Town-Crier Newspaper March 6. 2009

RED CROSS POLO LUNCHEON

The 19th Annual Red Cross Polo Luncheon & Auction was held on Sunday, March 1 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. Themed “East Goes West,” guests enjoyed a fabulous lunch, world-class polo, and silent and live auctions to benefit the Red Cross. Shown above are

and

PBC Mounted Posse Awards Banquet At The Fairgrounds The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse held its annual year-end awards banquet last Saturday at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The 2008 awards were given out in the areas of barrel racing, pleasure riding and dressage. Page 3

Chamber’s ‘Green Week’ To Feature Conference, Festival The Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s Green Week March 9 through 15 will feature a four-day “green conference” March 9 through 12, followed by the annual WestFest Land & Sea Festival March 14 and 15. Page 7 Features

Visiting Some Of The Shops At The Winter Equestrian Festival Equestrian columnist Ellen Rosenberg recently wandered over to see how the shops at the Winter Equestrian Festival were doing. Page 20

Rustic Ranches: Don’t Close Path To 50th Street

By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report

Residents of Rustic Ranches in western Wellington are nervous about suggestions to block off one of two routes that lead to their community.

Rustic Ranches, a semi-rural, large-lot neighborhood annexed into the village in 2004, is on the west side of Flying Cow Road, which provides the only access to the community. Currently residents can head north on that road to reach Southern Blvd., or travel south over some unpaved stretches to eventually reach 50th Street

South, an east-west road stretching through the village’s Equestrian Preserve Area (EPA) to State Road 7.

But some residents living in the EPA have expressed concerns that the link between Flying Cow and 50th Street encourages cutthrough traffic from Southern Blvd. to pass through their area.

In response, Wellington’s Planning, Zoning & Building Director Marty Hodgkins said, the village has explored the possibility of severing the connection.

“One of the recurring con-

cerns expressed by the equestrians is viewed to be traffic through the equestrian area going to Flying Cow Road, and the fear that this would become a new flyway,” Hodgkins told the Town-Crier Thursday. “We certainly don’t have any plans to make any improvements that would do that, but that has been a concern of the equestrian community.”

With more residential development planned along 50th Street, the village has been grappling with decisions on improvements to the

See 50TH STREET, page 7

Five Area Educators Named Finalists For Dwyer Awards

By Carol Porter Town-Crier Staff Report

Five teachers from schools in the western communities are among the finalists for this year’s Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education.

Each year, the Economic Council of Palm Beach County and the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County honor one educator for excellence in each of five categories: Elementary, Middle and High School Education, Special Programs and Career Education. Nominees are selected by their peers.

Three of the five local finalists were chosen in the field of Career Education: Carl Rosenberg of Palm Beach Central High School, Karen Kissel of Royal Palm Beach High School and Earle Wright of Seminole Ridge High School. The other two are both from Elbridge Gale Elementary School: Donna Lynn Zimmer in the Elementary Education category and Jennifer Jones in the Special Programs category. Rosenberg has been teaching at PBCHS for four years, and this is his first nomina-

tion. After a successful 32year business career that rode the wave of the computer software boom, he retired early and applied in 2005 for a job at the high school. He began teaching Life Management Skills, and has expanded his activities from there.

“I actually am teaching two classes of the legal aspects of business and one section of Life Management Skills,” he said. “Next year I will be teaching Introduction to Informational Technology, which I believe will fit in well with my business background.”

Rosenberg said he has become wholeheartedly involved as an educator. “Coming into teaching, I have taken it quite seriously as a fulltime profession, and focusing on educating the kids and also being a good team player as well as providing educational opportunities for the teachers,” he said. “I teach several different technology classes to the teachers. I participate in our team learning meetings. I spend a good deal of time taking classes outside of

By Mark Lioi Town-Crier Staff Report

Officials from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office say both organizations are committed to following through on the recent wave of arrests on housing fraud charges in the western communities.

In January, PBSO deputies and special agents with the Department of Housing & Urban Development arrested six suspects in Wellington on charges including public assistance fraud, conspiracy and grand theft, which involved over $136,900 in rent money paid by HUD. Those arrests led to two subsequent arrests in Royal Palm Beach on similar charges.

Following a deadly home invasion on Wellington’s White Pine Drive last month, Wellington officials publicly and privately questioned the willingness of the State Attorney’s Office to prosecute the arrested fraud suspects. But following a meeting last week of PBSO officials, a federal agent and prosecutors, officials said they are treating the cases, and others to come, as a priority.

PBSO Deputy Michael Leatherman, who spearheaded the investigations, said that the State Attorney’s Office had been in a state of flux with the recent transition to incoming State Attorney Michael McAuliffe, and that warrants on the cases in the initial investigation had been delayed by a couple of months when the PBSO decided to go ahead and make arrests on the basis of probable cause.

“Since those arrests, the new state attorney has cooperated 100 percent and decided which direction he’s going to go with this to the point where he’s assigned a state attorney in the financial crimes division to handle these cases specifically, and she’s been given resources such as paralegals to assist her,” Leatherman said. “The cases are very involved — they’re financial, white-collar crimes, and each case is at least eight to 12 inches thick in paperwork per arrest. For them to go to trial, they have to look through every single document to make sure there’s no discovery they’re going to get tripped up with.”

Chief Assistant State Attorney Paul Zacks told the Town-Crier last Friday that during last week’s meeting, his office made clear that it wants to make sure these investigations are done completely and properly.

“In a sense, they’re complicated cases and the more legwork we do up front, the better it will be not having to scramble and piece together cases once an arrest has been made,” Zacks said. “Once an arrest has been made, speedy trial starts and the clock starts ticking. And so what we’re trying to do is get everybody on the same page so that the up-front work is done prior to the arrest, and so when we get the file, we can go right

to trial if necessary. So it’s really a coordination effort — I know that they’re earnestly out there investigating and trying to make cases, and we just want to make sure we’re all coordinating. But I think that in the near future everybody will be seeing more prosecutions.”

Indeed — on Thursday, Leatherman said he had packets for five more individuals on his desk ready to go to the State Attorney’s Office in order to obtain arrest warrants for public housing fraud violations at four Wellington addresses. “I have three more investigations that I started this week alone,” he added. One of those caught in the first wave of arrests was a landlord, Leatherman noted, who was implicated because he knew his tenants were fraudulently obtaining federal housing assistance. “If you have knowledge of the crime and you willfully withhold the information, it’s conspiring with the tenant to withhold the information from the housing authority,” he said. “The landlord is the one who receives the check directly from the housing authority.” Leatherman said there are five separate housing authorities in Palm Beach County, including those of the county and the City of West Palm Beach, that provide housing assistance in the Section 8 voucher program. Taking in Section 8 tenants has appeal for landlords because the rent income is reliable, he said.

“If you’re a landlord who owns multiple properties throughout the village and you rent all your properties, which include tri-plexes and quad-plexes, to the Section 8 program, and you receive over a thousand dollars per unit, depending on how many residences you own, you could be receiving very large sums of money without even having to go out and knock on a door and collect rent each month,” Leatherman said. This sort of crime previously did not receive much attention locally, he said, because law enforcement officers lacked the training to investigate it properly. But that is changing: next week the PBSO and the Office of the HUD Inspector-General will be training 22 more deputies along with West Palm Beach police officers to investigate housing fraud violations, Leatherman said, while he and the county investigator who initially received the federal training last year will be certified as instructors themselves.

The value of the drive to investigate housing fraud is not just in cracking down on that particular crime, but in locating suspects involved in other crimes, Leatherman noted. Due to federal guidelines, those who have been convicted of criminal activities are barred from participating in the federal housing subsidy program, and it’s the criminal background that often makes the tenant a fraud-

Royal Palm Voters Head To The Polls Tuesday

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

Royal Palm Beach residents will head to the polls on Tuesday, March 10 to choose between incumbent Councilwoman Martha Webster and challenger Demian Saenz in the race for Royal Palm Beach Village Council Seat 2. Webster was elected last year to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of former councilwoman Barbara Isenberg. If re-elected, it will be the start of her first complete two-year term.

Just days before the election, she was confident that voters would make the right decision and return her to the council.

“I think it’s going to come down to experience,” Webster told the Town-Crier Monday.

Political newcomer Saenz, 34, the father of two young children, said he feels he has done well in his first foray into local politics, considering the learning curve.

“It has been a very interesting process, just all the facets of running,” he said. “This

is my first time running for a political office. All the rules associated with campaign finance, where to put signs, who you can talk to and stuff like that; that’s the interesting part, how many rules there are just to run for political office.”

eral boards by my peers, such as the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council, and I was appointed to the board of directors of the League of Cities,” Webster said. “I worked with them to learn more about government and how I could help the village.”

say will relieve traffic congestion on Okeechobee Blvd.

“At this point, it’s in the process where it should be,” Webster said. “It’s in the fiveyear road plan, and it’s back on track.”

Webster said she also worked to get the countywide charter amendment for municipal home rule passed, attending numerous meetings to talk to voters. “It was a busy year besides just learning the ropes of the village,” she said, adding that she has enjoyed working with her fel-

Webster, 62, holds a master’s degree in education and said she is proud of her record on the council. Webster took her seat in March 2008 and immediately went to work for the village, she said. “I joined several boards, and I was appointed to sev- See ELECTION, page 20

Webster said she played a large role in helping keep the westward extension of Roebuck Road in the county’s five-year road plan. The extension will connect Jog Road to the soon-to-be-completed State Road 7 extension, which village leaders

Daniella

Alfredo Ortiz with baby Lucas. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 5

PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Karen Kissel of RPBHS

Carl Rosenberg of PBCHS

Santamaria Will Let Public Pick Topic For March

By Ron Bukley

Town-Crier Staff Report

Palm Beach County Commissioner Jess Santamaria is turning the tables for his monthly community forum on Wednesday, March 18. Instead of setting the discussion topics himself, Santamaria is asking residents to submit their suggestions.

“In most of the forums I’ve had so far, I’m the one who decides what I think the residents need to hear or want to hear,” Santamaria told the Town-Crier on Thursday.

“This time, I want to make sure that I cover what they want to talk about themselves. They may have something to say, and I’ll give them plenty of time to say it, or they may have topics that have not been covered, or not fully covered. This time it will be open to anyone and everyone.”

Since his election in November 2006 Santamaria has held monthly meetings at the original Wellington Mall, which he owns. Topics have included ethics in government, homelessness, taxes, drug abuse, land development issues, elections and other subjects considered pertinent at the time.

Santamaria said he will moderate the meeting so that no one person or group takes an inordinate amount of time on a particular topic.

“If you don’t control the meeting, then it becomes a monopoly of two or three people,” Santamaria said. “Hopefully, there will be some diversity, a little change of pace that’s going to be interesting and educational.”

Santamaria said he has two objectives in letting citizens set the agenda. The first is to inform.

“I want to inform the public what’s going on in government, especially topics that affect the community, especially our community, the entire spectrum of taxes and that spectrum applies to

every single citizen,” he said. The public should know the facts on issues that are of particular impact to the western communities, such as the development of CalleryJudge Grove and the Sector Plan, Santamaria said. Santamaria said he would speak up if residents have mistaken assumptions on a topic, as he did last month at a Solid Waste Authority presentation in Wellington on plans for a new landfill.

“Whether intentional or unintentional, someone said property values are going to go down because of the landfill,” he said. “That’s absurd. The landfill is 11 or 12 miles from Wellington, and it’s going to have absolutely zero effect on land values in Wellington, so that is a misrepresentation of reality. The other one is smell; the smell is not going to affect Wellington. That is an exaggeration; it’s misinformation.”

Santamaria said his second goal is to reach residents with needs or concerns who cannot or do not want to drive to the county governmental complex in West Palm Beach to speak with Santamaria in his office or at the county commission meeting.

“I want them to have the opportunity to have a short, five-minute drive from their homes to go to the Wellington Mall and tell me what they want,” Santamaria said. “I see them at the forum and they tell me what their areas of interest are and what their feelings are about different issues.”

Anyone interested in submitting a forum topic for this month can call Santamaria’s office at (561) 355-6300, fax the suggestion to (561) 3554366, send it via e-mail to jsantama@pbcgov.org with “Community Forum” in the subject line, or hand-deliver/ mail it to his office at the Governmental Center, 301 North Olive Ave., 12th Floor, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

County To Hike Water Rate, But Not In RPB

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

While Palm Beach County is looking to raise its water rate due to less water consumption, the hike will not affect customers in Royal Palm Beach due to a clause in the village’s contract with the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department.

through a village-owned utility.

With the exception of the surcharge, the county has not raised its water rate since 1997. Beaudet said the hike is needed to offset the utility’s current “difficult business environment.”

Late last month, the Palm Beach County Commission approved the first reading of a water rate increase of 11.75 percent that would also eliminate a 15-percent customer surcharge imposed in 2007 to make up for revenue losses due to mandatory water restrictions. The final hearing on the rate increase is scheduled for March 17. If approved, it will take effect April 1.

But customers in Royal Palm Beach, which sold its utility to the county in 2006, are protected from the rate hike.

“The way the contract reads is the village will retain its water rates and not realize any increases for a minimum of ten years,” Village Manager David Farber told the Town-Crier Thursday. “At the end of the ten years, it will depend on what the water rates of the county are. If the county rates are above the village’s, the village’s will become what the county’s are at the time. If they are the same, they will remain the same, and if they are below, then the village rates will remain intact until such time as the county’s rates should overcome them.”

At the Feb. 24 county commission meeting, PBCWUD Director Bevin Beaudet said the elimination of the county’s 15 percent surcharge would result in a net decrease for county water customers living outside of Royal Palm Beach. In the western communities, that includes a few residents hooked up to municipal water lines in Loxahatchee Groves and The Acreage, as well as a handful of eastern Wellington neighborhoods. Most of Wellington gets water service

“We are looking at water restrictions for the foreseeable future,” Beaudet said. “The [South Florida] Water Management District has on its agenda a permanent restriction they are voting on next month. We don’t expect any significant growth for at least two years. We know that there are challenging economic conditions for rate payers and our customers. We are aware of that, and we are trying to balance affordability with our recommendation.”

Beaudet said average residential monthly water consumption has gone down significantly, from 7,000 gallons in 1999 to 5,750 in 2008, primarily due to the water restrictions.

“That gap in demand compared to the average daily demand that we had seen for many, many years, coupled with the fact that 80 percent of our utilities costs are fixed — the same plant, the same staff for that plant — makes it a difficult business environment for us,” Beaudet said. The utility has made significant budget cuts in the past three years in response to the lower revenues, Beaudet said. It has also promoted bulk water sales to Seacrest Utilities, Boynton Beach, Lake Worth and Florida Power & Light. It also implemented an energy savings program, which has lowered its electricity bills, and deferred repair and replacement of assets, which Beaudet said compromises the reliability of the system.

“You can defer some things, but other things, you basically increase the risk of a breakdown and you reduce the reliability of your system,” Beaudet said. “We’re at that point with deferrals that I’m starting to feel a little uncomfortable.”

MOUNTED POSSE HOSTS AWARDS BANQUET AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

The Palm Beach County Mounted Posse held its annual year-end awards banquet last Saturday at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The 2008 awards were given out in the areas of barrel racing, pleasure riding and dressage. For more information about the Palm Beach County Mounted Posse, visit www.pbcposse.com.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Palm Beach County Mounted Posse board members: Vice President Sharon Felt, Mark Harmon, Jane Murphy, Theresa and Jim Hinson, Kathie Beeson and President Alyce Michelbrink.

Storybook Farms winners: Barn Manager Laurien Aponte, Valeria Garcia, Miranda Keefe, Hannah Bruns, owner/trainer Shannon Potter Henbree, Ashley Helton, Sara McLeod and Alexis Cano.

Danielle MacMahon and Allie Britt.

Sara McLeod with her proud parents Douglas and Darla.

Nicholas Case picked Karen Colerich’s winning raffle ticket number.

Nicholas Case, 2, and Miranda Keefe, 7, with their awards.

Kendra Conner and Paul Woods.

Barrel race saddle winners Monica Lalama and Patty Waters.

TOWN-CRIER ENDORSEMENT

Re-Elect Martha

Webster To The Royal Palm Beach Council

Of the two incumbent members of the Royal Palm Beach Village Council whose seats were up for re-election this year, Vice Mayor Fred Pinto faced no challengers and was automatically returned to his seat. Councilwoman Martha Webster, on the other hand, isn’t exempt from the March 10 municipal election. With challenger Damien Saenz gunning for Webster’s Seat 2, the voters have a choice to make.

With a background in finance, Saenz could be an asset to the village in these financially strapped times. He promises to get the village the most bang for its buck and has a solid list of priorities he’d like to accomplish. To be sure, Saenz’ priorities likely mirror those of the majority of Royal Palm Beach residents: keeping the village fiscally balanced without cutting services, offering incentives for small businesses to relocate to the village, reducing traffic, improving older areas of the village and obtaining outside funding from the county, state and federal governments.

At 34, Saenz would be the youngest member on the council. And if elected, it would be his first experience with politics. That’s not the case with Webster, who had more than two decades of public service to her name before she joined the council last year. Previously, Webster served on the City of Greenacres Comprehensive Plan Advisory Board and Planning & Zoning Commission before mov-

Support For Webster

This letter is in response to Demian Saenz’s answer to a question posed by the TownCrier last week. Mr. Saenz’s reply was way off base. He was completely wrong in stating that the Village of Royal Palm Beach had repeatedly ignored reminders from the Palm Beach County League of Cities. I would like to make three important points:

First, it was the Metropolitan Planning Organization that was accepting stimulus proposal applications and not the Palm Beach County League of Cities. And it was the MPO that did not provide a distinct deadline for stimulus projects from the municipalities.

Second, Councilwoman Martha Webster sits on the Palm Beach County League of Cities, not the Metropolitan Planning Organization. And third, the MPO, recognizing its error, re-opened its deadline for project submissions until March 6. The Village of Royal Palm Beach did and presumably will again submit their planned projects.

It is obvious that Demian Saenz does not understand local government and the responsibilities of the various boards regarding the stimulus funds. As a candidate, Mr. Saenz clearly did not do his homework and is not ready to take an elected seat in the

village. I will vote to keep Martha working for Royal Palm Beach. Brian Hanley Royal Palm Beach

Willhite Fights

The Good Fight

For the past nine months, freshman Wellington Councilman Matt Willhite has been the lone voice of opposition to the giveaway of the $30-million-plus property known as K-Park to Palm Beach Community College. (Councilman Bob Margolis also opposed the giveaway of the village’s largest asset but is no longer on the council.) We should all take a moment to review the proposed giveaway and familiarize ourselves with what both sides are claiming. We should also make note that Mr. Willhite has consistently asked the same tough questions and applied irrefutable logic in order to evaluate this deal. In recent times, he has been outnumbered three to one. In return for his stand, he has been reprimanded by Mayor Darell Bowen. There are many of us who applaud Mr. Willhite for remaining true to his convictions and admire him for showing no fear in representing a minority position on the council. It should be noted that it now seems that Councilwoman Lizbeth Benacquisto and Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore are now asking those very same questions, or at

ing to Royal Palm Beach 12 years ago. Also, as a board member of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, Webster fought hard to educate voters on the importance of passing the “home rule” amendment to the county charter on last year’s ballot, which won wide approval.

Saenz has said he views the council as a good place to get started in politics, but unfortunately, that’s just not the case. The place to start is on the grassroots level, either by serving on a council-appointed committee or board, or by getting involved in local organizations. We commend Saenz for his enthusiasm and are glad he chose to run. It is crucial that the people of Royal Palm Beach are offered a choice.

The Town-Crier has long advocated contested elections. But we also believe strongly in experience. To get our support, candidates for council positions should have already paid their dues in other areas of public service. Webster proved that to us when we endorsed her the first time around. And although we had reservations about her ability to work with other council members — she was perceived at the time as a voice of dissent — Webster has shown herself to be an effective council member as well as a prominent face of the community. For that reason, the Town-Crier strongly endorses the re-election of Martha Webster to Royal Palm Beach Village Council Seat 2.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

least demanding answers to questions that were asked months ago.

When the lease finally comes back from Palm Beach Community College, the residents of Wellington will have a chance to see where council goes with this. In the meantime, we say to Mr. Willhite, thanks for fighting the good fight. Your solo voice is heard and appreciated.

Dr. James Belden Wellington

Saenz Owes

An Apology

The recent response by Royal Palm Beach candidate Demian Saenz to a candidate question posed by the TownCrier says a lot about his lack of understanding of the office he is seeking. Mr. Saenz erroneously attempted to blame his opponent, Councilwoman Martha Webster, for the village’s recent failure to meet a deadline for federal stimulus dollars. In his response, Mr. Saenz stated that the village had received numerous reminders about the stimulus dollars from the Palm Beach County League of Cities. He further stated that Ms. Webster, who serves on the board of the Palm Beach County League of Cities, should have been aware of the deadline for submitting projects and placed blame at her feet.

Truth be told, it is the Metropolitan Planning Organiza-

tion (MPO), not the Palm Beach County League of Cities, that is coordinating the eligibility process. Ms. Webster does not serve on the board of the MPO. Further, the village received only a single e-mail from the MPO. It did not specify a deadline to respond. In turn, only nine of the county’s 38 municipalities responded by the deadline. Recognizing the process may have been flawed, the MPO has re-opened the process, notifying all 38 municipalities that they have until March 6 to submit a single project.

Mr. Saenz was wrong. His cheap shot is inexcusable. He owes Ms. Webster an apology.

Suzanne Kuhn Wellington

Willhite Serves

The Residents

Somewhere along the line, most of the Wellington Village Council and particularly our mayor lost sight of the basic concept of government, that they are elected by the people to serve the best interests of the people.

One councilperson, and at many times the only councilperson, who has not forgotten this concept is Councilman Matt Willhite. He ran and was elected under a very simple but critical philosophy: to serve the best interests of the entire community and to treat every dollar spent as if it was his own. This has

OPINION

never been more evident then when council has discussed the donation of 67 acres of KPark land to Palm Beach Community College. While the mayor and others have turned a blind eye to the financial insanity of this donation, Councilman Willhite has not been afraid to ask the tough and necessary questions and to request documentation promised by the college. To his credit, he has continued to do so when answers and records were not provided. Let’s be honest: times are tough in this community. Crime in Wellington is rampant and homeowners are being forced to shoot and kill intruders/burglars. Our infrastructure is collapsing, residents are losing their jobs and homes in record numbers, and we are being repeatedly warned that things will get worse before they will get better.

Against this backdrop, the mayor and council have totally ignored these issues and problems because they are too busy attempting to give away the K-Park land.

We as residents, citizens and voters should be grateful and thankful that at least Councilman Willhite has the strength and integrity to fight this donation and look out for the best interests of this community and attempt to protect the village from financial disaster. I commend and thank Councilman Willhite for having the courage to withstand the personal attacks he has endured from proponents of this donation and continuing to represent and protect all of the citizens of this community from a council decision motivated by reasons other than the best interests of this community and its residents. Howard Sohn Wellington

Not In Favor Of Connection

I am conflicted about the Madrid Street connection to State Road 7 for a few reasons. I live on Madrid Street, and I already enjoy motorcycle engines, pre-rush-hour traffic going to Miami (4

See LETTERS, page 7

SEND IN YOUR LETTERS

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

Addie Greene... I’d Be Lying If I Said I’ll Miss You

So, Palm Beach County Commissioner

Addie Greene plans to resign her District 7 seat, thus term-limiting herself nearly four years early. Her last election ballots probably haven’t yet been sent to the storage warehouse.

While Ms. Greene claims she has some health concerns, including stress, I can’t help wondering whether she is trying to stay one step ahead of the law, which three of her colleagues were unable to do. That would stress out any county commissioner these days. Or is she blackmailing another corporation for her approval in exchange for funding of social programs in her beloved Riviera Beach? Remember how she sold off her swing vote on the Scripps research center in exchange for a multimillion-dollar community social program?

Ms. Greene even had the chutzpah to pay a personal visit to Gov. Charlie Crist Wednesday to discuss her health concerns and make a pitch for a replacement — State Rep. Priscilla Taylor (D-District 84). I know Ms. Taylor, and I like her. She would probably serve the county’s District 7 better than Ms. Greene. I rarely write about issues that aren’t about the western communities, so I’ll remind you that it was Ms. Greene who once declared a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office deputy a racist for the fatal shooting of a young man who was trying to run him over with a car in Royal Palm Beach.

What I’m trying to do is wrap my head around this new county commission development. Is Ms. Greene’s prospective retirement setting a precedent for resigning commissioners to name replacements before their terms expire? If so, does that mean that former commissioners Tony Masilotti, Warren Newell and Mary McCarty deserved to name their replacement? And does it mean they were denied their due because the seats for districts 3 and 6 are filled, while Gov. Crist is positioned to name someone to replace Ms. McCarty, who is on her way to join Mr. Newell and Mr. Masilotti in the joint? Excuse me — I need to go make myself a cocktail…

By Don Brown

OK, I’m back, but the questions still keep coming. Ms. Greene spent a few minutes trying to convince Gov. Crist to name Ms. Taylor to her seat. The governor is a Republican and Ms. Taylor is a Democrat. Does Ms. Greene believe that Gov. Crist wants his nonpartisan sports coat to fit even tighter than it already does? That prospect makes me want to go fix a second cocktail, and I’m not even through with the first one.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want any more confusion or subterfuge about political decisions. If you’re a Democrat, act like one in a partisan way. If you’re a Republican, do the same. Don’t confuse me by being a Republican acting like a Democrat or vice versa. I want to know where they stand on everything political, and partisanship helps me keep score. If Ms. Greene wants to resign her seat for whatever reason, she should just let it go. Trying to control the county from a retirement rocking chair is not what residents deserve. She should let Ms. Taylor make her own case, which she is very capable of doing.

Now, let’s take a look at the county commission life-expectancy scorecard:

• District 1 — Karen Marcus has been in office since 1984. That’s 25 years of ignoring the needs of the western communities. She will be termed out in 2012 unless the U.S. Attorney decides she should have her own perp walk.

• District 2 — Jeff Koons was first elected in 2002 and, ironically, while he has served less time in office than three other commissioners — Ms. Marcus, Burt Aaronson (first elected in 1992) and Ms. Greene (first elect-

ed in 2000), he will be the first to be termlimited. There has never been a hint of corruption surrounding him, lending credence to the belief that only the good die young.

• District 3 — Shelley Vana was elected in November after she defeated Bob Kanjian, who was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Mr. Newell, who was elected to the “big house.” Ms. Vana, who spent six years as a state representative, is eligible to serve until 2016 if she doesn’t draw too much attention from the feds.

• District 4 — Ms. McCarty’s seat remains vacant while a seat in the slammer is readied for her. Gov. Crist is considering a list of standins and a decision is expected soon. Not soon enough for those who crossed her path since she was first elected in 1990 and still have political lives.

• District 5 — Mr. Aaronson was elected in 1992 but won’t be termed out until 2012, that is if he escapes further scrutiny from the

U.S. Attorney. As the godfather of the Palm Beach County Film & Television Commission, I suspect Mr. Aaronson is busy trying to line up a movie deal with all the Hollywood pals he must have accumulated.

• District 6 — Jess Santamaria was elected in 2006, just a few months after Mr. Masilotti resigned en route to the slammer. Should he serve eight years, Mr. Santamaria would be term-limited in 2014. He has suggested that he might not run for a second term, but since I don’t have a death wish, I won’t hold my breath. His current term expires next year. Will he want to anoint his successor? So what have we learned about the county commission and the institutional corruption at the County Governmental Center? I say we need to watch them more carefully to protect ourselves out west. The next time someone from the county wants to rob us of another road, we should remind them why we don’t trust them.

We’re Aiding National Security Threats

The United States Department of Justice recently and publicly proclaimed the rampaging Mexican drug cartels as “a national security threat.” Why then are American gun dealers continuing to supply the vast majority of the guns these murderers use?

Last year, it is estimated that 6,000 Mexicans died from our neighbor’s brutal drug wars. Mexican government forces seized some 20,000 weapons from the bad guys, most all of them supplied by American gun dealers operating on the border states with Mexico. For example, one California gun dealer moved his entire shop to the less stringent Arizona

Footloose and...

By Jules W. Rabin

border. He is accused of selling hundreds of AK-47 rifles to the cartels before being caught in a U.S. government sting by a few undercover agents from the woefully understaffed Border Patrol.

The estimated 6,000 border gun dealers usually operate in one of two ways. Licensed dealers seek buyers with “clean records” who then simply transfer the weapons to waiting opera-

tives of the south-of-the-border mobs. Others use the hoards of enthusiasts at weekend gun shows to grease the smuggling pipeline. Since the federal government can only trace weapons used in crimes, the gun bazaar along the borders is rather free and easy. Even the most zealous gun proponents should understand these illicit and illegal tricks to arm the vicious Mexican drug lords are unacceptable. And surely it is long past the time when our government should step into the mess of our fractured borders, tighten our laws and fund strict enforcement. This trafficking is a national travesty.

‘EAST GOES WEST’ AT RED CROSS POLO LUNCHEON IN WELLINGTON

The 19th Annual Red Cross Polo Luncheon & Auction, hosted by the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area chapter, was held on Sunday, March 1 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. Themed “East Goes West,” guests enjoyed a fabulous lunch, world-class polo, and silent and live auctions to benefit the Red Cross. For more info., call (561) 833-7711 or visit www.redcross-pbc.org.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

“I found something at the mall that fits me perfectly!”

• Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast • Sample delicious and nutritious

Event will be held at the FIT2RUN store on the lower level near Nordstrom Featured speaker from New Balance to discuss “Selecting the Right Fit” Membership in Mall Terrain is FREE! As

Mildred “Brownie” McLean, American Red Cross Palm Beach Chapter CEO Larry Casey, Chair Emerita Gale Brophy and Event Chair Denise Alexander.

Bobbi Shorr and Candide Booth show off their hats.

Jasmine Horowitz and Robin Azqueta.

Barbara Katz, Hoffman’s Chocolate’s Fred Meltzer and Rose Marie Brancato of Interiors by Rose Marie.

American Red Cross Palm Beach Chapter CEO Larry Casey with Daniella Ortiz.

Red Cross volunteer Christopher Fries.Aldo Fox, Mildred “Brownie” McLean and Peter Rock.

Honorary chairs Christie and Tim Gannon.

Geico’s John Haggin, Save a Pet founder Gertrude Maxwell and Chair Emerita Gale Brophy.

Dog Stolen From Car In Wellington

By Jason Budjinski Town-Crier Staff Report

MARCH 4 — A deputy from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington responded Wednesday to the parking lot of the CVS Pharmacy on Forest Hill Blvd. regarding a stolen dog. According to a PBSO report, the victim’s dog was stolen from his vehicle sometime between 9:20 and 9:30 p.m. The dog is a white bichon/poodle mix weighing approximately ten and a half pounds and wearing a blue glitter collar and thin nylon blue leash. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

• • •

FEB. 28 — A Palm Beach Gardens woman was arrested last Saturday on drug charges following a traffic stop in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation pulled over a vehicle driven by 19-yearold Lorren Rushin for a traffic infraction. After further investigation, the deputy discovered Rushin was in possession of marijuana, Xanax and drug paraphernalia. Rushin was arrested without incident and transported to the Palm Beach County Jail.

lock off the front door. Stolen from the trailer were miscellaneous tools and equipment valued at a total of approximately $3,730. The lower portion of the lock was recovered at the rear of the trailer near the woods; the shaft portion of the lock was recovered from the ground near the door. One latent print was recovered and placed into evidence. There was no further information available at the time of the report.

MARCH 2 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a home in Paddock Park on Monday morning regarding a stolen vehicle. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 9:30 p.m. last Sunday and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone stole the victim’s 2006 Ford F-350 pickup, which had been locked and parked in the driveway. The keys were still in the garage, where the victim had left them. There was no shattered glass.

FEB. 28 — An employee of the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Belvedere Road called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach last Saturday regarding a shoplifter. According to a PBSO report, the employee observed 54-yearold Liceida Salazar of Royal Palm Beach select various items, remove the tags and conceal them in her purse. She then proceeded to the main exit without paying for the merchandise. She was apprehended outside. The merchandise, valued at $206.64, was recovered. Salazar was transported to the county jail.

MARCH 1 — A West Palm Beach woman was arrested early last Sunday morning following a traffic stop in Royal Palm Beach. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 12:50 a.m. a deputy from the Royal Palm Beach substation was on patrol on Okeechobee Blvd. when he observed a white Dodge Ram driven by 44year-old Shelly Mahle traveling eastbound without its headlights on. The deputy initiated a traffic stop and made contact with Mahle, for whom the deputy learned there was a violation of parole warrant issued. Mahle was arrested and transported to the county jail.

MARCH 2 — An employee of a construction company working at the Regal Cinema 18 called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach on Monday morning in reference to a burglary. According to a PBSO report, the employee closed and locked a construction trailer at approximately noon last Sunday. When he returned to the trailer at approximately 6 a.m. the following day, he discovered someone had used an unknown tool to cut the pad-

MARCH 3 — A Cypress Park Drive resident called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Tuesday morning regarding stolen auto parts. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 11:30 p.m. on Monday and 7 a.m. the following morning, someone stole all four wheels from the victim’s 2007 Cadillac Escalade, which was left on cinder blocks taken from the driveway. The deputy was unable to obtain latent prints. The 22” rims were a $5,500 upgrade from the dealer.

MARCH 3 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was dispatched to a foreclosed home on Trianon Place on Monday morning regarding a criminal mischief incident. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 4 p.m. last Saturday and 10 a.m. on Monday, someone entered the house and vandalized the walls and bathroom fixtures, causing more than $1,000 worth of damage throughout the house. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 3 — A resident of Cosmos Court called the PBSO substation in Wellington on Monday regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, the complainant left his house at approximately 7:45 a.m., leaving the rear sliding door unlocked. When his wife arrived home at approximately 6 p.m., she discovered that her closet and drawers were open. Stolen from the home were a Wii video game system, miscellaneous Wii games, a video iPod, and miscellaneous cash and jewelry. There were no witnesses or suspects at the time of the report.

MARCH 4 — A man was arrested Wednesday for criminal mischief at a Palm Tran stop near the Mall at Wellington Green. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 6 p.m. the Palm Tran driver was loading passengers onto the bus when 41year-old Micheal Giersher of See BLOTTER, page 20

charges of trafficking in marijuana, cultivation of marijuana and possession/production of paraphernalia. Her occupation is unknown. Her last known address was 130th Trail North in The Acreage. Marcos is wanted as of 03/05/09. Remain anonymous and you may be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward. Call Crime Stoppers at (800) 458-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestopperspbc.com.

Richlet Dorrelus

Regla Marcos

Questions For The Royal Palm Beach Council Candidates

Leading up to the March 10 election, the Town-Crier has asked a series of six questions to the two candidates seeking a seat on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council. Answers to the fifth and sixth questions are printed here. On March 10, Royal Palm Beach voters will choose between incumbent Martha Webster and challenger Demian Saenz for Council Seat 2.

Are you happy with the current management/operation of the village? What, if anything, would you like to change?

DEMIAN SAENZ: Royal Palm Beach has grown over the years, becoming a mature city with many diverse residents; I believe the members of the village council should have term limits. Many of the cities within Palm Beach County have term limits in addition to the county commissioners. We should limit the council members to four terms in office. This would give the opportunity for more of our residents to become future leaders in the community.

Many of the residents and business owners I’ve met during the campaign have

concerns about the zoning laws. I would do a comprehensive review of the current structure and make changes where prudent. We have many open retail spaces in the village, and property owners are challenged to fill these spaces; zoning rules that make filling these spaces difficult should be changed. Finally, the village needs to be proactive and aggressive with every opportunity we have available to bring jobs to the area. We should work with the Business Development Board to market the village to the business community. We have empty office buildings in the middle of the village and undeveloped commercial land along State Road 7. Working with the land owners and the Business Development Board, we can provide tax incentives for businesses to relocate their operations to our village.

MARTHA WEBSTER: The Village of Royal Palm Beach has decreased its property tax (millage) rate 14 years in a row! Royal Palm Beach was voted one of the top ten cities in the nation! We can all agree that such accomplishments did not happen without a good deal of talent

from the village management and staff, with the direction of the village council.

The Village of Royal Palm Beach remains consistent in maintaining its infrastructure while cautiously financing improvements in recreation and parks. Its success is in recognizing opportunities for partnerships, grants and creative adjustments within the system. Unlike other municipalities, Royal Palm Beach has not allowed itself to become static, but to evolve in response to community growth and population changes.

Change? I would like to investigate various methods to improve traffic patterns in the village so that traffic moves directly onto county corridors. This means looking at connections to Belvedere Road, Crestwood Blvd. and State Road 7. However, it also means weighing the safety and integrity of possible impacts upon neighborhoods.

Why should voters choose you over the other candidate in this race?

SAENZ: I believe the council should be a forum for spirited debate, where all

points of view are valued and acknowledged, with the ultimate outcome being one that is best for Royal Palm Beach residents.

If elected, I would like to work on the following projects: 1) balance taxes without losing services, 2) small business support — tax incentives for a company to move their headquarters to Royal Palm Beach, 3) ease traffic flow in the busier intersections, 4) beautification projects for some of the older neighborhoods, i.e. road improvements, monument wall improvements and landscaping updates, and 5) work with the county, state and federal government to attract some of the money that will be available with the stimulus plan.

If elected, I will be a diligent and enthusiastic student of the council and village, willing to take on any task that will improve the village and the lives of our residents. It would be a privilege to serve the residents of Royal Palm Beach, and I respectfully request your vote on March 10.

WEBSTER: Last year, voters elected me to fill the shoes of former councilwom-

an Barbara Isenberg, who resigned early. I didn’t just fill her shoes; I pulled on a pair of boots and went to work! I fought hard to keep the extension of Roebuck Road in the county’s five-year plan. I opposed the county corridor plan for SR 7, which would lower the level of service on the road and allow for more traffic through the village. I campaigned for passage of the successful county charter amendment expanding “home rule,” giving the village more control within its boundaries without county interference. I stepped up to serve in leadership roles on

Martha Webster Demian Saenz local boards to represent the village: the Palm Beach County League of Cities and the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council. I supported lowering the village’s property tax rate while other communities raised taxes to offset declining property values. As your councilwoman, I will continue to advocate for quality services and neighborhoods at affordable rates. I am committed to working with local businesses to encourage economic stability. On Tuesday, March 10, I ask you to re-elect me to my own two-year term.

Chamber’s ‘Green Week’ To Feature Conference, Festival

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report

The Palms West Chamber of Commerce’s Green Week March 9 through 15 will feature a four-day “green conference” March 9 through 12, followed by the annual WestFest Land & Sea Festival March 14 and 15.

The first-ever South Florida Green, Energy & Climate Conference at the Palm Beach County Convention Center will feature education and networking to advance businesses in today’s new green economy, Palms West Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jaene Miranda said. The conference includes speakers, intensive sessions, panel discussions and workshops on socially responsible and sustainable enterprises and will feature leading industry, government, consumer and academic experts. “Locally, our chamber is leading the way in putting this conference together,” Miranda told the Town-Crier Monday.

But the chamber’s signature event WestFest is also heavily committed to the environmental theme, an approach guided in part by one of the festival’s main sponsors. “The idea of the festival going green came about from many local businesses marketing green products,” Miranda said. “Florida Public Utilities is a natural gas company, and they were very interested in extending service out into the western communities, providing gas to our homes. They came on board as a presenting sponsor for WestFest last year.”

Miranda said that following last year’s WestFest, some of the businesses involved suggested becoming more seriously involved in exploring the current “green” trend.

“When we did the followup meeting after the event, the sponsors involved — like Florida Public Utilities, Florida Power & Light and Republic Services — said that it would be a great thing to offer an opportunity for business-to-business and business-to-government networking and marketing on this whole green movement, so that’s how this came about,

Letters continued from page 4 a.m.) and an occasional General Lee airhorn custom wakeup call at 5 a.m., even on weekends!

I also have an arrangement with the recycling center and the Solid Waste Authority; they have provided me with an extra garbage can to support the excess litter that appears in our yard, and my kids are making extra money from picking up all the aluminum… the connection would definitely be a boon to their income. I also love the frequent speeding vehicles complete with pursuing police or emergency vehicles blowing through the stop signs on two wheels. My children do not play or sit in the yard anymore. We usually enjoy this event from our rooftop, and it certainly saves on the payper-view bill. It’s like being

with the thought of creating a Green Week in Palm Beach County,” she said.

WestFest, always a weekend showcase of local businesses, tasty food and great entertainment, has taken extensive measures to go green, Miranda said.

“We’ve joined forces with this organization called Eco Advisors,” she said. “What they are is a company that goes around measuring your carbon output.”

Eco Advisors went back through past WestFest files and gathered information related to activities that would contribute to the carbon footprint of WestFest, Miranda said.

“This year we’re trying to improve upon that,” she said. “There’s a couple of things that we’ve done. We changed the layout of the event so that we’re a little bit more tight with our setup so that we require less generators.”

Outside of the headliner entertainment for Saturday night, WestFest has kept all of the entertainment local in order to minimize travel.

“Most of the businesses are local,” Miranda said. “I would guess 95 percent of what we have offered are of local origin so we can follow along that green path.”

The chamber got permission from the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department to start setting up on Tuesday instead of later in the week, which will allow them to use more daylight hours so they don’t have to rely so much on generators.

Attention has been paid to detail: the toilet paper in the portable potties will be made with recycled paper. Antibacterial gel will be used for hand cleansing instead of running water.

“We’re trying to do everything that we can in our thought processes of how we run the event,” Miranda said.

“It’s been a big effort on behalf of the chamber staff, the sponsors and the chamber members. The committees have been working really hard. Both events should be spectacular, the conference and the caliber of presenters that we have should not be missed. We have CEOs of

in one of the Bourne films. I already enjoy all these benefits from the traffic and access that Madrid/Ponce De Leon provide to the western communities, so why change it? With the increase in traffic, sure I’ll make more money on the aluminum, but I fear I will forget that I live in a small, family-friendly community in western Palm Beach County. I moved here ten years ago to raise my kids in a community that was full of life, safe and filled with families. If I wanted to live on I-95, I would have moved there. This is a neighborhood, not a through way. Families live and play here. And as a note, the emergency response in this area is superb, and if you have to get to the hospital, the paramedics can have you there in under five [minutes] to Palms West Hospital. If

major corporations coming in.”

Waste Management, one of the presenting sponsors of the Green, Energy & Climate Conference, is the solid waste contractor for the Village of Wellington. Waste Management Governmental Affairs Coordinator Harold “Butch” Carter said his company’s role as an environmentally conscious disposer of solid waste is extremely important.

“That’s kind of why we’ve taken that presenting sponsor opportunity,” Carter said. “Waste Management is a steward of the environment. That’s not a message we’ve been able to get out very well. Everyone knows that we collect residential and commercial garbage, trash and recycling. What they don’t know is all those things that we do as a major company in America. We’re a Fortune 200 company. We have waste-toenergy facilities that create electricity that is sold to the power company to power homes. We have landfill-gasto-energy facilities where we take the methane gas that is a byproduct of the materials in

50th Street Village Traffic Study

continued from page 1 street such as paving its westward reach, and trying to meet the needs of residents while not encouraging more traffic in the area overall.

Although the Wellington Equestrian Committee reviewed plans for a trafficcalming roundabout on 50th Street at their Feb. 11 meeting, members also unanimously voted in opposition of cutting the link between 50th Street and Flying Cow Road. The Pine Tree Water Control District Board of Supervisors, the drainage authority for Rustic Ranches, met the following day and passed a similar resolution.

To learn more about traffic volume and patterns on 50th Street, the village conducted a one-week traffic count near the western end of the road

you can verbalize you need to go to Wellington, you can enjoy the ride in under 15. Dawn Watson Royal Palm Beach

Support The Residents, Not Golf Courses

Yet another week has gone by during which the golf courses in Wellington have been given free reign to do whatever they like, whenever they like, in terms of creating noise. That is because the Wellington Village Council, without a formal vote, has put a moratorium on enforcement of the noise standards ordinance.

The history of how this came about is a bit strange. According to the recommendation made to the council by Community Development

the landfill. There’s new technologies involved and we’ve been able to do a lot more than we could a few years ago.”

Waste Management was the first major solid waste company to focus on singlestream recycling, which allows customers to put recyclable paper, glass and plastic containers in one bin for collection, Carter said. The convenience of single-stream recycling has increased household participation by 30 percent over dual-stream recycling, where paper and containers must go in separate bins.

Waste Management also has an organization called the Green Squad, a group of professionals that helps businesses use less energy. The company is also an active participant in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) construction. “We want to get that message out. People don’t know how much we’re greening America,” Carter said.

Florida Power & Light is another primary sponsor of the conference, and West

at the South Road turnoff, which leads to horse farms in the Palm Beach Point East community.

The count revealed that the traffic traveling either to or from the Flying Cow Road area amounted to about a thousand trips in either direction, with the majority of the traffic on 50th Street either local residents or those doing business within the EPA.

“The vast majority of trips were associated with activities ongoing within the equestrian area,” Hodgkins said.

Hodgkins also speculated that cut-through traffic from Flying Cow Road might have been spiked by widening work on Southern Blvd. during the past couple of years, which increased congestion.

“My guess is that traffic has gone down to pre-State Road 80 construction levels,” he said. “There’s not a lot of traffic through there.”

Hodgkins said that village staff considered Pump Sta-

Director Marty Hodgkins, folks residing near golf courses have registered complaints of excess noise being made in the early mornings in violation of the present noise standards. It appears that instead of enforcing the standards, “village staff has discussed this issue with the operators of the Binks Forest and Wanderers golf courses.” And (surprisingly?) “Both operators agree (with whom, each other?) that enforcement of the current code provisions would be harmful, and could limit the number of golfers that could use each course.”

Mr. Hodgkins then goes on to recommend an amendment to the noise standards that would exempt golf courses from the current standards and allow any “sound emitted from the operation of equipment associated with the maintenance of public or

County Energy Center Plant Manager Carmine Priore III is a member of the chamber’s board of directors and serves on its energy conference steering committee.

“We’ve taken the aspects of clean energy and alternative energy very seriously, and this is another opportunity to participate in discussions and dialogue with colleagues and experts throughout this area,” Priore said.

Priore will moderate the conference’s alternative energy panel, which meets on March 10 at 1 p.m. That panel will feature seven members representing different types of fuels, including natural gas, solar, wind, waste and ocean energy. One of the panelists will be FPL Senior Vice President J.L. “Buck” Martinez, whose responsibilities include overseeing the development of renewable energy projects, Priore said.

On Wednesday, March 11, Priore will moderate a panel discussion on energy and climate policy. “What we’ve assembled there are five members, of which three are county commissioners: one

tion 1 in the southwestern corner of the village to be the best point to block access to 50th Street, partly because land would be available there to construct the necessary turn-around. He said cost estimates for that work, as well as the traffic count and recommendations from the Equestrian Committee and Pine Tree Board, would go to the Wellington Village Council, which would decide whether the village should pursue the idea any further. But until the council puts the suggestion to rest, Rustic Ranches residents are still uneasy about the prospect of one of their two access routes to Wellington being curtailed.

Resident Chris Wallace, who is also president of the Pine Tree board, said that Rustic Ranches residents would then have to travel several miles up Southern Blvd. and then south on State Road 7 to reach the southern part of the village, or worse yet, re-enter Wellington at Binks

private golf courses... provided that the equipment cannot be used prior to 6 a.m.”

Notice that there are no limits on the sound levels. This “equipment associated with the maintenance” can be anything from sand rakes to multi-horsepower, unmuffled trash blowers.

Aside from noting that nearby residents complained, no further credence is given to the complaints. There is no indication of any measurements having been made of the violating noise. Nor is there any indication that the golf courses were requested to make an effort to moderate the amount of noise that they produce prior to 7 a.m.

Mr. Hodgkins even goes so far as to state that “the course owners have an expectation to operate in a fashion that is normal and customary for such facilities.” He totally

from Broward, one from Martin County and one from Palm Beach,” Priore said. The other panelists will be a representative on sustainable energy and another with Florida Power & Light who is an expert on regulatory planning.

Other participants in the conference from FPL include Chief Development Officer Eric Silagy, who will be the keynote speaker on the first day of the conference. The first-ever South Florida Green, Energy & Climate Conference takes place at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach March 9-12. For more information, and a full schedule, visit www.floridagreen conference.com.

WestFest takes place at Okeeheelee Park, 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., Saturday, March 14 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, March 15 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $10 each day, $15 for a two-day pass or $30 for a daily family four-pack. Children seven and under are admitted free. For more info., visit www.palmswest.com.

Forest Drive to reach other roads that cut through the heart of the EPA. “All you’re doing is taking traffic from the periphery and bringing it right through your little area where you don’t want it,” she told the Town-Crier Thursday. Also of great concern to Wallace and other Rustic Ranches residents is the reduced access to their community by emergency personnel if the “back road” route is closed. She said she is arranging meetings with Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue officials in the area to discuss the situation. While the evidence so far seems to indicate that closing off 50th Street access to her community is unlikely to happen, Wallace said she isn’t ready to rest easy.

“We just always have to wonder what’s coming up next,” she said. “I’m doing what I can to see to it that they don’t do it, because this is not going to solve their problem.”

ignores the fact that both the Binks Forest and Wanderers owners knew when they bought the facilities there were noise standards in existence that would limit noise at certain times of day and night. He ignores the fact that the operators knowingly violated those standards. I mention Mr. Hodgkins only because his is the only name publicly associated with the recommended amendment. No one knows how many other staff or even council members were privy to the discussions with golf course operators prior to the recommendations being made. It is time to settle the issue. It should be on the next council agenda. And the recommended amendment should certainly be denied. Phil Sexton Wellington

SUPPORT FOR RELAY

Duffy’s Sports Bar in Royal Palm Beach hosted a benefit on Monday for the American Cancer Society’s 2009 Western Communities Relay for Life, which will take place at Royal Palm Beach High School on Friday, April 24. Another fundraiser will be held next week at Tree’s Wings. Pictured above are organizer Diane Smith and son Michael.

PHOTO BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

Copeland Davis Concert In RPB

Temple Beth Zion will present dynamic pianist Copeland Davis in concert on Sunday, March 29 at 4 p.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). Davis has appeared on The Tonight Show , Good Morning America and his own PBS special. He’s a renowned recording artist who is equally at home with classical music, Broadway or pop. Davis has been called one of America’s

foremost symphonic jazz piano innovators. If you’re a music lover, a lover of the piano, or just someone who wants to be in the presence of great talent, you are invited to attend this very special presentation. Tickets are $20 and can be secured by calling the synagogue box office at (561) 798-8888. Master Card and Visa are accepted. For more information about Davis, visit his web site at www.copelanddavis.com.

Temple Beth Torah Golf Benefit

The sixth annual Temple Beth Torah Brotherhood Golf Benefit will be held at Binks Forest Golf Club (400 Binks Forest Drive, Wellington) on Sunday, April 29.

Brunch and registration will be at 11 a.m. with driving range practice from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and a shotgun start at 1 p.m.

The cost of $125 per player includes 18 holes of golf, on-course beverages provided by Coca-Cola and Budweiser, breakfast provided by Whole Foods Market of Wellington, an awards reception, buffet dinner and a goody bag. Other sponsors include Hampton Inn Suites, Strathmore Bagels, Citibank, Braman Motorcars Palm Beach, Rosner’s, Ed Morse Cadillac and Massage Envy.

The TBT Brotherhood wishes to thank its primary benefactor, the Kenneth & Laura Baxter Foundation.

The 2009 honoree will be Wellington Vice Mayor Dr. Carmine Priore. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. All proceeds raised by player participation, sponsorships and raffles will help fund programs for Temple Beth Torah and local charities.

In recent years, the temple has donated to Palm

Beach County Fire-Rescue, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Jewish War Veterans of Boynton Beach.

Temple Beth Torah is located at 900 Big Blue Trace in Wellington. For more information, call Vincent Gerardi at (561) 309-7169, Barry Hirsch at (561) 723-7027, Greg Lowenstein at (561) 793-5706 or Doug Barr at (561) 312-9809, or visit www.templebethtorah.net/ golf.

St. Michael Discussion On Christianity

St. Michael Lutheran Church (1925 Birkdale Drive, Wellington) will host a comparative denominations panel discussion on Sunday, March 22 at 7 p.m.

Clergy members representing seven Christian denominations will be part of the panel discussion “Christianity’s Family Tree.”

Moderated by Wellington Mayor Darell Bowen, the discussion is designed to be a respectful exchange of ideas and beliefs.

“Despite the common grounding in Christ among our denominations, there are differences in approach and doctrine among us that sometimes lead to misunderstandings or conflict,” host pastor Marjorie Weiss said. “Our

hope is that this panel will help all who attend to learn about the unique perspective that each bring to the Christian family and how Christians might be more united in our public dialogue with the world.”

Panelists include Rev. Brian Lenhert or Deacon Bill Jacobs of St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church in Wellington (Roman Catholic), Deacon Ray Liberti of St. David’s-in-the-Pines Episcopal Church in Wellington (Episcopalian), Pastor Rainer Richter of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Wellington (Methodist), Pastor Gary Cecil of Palms West Presbyterian Church in Loxahatchee Groves (Presbyterian), Pastor Dale Faircloth of First Baptist Church in Royal Palm Beach (Baptist), Pastor Calvin Lyerla of Acts 2 Assembly of God in Loxahatchee Groves (Pentecostal) and Pastor Marjorie Weiss of St. Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church (Lutheran).

The public is invited to attend the panel discussion. For more information, call Weiss at (561) 793-4999.

Golf Classic To Benefit Little Smiles

The 2009 Chili’s Charity Golf Classic to benefit Little Smiles will take place on Monday, May 11 at Bear

Lakes Country Club. Little Smiles is now accepting foursomes for the tournament. The Chili’s FebruaryMarch capital campaign fundraiser coupled with the golf classic will undoubtedly set a benchmark year in the efforts to serve the children of South Florida. The finale of the capital campaign will culminate into one of Palm Beach County’s most exciting and anticipated events on May 11.

Little Smiles has once again named Tony Viola chairman of the 2009 Chili’s Charity Golf Classic and Chili’s Restaurants as presenting sponsor. Little Smiles is a non-profit organization that endeavors to brighten and enhance the lives of children while they undergo treatment or endure stays in hospitals, hospices or shelters.

Little Smiles strives to better the community as well as enhance the lives of critically ill children. Items and services that Little Smiles provides include toys, games, DVDs, computers, day outings, trips to Disney, special events, limousine transportation, concert and sporting event tickets, as well as celebrity meet-and-greets. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and foursomes can be registered on the Little Smiles web site at www.littlesmiles.org or by calling (561) 383-7274.

Fax news items to The Town-Crier at (561) 793-6090 or e-mail news items to news@goTownCrier.com

Veterans Donate Flag To Folke Peterson

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Men’s Auxiliary Post 4360 in Palm Springs recently donated a new American flag, flagpole and proper flag lighting to the Folke Peterson Wildlife Center. Post members paid for the items and also installed the flagpole.

A flag dedication ceremony was held on Feb. 14 at the wildlife center. President Richard Smith read a dedication speech, and during the playing of the national anthem, the flag was raised by Treasurer Dean Luce and Past President/Trustee Chris Brown.

The Folke Peterson Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization devoted to the res-

cue, treatment and rehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned native Florida wildlife. The center relies entirely on the generosity of the public and serves all of Palm Beach County at no cost to the taxpayers. Volunteers, visitors and staff participated in the moving flag-dedication ceremony.

As a bonus, the center was able to release a recovered Cooper’s hawk to the wild after the raising of the flag. The bird was released to the wooded area surrounding the center. Director Heather Landstrom presented a certificate of appreciation to Smith and the members of Post 4360 for the flag donation.

Art Society To Host Lampasona March 11

Interdisciplinary artist Eydi Lampasona, regional ambassador and educator for the Golden Paint Company, will return to the Wellington Art Society on Wednesday, March 11 to present a demo on artistic techniques and special applications using the company’s acrylics, media and additives.

Lampasona’s work has been honored both at the national level and internationally, and is exhibited in museums and galleries through-

out North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. A lifelong Florida-based artist, she is a signature member of the National Watercolor Society and the National Collage Society.

The meeting will be held Wednesday, March 11 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center, located at 151 Civic Center Way, near the southwest corner of Okeechobee Blvd. and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. Light refreshments will be

served at 6:30 p.m., followed by a brief business meeting at 7 p.m., with the demo starting about 7:15 p.m. While the meeting is free and open to the public, there is a $5 fee for the demo for non-society members.

The Wellington Art Society is open to artists working in all mediums and patrons of the arts, providing both local and regional artists a platform to share their work, learn more about their craft and serve the commu-

nity through their art. A charitable organization, the society aims to educate and encourage originality and productivity among its members and area youth through programs designed to further the advancement of cultural endeavors in the western communities.

For more information, visit the society’s web site at www.wellingtonartsociety.

org or call President Adrianne Hetherington at (561) 7847561.

Temple Beth Zion’s Garage Sale Sunday

Temple Beth Zion in Royal Palm Beach will host a giant garage sale on Sunday, March 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring local entertainers.

The event will be a great family garage sale not to miss. The lineup includes the performance group SOS from the Standing Ovations Performing Arts School. The group of talented young performers between the ages of seven and 13 sings, dances and has taken acting classes. Selected by audition only, the group is represented by its top performers. Also performing is Clarissa Humm and John Mor-

ris, who donate their talents to Actors 4 Charity, a program of the non-profit organization Sharlene’s Angel on Earth, which helps promote awareness of domestic abuse, child abuse and homelessness through its various programs. The actors sing, dance and do theatrical shows. They have all performed professionally throughout the tri-county area. Also from Actors 4 Charity and SOS, Stephen Eisenwasser will perform and host the entertainment. Eric Auerbach will make a special appearance as well. There will also be a bounce house, food and plenty of

bargains you won’t want to miss.

Temple Beth Zion is lo-

While nothing much surprises Bess Lindenbaum anymore, she was a bit startled Thursday when she was presented with a birthday cake to celebrate her 98th anniversary. The celebration came during her regular bridge club meeting at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Sheryl Sawyer, the center’s supervisor, is shown here presenting the cake to Lindenbaum. The Royal Palm Beach resident regularly drives herself to bridge club events in her Mercedes-Benz.

cated at 129 Sparrow Drive. For more information, call (561) 798-8888.

Standing Ovation — Members of the

will perform at

Na’AmatSharon Club To Meet In RPB

The Na’amat-Sharon Club of Royal Palm Beach will meet on Tuesday, March 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center (151 Civic Center Way). The guest speaker will be Ron Kauffman, host of “Senior Lifestyles,” who will discuss his new book Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

A light lunch will be served, followed by a short business meeting. There will be a small fee for lunch for non-members.

For more information, call Annette Haber at (561) 7931484. Legion

Tryouts for the American Legion Post 390 high school baseball team will be held Sunday, March 8 at 4 p.m. at Wellington Village Park, located at 11700 Pierson Road. For more info., call Brice Miller (561) 795-6744.

ACS Benefit Tree’s Wings will host an all-you-can-eat ribs and chicken night to benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life on Wednesday, March 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. Just drop by Tree’s Wings at the corner of Southern and Royal Palm Beach boulevards and mention that you’re there for the Relay for Life event. Tree’s will donate 10 percent to ACS.

group SOS, which

Temple Beth Zion’s garage sale.

Flag Dedication — Folke Peterson volunteer Kathleen Smith, Post 4360 Treasurer Dean Luce, Folke Peterson Director Heather Landstrom, Post 4360 Past President/ Trustee Chris Brown and President Richard Smith

PHOTO BY DON BROWN/TOWN-CRIER

NEW HORIZONS ELEMENTARY HOSTS ‘RESPONSIBILITY PEP

New Horizons Elementary School in Wellington held its “Responsibility Pep Rally” on Thursday, Feb. 26, as part of Professional Development Day. Speakers at the rally included guidance counselor Lynne Bray and Principal Elizabeth Cardozo. Also attending were students from Wellington High School’s marching band. New Horizons’ chorus, step band and other groups also performed at the rally.

DR. SEUSS’ BIRTHDAY

and activities in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Children sang songs,

and colored Dr. Seuss-themed drawings.

PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Members of the WHS marching band perform.New Horizons musicians entertain their peers.

Students take part in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Principal Elizabeth Cardozo says a few words.Guidance counselor Lynne Bray greets students.

Members of

school’s step band

decorated Cat in the Hat-styled hats

Wesley Clothier gets into the Seuss spirit. Sanjay Parmar helps daughter Lane decorate a hat.

Isaiah Thomas wins a Dr. Seuss stencil pad from the library’s Michelle Barnes.

Seminole Ridge’s Janine Campos Wins With Monologue

Seminole Ridge High School International Thespian Society member Janine Campos recently received a $100 scholarship check from the Palm Beach chapter of the English-Speaking Union of the United States.

As a participant in the union’s annual Shakespearean competition, Campos performed both a monologue from Macbeth and the Bard’s sonnet 48, “How careful was I, when I took my way.”

“She did a beautiful job representing our school,” drama teacher Patty Bates said.

• Infotech Students Earn Adobe Certification — Five students in Seminole Ridge’s Information Technology (IT) Academy have passed the Adobe Certified Associate exams on their first try — and they did it without going through the curriculum or review, relying solely on what they’ve learned in class. Congratulations to Lee Fabian, Chris Justin, Anthony Salina, Brett Stubbs and Ryan Wellington.

“I’m proud of these guys,” IT instructor Rob Schwartz said, “and I’m hoping for a couple other ACA’s in the next week when [our other] kids take the test. Industry certification is being pushed by the state and will be a part of the school grade in the next year or two, so these students are helping us meet schoolwide goals as they excel in their personal growth as digital artists.”

• Frank Lasagna: National Wrestling Hall of Famer

— The National Wrestling Hall of Fame, based in Stillwater, Ok., has inducted on the first ballot Seminole Ridge’s head wrestling coach Frank Lasagna. The induction ceremony will take place this coming July. Lasagna received the honor not only as a result of his many accomplishments as a coach but also for his many contributions to the sport of wrestling. In his 30-plus years of coaching

wrestling, Lasagna has had only two in which his wrestlers did not advance to the state competition.

• Hawk Teachers Awarded National Board Certification — Among this year’s Palm Beach County teachers awarded National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification were SRHS social studies department chair Kara Macsuga and English teacher Melissa Dooley.

TKA Finalists For National Merit Scholarships

The King’s Academy is proud to recognize three outstanding students who have been named finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program: Lauren Caruso, J.T. Cobb and Tyler Trumbach.

Caruso, who has been a student at the King’s Academy since first grade, said “it is an incredible honor to have achieved this distinction. To me, it is a reward for years of hard work and dedication to academics.”

Trumbach, a TKA student since the fifth grade, hopes to be a positive influence on other students. “I hope my example inspires others to work hard and achieve such prestige,” he said.

More than 1.5 million juniors from over 21,000 high schools entered the 54th National Merit Scholarship Program. Back in September, only 16,000 were chosen as semifinalists, and only 8,200 students nationwide have recently been recognized as fi-

nalists, sharing in the $35 million National Merit Scholarship Program. Having three of these finalists at the King’s Academy is remarkable.

To qualify as a finalist, a semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, earn SAT scores that confirm that record and the student’s earlier performance on qualifying tests, and be endorsed and recommended by the high school principal.

The candidate must submit a detailed scholarship application, which includes a selfdescriptive essay and information about participation in school leadership and community activities.

“Being a National Merit Scholar is a great honor. It is proof of the value of hard work and diligence, and an encouragement to continue working hard,” said Cobb, who has attended the King’s Academy since junior kindergarten.

The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized interdenominational, independent Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade, and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the Association of Christian

St. Peter’s Preschool Opens Registration For

2009-10 March 9

St. Peter’s United Methodist Church’s Child Enrichment Center (CEC) preschool in Wellington will offer open registration for the 2009-10 school year. Open registration begins on Monday, March 9 at 7 a.m. and will continue until classes are filled.

St. Peter’s CEC offers early learning experiences in a nurturing Christian environment for ages two and a half through pre-kindergarten. Varying daily preschool schedules available.

The school’s objective is to offer pre-school children the best early learning environment before entering kindergarten. St. Peter’s CEC teaches based on the five areas of child development: social,

emotional, physical, spiritual and intellectual. Centers in the classroom provide for individual and small group play.

The Child Enrichment Center Pre-School is a Florida approved pre-school under the guidance of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church of Wellington. It is a non-profit organization made up of parents and friends of the Child Enrichment Center.

The preschool is located at 12200 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information about the preschool and open enrollment, call School Administrator Pat Banks at (561) 798-3286. Additional information can be found at www.stpeterscec.com.

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

& Sinus Infection

Scholars — National Merit Scholarship finalists J.T. Cobb, Lauren Caruso and Tyler Trumbauch.

Outdoor Education — Students at St. Peter’s Child Enrichment Center work on painting a fence.

Janine Campos

Frank Lasagna

Kara Macsuga and Melissa Dooley

Schools International, and the Florida Association of Christian Schools. The King’s Academy serves students and their families from across Palm Beach County at its main campus at Belvedere Road and Sansbury’s Way and its satellite preschool campuses.

Area School Bands To Perform At WestFest

Palm Beach County high school and middle school bands will showcase their music skills at the 16th Annual WestFest Land & Sea Festival scheduled for March 14 and 15 at Okeeheelee Park on Forest Hill Blvd. Bandfest at WestFest will feature talented jazz and concert bands from local high schools and middle schools, including Palm Beach Central, Wellington and John I. Leonard high schools and Wellington Landings and Osceola Creek middle schools.

The public is invited to attend performances beginning at noon on Sunday, March 15 running through 6:30 p.m. at the Cultural Stage. The performances are presented by the Village Shoppes on State Road 7, Southern Palm Crossing, the Pointe at Wellington Green and the Shoppes at Wellington Green. Each school will receive a donation to their band program for its performance. For more information, visit www.westfestpalmbeach.com or call (561) 790-6200.

Sacred Heart Students Advance In Competition

Sacred Heart School students from Royal Palm Beach, Wellington, Boynton Beach and Lake Worth competed in the Palms Region Odyssey of the Mind on Feb. 21 at William T. Dwyer High School. Odyssey of the Mind is the world’s largest creative problem solving competition for children. This nonprofit program begins anew each school year when five long-term problems are received by schools that have registered with the International Creative Competitions office. Odyssey of the

Mind’s mission is to foster the development of creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Sacred Heart School registered two teams this year with one receiving first place and the other receiving third place. The firstplace team will advance to the Florida State Tournament on April 4 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

Sacred Heart School is located at 410 North M Street in Lake Worth. For more information, visit www.sacred heartfamily.com.

Poinciana Day School Celebrates Valentine’s Day With Orchids

The Poinciana Day School Student Council recently concluded a successful fundraiser for Valentine’s Day — gorgeous orchids delivered in unique hand-painted flower pots decorated by the students. Flowers were delivered on Feb. 13. The proceeds from the fundraiser, totaling more than $3,000, will go toward buses for endof-year field trips for all students. The flower pots showcased the creativity of the students. Using only pink, red-white and black paint, students in grades five through eight created more than 130 unique Valentine’s designs on the flower pots; no two were alike. It was hard to determine

which were more phenomenal-looking: the orchids or the flower pots.

Student Council President Alicia Hebron of Wellington and Student Council Historian Naomi Cortez of Royal Palm Beach led the orchid sale with the help of parent volunteer Shannon Martin of Atlantis.

Students were offered incentives to take orders for the orchids. The top-selling student, Alden Thompson of Singer Island and Juno Beach, received an iPod Shuffle and $25 iTunes gift card for selling 17 orchids.

Students selling at least four orchids received special coupons allowing them to wear T-shirts and jeans for a

week instead of their usual school uniforms. Students winning this award were: Alden Thompson (Singer Island and Juno Beach), Trevor Duchene (Royal Palm Beach), Danielle Holland (West Palm Beach), Lili Henderson (Palm Beach Gardens), Amar Maharaj (West Palm Beach), Alicia Hebron (Royal Palm Beach and Wellington), Shelley Martin (Atlantis and Royal Palm Beach), Blake Clement (Lake Worth), Stevie Olsen (North Palm Beach) and Tiana Simmons (West Palm Beach).

Students selling at least two orchids received a coupon for one T-shirt-and-jeans day. Students at this award level included: Madison Rosado (West Palm Beach), Logan Maharaj (Royal Palm Beach), Daniel Molina (West Palm Beach), Dylan Gordon (Jupiter), J.B. Sebastiano (West Palm Beach), Patrick Brannen (West Palm Beach), Kaitlyn Rivers (Lake Worth), Rowan McManus (Lake Clarke Shores), Fiona A’Hearn (West Palm Beach and Lake Worth), Maeve A’Hearn (West Palm Beach and Lake Worth), Melissa Pitcher (Wellington), Juli Cooper (West Palm Beach), Christina Bacon (West Palm Beach) and Nelson Olaguibel (Wellington).

For more about Poinciana Day School, call (561) 6557323 or visit www.poinciana dayschool.org.

Problem Solvers — Tristan White, Jordan Schwetz, Samantha Poje, Frankie Cialone, Natalie Guilherme, Jackie Cialone, Ruby Dussek, Mrs. Cindy Cokorogianis, Kasey Rivero, Ashley Rodrigues, Marilyn Flanders, Sam Gringeri, Erin O’Connell, Meghan O’Connell, John Daniell and Anita Guilherme.

Valentine’s Gifts — Poinciana Day School Student Council members with their final products on the Valentine’s orchid sale distribution day.

100TH BIRTHDAY

A 100th birthday celebration was held for Mary Cole Hallenbeck last Saturday at Windsong Farm in Wellington. She was surrounded by family, friends and lots of great-grandchildren. Pictured above is Mary with her grandson Bradley and his wife Kelly.

Jaye Parody And Richard Thompson Wed

Jaye Parody and Richard Thompson were married on Saturday, Feb. 28. The ceremony took place at Ascension Catholic Church in Boca Raton. A reception followed at the Sundy House in Delray Beach.

Parody, 29, grew up in Wellington, having attended New Horizons Elementary School, Wellington Landings Middle School and Wellington High School, where she was on the varsity swim team.

She later graduated from the University of Notre Dame and moved to Minneapolis, Minn. to pursue a retail career at Target Corporation. While in Minneapolis, Parody met Thompson, 36, who has an economics degree from St. Olaf College and an industrial engineering degree from the University of Cincinnati. He currently works for Redgroup, a local research, engineering and design group.

WHS Grad Joins Florida Law Review Board

Wellington High School

graduate Matthew R. Jones was recently elected to serve on the executive board of the Florida Law Review for the 2009-10 academic year.

Jones will serve as executive articles editor. He is in his second year at the University of Florida Levin College of Law.

“The energy of our new board and its members’ track record of accomplishment, bode well for the future of the Florida Law Review,” outgoing Editor-in-Chief Larry Dougherty said. Incoming Editor-in-Chief Jon M. Philipson agreed.

“With its strong commitment to excellence and innovation, our review will continue to build upon the strong foundation laid by the prior board and will continue to uphold the Florida Law Review’s reputation as a national law review.”

Entirely student-edited, the

“We have a dynamic, experienced and energetic new executive board,” he said.

Florida Law Review publishes articles, essays, lectures and other scholarly work from professors, practitioners and students from across the country and around the globe. For more about the Florida Law Review, visit www. floridalawreview.com or email Amy Hanna at amy hanna@ufl.edu.

Palms West Hospital Takes Part In National Wear Red Day

Employees from Palms West Hospital were among the hundreds of individuals representing dozens of companies and organizations that brought the color red into their wardrobes, hallways and cubicles on Friday, Feb. 6 to fight back against heart disease, the number-one killer of women. They collectively took part in the American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day and other American Heart Monthrelated activities throughout the month of February.

Participants from other companies in the Greater West Palm Beach area and northern portion of the county included: the City of West Palm Beach, the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, Good Samaritan Medical Center, IBM Employees’ Federal Credit Union, JFK Medical Center, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser’s Office, Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center and the School District of Palm Beach County.

Each year, National Wear Red Day is held the first Friday in February. It is the signature day of the organization’s nationwide Go Red for Women movement, sponsored nationally by Macy’s and Merck. The educational movement, now in its sixth year of existence, is powered by research and connects millions of women of all ages who continue to embrace the energy, passion and power of red and turn simple choices into life-saving actions.

Area Go Red for Women ambassador Jeanette Windmon accompanied the American Heart Association on some of the National Wear Red Day visits across Palm Beach County in an effort to reach out to other women and inspire them through her story. Four years ago, Windmon was severely obese and knew she had to change her life to save it. As an African-American woman with alarmingly high blood pressure levels, Windmon realized she was at high risk for either heart dis-

ease or a stroke. In fact, according to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, African Americans have twice the risk of stroke as Caucasians, and African Americans have higher death rates from heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases than white males and females.

Today Windmon is 175 pounds lighter and a certified personal trainer and nutrition specialist at the YMCA of the Palm Beaches. “Success is revenge to me,” she said. “You don’t get mad. You get successful.”

After four years of strict dieting and exercise, free of any medication or operation, Windmon is not only committed to taking care of her own heart health, but also the heart health of others. Her message resonated across Palm Beach County on National Wear Red Day and will continue to be shared in the months leading up to the Palm Beach County Start! Heart Walk on

Saturday, Sept. 26. Activities on National Wear Red Day were just the first of many related to the Start! Heart Walk, which will take place at Florida

Atlantic University in Boca Raton and the Meyer Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach.

To register with the Go Red for Women movement, visit

www.goredforwomen.org. For further details on the Sept. 26 Start! Heart Walk, call (888) 355-1060 or visit http://palmbeacheartwalk. kintera.org.

Going Red — Palms West Hospital employees Rosa Santos, Mary Cuevas, Charrie Cooper, Inona Pierre, Heidi Weiser, Audrey Harley, Sandi Boulais, Patricia Whitley and Felecia Svaighert on National Wear Red Day.

Jaye Parody and Richard Thompson

A CHARITABLE TRIP

Ullman Completes Primary Flight Training

Ensign Kristen Ullman, daughter of Keith and Debbie Ullman of Wellington, recently completed Primary Flight Training at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas. Ullman is a 2003 math, science and engineering graduate of Suncoast High School and a 2007 aerospace engineering graduate of the United States Naval Academy. Upon receiving her commission, Ullman was selected for pilot training.

During summer 2007, Ullman was temporarily attached to the Naval Academy and involved in training the incoming 2011 plebe class.

In fall 2007, Ullman was transferred to Naval Air Station Pensacola for aviation

pre-flight indoctrination training (API). API is an introduction to flight basics, including an introduction to basic aerodynamics, aviation weather, air navigation, flight rules and regulations, and aircraft engines and systems. During this training, pilots are also exposed to aviation physiology through classes with the Naval Operational Medical Institute, learning how flight affects the human body.

At the conclusion of API, Ullman was transferred to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas for Primary Flight Training, where she was part of Training Air Wing 4 and assigned to the VT-28 Rangers.

At Corpus Christi, Ullman trained on the T-34C Mentor, a single engine two-seat basic training aircraft. Ullman’s training in flying basics included visual flight, basic instrument flying, introduction to aerobatics, radio instrument navigation, formation flying and several solo flights.

The last assignment was a cross-country flight from Corpus Christi to Phoenix, Arizona and back.

After completion of Primary Flight Training, Ullman was transferred to Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, Fla. for Advanced Rotary Flight Training where she will be flying the TH-57 Sea Ranger.

Wild West For MS Party Organizers Gear Up For March 21 Event

The Wild West for MS Party will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 6 p.m. at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington during the $400,000 FTI Consulting Finale Grand Prix Jumping event. The party will offer guests the chance to enjoy tent seating for this spectacular night of equestrian competition while enjoying food from the White Horse Tavern, enter-

tainment by the Chili Chicks, a western costume contest for kids and adults, a silent auction and a live auction with legendary Olympic show jumper Nona Garson as auctioneer. Event co-chairs are Kim Kolloff, Jennifer Smith, Glen Senk and Keith Johnson.

Tickets range in price from $150 (cocktail tickets) and $50 (kids tickets) to $2,500 for VIP table seating. For more information,

Malefatto Earns Second Academic Honors From Clark

Anna Malefatto of Wellington has been named to second honors on the Clark University dean’s list. This selection marks outstanding academic achievement during the fall 2008 semester.

Malefatto is a member of Clark University’s Class of 2010. She attended Wellington High School. To be eligible for second honors, students must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher out of a maximum of 4.3 (all A-pluses).

Clark University is a private, co-educational, liberal arts research university with 2,200 undergraduate and 800 graduate students. Since its establishment in 1887 as the first all-graduate school in the United States, Clark has challenged convention with innovative programs such as the International Studies Stream and the accelerated BA/MA programs with the fifth year tuition-free for eligible students. The university is featured in Loren Pope’s book Colleges That Change Lives. For more information, visit www. clark.edu.

or to buy tickets, visit www. mscurefund.org.

The event organizers would like to thank sponsors Equestrian Sport Productions, Urban Outfitters and Zimmerman & Partners.

The MS Cure Fund is a national nonprofit organization based in Boston dedicated to help create awareness, educate and raise funds for multiple sclerosis research to help find a cure.

Sophia Nicole Serkin daughter of Erika and Jonathan Serkin of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 3.

Nathan Scelfo — son of Katie and Steven Scelfo of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 11.

Emma Lauren Pincus daughter of Christine and Howard Pincus of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 11.

Damian Cole Ralford son of Jade Watkins and Bruce Ralford of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 12.

It was founded in 2005 by a MS patient in an effort to:

• Increase awareness of the disease and help newly diagnosed understand and manage its debilitating symptoms.

• Conduct educational programs and seminars along with peer user groups for support and advice.

• Raise much-needed research funds that go directly to the scientists and clinicians studying MS.

WHO’S NEW

Arianna Reigh Gomez daughter of Christy Giacinto and Alexander Gomez of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 14.

Sienna Taylor Burgess daughter of Zoie and Sherman Burgess Jr. of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 14.

Joslynn Amy Degler daughter of Kate Degler of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 16.

Jaycie Rose Campagnuolo — daughter of Kristen and John Campagnuolo Jr. of Loxahatchee was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 17.

Leilani Isis Gonzalez daughter of Ruthy and Luis Gonzalez of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 18.

Amin Vantroy Sanaia Jr. — son of Martha and Amin Sanaia Sr. of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 18.

Madison Rose Wexler daughter of Susanne and Bryan Wexler of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 19.

Brock Thomas Rhodes — son of Jewelie and Matt Rhodes of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 19.

Rylin Paige Nutt daughter of Denise and Ryan Nutt of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 19.

Daniel James Goldberg — son of Hadar and James Goldberg of Wellington was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 22.

Dominick Andrew Mazzeo — son of Cristal and Joseph Mazzeo of Royal Palm Beach was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 23.

Alessandrina Matrunola — daughter of Kathryn and Frank Matrunola of Loxahatchee was born at Wellington Regional Medical Center on Feb. 25.

Kristen Ullman

Parishioners from St. Rita Catholic Church in Wellington recently visited Kingston, Jamaica where they provided assistance to impoverished residents. Pictured above are Al Paglia and Tom Moran with Kingston residents.

The Wild West for MS Committee

Cheri Pavlik Named

To President’s Circle At Wellington Chamber

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce recently announced that Cheri Pavlik has been named its newest President’s Circle member.

Pavlik recently joined Hedrick Brothers Construction as director of business development. She has 19 years of multi-faceted real estate development, project planning and interior design experience, and a Florida real estate broker’s license. She is treasurer of South Florida Professional Women in Construction, a board member of the Professional Women’s Network, an allied member of the American Society of Interior Design and member of the Rotary Club of West Palm Beach.

Hedrick Brothers Construction was recently awarded the contract for an equestrian residence in Wellington, complete with stables, grooms quarters and a hot walker. The company is celebrating 30 years of providing the highest level of craftsmanship and professional management for general contracting, construction management and pre-construc-

Cheri Pavlik

tion services for commercial, luxury residential, historic restoration, education and sustainable construction projects in South Florida.

The Wellington Chamber of Commerce’s exclusive President’s Circle is a unique and exciting opportunity extended to established leaders of the community, local businesses and entrepreneurs. For more information on the President’s Circle or the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, call (561) 7926525.

Learning Express Opens Store In Wellington

Learning Express Toys recently celebrated the grand opening of its newest location, at Wellington Green Commons just south of Forest Hill Blvd. in Wellington. Owners Seth and Marnee Schneider, along with friends, family and members of the Palms West Chamber of Commerce, celebrated their ribbon cutting with popcorn, face painting and a 20percent-off storewide sale. This new location is the sister store to their very successful Boca Raton location.

In honor of the ribbon cutting, Learning Express of Wellington made a donation of toys to the Children’s Program of the Florida Division

of Blind Services. The Division of Blind Services brought a service dog and answered questions.

Learning Express of Wellington is part of a family of more than 120 independently owned and operated toy store owners all operating under the name Learning Express.

Learning Express stores provide an extraordinary shopping experience with knowledgeable sales staff offering expert advice on choosing the perfect toy, for any child, for any occasion. The product mix is carefully selected from manufacturers around the world and has exceptional play value. A birth-

Learning Express staff join Palms West Chamber of Commerce ambassadors for a ribbon cutting.

day gift registry, free gift wrapping, free personalization, civic fundraising and consumer VIP programs make every Learning Ex-

Tijuana Flats To Open Wellington Location

On Monday, March 16, hunger will once again meet its match as Tijuana Flats opens its latest restaurant location at 13860 Wellington Trace in Wellington.

This new addition to Wellington is one of five Tijuana Flats locations scheduled to open in South Florida this year. The scheduled locations are a part of a larger expansion into the market. Earlier this year, Tijuana Flats announced that they are open-

ing a total of 10 stores throughout Florida in 2009.

The new location will feature Tijuana Flats’ made-toorder menu, a 14-pump hot sauce bar and all the lively atmosphere patrons have come to expect from the TexMex powerhouse. The 1,915square-foot restaurant will accommodate seating for more than 70 visitors.

“With five locations already established in South Florida, the community has

really welcomed us over the years,” Tijuana Flats owner Brian Wheeler said. “There have been many positive responses about the continued expansion plans in this market, and we are confident that we will continue to become a valid part of the local community just like we are in our existing markets.”

Established in 1995 in Winter Park, Tijuana Flats is a unique, fast-casual TexMex dining experience fea-

turing superior guest service and fresh, made-to-order food. Tijuana Flats has over 60 locations in Florida, Indiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia. The restaurants are typically found in high-traffic areas and average 2,200 square feet. To view the Tijuana Flats menu as well as complete list of locations, visit www. tijuanaflats.com. To contact the Wellington location, call (561) 784-5554.

CCCS Offers Advice For Saving ‘Green’ At The Grocery Store

Consumers are spending more than ever on groceries. People seeking basic budget counseling from the Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) of Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast spent an average of $356 on groceries in January 2009, compared to $316 in January 2008 — an increase of more than 12 percent.

“In today’s challenging economy, reducing spending in any area can be a great help to the family budget,” CCCS President Jessica Cecere said. “Reducing your weekly grocery bill by just $25 will add an additional $100 a month that can be used to pay down debt or add to a savings account.”

CCCS suggests that consumers track their current spending habits as a way to find opportunities to reduce spending. A quick review of the receipts from your last few trips to the grocery store can quickly identify impulse purchases and other snack or food items that you probably didn’t need. Just cutting those out can add up to significant savings.

CCCS offers these tips to help shoppers save “green” at the grocery store:

• Preparation and planning is key — Make a list, and stick to it. Plan your menus for the next week or two and make just one trip to the store. If you have a list and stick to it, you will be less

likely to add items to the cart that are not on your list. You will also be more likely to use coupons to add to your savings.

Using your grocery list, clip and organize coupons, and scan local grocery store fliers for deals of the week. You might even plan your menus around what is on sale each week. Before you shop, inventory what you already have so you don’t overstock.

• Use coupons to your advantage — Take advantage of coupon savings, special purchases, and buy one-get one promotions. Coupon savings are usually worth the cost of the Sunday paper. In addition to manufacturer’s coupons, sites such as www.

couponmom.com compare in-store specials at many grocery chains. A great sale or double or triple coupon values may make it worth the trip to a store you don’t usually go to. For staple items with a long shelf-life, stock up during sales. Avoid buying things you wouldn’t normally buy just because you have a coupon.

• Buy in bulk, sometimes — It may be cheaper to buy three dozen eggs, but only if you don’t end up throwing out a dozen because they have expired. Compare prices on bulk purchases. Consider shopping for bulk items with a friend and share the cost. Take advantage of rewards programs offering a

percentage back on purchases from stores like Costco, BJ’s Wholesale and Sam’s Club. They also have coupons available in print and online that can help add to your savings.

• Eat before you shop Shopping on an empty stomach will always cost you more at the store. Have a snack before you go, and you’ll be less tempted to make impulse buys.

• Don’t limit your shopping to eye level — Many lower-cost items, including store brands, are stocked on higher and lower shelves, while higher-priced items are at eye level.

• Size isn’t everything — Take a calculator along to

determine the price per ounce or pound so you can get the best deal. And remember, larger is not always better. Buy only what you will use.

• Save on eating out — While it may add slightly to your grocery bill, packing your lunch can save you $100 or more per month when compared to eating out. If you need help putting together a budget, consider contacting the Consumer Credit Counseling Service. CCCS provides confidential budget counseling, money management education, debt management programs and other services to help consumers. Contact CCCS at (800) 330-CCCS or visit www.cccsinc.org.

press store an integral part of the community. For more information, call Seth Schneider at (561) 4223112.

COMMUNIT Y CALENDAR

Saturday, March 7

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

• The Cuillo Centre for the Arts will continue its presentation of Jake Ehrenreich’s A Jew Grows in Brooklyn through April 5. Tickets cost $35.50 to $55. The Cuillo Centre is located at 201 Clematis Street in West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 835-9226 or go to www.cuillocentre.com.

• Pierce Hammock Elementary School, located at 14255 Hamlin Blvd. in The Acreage, will host its Third Annual Western Communities Fair Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8. Call (561) 651-0400 for more info.

• The Second Annual W.B. Ingalls Memorial Prostate Health & Cancer Seminar will be held Saturday, March 7 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuition is $20 per person; $30 per couple. Register by calling (561) 7766666 or visit www.myhir.org.

• The 2009 Challenge of the Americas and the Challenge Gala Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday, March 7 at International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington. A fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the format showcases the excitement of the high jump and the elegance of the musical freestyle. For more info., call Mary Ross at (561) 8522591.

• Odyssey Star Productions will present the Yesteryear Village & Riddle House Ghost Quest on Saturday, March 7 at 7 p.m. Attendees will investigate nearly ten acres of the haunted historic village. Join television celebrities from shows such as SciFi Channel’s Ghost Hunters and A&E Television’s Psychic Kids and Paranormal State Visit www.villageghosthunt .com for more info. Sunday, March 8

• Temple Beth Zion (129 Sparrow Drive, Royal Palm Beach) will host a Giant Garage Sale on Sunday, March 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The temple is located just north of Veterans Park in the heart of Royal Palm Beach. Hot dogs, sodas and chips will be available for purchase. For more info., call (561) 798-8888.

• The First Seventh-Day Adventist Church (6300 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach) will host its Avenues to Good Health and Wellness Weekend health fair on Sunday, March 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event will feature a blood donation drive, tips for healthy effective weight loss, chair massages, blood pressure checks and more. For more information, call Health Ministry Director Marcia Gray at (561) 789-7665 or e-mail firstsdawpb@yahoo.com.

• Wellington’s Congregation B’nai Avraham will host a Purim Carnival on Sunday, March 8 from 3 to 6 p.m. Children are encouraged to participate in the costume parade. Admission is $18 per family, which includes five tickets that can be used toward food and activities. Congregation B’nai Avraham is located at 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 6, in the original Wellington Mall. For more info., call (561) 793-4347 or email info@congregation bnaiavraham.com.

Monday, March 9

• The 2009 South Florida Green, Energy & Climate Conference/Expo will take place March 9-11 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center (650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). Organized by the Palms West Chamber of Commerce, the expo will showcase a wide range of green products and service offerings. For more info., call (561) 790-6200 or visit www.floridagreenconference. com.

Tuesday, March 10

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Anime Grab Bag” on Tuesday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 to 17.

Snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Library. Call (561) 790-6070 to preregister.

• Meetings for Cancer Survivors and Patients are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., center court in the original Wellington Mall. For more info., call (561) 798-4110 or e-mail palmbeachcancer foundationinc@yahoo.com.

• The Wellington Village Council will meet on Tuesday, March 10 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Community Center. For more info., call (561) 791-4000.

Wednesday, March 11

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Craft Club: Eggspectacular” on Wednesday, March 11 at 4:15 p.m. for ages nine and up. Be inspired by Faberge and other egg artists and decorate your own egg shapes with jewels and colors. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

• The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts (701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach) will host “Unforgettable: The Timeless Music of Nat King Cole” Wednesday and Thursday, March 11 and 12 at 8 p.m. The John Pizzarelli Quartet will appear with Bob Lappin and the Palm Beach Pops to remember Cole’s timeless music. Call (561) 832-7677 or visit www.palmbeachpops.org for more info.

Thursday, March 12

• Clematis by Night will present the band Entrain on Thursday, March 12 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Centennial Square in downtown West Palm Beach. For more info., call (561) 822-1515 or visit www.clematisbynight.net.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will host a meeting of its Teen Advisory Group on Thursday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. for ages 12 to 17. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info.

• The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive) will present “Pizza & Pages: Heir Apparent” on Thursday, March 12 at 7:30 p.m. for ages 12 to 17. Giannine is stuck inside a virtual reality role playing game and must win it to be set free. Copies of Vivian Vande Velde’s book are available at the children’s desk. Pizza will be provided by the Friends of the Library. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register.

Friday, March 13

• The Palm Beach Home Show will be held Friday through Sunday, March 1315 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center (650 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach). The show features more than 100,000 square feet of home design and remodeling products and services. Tickets cost $9 for adults and $4 for children ages four to 12. Call (800) 321-6164 for more info.

Saturday, March 14

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

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

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

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

WHS Baseball Team Shuts Out Visiting Cardinal Newman 7-0

Home-field advantage is a luxury to most sports teams. Unless they’re on the Kansas City Royals, Sacramento Kings or Phoenix Coyotes — teams notoriously famous for low home attendance — players usually generate momentum by playing in front of hometown spectators. In many cases, home-field advantage bolsters a team vying to break a long losing streak. Only five games into the season, the Wellington High School varsity baseball team has deterred any of these theories. Heading into Tuesday night’s contest against Cardinal Newman High School, which the Wolverines won 7-0, the team had lost its only two games in Wellington by a combined score of 16-6. In fact, the boys had recorded all three of their victories on the road.

“Good opponents [Park Vista and Palm Beach Central] have a way of magnifying your problem areas,” Head Coach Scott Riddle said, noting that one crucial loss in particular came against crosstown rival Palm Beach Central High School last Wednesday. But on Tuesday, WHS senior pitcher Dusty Wilson ended the Wolverines’ home skid with a brilliant performance on the mound. The southpaw threw ten strikeouts over a span of six innings, controlling the

Wolverine Watch

By Josh Hyber

Crusaders’ batters with a nice array of offspeed pitches. Sophomore leftfielder Andrew Istler, who didn’t pitch so well in the game against PBCHS, rebounded significantly. The leadoff hitter ended the night 2-4 with a double and a home run. “I was excited to contribute and get the team off to a quick start,” Istler said.

The Wolverines got off to an early start with Wilson’s solid pitching and sophomore catcher Alex Tannone playing well behind the plate. In each of the first three innings, Tannone made an individual play that forced an out.

The Crusaders’ pitcher, throwing in the high 80s to low 90s in the first inning, lost some control in the second. The speed was still there, but the balls didn’t quite hit the strike zone. Senior right fielder Nick Ferraresi and Tannone were each hit by pitches early in the

frame; each went on to score as well. With two outs and junior Paul Conti on first, Istler jumped on the first pitch he saw and blasted it over the centerfield fence, which brought the Wolverines’ lead to 4-0.

Wilson continued to bring the heat over the next few innings. Senior shortstop Bryan Adametz and junior third baseman Joe Barbera provided nice defense behind their pitcher, not allowing the shutout to be broken. Adametz also did well at the plate, finishing the night with two walks and a steal.

The Wolverines tacked on three more runs in the third. Junior centerfielder Sean Murrell led off the inning ending on first base after a passed ball skipped by the Cardinal Newman catcher. After Murrell stole second, Adametz drew a walk. Ferraresi drove them both in with a double.

“Both [Bryan] Adametz and [Nick] Ferraresi bring a complete game, so if they’re off at the plate or make an error, they’ll make up for it somewhere else,” Riddle said.

The final Wolverine run was scored by Adametz on an RBI double from Tannone. Junior pitcher Travis Halloway came on in relief to close the game in the seventh. Although he quickly allowed two runners, he

did not let them cross home plate. Three outs later, the Wolverines completed their shutout. Besides winning their first home game of the season, the team may have also found a true “ace” pitcher. Last year, Wilson was slated behind four pitchers now pitching on collegiate diamonds, but this year he has the chance to show his skills. “Dusty just needed to know that he can compete at this level, and he understands now that you don’t have to throw 90 to get high school hitters out,” Riddle said. “We’re going to need him to be successful for us to accomplish our goals this year.”

The late Willie Mays once said, “the home-field advantage in baseball, to me, I don’t understand. I had to play as well on the road as I did at home.” The WHS baseball team could not agree more. If they’re going to succeed, the boys not only have to play well on the road, but at home, where they will have to give the same effort they showed Tuesday for the entire season. The Wolverines played a home game Thursday against Seminole Ridge. Results were not available at presstime. WHS will continue its play with an unusual Saturday game at Centennial High School.

Heath Evans Foundation Benefit Softball Challenge A Success

More than a dozen NFL players traded in their helmets and shoulder pads for a bat and glove to play in the inaugural Softball Showdown to benefit the Heath Evans Foundation.

Evans, the starting fullback for the New England Patriots, hosted the charity game against the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team at Roger Dean Stadium, spring training home of the Florida Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals.

The NFL rallied in the bottom of the seventh for a 5-4 victory, with Arizona Cardinals’ defensive back Roderick Hood racing home on former University of Miami standout Jonathan Vilma’s game-winning RBI single. But the biggest winners were the children and families helped by the Heath Evans Foundation.

The event raised more than $120,000 to benefit the not-for-profit Heath Evans

Foundation, which is dedicated to fostering hope and healing in the lives of children and families affected by sexual abuse.

NFL players who joined Evans included Randy Moss, Vince Wilfork, Adalius Thomas, Jabar Gaffney and BenJarvus Green-Ellis of the Patriots; Anthony Fasano, Channing Crowder and Reggie Torbor of the Miami Dolphins; Abram Elam of the New York Jets; Jonathan Vilma of the New Orleans Saints; Roderick Hood of the Arizona Cardinals; and Santonio Thomas of the Cleveland Browns.

Florida Marlins pitcher Chris Volstad and second baseman Dan Uggla participated in the game and joined teammates Jeremy Hermida, Josh Johnson, Cameron Maybin and Ryan Tucker in front of the dugout being entertained by the teams. Volstad pitched during the home run derby and

relieved Evans during the game; Uggla was inserted as a pinch-hitter. For more information on the Heath Evans Foundation

and its programs, contact President Glenn Martin at (561) 282-6345 or by e-mail at glenn.martin@heath evans.org.

Wellington Swimmers Fly Past Competition At Martin

Gold Medal Winner — Wellington swimmer Emily Deem competes in the Individual Medley category, in which she won two gold medals.

The Wellington Swim Team attended the FGC ABC Invitational Meet in Martin County on Feb. 27 through March 1. Thirty-eight swimmers achieved personal bests. Wellington team members dominated the freestyle competition. Patrick Coston dropped over 34 seconds in his 1,650, swimming a winning time of 19:09.95. Mickey Kennedy improved 13 seconds in his 200 free, swimming a 2:35.27. Gianna Ramos also had a major improvement in her 500, recording a time of 6:31.95 and winning the silver medal. Summer Ryder dropped over 10 seconds in her 100 freestyle,

swimming a 1:17.71.

Two impressive sister teammates shined in the 1,000 freestyle. Grace Cozas dropped more than seven seconds while older sibling Monica Cozas improved her personal best time by 2:23, swimming a 14:06.68. They both won gold medals in their age groups. Tanner Fuller remains the dominant force for boys ten and under, swimming a best time of 5:39.20 in his 500 freestyle and a personal best 200 freestyle of 2:11.17 on the way to winning eight out of eight gold medals in 10-U and one bronze medal in the 12-U 100 IM.

County Meet

In the Individual Medley category, Emily Deem swam a winning time of 5:06.22 in the 400 IM on her way to seven medals, including two gold. She was followed by teammate Jessica Costan, who won a silver in the 400 IM with a best time of 5:12.76 and won both the 100 and 200 breaststroke events. Sydney Mutschler dropped five seconds in her 100 IM, swimming a 1:23.90. Courtney Knoblauch swam a her personal best time of 2:43.23, while winning the bronze medal in her 200 IM.

Lacy Phillips dropped over a second in her 50 fly. She swam a personal best time of

36.27 on her way to the silver medal. Another sibling tandem had an outstanding meet, dominating several events. Fabiana Ingram won nine medals in total, including three gold and six silver medals on her way to nine best times. Her younger brother Jared Ingram won eight medals including one gold, three silver and five bronze. The team accumulated more than 70 medals — 20 medals over the next leading competitor. Wellington will be represented in the Division 2 Championships by 31 swimmers in Jupiter March 13-15.

CATS Gymnastic Girls Excel At Mardi Gras Competition In Stuart

The girls gymnastic team from Cats Gymnastics of Wellington competed in the 2009 Winter Mardi Gras competition at YMCA of Stuart on Feb. 8. Level 2 had an excellent day, with Sidney Glaubrecht winning medals for second place on bars with a 9.4, fifth on floor with a 9.250 and fourth place all around. Faith Campagnuolo took second place on vault with an amazing 9.750, second on floor with a 9.5 and took fifth place all around. Jordyn Maybrown received an incredible 9.8 and a first place medal on vault and medaling on floor with a 9.0. Carlene Powers brought home a sixth place on bars and an all-around medal. Chelsea Keough won medals for fifth on vault with an awesome 9.3 and sixth on floor with a 9.105. Stephanie Katz scored an amazing 9.050 on vault and brought home an

all-around medal. Together, the level 2 girls won a fourth place team trophy. Level 3 had a great day as well with Renae Rovnyak bringing home medals for first place on vault with a 9.250, second on bars with a 9.350, fourth on floor with a 9.250 and a 9.0 on beam, earning her a third place all around. Sofia Ringvald also had a great day with a 9.5 on beam for second place, third on floor with a 9.3, fourth on vault and a 9.1 on bars, giving her fourth place all around. Isabella Padilla had an incredible 9.450 on floor earning her first place, a 9.150 and fourth place on bars, a 9.0 on beam and fifth place all around. Mia Frozini won medals for fifth place on vault and all around. Alexia Moraes won third on floor with a 9.0, fourth on bars, fifth on beam and fourth all around. Amber Birt won

fourth place on vault, fifth on bars, sixth on floor and fifth place all around. Allison Rosenbaum had her debut competition and did very well, earning sixth on floor and an all-around medal. Belen Bengolea finished off the day winning first on bars with a 9.450, a 9.1 on vault, a 9.050 on floor and taking fifth all-around. Together as a team, these girls brought home the second-place team trophy.

Level 4 meet results were also amazing. Taylor Michie won a first place medal with a 9.6 on vault, a second place medal with 9.250 on beam, third on floor with a 9.0, fourth on bars and an amazing second place allaround. Michele Arbocco had an impressive day, winning five medals with first on floor with a 9.2, second on vault with a 9.6, third on bars with a 9.050, sixth on

Wellington Swimmer Of The Month

Wellington Elementary School’s 11-year-old Cody Cline has been swimming for only six months. In this short time, Cline has already accumulated three Junior Olympic cuts while competing in the age ten bracket. Cline’s success came in the 50, 100 and 200 freestyle events. He plans to dominate the 11-12 bracket.

“He is a competitor,” Head Coach Rich Whalen said, adding that Cline is dedicated and hardworking, always

pushing himself to swim better.

“I want to be the fastest swimmer in my lane,” Cline said. Competition and the support he receives from his parents motivates Cline to swim to the best of his ability.

“I wanted to try a new sport,” Cline said. “The Olympics got me excited about swimming.” He dreams of making it to the Olympics one day. Outside of the pool, Cline has participated in Boy

beam and first place all around. Rayven Glaubrecht won medals for fourth on floor with a 9.050, fourth on bars, fourth on beam and fourth place all around. Caitlin Flaherty brought home medals for an incredible 9.4 on vault earning her second place and winning an allaround medal. Together, these girls won the fourthplace team trophy.

Level 7 optionals from Cats gym competing were Jamie Zeldman winning medals for an awesome 9.225 on vault and bring home an all-around medal. Vanessa Vergara brought home medals for a 9.0 on vault and all-around.

The girls from Cats Gymnastics are very dedicated and hard workers. They receive great training from coaches Ms. Margarita Martinez and Mr. Felipe Restrepo.

Wellington Roller Hockey Player Of The Week: Szander Brenner

The Wellington Roller Hockey League’s Player of the Week is five-year-old Szander Brenner, who plays forward for the Mighty Tykes Division’s Tampa Bay Lightning. His jersey number is 8, and he shoots right. Brenner’s favorite professional hockey team is the Tampa Bay Lightning. His favorite video game is Lego Star Wars: The Complete

Saga and his favorite food is ice cream. Brenner also loves to collect Pokémon cards. Brenner started playing roller hockey with the Wellington Roller Hockey Association when he was four. He is a pleasure to coach and he is a role model to his

teammates. Brenner is a great puck handler and skater. He is a true asset to his team.

Scouts, kids’ triathlons and baseball. He also plans to attend college, where he will study science.

Cody Cline Szander Brenner

CATS Gymnasts — (Front row, L-R) Taylor Michie, Jamie Zeldman and Rayven Glaubrecht; (second row) Michele Arbocco, Belen Bengolea, Amber Birt, Alexia Moraes and Caitlin Flaherty; (third row) Renae Rovnyak, Allison Rosenbaum, Mia Frozini, Isabella Padilla, Sophia Ringvald and Angelina Frankel; (fourth row) Chelsea Keough, Jordyn Maybrown, Stephanie Katz, Sidney Glaubrecht, Carlene Powers and Faith Campagnuolo; (back) Coach Margarita Martinez.

Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw throws the ceremonial first pitch. PHOTOS BY LISA KEENEY/TOWN-CRIER

Heath Evans smacks a base hit.

Visiting Some Of The Shops At The Winter Equestrian Festival

It was a quiet Tuesday in early February when I wandered about to see how the shops at the Winter Equestrian Festival were doing. Shops at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center are housed either in temporary tents or in motor coaches during the show.

Hadfield’s Saddlery had a lovely setup offering high-end clothing and tack. Owner Cindy Hadfield has been coming to the festival for 20 years. Originally from Syracuse, N.Y., she’s now based in Wellington. She said her shop has been as busy as ever.

“I don’t see any appreciable economic impact,” Hadfield said of the current economy. “We have very loyal customers, some of them are third generation buying from us. Our goal has always been to provide the best quality product to the best people in the industry.”

Hadfield’s specializes in the Cynthia Marco line of clothing, featuring imported European cottons, most made to order or custom fitted. They’re also the East Coast representative for Tucci boots and half-chaps, which are very streamlined and form-fitting. Hadfield’s is known for its own line of Englishmade bridles and martingales. The shop also offers everyday necessities such as belts, gloves, helmets, halters, stirrups and books.

“So far, this year is going great,” Hadfield said. “Our customers appreciate us, no matter what.”

Right next door was Zest, a store offering an eclectic range of high-end clothing of all sorts. There were truly beautiful, elegant, and unusual gloves, bags, shoes, belts, sweaters,

Dwyer Award Finalists

continued from page 1 the school to improve myself.” Rosenberg said he applies many business concepts in his classes. “My students are my customers,” he said. “My job is to provide adequate service to them. I do that by trying to keep it fun and working them hard. That’s the same way I did it with my salespeople when I was in business. I expect a lot out of them. I am hoping for high expectations, and many of them, if not all of them, do live up to them by going beyond what they would normally do.”

Earle Wright, who teaches television production and television journalism at SRHS, previously had a career in broadcast journalism that included work as a news producer for local stations WFLX and WPEC. Since 2001, he has taught at Palm Beach Gardens High School and Dwyer High School and opened the SRHS television studio four years ago.

Wright said he maintains a good rapport with his students, in part because television is an interesting subject. “I have very few discipline problems because the kids

Tales From The Trails

By Ellen Rosenberg

jackets and wonderfully unique cowboy boots.

Owned by Michele Masso, Zest is also based in Wellington and follows the show circuit. I asked about the signs proclaiming a sale of 40 to 50 percent off everything. Jo Mesker was behind the counter. “We’re just making room for new inventory,” she said. “Sales have been steady. And the sale makes it easy for everyone to shop this year.”

Mesker admitted that the shop hasn’t been as busy as in years past, but that sales have still been strong. “Things are good,” she declared. “We have a faithful clientele who likes the styles we offer. Without our good clients, I think this would be a rough year. Thank God this is an elitist sport.”

The next store over was Farm Vet, owned by Trisha Heard and based in Franklin, Tenn. This is Farm Vet’s seventh year at the festival. The shop opens in late November and leaves after the last day of the U.S. Open polo tournament. It offers anything one might need for horse care, such as vitamins, supplements, prescription medications, wormers, shampoo,

want to be in here,” he said. “They don’t want me to take away their toys. They like the creative outlet.”

Wright said he was only giving teaching a try when he started, but that his new career path has so far kept him engaged. He has more than 200 students spread among his six classes, and Wright said that one of his work’s satisfactions is seeing their progress through high school.

“The first year, they don’t know anything,” he said. “They are what they are. They are not professional level. The work they do is cute, but it’s not always very good. Then you see the same kid two or three years later, and they can do pretty great work. I’ve got a batch of seniors, and they are winning contests now.”

RPBHS academy coordinator Karen Kissel, who heads up the school’s medical science, international business, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning academies, previously had a career as a nurse and established the pre-medical magnet at Palm Beach Gardens High School. “In 1996, I took an educational sabbatical and went back and got my master’s,” she said. “I went back to Gardens, and then I was offered this position.”

Having lived in the village since 1983, Kissel said she

feels blessed to have been given the opportunity to start the pre-medical program at RPBHS. “I kept saying, ‘when are we going to get a medical academy here?’ It was my good fortune to be offered the job here,” she said.

The program, now two years old, also offers nursing, Kissel said. She noted that nurses will be in demand no matter what the state of the economy. “You can always get a job in nursing no matter what,” Kissel said. “There are always jobs in nursing.”

This is the fourth time that Kissel has made the finalist list for a Dwyer Award, but it’s her first time since coming to RPBHS. “The neatest thing is that the people I am working with every day are trying to make something happen,” she said. “These are the people you work shoulder-to-shoulder with. It’s nice that the public recognizes what’s going on as well. It’s neat to be chosen.”

Donna Lynn Zimmer, the Elbridge Gale finalist in the Elementary Education category, has been teaching for 12 years. She runs a classroom that is includes students with special needs, but a visitor would find it hard to pick them out, she said.

“There are children here with emotional needs and with special needs and excep-

Election Vote On

March 10

continued from page 1 low council members over the past year. Webster has for the past nine years been a faculty member of the University of Florida Extension in Palm Beach County working as the 4-H youth program leader. She is an active member of both the Palms West Chamber of Commerce and the Royal Palm Beach Rotary Club.

“Those are opportunities to help represent the village to businesses and Rotary to the community,” Webster said.

“They serve many local causes. I think in the coming year, with the economy in the shape it’s in, it’s important for us to show our support and continue to be fiscally responsible… [I] will continue

to do that, and work closely with businesses and homeowners as we go through some of these hard times.”

Webster said she was happy to see that the Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organization reopened opportunities for municipalities, including Royal Palm Beach, to submit proposals for funding through the federal economic stimulus package after initial confusion over the submission process.

“We’re back on track with the Metropolitan Planning Organization,” Webster said. “They reopened that process. We challenged their deadline, so I think we’re back on track, and we’re in a competitive position with all the rest of the municipalities.”

Saenz said his campaign experience has been enlightening, and that he has been learning how to get his message out, including knocking on doors, meeting privately

hoof care products, bandages, leg wraps, fly spray, brushes, brooms and buckets. As I arrived, a happy customer was loading a few salt bricks into her golf cart.

“Business is following the economy,” Heard said. “We’re doing well, though we’re slightly down from last year. The thing is, people need what we sell. These are necessities, not luxuries. I do love being here. These are the nicest customers.”

Der-Dau Custom Boots & Shoes had an elegant tent displaying its wares, and even had a crystal chandelier hanging from the overhead canvas. Along the sides and back were rows and rows of English riding and cowboy boots, golf shoes, men’s and ladies’ casual shoes: some traditional, some incredibly imaginative.

Whitney Frame explained that the Brooklyn-based Der-Dau has been in business for 50 years and has been coming to the Winter Equestrian Festival for 12 years. All of the company’s boots are handmade, and most of them custom. Most of the boots and shoes lining the tent were samples, showing off a variety of styles, colors and leathers — “everything under the sun,” including ostrich, crocodile, Italian leather, even stingray.

“The possibilities are endless,” Frame laughed. “You can have any kind of leather, any style, any color. And if you don’t see what you want, we’ll help you design it.”

Frame said pink boots and shoes are very popular this year, along with a baker plaid boot (“very cute”) and a contoured English

tionalities,” Zimmer said. “We have all the children included in here together. They are in here. You would never be able to know which one they were.”

Zimmer said she feels a special bond with specialneeds kids because her younger brother has Down syndrome. She said her mother inspired all her kids to believe there is nothing they couldn’t do, and that upbringing is reflected in the way her brother lives his life at age 36.

“He cooks, he cleans, he does his laundry,” she said. “He cooks his dinner. He goes on the computer, and he writes letters to me. There is nothing he could not do, and my mother engrained that in all of us. I think that because of that, I’m able to find goodness in everyone, and capabilities in every child. Now that I teach, I think there is nothing a child cannot do… You have to find that little hidden talent, and then once you find it, you build on it.” Zimmer said students in her class learn compassion for each other.

“There is not a child in here who does not have a special talent,” she said. “They don’t have to have special needs. Seeing them grow and seeing them learn is wonderful. There is no profession like it. There is none more rewarding, especially kindergarten. They are developing their

& Shoes.

riding boot that doesn’t need any breaking-in period.

“We’re overwhelmed with orders,” Frame said. “We’ve been doing very well, actually. Even if the economy’s down, people still have to wear shoes.”

Nearby, Windsor Manor had a small booth selling equine-themed jewelry including rings, earrings, necklaces, pins, bracelets, pendants and even fancy imported dog collars, each in some way related to horses or riding. Owner Dick Meyer was proud of his jewelry, most of which is designed and made by his wife, Nancy. They live in Wellington and have been coming to the festival for 17 years. He said business was a little slow, but didn’t seem particularly concerned. The sign hanging near the dog collars said it all: “Inner Peace Through Impulse Buying.”

social skills and academics. You are giving them a foundation of where they can go.”

Jennifer Jones is Elbridge Gale’s finalist in special programs. Her job is twofold: she works with teachers and students part of the day, and then works with small groups of students or one on one reading instruction.

“I do extensive reading for some of our lower readers, such as the kids who are below reading level and the kids who are having a hard time learning to read,” Jones said. “For example, there is one student whom I have been working with since September, every day for a half an hour. I’m really hoping he will catch up.” Jones started her teaching career in the second and third grades at Indian Pines Elementary School in Lake Worth. After six years, she

Fraud More Arrests To Come

continued from page 1

ster. “It’s a huge door-opener, and it can only get bigger,” he said. “With the corruption in this field, I’m not short on cases right now.”

The HUD voucher program currently applies to between 150 and 200 units in

joined the faculty of Elbridge Gale when it was housed in a temporary campus at Wellington Landings Middle School.

“When the school opened at Landings, I came for the first year,” Jones said. “It was like a real community. It was really cute, and then when the new buildings opened, we all moved in here.” Jones said her efforts at reading instruction have been boosted greatly by the annual reading grants from the Village of Wellington.

“Our very first year, they gave us $25,000 to start with,” Jones said. “That was so needed.”

The Dwyer finalists were scheduled for interviews with the judges are this weekend. The winners will be announced at the awards dinner in West Palm Beach on April 28.

Wellington, Leatherman said. He said his own approach to opening investigations involves checking the log reports filed by patrol deputies to find if they were called to any of the addresses on his own list of Section 8 houses in the village.

in homes with people and putting up signs.

His said his own community of Madison Green does not allow solicitors, so he refrained from knocking on doors randomly. “I didn’t see that as a way of getting voters out,” he said. “It was nice to meet some people who did want me to come to their homes to talk with them and their neighbors about the community — specifically their community, not just Royal Palm Beach.”

Saenz, a five-year resident of the development, said he was pleased that the Madison Green Master Board invited him to a meeting. Through the campaign process, he said he has learned there are more people involved in politics than he previously thought.

“The more the process went along, the more people came out of the woodwork who had been involved, such as residents who had spoken

to the council about an issue or were involved with fundraising,” Saenz said. “That surprised me a little. I didn’t realize how many people are actually involved with that part of the process.”

Saenz, who is a senior supply chain manager at Office Depot, said he realizes it is an uphill battle running against an incumbent, but intends to become more active in community affairs even if he does not win.

“I was interested before, and at least a year before I ran, I applied for an open position on the Education Advisory Board,” he said. “I didn’t put too much effort in it at the time because my wife was pregnant with our second child. There are other avenues. I can get involved in things not directly involved with the city. As my kids grow up, I imagine one or both of them will be involved with the Boy Scouts. My wife

and I will both be involved in the PTA.” Saenz said he also plans to be more active with the Madison Green Master Association, which is looking for ways to become more involved in the village. It is also looking into traffic issues on Crestwood Blvd., especially with lost motorists who wind up in Madison Green by mistake.

While Saenz said Royal Palm Beach is a well-run municipality, he would like to see council term limit to offer new faces the chance to get involved. “They all seem like nice people, and they have done a good job, but there is hardly any competition unless someone is leaving,” Saenz said of the current council members, whose tenure averages out to more than ten years each.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10.

“If that is within my address system, I then start an investigation to see what is going on and who’s living in the house,” Leatherman said. “It’s so blatant — if they don’t commit crimes, then we would never know about it. It they didn’t commit a crime, then it wouldn’t be a crime where they’re living anyway.”

Blotter continued from page 6 Royal Palm Beach asked if he could look under the hood of the vehicle. The driver told Giersher not to touch the engine due to safety concerns. According to the report, the driver continued loading passengers before he heard a loud thumping noise come from the back of the bus. The driver went to check on the situation and discovered that Giersher had broken the hydraulic shock that holds the door open. The driver asked Giersher why he did it, and Giersher replied that he was a mechanic and wanted to see the engine, according to the report. The driver contacted his supervisor, who decided to press charges. Giersher was placed under arrest.

Whitney Frame of Der-Dau Custom Boots

Two From Elbridge Gale — (Left) Donna Lynn Zimmer is a finalist in the Elementary Education category. (Right) Jennifer Jones was nominated in the Special Programs category.

PHOTOS BY CAROL PORTER/TOWN-CRIER

TV Guy — Earle Wright, who teaches television production and television journalism at Seminole Ridge High School, was nominated in the Career Education category.

Recent Chimp Incident Has Me Speculating On Simian Psyche

I have become completely obsessed by this story of the chimpanzee that attacked the woman in Connecticut.

Here you have a 200-pound chimp that had been “domesticated” by its owner/roommate to the point where it ate at the table, used the toilet and drank wine from a stemmed glass. Travis watered the houseplants, surfed the web and could use the TV remote to look for Old Navy or Coca-Cola commercials in which he is featured. Everything is progressing smoothly, and then one day, the owner/roommate’s friend comes over for a visit and Travis tears her face off. Literally eats her face, according to the 911 tapes. (The paramedics report that the nose was left more or less intact, but I think that’s splitting hairs at this point.) And it’s not like she was a stranger — Travis had known her for years.

Deborah Welky is The Sonic BOOMER

I wonder what Jane Goodall would say. Well, I know what she’d say. She’d tell us that a chimpanzee, although a primate like ourselves and not a monkey (which would have a tail), is still a wild animal and should not be brought into the house. Even when the situation is reversed — as when Jane herself went to live with the chimps in Gombe — she was still a human and eventually reverted to human ways. The same is true here. You

can take a chimpanzee out of the jungle, but you can’t take the jungle out of the chimp.

As an aside, I interviewed Goodall when she was visiting Lion Country Safari decades ago, and asked her if she preferred living with humans or chimps, having tried both. “I enjoy observing primates of all kinds,” she replied.

But what I want to know now is, what set Travis off? Chimps aren’t even flesh-eaters. They prefer fruits and vegetables. So what happened?

Did the woman come in wearing bananascented face cream? Was Travis having a bad day (his stocks were down; the cost of wine was up; he’d heard through the Tarzan vine that he’d lost his leadership position in the tribe)?

Or was it, as speculated, that the woman had radically changed her appearance with a

new hairstyle? (Note to self: remember to get chimp-approved cuts from now on. Look for the Chiquita Seal of Approval.)

If it wasn’t the ugly hair that did it, I suspect that Travis had simply opted out of the rat race. He’d tried to leave once before and had, in fact, let himself out of the house on that fateful day.

“I’m bigger than this,” he’d told himself. “Let them stay imprisoned in these houses and eat this processed food and fight this ridiculous traffic. I’m outta here.”

On the other hand, I have heard a rumor that the friend was responsible for Travis missing the casting call for Donald Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice. Not having the chance to bake cupcakes with Andrew Dice Clay would tick anyone off. So you can see where the attack was completely understandable.

Despite Excellence, A-Rod’s Name Is Besmirched For All Time

I was saddened by the revelation that New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez had not only tested positive for using steroids in 2003 but had admitted to knowingly using them. At a time when Barry Bonds, another known steroid user, holds the record for most home runs, the thought that in a few years ARod would likely set a new record had been a pleasant one. Rodriguez is an awkward man. Compare him to his teammate Derek Jeter. Jeter has been with scores of women, more than a few of them well known. His statistics are not nearly in the same ballpark as Rodriguez. But he is comfortable in his own skin and is applauded by Yankee fans. A-Rod is not.

‘I’ On CULTURE

By Leonard Wechsler

tent in his home run hitting may even work against him. If the 156 home runs he hit in the years he admitted steroid use are tainted, what about the 125 he had the three seasons before? Or the 208 he has had since then, keeping in mind that he has been regularly tested for steroids like all other major league players since 2004?

But what truly ruins him is the use of steroids. Ruined as in the Victorian sense of being ruined socially, a permanent ruination that could not in any way be undone.

Rodriguez is in a similar position with the steroids. Although he admits only to using them between 2001 and 2003, his own words condemn him. Nothing can overcome that. The fact that he has been remarkably consis-

For years, I simply believed there were a lot of jealous people behind the lack of enthusiasm for Rodriguez. After all, by my calculation he earns something above $150,000 for every game he plays. Until recently his personal life did not seem particularly wild and crazy. Of course, that changed.

The most obvious answer is that is does not matter. He is a great home run hitter, with or without steroids. But he is ruined. Had he fooled around enough to ruin his marriage, that might have been forgiven later (although not by a lot of feminists) if he found a more stable home life. Of course, Madonna is helping to make certain that does not happen. No matter what happens in the future, Rodriguez is a marked man. There are arguments that can be made in his defense. We really have very little evidence that steroids do much for baseball hitters. Hand-eye coordination is

more important than size. A-Rod is five inches taller and about 25 pounds heavier than Willie Mays. But it does not matter. He is ruined. He may hit well over 800 home runs, far surpassing Bonds’ record of 762. If he hits 35 home runs this coming year (and he has not hit fewer than that since 1997) he will rank seventh on the all-time list, with more home runs than any other infielder ever hit. He will, barring injury, pass Mays a few

than any other and his record will probably will go unchallenged. He will be incredibly rich. And it will not matter when it comes to his legacy. Because, you see, he is ruined.

The Latest Twist In My Love-Hate Affair With The Postal Service

Wondering & Wandering

By Ernie Zimmerman

I have been hearing that banks are not in a big rush to get people to apply for new credit cards because of the economic situation. I wish someone would tell that to the banks that are still mailing me applications on a daily basis. Every day for the last couple of weeks I have received at least one new credit card offer in my mailbox. Of course, I am not in need of a new credit card, but I return the favor by returning their pre-addressed, postage-paid envelopes — empty, of course. Another letter I recently found in my mailbox was from a major credit card company offering to pay me to close my account. The funny thing is that I don’t have an account with this company. I wish I did though, because they were offering me a lot of money to close it. I was hoping my return of the pre-paid envelopes would help stop the U.S. Postal Service from raising the price of first-class postage. But I am sad to report that my little effort was not enough. Last week, the USPS announced that in May it would raise the price of mailing a letter by two cents. This means the cost of sending a letter will soon be 44 cents. After all, someone has to pay for the large compensation package Postmaster General John Potter reportedly receives. News reports say Potter took in close to a million dollars in benefits and cash last year. I hope the reports are wrong, but hear-

ings on the compensation are needed and are supposedly coming. Another thing the postal service is considering is skipping one day of delivery per week. So in other words, we would pay more for less service.

I bought a couple hundred dollars’ worth of “forever” stamps this week. That will keep the price of a first-class letter in my household at 42 cents for at least a couple of years. Because the banks are paying such low interest rates, my money earns more by investment in the stamps. Don’t forget that in these hard economic times, “if you watch your pennies, the dollars will watch themselves.”

Another sign of the economic times we are in was the passing of President Obama’s $787 billion economic stimulus plan. After only four weeks in office, the president was handed a major victory by the elected officials in Washington. Let’s hope the plan works. I will be getting a few shekels in my pocket because

of the passage of the stimulus plan. Along with all the credit card applications in my mailbox, I am still getting other types of so-called junk mail. And you know I love my junk mail. Every day there is something in my mailbox that translates into dollars for me. I very rarely go out to eat these days without a coupon in hand. Thanks to my mailbox and the Town-Crier, I have a very large number of coupons on hand. My letter carrier retired last week. She has been my carrier for many years. I think she retired partly because of the heavy amount of mail I receive every day. I will miss her. So as you can see, even though we are in bad economic times, I am finding ways to make money, and guess what: you can do the same. It’s called “American ingenuity.” Don’t ever forget, the last four letters in “American” spell I can

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Put Your Photos To Use With Help From Steve’s Digital

Do you have a digital camera? Nowadays, the answer is “more than likely.” Do you know how to fully use your camera to get the best pictures? Not likely. You would probably like to organize your photos on your computer and display them in a digital picture frame, but you need some help, right?

Steve Moss of Steve’s Digital has found that many people need help with their cameras, organizing their pictures on their computer, sharing pictures with family and friends, and setting up a digital picture frame.

“I’ve found that people have taken a bunch of digital pictures, and then say ‘what now?’ They have memory cards in drawers and photos all over their computer, and they’re not sure how best to organize them and show them to their family and friends,” Moss said.

One of the neatest devices to come out in the past five years is the digital picture frame. It is the perfect complement to a digital camera. “Why take all these great digital pictures only to have them sit in your computer?” Moss asked. “The digital frame allows you to beautifully display your photos, and it shuffles through hundreds or thousands of pictures during a day. It’s also a real conversation piece in your kitchen or family room. You should see clients’ faces light up after I get it up and running in their house.”

Still, most people don’t have one yet, even though they’ve become very affordable. Some people have one, but can’t figure out how to get their pictures from their computer to the frame.

“It’s a nice 21st century touch that I enjoy helping people with,” Moss said. “You can even get a frame, load it up with pictures, and then give it to someone as a gift.”

Steve and his wife have been Wellington residents for 12 years. He has won regional and national awards for his photography and enjoys helping others get the most out of their cameras and pictures. He is still an avid photographer himself and is available to take care of your photography needs.

For more information, give Steve a call at (561) 317-8900 to set up an appointment. He will work with you in the comfort of your home and is available nights and weekends. He can show you how to do things yourself, or he can just get it done for you.

Another great option is to give a gift certificate.

“Some people have asked me to work with a family member or friend to give them a few tips or help them with the technology,” Moss said. “In that case, a gift certificate works great because everything is taken care of. Just give me a call!”

The Latest Technology — Steve Moss of Steve’s Digital shows how to get the best use out of a digital picture frame.

The Phantoms Recommend March Shows At The Kravis Center

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is the place to be in March, as evidenced by the star-studded performances listed below:

• Sunday, March 8 at 2 p.m.: Estonian National Symphony Orchestra — Founded in 1926, this orchestra has had several notable leaders, including Estonian Neeme Järvi, who was principal conductor for over 15 years. Under his direction, the orchestra’s repertoire expanded markedly, as did its activities, beginning concert tours as a regular part of their season, and this continues with the current tour. Tickets start at $25. Beyond the stage: Join us for a free pre-concert discussion by Dr. David Prensky at 12:45 p.m.

• Sunday, March 8 at 8 p.m.: Marvin Hamlisch — Best known as a composer, Hamlisch has written major works for film, stage, recordings and the concert hall. As a conductor, he has led the great orchestras of the world, and as a pianist and entertainer, he has performed both with ensembles and in solo capacity. A three-time Oscar winner, Hamlisch’s works include the musical scores for The Way We Were, The Sting, They’re Playing Our Song and A Chorus Line, for which he received the Pulitzer Prize. Tickets cost $15 to $100.

• Monday, March 9 at 8 p.m.: José Carreras — Carreras’ voice has been described by Ovations magazine as “a honeyed lyric tenor, richly colored, clear and true and possessing a sensual beauty that is quite extraordinary.” Perhaps best known as a member of the Three Tenors, his broad repertoire ranges from baroque to contemporary music and includes over 60 operas and 150 recordings, several of which attained gold and platinum status. Tickets cost $25 to $125. The Youth Orchestra of Palm Beach County will perform a free concert in the Dreyfoos Hall lobby before the show at 7:15 p.m.

• Tuesday, March 10 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.: The Benny Goodman Songbook — An upbeat, toe-tapping show featuring jazz singer Terry Blaine’s exuberant vocals, the elegant stride mastery of pianist Mark Shane, and the exciting, hot swing playing of acclaimed clarinetist Allan Vaché. Showcasing the talents of this outstanding ensemble, the Benny Goodman Songbook celebrates the magic of classic jazz and especially how Benny Goodman’s clarinet and vocalists helped shape and define the 1930s swing era. Tickets cost $25.

• Tuesday, March 10 at 8 p.m.: Dallas Symphony Orchestra — Although Pinchas Zukerman is a longtime Regional Arts favorite, having first appeared on the series in 1976, this will mark a debut appearance for the Dallas Symphony and for cellist Amanda

Forsyth (who is also Mrs. Pinchas Zukerman). Tickets start at $25.

• Thursday, March 12 at 7:30 p.m.: Gyan Riley — Hailed by Guitar magazine as a genius for both his performing and compositional abilities, Riley received a recording contract for his debut of original works, Food for the Bearded, while still a full scholarship student at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 1999. His Kravis Center program features a mix of traditional and new repertoire for solo guitar. Tickets cost $38.

• Friday, March 13 at 8 p.m.: Kodo One Earth Tour — The Kodo drummers of Japan have enthralled audiences not only through the magnetism of their rhythms, but with the sheer poetic beauty of their overall sound. Among their truly staggering array of traditional percussion instruments, the centerpiece drum and star of the ensemble is the 800-pound o-daiko carved from the trunk of a single tree and played by two men using sticks as big as baseball bats. Tickets cost $15 to $55.

• Saturday, March 14 at 6 p.m.: Reach for the Stars Benefit — The Young Friends of the Kravis Center invite the public to attend the 16th Annual Reach for the Stars Benefit featuring an evening of gourmet food and fine wine tasting and “Dancing for the Stars.” Come see some of your favorite local TV and radio personalities square off in a ballroom dance competition against West Palm Beach Mayor Lois Frankel for the coveted “Dancing for the Stars” trophy. Reach for the Stars benefits the Kravis Center’s Students & Teachers Arts Resource series and other arts education programs. The evening will include great food from many of the area’s finest restaurants. Tickets cost $75 for members, $100 for non-members and $175 for premier seating.

• Sunday, March 15 at 2 and 8 p.m.: The Boston Pops — Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops salute music from the glitz and glamour of the Academy Award’s Oscar and the American Theatre Wing’s Tony. This “salute to Oscar and Tony” is the ultimate setting to hear the most memorable award-winning themes from the golden age of cinema to the latest Hollywood blockbuster, and from the classics of the Great White Way to the most recent Broadway hit musical. Marin Mazzie and Jason Danieley will join the Boston Pops in an unforgettable evening of musical marvel. Tickets cost $20 to $150.

• Monday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m.: Vistula Quartet — Composed of students from the Academy of Music in Krakow, Poland, the Vistula Quartet offers a rare combination of virtuosity, musicianship and joy of collab-

oration. Their repertoire includes contemporary works of art, as well as chamber music of various epochs, including pieces for quintets and other larger ensembles. Tickets cost $30.

• Tuesday through Sunday, March 1722: Legally Blonde: The Musical — The hilarious MGM film is Broadway’s new smash hit musical, and now Legally Blonde: The Musical is coming to you. Legally Blonde follows sorority star Elle Woods, an underestimated blonde who doesn’t take no for an answer. When her boyfriend dumps her for someone more “serious,” Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books and sets out to go where no Delta Nu has gone before: Harvard Law. Along the way, Elle proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style. Tickets cost $25 to $88.

• Monday, March 23 at 2 p.m.: André Watts — Watts certainly needs no introduction to Regional Arts audiences, having appeared on the series 17 times, always to full houses. For his 18th appearance, he will perform works by Schubert and Liszt. Tickets start at $25.

• Monday, March 23 at 8 p.m.: Michael Feinstein’s Salute to the Stars of MGM and Hollywood — Starring Vic Damone, Arlene Dahl, Tony Martin, Jane Powell and Jane Russell, and hosted by Jane Powell and Robert Osborne, this is a joyous tribute to the golden age of Hollywood musicals featuring the classic stars who made the films great! The show will include performances by Feinstein and the cast, as well as remembrances and stories, and, of course, classic film clips. Tickets cost $25 to $125.

• Tuesday, March 24 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.: Peking Acrobats — Direct from the People’s Republic of China, this elite group of gymnasts, jugglers, cyclists and tumblers continues to transform 2,000-year-old traditions of strength and concentration into a modern-day spectacle of entertainment and wonder. Defying nature with miracles of balance, grace and agility, the troupers flawlessly present an unforgettable performance infused with colorful costumes, choreography and comedic playlets. Tickets cost $25.

• Tuesday, March 24 at 8 p.m.: Murray Perahia — One of the most celebrated pianists in the world, Perahia has been a household name since he won the Leeds Piano Competition in 1972. A phrase often used to describe his artistry is “the poet of the keyboard.” Tickets start at $25.

• Wednesday, March 25 at 7 p.m.: An Evening with Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin — Finally appearing together again after their Tony Award-winning performances in Evita, LuPone joins Patinkin on stage. Tickets cost $30 to $105.

• Sunday, March 29 at 8 p.m.: Guarneri String Quartet — After almost half a century of playing together, the Guarneri String Quartet is retiring at the end of this season. Founding members Arnold Steinhardt (first violin), John Dalley (second violin) and Michael Tree (viola) have been with the quartet the entire time. Tickets start at $25.

The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is located at 701 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach. To purchase tickets, call the Kravis Center’s box office at (561) 832SHOW or visit www.kravis.org.

The Peking Acrobats

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

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

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

PLACE YOUR AD HERE CALL 793-3576 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 793-3576 TODAY

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

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

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

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

AQUATIC SPRINKLER, LLC —

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

Bonded & Ins. Serving the Western Communities Since 1990

INSTALLING TILE IN SOUTH FLORIDA FOR 25 YEARS — Free estimates, residential/commercial, bathroom remodeling, floors, walls, backsplashes, custom design GOLDEN TILE INSTALLATION 561-662-9258

WE DO IT ALL! — Stump Grinding Dead Pine Removal. All Phases of Tree Services. Lic. and Ins. 561373-6117

MATH TUTOR — Algebra I, II and Geometry. Call Chris (561) 3463608

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

PAPERHANGING & PAINTING BY DEBI — Professional Installation & Removal of Paper. Interior Painting, decorative finishes, clean & reliable. Quality work with a woman’s touch. 26 years experience. No Job too big or too small. Lic. & Ins. References available. 561-795-5263 WATER CONDITIONERS FROM $499.00 —- Reverse osmosis units for the whole house. Mention this ad for equipment checkup

- 1-800-876-6788

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

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

1998 DODGE RAM PICKUP TRUCK — Green 124,000 + miles 8 cylinder. big tires, hitch. $3,795 firm. 315-1508

1997 GREY SEBRING JXI CONVERTIBLE — new a/c, clean & well maintained. Engine & transmission in excellent condition and new top. Feel free to take it to a mechanic & check it out. Mint condition. $3500 (561) 793-5569 (917) 494-3422

1990 RED MAZDA MIATA CONVERTIBLE — mint condition incl. hard top. New clutch, tune-up in excellent condition. Great on gas. (561) 793-5569 (917) 494-3422

— 10,000 miles, full power, $12,984 $24, 984 1-800-876-6788

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