amenities washer/dryer. Community Pool $600 Mo. 236-9702

BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOUSE — in Royal Palm Beach, gated community, 3/3 ½ all large rooms. 7030590. Ask for Kevin. CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-7606 TODAY

J.C. TEETS & CO. — Get your general ledger ready for tax season today! Professional. affordable fullservice bookkeeping. Quickbooks Expert. Call 561-632-0635

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

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

HOUSECLEANING - 20 years experience. Excellent local references. Shopping available. 561572-1782

20 YEARS IN THE CLEANING BUSINESS — in Western Communities and surrounding areas. Great references. Call for free estimates.Brenda 561-460-8380

CLEANING BY LISA - Condos • Townhomes • Houses • Reliable • Good Rates Great references will run errands too!! Call 307-7916

1997 GREY SEBRING JXI CONVERTIBLE — new a/c, clean & well maintained. Engine & transmission in excellent condition and new top. Feel free to take it to a mechanic & check it out. Mint condition. $3,300 (561) 793-5569 (917) 494-3422

1991 TOYOTA CAMRY - 4 door white, A/C radio runs great. $3,000 call 798-0270

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE -3 bedroom, 2 baths, single wide 3 car parking. $8,500 OBO. (561) 2018805

COMPUTER REPAIR — We come to you! After hours and weekends services available. Spyware/ Adware/Virus Removal, Networking, Wireless, Backup Data, Upgrades. Call Anytime. 561-7135276

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

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

DADS DOORS & WINDOWS, INC. IMPACT WINDOWS & HURRICANE SHUTTERS — Sliding Glass Doors, Mirrors & Shower Doors. 561-355-8331 U 19958 U20177

CASTLE ROCK, A DRYWALL CO. — “BUILDING ON EXCELLENCE” Framing /Hanging /Finishing Popcorn and Wallpaper Removal Drywall Repairs & Remodels Custom Built-Ins “TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR GREAT PRICES”Licensed & Insured Lic. #SCC131150623 Eric Rouleau 561-307-5202

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH AN ELDERLY OR ILL LOVED ONE?

Wellington resident available Tuesday evening 6 pm – 11 pm $25 per hour includes light housekeeping and laundry. Excellent references. Call 561-662-1072 or 561-7913469

STAFF PLUS — Looking to fill full and part-time positions in customer service. For info l 1-888-333-9903

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

THE MASTER HANDYMAN — no job too big or small done right the first time every time 40 years of satisfied customers Tom (954) 4443178

ANMAR CO.— James’ All Around Handyman Service. Excellent craftman Old time values. Once you’ve had me! You’ll have me back! Lic. Ins. Certified Residential Contractor CRC 1327426 561-248-8528

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

LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR CAR INSURANCE - Your local Geico office has been saving people money for over 70 years. Contact (561) 616-5944 for a free rate quote. GET REAL AUTO INSURANCE — that comes with a Real Agent. Farm Bureau Insurance. Auto • Home • Life, Marc Piven, Agent 561-792-1991Wellington. CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-7606 TODAY

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

RJA PAINTING AND DECORATING, INC. - Interior , Exterior, Faux Finish, Residential,Commercial. License #U17536 Rocky Armento, Jr. 561-793-5455 561-662-7102

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. — Interior/Exterior, residential painting, over 20 years exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. - Insured. 561-3838666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Well. Resident.

PEST CONTROL - WHY EXTERMINATE? Call Gentle Bee Removal 561-670-8221

LOVIN PETS HOUSECALLS GREAT RATES- pet sitting. Lic. Bonded & Insured. Call 561-3085167 Mornings & Evenings only.

LICENSED PLUMBER - Beat any legitimate estimate. A/C service lowest price. Complete service, new construction, replacement. CFC1426242 CAC058610 Bonded & Insured. 561-601-6458

POOL PLASTERING AND RESURFACING — Lic. U19996. 561722-7690.

ELITE POOL SERVICE — You dealt with the rest now deal with the best.” All maintenance & repairs, salt chlorinators, heaters, leak detection. 561-791-5073

J&B PRESSURE CLEANING — Established in 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential.Call Butch 309-6975

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

PSYCHIC READINGS

$10.00 Special by Samantha.

1 FREE QUESTION by phone 561-541-0113

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

HORIZON ROOFING QUALITY WORK & SERVICE — Free estimates, No Deposits. Pay upon completion, res/comm.reroofing, repairs, credit cards accepted. 561-842-6120 or 561-784-8072 Lic.#CCC1328598

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

ROOFING REPAIRS REROOFING ALL TYPES — Pinewood Construction, Inc. Honest and reliable. Serving Palm Beach County for over 20 years. Call Mike 561-309-0134 Lic. Ins. Bonded. CGC-023773 RC0067207

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

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC — Complete