Town-Crier Newspaper March 7, 2014 by Wellington The Magazine LLC

ELECTION 2014: PROFILES OF ALL FOUR WELLINGTON VILLAGE COUNCIL CANDIDATES SEE PAGES 8 & 9 THE

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NRI Institute Brings Lantana’s Ultrasound Medical Institute To Royal Palm Beach

Volume 35, Number 10 March 7 - March 13, 2014

Serving Palms West Since 1980

A FUN TIME AT WEST FEST IN RPB

The NRI Institute of Health Sciences is adding a new component to its nursing school in the Royal Plaza shopping center in Royal Palm Beach. According to NRI Secretary/Treasurer Dan Splain, an ultrasound program will soon join the facility. Page 3

Reception At WRMC Spotlights Young Artists

Donated art supplies and the inspiration of their own community was all it took for Wellington-area high school students to create a gallery of pieces expected to further enhance their school art programs. The result is a creative body of work that will be auctioned as a fundraiser for each of the school’s art programs. Page 5

Sanda Gané European Day Spa Gives Back To Grandma’s Place In RPB

The Sanda Gané European Day Spa in Wellington offered a range of special facials Monday, March 3 to benefit Grandma’s Place, an emergency shelter for children in Royal Palm Beach. Grandma’s Place provides a temporary home to children who have been removed from their homes by the court system because they have suffered abuse or neglect. Page 16

OPINION

Town-Crier Issues Endorsement List

On Tuesday, March 11, voters in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach will head to the polls for municipal elections. There are two council seats up for election in Wellington and the mayor’s seat up in Royal Palm Beach. Over the last two weeks, we profiled all candidates running in this election cycle. After careful consideration, the Town-Crier’s Editorial Board has issued endorsements in the races. Page 4

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FDOT Reviews Latest Plans For Southern Blvd. Project

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Florida Department of Transportation consultants reviewed the latest plans for Southern Blvd. improvements from Crestwood Blvd. to Palm Beach Aggregates with members of the Loxahatchee Groves Landowners’ Association on Thursday, Feb. 27. Patrick C. Leung with Stantec Consulting said the county had recently requested that FDOT add another mile of improvements on the west end of the project. “We just found out about it,” Leung said. “At this point it’s at its initial stage, but we know that we need to do more design work to accommodate one mile west of Lion Country Safari.” A member of the audience said the extension was most likely to accommodate the Highland Dunes project planned near Palm Beach Aggregates. Leung agreed. “There is a big development coming in,” he said. “We are trying to find more information about it.” The entire project will extend

through Loxahatchee Groves, Wellington and Royal Palm Beach. The project has been making its way through the approval process for about five years and is now entering the design phase, which should be finished by the summer of 2016. Construction will probably start between 2016 and 2018, or whenever financing becomes available. Leung said no right-of-way acquisition will be required for the widening but that off-site acquisition will be required for stormwater retention ponds. Two more lanes are planned for Southern Blvd. from Lion Country Safari Road to Palms West Parkway. That stretch is currently a four-lane divided highway. Lanes will be added on the median so as not to disturb swales on the outside of the road and to maximize water retention, Leung said. FDOT will also build a 12foot multi-use path along the north side, which he said is now typical roadway construction for the state. “Basically, this multi-use path is

going to be from end to end on the project,” he said. From B Road to Palms West Parkway, FDOT will have to add a lane on the north side because the median is narrower there. Leung said minor improvements are planned for Palms West Parkway to Forest Hill Blvd./Crestwood Blvd., which is currently six lanes with curb and gutter and sidewalks. “We’re not going to do too much on this portion, just some milling and resurfacing,” he said. The right turn lane at Palms West Parkway westbound will be converted to a through lane, and a new right-turn lane will be provided. At the Seminole Pratt Whitney Road intersection, which has dual left-turn lanes eastbound to northbound, another left-turn lane will be added to offset the loss of one left-turn lane that will be converted to the additional eastbound lane. In the westbound direction, the existing U-turn lane is being offset from the opposing dual left-turn See FDOT, page 23

Staff To Residents: Wellington Lacks Jurisdiction Over ‘Sober Houses’

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Village of Wellington may have its hands tied when it comes to regulating “sober houses” in the community, Wellington officials told residents Tuesday. More than 100 residents flocked to the Wellington Community Center for a town hall meeting, where residents expressed frustration with sober houses — living facilities for those recovering from addiction — and asked what Wellington can do to police them. The answer, Village Attorney Laurie Cohen said, is not much — at least not without additional state or federal legislation. “The law says that persons who are in recovery have a disability,” she said. “They have the right to use and enjoy a property. We are not permitted, by federal law, to enact laws that intentionally discriminate against people in recovery or have the effect of discriminating against people in recovery.” Cohen said that Wellington is doing its best to regulate the sober houses while avoiding lawsuits for discrimination. “We’re doing everything we can to address this issue, while recognizing that individuals have the right to go through recovery,” she said. Because addiction is considered a disability, Cohen said Wellington must reasonably accommodate these facilities. Sober houses have become an issue in many communities across the state, Planning & Development Services Director Tim Stillings said. Boca Raton and Delray Beach have a particularly large number of them and tried to enforce regulations, but faced discrimination lawsuits. “They are currently not regulated by the state,” he said, noting that

they’re becoming a bigger issue in Wellington. “We understand these types of facilities in the neighborhood are sensitive issues. No one wants them in their neighborhood or on their street. We want to do everything we can to protect our neighborhoods, but we also have laws we have to follow.” There are key differences between a sober house, which is unregulated, and a congregate living facility, which can be regulated. Congregate living facilities must offer a personal service, such as addiction treatment or therapy — or in other cases, elder care. But sober homes typically just rent out rooms to people who are in recovery for some kind of addiction, Stillings said. Residents must be in treatment to live in the homes. “They function as a residence used by those who are in treatment,” he said. “It’s an environment that helps them avoid this temptation. Some of them are just providing a bed for the residents to sleep on. They don’t qualify as offering a personal service under the regulations, and they are falling through the cracks in that regard.” Cohen agreed. “Where we run into a gray area is when these facilities are not providing a service,” she said. “They may be providing them downtown or in another location, but they’re really just supplying a bed to sleep in and very minimal assistance.” Because many insurance companies will pay for recovering addicts to live in these facilities, some landlords have allowed their rental properties to become sober homes to earn extra money. Residents pressed staff as to why Wellington couldn’t regulate the homes like they do other businesses. Stillings said the site operators See SOBER, page 23

BLUEGRASS MUSIC

Lox Council OKs Low Density Commercial For Drysdale Land

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Loxahatchee Groves Town Council gave the owners of the 6.55-acre Drysdale property on Southern Blvd. a green light Tuesday for a commercial land use. The commercial use was previously outlined for the property in the town’s comprehensive plan. At the owners’ request, however, the council stripped a condition for 28,532 maximum square footage on the site, but left intact a maximum floor-area ratio of 0.1, which council members said works out mathematically to

approximately the same square footage for the property. The land is located at the northwest corner of Southern Blvd. and Loxahatchee Ave. The small-scale land use amendment changed the property’s designation from rural residential (one dwelling unit per 5 acres) to commercial low. Owner Nancy C. Drysdale’s son, Glen Drysdale, spoke on her behalf, asking for special consideration for the property. “There are a couple of things that we would like to talk to the town about,” he said. “We agreed to the conditions that are being

asked except for the floor-area ratio. We’d like to bring that back to you when we have an actual site plan, and we are very close to that.” Drysdale said they had met with a developer who is working with them on specific tenants. “When he shared with us what he wanted to bring to the town, and emphasized over and over how anxious they are to come here, and when we saw who he wanted to bring, we looked at each other and said, ‘What a perfect fit,’” he recalled. He could not share specifics See DRYSDALE, page 3

The South Florida Fairgrounds hosted Bluegrass & Bar-B-Que in Yesteryear Village on Friday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 2. The event featured several bluegrass music entertainers, vendors, old-fashioned games and activities, as well as barbecue food and more. Shown here, Ron Davis entertains the crowd. MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 15 PHOTO BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Wellington To Crown A New ‘Idol’ Winner March 8

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report The Village of Wellington will crown its third annual Wellington Idol on Saturday, March 8 at the Wellington Amphitheater, and 24 contestants are still in the running for the top prize. Now in its third year, Wellington Idol brings local talent to the Wellington Amphitheater stage in search of the one who will be named “Wellington Idol.” The winner takes home $500 and bragging rights as the top talent in the area. Contestants went through the live audition process last weekend, with 24 moving forward to the semifinal round, which takes place Friday, March 7. The performances begin at 7:30 p.m. both nights, and the event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating.

“The entire event is put on by Wellington staff,” recreation assistant Alexa Glasglow said. “The event is now in its third year.” The contestants are split into age divisions — children ages 8 to 12, teens ages 13 to 17, and adults 18 and older. “There’s a grand prize winner, who gets $500,” Glasglow said, “and runners-up in each division, who each win $250.” Winners are determined by a panel of judges. The judges are Lee Marlowe, Michael Lishitz, Jason Fisher and Jody Marlowe. Between 12 and 15 people will move on to Saturday’s final round, Glasglow said. “It could be 15 in the event of a tie,” she explained. The semifinalists can choose to repeat their audition performance, but she said many of them will have new numbers to wow the judges. Glasglow encouraged the community to come out and cheer on

A group of competitors from last weekend’s audition round wait for the judges’ decision.

PHOTO BY TERRI MONAHAN

the local talent. “There’s a lot of talent in Wellington that I think goes unrecognized,” she said. “This event is great because they all come together for some great performances.” The 24 semifinalists are: Olivia

Henley, Kayden Muller-Janssen, Demi Master, Jade Master, Jake Newiger, Paula Orozco, Talia Pamatat, Victoria Hockton, McKenna Tosner, Justine Fern, Lexi Graves, Jennifer Jones, Angela Marie, Corey McPherson, Emily

Schutz, Adrianna Siena, Princess Victome, Ashleigh Antolini, Bruce Donaldson, Jamie Dicaeteno, Chante Burrows, Sara Nelms, Jessica Pereira and Wallace Thomas. For more information, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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THE JESS SANTAMARIA FAMILY

Supports Matty Mattioli Mayor of Royal Palm Beach for two more years! Matty has been a loyal public servant for our Village for 20 years! • Matty has consistently joined Jess Santamaria and over 72% of voters in strongly supporting the Inspector General and demanding 100% honest government throughout Palm Beach County, while the Inspector Generals office is funded by the 1/4% vendor fee recommended by the grand jury and not by tax payers. We must unite against those who are responsible for making Palm Beach County “Corruption County”. • Over the past 20 years, Matty has proven that he truly cares about the residents of our community by keeping Royal Palm Beach’s taxes among the lowest in our County, while protecting our “quality of life” with great improvements like our “Veterans Park” and our beautiful “Commons Park” which will be our version of New York’s Central Park for the enjoyment of all children, families and retirees. • And finally, Matty has kept our Village safe by always supporting our very effective professional Firefighters and Paramedics and Sheriff Deputies who are doing a great job in protecting our homes and our lives.

We need Matty Mattioli to continue his strong public service for two more years!

VOTE Matty Mattioli for Mayor Tuesday, March 11th Political advertisement paid for and approved by Matty Mattioli for Mayor of Royal Palm Beach

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NEWS

NRI Institute Draws Lantana’s Ultrasound Medical Institute To RPB

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The NRI Institute of Health Sciences is adding a new component to its nursing school in the Royal Plaza shopping center in Royal Palm Beach. According to NRI Secretary/ Treasurer Dan Splain, an ultrasound program will soon join the facility. “NRI Institute, the nursing school that we opened in Royal Palm Beach last year, has been in talks with the Ultrasound Medical Institute, a 20-year-old accredited school in Lantana, to discuss how we might work together col-

laboratively to strengthen each other’s programs,” Splain told the Town-Crier. “As a first step, the Ultrasound Institute has made me the chief administrative officer of that company. One of the first things we are doing is to relocate the Ultrasound Medical Institute to Royal Palm Beach.” The school moved last weekend into Royal Plaza and began teaching classes with its existing student body on Monday in Royal Palm Beach. The village and Palm Beach County have both approved the move and issued the necessary business tax permits, Splain said. “Ultrasound, which this school

teaches, is the fifth-fastest-growing occupation in the country,” he said. Referring to the Bureau of Labor Statistics handbook, he said a 46-percent increase in ultrasound jobs is expected between now and 2022. The field has a median annual wage of about $65,000 a year. “We think it’s a very good educational program to bring to central Palm Beach County and Royal Palm Beach,” Splain said. “It kind of reaffirms our belief that this section of Palm Beach County is a very good place to be.” Once the school is established, he said, they will explore a number

of potential avenues, including a possible merger of the two schools later this year and development of new programs that might include a physical therapy assistant program. “Physical therapists and physical therapy assistants are in tremendously short supply in this country,” Splain said. Splain also pointed out that the existing nursing school is training people for another job field that is again in high demand, not just here, but across the nation. “Rural areas, including the Southwest, the Rocky Mountain West, and some of the exurban

areas of the upper Midwest and Southeast, are experiencing significant nursing shortages similar to what was seen in the mid-2000s,” he said. The new Ultrasound Medical Institute is in the same plaza but in a different location and address than NRI for now, Splain said. “We’re hoping later this year to merge them all,” he said. Ultrasound, or sonography, is a diagnostic tool used in different modalities, including obstetrics and gynecology, small organs and cardiology. Ultrasound Medical Institute has a 100 percent placement rate

of graduates, he said. “Most of the hospitals in Palm Beach County employ people who have graduated from this school over the last 20 years,” Splain said. The school is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education and participates in the federal student loan program. It also works with the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide educational benefits for veterans. For more information about the Ultrasound Medical Institute, visit www.sonogramcenter.com. For more information about the NRI Institute, visit www.thenriinstitute. com.

Council Assures Resident That Cypress Key Light Has Not Moved

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report The Royal Palm Beach Village Council last month assured a resident of the Cypress Head neighborhood that no final changes had yet been made to the site plan for the nearby Cypress Key mixed-use development — including the location of a planned traffic light. George Desimone of Waterview Way told council members Feb. 20 that he was concerned about possible changes in plans

Drysdale

Low Density Commercial Approved

continued from page 1 about the plans because they had signed a non-disclosure agreement. “We’re excited about the site plan, but we don’t want to get too bound up for now,” Drysdale said. “We want to bring that to you and address the floor-area ratio at that time.” He explained that his mother is self-employed as a real estate broker. “You probably know that real estate brokers do not have a retirement pension,” he said. “This property is mom’s retirement plan. Mom has lived in the town for 35 years, and 25 years ago she bought this land so that one day it could be her retirement, so I hope you would look upon her a little differently than if she were some developer out of Broward County

by new owners of the Cypress Key property. Desimone said that about a month ago, representatives from the Johnston Group had talked to residents about plans for a residential community to be built by K. Hovnanian on the back portion of the property. The commercial portion fronting Southern Blvd. was purchased by another company. “Signs have gone up that they are building the 147 homes in there, starting in the summer,”

Desimone said. “My big concern has always been about the traffic light and where it should be.” Desimone was not happy with the response from the new owners regarding the light. “At that meeting with the Johnston Group, they were pushing off where the light would be, like it wasn’t their responsibility,” he said. He recalled that the original Cypress Key owners had agreed to install a traffic light in the center of their development, away from the two roads used

by nearby residents for access to Southern Blvd. “It has been suggested that the light would be at the entrance to my community,” he said, referring to Cypress Head Avenue. “The thought for me as a homeowner there and a lot of my neighbors was that the light was approved by you guys to be at the entrance to the Cypress Key development.” Changing that would invite commercial pass-through traffic into his community, Desimone

told council members. Village Manager Ray Liggins said the development received site plan and plat approval to build the residential in the back and commercial in the front. “It is approved with the signal in the center of that development,” Liggins said. “There was a significant amount of money invested into the development of that property, and then it fell through. Since there was a significant amount of investment into that property, it is vested, so that

site plan is vested, it doesn’t expire. It just needs to be completed. To do anything different then what the approved site plan has, it would need to come through staff, and it would need to come through this council.” Liggins said the developer had had conversations with staff regarding the idea to move the light to Cypress Head Avenue. “I think they’ve heard a lot of opposition to doing that,” Liggins said. “So it is currently planned at the center of that property.”

coming up here to develop land.” Drysdale said they agreed to all the other conditions proposed by the Planning & Zoning Board, including: • A county traffic performance standards review, including a concurrency determination, to be completed at the time of site plan review. • Direct ingress and egress to a future commercial development from Tangerine Drive will be prohibited. • Rural Vista Guidelines, as directed by the council, will be incorporated within the development design. • PalmTran will be contacted during the site plan approval process to determine whether a bus shelter is needed. • A vegetative survey, including a native plant and habitat inventory, will be completed with site plan approval, including identification of preservation and/or mitigation. • Prior to submitting a site plan, the Roadways, Equestrian Trails &

Greenways Advisory Committee will be consulted regarding the incorporation of an equestrian trail within the development. Councilman Tom Goltzené asked whether the floor-area ratio is a reduced ratio or the maximum allowed for that parcel, and planning consultant Jim Fleischmann said it is the maximum allowed in the comp plan and zoning rules. “The issue I have now is if we don’t pick a number, or if we pick a number over 0.1, doesn’t that give everybody else in the corridor the opportunity to come and say, ‘Hey, you gave her more than you gave us?’” Goltzené asked. Fleischmann said the 0.1 floorarea ratio is very clear in the comp plan. “Point-one is the max,” he said. Town Attorney Michael Cirullo said the square footage of 28,532 could be removed from the conditions and the 0.1 floor-area ratio still would stand. “The only benefit of taking it out is the flexibility in case you allow

a greater ratio later,” Cirullo said. Goltzené pointed out that there are other small properties that could ask for the same thing if the council granted an exception to the Drysdales. Vice Mayor Ron Jarriel said he favored taking out the square footage, and Councilman Jim Rockett agreed, although he did not see how that would help. Drysdale said he would not be able to keep the developer interested with a 0.1 floor-area ratio on that small of a piece of property. “If you have 20 acres and you have 94,000 square feet, you can make any business plan work,” he said. Nancy Drysdale said she thought the developer’s plan would be something the town would want. “I don’t think there’s a member on this panel who will not be thrilled, and say demographically this fits for our town,” she said. Goltzené said he appreciated their request but that it’s similar to those made by other property owners.

“I’ve heard this pitch this very week from somebody wanting to put four houses to the acre, explaining to me that’s the only way it works,” he said. “Are we there yet? If we are as a town, OK. We’re open for business, let’s hang the sign. But otherwise, if we’re going to stick with what we did when we incorporated, we said we’re going to have low density, and we are in a way condemning ourselves to a lower economic condition. Certainly, CityPlace is a far greater use than a cow barn, but which is more Loxahatchee Groves?” Resident Ken Johnson pointed out that the Drysdale property is the Florida Department of Trans-

portation’s preference for one of several stormwater retention ponds as part of its plans to widen Southern Blvd., but Glen Drysdale said he and his mother are not willing sellers. FDOT is reluctant to employ eminent domain to obtain retention areas. “This property was ranked number one,” he said. “Number two and number three were ranked very close behind. She is not a willing seller, and the other two properties noted on the FDOT plan are willing sellers.” Goltzené made a motion to approve the land use amendment and the zoning ordinance without the specific square footage condition, which carried 5-0.

“Are we there yet? If we are as a town, OK. We’re open for business, let’s hang the sign,” Goltzené said. “But otherwise, if we’re going to stick with what we did when we incorporated, we said we’re going to have low density.”

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TOWN-CRIER ENDORSEMENTS

Return Anne Gerwig And Howard Coates To The Wellington Council; Re-Elect Royal Palm Beach Mayor Matty Mattioli

On Tuesday, March 11, voters in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach will head to the polls for municipal elections. There are two council seats up for election in Wellington and the mayor’s seat up in Royal Palm Beach. Over the last two weeks, we have profiled all candidates running in this election cycle. The profiles were based on the candidates’ individual visits with the Town-Crier’s editorial board. After careful consideration, we issue the following endorsements in the races.

Wellington Village Council, Seat 2 — Four-year incumbent Councilwoman Anne Gerwig is facing a challenge from senior advocate Sharon Lascola for this seat. Although a political newcomer, Ms. Lascola has proven that she cares deeply for Wellington’s community, especially its senior population. A senior herself, Ms. Lascola could be a voice for Wellington’s elder residents, pointing the council to issues that have been long overlooked in the village. She has been a vocal advocate of preserving Wellington’s green space, and her efforts align her more with sitting council members, who often disagree with her opponent. Ms. Lascola has proven she is smart, dedicated and willing to work. We believe there could be a council seat in Ms. Lascola’s future should she seek office again, but feel she should gain more experience in local government first — perhaps on the Senior Advisory Committee, where her ideas and passion for senior issues would be well served. No matter what she does, we would encourage her to stay involved. Ms. Gerwig has served Wellington for four years and often presents an alternative view on the council, especially over the past two years. Ms. Gerwig has been a leader on and off the dais, championing many programs, such as the Senior Transportation And Rides (STAR) program, the Tiger Shark Cove playground rebuild and cultural events at the Wellington Amphitheater. She brings a business perspective to the council and has been an advocate for the growth of Wellington’s equestrian industry. Ms. Gerwig is often the voice of fiscal conservatism, something that has helped Wellington keep its budget and tax rate low, but she has also pushed to provide services to residents when needed. Further, she represents a portion of the population that would not otherwise have a voice on the council were she not re-elected. She has contributed a great deal, grown in stature over the past four years, and we feel it will benefit Wellington to continue having Ms. Gerwig’s perspective on the dais, even if it’s often as the dissenting voice. Although both candidates exhibit passion and dedication for the village, Wellington is best served by having all voices represented, even if they don’t always win votes. The Town-Crier endorses the re-election of Anne Gerwig to Seat 2 on the Wellington Village Council. Wellington Village Council, Seat 3 — In this race, incumbent Vice Mayor Howard Coates is being challenged by education advocate Matt Kurit. Mr. Kurit displays clear passion for his community, from its schools to preserving its open space. A family man, he has been involved in youth sports, as well as sitting on Wellington’s Educational Advisory Board for four years. If elected, he would put his focus on education. However, education is the primary job of the Palm Beach County School District, not the Wellington Village Council, and Wellington, through a grant program, already does more for local schools than any other municipality in the county. Mr. Kurit stands behind preserving Wellington’s green space, while looking to make sure any development that does come before the council is in line with the village’s small-town atmosphere. His views align more with the current council majority, meaning Mr. Kurit will likely be able to easily find consensus on the dais. He has a lot to offer the community, and we hope he continues to stay involved in local politics if not elected. Mr. Coates has been a strong voice for residents since he was appointed to the council in 2009. As an attorney, Mr. Coates brings an alternative legal perspective to the council, offering legal opinions alongside the village attorney. During his service, Mr. Coates has proven himself to be independent-minded and willing to listen to residents, often changing his initial opinion on an issue

with clarification from residents. He has continually pushed for a lower tax rate and greater fiscal responsibility, and asked tough questions of staff and council members to bring information to light and keep residents informed. Mr. Coates has often been a voice of reason on the dais, and we feel he has more to offer. As Wellington continues to recover from tumultuous times, it will be beneficial to have an experienced council member who can help build bridges between opposing parties. The Town-Crier endorses the re-election of Howard Coates to Seat 3 on the Wellington Village Council. Mayor of Royal Palm Beach — In the only race on the Royal Palm Beach ballot this year, incumbent Mayor Matty Mattioli is being challenged by three candidates: former Councilwoman Martha Webster, community activist Felicia Matula and businesswoman Laurel Bennett. Ms. Bennett is a longtime resident and business owner who will bring her business acumen to the dais. She offers new opinions and solutions on several of the village’s issues and would be an advocate for cutting the village’s spending costs. Ms. Bennett has been an advocate for residents in the area, speaking out locally and regionally in support of the State Road 7 extension and on other issues. She has the gumption to go out and be a voice for the people and, if elected, we believe she will continue to do that. She does not, however, have a great deal of experience in Royal Palm Beach government. Ms. Matula has proven that she is extremely dedicated to the community, taking time between her last run for office to get involved with local government on both the village’s recreation and zoning boards. She is a far stronger candidate than she was two years ago. Her experience as chair of the Recreation Advisory Board has proven she can be a leader on the dais, while her position as chief financial officer at her company shows she will bring a business perspective to the council if elected. She has continued to stay involved, which deserves admiration. We are impressed by her dedication and willingness to learn. Ms. Webster served Royal Palm Beach residents for five years, both locally and regionally. If elected, she will bring a different perspective to the council, and also help the village branch out with her involvement in more regional organizations. This would be an advantage for Royal Palm Beach residents, especially with many regional issues coming to a head in the near future. Ms. Webster has proven she is a leader who can get things done, and she brings with her years of experience that will benefit residents on the dais. However, she has had issues in the past building consensus on the council for her point of view. Mr. Mattioli has spent the last two decades helping to steer Royal Palm Beach through good times and bad, and the village is where it is today because of his leadership. Mr. Mattioli helped set Royal Palm Beach up for economic success with the sale of its water utility to the county, which left the village with an important nest egg to weather the recent economic downturn. More recently, he helped to attract the Aldi distribution center to the area, which will bring in jobs and tax revenue. Mr. Mattioli has steered Royal Palm Beach through tough economic times without resorting to spending the village’s reserves or raising the tax rate. He leads a council that shares a common vision and sense of purpose. It is true that he is nearing the end of his political career, but we feel he still has a bit left to offer. Although each candidate would bring a unique perspective to the dais, it’s important to have a mayor who can bring the council together, and Mr. Mattioli has proven he can build consensus. He has asked for a final two years to see through his plans for the village, and we believe he will serve Royal Palm Beach well in that task. The Town-Crier endorses the re-election of Matty Mattioli as mayor of Royal Palm Beach. Whether or not you agree with our opinions shared in this space, more important is that you make your way to the polls on Tuesday, March 11. Local elections tend to be low-turnout affairs, but they shouldn’t be. Show up and make your vote count!

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Swift Endorses Felicia Matula

As the longest serving member on the Royal Palm Beach Village Council (20-plus years), I am proud to endorse Felicia Matula for mayor. Felicia is a highly qualified candidate who has served the village well on our volunteer boards and as a coach and supporter of youth athletics. As a community activist, she successfully organized her neighbors to fight a plan that would allow commercial development in the north end of our village at the old wastewater treatment plant site. She is a successful business woman and the parent of three children who attend our local elementary and middle schools. She understands the struggles that face our families today — both young and old. Having served under five village mayors, I know that Felicia has what it takes to be the chief executive officer of our village. She will run our council meetings fairly and efficiently, and will work diligently to keep Royal Palm Beach one of the best cities in the state to raise a family or retire in. She is honest, bright, and will bring a fresh perspective and new energy to our village. I look forward to working with her on our council, and I urge you to take time to vote on Tuesday, March 11. Councilman David Swift Royal Palm Beach

Hmara Supports Matty Mattioli

I have worked with Matty Mattioli as a fellow Royal Palm Beach council member for two years, and during that time, I have learned a great deal by serving with him. Over the 20 years he has served on our council, he has developed a great feel for what the people of Royal Palm Beach want and need. Matty’s sense of where the village ought to go and what the village ought to look like has put us on a path that makes us more successful than many Palm Beach County municipalities. He has learned a lot through these experiences and has much wisdom to offer, which sometimes is discounted at a loss to all of us. We all have our individual strengths and weaknesses. Occasionally and unintentionally we

may present a challenge to those with whom we work, and even those we serve. Sometimes we choose the wrong phrase, make the wrong choice of words or make a poor attempt at humor. None of us is perfect, but when we bring a wealth of history, insight and caring to the table, the scales should tip in favor of the value we add to a discussion. Sometimes we speak with eloquence, sometimes through cliché and old sayings, and sometimes with humor. I have learned that experience and institutional knowledge are great assets for any organization, and that is especially true for an organization that performs the very unique function of municipal governing. Matty has said that he wants to see the projects begun under his administration through to completion. The construction of the Aldi distribution center will begin serving new Aldi food retail stores throughout South Florida soon. Our new Commons Park is just beginning to blossom into the centerpiece of our community that attracts residents of all ages and provides opportunities for neighborly connections. We have much more to do to make this park all that it can be, as well as an efficient, cost-effective feature of our community, And, of course, the extensions of State Road 7 and Roebuck Road are two other projects that Matty wants to see to completion. Both of these road extensions will make a huge difference in our traffic situation as we continue to grow. Yes, new ideas and fresh approaches are often just what a municipality needs to stay vibrant and progressive. But the trick is to know what the right mix of “new and fresh” is with “experience and wisdom.” Change can be a necessary thing, and often is when things aren’t going well. But when steady progress is being made toward a clear vision of what we could be in the future, and when our municipality is fiscally sound, then one should ask: is change the right thing at this point? Vice Mayor Jeff Hmara Royal Palm Beach

Support For Martha Webster

I wanted to give my thoughts on the Royal Palm Beach race. I could go on and write one of those long

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letters that I see in the Town-Crier and never finish, or I could just get to the point. 1. There are four candidates running, three against an incumbent mayor who has served... oh, I guess about a hundred years from all I hear. Three people running against you is an automatic “no.” Right there is something wrong with what the man has been doing. 2. There are two candidates who have never been in elected office, yet there are two council seats open, as well as the mayor seat. Right there is a “no.” What kind of person thinks they start at the top on the taxpayer dollar and in charge of the taxpayer dollar? 3. Then there is a candidate who has five years in a council seat and many other years on advisory boards in Royal Palm Beach, other cities and nonprofits. That candidate has a reliable record with no conflicts when I cross check professional references in different places. Right there is honesty and hard work. So go ahead and give it some thought, but I think this pretty much makes the case. The answer for mayor is Martha Webster. I trusted her before, and I trust her now. Frank Bibbo Royal Palm Beach

Are Gerwig Ads Misleading?

In the Feb. 28 issue of the Town-Crier, in a front page article titled “Wellington Council Confirms Plan To Move Tennis Center,” it was reported that Councilwoman Anne Gerwig recused herself from the vote because of past business contracts with an architecture firm involved in the bid. Then, on page 5 of that same edition, Ms. Gerwig ran a half-page ad that included the following: “Anne voted against the council majority decision to relocate the tennis courts from their present location.” I find it hard to believe two things: your front page story wasn’t accurate and Ms. Gerwig thought she could recuse herself from a vote and then claim she voted against the motion. Although I’m very concerned about Ms. Gerwig’s misrepresentation of her actions, what really bothers me is how many times Ms. Gerwig will have to recuse herself in the future. I think the citizens of Wellington represented

by council Seat 2 deserve someone who can vote all the time on all the issues affecting the life of our community. Suzanne Bassett Wellington Editor’s note: The votes referred to in Ms. Gerwig’s advertisement were taken in January 2013 and May 2013, when the initial votes to move the tennis center were made. Since Pirtle Construction was selected for the project, she has recused herself from voting. Ms. Gerwig opposed moving the tennis center on Jan. 22, 2013 (4-1 vote with Ms. Gerwig the lone dissenter) and opposed moving tennis to the Village Walk site on May 14, 2013 (3-2 vote with Ms. Gerwig and Mr. Coates dissenting).

Council Did Not Listen To The Residents

At least 50 people spent their entire evening at the Wellington Village Council meeting last week, concerned about the award of a contract for an unspecified amount, well over the stated $10.5 million budget. Many of them spoke. Most of them submitted preference cards. Everyone who spoke or submitted a preference card opposed awarding the contract, and supported looking at possible alternatives, mostly based upon achieving savings by keeping the Wellington Tennis Center co-located with a new Wellington Community Center. Everyone who spoke was loudly applauded. Not a single person — not one, nobody, nada, zilch — got up to speak to support moving the tennis center or awarding the contract. Not one! When has public sentiment about anything been unanimous? Probably not since Oprah gave new cars to everyone in her audience. Four council members were there. Councilman [Howard] Coates heard the speakers. Mayor [Bob] Margolis, Councilman [Matt] Willhite and Councilman [John] Greene were there, but were apparently not listening. The vote was 3-1 in favor of awarding the contract. The taxpayer cost will be in excess of $12 million, possibly as much as $13.8 million, against a $10.5 million budget. A total of

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15.5 acres of land on Lyons Road, worth at least $8.5 million, will be lost to host a new tennis center that already exists. It will cost 1.1 million miles total of additional yearly driving for the residents to reach the eastern fringe of the village for tennis. There will be even further loss of trust for government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Our only hope is that voters will remember in two years. Roy Rosner Wellington

The Power Of The Press

Regarding my letter to the Town-Crier, “Speed Bumps For Sunset But Not Tangerine,” published Feb. 14, I was quite impressed with the response it generated from the Indian Trail Improvement District. Kudos to President Carol Jacobs, who contacted me before my copy of the Town-Crier had arrived in the mail. I was also contacted by Mr. Jim Shallman, the district manager, who shed some light on the topic of speed bumps/humps at this dangerous intersection. It is very reassuring to know that at least two individuals, Jacobs and Shallman, are not treating me with contempt. Thank you both. To all in the western communities, I say never ever underestimate the power of the press. Thanks also to the Town-Crier. As we move forward, ITID, the ball is now firmly in your court. Come on, let’s get this job done. Giving the people (your constituents) what they want should always be your number one priority. Karl Witter The Acreage

Keep Partisan Politics Out Of Local Elections

Why would the residents of Wellington allow the Democratic

Party, or any party, to destroy the very concept of impartial or non-political elections to be held in the Village of Wellington? The Florida Democratic Party, to which I am currently registered, in my opinion, has no business interfering with a system that has worked well over many years. The only way for a democratic society to exist is to have diverse ideas and reasoning to prevail through presentation of different ideas with a majority vote. Now it seems a few members of the Democratic Party want full control to prevail. How can the Democratic Party claim they are for the working class of citizens, as they have been preaching for at least my 83 years of life? Why is it that the Democratic Party stood silently by as the working class that they claim to protect has been losing their jobs, houses and even families? Why is the Democratic Party silently allowing more and more workers to lose full-time employment because of a so-called affordable health care plan? Under what cover has the Democratic Party, especially in Florida, been hiding? I believe the cover is socialism! What better way to advance socialism than to destroy the middle class... and to make them more dependent on handouts and under more control of their lives by government. For the Democratic Party to claim a larger divide between those that have and some struggling to have a share is where the main cause lies. Some seem to forget most of those that have the so-called riches were and still are the working class. The very fact that candidates in local, non-partisan elections are extending their palms to any political party, I believe, is an indication they have no true experience to govern, have no platform of their own and are not leaders, but followers of some ideology solely for votes. Hopefully most seniors have not been duped into believing the unbelievable. The present makeup See LETTERS, page 23

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 letters@ goTownCrier.com. POSTAL STATEMENT The Town-Crier (USPS #021547) is published weekly by Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414-7458. Periodicals Postage Paid at West Palm Beach, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Town-Crier, c/o Newspaper Publishers Inc., 12794 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 31, Wellington, FL 33414-7458.

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NEWS

Meet The Artist Reception At WRMC Puts Spotlight On Local Art

Donated art supplies and the inspiration of their own community was all it took for Wellington-area high school students to create a gallery of pieces expected to further enhance their school art programs. Earlier this year, students from Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach Central and Seminole Ridge high schools were given art supplies by the Jacobs family and asked to create pieces using Palm Beach County as inspiration. The result is a creative body of work that will be auctioned as a fundraiser for each of the school’s art programs. The students will share the inspiration behind their work on Monday, March 10, during a 6

p.m. “meet the artists” reception at Wellington Regional Medical Center, where all the pieces will be on display through the end of the month. The Young Art Masters Auction will take place online. “In recognition of Youth Art Month, we are very excited to have the opportunity of exclusively displaying artwork of very talented local students,” WRMC CEO Robbin Lee said. The Jacobs family are longtime Wellington residents and avid supporters of educational endeavors. Through the Delaware North Companies, their family-owned business, similar fundraising efforts have brought needed resources to schools in other communities the company serves. This year

Endless Hour by Summer O. of Wellington High School.

is the premiere of the Young Art Masters Auction in Wellington. “We’re very excited about this project and look forward to everyone seeing what our students have created,” Wellington High School photography teacher Barbara Brubaker said. “We’re so thankful to the Jacobs family for supporting our students.” Many students created pieces that depict Florida’s natural beauty, including scenes from the Everglades and the Atlantic Ocean. Other pieces capture other South Florida elements, including industry, equestrian life and architecture. “I take my inspiration from nature and the creatures within it,” said Royal Palm Beach High School junior Mason Devinney

about his photograph of a flower titled Floating Beauty. Tierney Boyle, a Seminole Ridge sophomore, has a different perspective. “To me, Florida isn’t about sand and beaches. To me, it’s about riding horses and being able to go to Wellington,” she said. “My personal horses and experiences inspired me for this painting because, to me, Florida is all about being an equestrian.” The installation includes 27 acrylic-on-canvas paintings and 13 original photographs. Each can be viewed online at www.young artmasterswellington.org. The community is invited to participate in the fundraiser through the online auction, with all proceeds going to the schools’ art programs.

Soft Surf by Cristina G. of Wellington High School.

Sea Cow by Lukas M. of Royal Palm Beach High School.

Freedom Rider by Antonia D. of Palm Beach Central High School.

PALM BEACH RANGERS HOST GOLF TOURNEY AT VILLAGE GOLF CLUB IN RPB

The Palm Beach Rangers U-12 travel baseball team held a fundraising golf tournament at Village Golf in Royal Palm Beach on Sunday, March 2. There were raffles, a silent auction and an award ceremony after the golf. Proceeds from the tournament will support the team throughout the season and in tournament play. PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

First-place winners Kason Gabbard, Lane Curtis, Scott Curtis, and Ken and Micheal Kartrude.

Players from the Palm Beach Rangers U-12 travel baseball team volunteered on the course.

Second-place winners Justin Hedges, Rich Gomersall, Patrick Logan and Terence Hart.

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CRIME NEWS

Rolex Stolen From Wellington Found At Pawn Shop

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report MARCH 3 — A resident of Appaloosa Trail called the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office substation in Wellington on Monday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 a.m. Monday, Feb. 3 and 8 a.m. last Friday, someone stole the victim’s Rolex watch from the jewelry box in her closet. The victim lives in a guest house on the property, and the only people with access to the home are employed by a cleaning company. According to the report, the deputy ran the watch’s serial number and discovered it was pawned on Friday, Feb. 7 by a worker who is related to an employee of the cleaning company. There was no further information available at the time of the report. ••• FEB. 27 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was dispatched to a home on Temple Blvd. last Thursday regarding a theft. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:25 a.m. and 11 p.m. last Wednesday, someone entered the victim’s yard and stole two mushroom-shaped driveway lights from her property. The victim reported two similar lights missing about a month ago. According to the report, the perpetrator(s) pulled the lights out of the ground and ripped the electric lines apart. The victim has security cameras on the property and planned to review the tapes to see if she could identify the perpetrator(s). The stolen lights were valued at approximately $100. There was no further information available at the time of the report. FEB. 28 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was called to a home on Heron Parkway last Friday afternoon regarding a vehicle burglary. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21 and 3:50 p.m. last Thursday, someone broke into the victim’s vehicle and stole a .380 semi-automatic pistol with laser sight from the glove compartment. According to the report, there was no sign of forced entry. The stolen gun was valued at approximately $375. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. FEB. 28 — A resident of Shoma Drive called the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach late last Friday night to report a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim had been away for approximately four months. When he returned to the home last Friday, he discovered that his sliding glass door was open. The victim could smell marijuana in the house and discovered hand prints on the upstairs sliding-glass door, as if someone was trying to

push it open. According to the report, the house has been vacant and nothing was missing. The deputy believed local youth had been using the home, but there was no further information available at the time of the report. MARCH 1— A Boynton Beach resident called the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation last Saturday to report a theft. According to a PBSO report, the victim was at Palms West Hospital between 3 and 7 a.m. last Saturday when her wallet disappeared. The wallet contained her Social Security card and several credit cards. According to the report, the victim closed her accounts before the cards could be used. The victim was not sure if she lost her wallet or it was taken. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. MARCH 2 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Wellington was called to a home in Sugar Pond Manor early last Sunday morning regarding a home burglary. According to a PBSO report, the victim left his front door and rear sliding-glass door unsecured and left the home with his children asleep. Sometime between 11 p.m. last Saturday and 2 a.m. the next morning, someone entered the home and stole a Remington 12-gauge shotgun, an Xbox 360 game console, a paintball gun and a bb gun. The stolen items were valued at approximately $700. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. MARCH 3 — A deputy from the PBSO’s Acreage/Loxahatchee substation was called Monday to a home on 77th Lane North regarding a stolen tag. According to a PBSO report, sometime between 8 a.m. last Sunday and 8:30 a.m. Monday, someone stole a license tag and decal from the victim’s trailer. The victim drove the trailer through Palm Beach and Broward counties last Sunday and discovered the items missing on Monday morning. There were no suspects or witnesses at the time of the report. MARCH 3 — A deputy from the PBSO substation in Royal Palm Beach was dispatched Monday night to a business on Business Parkway regarding a case of burglary. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 10 p.m., an employee called the substation to report a suspicious person on the property. When the deputy arrived, the employee said the suspect had fled over the west fence of the property. The employee observed the unknown man stick his head out from behind a vehicle, but said he didn’t see the suspect enter any of the vehicles on the property. Video surveillance footage captured the suspect walking around the property and in between vehiSee BLOTTER, page 23

Young Girl Injured While Walking In The Acreage

MARCH 4 — An Acreage juvenile was struck by a vehicle Tuesday near the intersection of 49th Street North and 130th Trail North in The Acreage. According to a Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, the 9-year-old girl was walking along the west edge of 130th Trail North. Meanwhile, a 1998 Oldsmobile

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Aurora driven by 28-year-old Dynasdy Williams was traveling southbound on the road. According to the report, the right front of the vehicle struck the juvenile, who was thrown to the ground and suffered a severe head injury. Williams said she was distracted by her own children, who were in the vehicle.

Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County is asking for the public’s help in finding these wanted fugitives: • Terry Binnix is a white male, 5’11” tall and weighing 210 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes. He has tattoos on his right arm and back. His date of birth is 09/24/80. Binnix is wanted for possession of a schedule IV substance, introduction of contraband into a penal institution, resisting a law enforcement officer with violence and assault on a law enforcement officer. His last known addresses were Weymouth Road in Lake Worth and Yarmouth Drive in Wellington. His occupation is a painter. He is wanted as of 02/27/14. • Matthew Lyons is a white male, 6’4” tall and weighing 200 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes. He has multiple tattoos. His date of birth is 11/19/91. Lyons is wanted for violation of probation on charges of felony battery. His address is listed as at large. He is wanted as of 02/27/14. 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.

Terry Binnix

Matthew Lyons

THE INFORMATION FOR THIS BOX IS PROVIDED BY CRIME STOPPERS OF PALM BEACH COUNTY. CRIMESTOPPERS IS WHOLLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CONTENT SHOWN HERE.

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NEWS BRIEFS Ultimate Wellness Rewards Party At Vision Salon

Ultimate Wellness Rewards will hold a pre-launch party Saturday, March 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Visions Salon (12793 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington). The event will give participants a head start in the Race to Well-Being and Tips for Success, as well as provide opportunities to meet loyalty partners that provide a variety of services. Participants can enjoy complimentary consultations, a specialized area for men, special discounts on products and services, appetizers and refreshments, as well as the chance to learn more about becoming a loyalty partner or loyalty participant. Admission is limited to 100 guests and advanced registration is required. The event costs $10 and includes a loyalty card. A portion of all proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society’s Relay for life. To register, or for more information, visit www.ultimatewellness rewards.com. Ultimate Wellness Rewards will also hold a grand launch on

Saturday, April 5 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park. Tony Horton of Beach Bodies, who invented P90X, will host the live event, which includes a workout, seminar, book signing and several family-engaging activities.

Women Of Note Mini-Concert March 25

The Women of Note a cappella chorus is heading to a regional competition in Daytona Beach on April 3. In preparation for the competition, the chorus will be hosting an open dress rehearsal Tuesday, March 25 at 8 p.m. at Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington. The public is welcome to attend this free preview of the group’s competition package. In addition, the free performance will feature competing quartets, Impetuous, Sunsation and Attitude, as well as an opportunity to participate in Women of Note’s annual raffle. The Women of Note Chorus is a chapter of Sweet Adelines International, a nonprofit music education association for women. The chorus delights audiences with beautiful

four-part a cappella harmony, innovative choreography and dazzling costumes. Women of Note holds open rehearsals on Monday nights at Palm Beach Central High School and welcomes any woman who loves to sing and who wants to have fun while making new friends. Visit www.womenofnote.com or call (877) 966-7464 for more information.

Donations Needed For Rescued Horses

Palm Beach County Animal Care & Control is in need of donations for eight horses recently rescued. The shelter is asking for donations of hay, grain and other supplies to help nurture the animals during their stay. The public is invited to make a donation of one or more of the following items: equine senior horse feed, 10 percent pellet horse feed, hay (timothy/alfalfa mix), pine shavings for stalls, fly repellent for horses and SWAT fly repellent ointment. Donations can be delivered directly to the shelter, located at 7100

Belvedere Road in West Palm Beach, during regular business hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (561) 233-1251 or e-mail pbcacc@pbcgov.org.

YWCA Breakfast Event March 12

The YWCA of Palm Beach County will host a breakfast event Wednesday, March 12 at 7:30 a.m. at the Airport Hilton Conference Center (150 Australian Avenue, West Palm Beach). In celebration of Women’s History Month, the speaker will be Sheila G. Mains, founder and CEO of West Palm Beach-based Sheila G’s Original Brownie Brittle Company. She will explain how she turned a treasured family recipe into a multi-million-dollar company after the industrial advertising agency she worked for “downsized” her out of a job. “We are thrilled to have Sheila Mains as our speaker for March’s breakfast,” YWCA President Gayle A. Landen said. “Her story exemplifies how a resourceful woman can reinvent herself and

create a very successful business.” Proceeds will support the programs of the YWCA, including the Mary Rubloff YWCA Harmony House, a crisis shelter for abused

women and their children, child development centers and more. For more information, or to RSVP, call (561) 640-0050, ext. 134, or visit www.ywcapbc.org.

FLARA ENDORSES LASCOLA AND KURIT

The Florida Alliance for Retired Americans endorsed Sharon Lascola and Matt Kurit on Monday for seats on the Wellington Village Council. “You demonstrate a strong commitment to improve the quality of life for older Americans,” wrote FLARA President Tony Fransetta in an endorsement letter. Lascola is challenging incumbent Anne Gerwig, while Kurit faces incumbent Howard Coates. The election will be held Tuesday, March 11. Shown here, Fransetta (right) presents Kurit and Lascola with their endorsement letters.

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ELECTION 2014: WELLINGTON VILLAGE COUNCIL, SEAT 2

Gerwig Believes Different Viewpoints Are Crucial On The Council

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Councilwoman Anne Gerwig believes that she brings a unique and important viewpoint to the Wellington Village Council and hopes voters return her for a second term on Tuesday, March 11. Gerwig faces a challenge from political newcomer and seniors advocate Sharon Lascola. Gerwig has lived in Wellington for more than 24 years, and in Palm Beach County almost all her life. “This is my stomping grounds,” she said, pointing out that she used to ride horses in the area of Okeeheelee Park before Wellington even existed. She graduated from North Shore High School and took courses at North Technical Educational Center, receiving certification in architectural drafting. This led to her to a career in engineering. Gerwig has worked in engineering and land surveying firms all of her adult life. “My first job was working for a residential designer,” she recalled. “I eventually designed my own home in 2001 in Paddock Park.” Active in the community for many years, she was elected to a four-year term on the council in 2010. While her top personal accomplishment is the success of her children, two of whom are in college and another a sophomore in high school, Gerwig feels her top accomplishment on the council has been dealing with challenging budget years. “We’ve had an economic downturn that devastated the real estate market,” she said. “Seeing the budget go significantly down while continuing to provide a high level of service, I think that is our biggest accomplishment.” Her favorite accomplishment was the rebuilding of the playground at Tiger Shark Cove Park two years ago. “It was getting a little aged, and we rebuilt the whole park pretty much from the ground up,” Gerwig noted.

Gerwig believes that she is the best person to serve on the council for the next four years because of her strong record. “I’ve taken sensible approaches to what’s presented to the council,” she said. “I don’t play favorites. I don’t have a team that I’m on. I treat everyone who comes before us, whatever their issue is, in a fair manner.” Her top goals for the next four years include the pursuit of a local performing arts center. “We have so many talented kids and young adults who love theater and productions,” she said, explaining that the Wellington Amphitheater is great, but not a facility for high-quality productions. “I’d really like us to have a mini-Kravis Center, and I like that civic site at the mall.” Gerwig would also like to see drainage issues resolved in a manner that will please the people who want to preserve the palm trees along Aero Club Drive. She would like to have a public discussion on the issue before further action is taken. But there are similar drainage issues around the village that also need action. She pointed out that after recent storms, Forest Hill Blvd. was submerged for a longer period of time than it was designed to withstand. “It’s not just the drainage issue; it’s safety,” Gerwig said. “People couldn’t get out, and the entire Equestrian Preserve Area was pretty much landlocked.” Gerwig also believes civility continues to be a big issue for council members. “I think we have come a long way, and we are working together,” she said. “I think the community realizes that it has been a difficult time. When your team isn’t working together, it affects everyone, at least from a perception issue. I want to get the team back functioning.” She said her opponent’s solution would be to side with the three council members who are usually in the majority, but Gerwig thinks that’s not healthy. “I think we all have opinions, and we bring something different to the table,” she said. “When we are passionate about

the way we feel, it can be divisive, but it’s also getting all the points out.” Gerwig would like to get the Wellington Community Center rebuilt without moving the Wellington Tennis Center — and she voted that way twice in early 2013 when the issue first came up. “I think we have the synergy of that facility,” she said. “I know it’s crowded. The seniors have a conflict with parking when they are there for their lunch day, but in the redesign process, I just think we could do better and not move tennis.” Asked about her view on the current structure of village government, Gerwig said, “We have an incredible staff of talented people, and I feel the loss of some of the upper-level staff has been an immediate issue.” Asked how she rates the job Village Manager Paul Schofield is doing, she said she’d give him a 7 on a scale of 10, but added that he is being asked to do a near-impossible job. “That’s a job I can’t believe we can get anyone to do because you have a fiveheaded boss, and you could be fired every other week,” she said. “I think he does it as well as anyone could. He’s very, very smart.” Gerwig said the village’s work to improve troubled neighborhoods has been expensive, but important. She noted that it is often difficult to get residents on the same page regarding solutions. For example, Gerwig said the village made several proposals in the Yarmouth area, and residents complained about the village’s proposed solutions. “We had some neighborhood meetings,” she said, “And now we’ve put it back to the residents for their ideas.” She thinks the village’s medical arts district proposal is a great idea, but Wellington cannot control private property. “All we can do is help them in the planning process, but the owners of the property are ultimately going to decide,” Gerwig said. She pointed out that the Lake Erie

College of Osteopathic Medicine, which has 44 residents training at Wellington Regional Medical Center, would like to expand, and she feels Wellington should help them do so. She also supports the idea of a hospitality house for patients receiving treatment and a campus where hospital employees, such as the residents, could live. Over the past year, the council’s relationship with Wellington Equestrian Partners CEO Mark Bellissimo has improved, and lawsuits between WEP and the village are in hiatus for the time being. She pointed out that Wellington is caught in the middle of a feud among equestrians. “Hopefully, all the lawsuits can come to an end, but it’s going to be difficult,” she said, explaining that Bellissimo’s horse show model is different than the horse show model of the past. “No one ever looked at it as if it was going to be a business. It was something people enjoyed doing. The concept of Mark Bellissimo looking at it as a business is quite different, and I can understand why some people wouldn’t be happy with that.” The Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics and the Office of Inspector General has weighed in on several issues in Wellington. Asked whether she thinks the office is being abused, she said that Inspector General Sheryl Steckler has told her that the office makes an effort to determine which cases are genuine concerns and which are motivated by politics. “That’s difficult to do, and I think we have gone through a learning curve in the process,” Gerwig said. “I think it is getting to where the office has an idea when someone comes in whether it’s a true concern from the community.” Asked what she sees for the village’s K-Park land on State Road 7, she said the village has come to realize it cannot support an additional 67 acres of recreation, but maybe it can keep a portion of it. “Maybe we can sell off the commercial

Anne Gerwig portion and let that fund whatever recreation we still think we need,” Gerwig said. “We still have a need for open-field play. We always will as long as we are a growing community.” Wellington Christian School recently announced its pending closure, and the site could come before the council for a zoning change. Asked what type of uses she would accept, Gerwig said she’s hearing that the proposal is for a charter school. “That would not be a significant difference, but it would require land use changes,” she said. The council recently voted to halt fluoridation of the village’s water — a change Gerwig did not support. She said some information presented by fluoridation opponents was misleading, and she based her support on conversations with medical professionals, including her dentist, pediatrician and internist. Gerwig said the perception that she is aligned in a slate with Vice Mayor Howard See GERWIG, page 23

“I think we all have opinions, and we bring something different to the table,” Gerwig said. “It can be divisive, but it’s also getting all the points out.”

Lascola Puts Focus On Senior Issues, ‘Civility’ On The Council

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Sharon Lascola hopes Wellington residents recognize her passion and drive to help others, and choose her Tuesday, March 11 for a four-year term in Seat 2 on the Wellington Village Council. Lascola is challenging incumbent Councilwoman Anne Gerwig in her bid for the seat. Seat 3, currently held by incumbent Vice Mayor Howard Coates, is being sought by Matt Kurit. A New York native, Lascola bought a home in Wellington in 1980 with her late husband, August. She ran a hair salon for 13 years in Amherst, N.Y., and also worked in marketing. When her husband was diagnosed with cancer, Lascola sold the business so they could move to Florida full-time. “We loved the peaceful, small-town atmosphere,” she said. “We were snowflakes at first, before we decided to move permanently. We joined Wellington Club East in 1991 and the old Wellington Golf Club when it first became a golf course.” Lascola was active in the golf community and would rate golf courses with other local residents. Lascola’s husband died in 1993, and in 2005, she moved to Central Florida, where she did promotional work. However, she missed Wellington during her time away. “I knew I had made a mistake leaving Wellington,” she said. In 2012, Lascola retired and returned to Wellington to care for her elderly mother. Lascola now lives in the Mayfair community. She is involved with the Wellington Seniors Club and the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans. Among her top accomplishments, Lascola lists managing her own business for 13 years. “I kept the same people working for me,” she said. Although she has not been in politics before, Lascola said she was spurred to

run after seeking an adult daycare setting for her mother. “There wasn’t anything in Wellington,” she said. “That’s how this started. When I was asked to run, I started looking at my opponent’s record. I feel we have different visions for Wellington.” If elected, Lascola said she would put a focus on seniors, vote against large commercial development and push for civility on the dais. “My main objective would be to stop large commercial development,” she said. “I’m an independent thinker. I don’t have any developers telling me what to do. I’m not going to be bought by anybody.” The tension on the current council was a large reason Lascola decided to run, she said. “It goes back to the bickering,” she said. “They spent money to have a counselor come in, and it’s still not resolved.” Regarding senior issues, Lascola said the village needs to put more emphasis on its aging population. “We have parks for kids, recreational fields, which is wonderful, but what do we have for seniors?” she asked. “We have nothing but a meeting once a month. We have no place for seniors to gather. We’re a community. As we get older, we need something for ourselves. Wellington should be a total community.” Lascola also wants more transparency in Wellington’s government. “I was trying to see how much we paid for [the Wellington Municipal Complex],” she said. “I couldn’t find it.” Speaking of the municipal complex, she opposed that project. “I don’t like it,” she said. “It’s too big. I think it’s a waste of space inside. I think we could have done more with that money.” Nevertheless, Lascola believes that Village Manager Paul Schofield is doing a good job as manager. “It’s hard to be a

manager,” she said. “I think he’s done a decent job. I don’t have a problem with him.” Lascola said Wellington still has work to do to clean up some of its transitional neighborhoods. “There is still a lot of blight in some of our neighborhoods,” she said. “I think we have a ways to go to clean it up. We’d have to look at the cost and what we can do about it.” Although she would support a medical school, Lascola said she believes the proposed medical arts district project is too big. “When I first heard about the project, I heard they were going to put a vet school or medical school along with hotels and other things,” she said. “I thought, ‘They have to be out of their minds.’ State Road 7 can hardly take what it’s at.” A veterinary school in the area would be a good idea, Lascola said. “I think it’s a decent idea,” she said. “But I can’t see putting hotels and stuff back there.” In recent years, the work of the council has been dominated by its often stormy relationship with horse show promoter Mark Bellissimo. Lascola said she did not know what Wellington’s future relationship with Bellissimo will look like. “When I moved here, I knew nothing about what was going on,” she said. “I think someone is going to have to be a grown-up and give on certain issues. I don’t know how I would resolve things.” Lascola said the K-Park property on State Road 7 is one of Wellington’s last opportunities for economic development. “I think we need something that coincides with Wellington’s small-town atmosphere,” she said. “I would not like to see a park there. I’d like to see something for the local economy that would create some jobs.” Lascola is fully in support for rebuild-

ing the Wellington Community Center as soon as possible. “I think the current building has seen its days,” she said. “It’s a convoluted issue. I’d like to see 12 [tennis] courts stay. We could run those courts as pay-to-play and fund the community center.” But it’s imperative that seniors have a place to gather, she said. “I believe in helping the seniors have a place,” Lascola said. “Right now, the Wellington Seniors Club has to go in, eat and leave. My vision would be a place where seniors can congregate and enjoy coffee or refreshments, talk and have a place to call their own.” She said that even if the tennis center is moved, some of the courts should remain. On a related topic, Lascola said she was against the purchase of the Lake Wellington Professional Centre. With Wellington Presbyterian Church’s recent decision to close its school and sell its land, Lascola said there might be some opportunities for senior housing on the site. “It might be a nice site for senior housing,” she said. “Not Century Village senior housing, but $120,000 to $150,000 affordable housing. If you sell your home in Wellington because it’s too big and you want to downsize, you have to move away to find affordable housing.” Wellington recently decided to stop fluoridating its water, a decision Lascola said she does not agree with. “I think we should keep it in the water,” she said. “I grew up with fluoride in the water. I don’t think it hurts.” Though some have alleged Lascola is aligned on a slate with Kurit, she said that is not the case. “He’s more about the young, and I’m more about the old,” she said. “We both are the same in that we don’t want large commercial development.” Lascola has been strongly backed by the

Sharon Lascola Democratic Party, and she pointed out that Republican Party is backing her opponent. “I don’t like outside money in anything,” she said. “But I haven’t been on the council for four years. I don’t have a record to run on. I’d rather have a grassroots campaign.” Though some have criticized Lascola’s lack of involvement in government, she said her life experience will be valuable on the council. “I have a lot of common sense,” she said. “You don’t have to be involved in every organization. I have years of experience, and I think I can do a good job.” Lascola said voters should choose her because she has a strength of character that will make her an honest, outspoken advocate for residents. “I don’t back down to anyone,” she said. “I’m just that type of person. I’m nice, honest and I’ll be straightforward with you. What more can you want?”

“I have a lot of common sense,” Lascola said. “You don’t have to be involved in every organization. I have years of experience, and I think I can do a good job.”

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Page 9

ELECTION 2014: WELLINGTON VILLAGE COUNCIL, SEAT 3

Coates Sees Himself As A Stabilizing Force On The Council

By Ron Bukley Town-Crier Staff Report Wellington Vice Mayor Howard Coates believes the village needs his experience as a mediator to help retain stability and consistency on the Wellington Village Council. Coates faces a challenge from political newcomer Matt Kurit in the Tuesday, March 11 election. Born in Virginia, Coates has lived in Palm Beach County for more than 40 years. He attended local public schools and joined the U.S. Marine Corps out of high school. Promoted to sergeant after two years, he was later accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his military service, he entered the University of Florida, where he met his wife of 30 years. Upon graduation, he earned his law degree from Yale University. After briefly practicing law in Atlanta, Coates returned to Florida, where he has practiced law for the past three decades. He is extremely proud that all of his children have graduated from or are now attending college. Coates started his own law practice in 2003. “That is what led me ultimately to the path of running for the Wellington Village Council,” he recalled. “I wanted to get more involved in the politics of the community.” After an unsuccessful council bid in 2008, he was appointed to a vacant seat in 2009. He ran for a full term in 2010, claiming the seat unopposed. “One of the reasons I’m running for re-election is I feel we made such great progress during my first three years of service, but then we’ve taken some steps back in the last two years, and I want to be there to get the ship righted,” Coates said. “I think we’re on the right path, but we still have a ways to go before the community can be fully healed.” The council has dealt with some difficult issues that divided both the council and the community, Coates said.

“I’ve always been a proponent of finding a middle path,” he said. “I firmly believe that you should be able to bring two sides together to reach some kind of compromise. It might not be the best answer for each side, but it’s the best answer for everyone.” He pointed out that the present council initially opposed mediation to work through issues with Mark Bellissimo and Wellington Equestrian Partners. “I kept pushing for that because I thought that we might ultimately stumble on something that would work,” Coates said. “After the mediation, came a new proposal for them to submit their plans in a renewed fashion.” Coates said the issue has always been expanded equestrian uses around the dressage facility as opposed to expanded commercial development there. He noted that he favored a robust dressage facility to be used for commercial purposes, but did not support a proposed large hotel that would have required a comprehensive plan amendment. Coates said one of his top accomplishments was to get the council discussing new plans to get the dressage facility back on track. “I do believe I played a key role,” he said. “But sometimes I believe there is too much of a focus on solely the equestrian issues.” He is also proud of his role in building the new Wellington Municipal Complex and all the nearby amenities, such as the Wellington Amphitheater and Scott’s Place. Coates believes that he is the best person to serve on the council because he has five years’ experience. “I think I bring a lot of knowledge to the position,” he said. “I play the role of being the mediator, the compromise person to bring it all together.” He said that he has always tried to find the best middle ground for Wellington. “It’s not necessarily a personal agenda,” Coates said. “I think that the people don’t

want to see a council that’s fractured.” Looking forward, Coates said Wellington needs to resolve its flooding issues. “We’ve had some serious flooding that’s making me question whether the infrastructure is adequate,” he said, adding that he feels South Shore Blvd. needs to be elevated so that it is not so prone to flooding, and pumps must be added so stormwater can be moved faster. “We were very close to there being significant damage to homes in a large swath of Wellington in the last couple of years.” He also wants to renew emphasis on the Safe Neighborhoods program and keep taxes low. Coates supports the construction of a new Wellington Community Center, but would like to do so without moving the Wellington Tennis Center. “Certain amenities, like tennis facilities, you want to provide them so that they are equally accessible to all of Wellington,” he said. “It makes sense to me to keep the tennis facilities in a center part of the community.” He said the recent acquisition of the Lake Wellington Professional Centre at least partially resolves issues that the council faced when it first decided to build a new community center. “One of those issues was parking,” Coates said. “I think with the acquisition of that property, we can take care of the parking issues that we had.” While the council must deal with a wide range of issues, equestrian issues will remain some of the most important and controversial, Coates said. “It’s very easy to pay lip service to the equestrian industry, and everybody supports it, but where the difficulty comes in is where actions back up what you’re saying,” he said. “The applicant in some of the equestrian matters gets raked over the coals occasionally when he comes before the council, and I don’t see that kind of treatment for other individuals.” Overall, Coates said the relationship of the council with Bellissimo and Wel-

lington Equestrian Partners has improved, although there is still a lack of mutual trust. “That has been tough to overcome,” he said. Coates feels that there is no need for structural reorganization of the current village staff. He continues to support Village Manager Paul Schofield. Although he thinks the village’s upper administration was a bit top-heavy, recent retirements have taken care of that concern. “Paul has done a very good job navigating the village through very tough economic times,” Coates said, pointing out that they reduced the budget from $120 million to $75 million and reduced the staff from 400 to fewer than 300. Coates feels the village is moving in a positive direction in rejuvenating troubled neighborhoods, although it has gone slowly and been expensive. He also supports the medical arts district idea, although its concept has been challenged by disparate land owners who don’t seem to be coming together. “That’s where I understand most of the problem has occurred, is in bringing the private landowners to buy into the concept,” he said. “I really believe that could be a nice economic boost to this community.” Asked whether he thinks recent allegations brought for consideration to the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics and the Office of the Inspector General were an abuse of the office, Coates said he fully supports county ethical oversight. “It serves a very important role because sometimes we are traversing very close ethical lines and we need guidance,” he said. “I have no reservations with their scrutiny.” Regarding the K-Park land on State Road 7, Coates said he has always regarded it as one of the last vestiges of prime property that can be used for a public purpose, although recent plans for it fell through. “If the horse park could have been

Howard Coates brought to us in a way that made sense and was viable, and we could use the proceeds to support a public purpose, I would have considered that,” Coates said. “However, my first preference is that we find a public purpose for that property that serves all of Wellington.” Coates recently cast the deciding vote to remove fluoride from Wellington’s municipal water system. Although he agrees fluoridation has medical benefits, he believed that since it’s a medical decision, it’s a personal one. “It wasn’t whether the scientists are right or wrong,” he said. “Even assuming that they’re right on the medical side of it, I still want a choice whether to accept that or not. For the citizens, if you want fluoride, you can go get fluoride, but you can’t take the fluoride out of the water, so by putting it in, you’ve deprived the citizens of a choice.” Coates said that the perception that he’s on a slate with Councilwoman Anne See COATES, page 23

“I’m a proponent of finding a middle path,” Coates said. “I firmly believe that you should be able to bring two sides together to reach a compromise.”

Kurit Puts Focus On Supporting Schools, Keeping Green Space

By Lauren Miró Town-Crier Staff Report Education activist Matt Kurit is hoping voters will share his vision for the community and elect him to Seat 3 on the Wellington Village Council next week. Kurit faces incumbent Vice Mayor Howard Coates in the Tuesday, March 11 election. Also on the ballot, Seat 2 incumbent Councilwoman Anne Gerwig is being challenged by Sharon Lascola. Originally from Ohio, Kurit moved to West Palm Beach when he was 7 years old and attended North Shore High School — later Palm Beach Lakes High School — where he was student body president his senior year. Kurit holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Ohio State University and a master’s degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic University. For the past 13 years, he has worked with Johnson & Johnson as an executive sales representative. He moved to Wellington in 2004 with his wife, Kathy, and two daughters. “We wanted to find a nice place where our kids could get a good education, with a good parks and recreation system, and an active community,” Kurit recalled. “That was what brought us to Wellington. We fell in love with the school system out here.” He was appointed to Wellington’s Education Advisory Board in 2008 and served for four years. Additionally, he has been a coach for recreation teams and had been active with the Wellington Runners Club. If elected, Kurit said he would focus on maintaining green space, supporting local schools and helping to maintain property values — goals that he said go hand in hand. Kurit said Wellington needs to guard its green space against development. “I want to maintain a small-town atmosphere,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to give up any

more green space. Developers look at green space differently than most residents do. Maybe we could direct developers to revitalize some of our commercial areas.” He said it’s important that the village does what it can to support local schools. “A lot of the reason people moved here is the same reason I moved here,” Kurit said. “Having good schools will not only maintain property values, but help increase them.” One of the top issues in the campaign, he said, is the council’s recent decision to remove fluoride from drinking water — and the deciding vote was cast by Coates. “I’m strongly against them removing fluoride from the water,” Kurit said. “I do work in the medical community, and a lot of what I do is based on scientific data.” He stands behind the data supporting fluoridation. “I think it was a big mistake,” Kurit said. “From comments I’ve received, about 80 percent of the residents are upset about it.” Another major issue has been plans for the Wellington Community Center. Kurit said he isn’t sure whether he would have voted to move the Wellington Tennis Center, but that he understands the need for more space at the municipal complex. “I know how it is when people go out on weekends to the amphitheater or the green market,” he said. “It can be a nightmare trying to find a parking space.” Kurit said his decision would have depended on cost and the benefits to residents. “If we can build a new, state-of-the-art tennis center only five minutes away, and it wouldn’t cost an exorbitant amount, I might be for it,” he said. “It would be more effective that trying to maintain the current building for another 10 years.” Regarding the performance of Village Manager Paul Schofield, Kurit said he couldn’t rate his performance until he has worked with him. “I know of a lot

of issues, but I don’t know if they fall on Paul’s feet,” he said. “There was the snafu with K-Park; I know taxpayer money was wasted. Someone is responsible for that.” Kurit supports Wellington’s continued effort to improve transitional neighborhoods. “I think it’s worth the expense to make sure neighborhoods are safe,” he said. “We’re moving in the right direction, though I think more can be done. There are still areas where there are pockets of crime.” He suggested working with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office to increase policing efforts. “There will always be crime, unfortunately, but we have to make sure we’re doing everything we can,” Kurit said. Wellington has considered the idea of a medical arts district, but plans have fallen by the wayside. Kurit said he would be willing to look at proposals should the plans be revitalized. “I want to make sure it fits with what Wellington is trying to accomplish,” he said. “There is a big equestrian community out here. We could gear it toward a vet program, which would be beneficial.” He also said he would like to see new proposals for the K-Park property on State Road 7. “One thing I think would be great is something in line with a miniature version of CityPlace — something like what they have in Delray Beach,” Kurit said. “It could have a nice movie theater, a bowling alley and other things. It’s the perfect location.” He said any plan for the site would need careful scrutiny. “It’s our only place left for development,” Kurit said. “I would listen to ideas. It would be great to have recreational space on a portion of it — maybe something like the Morikami [Museum].” Wellington Presbyterian Church announced earlier this year that it would be closing Wellington Christian School and selling its property to an unnamed buyer.

The site might need a zoning change. Kurit said he’d want to see a project there that fits with the surrounding community. “It goes back to the small-town atmosphere,” he said. “I don’t want to see something destroy it.” In past years, Wellington has been plagued by lawsuits surrounding the Equestrian Village property. Kurit said he’s optimistic that the relationship between Wellington and show promoter Mark Bellissimo has improved. “I’m hoping I can work with both entities and keep an open dialogue,” he said. “My biggest concern is that if you let something like this fester, it becomes a bigger problem. If you don’t address it, then these things implode. As a council person, my job is to make sure I don’t become beholden to one side or the other.” He said he is supportive of the equestrian community and hopes the village can move past any ill-harbored feelings. “It brings value to the whole community,” Kurit said. “We all benefit from the equestrians. My goal is not to take one side or the other.” Further, Kurit said that if there are disagreements, he would deal with them with respect. “If I don’t agree with someone, it doesn’t mean I can’t be amiable,” he said. Wellington and its elected officials have been the subject of several investigations by the Palm Beach County Commission on Ethics and the Office of the Inspector General. Kurit said that although the office may receive false complaints or ones that are political in nature, it’s important that it investigate wrongdoing. “We need to open up government and have people see what is going on,” he said. “At the same time, we don’t want it used as a weapon. I don’t know how fair it is to say that the office is being nefariously used. You want to make sure you don’t give up the right for people to look at the

Matt Kurit government. If someone is doing something incorrect, it deserves to be known.” Though some have suggested that Kurit is running on a slate with Lascola, he said that is not the case. “I’m my own candidate,” he said. “The perception that is being put out there is that because the Democratic Party is supporting our candidacies, we are on a slate. We are completely separate, but happen to be supported by some of the same entities.” He said although he has gotten support from fellow Democrats because of his activity with the party, he doesn’t consider the election to be partisan. “I’m happy to get Republican support as well,” he said. “Nobody cares if I’m a Democrat or Republican if they have a pothole on their street they want fixed.” Asked whether the influx of outside money into Wellington’s municipal election is an issue, Kurit said that voters don’t See KURIT, page 23

“People moved here for the same reason I moved here,” Kurit said. “Having good schools will not only maintain property values, but increase them.”

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REMINDER Vote Tuesday March 11

A New Voice for Wellington Let’s put Matt Kurit on the Wellington Village Council . . . Because it Matters! FAMILY MAN

Matt and his wife Kathy have called Wellington home since 2004. They have two daughters Samantha and Halle who love their Wellington schools, parks and neighborhood.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Matt has volunteered as a coach in the youth soccer program for over 8 years. Matt also served on the Village’s Education Committee for 4 years.

PROFESSIONAL

Matt is an Executive Sales Representative in the Pharmaceutical industry.

EDUCATION

Matt has a Bachelors Degree from Ohio State University and a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University.

s e i t i r o i r P Matt’s

lues a V y t r e r Prop u o d r a life • Gu f o y t i l ur qua o t c e t • Pro space n e e r g and hools c S l a c o our l t r o p p u • S l town l a m s r ve ou • Preser ere atmosph s and e i l i m a f orking w e on e c v i i o G v • a citizens e g a r e v a ouncil C e g a l l i the V

JOIN THE CAMPAIGN: Email Matt at: MattKurit@gmail.com Like the campaign on Facebook: Matt Kurit for Village Council Or give Matt a call at (561) 909-6986

Political advertisement paid for and approved by Matt Kurit for Wellington Village Council Seat 3

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Page 11

NEWS

WEST FEST MARKS ROYAL PALM COMMONS PARK ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

The Village of Royal Palm Beach presented West Fest 2014 at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park from Friday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 2 to mark the park’s one-year anniversary. Guests enjoyed western-themed entertainment, carnival rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, local and national country music performers and more. There was also a 5K Fun Walk/Run and Police Athletic League boxing matches. Donnie Beauchesne and Andy Wethern won the cornhole tournament, and chili cookoff contest winners included Joe Hanstein (overall best-tasting chili); BBQ Boyz Mike Cheatham, Kurt Riggot and Rick Moore (hottest chili); and the Erkman family (most unique chili recipe). PHOTOS BY DENISE FLEISCHMAN/TOWN-CRIER

Dr. Bounty Be the bounty hunter (Brandy Etheridge) with her cart.

Mia and Evan Aho color with Kimberling Kennedy, author of children’s books.

Dominic, Frank and Estelle Cattelane pet bunnies.

Miss Rodeo PBC 2013 Alexandra Ortiz with Molly.

Tim Charron performs for the crowd.

Wild West campers Ben Caid, Grandma May and Cutter step up for grub.

Isabella Dickson pets the goats.

Logan Lambert takes a spin on the mechanical bull.

Terry Palmieri and Zucchi.

SP Chancellor W Twn Crier final:SP Chancellor 1/3 h Wel Twn Crier

2/4/14

11:45 AM

Page 1

Wellington’s Best Business Address Located in the heart of Wellington on South Shore Boulevard.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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Page 13

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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ELECT CHANGE

VOTE MARCH 11

We need a Mayor who is a LEADER, who has the time and energy to make things happen. CANDIDATE COMPARISON

Martha Felicia Laurel Matty Webster Matula Bennett Mattioli

✘ ✘ ✔

Served as an Elected Government Official

✔

Number of Written Endorsements by community leaders

Well Connected with other city leaders

✔

✘

Believes being Mayor is a Part Time Job

YES

Served on the League of Cities

✔

✘ ✘ ✔

Needs On the Job Training

YES YES

The League is a non-partisan, non-profit membership organization that represents all thirty-eight municipalities of Palm Beach County and over seventy Associate government, non-profits and business organizations.

The Mayor acts as the ambassador of the Village of Royal Palm Beach, and in doing so, should conduct him/herself in a professional and courteous manner at ALL TIMES. Our current Mayor has acknowledged his explosive temper during council meetings. Mayor Mattioli claims he is responsible for maintaining low taxes. Holding taxes steady was a result of the late Village Manager, David Farber, who negotiated a multi-million dollar land deal with Palm Beach County. Mr. Farber was assisted by Village Mayor Lodwick and District 6 County Commissioner. These funds have helped the Village go without tax increases and build Royal Palm Beach Commons.

Martha Webster negotiated the tax abatement needed in order to bring Aldi Supermarkets South Florida Distribution Center to our Village. This will help to create 300 jobs within our Village. Martha Webster was a member of the Board of the League of Cities and also 2nd Vice Chair and Vice Chair, Chair of Education Committee, Chair Legislative Committee, Chair Policies & Procedures and then appointed to the Treasure Coast where she served as Secretary/Treasurer and then Vice Chair. Mayor Mattioli was a Member of the Board of the League of Cities but never chaired committees. Martha Webster has been a resident of Palm Beach County for 48 years and a Village Resident for 18 years.

BOTTOM LINE: Martha has the experience we need...

ENDORSED BY COMMUNITY LEADERS Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches, Inc. Mayor David Stewart, Town of Lantana Mayor Pam Triolo, City of Lake Worth Vice Mayor Patti Waller, Village of Palm Springs Vice Mayor Kimberly Glas-Castro, Town of Lake Park

Commissioner Scott Maxwell, City of Lake Worth Commissioner Robert Gottlieb, Town of South Palm Beach

Commissioner Diane Walker, City of Pahokee Commissioner Allie Biggs, City of Pahokee

Commissioner Stella Jordan, Town of South Palm Beach Commissioner David Levy, City of Palm Beach Gardens Commissioner Lisa Tropepe, Town of Palm Beach Shores

Selena Smith, President of Royal Palm Beach Rotary Lynne Hubbard, former Councilwoman City of Riveria Beach

...Vote on March 11 for Martha Webster.

As Your Village of Royal Palm Beach Mayor... ; I will continue to be a strong advocate for fiscal responsibility and transparency in government. ; I will remain committed to keeping our community a safe, thriving and sustainable place to live. ; I promise the citizens of the Village that our Council will be conducted in a civil and productive manner.

To contact Martha or to make a contribution, please visit the website

www.marthawebster.org Martha@marthawebster.org Political advertisement paid for and approved by the Campaign of Martha Webster for Mayor of Royal Palm Beach.

“Martha has spent years representing the Village throughout the state. As a council member, she has helped the Village with economic growth, amended regulations on neighborhood restrictions, and aided in rezoning to accommodate families needs. Martha is fair, diplomatic, logical, and analytical. She will allow the resident voices to be heard.” – Selena Smith, President Royal Palm Beach Rotary

“It is with great pleasure I learned of your candidacy for Mayor of Royal Palm Beach. No other person is as well qualified with concern for the entirety of the town.”

– Stella Jordan, Commissioner Town of South Palm Beach

“Martha, you will definitely be an asset to Royal Palm Beach. You have always served the community well even before you decided to run for office. Working with you was always a true pleasure. Your dedication to self sufficiency and improving the quality of life for all was always first in your work. What an asset they have in you as a qualified, dedicated and committed public servant.” – Lynne Hubbard, former Councilwoman City of Riviera Beach

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 15

NEWS

Strong Second Half Carries Valiente To C.V. Whitney Cup Victory Valiente (Bob Jornayvaz, Santi Torres, Sapo Caset and Adolfo Cambiaso) broke open a tight game against Orchard Hill (Steve Van Andel, Santiago Chavanne, Pablo MacDonough and Matias MacDonough) with a strong fifth chukker that gave them a 12-8 lead — an edge Valiente held through a scoreless sixth chukker to win the 2014 C.V. Whitney Cup at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on Sunday, March 2. Behind the leadership of 10-goaler Cambiaso, who had been injured in semifinal action, Valiente was able to bust the game open, scoring seven times in the fourth and fifth chukkers. In a defensively oriented opening chukker, Cambiaso scored the only goal midway through the period for a humble 1-0 lead. Torres converted a 60-yard safety to open the second, 2-0.

Consecutive goals from Pablo MacDonough and his brother Matias MacDonough tied it up at 2-2. Caset broke the tie with a short penalty shot for a goal, 3-2, and Torres made it 4-2 on a great individual effort in the final seconds of the chukker. Van Andel scored for Orchard Hill to open the third, 4-3, but Cambiaso responded with a goal from the field for a 5-3 Valiente advantage. Chavanne kept the pressure on Valiente with the final goal of the period. Valiente continued to lead, but Orchard Hill was within a goal of the lead. Caset converted a 40-yard penalty shot for a goal to open the second half, followed by a goal from the field to make it 7-4. The MacDonough brothers responded in kind, with single goals from Pablo, then Matias to bring Orchard Hill to within one goal, 7-6.

Caset converted a penalty shot for a goal, and then Cambiaso added a goal from the field for Valiente to make the score 9-6. Pablo MacDonough scored on a 40-yard penalty shot to end the chukker trailing Valiente, 9-7. Valiente’s pace seemed to quicken in the fifth. Cambiaso scored back-to-back goals for a comfortable 11-7 lead. Matias MacDonough converted a 30-yard penalty shot to make it 11-8, but Caset countered with a penalty goal of his own. The period ended with Valiente on top, 12-8. Orchard Hill did everything they could to get back into the game in the final chukker, but there was no give by the Valiente defense. The two teams played without a score in the final chukker despite a number of near misses. When the final horn sounded, Valiente celebrated the 12-8 win.

Cambiaso and Caset led the Valiente attack with five goals each. Torres added a pair of goals for the victory and was named MVP. The MacDonough brothers scored three goals each. Van Andel and Chavanne each added a goal. Bob Jornayvaz’s horse, Boeing, received Best Playing Pony honors. In other action Sunday, Audi (Marc Ganzi, Gonzalito Pieres, Rodrigo Andrade and Gonzalo Del Tour) took the field against Flight Options (Grant Ganzi, Eduardo Astrada, Miguel Astrada and Alejandro Astrada) in a lineup that had Grant Ganzi replacing his mother, Melissa Ganzi. Flight Options won the match 11-10 to win the 2014 Les Armour Memorial Cup, the subsidiary of the C.V. Whitney Cup. The 2014 USPA Piaget Gold Cup is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. on Friday, March 7 with a game

Valiente is awarded the 2014 C.V. Whitney Cup last Sunday at the International Polo Club Palm Beach.

PHOTO BY ALEX PACHECO

between Alegria and Flight Options. A Saturday morning contest will feature Audi and Orchard Hill.

For more information, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

BLUEGRASS & BAR-B-QUE COMES TO FAIRGROUNDS’ YESTERYEAR VILLAGE

Colten and Trent Jackman try some old-fashioned bowling.

Volunteer Ruth Phillips looks on as Bianca Rosendahl pets Luna, a.k.a. Silly Filly.

Volunteers Joseph Rainey, service dog Tank and Sheridan Rainey.

Brando Boggs pets a pony in the petting zoo.

The Atlantic Bluegrass Band performs.

Ed Viera and Martine Rivard dance the West Coast Swing.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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NEWS

International Polo Club Hosts Event To Honor First Responders

The International Polo Club Palm Beach held a special salute Sunday, Feb. 23 for those who put their lives on the line every day. Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, who also serves as the state’s fire marshal, did the honors, along with IPC President John Wash. Atwater and Wash introduced firefighters and emergency medical techs from Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue. Officers from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office who serve Wellington and Royal Palm Beach were also acknowledged, as were representatives from Wounded Warriors of South Florida, which assists disabled veterans returning home.

The crowds in the sold-out stadium gave several standing ovations to these men and women who have served, and continue to serve, the community with distinction. The Veuve Clicquot/Gardens Mall Fashion on the Field winner was Pilar Matte, who won the day in a flowing white linen ensemble, sporting a white-onwhite embroidered crop top with a long, white pleated skirt. Her fashionable accessories included a bold, silver love necklace, an oversized, silver-linked watch and tortoise shell Oliver Peoples mirrored sunglasses. “Celebrity heads” entertained and amused polo enthusiasts

Veuve/Gardens Mall Fashion on the Field winner Pilar Matte.

while posing for photos. “Burt Reynolds,” ”Donald Trump” and “J.R. Ewing” sought out fashionforward ladies, while “Cher” and “Barbra Streisand” hugged and threw kisses to the gents. “Bill and Hillary Clinton” shook hands with guests and waved for the cameras. “Liza Minnelli” did a few cabaret-type kicks, while “David Letterman” was a good sport while iPhones flashed. Sunday Polo is the hottest ticket in town. Lawn seats, box seats and the popular Sunday Brunch & Polo package are selling out quickly. For more information, visit www.internationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687.

Florida CFO Jeff Atwater and IPC President John Wash with local heroes. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

Tom and Chiara Clark, Connie Muir, Jenny Nelson and Robert Muir.

“Celebrity heads” Liza Minnelli, Jack Nicholson, Lucile Ball, Sylvester Stallone and Kenny Rogers.

SANDA GANÉ EUROPEAN DAY SPA GIVES BACK TO GRANDMA’S PLACE IN RPB

The Sanda Gané European Day Spa in Wellington offered a range of special facials Monday, March 3 to benefit Grandma’s Place, an emergency shelter for children in Royal Palm Beach. Grandma’s Place provides a temporary home to children who have been PHOTOS BY JULIE UNGER/TOWN-CRIER removed from their homes by the court system because they have suffered abuse or neglect.

Representatives from Grandma’s Place and Sanda Gané European Day Spa with guests.

Patricia Morris performs a mini facial.

Maxine Turner and Sanda Gané with Karen Vaughan, Roxanne Jacobs and Michelle Poole of Grandma’s Place.

SEMIFINALS & FINALS | March 7th & 8th | 7:30 PM Come watch Wellington’s top talent compete for the $500 Grand Prize!

FREE Events

at the Wellington Amphitheater March 07 08 08 13 14 15 20 22 27 28 29 29

Wellington Idol: Semifinals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Wellington Idol: Finals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM The Wizard of Oz (PG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM Doo Wop Mob Tribute Concert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM The Book Thief (PG-13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Mark & Clark Dueling Pianos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM

April 03 04 05 05 10 12 12 17 19

Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Walking with Dinosaurs 2013 (PG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM “A Touch of Broadway” Musical Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Blues Brothers Soul Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 PM Food Truck Invasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM Green Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM 12100 Forest Hill Blvd | (561) 753-2484 For more information on FREE Amphitheater events scan the QR code to the left or visit wellingtonfl.gov.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

PALMS WEST PEOPLE

Page 17

Casey Whalen Earns Eagle Scout Award Wellington’s Annie Casey Whalen of Royal Palm Beach received his Eagle Scout award at a Court of Honor on Feb. 16 conducted at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center. Friends, family, village officials, representatives of the Boy Scouts of America Gulf Stream Council and troop leaders attended the celebration, including his parents, Kim and Steve Whalen. David Pantone, who was Whalen’s scoutmaster for the past seven years, presented him his award. Whalen honored his grandfather, Robert E. James, who earned his Eagle Scout rank in 1955, with a special pin. Casey, 17, a senior at Palm Beach Gardens High School, is a member of Troop 111, chartered by Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement (CAFCI) of Royal Palm Beach.

He has held several leadership positions within the troop and the Order of the Arrow, and is part of the OA ceremonies team. Whalen has also worked at Tanah Keeta, the Boy Scout camp in Tequesta. In order to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, Casey had to earn 21 merit badges and show leadership by planning, developing and completing a community service project. For his project, Casey decided to give back to his elementary school, H.L. Johnson, by building six garden beds complete with irrigation systems, wooden benches capped with flowerpots and an 8-foot picnic table with benches for the students and teachers to enjoy. The rank of Eagle Scout is earned by less than four percent of all youth who join Boy Scouts of America. Troop 111, provides all

Ruiz Honored By Make-A-Wish

Eagle Scout Casey Whalen new Eagle Scouts with a five-year Scout Association in honor of their membership in the National Eagle accomplishments.

RPB’s Amanda Ng Gets Help Organizing Children’s Miracle Network Fundraiser

When 11-year-old Amanda Ng of Cypress Trails Elementary School in Royal Palm Beach wanted to do a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network as reigning ambassador, she turned to her older brother and friends for help. Sixteen-year-old Alex Ng of Wellington High School recruited 16-year-old Sara Iman of Royal Palm Beach High School to coordinate the event with help from classmate Christie Porter. The three encouraged their parents to spread the word, and Julie Bryant of the Royal Palm Beach Quarters Auction made the Children’s Miracle Network its charity for the Feb. 19 event. The quarters auction benefits a different charity

each month and boasts more than 30 vendors who showcase their home-based businesses and help the cause for the evening. Iman and team recruited middle schoolers from Crestwood Middle School to help with the event, and relatives, neighbors and friends attended to help the cause. The event raised more than $860. To learn more about the Children’s Miracle Network, visit www.childrensmiraclenetwork hospitals.org. Businesses that would like to help should contact Ng or her mother, Sandi Ng, at ngvillageoo@gmail.com.

Navy Seaman Apprentice Cody M. Davis, son of Craig M. Davis of Royal Palm Beach and Theresa M. Low of Barstow, Calif., recently graduated from U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. Davis received the early promotion for outstanding performance during all phases of the training cycle. Training included classroom study and practical instruction on

naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness. The capstone event of boot camp is “Battle Stations,” which gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. Davis is a 2013 graduate of Barstow High School, Barstow, Calif.

Anthony Armeli Completes U.S. Air Force Training

Air Force Airman Anthony T. Armeli recently graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic

someone, have something or be something, that they are granted, at no cost to the family, to bring hope, strength and joy to those dealing with a child’s serious medical issue. Ruiz is the embodiment of that mission and more efficient at it than any other person in the local chapter’s history.

warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate’s degree in applied science through the Community College of the Air Force. Armeli is the son of Eileen and Anthony Armeli of Loxahatchee. He is a 2013 graduate of Seminole Ridge High School.

Tylar Kirkpatrick, a junior at the King’s Academy has been accepted into the Broadway Theatre Project summer internship program. Broadway Theatre Project has been acclaimed by Playbill.com as the world’s most prestigious musical theatre arts education program for high school and college students. It was founded in the late 1980s by Broadway and motion picture star Ann Reinking. Kirkpatrick was accepted from among hundreds of applicants and will be studying with some of the best in the business. She follows a great line of alumni who have been accepted into this program. Classes are held seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. The program endeavors to include technique classes from each musical theatre discipline every day. Students are also given the opportunity to sign up for private

Tylar Kirkpatrick vocal and acting lessons. The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade. Learn more at www.tka.net.

Council stop s Fluoridati on of Wellingto n Water

ominate d s n r e c n o c Developer eetings m l i c n u o C Wellington

Taxpayers foot the bill for Council therapy sessions.

Annie Ruiz with her husband, Claudio.

Kirkpatrick Accepted Into Broadway Theatre Project

(Right, L-R) Christi Porter, Amanda Ng, Alex Ng and Sara Iman.

Cody Davis Graduates From Navy Basic Training

Wellington resident Annie Ruiz was recently honored by Make-AWish Southern Florida for “Most Wishes Granted” in its 30-year history. Wish granters like Ruiz are volunteers who help determine what a child with a life-threatening medical condition wants to wish for and then they work with MakeA-Wish staff to fulfill the request. Ruiz has been the nonprofit’s point person on nearly 200 wishes since she began volunteering in 1995. To put the accomplishment in perspective, there are only 13 individuals in the chapter’s history who have granted half as many as Ruiz, with three of them just reaching the 100-wish milestone this year. Ruiz does most of her wish granting in Belle Glade, Pahokee and Clewiston in neighborhoods that other volunteers are reluctant to travel to. She often meets families at the local McDonalds, where they know her as the “wish lady,” and she is sometimes the only volunteer serving those communities. Make-A-Wish allows any medically eligible child to “make a wish,” to go somewhere, meet

$183,000 of taxpayer money – GONE for no reason

Wellington V Elected lead illage Council Dysfu er s unable nctional. to get along

TIRED

of seeing our tax dollars wasted?

CONCERNED

that our small town quality of life is in danger?

FED UP

THEN

with a small but vocal minority imposing their demands on our Village Council?

Meet Matt Kurit! MATT KURIT

MATT’S OPPONENT

Supports Fluoridation of Wellington water

Does not support Fluoridation of Wellington water

Believes our Village Council can get along without a therapist

Supports more taxpayer-funded Village Council “counseling sessions”

Believes in fiscal accountability

Sat silent on the Village Council as $183,000 of our tax money was wasted

JOIN THE CAMPAIGN: Email Matt at: MattKurit@gmail.com Like the campaign on Facebook: Matt Kurit for Village Council Or give Matt a call at (561) 909-6986

Pol. Adv. by PaidMatt for byKurit the Florida DemocraticVillage Party, 214 South Seat Bronough Political advertisement paid for andPd. approved for Wellington Council 3 Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301. The Florida Democratic Party endorses Sharon Lascola for Wellington Village Council, Seat 2, Matt Kurit for Wellington Village Council, Seat 3, and Rep. Mark Pafford for House District 86.

Page 18

March 7 - March 13, 2014

WES HOSTS BOOK FAIR AND SCIENCE NIGHT

On Monday, Feb. 10, Wellington Elementary School held its Scholastic Book Fair as well as Science Night. The South Florida Science Center was on hand with 20 interactive science activities, demos and experiments. The kids enjoyed dropping different size “meteorites” into a simulated moon terrain to measure crater size, observing and touching a Madagascar hissing cockroach, watching a volcano erupt and much more. Also on display were the students’ science projects. At the same time, the book fair was being held in the media center. Students and their families were able to purchase books, while the PTO sold pizza and ice cream.

HLJ Shred Event March 14

In honor of National Green Week, H.L. Johnson Elementary School in Royal Palm Beach is hosting a paper shredding fundraising on Friday, March 14. Although the event will take place from 7:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. for H.L. Johnson families, nonstudent families are encouraged to come after 8 a.m. and after 2:20 p.m. to avoid school pickup and drop-off traffic. For $5 per copy-paper-sized

box, members of the public can have sensitive documents destroyed securely on site while they wait. Proceeds will go to the school to purchase books. During National Green Week, H.L. Johnson students will be participating in other green events such as taking the pledge to love and protect the Earth, wearing green, bringing in a trash-free lunch, learning how to recycle and participating in a walking, reading and recycling triathlon.

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SCHOOL NEWS

SRHS Inducts New Honor Society Members

The Seminole Ridge High School chapter of the National Honor Society inducted new members in an evening ceremony Thursday, Feb. 13. Congratulations to this year’s honorary faculty inductees — phys ed teacher James Parson and mathematics teacher Martha Schanel — and to the student inductees: • Sophomores — Katie Abel, Myles Addison, Michael Anselmo, Shane Artiles, Sabrina Belizaire, Christian Bottliglieri, Rachel Collins, Richie Cotromano, Damian Cruz, Cara Engh, Nicholas Fah-Sang, Jade Fiegen, Stephanie Fischer, Ashlee Frame, C.J. Goodall, Madeline Harding, Benjamin Hoffman, Cameron Holt, Nicholas Koenig, Joshua Lojewski, Paisley Millhausen, Allison Murphy, Anna

Packard, Jessica Quiggle, Scarlett Roque, Joey Schergen, Christine Schergen, Jarrod Smiley, Kimberly Smith, Matthew Smith, Amanda Stewart, Jessica Terkovich, Dalton Trimble, Julissa Valiente, Macy Varnell, Sierra Wiener and Alyssa Williams. • Juniors — Sara Blair, Gianna Cannestro, Michael Davis, Kristine Francis, Landen Fresch, Gabi Garcia, Brooke Herron, Molly Hietapelto, Sabrina Kirmani, Dagnes Mosqueda, Daniel Parent, Alexa Perez, Jezebel Perez, Blake Selogy, Juhi Singh, Jared Sprague, Omesh Tiwari, Sydney Wilson and Sumner Young. • Seniors — Dalton Boccanfuso, Angelica Destefano, Alyssa Donawa, Cassandra Elliot, Daylee Fisher, Bradley Hargesheimer,

Courtney Johnson and Mark Meyer. SRHS Debaters at Harvard — The SRHS debate team earned honors in competition Feb. 15-16 at the annual Harvard University national invitational tournament. Jaqueline Campos placed in the quartile in dramatic interpretation, Landen Fresch and Erika Thompson achieved a 4-2 record in public forum and Wayne Selogy placed fourth in the nation in the Congressional tournament. French Honor Society Inducts New Members — The SRHS French Honor Society inducted new members Feb. 26. Congratulations to Nick Cassara, Patatricia Charleston, Samantha Cote, Michelle DeArmas, Ashley Foley, Emma Ingalls, Hope Ingalls,

Katya Kameka, Kathleen Miller, Lisa Nguyen, Hannah Persson, Rowan Pelfrey, Jared Richards, Caroline Rimel, Daniela Sanchez, Gabriella Santos, Gabrielle Sousa, Victor Stremel and Lindsey Sutherland. This year members chose social studies teacher Allan Gerfers, world languages teacher Georgina Martinez-Bot and dance teacher Erin Sinsley to be inducted. Envirothon Competition — Five Seminole Ridge students recently competed in the countywide Florida Envirothon. The Hawks placed first in “sustainable farming” and third overall. Congratulations to the enviro team of Jazmyn Brown, Gabi Garcia, John Little, Wayne Selogy and Sydney Shivers.

Western Pines Salutes Students Of The Month

The science department at Western Pines Middle School has nominated three students as Students of the Month representing the best in scholastics and character in each grade level. Principal Robert Hatcher is proud of each of these young ladies as they portray the best of everything at Western Pines. Sixth grader Giselle Vazquez is an excellent student in all of her classes. Vazquez is attentive and consistently offers to help both the teachers and other students whenever her help is needed. She is a great role model for others to follow.

Seventh grader Kendall Wright goes beyond what is required, even in her advanced classes. She is a natural leader and sets a wonderful example to other students. Wright’s grades are consistently exceptional, yet she remains humble and helpful. She is truly a model student. Finally, eighth grader Jessica Rigg maintains a high level in all academic areas. Rigg’s behavior, in and out of the classroom, is outstanding. She is a focused young lady even in times of distraction. Rigg is always willing to help her teachers and other students.

WPMS Principal Robert Hatcher with Giselle Vazquez, Kendall Wright and Jessica Rigg.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Frontier’s Safety Patrol Helps Nonprofit

Over the last three months, the Frontier Elementary School safety patrol has been collecting buttons from all classes. “Our patrols collected over 10 pounds of buttons to donate to Hugs and Kisses Inc. on Valentine’s Day,” safety patrol co-coordinator Sherrie Dulany said. Hugs and Kisses is a nonprofit charity that raises funds to be used by local cancer patients in financial need for day-to-day living expenses. “The buttons will be used by Hugs and Kisses to make bracelets. These bracelets are sold by the charity,” safety patrol co-co-

ordinator Olga Vidal explained. The money helps cancer patients focus on treatment and getting better, rather than having them worry about bills that may be adding up. Donating to Hugs and Kisses is the third service project Frontier Elementary’s safety patrols have organized to help people in the community.

March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 19

NEW HORIZONS STUDENTS EXPLORE OTHER CULTURES

(Right) Falyn Bell, co-coordinator Olga Vidal, Leonardo Caputo and co-coordinator Sherrie Dulany with some of the donated buttons.

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz Visits King’s Academy

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (center) with members of the TKA High School Political Science Club.

The King’s Academy welcomed U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) to campus recently as part of the school’s “Read the Most from Coast to Coast” kickoff rally. After meeting with the school’s High School Political Science Club and taking questions from students, Cruz was introduced to more than 400 elementary students, where he read Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham. “The senator could not have been more gracious in coming to speak to the TKA Political Science Club,” said senior Charlie Hobbs, president of the club. “He spoke with unbridled passion, relevance and expertise. His words and the lessons he conveyed will impact us for years to come.”

Elementary Principal Heath Nivens commented on the impact of having a nationally recognized figure encourage the students in kindergarten through sixth grades. “Sen. Cruz did an amazing job of reminding our kids of the importance of reading as we kicked off ‘Read the Most from Coast to Coast,’” he said. “The way he connected with the kids by relating how he reads each night to his daughters was very effective, and his sitting down to read Green Eggs and Ham was a fun and engaging way to do that.” The King’s Academy is a nationally recognized private Christian school serving approximately 1,200 students from preschool through 12th grade.

Sacred Heart School Dedicates Academy

Sacred Heart School dedicated the William B. Finneran Montessori Academy of Sacred Heart with a ribbon cutting and blessing by Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito on Monday, Feb. 24. The academy is named after longtime Palm Beach resident and Sacred Heart School benefactor William B. Finneran. Finneran has been a strong supporter of Sacred Heart School in Lake Worth. The school was on the verge of closing until Finneran and other Palm Beach philanthropists lent their support and resources. The ceremony featured the William B. Finneran Montessori of Sacred Heart’s kindergarten and pre-kindergarten classes singing several songs, Isabel Quinones reading a thank-you note for Finneran, the blessing by Bishop

Barbarito and a luncheon. In attendance were longtime Palm Beach residents Carol Rohrig, Howard Levy, Nancy Ross and Richard Schmeelk. Founded on Montessori principles and infused with Catholic values, school provides a nurturing environment for the spiritual and intellectual development of students. Each child’s unique abilities are honored as they learn to meet the challenges of their formative years with confidence and creativity. Students experience a child-centered program that has at its core a profound respect for the individual child. For more information about Sacred Heart School, call (561) 582-2242 or visit at 410 North M Street in Lake Worth.

Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito, William B. Finneran and Candace Tamposi at the dedication ceremony.

During the month of February, New Horizons Elementary School students learned about other cultures. Fah Davidson’s kindergarten class journeyed to China by reading books about China, sampling Chinese noodles with chopsticks, learning a Chinese counting song, greeting each other with a resounding “Gung Hay Fat Choy!” (Happy New Year) and marching in a lion parade to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Second-grade students read books, researched their ancestor’s countries, dressed in traditional costumes, created passports and traveled through Ellis Island in the Media Center. Students experienced the immigrant’s perspective as Media Specialist Jean Robbins and parent volunteers guided them through various entry stations and welcomed them to the United States. Pictured here are Edie Tetrualt and her second-grade class with Robbins and parent volunteers traveling to Ellis Island.

CASANOVA-SILVA TAKES SECOND IN SCIENCE FAIR

Renaissance Charter School at Palms West fourth-grade student Rafael Casanova-Silva (shown here in the center) was honored recently for his accomplishment in the Charter Schools USA Regional Science Fair. Casanova-Silva won second place for his science fair project, “Dry Ice Boo Bubbles.” He learned that bubbles made of dry ice were stronger than other bubbles because they were made of carbon dioxide. He was awarded a silver medal and a $50 gift certificate to Walmart.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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FEATURES

I’m Generally Very Lucky, But I Haven’t Won The Lottery... Yet

I think I may have to quit playing the lottery. I’ve been playing it for years and, frankly, it is just not working out. I mean, I have never gotten more than one number right. Ordinarily, I am a very lucky person. I’m lucky in life, and I’m lucky with games of chance. The first scratch-off anyone ever bought for me was good for $100. I win at bingo all the time. And I once hit it so big on a slot machine at a casino that they had to come over with a bucket and refill the machine because I’d emptied it of all its coins and it still owed me. I’m lucky.

Deborah Welky is

The Sonic BOOMER But I can’t win the lotto, not even a little bit. In the beginning, I assigned a letter to each number because, you know, I’m a letters person. That only got me to 26 so I watched to see how often all the winning

numbers landed between 1 and 26. Not often. But I was able to spell out 9-12-15-225-21 or I-love-U, which I definitely would have had those numbers ever come up. They didn’t. Plus, there were probably too many other marginally creative people doing the same thing, and I didn’t want to have to split the pot. Remarkably, the biggest Powerball jackpot in history was won by a woman who lived in a trailer just 20 miles from my other house in North Florida. The minute the news was out, I ran right over there to see if she wanted to be my friend.

No luck there, either. But I’m chalking that up as a near miss. I might have to go out and get myself a lucky talisman of some sort. I don’t like the idea of a rabbit’s foot — unlucky for both me and the rabbit. Four-leaf clovers are pretty difficult to find — I know because I spent half my youth looking for them. And I don’t want to have to lug a horseshoe around in my purse, either. Maybe, since I’m lucky, I will simply invent the latest thing in talismans. One hefty win and everybody will be carrying one. It would have to be something that fits in my purse, is light in weight and would be

fairly easy to replace if stolen. Ooh, ooh, I’ve got it! The lucky talisman no one will steal — a crumpled Kleenex. Who’d risk bird flu to take it? Nobody! And if I set it discreetly next to me on bingo night, no one would be the wiser. That’s it — My Lucky Kleenex. Did you know I once won free Chicken McNuggets for a year by guessing how many sauce packets were in a water jug? They gave me a punch card good for two servings a week. Six months later, I accidentally threw out the punch card with my tray liner. Unlucky? Probably not. But I’ll have to be way more careful with my Kleenex.

Few Surprises As Hollywood Stars Gather For The Oscar Party

Trying to make sense of the Oscars is an exercise in futility. There have been a host of great movies that won nominations and fell to lesser films (think of Saving Private Ryan losing to Shakespeare in Love) or cases where they did not even get nominated (Singing in the Rain in the year The Greatest Show on Earth won; Vertigo not getting nominated when Gigi won). There are many anomalies, but since we had a pretty decent year for films in 2013, none of the movies coming in was a sure thing. Leaders going in were Gravity, a visual treat; American Hustle, a delicious ensemble dramedy; and 12 Years a Slave, an important movie about a difficult subject. Host Ellen DeGeneres put it nicely: “Possibility No. 1: 12 Years a Slave wins Best Picture. Possibility No. 2: You’re all racists.” Cute. Of course, as it turned out, American Hustle was shut out and Gravity collected more awards than any other film (7). But

‘I’ On CULTURE By Leonard Wechsler 12 Years a Slave won for Best Picture, a good compromise. Gravity, which won for Best Director and just about all the visual effects and editing awards, was a fabulous movie using all the finest techniques of filmmaking. But it lacked the kind of gravitas (pardon the pun) that Oscar voters prefer. Further, since Director Steve McQueen of 12 Years A Slave was also a producer of the film, it gave him a chance to speak and thank everyone. It was a nice touch. The acting awards were a bit boring in

that the actors who everyone predicted would win actually did pick up the trophies. Cate Blanchett, who was brilliant in Blue Jasmine, gave a wonderfully gracious speech, thanking all those who’ve given her support and supplying a plug for Australian actors. Matthew McConaughey of Dallas Buyers Club gave a peculiar speech that was really hard to follow at close to midnight. Surprising no one, Jared Leto won for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Dallas Buyers Club. When you combine several popular topics — gays, transsexuals and AIDS — along with a superb bit of acting, a win should be expected. His acceptance speech, focusing not only on his family but on world events, was one of the nicest. Lupita Nyong’o from 12 Years a Slave was clearly a popular choice, and her words comparing her joy at being celebrated with the torment of the person she played was lovely. There were many

good nominees in these categories, but these two gave particularly memorable performances. My favorite winners were Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez who won for best song “Let It Go” from Frozen. They rhymed their thank-you speech and seemed to really be having a great time. No one would be surprised if they showed up again. The show, as usual, ran on longer than expected. I am not certain why the producers had Pink singing “Over The Rainbow” in a 75th anniversary tribute to The Wizard of Oz, not that I ever really mind hearing the song. My biggest complaint is there were far too many awards shown. The Academy presented Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin, Angelina Jolie and a host of science/tech types awards separately. The show would be far better if awards like Best Hair and Makeup were given separately as well. People watch to see

the stars. A shorter, tighter show would get all of us to bed earlier… and probably happier. I could probably try writing a couple of paragraphs on the clothes the stars wore, but, frankly, I have no interest. Watching DeGeneres using her considerable charm on the stars was amusing, although it did lengthen the show. The movie business can now turn to publicizing the big new movies and stop spreading nasty rumors and complaints about each other. The rise of social media has made that much easier. In the long run, will anyone really remember who won the awards this year? Hollywood people and the gossips will remember and gush, but how many of you remember that Argo won last year? For a week, some will discuss the dresses, and then we’ll start preparing for the big movies of the summer. Sic transit gloria (how quickly the glory departs).

Art Society To Feature Photographer Durga Garcia

The Wellington Art Society will meet Wednesday, March 12 at the Wellington Community Center. The meeting will feature a demonstration by photographer Durga Garcia. A meet-and-mingle will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a raffle and the member spotlight. The general meeting begins at 7 p.m. with the presentation and demo to follow. Guests are welcome for a $5 fee. Garcia is a published, internationally shown, award-winning photographer of fine art images and portraits. Her images are in numerous public and private collections. Based in South Florida, she is a freelance professional photographer of projects, art for artists and portraits, with several long-term projects and books to her credit. Garcia brings an uncommon background to her pictures, with a past that has had her living in many countries and across America, working as a racehorse trainer, steeplechase jockey, equine veterinary paramedic, certified art appraiser, yoga teacher and member of the U.S. International Pistol Team.

Garcia has parlayed her years of experience as a certified art appraiser into a special talent for conveying those nuanced details. “I strive to make an image that people want to look at closely. To notice subtle nuances, created with light and shadows,” she said. “My fine art images rarely show identity, have a timeless quality, with often the unexpected, gestures, textures, emotions and are hopefully thought-provoking.” Learn more about her work at www.durgagarcia.com. The current WAS Member Art Show at the Gallery at City Hall features 17 artists and 36 works of art. Wellington and the Wellington Art Society will host a “Celebrate Creativity” artists’ reception on Tuesday, March 25, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Gallery at City Hall. The WAS Member Art Show continues through April 30. The new WAS Members’ Art Showcase, beginning March 11 at the Wellington Community Center’s lower level, is sure to inspire people of all ages. A wide variety of mediums and techniques reveal the creative artistic expressions and mastery of members. The

showcase will continue through mid-June. The Wellington Community Center displays original works that are available for sale and are rotated every three months. The Wellington Art Society is a nonprofit organization that works

to educate and encourage originality and productivity among its members and area youth through programs designed to further the advancement of cultural endeavors in Palm Beach County. For more information, visit www.wellington artsociety.org.

OBITUARY

Bob Cornley Dies At Age 53

Bob Cornely, 53 of Loxahatchee, passed away suddenly on Feb. 23 as the result of injuries he sustained from a motorcycle accident on State Road 7. Cornely was born May 13, 1960 in Pennsylvania and raised in South Florida. He graduated from Boca Raton High School in 1978 and attended Florida State University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in 1982. He is survived by his loving wife Shawni Cornely, children Cody Cornely and Laurel Cornely, sister Gail Guy-Scott (Mike), and many of nieces and nephews that he adored; Zachary Guy, Hayley Guy, Jolie Hake and Aubry Tellez.

Bob Cornely Cornely’s great passions were his family, comic book art, advertising, history, swimming, the Florida State University football team and his cats. A memorial service was held at Palms West Funeral Home on Friday, Feb. 28.

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NEWS

Hanley Center’s Annual Family Picnic Returns Sunday

With a blue-ribbon line-up including VIP seats for worldclass equestrian show jumping, animal encounters, crafts, a kid-themed silent auction and a family-focused luncheon, the Hanley Center’s Annual Family Picnic will gallop into its 19th year of raising money for substance

Dan and Lisa Thomas with children Jack and Whitney.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILA PHOTO

FDOT

Southern Blvd. Project

continued from page 1 lanes to provide better visibility. Bus bays are proposed for the two existing bus stops. Crosswalk markings are also planned. At the A Road intersection, an eastbound left-turn lane will be provided to accommodate left turns and U-turns. At the B Road and F Road intersections, the eastbound left-

Letters

continued from page 4 of the Wellington Village Council has a good mixture of personalities and ideas, and I believe represents most Wellington residents. Why make a change solely because of a very small group of individuals that tries to control the council, claiming they represent far more residents than they do? Not all seniors are Democrats or union members, or ever were union members. All seniors should be aware of how they are truly represented as seniors solely and not included as a number to benefit a political party — either party. I am a senior. I worked for more than 44 years, serving in the Marines during the Korean War. I’m a 38-year member of an organized labor union, an organizer, registered Democrat and disappointed that our once-great democracy is now becoming a “give me” nation where it is possible for socialism to become more dominant. Lee LeAndro Wellington

Mattioli’s Time Is Up

When is the last term the last term? That is something that I would like Matty Mattioli to explain to everyone here in the Village of Royal Palm Beach. Four years ago, he said that he wanted to have one term as mayor for all the years of service he gave sitting on the council. The voters gave it to him and he muddled through. Then, two years later, he said he wanted one more term and then he was done. This term was an embarrassment to the residents of the village, especially those he called out publicly at meetings during the last two years. Now here he is again, asking for one more term again, and I have to ask at what cost to the village? More embarrassments, more harassing the public and more spending with no accountability? No, not this time; it is time for a change. The village deserves a mayor with a professional, experienced approach. Someone who knows the village and the residents, who can give some leadership. Martha Webster gave five years of dedicated service to the village and has earned the opportunity to serve. I will be voting for Martha for some very solid reasons. She is the only candidate who can tell you what she will do, how she can do it, what to expect and backs what she knows with figures. The other two ladies will tell you what they think should be done, but offer no plan, no experience and no answers. Yes, it is time for some real change: no more confusing meetings, holding your breath at what might be said or done. No more guessing at what the council is doing, because there is no discussion of items, and how decisions that affect the residents are made. It’s time for Martha Webster! Marcia Berwick Royal Palm Beach

Re-Elect Mayor Matty Mattioli

I have been a resident of Royal

abuse prevention efforts in local schools on Sunday, March 9. Held under a ringside tent at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, the benefit offers the perfect opportunity for families to come together for a day of fun — a key activity for preventing future substance abuse, according to Hanley Center Foundation CEO Dr. Rachel Docekal. “We know that spending time with your children today helps you stay connected tomorrow,” Docekal said. “Kids in families who don’t eat dinner together are more likely to use tobacco, alcohol and drugs. We are so grateful to this event’s great leadership of all ages, and we hope families will see the picnic event as the perfect opportunity to spend a really fun day together and reinforce that family time is time well spent, all while benefiting an important cause.” The Family Picnic committee is led by chairmen Lisa and Dan

Thomas, with child chairmen, Jack and Whitney; co-chairmen Denise Groo and Val Perez; honorary chairmen Dorothy and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, with honorary child chairmen and grandsons, Landon Branch and Noah LoFaso; and honorary media chairwomen Roxanne Stein of WPTV NewsChannel 5 and Deena Lang of 97.9 WRMF. The Hanley Center is a nonprofit residential substance abuse treatment center established by the Hanley family as a community resource nearly 30 years ago. Mary Jane and Jack Hanley started with the goal of bringing quality substance abuse treatment to the southeast. The community rallied behind them to initially build the Hanley Center, and it has become a vital community pillar and national trailblazer for the recovery industry in the years since. The Hanley Center has led the treatment industry as a pioneer, with older adult and boomer programs setting a hallmark for effective

treatment and the industry standard for treating those populations today. Now part of the Caron Treatment Centers network, Caron and Hanley comprise one of the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit addiction treatment providers in the country, focused on a 12-Step recovery program with a powerful clinical component. For more information on the Caron and Hanley Treatment Centers, or future local events, call (561) 841-1048 or visit www. hanleycenter.org. Tickets to the Family Picnic are $195 for adults (18 and over), $50 per child (7-17 years of age), and children 6 and under are free. For more information about the picnic or Hanley prevention programming, visit www.hanleycenterfoundation.org. If you wish to purchase tickets or reserve a table, contact the Hanley Center Foundation’s Special Events Team at events@hanleycenter.org or (561) 841-1048.

turn lanes off of Southern Blvd. will be offset from the opposing left-turn lanes to provide better visibility. In coordination with Palm Tran, two potential bus stops were evaluated for Palm Tran Route 40 at both intersections. High-emphasis crosswalk markings are also proposed. A recorded presentation pointed out that FDOT rules mandate a minimum distance for driveway connections, median openings and traffic signals on highways such as Southern Blvd (State Road 80); full median openings can be spaced every 2,640 feet, while directional median openings can

be spaced every 1,320 feet. As part of the study, the roadway was reviewed for compliance with the spacing criteria, and two locations do not currently meet the required spacing. The first is located at 210th Terrace and the second is between C Road and D Road. To improve access and safety along the corridor, median modifications are proposed at those two locations. The existing full median opening at the entrance to Palms West Plaza is only 600 feet away from the full median opening at D Road, much less than the 2,640 feet required. The existing full median

opening at Palms West Plaza will be converted to an eastbound median directional opening, and a new westbound directional median opening is proposed just west of the plaza opening. Eastbound vehicles would be able to enter the plaza through the converted median opening. Vehicles leaving the plaza to go east would have to turn right and go west to a new U-turn opening. Resident Ken Johnson asked about installing a traffic light at D Road, but Leung said a study was conducted and the traffic count was far below warranting a traffic light there.

Palm Beach for less than two years. My wife and I specifically selected Royal Palm Beach after living the previous 12 years in a northern United States county where more than 200 officials and government contractors had been convicted of corruption during our tenure there. We lived in a municipality where the city fathers have yet to meet a tax they can’t increase — resulting in the highest tax rates in the state. So when I met Mayor Matty Mattioli and he told me that he will never support a tax increase in Royal Palm Beach, I was thrilled. Needless to say, honest government with a stable tax rate and a really safe neighborhood were very important considerations in selecting a place to live in Florida. Matty Mattioli has pledged to never raise our taxes. He hasn’t voted for a tax increase in 20 years. His promises are based on a 20year track record. We can take his word to the bank. Also important to us are municipal services. When we were negotiating to buy our home, I asked about services like garbage collection. I learned that garbage is collected twice a week as part of the services Royal Palm Beach provides its residents. Not only is it collected twice a week, but anything you can put at the curb is hauled away. In Ohio, garbage was collected once a week and you had to make special arrangements, and pay a fee, to have anything hauled away that would not fit in a garbage can or typical garbage bag. Matty Mattioli was on the village council when the decision was made to turn garbage collection over to Republic Services, a company that does a fantastic job, as far as I am concerned. We also learned that the city fathers (and mothers) in Royal Palm Beach made a decision several years ago to turn public protection in Royal Palm Beach over to the highly professional Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. I sleep better at night knowing that a deputy sheriff resides two doors from me and his marked cruiser is parked in the driveway. Matty Mattioli was a leader in the movement to make our neighborhoods safer. That is why the police and fire unions support him. In addition to all the above, we have here in Royal Palm Beach a public park system that any city of any size is hard-pressed to match. My wife and I attended West Fest last weekend and just marveled at the outstanding public asset that this incumbent government has created. Mattioli was a prime mover in the creation of this magnificent Commons Park. As a resident and business owner, the future direction of Royal Palm Beach is very important to us. We are fortunate to have strong leadership and good government in this city. The elected officials have done a marvelous job of keeping our little piece of paradise a fantastic place to live. I urge support in next week’s municipal election for Matty Mattioli. He has served this village in an exemplary fashion for 20 years. He was a driving force in all of the positive developments I describe above.

Public service is not new to Matty. As a young man, he volunteered and earned his stripes in World War II as a member of our “greatest generation.” He spent a career working and supporting his family. He has lived in Royal Palm Beach for more than 30 years. He has been part of the leadership of this community for two decades. If you strip away the campaign rhetoric and bluster, all three of his opponents say basically the same thing: I am going to do what Matty has been doing. Each opponent puts a slightly different spin on it, but that is the basic message. As for me, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. Re-elect Matty Mattioli. I like my low taxes, excellent public services and safe neighborhood. I will vote for this honest, capable leader who has helped make Royal Palm Beach what it is today — one of the greatest places to live in the USA. Dan Splain Royal Palm Beach

complex issues. Citizens need to demand specific platforms on which they can make informed election decisions. Joseph Manning Wellington

Demand Answers From Challengers

Having just received the political fliers from Sharon Lascola and Matt Kurit, I am left with the question as to why I should vote for either, displacing known elements on the Wellington Village Council. Specifically, one major thing I was looking for from these newcomers in their communication was what they have done for the village during their residency; in the case of Sharon, 25 years. I want to know what experience they have had in leadership, leading a diverse group of individuals with very far-ranging opinions. I want to know what their skills are in conflict resolution, and specifically how they have negotiated compromise. I hope that in the closing days of the campaign, our Wellington citizens will demand more than being fed pabulum and promise that one individual can hardly deliver, assuming you can figure out exactly what they are indeed promising. If Sharon wants to say “no” to excessive commercial development, what commercial development will she says “yes” to? Who does she include when she says she will put the “we” back in Wellington? Who is not “we” now and who will the “we” be if she is elected? She wants to make the council “more accountable” under her leadership and to stop “wasteful spending?” What wasteful spending is she talking about? Does she want to stop development of a senior center? And how much does this “wasteful spending” represent in our current budget? Matt certainly also needs to curtail his political speak. When he says he wants to give “us” a voice on the village council, who is the “us” he refers to? And who does he think put our council members on the current and past councils? What development does he intend to stop, and how does he intend on doing so? Let’s get some real answers from all our candidates, and let’s stop believing that those with little or no experience can lead us through resolution of very

RPB Mayoral Forum Was Informative

As a resident of Royal Palm Beach for more than 30 years, I can say that I was pleasantly surprised with the recent mayoral forum. Unable to be there in person, I watched the entire event on TV and felt it was quite informative, as it relates to the candidates, as well as shining some light on some of the issues facing our community. All four candidates handled themselves well, though in my mind one stood out above the rest. Upon its ending, it was very clear to me that it is indeed time for a change — new blood, new ideas, new energy to move the city forward. While I expected to learn something more about the candidates, I didn’t expect to come away thinking there are some serious issues facing Royal Palm Beach that I didn’t feel were being adequately addressed. For instance, who knew we had problems at Royal Palm Beach High School relating to its condition and quality of education? All I can say is that needs to be made a priority, because one of the metrics used to value our community is the quality of our schools; so goes the schools, so goes our property values. Secondly, regarding the Madrid Street connection to State Road 7, not having it open is a disservice to residents, as well as other provided services (such as fire-rescue and police). This connection would not only save thousands of residents commute time, but also give services the ability to move through Royal Palm Beach more efficiently. Commons Park is our gem! It was a shock to learn the park’s maintenance cost exceed $500,000 per year with no revenue coming in. I didn’t hear our sitting mayor provide any solutions to this serious yearly financial drain. Somebody has to figure out how to close that money pit fast! Regarding no tax increases, Royal Palm Beach needs to generate revenue somehow; stop bragging about “no taxes” and start finding solutions that will increase our tax base. If you don’t want to raise taxes on residents, then we need more smart commercial development. One way to accomplish this is to open State Road 7 to Northlake Blvd.; it will bring cars and people through our community who, if we provide a good setting, will stop and spend their money with us. If these problems are to be solved, we need to make sure we elect people who will work for us, not just for elections. I’ve highlighted four problems facing Royal Palm Beach. In my opinion, there is only one candidate who has the experience, ability, decorum and fortitude to get the job done. For those of you who need a hint, think dictionary. Peter ReJune Royal Palm Beach

March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 23

STRATHMORE GATE WEST MAYORAL FORUM

Strathmore Gate West in Royal Palm Beach hosted a mayoral forum on Sunday, Feb. 23. The four candidates — incumbent Mayor Matty Mattioli and challengers Laurel Bennett, Felicia Matula and Martha Webster — came out to meet Strathmore Gate homeowners first hand.

Sober

State Might Change The Rules

continued from page 1 often use covert means to avoid needing a business tax license. “They realized that if they don’t provide a service, they don’t fall under the rules,” he said. “We found some of them on the web and said, ‘You are offering a service. It says on your website, with a picture of the house.’A day later, the picture on the website is gone. They’ve figured out the game.” Councilwoman Anne Gerwig was present at the meeting and said she understood residents’ frustrations. “We want people to be able to recover, but we don’t want it affecting our neighborhoods,” she said. “But we can’t do anything. Our hands are tied.” Though many residents expressed concern that the sober homes would lead to more crime, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Eli Shaivitz said there hasn’t been a spike in crime tied to the homes. “Crime in Wellington peaked between 2008 and 2009,” he said. “Since 2009, in Wellington, crime has been on the decline.” He said if residents of a sober house are committing crimes, the

Coates

Seeking Re-Election To Seat 3

continued from page 9 Gerwig, also up for re-election, is unfair. “There have been many times when I have not voted with Anne on key issues,” Coates said. “Lots of times we voted the same, but

Kurit

Challenging Coates For Seat 3

continued from page 9 vote based on the amount of money a candidate has raised. “Residents will vote based on how they feel about a candidate,” he said. “I’m pretty comfortable with the amount of money I’ve raised locally. It’s more difficult when you’re not the incumbent.” He said that although his work

Gerwig

Seeking Re-Election To Seat 2

continued from page 8 Coates, who is also running for re-election, is not true. “Howard has always been on his own, and so have I,” she said. “I have always looked at things on their merits, and Howard and I don’t always agree. Even when we do agree, it’s for different reasons. Either way, I’m not on a slate with anyone.” While she is also perceived as being close to Bellissimo and other equestrian interests, Gerwig called that an unfair assessment. “I’ve done everything the same

Blotter

continued from page 6 cles, and then flee with a bucket in his hand. The suspect was described as a tall white male with a dirty blonde ponytail, wearing a long-sleeved shirt and dark shoes. There was no further information available at the time of the report. MARCH 4 — A Wellington man was arrested Tuesday on drug charges following an incident on Northumberland Circle. According to a PBSO report, at approximately 2:20 a.m., 32-yearold Eric Reissfelder and another man were sitting in a vehicle on

PBSO can and will arrest them. “It doesn’t matter where they live,” he said. Further, he said, most of Wellington’s crime comes from perpetrators who live outside Wellington’s boundaries, not from sober homes. Cohen said that Wellington is looking into ways to control the homes as best it can. “We recognize it’s a balancing act between interest of community and interests of those with a disability,” she said. “We are trying to address this in a nondiscriminatory manner, because that’s what we’re required to do.” Stillings said this may include stepping up code enforcement. “A code enforcement officer can only cite a home if they see something,” he said. “We need residents to step up and make complaints.” Village staff is also drafting an ordinance that would define sober houses under village code. Stillings also noted that there are two bills currently before the Florida Legislature that would allow for regulation of sober houses. House Bill 0479 and Senate Bill 0582 are currently in committee review. Stillings encouraged residents to reach out to their state representatives and urge them to pass the bills. “They need to hear from you,” he said. for very different reasons.” He said voters should vote for him if they want stability and consistency on the council. “Business wants that, the people want that in code enforcement, the people want that in the amenities we are providing,” Coates said. “I think I am someone who has been very consistent in my views in how we deal with business, how we deal with code compliance and how we provide services to our community.” schedule has been hectic of late, his job would not affect his ability to serve. “I did have to go to New Jersey for part of the campaign for a leadership conference,” he said. “I think it’s something that will benefit all residents.” Ultimately, Kurit said he would be a representative who acts in the best interest of residents. “I will do what is in the best interest of all citizens, work to maintain a small-town atmosphere and make sure we’re doing what we can to help our schools,” he said. “It’s something I’m very passionate about.” as I would with other projects,” she said. “I don’t have a personal relationship with Mark Bellissimo any more than I do with any other entity in Wellington.” Asked about large amounts of outside money spent in the 2012 election, she said she believed local control should be the basis of local government. “People don’t feel good about it, and they shouldn’t,” she said. Gerwig has been dismayed by the influx of partisan money in the current election, pointed out that the municipal election is nonpartisan by law. “To me, the issues that we deal with have nothing to do with partisan issues,” she said. Gerwig said voters should vote for her because she has done a good job serving their needs. “I’m very proud of my record,” she said. the street when a deputy observed Reissfelder throw an unknown object out the driver’s door. The deputy observed it to be a pill bottle and picked it up. According to the report, inside the bottle were several pills that were not listed on the prescription. The pills included diazepam, alprazolam and hydrochloride, which Reissfelder did not have a prescription for. He was arrested and taken to the Palm Beach County Jail, where he was charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription.

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Saturday Night Lights at the FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival January 8 - March 30, 2014

$280,000 FEI World CupTM CSI-W 4* presented by The Bainbridge Companies Saturday, March 8, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Gates Open at 6:00 PM Free General Admission. $20/car Parking.

Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center 3400 Equestrian Club Drive, Wellington, FL 33414 | 561.793.5867 | www.equestriansport.com EquestrianSportProdTCRD3_7.indd 1

2/28/14 12:41 PM

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The Perfect Match Polo and Brunch

Experience the energy of world-class polo and brunch at the International Polo Club. Delicious food, champagne, celebrity sightings, music, fashion and, of course, polo. Every Sunday at 3 p.m. through April 20 The Pavilion opens at 2 p.m.

Join us at The Pavilion for the after-party from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For ticket options, please visit InternationalPoloClub.com or call 561.204.5687.

3667 120th Avenue South Wellington, Florida 33414

Photography by LILA PHOTO

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Get Ready For Quarter Horse Show At Jim Brandon

Mark April 12 and 13 on your calendar. That’s when there will be another introductory Quarter Horse show at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. “This will be a great way for people to try out a Quarter Horse show and see what it’s like,” Show Secretary Melissa Bausman said. Ellen Rosenberg’s Column, Page 29

March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 27

Wellington Baseball Defeats Seminole Ridge 2-1

The fifth-ranked Seminole Ridge High School varsity baseball squad traveled to Wellington on Friday, Feb. 28 in a muchanticipated matchup between the rival teams. The Hawks fell to the Wolverines 2-1 in a nail-biter. The Wolverines are 3-3 on the season, while the Hawks are 5-3 on the season. Page 37

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Wellington Dentist Dr. Laurence Grayhills Named AGD Fellowship Program Director

Professional Massage Therapy and Facials

Wellington dental practitioner Dr. Laurence Grayhills and University of Florida College of Dentistry faculty member Dr. Stephen Howard have been named directors of the University of Florida College of Dentistry Fellowship Program. The program is a continuing education series created for dental school students by the Academy of General Dentistry. Page 31

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Wellington Girls Lacrosse Defeats Palm Beach Central

The Wellington High School girls varsity lacrosse team hosted rival Palm Beach Central High School on Feb. 25 in a match for local bragging rights. The Wolverines handily defeated the Broncos 18-2. Wellington provided scoring from ten different players. Palm Beach Central did battle back on occasion. Page 37

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welcome to tHe fti consulting winter equestrian festival held at the Main Grounds at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center

January 8 - March 30, 2014 Join Us Every Wednesday through Sunday to Experience Equestrian Sport at Its Best! Watch Horses and Riders Compete in a Variety of Settings and Enjoy a Day at PBIEC.

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

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Take a Lunch & Tour See the world-renowned equestrian competition, vendors, stables and various venues that Palm Beach International Equestrian Center has to offer, followed by a catered lunch with your group. Equestrian Lunch & Tours are available by appointment Wednesday through Sunday during the WEF season.

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Get Ready For Intro Quarter Horse Show At Jim Brandon Mark the dates on your calendar: April 12 and 13. That weekend, there will be another open introductory Quarter Horse show at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center. “This will be a great way for people to try out a Quarter Horse show and see what it’s like,” Show Secretary Melissa Bausman said. “There are many open classes, which means the horse can be any breed at all. Only the Novice Amateur and Novice Youth classes allow riders to earn AQHA points, which require AQHA-registered horses. But there are lots of classes for riders of all ages and abilities. This would be a great show for someone just starting out in their showing career, or for a young horse to gain some miles, both English and Western.” The show fees are reasonable: $10 per class, a $5 office fee, $5 processing fee for American Quarter Horse Association classes, or a $100 flat fee for the whole show, which includes an overnight stall. Besides offering a fun show at a nice venue, Bausman said it will be a way of finding out if there’s enough interest in bringing Quarter Horse shows back to the area. “We hope people will come out and give it a try and see what it’s all about,” Bausman said. “Maybe we’ll just offer more Quarter Horse introductory shows or special events,

Get updates all week long... follow Ellen Rosenberg on Twitter at twitter.com/HorseTalkFL or stop by the Tales from the Trails page on Facebook and click “like.”

Tales From The Trails By Ellen Rosenberg or maybe we can bring a regular circuit show back to this area.” Years back, there were Quarter Horse shows in the area. I remember showing in them at the old South Florida Fairgrounds, tying horses to trees and straining to hear which class was being announced next. When that venue vanished, the shows moved to Wellington. Then they moved away, seemingly for good. But this might be a way to bring them back to our area. The first introductory show took place Jan. 18-19 at Jim Brandon, and while attendance was light, everyone was hopeful. “We love this facility,” Show Manager John Flanagan said. “There’s a lot of dressage and hunter/jumper events here. We wanted to bring back a show which offers a lot of Western classes. This is the first Quarter Horse show in this area in a long time. We tried to hold one a few years ago, but it didn’t work out. We hope the Quarter Horse community embraces our efforts and comes out to support us. There seems to be a lot of interest. We hope to build a whole series in the future. We hope the shows will be a great experience for everyone.”

Renee Leyden on Ranger with Linda Rainbolt standing. The reason for the light attendance became immediately clear to me as soon as I started interviewing attendees: poor publicity. Renee Leyden from The Acreage was showing her horse, Ranger. She said the show was nice. Her friend, Linda Rainbolt, was there supporting her. “It would have been better if we’d been told about the show sooner,” Rainbolt said. “It’s hard to get ready for a show in a couple of days. If they bring the Quarter Horse shows back to this area, we’ll be here for every one of them and with more horses. There wasn’t

Mackenzie Yeatman with Lucky and mom Shannon. any publicity. We only had a week and a half to get ready. Horse shows can’t do well if no one knows about them. I’ll be real glad to see the Quarter Horse shows back in our area.” “I hope to come to the next show, if I know about it in time,” added Cindy Maxson, also of The Acreage. “I didn’t know this one was taking place until the last minute, so I didn’t bring a horse, just came out to see it and support some friends.” Linda Wolosyn also came to scope it out and said she’d bring her horse to the next one. “I See ROSENBERG, page 39

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Business News

Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation Supports CAFCI Scholarships

Caribbean-Americans for Community Involvement in Florida Inc. (CAFCI) is proud to announce that the Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation is investing $5,000 with CAFCI to help enhance, maintain and sustain the community’s quality of life, consistent with the culture and traditions of its diverse heritage. The money provided by the Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation will provide initial financial assistance through CAFCI’s Student Assistance Program to at least five high school graduating seniors who will begin further studies at an accredited institution of higher learning. Established in 1943, the Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the communities it serves a better

place to live. The Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation awards grants to organizations that support programs and initiatives helping to foster healthy and thriving communities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. “Making personal connections with local organizations and giving back to those in need in our communities is the motivating force behind who we are as a company,” said Mary Kellmanson, Bi-Lo Holdings’ senior vice president of marketing, and president of the Bi-Lo Holdings Foundation. “Bi-Lo Holdings is honored to dedicate time, resources and funds to benefit our customers, neighbors, friends and family. We are thankful that we are able to

develop and grow partnerships with these organizations and help them improve the lives of our neighbors.” The grant is important to CAFCI and its efforts to continue to serve and help the social, educational and health needs in the community. “CAFCI has been a strong partner in the western communities’ growth and development for more than 20 years,” CAFCI President Dennis Wright said. “Among the many contributions made by CAFCI, none has made the organization more proud than the contributions it has made to the youth in our community. CAFCI has consistently provided annual scholarships to many local high school students through the CAFCI Student Assistance Program.” Student Assistance Committee

Chair Dr. Elaine Ealy agreed. “Many of our youth who face financial obstacles have ambitious goals and who could possibly have a solution to a social problem. They will benefit from the generosity of donors like the Bi-Lo Foundation,” Ealy said. This year’s graduating seniors who wish to apply for financial assistance must have a 3.0 or higher GPA and must complete an application. Proof of acceptance from the prospective institution of higher learning must accompany the application. Applications are available on the CAFCI web site at www.cafcipbc. org, the CAFCI office and from all high school guidance counselors. Eligibility requirements include:

be a resident of Palm Beach County; currently attend high school in Palm Beach County expected to graduate within one year; demonstrate an interest in Caribbean-American affairs; provide a completed application postmarked no later than March 15; provide an acceptance letter from a college/university; be available for an interview on April 5; and be able to attend a presentation ceremony, if selected, on May 3 at 7 p.m. Applications and accompanying documents must be sent to 1030 Royal Palm Beach Blvd., Box 11, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 and must be postmarked no later than March 15. For more information, contact Dr. Ealy at (561) 351-0068 or e-mail cafci@bellsouth.net.

Morse Geriatric Center Named Among America’s ‘Best Nursing Homes’ Morse Geriatric Center, the skilled nursing facility of MorseLife, has been named among America’s “Best Nursing Homes” by U.S. News & World Report. The magazine publishes the list annually from data compiled from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which is the federal agency that sets and enforces the standards of care of nursing homes nationally.

In Florida, Morse Geriatric Center is among nearly 30 percent of nursing homes that have achieved an overall ranking of “five stars” from CMS. This ranking covers areas of measurement such as inspections, nurse staffing and quality of medical care. Morse received five stars in each of these areas. “Florida is fortunate to have these facilities, which have demonstrated

an exceptional commitment to their residents,” said Emmett Reed, executive director of the Florida Health Care Association. “Behind the increasing number of ‘Best Nursing Homes’ are improvements in clinical care and nurses spending more time with residents, all of which means a better quality of life for Florida’s seniors and individuals with disabilities.”

“Best Nursing Homes” provides data and information from CMS related to care, safety, health inspections and more for nearly every nursing facility in the U.S. The ratings, which cover 16,000 nursing homes, show the share of nursing facilities nationwide with the top five-star rating has reached 25 percent, up sharply from 19 percent last year.

Visit health.usnews.com/bestnursing-homes to access the list of Florida facilities named “Best Nursing Homes” in 2014 and for more information about how the rankings are determined. For more information about the Morse Geriatric Center, and other programs of MorseLife, call (561) 471-5111 or visit www.morselife. org.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Page 31

Wellington Dentist Named AGD Fellowship Program Director Wellington dental practitioner Dr. Laurence Grayhills and University of Florida College of Dentistry faculty member Dr. Stephen Howard have been named directors of the University of Florida College of Dentistry Fellowship Program. The FellowTrack program is a continuing education series created for dental school students by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), to provide them with an early start on their progress toward fellowship in the AGD. “The Academy of General Dentistry is an exemplary organization dedicated to the general public and the dental community, and stands

alongside the American Dental Association,” Grayhills said. “The AGD is dedicated to the continuing education of their members following graduation from dental school. With the rapid advancements in technology and our scientific knowledge, the practice of dentistry changes almost daily. The AGD is dedicated to helping their members be the best that they can be.” Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry requires completion of 500 hours of approved continuing dental education as a prelude to candidacy for mastership, which requires a total of 1100 hours of postgraduate education.

“The goal of the program at the University of Florida College of Dentistry is to foster an ethic of ‘life-long learning’ among our graduates, and in so doing, promote the oral health of the public and the proficiency of general dentists through quality continuing dental education,” Howard said. The Academy of General Dentistry is a professional association of more than 37,000 general dentists dedicated to providing quality dental care and oral health education to the public. For more information about the Academy of General Dentistry, visit www.knowyourteeth.com.

Dr. Laurence Grayhills

Dr. Stephen Howard

Wellington’s Nicole Hessen Wins Prestigious Kennie Edwards Award

Nicole Hessen, a partner and shareholder in the Palm Beach County law firm of Wender, Hedler, & Hessen P.A., has been named the 2014 recipient of the Kennie Edwards Award from the Palm Beach County Bar Association. The award, named after Kennie Edwards, an attorney who was gunned down by an injured worker in 1996, goes to one individual per year who best exemplifies the professional qualities admired in Mr. Edwards, including, honesty,

integrity, cordiality, good humor, high ethical standards and advocacy, tempered by a sense of humility. Hessen, who possesses all of these qualities and more, was selected by her peers on the Palm Beach County Bar Association’s Workers’ Compensation Practice Committee for her work on behalf of injured workers, her involvement in the legal community and her dedication to high ethical standards. “Each day I go to work excited to do what I can to help those who have

been put in unfortunate situations,” Hessen said. “I’ve been honored to be of assistance to hundreds of injured workers throughout my career and to be honored with this award is humbling. I will continue to do my best each day to advocate for injured workers and will ensure justice is achieved by all.” Hessen has been practicing law in Palm Beach County since 1991. She was co-chair of the Workers’ Compensation Practice Committee, is a Florida Bar SCOPE mentor and

is a volunteer with the Pace Center for Girls. She is currently the president of the Florida Association of Women’s Lawyers for the 2013-14 term. She lives in Wellington with her husband and four children. For more information on Wender, Hedler & Hessen P.A., visit www. injuredworkersonly.com or call (561) 246-6666. (Right) Judge Timothy Basquill, past recipient of the award, with Nicole Hessen, 2014 recipient.

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SUMMER

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CAMP

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GUIDE

Discover the summer camp with an academic focus, and find out why local families have been choosing Camp Cambridge for more than 25 years. This Wellington camp offers programs for children from 2 years old through second grade, with an experienced and mature staff, bilingual programs, in-house weekly field trips, specialty camp sessions, an on-site swimming pool supervised by Red Cross-trained staff, flexible schedules, weekly sessions, and private and group swimming. Nine weeks of camp is offered at Cambridge Schools, located at 1920 Royal Fern Drive in Wellington. For more information, visit www.cambridgepreschools.com or call (561) 791-0013. Casperey Stables Horse Camp is a small, fun-filled day camp for children ages 7 to 14. With four riding opportunities each day, arts and crafts, and outdoor games, campers find little time to be bored. The low counselor-child ratio ensures that each child receives individual attention. There are camp sessions for spring and winter school breaks, and during the summer. Each two-week session has a theme, such as Indian Days, Circus Days and Medieval Days. Casperey Stables has a weekly swim party and ends each session with a horse show and family barbecue. To learn more about the camp, located at 2330 D Road in Loxahatchee Groves, call (561) 792-4990 or visit www. caspereystables.com. The Goddard School, located in Wellington, is now enrolling for its Summer Program, from June 4 through Aug. 14. The Goddard School’s program topic is “Amazing Animals,” which is a summer program for all budding adventurers — children who want to explore the wide world of animals. Talented teachers incorporate Goddard’s accredited FLEX Learning Program with special activities every day, including a petting zoo, visits from a reptile trainer, pony rides and much more. In addition, the Goddard School provides a free summer Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program for all eligible children. For more information, call (561) 333-2020 or visit www.goddardschool.com today. The Lake Worth Playhouse will offer a summer camp teaching children acting, voice, dance and stage movement through daily activities and rehearsals, culminating in full-scale productions of popular musicals. The students will

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CAMP

produce Willy Wonka Junior June 9-28 and Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr. from July 14 to Aug. 4. They will be engaged in studio-style rehearsals for music, dance and production. Campers 12 or older also will have the opportunity to participate in behind-the-scenes roles and other theater-related educational opportunities. The opportunities are for a one-week and a three-week camp, and range in price from $200 to $600. To sign up, call (561) 586-6410 or visit www.lakeworthplayhouse.org.

At Noah’s Ark Summer Camp, children will enjoy field trips and activities such as swimming, bowling, skating, South Florida Science Museum programs, movies and picnics. Tuition includes camera surveillance, a creative curriculum, use of computers and all meals. Registration is now being accepted, and is free for new customers only. Noah’s Ark is located at 14563 Okeechobee Blvd. in Loxahatchee Groves. For more information, call (561) 753-6624 or visit www. smallworldpbc.com. Palm Beach Christian Academy is excited to share fun, weekly summer themes with all age groups, from infants only six weeks old to older children. Campers will explore and learn through creative play, stories, songs, art and many other fun, hands-on activities geared toward their age group. Palm Beach Christian Academy is conveniently located downtown at 1101 S. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach. Full- and part-time options are offered Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Contact the academy for more information at (561) 671-5795. If your child is between 2 and 6 years old, “Summer of Fun” Enrichment Camp at Temple Beth Torah’s Leonie Arguetty Preschool offers children a chance to enjoy a variety of fun activities that will make them smile, while promoting learning and social development. Activities include arts and crafts, gymnastics, computers, sports, nature, cooking, water play and a state-of-the-art playground. The weekly entertainment lineup includes High-Touch High-Tech, storytellers and animal shows, provided in a loving and nurturing environment. The camp, offered for eight weeks, full-time or part-time, is now enrolling for preschool 2014-15. Contact Sandy for more information at (561) 793-2649 or psdirector@templebethtorah.net.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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Acreage Montessori is located in the heart of The Acreage, across the street from Western Pines Middle School. Summer camp is for children ages 5 to 12. The school will be offering a variety enjoyable trips and on-campus events with their fully trained staff, CDA-certified teachers and quality care. All meals are included. Acreage Montessori is located at 5700 140th Ave. North. Call (561) 784-0078 for more info. The Lab/High Touch High Tech is conveniently located off State Road 7 at Lantana Road. The Lab brings science to life with hands-on experiments provided by High Touch High Tech, the leader in science education for the last 19 years. Each day will be a new adventure, from interacting with real “lab critters” to launching rockets and panning for gems. The unique Lab offers affordable pricing, experiments with lots of cool take-homes, arts and crafts, physical activities and more. The program taps into children’s natural curiosity and provides them with safe and fun activities that help them learn about the world around them. Campers will make slime, erupt volcanoes, make ice cream, tie dye T-shirts and more. Call (561) 444-3978 or visit www.thelabforkids.com for more info. The Learning Experience (TLE) Academy of Early Education in Lake Worth not only offers premier childcare and preschool education for children ages 6 weeks and up, it also offers an exciting summer camp. Children at Camp TLE will engage in hands-on learning activities throughout the nine weekly camp themes while still having plenty of time for sun and fun on a state-of-the-art outdoor playground. Summer camp will take place June through August 2014. Call TLE today for the best in age-appropriate care, early academic programming and summer camp. For more information, or to secure a space for your child, call (888) 991-4222. Has your child ever dreamed about calling a last-second, game-winning shot? Sports Broadcasting Camp is their chance. The award-winning sports broadcasting camp is back in South Florida June 9-13 at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Boys and girls age 10-18 will have an opportunity to learn from the pros; meet sports celebrities; and make play-by-play,

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reporting and sports anchor tapes. Host your own sports talk radio and PTIstyle shows. Participate in sports trivia contests, “Stump the Schwab” games and much more. Check out www.playbyplaycamps.com, www.facebook.com/ sportsbroadcastingcamps or www.youtube.com/sportsbroadcastcamp to learn more. For more info., call (800) 319-0884. Campers at St. Peter’s Summer Camp in Wellington will enjoy arts and crafts, academic enrichment, water play, outdoor play and lots of hands-on fun. The themes for this year’s camps include Workshop of Wonders, the Great Outdoors, Let’s Investigate, A Fit & Healthy Me and more. St. Peter’s Enrichment Center offers a fun, educational camp for children ages 3 through first grade. Camp start dates are June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28 and Aug. 4. Visit www.stpeterscec.com for enrollment. Call (561) 798-3286 for more info. Villari’s of Wellington is pleased to invite your child to summer camp this year. Villari’s is offering junior and senior camp in two-week sessions. Book summer camp spots now during March Madness and receive a 25 percent discount. Due to rising demand, book your spot early. Camp starts as low as $24 per day, including arts and crafts, derby building, martial arts and much more. Call (561) 792-1100 to reserve your space, or visit www.villarisofwellington. com for more information.

March 7 - March 13, 2014

GUIDE

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MASTERS AUCTION You and a guest are invited to attend the premiere of Young Art Masters - a collection of art and photography by Wellington area high schools’ most talented young artists. You will have the opportunity to meet the artists and learn more about the inspiration behind their original works of art through the interpretation of the theme “Palm Beach County.” Join us as we support these talented young artists before their paintings and photographs are made available to the public in an exclusive online auction. The art will be available for viewing through March 31 at Wellington Regional Medical Center and bidding online at www.youngartmasterswellington.org. All proceeds from the auction will go to support the art programs at Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach Central and Seminole Ridge High Schools. The art teachers and students would like to thank the Jacobs family of Wellington for their generous support of this event, as well as Wellington Regional Medical Center for displaying the collection.

Monday, March 10, 6-7 p.m. Wellington Regional Medical Center RSVP at YoungArtMastersWellington.org or Angie Francalancia at 561-324-2412

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Sports & Recreation

March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 37

Wellington Baseball Team Defeats Seminole Ridge 2-1

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The fifth-ranked Seminole Ridge High School varsity baseball squad traveled to Wellington on Friday, Feb. 28 in a much-anticipated matchup between the rival teams. The Hawks fell to the Wolverines 2-1 in a nail-biter. Early in the first inning, it appeared that the Hawks were poised to drive in scores with runners on

first and second, but the Wolverine defense stepped up to close out the top of the first. Wellington’s Jake Summey managed a single, and during the next at bat, he aggressively stole second base. On third base, Summey tagged-up off a fly-ball and crossed the plate to give the Wolverines an early 1-0 lead. In the bottom of the third inning, Wellington’s Danny Bigtree

Hawk runner Carmine Cioffoletti steals second base. Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

smacked a double down center field, sending in Summey for the Wolverines’ second run, making the score 2-0. In the sixth inning, Seminole Ridge got on the board when Carmine Cioffoletti ran in from third on a high Wellington throw at first. The Hawks closed in on the Wellington lead 2-1, but could not muster a second run. After the Hawks were shut down in the top of the seventh inning, the game ended with a Wellington victory. Summey went 2-for-2 with two runs. Wellington’s Spencer Stockton gave up one run and recorded four strikeouts. The Wolverines are 3-3 on the season. The Hawk’s Cioffoletti had one hit, a walk and a run. Jake Paez went 2-for-2. The Hawks are 5-3 on the season. The Hawks traveled to Suncoast High School on Wednesday, March 5, but results were not available at press time. The team travels to Palm Beach Gardens High School on Tuesday, March 11 for a 7 p.m. game. Wellington hosted the King’s Academy on Tuesday, March 4 and traveled to Glades Central High School on Wednesday, March 5, but results were not available at press time. The Wolverines travel to Jupiter High School for a 7 p.m. game on Friday, March 7.

Wellington’s Jake Summey slides into home plate to score the first run of the game.

Seminole Ridge’s Richie Catromano is safe at first base while Phil Siele, Wellington’s first baseman, tries to make the catch.

Wellington Girls Lax Easily Defeats Palm Beach Central

By Gene Nardi Town-Crier Staff Report The Wellington High School girls varsity lacrosse team hosted cross-town rival Palm Beach Central High School on Tuesday, Feb. 25 in

a match for local bragging rights. The Wolverines handily defeated the Broncos 18-2. Wellington (3-3) provided scoring from ten different players and had a comfortable 11-1 halftime lead. Palm Beach Central

Wellington’s Jenna Niedzwiedzki looks for an opening.

Photos by Gene Nardi/Town-Crier

did battle back on occasion. After Wellington took an early 3-goal lead, Bronco attacker Jamie Intile took the ball up the center of the field and found the back of the net to cut the Wellington lead to 3-1. It would not be enough, as the Wolverines continued to pepper the Palm Beach Central goal. Jordan Favre would add another goal for the Broncos, but could not stop the Wellington attack. Wellington possessed the ball and shot on goal with patience time and again. Wellington’s Kathleen Gerrits, Natty Kelly and Katie Mucino combined for 11 goals. Kelsie Boudreau added a score and two assists. Molly Stout recorded two goals. Hannah Smith, Kaylynn Sobczyk, and Jenna Niedzwiedzki each had a goal. Wellington traveled to John Carroll High School on Tuesday, March 4, but results were not available at press time. The Wolverines travel to Cardinal Gibbons High School for a 5 p.m. game on Friday, March 7. The Broncos hosted Park Vista High School on Tuesday, March 4, but results were not available at press time. They travel to South Fork High School on Monday, March 10 for a 6 p.m. game.

Bronco Jordan Favre and Wolverine Natty Kelly battle for control.

Page 38

March 7 - March 13, 2014

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sports & recreation

ThinkPINKkids Hosts High School Dodgeball Tournament

ThinkPINKkids held its annual high school dodgeball fundraiser at Wellington High School on Friday, Feb. 21. Proceeds will be donated to Your Bosom Buddies II and Dr. John Cleveland at Scripps Florida. The group’s middle school dodgeball tournament will be held at Wellington Landings Middle School on Friday, March 28, and the elementary school fundraiser “Dance Night for the Fight” will be held at Binks Forest Elementary School on Friday, May 9. For more information, e-mail tpkwellington@comcast.net.

The Stones celebrate their first-place victory: Cole Smallridge, Justin Kleinman, Nate Kaufman, Branden Willey, Dallas Ryder and Casey Moorhead.

The Wellington Volleyball Team celebrates with their silver medals: Scott Meskin, Brockton Boretti, Jason Rosen, Yannick Feurich, coach Chris Kushay and Joe Sigmon.

The Majestic Mauneys take a bite out of their bronze medals: (Front row) Alex Lizano, Max Meskin and Blake Yodlowski; (back row) Justin McPhillips, Danny Margiotta and Mr. Mauney.

Diamante Farms Hosts Dinner For Youth Dressage Riders And Their Families

During week seven of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, youth riders, trainers and parents enjoyed a dinner hosted at Diamante Farms by owners Terri and Devon Kane, and Michael and Sarah Davis, during the Florida International Youth Dressage Championships, presented by Dressage4Kids. The dinner was hosted with support from Dressage Today magazine. The Florida International Youth Dressage Championships was held concurrent

with AGDF’s Stillpoint Farm CDIO Nations Cup and CDI 3* presented by Peacock Ridge, Feb. 19-23. Now in its second year, the YDC is open to all nationalities and riders under 25. “Holding the Youth Dressage Championships during the Nations Cup exposes American-based youth riders to the international flavor of a large European show,” dressage trainer and rider Devon Kane said. “My family and I are even happier to see

so many people come to the farm for a little ‘flavor’ of horse show hospitality.” The close, familial atmosphere among dressage enthusiasts of all ages made for lively conversation and connections. The Davis family, who helped host the dinner, have watched their daughter Bebe blossom from pony rider to recent participant in the USEF Dressage Pipeline Clinic. “We are always looking for ways to support dressage,”

said Michael Davis, who along with his wife Sarah also own Van the Man, the international Grand Prix mount of Dr. Cesar Parra. “Young dressage riders are the future of our sport, and it is incredibly important that we nurture young talent.” Diamante Farms is located on Indian Mount Road in Wellington and offers dressage training, board, sales and clinics for riders and horses of all levels. For more info., call (210) 240-1614.

(L-R) Terri Kane, Kim Boyer, Devon Kane, Michael Davis, Bebe Davis and Sarah Davis at the Youth Dressage Championship dinner held at Diamante Farms.

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Genbu-Kai Ninja Students Promoted

Six ninja students from Genbu-Kai Karate recently tested and were promoted to their next belt levels. All six are from the Wellington and Royal Palm Beach areas. The 16-month ninja program is specifically designed for pre-school children ages 4 to 6. Emphasis is placed on improving fine and gross motor skills while teaching eight life skills: focus, teamwork, control, balance, memory, discipline, fitness and coordination. The ninjas also learn how to set short-term and long-term goal setting by testing and advancing through nine rank levels. Ultimately, the ninja program prepares students who wish to continue and advance into the junior karate program. Hopefully, someday testing for and achieving their junior black belts. For more information on the classes, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www.floridagenbukai. com.

Rosenberg

Quarter Horse Show

continued from page 29 hope they advertise more so we know about it ahead of time,” she added. “You need time to practice.” Mackenzie Yeatman, 11, of Wellington was there with her horse, Lucky. “It was fun, good practice,” she said, showing off all her ribbons.

March 7 - March 13, 2014

Page 39

Wrestling Champs

(Front row, L-R) J.J. Armstrong, Agustin Barcenas, Hunter Pradines, Caine Pradines, Michael Gannotti and Donovan Kelley; (back row) Mike Simms (Ohio Rengo-Kai instructor), Brent Bedwell (Florida Genbu-Kai assistant instructor) and Sensei Keith Moore (Florida Genbu-Kai chief instructor).

“We really enjoyed this show,” added her mother, Shannon Yeatman. “There was just enough competition to make it a fun show but not overwhelming. It’s very relaxed, a nice pace. We’ll definitely be back.” Peg Edmondson, who manned the show office, was happy with the inaugural event. “The show went very well. The people were quite happy,” she said. “We’re happy to see Quarter Horse shows back in this area. Our largest

class was Trail, with 10 entries, and Western Pleasure also had eight to 10. The rest had three or four. Everyone had a good time. They seemed delighted with the show. The reception was really great. We’ll probably add some Level 2 classes for the next show. We hope everyone comes out to support us, especially the English riders.” For more information, contact Peg Edmondson at (941) 484-4687 or medmondson@aol.com.

The Wellington Wrestling Club recently competed at the FAWA State Wrestling Championships Naples, and ninth-grader Eric Reid led the way by winning the 126-pound state championship. Reid received a bye the first round before winning 16-0 in the quarterfinals, 11-0 in the semifinals and 12-1 in the finals. Also placing for the Wellington Wrestling Club were Elroy Taylor (ninth grade, 170 pounds) in third place, Diego Torres (ninth grade, 100 pounds) in fifth place and Tyler Gray (Pre-K, 45 pounds) in fifth place. Shown here are medal winners Eric Reid and Elroy Taylor.

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

Saturday, March 8 • WIRK 103.1-FM’S Rib Round-Up, featuring great live country music and the best ribs in South Florida, returns Saturday, March 8 to the South Florida Fairgrounds’ Cruzan Amphitheatre. Reserved seats are $69 and festival lawn tickets are $40. For more info., visit www.wirk.com. • Royal Palm Beach High School will host a golf tournament Saturday, March 8 at 7 a.m. at the Madison Green Golf Club. Call (561) 7845225 or visit www.madisongreengolf.com for more info. • The Wellington Green Market will take place Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 283-5856 for more info. • The Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host its Health & Wellness Festival on Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater. Call (561) 792-6525 for more info. • Temple Beth Tikvah (4550 Jog Road, Greenacres) will host “Shabbat Live!” on Saturday, March 8 at 10:15 a.m. It will be a special alternative service with singing, music, casual attire and family friendly discussions. Call (561) 967-3600 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host Apple-Mania for ages 2 to 6 on Saturday, March 8 at 11 a.m. Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day with apple stories, songs and crafts. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • Irish Fest on Flagler returns Saturday and Sunday, March 8 and 9 with Irish food, crafts, dancing and music at the Meyer Amphitheater (104 Datura St., West Palm Beach). The festival runs Saturday, March 8 from noon to 11 p.m. and Sunday, March 9 from noon to 8 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Children 14 and under are admitted free. For more info., visit www.irishflorida. org or call (561) 394-5121. • The Okeeheelee Nature Center (7715 Forest Hill Blvd.) will host Turtles on Saturday, March 8 at 1 p.m. Learn about the variety of shelled creatures that live in Florida. The cost is $3 per person. Call (561) 233-1400 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Lego Builders Club for ages 6 to 12 on Saturday, March 8 at 2 p.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The American Cancer Society’s Diamond Ball will take place Saturday, March 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Ave. South, Wellington). For more info., call (561) 650-0131. Sunday, March 9 • The Royal Palm Beach Green Market & Bazaar will take place Sunday, March 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Palm Beach Commons Park (11600 Poinciana Blvd.). For more info., visit www.rpbgreenmarket.com. • The Acreage Green Market will take place Sunday, March 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Acreage Community Park (6701 140th Ave. North). For more info., visit www.shopgreenmarkets.com or call (561) 929-0237.

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community calendar

• The Hanley Center’s 19th Annual Family Picnic will take place at noon on Sunday, March 9 at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. To purchase tickets, contact the Hanley Center Foundation’s Special Events Team at events@hanleycenter.org or (561) 841-1048. • The International Polo Club Palm Beach (3667 120th Avenue South, Wellington) will continue its 2014 season Sunday, March 9 with the Piaget USPA Gold Cup. For tickets, visit www.inter nationalpoloclub.com or call (561) 204-5687. Monday, March 10 • Beta Sigma Phi Chapter of Xi Xi Tau sorority meets at 2 p.m. the second Monday of every month at a member’s house in the West Palm Beach area. For more info., call (561) 247-7697. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “Are You Ready to Lego?” for ages 3 to 6 on Monday, March 10 at 3:30 p.m. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • An informational meeting about Classical Conversations, a support program for parents who homeschool their children, will be held Monday, March 10 at 7 p.m. at Panera Bread, located at 6300 Lantana Road, Lake Worth). RSVP to Jeanne Castle at cclakeworth@gmail. com or visit www.cclakeworth.com for more info. Tuesday, March 11 • Wellington and Royal Palm Beach will host Municipal Elections on Tuesday, March 11. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit www. pbcelections.org for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host Dream, Discover, Do for ages 2 to 3 on Tuesday, March 11, and ages 3 to 5 on Tuesday, March 18 at 1 p.m. Talk, sing, read, write and play your way to a brighter future. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Groundbreaking Reads: Adult Book Discussion Series on Tuesday, March 11 at 2 p.m. Barbara Harnick will discuss The Paris Wife by Paula McLain. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host Tween Gaming for ages 8 to 12 on Tuesday, March 11 at 3 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Sit ‘n’ Stitch Crochet Club for adults and ages 9 and up Tuesdays, March 11 and 18 at 5 p.m. Learn the fundamentals, work on current projects and share ideas with the group. Call (561) 681-4100 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Pizza Chat for ages 12 to 17 on Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. Bring what you’re reading to discuss with the group while enjoying pizza and drinks. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host By-Hook-or-By-Crook Crochet Club for ages 9 and up Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Learn basic stitches and socialize while you work on projects. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive,

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Wellington) will host Groundbreaking Reads: Adult Book Discussion Series on Tuesday, March 11 at 6:30 p.m. Sara Harris will discuss Stay Close by Harlan Coben. Sign up and check out the book. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The Wellington Village Council will meet Tuesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). For more info., call (561) 791-4000 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov. Wednesday, March 12 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Job Seekers: Résumé Building on Wednesday, March 12 at 2:15 p.m. Learn how to use Career Transitions to create a résumé. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Number Love for ages 4 to 7 on Wednesday, March 12 at 3 p.m. Enjoy stories, games, crafts and snacks all about numbers and shapes. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host Teen Anime Night for ages 12 to 17 on Wednesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. Snacks will be provided. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • The public is invited to join members and friends of the National Croquet Center (700 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach) on Wednesday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. in a fundraiser for the Croquet Foundation of America. Hugh O’Neill will display his art work and the Hugh O’Neill Band will play Irish music. Call (561) 478-2300 to RSVP. Thursday, March 13 • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host Sign Time for Baby for ages 10 to 23 months Thursday, March 13 at 11 a.m. Call (561) 790-6030 for more info. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Lucky Leprechauns for ages 2 to 5 on Thursday, March 13 at 11:15 a.m. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce’s Women of Worth Stiletto Awards luncheon will take place Thursday, March 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach (2800 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach). Contact Maritza Rivera at (561) 578-4817 or maritza@cpbchamber.com for more info. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host a St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt for ages 6 to 12 on Thursday, March 13 at 1 p.m. Call (561) 790-6070 to pre-register. • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host Cookies and Character Counts for ages 5 to 12 on Thursday, March 13 at 3 p.m. Find out “Who Took the Cookies from the Cookie Jar” with a delightful story about the mystery of missing cookies, then chomp on chocolate chip cookies. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • Wellington’s Food Truck Invasion will take place Thursday, March 13 from 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.). Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov for more info.

The Town-Crier • The Safety Council of Palm Beach County will hold a Basic Driver Improvement Course on Thursday, March 13 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Wellington High School (2101 Greenview Shores Blvd.) Visit www.safetycouncilpbc.org for more info. • The South Florida Science Center & Aquarium is presenting Science on Tap, a series of interactive talks with the first on Thursday, March 13 at 6 p.m. at O’Shea’s Irish Pub in downtown West Palm Beach. The program, “Visual Perception: How Our Brains Create The World We See,” will explain the perplexities of visual illusions and what they can teach us. For more info., call (561) 832-1988 or visit www.sfsciencecenter.org. • The Wellington library (1951 Royal Fern Drive, Wellington) will host Pajama Tales for ages 2 to 6 on Thursday, March 13 at 6 p.m. Wear your jammies and wind down for the evening with bedtime stories. Call (561) 790-6070 for more info. • Wellington’s inaugural India Night will take place Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. at the 7th Chukker Restaurant & Veranda at the International Polo Club Palm Beach to benefit the Salvation Tree Foundation. Learn more at www. indianight.org. Friday, March 14 • The Acreage library (15801 Orange Blvd.) will host “It’s National Pi Day!” for adults Friday, March 14 at 3:30 p.m. Celebrate the famous mathematical number with pie and the movie Proof. Refreshments will be provided. Call (561) 681-4100 to pre-register. • The Royal Palm Beach library (500 Civic Center Way) will host “The Cool Creative Kids Club” for ages 7 to 11 on Fridays, March 14 and 28 at 3:30 p.m. Experience an afternoon of creativity using a variety of art techniques. Call (561) 790-6030 to pre-register. • Grandma’s Place and St. David’s in the Pines Episcopal Church will host “An Evening of Great Expectations” on Friday, March 14 at the International Polo Club Palm Beach Mallet Grille & Patio beginning at 6 p.m. For more info., call Maureen Gross at (561) 714-0887 or e-mail mbg@phelpsmediagroup.com. • Children ages 6 and up, accompanied by a parent or guardian, are invited to the Family Night Owls Overnight Adventure on Friday, March 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. the next morning at the Palm Beach Zoo (1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach). Activities include upclose animal encounters, night tours of the zoo, crafts, games, a pizza snack and a continental breakfast. To register, visit www.palmbeachzoo. org or call (561) 547-WILD, ext. 229. • The Wellington Amphitheater (12100 W. Forest Hill Blvd.) will host a free screening of Walking with Dinosaurs on Friday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. Call (561) 753-2484 or visit www. wellingtonfl.gov 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.

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REAL ESTATE

OFFICE SPACE LAW OFFICE TO SHARE: — Royal Palm/ Wellington. Furnished executive offices plus two secretarial work stations, use of conference room, reception, kitchen. Utilities included. $1,000 month. 561-793-1200, ext. 1 or 561-386-7307

A/C AND REFRIGERATION

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

Are you planning to purchase a sofa, refrigerator, matress set or other large or small item(s) that doesn’t fit in your car or SUV? Maybe your planning to purchase something from a garage/estate sale, Craigslist, or a vendor and faced with the same problem? Call, or text me at 561-670-5298, email me at maninavandb@gmail.com. I own moving blankets, and moving dolly’s for a smooth transport. Additional labor and services available upon request. I own a Ford E-250 Van***Note: I’m 1 Man in a Van*** Available after 5 pm weekdays, all day weekends. Same day service! 561-670-5298 Jack Man in a Van

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ROOMMATE TO SHARE — 2 bedroom 2 bath apartment - Purdy & Jog Road. $550 per month. Looking for under 35 years old. 954-296-3748

WALLPAPERING

BREAKERS WEST — 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, pool, gated upscale - 2 golf courses in community, membership optional. $300,000 By owner. 561-795-0533

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

COMPUTER REPAIR D.J. COMPUTER — Home & office, Spyware removal, websites, networks, repairs, upgrades, virus removal, tutoring. Call Jeff 561-333-1923 Cell 561-252-1186 Lic’d Well. & Palm Beach. We accept major credit cards.

O COMPUTER SERVICES (PC OR MAC) A N Y W H E R E , A N Y T I M E S P Y WA R E / VIRUS REMOVAL — Manufacture restore, network setup (WiFi or Wired), repairs, upgrades. Call Val 561-713-5276

DRIVEWAY REPAIR D R I V E W AY S — F r e e e s t i m a t e s A & M ASPHALT SEAL COATING commercial and residential. Patching potholes, striping, repair existing asphalt & save money all work guaranteed. L i c.& In s. 1 0 0 0 4 5 0 6 2 5 61-667-7716

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

PRESSURE CLEANING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painti n g c o n t r a c t o r. L i c . # U 2 1 5 5 2 C a l l Butch at 309-6975 or visit us at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com D R I V E W AY C L E A N I N G — S t a r t i n g at$59. $50 Off House Exterior Wash, Free Sidewalk Cleaning (up to 50 Ft.) with roof cleaning.Pressure Pros of Palm Beach, Inc. 561-718-9851 Lic. & Insured.

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MINOR ROOF REPAIRS Don Hartmann R oofing — R o o f p a i n t ing, Carpentry. Lic. #U13677 967-5580

BILLY’S HOME REPAIRS INC. REMODEL & REPAIRS — Interior Trim, crown molding, rottenwood repair, door installation, minor drywall,kitchens/cabinets/countertops, wood flooring. Bonded and Insured U#19699. Call 791-9900 or 628-9215

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 RC-0067207

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SECURITY

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

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

IRON WORK CALABRESE CREATIONS IN IRON — Ornamental Aluminum & Iron Work, driveway gates,grand entry gates, garden gates, railing room dividers, ornamental screen doors. ( Lic. & Ins.) antique restoration. 561-792-7575 cciron@bellsouth.net

PAINTING J&B PRESSURE CLEANING & PAINTING, INC. — Established 1984. All types of pressure cleaning, roofs, houses, driveways, patios etc. Commercial & Residential. Interior & Exterior painting. Certified pressure cleaning & painting contractor. Lic. #U21552 Call Butch 309-6975 or visit ourwebsite at www. jbpressurecleaningandpainting.com JOHN PERGOLIZZI PAINTING INC. — Interior/Exterior - Repaint specialist, pressure cleaning, popcorn ceiling, drywall repair & roof painting. Family owned/owner operator. Free Est. 798-4964 Lic. #U18473 COLORS BY CORO, INC. — Int./Ext. residential painting, over 20 yrs exp. Small Jobs welcome. Free est. Ins. 561-383-8666. Owner/Operated. Lic.# U20627 Ins. Wellington Resident

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY

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

SHUTTERS/PANELS ACCORDION SHUTTERS — Gutters, screen enclosures, siding, soffits, aluminum roofs, Serving the Western Communities. Since 1985. U-17189 561-791-9777

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

TAX PREPARATION E X P E R I E N C E D TA X P R E PA R ER— with expertise with individuals and small businesses . Hack and Tax Accounting Services LLC. 561-214-6171

TILE / CERAMICS SPECIALIZING IN BATHROOM REMODELING — Free estimates serving South Florida since 1980. Quality you expect, service you deserve. Lic. bonded & Ins. U21006 561-662-9258 PLACE YOUR EMPLOYMENT AD HERE CALL 793-3576 TODAY

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

WATER TREATMENT NEED A NEW WATER SYSTEM! — Let us come out and give you an estimate. Call Mike 561-792-5400

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY

EMPLOYMENT BOOKKEEPER NEEDED — part-time, experienced in QuickBooks, flexible hours. Please fax resume to 561-791-0952 HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER IN WELLINGTON — Now hiring certified teachers.$10-$15/hour. Call 561-594-1920 E-mail: MarleneGiraud@hlcwellington.com DRIVERS: $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! — Great pay! Consistent Freight, Great Miles on this Regional Account. Werner Enterprises: 1-855-517-2488 PT/FT SALES HELP WANTED — For local flooring store expanding. Sales experience a plus. Will train the right person. 561-333-2306 buyithere7@gmail.com HELP WANTED: HAIRDRESSER w/ following — For family style salon. Flexible hours, commission or chair rental. 561313-8763. Call Valerie. Royal Palm Beach. EXPERIENCED TRAVEL AGENT — Needed for busy retail agency in Wellington. FullTime position. Call Michael@798-0505 FULL TIME ASSISTANT NEEDED — Monday - Friday working with Pre-K. Experience preferred. 561-790-0808 Part Time Tennis Court Maintenance Worker Needed in the Wellington Area Must be in good physical condition as job requires a lot of walking. Needs to be dependable and reliable and willing to learn. Hours needed: Nights Monday-Thursday 8:30pm till 11:00pm. Please email tennisapply@gmail.com for application.

SEEKING EMPLOYMENT SENIOR CAREGIVER — and a clear english speaker seeks a live-in position available 7 days ,(or live-out),level 2 background check and a clean drivers license,cna training,i do not smoke and i do not drink, Excellent verifiable references. PLEASE CALL ME AT 561-339-5231

HOUSE FOR SALE - WEST PALM BEACH

ROOMS FOR RENT FURNISHED ROOMS FOR RENT — No Pets, No Children,First, Last, Security. $600 monthly includes all amenities - pool - electric. Call 561-667-3475

WANTED TO RENT WANTED TO RENT — Retired couple from Illinois looking for long term small house or in-law arrangement rental in RPB or Acreage area. Willing to do yard work, flexible time frame. $1100 max. Call 1-630-567-3367

TOWN-CRIER CLASSIFIEDS CALL 561-793-7606 TODAY

FOR SALE FOR SALE FINE CHINA & SILVERWARE WITH CHEST — Service for 12. Really beautiful. Best offer 561-790-5653 MERCHANDISE FOR SALE/MOVING SALE - King mattress, springs, frame (used 3 months) $400.00 Forest green chaise lounge w/two pillows $400.00 Oak dining table, leaf, six chairs $350.00 China hutch (Pine) $450.00 2 burgandy formal chairs $100.00 each or 2 for $150.00 Coffee table and 2 end tables $50.00 Large round rug $75.00 Dark green 8 x 10 shag rug $100.00 Large pictures $50.00 - $100.00 Call 561-358-0850 for more information

OFFICE SPACE — Executive and Virtual Office Space Available - Wellington, Florida. Furnished or unfurnished office space available. Unlimited use of conference rooms, reception, kitchen with no extra fees. Utilities included. The best LAKE VIEW in Wellington! Please contact Diane 561-227-1500 www.LakeWellington.com

GARAGE SALE ROYAL PALM BEACH THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 8TH, 8am -2pm - La Mancha, - 188 Natchez Trace - Furniture, TVs & other electronics, Kitchen Items, Glassware, Clothing, Collectables,and much more. Proceeds benefit the VAF Memorial Scholarship Fund.

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HERE’S MY CARD

Dr. Richard Sabates, C.M.E. - CLS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

P: 561.204.5858 F: 561.204.5877

www.eclipsesalonwellington.com

3975 ISLES VIEW DRIVE • WELLINGTON, FL 33414

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March 7 - March 13, 2014 Page 47

HERE’S MY CARD

Don’t Fret...

Call Hi-Tech Plumbing Residential & Commercial

Lawn Maintenance • Landscape Design • Stump Removal FREE ESTIMATES

Lic & Insured CFC057392

561.203.6205

hitechplumbingservices.com

35 years experience ● Same Day Service Up front pricing ● Emergency Services 24/7 Unsurpassed Quality ● 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

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“A non-profit sanctuary”

YOU WILL SEE EVERYTHING... from WHITE TIGERS to LIGERS to

BLACK LEOPARDS, RUFFED LEMURS, KINKAJOUS, REDTAIL HAWKS, GREAT HORNED OWLS, SCARLET MACAWS, GILA MONSTERS, ALBINO BURMESE PYTHONS, GREEN MAMBAS & MORE!

Tours are

Tuesday - Saturday 11am, 12pm & 1pm

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

561-790-2116

PALMS WESTTHIS WEEK’S

McCarthyswildlife.com

WELLINGTON • ROYAL PALM BEACH • LOXAHATCHEE • THE ACREAGE

New Location! New Showroom!

CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE!

561-333-2306 TOLL FREE: 855-808-8555

WE DO NOT SELL CHEAP FLOORING CHEAPER

WE SELL THE BEST FOR LESS! 766 Pike Road • West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (Between Southern Blvd. & Belvedere)

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS FOR AS LOW AS $21 A WEEK*

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March 7 - March 13, 2014

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